Since I have not been the harbinger of good news lately, I thought I would pass this on. My parents were shopping in Wal-Mart last weekend, and a good friend called. He and his recent bride were at a local gambling establishment, and invited my parents to join them for dinner. Having no other plans, they went to eat.

After dinner, my Dad gave my Mom $20 and allotted $20 for his own use. Playing the quarter slots, she wound up with $60 when they called it quits. My Dad played the dollar slots, and was having no luck. Then, on his last dollar, everything went off, and he won $650. This is why I don't bother with gambling. They win so often, that it would just fustrate me to lose. Now, the important question is, how much of an increase in my allowance should I ask for?

Shoot for the moon. You can always settle for less!

I'm not much of a gambler, but when I do I usually play the slots and most of the time come out a bit ahead. It's nice to see your parents come out with a little extra ka-ching in their pockets.

$650

Depends. How much of the $40 front money did you supply?

Aren't you bigger than your folks now?....tell 'em its "protection"...

Dads 650 + moms 60 + your usual allowance.