Taking out a contract on one of the kids and listening to another

One of my little minions owes me some money. Tired of nagging the guilty party for what is owed, I wrote up a contract.

I still owe mom $6.00. I need to do jobs to pay her back.

I will do these jobs:

1. __________________________________________________

2. __________________________________________________

3. __________________________________________________

4. __________________________________________________

5. __________________________________________________

6. _________________________________________________

I will do them all by this date: ____________________

This means that I will do _____ job every ________ day at this time of the day _____________________ in order to meet the deadline.

If I do not complete the jobs by the time I have promised, I will pick out double the number of jobs on the list and choose a new deadline. I understand that further missed deadlines will result in mom posting a big sign in my room that says, “I cannot borrow money from Mom because I don’t pay her back. I will have to earn money BEFORE I want it and I will not ask mom for money.” And I will have to do more jobs.

I understand that doing this teaches me how to manage money, how the economic and financial system in our country works, and that I do not get anything for free. I have to work in order to earn money.

I also understand that I will not be borrowing money until this debt is paid off. And even then, all requests will be subject to harsh scrutiny and might be turned down.

Signed _________________________________________________ date _____________________

The guilty party laughed at the contract, but recognized that it was necessary and filled it out and signed it. I will get my six dollars' worth of good hard labor (I pay a pittance) in two weeks.

The guilty party taped it to a mirror where it will be seen so I have high hopes for a resolution without having to resort to the big sign in the room.

Money borrowing does not happen often, so this isn't an example of moochery and sponginess.

Also, I have pictures from Paul's band concert last Monday.
The band was the best I'd ever heard it. They played very well.