Remarried last year and my new wife wants to go on a nice vacation this summer. Kid's braces are gonna cost like 7k that insurance doesn't cover and my ex keeps hinting that she needs help with school supplies and stuff. I make decent money but it's not unlimited. Feel guilty about wanting to do something for my marriage. Am I selfish?
This is tough because both matter, but maybe there's a middle ground? Smaller getaway closer to home this year, save the big vacation for next summer once braces are handled? Co-parenting already gets complicated without financial stress on top.
Braces gotta come first man, that's an investment in your kid's future. Vacation can happen anytime but orthodontics are time-sensitive. Your wife should get that.
This is a conversation you need to have with your new wife, not just on here. Sit down and talk about priorities as a family. The braces aren't optional and she needs to get that. Maybe there's a middle ground but your kids' dental health isn't it.
Okay so this is tough but here's the thing - your kids' braces are a need, the vacation is a want. I get that you want to make your marriage work, but your kids come first. Maybe compromise? Nice weekend trip instead of full vacation until braces are done?
Real talk? Your new wife needs to understand that being a step-parent comes with financial responsibilities too. That doesn't mean you're not allowed to have fun as a couple, but the kids' health stuff definitely takes priority. Have you guys had a budget conversation together?
Sign in to join the conversation.
4 kids here and I learned the hard way that prioritizing kid needs first keeps the household way less tense long-term. A smaller trip or staycation might work just as well for you two.