Life On The Farm=Reality Check

Last night we played a game called Life On The Farm with the kids.  It was a good reality check for the kids and for us.  A reminder that farming is no longer a small cost existence.  In the game we encountered a broken tractor for Caleb-$600, Elyssia had to rent a combine-$500, Garrison bought cows for $500 apiece.  I had to repair a building for $800, which is probably less than real life. Then we got into the big expenses.  Cattle trucking was $1,100 for the year and then Caleb and Elyssia had to pay over $3,000 for taxes.  Elyssia didn't like handing over most of her money for that one.  We could sympathize with that feeling, but at least for her it's not a reality yet.  The way to win the game was to get 60 cows or run out of money.  The kids got close to 40 and were tired of it, so Elyssia gave me her cows, which made me the winner.  Very generous of her, but not the usual way to win. Here are some pics from our super exciting game(insert laughter here).

Waiting for the money...

The banker.

Buzz Lightyear made a special appearance, ate some snacks, played an intense game, then ran off to play.

They did pretty well, considering the age on the box is 8 to 108.  The loved to roll the dice, although Garrison held his so tightly that it didn't shake in his hand:).  Caleb would roll his hard, usually one went off the table.  He was very worried when his tractor broke, which is to be expected because Caleb LOVES tractors.  Kiersten went to bed partly through the game, but wants everyone to know that she can say "no" now.  It had to come sometime:) She mostly uses it on Caleb.
  I got time off schooling this morning for good behavior, or not...  Scott is doing his part this morning.  I have to get lunches fixed and everyone ready to leave for town by 10.  Guess I'd better get going...