I have been the "bill nazi" for the last few months (according to DH) and there has been constant bickering and whining about how he doesn't have any "play" money. I have felt kind of bad but the stubborn person in me wouldn't let him win. Today I checked all of our credit card debt and in a matter of a few months (since finding out i'm pregnant) I have literally knocked everything in half. We splurged after moving into this house and ran up about 6K of debt (though 4K of that is interest free for 4 years, all our new furniture). I am so happy. My goal was to be debt free by time this baby is born but at this rate we still have 3 1/2 years to pay off what we owe without paying any interest. I'm still paying a lot but I think i'll relax and let DH "play" for a bit. He'll be excited too. Just thought i'd share another one of my accomplishments!

By Reeciecup on Tuesday, January 17, 2006 - 01:36 pm:

I hope I don't come across as to harsh but it's to bad it has been a whine fest by him. He should be on board with you as this is an important goal. You shouldn't have to be the bill nazi cause that can just lead to resentment on both of your parts. Good for you for your accomplishments but I wouldn't ease up to much for him. You may give him an inch and he'll take a mile.

By Yjja123 on Tuesday, January 17, 2006 - 01:42 pm:

I agree. Tell him the real time to be free and have play money is when there is NO debt.
Congrats on getting it down to half! Keep up the good work.

By Tink on Tuesday, January 17, 2006 - 01:48 pm:

Melissa, isn't he still going gambling and four-wheeling? Sounds like he's got some "play" money, it just isn't enough for him. Congrats on paying your debt down. That can be a tough thing to do and it's why DH and I don't go into debt for things.

By Boxzgrl on Tuesday, January 17, 2006 - 09:14 pm:

Yes, he's goes four wheeling but no more gambling unless it's at home with friends. He's a big spender, always has been. He whines when I pay the bills but when I show him how low they are getting he's happy and thanks me for doing a great job. I don't see any resentment stemming from it, it's just the way we work. I told him once I didn't feel overwhelmed with bills i'd relax and give us more fun money. Now I have to hold up to my end of the bargain.

By Insaneusmcwife on Wednesday, January 18, 2006 - 06:55 am:

Good job Melissa, the less bills you have when the new baby comes the better. Maybe you should handle our bills because lately I've had a hard time cracking down on the spending. It happens every year around this time. There are soo many good deals and working at Wal-mart doesn't help at all, lol. But soon this will all be coming to an end for us.