Just want to say hello

[Haroshij]

I'm Haroshij from Norway. I used to be active on Patrick's board some hundred years ago ;-). Maybe somebody knows me from that time.
I'm Norwegian and have been married to a russian lady for about 12 years now. It's been good days, and it still are. We live so close to Russia that we get a lot of visitors every summer, friends of Elena and also her family. Elena also go regulary to Russia, and now and then I go with her. Did it once in winter, but will not recommend it. Cold outdoors, very cold. Even colder than we have it here in Norway. However inside the supermarkets and houses they have so  hot that I caught a cold.
Living in Norway is good. A well governed socialistic country ;-). Elena has a good job, and contribute very much to the household.
I'm just wondering how do those of you who are married to foreign women do it with economy. Do you share everything or do you have separate economy?

[Vaughn]

Do you share everything or do you have separate economy?

Welcome, Haroshij - interesting name - is it хороший (meaning: good) ?
 
My wife and I are approaching ten years as man & wife. Since about the third year we've shared our expenses, although we maintain separate accounts, both in banking and retirement. It just makes sense for us, perhaps not for everyone.
 
I handle most of the regular bills, and her income is mostly saved for vacations, unexpected expenses, some home improvement projects, and miscellaneous. Her income is much appreciated by me - although we could survive without it fairly comfortably, it certainly makes our life easier.
 
We wish we were closer to Russia as you are. Getting "home" takes much planning, expense and time, which is at a premium for most working couples.