[Craig T]

Originally Posted by motion

Speaking for myself, I've chosen to spend my money (within reason), rather than horde it. So, what's that done for me? At the age of 52 (I think that's how old I am), I have very, very few things left to do in life. I've pretty much done everything there is to do, and seen everything there is to see, within reason. I have a few things left: skydive jet jump, go to space, have a good relationship with my future grandchildren. That's really about it.

^^^at 54, this is my philosophy exactly. See and experience the world while you are young and healthy, but in a balance that allows at least a comfortable, maybe not extravagant, place in retirement.

My father spent every penny he earned…avoided debt...but spent like a drunken sailor. He traveled the world, loved expensive wine, gambled, and drove nice cars all his life. Family and friends criticized him as spendthrift. At 60, he got a bad head and neck cancer. By 65 he was on a liquid Rx diet, and couldn't walk to the mailbox, let alone walk the banks of the Seine or climb the Roman Steps. Had he saved every penny in anticipation of a well traveled retirement, it would have been wasted.

My wife and I know we can not maintain our current lifestyle in retirement, but we'll sell our house and downsize dramatically. We'll have enough to enjoy our grandkids, play golf once a week, fish constantly, and spend a lot of time doing volunteer work while we're healthy. If one of our health declines, we'll have no regrets. Time for good books and gardening.