Mr. Boomer and I spent $900 last weekend that wasn’t budgeted. Many people would probably think it was not necessary. But they don’t know the value of a television in the Boomer household.
Yes, we bought a new HD LCD TV to replace the 3 year old rear projection TV we bought back when $1499 (before tax) was a great deal! Unfortunately, the old one already had a $200 repair recently and the screen problem had progressed to the point it was difficult to see the image due to the big blue circle that was expanding each week.
The Bad News
My budget did not include this expenditure as I would have preferred to have a TV replacement sinking account fully funded before shopping. Yes, I have savings in place, but I’m not sure this would be considered an emergency (unless you’re Mr. Boomer). My husband comes from a family of TV aficionados and just about has the TV on the entire 16 hours of his day. Being a retiree, he has time for this habit and enjoys it very much! Me, I’m a computer geek!
Dave Ramsey would never approve, but every family has to set their own priorities.
The Good News
We watched ads for tvs religiously for a few months as we watched our picture deteriorate. By the time it came to pull the trigger we knew what size and resolution we wanted (40 inch 1080). Leaving our house last Saturday, we knew we would buy at Fry’s or Costco. Costco won out barely with price, but definitely with their service warranty. They add two extra years if you use your Costco American Express card for the purchase. Plus, I’ll get 1% back in cash back earnings.
Next time, I hope to be better prepared in terms of having the fully funded replacement account. However, I thought once we made the decision to buy now, we took the right steps in finding the most value for the money. And, yes I am paying the bill off right away so no new debt, just a smaller emergency fund.
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Well, it was a unplanned expense, but at least Mr. Boomer can enjoy his soaps during the day.
I don’t think he’s watching all the time; it’s often just background noise. The new set does have a beautiful picture!
Hi Bucksome,
I enjoyed reading your blog! The design is very clear and relaxing. I’m 51 and on BabyStep 2. Good luck on your journey.
Thanks, Elizabeth. Seems like we have some things in common. Congratulations on your blog’s first anniversary!
Oh my! I feel so dang superior to you! Not because I managed NOT to purchase a TV this week-end, however–nah! My TV went out on Friday and by Saturday, I had a brand new replacement for my 10 year old Admiral. BUT, I remain superior to you because I only spent $206. ((Yeah, yeah, I got a 22″ flatscreen, not exactly the quality of yours–BUT it WAS $206 so that has to count for something).
Hi Grace, you are superior , of course. Congratuations on your new TV. Personally I could have done with a smaller size and lower resolution but since I was less passionate about it, Mr. Boomer won out.
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