Let's begin with some definitions:leanFIRE: Retiring on just enough to exist. You may have to:eat dog foodlive in a musty basementkeep the thermostat at 55 in the dead of winterBut you don't have to work.fatFIRE: Retiring with way more than you need. You can:go to Taco Bell every night for dinner (skip the $.99 menu and go for the big-ticket items!)enjoy … [Read more...] about When leanFIRE Goes To fatFIRE: Lifestyles Of The Dirty And Smelly
Early Retirement
COVID Life, Fire, And Ice
I have a feeling that the world will shut down again soon, so we've been battening down the hatches. We bought extra computers and set up the girls with desks in their bedrooms. I've also been trying to complete remodeling projects at warp speed in case Longmont stops building inspections. I've had little time to work on this blog. So today, you get yet another lazy photo … [Read more...] about COVID Life, Fire, And Ice
Withdrawal Strategies Part 2: Roth Conversions, Health Care, And College
Yesterday, I wrote a post about my withdrawal strategies and there were some comments about Roth IRA conversions that have me reconsidering my strategy:The Physician on FIRE and Done by Forty echo this strategy:I had mentioned that one of my goals was to draw down 401(k) accounts before age 72 to reduce the hit from Required Minimum Withdrawals. I had planned to … [Read more...] about Withdrawal Strategies Part 2: Roth Conversions, Health Care, And College
Money Withdrawal Strategies (Keeping The Tax Man Away)
Money is a precious resource that must not be wasted. It isn't easy to collect those dollars, so they should be saved, invested, and spent with maximum efficiency and thoughtfulness. Between investing and spending comes withdrawals. Since most of us have money tied up in multiple accounts, it makes sense to take money out strategically so your tax bill is minimized.UPDATE: … [Read more...] about Money Withdrawal Strategies (Keeping The Tax Man Away)
Performance Update (Day 2768): What The Tech?
My main goal* was to build an investment and cash portfolio of $1,120,000* ($1,000,000 to retire on and $120,000 to pay off the house) in 1500 days**, starting from 1/1/2013 and ending in February of 2017. I made my goal in 2016, my 1500 Days are over, and I’ve left my job. In the interest of openness, I’ll continue to share my … [Read more...] about Performance Update (Day 2768): What The Tech?