Jen, take-aways from childhood are always good, aren't they? They sure help me sort through some of what I should and shouldn't do as a parent, and help me see things from my kids' perspectives, too. Regarding those limited funds, I suppose following a family budget and having money allocated for cultural experiences would help. (Btw, it sounds like you deserve the "hot theater" discount!)

Jeb, I'm glad my words can ring true for you, in that important "you're not alone" way. :) The angel/devil image you painted is a good one for the way a mind can go through the push-and-pull surrounding money decisions. I guess I was hinting at how directly my feelings about money are tied to my parents' choices and attitudes, but I never really came out and made that connection. Thanks for doing it in your comment, with this truism: "...long-held associations don’t part without a fight."