How Much Can I Get For this Many?

Do you remember the days when four quarters were more than a dollar?? Well, our Baden is living those days right now. And no matter how much I tell him that he can't afford a $75 Fossil wrist watch (that will slip off anyway), he's convinced that he can. You see, he has a jar full of money - coins, that is. Silver. He's been saving and saving and has finally ditched the Fossil watch idea in favor of "Ben 10" DVD's. He was positive that he had enough for two. So we poured all his change out on the coffee table and counted 19 dollars and 11 cents. Then he did dishes and cleaned the playroom to earn a few more dollars and we were off to Target. Climbing in the car I saw he was toting the coins in a big ziploc bag. So I explained to him that he would give me his coins and I would pay for the DVD's with my credit card.

However, upon arrival he was still clutching his huge ziploc as he took a big leap out of the car. He was absolutely determined to use his money. I couldn't bring myself to say anything that would burst his bubble. I wish I had my camera to capture my little boy walking through the isles, standing tall, swinging his money bag. He was looking at prices, darting back and forth to recheck his calculations. When I picked up a movie he exclaimed, "That's $19, mommy! For only 1 movie!" As a good example, I put it back - complaining in my head the whole time: "Now I'll have to come back; or worse, I might forget we NEED this movie!" Anywho, Puppy made his choice so we headed to the check out counters. He was so excited and insisted on going through the check out alone, shooing me away before the cashier could tell I was with him. His eyes looked so desperate all I could do was obey. But then I remembered the coins. Hmmm, do I have the clerk hate me or do I send my son into the depths of despair?? ...So I watched Baden go through the line with the bag of coins.

When it was time for Baden to pay, he plopped the heavy bag down on the counter with pride. He had a big toothy smile and bright, expectant eyes. I think Baden was so pleased, he grew 4 inches taller! The cashier was NOT happy as he counted out $19.11. Then a line formed, and those people didn't seem happy either - although two ladies smiled at me. They must have seen Baden's eyes completely lit up behind his cow licked swoop of hair while he "helped" count out his money. He took his two movies in his hands, leaving the receipt, and skipped out of the store opening the packages along the way. I bet my face showed just as much joy.

These are the days to remember.