Consumerism Commentary - Latest Comments in Smithee Update: January 2009

Re: Smithee Update: January 2009

Writer's Coin — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 20:51:15 -0000

You were right: you were rationalizing the whole time.

Re: Smithee Update: January 2009

Mr.ArfArf — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 01:22:43 -0000

I can understand that you may not want a "hand me down" computer. But have you thought of using it anyway while SAVING for a computer? that way you are not charged interest for your $8000+ over at least 4 or more months? This is of course up to you. But, it's still up to you to go in debt.

If you do need or still want to buy something, Its good to use, ebates, cash back cards, and even buy the computer you want via the "refurbished" page at apple.com (several friends have purchased laptops via that section and all have had great experiences for $100-$300 less). All these things help save quite a bit over time. I've found it's most important to WANT to save.

A friend at work recently decided to do just what you did and buy a computer and some electronics. I mentioned a coupon to save 30% off their dell purchase, they said it wasn't worth their time(!) (to write down the 6 letter code and enter it at checkout.). They would rather work however many hours more at their job to make pay off that much more of their credit card purchase. This is why it's important to "WANT" to save.

Anyway, I honestly hope you like your new stuff and are able to pay off your card quick. Thanks for posting.

Re: Smithee Update: January 2009

thomas — Tue, 06 Jan 2009 12:56:01 -0000

you should think about cutting that card up!

Re: Smithee Update: January 2009

KC — Tue, 06 Jan 2009 10:45:24 -0000

Well, we all have setbacks. It makes us human. I'd say you definitely splurged. Personally I'd get that credit card balance down to about $2250 (that's half of the previous $4500 it was down too) before I splurged on anything else (including a decent meal). Just stay home with your new laptop and camcorder equipment and let it entertain you until you get the card down to $2250. Then maybe have a decent meal and a night out and then get back to paying it completely off.