Author Topic: Target FIRE: 2017  (Read 449863 times)

Freedom17

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #900 on: May 15, 2017, 01:03:07 PM »

Threshkin                October 31, 2016   Confirmed
Metta            (at 55) January 1, 2017    Confirmed
MrsWhipple       (at 32) January 1, 2017    Confirmed
FIRE me                  January 3, 2017    Confirmed
Zineth           (at 49) January 27, 2017   Confirmed
MarciaB          (at 55) January 31, 2017   Confirmed
MsGreenStash     (at 51) February 1, 2017   Confirmed
dabears847               February 17, 2017  Confirmed
Cottonswab       (at 30) March 1, 2017      Confirmed
Goldielocks              March 10, 2017     Confirmed
Dragoncar                March 15, 2017     Confirmed
Oblivo           (at 35) March 24, 2017     Confirmed
DollarDominatrix         March 24, 2017     Confirmed
John Doe         (at 50) March 31, 2017     Part time
Fairviewite      (at 27) April 24, 2017     Confirmed
oneyearfromnow   (at 51) April 28, 2017     Confirmed
freedom47        (at 48) April 28, 2017     Confirmed
Remote_Landlord  (at 39) May 8, 2017        Confirmed
FrugalAussie             May 11, 2017       Confirmed
Penguin159               May 12, 2017       Part time
Myhotrs          (at 38) May 12, 2017       Confirmed
BNgarden         (at 58) May 24, 2017       Confirmed
MandyM           (at 38) May 15, 2017       Part time
RedmondStash             May 18, 2017       Leave of absence
Stasher          (at 43) May 19, 2017
Rachael Talcott  (at 42) May 21, 2017
Romag                    June 1, 2017
Financial Asc.   (at 39) June 1, 2017
MandalayVA       (at 50) June 1, 2017
fidreamer                June 16, 2017
Mrs. Pomodoro    (at 43) June 16, 2017
Rahby1us                 June, 2017
Bruizer          (at 56) June 30, 2017
Charlie Foxtrot  (at 41) July 1, 2017
Daisy            (at 48) July 17, 2017
Freedom17        (at 38) July 28, 2017
UnleashHell              July 28, 2017
concealed stache (at 35) July 31, 2017
Jack06           (at 42) August 1, 2017
Cookie78         (at 39) August 3, 2017
dividendman    (at 35) August 18, 2017
MadBikePoet      (at 44) Sep 1, 2017
Zephyr911        (at 39) Sep 30, 2017
Bigchrisb        (at 35) October 1, 2017
FIREy                    November 1, 2017     
MonkeyJenga      (at 31) Fall 2017
SachaFiscal      (at 41) Dec 1, 2017   
Jim2001                  Dec 31, 2017
Easypeasy        (at 35) Late 2017
Mf3333           (at 56)                    OMY
SwordGuy         (at 59)                    OMY
Mrs. SwordGuy                               OMY
Noble_goal                                  OMY
JoJo             (at 43)                    OMY
homestead neohio (at 39)                    OMY


MarciaB

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #901 on: May 16, 2017, 08:34:56 AM »
I am 3 - 1/2 months in to retirement at this point, and it was only just yesterday that I finally felt like I had "arrived" at a good place. The last 3+ months I've felt unsettled, adrift, unhappy about not having enough structure, unproductive...you get the point. Very uneasy. The "coming down" phase (withdrawal?) has been unexpectedly rough.

Which I think is typical when you get off a merry-go-round. It takes a while for everything to stop spinning.

And yesterday it finally did. After enjoying some exercise and a good breakfast I binge-read an entire book. Then strolled over to the store for groceries and did some cooking...all things I really enjoy. Without guilt. Without any Type-A bullshit swirling around it.

At this point I'm satisfied with the slower and more sane pace. I want to maintain this (so peaceful!) until I'm good and ready to work on the next chapter, whatever that is. But with no guilt, no hurry, no frantic need for speed.  Aaaahhhhhh. Finally!

And today? It's $2 Taco Tuesday at a favorite spot...I've got big plans!

RedmondStash

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #902 on: May 16, 2017, 09:06:29 AM »
I am 3 - 1/2 months in to retirement at this point, and it was only just yesterday that I finally felt like I had "arrived" at a good place. The last 3+ months I've felt unsettled, adrift, unhappy about not having enough structure, unproductive...you get the point. Very uneasy. The "coming down" phase (withdrawal?) has been unexpectedly rough.

Which I think is typical when you get off a merry-go-round. It takes a while for everything to stop spinning.

And yesterday it finally did. After enjoying some exercise and a good breakfast I binge-read an entire book. Then strolled over to the store for groceries and did some cooking...all things I really enjoy. Without guilt. Without any Type-A bullshit swirling around it.

At this point I'm satisfied with the slower and more sane pace. I want to maintain this (so peaceful!) until I'm good and ready to work on the next chapter, whatever that is. But with no guilt, no hurry, no frantic need for speed.  Aaaahhhhhh. Finally!

And today? It's $2 Taco Tuesday at a favorite spot...I've got big plans!

Yeah, I think it's easy to expect that first day to be blissful, and only to get better from there. But the reality is that for most people, it's an adjustment with ups and downs. Even good change isn't necessarily easy. I'm glad you're finally settling into your new life.

zephyr911

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #903 on: May 16, 2017, 10:30:22 AM »
I am 3 - 1/2 months in to retirement at this point, and it was only just yesterday that I finally felt like I had "arrived" at a good place. The last 3+ months I've felt unsettled, adrift, unhappy about not having enough structure, unproductive...you get the point. Very uneasy. The "coming down" phase (withdrawal?) has been unexpectedly rough.

Which I think is typical when you get off a merry-go-round. It takes a while for everything to stop spinning.

And yesterday it finally did. After enjoying some exercise and a good breakfast I binge-read an entire book. Then strolled over to the store for groceries and did some cooking...all things I really enjoy. Without guilt. Without any Type-A bullshit swirling around it.

At this point I'm satisfied with the slower and more sane pace. I want to maintain this (so peaceful!) until I'm good and ready to work on the next chapter, whatever that is. But with no guilt, no hurry, no frantic need for speed.  Aaaahhhhhh. Finally!

And today? It's $2 Taco Tuesday at a favorite spot...I've got big plans!
TWO DOLLARS!?!? You run right back home and make your own for a buck or less! ;)

Bruizer

  • 5 O'Clock Shadow
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  • Posts: 54
Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #904 on: May 16, 2017, 10:51:19 AM »
I am 3 - 1/2 months in to retirement at this point, and it was only just yesterday that I finally felt like I had "arrived" at a good place. The last 3+ months I've felt unsettled, adrift, unhappy about not having enough structure, unproductive...you get the point. Very uneasy. The "coming down" phase (withdrawal?) has been unexpectedly rough.

Which I think is typical when you get off a merry-go-round. It takes a while for everything to stop spinning.

And yesterday it finally did. After enjoying some exercise and a good breakfast I binge-read an entire book. Then strolled over to the store for groceries and did some cooking...all things I really enjoy. Without guilt. Without any Type-A bullshit swirling around it.

At this point I'm satisfied with the slower and more sane pace. I want to maintain this (so peaceful!) until I'm good and ready to work on the next chapter, whatever that is. But with no guilt, no hurry, no frantic need for speed.  Aaaahhhhhh. Finally!

And today? It's $2 Taco Tuesday at a favorite spot...I've got big plans!

I'm happy for you!  This is my concern also.  I'm hoping that by moving my retirement day up to June 30th, I'll have 3 or 4 months of good weather for outdoor activities during the adjustment period.

WannaGoOutside

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  • Age: 51
  • Location: Arkansas
Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #905 on: May 16, 2017, 12:45:37 PM »
Threshkin                October 31, 2016   Confirmed
Metta            (at 55) January 1, 2017    Confirmed
MrsWhipple       (at 32) January 1, 2017    Confirmed
FIRE me                  January 3, 2017    Confirmed
Zineth           (at 49) January 27, 2017   Confirmed
MarciaB          (at 55) January 31, 2017   Confirmed
MsGreenStash     (at 51) February 1, 2017   Confirmed
dabears847               February 17, 2017  Confirmed
Cottonswab       (at 30) March 1, 2017      Confirmed
Goldielocks              March 10, 2017     Confirmed
Dragoncar                March 15, 2017     Confirmed
Oblivo           (at 35) March 24, 2017     Confirmed
DollarDominatrix         March 24, 2017     Confirmed
John Doe         (at 50) March 31, 2017     Part time
Fairviewite      (at 27) April 24, 2017     Confirmed
oneyearfromnow   (at 51) April 28, 2017     Confirmed
freedom47        (at 48) April 28, 2017     Confirmed
Remote_Landlord  (at 39) May 8, 2017        Confirmed
FrugalAussie             May 11, 2017       Confirmed
Penguin159               May 12, 2017       Part time
Myhotrs          (at 38) May 12, 2017       Confirmed
BNgarden         (at 58) May 24, 2017       Confirmed
MandyM           (at 38) May 15, 2017       Part time
RedmondStash             May 18, 2017       Leave of absence
Stasher          (at 43) May 19, 2017
Rachael Talcott  (at 42) May 21, 2017
Romag                    June 1, 2017
Financial Asc.   (at 39) June 1, 2017
MandalayVA       (at 50) June 1, 2017
fidreamer                June 16, 2017
Mrs. Pomodoro    (at 43) June 16, 2017
Rahby1us                 June, 2017
Bruizer          (at 56) June 30, 2017
WannaGoOutside   (at 45) June 30, 2017
Charlie Foxtrot  (at 41) July 1, 2017
Daisy            (at 48) July 17, 2017
Freedom17        (at 38) July 28, 2017
UnleashHell              July 28, 2017
concealed stache (at 35) July 31, 2017
Jack06           (at 42) August 1, 2017
Cookie78         (at 39) August 3, 2017
dividendman      (at 35) August 18, 2017
MadBikePoet      (at 44) Sep 1, 2017
Zephyr911        (at 39) Sep 30, 2017
Bigchrisb        (at 35) October 1, 2017
FIREy                    November 1, 2017     
MonkeyJenga      (at 31) Fall 2017
SachaFiscal      (at 41) Dec 1, 2017   
Jim2001                  Dec 31, 2017
Easypeasy        (at 35) Late 2017
Mf3333           (at 56)                    OMY
SwordGuy         (at 59)                    OMY
Mrs. SwordGuy                               OMY
Noble_goal                                  OMY
JoJo             (at 43)                    OMY
homestead neohio (at 39)                    OMY




I am moving up from the Class of 2018 to June 30, 2017!  Our house (in our working state) sold in days and closed crazy fast, so my DH has already retired and moved to our retirement house in a neighboring state.  I was going to work the rest of this year, surfing in friends' and family's guest rooms, but I've become motivated to move up to June 30!  32 more working days!!!

UnleashHell

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  • Chapter IV - A New ... er.. something
Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #906 on: May 16, 2017, 01:39:42 PM »
Threshkin                October 31, 2016   Confirmed
Metta            (at 55) January 1, 2017    Confirmed
MrsWhipple       (at 32) January 1, 2017    Confirmed
FIRE me                  January 3, 2017    Confirmed
Zineth           (at 49) January 27, 2017   Confirmed
MarciaB          (at 55) January 31, 2017   Confirmed
MsGreenStash     (at 51) February 1, 2017   Confirmed
dabears847               February 17, 2017  Confirmed
Cottonswab       (at 30) March 1, 2017      Confirmed
Goldielocks              March 10, 2017     Confirmed
Dragoncar                March 15, 2017     Confirmed
Oblivo           (at 35) March 24, 2017     Confirmed
DollarDominatrix         March 24, 2017     Confirmed
John Doe         (at 50) March 31, 2017     Part time
Fairviewite      (at 27) April 24, 2017     Confirmed
oneyearfromnow   (at 51) April 28, 2017     Confirmed
freedom47        (at 48) April 28, 2017     Confirmed
Remote_Landlord  (at 39) May 8, 2017        Confirmed
FrugalAussie             May 11, 2017       Confirmed
Penguin159               May 12, 2017       Part time
Myhotrs          (at 38) May 12, 2017       Confirmed
BNgarden         (at 58) May 24, 2017       Confirmed
MandyM           (at 38) May 15, 2017       Part time
RedmondStash             May 18, 2017       Leave of absence
Stasher          (at 43) May 19, 2017
Rachael Talcott  (at 42) May 21, 2017
Romag                    June 1, 2017
Financial Asc.   (at 39) June 1, 2017
MandalayVA       (at 50) June 1, 2017
fidreamer                June 16, 2017
Mrs. Pomodoro    (at 43) June 16, 2017
Rahby1us                 June, 2017
Bruizer          (at 56) June 30, 2017
WannaGoOutside   (at 45) June 30, 2017
Charlie Foxtrot  (at 41) July 1, 2017
Daisy            (at 48) July 17, 2017
Freedom17        (at 38) July 28, 2017
concealed stache (at 35) July 31, 2017
Jack06           (at 42) August 1, 2017
UnleashHell      (at 49) August 1, 2017
Cookie78         (at 39) August 3, 2017
dividendman      (at 35) August 18, 2017
MadBikePoet      (at 44) Sep 1, 2017
Zephyr911        (at 39) Sep 30, 2017
Bigchrisb        (at 35) October 1, 2017
FIREy                    November 1, 2017     
MonkeyJenga      (at 31) Fall 2017
SachaFiscal      (at 41) Dec 1, 2017   
Jim2001                  Dec 31, 2017
Easypeasy        (at 35) Late 2017
Mf3333           (at 56)                    OMY
SwordGuy         (at 59)                    OMY
Mrs. SwordGuy                               OMY
Noble_goal                                  OMY
JoJo             (at 43)                    OMY
homestead neohio (at 39)                    OMY



I moved - added 2 work days to my career in order to get an extra month of health care!!

SachaFiscal

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  • Posts: 275
Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #907 on: May 17, 2017, 04:49:10 AM »
I've gone back to work after a leave of absence of 2.5 months. It was sort of a way to try out RE to see how I liked it. I decided to return to work  at 32 hours instead of 40 and I'm trying that out to see if it is sustainable for me. 

On my LOA I did some spring cleaning in my house. I also cooked more, and healthier food. I exercised a little more. I lost about 10lbs which was nice because I fit into my clothes better (I was getting to a point where I might need a new wardrobe before I took leave). 

I felt a bit aimless though. I ended up watching a lot of TV/Streaming. I think I've gotten so used to the structure and motivation that working for someone else provides that it was difficult for me to self motivate myself to do the things I had always pictured myself doing in RE (playing/creating music, software projects, volunteer work, making a difference in the world). Also I realized that a lot of my identity and self worth is wrapped up in my career. It is more difficult than I thought to let that go. It will take some serious self reflection and personal growth before I'm ready to do that.

So now I am trying a reduced hour schedule to ease into RE. I'd like to use the extra day off to try and do some of my planned RE activities. If I can do that and feel like I could fill the rest of my days with those activities and feel fulfilled, then I will leave work. But until then I think I will be part time for a while. As my planned RE date (December 1) gets closer I'll evaluate if I'm really ready to pull the plug.

As I've started working, I'm observing some of my usual stress patterns come back (e.g. drinking too much caffeine during the day so not sleeping at night). I'm realizing that a lot of the stress I feel is self induced. It's a something I do to motivate myself to be good/better at my job. I set certain expectations of myself and I'm constantly stressed when I don't meet my self induced goals. I create this state of fear that causes me to work harder. Even though I could get fired tomorrow and just be fine, these fear of losing my job mental patterns are so deeply ingrained that they are not easy to just drop with only the knowledge that I would be fine financially if I didn't have the job.

I'm trying to change some of these patterns and develop new ones slowly with mindfulness. I'd like to be able to be more present and exoerience my life moment to moment instead of fearing and planning the future all the time. Just take one challenge at a time and enjoy solving the problem without the extra worry of "what happens if I don't figure this out soon enough, or ever".

My sabbatical made me realize that I also don't have much of a life outside of work and I really want to develop that more. I'm looking for some ways to meet more like minded folks who want to help others and work towards positive change.  Also looking for some creative outlets.

Overall the past few months have been a transformational experience for me.


Cache_Stash

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #908 on: May 17, 2017, 06:56:02 AM »
What is "OMY"?

Bruizer

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #909 on: May 17, 2017, 06:58:27 AM »
What is "OMY"?
One more year.  It's the feeling you get when you're close to retirement but start having regrets.  "Should I work OMY?"  There's also OMM, one more month.

Cache_Stash

  • Bristles
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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #910 on: May 17, 2017, 07:18:35 AM »
What is "OMY"?
One more year.  It's the feeling you get when you're close to retirement but start having regrets.  "Should I work OMY?"  There's also OMM, one more month.

I guess I've been OMM for about two years (lol).

Well I guess it's time to add my name to the list.  I've been FI for about 2-3 years (although I didn't really know it - didn't track).  There are changes going on at work that made me believe my position would be rolled into a new position with one other position (consolidation).  I figured at that time I would have had an opportunity to quietly exit with a package.  I've been hoping for about two years (I've heard if hope is part of your plan, you don't have a plan).  Now the company I work for is going through some financial troubles and I think layoff packages may be coming shortly.  So I've hopped on that hope train.  I guess if it doesn't come to fruition (getting laid off), I will probably leave sometime this summer.  We have a moniker for someone like me at work and it is RIP (Retired in place).

I think about what it will be like to be retired and the freedom from the daily grind of reporting to someone what you are doing and such.  It gives me a very excited feeling that is akin to the last day of school.  I'm looking forward to setting my own agenda and I have a lot of activities I want to take part in.  I've already started a large garden this year.  It will probably take up 20-30 hours of my time each week. 

All of this said, I'm not sure what to put down for a date.  Maybe I'll put down WIGLO (When I get laid off)


Cache_Stash

  • Bristles
  • ***
  • Posts: 314
Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #911 on: May 17, 2017, 07:25:46 AM »
Can someone add me to the list as WIGLO instead of OMY?  I should find out within a month or two whether or not I'll have to set a date for quitting.

Cache Stash (at 54) WIGLO
« Last Edit: May 17, 2017, 07:38:49 AM by Cache Stash »

MarciaB

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  • Posts: 544
  • Age: 62
  • Location: Oregon
Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #912 on: May 17, 2017, 08:28:59 AM »
Cache Stash - I love the term WIGLO (When I Get Laid Off), hilarious! I've added you, and just keep us posted (and we'll edit the list).


Threshkin                October 31, 2016   Confirmed
Metta            (at 55) January 1, 2017    Confirmed
MrsWhipple       (at 32) January 1, 2017    Confirmed
FIRE me                  January 3, 2017    Confirmed
Zineth           (at 49) January 27, 2017   Confirmed
MarciaB          (at 55) January 31, 2017   Confirmed
MsGreenStash     (at 51) February 1, 2017   Confirmed
dabears847               February 17, 2017  Confirmed
Cottonswab       (at 30) March 1, 2017      Confirmed
Goldielocks              March 10, 2017     Confirmed
Dragoncar                March 15, 2017     Confirmed
Oblivo           (at 35) March 24, 2017     Confirmed
DollarDominatrix         March 24, 2017     Confirmed
John Doe         (at 50) March 31, 2017     Part time
Fairviewite      (at 27) April 24, 2017     Confirmed
oneyearfromnow   (at 51) April 28, 2017     Confirmed
freedom47        (at 48) April 28, 2017     Confirmed
Remote_Landlord  (at 39) May 8, 2017        Confirmed
FrugalAussie             May 11, 2017       Confirmed
Penguin159               May 12, 2017       Part time
Myhotrs          (at 38) May 12, 2017       Confirmed
BNgarden         (at 58) May 24, 2017       Confirmed
MandyM           (at 38) May 15, 2017       Part time
RedmondStash             May 18, 2017       Leave of absence
Stasher          (at 43) May 19, 2017
Rachael Talcott  (at 42) May 21, 2017
Romag                    June 1, 2017
Financial Asc.   (at 39) June 1, 2017
MandalayVA       (at 50) June 1, 2017
fidreamer                June 16, 2017
Mrs. Pomodoro    (at 43) June 16, 2017
Rahby1us                 June, 2017
Bruizer          (at 56) June 30, 2017
WannaGoOutside   (at 45) June 30, 2017
Charlie Foxtrot  (at 41) July 1, 2017
Daisy            (at 48) July 17, 2017
Freedom17        (at 38) July 28, 2017
concealed stache (at 35) July 31, 2017
Jack06           (at 42) August 1, 2017
UnleashHell      (at 49) August 1, 2017
Cookie78         (at 39) August 3, 2017
dividendman      (at 35) August 18, 2017
MadBikePoet      (at 44) Sep 1, 2017
Zephyr911        (at 39) Sep 30, 2017
Bigchrisb        (at 35) October 1, 2017
FIREy                    November 1, 2017     
MonkeyJenga      (at 31) Fall 2017
SachaFiscal      (at 41) Dec 1, 2017   
Jim2001                  Dec 31, 2017
Easypeasy        (at 35) Late 2017
Mf3333           (at 56)                    OMY
SwordGuy         (at 59)                    OMY
Mrs. SwordGuy                               OMY
Noble_goal                                  OMY
JoJo             (at 43)                    OMY
homestead neohio (at 39)                    OMY
Cache Stash      (at 54)                    WIGLO*

*When I Get Laid Off

Cache_Stash

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #913 on: May 17, 2017, 08:33:23 AM »
Thanks Marcia!

RedmondStash

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #914 on: May 17, 2017, 08:42:54 AM »
Last day today before my leave of absence at work. I hardly slept last night and am still jittery now. Change is always disruptive, even good change.

MarciaB

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #915 on: May 17, 2017, 09:27:35 AM »
I am 3 - 1/2 months in to retirement at this point, and it was only just yesterday that I finally felt like I had "arrived" at a good place. The last 3+ months I've felt unsettled, adrift, unhappy about not having enough structure, unproductive...you get the point. Very uneasy. The "coming down" phase (withdrawal?) has been unexpectedly rough.

Which I think is typical when you get off a merry-go-round. It takes a while for everything to stop spinning.

And yesterday it finally did. After enjoying some exercise and a good breakfast I binge-read an entire book. Then strolled over to the store for groceries and did some cooking...all things I really enjoy. Without guilt. Without any Type-A bullshit swirling around it.

At this point I'm satisfied with the slower and more sane pace. I want to maintain this (so peaceful!) until I'm good and ready to work on the next chapter, whatever that is. But with no guilt, no hurry, no frantic need for speed.  Aaaahhhhhh. Finally!

And today? It's $2 Taco Tuesday at a favorite spot...I've got big plans!
TWO DOLLARS!?!? You run right back home and make your own for a buck or less! ;)

Well, to be fair - the tacos came on a plate with generous scoops of cilantro rice, black beans, grilled veg, guac and sour cream, and an assortment of tasty salsas. I probably couldn't have made the whole shebang for the $5.99 I paid for the three tacos and all that.

But you bring up a good point about post-FIRE and spending. I'm working on being less clutched-unto-death with my purse strings. I'm FI, right? So if I want to go out and spend $6 on a fun little date with my SO...that should feel good. It's in the budget, and I got 100% enjoyment from every dollar...but still.

I'm getting used to all this (no more fire hose of cash spraying onto the accumulation pile).

If there's one takeaway from this thread it's that this FIRE stuff is a process, not a point in time.

Ladychips

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #916 on: May 17, 2017, 12:38:35 PM »
This is my most favorite thread in all the land.  I'm not in this class (I'm 2022), but I sure do enjoy reading about you all.  Thanks for sharing your joy and your lessons!

WannaGoOutside

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #917 on: May 17, 2017, 01:01:03 PM »
But you bring up a good point about post-FIRE and spending. I'm working on being less clutched-unto-death with my purse strings. I'm FI, right? So if I want to go out and spend $6 on a fun little date with my SO...that should feel good. It's in the budget, and I got 100% enjoyment from every dollar...but still.

I'm getting used to all this (no more fire hose of cash spraying onto the accumulation pile).

If there's one takeaway from this thread it's that this FIRE stuff is a process, not a point in time.

Just starting the process here...

With 31 work days left, I'm really starting to think about the mind shift.  I find myself hoarding dollars in my checking account that could probably be moved somewhere more productive.  I think that I fear the first time the checking account will approach zero and I'll have to go pull from the (former) accumulation pile.

I have had a plan for how this will work for some time... but executing it is daunting!

RedmondStash

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #918 on: May 17, 2017, 05:58:53 PM »
Awesome! Enjoy your well earned time off!

I always get excited before a long vacation. Do you have any travel plans?

Thanks. Not a lot of plans of any kind yet. For my sanity, I had to keep my head down and get through the last few days of work, because even good change is kind of disorienting. Tomorrow I'll get more serious about planning. But mostly, I expect to spend the summer puttering around the house in a bathrobe and possibly -- and this is by no means definite -- showering occasionally.


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MandyM           (at 38) May 15, 2017       Part time
RedmondStash             May 18, 2017       Leave of absence, confirmed
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Rachael Talcott  (at 42) May 21, 2017
Romag                    June 1, 2017
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MandalayVA       (at 50) June 1, 2017
fidreamer                June 16, 2017
Mrs. Pomodoro    (at 43) June 16, 2017
Rahby1us                 June, 2017
Bruizer          (at 56) June 30, 2017
WannaGoOutside   (at 45) June 30, 2017
Charlie Foxtrot  (at 41) July 1, 2017
Daisy            (at 48) July 17, 2017
Freedom17        (at 38) July 28, 2017
concealed stache (at 35) July 31, 2017
Jack06           (at 42) August 1, 2017
UnleashHell      (at 49) August 1, 2017
Cookie78         (at 39) August 3, 2017
dividendman      (at 35) August 18, 2017
MadBikePoet      (at 44) Sep 1, 2017
Zephyr911        (at 39) Sep 30, 2017
Bigchrisb        (at 35) October 1, 2017
FIREy                    November 1, 2017     
MonkeyJenga      (at 31) Fall 2017
SachaFiscal      (at 41) Dec 1, 2017   
Jim2001                  Dec 31, 2017
Easypeasy        (at 35) Late 2017
Mf3333           (at 56)                    OMY
SwordGuy         (at 59)                    OMY
Mrs. SwordGuy                               OMY
Noble_goal                                  OMY
JoJo             (at 43)                    OMY
homestead neohio (at 39)                    OMY
Cache Stash      (at 54)                    WIGLO*


bigchrisb

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #919 on: May 17, 2017, 06:38:31 PM »
But you bring up a good point about post-FIRE and spending. I'm working on being less clutched-unto-death with my purse strings. I'm FI, right? So if I want to go out and spend $6 on a fun little date with my SO...that should feel good. It's in the budget, and I got 100% enjoyment from every dollar...but still.

I'm getting used to all this (no more fire hose of cash spraying onto the accumulation pile).

If there's one takeaway from this thread it's that this FIRE stuff is a process, not a point in time.

Just starting the process here...

With 31 work days left, I'm really starting to think about the mind shift.  I find myself hoarding dollars in my checking account that could probably be moved somewhere more productive.  I think that I fear the first time the checking account will approach zero and I'll have to go pull from the (former) accumulation pile.

I have had a plan for how this will work for some time... but executing it is daunting!

Same boat over here.  I'm comfortable with the theory.  Comfortable with the spreadsheet.  Comfortable with sticking the course through accumulation.  However, putting it into practice for draw down feels like a scary step into the unknown. 

Case in point - I decided I wanted to do a bucket list trip before I pulled the pin.  Didn't have the leave, so put in for leave without pay -
 if they said no, I could just quit anyway.  Request sailed through.  However, now I'm having a minor freak out about having the employment cash hose stop for a month, let alone in perpetuity! 

dividendman

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #920 on: May 17, 2017, 07:13:17 PM »
But you bring up a good point about post-FIRE and spending. I'm working on being less clutched-unto-death with my purse strings. I'm FI, right? So if I want to go out and spend $6 on a fun little date with my SO...that should feel good. It's in the budget, and I got 100% enjoyment from every dollar...but still.

I'm getting used to all this (no more fire hose of cash spraying onto the accumulation pile).

If there's one takeaway from this thread it's that this FIRE stuff is a process, not a point in time.

Just starting the process here...

With 31 work days left, I'm really starting to think about the mind shift.  I find myself hoarding dollars in my checking account that could probably be moved somewhere more productive.  I think that I fear the first time the checking account will approach zero and I'll have to go pull from the (former) accumulation pile.

I have had a plan for how this will work for some time... but executing it is daunting!

Same boat over here.  I'm comfortable with the theory.  Comfortable with the spreadsheet.  Comfortable with sticking the course through accumulation.  However, putting it into practice for draw down feels like a scary step into the unknown. 

Case in point - I decided I wanted to do a bucket list trip before I pulled the pin.  Didn't have the leave, so put in for leave without pay -
 if they said no, I could just quit anyway.  Request sailed through.  However, now I'm having a minor freak out about having the employment cash hose stop for a month, let alone in perpetuity!

Hahaha. I feel the EXACT same way! Sigh. I don't want my monthly NW updates to go down :(

SachaFiscal

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #921 on: May 17, 2017, 11:51:50 PM »
I am 3 - 1/2 months in to retirement at this point, and it was only just yesterday that I finally felt like I had "arrived" at a good place. The last 3+ months I've felt unsettled, adrift, unhappy about not having enough structure, unproductive...you get the point. Very uneasy. The "coming down" phase (withdrawal?) has been unexpectedly rough.

Which I think is typical when you get off a merry-go-round. It takes a while for everything to stop spinning.

And yesterday it finally did. After enjoying some exercise and a good breakfast I binge-read an entire book. Then strolled over to the store for groceries and did some cooking...all things I really enjoy. Without guilt. Without any Type-A bullshit swirling around it.

At this point I'm satisfied with the slower and more sane pace. I want to maintain this (so peaceful!) until I'm good and ready to work on the next chapter, whatever that is. But with no guilt, no hurry, no frantic need for speed.  Aaaahhhhhh. Finally!

This is inspiring to me. I felt very unproductive on my sabbatical but maybe 12 weeks just wasn't long enough for me to really get used to the slower pace.

Threshkin

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #922 on: May 18, 2017, 07:45:45 AM »
Can someone add me to the list as WIGLO instead of OMY?  I should find out within a month or two whether or not I'll have to set a date for quitting.

Cache Stash (at 54) WIGLO

LOL!  That was me for about a year and a half.  When it finally happened, I did a little happy dance.

Threshkin

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #923 on: May 18, 2017, 08:00:24 AM »
I am 3 - 1/2 months in to retirement at this point, and it was only just yesterday that I finally felt like I had "arrived" at a good place. The last 3+ months I've felt unsettled, adrift, unhappy about not having enough structure, unproductive...you get the point. Very uneasy. The "coming down" phase (withdrawal?) has been unexpectedly rough.

Which I think is typical when you get off a merry-go-round. It takes a while for everything to stop spinning.

And yesterday it finally did. After enjoying some exercise and a good breakfast I binge-read an entire book. Then strolled over to the store for groceries and did some cooking...all things I really enjoy. Without guilt. Without any Type-A bullshit swirling around it.

At this point I'm satisfied with the slower and more sane pace. I want to maintain this (so peaceful!) until I'm good and ready to work on the next chapter, whatever that is. But with no guilt, no hurry, no frantic need for speed.  Aaaahhhhhh. Finally!

And today? It's $2 Taco Tuesday at a favorite spot...I've got big plans!

I am approaching 7 months of retirement and still feel unsettled.  I have gotten over the desire to check my email constantly and rarely think about my work colleagues or assignments any more but I still feel kind of lost.

I am slowly working through a lethargy stage where little or nothing gets done.  Or at least it seems that way to me compared to my previous lifestyle.  (My DW may disagree.)

Part of it is feeling trapped and depressed due to my mom's declining mental condition.  I do not want to go away for any length of time because we never know when she will have another crisis that needs our presence to resolve.  I want to be here for her because otherwise she is all alone.  Then I get depressed because I feel trapped which leads to feeling guilty for wanting to get away.  I just don't know what to do so I wind up doing nothing.

Edit:  Sorry for such a downer post in this generally happy forum.
« Last Edit: May 18, 2017, 08:02:44 AM by Threshkin »

RedmondStash

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #924 on: May 18, 2017, 09:00:36 AM »
I am approaching 7 months of retirement and still feel unsettled.  I have gotten over the desire to check my email constantly and rarely think about my work colleagues or assignments any more but I still feel kind of lost.

I am slowly working through a lethargy stage where little or nothing gets done.  Or at least it seems that way to me compared to my previous lifestyle.  (My DW may disagree.)

Part of it is feeling trapped and depressed due to my mom's declining mental condition.  I do not want to go away for any length of time because we never know when she will have another crisis that needs our presence to resolve.  I want to be here for her because otherwise she is all alone.  Then I get depressed because I feel trapped which leads to feeling guilty for wanting to get away.  I just don't know what to do so I wind up doing nothing.

Edit:  Sorry for such a downer post in this generally happy forum.

It really is a big change, and change is hard. I'm just starting a summer-long leave of absence, and I've been on months-long breaks before, but I still feel a little unsettled.

My advice is to think of baby steps you can take for yourself. For me, that means making lists of things I want to accomplish. I feel much better on productive days than unproductive ones, and having a list written down makes it easy to pick a thing to do when I'm already feeling unmotivated.

It sounds like you could also use some rules or boundaries around your mom. Maybe "Tuesdays belong to me," or "I'm taking this week off from Mom duty," or something. It sounds like a rough situation, but you have to take care of yourself too, even if it means carving out time you feel guilty about at first.

Good luck.

meadow lark

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #925 on: May 18, 2017, 01:40:11 PM »
I guess it's time for me to jump on this train!  FIRE is 6/3/17.  I have this week off, then I will have 6 more shifts until I am done.  DW and I are both RN's.  I am 42 and she is 55.
  We moved into our fifth wheel on 4/28 with our 3 dogs and put our house on the market and got an offer the first day.  Now we are just waiting for it to close, and we needed to work 6/3 to get insurance until the end of June.

Having occasional anxiety come up (noted in excruciating detail in my journal).  Most is around the RV (worrying about getting into an accident) and the dogs (worried campgrounds won't let us stay because of them). Neither are particularly reasonable things to worry about, but I think I am choosing those things instead of worrying about leaving my very self-destructive 22 yo son and the whole retiring thing.

We are financially cutting it a little close (won't know if this is true or not until we actually start doing it) but I am completely comfortable with the idea that I might pick up some sporadic work going forward.  (Very easy since I am an RN).   

Threshkin

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #926 on: May 19, 2017, 09:59:54 AM »
I am approaching 7 months of retirement and still feel unsettled.  I have gotten over the desire to check my email constantly and rarely think about my work colleagues or assignments any more but I still feel kind of lost.

I am slowly working through a lethargy stage where little or nothing gets done.  Or at least it seems that way to me compared to my previous lifestyle.  (My DW may disagree.)

Part of it is feeling trapped and depressed due to my mom's declining mental condition.  I do not want to go away for any length of time because we never know when she will have another crisis that needs our presence to resolve.  I want to be here for her because otherwise she is all alone.  Then I get depressed because I feel trapped which leads to feeling guilty for wanting to get away.  I just don't know what to do so I wind up doing nothing.

Edit:  Sorry for such a downer post in this generally happy forum.

...snip...

It sounds like you could also use some rules or boundaries around your mom. Maybe "Tuesdays belong to me," or "I'm taking this week off from Mom duty," or something. It sounds like a rough situation, but you have to take care of yourself too, even if it means carving out time you feel guilty about at first.

Good luck.

Boundaries are hard when dealing with Alzheimer's.  She would not understand or remember.

thanks for the good wishes.

UnleashHell

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #927 on: May 19, 2017, 12:58:36 PM »
Sorry to hear that Threskin. I understand - I'm dealing with it too - from 3,000 miles away.
its tough.

SachaFiscal

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #928 on: May 20, 2017, 04:50:49 PM »
However, now I'm having a minor freak out about having the employment cash hose stop for a month, let alone in perpetuity!

I had the same sort of freakout when I went on my leave.  It's scary to see the checking account go down and my credit card balance keep rising.  I ended up selling some long-term company stock to pad the checking account and pay off the credit card.  But I was planning to sell that anyway for rebalancing purposes.  Point is, I get what you mean.  It is really difficult and now that I'm back at work I'm just waiting for that first paycheck so I can buy some VTSAX.  It just feels so much better to invest money than to withdraw money. It's just something we'll have to get used to.  I'm willing to deal with that feeling if it means more personal freedom and a more enriched life.

After being at work for the past couple weeks I don't think I'll be able to keep this up much longer, even if it is a reduced hour schedule.  Even working 32 hours a week seems like too much.  I lose my motivation after 2-3 days.  Going on sabbatical was supposed to make me feel refreshed and want to go back to work but while I do enjoy some of the interactions with other people, I am not really into the work anymore (which surprised me).  I am starting a new project soon so that may change the way I feel, but for now, that December 1st date is looking more and more real everyday.

rachael talcott

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #929 on: May 22, 2017, 06:12:08 AM »
Marking myself as confirmed.  Retirement plans include two weeks in Paris, gardening, and learning to play the cello. 


Threshkin                October 31, 2016   Confirmed
Metta            (at 55) January 1, 2017    Confirmed
MrsWhipple       (at 32) January 1, 2017    Confirmed
FIRE me                  January 3, 2017    Confirmed
Zineth           (at 49) January 27, 2017   Confirmed
MarciaB          (at 55) January 31, 2017   Confirmed
MsGreenStash     (at 51) February 1, 2017   Confirmed
dabears847               February 17, 2017  Confirmed
Cottonswab       (at 30) March 1, 2017      Confirmed
Goldielocks              March 10, 2017     Confirmed
Dragoncar                March 15, 2017     Confirmed
Oblivo           (at 35) March 24, 2017     Confirmed
DollarDominatrix         March 24, 2017     Confirmed
John Doe         (at 50) March 31, 2017     Part time
Fairviewite      (at 27) April 24, 2017     Confirmed
oneyearfromnow   (at 51) April 28, 2017     Confirmed
freedom47        (at 48) April 28, 2017     Confirmed
Remote_Landlord  (at 39) May 8, 2017        Confirmed
FrugalAussie             May 11, 2017       Confirmed
Penguin159               May 12, 2017       Part time
Myhotrs          (at 38) May 12, 2017       Confirmed
BNgarden         (at 58) May 24, 2017       Confirmed
MandyM           (at 38) May 15, 2017       Part time
RedmondStash             May 18, 2017       Leave of absence, confirmed
Stasher          (at 43) May 19, 2017
Rachael Talcott  (at 42) May 21, 2017       Confirmed
Romag                    June 1, 2017
Financial Asc.   (at 39) June 1, 2017
MandalayVA       (at 50) June 1, 2017
fidreamer                June 16, 2017
Mrs. Pomodoro    (at 43) June 16, 2017
Rahby1us                 June, 2017
Bruizer          (at 56) June 30, 2017
WannaGoOutside   (at 45) June 30, 2017
Charlie Foxtrot  (at 41) July 1, 2017
Daisy            (at 48) July 17, 2017
Freedom17        (at 38) July 28, 2017
concealed stache (at 35) July 31, 2017
Jack06           (at 42) August 1, 2017
UnleashHell      (at 49) August 1, 2017
Cookie78         (at 39) August 3, 2017
dividendman      (at 35) August 18, 2017
MadBikePoet      (at 44) Sep 1, 2017
Zephyr911        (at 39) Sep 30, 2017
Bigchrisb        (at 35) October 1, 2017
FIREy                    November 1, 2017     
MonkeyJenga      (at 31) Fall 2017
SachaFiscal      (at 41) Dec 1, 2017   
Jim2001                  Dec 31, 2017
Easypeasy        (at 35) Late 2017
Mf3333           (at 56)                    OMY
SwordGuy         (at 59)                    OMY
Mrs. SwordGuy                               OMY
Noble_goal                                  OMY
JoJo             (at 43)                    OMY
homestead neohio (at 39)                    OMY
Cache Stash      (at 54)                    WIGLO*


MandyM

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #930 on: May 22, 2017, 06:15:09 AM »
However, now I'm having a minor freak out about having the employment cash hose stop for a month, let alone in perpetuity!

I had the same sort of freakout when I went on my leave.  It's scary to see the checking account go down and my credit card balance keep rising.  I ended up selling some long-term company stock to pad the checking account and pay off the credit card.  But I was planning to sell that anyway for rebalancing purposes.  Point is, I get what you mean.  It is really difficult and now that I'm back at work I'm just waiting for that first paycheck so I can buy some VTSAX.  It just feels so much better to invest money than to withdraw money. It's just something we'll have to get used to.  I'm willing to deal with that feeling if it means more personal freedom and a more enriched life.


I have been surprised by myself over the last week as I have had also had a bit of a minor freakout. I've recently been switched from salary to hourly so that I can cut down to 3 days/week and the thought of having smaller paychecks all of a sudden makes me nervous. Even though I'll still have a positive savings rate. Heck, I will probably still be saving more than most of my peers.   

jack06

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #931 on: May 22, 2017, 05:26:22 PM »
Marking myself as confirmed.  Retirement plans include two weeks in Paris, gardening, and learning to play the cello. 

hey Rachael, I'm learning to play the cello too (3 years into it) and can't wait to have more time to practice!

SwordGuy

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #932 on: May 22, 2017, 05:59:21 PM »
Hey everybody!   We finally settled on a FIRE date of May 8th, 2018 for Mrs SwordGuy and no later than that for me.   Didn't make this year as planned, but we're still good. :)

rachael talcott

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #933 on: May 23, 2017, 06:37:01 AM »
Marking myself as confirmed.  Retirement plans include two weeks in Paris, gardening, and learning to play the cello. 

hey Rachael, I'm learning to play the cello too (3 years into it) and can't wait to have more time to practice!

Cool. Do you have any advice regarding books, online teachers, websites, etc?

Mrs. Pomodoro

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #934 on: May 23, 2017, 04:42:47 PM »
It's so inspiring and exciting to see everyone following through with their plan! I'm still on track for 6/16, if not a week earlier. It's really happening!

I started telling people outside of my group that I'm leaving in a few weeks, and the first question I get is almost always some form of, "Which company are you leaving here for?" Most people are confused when I said I'm just going to take a break and think about what to do next, which is somewhat true. Can't imagine if I tell them outright that I don't have any plan to go back to work...

After being at work for the past couple weeks I don't think I'll be able to keep this up much longer, even if it is a reduced hour schedule.  Even working 32 hours a week seems like too much.  I lose my motivation after 2-3 days.  Going on sabbatical was supposed to make me feel refreshed and want to go back to work but while I do enjoy some of the interactions with other people, I am not really into the work anymore (which surprised me).  I am starting a new project soon so that may change the way I feel, but for now, that December 1st date is looking more and more real everyday.

That's exactly how I feel going back to work after a 6-week medical leave last September. I took a long break, reduced my hours, took extra time off when I don't feel good, but I just lost the will to sit in front of the computer for hours when there are so many other (often more important) things I can do else where. Hope you'll find what you're comfortable with soon!

Trifle

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #935 on: May 24, 2017, 05:31:58 AM »
I just wanted to stop by and tell you all how inspiring your thread is.  I'll be FIREing in 2019, and your thread is such a joy to read. It helps me get through the weeks as I get closer.  Thanks!

PS -- Congratulations, Rachel!  We are planning on some time in Europe as well right after I FIRE.  :)

sw1tch

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #936 on: May 24, 2017, 07:18:50 AM »
I have some questions/ would like some insight about post-FIRE/moving to a completely different location/traveling.

Here's our trajectory/ current plan of action:
- quit our jobs by the middle of next month
- get rid of most things (process has already started but definitely needs to be pushed harder)
- move whatever it is we want to keep to some kind of storage unit where we'll be settling for a while (current locale is Houston, TX area); planning for the end of next month to end our current rental lease - most likely will extend this until at least halfway into July.
- travel around the country (possibly the world?) for a few months - of course in the off-season; this needs some planning
- come back to Houston and live out of an AirBNB for at least a couple weeks while we find some place a little more long-term to rent
- settle back in to slow down for a while in FIRE

I guess my question is, what should I do about a mailing address during our travels?  I've begun looking into P.O. boxes and using services similar to what ARS uses for mail processing/ emailing of scanned mail contents.  I really don't want to pay rent while we're on the road as that would just be a complete waste as well as force us to rush into a lease that we might be unsure of.

Also, I don't even know where to begin with residency either; I'm guessing we'll be a Nebraska residents until we settle into some kind of more "permanent" place.  The thing about Houston is that it's more of a "trial" as well since we're not 100% settled on what locale we want to be in; it just seems like a great trade-off between big-city life as well as reasonable COL and a beach nearby.

Then, this also brings in the question of health insurance (H-I).  I remember reading that you can forgo H-I for a couple of months without incurring fees.  I know I'll be able to get a marketplace plan once we settle in.  I'm also considering short-term for us in the interim while we're traveling.

This is all very VERY exciting, but also sooooo much new ground for me (I've lived in my current city all of my life).  I'm trying to remember my new mantra of having fun regardless of the situation; truly, I really am super happy that I won't be working anymore.  I just know I'm missing quite of bit of details and just need to relax and face it head-on.  I apologize if I'm kind of all over the place; that happens to me often - drives my wife nuts.

jack06

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #937 on: May 24, 2017, 07:23:21 AM »
Marking myself as confirmed.  Retirement plans include two weeks in Paris, gardening, and learning to play the cello. 

hey Rachael, I'm learning to play the cello too (3 years into it) and can't wait to have more time to practice!

Cool. Do you have any advice regarding books, online teachers, websites, etc?

I most definitely recommend you find a real in person teacher if that is possible for you.

I can suggest you search for "Abigail McHugh-Grifa cello" on YouTube. Her videos are really great and I watch them during summer when I have no teacher. If you are looking for an online teacher, try http://cellojunkie.com/services/, I've watched several of Joseph's videos (also on YouTube) are I like his approach.

MandyM

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #938 on: May 24, 2017, 07:47:49 AM »

Also, I don't even know where to begin with residency either; I'm guessing we'll be a Nebraska residents until we settle into some kind of more "permanent" place.  The thing about Houston is that it's more of a "trial" as well since we're not 100% settled on what locale we want to be in; it just seems like a great trade-off between big-city life as well as reasonable COL and a beach nearby.


I'm definitely not an expert on this, but I believe many full time travelers establish residency in a state that has the most favorable tax laws and such. South Dakota seems to be a popular choice for RVers and I believe there are a number of businesses there that provide services like this.

sw1tch

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #939 on: May 24, 2017, 08:38:29 AM »
I'm definitely not an expert on this, but I believe many full time travelers establish residency in a state that has the most favorable tax laws and such. South Dakota seems to be a popular choice for RVers and I believe there are a number of businesses there that provide services like this.

Thanks for the response.  I did look into that in the past; however, we're currently not wanting the RV/ full-time travel life.  We want some time away but prefer having a home/base that we come back to after travelling.  I think I already answered my own question: we'll be residents of our current state until we sign a lease in the next state.  Then, we'll go from there and figure out where to go next (or not).

CanuckExpat

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #940 on: May 24, 2017, 08:26:56 PM »
I guess my question is, what should I do about a mailing address during our travels?  I've begun looking into P.O. boxes and using services similar to what ARS uses for mail processing/ emailing of scanned mail contents.  I really don't want to pay rent while we're on the road as that would just be a complete waste as well as force us to rush into a lease that we might be unsure of.

We use Traveling Mailbox and are very happy. We picked a Florida address because we wanted an ACA plan from Florida. Florida is also tax free, which is nice. (though our state of resident situation got more complicated)
There is one or two bank accounts that won't accept the travelling mailbox address as a "home address", so it is helpful to have another address you can use as "home" and use the travelling mailbox address as mailing address. If needed

rachael talcott

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #941 on: May 25, 2017, 07:27:11 AM »
Marking myself as confirmed.  Retirement plans include two weeks in Paris, gardening, and learning to play the cello. 

hey Rachael, I'm learning to play the cello too (3 years into it) and can't wait to have more time to practice!

Cool. Do you have any advice regarding books, online teachers, websites, etc?

I most definitely recommend you find a real in person teacher if that is possible for you.

I can suggest you search for "Abigail McHugh-Grifa cello" on YouTube. Her videos are really great and I watch them during summer when I have no teacher. If you are looking for an online teacher, try http://cellojunkie.com/services/, I've watched several of Joseph's videos (also on YouTube) are I like his approach.

Thanks.  There are no cello teachers in the town where I live, so I'm trying to learn as much as I can online.

MarciaB

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #942 on: May 25, 2017, 08:29:58 AM »
I guess my question is, what should I do about a mailing address during our travels?  I've begun looking into P.O. boxes and using services similar to what ARS uses for mail processing/ emailing of scanned mail contents.  I really don't want to pay rent while we're on the road as that would just be a complete waste as well as force us to rush into a lease that we might be unsure of.

We use Traveling Mailbox and are very happy. We picked a Florida address because we wanted an ACA plan from Florida. Florida is also tax free, which is nice. (though our state of resident situation got more complicated)
There is one or two bank accounts that won't accept the travelling mailbox address as a "home address", so it is helpful to have another address you can use as "home" and use the travelling mailbox address as mailing address. If needed

We just got a Traveling Mailbox as well, and for the most part they are good. Slow but good. And we picked an address from their list in a neighboring state (WA) to switch residency to for tax reasons (and their ACA is better too).

Our plans are to hobo around the country and the world, no storage or permanent basecamp (we're divesting ourselves of everything the way ARebelSpy and his wife did).

Who knew getting down to zero stuff and zero place to live is so complicated? It sounds freeing, but the details of making it happen can seem overwhelming.

sw1tch

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #943 on: May 25, 2017, 09:45:33 AM »
Thanks for the Traveling Mailbox suggestion.  I'll look into it for sure as well as comparing ACA plan costs from different states.

So much to do, so little time...

myhotrs

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #944 on: May 30, 2017, 11:02:25 PM »
Updated my LinkedIn profile a few days ago. Borrowed a great tag line I saw here on the forums for current occupation "This Field Intentionally Left Black"

https://www.linkedin.com/in/greg-zilberbrand-b0a4136/

Mrs. Pomodoro

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #945 on: May 31, 2017, 02:24:47 AM »
Updated my LinkedIn profile a few days ago. Borrowed a great tag line I saw here on the forums for current occupation "This Field Intentionally Left Black"

https://www.linkedin.com/in/greg-zilberbrand-b0a4136/

I'm going to steal that line, but change black to blank. ;)

dividendman

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #946 on: May 31, 2017, 12:02:59 PM »
80 days left... wooooooooooo

WannaGoOutside

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #947 on: May 31, 2017, 12:33:27 PM »
30 here ... but only 21 more work days!!!  And everyone at the office now knows, so no more secret double life.  That was growing tiresome!

UnleashHell

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #948 on: May 31, 2017, 12:45:52 PM »
61 days here - and still doing the double life. nobody knows yet. that'll change soon...
right now though its just tiresome.

WannaGoOutside

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #949 on: May 31, 2017, 01:28:52 PM »
61 days here - and still doing the double life. nobody knows yet. that'll change soon...
right now though its just tiresome.

I feel your pain!  That was the hardest part to me, as I would talk with my small group of non-work friends openly ... but then my at work conversation had to completely leave out things like ... my house is on the market! ... we have several offers on our house!! ... they want to close on the house in 3 weeks!!!  ... we are moving everything from our house to our (previous) vacation house this week!!!! ...

I came clean with my boss during my performance eval in April.  And then DH and I moved our date up from the end of 2017 to June 30, so my boss started working on plans to move the people I manage.  And finally !!! last week we announced to the group what is happening.  AND then I was finally free to be *ME* with everyone in the office ... my double life ended!  Yay!!!