Buy My Kids Christmas Gifts Or Pay Off Debt?

[@maryallen1017]

Joshua, Thank You for your Service. Take $50 and go to the Five Below Store and buy a few Christmas gifts for each child. Such as Crayons, Coloring Books, A Football, A Baby Doll, A couple Baby toys. Cute Socks & Mitttens. Wrap them up put them under the Christmas tree and they will be happy. Stop thinking you have to spend hundreds of dollars for Christmas gifts. Get a job, pay off you debts, make a budget to save money for next Christmas so your not stressed again.

[@teabrown02]

LOVE this idea!

[@Berserk1Manga]

wow that's like 100 dollars at least. I bought socks. Only 4 pairs in a pack and was 15 dollars. That was the cheaper end too.

[@jus.me.tanzks5834]

@@Berserk1Manganot sure how that would be $100. Dollar tree has awesome dolls and cars for $1.25 of course. Dollar tree has little cars called turbo wheels they are similar to the pocket series by battat at target and add a few sheets of felt for less then $5 hobby lobby is the cheapest at 25 cents a sheet and get the little cars 1 pack for $1.25 or the three different packages for $4 and you can create a whole town for any child 2+ years old for under $10. dollar tree has Barbie type dolls and tiny dressers and beds and such so again for $10 including a box you could have a whole doll house for a younger child

[@jus.me.tanzks5834]

The cars there is 4 cars in each package and three street signs. So even one package would be fun! I cut out simple black strips of felt for roads and then set them on a couple sheets of green and you can cut out squares, rectangles, and triangles for houses and their roofs and simple green triangles for trees, if you have a glue gun you can glue a little trunk on each tree and black doors and windows onto the houses, everything can fit into a simple $1 pencil pouch for storage or dollar tree sometimes has little metal lunchbox type boxes that also work fantastic, now for Christmas my local store had lots of these. hobby lobby has canvas pouches too that are under $1 also

[@jus.me.tanzks5834]

@@Berserk1MangaWalmart has felt to I think it’s 33 cents a sheet and like I said the cars are also available at target but there they are $10 a pack and it’s like fire trucks and police cars and airplanes But thru the target app they have two whole towns that are each less then $10 and the roads are plastic pieces that you pop together One is called safe and clean city crew, that’s $9.99 and then pocket airplane city service playset which is $10.39 but I have seen it cheaper

[@cutlerylover]

How can you bring in 63K a year and not get your kids christmas presents? you can spend $1000 and get as TON of presents for 3 kids...its just about priorities...

[@ashton8878]

Right!! Even just $300 for 3 small kids are fine.

[@kathrynmaguiree]

exactly!! especially when he said he brings in like $6k a month?? all he has to do is plan for it accordingly and set a few hundred aside even and his kids will have an amazing christmas. thrift stores will be his best friend. his priorities are not there

[@ThePohto]

Bring in $6000 a month and only $4000 in debt..Why could you not afford Christmas Presents? Makes no sense

[@meljordan220]

I think he needs a Christmas present. He needs a budget! The husband and wife both need to get on a budget and see where their money is actually going. They will find lots of Christmas money if they do that

[@pienkunicorn]

Why would you spend $1000 on Christmas gifts for three kids. That's insane.

[@aaronalquiza9680]

Growing up poor in a third world country (my bad, the term stuck, should be "a developing country", Philippines), i still have a vivid memory of one of my happiest xmas eves as a kid when my mom and dad pretended to talk to Santa Claus behind a door and then they suddenly had small Troll dolls and a bag of candies for me and my sister. We were laughing so much that night and enjoyed playing board games until we fell asleep.

[@dsstudio76]

American culture is very focused in excess consumerism. Funny thing is I’m from South America as well and lived in another country there for three years, in Argentina .The kids from South America are the happiest ones. 🇧🇷

[@Whatorwellsaid21]

That’s a great memory. I can totally relate. I grew up in communist Cuba and for Christmas (which most people didn’t even celebrate over there) my mom would get me a small pack of cookies and a can of soda. This stuff was rare and yes it isn’t healthy but to a child this is very exciting.

[@SoftDoughboy]

Why do you type like that ? Just erase third world country and type developing country instead of typing out your apology

[@carmellapastore]

I can hear the immaturity. You don’t have the luxury of sitting home for four years. Take care of your family.

[@screwdriver_bandit]

I felt bad for him till the excuses kept falling out of his face hole.

[@jazzad]

Dude's 24 and is a retiring veteran. At this age the most people have usually done is summer jobs. Cut him some slack.

[@NickAndTech]

speaks volumes about how poorly the US military prepares young people for real life these days

[@Globewanderer000]

​@jazzad that's not true at all. Perhaps, if you're rich.

[@anthonyfaucy2761]

Actually he does. His getting $75K tax free with a free education. His definitely doing better than most of the country

[@nicolasbenson009]

It's a bit annoying and unfortunate. When i was born, the national debt was $2,150 per person. Now it's over $100,000 per person. And I'm not even that old. It's truly alarming and best advice get out of debt, make regular investments and be debt free and financially stable.

[@Vincent-j8u]

Safest approach i feel to go about it is to diversify investments. By spreading investments across different asset classes, like bonds, real estate, and international stocks, they can reduce the impact of a market meltdown. its important to seek the guidance of an expert

[@RaymondKeen.]

No doubt, having the right plan is invaluable, my portfolio is well-matched for every season of the market and recently hit 100% rise from early last year. I and my Financial advisor are working on a 7 figure ballpark goal, tho this could take till Q3 2025.

[@SandraDave.]

This is definitely considerable! think you could suggest any professional/advisors i can get on the phone with? I'm in dire need of proper portfolio allocation

[@RaymondKeen.]

Melissa Terri Swayne can't divulge much. Most likely, the internet should have her basic info, you can research if you like.

[@TinaJames222]

I just googled her name and I'm really impressed with her credentials; I reached out to her since I need all the assistance I can get. I just scheduled a call.

[@jasonrodgers9063]

When Dave calls a male caller "Honey" you KNOW an epic rant is incoming!! !!!

[@nitacollins9543]

YES😂😂😂😂

[@VAmissaAnima]

4:59

[@user-yh6dq2hl2t]

Wtf are those emojis 💀

[@jasonrodgers9063]

@@user-yh6dq2hl2t I think they are guffawing Incredible Hulks, but not certain! I just like 'em! !!!

[@natasha.77]

😂😂😂😂😂

[@Dontrolling]

My mom brought me one $60 dollar video game every year both for my birthday and Christmas and I never asked for more. I was the happiest child on the planet and now I live frugally. The greatest gift to your children is the gift of knowledge. Make it a teaching moment.

[@somemanstreasure1683]

That’s all I want now 28 years old 🤣

[@bulldawg71199]

@@somemanstreasure168328 and all you want are video games gifted to you ? lol

[@eileenwatt8283]

Had she invested that $60 in the S and P 500 you would have had a lot today.

[@ShadyRiver]

My brother I’m also a disabled veteran working full time 40-50 hours a week and also doing full time school online. Just create a routine that best works for you and trust that your wife can be a mom and you do what you have to do as the income bringer. Keep your head up.

[@jhutch1681]

Maybe that would work, and maybe it wouldn't. Depends on the injury, rehab and mental health.

[@Observer100-cn7gv]

@jhutch1681, You people and "mental health." 🙄

[@lauracanedo1446]

I’m a stay at home mom and I started thinking about Christmas around the summer time. I made a firm budget for everyone in my small family. I knew I needed the money so I started cleaning houses, doing door dash and just got hired at Crumbl Cookies for a part time job. Things have gotten so expensive and personal issues have been going on too. It has been challenging but I’m going to get through this. Christmas gifts are finished and hoping for a happier New Year.

[@AfiaANDERSON]

Very smart of you to do that I've never thought about that

[@CPMom83]

Great job!!! 👏🏼 You sound like a problem solver who is willing to get out there and get stuff DONE! I’m so excited for your kiddos (and you) to enjoy the holidays!

[@bevanbuckwheatshea5520]

All the best to you!

[@ladygwen2463]

Im a sahm of 3 . They are homeschooled. I've been slowly buying Christmas presents and putting them up for months. Also, temu is awesome for that.

[@HannaHasAPlan]

You're doing a great job❤

[@Jim_Curtis]

There is a lack of budgeting because $72k per year in pension should be enough for basics.

[@BigOdog]

Depends where the person lives

[@Jim_Curtis]

@BigOdog It said the guy lives in Seattle. It's still enough to live there and get some presents for kids.

[@my_journey-eg2vp]

and tax free!!

[@Jim_Curtis]

@@my_journey-eg2vp WA makes up for it with 10.3% sales tax (20.6% on alcohol) plus higher govt fees for everything.

[@puthyx]

@@BigOdog Doesn't matter. He goes to school "online" and "doesn't work" he can move. He should be living in Mississippi as cheap as possible.

[@ln7487]

Freaking electric bill does not care if you are a waiter, author or writer. It needs to be paid!! TRUE 💯🙏🙏🙏

[@anthonyfaucy2761]

His likely earning more than you from his military pension so you should quieten down

[@kylemccarthy02]

@anthonyfaucy2761 what a stupid comment lol

[@RaymondDawson-v2w]

He's got 3 kids, is 24 has bills, yet he's online college and making excuses for not getting a job. He even has the gall to WHINE about not having money for Christmas presents despite $60,000 a year in a military disability pension.

[@unlisted8042]

Joshua. I am a combat veteran and I want to speak directly to you and I hope you read this. You are falling into the disabled veteran trap that I see a lot of our brothers and sisters falling into. The trap where you pity yourself and make excuses for why you can’t work and can only do “school” in your instance. The military didn’t teach you to be lazy. Stop making excuses and get a job. Stop playing the DV card and get a job. Stop feeling sorry for yourself and get a job. Good luck. Hope I don’t see you on Reddit crying like a bunch of our community does.

[@diannemc3179]

Great advice!! I hope he takes it.

[@jimmymcgill6778]

He have only been out for a month. He is going to school. You're acting like he is doing nothing.

[@vincenthenry3102]

Navy vet here, I could have lived off of post 911 benefits while going to school, but I got my MBA during their 36-month program and also worked roughly 40 hours a week. It is entirely doable. It was definitely a challenge since I was doubling up on classes, but still entirely doable. I have also seen a disturbing number of veterans fall into the DV trap. Some used to be inspiring for their work ethic, but end up actually earning 10k/yr doing odd jobs for spending money, while living off of what amounts to welfare for them.

[@lw6339]

I know I did and then you realize you can literally double that by just working while you’re in school.

[@jimmymcgill6778]

@@vincenthenry3102 SO what

[@backoff3477]

when i got out of the military in 2015, i worked a full time job, full time student in person and drove for lyft on the weekend. my wife stayed at home full time with 3 kiddos. i did receive housing assistance from my GI bill as well. it can be done, exhausting but it can be done.

[@anthonyfaucy2761]

Don't be hypocrite

[@jhutch1681]

You can't compare your story to his without knowing his life.

[@backoff3477]

@jhutch1681 why not?

[@Andrea-iw9gh]

My dad used to take my sister and I window shopping for christmas at an outdoor mall when we were kids. It was the time we spent with him and the magic of the decor that was memorable for us. Sometimes we would take a donation card off of the Christmas tree and pick out a present for a child in need. Some of my best christmas memories, and nothing purchased besides lunch and a toy for another kid.

[@jonaingo29]

Definitely the right advice. Also, it looks like the caller said they were living in Seattle so they may want to reconsider living in such a high cost city when neither of them has a job keeping them there. He was probably stationed at Lewis-McChord but now that he's out it probably doesn't make sense to stay.

[@Freestyla-]

It was awful advice lol

[@alexandreafisher5262]

You can go to a thrift store and get some toys, clean them up and put them in bags. They don’t need to be brand new and in a box

[@grisgonzalez6856]

Facebook Market has some new toys too.

[@eetoved1758]

Take the kids on a special experience instead of physical gifts. Although that can get pricey too 😂😂😂

[@mayasilliman1465]

I also went to Goodwill and found several good coats, like a long Wilson leather trench coat and a heavy Sherpa type coat that is so heavy, it can keep me warm without any blankets and saw toys too. This guy has so many excuses, you can see the frustration on Dave's face that the guy isn't getting it!

[@TheEGA4421]

@@alexandreafisher5262 I think the caller is trolling Dave.

[@teachspeech100]

Their neighborhood Buy Nothing group is also an option. There are people who would be more than willing to donate toys & clothes their kids no longer use.

[@cyoohoos]

My most remembered Christmas gifts: my great aunt was a house keeper in the Deep South. She salvaged a face powder box from her employer. She managed to fill it with USD pennies and gave the container to my sister and I for Christmas. It was just over 50 cents. But the candy we bought with that. Every time I see that powder box in the store…I remember her

[@pburke5274]

That's so nice. ❤

[@jasonmoquin]

This was one of the very best Ramsey responses I’ve ever seen. 100% get your behind out there and work, kid!

[@alicepersonaldevelopment]

Omg 24 with 3 kids is crazy!! When I was 24 I was working in London and traveling the world. The US is another planet 😂

[@Genetics-And-Cell-Biology]

Newsflash: it is way funner to travel with your kids and show them the world, than be a miserable single woman looking for a hook up in Rome. There is nothing better in this world than raising children.

[@DumpsterFairy97]

​@Genetics-And-Cell-Biology Bullshit. I'm a mom and there is things way more fun than raising a kid. Also who are you to tell a woman they're only good for popping out kids and that her happiness doesn't matter? Obviously miserable mothers raise very happy kids. And she probably couldn't afford that life with kids right now. What she does doesnt affect you at all and your opinion is irrelevant.

[@DumpsterFairy97]

Maybe you should put that time into being able to pass along knowledge to kids like funner not being a word before you worry about having them let alone shaming others for not 🙄

[@sheffield99]

​@Genetics-And-Cell-Biology, You can't spell properly. I hope you are not teaching any gremlins that you've helped produce.

[@jason-the-great]

​@@Genetics-And-Cell-Biology Newsflash: To suggest that people without children are MISERABLE/PROMISCUOUS is ridiculous. I have nieces and nephews whom I love dearly and would happily give my life for- but here I am living a *blissful* child-free married life, travelling when I want, where I want. There is nothing better in this world than getting exactly what you want out of life, be it with children or without.

[@utahwildlife3891]

I don't think this guy was expecting that response

[@cyoohoos]

People today don’t want the answer to be ..:WORK

[@chief5981]

Dave Ramsey said if you want my sympathy look in the dictionary between sh*t and syphilis

[@jeffreywhitaker5154]

Exactly. 👍🏽🙏🏽💪🏽

[@Seth.fukkyt]

Absolutely.

[@anthonyfaucy2761]

It was a disgusting response by Dave. The caller worked in the military and they spat in his face. Just goes to show how society really is.

[@ohiogma]

When i was 7 my Dad was injured and not working and we were told not to expect Christmas gifts (5 kids) my Aunt and Uncle asked Mom what we really wanted for Christmas and bought it. I got a single babydoll my teenage sister got a new coat they may have spent $75 in 1970 and it was one of our favorite Christmas memories

[@_Y.Not_]

I would have been working 4 jobs, out begging relatives or in the street or looking to charity to provide my kids with the excitment of Christmas. Kids don't understand no toys, they shouldn't have to, they shouldn't have to pay for your really poor financial decisions. If you cannot provide some kind of toys and excitment of Christmas morning for your kids you are doing it wrong, you have a whole year to set aside some money. I'm glad your relatives stepped up and that you have a good memory because of that instead of the bleakness of being a child and not having any kind of Christmas.

[@valeriekehrt7566]

Beautiful. Some people now don't get that. Want everything easy. Bless him for serving but he needs reality check.

[@BrianW211]

Joshua: Obviously, the military doesn't pay very much. Everyone: The military is paying you $70K/year to NOT work.

[@fashowallday4073]

He surely nets more now than when he was active.

[@KingdomKillaz117]

The words "maaan, what the f%*k" came out when I hear that. Dude has no idea how good he got it.

[@genxx2724]

Plus, it’s a disability retirement, so it’s probably not taxed.

[@Polostar79]

@@genxx2724military retirements are taxed state and federal unless you live in a state that doesn’t tax them. VA disability is tax exempt.

[@andy3158]

tax free

[@s1234pro]

I had a housekeeper with 6 children. She would shop garage sales and buy all kinds of toys super cheap, wrap them and her kids loved everything they got every year!

[@BrezzyBoi33]

Or you just pay the housekeeper better?

[@jhutch1681]

I hope you paid her well and gave her a generous Christmas bonus.

[@lonewolfe6]

ABSOLUTELY = I'm not listening to anything you're saying...

[@BREEZYM6015]

But you don't understand...😂

[@_Y.Not_]

Exactly!

[@jimmymcgill6778]

And Dave is not listening either.

[@KathleenMcNe]

Absolutely!

[@tarheel181]

Ha ha, that’s straight dope!

[@Guitarlvr01]

I’m former Air Force - on VA disability. I’m a stay at home mom to my three kids AND a full time online college student. I swung all A’s this semester with my husband still on active duty working. He’s going to school AND has a spouse at home taking care of those kids?! This guy just doesn’t want to work.

[@prissylovejoy702]

We really never got to hear his full explanation and what his actual question was before the both started to yell talking over each other. More Dave talking over Rachel but I kinda felt bad for him. I think we’re assuming a lot about the kid that may just be untrue.

[@salemthorup9536]

Hubby has had so much less work the last several months and we spent our Christmas money on bills cause I didn't want to stop paying debt minimum payments. So some kind people from our church gave us an envelope of cash to do Christmas with. Since we have 6 kids and they have many things they need and some wants we'd like to get for Christmas, most of our shopping is thrift shopping. As tedious as it is to shop like this, I'm so glad it's what we're doing.

[@genxx2724]

All the junk people buy for their kids end up in a landfill pretty soon anyway.

[@cathy7824]

I was a child that was not loved. Any child that is loved is truly blessed, sit your kids down and explain to them what's going on.

[@_Y.Not_]

Nope, kids do not need to understand your poor financial choices, they do not deserve to know you are broke and will not have Christmas because you have not made them a priority, they deserve to be kids. They deserve parents that will get off their ass and do what they need to to provide some toys and the excitment of Christmas morning instead of 2 parents sitting at home, neither working and unable to buy the kids Christmas gifts.

[@jhutch1681]

Little ones can't process that burden and you don't need to spoil their joy by trying to explain it.

[@mylittlecreepyplace]

My husband and I budget money throughout the year for Christmas money. Unfortunately, my husband just recently lost his job, BUT thank the Lord we are blessed to have our rent paid until March and all of our bills paid ahead for the next four to six weeks on top of a $4000 emergency fund. We had $350 to split between our kids for gifts, so what I did to save money was crochet them a sweater each, a new winter hat, mittens and a scarf. Seriously, there are things YOU CAN DO for gifts for your babies when you’re broke, but this dude NEEDS to get a job instead of worry about gifts!!

[@davidjarboe3187]

Love this. You guys are doing great and not making excuses.

[@thabsmkhize2481]

What amazing parents you are! ❤

[@19hundoc47]

He can worry about what he wants, it’s his life not yours

[@AnneCaulder]

That’s called a Christmas Club account in the old days. Now we just have to do it ourselves.

[@lisabanks7742]

He’s a young father and inexperienced with life. I’m glad he called Ramsey for guidance. 60k in pension can absolutely feed his entire, without any extra money for saving. I agreed he should use this opportunity to go to school full-time and work at least 30-35 hours a week. I know he can do it cuz I didn’t it as a single parent at 22.

[@TheEGA4421]

The reason most people go to university online is to continue to work at their job and/or be able to work while in university.

[@dsstudio76]

Yeap.

[@dsstudio76]

He could work remotely even.

[@19hundoc47]

Thanks for bestowing your knowledge on us

[@valeriekehrt7566]

True.​@@dsstudio76

[@thetaekwondoe3887]

Actually, a lot of college kids do it so they don't have to actually go to class.

[@karenhardie1132]

Get a few gifts at the dollar store. Over 60,000 for not working. Age 24 and three kids. 🤔The dollar store is perfect.

[@_Y.Not_]

There is a million things this guy could do to provide a Christmas for his kids, he's just making excuses and not making his kids a top priority. Guaranteed there are things they could cut from their budget to set aside money, they have a whole year, there is no way 2 people should be sitting at home neither working and complaining about not being able to give their kids a Christmas.

[@08baby25]

Exactly. I did the same thing one year for my 1yr old. Went to the 99cents store and brought $30 worth of toys. She was just as happy. Us paying our rent on time was more important. Alot of people in America struggle with buy Christmas gifts over pay off debt when they get that yearly bonus. My side of the family buys one gift for each person. While my husband side buys multiple. I still don't understand it. I brought my daughter 3toys and an outfit. He says that's not enough.🫤 I'm like she gets everything all year round!

[@derekd1510]

His back is messed up but somehow he manages to get it in enough to have 3 kids in 4 years? Meh...

[@anthonyfaucy2761]

So his not allowed to have kids just because of an injured back? Wtf is wrong with you?

[@derekd1510]

@anthonyfaucy2761 I didn't say that. I'm sayin' his back works just fine. Wtf is wrong with you?

[@maryannanderson2213]

I had no children but I worked 40 hours a week the entire four years I was in college because my parents were unable to help me at all. If I were this guy I would first GET A JOB and I would scale Christmas back to a reasonable amount given my current financial state, but I would never PLAN to not give my children any presents at all. I remember one Christmas when I was a little girl and I got ONE present at Christmas and it was a pair of underpants. I am now 77 years old and I can pretty much get myself any gift I want but the thought of that Christmas is STILL painful. I don't think his tree needs to look like Santa died under it but I do think he needs to provide some presents for his children. The thing is, they need not be expensive presents because just the image of something that they can unwrap or something that was left by Santa, leaves a lasting memory for children. He doesn't need to consider getting his children a smart phone or an iPad or ANY electronic gadget that costs the earth but there are still things that he could buy his children that would make them feel that they have not been deserted by Santa Claus. He could do his shopping at Dollar General or Dollar Tree and get several inexpensive gifts that would make his children very happy on Christmas morning but would not bust the bank. He just needs to use a bit of imagination. He's going to school ONLINE? That means he can work any hours that are available to him because HE can choose what hours he does his online schooling. And he said he currently is making around 60K a year. Is he aware that this is about TWICE what most Americans are making? So what's the problem? I am very quickly losing all patience with this guy. I'm beginning to understand why people of a certain age were designated as "snowflakes".

[@desireesalas5820]

He's making $72,000 (tax free)

[@buckeyedav1]

I really wish they had Budgeting Classes in school starting in what we use to call "Junior High" and all the way through High School, not a optional class but a mandatory one in real life living. I know a couple right now with 7 kids that home school, the whole family listens to Dave Ramsey every day kids are learning Life Lessons. Anna In Ohio

[@jeraleewood5969]

In the 70's, in high school, we had to take a personal finance class. I was working at McDonald's and bought a car and went to a jewelry store, put a $125 necklace on credit, paid both off in 4 months, and saved for college. I then had my own, established credit. I wish I knew about Dave Ramsay's way to invest, back then. I was a single mom and put both daughters through nursing school.

[@JustinCase780]

Josh Christmas Eve: No toys this year but let's have a fun Christmas! Kids screaming: We want toys! Josh: Absolutely

[@genxx2724]

Josh Any time: Kids, do not jump from the roof. You are not superheroes. You will not fly. Kids screaming: We want to jump from the roof! We can fly! Josh: Absolutely

[@anndeecosita3586]

Toys can be cheap. Plus likely the kids have grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins who get them stuff. I give my little cousins gifts.

[@fauxbro1983]

You'll just have to work a full time job, you don't need to finish your degree in 4 years. I'm a civil engineer and I've know people who worked as drafters full time and go to school part time get their engineering degree in 7 years. You got a bright future though keep at it!

[@debpratt52]

Guess you haven't talked to any vets with extreme anxiety and PTSD.

[@GAFB1122]

@@debpratt52 You are just guessing that is this caller. Miss, you have some serious issues. As I replied to you above, PTSD is real, but YOU have no blanking clue how this veteran injured his back. You are injecting your issues into this caller and the commentor above.

[@miram2053]

​@@debpratt52are you a vet or do you work for the VA?

[@lolwtnick4362]

@debpratt52 i have this. im not a vet. i can't work outside my home or drive without major assistance. it's debilitating. this kid has mild anxiety i bet if he's already attending school

[@anthonyfaucy2761]

And you do know? You accusing that commenter for assuming yet doing the exact same thing

[@douglassmith9445]

5-6k while not working at 24 years old is absolutely insane. He’s financially able to have kids. I’ve been in the military for 14 years and hardly ever see people get out from a 100% disability at such a young age.

[@jayda3335]

Even at 100% how in the world is he making 72k?! 100% is currently at 4100$ which is about 49k a year, wheres he getting an additional 23k of benefits? Even w/3 children at most 3000 more annually, I'm confused

[@TravisHLe]

@@jayda3335Gi bill

[@jaystaynappin]

If I saw him in public I probably would stop his pension 🪦

[@HomemakingandHomeschoolMama]

​@@jaystaynappinwhat is wrong with you?

[@jessrx1]

That’s the medical retirement, VA disability, and the GI bill payments all together to get that amount.

[@warrensloan3467]

Alternate title: “I don’t want to work.”

[@ThatGuysGuitars]

Alternate title I got hurt serving in the military, and if I go to work - I lose my disability. I’m young, and going to school to get a decent job, so what do I do?

[@MrTmenzo]

Alternate title: disability fraud

[@joelfenner9179]

Alternate title: "What does budget mean?"

[@JWH808]

Military disability is based on a rating calculated by an accumulation of conditions. So, if someone has a rating of 100% it doesn’t necessarily mean they’re handicapped, and it also doesn’t mean they’re defrauding the system. It just means the total of their conditions rates a certain level of compensation. There are many veterans that use their rating as an excuse not to work even though they are physically and mentally capable.

[@desireesalas5820]

​@@ThatGuysGuitars he won't lose his payments if he works

[@lolwtnick4362]

Absolutely!! lol obviously the military doesn't pay much... yeah maybe to cover your expenses but i could easily retire on 60k a year.

[@soundjudgement3586]

I'm retired and could live well in half of that.

[@evanmcgough5210]

@@soundjudgement3586property taxes must be cheap where you live

[@soundjudgement3586]

@@evanmcgough5210 : bless to have had property taxes exempted last two years. Some perks with being a senior citizen in many cities in the USA , but, such programs are income based

[@annbow4064]

I'm living on a£13.000 pension and manage his 72.000 at 24 is a dream for most people while sitting on his backside.

[@powellpicc1985]

We had a lighter Christmas this year. Our kids each got a new stuffed animal, a little $5 toy from the grocery store, a bag with candy canes and chocolate candies, a board game we found at Goodwill, and I gift wrapped two books they forgot we owned. Happy as clams!

[@BirdDogey1]

My childhood was spent in poverty. Christmas was always sad. Not much in the way of gifts and no love. In fact, we were told we weren't wanted. I'm 60 years old and don't look forward to the season. Lingering demons so to speak. A few desired gifts and lots of love can be a really big deal. There are some non profits that can assist with a number of things.

[@dsstudio76]

Make it happen for you now. We all had past sad stories. I bought my own gifts and wrapped them myself and set them under the tree. I come from South America and one Christmas, as a child , all we had to eat was a homemade pizza. We were used to a big nice beautiful feast and one good gift. 😉

[@ronica2623]

@@dsstudio76I wrap myself some gifts as well….and then make myself a nice dinner 😊

[@MegaMarVerde]

Oh dear you are loved. Jesus loves you ! John 14:27 “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” Mark 5:36 “But overhearing what they said, Jesus said to the ruler of the synagogue, “Do not fear, only believe.”

[@jeancorwin5891]

Save up for vascectomy.

[@desireesalas5820]

Lol facts

[@JasmineVaughan]

$6k a month and can't afford anything. I hope and pray for that much a month sometime in my life. That's a lot where I'm from. People are insane and always feel entitled.

[@jordanhudson8060]

6k a month in Seattle isn't shit. But no a excuse for laziness

[@paulmvn5431]

​@@jordanhudson8060 Then he needs to leave. The military isn't telling him where to live.

[@AnonymousGameWarden]

Dude stop being lazy. I get paid way more that to litterally press a button on a computer. I suck at math and suck at computers but I learned it. Easiest money I ever made.

[@Scarface_445]

@@jordanhudson8060higher by 10k than the average my dude. He just needs a budget

[@mattmickle1296]

Why does he live in an expensive place? No one has a job, online school. Just about every small inexpensive town in America has internet and a post office. I’d rather raise my kids in a smaller town anyway, all things being equal.

[@GAFB1122]

I am a veteran. I appreciate everything I have ever received from my country such as medical care at the VA for my years of service. I believe the United States needs a strong military, and recruitment is low and therefore veterans deserve everything they get. --------> Note, you would get it too if you chose to serve. With all that said, BEING A VETERAN DOES NOT give you a free pass from using common sense and good decision making as it pertains to your life. You got 3 kids, and you are not even 25 years old yet. That is a choice. That is a choice that I didn't make and would never have made. BUT NOW DUDE, YOU GOTTA WORK!!

[@RecoveryAndLife]

I wanted 2 or 3 kids as a teenager. Had my first at 19. I’m 26 now and am considering never having another with how difficult the first one was (behaviorally and everything she was super easy, just raising a baby in general is hard. Can’t imagine if they have temper issues)

[@AnonymousGameWarden]

Two things bud. 1 rates are low because the govt want them to be. There is no military objective in existence that that cannot be successfuly executed by a drone. They are perfectly fine spending the money elsewhere. 2. Citizens don't want to fight for the country because the country is not worth fighting for.

[@AnonymousGameWarden]

​@@RecoveryAndLife90% of the battle is the behavioral issues bud

[@GAFB1122]

@@AnonymousGameWarden LOL OK bud 👌

[@CarolCityCane305]

Wait till the military becomes privatized in the trump administration

[@itumelengmahaole5890]

Uncle Dave is the father everyone needs. Thank you Uncle Dave❤🙏🏾

[@jimmymcgill6778]

NO

[@MegaMarVerde]

@@jimmymcgill6778u kinda passive aggressive 😂

[@alexcrypto9054]

As a veteran myself, this sounds like a guy who isn’t actually disabled, but instead is milking the system

[@carguyuk7525]

Kids like opening presents. They are not bothered what is in them.

[@Coolness18304]

Thats real

[@l3zfrancais]

Lies

[@kistelkistel]

Especially small children. I imagine they're all back to back

[@anndeecosita3586]

I disagree if the kids are at least 3 years old. They want something fun. It doesn’t have to be expensive. No kid is excited to get socks and underwear for Christmas even if they unwrapped them.

[@desireesalas5820]

​@@anndeecosita3586 Well, One of them is a newborn (for starters) so they won't even know the difference between receiving xmas gifts or not. That leaves two toddlers (not difficult to make happy with simple toys). Let's not forget he earns more than enough to budget and make it work. I wonder what they're splurging their income on every month.

[@JAH-iu3yh]

This is such a heartbreaking feeling. Reach out to your local church and see if they have a toy drive! Thank you for your service, Merry Christmas, God bless you and your 3 babies.❤

[@Echodot232]

Thank you for your service. I just hear excuses from him. He needs to work to take care of his family

[@redeye780]

He did no service bro. He just wanted his easy paycheck. He's probably not even hurt lol

[@desireesalas5820]

​@@redeye780Exactly. I wonder if he was ever even deployed

[@annbow4064]

Could not have did much service at 24 and already on a $72k pension.

[@vlad23i]

As a former vet myself theres no excuse here to not be able to buy kids a few gifts that cost little in comparisom to the debt he owes. No accountability here, get a job, bjy kids gifts, then return to what you did before hand

[@_Y.Not_]

Guaranteed there are things in their budget they could cut in order to provide their kids a Christmas, they have a whole year to prepare and set aside some money and the kids should be top priority.

[@paulaprice6949]

​@@_Y.Not_ Right!

[@emilymangelsdorf8455]

Also, I’m gonna go get a job part, he’s disabled from the military they need to take in consideration the severity of his disability if he just got out as the military they don’t let you out for no reason. Maybe limited on physical type of job he can get. But asking for advice is the first step. So much appreciate his service and sacrifice!

[@Ms2T]

This is exactly what I was thinking. He possibly has physical limitations. I do think he could get a job but maybe a work from home customer service on the phone type job. Also, I understand his wife just had a baby but once that bay is around 9 months to a year old, she needs to get a job and start contributing as well.

[@HomemakingandHomeschoolMama]

​@@Ms2Tthey have 3 children ... depending on the ages, they might need day care ... do you realize how much day care costs for one let alone three? She would be working for nothing ...

[@annbow4064]

He should stop having kids if he can't survive on72.000 it's hardly buttons,or move to where he can afford to live.

[@HomemakingandHomeschoolMama]

@@annbow4064 I'm sure he had the three before he was medically retired from the military ... you dont go in to military expecting to get hurt and have your whole life's plan go down the toilet

[@annbow4064]

@@HomemakingandHomeschoolMama dDd you not hear him say he could not work as he had a new born,Dave said you're wife is at home go get a job,the money he is getting is good money he can't be budgetting very well,if it's expensive where he lives move somewhere cheaper.

[@MayaLarsen-y3r]

Children dont rember the presents they rember the time and joy around the festive season.

[@mfbikle]

I work full-time, go to school full-time in person, I’ve had several back and knee surgeries and have a family.. I’ll be graduating in the spring, so yah I get it!

[@miram2053]

I got out of the military for lack of a family care plan. I knew i was getting out much like medical retirement. I just had a more solified date than with medboard. I saved for a while and paid off as much debt as i could before i got out. And i had a husband's income to fall back on. I struggle to understand the lack of preparation when we as soldiers get to this point. We have so much at pur disposal compared to your average citizen. We have the option to sell leave days as well. 63,000 and struggling? The question is what are you spending it on.

[@dsstudio76]

Exatamente . 😉

[@crhp13tblock52]

Exactly what I’m wondering!

[@strider2929]

Sounds like the best retirement plan is to get medical discharge from the military. Over 60k a year for life and all medical taken care of. Thats insane

[@KennedyIvy]

Sounds like a huge scam for the government

[@USMC6976]

Not near as much as you get if you're 100% disabled on a civilian job.

[@greggpurviance7252]

No, it is not

[@hannah20071000]

@@USMC6976 Not even close. 100 disabled on a civlian job gets like 2k a month, that's it, unless you were making like 1000000 a year. A person earning about 50k a year (the median salary in the USA) will get a 2k pension. THat's it. Sounds like you don't know about civilian life. Military are paid way more, on average, than civilians.

[@JJones-zg7yz]

They are all leeches.

[@mmortensen5598]

When my daughter was 6 months and my son was almost 2, for Christmas we gave my daughter a wrapped box and my son two toys we bought at somewhere like goodwill. They were so happy! Cost us somewhere between $5 and $15. Before the kids were born, when we were working hard on getting out of debt, we took our favorite things and wrapped them up a day or two before Christmas. That is the most excited I have ever been to open my Christmas present in my entire married life (and it's been awhile). Doesn't always take a lot of money to have a good Christmas.

[@christykuder1190]

My husband and I had 3 young kids and he went to school full time and worked 2 sometimes 3 jobs and I worked 2 jobs and then we had another precious baby and still in school and still working however I could (childcare so kids could be with me) and he still worked. He got his Bachelor’s and 2 Master’s in under 4 years and was on Dean’s List and graduate Summa Cum Laude. It was so hard, but we were and are a team and with God and each other we did it! It can be done!!!

[@dan.b]

-So you plann not to work for 4 years? -Yes … -You need a job -Absolutely To many absolutelies in this call

[@derekw9405]

I spent 20 years in the military. The amount of veterans I know that are drawing a bogus VA “disability” check is mind numbing. Yes, we need to take care of our vets but I’m here to say that VA checks are quickly becoming the most abused entitlement program in the federal government. I’m sure people will be upset with that statement but it needs to be called out.

[@de1mos2]

I suspect @derekw9405 is a bot; can't hate on a bot. Anyone with 20 yrs military service has also filed for "disability". Living 20 yrs on light-duty professional welfare is the only way one comes out of the service without injuries of some kind. The VA is a bureaucracy and lawyers are often called upon for vets to receive the deal promised. Had to be said.

[@dawnt5587]

I totally agree with you. I know 2 people who are drawing disability but they are faking it. I know they are because they tried to tell my daughter how to do it. We need to get rid of fraud, waste and abuse.

[@harp_for_mayor]

Who cares! Let them people do what they do… Mind your damn business!

[@montymython754]

@@harp_for_mayorpublic spending is everyone’s business 👍

[@williamerazo3921]

Who cares? They serve their country and went through some stuff plus it’s better to spend on troops than send it elsewhere

[@timm285]

63 grand for just breathing and this guy can’t make it work? Stop having kids.

[@_Y.Not_]

yep. excuses all over the place, poor kids.

[@RecoveryAndLife]

It’s like these guys just do whatever the first thing they’re told is. “Join up” “okay” “have kids” “okay” now he’s wondering what to do next

[@genxx2724]

@@RecoveryAndLife I grew up in a community with a large military presence. My mom told me people who go into the military are sheep who need to be told what to do. They are incapable of making their own decisions and they don’t want to be responsible for their own decisions.

[@thetaekwondoe3887]

@@RecoveryAndLife He's not liking the being told to "get a job." :)

[@wubbied4575]

@@thetaekwondoe3887he’s disabled

[@donnymac575]

I bet he never calls in again 😂

[@BREEZYM6015]

I'll raise the bet. 😂

[@sspann]

😂😂💯

[@Growth234]

When money's tight I try to come up with activities that are free or use things we already have like paper to make snowflakes. Walking around the neighborhood to look at Christmas lights. Kids want time with you anyway. Maybe a couple of presents and some candy.

[@Abridoda]

24, wife and 3 kids. Wow, Durex needs to advertise more in the army.

[@stud6414]

At least he's got guaranteed income.

[@itumelengmahaole5890]

😂😂😂😂TF man!?

[@GinaCriv]

@@stud6414 As long as you're willing to pay it.

[@rachaelsills8450]

Anyone who's ever twanged their back in the slightest knows that permanent back injury is this couple's birth control from now on.

[@siva47931]

The only thing he was servicing was her cat

[@simsneon2]

Also, I come from the military family where I know someone personally that is abusing this and I do think it’s a form of abuse for being taken advantage of I think morally it’s wrong

[@eetoved1758]

That dude is lucky: not all online classes are self-paced, and every one I've ever taken has scheduled meetings at a number of different times per week. 🙄 It sucks worse than in-person school.

[@krobdawg]

The gift of being debt free is the best

[@reese85]

Yeah to adults not to kids. If parents can’t afford gifts, they gotta an side job, put money to the side, something

[@jarlbalgruufthegreater1758]

Yeah try telling that to your kids at christmas 😂

[@GAFB1122]

@@reese85 That is true Reese85 but you know as well as I do, you don't need to spend a lot of money on expensive gifts to make kids (especially very young kids) happy.

[@mhodge0890]

Yea and kids free as well

[@_Y.Not_]

Kids should not have to worry or understand about being "debt free". You can teach your kids love and sharing at Christmas but they still want a bike or a doll and if you can't provide that because you have made poor financial choices with debt then you are doing it wrong.

[@sherryberry65]

Buy some inexpensive gifts.

[@LizG-M]

I got the Christmas presents from DDs and Ross. $5 dollars for the frozen doll (medium size) and $ 6 for monster jam cars (three in the set). $3 dollars Mr potato head. People want to spend hundreds on toys for kids. That's stupid.

[@ericag4908]

Why?

[@emilybillybobsenior8934]

I will say, I didn’t always have a Christmas. And it didn’t ruin my life. It actually taught me that I’m not entitled to expect holiday gifts. Instead, we’d have a family outing and it was very fun. When we did have Christmas, we’d have one “big” gift or multiple small gifts. Otherwise, would have Christmas in February when taxes came. Too many people take Christmas gifts much too seriously. Gifts are not core memories. Be there with your kids. Communicate with them.

[@LizG-M]

I never got anything for Christmas birthdays or anything i lived in rural Mexico as a kid. Not even cake, damn sometimes i didn't eat until like 4pm only one meal. Here people want to buy everything brand new and expensive..Come on, people are stupid. I got the Christmas presents from Ross and DDs . You can also get something in the thrifting store.

[@rtwpaddyftw5287]

Joshua, as an European and since we all still connected, I also thank you for your service. Seriously, been there, done that. Please get a job, no matter if it's collecting garbage, if it's cleaning stairhouses, if it's driving a semi, you must get a job. You need money!! Don't live on the edge with only our pension, it is going to collapse, faster than you think.

[@kevinmiller4590]

60K a year? and for not working? and he can't afford Christmas ?? did i hear this right ??

[@bat116]

And we pay for his school on top of that....

[@user.0704]

Ikr, surely 60k a year is enough to live comfortably and pay the debt off. Unless they live in a crazy expensive part of America.

[@karenhardie1132]

​​@@bat116Three kids at age 24. 60,000 and not working. Free school. Wow. . Can get a couple gifts at the dollar store.

[@josebautista7311]

Another so called injury on the job

[@_Y.Not_]

Exactly! If they cannot set aside some money with a whole year to prepare to give their kids a Christmas which should be a top priority they have their priorities wrong. Guaranteed there are things they could cut from their budget that would easily allow them to give their kids a Christmas. So both he and his wife are going to be home not working and can't provide Christmas for their kids, get outta here!

[@paulacesana8439]

I like when you let clear the title of the video so we know what it is about

[@garrett21]

If he’s in school he should be able to get a stipend for housing as well. Add on the disability payment and I’m not really sure what expenses he would even have. Even a part time job making 2k a month would be amazing for him

[@desireesalas5820]

He surely already receives that housing stipend as well

[@beckymesterhazi4624]

My Sons 5th Birthday I had to go into £land (Uk version of $tree) and brought all presents in there!. So many kids prefer the boxes 📦!! You DONT need to WASTE money!!!

[@cutehumor]

Dave: "you're disabled?" "Thank you for your service" After finding out the caller and his wife are both not working with three kids and not buying kids Christmas presents Dave: "get a job!" The caller hurt his back, but he's able to make a baby! guess he didn't have severe back pain like Luigi did. lololol

[@abark]

Most disabled vets are scammers and deadbeats.

[@maryholden3136]

Little kids aren't fussed about costs.... I got blindsided once having a child in my house who announced one night tomorrow is my birthday, I'll be 4. Panic. I didn't have any cash or time to plan. I got an idea around 1am. First thing in the morning I phoned 2 friends with children about the same age and asked them to come after school to celebrate his birthday. I wrapped up a bag of flour and a bag of sugar as gifts. He looked a little confused at the breakfast table but I said 4 was the best birthday to be able to make your own cake. So while the older kids were at school we made sugar cookies, a cake and pizza dough. After school my friends came around, one brought him a ball and the other a rocket. There were about 8 kids running around playing and everyone ate pizza and cookies before singing happy birthday and having cake. The little boy had a blast. Good times aren't all about money. They're about effort and a bit of imagination with a willingness to deal with mess and have a laugh. Was it perfect? No. Hugely organised? No. A once in a lifetime special event? No. But it was an enjoyable birthday for a 4yo who was unexpectedly staying with comparative strangers for a few weeks

[@GAFB1122]

The dude is way overthinking this. His kids are young. His kids would be fine with gifts from Big Lots for a few dollars each.

[@rtwpaddyftw5287]

Children are very flexible and full of forgiveness

[@GinaCriv]

Exactly, but he's a manchild with a woe is me attitude, while having someone else pay him for doing nothing. I guarantee you, as a 24 year old "disabled" service member, he is making more now than when he was active duty (except on active duty he had housing and medical provided). This is real life dude, get it together...and use some birth control.

[@dsstudio76]

Kids love anything they can have some fun out of it. Even here in States. 😉

[@kendrapratt2098]

Big Lots was so good when I was a kid

[@marcuswashington461]

24 bringing in 6k a month from military..and military dont pay well WHAT!! I am assuming this is disability for life..Americans mindset is simply incredible!!! This dude got it made and whining!! SIMPLY INCREDIBLE!!!

[@xsgtxbigboy1655]

Right dude makes more than me making 36 an hour and don’t have to work his whole life lol

[@DJohnson-od6oj]

You do realize if he was medically retired at that disability level there is something seriously wrong with him that he has to deal with for life?

[@DJohnson-od6oj]

And that money he gets probably includes his GI Bill benefits.

[@beanteam2217]

@@DJohnson-od6ojnot true, ik people who have a very minor injury and collecting 4k a month!

[@anndeecosita3586]

@@DJohnson-od6ojWhen my friend’s retired husband was using the GI Bill to go back to school, it also supplied them with a housing allowance that paid the rent for their house as long as he was full time.

[@Jose-ht2lw]

Dude just doesn't wanna work. Wants easy quick money. Every one is hiring even part time cause of the holidays. Sheesh

[@serg320]

I’m a veteran, I went to school took 5 classes and still worked 35 to 40 hours a week… “absolutely” excuses

[@erikcampen8276]

Dave: Joshua, did you get dropped on your head while you were in the military, sir? Joshua: Absolutely.

[@kelligreer3975]

I made way less. Husband was disabled. Had to work full time and paid for daycare. I’m debt free. It’s about living within your means!

[@0mnilegacy]

I think some of that comes from the school fund he is receiving, so after school, his pension will probably be around 55k to 60k. He probably lives in a high cost living area. Once the kids leave home, it will decrease further. He needs to be careful in finding a job that suits his limitations. He should find something, even if it is a part-time job. It can be challenging to find a job after military service, but it is much easier if you transition right away and get acclimated to civilian life.

[@catfor_life1534]

Single mom of 3, I go to school full-time and work full-time. At least he has a wife to take care of the kids. He sounds lazy. Buy your kids gifts. My goodness.

[@desireesalas5820]

It's called the entitlement mindset

[@isselgarcia6825]

60k a year he lives in Seattle WA, family of 5 that requires serious budgeting. Being from Washington I know the cost of living is higher on the west side of the state. But, yes they need to work. Also, it’s not the end of the world if kids don’t get gifts on Christmas. But there are gifts $5 and under at Walmart and the dollar store.

[@Chet_24]

Yeah. He would be wise to leave Seattle. If he moved to the sticks in Wyoming, he'd be ok. I'd do that just to not go to work.

[@hanney3194]

Loving these Rachel rants lately

[@genxx2724]

Kids have more fun playing with the huge box a major gift came in than the actual gift.

[@brendansherry3431]

I did the same thing when I got out. There is a period of depression after and no one to hold you accountable except yourself. It was a mistake. Don't wallow in what could or should have been. Get back up, dust yourself off and get to work.

[@Bishbish-r6k]

I told my daughter Christmas is about love and sharing. Not about the commercialism of gift giving.

[@greekre]

we got jocks and socks for christmas and loved it. and we all had a home paid for when we got married. merry fkn christmas. make wise choices and get your priorities right

[@JustinCase780]

She'll catch on soon. 😅

[@_Y.Not_]

ya, that doesn't work for kids, they can be taught Christmas is about love and sharing but they still want a bike or a doll, let's be realistic. Do not visit your poor financial choices upon your kids. If you can't afford to buy your kids some toys and give them the excitment of Santa coming, the excitment of Christmas morning then you are absolutely doing it wrong.

[@Ria24Ria]

@@_Y.Not_exactly, I remember being a kid and so excited to wake up for Christmas Day ! I don’t do Christmas gifts anymore since I am a adult but I do only get the children in my family because I know what that was like.

[@imnotvalerie563]

@@_Y.Not_right?! At least get the kids something that's fun. Kid's didn't ask to be here

[@erikyoshi5549]

Thank you for your service sir. Give your children an experience. Your presence is best. Work and pay off the debt so you can spend more and more time with your kids. At least take the kids to the movies or get them a $25 to $50 gift. If those both are not possible spend time and visit a local park and have a picnic as a family

[@Pumalynx]

My outlook on money changed when I realized that is better to invest on or before retirement, some people are just putting £15k or £20k With the current market movement at the end of the year they are making millions.

[@Annakerry-rp3pd]

Investment is currently the most lucrative business in the world. Both real estate, Stock, and Cryptocurrencies are positively changing people's lives.

[@Grayoakley-k1m]

My advice to everyone is that saving is great but investment is the key to be successful imagine investing $15,000 and received $472,700.

[@DarbyCullen]

wow this awesome I'm 47 and have been looking for ways to be successful, please how??

[@ArchieHwan]

Making touch with financial advisors like Elizabeth Regina Nelson who can assist you restructure your portfolio, would be a very creative option. Personal financial management will be crucial to navigating the next difficult times

[@wilderRobin]

Unfortunately, not all of us were financially literate early. I was 35 when I finally educated myself and started taking steps. I went from $176,000 in debt with zero savings or retirement to now, 2 years later, fully debt-free and over $1000,000 net worth. I know that doesn't SOUND like a lot, but I'm incredibly proud of it. Now I'm fast-tracking my wealth building (investing $400,000 annually) and don't owe a dime to anyone. It's a good feeling!

[@raulreyesjesus63]

😂❤I'm by the way the new born don't know is Christmas, josh u can do it bro !!! 💪 go out there bro and think sacrifices .. we got this man..

[@michael567jober]

Working 40 to 60 hours while going to school is a little too much for some ppl. Some of us cannot focus on all that at once

[@melindadurchholz3738]

This happened when we had a 2 yr old and a newborn. They each got one thing from The Christmas Tree Shops. Newborn got a Popeye shirt( which we still have)and the toddler got some trinket/ toy. My husband had 5 dollars to spend on both. It was one of our best Christmases. Btw, our credit cards were maxed out so we had to live within our means. We used our imaginations on how to stretch our pennies. That was 28 years ago. May have been my favorite Christmas in memory.

[@jimroscovius]

My wife and I got degrees while working full time. And we both worked with kids. Stop being lazy and get out there and work like we did. He's full of excuses and keeps saying, "Absolutely." Then GO DO IT!!

[@siva47931]

Dave's wife never worked. Even though they were facing bankruptcy

[@joeb734]

I think it's pretty pretentious to assume he's lazy when he's being medically retired for something catastrophic happening to him...wouldn't be surprised if he is also dealing with lingering PTSD or other MH issues...at a min depressed for being kicked out of a career he wanted. A little empathy wouldn't hurt.

[@desireesalas5820]

​@@joeb734Well, if that were the case he's got a pretty decent income. He can manage alot with that if used wisely.

[@ghita5207]

The wife needs to get working omfg. I just don't understand those women. What happens if hubby leaves or something happens to him? You just starve? When my mom was in med school she worked part time to support her SISTER'S kids because that woman apparently didn't know that men could just get up and leave - she had to be screamed at by our grandfather to get a job. There are insane people out there

[@ghita5207]

@@siva47931 why???

[@Zelfal]

Never assume that its wrong to make sure bills r taken care of before gifts, Your children might not understand now but they will thank you for being a realist. Ik from experience being a navy family lost everything, i literally told my parents to take my meager savings just to make sure we stayed together as that was the best gift of all. We love one another and help each other out when possible. As my late grandpa said food bills then wants in that order.

[@David-wo9un]

There are many people working full time who don’t bring in that kind of money; he should be able to find. Way to live within a budget. He might want to pump the breaks on expanding the family until he figures this out.

[@soundjudgement3586]

Absolutely. Both adults are not working and at home means more kids on the way.

[@annbow4064]

The money he is getting at 24 for life cannot even be made by working 60 hrs a week in some places,he should move and stop having kids.

[@Boringcountrylife]

Y'all handled that call very well.

[@markrevis2667]

this call is unbelievable.... I'm 27 and have worked full time since 17

[@EmilyRyan-op5qm]

Second hand stores too have great deals or FB marketplace. Think about things you will buy your child anyway- favorite fruit (clementines in the stockings) or favorite cereal, or treat (goldfish crackers) and wrap that! Also, save as many boxes as you can and wrap one gift multiple times. The little ones LOVE quickly tearing through the wrapping paper and it’s fun for them to keep unwrapping and are still excited about whatever is inside. Even clothes or like experiences they said a trip to the zoo, print something out and wrap that. Look for places with great military discounts to take the kids to- don’t pay full price!

[@debpratt52]

Dave, this comment is for your question to a vet on why he is not working: I know many young vets who have PTSD and anxiety that is so bad, that they can't think straight anymore. They have trouble concentrating and learning new things. Sometimes, they can't face going in public because of the PTSD and having to be so very aware of their surroundings. It's way more than an injured back.

[@GAFB1122]

"Way more than the injured back", maybe or maybe not. Each situation is different. PTSD is real but PTSD on occasion has been abused by those looking for a check, make no mistake about that. And YES I AM A VETERAN!!

[@kendrapratt2098]

But he’s signed up for four years of college…

[@miram2053]

I wonder if you know how rare this is. But we should consider this because he very well could be one who is suffering. But in modern time the vast majority of us didn't and likely aren't going to experience combat scenarios outside of training.

[@lolwtnick4362]

ditto. i have a form of ptsd. but im not even military. Trauma and severe anxiety can be caused by things other than military service.

[@_Y.Not_]

If you are so injured as a vet as to not be able to work and provide for your children you should not be having them. Children should not have to pay for or even understand what your circumstances are, they should be free to be kids and have the excitment of Christmas and a bike under the tree. If you are so damaged that you cannot work and provide, don't have kids. There are very few vets so damaged by PTSD that they can no longer function in society but have no problem going through 4 years of school.

[@Mrs.Billard]

I was on my motorcycle and a car blew a stop sign 🛑 and hit me. This caused me 13 herniated disc, I work everyday! 40+ hrs a week.