We are still in our "starter home" for 20 years! Yes, the 1500 square ft did feel cramped during a period when all the kids were home and husband was working from home.. but we stuck it out. The best part and reason I cannot imagine moving? My neighbors!
What an incredible story. I love that we can now all learn something from your mom. Also a great reminder to listen to the worries of those we care for, even if they seem irrational... it is real to them.
I agree that thinking of retirement accounts as wealth only on paper is missing the big picture. However, I also remember early in my career, when we had childcare bills for 2, a mortgage and a car payment...gosh it was hard to lock that money away! 16 years later: our house is paid off, we still have that Subaru but my daughter drives it now, college expenses have replaced childcare. Our Roth IRA's earnings now outweigh the contributions!
Thank you for sharing the unique perspective that you currently are experiencing, Jonathan. I imagine that it can't be easy but it could turn out to be very valuable for (us) your readers.
Comments
We are still in our "starter home" for 20 years! Yes, the 1500 square ft did feel cramped during a period when all the kids were home and husband was working from home.. but we stuck it out. The best part and reason I cannot imagine moving? My neighbors!
Post: Jonathan’s Parting Thoughts: No. 7
Link to comment from September 5, 2026
I only buy cars from Carmax after having 2 wonderful experiences with the purchasing experience. No haggling and no surprises!
Post: Buying a car in retirement
Link to comment from July 19, 2026
What an incredible story. I love that we can now all learn something from your mom. Also a great reminder to listen to the worries of those we care for, even if they seem irrational... it is real to them.
Post: Deeply Rooted
Link to comment from May 23, 2026
I agree that thinking of retirement accounts as wealth only on paper is missing the big picture. However, I also remember early in my career, when we had childcare bills for 2, a mortgage and a car payment...gosh it was hard to lock that money away! 16 years later: our house is paid off, we still have that Subaru but my daughter drives it now, college expenses have replaced childcare. Our Roth IRA's earnings now outweigh the contributions!
Post: Retirement Accounts
Link to comment from May 16, 2026
Perhaps it is a "Lean FI" situation.
Post: Early Retirement
Link to comment from January 17, 2026
So helpful to see that hypothetical carried out. Thank you!
Post: Early Retirement
Link to comment from January 17, 2026
Thanks so much for sharing your knowledge and experience on this strategy!
Post: Laying Down a Floor
Link to comment from September 14, 2024
Thank you for sharing the unique perspective that you currently are experiencing, Jonathan. I imagine that it can't be easy but it could turn out to be very valuable for (us) your readers.
Post: Unasked Questions
Link to comment from August 3, 2024
My recent experience at Car Max was such a relief. No haggling required, no attempt to get me to finance or etch the VIN or any of those tricks!
Post: Car Quest
Link to comment from August 3, 2024
Just FYI: Lots of grown men play video games these days! Everyone needs a hobby.
Post: Favoring Fiber
Link to comment from June 22, 2024