Made In America

       Lately I've been trying to buy only products that are made in America and buy local when I can.
Example, we were in the market for a new futon for my niece. After a lot of price shopping and comparing models, we found just what we were looking for and it was 5 miles from our house. Encore Furnishings is a great business. They offer new and consignment furniture, and all made in America products. I think they have more than 1 location but I've only visited the McMinnville one. The big selling point for me was that it was made is the USA, and it wasn't anymore expensive than prices we saw online.
       This got me thinking, how many people care or even notice if the product they're buying is from the USA?  Honestly, until recently it never crossed my mind.
       Made in America products do tend to cost a little more at times, but to me it's worth it. Who knows what goes on in foreign country factories. I found myself becoming more weary to this as I bought products for Mason. Where did the plastic come from that made this sippy cup that I microwave and put in the dishwasher? Are there chemicals leaking out of it every time I fill it up with organic milk? Are the growth hormones and chemicals I'm avoiding in regular milk nothing compared to the toxins in this China made cup? Maybe I'm getting a little carried away here, but I'd rather be too cautious. By the way, yes he does have "Made in China" toys etc but I'm trying to convert. It's a process, ok?
      I saw on Shark Tank a lady who designed a sippy cup and wanted it made in America. The investors thought this was insane because it would cost so much more to produce. One investor said he would invest IF she agreed to have them made in another country.
      I appreciated her concern for quality products and safety. Would you buy a $20 sippy cup if it was from a small American business? A popular NOT small business aka Walmart does have "Made in America" sippy cups called USA Kids, (usakidscups.com). They're good quality, safe and cute. I bought a 2 pack for under $7! I was disappointed to see that Gerber and Disney cups were all made in China. I guess I shouldn't be surprised though.
      I guess in the end it's all about what is best for your own family. We do not have extra money to splurge on the best of the best all the time. However, with some price shopping (and possibly some couponing) I think I can stay on budget while making more made in America purchases. And that's worth a lot.