Cruz's New Shoes

Spring is here... that means Cruz wants to be outside 24/7... and that means Cruz will be dirtier and tracking in messes from "OUHHSIDE!" (how Cruz says it each time). So last night we figured he needs some dirty outside shoes, and a pair that we keep more clean for in the house and at daycare.

So quick trip to Walmart for some cheap shoes. The Garanimals shoes have always been cheap and fit him well and we usually are able to find some on clearance. Well the only clearance shoes in his size, were "girls" shoes... I did't care, Heather didn't care, and Cruz liked em... so why not? Saves a few bucks and is a slight fashion statement.

Same Shoes, Equal Pay

His statement is timely as tomorrow (April 9th) is Equal Pay Day. Will Cruz be judged by the content of his character (or Physical appearance) or by the color of his shoes? Time will tell what the future holds. I know I want my little guy to be able to grow up and be whatever he wants, its what all parents want right? Will the term "Male Nurse" be used in the future? Will he not be scared of math because he is a boy and boys are supposed to be good at math? What if he doesn't want to play sports...

I did feel the need to tell the Daycare lady his new kicks are clearance girls shoes... afterwards, I thought why did I say that? Did I need to mention they are clearance to insinuate that is why we got them? She could tell they were pink, and she could tell Cruz was very proud of his shoes. He did his typical jump and down when she mentioned them. Maybe in the future when he can express his opinions better, and asks for pink shoes I won't need to validate the choice? Not sure... but I know it was a good exercise in acceptance and privilege for me to think all these things through in my head.

As you can see this little active guy couldn't sit for me to take a picture of his new shoes. I couldn't find a picture online, but it is basically the shoe below but pink instead of blue and a lighter color grey.

I remembered when we first moved to the states that I had a girls bike... at first I didn't know the difference, until some kids pointed it out to me, then I was embarrassed.But it was the only bike I had, and I rode it...

So there is Cruz's fashion statement, political statement, and lesson for his Papi to remember to let Cruz be himself and express himself as he gets older.