How to make your kids lifelong value shoppers

I went to the mall on Monday and bought an Aeropostale t-shirt that fits me beautifully for $4.50, and the color -- baby blue -- is my color.

I mention this partly because it's always fun to save $15 but also because, for me, the thrill of saving $15 is more exciting than the actual savings. Saving money makes me happy and, if you're a dedicated bargain shopper, you know exactly what I'm talking about: it's not just about money.

Developing a thirst for bargains and a love of saving money is a great way to increase your chances of a prosperous future. It's also one of the best gifts you can give to your children.