Right. I think that's certainly true to a degree. Part of the issue is certainly how much money do you really have to blow. However, tourist season is already picking up, so the dollars are starting to flow, and most people live in homes that have been in their families forever, so very few are paying any rent or mortgage. And Guatemala is really close, so a lot of people just boat down and buy there and sneak back up to avoid duty. So, I think people really could blow a fair amount on toys if they wanted to. It seems, though, that they prefer to spend it on the celebration - lots of rum and food.
I think that is, indeed, what US values have become. I think as far as my mother goes, she shows them love in lots of ways, but she wants them to have the special experience like the kids on tv. She never wants anyone left out or feeling less. She always makes sure they know that she spends the same amount on each grandchild. It's honestly a lot of pressure.