I spent most of this week away from my blog and unplugged from the Internet. We took advantage of M. having 3 days off in a row and went down to the beach house. While it was great to float around in the pool and lounge on the beach for a few days, now I’m in a mad rush to get things done before we leave for Bulgaria on the 6th.
Making the decision to go on this 3 week trip overseas was not an easy one. Financially, it has set us back quite a bit. Not only were the tickets a big expense at around $3,000 for the 3 of us, but we’re also looking at losing some income while we’re away. Obviously, we did decide that it was worth it, and that decision was only made more solid when we lost a family member in July.
M.’s grandmother had not been in the best of health when we moved away from Bulgaria last summer, and unfortunately, her health continued to decline. When she had a fall in June, things went down hill fast.
We had hope that she might hold on and pull through, but sadly, that was not the case. When we were on our trip to Williamsport over 4th of July we got the news that she had passed away.
It’s hard to imagine going over to M.’s grandparent’s apartment and not being greeted by Baba with a warm hug and a big smile. She was always so pleasant and so happy to see us when we would visit. While we knew that this could happen while we were gone, it isn’t something that you can really wrap your head around until you have to face it. Life can change so quickly, and we can’t take our loved ones for granted. We have to spend time with the ones that matter the most, no matter what the cost.
This trip is a financial setback for us, but it’s one that we know is well worth it. Once we come home, it’s time to get back on track with our financial goals and keep forging ahead. And of course, we’ll have to start planning for our next visit 🙂
What are some financial setbacks that you’ve had that were worth it to you?
I’m sorry to hear about your husband’s grandmother. It’s so difficult to lose someone who is really important to you. Have a good trip Lauren, just your 3 week trip!
Thanks Kate 🙂
We’re sort in the midst of this now – having T quit a toxic job with nothing lined up, hoping it works out very soon. Sigh.
Going to Hawaii for my wife’s sister’s wedding was definitely a financial setback. With that being said, it also was a GREAT use of our money. I learned what “paradise” was (Hawaii is as close as I’ve seen in my life) and we made some great memories.
Sounds like it was worthwhile. Hawaii sounds fab. Hope I’ll make it to paradise someday!
I am sorry to hear about your husband’s grandmother, but I know that you will still enjoy this trip. I think that financial setbacks are worth it when they teach us lessons. Yes, it is not fun to stumble along your financial journey, but no one has a smooth journey and we all stumble, but if we learn or work harder after the stumble, then it was worth it.
Thanks Shannon. We all stumble sometimes, just gotta get back up and keep moving!
I’m so sorry for your loss. It’s always tough when you’re not able to be there. Mr. FW and I also prioritize travel in our expenses. I agree with you that it’s more important to visit family and spend quality time together than to save or make money. I hope you have a wonderful trip, despite the sadness of not having M’s grandmother there.
Thank you. We’re really looking forward to spending time with the family- can’t believe we haven’t seen them in a year!
Sorry to hear about your loss. It’s not always about the money. Without our health and loved ones, money has no real significance.
So true!
One financial setback from this week that’s worth it to me is having two teeth fixed at the dentist. It’s important for my health and my smile 🙂 I loathe going and hate to “waste” the money but it is important!
Your trip sounds so exciting!
Oh yeah- the dentist is definitely worth it! Gotta keep those teeth in good shape-nothing worse than dental-related pain.
That’s great that you were able to disconnect for a few days this week Lauren and sorry to hear about the loss of your husband’s grandma. Some things are worth a temporary reduction in income as this trip sounds like one of a lifetime and worth every penny.
Thanks Kassandra!
I’m sorry about M’s grandma, Lauren. I often worry about my family back home. I can’t imagine how much more difficult it is with family overseas, though. Traveling to see family is always worth it in my opinion. I’m glad you guys got to spend a relaxing three days together!
Thanks Erin. It’s always tough when you live far from loved ones.
I would do the same thing — some financial setbacks are worth it, no questions about it. It will be nice to see his grandma and get away for a bit. You need that time! I hope you have a restful and productive weekend, so you can enjoy your trips.
Thanks Melanie!
Sorry to hear about your husband’s Baba. I hope you have a great trip with lots of good times spent with family. Some things you cannot compare to a monetary value and this is one of them.
Thank you, Debs!