Sorry, folks, this thread was meant to be a tongue n' cheek look at how we try to justify acquiring things we don't really need-not how to navigate through a marriage.
FWIW, it is true I have been eyeing the acquisition of a new carbon mountain bike. Just knowing what my wife (one and only for over 33 years) will think serves as a more succinct assessment as to what I also know down deep-as we are usually on the same page about most things. However, as a materialistic human being, these justifications (some that were mentioned) will pop into my head in an effort to convince my conscious in want over need. It's the angel and devil on each shoulder scenario.
I only posted this with the intent of it being a light hearted conversation to see if others struggle in the same way, and to "confess" some of the justifications we (I) have used to convince us into buying more stuff.