S-P-L-U-R-G-E
Jun 20th 2007
Suzanne EnochMy Life As A Plebe
Splurge (noun) - A sudden burst of extravagance. Also a great Scrabble word.
I like to splurge. To spoil myself. I don’t do it often, at least not on a grand scale, but I enjoy it immensely. It’s like giving me a little gift to myself – something that I really want and that probably no one else would get me.
A couple of days ago I realized that while I had booked the hotel room for the Dallas writer’s conference (don’t worry, Karen Hawkins, we won’t have to sleep in the lobby), I had neglected to purchase airline tickets. So I went online and I looked up the various prices and found some nonstop flights (I HATE having to change planes). As I was about to click the “book this flight” button, I stopped. Wait a minute. I will only fly one time this year. This is essentially the only vacation I’m going to have for the next eight months at the least. And so I got myself a first class ticket to Dallas. I splurged.
Do I need to fly first class? No. Could I have bought three round trip tickets in coach for the price of that one round trip up in front? Yes. Did my mom make that face when I told her how much I’d spent? Yes. But it was within my so-called vacation budget, it was unusual, and I wanted it.
Generally my splurges are much more reasonable. A trip to the grocery store where I happen to travel down the cookie aisle and for no good reason get myself a package of chocolate Double-Stuf Oreos. An uncut press sheet of the new Star Wars postage stamps so I can frame it. The complete DVD series of Xena: Warrior Princess because I like Bruce Campbell as Autolycus. But they’re all special, because they’re…frivolous, I guess. Not something I need, but something I just want. And it feels good to spoil myself once in awhile.
Do you ever splurge? Do you buy yourself a little something special that has no real use but that you wanted? What’s the largest or most enjoyable splurge you’ve ever indulged in? (I have to name my life-sized Yoda for that.)
44 Comments »
44 Responses to “S-P-L-U-R-G-E”
Stacy ~ on 20 Jun 2007 at 5:28 am #
Oh yeah, sadly LOL. I took a cruise and ended up going myself, so that was pricier than if I’d gone with a friend, but it was so worth it. I do this with clothes sometimes, too - just go on a mini-binge.
Fortunately it’s been awhile. My goal is to pay off my one remaining credit card, then I’m essentially debt-free, which means…..more books!
MizMacgyver on 20 Jun 2007 at 5:54 am #
My idea of splurging is eating out so I don’t have to cook. That doesn’t happen very often. I have been known to splurge on books more than once. However, last night was a biggie for me, I splurged and ate out plus I went to the bookstore. It is a good thing pay-day is Friday! I went to the bookstore for the sole purpose of buying Liz Carlyle’s Never Lie to a Lady and I ended up with 12 Sharp and Lean Mean Thirteen (Janet Evanovich) too. I am going to have soooooo many friends at work today
Di R on 20 Jun 2007 at 7:02 am #
I am splurging this fall by going to the NJ RWA conference in October AND I’m flying. Of course I think if I had decided to drive, I’m sure my DH would have found a reason why I couldn’t. (I hate to drive and it would have been an 8 hour drive, at least.) By flying I’ll be there in 2 hours, so I figure that by spending the money to fly is a better bargain than 8 hours of time. Right?
Di
cail on 20 Jun 2007 at 7:18 am #
i suppose buying all my novels new and not reselling them is a bit of a splurge. otherwise i usually allocate a certain ammount each month towards my next-big-electronic-purchase and use it after i’ve hit my target price. last was my 42 in flat pannel lcd HD TV. i don’t really consider it a splurge as it’s a well thought out pre-planned purchase.
Karen Rose on 20 Jun 2007 at 7:42 am #
For me, a facial and a massage is a splurge. I may do the facial a bit more often (as I get older, ack!), but the combo is my present to myself on my birthday, so that’s when I splurge. I’m not a good splurger, though. I’m always feeling guilty as I spend the money - not during the massage, just when I’m paying afterward, LOL. BUt I always think of all the other things I could have done for the money.
Susan K on 20 Jun 2007 at 7:47 am #
I used to splurge a lot. Now I am trying to control myself. I used to go on shopping sprees at the bookstore and the craft store. I have 4 credit cards that need to be paid off. There is practically no room left on them. My goal is not to use them at all. I’ve already cut up two of them. It’s hard to resist but it’s going to be a little easier when my fiance and I move into the trailer. Our rent is going down about $400. I’m hoping I will be able to pay down my credit cards faster.
Sabrina Jeffries on 20 Jun 2007 at 7:51 am #
If I splurge, it’s on jewelry. Deb Marlowe and I went shopping, and I bought a ton of sale jewelry–yes, it was on sale at Kohl’s, but I bought a LOT (for me). So I felt rather wicked. I still feel wicked when I look at the receipt. But I do love my jewelry.
DebMarlowe on 20 Jun 2007 at 8:19 am #
Ack. I think I’ve bought a whole new wardrobe in the past month! Shoes, clothes, and yes, jewelry. Sabrina and I had a fab time at the jewelry sale. And I had to have something sparkly for the GH/Rita ceremony this year!
But, I only do this once a year, sometimes only once every two years. I just don’t enjoy shopping as a rule. I’m much more likely to buy something for someone else than for myself.
I’m in trouble now, though, because I’ve discovered how much fun it can be when you have partners in crime (Sabrina, Caren, Liz) and the world’s best shopping coach/cheerleader (Claudia) That girl has truly missed her calling.
DebMarlowe on 20 Jun 2007 at 8:23 am #
And I know what I’m splurging on this week! Liz Carlyle’s newest book, Never Lie to a Lady! Whoo hoo! Xanthia’s story is out at last!
cail on 20 Jun 2007 at 8:38 am #
oh! i totally forgot what i splurge on!!! (maybe I block it…)
i OFTEN take cabs when I could take the subway or the bus. i have a monthly metrocard so the public trans would be free, but instead i spend 15-20bucks for the quick trip home.
i really need to stop doing that.
Kasey on 20 Jun 2007 at 8:57 am #
I splurge a lot on books, sweets and movies. Those would probably be my smaller splurges though.
For big splurges it usually involves a trip or a weekend in the Twin Cities. My last big splurge was my Italy trip last Spring (definately worth it). I went with a class at my college and I even got credits for going. You can’t be that. It was amazing and I am thinking of going again next year. Not sure yet, but it is definately worth considering.
Lismore on 20 Jun 2007 at 9:18 am #
Oh my gosh, this post made realize how spoiled rotten I am. I’ll just have to squash that guilt back down. I do lots of little splurges, but had a big one this summer. A new set of custom golf clubs to satisfy my golf addiction.
Susan K on 20 Jun 2007 at 9:29 am #
I may not be able to splurge much right now but I sure can dream about what I’d splurge on. I’d buy the first 5 seasons of The Dead Zone and the first 2 seasons of The 4400 on DVD. I’d buy the entire Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Angel seasons on DVD. I’d buy ALL the books I want to read not just select ones. I’d buy every scrapbooking tool available. The list could go on and on.
Julia London on 20 Jun 2007 at 9:36 am #
I don’t do it very often, but when I splurge, its usually clothes and shoes. Way more than I need and end up wearing very often, but I love knowing I have them if something comes up.
anneriailin on 20 Jun 2007 at 10:02 am #
My splurges would be on books and dvds! My latest splurge was on the BBCAmerica series, Robin Hood! But, I had a coupon for 40% off, so even when I splurge, I try to save money!!
And I can’t walk into a bookstore without buying a book. Borders just loves to see me coming.
–dorothy
RachelG on 20 Jun 2007 at 10:04 am #
I splurge a lot. Yesterday I splurged on 800 thread count sheets, pillow cases and duvet cover. The day before, shoes. But I did control myself and did not buy the Kate Spade pumps. Although, Kate is still calling to me.
If I really want to splurge, I buy Tiffany silver. I love Tiffany silver. Just thinking about it makes me feel all warm and fuzzy.
rachelg
colinfirthfan on 20 Jun 2007 at 10:20 am #
Last year I splurged on boots. I bought 2 pairs of knee high boots. One in black and one in brown!!
I also splurge on books. :-))
SuzyQ on 20 Jun 2007 at 10:43 am #
I love the word splurge (unfortunately my wallet hates it). My last splurge was at Bath and Body Works semi-annual sale. I just love the foaming body wash! I also splurged at DSW during their sandel sale. Come to think of it I slurge a lot during sales - that way I don’t feel guilty because I got them at a good price
Suzanne Enoch on 20 Jun 2007 at 10:43 am #
Ah, Dorothy, I bought the Robin Hood DVD, too. And I’m GLAD so many of us splurge on books. Ahem.
And Kasey, a trip to Italy? Now that’s a cool splurge.
SuzyQ on 20 Jun 2007 at 10:45 am #
Oops! typo - should be sandal
zambonigirl on 20 Jun 2007 at 11:04 am #
It is so awesome that you bought the Star Wars stamps to frame. I got some, too, for that very reason. Who would actually use them? (I would mention something about my favorite Darth Tater, but I won’t.)
My biggest splurges are on shoes. Like SuzyQ, I usually go to places like DSW and Off Broadway for last season’s designer shoes, but when I really want to feel like a little special snowflake, I go to Nordstrom where I’m waited on by a totally cute little boy (these sales people are getting younger and younger!) who sits down and slips the shoe onto my not-so-dainty foot (when you’re tall you have to sort of forgoe the hope for anything “Average Sized”) and then tells me how fabulous it looks. In fact, I’m wearing my latest splurge that I bought at the beginning of spring. Red sling-back peep-toe cork-heeled wedges that are totally adorable.
Kay on 20 Jun 2007 at 11:05 am #
Most of the time, my splurges are on books or DVDs, but this summer I bought a really nice –white–purse. Not practical, limited use, easily dirtied, but I bought it any way. It was the first really nice thing that I had bought for myself in a while. I Looooove it.
I don’t splurge on jewelery, because my DH is great about that for my birthday, our anniversary and Christmas. I drop not-so-subtel hints, so most of the time he gets an A+.
I hope that I will have enough money to buy a new laptop before RWA in Dallas.
That will be my major splurge of the year.
Next year, we remodel our house (kitchen, bathrooms and basement). We have been planning this for 13 years! I’m not sure if it will qualify as a splurge, or as a necessity, but it needs to be done. LOL
Kasey on 20 Jun 2007 at 11:17 am #
I know Italy was awesome - my mom is always telling me to keep saving my money. And, I do for the most part until the opportunity to Italy or some other cool place comes up. Then well I am glad I saved the money to go. Although she thinks I should save it for more practical things, like a down payment on a house.
Ronlyn on 20 Jun 2007 at 11:20 am #
I love to splurge on myself, but like you most of the time it entails a package of cookies or a brownie mix…which I wind up sharing. More often than not DH will spoil me with a GC to the spa or something much more extravagant than what I would typically do for myself.
One big exception was when I was graduating from college. I was so proud of myself for putting myself through it, for not giving up when I was burned out that I splurged twice. the first, I bought myself a tanzinite ring that I had fallen in love with. Gorgeous. the second was a trip to Hawaii to visit a friend who was living there. It was a very toned down trip to Hawaii, but it was a special treat to myself.
My next splurge I’m planning for myself will be a laptop. The problem is, I don’t really *need* one, but I want one.
amy1242 on 20 Jun 2007 at 11:26 am #
My trip to Scotland, more than 2 years ago now, was a splurge. I hate shopping and only do it when absolutely necessary. I wear the same jewelry day after day and only get a new pair of shoes when my old ones are wearing out. Although, I love Victoria Secret Love Spell lotion and try to keep a stock on hand at all times. But that’s not really a splurge, I mean, it’s only lotion, right? And as all of you, books. I love my books!
Ellen Henson on 20 Jun 2007 at 11:33 am #
I just love the word SPLURGE. Say it out loud. It sounds like a full bodied combination of purr and splash. Which brings me to my favorite, cost effective splurge…a hot bath.
I turn on the Spa music, pour a glass of wine and sink into a scalding tub with my favorite novel de jour. I stay there until my normally fish -belly -white -skin turns an adorable healthy pink.
The only negative to the whole indulgence is the noticeable shrinking of the tub. It keeps getting smaller and smaller…Pretty soon, I will have to butter my hips to squeeze into the soothing water.
Have a great day, my favorite Goddesses! I am new to this whole blog thing, but I already look forward to your comments. Great minds think.
dbrown3400 on 20 Jun 2007 at 12:09 pm #
My last splurge was a new computer. After my laptop died I purchased a desktop, which is more convenient for me now. I didn’t wait. Just took the money, went to Best Buy and picked it out. Of course, the money was designated for cereal and milk, but . . . Speaking of groceries, books aren’t a splurge, they are a necessity like air and water.
Donna
Ladytink_534 on 20 Jun 2007 at 12:20 pm #
Well it wasn’t exactly my splurge but my husband and I REALLY needed a new bed but the day we were going to go shopping for one I didn’t feel really well so he went without me. And he brought home a gigantic king size bed! (We were going to go for a queen) Then we went and bought Egyptian cotten sheets, pillowcases, and comforter. Oh and new pillows too. What can I say? My hubby likes to spoil me!
MJ on 20 Jun 2007 at 12:22 pm #
Now I really feel guilty.
I consider my horrible book/DVD/CD habit as necessity.
Ditto my spa visits….my recent housekeeper (worth her weight in gold - only every two weeks, but OH….how nice to come home to a clean house).
Ditto my annual singing vacation. These are quality of life ‘got to haves’ despite how hard I have to work to get them.
And I splurge every week. Largest? This spring, I bought a four poster bed. I’ve wanted it for YEARS but totally impractical, not necessary. A bed is a bed.
But! I’m truly a princess now. (-;
Yesterday, I went to the store on an emergency trip to buy one pair of black dress pants with stretch in them for the upcoming choir tour….
And it was a ‘lucky shopping day’…. in one half hour, I got two dresses that make me look thin(ner), one fantastic long black velvet and lace and silk skirt that swishes (I’m wearing it right now)….and a bunch of practical things, all on sale, of course. My psyche rejoices.
Suzanne Enoch on 20 Jun 2007 at 1:28 pm #
Oh, these are good splurges. I’m getting ideas. Spa days, jewelry, trips to Hawaii or Italy. (And zambonigirl, I too own a Darth Tater. And a Spud Trooper.)
And I agree, MJ — it’s a fine line whether DVDs are a necessity or a splurge. I’ll continue to buy them while I figure that out. *g*
Brandy on 20 Jun 2007 at 2:10 pm #
I, to, bought the Star Wars stamps, to frame for my Star Wars addicted Son.(Who also has Darth Tater.)
If I splurge it’s usually at the bookstore. Although, I recently bought a bathing suit *shudder*, that I will have to wear around other people as we just splurged as a family and joined the “Y”. ACK!
Keri Ford on 20 Jun 2007 at 2:38 pm #
Splurge? Who me??
Um…shoes, clothes, purses, sunglasses, books, travel (shoes, clothes, purses, sunglasses, books while traveling!), stuff for the home (dropped $50 for 2 couch throw pillows, still hearing about that one from the DH), plants. I’m not a bargain shopper either. I see. I want. I buy.
Claudia Dain on 20 Jun 2007 at 3:51 pm #
I’m with those of you who splurge on sale items—I get to satisfy my Splurge Urge and not feel *too* guilty about it.
As I’ve said to my DH, “I saved more than I spent.” LOL
Kasey on 20 Jun 2007 at 3:58 pm #
Oh I forgot to mention the things I splurged on while in Italy. The biggest splurge in Italy was my new leather coat. I love it!
Stacy S on 20 Jun 2007 at 4:09 pm #
On books, just got Innocent As Sin & A Dangerous Beauty. But my worst is purses & jewelry. I don’t do the jewelry that often, but purses I do.
Bethany Hamilton on 20 Jun 2007 at 4:23 pm #
I splurge on books and clothes. Books usually once a month, and clothes usually twice a year. (Change in seasons).
Although….my splurge last month involved an AKC beagle puppy.
MizMacgyver on 20 Jun 2007 at 4:24 pm #
My book splurge was one of those save deals, I bought a hardback and two paperbacks for less than the hardback normally costs, I was very pleased!
Darla on 20 Jun 2007 at 4:25 pm #
My latest splurge is a Garden Window for my kitchen…I can’t wait for it to be installed…we’re also getting the rest of the windows replaced along with new siding too. Just got a new roof but that was because of hail damage earlier this year.
Otherwise my splurges run to books, DVD season sets, grandkids stuff (can’t help that one at all). LOL There is also Red Lobster every few months with my best friend too.
Kelly Ann on 20 Jun 2007 at 7:21 pm #
I love to go out to a nice dinner every so often as one of my splurges. I also buy books, lots & lots of books. Trust me, it’s a splurge because not only do I enjoy it, it’s for me, about me & I shop by myself w/ a chi tea. I spend as much time as I want & my family understands & doesn’t care or bother me with 50 phone calls!
But why does splurging have to be about spending? I think I splurge when I come home after a long day & ignore my chores & sit down to do nothing but look @ a new magazine, watch TV, read a book or low & behold - Go to bed early!
Oh & my last big splurge was my lap top!
Bethany Hamilton on 20 Jun 2007 at 7:44 pm #
Kelly -
Yes, I think lounging at home and doing nothing is splurging too. Last night it was a really rought night (out shopping at walmart with a one year old and a ten month old) and then home to give them both a bath. When they were *finally* in bed, I ignored the dishes in the sink, the laundry that needed to be done, and the kitchen table that needed to have the papers cleaned off of it, and I lounged in bed with the remote by my side and my laptop in my lap.
It was great!
TinaLouiseF on 20 Jun 2007 at 8:23 pm #
To me books are not a splurge, they are a vice.
I splurged and drove to Arizona last fall. I’m still paying for the fuel and hotel rooms.
doglady on 20 Jun 2007 at 9:25 pm #
I cannot really decide if it is a splurge or just research. I have always bought all of the Godesses’ books the day they come out, but now that I am actually writing, can I CALL it research? It isn’t a splurge if it’s research, right? Well, I don’t just buy Regency historicals even though that is what I am trying to write so . . . Okay, I buy books, alright? Lots and lots and lots of books! My name is Pam and I am a romance novel addict!! And once they come into my house they NEVER live. To me that is just WRONG!! I also buy outrageously expensive antique bone china tea cups to reward myself every time I final or score high in a writing contest. Although these spa days are beginning to sound really good!
Nicole Jordan on 21 Jun 2007 at 9:11 am #
I don’t usually splurge on material stuff. If I splurge, it’s with my time… I allow myself an extra hour to something frivolous. I usually feel guilty afterwards, but it sure is fun when I’m doing it!
NicoleJ
pri.r. on 09 Jul 2007 at 7:45 pm #
i spurlge with buying books, seriously if there is a sale at our local bookstore i’m there loaded with bags!