Recent content by Uncle Drew

Thought I would provide an update (three years after initiation). As of August 2010, my wife and I were blessed with a healthy baby boy. He is now almost 14 months old is truly a blessing to us. It has been so fascinating to watch him grow and learn new things. As of February 2011, we...

I concur with Brewer. These types of lots can be speculative...a large sum of money can be gained, or a large sum of money can lost. I believe these "bets" are more appropriately suited for people that have a large networth. The large networth won't be critically impacted if things go awry...

I have been trying to convince my wife that we don't need a guest bedroom made up all the time. This might just do the trick! I would mount a chalkboard/whiteboard to the under carriage. Good job! Drew

I agree with Carol911. Here in California, the court system is always looking for Spanish interpreters.

FD, I had a limit order placed for WFC today, but it didn't get filled. (I missed the price dip in the morning).

My Dream, It appears you used something to seal the corners of the Kerdi membrane. What was it that you used? Great job on the bathroom...it looks great. UD

I voted no. Our plan is to tap my 457(b) accounts when we ER. I will have a pension that kicks in at 55.5 years old. We will leave the IRAs and DW's 401k accounts untouched until later.

We haven't finalized our taxes yet, but our first runs at estimating end up with having to pay about $2,500. That is in line with our expectations.

Several of the options apply to our desire to ER. The most compelling reason right now is to spend more time with family, friends and loved ones. Our little guy is now 5 and 1/2 months old is sooo fun to be around. Just watching his inquisitive mind work provides so much entertainment and...

We are about 62% funds and 38% individual stocks. I am comfortable with this mix.

I have been purchasing shares of ABT this week also. I hope you do well with your investment. :laugh:

Fern, If I were in your situation, I would not pay off the mortgage early. I like the flexibility that comes with having cash on hand when one doesn't have income coming in. Once that money is paid to the mortgage company, it will be more difficult ta access it if you needed it. If (or...

You could previously own your own business...

Our portfolio ended up 13.5% for 2010. At the end of the year, asset allocation was 48% Domestic Stocks 31% Foreign Stocks 7% Bonds 14% Cash We started the year with almost zero allocated to cash and more to stocks. I lightened the stock weighting throughout the year.

I saw a post recently that asked for a loan amortization spreadsheet, so I will post what I use. I found this on the internet years ago, and I haven't been able to find it since. The attached spreadsheet template is in Excel 2003 format and it is what I use to figure out payment amounts and how...