What Would You Do If You Won the Lottery?

The Euromillions Lottery jackpot was £90 million this week. On Tuesday, my brother and I were chatting and he reminded me of this. Now, usually I don't play the lottery – I think it is throwing money away. I'd much sooner give my money away and know where it went. However, when the jackpot is that substantial, I'll put a tenner in and hope for the best. I have never won anything and I am not bitter.

My attitude to money has changed over the years, but I'm no spendthrift. Were I ever to come into some money, I would spend a bit of it on things that make me happy. My brother asked me what I would do with the money if I won. Surprisingly, my answer did not include quitting my job and I gave 40% to family. Can you believe, in this hypothetical game, my brother would not let me spend a measly £100,000 on accessories? That is a sole extravagance of £100,000 out of £90,000,000. The conversation went something like this:

Bro bro: No, you won't spend £100,000 on bags. Have you lost your mind?

Me: Of course not. I plan to be sensible and invest most of it. I'm only spending £100,000.

BB: No way. I'll let you spend £20,000 each year and that's it. You own enough bags already.

Me: I have some bags, but more and a few pairs of shoes wouldn't dent the finances.

BB: I'll tip off all the stores and have you banned. You should be giving it all to fund managers.

Me: Erm, Madoff is real. I'd like to enjoy my money a bit

BB: You are still young. Remember, you have your whole life to plan for.

Me: Yes, I know. That is why I won't quit my job.

BB: If you continue with the crazy talk, I’ll have you sectioned under the Mental Health Act. Then you can't do dumb stuff with your money.

**Disbelief**

It's a sad day when a girl can't spend 0.111% of an imaginary lottery windfall to buy a few bags and some shoes. Sad day I tell ya. What would be your sole extravagance? I hope you have no grouches raining on your imaginary shopping spree parade.