This year our family started our Black Friday shopping a little late. Actually, we hit the stores at about 9:00 am. And surprisingly, we still found most of the stuff that was on our list.

Sure, a few things were sold out and we settled for a few comparable products instead of what was actually on our shopping list. But overall, we found some good bargains and completed a good portion of our family’s holiday shopping.

This year our son accompanied us on our expedition. And somewhere along the line the word “sale” got lost in the translation. We forgot that he was uninitiated, “green” if you will.

Our first stop was Circuit City. My husband and I, flier in hand, scoured the shelves for the cheapest deals - we love the $5 items. My son, on the other hand, began to fill his basket with lots of stuff. I must have blinked, or maybe he is just quick, but before I knew it his basket was overflowing.

Movies, posters, and at least 30 video games (some at $35 a pop) were among his selections.

You all must be familiar with the conversation that followed.

Me - Nope, no way, not going to happen.

Him - But mom - it’s Black Friday!

With all the hype, frenzy, and media attention surrounding this day, my son figured Black Friday was a shopping free for all.

In the end, we left with a few sale items, a disappointed son, and the realization that we have to do a better job of teaching our kids how to spend money responsibly.