Rebecca sang off-key with complete enthusiasm.

When the guests left, I washed the dishes and sat down with the cedar box.

I still had most of the fifteen thousand dollars in a dedicated account, earning a little interest.

I’d used a small portion for training and emergency expenses, and I’d resisted the urge to spend the rest all at once.

I was glad Dad had saved it.

I wished he’d found a way to teach me about money without making me fear him.