am i a horrible parent?! - if I don't get Carly a birthday gift?

Jackie012007 wrote: Carl and I went all over the mall yesterday looking for something to get Carly for her first birthday - its a week from tomorrow (10 days after Christmas). she already has so many toys and a ridiculous amount of clothing from Christmas, we really just cannot find something that someone won't probably already get her.

We're having a big party with 25 family members/close friends coming on the 6th, and we've already spent almost $50 on her party supplies/ cupcake tree I am making - we still have to get pizza and drinks. Is it bad if I just don't get her anything? I know she won't even notice or care, but I feel terrible.

Carl is the one who suggested it, he can't see spending money we don't really have on a toy that she will probably get from someone else, or play with for 5 seconds. I agree, she does have a TON of toys (you should see our living room, it looks like a daycare!) but I just feel guilty still!

what do you guys think/suggest?

luvmykids replied: Nope, not at all a bad mom With that many people coming, she won't have a clue what is from whom.

grandma replied: She's a year old, she won't know. No your not a bad parent, save your money where you can...lol

Kaitlin'smom replied: How about instead of buying her something you take a little money and open her a college fund or savings account?

Kirstenmumof3 replied: I don't think this makes you a bad parent! But might I suggest a collectible ornament. I know Carlton Cards has the Birthday Train and Birthday Girl dolls. Or you could even start her with a Precious Moment figurine. They are reasonably priced and you could keep up the tradition as she grows. But no I don't think you're a bad parent!

Boo&BugsMom replied: Nope, you are totally not a bad parent. There is no rule saying you have to buy her something. Some people can't afford it and it doesn't mean they are bad parents. It's just something our culture instilled, not something that is a rule. Kids should learn to appreciate the things they have more anyways. Plus, like someone mentioned, she wont remember. Sounds like you have done plenty enough already. She will have fun regardless.

bawoodsmall replied:
I would feel bad but the ornament or figurine thing would be enough imo. She isnt going to know...but your fam will. They may be the ones you have to deal with unless they understand.

Cece00 replied: I would put like $20 into a savings acct for college if you feel too guilty. But no, you dont have to buy her anything.

boyohboyohboy replied: jake is two and we still havent really bought him gifts. he gets so much from family and friends that we consider the party our gift.
and for christmas he only got one toy..
there are just to many toys as it is,
and honestly she wont know..and your family shouldnt care either, spend the money on decorations or cakes..
or i like the savings account idea
but dont feel bad at all

grandma replied:
Excellant advice!!!

grapfruit replied: I like the savings account idea. Or a savings bond. I got my little nephews each a savings bond (1st Christmas for both). (I also got them each a little outfit).

holley79 replied: Nope not a horrible parent at all. She doesn't know who got her what so it doesn't really matter.

Calimama replied:
I agree.