Those were my words to DD2 aged 10 this morning. It is "Picture Day" and we had to prepare for it with a haircut for DS and a trip to the clothing store for DDs (they used their allowance and I kicked in about $25 to cover their outfits). I should add that as students of a parochial school they wear uniforms 95% of the time, so any time they can wear "regular" clothes it is a big deal.

Anyhow, I waited until the last minute to fill out the picture orders. I opted for the smallest package which gives a class photo (cost was $12.75 x 3). Comes with the standard gray background and no retouching or personalization. 2-3x5s and 8 wallets is plenty for me. We do a group shot of the kids for Christmas at Sears and then they each get a birthday package in the month of their birth.

DD came by and oohed and aahed over the "special" background colors of red, green, blue, and a few other choices.

She dared to utter the, "Can I get this one?"

Rather than moan again about the lack of money that is in the checking account and all of the optional expenses that are draining it, I simply said:

"You have some allowance money. If you'd like to pick a color it is $4."

She decided to save her $4 for the upcoming bookfair. I did then feel compelled to tell each of the kids they could pick a background that they liked when we have their Christmas photos taken.

Now I'm off to fill out the taffy apple order due tomorrow.