my dh is being really supportive, too. since he brings in all the money i feel it's respectful to ask if we can afford for me to buy whatever. he's very happy i'm quilting and happy, so he tries to free funds up whenever possible. but since he's in charge of the finances he's the expert to ask. when i was earning money, too, i always chose how much i was going to spend and there was rarely a discussion and the bills were always paid, etc. being retired pre-social security is not a picnic since i'm accustomed to being financially independent. thank goodness he is pro quilting!