Author Topic: 2018 FIRE cohort  (Read 738175 times)

CowboyAndIndian

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 1934
  • Location: NJ, USA
    • KOWines: Deep discount wine/spirits store.
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #850 on: December 13, 2017, 09:32:13 AM »
I have not updated the list for the last month.

Welcome to the cohort step_away, poppydog & msilenus.

LateStarter was moved to December.

Removed Zinethstache as he has done a OLY on us [1/27/2017]  :-)

Did I miss any?


01/05/18  Gimesalot
01/06/18  Monkey Uncle
01/??/18  FIBy30
01/31/18  MomCPA
01/??/18  NorGirl
01/15/18  PizzaSteve
01/??/18  PrePube
02/01/18  DTaggart
02/28/18  brooklynguy
03/16/18  Cherry Lane
03/30/18  sol
03/31/18  Caoineag (at 36)
03/31/18  homestead neohio
03/31/18  Mrbeardedbigbucks
03/31/18  ZiziPB (at 50)
03/31/18  DavidAnnArbor (at 52) (Won't renew my office lease)
03/??/18  Badblackgirl
03/??/18  Clean Shaven
03/??/18  JLTinVA
03/??/18  Sofa King
03/??/18  MiserlyMiser
03/??/18  Acastus
04/20/18  NinetyFour
04/27/18  poppydog and DW
04/??/18  Aegishjalmur (At 35)
04/??/18  Calvin
04/??/18  FernFree
04/??/18  Gooki
~04/??/18 HappyMargo
~04/??/18 Mother Fussbudget
05/01/18  SwordGuy (at 60)
05/08/18  SwordGuy DW (SwordGuy isn't saying.   He wants to live.)
05/??/18  Alim Nassor
05/??/18  msilenus
05/04/18  wordnerd and DH (at 30 and 36)
05/04/18  step_away
05/15/18  Markbike528CBX (at 53.5)
~06/01/18 Honeyfill  (at 60)
06/15/18  DavisGang90 (at 49)
06/25/18  MaybeBabyMustache (at 42)
06/29/18  aperture
06/29/18  CowboyAndIndian (at 59)
06/30/18  TartanTallulah
06/??/18  Cheddar Stacker
06/??/18  dbtx
06/??/18  Omalley
06/??/18  poppydog
06/??/18  randomgiraffe
06/??/18  SwissMiss
~06/??/18 Pylortes
07/??/18  AussieGirl
07/??/18  ChasesFish
07/??/18  Mr Griz
~07/??/18 BackAndForth
~07/??/18 cerat0n1a
~07/??/18 Fresh Bread
~07/??/18 SnidelyWhiplashStache
08/01/18  SugarMountain
08/??/18  Mr Mark
08/??/18  NorCalistache
08/??/18  RunningWithScissors
10/05/18  JumboShrimp
10/??/18  Fire1018
10/??/18  Happy
10/??/18  Irishtache
10/??/18  patches
11/??/18  DeSteeg
11/??/18  Kris
12/21/18  LateStarter
12/01/18  Vegasgirl (at 49)
12/??/18  EnjoyIt
12/??/18  yoda34
??/??/18  Blindsquirrel
??/??/18  Michread
??/??/18  Minnesota_mom
??/??/18  OzBeach -- WIGLO (When I Get Laid Off)
??/??/18  thriftycanadian
??/??/18  pecunia
??/??/18  FLStache

« Last Edit: December 13, 2017, 09:45:22 AM by CowboyAndIndian »

TartanTallulah

  • Pencil Stache
  • ****
  • Posts: 592
  • Location: The Middle of Scenic Nowhere
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #851 on: December 13, 2017, 01:38:38 PM »
I was going to say, "Move me from June to September," but my colleagues are currently doing as little as they can get away with and I'm not averse to the idea of ruining their summer vacation plans by retiring just beforehand, so June can remain.

CowboyAndIndian

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 1934
  • Location: NJ, USA
    • KOWines: Deep discount wine/spirits store.
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #852 on: December 13, 2017, 04:42:45 PM »
Looking at the names of those scheduled to FIRE in Jan 2018, I see some of them are not updated

FIBy30 : Inactive for 3 months.
PrePube: Inactive for 8 months
NorGirl: I've PM'ed her

What to do? Remove them after Jan starts? Move them to the end of the list?

sol

  • Walrus Stache
  • *******
  • Posts: 8433
  • Age: 47
  • Location: Pacific Northwest
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #853 on: December 13, 2017, 04:53:33 PM »
Looking at the names of those scheduled to FIRE in Jan 2018, I see some of them are not updated

FIBy30 : Inactive for 3 months.
PrePube: Inactive for 8 months
NorGirl: I've PM'ed her

What to do? Remove them after Jan starts? Move them to the end of the list?

Leave them in and see if they show up at the appointed time?

Gimesalot

  • Pencil Stache
  • ****
  • Posts: 664
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #854 on: December 13, 2017, 05:06:36 PM »
Thanks for all the adulation!


I am super excited to see all of us hit our goals for next year!

Northern gal

  • Bristles
  • ***
  • Posts: 328
  • Location: Australia
  • Life at the beach shack
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #855 on: December 13, 2017, 06:35:06 PM »
Congrats to everyone!

Looking at the names of those scheduled to FIRE in Jan 2018, I see some of them are not updated

NorGirl: I've PM'ed her

What to do? Remove them after Jan starts? Move them to the end of the list?

Sadly, I'm out.

Life has thrown a bit of a curve ball (divorce). I will leave work next Friday (22/12/2017) and still expect to take a few years off, but calling that semi-FIRE doesn't feel right anymore (single mum with 2 under 2).

I would like to say this forum has really helped keep me on track and put me in a pretty good spot financially so thanks everyone.
« Last Edit: December 13, 2017, 06:48:04 PM by Northern gal »

MaybeBabyMustache

  • Walrus Stache
  • *******
  • Posts: 5351
    • My Wild Ride to FI
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #856 on: December 13, 2017, 06:58:11 PM »
Congrats to everyone!

Looking at the names of those scheduled to FIRE in Jan 2018, I see some of them are not updated

NorGirl: I've PM'ed her

What to do? Remove them after Jan starts? Move them to the end of the list?

Sadly, I'm out.

Life has thrown a bit of a curve ball (divorce). I will leave work next Friday (22/12/2017) and still expect to take a few years off, but calling that semi-FIRE doesn't feel right anymore (single mum with 2 under 2).

I would like to say this forum has really helped keep me on track and put me in a pretty good spot financially so thanks everyone.

I'm really sorry to hear that. Take care of yourself & your family.

Fresh Bread

  • Magnum Stache
  • ******
  • Posts: 3370
  • Location: Australia
  • Insert dough/bread/crust joke
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #857 on: December 13, 2017, 07:14:54 PM »
Sorry to hear that Norgirl, good luck with everything.

davisgang90

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 1360
  • Location: Roanoke, VA
    • Photography by Rich Davis
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #858 on: December 14, 2017, 02:52:09 AM »
I hit six months to my date tomorrow...

CowboyAndIndian

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 1934
  • Location: NJ, USA
    • KOWines: Deep discount wine/spirits store.
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #859 on: December 14, 2017, 06:50:53 AM »
Sorry to see you go NorGirl, best of luck.


01/05/18  Gimesalot
01/06/18  Monkey Uncle
01/15/18  PizzaSteve
01/31/18  MomCPA
01/??/18  FIBy30
01/??/18  PrePube
02/01/18  DTaggart
02/28/18  brooklynguy
03/16/18  Cherry Lane
03/30/18  sol
03/31/18  Caoineag (at 36)
03/31/18  homestead neohio
03/31/18  Mrbeardedbigbucks
03/31/18  ZiziPB (at 50)
03/31/18  DavidAnnArbor (at 52) (Won't renew my office lease)
03/??/18  Badblackgirl
03/??/18  Clean Shaven
03/??/18  JLTinVA
03/??/18  Sofa King
03/??/18  MiserlyMiser
03/??/18  Acastus
04/20/18  NinetyFour
04/27/18  poppydog and DW
04/??/18  Aegishjalmur (At 35)
04/??/18  Calvin
04/??/18  FernFree
04/??/18  Gooki
~04/??/18 HappyMargo
~04/??/18 Mother Fussbudget
05/01/18  SwordGuy (at 60)
05/08/18  SwordGuy DW (SwordGuy isn't saying.   He wants to live.)
05/??/18  Alim Nassor
05/??/18  msilenus
05/04/18  wordnerd and DH (at 30 and 36)
05/04/18  step_away
05/15/18  Markbike528CBX (at 53.5)
~06/01/18 Honeyfill  (at 60)
06/15/18  DavisGang90 (at 49)
06/25/18  MaybeBabyMustache (at 42)
06/29/18  aperture
06/29/18  CowboyAndIndian (at 59)
06/30/18  TartanTallulah
06/??/18  Cheddar Stacker
06/??/18  dbtx
06/??/18  Omalley
06/??/18  randomgiraffe
06/??/18  SwissMiss
~06/??/18 Pylortes
07/??/18  AussieGirl
07/??/18  ChasesFish
07/??/18  Mr Griz
~07/??/18 BackAndForth
~07/??/18 cerat0n1a
~07/??/18 Fresh Bread
~07/??/18 SnidelyWhiplashStache
08/01/18  SugarMountain
08/??/18  Mr Mark
08/??/18  NorCalistache
08/??/18  RunningWithScissors
10/05/18  JumboShrimp
10/??/18  Fire1018
10/??/18  Happy
10/??/18  Irishtache
10/??/18  patches
11/??/18  DeSteeg
11/??/18  Kris
12/21/18  LateStarter
12/01/18  Vegasgirl (at 49)
12/??/18  EnjoyIt
12/??/18  yoda34
??/??/18  Blindsquirrel
??/??/18  Michread
??/??/18  Minnesota_mom
??/??/18  OzBeach -- WIGLO (When I Get Laid Off)
??/??/18  thriftycanadian
??/??/18  pecunia
??/??/18  FLStache

« Last Edit: December 14, 2017, 01:33:35 PM by CowboyAndIndian »

Gimesalot

  • Pencil Stache
  • ****
  • Posts: 664
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #860 on: December 14, 2017, 09:49:34 AM »
Sadly, I'm out.

Life has thrown a bit of a curve ball (divorce). I will leave work next Friday (22/12/2017) and still expect to take a few years off, but calling that semi-FIRE doesn't feel right anymore (single mum with 2 under 2).

I would like to say this forum has really helped keep me on track and put me in a pretty good spot financially so thanks everyone.

It's too bad that you have to leave.  Hopefully it all works out for the best for you and your family.  Don't forget to take care of yourself.

DavidAnnArbor

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 2266
  • Age: 58
  • Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #861 on: December 15, 2017, 07:52:45 AM »
Sorry to hear about the troubles you're encountering Northern Gal, it has to be a very difficult time.

NinetyFour

  • CMTO 2023 Attendees
  • Walrus Stache
  • *
  • Posts: 6875
  • Age: 62
  • Location: Southwestern US
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #862 on: December 15, 2017, 08:23:36 AM »
Hang in there, Northern gal.  I hope you continue to check in on the forum from time to time to let us know how you are and to get support here from your friends.  :)

sol

  • Walrus Stache
  • *******
  • Posts: 8433
  • Age: 47
  • Location: Pacific Northwest
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #863 on: December 15, 2017, 08:59:57 AM »
Sadly, I'm out.

Life has thrown a bit of a curve ball (divorce).

As terrible as this news is to hear, I think it's probably helpful for the rest of us to hear.  As much as we obsess about the failure rates of our chosen SWRs, there are lots of other ways your retirement plans can fail and Norgirl found one of the most common. 

I think most of us are pretty bad at gauging risks.  We tend to focus on the wrong things.  For all of you worried about North Korea or what the federal reserve will do next quarter, it's probably good to be reminded that there are other, more immediate, more threatening risks to your future financial prosperity.  Sometimes they are risks in places we take for granted.

CowboyAndIndian

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 1934
  • Location: NJ, USA
    • KOWines: Deep discount wine/spirits store.
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #864 on: December 15, 2017, 11:36:49 AM »
I was just informed that my contract would not be renewed beyond the end of the year.

I was dead set on FIRE'ing before DS went off to college in August and so, I had marked the end of June 2018 as my FIRE date. As I have been FI for a couple of years, I had made up my mind to FIRE if my contract was not renewed.

Technically, my last day of work is Dec 29th, but I strongly identify with the 2018 cohort, that I plan to make my FIRE date as 1/1/2018 ;-)

I have mixed emotions,  happy but also scared. I expect this is normal.

Wish me luck ....


01/01/18  CowboyAndIndian (at 59) CONFIRMED
01/05/18  Gimesalot
01/06/18  Monkey Uncle
01/15/18  PizzaSteve
01/31/18  MomCPA
01/??/18  FIBy30
01/??/18  PrePube
02/01/18  DTaggart
02/28/18  brooklynguy
03/16/18  Cherry Lane
03/30/18  sol
03/31/18  Caoineag (at 36)
03/31/18  homestead neohio
03/31/18  Mrbeardedbigbucks
03/31/18  ZiziPB (at 50)
03/31/18  DavidAnnArbor (at 52) (Won't renew my office lease)
03/??/18  Badblackgirl
03/??/18  Clean Shaven
03/??/18  JLTinVA
03/??/18  Sofa King
03/??/18  MiserlyMiser
03/??/18  Acastus
04/20/18  NinetyFour
04/27/18  poppydog and DW
04/??/18  Aegishjalmur (At 35)
04/??/18  Calvin
04/??/18  FernFree
04/??/18  Gooki
~04/??/18 HappyMargo
~04/??/18 Mother Fussbudget
05/01/18  SwordGuy (at 60)
05/08/18  SwordGuy DW (SwordGuy isn't saying.   He wants to live.)
05/??/18  Alim Nassor
05/??/18  msilenus
05/04/18  wordnerd and DH (at 30 and 36)
05/04/18  step_away
05/15/18  Markbike528CBX (at 53.5)
~06/01/18 Honeyfill  (at 60)
06/15/18  DavisGang90 (at 49)
06/25/18  MaybeBabyMustache (at 42)
06/29/18  aperture
06/30/18  TartanTallulah
06/??/18  Cheddar Stacker
06/??/18  dbtx
06/??/18  Omalley
06/??/18  randomgiraffe
06/??/18  SwissMiss
~06/??/18 Pylortes
07/??/18  AussieGirl
07/??/18  ChasesFish
07/??/18  Mr Griz
~07/??/18 BackAndForth
~07/??/18 cerat0n1a
~07/??/18 Fresh Bread
~07/??/18 SnidelyWhiplashStache
08/01/18  SugarMountain
08/??/18  Mr Mark
08/??/18  NorCalistache
08/??/18  RunningWithScissors
10/05/18  JumboShrimp
10/??/18  Fire1018
10/??/18  Happy
10/??/18  Irishtache
10/??/18  patches
11/??/18  DeSteeg
11/??/18  Kris
12/21/18  LateStarter
12/01/18  Vegasgirl (at 49)
12/??/18  EnjoyIt
12/??/18  yoda34
??/??/18  Blindsquirrel
??/??/18  Michread
??/??/18  Minnesota_mom
??/??/18  OzBeach -- WIGLO (When I Get Laid Off)
??/??/18  thriftycanadian
??/??/18  pecunia
??/??/18  FLStache

Caoineag

  • Pencil Stache
  • ****
  • Posts: 663
  • Age: 42
  • Location: Michigan
    • My Journal
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #865 on: December 15, 2017, 12:04:19 PM »
Best of luck and Congrats!!! :)

MaybeBabyMustache

  • Walrus Stache
  • *******
  • Posts: 5351
    • My Wild Ride to FI
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #866 on: December 15, 2017, 12:09:41 PM »
I was just informed that my contract would not be renewed beyond the end of the year.

I was dead set on FIRE'ing before DS went off to college in August and so, I had marked the end of June 2018 as my FIRE date. As I have been FI for a couple of years, I had made up my mind to FIRE if my contract was not renewed.

Technically, my last day of work is Dec 29th, but I strongly identify with the 2018 cohort, that I plan to make my FIRE date as 1/1/2018 ;-)

I have mixed emotions,  happy but also scared. I expect this is normal.

Wish me luck ....


Amazing! Congrats. :-)

lostformars

  • 5 O'Clock Shadow
  • *
  • Posts: 8
  • FIREd 2018 at 38
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #867 on: December 15, 2017, 01:04:58 PM »
Sign me up for April 2018.

I've been lurking around the forum for a while. It has been encouraging to read about other people's experiences. My FI goal is a little uncertain given the uncertainty of health care premiums and a stagnant housing market (still down 35% from purchase in 2006). But, based on my current FIRE budget I hit my goal (4% WR) mid 2016. Right now my FIRE budget would put me at about 3.5% WR.

I've got some bonuses that hit in Jan and Feb. and I want to give plenty of notice for my company to find a replacement. But, the closer it gets the harder it becomes to drag myself in to the office every day. On the other hand, I like my job and the people I work with. I just don't want to do it every day. I'm also planning to move closer to family post-FIRE.

Hopefully I can stick it out until at least March. And, hopefully I don't get trapped past May.

MaybeBabyMustache

  • Walrus Stache
  • *******
  • Posts: 5351
    • My Wild Ride to FI
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #868 on: December 15, 2017, 02:07:17 PM »
Sign me up for April 2018.

I've been lurking around the forum for a while. It has been encouraging to read about other people's experiences. My FI goal is a little uncertain given the uncertainty of health care premiums and a stagnant housing market (still down 35% from purchase in 2006). But, based on my current FIRE budget I hit my goal (4% WR) mid 2016. Right now my FIRE budget would put me at about 3.5% WR.

I've got some bonuses that hit in Jan and Feb. and I want to give plenty of notice for my company to find a replacement. But, the closer it gets the harder it becomes to drag myself in to the office every day. On the other hand, I like my job and the people I work with. I just don't want to do it every day. I'm also planning to move closer to family post-FIRE.

Hopefully I can stick it out until at least March. And, hopefully I don't get trapped past May.

Welcome!

happy

  • Walrus Stache
  • *******
  • Posts: 9286
  • Location: NSW Australia
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #869 on: December 15, 2017, 02:10:51 PM »
I was just informed that my contract would not be renewed beyond the end of the year.

I was dead set on FIRE'ing before DS went off to college in August and so, I had marked the end of June 2018 as my FIRE date. As I have been FI for a couple of years, I had made up my mind to FIRE if my contract was not renewed.

Technically, my last day of work is Dec 29th, but I strongly identify with the 2018 cohort, that I plan to make my FIRE date as 1/1/2018 ;-)

I have mixed emotions,  happy but also scared. I expect this is normal.

Wish me luck ....


Amazing! Congrats. :-)

woo hoo! You've just about done it! Best wishes for the New year

Gimesalot

  • Pencil Stache
  • ****
  • Posts: 664
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #870 on: December 15, 2017, 02:26:04 PM »
I was just informed that my contract would not be renewed beyond the end of the year.

Technically, my last day of work is Dec 29th, but I strongly identify with the 2018 cohort, that I plan to make my FIRE date as 1/1/2018 ;-)

I have mixed emotions,  happy but also scared. I expect this is normal.

Wish me luck ....

Great news!  I think this makes you our valedictorian!

CowboyAndIndian

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 1934
  • Location: NJ, USA
    • KOWines: Deep discount wine/spirits store.
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #871 on: December 15, 2017, 02:47:19 PM »
I was just informed that my contract would not be renewed beyond the end of the year.

Technically, my last day of work is Dec 29th, but I strongly identify with the 2018 cohort, that I plan to make my FIRE date as 1/1/2018 ;-)

I have mixed emotions,  happy but also scared. I expect this is normal.

Wish me luck ....

Great news!  I think this makes you our valedictorian!
I think I stole that from you!!

Cherry Lane

  • CM*MW 2023 Attendees
  • Handlebar Stache
  • *
  • Posts: 1998
  • Age: 6
  • Location: Virginia
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #872 on: December 15, 2017, 09:14:18 PM »
Doing some FIRE checklist items. 

Yesterday I updated my TSP contribution elections so I can max out the $18,500 limit by my FIRE date.  I tried to do HSA, too, but I have to wait another week or so for that.  That system reacts quicker than the other, so I would have over-contributed for 2017 if I'd done that election at the same time as the TSP.  Made a note in my calendar to try again next week.

Updated some accounts today and found I reached my FI number.  With 91 days to spare! 



Aegishjalmur

  • Bristles
  • ***
  • Posts: 293
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #873 on: December 16, 2017, 09:51:58 AM »
I am very glad that the end is in sight. Even if not FIREing in 2018, I think it would be time for a career field change. I have no real way to advance in my current position/field. Does anyone else have dreams about work that are so boring they wake you up?

Monkey Uncle

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 1740
  • Location: West-by-god-Virginia
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #874 on: December 16, 2017, 10:19:24 AM »
I was just informed that my contract would not be renewed beyond the end of the year.

I was dead set on FIRE'ing before DS went off to college in August and so, I had marked the end of June 2018 as my FIRE date. As I have been FI for a couple of years, I had made up my mind to FIRE if my contract was not renewed.

Technically, my last day of work is Dec 29th, but I strongly identify with the 2018 cohort, that I plan to make my FIRE date as 1/1/2018 ;-)

I have mixed emotions,  happy but also scared. I expect this is normal.

Wish me luck ....

Congrats on being first out of the gate!

Mr Mark

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 1229
  • Location: Planet Earth
  • Achieved Financial Independence summer 2014. RE'18
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #875 on: December 16, 2017, 10:25:08 PM »

Looks like it's going to be between Gimesalot and me.  He/she says 1/5, I say 1/6.  I think both of us are targeting 1/5 as our last day at work, but I'm technically on the payroll through Saturday, 1/6.

Actually, since I work 4-10's it looks like my last day will be on 1/4, on payroll through 1/6.  I haven't given notice yet even though I was planning to give it last Thursday.  I have said it before, but I am scared shit-less of giving up my job.  I make good money, $150k/year, and don't do much at work (about 4 hours a week), but the requirement of being here 40-hours a week just no longer suits my temperament.

 It's funny how OMY is real.  I used to read all the posts about people who OMY-ed and I thought they were nuts!  Now, I am at the point and I am considering it as well.  Lucky for me, my husband has already resigned from a job that is driving him crazy, so I have no choice.

yeah, OMY is super real. Experiencing it myself pretty bad these past few days...

My boss' boss yet again asked me if I would please consider staying on (they know I want to go next year but have still not identified a replacement). DW is quite content here (we're overseas) and has a nice life. Our child is in a good private school, paid by company. Job isn't too onerous. Crunched some numbers and OMY would likely net increase the 'stache about +$150k compared to pulling the plug as planned in mid 2018. Maybe more.

Yeah, it's a pretty good gig here, and that's some serious lettuce...

So right now I'm torn. At 54, I'm not as young as some of you. I was feeling good about the leap, but the siren call of OMY is strong.

Spent the weekend going over pros and cons of sticking to plan or doing OMY. DW said she's ok either way but notes that it's a lot of money for a year in a pretty nice location.

Most everyone points out that the location is great and to just take the money. Which is true. And naturally our friends don't want us to leave.

But decided no. It's time to make the leap and deploy the optimism gun.

I gave DW a choice to select between 2 pieces of paper, she picked one and it read "go home". Naturally both pieces said the same thing. And she confessed she didn't really want to stay after all. Whew.

So keep me on the list for August. I think having the forum's support really helped me make the decision. So thanks team MMM!!!
« Last Edit: December 16, 2017, 10:26:59 PM by Mr Mark »

Monkey Uncle

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 1740
  • Location: West-by-god-Virginia
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #876 on: December 17, 2017, 04:22:59 AM »

Looks like it's going to be between Gimesalot and me.  He/she says 1/5, I say 1/6.  I think both of us are targeting 1/5 as our last day at work, but I'm technically on the payroll through Saturday, 1/6.

Actually, since I work 4-10's it looks like my last day will be on 1/4, on payroll through 1/6.  I haven't given notice yet even though I was planning to give it last Thursday.  I have said it before, but I am scared shit-less of giving up my job.  I make good money, $150k/year, and don't do much at work (about 4 hours a week), but the requirement of being here 40-hours a week just no longer suits my temperament.

 It's funny how OMY is real.  I used to read all the posts about people who OMY-ed and I thought they were nuts!  Now, I am at the point and I am considering it as well.  Lucky for me, my husband has already resigned from a job that is driving him crazy, so I have no choice.

yeah, OMY is super real. Experiencing it myself pretty bad these past few days...

My boss' boss yet again asked me if I would please consider staying on (they know I want to go next year but have still not identified a replacement). DW is quite content here (we're overseas) and has a nice life. Our child is in a good private school, paid by company. Job isn't too onerous. Crunched some numbers and OMY would likely net increase the 'stache about +$150k compared to pulling the plug as planned in mid 2018. Maybe more.

Yeah, it's a pretty good gig here, and that's some serious lettuce...

So right now I'm torn. At 54, I'm not as young as some of you. I was feeling good about the leap, but the siren call of OMY is strong.

Spent the weekend going over pros and cons of sticking to plan or doing OMY. DW said she's ok either way but notes that it's a lot of money for a year in a pretty nice location.

Most everyone points out that the location is great and to just take the money. Which is true. And naturally our friends don't want us to leave.

But decided no. It's time to make the leap and deploy the optimism gun.

I gave DW a choice to select between 2 pieces of paper, she picked one and it read "go home". Naturally both pieces said the same thing. And she confessed she didn't really want to stay after all. Whew.

So keep me on the list for August. I think having the forum's support really helped me make the decision. So thanks team MMM!!!

Congrats on finding the way forward.

Mr Mark

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 1229
  • Location: Planet Earth
  • Achieved Financial Independence summer 2014. RE'18
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #877 on: December 17, 2017, 05:43:17 AM »
^^^ cheers Monkey Uncle.

Felt really good to make the decision. Told my boss this morning. There's no turning back.

Time to get on with some pre-FIRE actions before the end of the tax year.

Gyosho

  • Stubble
  • **
  • Posts: 148
  • Location: us-west-1
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #878 on: December 17, 2017, 08:22:31 AM »
Add me to the list! I am planning on May 25, 2018, as my last day in the office. I will have 6-8 weeks of vacation to take after that (depending on how much I take in the first part of the year).

I was thinking about retiring in 2017, but did not feel ready. I'm glad I stayed at work this year; it gave me the opportunity to save more money and enjoy the huge stock market gains.

Last week, though, one of my co-workers died at 56 (I will be 56 in June 2018) - very sad! a very nice person! - and another co-worker got laid off unexpectedly. The financial situation at work is very bad, I am predicting more layoffs. Also my work is just no fun any more. I am ready to leave.

Yay!

MaybeBabyMustache

  • Walrus Stache
  • *******
  • Posts: 5351
    • My Wild Ride to FI
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #879 on: December 17, 2017, 08:39:29 AM »
As I prepping my 2018 spreadsheets, I was very excited to create two separate versions - while working, and after working. For us, a couple of the budget items are different while I'm working. (Most notably, child care). So, felt good to see the "not working" version!

CowboyAndIndian

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 1934
  • Location: NJ, USA
    • KOWines: Deep discount wine/spirits store.
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #880 on: December 17, 2017, 08:54:12 AM »
Thank you, everyone, for the great wishes.

I will be at the finish line cheering your finish!

CowboyAndIndian

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 1934
  • Location: NJ, USA
    • KOWines: Deep discount wine/spirits store.
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #881 on: December 17, 2017, 08:58:39 AM »
Welcome to the cohort, lostformars, and Gyosho


01/01/18  CowboyAndIndian (at 59) CONFIRMED
01/05/18  Gimesalot
01/06/18  Monkey Uncle
01/15/18  PizzaSteve
01/31/18  MomCPA
01/??/18  FIBy30
01/??/18  PrePube
02/01/18  DTaggart
02/28/18  brooklynguy
03/16/18  Cherry Lane
03/30/18  sol
03/31/18  Caoineag (at 36)
03/31/18  homestead neohio
03/31/18  Mrbeardedbigbucks
03/31/18  ZiziPB (at 50)
03/31/18  DavidAnnArbor (at 52) (Won't renew my office lease)
03/??/18  Badblackgirl
03/??/18  Clean Shaven
03/??/18  JLTinVA
03/??/18  Sofa King
03/??/18  MiserlyMiser
03/??/18  Acastus
04/20/18  NinetyFour
04/27/18  poppydog and DW
04/??/18  Aegishjalmur (At 35)
04/??/18  Calvin
04/??/18  FernFree
04/??/18  Gooki
04/??/18  lostformars
~04/??/18 HappyMargo
~04/??/18 Mother Fussbudget
05/01/18  SwordGuy (at 60)
05/08/18  SwordGuy DW (SwordGuy isn't saying.   He wants to live.)
05/04/18  wordnerd and DH (at 30 and 36)
05/04/18  step_away
05/15/18  Markbike528CBX (at 53.5)
05/25/18  Gyosho
05/??/18  Alim Nassor
05/??/18  msilenus
~06/01/18 Honeyfill  (at 60)
06/15/18  DavisGang90 (at 49)
06/25/18  MaybeBabyMustache (at 42)
06/29/18  aperture
06/30/18  TartanTallulah
06/??/18  Cheddar Stacker
06/??/18  dbtx
06/??/18  Omalley
06/??/18  randomgiraffe
06/??/18  SwissMiss
~06/??/18 Pylortes
07/??/18  AussieGirl
07/??/18  ChasesFish
07/??/18  Mr Griz
~07/??/18 BackAndForth
~07/??/18 cerat0n1a
~07/??/18 Fresh Bread
~07/??/18 SnidelyWhiplashStache
08/01/18  SugarMountain
08/??/18  Mr Mark
08/??/18  NorCalistache
08/??/18  RunningWithScissors
10/05/18  JumboShrimp
10/??/18  Fire1018
10/??/18  Happy
10/??/18  Irishtache
10/??/18  patches
11/??/18  DeSteeg
11/??/18  Kris
12/21/18  LateStarter
12/01/18  Vegasgirl (at 49)
12/??/18  EnjoyIt
12/??/18  yoda34
??/??/18  Blindsquirrel
??/??/18  Michread
??/??/18  Minnesota_mom
??/??/18  OzBeach -- WIGLO (When I Get Laid Off)
??/??/18  thriftycanadian
??/??/18  pecunia
??/??/18  FLStache


DavidAnnArbor

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 2266
  • Age: 58
  • Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #882 on: December 17, 2017, 09:06:29 AM »
Mr. Mark where is home going to be ?

Aegishjalmur

  • Bristles
  • ***
  • Posts: 293
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #883 on: December 17, 2017, 09:57:34 AM »




Last week, though, one of my co-workers died at 56 (I will be 56 in June 2018) - very sad!

This. We all get caught up in the financial aspects of it, but sometimes you just need to take a step back and remember 'This is my life.'   Sometimes good enough is better than perfect. I have a finite amount of time and I would prefer to spend it doing things I enjoy than having my soul crushed in beigy-grey office hell to eck out a few more dollars for 'what ifs'.

MaybeBabyMustache

  • Walrus Stache
  • *******
  • Posts: 5351
    • My Wild Ride to FI
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #884 on: December 17, 2017, 10:00:13 AM »




Last week, though, one of my co-workers died at 56 (I will be 56 in June 2018) - very sad!

This. We all get caught up in the financial aspects of it, but sometimes you just need to take a step back and remember 'This is my life.'   Sometimes good enough is better than perfect. I have a finite amount of time and I would prefer to spend it doing things I enjoy than having my soul crushed in beigy-grey office hell to eck out a few more dollars for 'what ifs'.

God, yes. Need to keep telling myself this & reminding myself as I get closer & keep thinking, "what about if I worked another two years. What could that afford?" It's so hard not to do this.

Mr Mark

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 1229
  • Location: Planet Earth
  • Achieved Financial Independence summer 2014. RE'18
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #885 on: December 17, 2017, 10:17:54 AM »
Mr. Mark where is home going to be ?

Detroit.

DavidAnnArbor

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 2266
  • Age: 58
  • Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #886 on: December 18, 2017, 07:05:37 AM »
Mr. Mark where is home going to be ?

Detroit.

I love those old homes in Indian Village and West Village.

MiserlyMiser

  • 5 O'Clock Shadow
  • *
  • Posts: 94
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #887 on: December 18, 2017, 05:56:13 PM »
2017 was my OMY (kind of--my plans have always been flexible/I've always been indecisive).  But looking back, I'm just amazed at how good the market has been and how much my stash has grown.  Does anyone share my anxiety that 2018 will be the peak of market, a.k.a. The Worst time to retire?  And how did you get over that anxiety?

Monkey Uncle

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 1740
  • Location: West-by-god-Virginia
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #888 on: December 18, 2017, 06:47:03 PM »
2017 was my OMY (kind of--my plans have always been flexible/I've always been indecisive).  But looking back, I'm just amazed at how good the market has been and how much my stash has grown.  Does anyone share my anxiety that 2018 will be the peak of market, a.k.a. The Worst time to retire?  And how did you get over that anxiety?

Yes.

I worked a year and half beyond basic FI, so I have a bit of a buffer, even 2018 turns out as bad as the worst of the past.  And I know I still have the capability to earn money if it turns out even worse than that.

Mr Mark

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 1229
  • Location: Planet Earth
  • Achieved Financial Independence summer 2014. RE'18
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #889 on: December 18, 2017, 11:25:49 PM »
Mr. Mark where is home going to be ?

Detroit.

I love those old homes in Indian Village and West Village.

We have one. It's gorgeous and IV is just a super neighbourhood. Part of the reason for needing my earlier OMY... :-)

Gimesalot

  • Pencil Stache
  • ****
  • Posts: 664
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #890 on: December 20, 2017, 09:38:09 AM »
This morning was super rough since my husband's company Christmas party was last night.   I could hardly get out of bed.  He asked me to call into work so we could sleep a little longer.  At that point I realized that I only have 7 more days where I am forced to get up early!!

sol

  • Walrus Stache
  • *******
  • Posts: 8433
  • Age: 47
  • Location: Pacific Northwest
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #891 on: December 20, 2017, 10:02:29 AM »
For those you planning to work less than a full calendar year, how are you handling your 401k contributions?

Are you contributing more than average for a partial year in order to hit the max before you retire? 

Are you contributing less than average each pay period because your reduced annual income for 2018 means you'll have less tax liability, reducing the value of sheltering income in a 401k?

We're still undecided, so we're letting it ride for now and will make adjustments later as our plans firm up.  I just feel like we should be doing something different since next year's tax return will be so different.

brooklynguy

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 2204
  • Age: 43
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #892 on: December 20, 2017, 10:06:32 AM »
For those you planning to work less than a full calendar year, how are you handling your 401k contributions?

I'm frontloanding my contributions to max out my 401k space before I quit.  The tax sheltering will have less value to me than usual given my reduced annual income for 2018, but I still expect it to have some material amount of value.

ZiziPB

  • Magnum Stache
  • ******
  • Posts: 3417
  • Location: The Other Side
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #893 on: December 20, 2017, 10:17:59 AM »
For those you planning to work less than a full calendar year, how are you handling your 401k contributions?

I'm frontloanding my contributions to max out my 401k space before I quit.  The tax sheltering will have less value to me than usual given my reduced annual income for 2018, but I still expect it to have some material amount of value.

I will be frontloading as well (trying to max both regular and catchup contributions).  Normally, I'm in the 33% federal bracket plus 6.50% for the state.  So maxing out the 401k was a no brainer in the past.  Assuming no new tax bill, I'd be in the 28% federal bracket plus 6% for the state in 2018 (a lot of my annual income is also frontloaded due to a bonus and RSUs vesting in March).  So it's still a significant tax benefit.

Cherry Lane

  • CM*MW 2023 Attendees
  • Handlebar Stache
  • *
  • Posts: 1998
  • Age: 6
  • Location: Virginia
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #894 on: December 20, 2017, 10:35:15 AM »
Frontloader here.  In fact, I chose my FIRE date based on how long it will take me to max out TSP + IRA + HSA.  I'm all for deferring as much tax as possible.  I still won't get to zero taxable income (single filer, leave payout), but I'll get as close as I can.

Caoineag

  • Pencil Stache
  • ****
  • Posts: 663
  • Age: 42
  • Location: Michigan
    • My Journal
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #895 on: December 20, 2017, 10:38:51 AM »
Front loading so I can start Roth conversions without tax consequences and still keep ACA premiums low. Won't be able to max prior to retirement but will squirrel away as much as possible.

MaybeBabyMustache

  • Walrus Stache
  • *******
  • Posts: 5351
    • My Wild Ride to FI
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #896 on: December 20, 2017, 10:40:19 AM »
For those you planning to work less than a full calendar year, how are you handling your 401k contributions?

Are you contributing more than average for a partial year in order to hit the max before you retire? 

Are you contributing less than average each pay period because your reduced annual income for 2018 means you'll have less tax liability, reducing the value of sheltering income in a 401k?

We're still undecided, so we're letting it ride for now and will make adjustments later as our plans firm up.  I just feel like we should be doing something different since next year's tax return will be so different.

I receive a bonus in late January. By default, my company automatically maxes your 401K with your bonus check. You have to opt out. While it's front loading from an investment perspective, I just use the bonus to max out my 401K, and call it a day. I still get a nice sum in the bonus, & the money is going to my FIRE account, so it works well.

Aegishjalmur

  • Bristles
  • ***
  • Posts: 293
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #897 on: December 20, 2017, 10:42:09 AM »
Front loading. I have set 401K to take out max allowed from paycheck to get as much as possible. Will not be working long enough to hit max even at that level.

Gimesalot

  • Pencil Stache
  • ****
  • Posts: 664
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #898 on: December 20, 2017, 12:02:53 PM »
Are you contributing less than average each pay period because your reduced annual income for 2018 means you'll have less tax liability, reducing the value of sheltering income in a 401k?

I am not contributing to a 401k next year since we need to keep our income at around $23k-$25k for the year in order to qualify for subsidies through ACA.  If we go too low or too high on income, we will not have access to subsidies.  We plan on using traditional IRA contributions and selling of investments to hit the right income amount.

I am just realizing that this means that we may need to limit or suspend the Roth conversion ladder for next year.

Vegasgirl

  • Stubble
  • **
  • Posts: 150
  • Location: Washington DC Metro
  • Never have a battle of wits with an unarmed person
Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #899 on: December 20, 2017, 12:07:48 PM »
I'm front loading to get the max amount in for the year prior to leaving.     Also, just got back from an employer retirement healthcare seminar and am in a very good mood !! Confirmed everything as far as healthcare goes and at least from that aspect all is well.  Ready for the holidays now !!!