Sunrises, Sunsets, and Rainbows

Property Taxes make up a big chunk of Ownership Cost.  Property taxes are complicated and make up a big chunk of homeownership costs. What’s worse is that the amount you owe annually can change as tax districts look for additional funding.  (Source: Realtor.com) Property taxes are charged by tax districts (state and municipalities) as an important revenue source.  Property taxes are assessed for your home, a second home, vehicle(s), recreation vehicle (RV's), boat, etc.  Some states and municipalities offer property tax "freezes" (property tax rates are frozen), "rebates" , and "exemptions" for Seniors.  Requirements vary.   Requirements will include age (usually age 65), property must be your "primary residence" and proof of year(s) of ownership, one vehicle per retiree (household with 2 retirees may include 2 vehicles), and may include household income.  How Do I Found Out Whether my State or Municipality Offers Senior Property Tax Discou...

Reflections Following over 30 years in a career in Oil and Gas and at age 65, I transitioned to and retired at 67.  Retirement was difficult. I had purpose, recognition, and acceptance as a successful professional. I had invested deeply into my profession. Our personal finances were in order. For years, we had 0 debt. Our children were grown, had completed their education, and started families of their own, and were financially independent.   Efforts to re-engage with my profession locally met with limited success and disappointment; something I had not experienced in my career.  A Personal View on Retirement: Themes "Retirement" for me, was a completely new "chapter of life".  A chapter that we had prepared for financially for many years; but, were less prepared with regard to "meaning and purpose", an important part of my career.   As I reflect on the past 7 years of this new chapter in our life, the following themes surface: Avoid Financial Problems...

Personal growth and development are essential for a fulfilling and successful life (Quoted from:  Continuous Learning: The Key to Personal Growth and Development) "Personal growth and development are essential aspects of leading a fulfilling and successful life. In today’s fast-paced world, the ability to adapt, learn, and grow has become more crucial than ever before.  Continuous learning plays a vital role in this process, offering individuals the opportunity to expand their knowledge, skills, and perspectives." "Continuous learning goes beyond the acquisition of knowledge; it encompasses a mindset that embraces curiosity, innovation, and growth."  (Source: The Indispensable Role of Continuous Learning and Personal Growth in Leadership.  Indeed.com)  Continuous Learning is not limited to formal education Continuous learning is not limited to formal education or acquiring degrees "Continuous learning is not limited to formal education or acquiring degrees....

Depression is not a "life sentence".  Depression affects millions of people. Retirement is a major life decision. Facing depression during retirement can be a difficult and challenging experience for many seniors.  With the loss of the daily routine, structure, and social connections that accompany a full-time job, loss of clear goals and objectives, it can be easy to experience feelings of loneliness, sadness, and even despair.  "Depression feels grey, like you're under a huge dark cloud and heavy, like you are walking around carrying heavy weights. It also brings negative thoughts about yourself, about others, and about your future."  (Source: "6 New, Holistic Ways To Treat Depression Without Medication".)  You're not alone Mistakes don't define your worth.  "Life gets messy, things go sideways, and it’s crucial to remember that it’s okay not to have it all together. The habit of self-kindness involves recognizing that making mistakes do...