did have bumps and potholes along the way but nonetheless, I always kept an eye on the destination. Now, my philosophy has changed� the �destination� (retirement) is really just a fork in the road and journey continues but on my terms. While I have made many mistakes (and hopefully learned from them), I will share a few things that have had a positive impact in the overall scheme of things:

1) Paid myself first. No matter how little I was earning, I always made it a habit to put a few dollars in my savings each payday. This was part of my monthly budget. I didn�t touch this money unless I had a dire emergency (but it was there when I needed it);

2) Began to plan for my retirement at a very early age. I started my first IRA when I was 22, later added a Roth IRA, a 403b, and a 457 plan. Now, at the end stage of my formal working career, I am able to deposit the maximum allowed into these accounts;

3) Asked is this a want or a need? Years ago, as the single mother of two young daughters, resources were limited, so I researched big purchases (e.g., new car, TV, computer), lived frugally, and managed the family budget carefully. I looked for bargains and sales whenever possible (still do) and always asked, �Is this a need or a want? Do I love it? Do I need it now or can it wait?� Delayed gratification builds will power and helps cut impulse buying (most of the time).

4) Taught my daughters to be financially responsible. They always received a small allowance to help them learn money management and I required 25% to go into their savings. They had many chores and responsibilities at home, but these were not connected to receiving an allowance. It was how they contributed as members of the family� chores were done whether they received an allowance or not. Now, as adults, they are financially solid, one is an ICU nurse, the other a biologist, and both, along with their DHs are well on their way to financial freedom with their own retirement and savings accounts. I will not have to worry about supporting or subsidizing adult children in my retirement years.

Well, there is more but I will save it for another day as this post is long enough! I much appreciate the supportive comments and know that I am in good company here.

I have been following this blog since January '08 and am very excited to be joining this interesting group of like-minded frugalites. After almost 30 years in education, I decided to retire... three years short of the "optimum" time. The decision came after much reflection that focused on questions such as: How long can I survive all this stress? How much $$ do I really need to live a decent life in retirement? What other options do I have? THIS BLOG helped me to make one of the most important decisions of my life: I will be officially retired in August of 2008. My hope is that through this forum, I can learn and share tips to maximize resources in retirement. One thing I'd like to share today is a very good book I recently read: Don't Retire, Rewire! by Jeri Sedlar and Rick Miners. It is a must read for anyone seriously considering retiring soon but is looking to stay connected to work about which you are passionate.