Need to Spend More Money

[jester]

Emergency fund.  

Parts wear out.  Things break.

A little extra always helps.

Got that.  E-fund is completely separate and I include a maintenance line in my budget.

I'm thinking maybe add an ethnic dinner at a family owned place once in a while, also, after spending $80 on flea meds for the cats it might be sensible to boost the 'pet' line to cover their maintenance at a higher level.

 

[judykazooty]

This may come as a shock to you, but it's not hard to find a perfectly safe place to board a couple of cats for a week while you take some "Me Time".  The cats will survive just fine.

I would agree on "me time". Plan something really special every year, or twice a year, or once a month. I like the idea of a helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon, or take the Mule ride into the bottom of the Canyon along the Colorado. Or take a ride in a balloon in the annual Hot Air Baloon Festival in New Mexico. Drive to Alaska and take a cruise on one of the big ships- people say it is a marvelous trip- and Beautiful. Save up and put your money into a well deserved treat. Go to every amusement park in your path and ride the Carousel. In Elephant Butte Lake State Park in NM you can rent a boat or a jet ski for $20-$30. Cheap Fun! Do something different- See Something really beautiful in a different way. Write your bucket list and start crossing off as the mood stikes you...I think having something to look forward to would enhance anyone life in a big way.
Judy

 

[Annie W]

I know, right?
Here's the deal:  I'm currently on the road full time, use campgrounds once a month or less and only state or national parks.  
I rarely eat out (food allergies), don't watch tv, have no expensive habits. My budget comes out to about $670 a month including a bit set aside for emergencies.
I'd like to bump this up to $800 a month but do so sensibly.  Things I have been considering:
$30 for campground/sightseeing/increased fuel/etc.  Basically a buffer for whatever comes up

$25-$50 to eat better.  More veggies, fewer potatoes
$25 for 24-hour gym.  Need to find a deal because most of these are running about $50/month for the national chains
$25 for . . . ??
What invaluable thing I should think about adding to my life?

Others suggested the one week/year fun stint, & that's okay too.
Yet
you're obviously into staying healthy, so how about Adding more fun to your life yes daily. For example Rope-jumping very cheap
$8 see: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00DAMWXLO *Optimal health* remains Invaluable...