getting the balance right

misscousinitt

Really glad i'm not the only one who feels this way.

DH goes mad at me when I don't buy things even when i've got the money to pay for them. I really do feel guilty and still tend to go for bargains.

However, saying that, two things that give me joy and special memories are holidays and food - (especially a combination of the two LOL).

I echo what others have said on here about asking the family what they would like and go from there.

Whatever you decide to spend the money on, enjoy it. x

Seakay

I did notice that even when contemplating spending money you are not really thinking about yourself - madeover rooms for the kids, a holiday the kids would like to look back on.
I applaud your generosity of spirit as well as your frugal ways, but suggest that before the family meeting everyone is told to bring 3 ideas written on a piece of paper to it - and that includes you! - one idea for a treat for themselves alone and two for a treat for the whole family.
If nothing else this will force you to think about your own personal tastes. It doesn't matter what the personal treat is - new lipstick, facial, massage, fluffy slippers, a piece of art, bunch of flowers, vase, visit to the cinema, new laptop - just try to think about the things that really give you pleasure.

dandy-candy

Great to hear from so many people and know i'm not the only one who has trouble spending! The kids and DH have always wanted to visit America so we have decided to go for it! Previously I've always done UK holidays with them and they have moaned about it for the last couple of years, also my eldest is 18 now and probably won't want to holiday with his old mum and dad much longer so I think it's now or never

As for something personal that I would like, well I used to have chickens when I was a kid and would love some again. I think once the holiday is out the way (if there's enough money left) then it's time to get some Rhode island reds again!!

Penelope_Penguin

dandy-candy wrote: »

Do you find it hard to splurge money when you live an OS life or have I just turned into a scrooge :eek:

I don;t find it hard - I'm happy to spend money on good quality things that we need, but easy not to squander it

DH and I are saving to retire early, and pay our children through university.

I'll add this to the existing thread to give you more opinions.