Want to retire smart and happy? Me too. I retired on a Thursday. On Friday, I left for a two-year travel adventure. It was a heady time. A time I spent years preparing for financially. But once it was over, it was really over. I needed something that would sustain me here at home. I … [Read more…]
Just before I retired, I had a particularly stressful day that sent me straight to the bookstore. (My go-to place when things get tough.) I was working with someone from another office who clearly needed treatment for a narcissistic personality disorder. Do you know the type? I believe you do, Boomer. Eight hours and you’re ready to tear-your-hair-out. … [Read more…]
Last week I met up with my college roommate in San Diego. I reserved us each a room on the beautiful San Diego bay. The rooms were right next door to each other. Both had gorgeous views and identical amenities. Yet, my room was 30% more expensive than hers. They were identical rooms! (That got handled, … [Read more…]
“But ma’am, you get what you pay for. Stop looking at our mutual fund fees. Instead, look at our investment returns. Returns are where the money is,” said the rep for my 401(k). With clenched teeth, I resisted grabbing him by his Armani tie and saying, “Your fees will destroy my returns.” “Ma’am! Quit thinking … [Read more…]
During the last 10 years of my public service career, I found work was taking over my life. It was taking its toll on my body. By the time the weekend rolled around, I didn’t feel like doing anything other than the laundry. And I usually found myself at my desk working through the weekend … [Read more…]