I have many theories, and one of the strongest is the Stroller and Sunglasses theory.
The basic premise of the S&S Theory is simple:
Do not buy expensive strollers or sunglasses.
Let’s start with Strollers – my extensive practical research:
| $$$$ vs. $ Strollers… | $$$$ Stroller | $ Stroller |
| Susceptible to being struck by your car in your garage (see exhibit A below) | Yes | Yes |
| Attracts stains of all kinds | Yes | Yes |
| Surround Sound | Yes | No |
| Carries your child from the car to the mall, through the zoo, around the block | Yes | Yes |
| Invites theft from public stroller parks at the zoo train, museums and other non-stroller-friendly places | Yes | No |
| Likely to be thrown up on at some point | Yes | Yes |
| Will be obsolete in the stroller world within 6 months | Yes | Yes |
| Cute designs available | Yes | Yes |
Exhibit A - General stroller shot, close up of wheel hit by my van.Sunglasses are about the same. Well, unless you consider the risks of eye damage with the use of el-cheapo sunglasses:
| $$$$ vs. $ Sunglasses… | $$$$ Sunglasses | $ Sunglasses |
| Likely to get lost | Yes | Yes |
| Likely to break if you sit on them | Yes | Yes |
| Okay-looking | Yes | Yes |
| Get dirty | Yes | Yes |
| Invites auto break-ins if left in sight | Yes | No |
| Provide quality UV protection | Potentially | No way |
| Will be obsolete in the sunglass fashion world within 6 months | Yes | Yes |
Exhibit B - Acceptably fashionable (to me, at least) sunglasses purchased for $1 at the Dollar Tree. Yes – $1. At this rate, sunglasses are nearly disposable.