I have a rule that I always have followed. That rule is, no matter what a kid is hocking on the sidewalk, be it watered down Kool-Aide, pet rocks, or girl scout cookies, I buy it. To me, this is a way that I celebrate childhood and encourage the future entrepreneurs of America to sally forth. It gives happy karma. Good vibes, mojo, juju- whatever you want to call it, it is just the right thing to do.

Today I broke my rule.

We were headed off of the base when I spied two little girls set up on the curbside with a for sale sign. I came to a screeching halt (this was not a pedestrian area) rolled down my window and started mentally counting the change and small bills in my wallet. The girls looked very hopeful and excited that finally someone had stopped to check out their wares. Then I saw the sign: Baby Guinea Pigs For Sale $15. I kid you not.

I had to drive away. I have no need for a baby guinea pig right now, aside from as cat food. While I’m sure Lissy would enjoy a little “pig tartare” practicality forced me to smile and say, “I’ll think about it.” Which I did. With a big resounding NO at the end of every thought.

I must say, I am very grateful my children can’t read.