13 Months To Retirement: Prioritizing Loved Ones

This is a continuation of my monthly series that records what’s happening in my final stretch to early retirement. If you’re interested in previous posts, they’re here:

So let’s get into it! This month I’m in Atlanta for 3 weeks – working from my Mom and stepdad’s house. I’m currently typing this while sitting in their backyard and listening to birds chirp as the sun slowly rises over the treelined horizon. My Mom is about to join me, but is currently fighting to create a Pinterest-style fruit boat for a potluck she’s attending later today. Suburbia is weird. Continue reading “13 Months To Retirement: Prioritizing Loved Ones”

The Benefits Of Urban Neighbors

Growing up I never had real ‘neighbors’ – people you lean on and hang out with and form a community with. There were a few children in our cul-de-sac that we played with on occasion or watched a movie with, but those times were few and far between. Continue reading “The Benefits Of Urban Neighbors”

Yes, We Have Separate Comforters

I seem to be on a ‘buck the trend’ kick lately. A friend recently came over for dinner and was checking out our bedroom only to exclaim “Wait – do you have separate comforters?!” Ah yes – the most shocking discovery you can make in someone’s bedroom. Continue reading “Yes, We Have Separate Comforters”

How To Negotiate With A Spendy Partner Or Family Member

I have a dilemma and I was hoping you could help me figure out the best solution. I’ve heard from several couples that it can be a challenge to plan trips and events when each of them makes a vastly different income. Continue reading “How To Negotiate With A Spendy Partner Or Family Member”

Why I’m Never Getting Married

My partner and I recently celebrated a decade of being together and with Valentine’s Day right around the corner, this seems like the perfect time to dive into another ‘weird’ (so I’m told) life choice of mine.

My partner and I are never getting married. Fundamentally, we both just don’t want to for a number of reasons. Continue reading “Why I’m Never Getting Married”

How To Cut Out Net Negative Experiences And Live Your Best Life

This Thursday is Thanksgiving: a holiday filled with too much food, too much alcohol and if you’re lucky, not a lot of drama. I unfortunately am not one of the lucky ones. Growing up, Thanksgiving (and all holidays where family was involved) instilled a sense of dread in me. We would have hoards of people descend on our house not just on the day, but often for the entire week. Continue reading “How To Cut Out Net Negative Experiences And Live Your Best Life”

How My Partner Convinced Me To Retire Early

I have a confession to make: I didn’t come to all these wonderful conclusions about how to retire at 30 all by myself. In fact, there were years where I completely resisted the idea. My partner actually convinced me to try FIRE and I’m here to share all the gory details.  Continue reading “How My Partner Convinced Me To Retire Early”

Half A Million Together and Keeping Finances Separate

We finally did it! After saving intentionally for almost 4 years we reached a new milestone: my partner and I have amassed half a million dollars together. I can hardly believe it. This is a special number for me because it’s the amount I need to retire. Now I know what you’re thinking: Why doesn’t he just give you his portion so you can retire now? I’ve wondered the same thing! 🙂 Continue reading “Half A Million Together and Keeping Finances Separate”