The Choice Ch:5

What feeling did the author experience after completing the book?

What request did Louise make that surprised the author?

What did Louise reveal about their children's Christmas lists?

What actions did Louise take regarding their children's finances?

How did the author's focus on writing affect his daily responsibilities?

What was the main reason the speaker's partner held off on discussing finances?

How much money did the couple estimate they had for living expenses and bills?

What was the spending limit the couple agreed upon for each child?

What special item did Todd want to give to his mother for Christmas?

What challenge did the speaker face while trying to wrap presents?

What did the couple do to keep their gift shopping secret from their children?

What did the speaker admire about the shopping experience leading up to Christmas?

How did Glenn, the speaker's older child, influence Todd's belief in Christmas?

What emotional response did the speaker have while praying for the boys on Christmas Eve?

What seemed to be the primary concern regarding the family's financial situation?

Mark’s Financial Struggles

Mark has just finished his book and is waiting for an editorial decision
Mark is struggling with money after completing his book, relying on his wife Louise’s management
Louise is trying to manage the family finances, cutting their allowance and packing lunches
They have a little over $4,000 in savings which is just enough for bills and food for three months
To save, Mark and Louise are setting a spending limit for Christmas

Christmas Shopping

Mark wants to have a traditional Christmas shopping experience for his sons
Mark and Louise shop for their sons, looking for bargains
They struggle to balance purchases between their two sons, Todd and Glenn
Todd asks Mark to buy his mom a large stuffed teddy bear, inspired by her childhood memory
Mark charges the bear on his credit card despite Louise’s financial limitations

Christmas Eve

Glenn and Todd sleep together on Christmas Eve, a childhood custom they initiated when Todd was younger
Mark prays while watching his sons sleep, reflecting on the birth of Jesus
Louise wraps gifts for the family separately

Christmas Morning

Louise gives Mark a blank book, inscribed with a message promising his next work will be filled with his best work and love
Louise names the lighthouse "The Tower of Success," referencing Mark's literary ambitions
Louise presents Mark with an old copy of Bartlett’s Familiar Quotations, inscribed by the previous owner Joshua Croydon
Inside Bartlett’s Familiar Quotations, a poem by James Elroy Flecker is highlighted, with the words "Since I can never see your face, And never shake you by the hand, I send my soul through time and space To greet you.You will understand," circled in green ink
Louise recites the poem from the top of the lighthouse, highlighting its connection to Mark's pursuit of success.

Explore Mark's journey as he navigates financial struggles while trying to provide a memorable Christmas for his sons. This quiz delves into themes of budgeting, family dynamics, and the emotional impact of financial decisions. Test your understanding of Mark and Louise's challenges during the holiday season.