Barefoot and....$30 richer

This story starts several months ago, when Corbin needed a new pair of shoes. I tell him, that because we are already almost through the school year, I'm not purchasing a new pair of shoes.  He can earn them by getting straight A's, or by doing extra chores.  Well, he does both, and we go to the store to pick out two pair of shoes. 

I suggest he get one pair of athletic shoes, and one pair of sneakers for the summer.  He doesn't hear me.  He has already fallen for 2 pair of sneakers.  One that is sky blue in color, and the other that is multi colored plaid.  Realizing this is our least realistic and neutral option,  I very breezily state that he doesn't have many clothing items that will match with these shoes.  He very emphatically wants both pair.  I relent.  Several weeks later he realizes he isn't very "agile" in the sneakers, and wants some new athletic shoes. 

Sorry as I was, he was not getting another pair.  Should've listened in the first place.  'Bout what age do you think they realize mom's know what they're talking about?  Mid thirties is my guess.  He ends up sporting his gray and purple basketball shoes (a year old and completely worn and hammered), sans laces for the next few months.  He gets many compliments.  His friend begs to buy them.  The wheels start turning. 

Summer comes, and he attends Vacation Bible School with above mentioned friend, and on the last day of camp, comes home shoeless and $30 richer.  That's right.  He sold his old, stinky, worn, basketball shoes for $30 right off his feet.  I did have a conversation with the mom, who told me the friend has been obsessed with these shoes, and could NOT be happier.  I still feel like a shmuck though (that word reminds me: DON'T see Dinner for Shmucks.  It's horrible. ).  Maybe it will be a good lesson for both of them.  One is down $30 for a worn pair of sneakers, the other is $30 richer with no shoes to wear. 

This weekend we had a ball tourny near a Nike Outlet.  He spent his $30 on a brand new pair of Nike's that were on clearance for $35.   Where there's a will there's a way!!