I know from other posts that iPads/tablets can be controversial but DD1 is nearly 13, mature, responsible and very tech-savvy. She would really like and iPad for Christmas, is happy for it to be an older model, second hand refurbished and if she gets that doesn’t want anything else. She also says if she’s lucky enough to get one she would happily share with DD2 (10). I think this is a very reasonable request and we can easily afford it (we have a good income).
DH is very against it. He thinks she’s too young, doesn’t need it since she has an (old) iPod and we shouldn’t be buying into all the commercialism/consumerism of Christmas.
DH seems very proud that he doesn’t have a smart phone, we don’t have a wii or an xbox or a laptop or any other tablets. Although he actually has an iPad – this was provided by his work and because of that no one else is allowed to use it (unless he needs help with something).
I’m 10 years younger than DH and work in IT. I totally get the appeal of an iPad and think she would get fantastic use out of it, whether it’s researching for homework or watching a movie (DH controls the remote for our TV).
I’m struggling with everything just now and this seems to be getting to me more than it should. I lost DM quite suddenly a few months ago (I’m an only child, dad died when I was 4 so we were very close). I asked DH to help with Christmas this year since he’s had a lot of time off work and I knew I would struggle to cope, but he refused saying I just had poor time management. So I’ve managed to get everything organised except DD1’s main present. I just can’t bring myself to spend the same amount (or more) on something else when I could actually get her the one thing she really wants, and now it’s getting closer.
I’ve tried to talk to him about it but he says he’ll get furious if I mention it again, and there’s no way I should even consider going behind his back when he’s said ‘no’.
I’m not sure if I’m maybe just trying to compensate in some way? DD’s were very close to DM who loved to spoil them at Christmas so I know that’ll leave a big gap this year so I feel it’s up to me to try & make it special? Is DH right, have I just lost all perspective?