[eweissenbach]

Originally Posted by Villages PL

I happen to be very comfortable financially but even so, I happen to also be a very frugal person. I guess it's just a habit I grew up with. I paid cash for my nearly new patio villa and I paid cash for my new car. So I have no outstanding debts. I normally don't keep a budget, I just spend wisely for things I need and want. But about 4 years ago, just to satisfy my curiosity, I decided to figure out my living expenses. To my surprise it only came to about $8,500. The biggest expense items were for house and car insurance and property taxes. I included everything I could possibly think of, even down to movie tickets and book purchases.

Most likely my expenses have gone up over the last 4 years. So, make it $9,500 or $10,000. It still wouldn't amount to much. I do it when I don't have to do it. I just happen to like my frugal (simple) lifestyle. If I wanted to spend 20, 30 or 40+ per year, I could certainly do so but I feel as though I have everything I want. Should I try to spend more just because I can?

The bottom line: If I can do it when I don't have to do it, I figure they can do it too.

Good for you. You are very unusual.