As I stated earlier, I have no problem with secrecy about such things. I was raised that way too, but it didn't take. Therefore a throwback I am. (and I don't consider this negative or positive, it simply is) I am not in the habit of asking such things but it bothers me not if others do. I am more inclined to tell you outright than I am to wait for the question. I don't think it has much to do with value for the dollar. If it cost me $3 I will tell you so without reservation, whether its worth 30 cents or $300.
But I don't have expensive trees and probably will not have. For me a $300 tree is a whole lotta money and I would likely pass. Will I always feel this way? Who knows? I may sell a couple of my $1400 Black Widow longbows and buy a $1,000 bonsai, but I doubt it. I would more likely spend that $1,000 on a wood chipper or even a pile of lumber.
I do think its awesome that some of you feel comfortable spending big money on bonsai, in the same way that I enjoy seeing bonsai that are worth more than my car and truck combined.
But back to the original gist of the thread, I simple do not care if people know what I spend for this or for that ..........except maybe my wife. And that is prudent.
Sorce, love you man but you are still angry. But at least I think we understand each other.