WOW!!! Amy (and PBC), how honest and awe inspiring...
Amy, you are in my thoughts (and hoping I don't offend anyone, my prayers too). In the world we live in today, life and priorities can get very skewed and jaded. You have your priorities in tact and that is more than can be said for a lot of people I know...At one time, myself included-umm....buying a scarf at every whim and charging it to the credit card that my parent's gave me 'for emergencies'. Did I mention that I was 29?
You are a beautiful reminder of what living is all about. I too enjoy indulging in a bit of luxury for myself at times, but it is important to know the value of one's responsibilities-and your choice to stay home and take of your son is brilliant. So many people in your situation, would choose to seek outside help as a means of escaping reality, and by your choosing to nurture and support your son through this time (not to mention your emotional support to your hubby) will resonate for many years to come!!!!
PBC, my sister had a very difficult time conceiving (not that I am suggesting you share your details, but wanted to offer some thoughts) prior to her pending childbirth (2 weeks until the little guy arrives). Even thought it wasn't my own body, it was certainly one of the most emotional times that my family experienced- and brought us all a lot closer!! she is brilliant and I admire her more than anything (She has great style too, p.s.).
We have been so fortunate never to want for anything, and my sister's hubby is extremely successful, but there is no material possession that can ever replace the pain that she endured (And she tried)!!! But with a little hope and faith, and a lot of love (obviously from her hubby too), she is about to deliver the most wonderful bundle of joy-clearly our family's first grandchild. And we all learned (well, my dad already knew it b/c he isn't really into material things, umm...feel sorry for him though b/c he has 3 daughters and a wife who are all obsessed with H amongst other things) how to appreciate the simple fragility of life!
I don't own a Birkin or a Kelly (but do have a lot of H) and I have been ogling one for quite sometime, but Amy, your story has shed a lot of light on its necessity for me right now, and I think I'll wait a little longer and give that money to some kids that really need it... (or pay off my credit card bill) LOL!