Bobbinwinder

If I were still working and my budget could absorb the purchase price and the inevitable extra expenses, I'd be waiting for the delivery truck to arrive! I'd spend the money now if I had the space for one....and if I had bought one before retirement, I would have the space for one since it would have been needed space vs wanted space when we downsized. Don't set yourself up for regret or disappointmen or guilt....buy it because you want to learn and be able to enjoy longarming for yourself...not to save money, make money or even make it pay for itself. Somethings are intended to be enjoyed...JUST enjoyed. I'm wondering why you're waiting when I reread your circumstances...sounds like you have everything you need for now...and tomorrow is not promised to any of us. I'm looking forward to seeing future posts of your progress as a longarmer!

kat112000

I wish I would have purchased the Tin Lizzie instead of the Mega Quilter.

daisyboo9

Sounds to me like you have already "justified" the purchase...it will pay for itself, you have the money and you have the room! What more could you ask for? This begs the question for me.....does wanting something after working so hard for many years not qualify itself as reasonable justification?

pam1966

If you're already planning to retire early, then you must be in good shape. A deal like this doesn't last for long. And despite the fact that you've never used a LA I bet you'll take to it like a duck to water. Enjoy yourself!

BellaBoo

One thing to remember, when you are retired it's very hard to get financing and even harder to save several thousands of dollars to pay cash for items. I say get it now, it will be yours free and clear.

pittsburgpam

Thank you all. It's true that tomorrow isn't promised to anyone. I've been putting away so much into retirement plans that it hurts sometimes. I haven't had a raise in 5 years because each year when I get a raise, I raise my contributions by the same amount.

I do want this. It will make me happy and I know I will enjoy it. I'll put the money back by April anyway.

I'm so nervous!! But excited!!

dakotamaid

JJs,

How do you like your Bailey? I have just learned about them and like the reasonable price. Thinking about the new one they have out, 18 incher, I believe. Pros, cons?

Bobbinwinder

Great conclusion! I'm thrilled for you. Just one thing...try to ditch the notion that any "thing" will make you happy... happy comes from within. Best wishes and best regards!

pittsburgpam

I am quite happy inside. :D I don't indulge in many "things" but sewing is one of them.

I found a fairly local dealer that says they offer free classes with the purchase of a machine. It lists some specific sewing machine models but not the long arm. I'm going to call them tomorrow and check it out.

Jim's Gem

I agree with the others. If it is something that you would use, that would save you money (not sending out) and bring you some joy in the work, you have the money and the space for it, I say go for it.

I am dreaming of getting one someday. I figure if I keep telling my DH how much I would love to have one, maybe in a few years he will let me get one too. I was saving up for one, had 3 grand saved but we had some other bills come up and I let DH use it to cover those. So at the moment I have no money saved for my dream, but when I go back to work again here in the next couple weeks, I will start putting away a little each month. It may take me 10 years.

Hope you have a great time with it!!!