No..not babysteps. I think just my W's inability to understand the value of money and our finances. Her Christmas gift, both picked out by the kids, was a bracelet with bluestones and a matching hat and scarf.
Yep, I think it does all come down to their (and I don't mean women or men, but WAS's'] inability to 'understand' money. Or responsibility.
They aren't 'stupid', just Ill informed.
Still, we cannot be their teachers. Only their buffers in reality.