Well done!
Being debt free and paying cash is very empowering. Keep it up!
My two youngest children are finishing high school and in college. They grew up during our austerity phase and adopted the economize mindset.
We have fun going to thrift stores and “treasure hunting.” They are careful about asking for money for things.
We still road trip, but now we do everything we want to do and I don’t have to budget. Interestingly, my children are often the ones saying, “We can do something else. This might be too much money.” I still deal-shop. They are conscientious and grateful for what they have.
Living lean allowed us to promise each child at least 2 years of college and a nice car when they graduated high school. Already delivered on 2, just 1 more to go.
Keep on the path, but have fun every now and again.
Weekend getaways can be romantic and affordable. Drive, bed and breakfast, museum or two, some romance time, community theater, dinner, max $200 to $300. Better yet, tell your wife to plan one and give her a budget. Breaks the monotony, reduces stress, and rekindles the spark.
If you really want to wow your wife, hit the pawn shop and pick up some bling. It’s about 25% of what you would pay at the mall or jewelry store. My husband was able to get me a heavy gold diamond studded ring (think superbowl sized) for just $400. Real gold, real diamonds, discounted for a repeat customer. Bought it in the summer and gave it to me for Christmas. Summertime is the best because Valentines and Mother’s Day have already passed and Christmas is months away.
Enjoy!
Debt Free works for Me!