I retired in Jan 2023. I did go back to work for 2 months this past July/Aug. I liked the work but not doing 40+ hrs, a commute and living in an AirBnB with bad mattresses.
So far we are spending more than expected. Despite a fairly conservative portfolio (50% max in stocks) and the extra spending, our investments went up 6%.

Big expenses including 10% for travel, another 10% for eating out, 20% for insurance including medical and medical bills. Obviously a few of those expenses can easily be cut back if needed.

I'm hoping this year I did a better job of estimating taxes because last year I missed it big time and had penalties. Using a spreadsheet someone created over at bogleheads I'm probably only owing around $1K federal taxes and may be getting back money from state. I would have gotten money back from the federal taxes but I did a Roth conversion at the end of the year to reach up to the limit of our current tax bracket.

I'm not too big on paying taxes now instead of later but for a few years we can control our income until social security and then RMDs kick in.

Still tough getting used to spending instead of saving and I do miss work. Will look for something part time or something I can do from home.

Stay healthy and happy new year
Rich

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