I’m a casual reader of Humble Dollar and I really have enjoyed getting to “know” the various writers and commenters. Most seem to be enjoying comfortable retirements with occasional luxuries. I can’t quite get used to being retired and “comfortable” because I spent my whole life saving and being extremely frugal. I will become overly anxious about spending money “frivolously” (like a nail salon😊).I don’t question anyone else who spends money in ways that I wouldn’t. I’m overly sensitive to offending less fortunate people (like posting travel photos on social media). Today I’m obsessed with how much to spend on flights vs. ferry on an upcoming vacation. We’re talking a few hundred dollars, and I get seasick. Maybe I should go get a pedicure to calm my nerves.
I am currently working on an “end of life” document, or rather several documents that will be in a binder, along with directions about how to get necessary passwords. Jeff, I'm interested in how you are creating a trust and sub-trust for your daughter. We have an adult daughter with mental illness whom we are supporting. We have a trust, and her portion of inheritance will be put into a special trust managed by a trust company. It’s not a true special needs trust, and she is not disabled. Wondering if you have advice?
Thanks for your story, Mark, and the hope in it. We have an adult daughter with mental illness and have had our own journey. We also provide her with an apartment and much other support, but we worry greatly for her future after we are gone.
Comments
I totally get Suzie's problem! I feel woozy on a boat dock!
Post: How the Other Half Live: The Reality Check
Link to comment from January 12, 2026
I’m a casual reader of Humble Dollar and I really have enjoyed getting to “know” the various writers and commenters. Most seem to be enjoying comfortable retirements with occasional luxuries. I can’t quite get used to being retired and “comfortable” because I spent my whole life saving and being extremely frugal. I will become overly anxious about spending money “frivolously” (like a nail salon😊).I don’t question anyone else who spends money in ways that I wouldn’t. I’m overly sensitive to offending less fortunate people (like posting travel photos on social media). Today I’m obsessed with how much to spend on flights vs. ferry on an upcoming vacation. We’re talking a few hundred dollars, and I get seasick. Maybe I should go get a pedicure to calm my nerves.
Post: How the Other Half Live: The Reality Check
Link to comment from January 12, 2026
I am currently working on an “end of life” document, or rather several documents that will be in a binder, along with directions about how to get necessary passwords. Jeff, I'm interested in how you are creating a trust and sub-trust for your daughter. We have an adult daughter with mental illness whom we are supporting. We have a trust, and her portion of inheritance will be put into a special trust managed by a trust company. It’s not a true special needs trust, and she is not disabled. Wondering if you have advice?
Post: Your two best investing books—and do you also keep an End-of-Life “family binder”?
Link to comment from January 4, 2026
Thanks for your story, Mark, and the hope in it. We have an adult daughter with mental illness and have had our own journey. We also provide her with an apartment and much other support, but we worry greatly for her future after we are gone.
Post: The Kids Are Alright
Link to comment from November 22, 2025