Negotiating My Own Coupon Book

“Just a hug.” 

That’s my standard answer each year when my boys ask me what I want for Christmas.  They usually smile, shake their heads, and then they say, “No, really, Mom, what do you want?”

So this year, I suggested, “Why not make a coupon book of things you are willing to do for me.   It would mean more than anything you or your dad could buy because you are giving of yourself and your time.”

So here is a cover and coupon pattern I made for them to print out and use.  If you like them, feel free to copy, paste and print as many as you like.

Here are some things we thought of for my coupon book:

• Oh how I would love to have someone vacuum my car.
• Or clear the table—completely, including the wiping.
• Make a batch of cookies for lunch snacks. (My 12 year old loves to do this anyway.)
• Give me complete control of the remote (or pick a movie of MY choice) for a whole night.  (I’d settle for an hour slot, though.  And pretty much anything but Star Wars or the History Channel)
• A dinner date where my children make and serve dinner for my husband and me.  Whatever they choose.  :)  (I’m good with PB & J.  But I’m hoping for Omelets!)
• Vacuum my bedroom.  I’m embarrassed to say that it hardly ever gets done.
• Wipe down my kitchen cabinets.  (They used to be white…)
• A totally fight-free night.  (a highly valuable coupon when you have three boys)
• How about a free tub scrub/shower cleaning?
• Organize the linen closet

I’m still trying to get them to throw in a “multiple use” clause.  But my oldest isn’t buying it.  Smart kid.

My boys liked the idea so much that they asked if I could make them a coupon book too!  Although they have just begun their lists, they put in requests for such things as:

• A sleepover with up to three friends.  Terms to be negotiated.
• One junk food item.  Our treat.
• A Saturday play date with up to 6 friends.
• A movie night with favorite snack.
• A stay up as late as you want coupon.
• Ice cream for dinner.
• Dinner at Krispy Kreme  (Hey, that’s a GOOD one!  Add it to MY list)

…You get the picture.  :)

What are some other ideas you could put on a coupon??  I’d love to hear them!

P.S. Boys, I still want my hugs.  :)

This week’s Works For Me Wednesday is Themed: Gift Ideas: handmade, homemade, unique or frugal! Go check out all the great ideas!