As a family, we live pretty well. We have a strict budget that we live within, but because we do live within it, we are able to do or buy extras when we need them. We get fast food occasionally, but not every week. We only go to movies about twice a year (when we have visiting grandparents here to babysit!). We don't have a babysitter except for emergencies, so we aren't tempted to go out more. We value doing over having.
But we do indulge when the time is right. I buy the foods we like and the brands we like (no scrimping on cheese, it's Kraft or Tillamook only). We got a new computer and Jason got me a new camera when it appeared that this new hobby of mine was here to stay. When Jason gets restless for something to do, we go to Lowe's and get supplies for a project to keep him occupied. The kids have the clothes they need, plus a few extra pairs of shoes.
Now, when is an indulgence merely greed taking over? That is my dilemma today. I received an email from Adobe offering PhotoShop Elements users a half price deal on PhotoShop Creative Suite 2. (Cue opera music, Aaaaaa - aaaaaaaa!!!!) But $300? A great deal on a normally $600 - 700 product, but still a lot of money. But I want it!!!! But we're moving this year and need to save money. But I want it!!!!
Sigh. Unfortunately, I'm the responsible budget-creator and keeper of this family. So, most likely, I won't get it. But I want it!!!!
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
8 comments:
Oh yeah, Tillamook is the ONLY cheese--it's a reminder of my childhood when we could only get it at Grandma's house (in Oregon)! I'm waiting for their ice cream to make it this way! And your thoughts on budget living sound so much like ours...it's no real sacrifice when we BECAUSE we budget we do get to indulge now and again!
wow--that last sentence made no sense, sorry, but I hope you caught my drift!
Ooh that's tough being the budget-creator at your place - you have to be the strong one LOL
But it is so nice to dream and dreaming is good. Maybe it isn't the right time for you to get this program and when the time is right, it might be on a better sale and cheaper. Things happen because they are meant to be. Hang in there.
I'm the budget-creator at my house too. Maybe you can "save" in another way, so you can get your new program? Good luck with your decision.
You always sound like you are so careful with money, that you are not a materilistic person and have sound values. This is good Meg, I liked your point about when does indulgance become greed. We also keep to a budget hence the list of "want to but can't" indulgances on my blog!
I did the budgeting the first couple of years of our marriage, mainly because I was use to doing it and didn't like relinquishing control. Now Pan does it although I have my own account which is used for groceries and for indulgences that he doesn't buy.
oh I so know that feeling! Its a great deal, but i really can't afford to get it, but it is such a great deal, but it's still a lot of money, but it's such a great deal. DH & I both get this way about things. I'm the budget creator as well.
Post a Comment