Along the same same point Bonita made, just last week my son (soon to be 6) wanted to count the money in his piggy bank since it was full and very heavy. Before we counted we agreed that he would split the money between charity (of his choice), savings, and buying something he wanted. Even splits. So 1/3 is getting sent to our church, World Wildlife Fund, and the Humane Society, 1/3 is back in the piggy bank, and the other third was used to buy a Star Wars Lego kit. The left overs from that purchase is in his wallet to spend in San Antonio (at Sea World) this weekend!

My 16 year old son got a job a couple of months ago and is enjoying seeing a paycheck every two weeks. When he got his first one I asked him what he intended to do with it. Having been raised in a frugal family (that just became debt free except for the house!), he said he would tithe and put the rest in the bank to save for college and a car. I commended him for his wisdom, but also made a suggestion that he take a little bit out of each paycheck to invest in just enjoying life. All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy and a burned-out-on-this-working-thing boy. Thankfully, he took my advice and it’s a joy to see the big smile on his face when he uses his very own money to do something he really enjoys.

I think too often we pass up the little pleasures along the way because we are so focused on that “big” picture thing down the road that may not even come. It’s great to have goals, but not if we miss out on the best parts of life along the way.

One day my mom asked Harry when he was going to retire…he was about 50 at the time. He told her he wanted to retire then, but he felt like he’d work for a few more years, pocket a little more money, and then live the good life.

A few months later, Harry was diagnosed with leukemia and died 6 weeks from his diagnosis date. He never retired.

He left a 50 year old widow with a lot of money, but not enough memories.

Yes, go for the ocean view room!