When Amos is much happier chasing an empty plastic soda bottle around the kitchen floor?  Or tearing up a piece of paper(any kind will do)? 

Truthfully, I haven't bought a LOT of expensive toys, but just about anytime I go to the store, I will pick him up something.  He'd be just as satisfied if I bought myself a soda and gave him the empty.  Just like kids who get a new toy and would rather play with the empty box!

True! True!   Lucy and Darmok both LOVE an empty plastic bottle---preferrably with the lid put back on it.  It's almost a game to both of them to "get the lid off" and see just how loud they can make that little piece of empty plastic get!

Bama is the same way!  I don't spend lots of money on toys, either, but I'll see something "cute" and just have to have it!  He does play with most of his toys, but he's just as happy with a bottle.  And like Paul said, he really seems to enjoy seeing just how loudly he can make it squeak.  My boy LUVS him something squeaky!!!  He has yet to tear a toy up to get the squeaker out.  I hope Ali isn't a toy killer!