tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-877141313085074936.post7310459229386781679..comments2014-01-17T00:48:27.180-05:00Comments on The Umbrella Treasury: Topics in Personal Finance: When Is It Okay to Change Your Plans?J.W.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00471547517293434732noreply@blogger.comBlogger2125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-877141313085074936.post-22129174368956218232013-03-22T08:47:41.947-04:002013-03-22T08:47:41.947-04:00I really like your approach of making room for uni...I really like your approach of making room for unique, one-of-a-kind opportunities that don't totally blow the budget. Like you've said, the idea is to be smart about money, but not to end up feeling deprived. It's all about balance! <br /><br />We already have plans for this year's tax refund, but we've decided that if we get a similar amount next yet, we'll use it to take a fun vacation. <br /><br />And it's too funny that your husband also spent time in Ireland. Mr. W. was in Galway, I think. But I agree with you -- Paris should take precedence. Better food, for sure!J.W.https://www.blogger.com/profile/00471547517293434732noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-877141313085074936.post-60653219910969067722013-03-20T23:12:39.289-04:002013-03-20T23:12:39.289-04:00Great topic. One of our biggest challenges has bee...Great topic. One of our biggest challenges has been getting out of the mindset that even though we *have* money saved, we can't just spend it on tempting things that come up -- it's SAVED for a reason. That said, I think we would/do make exceptions if it's a truly unique experience, that's not completely out of the realm of our budget. For example, we'd splurge for broadway tickets or for a rental car + day trip, if they're things we've been wanting to do and a open schedule and opportunity presents itself (though, being in NYC, it's a fine line regarding what can be counted as a unique, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!) We want to be frugal, not overly-deprived, after all. But saving is definitely our priority these next 3+ years. <br /><br />On the travel thing, we're in a similar boat in terms of kids, etc. so there are a few places we want to check off our travel bucket list before that stage of life comes along. So, we've "budgeted" for a big trip or two a year. <br /><br />(Oh, and my husband also spent a few months in Ireland! He studied abroad in Cork. He definitely wants to go back; I was in Paris, though, and I think a return trip there takes precedence!)Lisa @ Elle Seeshttps://elleseesandsays.wordpress.com/noreply@blogger.com