My hobbies still take a nice chunk of money; I've spent over $4000 in computer parts over the last 5 years. I was able to buy those things a piece at a time when things were on sale though, not just as one big purchase, so it was never something that effected me financially in a major way. That being said, I still find myself spending money on computer games that I know I shouldn't buy because the money will be tight for bills/groceries, but that's a more recent issue caused by dental work eating away at what little extra money I had. Yet I still feel like it's not a bad thing because I get a lot of fun and entertainment from it all, and that helps to reduce a lot of stress (as long as you keep it balanced and don't let your hobby CAUSE stress).

As for the time aspect of it all... I've had so little time for my hobbies the last few years, but that's because of responsibilities for work and housework and such. I just don't have the free time like I did when I was younger and in school to just spend 6 hours a day playing games on my computer, and whole weekends (I don't even get weekends anymore, they are the busiest time at work, lol).

That's my two cents worth. I hope that helps you a little.

I have always been a conservative spender and willing to settle on cheaper-over-better. When 'settling' isn't good enough I switch to making-due until I have had a chance to save up for a large expenditure. This is true in general life and not just hobbies.

What I would suggest, assuming you have also been of the mindset that spending money should be done with frugality is to determine how much money you can comfortably put toward your hobby on a monthly basis and then save for your next big buy. You want a $4000 something-or-other? Great! Can you invest 100 into your hobby a month? Cool-- 40 months from how you'll be able to buy your 'whatever' without it breaking the bank.

If you've wanted it for so many years, that shows a consistent desire, which is a good indicator that it may be worth purchasing. If you're worried about the price tag for an expensive item, try literally putting aside a certain amount of cash from each check and stashing it somewhere so you're not tempting to spend it on other things. Eventually, you'll have enough so that you won't have to blow a big wad of cash at once.

On the other paw, if you can swing a big purchase at once and not wreck yourself financially or only endure sever belt-tightening for a month or two, then that might be all right as well. Just don't make it a habit of spending huge amounts like that all the time.

Being roughly the same age as you, I understand how priorities can change with time. You start spending a bit more conscientiously (or at least trying). If you're likely to get a lot of use out of what you want to buy and a lot of happiness, it may be a good investment. This may especially be true when it comes to hobbies. These are some of the things most worthwhile in our lives. Work is something you need to do, but no sensible person lives to work. You live for living, and hobbies make up an important part of that. They give you happiness, confidence, something to look forward to, and real satisfaction.

Also, daddies and wincest are important for good mental and physical health.