Ugly Sweaters and Other Ways We Spend Our Money

Our Advent theme day yesterday was Ugly Sweater. There's a lot of room for interpretation there (it was not well received when I commented that I guess I could wear an A&M sweatshirt). It got me thinking though. There is an entire industry in America for producing sweaters that are "ugly". To be worn for a specific party once or twice a year. What would our grandparents think? We're spending money to purchase something because it looks bad. It's fun. This is not necessarily going to be a post saying that consumerism is a bad thing (I'll let Pope Francis speak on that). However, you've got to admit, we buy a lot of things that are not necessary.

Of course, most anything that we buy could be considered a luxury. If we wanted to really get into it, any food beyond that required for basic nutrition could be considered frivolous. We don't need vacations to Disney World. We probably should keep using our phones until they no longer work (or at least increase the update cycle length). It's okay to have things just for enjoyment, as long as we don't get carried away. That being said, the following products are things that no one needs.

Edible Gold Leaf

Gold doesn't react with the body, so it's perfectly safe to eat. It will just end up coming out later. So, consuming it shows that you have enough affluence that you can literally dump gold into the toilet.

Nicholas Cage Sequined Pillow

There are several varieties of this product available.

Hamburger Holder

Yes, burgers do fall apart as you eat them. What actual world problems could have been addressed by the company that designed this product.

Custom Dust Jackets for Books

For the low price of $105, you can buy new covers for your Harry Potter collection (books not included). These are for collectors who leave their books on the shelf and do not read them.

Artificial Intelligence Toothbrush

You should brush your teeth. It is also good to know that you are brushing correctly. I'm not sure anyone needs a toothbrush that will tell you you are forgetting to brush a certain part of your mouth.

Oddly Flavored Sodas

I was always taught not to waste food. So to actually waste money on an edible (or in this case drinkable) gag product is beyond my comprehension. They might look fun on a shelf, but no one is actually enjoying the Ranch Dressing soda.

A Yodeling Pickle

I guess it's kind of funny, for about 10 seconds. Then it's trash.

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