Thanks so much Lokicious for all the information you have provided.

I look forward to printing this and starting to digest it at lunch time.

I probably should have clarified that while I hope to retire or move to part time work within 5 years, my husband will continue to work full time - so this is not retirement in the traditional sense. Obviously, this exact definition of retirement has been hashed over repeatedly on the Retire Early board.

Nevertheless, I am looking at this from a household perspective.

We each have pension plans that are adjustable for inflation, but my plan is expected to be cancelled by my employer before the end of the year. Therefor, I expect to receive a substantial lump sum in a few months, so I am trying to account for that as well.

As for the poster who mentioned how much money we'll need years from now, I recognize the risks - particularly in the areas of health care in Social Security.

Thanks again to all, MG