WildCat-
Sorry to see you go, but totally appreciate your sentiments. It can be very consuming thinking of the possibilities of independence while running in this rat race.
When my DH and I married almost 25 years ago
we made a pact to always make room for travel in our lives/budget - no matter what. We have pretty much done that every year - even if we had to CHARGE
some of our expenes (No wet noodles, please!
) One year when the kids were little, we ended up in a cheesy timeshare trade (normally our trades are really good) in a ski resort in Feb. I don't ski. However - it was AWAY from home and the day to day grind. Always does the mind good to get away. On the othe hand, I always enjoy getting back home, too.
While you are on your path to FI, have fun! The other will come along when you aren't paying attention! Believe me, we never thought we'd make it to where we are today! We were just determined on our path, and it ended up here.
I think you have your head on straight and will do GREAT!!!
A note to Buns of Veal - my sister is an engineer, married an engineer - married w/kids (great with money. too!!!
). There ARE women out there that like smart men. Go to continiuing ed classes - or better yet, teach a cont. ed class. Take a class in something fun like bartending or cooking, etc. Join a local singles group, go to a local pub that has those trivia contests - great way to meet people! Ok, off my band box. Just don't give up please.
WC, Good luck to you in all your future endeavors.
Follow your heart .........
Jane