Thanks to being an urban planning major in college, I have a pretty good pulse on how cities develop, change, decline, and gentrify over time. If I had a choice over where to retire, I would probably look for a mountain … [Read more...] about Suburbs vs City: Why the City Always Wins
Pursue Purpose and Struggle, Not Happiness
The post argues a wild notion that instead of pursuing happiness, we should pursue purpose and struggle. Grasp that concept for a minute. Happiness is, after all, nothing more than an elusive feeling. It's the laser … [Read more...] about Pursue Purpose and Struggle, Not Happiness
Are You Afraid to Get Rich? Overcoming a Fear of Wealth
I had nearly thought that every topic on personal finance had been thoroughly exhausted, until I came across the headline, "Why we’re too afraid to get rich", by reporter Alyssa Pry. This notion of "fear of wealth" comes … [Read more...] about Are You Afraid to Get Rich? Overcoming a Fear of Wealth
Cycling Is the New Golf: Trade in Those Sticks for Spins
Having just completed a 62-mile cycling event yesterday, I'm ready to write. And otherwise not move a muscle due to an excessive amount of stiffness. Let's explore the merits of a couple of popular outdoor activities, now … [Read more...] about Cycling Is the New Golf: Trade in Those Sticks for Spins
New Hosts Need to Know: Is VRBO Better Than Airbnb?
I have a confession to make. I'm now hosting our new vacation rental on VRBO, having started our listing solely on Airbnb. I've had to learn to love those pricey VRBO owner fees ($499 per year - read on). and a user … [Read more...] about New Hosts Need to Know: Is VRBO Better Than Airbnb?
Is Being a Landlord Worth It?
When I started out renting single-family homes, a little over five years ago, I had no idea how it would go. All I had was a spreadsheet that seemed to show a promising return on investment, and a good friend and … [Read more...] about Is Being a Landlord Worth It?
Anthony Bourdain for President: Give Earth a Chance
Don’t know much about the world outside your safe little zone of Americana? Too afraid to venture out more than a few states from the hospital you popped out of at birth, because you’re afraid of the non-familiar? Maybe … [Read more...] about Anthony Bourdain for President: Give Earth a Chance
SemiFIRE: Escape the Rat Race Early With Part-time Jobs
Had a bad Monday? You've come to the right place. Let's dive into the mechanics of how to semi-retire and abandon your cubicle early. Now that we have FatFIRE, to go alongside LeanFIRE, we can add SemiFIRE to the … [Read more...] about SemiFIRE: Escape the Rat Race Early With Part-time Jobs
VTI and Real Estate: The Pillars of Our Portfolio
This post covers how we spread our risk with Vanguard VTSAX index funds and real estate. Today you'll come away with a bit more knowledge about the importance of asset diversification. How cool is that? I'm going to … [Read more...] about VTI and Real Estate: The Pillars of Our Portfolio
This Is the Year I Put My Financial Life in Order
Every so often, a book comes along and I find the time to read it. A harmonic convergence, if you will. I was fortunate to get an opportunity to read (and review) a book that I think you'll dig: "This Is the Year I Put My … [Read more...] about This Is the Year I Put My Financial Life in Order
