I agree wholeheartedly my friend!
@GrandBay wrote:I am not sure he is necessarily "bad" with money. It sounds like his needs are met through his SS & VA benefits plus left over funds. He does not have to worry about upkeep, repairs, light bulbs, hedges etc. His life sounds enjoyable and simple. It actually sounds like what we see in adverts of older people. his "income" and low expenses brings about freedom. It's what the adverts show us instead of anxiety riddled Americans. Why hold onto things?
Thanks for the view from the opposite angle. You're definitely right that his life is enjoyable and simple, and he's very happy...
But I couldn't live like that. I need to know there's money in the bank in case something comes up. Shoot, the deductible on my earthquake insurance alone is $25,000! He couldn't get $25,000 together if his life depended on it!
@SoCalGardener wrote:
But I couldn't live like that. I need to know there's money in the bank in case something comes up. Shoot, the deductible on my earthquake insurance alone is $25,000! He couldn't get $25,000 together if his life depended on it!
Very interesting discussion. I can relate to both you and your husband, landing probably closer to his POV. (my phone's auto-suggest thought I meant to type POVERTY -- haha and likely about right!)
One reason I've acquired credit cards since I retired is that although our retirement income is more than sufficient, DH and I don't have a lot of savings. But if we need to cover an emergency we have cc options.
Our house is paid for so we have equity that can be tapped and we have lots of stuff. Boy do we have stuff.
DH never does anything half way. Anything he takes an interest in he does all the way. This has resulted in stuff (vintage musical equipment, vintage motorcycles) which also could be liquidated. But it would take time to sell 12 motorcycles or numerous guitars and amps. Plus the worst time to sell is when you need the money, especially if you need it in a hurry.
When we were much younger we used pawn shop loans. I imagine that sounds shocking to some but it was handy and easy. Interest rates like Synchrony bank cards are now LOL. Pawn shops will loan money on the craziest items.
I'm glad you still have the long distance companionship of your ex-husband. The past year of covid hardship reminded us all how precious it is to not be alone.
@KatSoDak just for hahas! I'd love to hear any of the things on the "craziest items" list! 😂
@KatSoDak wrote:
When we were much younger we used pawn shop loans. I imagine that sounds shocking to some but it was handy and easy. Interest rates like Synchrony bank cards are now LOL. Pawn shops will loan money on the craziest items.
I'm glad you still have the long distance companionship of your ex-husband. The past year of covid hardship reminded us all how precious it is to not be alone.
@PandaGirl77 wrote:@KatSoDak just for hahas! I'd love to hear any of the things on the "craziest items" list! 😂
I second that motion! 
@SoCalGardener wrote:
@PandaGirl77 wrote:@KatSoDak just for hahas! I'd love to hear any of the things on the "craziest items" list! 😂
I second that motion!
Full size cement mixer
Car engine hoist
Kitchen Aid mixer
Sunglasses and designer bags
Leaf blower
Tool belt (and every tool from every trade)
Motor cycle leathers
Golf clubs
Tents
Fur and or leather coats
Grills
Area rugs
I figure when you think of a pawn shop you expect jewelry, guns, musical instruments and gold or silver coins/bullion. But really anything the pawn broker thinks he can sell is likely to get a loan.
@KatSoDak wrote:Full size cement mixer
Car engine hoist
Kitchen Aid mixer
Sunglasses and designer bags
Leaf blower
Tool belt (and every tool from every trade)
Motor cycle leathers
Golf clubs
Tents
Fur and or leather coats
Grills
Area rugs
I figure when you think of a pawn shop you expect jewelry, guns, musical instruments and gold or silver coins/bullion. But really anything the pawn broker thinks he can sell is likely to get a loan.
Full-sized cement mixer?! 
Thanks for sharing. That's some list!