Snow in the Middle East

Before we went to Italy, the kids were talking about what they wanted to buy while we were there.  I told them I hope they were saving their money, because I'm not buying them 'junk'.  (I'm a good mom like this - ha)  So they asked how they could earn some money to save.  After a little thinking and talking things through - we decided to open a little Hawaiian Shave Ice stand on the weekends.

I had brought a bunch of kool aid flavors back with me last fall, so this helped with the flavors.  We offer 17 in all.  I had to buy gator aid through the nose, just to get the bottles.  (which, btw, cost more than anything else involved)

The first week was a little slow.  Then things picked up pretty well.  We were just open on Thursdays (Saturday), for four hours.  Some weeks were really busy and others very slow.  But the kids loved doing it.  I made us all Hawaiian print waiter aprons.

Most of the clientele just happen to be our kids friends.  Nice.  We set up shade and chairs in the driveway.  Post signs around camp.  Each kid takes a turn on different duties throughout the hours of work.

We're closed for the winter - as it is just too cold.  (74 is freezing around here! - haha)  Each kid earned 100.00 for their trip, and I think they all spend every penny.  (Mainly on medieval weapons.)  But over all, I think we all had lots of fun.  They ask all the time when we will be open for business again.  Maybe we'll try again soon.  People love the little treat from the states, and the kids love working the business.  Don't get me wrong, there are lot's of "That's not my job!" It's your turn to take orders!"  And , "Hey!  Quit laying around - we're supposed to be working" - amongst each other - but that has been fun to watch them learn to work, and realize what is expected of them.  It's been a fun little business and we hope we can keep it up for a while.