If you are like me, you feel like you spend money on your kids all the time. If it is not back to school shopping, it is sports or music or birthday gifts for friends. Never mind how quickly they outgrow their clothes and shoes! It is very rare that I spend money on anyone other than Jake and Sam. When I do, like I did this week, it feels strange and guilt creeps in.

I go back to work in a few weeks just like the boys head back to school. While I don’t outgrow my clothes anymore (well, that is unless I have one too many lattes or slices of pizza:)) from time to time my clothes wear out and I need new ones. This year I needed a few items for my wardrobe…couple that with my recent shopping for school supplies for my classroom and I feel like I have spent my “allowance” for a year!

Bear in mind that I don’t really have an “allowance.” It is all in my head, but I truly feel like spending money on myself is so low on the priority list that anytime I do it…I need to keep detailed notes and makes sure not to go over some imaginary limit. I suppose being conscience about what I spend is not a bad thing…but I do wish I could enjoy my purchases a little more sometimes.

With back to school shopping done and my classroom ready to go, I can ease off a bit on spending for everyone..not just me. I hope when my new shoes and cardigans arrive this week I can be happy about them too and not just feel like I wasted $100. There is something to be said for Retail Therapy

When is the last time you spent money on yourself? Did you feel guilty?

Well I did it…I hit WalMart with the school supply lists and The Polished Apple is going out of business so I HAD to take advantage of their 30% off sale and tax free weekend. I now have more bulletin board sets, border and posters than my class room will ever need! There is no fighting it at this point…school is coming and it is coming fast.

The boys don’t head back until after Labor Day but between my online courses and getting my own classroom ready, I know that day will be here before I know it. Uniforms need to be ordered, shoes purchased and two boys I know need to start getting up at 7AM again instead of 9. It may be a rough couple of weeks getting back into the swing of it, but the time has come. Honestly, I am ready for it and I think the boys are too.

As much as the boys may deny it, they crave order and a schedule and the best way to get on one is to start school. They will readily admit that they miss their friends and recess so I’ll use those as selling points when I tell them they need to go to bed at 7:30 I am determined to do whatever it takes to make that first week back as stress-free as I can…for them AND for me.

What have you done to get ready for school? When do you plan to get your kids back on a regular sleep schedule?

Well, I’ve finally gotten a good idea of what the girls (both age 6) are wanting for Christmas this year.  I took them to the local toy store and let them make up a wish list.    I know I was at a bit of a loss, so maybe you can get some ideas from their list.  Here’s what they’ve come up with:

A Doll House

There are so many choices in this category ranging from the Barbie 3-Story Dream House to more affordable off-name brands. 

Barbie Remote Control Corvette

 Forget the Barbie Corvettes of our day that you had to push. Our kids get a remote with the Corvette! 

Webkinz/Littlest Pet Shop Online

My girls absolutely adore the toys that have an Internet activation code.  Shining stars, Webkinz, and Littlest Pet Shop are just a few of the brands.  Make sure that the website is user friendly enough for your child.  Check around to get the best price!  The Ganz website has a locator so I just call around

Littlest Pet Shop/Polly Pocket play sets

While the kids love this; I hate it.  The little pets/dolls and their accessories are always lost in about 2 days flat.  You can get huge play sets and they seem to have a blast with them.  Good luck keeping the dog from eating the little parts. 

Cooking Sets

There is such a huge selection.  There’s a Chuck E. Cheese Pizza Maker, Easy Bake Oven, a Mrs. Fields cookie maker, a candy jewelery factory, etc.  The list goes on and on.  The thing I like most about this category is that there is a huge selection and a wide array of prices for any budget. 

Video Games

We have just about every gaming system known to mankind.  I personally tend to like Wii games because they get the kids up and moving.  The new Outdoor Challenge type game (you get to jump logs, run, snowboard, all kids of fun stuff with a mat) is on their list.  Check around for the best prices because games can be so expensive.  I frequently buy them used games. 

What gifts are on your tween’s list this year?  I’d love to hear your ideas because I want to give them something a little different this year and am at a bit of a brick wall (I’ve bought Barbie out of house and home, there has to be something else).  So share with us!