Nah, they aren't buying it for me!! psssh, I just like to talk things through with them because it makes them feel included. They tend to like when I spend money on gear instead of "upgrades" but still, I want to make sure they know I'm not just blowing my money. I also want to see what their perspective is on buying that suit on sale vs buying a better quality suit like S&S, A*, or Dainese later on. I just got a new helmet, and I got gauntlets and boots before my last track day and have been wearing those ever since, so idk which route they would prefer me to go with the leathers.
and yes, I already have a full time job lined up for winter break (more bicycle money), and my bakery job for thanksgiving. I'm working on getting an on-campus job in the ME dept, but god knows that might or might not work out...