Last week, Joe and I were down at the beach. We were younger than everyone there by at least 20 years. All of the snowbirds head south for January and February. The couples we talked to were impressed and surprised that we could spend a week at the shore in the middle of February. But this is our slow season so we take advantage of it while we can. Besides, 75 and sunny sure does wonders for your mood in the middle of winter.
Needless to say, everyone we spoke with were retirees. It makes me wonder if and when we'll ever be able to retire, even though Nate asked if we were ever planning on going back to work (since we've taken off so much time lately).
While we were there, we met a wonderful gentleman and entrepreneur named Joe. Joe owns Hamburger Joe's, which is a great little burger joint. We have always admired how busy the restaurant stays, even off season. We've also said that we wish we could buy this little gold mine. Joe is probably in his 70's and still involved with his business. But he seems to be type of man who would always be involved with something, which brings this story back to us.
Joe and I would like to retire sometime before we hit 70. But I think we need to be involved with something to keep us from getting bored and being boring. I've often heard that you have to have 5 and 10 year plans and goals before you retire so as you have something to do in those early retirement years. Even though the construction business has afforded us a good living, I think there has to be more to life.
As Terry has said, you often hear that if you put aside $100/month starting when you are in your 20's, you'll have $1M when you retire. I wish I could say that we took that advice.
What our goal is to own properties in resort communities. We have dabbled in it for years. Some of our investments have been great and some, we'll say, have been learning lessons. We are thinking about heading further south into Florida. Because of the economy, friends have told us that there are deals to be made. I think of real estate as diversifying our portfolio. We know that we can work well together. Visiting the various properties, arranging maintenance, etc. I think would be a way we could retire early and still stay involved in a business. I will keep you posted along the way.
Happy retirement to those fortunate enough to be a retiree and hope to join you, sooner than later.
Until next time, when I continue the rantings and ravings of a mom of an
American Dream Family.....
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