Search found 590 matches

by gator15
Sat Mar 16, 2024 8:27 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Buying an Expensive Car
Replies: 79
Views: 6283

Re: Buying an Expensive Car

Get the car or don’t get the car. Whatever you do, don’t settle for something less than what you want. If you want an M3, get an M3. Don’t buy a $50k-$60k car because you may regret it. If I were you, I would buy the car. You have a good savings rate so you should be fine long term. As a couple of people have mentioned, I would probably keep the daily driver as well and have a garage to place the M3.
by gator15
Wed Mar 13, 2024 10:24 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: What is the appeal of Robinhood
Replies: 85
Views: 5895

Re: What is the appeal of Robinhood

I have accounts with Fidelity, Vanguard, Schwab and Robinhood. The first three I’ve had for over 10 years and the Robinhood account I’ve had since 2019. I can’t recall why I opened an account. I think it was because I could buy fractional shares. I’ve kept the account because of ease of use and the ability to see everything that appeals to me immediately upon opening the app. This includes your overall balance, the dollar amount and percentage your up/down for the day. With one tap you can also see how your portfolio has performed for the last week, month, year and year to date. Scroll down to the stocks you own and you can see the same info. You can also create a watch list of the stocks which interest you. Maybe the other brokerages offer...
by gator15
Sun Mar 10, 2024 4:29 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Helping children young active duty officers
Replies: 28
Views: 2468

Re: Helping children young active duty officers

I believe there is some value in letting them figure it out on their own. I don’t think the pay is that bad when you consider BAH and BAS aren’t taxed. Due to them being young officers, they are likely enrolled in the Blended Retirement System which may come with a matching contribution up to a point. As aviators, they likely qualify for other special pay. In a four year time period, they will go from being O1s to O3s which will come with more pay. Each year, they will likely get inflationary raises as well. It’s likely my outlook only, but you appreciate the promotions more when you see your performance and potential has led to more responsibility and more pay.
by gator15
Sat Mar 09, 2024 1:32 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: What would you have done differently if you could go back and restart your financial journey?
Replies: 68
Views: 5595

Re: What would you have done differently if you could go back and restart your financial journey?

I probably should have kept that condo I bought dirt cheap during the financial crisis. It would be paid off by now and would have provided an additional income stream.

Some of the responses regarding cutting back contributions to a 401k resonate with me. I have this goal of maximizing all tax deferred accounts and I’m not sure if it’s necessary in our case. I think I’m going to take some of the advice here and decrease contributions and use more of that money for experiences/vacations. Think I will appreciate that more than the add’l money in the 401k.
by gator15
Mon Feb 19, 2024 6:03 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: 20-30X income, is that the "retirement rut"?
Replies: 90
Views: 13500

Re: 20-30X income, is that the "retirement rut"?

The OP’s outlook reminds me of a scene from the movie, the Gambler in which John Goodman talks about F*** you money. Good scene.
by gator15
Thu Feb 15, 2024 9:43 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What inferior good do you love?
Replies: 232
Views: 25531

Re: What inferior good do you love?

Love Mr Goodbars. I’m also a big jeep fan despite their inferior reliability ratings.
by gator15
Sun Feb 11, 2024 2:18 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Have you ever replaced a perfectly fine car just because?
Replies: 111
Views: 8483

Re: Have you ever replaced a perfectly fine car just because?

If you can’t stop thinking about it and are meeting your financial goals, I say buy it. I recently did the same. Had a car that was 11 years old and had over 105k miles but it drove fine. Probably could have gotten another 150k plus miles out of it. We got rid of it and bought another vehicle because we wanted something that was more fun to drive. Our mindset was we are meeting our financial goals, we still have money to travel etc. Buying this vehicle won’t change our lives financially long term so we purchased. Spend it or your heirs will.
by gator15
Fri Feb 09, 2024 7:57 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Best & Worst "Mid-Life Crisis" expenditures
Replies: 129
Views: 24362

Re: Best & Worst "Mid-Life Crisis" expenditures

I’m a fan of the muscle car era. Instead of buying one, I’m considering buying a V8 powered jeep or truck as I’m not sure how much longer they will be around. Problem is they are really expensive. Wondering if I will regret not buying one once they are gone so I’m leaning toward buying one in the next month. Certainly not something I need but I’ve considered this purchase for well over a year now so I guess I should move forward with the purchase.
by gator15
Sun Dec 31, 2023 5:56 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Max money to reasonably spend on vacations per year?
Replies: 29
Views: 3397

Re: Max money to reasonably spend on vacations per year?

We spent roughly 7% of our gross income this year on vacations. It was easily the most we’ve spent on vacations. When booking those vacations, I wasn’t concerned as we were always on track to meet our yearly savings goals. As long as we meet savings goals, I’m fine with spending the rest.
by gator15
Sat Dec 30, 2023 8:16 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: How much to spend on single vacation?
Replies: 108
Views: 24879

Re: How much to spend on single vacation?

This year, we spent nearly as much on vacations as we did on mortgage payments. Initially when looking at our year expenses I was concerned but soon realized I didn’t regret any of the spending as we had a great time during each of those vacations. We have decided to vacation domestically for 2024 so we won’t spend nearly as much. Overall, we really value experiences so vacations may be the second biggest line item in our budget going forward.
by gator15
Fri Dec 29, 2023 8:44 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: What is Your Biggest "Good Problem to Have"? [Financial]
Replies: 97
Views: 13666

Re: What is Your Biggest "Good Problem to Have"? [Financial]

I like cars and want another. Lucky enough to have my spouse tell me I can’t have more vehicles. The problem isn’t affordability. She says I already have too many things with motors. She may be right.
by gator15
Sat Dec 16, 2023 11:56 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: When Did You Feel Financially Secure and Comfortable?
Replies: 134
Views: 29393

Re: When Did You Feel Financially Secure and Comfortable?

I think I’ve reached this point in the last month. My original intent was to leave my profession in 2025. Because I feel secure and comfortable, I’ve moved the date to 2024. I feel no anxiety about my transition and I’m quite excited about the next stage of my life. What got me to this point was capturing my spending over the last three years. We’ve spent more in the last three years than we have at any other point in our lives. Over that time, the amount we spent was pretty consistent over all three years. I anticipate spending the same amount or less for years to come. I say that because there is a lot we can trim from our budget if needed. By the time I leave my profession, the goal is to have 35x our desired future spending.
by gator15
Mon Dec 11, 2023 12:36 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Those with high savings rate: why?
Replies: 317
Views: 69836

Re: Those with high savings rate: why?

It’s funny as I had this discussion with a coworker recently. I told them I save for flexibility and options. I want the option to leave the workforce on my own terms which will likely happen in near future. Financial decisions made over the last two decades have led me to this moment, a good place to be. I was never frugal over the years. While the markets have certainly helped, our savings rate over the last 10 years have been the biggest difference. We really tried to “make hay while the sun was shining” and it has worked out so far.
by gator15
Fri Dec 01, 2023 3:09 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: What non-index fund investment made you a lot of money?
Replies: 141
Views: 26478

Re: What non-index fund investment made you a lot of money?

Military. The military paid for multiple degrees, my child’s future degree, a potential pension and discounted health care for the rest of my life. Also, allowed me to save a decent chunk of change. As a result, I may have the option to choose whether pursue a career after the military or retire in my 40s. I will be reaching out to the bogleheads in the near future to determine if retiring is an option.
by gator15
Mon Oct 09, 2023 10:55 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: "What did you do today that was a good value" ... recently or fondly remembered
Replies: 50
Views: 5238

Re: "What did you do today that was a good value" ...

Lululemon half-zips. They aren’t a frugal purchase for me but I get alot of value out of them. I bought four of them recently as my older versions have begun to show some age. I wear these shirts everywhere all seasons of the year. Though they are pricey, they are worth it to me as I’ve tried several other brands and nothing comes to close to the fit of these shirts.
by gator15
Sat Aug 05, 2023 8:55 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Best Purchase < $1000?
Replies: 231
Views: 28455

Re: Best Purchase < $1000?

ResearchMed wrote: Sat Aug 05, 2023 8:22 am
gator15 wrote: Fri Aug 04, 2023 11:32 pm My lovesac which I purchased in 2003. I bought it as young adult and now my teenage kid enjoys it as much as I do if not more. It’s traveled to many destinations over the years and has held up well. Great item to have in man cave.

Is that the item that looks like an oversized 1970s era bean bag chair?
:D

RM
It is. They are very comfortable though. They make furniture now and we are big fans. Worth checking out if you are in need of new furniture.
by gator15
Fri Aug 04, 2023 11:32 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Best Purchase < $1000?
Replies: 231
Views: 28455

Re: Best Purchase < $1000?

My lovesac which I purchased in 2003. I bought it as young adult and now my teenage kid enjoys it as much as I do if not more. It’s traveled to many destinations over the years and has held up well. Great item to have in man cave.
by gator15
Mon Jul 31, 2023 5:57 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Any Bogleheads Own Colorado Mountain Real Estate?
Replies: 17
Views: 3745

Re: Any Bogleheads Own Colorado Mountain Real Estate?

Maybe I’m wrong in my assessment, but it appears everything got significantly more expensive in the Colorado mtns post pandemic. As someone mentioned, having a place in the mtns is great if you enjoy both summer and winter activities. I would feel some sense of obligation to be up there as much as possible due to the cost to own there. Between the price, HOAs and current interest rates, I prefer to rent. Gives you ultimate flexibility.
by gator15
Sat Jul 29, 2023 7:51 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What Car Should I Buy If Money Were No Object?
Replies: 116
Views: 13897

Re: What Car Should I Buy If Money Were No Object?

I’d get a Wrangler 392 or a Ram TRX. For SUVs, I would get a Porsche Cayenne Turbo or the Macan as someone mentioned earlier. I’m not sure if this car meets your criteria, but I would get a Nissan GTR.
by gator15
Sat Jul 29, 2023 12:16 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: How much did you spend on your cars?
Replies: 96
Views: 9594

Re: How much did you spend on your cars?

When shopping for an SUV many years ago, I knew I didn’t want to exceed $50k at the time. My first was choice was a Lexus GX but that vehicle exceeded my budget by $10k so I didn’t get it though I seriously considered busting the budget to get the vehicle. Ultimately, I got a grand Cherokee because I thought it was the best value and had all of the must haves I wanted. No regrets. Probably the best vehicle Ive owned. For my fun vehicle which l’ve purchased over the last couple of years, my budget was all over the place. Ultimately, I decided I was most concerned with getting what I wanted versus settling for something cheaper. At this stage of my life, if I needed to get another vehicle, I’m more concerned with getting what I want and not s...
by gator15
Wed Jun 14, 2023 9:30 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Should I sell or should I continue to hold
Replies: 64
Views: 3561

Re: Should I sell or should I continue to hold

If you are holding on to these companies to acccumulate $4k in additional profits and will use the profits to invest in index funds, I would sell. The minimal upside isn’t worth the potential downside. The downside being your portfolio drops by 10% or more. If you are going to sell, only to buy more individual stocks, I would keep what you have. You believe you own good companies in which two have a lot of potential with the AI revolution. If you believe they are good and have long term potential, keep them.
by gator15
Sat Apr 08, 2023 5:57 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: [What UN-frugal thing do you do? What do you splurge on?]
Replies: 785
Views: 82846

Re: What is your "nice" thing you don't mind splurging on?

Athleisure wear is our biggest splurge. It’s all my wife and I wear. We spend quite a bit on this type of clothing. We really value comfortable clothes. Concert or sports tickets is another. I won’t go to the event if we don’t have great seats. Some would consider cable a splurge. Our monthly bill is a bit much but we enjoy it. What’s your favorite athleisure brands? My wife spends a good bit at lululemon. Last time we were in there I said what the heck and bought a hoodie.... it might be my new favorite item of clothing. It just fits right. Don't tell her I said this lol Lululemon is incredible. Great products worth exactly what they cost. I realize this is an old post, but my wife pretty recently got a $250 Lululemon gift card from her e...
by gator15
Thu Mar 30, 2023 7:30 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What's your favorite reasonably priced gin?
Replies: 157
Views: 17689

Re: What's your favorite reasonably priced gin?

My wife loves Roku gin. It’s a Japanese gin. Maybe your friends haven’t had a Japanese gin in the past and may appreciate trying something different.
by gator15
Fri Mar 17, 2023 8:55 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What are your best tips for more comfortable and happy travel?
Replies: 107
Views: 10976

Re: What are your best tips for more comfortable and happy travel?

Cruise wrote: Fri Mar 17, 2023 8:42 pm I posted before, but will add another tip: I not only use a rollaboard for carry-on, but my "personal item" is a backpack. I've been using a Tom Bihn ( https://www.tombihn.com/products/synik- ... 1838359741 is the one I got), as suggested on this board. The Tom Bihn backpack is wonderful. Very high quality, which allows me to stuff it full of clothes, toiletries, medications and electronics.
I bought the same backpack recently and used it for travel a few weeks ago. It’s outstanding. Expensive, but worth it.
by gator15
Tue Mar 14, 2023 11:20 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Tales from this insane real estate market [Home sales]
Replies: 2905
Views: 515256

Re: Tales from this insane real estate market [Home sales]

It’s really expensive where I live and not much has changed over the past year. Some who bought at good prices over 10 years ago now need more space and have experienced sticker shock when they tried to buy a bigger home. As a result, they are completing expansions of their current homes and still saving well over $100k versus buying a bigger home.
by gator15
Tue Mar 14, 2023 9:37 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Catalytic converter theft prevention?
Replies: 83
Views: 7112

Re: Catalytic converter theft prevention?

As I mentioned upthread, three vehicles in my neighborhood have had their CCs stolen. All three were Toyotas. The thieves had many cars to choose from but targeted those three.
by gator15
Mon Mar 13, 2023 9:04 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Do you regret spending money on your wedding?
Replies: 229
Views: 22971

Re: Do you regret spending money on your wedding?

For us it wasn’t about the money, but the time obligation. We started out with the mindset we would have a big wedding, but neither one of us wanted to plan it. We then decided to conduct our wedding at a local park with food trucks and friends, but neither of us wanted to plan that either. Ultimately, we went to the court house during our lunch break one day and eloped. We laugh about it today. Ultimately, we used the money we would have spent on a wedding for our honeymoon to France. That trip is still one of my favorites. Nothing has changed after all these years. Both wife and I would still be too lazy to plan a wedding.
by gator15
Sun Mar 12, 2023 3:21 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Catalytic converter theft prevention?
Replies: 83
Views: 7112

Re: Catalytic converter theft prevention?

On our block alone which consists of about 20 homes, we’ve had three CCs stolen in the last six months including my neighbor. I’d like to think we stay in a nice neighborhood, but it doesn’t matter. I tried to have my mechanic add a cage to my CC but he doesn’t think my CC will be targeted due to its location. I walk out to my car each morning expecting the worse. Only time will tell.
by gator15
Tue Feb 21, 2023 11:32 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: High income but house poor in Bay Area, can we afford spouse's switch to her dream career?
Replies: 159
Views: 19547

Re: High income but house poor in Bay Area, can we afford spouse's switch to her dream career?

Looking at your original post, your initial budget was $2 mil to $2.2 mil in 2022, but you couldn’t find a home near good schools with that budget. I’d imagine since your house is worth less than you paid, other houses near good school districts also saw a decline in home prices. Could you sell your home and afford a much cheaper home in a good school district? Is your wife open to renting a significantly cheaper home in a good school district if a rental home is available? I understand your concern in losing over $600k in savings over the course of one year. If the options above aren’t viable, I might be inclined to stay in your current home for a couple years and see if your home appreciates if you can afford it. You just bought the house...
by gator15
Mon Feb 20, 2023 11:06 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: What is the process you follow when determining your comfort level when projecting retirement expenses?
Replies: 23
Views: 2595

Re: What is the process you follow when determining your comfort level when projecting retirement expenses?

I’m in my mid 40s and I’m striving to retire in the next two years. I’m eligible for a pension in two years and my health insurance costs will be very reasonable. Despite those benefits, I still have concerns about leaving the workforce. I’ve tracked my expenses over the last four years and it appears my yearly expenses are about 2.5 times more than my pension. What I’m trying to figure out now is how to accumulate enough in taxable to cover my expenses until I’m 60. Ideally, I would use my taxable accounts to fund retirement from 45-60, then my retirement accounts to fund my expenses from 60 yo and beyond. Not sure if this is the right approach but it’s the approach I’ve decided to use for now until I can come up with something better.
by gator15
Wed Jan 25, 2023 8:31 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Fun Things to do in Breckinridge, CO besides Skiing
Replies: 12
Views: 1088

Re: Fun Things to do in Breckinridge, CO besides Skiing

Go tubing. Walking around town can be fun if you enjoy shopping.
by gator15
Mon Jan 09, 2023 12:29 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: New Car Anxiety
Replies: 63
Views: 7302

Re: New Car Anxiety

With your income and assets, this is an easy decision. Get the car. If you don’t get the car now, then when? I’d imagine this purchase will have minimal impact on your retirement goals.
by gator15
Tue Jan 03, 2023 8:27 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Secondary Market Sports Tickets
Replies: 17
Views: 1587

Re: Secondary Market Sports Tickets

I went to an NBA game this weekend. Bought my tickets on Ticketmaster. Pretty easy to purchase as others have stated. The service fees are a bit much. I paid the equivalent of a 20% service fee when you look at the cost of my ticket alone. A good feature ticketmaster has is it allows you to scan the stadium for tickets in various sections. As you scan over the seats, you will see the price of each seat. You also have the ability to ask Ticketmaster what is the cheapest ticket or the best seats. I chose the best seat feature and located two tickets near the court for a very reasonable price. Upon purchasing, I was able to see the tix via the ticketmaster.
by gator15
Sun Dec 25, 2022 8:50 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What are your favorite vacation destinations?
Replies: 120
Views: 13673

Re: What are your favorite vacation destinations?

For those who are into extreme sports, Queenstown, NZ is one of my favorite places in the world. Skydiving, bungee jumping, acrobatic planes and among things are offered in the city. Had a blast when I was there.
by gator15
Tue Dec 20, 2022 7:28 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What are your LEAST favorite vacation destinations
Replies: 399
Views: 43301

Re: What are your LEAST favorite vacation destinations

Someone earlier mentioned Cancun and I agree. My experience there was so bad I’ve refuse to travel to the country again. I may be in the minority here but Italy was a big “meh” for me. We spent two weeks there and traveled to 8 different cities via car. The only city I truly enjoyed was Florence.
by gator15
Mon Dec 19, 2022 8:55 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: How much to tip the taxi driver?
Replies: 81
Views: 7586

Re: How much to tip the taxi drivers

Uber/Cabs get 20%. Sit down restaurants 20%. Take out for places I frequent a lot $3.
by gator15
Tue Dec 13, 2022 8:54 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What is your single most expensive mistake?
Replies: 341
Views: 43462

Re: What is your single most expensive mistake?

Bought a condo in 2010 after the financial crisis for a bargain and sold it six years later for a nice profit. In hindsight, probably should have kept it. The monthly income from the property would be really nice to have right now. The taxes we paid selling that condo hurt a lot. The tenants over the years were fine. I think I was spooked by a $3k repair and decided to get out while things were going fairly well.
by gator15
Sun Dec 11, 2022 8:03 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: "It doesn't move the needle"
Replies: 130
Views: 16700

Re: "It doesn't move the needle"

The phrase “it doesn’t move the needle” is very applicable to a decision I need to make in the next year. I’m eligible for a pension soon and for every month I stay past my eligibility date, I gain an extra $28 in monthly pension benefits. I’m considering staying another 8 to 9 months which would earn me another $225-$250 per month. I’m fortunate enough to continue to ask myself doesn’t this really move the needle in my life. The reality is I’d prefer to leave when I’m eligible but I’m very tempted to stay longer. That money could be used to pay a couple of bills in our household. This is probably while I won't be able to retire early, despite my original dream to do it. My pension payments will be so much higher if I put in 30 years inste...
by gator15
Sun Dec 11, 2022 4:27 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: "It doesn't move the needle"
Replies: 130
Views: 16700

Re: "It doesn't move the needle"

The phrase “it doesn’t move the needle” is very applicable to a decision I need to make in the next year. I’m eligible for a pension soon and for every month I stay past my eligibility date, I gain an extra $28 in monthly pension benefits. I’m considering staying another 8 to 9 months which would earn me another $225-$250 per month. I’m fortunate enough to continue to ask myself doesn’t this really move the needle in my life. The reality is I’d prefer to leave when I’m eligible but I’m very tempted to stay longer. That money could be used to pay a couple of bills in our household.
by gator15
Sun Oct 09, 2022 8:01 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Dream Car Porsche - Should I buy it ?
Replies: 388
Views: 46021

Re: Dream Car Porsche - Should I buy it ?

I would get it. I’m not sure what your current expenses are, but I’d like to think you can meet your savings goals and pay for the car with that income. I would wait a few months to see if you can get the car at or below MSRP though. I’ve bought dream cars with a lot less income than you have and still have met my savings goals.
by gator15
Tue Aug 30, 2022 9:18 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What is the BEST adventure vacation you’ve taken?
Replies: 90
Views: 10064

Re: What is the BEST adventure vacation you’ve taken?

Like the poster above, got a chance to visit Queenstown, NZ where we bungee jumped, skydived, flew in acrobatic planes and did some speed boating. Easily one of the best times of my life. Would do it again, but wife says no. Highly recommend though.
by gator15
Wed Apr 27, 2022 10:30 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Move to Saudi Arabia for $$$/Adventure?
Replies: 48
Views: 5976

Re: Move to Saudi Arabia for $$$/Adventure?

No way would I consider that opportunity. The money doesn’t even sound enticing considering what you are giving up. You are in a good stable situation. No way would I give that up.
by gator15
Wed Apr 27, 2022 9:26 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Spending your money.
Replies: 40
Views: 4753

Re: Spending your money.

Last spent a fortune on travel, golf clubs and sneakers
by gator15
Sun Apr 24, 2022 2:21 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: All Inclusive Caribbean Resort With Kids
Replies: 25
Views: 4180

Re: All Inclusive Caribbean Resort With Kids

Beaches Resort in Turks and Caicos is a good option. Several restaurants on the premises for both kids and adults. The food is pretty good. The resort has several pools, a water park and along the beach are vendors who rent out various equipment for water sports. Highly recommend.
by gator15
Mon Apr 11, 2022 5:20 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Masters Augusta National ticket
Replies: 48
Views: 7275

Re: Masters Augusta National ticket

I went in 2012. At the time, a ticket was about $800 a day. I went on a Saturday. I purchased via StubHub and upon arrival at Augusta I remember meeting someone to get the badge needed to get on the premises. At th3 conclusion of the round, I had to return the badge. I looked into tix this year and they were over $2k a piece. I would imagine they will continue to increase in price. I will go again one day as I really enjoyed the environment last time I attended. As someone mentioned, it’s worth attending if you like golf. While Torrey Pines and Pebble Beach were great, it was nothing like the Masters.
by gator15
Mon Mar 07, 2022 7:24 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Skydiving, have you ever been?
Replies: 83
Views: 5303

Re: Skydiving, have you ever been?

Went skydiving several years ago in New Zealand. I thought it was great and had a good time. Once you exit the plane the anxiety seems to drift away and you are along for the ride. I would highly recommend.My NZ trip was the last time skydiving and bungee jumping. My wife told me I was done with my air adventures shortly afterwards. It’s worth doing at least once.
by gator15
Mon Feb 14, 2022 8:25 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Big New Jeeps
Replies: 25
Views: 2175

Re: Big New Jeeps

:sharebeer
TimDex wrote: Mon Feb 14, 2022 7:31 am Bogleheads never fails to entertain.

I drive a Grand Cherokee because it works for me. It’s extremely comfortable for any medium or long trip, it does not bounce around on ice and snow, and at the same time, I can transport all my stuff in the back, from gardening materials, furniture for camp, to lumber and bags of concrete mix.

The point, if you’ve missed it, and you have, is that being a boglehead is sensibly spending your money on what works for you. Virtue signaling how thrifty you are can be as foolish as being a consumerist spendthrift.
by gator15
Sun Feb 13, 2022 6:34 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Need opinion on pork ribs
Replies: 43
Views: 3532

Re: Need opinion on pork ribs

Ribs for 25 people, I would gladly pay someone else to cook those. I don’t think it’s possible to cook that many ribs in the oven.
by gator15
Wed Feb 02, 2022 8:14 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Ski Condo as Primary Residence?
Replies: 63
Views: 7359

Re: Ski Condo as Primary Residence?

I say do it. You can sale if it doesn’t work out. It may require you to work longer toward your goals, but buying the condo seems to be really important to you. You don’t want any regrets so go for it.
by gator15
Sun Jan 30, 2022 12:05 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Should I buy a vacation home right now?
Replies: 33
Views: 4522

Re: Should I buy a vacation home right now?

Not sure what prices look like in your area, but they are ridiculous here. I wanted a vacation home in the mountains for a long time. With PITI and HOA fees in today’s environment, I can’t justify the costs. As a result, I’ve decided to rent. If you think you can justify the costs and you will get a lot of use out of the property, go for it.