Congrats! Sounds like you made it! :D
Thanks for the congrats everyone!
Arebelspy, it seems surreal. The transition from working (which provides self-esteem, purpose, value) to retiring, and the transition from saving to spending is huge. Much more complicated than I thought. It took me about a year with the first one and the latter will be ongoing.
I'm gradually getting to the point of not minding if my husband buys something not on the list or wastes money on a magazine that he could get free at a library. :). I'm done worrying but will continue to cut corners where we can. Our son commented about now we can buy drinks when we eat out. I told him I'm not so sure about drinks, but it would be nice to eat out once in awhile!
I've learned a lot here though and have really appreciated everyone's input. The last four years we've been able to ramp up savings with 401k, Roths, and taxable contributions. Even at the 'end' it makes a huge difference.
People want to get to FIRE fast, and I understand that, but even the slow and steady approach works. It took us 24 years starting with a negative 40k (hubs). I was a SAHM for 10 years and our average income was 50-60k. Both of us are napkin math people starting out with the rule of 72. Didn't get purposeful or have a specific goal until the last 4 years during which time I found MMM and Bogleheads.
It can be done!
