- One of the recliners in our family room broke. My hubby has repaired this recliner (and its twin) several times in its 5-year life, but this time it was done, as the metal frame itself snapped (upon calling the store that sold it to us, we were told they don't sell that brand anymore because of all the defects). It was necessary to replace it so that everyone in the family could sit in the family room at the same time. My hubby shopped around and got a fairly decent deal on what I hope is a better quality recliner (we decided not to get a matched pair--I don't care if my recliner doesn't match his anymore). Price: $435.
- Our oldest son broke his elbow and wrist in a silly "only a teenage boy would think of this" incident at school. While his medical bills are paid in full by our insurance, I had to buy him a short-sleeved white dress shirt for church and various waterproof cast covers, splints, and braces for him to use while swimming (long story). Price: Approx. $150.
- Speaking of braces, this same son also had his lingual arch snap off. A lingual arch is a wire that goes on the inside of the teeth to keep them in place. It can be reattached, but he's reached his lifetime maximum on orthodontic insurance coverage through my hubby's insurance. Price: $160 (if my insurance won't cover it).
- High school swim team clothing (suit, tshirt, jacket) for son with broken bones. Price: $110.
- The car we bought for our teenage driver needed new tires. It had to be done, the tires were dangerously bald. At least once his injuries are all healed I can let him drive again and not worry about him on the road. Price: $450.
- I am meeting my mom and sisters in Utah next month for a long-overdue girls' getaway. Technically, this is not the same type of unexpected expense. It was a spur-of-the-moment decision, and I could have opted not to go, buy there are some things worth blowing your budget for, and the chance for forming priceless memories with my family is one of them. We are sharing a hotel room and rental car, and I got a decent price on my plane ticket. Still, travel and accommodations will run around $300. This is our Christmas present to each other.
- The high school band is going to Disneyland this spring. The band director has done a great job of finding a really competitive tour package. Again, this is one of those once-in-a-lifetime chances that is worth far more than the cost. Still, that is $675 that we will be paying between now and March.
My point in this post is this: by living frugally and saving money on the expenses of everyday life, we are in a position where paying for these sorts of things, while always a bit painful, is not a financial hardship. I'll be racking up my credit card reward points, but not my interest charges, as I can pay the bill in full. We still have Christmas coming up, but that, too, we can handle.
Life will keep throwing things at each of us. Just yesterday we learned that our youngest son is going to be ready for braces in May of next year. But, by doing those small things to save money, we can be prepared when the big expenses come along!
