Every year, this happens. There is that one toy - that one item - that everyone wants. So, instead of buying one and being happy, greed sets in. Then people buy up all of the extras and try to gouge people.
This year, it's the Zhu Zhu Pets. These are little battery operated hamsters that are meant for kids ages 4 and up. There is a little house, and several accessories to buy and add on. They are cute little things, and, best of all, they are inexpensive. The hamsters sell for $8 at Wal-Mart and $9.99 at Toys R Us - IF YOU CAN FIND THEM!
I have been trying to find these little toys since they commericals first came out. Unfortunately, I have had no luck. What seems to have happened is this. When people find them, they buy all of them. It's gotten bad enough that Toys R Us has imposed a limit on how many can be purchased at one time. Once they have been purchased, they show up on Craigs List and Ebay for 2, 3 and 4 times the original retail. Oh my goodness, people! Really?!?!
What is sad, though, is that people are paying it!
I get the whole "supply and demand" thing. I get that people want to make a quick buck. But there are a few things that I don't get:
How are these people finding the hamsters?
Are they camping out...waiting for the next shipment?
Don't they have jobs?
Responsibilities?
Kids to take care of?
Who has that kind of time???
And, what is the deal with combat tactics in the stores?
I have talked with several Wal-Mart employees and heard stories of fighting in the aisles.
Over an $8 toy!
YOU HAVE TO BE KIDDING ME!
I'll admit, I still want to find one of these little hamsters. My son has been begging me since the first commerical hit the air waves. I would love to be able to fill his desire and have it waiting for him under the Christmas tree. But, I refuse to become one of the mob. I refuse to pay double or triple the retail for this toy. I refuse to fight, camp out, or scheme for this toy. My son deserves a better example.
He may not get the one toy he has consistently asked for this Christmas. But, he will know that he is loved.
