Money... How to Make It and How to Spend It

This is a wonderful time of year. As Lily said, it is a time to appreciate what you have and thank God for the things you have been given. It is also a time to figure out how the heck you are going to earn the twenty-five bucks you need to afford that fancy-schmancy jacket from Nordstrom. Well, here I am to help you out with both of those things. (yay!)
Now, let us begin with a very common dilemma. You need money. Probably not for anything really important like bills or taxes, but most likely you just want a pair of shoes or a book or a one-way plane ticket to South America so you never have to see your obnoxious classmates ever again (Was that a little bit oddly specific? Hmm.)
Anyways, the point is, you have to earn some money, and you're too young to get a job. Here are the top three options I've come up with.
Babysit-This seems to be the most popular option. For good reason! Oftentimes, you get paid just to sit around and watch T.V. while the kids sleep. Not all people can babysit though, and some people have certain requirements. If you have a neighbor who trusts you, than you probably won't even have to worry about taking a babysitting class. Though, I do recommend it (in fact, definitely do) if you plan on making a business of it. If people don't know you personally, they are going to want some sort of confirmation that you're trustworthy and mature. (It also helps to be trustworthy and mature.) Look around and see if your mom or dad has any friends with young kids. Advertise if needed!
Start a Small Business- Sounds daunting, but it really isn't. ANd it has a huge turnover! It's basically a constant stream of money, if you do it right. A couple of my friends have bought vinyl machines and started a monogram decal business, and I have heard it pays well and is really fun! Also, you could create an original product - be it food, a weekly newspaper or magazine (that sounds crazy, but you'd be amazed how much a little hard work can do!) or jewelry. Don't be afraid to think outside the Box of Boring and Unoriginal Stupidity.
You'd be Amazed What They'd Pay You For... - Okay, this is a bit vague, I admit. But If you really want to make some money, just look around. There are always little opportunities to earn a couple of bucks. Ask your mom for a couple of bucks in exchange for extra chores. See if your church or school needs some babysitters or mentors. Turn in some cans at the recycling center. There are also many local opportunities that can be VERY interesting. You can often find some odd jobs to do that will allow you to meet some very interesting people. I would personally recommend checking the wanted ads in the newspaper. Not only do they provide ample opportunity for you to earn some cash, but they are also quite entertaining!
Most importantly, remember that money isn't the most important thing in the world. Balance paid work with volunteering, and just  plain old helping out. It's the right thing to do!! 

Peace out, homies,
(I'm not that cool),
Abigail <3