Driving home from the dentist with the bad news that I had 2 cavities, my little seven-year-old self piped up from the back seat with an innocent question that made a small impact on my childhood. "Mom--if I went a whole year without eating candy, would you pay me $200?"
I'm sure my mom thought this was a safe bet and had no idea that I would acutally follow through when she said sure. Well--aside from a pesky bag of skittles that was calling my name, I succeeded going a whole year without candy. My parents made a big deal about my accomplishment and had a little award ceremony the night I was awarded the money. And like Forrestt Gump, I just kept on going.
Ten years later, I decided that I needed candy back in my life. In hindsight, I gained so much from this experience. Not only healthier eating, and hopefully less cavities, but I learned that I really could do anything I put my mind to, the value of working towards a goal and even learned money management. With my parents guidance, I would save 40% of my earnings each year and would keep 50% to be spent however I chose. Tithing seemed more of a willing sacrifice--for some reason, it seemed more of a big deal to give $20 for tithing, verses 10 cents on the dollar that I would earn here and there as a kid.
Unfortunately, candy is still a mindless companion that I pop in my mouth without even thinking about it. I'm ashamed to say that I have LESS will-power than I had at 7 years old. But this will change in 2008. I'm professing to the world wide web that I am going back on the candy deal.
When I told Casey about this particular resolution, he said "I'd be happy to give you $100." To which I kindly reminded him that my parents gave me $200, and he upped the ante due to inflation and told me that he'd reserve $500 if I did it. Not that our bank account isn't joint or anything or that I'd even have to ask for money. But the fact that it would be earned by determination towards self mastery and a healthier pregnancy makes it that much more exciting. So, cross your fingers and wish me luck. Any one want to join my crusade?
8 comments:
For $500 from Casey, Will has informed me that he is in! He prefers cash... :) Good luck, that's impressive!
I remember you getting $200 when you were a kid for not eating candy...but I didnt know you went all the way up till 10 years ago. Impressive. I think I will join you, but then I couldnt have junior mints...hmmm. Does that take out all desserts including cookies? Is that all sugar or just candy? I need to know these things. I for one would be doing it for moral support through blogging. Also I am sure all my husband would give me is a big sloppy kiss.
Hi Katie! I found your blog from someone?? I'm a blog junkie, I swear. Anyway, I WISH that I could do without candy. The only time I disowned sugar was when I was pregnant with Trevor and was ordered by the doc not to have it. Check out our blog www.virginialover.blogspot.com
Your kids are so big!!
Ahh the candy deal. I lasted all of 2 hours in my first attempt. That is right, I announced that I was going to begin the candy deal and a couple of hours later I found myself popping back a handful of delicious skittles. I paused after I realized what I had done, and decided that because it was an impossible thing for me to do I should just devour the remaning skittles from the bowl. So I did.
Skittles is what got me the first time too...taste the rainbow...mmmmmmmmm
Haley--
So good to hear from you! I must admit that I've found myself running across other people's blogs and too embarrassed to comment because I'd have to say how many blogs I was "perusing" to get to theirs! I'm so glad that you said hello! Fun to catch up on your family, too!
Skittles is what got me the first time too...taste the rainbow...mmmmmmmmm
Katie!
I am catching up on your life (I hope that is ok!) for the last few moments. I found your blog from another website:) (sounds like a common theme here!) I would love to join the candy crusade, although I don't think I'd get that far right now. I'll try in a few months! Your kids are so grown up and beautiful. It is amazing to see how they have grown. Please feel free to email or visit my blog. I'd love to hear from you and see how life is treating you!
Your Friend,
Emily McClelland
emmcclelland at yahoo dot com
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