Pat, Re: Q2, The difference between retiring at 62 or 65 (or later) is pretty much a wash. I officially retired at 61 but, with disability, I was drawing the max. There was/is little incentive to continue working because, for every two dollars I would earn, they take one dollar out of my check. Factor in inflation and cost of living increases and retirement becomes the cheapest option. www.ssa.gov has online worksheets and calculators if you need an accurate estimate, but don't forget the expenses YOU NO LONGER WILL HAVE.

I seem busier than I've ever been, and doing the things THAT I WANT TO DO, NOT WHAT SOMEONE ELSE WANTS.

Perhaps the greatest thrill is in spoiling the grandchildren (and now, great-grandchildren), then sending them home to terrorize their parents. Priceless!

I say: Gopher it!

Donny

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