Yo-Crazy

He wowed them. My little man stood confidently as he presented his passion, yo-yo's. Joining his father at a chamber of commerce business breakfast, he gave a two-minute yo-yo demonstration and then fielded questions from the dozen or so business people attending. All the while, his proud father stood alongside giving him the unspoken assurance when needed.

This didn't just happen to be. There was purposeful parenting and learning that led to this exciting endeavor. I have to say that as the mom I am amazed at how God works even these things out.

Yo-yo's are nothing new and have been around for many years. The tricks, however, have increased in difficulty. This due mostly to the advancement of the types of yo-yo's used. Now, my post is not an informational piece on the history of yo-yo's, but rather how this little toy has made a difference in our family.

As we parent, we attempt to instill courage, discipline, endurance, and poise along with many other character traits. Much of our teaching is done in real life and in real time. My little man began with the simple yo-yo and had to practice to learn the basics. As he progressed, he spent more and more time studying how to be better. We have enjoyed many family nights down the shore on the boardwalk, during which we have watched professional yo-yo competitors show their stuff. He has had a chance to learn by watching, and had had opportunity to compete in casual competition. Over the last few years, the novelty has not left.

One night, at the dinner table, we entertained the idea of extending his hobby to include a business. One thing led to another and a yo-yo birthday party business model was born: Yo-Crazy.

But how does one get started? He is only ten. He didn't have any capital. So what does he do? He trash picks, of course: a 5'x5' moon bounce in fully working order. Our kids played with it for a while, but they decided that it took up too much room, so he would sell it. And sell it he did, for $60. It was not much for a business, but just enough to buy some product to get started. With a supply of string, a variety of yo-yo's (even one that comes off the string during the trick!), a supply of basic yo-yo's, a brochure, and a presentation put to music, he is ready to market his birthday party idea. He is working on his website. I will let you know when that is up and running.

We may not see a strong interest, but then again we may. To me the prize is in the learning; the monetary rewards are nice, but only gravy.

I saw my son develop his skills, research his business model, make wise financial decisions, be confident in presenting his idea, and be excited to share his skills in a God-honoring way. My little man wows me.