Shopping within a Budget

We went shopping yesterday, primarily to look for tubs and doors--the next in our LOOOOOOOOONG list of decisions for the house. I don't think we made much progress, but we did some fact finding that will help in some finalizing. Farmer Girl went along so she could shop. She was armed with a pencil, notebook and camera to capture her finds. The girls have been asking about money for their new bedroom and would they be able to decorate it etc. The Chef and I decided this could be a great potential learning opportunity for them.So, they are starting this family house building process with a set amount in an account. Each month they have the opportunity to add to it with their willingness to help out with all aspects of building. Each month, given no major infractions, there will be additional monies added. There is also an opportunity to gain bonuses when they go above and beyond with exceptional attitudes and endeavors in their jobs, school and work. However, there is also the possibility of losses due to poor attitudes, laziness and disobedience. All ready our normal expectation at all times, is first time, immediately and cheerfully. We told them we would finish the room, including drywall and flooring. Big Grin! Of course, they both have furniture so we wouldn't be buying new, but they could if they have enough. Also, we would provide the paint, whatever the amount necessary to paint it. Farmer Girl started out wanting something quite wild and wacky with about 12 different colors. We told her we would give her the amount of the cost of the paint required only. She would have to pay for anything beyond that. She is toning down her choices a bit. Given the things she liked yesterday, I think she won't need paint to liven it up anyway! For those of you who know her, I think these choices as posted won't surprise you.

She wrote it all down in the order she took pictures. She added it all up and surprisingly, it wasn't too much. Of course, she told me that was just one of everything and for some, she would like 2 or 3! She will probably change her mind a dozen times between now and completion anyway.

The kick-off for this project was May 1st. So far, so good. Today, I was teasing Farmer Girl a bit when she did something a little slow or with less cheerfulness by saying, "Ding!" I told her all those "dings" were adding against her bonuses or contributing to her infractions. She was a bit worried. We think it will be good for them, teaching them about the cost of everything and staying within a budget. Dave Ramsay would be proud, as are we. It will be interesting to see how they do and how their rooms turn out. I expect each girl will have wonderful rooms that reflect each of their personalities.

Ellie bids you good night~!