Mama Needs New Shoes

And That's How I Became the "junk Seller"

This is how I became known as the "Junk Seller." One day as I am helping my mama I tell her, "I want new shoes." But mama says that right now, "We can't buy them."

When I go to school I always see that Molly and Kelly are wearing new shoes. I tried to tell mama that but she tells me "If something is not needed we can't spend the money." Of course I don't understand. "Why can't I have them?" is all I keep thinking.

One day while I am at school I see Molly, all dressed up in a red shiny blouse, black jeans and what do you think! Of course a pair of brand new shoes. I run home feeling sad and angry. "Mama won't buy them than I will!" I say to myself.

"Mama, I need to get supplies for an art project will you take me to the store?" I tell her in an excited way, she never says no when it comes to my schoolwork. At the store I buy a poster board, colorful markers and some dollar sign stickers. On the way home mama smiles at me and says "What kind of project are you doing?" I smile and tell her that it is a surprise.

The next day I get up extra early and put on my green shirt and white shorts. I run to get my supplies and head towards the school bus. As I start walking I start to think of a way to tell my teacher that I need new shoes and don't have the money, but I have an idea. "Yes, it will work. I know it will." I say over and over in my head.

After class I go up to Mrs. Hart. She says, "What's the matter Emily you look troubled." "No, I just need a little help getting something started," I tell her feeling a little nervous. "I will try my hardest to help," she says looking concerned. Well, instead of saying that I wanted new shoes I said my mama needs new shoes and I was wondering if I could have a suggestion box outside the classroom with ideas on how I could make money to buy them for her. She looked interested and tells me, "That's a great idea I think getting help from others is always a wonderful idea." She adds, "Two heads are better than one."

She helps me hang my poster board which says, "Suggestions on how to make money for a good cause." I feel a little guilty about the "good cause" part but it is sort of a good cause. I think.