I totally agree with you, i was brought up the exact same way, maybe you are really my Mum?
I was taught the value of everything and as soon as i was 16, i went out and got a job as i wanted to buy things that may parents wouldnt buy me as, well, why should they, they only need to buy me the essentials and any extras i got myself.
To this day, i dont like people paying for me, so i go out, work hard and earn my own living.
This is how im going to bring Becca up and she is so good when we are out. When we go shopping she asks for toys, sweets, clothes etc...however i only buy her one thing now and then, when i tell her that she is not getting anymore, she hugs me and says ok Daddy, thankyou for (whatever it is i got her). SHe will not have a tantrum in the shops, she will not shout and scream and try to get her way. If she does i would deal with it accordingly.
God i sound like my Dad!