Wandering through a quaint little downtown area, not too far from home, my boys and I had differing agendas.  They wanted to play at the park down the street.  I wanted to check out the antique mall.

We struck a bargain.  They would head down to the park and play for a few minutes, while I quickly checked out the antique mall.  No losers in this deal.  My 12-year-old son shepherded his younger brothers toward the park.  I headed into the antique mall.

Strolling around, I was truly relaxed.  Some antique picture frames here.  Vintage glassware there.  Nothing of interest, but all was good.  The dust rested comfortably, as my feet softly meandered from booth to booth.

Working my way around a tight corner in the back of the shop, my heart suddenly stopped.  My boys were standing right in front of me!  In the back of the store.  Surrounded by many an overpriced knickknack.  Many a thing that I had no interest in buying.  Many a thing that it would take me many years to repay.  Many an item well within reach of their curious grasp.

Oh dear, oh dear.  Kids, slowly retrace your steps back to the front of the store.  Do not pass “Go.”  Do not collect “$200.”  With any luck, my savings account would not suffer any permanent damage.  With any luck, college for my youngsters would still be a reality.  With any luck, the Land of Overpriced Aged Breakables would live to see another day.