So, my mother randomly decided to buy me a new pair of shoes the other day. It was very thoughtful and the shoes are cute, not to mention I'm pretty broke right now and will need some new shoes soon. Problem is, I'm pretty sure they're not vegan. What should I do? I've been going back and forth on this, and could really use some suggestions/insight on this!

If you haven't worn them yet, you could return them and buy a vegan pair.  Otherwise, you could donate them to someone who needs them more.  Or if you really need them and truly can't afford to buy others, then accept them with gratitude, and maybe as you are thanking her, mention that you are trying not to use animal products in any form, so next time, you would prefer she not purchase you anything leather.  I still have some leather items from my non-vegan days.  I've been taking really good care of them to last as long as possible, and as things need replacing, I'm purchasing vegan goods. 

All the best, Kim.

Thanks for the feedback, Kim. I have not worn them yet and I don't think I'm going to. If it eventually comes up in discussion, I will politely let her know how I feel about leather. If need be, I'll purchase some vegan shoes when I get my tax refund. I, too, still use some items from my non-vegan days but have been replacing them when needed with more kind options. It's very much so a moral thing for me, so I think this is the right decision. 

I too have a problem with this.  My mother-in-law just bought my soon to be 1 year old one of those big plastic play kitchens.  Of course she loves it but all I see when I look at it is one giant ecoUNfriendly posionous piece of plastic.  How do you tell people your preferences without sounding like a brat?

It is a bit tough. With the shoes, I eventually ended up telling my mom I don't do leather and she was like "Ooooh, I didn't even think about that!" and wasn't mad at all and didn't think I was being ungrateful. Recently, I bought a new pair of vegan shoes which are super cute and I'm happy with my decision. I think it does help some though, the more people know about your veganism and what all it entails. Most people will try to be understanding, at least if they're your friends or family, anyway.