I agree with Tartan! Go For it! Life is too short.

I'm not sure why you feel you have to justify the purchase. If you have the $ and you like the machine, I think you should buy it, use it & be happy!

Crescendo is an AWESOME machine. I traded mine for the Unity to add embroidery too, but LOVED the Crescendo. Go for it! You won't be sorry.

Oh, congratulations! I am very happy for you! I so enjoyed reading this thread from start to finish. Especially, since it ended with a happy ending!
I retire in June and would also love a machine with a larger harp but unlike you I haven't been very productive with the machines I already own. So, I think I'll put some of my bonus money away and earmark it for a purchase at the one year anniversary of my retirement. This way I'll be able to tell what I might really need/want after having more time to sew.
So, thank you for looking for advice here and helping me come to a decision that I'm comfortable with. Enjoy your new purchase for many years to come!

I say get the one you want. If you get your second choice, you will always wish you had gotten the first choice.