[lightworker888]

Usually in a relationship there is a spender and a saver and each has his/her own level of comfort with handling money (or not). If both parties are working together and can appreciate the input of the other, then some workable win-win solution can usually be found.

I'm sure that neither you nor your husband want to run out of money and it is usually the handling of money that needs some addressing. If you can get on the same page regarding the prioritizing of money and projects, that can help. Also setting up a separate account that he could use for his "this and that" spending, which can be topped up monthly or quarterly or annually with a set amount, may help him to see how far a dollar can go (or not) and can also avoid your having to "figure out" how much he will be spending. This can be an item in an overall budget if you have one and can help relieve the "unknown" factor of his spending.

Also each person has a different comfort level with how large a safety net should be and how big a rainy day amount is. Communicating to discover these bottom lines is important and recognizing the validity of each person's perspective is also necessary as well as being one of the most difficult aspects to remember on a day to day basis.

This topic is so common among all couples, retired and otherwise, and yet can be a good one to bring couples closer, when each feels that they're being heard and validated. Good luck and keep talking and listening! JMHO

LW888