Basic information: My wife doesn't work and does next to nothing to contribute to the house. I'm the sole source of income and feel our relationship contribution is 95% from me. I was laid off from my previous job and had to get a new one a year ago (making more money), so I'm just now eligible for paid vacation.  I'm a member of an organization that I've been in for just over 20 years and very very much enjoy going to this event I'm going to soon, that I've had to miss the last 2 years.  I've taken my wife with me every time I've gone since we've been together,  however,  she usually just lies around the tent while we're there due to the heat and said she doesn't want to go this year. I invited a gaming friend to go with me six months or so ago who is flying to the US from Norway just to go with me, and have been looking forward to the event ever since.  

Her side: We can't afford for me to go. The house needs work. I'm taking our only vehicle and leaving her without a means to get around.  Her health is not the best. Her mom will be pissed because she has helped us financially. 

My defense:  While money is tight and I will be on a budget, I've gone to this event in the past with less money and we are not going to starve or have utilities cut off for it etc. The house is really old, and does need work, but over the last few weeks I've been renovating our bathroom during my off time with almost no help from her. Her license is  suspended due to a drunk driving charge so she can't legally drive anywhere. A big part of her health issues is that she drinks too much, doesn't take her daily medication regularly, eats almost nothing,  and spends most (like 90% or more) of her time lying down in bed. I suspect she has mental health issues,  but she refuses to see a psychiatrist. The financial support from her mom has -never- been asked for and the biggest chunk of cash ($2000 +)  was to pay off her fine from the DUI. 