Pennies from Heaven

One of Lindy's favorite things to do when we are out and about is look for pennies (or any other denomination) on the ground. Hardly a time goes by that she doesn't find something to put in her piggy bank. Just a couple weeks ago she found two $1.00 coins that we almost dismissed as play money. Today she found a quarter. She is definitely capitalizing on all the people who literally throw pennies away or think it isn't worth their effort to bend over and pick them up when they fall to the ground.

Elephant memory Lindy always remembers that she needs to put her money in her bank and it is usually one of the first things we do when we get back home. As you can see, she has a bank divided into four slots:

• Save
• Spend
• Donate
• Invest

She methodically chooses which slot to place her coin in and proudly announces her decision. I have to say that I'm so proud that she often says, "Donate. This is for God." I am sure she doesn't understand the distinctions between each slot but eventually she will.


Knowing money matters can be such a problem for so many people, I am convinced it is NEVER too early to teach the value of saving money and handling it wisely. I am by no means a guru, perfect with money, nor do I have all the answers. I am, however, a bit passionate about this subject because I have watched the ill effects of over-indulged children who never work for a thing, are never taught to think beyond self, aren't taught to respect money or the things it buys, and don't know how to wait to purchase something special; it isn't a pretty sight and it often spills over to adulthood.

I doubt Lindy's current money-making venture will make a dent in her college tuition but every penny counts, right?

Many of you asked where we got Lindy's bank. We got it when we opened up her savings account at USAA. It is called the Money Savvy Pig and you can order it here. It isn't the prettiest bank but it is practical.