Saving Means Splurging Sometimes

There are several reasons why saving money is important. First, it is good stewardship of what God has entrusted to us. Second, it allows us to share with others. If we don't spend as much on our basic needs, we have more left to give to those who need it.

Another reason for trying to save money regularly is that it keeps more cash in our pockets, allowing an occasional splurge. Tonight I got to surprise my husband with a splurge for him...

My husband is a graphic designer, and he's recently been doing most of his work on a laptop. The screen he's been using isn't the biggest! I figured a larger monitor would help him.

While he was gone this evening, I set him up a more efficient workspace in our shared office. (His space was very minimal before!) I also purchased a 22" widescreen monitor for him! My parents even came over while he was gone, and they helped me rearrange the whole room and set up the new workspace.

I was able to give our old computer desk to my neighbor who is also watching her pennies. The desk wasn't efficient in the space that we have, but it will work perfectly in their living room. It was still in perfectly-usable condition, and she was thrilled to have it.

When my husband came home, he walked in to his laptop connected to the large monitor at a new workstation. He wasn't quite sure what to say, but he does love it. In fact, we've now stayed up too late playing with it!

I would not have had the money to purchase this splurge item for him if we were regularly spending what most people spend on their basic needs and perceived needs. We drive older (paid for) cars, live simply, and appreciate what we have. We don't spend our time shopping for the latest designer clothes or aimlessly roaming the aisles of Wal-Mart. We set priorities that focus on our family and on being content. This monitor will help my husband's business as well as his eyes and neck. (He will no longer be straining to see the smaller screen.) It was a practical splurge, and we had the cash to do it!

That makes the work of saving money SO worthwhile!