Author Topic: Target FIRE: 2017  (Read 449931 times)

Basenji

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1200 on: September 14, 2017, 10:18:13 AM »
I disappeared from the boards for a while. I decided to leave my job early December. Notice given! May I join you fine people in 2017?

Welcome back, let's Sprint to the finish!

Thanks! In the middle of end of fiscal year chaos at work and when I stress a bit I have to keep reminding myself I never have to do it again...

zephyr911

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1201 on: September 14, 2017, 10:21:43 AM »
Bahaha yes! FY end fortunately doesn't directly affect me, but I've been activated with the AL ANG for Irma this week and have an unrelated, random training TDY next week with barely a home stand, so I'm a little frazzled. I don't quit till mid December and I'm juggling the financials to pull this off despite some setbacks.. arg

dragoncar

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1202 on: September 14, 2017, 10:39:53 AM »

Daisy

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1203 on: September 17, 2017, 03:08:12 PM »
You're up soon Daisy. Are you excited?

As a matter of fact, I had "the talk" and set my final date for 9/29/17.

Originally I was going for the symmetry of 7/17/17, and that date passed, but there is still some symmetry in my new FIRE date if I chop off the "17". So 9/29 it is!

I met my goal to FIRE before CMC! I have to admit planning a 3 week trip around it and not having enough PTO and also being able to be totally FIRE'd at CMC was a big motivator.

I had started "the talk" right before Hurricane Irma and then had to restart it after we returned to work after the storm. I have to admit, it is still a little scary to give up the paycheck. Other than that, I knew it was definitely time for me to leave my current job due to the issues with  my immediate management and the downturn that is going on in my company. I am just not interested in my current (wrong) role and the future work. After more than 20 years, it is big time for a change!

I forgot where it was that I read about once your FI bucket is full, the BS bucket fills up quicker. I have definitely experienced this.

Daisy

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1204 on: September 17, 2017, 03:10:35 PM »

Daisy

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1205 on: September 17, 2017, 03:12:05 PM »

Romag                    September 1, 2016  Confirmed
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
Mf3333           (at 56) Jan 15,2017        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
Stasher          (at 43) May 19, 2017       Confirmed
Rachael Talcott  (at 42) May 21, 2017       Confirmed
Financial Asc.   (at 39) June 1, 2017       Confirmed
MandalayVA       (at 50) June 1, 2017       Confirmed
Meadow Lark              June 3, 2017       Confirmed
Rahby1us                 June 16, 2017      Confirmed
Seattle Carter           June 23, 2017      Confirmed
Bruizer          (at 56) June 30, 2017      Confirmed
WannaGoOutside   (at 45) June 30, 2017      Confirmed
Mrs. Pomodoro    (at 43) July 7, 2017       Confirmed
MadBikePoet      (at 44) July 11, 2017      Confirmed
SachaFiscal      (at 41) July 21, 2017      Confirmed
MandyM           (at 38) July 25, 2017      Confirmed
Freedom17        (at 38) July 28, 2017      Confirmed
Jack06           (at 42) August 1, 2017     Confirmed
Cookie78         (at 39) August 3, 2017     Confirmed
ks135ks          (at 34) August 18, 2017    Confirmed
dividendman      (at 35) August 18, 2017    Confirmed
Cache Stash      (at 54) August 24, 2017    Confirmed
sw1tch           (at 33) September 8, 2017  Confirmed
Daisy            (at 48) September 29, 2017  Confirmed
Bigchrisb        (at 35) October 1, 2017    Confirmed
Kay-Ell                  October 20, 2017
FIREy                    November 1, 2017     
MonkeyJenga      (at 31) November 30, 2017
concealed stache (at 35) December 1, 2017
Zephyr911        (at 39) Dec 15, 2017
Jim2001                  Dec 31, 2017
Easypeasy        (at 35) Dec 31, 2017
SwordGuy         (at 59)                    OMY
Mrs. SwordGuy                               OMY
Noble_goal                                  OMY
JoJo             (at 43)                    OMY
homestead neohio (at 39)                    OMY
UnleashHell      (at 49)                    OMY
RedmondStash                                OMY
fidreamer                                   OMY
Charlie Foxtrot                             OMY

dragoncar

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1206 on: September 17, 2017, 04:55:23 PM »

FrugalAussie

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1207 on: September 17, 2017, 05:54:28 PM »
Update from us.  Loving the retired life! Stress has mostly dissipated. Now SO is retired also we are getting into a nice rhythm. House and garden are getting sorted.  Socialising regularly. We were able to visit a friend in hospital some distance from us as we had the time and space in our schedule, probably wouldn't have been able to when working.

Exercising regularly, weight has plateaued but remain 7 kilos lighter after 4 months.  I'm participating in a women's mini triathlon in November so I' swimming, cycling and walking (I can't jog) regularly. Our meals are mostly frugal and healthy. We're finding some great bargains at the supermarket now we have more time to look properly and cook new recipes. We seem to to implementing healthy habits early in retirement. We're actually watching less TV than when working. 

We were recently asked to join a four day weekend away by a friend.  As we don't have to worry about being at work we took about 10 minutes to say, "yes, please". Planning some shared meals to avoid costly restaurant meals every night so having fun trialing some recipes. 

Life is good! 

MandyM

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1208 on: September 17, 2017, 06:35:16 PM »
Congrats to all the recent grads!

Update from my FIRE: I just spent the last week on the road. First, I visited my sister for a few days and helped her do a few things around the house. Replaced a vanity, hung some shelves and hooks, fixed a screen. Sister has a health condition, plus she works a crazy amount of hours so her time and ability to do these things is limited. She was very grateful for my time and cooked me some great food in return. Then I went to my dad's to help him move. It was so nice to be able to take the time to help out my family without a second thought.

When I am home I work on my own home improvements, clean, walk the dog, lounge, spend time with friends, etc. Its been great. I have even had paid work come find me. A friend runs her own business and has a project that she could use my help on. I was hesitant at first, but it should be easy, fun, and short lived. Sounds perfect.

Someone asked me the other day how I like not working, I told them I finally found my calling :)

easypeasy

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1209 on: September 17, 2017, 07:16:08 PM »
Hello!

I think I'm in the last few to be confirmed. My status is that I started working remotely and part time on July 1. I started the process of resigning back in February 2017 in order to relocate from NYC to Minneapolis to lower our cost of living and be near family. My crazy job offered me 60% of my high bucks New York salary to work remotely three days a week. This seemed like a pretty sweet deal and we took it.

So we moved to the Midwest in July, bought a lovely and affordable home in cash, and I'm settling into my part time gig. Working part time has been a mixed bag, I miss the social aspect of having co-workers but I'm also able to get a lot done efficiently. And taking two working days off to be with my two year old every week is just fantastic. We are able to cover all of our living expenses and then some even though I only work part time. DH is a stay at home dad, so we're both home a lot and that's been such a great change from the treadmill in NYC.

I think this is ultimately a great way to ramp down from working life as we acclimate to the Midwest and to build an extra buffer before cutting the cord fully. I don't know how long I'll pull off part time work and my boss and I have decided to re-evaluate how the arrangement is working out in January 2018.

It's amazing to have so much additional time and space, I feel incredibly lucky how it's all turned out thus far. This has been such a fun thread to follow, it's amazing the variety of ways this can play out!

Goldielocks

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1210 on: September 17, 2017, 08:43:32 PM »
I disappeared from the boards for a while. I decided to leave my job early December. Notice given! May I join you fine people in 2017?
DH will still be working and our finances are mingled (so I'm not independently FI), but we are doing well enough that I could walk away from my job, no problem. I may do a case study soon to ask about optimization of our assets. Woo!

Welcome back!  It would be awesome to have you FIRED in 2017.   My DH is still working, too, but for only a modest sum, at a job 6 miles away that he likes, and he needs to earn our equivalent of 40 SS Credits (10 years FT work) before FIRE himself...  I still call myself FIRE, even so....

Freedom17

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1211 on: September 17, 2017, 09:11:34 PM »

Romag                    September 1, 2016  Confirmed
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
Mf3333           (at 56) Jan 15,2017        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
Stasher          (at 43) May 19, 2017       Confirmed
Rachael Talcott  (at 42) May 21, 2017       Confirmed
Financial Asc.   (at 39) June 1, 2017       Confirmed
MandalayVA       (at 50) June 1, 2017       Confirmed
Meadow Lark              June 3, 2017       Confirmed
Rahby1us                 June 16, 2017      Confirmed
Seattle Carter           June 23, 2017      Confirmed
Bruizer          (at 56) June 30, 2017      Confirmed
WannaGoOutside   (at 45) June 30, 2017      Confirmed
Easypeasy        (at 35) July 1, 2017       Part time
Mrs. Pomodoro    (at 43) July 7, 2017       Confirmed
MadBikePoet      (at 44) July 11, 2017      Confirmed
SachaFiscal      (at 41) July 21, 2017      Confirmed
MandyM           (at 38) July 25, 2017      Confirmed
Freedom17        (at 38) July 28, 2017      Confirmed
Jack06           (at 42) August 1, 2017     Confirmed
Cookie78         (at 39) August 3, 2017     Confirmed
ks135ks          (at 34) August 18, 2017    Confirmed
dividendman      (at 35) August 18, 2017    Confirmed
Cache Stash      (at 54) August 24, 2017    Confirmed
sw1tch           (at 33) September 8, 2017  Confirmed
Daisy            (at 48) September 29, 2017 Confirmed
Bigchrisb        (at 35) October 1, 2017    Confirmed
Kay-Ell                  October 20, 2017
FIREy                    November 1, 2017     
MonkeyJenga      (at 31) November 30, 2017
concealed stache (at 35) December 1, 2017
Zephyr911        (at 39) Dec 15, 2017
SwordGuy         (at 59)                    OMY
Mrs. SwordGuy                               OMY
Noble_goal                                  OMY
JoJo             (at 43)                    OMY
homestead neohio (at 39)                    OMY
UnleashHell      (at 49)                    OMY
RedmondStash                                OMY
Jim2001                                     OMY

« Last Edit: October 22, 2017, 01:55:14 AM by Freedom17 »

MandyM

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1212 on: September 18, 2017, 10:48:51 AM »
Congrats on the successful transition MandyM! Isn't it amazing how flexible people become once you negotiate from a position of strength.

I had another job offer today, bahaha. Turned that one down.

Forgot to mention that my weight isn't dropping as quickly as I had hoped, but still going the right direction.


woopwoop

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1213 on: September 18, 2017, 01:09:52 PM »
Yeah, I got a job offer too, for a one-day a week teaching gig. I'd jump on it since I miss teaching, but it's an hour commute and I still don't like taking time off from raising the baboo. Maybe next year.

Today I'm spending a few hours making applesauce with a whole cooler full of apples our neighbors gave to us. Spend a couple hours yesterday helping them peel and core for their batch of sauce, it was very fun times and the baboo ate way too much apple. This past weekend I went to a basket weaving class. Basket weaving! Turns out it's really quite fun. And we went to the county fair and ate Oreo funnel cake. Retirement is awesome!

I'm trying to get fit again too, Mandy, but it's hard to find time to exercise between baby naps. Just got a jogging stroller for free, though, so I've been trying to ease back into running. Are you doing exercise to lose weight, or mainly diet?

Basenji

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1214 on: September 18, 2017, 03:20:10 PM »
Welcome back!  It would be awesome to have you FIRED in 2017.   My DH is still working, too, but for only a modest sum, at a job 6 miles away that he likes, and he needs to earn our equivalent of 40 SS Credits (10 years FT work) before FIRE himself...  I still call myself FIRE, even so....

Thanks. We're FI, but he can't imagine not working and that's fine with me. I have so many other things I want to do. Looking at the FIRE checklist...

MandyM

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1215 on: September 18, 2017, 04:10:20 PM »
I'm trying to get fit again too, Mandy, but it's hard to find time to exercise between baby naps. Just got a jogging stroller for free, though, so I've been trying to ease back into running. Are you doing exercise to lose weight, or mainly diet?

Mainly diet and just staying active. A lot of yard work, cleaning, small house projects. The only real "exercise" I currently do is walking, although I generally like strength training once I get into a routine, putting that off until winter though.

SwordGuy

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1216 on: September 21, 2017, 10:35:18 PM »
Wife and I informed our bosses that we're retiring in May.   We missed the 2017 Cohort by a few months, but we're still with you in spirit!

DavidAnnArbor

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1217 on: September 22, 2017, 07:00:28 PM »
Wife and I informed our bosses that we're retiring in May.   We missed the 2017 Cohort by a few months, but we're still with you in spirit!

What was the reaction on the bosses face ?

SwordGuy

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1218 on: September 22, 2017, 07:33:39 PM »
My wife's boss is sad.  She's a good employee and colleague.

My own bosses?   My immediate boss has unofficially known for 2 years that this day would come and that I would give him 6 month's notice.   So no surprise there.  The new area supervisor just met me for a couple of weeks ago during the bid process.  He's brand new.   He's just happy he's got a great way to transition in new staff so that the customer's needs are met - and that he might be able to make a few extra bucks too.

I haven't hidden the fact that my wife and I are socking away money and fixing up rental properties as fast as we can (which hasn't been all that fast).

SachaFiscal

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1219 on: September 22, 2017, 08:44:05 PM »
I remember there was some sadness with a couple of my colleagues when I gave my notice. That part of it can be difficult to deal with.

About two months since lift-off, I'm starting to come to terms with the fact that I can't rush the decompression. It has to happen in its own time. I am seeing progress. I feel like there was many parts of myself that were suppressed while working in order for me to focus on work enough to do well and solve problems that were difficult for me. I was afraid I had suppressed them so long that I wouldn't be able to revive them.

One such thing is playing the guitar and songwriting. In the past couple of days I picked up my guitar and was surprised that I could still play some of my old songs even though it had been many years since I last played and sang. My voice was shallow and cracked and my strings buzzed at first. But after a while it started to improve just a bit and just a bit more. I still need quite a bit of practice to get back to where I used to be, I now believe it is possible which makes me so happy.

Daisy

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1220 on: September 22, 2017, 09:04:20 PM »
I have one more week to go at work.

I started telling people this week that I am leaving. Everyone asks "where to?" I say "nowhere, or everywhere...I am going on sabbatical and travelling". Only a few know it may be full blown RE.

I do think I may dabble in some type of work after a decompression time, but not sure if it will be non-profit, volunteer, startups, fun jobs. I don't want to think about it too much and need to decompress a bit. I have gotten offers from other parts of the company and from some friends that have left the company, but I will not commit to anything for a while.

I get many "I wish I could do that", "I should do that", "must be nice", and many many confessionals of people who are having the same frustrating issues with our management that I had. There is a general malaise going around the company these days. It would just be depressing to stick around that for much longer.

That said, I have spent more than 20 years at this company and saw it at its greatest. I have a lot of friends I have made at work. Some have left the company but many are still left. I am looking forward to a full lunch calendar next week as they see me off. I think I am tearing up just thinking about it.

Now to polish off my goodbye note...

DavidAnnArbor

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1221 on: September 22, 2017, 09:24:39 PM »
When you're an employee, the abruptness of the change, from full time work to suddenly total leisure time, has to be difficult.  I think those that planned trips afterward might have made a good choice because at least it was something you had to do right after, rather than having nothing to do.

Daisy

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1222 on: September 22, 2017, 10:02:48 PM »
When you're an employee, the abruptness of the change, from full time work to suddenly total leisure time, has to be difficult.  I think those that planned trips afterward might have made a good choice because at least it was something you had to do right after, rather than having nothing to do.

Yes, I am worried I won't be able to start my decompression right away.

I have a 3 week trip planned right after FIRE. Then after returning I plan to attend a lot of free events at my city's book fair in November. I've always wanted to spend more time at that. Usually I only go to one event, then I am too tired from work and commuting to attend the other events. There is also a film festival in November. Then comes Thanksgiving. Then Christmas prep and Christmas. Then New Year's. Then Camp Mustache SE in January.

I think after that I will start decompression. Unless I go on a ski trip...

DavidAnnArbor

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1223 on: September 23, 2017, 11:58:08 AM »
It sounds like many of you have found very fulfilling experiences that are intellectually stimulating and meaningful.

Cookie78

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1224 on: September 23, 2017, 12:26:20 PM »
I'm seconding the 'awesome but exhausting' opinion. I haven't sat still since I left work (with the exception of one afternoon laying on the beach, and another morning reading in a hammock on the beach watching the whales swim by in the Cook Islands). I keep thinking I'll decompress later, after event xyz, but there's always something else going on. I'm actually feeling overwhelmed this morning by the number of things I WANT to do. It's lovely.

I'm still a little nervous about money, but I think because I spent (purposely) a lot more on my recent vacation (kite surfing lessons and diving certification mostly), moved all my stuff (after decluttering for 2 years I still have WAY TOO MUCH STUFF), and now spending extra on hunting. The good news is that rental income should cover the large majority of my expenses, and if I've grossly miscalculated I can go back to work after a year off, for as long as I need to catch up.


Daisy

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1225 on: September 23, 2017, 12:49:52 PM »
I'm seconding the 'awesome but exhausting' opinion. I haven't sat still since I left work (with the exception of one afternoon laying on the beach, and another morning reading in a hammock on the beach watching the whales swim by in the Cook Islands). I keep thinking I'll decompress later, after event xyz, but there's always something else going on. I'm actually feeling overwhelmed this morning by the number of things I WANT to do. It's lovely.

I'm still a little nervous about money, but I think because I spent (purposely) a lot more on my recent vacation (kite surfing lessons and diving certification mostly), moved all my stuff (after decluttering for 2 years I still have WAY TOO MUCH STUFF), and now spending extra on hunting. The good news is that rental income should cover the large majority of my expenses, and if I've grossly miscalculated I can go back to work after a year off, for as long as I need to catch up.

Ooooh...kite surfing...say more!

I live close to a beach where kite surfing is popular. I used to windsurf a little and haven't in a long time, but kite surfing is more popular now and I want to try it out at some point during FIRE. It may be too expensive to learn in the US, so I was thinking of going to Cabarete, DR, for an intensive class at some point.

Where did you learn?

Goldielocks

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1226 on: September 25, 2017, 03:21:20 PM »
I FIRED in March..   (except that I still teach a class a the community college on Saturdays during the school term).

April - June .. I was quite busy,  home chores, cooking, maintenance, and started biking and Yoga.
July -- one month vacation elsewhere.   Whoohoo!
Aug - Sept   I am so LAZY!!!! Sure time zone change excused 2 weeks, but after?  Even with beautiful weather, I can't seem to do much other than my (forced or paid work) class I teach, chase after my teenagers, my volunteer role, and lots of cooking.   

I don't know what happened, but I need to kick it into gear... but can't quite convince myself to.  Many of my "to do " list items from pre-FIRE have fallen off the gumption drive.

 

Cookie78

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1227 on: September 25, 2017, 06:45:47 PM »
I'm seconding the 'awesome but exhausting' opinion. I haven't sat still since I left work (with the exception of one afternoon laying on the beach, and another morning reading in a hammock on the beach watching the whales swim by in the Cook Islands). I keep thinking I'll decompress later, after event xyz, but there's always something else going on. I'm actually feeling overwhelmed this morning by the number of things I WANT to do. It's lovely.

I'm still a little nervous about money, but I think because I spent (purposely) a lot more on my recent vacation (kite surfing lessons and diving certification mostly), moved all my stuff (after decluttering for 2 years I still have WAY TOO MUCH STUFF), and now spending extra on hunting. The good news is that rental income should cover the large majority of my expenses, and if I've grossly miscalculated I can go back to work after a year off, for as long as I need to catch up.

Ooooh...kite surfing...say more!

I live close to a beach where kite surfing is popular. I used to windsurf a little and haven't in a long time, but kite surfing is more popular now and I want to try it out at some point during FIRE. It may be too expensive to learn in the US, so I was thinking of going to Cabarete, DR, for an intensive class at some point.

Where did you learn?

It was a LOT of fun. I learned at Muri Beach in the Cook islands. I only ended up taking two lessons because the wind died off during the last week I was there until the final day. I did have the last 2 lessons booked (it usually takes 3 lessons to get up on the board) on the final day of our trip, but I was wiped after the first lesson that day and cancelled the last one. But even just body dragging was so much fun. :)

concealed stache

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1228 on: September 25, 2017, 09:42:45 PM »
Quite exciting to see only three names between mine and the most recently confirmed member! Just patiently checking my way through the last bits of admin before it's time to go live!

concealed stache

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1229 on: September 28, 2017, 05:20:38 PM »
Told managers yesterday that I'll be leaving. Still working out last day details (we have very lengthy notice periods but they can normally be negotiated to something mutually acceptable) but basically I am done.

Daisy

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1230 on: September 28, 2017, 07:45:10 PM »
I am on my FIRE Eve.

It's been quite a week. I have been telling a lot of people at work that I am leaving. They always ask where to? Some understand the concept of a sabbatical and wish they could do the same. Only a few know it is likely FIRE, not just a sabbatical...mostly because they are planning the same themselves. So we feel open to talking about it. Many have asked for advice.

I get other comments like "I wish I could do that", "wow not everyone can do that", "must be nice". I answer all with, "well I planned for it for a long time".

Most are very happy for me and commiserate on the state of corporate America. Some have confessed that they are leaving to other jobs soon, some complain about our common management issues and confess their issues.

Everyone has been very nice and I have been taken out to lunch every day this week, and there is a goodbye happy hour for me tomorrow.

I woke up the other day in a panic wondering what I was doing and if it was the right thing. Most of my fears are giving up the cushy salary. But I calm myself down knowing that the 4% rule is ironclad. Then I think of what my future work would be if I stayed at the job, and I realize FIRE'ing is the right decision.

Daisy

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1231 on: September 28, 2017, 07:51:16 PM »
These are two of my FIRE theme songs I will be singing all day tomorrow.

'm not sure if I can get away with doing the "what a feeling" dance on my way out, but I will try!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ILWSp0m9G2U

Freedom!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yljbcRu3tiU

Freedom17

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1232 on: September 28, 2017, 08:39:56 PM »
Congrats Daisy. I'm so glad you made it!

Daisy

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1233 on: September 28, 2017, 09:00:54 PM »
Congrats Daisy. I'm so glad you made it!

Thanks for keeping us accountable Freedom17! It was a big help.

SwordGuy

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1234 on: September 28, 2017, 09:11:05 PM »
These are two of my FIRE theme songs I will be singing all day tomorrow.

'm not sure if I can get away with doing the "what a feeling" dance on my way out, but I will try!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ILWSp0m9G2U

Freedom!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yljbcRu3tiU

Too funny!

Some years ago I was working in a very poor 3rd world African country and one of the locals working for us was doing their best to get us tossed off our contract.  They lied, they back-stabbed, they even hired a truck to come to my house and take away the generator so I wouldn't have electric power much of the time.  (Stopped them on that one!)

Government wouldn't let us fire them once we realized what was going on because the gov didn't know who to trust, them or us.   The other local staff was scared to death of them because they were very vindictive and would be put in charge if we were out of the picture.

And then they got cocky and overplayed their hand...

And we were not only allowed to fire them, we were instructed to by the government.

I played this song the whole damn day.   I think I enjoyed it more with each play.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PHQLQ1Rc_Js





MandyM

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1235 on: September 29, 2017, 06:32:34 AM »
I get other comments like "I wish I could do that", "wow not everyone can do that", "must be nice". I answer all with, "well I planned for it for a long time".

Congrats!!

I used the same reply. I also had a few comments of "you're so lucky" that annoyed me probably more than they should have. Saying "I wish I could do that" or whatever at least sort of acknowledges that I DID something and didn't just "luck" into my situation.

homestead neohio

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1236 on: September 29, 2017, 07:12:41 AM »
These are two of my FIRE theme songs I will be singing all day tomorrow.

'm not sure if I can get away with doing the "what a feeling" dance on my way out, but I will try!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ILWSp0m9G2U

Freedom!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yljbcRu3tiU

Congrats, Daisy, and thanks for sharing your songs. 

"It's good to be free" and "Don't be afraid of your freedom!"

Daisy

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1237 on: October 01, 2017, 12:14:32 PM »
It is done!

I felt pretty weird the last week, second guessing and all of that. But as I said before, I know the future work they had for me wasn't what I wanted, so I am at peace with my decision. I had a mix of excitement and dread all week. The last day was different, kind of melancholy and anti-climactic. I liken it to high school or college graduation. It was bittersweet, but time to move on to other things in my life. A successful chapter has now ended, but the book is only halfway through.

I found out someone who could have probably FIRE'd a while ago and loves to hike and bike and had been dreaming of moving to California to do all this was recently diagnosed with a fatal cancer and probably won't make it. He's in his 50s. A fellow coworker told me this story as my last conversation out the door, and it really cemented it all. This other guy will probably never get to enjoy the fruits of his labor because he kept hesitating with his decision.

I saw everyone around me so "busy" or at least they were playing along to look like they were busy. Even at my goodbye lunch, some could only stay a short while to go back to their lunchtime meetings...on a Friday! Oh well, I am so happy to not have to be in those situations. Although I would usually try to reschedule any meetings planned during lunchtime because I think that is ridiculous.

I've had so many people confess to me that they wish they could do what I was doing. Some seem to even have the money for it, but say they don't know what they would do with so much time on their hands. One lady said she was also waiting for a severance package and I told her that I had asked about that and there are none on the horizon and she should just make up her mind, but she was worried she would be bored. Oh well, I tried. She did ask for a lot of advice so I hope it works out for her.

Now off to CMC to celebrate!
« Last Edit: October 01, 2017, 12:17:57 PM by Daisy »

RedmondStash

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1238 on: October 01, 2017, 12:32:11 PM »
It is done!

I felt pretty weird the last week, second guessing and all of that. But as I said before, I know the future work they had for me wasn't what I wanted, so I am at peace with my decision. I had a mix of excitement and dread all week. The last day was different, kind of melancholy and anti-climactic. I liken it to high school or college graduation. It was bittersweet, but time to move on to other things in my life. A successful chapter has now ended, but the book is only halfway through.

I found out someone who could have probably FIRE'd a while ago and loves to hike and bike and had been dreaming of moving to California to do all this was recently diagnosed with a fatal cancer and probably won't make it. He's in his 50s. A fellow coworker told me this story as my last conversation out the door, and it really cemented it all. This other guy will probably never get to enjoy the fruits of his labor because he kept hesitating with his decision.

I saw everyone around me so "busy" or at least they were playing along to look like they were busy. Even at my goodbye lunch, some could only stay a short while to go back to their lunchtime meetings...on a Friday! Oh well, I am so happy to not have to be in those situations. Although I would usually try to reschedule any meetings planned during lunchtime because I think that is ridiculous.

I've had so many people confess to me that they wish they could do what I was doing. Some seem to even have the money for it, but say they don't know what they would do with so much time on their hands. One lady said she was also waiting for a severance package and I told her that I had asked about that and there are none on the horizon and she should just make up her mind, but she was worried she would be bored. Oh well, I tried. She did ask for a lot of advice so I hope it works out for her.

Now off to CMC to celebrate!

Congratulations!! That's a huge step. It's interesting hearing about the range of emotions leading up to your exit from your job.

MarciaB

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1239 on: October 01, 2017, 05:41:10 PM »
It is done!


Now off to CMC to celebrate!

CMC...where I used to live that was the acronym for California Men's Colony, a state prison. You heading there to do some celebrating? ;)

SachaFiscal

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1240 on: October 02, 2017, 04:29:51 AM »
Congrats Daisy. I'm so glad you made it!

Thanks for keeping us accountable Freedom17! It was a big help.

Yes, the support on this thread was a great help to me as well!

Kay-Ell

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1241 on: October 02, 2017, 12:22:05 PM »
My FIRE (aka Lay-Off) date is fast approaching.   I have always considered myself a pretty self motivated person, but for the last year+ I've been suffering from a lot of burn out, and it feels like my brain has been rotting for a while.  I'm excited about FIRE, and also a little nervous that I won't be able to shake this funk, and will find myself wasting this incredible new opportunity.  So this weekend I spent some time writing down things I want to prioritize in daily life with my new found free time, as well of lists of one-off things I can fall back on if I find myself feeling bored and unmotivated.  I was pleasantly surprised, and reassured, to find that I had 4 pages (typed) of ideas.  I realized that the first couple of months will be extremely busy while I complete some renovations on my primary residence and turn it into a rental, while simultaneously planning a move.  I'm hoping that the physical and scheduling demands of the first couple of months will set me up to find a new rhythm, and that when things finally settle down around the first of the year, I can begin feeling actually retired without the same brain-rot I'm feeling currently from sitting at a computer all day.

For anyone who's interested, here's a few of the items on my list that may have some general appeal to those looking to make the most out of FIRE. 

     Take down time/relaxation during the week, so that weekends can be spent doing fun things with the kids.
     Kid Activities: Play Dates, Hiking, Park, Pool, Volunteering, Cooking Together, Weekend Camping Trips, Art Projects, Local Activities
     Find local volunteering opportunities for myself
     Check out the local community college for continued education and/or elective type classes that look interesting
     Meal Plan & Bulk Grocery Shopping (ya'll may already be doing this, but it's one of the things my job has kept me from finding time for)
     Find and try new recipies
     Setup weekly Massage-Time with SO while kids are at school
     Local Day Trips to do on special occasions (Like Tuesday)
     Creative Projects like music, crafts & building
     Deferred Maintenance/Organization/Deep Cleaning on the house & yard
     Long term domestic and international travel aspirations
     Exercise Plan, including being generally more active in daily life, hiking (dug), gym or community classes if interested, youtube videos

As I mentioned, the specifics of each of these topics filled up the better part of 4 pages for me.  Do/did any of you come up with similar outlines before or after FIRE that you'd like to share?
     
     

Goldielocks

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1242 on: October 03, 2017, 10:20:48 PM »

For anyone who's interested, here's a few of the items on my list that may have some general appeal to those looking to make the most out of FIRE. 

     Meal Plan & Bulk Grocery Shopping (ya'll may already be doing this, but it's one of the things my job has kept me from finding time for)
     Find and try new recipies
As I mentioned, the specifics of each of these topics filled up the better part of 4 pages for me.  Do/did any of you come up with similar outlines before or after FIRE that you'd like to share?
     
   

Lol,  I have spent time online looking for ideas how to freeze carrots.  I apparently have 25lbs ready to be put up for future.   I think I was a bit more excited about the time and opportunity to do this than I realized.

zephyr911

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1243 on: October 05, 2017, 07:34:25 AM »
Crazy few weeks here. I was activated by the ANG for Irma, went straight into a week of training for my day job (why not, made $800 in mileage and per diem, and got out of the office for five days), and now we're frantically trying to clean up for inbound family this weekend/next week, then a road trip for a wedding next weekend.

I was going to give notice last week but boss was on a weird schedule and decided not to come in Friday, and is on leave this week. I'm planning to throw my hat over the fence today by informing his appointed stand-in this week and following up by phone with him.

Last day is holding at December 15th. It's the middle of a pay period, and I have leave to burn, so my official last day could be the 23rd, or even later, but we'll be in Argentina from the 18th on. :O

SachaFiscal

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1244 on: October 06, 2017, 03:05:19 PM »
Can't decide on how to resign?  Here's an idea... haha
https://twitter.com/_youhadonejob1/status/916292575736270848

zephyr911

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1245 on: October 06, 2017, 03:28:56 PM »
Brilliant!

Parametric Censorship

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1246 on: October 18, 2017, 11:45:58 AM »
I wasn't in the list, because my decisions are a bit too fleeting to have a commitment, but I did it - quit at around 120% my lean costs at the end of September - I’ll still probably do some consulting gigs but entirely on my terms now. It's been a busy few weeks since!
« Last Edit: October 20, 2017, 02:30:59 PM by Refrozen »

Cookie78

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1247 on: October 18, 2017, 12:37:08 PM »
I did it - quit, around 120% lean FIRE at the end of September - I’ll still probably do some consulting gigs but entirely on my terms now.

Congrats!!!

MarciaB

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1248 on: October 18, 2017, 02:23:59 PM »
Here's a little report on a few observations from my "retired" life so far. I'm 8-1/2 month in so far.

Not only did I retire, so did my SO. And then we sold almost everything we owned and let our apartment lease go. Became nomadic and have been dividing our time between domestic/international travel and also hanging around near our family (Portland OR). Meaning, I'm not only in the first year of FIRE (a big adjustment) I'm also in the early stages of a complete life change (a huge adjustment). And did I mention that we're first-time grandparents this year too?

We plan on continuing this lifestyle for the next year or so and then will assess to see if it's a lifestyle we want to continue. I miss having a home base (psychologically) but don't miss having to take care of property/dwelling (financially). We haven't figured out a sweet spot yet.

One thing that is clear to us, and that is that we are spending too much time together. Part of that is because we're traveling around, part is because we are in small-ish rentals, and part is because we haven't been diligent enough about managing time/activities to avoid it. Way too much togetherness doesn't make for a happy romance (in my experience). We are changing this up as we go forward.

Another thing that was bothering me was that I felt too "floaty" around time and task management. Because many days don't have appointments or set activities, I was just kind of wandering through time (I have stoner friends who love this, but it just isn't for me). Part of that was a decompression period of course, and was necessary. But my natural inclination is to manage time and feel on top of it. So I now start each day with a planner and a calendar and can "see" the next weeks and months more clearly. This has made a big difference to my peace of mind.

I realize none of this is revolutionary or new on this forum, but it's all new to me!

Oh, and a third thing - I am soooooo glad I made the decision to step off the work treadmill. The other day I was on Facebook and saw some pictures of my former workplace. There were my co-workers (many of whom I loved) and my boss, and they were hosting a chamber of commerce meet-and-greet event. After shuddering and throwing up a little in my mouth, I scrolled on by so I didn't have to see it anymore. It really confirmed my decision that I needed to be done with that career.

Metta

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Re: Target FIRE: 2017
« Reply #1249 on: October 18, 2017, 03:55:24 PM »
I did it - quit, around 120% lean FIRE at the end of September - I’ll still probably do some consulting gigs but entirely on my terms now.

Congratulations!!