Alas, Walt. I'm a debt-free homeowner, so to think that I'm "no better with money" would be a false assumption.

I suppose I chose the purchase of an engagement ring only as the idea of something perhaps more permanent, as in a marriage. And, after all, in our family, we still have three engagement rings from two grandmas, and a great-grandma , all of which have been passed down to daughters and granddaughters, all of which have increased significantly in value, both sentimental and monetary.

I don't mind not being in charge of his money. I just wish he hadn't gone out last week and spent $320 (yep, real figure) on a fancy dinner out, and subscribed to a $50/month men's "Bespoke Box."

I'm sure there's something to enjoy about both, though.

Be sure to stay in touch for when he calls one of his siblings to help pay an overdue utility next year.