Help with fun decision

[Hawkdog21]

Backstory: So I just graduated with my second degree and I am about to start working full time. I have all expenses in my life convered (rent, utilities, insurance, emergency repair money, and a good amount in savings). I am 100% debt free besides maybe 100 bucks on my AMEX that gets paid off every two weeks.

Fun Decision: I have ~2 grand set aside for a graduation present for myself for busting my ass for the last 6 years in school (4.0GPA, valedictorian, speaking at graduation, etc.)

Option 1:I originally thought I was going to spend it on a new rear bumper/tire carrier and skids for my 2010 Trail, but I am having second thoughts. Its been a PITA finding someone I trust to build it. I wanted these items to protect the truck offroad, etc.. I got tons of use out of my bumper/TC on my 3rd gen, but my 2010 still only has about 10,000 miles and I shouldn't be smacking it into rocks this early anyways, so having the bumper/skids might make me do something I regret.

Option 2: My whole extended family are big golf fans. I could use this money instead to take an opportunity to tell my dad how thankful I am for his moral and financial support during school (I was fortunate enough to have all my schooling paid for and I thank god for this everyday). I could instead use this money to buy some badges for me and my father to attend saturday or sundays round at the Masters in Augusta this April which is arguably the most desired sports ticket in the US.

Sorry for the long details, but I wanted to put out all the info so people can make a better pick, so vote up and lets hear your opinions.

 

[Pikeman]

My 2 cents- Take the Dad to Augusta for the Masters. While I am all about modding and improving a vehicle, there will always be time for that. An opportunity to spend time and give thanks to family especially an event like the Masters does not come along that often. Congratulations on completing your degrees and achievments/ Honors.

Side note- I recently found out that Jimmy @ Outdoor Logic may have a 5th Gen coming in soon to work on bumpers and other products.

 

[Hawkdog21]

Thats what I was thinking.. thanks for the feedback


As far as the outdoorlogic stuff-- that is GREAT news, I have been secretly lurking in yalls bumper group buy because he just does great work and it seems everyone loves their stuff and they get it in the same decade they order it in.

 

[Jhacker1]

Definitely masters. Being a fellow golf lover. i would loovee to go to the masters. and how often does that chance come up? Your truck will understand i promise. All in all i'd go to the masters, that's a memory that will outlive your truck.

 

[CXS]

Golf is low on my list but expressing thanks for all you've been given is high. It would be a memory not to be forgotten. Go for it!

 

[Clemsonfan15]

I was thinking about something similar today. I would give something back to your dad.

Would you go too?

I would love to go to the Masters.

 

[DaveS]

Option 2 will be something you will treasure far more looking back, long after your 4Runner is behind you and forgotten.

 

[Hawkdog21]

Looks like I will be going to the Masters this year... thanks for the feedback, its exactly what I was hoping for.

 

[Hepar]

I'm also 100% for the Masters with your pops. You can get bumpers anytime. That experience will be worth its weight in gold.

Never thought I'd suggest to a member here to not put his money towards mods who isn't in a financial crisis!

 

[Hawkdog21]

Fixed

Never thought EVERYONE would suggest to a member here to not put his money towards mods that isn't in a financial crisis!

 

[Hepar]

Fixed

For sure! My pops passed away out of the blue last year. I would trade my entire 4Runner for one more experience like that! Enjoy!

 

[SkylineGTRracer]

I'm in college right now (2nd year) and its very hard. I may spend a good bit of my cash on my truck but I always put a little aside to get some small things like a movie or a ticket for a game for my mom that not only helps me with the financial side of college but other things like homework, filling out forms like the fafsa, etc. I'm glad to see your outta school and about to get a job!:bravo: I'll say this give credit where credit is due. I'm sure both you and your dad will enjoy the game.

 

[runnerC2]

Masters with dad for sure. Golf is one of my least favorite things and I would gladly take my dad to show my appreciation for supporting me for almost 22 (going on 23) years.

 

[JohnsD90]

I would put it too the side and buy a house, but i know thats not what you want to hear. I would buy do option 2 though, even though i know my parents wouldnt want or really accept any payment back for raising me and sending me to college, they just wish that i will do the same for my kids.

 

[topdown4runner]

I agree with most of the rest here ( sorry JohnsD90 ).
I grew up with a golf course running through my neighborhood. I only played once about 10 years ago with my in-laws. Not my thing. Like watching grass grow or paint dry.

Even if your Pops does not love golf, the gesture to spend time with him at a special event will be priceless. Enjoy it.

You can always put sliders / bumpers on plastic if need be. Armor is more than off road protection. It comes in handy at the grocery store too. Helps keep shopping carts from messing up your headlights, and sliders can keep that teenie bopper driving a Civic while on her cell phone off your drivers side door. You know what I mean...

 

[Glock_19]

I would definitely go with option 2 to show your parents you appreciate what they did for you.

Alternatively, option 3: 2 grand would definitely pay for a hotel and a few rounds for the 2 of you on a weekend golf trip somewhere and you'd probably have money left over. I went to the AT&T classic a few years ago and personally I'd rather be out on the links myself any day.

 

[Mellow77]

Take Dad to the Masters; you can never equal or replace the time and memories you build with stuff that has been built.

Congratulations on your hard work!

 

[Hawkdog21]

Thanks for all the feedback folks, I bought my masters tickets last night and made hotel reservations this morning and boy am I excited to go.

On a side not I also bought the best tickets in the house for my mom and I to go see the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and a very nice meal beforehand. Can't forget about mom during this! She set up a weekend with my dad to go to the mountains as a decoy to us going to the masters so this will be a surprise for my dad up until the day leading up to it, so I have my mom to thank for helping with the secret.

 

[CXS]

Well done, congratulations! You're creating a lifetime memory that will be treasured, good decision.

 

[Clemsonfan15]

Are y'all going for the whole tournament? Ex. practice rounds through the weekend?

I'm surprised that there are still hotels available.