On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 3:46:31 PM UTC-4, Thomas E. wrote:
> On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 2:19:40 PM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
> > On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 8:33:08 AM UTC-4, Thomas E. wrote:
> > > On Saturday, October 7, 2023 at 1:43:20 PM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
> > > > On Saturday, October 7, 2023 at 1:00:09 PM UTC-4, Thomas E. wrote:
> > > > >
> > > > > PS - this took about an hour.
> > > > Translation: Yup, Pwned.
> > > > > I note you failed to respond to my financial status inquiry. Are you inferring that
> > > > > finances prevent you from doing better on the track? That I could believe given
> > > > > what I have seen is probably just the public facing piece of a large iceberg lurking
> > > > > below the waterline.
> > > > That’s a pretty dubious angle, because ‘finances’ is such a broad lane. Could be as
> > > > simple as one not feeling up to a certain spending level for just a hobby. Or it reflect
> > > > a change in investment priorities due to a change in retirement planning (eg earlier),
> > > > or interest in Real Estate changes, which are both simple examples which don’t have
> > > > current income/job security as factors, which is what you’re trying to imply.
> > > >
> > > > Of course, it’s also ironic that you yourself just went “cheap” by trying a driving vacation,
> > > > despite how you’ve been advised that your own claimed financials allowed for higher
> > > > discretionary spending than you’ve been practicing. Thus, one could also ‘easily believe’
> > > > that your own personal financial challenges could be why you happened to have chosen
> > > > that lens… /s
> > > >
> > >
> > > I promised Alan that I would not reveal what I found.
> > Done so publicly, instead of privately. Not particularly genteel.
> >
> > > He took a job.
> >
> > So what? Didn't you also have a job at that age?
> > > He never seems to travel.
> > That you know of. Besides, there's other metrics to happiness/success/etc than merely travel.
> > > His racing activity has become very spotty.
> > Which has already been addressed.
> > > He lives in a condo half the size of our 1100 square foot first floor..
> > Yet still worth how much more on the open market?
> > > He recently posted a Windows Control Panel complaint that I had to show him how to work around.
> > As opposed to what? Do you really believe that anyone in IT today can operate without having
> > some level of proficiency in Microsoft products?
> > > LOL. We drove more for the experience than cost considerations.
> > But when I mentioned flying alternatives, didn't you complain about their costs?
> > > On to my finances...
> > >
> > > FYI, we have booked a rail excursion Vancouver-Calgary next year, $12k, plus a 2+ week
> > > Paris-Zurich excursion, all with friends. We will start the Europe trip with a self-booked
> > > stay in Paris in a 4-star hotel (Pullman Montparnasse), then on to Luxembourg, a Viking
> > > cruise, and winding up with a few days in Zurich. Likely a bit over $12k all-in, including airfare.
> > So just $25K in total. Even if we include your winter ski trip, its still under the $30K/yr that I had
> > eyeballed a half decade ago as a budget .. and age-wise, your "Go Go" travel years are continuing
> > to draw to a close.
> >
> > For Paris, I've been to the 14ème where the Pullman Montparnasse is; its IMO not really all that
> > interesting of a neighborhood unless you're visiting Montparnasse Cemetery. Expect lots of trips
> > on the Metro, especially if you prefer local cuisine over large sanitized Hotels.
> > > My main personal financial challenge this summer has been estate planning, including paperwork
> > > for funding revised trusts. And, my investment advisor changed firms and his staff made an error
> > > in the 401k transfer that is taking a while to fix. My retirement income is now about $20k a month
> > With how much of that likely being due to being RMDs? 33%? More?
> > > and net worth north of $3 million. Hopefully the markets are going to get over higher rates because
> > > most of that $3 million is in stocks.
> > >
> > > Having said that, recent expenses for estate planning, unplanned dental issues, and 2024 upfront
> > > travel payments have stretched the cash flow a bit. :)
> > Ironic that you were jabbing me on noting that dental care is expensive just a few months ago.
>
> His condo is worth about as much as my house.
> But housing prices are relative to the local market.

Which means your snide comment about square footage is irrelevant & petty.

> If he sells it then what? Where does he go? The States? Latin America?
> If he stays in Vancouver then what?

And if you sell your place, where do you go?
Move to Panama too? What then?

> Yes, I said flying was too expensive. Given our preferences it would have
> needed to be less expensive.

Considering how you’re name-dropping on 4 star hotels, that’s a self-contradiction.

> Your $30k recommendation has no value to us. We travel according to
> our preferences, not yours.

It’s as relevant as you volunteering your own costs…which you’ve then gone on
to admit have been constrained enough down to mentioning ‘mere’ dentist bills.

> We do plan to use the Metro. I know the system and the sites they want to see.

And the walking distance(s) to the nearest lines is .. what? Have you even checked?
FYI, Post-CoVid, the multi-day Carné pass is no longer available; the “Navigo” can
load a 10-pack, but you need to figure out how/where to get the “Navigo”. There is
one place in CDG T3, but it takes time & is a long walk.

> It's their first Paris trip so we will be hitting the highlights and bistros.

More the reason to consider staying at a single digit Arrondissement, rather than 14éme.

> No advice required from you.

Was just there last December. The post-CoVid experience is different; do your research well.

> Ever dined at L'Ilot Vache, Ile de la Cite?

Nope. Given its mixed 2023 TripAdvisor reviews, I’d probably not make any extra effort.
I do have one Art Deco place I’ve been trying to relocate; need to find the postcard I kept.

> Hoping Notre Dame is open by August.

I’ve decided to avoid France in summer ‘24.

> One reason for that hotel is Viking uses it for most of their Paris-origin
> cruises so we don't have to change hotels. If they go elsewhere our reservations
> have no cancel penalty up to the day before. We can easily change to a different hotel.

Might be worth it if it includes airport transfers, as it’s been advised to avoid
the RER on CDG transfers; FYI, the RoisyBus is good.

> We had wanted to go a bit earlier but then discovered our first choice was the
> last day of the Olympics. Talk about some expensive hotels! Double or more
> the next week. A large 3 BR condo near the Opera House $40,000 per week!?

It’s not merely cost, but the crowds. Notre Dame was busy enough in the years
before it burned, even in the winter months. Earliest I’d consider would be Feb ‘25

-hh

On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 4:02:57 PM UTC-4, Thomas E. wrote:
> …
> I forgot. Alan taking a job in 2018 tells you that his consulting business
> was not doing well. At Alan's age (born about 1957 so late 60's) I had been
> retired from my last job for about 12 years ..

Weren’t you more “pushed out”?

-hh

On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 5:32:16 PM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
> On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 4:02:57 PM UTC-4, Thomas E. wrote:
> > …
> > I forgot. Alan taking a job in 2018 tells you that his consulting business
> > was not doing well. At Alan's age (born about 1957 so late 60's) I had been
> > retired from my last job for about 12 years ..
>
> Weren’t you more “pushed out”?
>
> -hh

You imply I was targeted. My whole department and 75 other positions in my business area were "pushed out" in that 2003 RIF. I was not personally targeted. The fact that the company was my major consulting client for about the next 10 years speaks to their opinion of me personally.

Why the RIF? The company lost an important patent, R&D was not coming with much new, and management demanded reductions in several areas.

Retirement at 56 plus a going away present of $240K was pretty tempting. In any event, it is a fact I retired as of 2/28/2003. I did teach economics part time at a local university for a few years until the consulting got going and business travel, almost all domestic, picked up. I quit that teaching gig, no university retirement benefits possible, and no Medicare and Social Security benefits until 2013/2014. Other than that I have been on my own since 2003. Cashed out in-the-money stock options, bought a home, wiped out all debts, traveled extensively, and generally enjoyed life since 2003. I played the long game, and have no regrets.

Why do you feel it necessary to look for the negatives? Does it make you feel better about your situation?

On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 5:30:17 PM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
> On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 3:46:31 PM UTC-4, Thomas E. wrote:
> > On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 2:19:40 PM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
> > > On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 8:33:08 AM UTC-4, Thomas E. wrote:
> > > > On Saturday, October 7, 2023 at 1:43:20 PM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
> > > > > On Saturday, October 7, 2023 at 1:00:09 PM UTC-4, Thomas E. wrote:
> > > > > >
> > > > > > PS - this took about an hour.
> > > > > Translation: Yup, Pwned.
> > > > > > I note you failed to respond to my financial status inquiry. Are you inferring that
> > > > > > finances prevent you from doing better on the track? That I could believe given
> > > > > > what I have seen is probably just the public facing piece of a large iceberg lurking
> > > > > > below the waterline.
> > > > > That’s a pretty dubious angle, because ‘finances’ is such a broad lane. Could be as
> > > > > simple as one not feeling up to a certain spending level for just a hobby. Or it reflect
> > > > > a change in investment priorities due to a change in retirement planning (eg earlier),
> > > > > or interest in Real Estate changes, which are both simple examples which don’t have
> > > > > current income/job security as factors, which is what you’re trying to imply.
> > > > >
> > > > > Of course, it’s also ironic that you yourself just went “cheap” by trying a driving vacation,
> > > > > despite how you’ve been advised that your own claimed financials allowed for higher
> > > > > discretionary spending than you’ve been practicing. Thus, one could also ‘easily believe’
> > > > > that your own personal financial challenges could be why you happened to have chosen
> > > > > that lens… /s
> > > > >
> > > >
> > > > I promised Alan that I would not reveal what I found.
> > > Done so publicly, instead of privately. Not particularly genteel.
> > >
> > > > He took a job.
> > >
> > > So what? Didn't you also have a job at that age?
> > > > He never seems to travel.
> > > That you know of. Besides, there's other metrics to happiness/success/etc than merely travel.
> > > > His racing activity has become very spotty.
> > > Which has already been addressed.
> > > > He lives in a condo half the size of our 1100 square foot first floor.
> > > Yet still worth how much more on the open market?
> > > > He recently posted a Windows Control Panel complaint that I had to show him how to work around.
> > > As opposed to what? Do you really believe that anyone in IT today can operate without having
> > > some level of proficiency in Microsoft products?
> > > > LOL. We drove more for the experience than cost considerations.
> > > But when I mentioned flying alternatives, didn't you complain about their costs?
> > > > On to my finances...
> > > >
> > > > FYI, we have booked a rail excursion Vancouver-Calgary next year, $12k, plus a 2+ week
> > > > Paris-Zurich excursion, all with friends. We will start the Europe trip with a self-booked
> > > > stay in Paris in a 4-star hotel (Pullman Montparnasse), then on to Luxembourg, a Viking
> > > > cruise, and winding up with a few days in Zurich. Likely a bit over $12k all-in, including airfare.
> > > So just $25K in total. Even if we include your winter ski trip, its still under the $30K/yr that I had
> > > eyeballed a half decade ago as a budget .. and age-wise, your "Go Go" travel years are continuing
> > > to draw to a close.
> > >
> > > For Paris, I've been to the 14ème where the Pullman Montparnasse is; its IMO not really all that
> > > interesting of a neighborhood unless you're visiting Montparnasse Cemetery. Expect lots of trips
> > > on the Metro, especially if you prefer local cuisine over large sanitized Hotels.
> > > > My main personal financial challenge this summer has been estate planning, including paperwork
> > > > for funding revised trusts. And, my investment advisor changed firms and his staff made an error
> > > > in the 401k transfer that is taking a while to fix. My retirement income is now about $20k a month
> > > With how much of that likely being due to being RMDs? 33%? More?
> > > > and net worth north of $3 million. Hopefully the markets are going to get over higher rates because
> > > > most of that $3 million is in stocks.
> > > >
> > > > Having said that, recent expenses for estate planning, unplanned dental issues, and 2024 upfront
> > > > travel payments have stretched the cash flow a bit. :)
> > > Ironic that you were jabbing me on noting that dental care is expensive just a few months ago.
> >
> > His condo is worth about as much as my house.
> > But housing prices are relative to the local market.
> Which means your snide comment about square footage is irrelevant & petty..
> > If he sells it then what? Where does he go? The States? Latin America?
> > If he stays in Vancouver then what?
> And if you sell your place, where do you go?
> Move to Panama too? What then?
> > Yes, I said flying was too expensive. Given our preferences it would have
> > needed to be less expensive.
> Considering how you’re name-dropping on 4 star hotels, that’s a self-contradiction.
> > Your $30k recommendation has no value to us. We travel according to
> > our preferences, not yours.
> It’s as relevant as you volunteering your own costs…which you’ve then gone on
> to admit have been constrained enough down to mentioning ‘mere’ dentist bills.
> > We do plan to use the Metro. I know the system and the sites they want to see.
> And the walking distance(s) to the nearest lines is .. what? Have you even checked?
> FYI, Post-CoVid, the multi-day Carné pass is no longer available; the “Navigo” can
> load a 10-pack, but you need to figure out how/where to get the “Navigo”. There is
> one place in CDG T3, but it takes time & is a long walk.
> > It's their first Paris trip so we will be hitting the highlights and bistros.
> More the reason to consider staying at a single digit Arrondissement, rather than 14éme.
> > No advice required from you.
> Was just there last December. The post-CoVid experience is different; do your research well.
> > Ever dined at L'Ilot Vache, Ile de la Cite?
> Nope. Given its mixed 2023 TripAdvisor reviews, I’d probably not make any extra effort.
> I do have one Art Deco place I’ve been trying to relocate; need to find the postcard I kept.
> > Hoping Notre Dame is open by August.
> I’ve decided to avoid France in summer ‘24.
> > One reason for that hotel is Viking uses it for most of their Paris-origin
> > cruises so we don't have to change hotels. If they go elsewhere our reservations
> > have no cancel penalty up to the day before. We can easily change to a different hotel.
> Might be worth it if it includes airport transfers, as it’s been advised to avoid
> the RER on CDG transfers; FYI, the RoisyBus is good.
> > We had wanted to go a bit earlier but then discovered our first choice was the
> > last day of the Olympics. Talk about some expensive hotels! Double or more
> > the next week. A large 3 BR condo near the Opera House $40,000 per week!?
> It’s not merely cost, but the crowds. Notre Dame was busy enough in the years
> before it burned, even in the winter months. Earliest I’d consider would be Feb ‘25
>
> -hh

Idiot, If I sell my house I can buy something similar, a multi-bedroom condo, another house, or use the money to fund assisted living. Alan faces major hurdles if he wants to get anything larger, but so do I. The difference is I already own a roomy home, he is living in something on the order of my 2.5 car garage.

No need to check the local Metro stations. The hotel is across the street from Gare Montparnasse with multiple Metro lines. I'll figure out the ticketing later. We will be using RoisyBus to get to the hotel, after that all transfers are included.

It was an expensive dentist bill, and another one coming in Janaury. But the major short-term stress is pre-pay for Canada and France trips. OTOH the cash is in savings, so it's just me fretting about it.

You have your preferences, I have mine. You seem to think you have it all figured out, and you do for yourself. Via la difference.

On 2023-10-19 08:57, Thomas E. wrote:
> On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 5:32:16 PM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
>> On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 4:02:57 PM UTC-4, Thomas E. wrote:
>>> … I forgot. Alan taking a job in 2018 tells you that his
>>> consulting business was not doing well. At Alan's age (born about
>>> 1957 so late 60's) I had been retired from my last job for about
>>> 12 years ..
>>
>> Weren’t you more “pushed out”?
>>
>> -hh
>
> You imply I was targeted. My whole department and 75 other positions
> in my business area were "pushed out" in that 2003 RIF. I was not
> personally targeted. The fact that the company was my major
> consulting client for about the next 10 years speaks to their opinion
> of me personally.
>
> Why the RIF? The company lost an important patent, R&D was not coming
> with much new, and management demanded reductions in several areas.
>
> Retirement at 56 plus a going away present of $240K was pretty
> tempting. In any event, it is a fact I retired as of 2/28/2003. I did
> teach economics part time at a local university for a few years until
> the consulting got going and business travel, almost all domestic,
> picked up. I quit that teaching gig, no university retirement
> benefits possible, and no Medicare and Social Security benefits until
> 2013/2014. Other than that I have been on my own since 2003. Cashed
> out in-the-money stock options, bought a home, wiped out all debts,
> traveled extensively, and generally enjoyed life since 2003. I played
> the long game, and have no regrets.
>
> Why do you feel it necessary to look for the negatives? Does it make
> you feel better about your situation?

Oh, the irony!

On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 2:32:16 PM UTC-7, -hh wrote:
> On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 4:02:57 PM UTC-4, Thomas E. wrote:
> > …
> > I forgot. Alan taking a job in 2018 tells you that his consulting business
> > was not doing well. At Alan's age (born about 1957 so late 60's) I had been
> > retired from my last job for about 12 years ..
>
> Weren’t you more “pushed out”?

And for the record, the lying little shit is:

Wrong about my "taking a job".

Wrong about my age.

:-)

On Thursday, October 19, 2023 at 11:57:26 AM UTC-4, Thomas E. wrote:
> On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 5:32:16 PM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
> > On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 4:02:57 PM UTC-4, Thomas E. wrote:
> > > …
> > > I forgot. Alan taking a job in 2018 tells you that his consulting business
> > > was not doing well. At Alan's age (born about 1957 so late 60's) I had been
> > > retired from my last job for about 12 years ..
> >
> > Weren’t you more “pushed out”?
> >
>
> You imply I was targeted.

No, you implied that in your prior statements:

"They somewhat targeted retirement-eligible people."
- Tommy, on Jun 28, 2015, [8:17:39 AM]

Plus you had made it clear that you were targeted in your prior position at
Northern Kentucky University, which you claimed was because you didn't
cover up your Department Head's shortcomings.

> Retirement at 56 plus a going away present of $240K was pretty tempting.

It really depends on circumstances and personal situations, including what any
pension and benefits are worth, and what other options are available.
> In any event, it is a fact I retired as of 2/28/2003. I did teach economics part time
> at a local university for a few years until the consulting got going and business
> travel, almost all domestic, picked up. I quit that teaching gig, no university
> retirement benefits possible, and no Medicare and Social Security benefits
> until 2013/2014. Other than that I have been on my own since 2003.

Which after some tight times was quite a bit of hustle through all of your 60s
and half your 70s.

> Cashed out in-the-money stock options, bought a home, wiped out all debts,
> traveled extensively, and generally enjoyed life since 2003. I played the long game,
> and have no regrets.
>
> Why do you feel it necessary to look for the negatives? Does it make you feel better about your situation?

I'm not who was RIF'ed. And its been pretty similar here in terms of getting things
paid off, doing travel, & not breaking my back. Puts me into the position to be free
to retire a decade or so earlier than the choices you made, and with a couple of more
rocks. Next step is to Rothify a bit more to avoid the 2026 tax rate increases.

-hh

On Thursday, October 19, 2023 at 12:16:56 PM UTC-4, Thomas E. wrote:
> On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 5:30:17 PM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
> > On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 3:46:31 PM UTC-4, Thomas E. wrote:
> > > On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 2:19:40 PM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
> > > > On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 8:33:08 AM UTC-4, Thomas E. wrote:
> > > > > ...
> > > > > My main personal financial challenge this summer has been estate planning, including paperwork
> > > > > for funding revised trusts. And, my investment advisor changed firms and his staff made an error
> > > > > in the 401k transfer that is taking a while to fix. My retirement income is now about $20k a month
> > > >
> > > > With how much of that likely being due to being RMDs? 33%? More?

(Hmm...)

> > > > > Having said that, recent expenses for estate planning, unplanned dental issues, and
> > > > > 2024 upfront travel payments have stretched the cash flow a bit. :)
> > > > ...
> >
>
> Idiot, If I sell my house I can buy something similar, a multi-bedroom condo, another house,
> or use the money to fund assisted living.

And since the same is the same for Alan too, why even mention this?

> Alan faces major hurdles if he wants to get anything larger, but so do I.

"And since the same is the same for Alan too, why even mention this?"

> The difference is I already own a roomy home, he is living in something on the order of my 2.5 car garage.

Which the Market says is still worth more than your place, so so what? Its not like he's been
expressing complaints about inadequate living space, so other than to express your own feelings
of comparative inferiority, why do you care?
> No need to check the local Metro stations. The hotel is across the street from Gare Montparnasse
> with multiple Metro lines. I'll figure out the ticketing later.

Being proximate to major train stations has convenient transit links, sure, but also downsides
such as often more noise, business establishments that many travelers find ... unsavory.
Plus there's also invariably more pickpockets looking to prey on tourists.

> We will be using RoisyBus to get to the hotel, after that all transfers are included.

Good choice IMO. Do take some time pre-departure to "map out" the route from where
the RoisyBus stops at Opera and how to get to the Opera Metro entrance. Likewise, map
out in advance the plan for the Metro to get to your destination stop: which line, in which
direction (and what's the wrong direction), where to transfer, how many stops en route, etc.
FYI, the Opera station also has staircases to navigate with one's luggage (I didn't bother
looking to see if there were any elevators).

> It was an expensive dentist bill, and another one coming in January.

Took me a bit to find it:

"Only those with victim disorder regard health care as broken."
- Tom Elam, Apr 28, 2023 [11:54:39 AM]

> But the major short-term stress is pre-pay for Canada and France trips.
> OTOH the cash is in savings, so it's just me fretting about it.

Reducing stress is what trip insurance is for
(FYI, a $15K & 12 month policy from Allianz is just $1.5K)

> You have your preferences, I have mine. You seem to think you have it all figured out,
> and you do for yourself. Via la difference.

Nah, I only need to have it figured out better than you do.

-hh

On Friday, October 20, 2023 at 9:48:08 AM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
> On Thursday, October 19, 2023 at 12:16:56 PM UTC-4, Thomas E. wrote:
> > On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 5:30:17 PM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
> > > On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 3:46:31 PM UTC-4, Thomas E. wrote:
> > > > On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 2:19:40 PM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
> > > > > On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 8:33:08 AM UTC-4, Thomas E.. wrote:
> > > > > > ...
> > > > > > My main personal financial challenge this summer has been estate planning, including paperwork
> > > > > > for funding revised trusts. And, my investment advisor changed firms and his staff made an error
> > > > > > in the 401k transfer that is taking a while to fix. My retirement income is now about $20k a month
> > > > >
> > > > > With how much of that likely being due to being RMDs? 33%? More?
> (Hmm...)
> > > > > > Having said that, recent expenses for estate planning, unplanned dental issues, and
> > > > > > 2024 upfront travel payments have stretched the cash flow a bit.. :)
> > > > > ...
> > >
> >
> > Idiot, If I sell my house I can buy something similar, a multi-bedroom condo, another house,
> > or use the money to fund assisted living.
> And since the same is the same for Alan too, why even mention this?
> > Alan faces major hurdles if he wants to get anything larger, but so do I.
> "And since the same is the same for Alan too, why even mention this?"
> > The difference is I already own a roomy home, he is living in something on the order of my 2.5 car garage.
> Which the Market says is still worth more than your place, so so what? Its not like he's been
> expressing complaints about inadequate living space, so other than to express your own feelings
> of comparative inferiority, why do you care?
> > No need to check the local Metro stations. The hotel is across the street from Gare Montparnasse
> > with multiple Metro lines. I'll figure out the ticketing later.
> Being proximate to major train stations has convenient transit links, sure, but also downsides
> such as often more noise, business establishments that many travelers find .. unsavory.
> Plus there's also invariably more pickpockets looking to prey on tourists..
> > We will be using RoisyBus to get to the hotel, after that all transfers are included.
> Good choice IMO. Do take some time pre-departure to "map out" the route from where
> the RoisyBus stops at Opera and how to get to the Opera Metro entrance. Likewise, map
> out in advance the plan for the Metro to get to your destination stop: which line, in which
> direction (and what's the wrong direction), where to transfer, how many stops en route, etc.
> FYI, the Opera station also has staircases to navigate with one's luggage (I didn't bother
> looking to see if there were any elevators).
>
>
> > It was an expensive dentist bill, and another one coming in January.
>
> Took me a bit to find it:
>
> "Only those with victim disorder regard health care as broken."
> - Tom Elam, Apr 28, 2023 [11:54:39 AM]
> > But the major short-term stress is pre-pay for Canada and France trips.
> > OTOH the cash is in savings, so it's just me fretting about it.
> Reducing stress is what trip insurance is for
> (FYI, a $15K & 12 month policy from Allianz is just $1.5K)
> > You have your preferences, I have mine. You seem to think you have it all figured out,
> > and you do for yourself. Via la difference.
> Nah, I only need to have it figured out better than you do.
>
>
> -hh

Hugh, you sum it all up with "Nah, I only need to have it figured out better than you do. " Your best solution is not anybody else's best solution. You just think it is to make you feel superior.

What does RMD income matter? It just shows I was successful in accumulating wealth. About half the income is pensions/Social Security. A big piece has become dividend funds in recent years. The rest is RMD. At this point stock appreciation has far outpaced RMD withdrawals. Based on historic stock returns I have another decade or so before %RMD hits even 7%. If the market keeps up until then I can always pay the taxes and put some back if I want to. But, who knows if I'll even need to fret over that?

I never said my dental bills make me a victim of a broken health insurance system. It's more than dental bills. Legal bills for trust revisions, unexpected bills for HVAC issues, fall property taxes, the trip west, and balance due on our Vail lift tickets all had to be paid over September/October. Well, the property tax is due November 15. After that the spend burn cools down again. Anyway, I keep a healthy checking/savings balance I am probably worrying because I have so little else to worry about.

As for Alan, his career as expressed on CSMA is a lie. Evidence that I have indicates that he has not been financially successful as a computer consultant. Yet he portrays a picture of expertise. Or maybe he is technically savvy, and treats customers the way he treats those who disagree with him in newsgroups.

As for the Paris Metro I know it VERY well. I don't need instructions. Roisey Bus-Red Line/Opera-Les Halles-Purple Line/Montparnasse Bienvenue-2 minute walk to the hotel. Then to Versailles, just the Green Line train. Did that a few years back. To anywhere in Paris just look at the map, and make sure you have a paper copy with you. Ce n’est pas un problème pour moi monsieur!

We will figure out the escalators when we get there. I don't remember many Metro stations with elevators.

On 2023-10-20 10:47, Thomas E. wrote:
> On Friday, October 20, 2023 at 9:48:08 AM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
>> On Thursday, October 19, 2023 at 12:16:56 PM UTC-4, Thomas E.
>> wrote:
>>> On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 5:30:17 PM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
>>>> On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 3:46:31 PM UTC-4, Thomas E.
>>>> wrote:
>>>>> On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 2:19:40 PM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
>>>>>> On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 8:33:08 AM UTC-4, Thomas E.
>>>>>> wrote:
>>>>>>> ... My main personal financial challenge this summer has
>>>>>>> been estate planning, including paperwork for funding
>>>>>>> revised trusts. And, my investment advisor changed firms
>>>>>>> and his staff made an error in the 401k transfer that is
>>>>>>> taking a while to fix. My retirement income is now about
>>>>>>> $20k a month
>>>>>>
>>>>>> With how much of that likely being due to being RMDs? 33%?
>>>>>> More?
>> (Hmm...)
>>>>>>> Having said that, recent expenses for estate planning,
>>>>>>> unplanned dental issues, and 2024 upfront travel payments
>>>>>>> have stretched the cash flow a bit. :)
>>>>>> ...
>>>>
>>>
>>> Idiot, If I sell my house I can buy something similar, a
>>> multi-bedroom condo, another house, or use the money to fund
>>> assisted living.
>> And since the same is the same for Alan too, why even mention
>> this?
>>> Alan faces major hurdles if he wants to get anything larger, but
>>> so do I.
>> "And since the same is the same for Alan too, why even mention
>> this?"
>>> The difference is I already own a roomy home, he is living in
>>> something on the order of my 2.5 car garage.
>> Which the Market says is still worth more than your place, so so
>> what? Its not like he's been expressing complaints about inadequate
>> living space, so other than to express your own feelings of
>> comparative inferiority, why do you care?
>>> No need to check the local Metro stations. The hotel is across
>>> the street from Gare Montparnasse with multiple Metro lines. I'll
>>> figure out the ticketing later.
>> Being proximate to major train stations has convenient transit
>> links, sure, but also downsides such as often more noise, business
>> establishments that many travelers find .. unsavory. Plus there's
>> also invariably more pickpockets looking to prey on tourists.
>>> We will be using RoisyBus to get to the hotel, after that all
>>> transfers are included.
>> Good choice IMO. Do take some time pre-departure to "map out" the
>> route from where the RoisyBus stops at Opera and how to get to the
>> Opera Metro entrance. Likewise, map out in advance the plan for the
>> Metro to get to your destination stop: which line, in which
>> direction (and what's the wrong direction), where to transfer, how
>> many stops en route, etc. FYI, the Opera station also has
>> staircases to navigate with one's luggage (I didn't bother looking
>> to see if there were any elevators).
>>
>>
>>> It was an expensive dentist bill, and another one coming in
>>> January.
>>
>> Took me a bit to find it:
>>
>> "Only those with victim disorder regard health care as broken." -
>> Tom Elam, Apr 28, 2023 [11:54:39 AM]
>>> But the major short-term stress is pre-pay for Canada and France
>>> trips. OTOH the cash is in savings, so it's just me fretting
>>> about it.
>> Reducing stress is what trip insurance is for (FYI, a $15K & 12
>> month policy from Allianz is just $1.5K)
>>> You have your preferences, I have mine. You seem to think you
>>> have it all figured out, and you do for yourself. Via la
>>> difference.
>> Nah, I only need to have it figured out better than you do.
>>
>>
>> -hh
>
> Hugh, you sum it all up with "Nah, I only need to have it figured out
> better than you do. " Your best solution is not anybody else's best
> solution. You just think it is to make you feel superior.

Irony, you lying little shit.

>
> As for Alan, his career as expressed on CSMA is a lie. Evidence that
> I have indicates that he has not been financially successful as a
> computer consultant. Yet he portrays a picture of expertise. Or maybe
> he is technically savvy, and treats customers the way he treats those
> who disagree with him in newsgroups.
Says the "man" who couldn't even read that I had figured out how to get
to "Devices and Printers"...

....and who called a LinkedIn page my "company website".

On Friday, October 20, 2023 at 2:01:11 PM UTC-4, Alan wrote:
> On 2023-10-20 10:47, Thomas E. wrote:
> > On Friday, October 20, 2023 at 9:48:08 AM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
> >> On Thursday, October 19, 2023 at 12:16:56 PM UTC-4, Thomas E.
> >> wrote:
> >>> On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 5:30:17 PM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
> >>>> On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 3:46:31 PM UTC-4, Thomas E.
> >>>> wrote:
> >>>>> On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 2:19:40 PM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
> >>>>>> On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 8:33:08 AM UTC-4, Thomas E.
> >>>>>> wrote:
> >>>>>>> ... My main personal financial challenge this summer has
> >>>>>>> been estate planning, including paperwork for funding
> >>>>>>> revised trusts. And, my investment advisor changed firms
> >>>>>>> and his staff made an error in the 401k transfer that is
> >>>>>>> taking a while to fix. My retirement income is now about
> >>>>>>> $20k a month
> >>>>>>
> >>>>>> With how much of that likely being due to being RMDs? 33%?
> >>>>>> More?
> >> (Hmm...)
> >>>>>>> Having said that, recent expenses for estate planning,
> >>>>>>> unplanned dental issues, and 2024 upfront travel payments
> >>>>>>> have stretched the cash flow a bit. :)
> >>>>>> ...
> >>>>
> >>>
> >>> Idiot, If I sell my house I can buy something similar, a
> >>> multi-bedroom condo, another house, or use the money to fund
> >>> assisted living.
> >> And since the same is the same for Alan too, why even mention
> >> this?
> >>> Alan faces major hurdles if he wants to get anything larger, but
> >>> so do I.
> >> "And since the same is the same for Alan too, why even mention
> >> this?"
> >>> The difference is I already own a roomy home, he is living in
> >>> something on the order of my 2.5 car garage.
> >> Which the Market says is still worth more than your place, so so
> >> what? Its not like he's been expressing complaints about inadequate
> >> living space, so other than to express your own feelings of
> >> comparative inferiority, why do you care?
> >>> No need to check the local Metro stations. The hotel is across
> >>> the street from Gare Montparnasse with multiple Metro lines. I'll
> >>> figure out the ticketing later.
> >> Being proximate to major train stations has convenient transit
> >> links, sure, but also downsides such as often more noise, business
> >> establishments that many travelers find .. unsavory. Plus there's
> >> also invariably more pickpockets looking to prey on tourists.
> >>> We will be using RoisyBus to get to the hotel, after that all
> >>> transfers are included.
> >> Good choice IMO. Do take some time pre-departure to "map out" the
> >> route from where the RoisyBus stops at Opera and how to get to the
> >> Opera Metro entrance. Likewise, map out in advance the plan for the
> >> Metro to get to your destination stop: which line, in which
> >> direction (and what's the wrong direction), where to transfer, how
> >> many stops en route, etc. FYI, the Opera station also has
> >> staircases to navigate with one's luggage (I didn't bother looking
> >> to see if there were any elevators).
> >>
> >>
> >>> It was an expensive dentist bill, and another one coming in
> >>> January.
> >>
> >> Took me a bit to find it:
> >>
> >> "Only those with victim disorder regard health care as broken." -
> >> Tom Elam, Apr 28, 2023 [11:54:39 AM]
> >>> But the major short-term stress is pre-pay for Canada and France
> >>> trips. OTOH the cash is in savings, so it's just me fretting
> >>> about it.
> >> Reducing stress is what trip insurance is for (FYI, a $15K & 12
> >> month policy from Allianz is just $1.5K)
> >>> You have your preferences, I have mine. You seem to think you
> >>> have it all figured out, and you do for yourself. Via la
> >>> difference.
> >> Nah, I only need to have it figured out better than you do.
> >>
> >>
> >> -hh
> >
> > Hugh, you sum it all up with "Nah, I only need to have it figured out
> > better than you do. " Your best solution is not anybody else's best
> > solution. You just think it is to make you feel superior.
> Irony, you lying little shit.
> >
> > As for Alan, his career as expressed on CSMA is a lie. Evidence that
> > I have indicates that he has not been financially successful as a
> > computer consultant. Yet he portrays a picture of expertise. Or maybe
> > he is technically savvy, and treats customers the way he treats those
> > who disagree with him in newsgroups.
> Says the "man" who couldn't even read that I had figured out how to get
> to "Devices and Printers"...
>
> ...and who called a LinkedIn page my "company website".

After I told you how. Now I just sent you instructions on how to open Control Panel and get to the Devices and Printer panel page you needed without opening Settings. You just want to bitch.

It is a pitiful excuse for a company presence. So is your URL site. I'll give you that.

I note you don't refute the lack of financial success claim.

And, I'm not the one who is supposed to be tech savvy, that's you. I never had any formal computer training or claimed to be a computer/software consultant. If I'm wrong in that arena well I'm not supposed to be good at it in the first place.

For me to believe that you are financially sound you need at least to clear up the matter I brought to your attention via email. I just checked again. Progress but not cleared.

On 2023-10-20 12:46, Thomas E. wrote:
> On Friday, October 20, 2023 at 2:01:11 PM UTC-4, Alan wrote:
>> On 2023-10-20 10:47, Thomas E. wrote:
>>> On Friday, October 20, 2023 at 9:48:08 AM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
>>>> On Thursday, October 19, 2023 at 12:16:56 PM UTC-4, Thomas E.
>>>> wrote:
>>>>> On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 5:30:17 PM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
>>>>>> On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 3:46:31 PM UTC-4, Thomas E.
>>>>>> wrote:
>>>>>>> On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 2:19:40 PM UTC-4, -hh
>>>>>>> wrote:
>>>>>>>> On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 8:33:08 AM UTC-4, Thomas
>>>>>>>> E. wrote:
>>>>>>>>> ... My main personal financial challenge this summer
>>>>>>>>> has been estate planning, including paperwork for
>>>>>>>>> funding revised trusts. And, my investment advisor
>>>>>>>>> changed firms and his staff made an error in the 401k
>>>>>>>>> transfer that is taking a while to fix. My retirement
>>>>>>>>> income is now about $20k a month
>>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>> With how much of that likely being due to being RMDs?
>>>>>>>> 33%? More?
>>>> (Hmm...)
>>>>>>>>> Having said that, recent expenses for estate
>>>>>>>>> planning, unplanned dental issues, and 2024 upfront
>>>>>>>>> travel payments have stretched the cash flow a bit.
>>>>>>>>> :)
>>>>>>>> ...
>>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>> Idiot, If I sell my house I can buy something similar, a
>>>>> multi-bedroom condo, another house, or use the money to fund
>>>>> assisted living.
>>>> And since the same is the same for Alan too, why even mention
>>>> this?
>>>>> Alan faces major hurdles if he wants to get anything larger,
>>>>> but so do I.
>>>> "And since the same is the same for Alan too, why even mention
>>>> this?"
>>>>> The difference is I already own a roomy home, he is living
>>>>> in something on the order of my 2.5 car garage.
>>>> Which the Market says is still worth more than your place, so
>>>> so what? Its not like he's been expressing complaints about
>>>> inadequate living space, so other than to express your own
>>>> feelings of comparative inferiority, why do you care?
>>>>> No need to check the local Metro stations. The hotel is
>>>>> across the street from Gare Montparnasse with multiple Metro
>>>>> lines. I'll figure out the ticketing later.
>>>> Being proximate to major train stations has convenient transit
>>>> links, sure, but also downsides such as often more noise,
>>>> business establishments that many travelers find .. unsavory.
>>>> Plus there's also invariably more pickpockets looking to prey
>>>> on tourists.
>>>>> We will be using RoisyBus to get to the hotel, after that
>>>>> all transfers are included.
>>>> Good choice IMO. Do take some time pre-departure to "map out"
>>>> the route from where the RoisyBus stops at Opera and how to get
>>>> to the Opera Metro entrance. Likewise, map out in advance the
>>>> plan for the Metro to get to your destination stop: which line,
>>>> in which direction (and what's the wrong direction), where to
>>>> transfer, how many stops en route, etc. FYI, the Opera station
>>>> also has staircases to navigate with one's luggage (I didn't
>>>> bother looking to see if there were any elevators).
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>> It was an expensive dentist bill, and another one coming in
>>>>> January.
>>>>
>>>> Took me a bit to find it:
>>>>
>>>> "Only those with victim disorder regard health care as broken."
>>>> - Tom Elam, Apr 28, 2023 [11:54:39 AM]
>>>>> But the major short-term stress is pre-pay for Canada and
>>>>> France trips. OTOH the cash is in savings, so it's just me
>>>>> fretting about it.
>>>> Reducing stress is what trip insurance is for (FYI, a $15K &
>>>> 12 month policy from Allianz is just $1.5K)
>>>>> You have your preferences, I have mine. You seem to think
>>>>> you have it all figured out, and you do for yourself. Via la
>>>>> difference.
>>>> Nah, I only need to have it figured out better than you do.
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> -hh
>>>
>>> Hugh, you sum it all up with "Nah, I only need to have it figured
>>> out better than you do. " Your best solution is not anybody
>>> else's best solution. You just think it is to make you feel
>>> superior.
>> Irony, you lying little shit.
>>>
>>> As for Alan, his career as expressed on CSMA is a lie. Evidence
>>> that I have indicates that he has not been financially successful
>>> as a computer consultant. Yet he portrays a picture of expertise.
>>> Or maybe he is technically savvy, and treats customers the way he
>>> treats those who disagree with him in newsgroups.
>> Says the "man" who couldn't even read that I had figured out how to
>> get to "Devices and Printers"...
>>
>> ...and who called a LinkedIn page my "company website".
>
> After I told you how.

That's simply another lie from a lying little shit.

My post showing that I did open Devices and Printers precedes your post,
little shit.

So explain how "After" works in that claim.

> Now I just sent you instructions on how to open Control Panel and get
> to the Devices and Printer panel page you needed without opening
> Settings. You just want to bitch.

I just wanted to express my frustration with yet more functionality
broken for no good reason.

>
> It is a pitiful excuse for a company presence. So is your URL site.
> I'll give you that.

I note you don't refute that you erroneously referred to a page at
LinkedIn as my "company website".

>
> I note you don't refute the lack of financial success claim.
>
> And, I'm not the one who is supposed to be tech savvy, that's you. I
> never had any formal computer training or claimed to be a
> computer/software consultant. If I'm wrong in that arena well I'm not
> supposed to be good at it in the first place.
>
> For me to believe that you are financially sound you need at least to
> clear up the matter I brought to your attention via email. I just
> checked again. Progress but not cleared.

I'll clear it up in person.

On Friday, October 20, 2023 at 1:47:07 PM UTC-4, Thomas E. wrote:
> On Friday, October 20, 2023 at 9:48:08 AM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
> > On Thursday, October 19, 2023 at 12:16:56 PM UTC-4, Thomas E. wrote:
> > > On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 5:30:17 PM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
> > > > On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 3:46:31 PM UTC-4, Thomas E. wrote:
> > > > > On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 2:19:40 PM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
> > > > > > On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 8:33:08 AM UTC-4, Thomas E. wrote:
> > > > > > > ...
> > > > > > > My main personal financial challenge this summer has been estate planning, including paperwork
> > > > > > > for funding revised trusts. And, my investment advisor changed firms and his staff made an error
> > > > > > > in the 401k transfer that is taking a while to fix. My retirement income is now about $20k a month
> > > > > >
> > > > > > With how much of that likely being due to being RMDs? 33%? More?
> > (Hmm...)
> > > > > > > Having said that, recent expenses for estate planning, unplanned dental issues, and
> > > > > > > 2024 upfront travel payments have stretched the cash flow a bit. :)
> > > > > > ...
> > > >
> > >
> > > Idiot, If I sell my house I can buy something similar, a multi-bedroom condo, another house,
> > > or use the money to fund assisted living.
> > And since the same is the same for Alan too, why even mention this?
> > > Alan faces major hurdles if he wants to get anything larger, but so do I.
> > "And since the same is the same for Alan too, why even mention this?"
> > > The difference is I already own a roomy home, he is living in something on the order of my 2.5 car garage.
> > Which the Market says is still worth more than your place, so so what? Its not like he's been
> > expressing complaints about inadequate living space, so other than to express your own feelings
> > of comparative inferiority, why do you care?
> > > No need to check the local Metro stations. The hotel is across the street from Gare Montparnasse
> > > with multiple Metro lines. I'll figure out the ticketing later.
> > Being proximate to major train stations has convenient transit links, sure, but also downsides
> > such as often more noise, business establishments that many travelers find .. unsavory.
> > Plus there's also invariably more pickpockets looking to prey on tourists.
> > > We will be using RoisyBus to get to the hotel, after that all transfers are included.
> > Good choice IMO. Do take some time pre-departure to "map out" the route from where
> > the RoisyBus stops at Opera and how to get to the Opera Metro entrance. Likewise, map
> > out in advance the plan for the Metro to get to your destination stop: which line, in which
> > direction (and what's the wrong direction), where to transfer, how many stops en route, etc.
> > FYI, the Opera station also has staircases to navigate with one's luggage (I didn't bother
> > looking to see if there were any elevators).
> >
> >
> > > It was an expensive dentist bill, and another one coming in January.
> >
> > Took me a bit to find it:
> >
> > "Only those with victim disorder regard health care as broken."
> > - Tom Elam, Apr 28, 2023 [11:54:39 AM]
> > > But the major short-term stress is pre-pay for Canada and France trips.
> > > OTOH the cash is in savings, so it's just me fretting about it.
> > Reducing stress is what trip insurance is for
> > (FYI, a $15K & 12 month policy from Allianz is just $1.5K)
> > > You have your preferences, I have mine. You seem to think you have it all figured out,
> > > and you do for yourself. Via la difference.
> > Nah, I only need to have it figured out better than you do.
> >
> >
> > -hh
> Hugh, you sum it all up with "Nah, I only need to have it figured out better than you do. "

Merely because that suffices to deflate your puffed up ego.

> Your best solution is not anybody else's best solution. You just think it is to make you feel superior.

Nah, unlike you, I’m not trying to brag about being the best.

> What does RMD income matter?

For one thing, RMDs are taxed as ordinary income, rather than lower rates
such as via LTCG, so it merits a temporal optimization analysis to see about
strategies to minimize income taxes due, rather than just ignoring it.

> It just shows I was successful in accumulating wealth.

Which we’ve already been unnecessarily been told about, ad nauseam.

> About half the income is pensions/Social Security. A big piece has become
> dividend funds in recent years. The rest is RMD.

> At this point stock appreciation has far outpaced RMD withdrawals. Based on historic stock returns I have another decade or so before %RMD hits even 7%.

> If the market keeps up until then I can always pay the taxes and put some back
> if I want to. But, who knows if I'll even need to fret over that?

> I never said my dental bills make me a victim of a broken health insurance system.

No, you said that my comment which noted that they’re expensive means I was trying
to be a victim, while I never actually complaining about such personal expenses:
I was explicitly commenting on how US healthcare is broken to cause such high expenses.

> It's more than dental bills. Legal bills for trust revisions, unexpected bills for HVAC issues,
> fall property taxes, the trip west, and balance due on our Vail lift tickets all had to be paid
> over September/October. Well, the property tax is due November 15. After that the spend
> burn cools down again.

Where the trust revisions, property taxes, and vacation costs are all very clearly highly
discretionary and/or highly predictable, leaving just dental & HVAC as budget “surprises”.

> Anyway, I keep a healthy checking/savings balance I am probably worrying because
> I have so little else to worry about.

Where “healthy” is still low enough that you get stressed over something sub-$10K… /s

> As for Alan, …

Except for how it’s yet another burr under your saddle, cowboy…irrelevant.

> As for the Paris Metro I know it VERY well. I don't need instructions.

Even when jet-lagged? Given your whines about airfare costs, for you to be
paying for Business Class is more than just a tad unlikely.

> Roisey Bus-Red Line/Opera-Les Halles-Purple Line/Montparnasse Bienvenue-
> 2 minute walk to the hotel.

Figure 30 minutes.

> Then to Versailles, just the Green Line train. Did that a few years back.

Green Line goes to Versailles Chantiers, not Versailles Château Rive Gauche.
The Yellow RER-C to Rive Gauche cuts off a kilometer (each way) of walking.

> To anywhere in Paris just look at the map, and make sure you have a paper
> copy with you. Ce n’est pas un problème pour moi monsieur!

I so like to still have a crib sheet for planning, but there’s iPhone Apps today which
make it much easier, especially while on the fly. Plus there’s tools now that help
to ID the optimal exit to use based on where you’re going after you get off.
But you be you.

> We will figure out the escalators when we get there. I don't remember
> many Metro stations with elevators.

I wasn’t referencing escalators, but rather that there’s sections which totally lack
any automation for elevation changes: just straight-up staircases to lug up/down.
You or I may implicitly understand these, but you did mention that you’re traveling
with two who’ve never been there before, so “forewarned is forearmed” applies.

-hh

On 2023-10-20 15:17, -hh wrote:
>> As for Alan, …
> Except for how it’s yet another burr under your saddle, cowboy…irrelevant.

To the point where he's now stalking me, and emailing me (this morning):

'BTW, the contact form at About/Contact – BakerMEDIA is broken. Thus the
direct email. Don't get much traffic on that site?'

And it's not the first time. September 1, 2020:

'(Subject: "https://www.vrcbc.ca/classified/") Maybe you should take the
ad down if your car found a home? If not, that explains a lot.'

Complete with vague threats:

'If you your address is still the condo number where the company site is
registered I have something I need to mail to you. It’s for your own good.'

On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 5:30:17 PM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
> On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 3:46:31 PM UTC-4, Thomas E. wrote:
> > ...
> > No advice required from you.
>
> Was just there last December. The post-CoVid experience is different; do your research well.
>
> > Ever dined at L'Ilot Vache, Ile de la Cite?
>
> Nope. Given its mixed 2023 TripAdvisor reviews, I’d probably not make any extra effort.
> I do have one Art Deco place I’ve been trying to relocate; need to find the postcard I kept.

Happened to have found it while searching for some other stuff:

It was "La Fermette Marbeuf", at 5, rue Marbeuf in the 8éme (Right Bank)...and it apparently
was more famous than I was aware of...has its own Wiki page, as the main '1900' room is
a designated Historical Monument in France:

<https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/La_Fermette_Marbeuf>

I also figured out why I wasn't able to spot it in some Google Map Street View searches that
I'd been trying at times; it turns out that its main façade was changed in ~2018 when the original
restaurant changed, so with the big dark green canopies gone, it looks very different now:

Was: <https://maps.app.goo.gl/rufXZhVNhaqWTyWZ9>
Now: <https://maps.app.goo.gl/qVasXJrtyWR5JCbQ7>

Fortunately, the interior remains intact, so AFAIC, its still worth a visit..

-hh

On Friday, October 20, 2023 at 4:07:06 PM UTC-4, Alan wrote:
> On 2023-10-20 12:46, Thomas E. wrote:
> > On Friday, October 20, 2023 at 2:01:11 PM UTC-4, Alan wrote:
> >> On 2023-10-20 10:47, Thomas E. wrote:
> >>> On Friday, October 20, 2023 at 9:48:08 AM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
> >>>> On Thursday, October 19, 2023 at 12:16:56 PM UTC-4, Thomas E..
> >>>> wrote:
> >>>>> On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 5:30:17 PM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
> >>>>>> On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 3:46:31 PM UTC-4, Thomas E.
> >>>>>> wrote:
> >>>>>>> On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 2:19:40 PM UTC-4, -hh
> >>>>>>> wrote:
> >>>>>>>> On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 8:33:08 AM UTC-4, Thomas
> >>>>>>>> E. wrote:
> >>>>>>>>> ... My main personal financial challenge this summer
> >>>>>>>>> has been estate planning, including paperwork for
> >>>>>>>>> funding revised trusts. And, my investment advisor
> >>>>>>>>> changed firms and his staff made an error in the 401k
> >>>>>>>>> transfer that is taking a while to fix. My retirement
> >>>>>>>>> income is now about $20k a month
> >>>>>>>>
> >>>>>>>> With how much of that likely being due to being RMDs?
> >>>>>>>> 33%? More?
> >>>> (Hmm...)
> >>>>>>>>> Having said that, recent expenses for estate
> >>>>>>>>> planning, unplanned dental issues, and 2024 upfront
> >>>>>>>>> travel payments have stretched the cash flow a bit.
> >>>>>>>>> :)
> >>>>>>>> ...
> >>>>>>
> >>>>>
> >>>>> Idiot, If I sell my house I can buy something similar, a
> >>>>> multi-bedroom condo, another house, or use the money to fund
> >>>>> assisted living.
> >>>> And since the same is the same for Alan too, why even mention
> >>>> this?
> >>>>> Alan faces major hurdles if he wants to get anything larger,
> >>>>> but so do I.
> >>>> "And since the same is the same for Alan too, why even mention
> >>>> this?"
> >>>>> The difference is I already own a roomy home, he is living
> >>>>> in something on the order of my 2.5 car garage.
> >>>> Which the Market says is still worth more than your place, so
> >>>> so what? Its not like he's been expressing complaints about
> >>>> inadequate living space, so other than to express your own
> >>>> feelings of comparative inferiority, why do you care?
> >>>>> No need to check the local Metro stations. The hotel is
> >>>>> across the street from Gare Montparnasse with multiple Metro
> >>>>> lines. I'll figure out the ticketing later.
> >>>> Being proximate to major train stations has convenient transit
> >>>> links, sure, but also downsides such as often more noise,
> >>>> business establishments that many travelers find .. unsavory.
> >>>> Plus there's also invariably more pickpockets looking to prey
> >>>> on tourists.
> >>>>> We will be using RoisyBus to get to the hotel, after that
> >>>>> all transfers are included.
> >>>> Good choice IMO. Do take some time pre-departure to "map out"
> >>>> the route from where the RoisyBus stops at Opera and how to get
> >>>> to the Opera Metro entrance. Likewise, map out in advance the
> >>>> plan for the Metro to get to your destination stop: which line,
> >>>> in which direction (and what's the wrong direction), where to
> >>>> transfer, how many stops en route, etc. FYI, the Opera station
> >>>> also has staircases to navigate with one's luggage (I didn't
> >>>> bother looking to see if there were any elevators).
> >>>>
> >>>>
> >>>>> It was an expensive dentist bill, and another one coming in
> >>>>> January.
> >>>>
> >>>> Took me a bit to find it:
> >>>>
> >>>> "Only those with victim disorder regard health care as broken."
> >>>> - Tom Elam, Apr 28, 2023 [11:54:39 AM]
> >>>>> But the major short-term stress is pre-pay for Canada and
> >>>>> France trips. OTOH the cash is in savings, so it's just me
> >>>>> fretting about it.
> >>>> Reducing stress is what trip insurance is for (FYI, a $15K &
> >>>> 12 month policy from Allianz is just $1.5K)
> >>>>> You have your preferences, I have mine. You seem to think
> >>>>> you have it all figured out, and you do for yourself. Via la
> >>>>> difference.
> >>>> Nah, I only need to have it figured out better than you do.
> >>>>
> >>>>
> >>>> -hh
> >>>
> >>> Hugh, you sum it all up with "Nah, I only need to have it figured
> >>> out better than you do. " Your best solution is not anybody
> >>> else's best solution. You just think it is to make you feel
> >>> superior.
> >> Irony, you lying little shit.
> >>>
> >>> As for Alan, his career as expressed on CSMA is a lie. Evidence
> >>> that I have indicates that he has not been financially successful
> >>> as a computer consultant. Yet he portrays a picture of expertise.
> >>> Or maybe he is technically savvy, and treats customers the way he
> >>> treats those who disagree with him in newsgroups.
> >> Says the "man" who couldn't even read that I had figured out how to
> >> get to "Devices and Printers"...
> >>
> >> ...and who called a LinkedIn page my "company website".
> >
> > After I told you how.
> That's simply another lie from a lying little shit.
>
> My post showing that I did open Devices and Printers precedes your post,
> little shit.
>
> So explain how "After" works in that claim.
> > Now I just sent you instructions on how to open Control Panel and get
> > to the Devices and Printer panel page you needed without opening
> > Settings. You just want to bitch.
> I just wanted to express my frustration with yet more functionality
> broken for no good reason.
> >
> > It is a pitiful excuse for a company presence. So is your URL site.
> > I'll give you that.
> I note you don't refute that you erroneously referred to a page at
> LinkedIn as my "company website".
> >
> > I note you don't refute the lack of financial success claim.
> >
> > And, I'm not the one who is supposed to be tech savvy, that's you. I
> > never had any formal computer training or claimed to be a
> > computer/software consultant. If I'm wrong in that arena well I'm not
> > supposed to be good at it in the first place.
> >
> > For me to believe that you are financially sound you need at least to
> > clear up the matter I brought to your attention via email. I just
> > checked again. Progress but not cleared.
> I'll clear it up in person.

Alan, here is your original post:

<start quote>

Oct 14, 2023, 6:35:36 PM (11 days ago)

Windows 11 continues Microsoft's slow deprecation of Control Panel...

....but they're doing a terrible job of it.

I had a climate call me because he was unable to print from Chrome or
Edge, and I quickly learned that you can no longer go to "Devices and
Printers" in Control Panel to remove and re-install printers.

You get immediately shunted to Settings.

Except, in Settings' interface to your printers, you can end up with
entries YOU CAN'T REMOVE.

Normally, you click on the entry for a printer (there's a ">" character
at the right end of the line) and that leads you to a page of settings
specific to that printer.

But this guy had the same printer listed FIVE times and only two of them
had that ">", and the other three wouldn't respond to a click in any
way. "Troubleshooting" was no use, because it only showed two copies of
the printer, and not the ones that I couldn't access.

On Friday, October 20, 2023 at 6:54:04 PM UTC-4, Alan wrote:
> On 2023-10-20 15:17, -hh wrote:
> >> As for Alan, …
> > Except for how it’s yet another burr under your saddle, cowboy…irrelevant.
> To the point where he's now stalking me, and emailing me (this morning):
>
> 'BTW, the contact form at About/Contact – BakerMEDIA is broken. Thus the
> direct email. Don't get much traffic on that site?'
>
> And it's not the first time. September 1, 2020:
>
> '(Subject: "https://www.vrcbc.ca/classified/") Maybe you should take the
> ad down if your car found a home? If not, that explains a lot.'
>
>
> Complete with vague threats:
>
> 'If you your address is still the condo number where the company site is
> registered I have something I need to mail to you. It’s for your own good.'

The link you supplied does not mention you. It was not a threat, I was trying to be helpful.

On Friday, October 20, 2023 at 6:17:51 PM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
> On Friday, October 20, 2023 at 1:47:07 PM UTC-4, Thomas E. wrote:
> > On Friday, October 20, 2023 at 9:48:08 AM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
> > > On Thursday, October 19, 2023 at 12:16:56 PM UTC-4, Thomas E. wrote:
> > > > On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 5:30:17 PM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
> > > > > On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 3:46:31 PM UTC-4, Thomas E.. wrote:
> > > > > > On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 2:19:40 PM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
> > > > > > > On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 8:33:08 AM UTC-4, Thomas E. wrote:
> > > > > > > > ...
> > > > > > > > My main personal financial challenge this summer has been estate planning, including paperwork
> > > > > > > > for funding revised trusts. And, my investment advisor changed firms and his staff made an error
> > > > > > > > in the 401k transfer that is taking a while to fix. My retirement income is now about $20k a month
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > With how much of that likely being due to being RMDs? 33%? More?
> > > (Hmm...)
> > > > > > > > Having said that, recent expenses for estate planning, unplanned dental issues, and
> > > > > > > > 2024 upfront travel payments have stretched the cash flow a bit. :)
> > > > > > > ...
> > > > >
> > > >
> > > > Idiot, If I sell my house I can buy something similar, a multi-bedroom condo, another house,
> > > > or use the money to fund assisted living.
> > > And since the same is the same for Alan too, why even mention this?
> > > > Alan faces major hurdles if he wants to get anything larger, but so do I.
> > > "And since the same is the same for Alan too, why even mention this?"
> > > > The difference is I already own a roomy home, he is living in something on the order of my 2.5 car garage.
> > > Which the Market says is still worth more than your place, so so what? Its not like he's been
> > > expressing complaints about inadequate living space, so other than to express your own feelings
> > > of comparative inferiority, why do you care?
> > > > No need to check the local Metro stations. The hotel is across the street from Gare Montparnasse
> > > > with multiple Metro lines. I'll figure out the ticketing later.
> > > Being proximate to major train stations has convenient transit links, sure, but also downsides
> > > such as often more noise, business establishments that many travelers find .. unsavory.
> > > Plus there's also invariably more pickpockets looking to prey on tourists.
> > > > We will be using RoisyBus to get to the hotel, after that all transfers are included.
> > > Good choice IMO. Do take some time pre-departure to "map out" the route from where
> > > the RoisyBus stops at Opera and how to get to the Opera Metro entrance. Likewise, map
> > > out in advance the plan for the Metro to get to your destination stop: which line, in which
> > > direction (and what's the wrong direction), where to transfer, how many stops en route, etc.
> > > FYI, the Opera station also has staircases to navigate with one's luggage (I didn't bother
> > > looking to see if there were any elevators).
> > >
> > >
> > > > It was an expensive dentist bill, and another one coming in January..
> > >
> > > Took me a bit to find it:
> > >
> > > "Only those with victim disorder regard health care as broken."
> > > - Tom Elam, Apr 28, 2023 [11:54:39 AM]
> > > > But the major short-term stress is pre-pay for Canada and France trips.
> > > > OTOH the cash is in savings, so it's just me fretting about it.
> > > Reducing stress is what trip insurance is for
> > > (FYI, a $15K & 12 month policy from Allianz is just $1.5K)
> > > > You have your preferences, I have mine. You seem to think you have it all figured out,
> > > > and you do for yourself. Via la difference.
> > > Nah, I only need to have it figured out better than you do.
> > >
> > >
> > > -hh
> > Hugh, you sum it all up with "Nah, I only need to have it figured out better than you do. "
> Merely because that suffices to deflate your puffed up ego.
> > Your best solution is not anybody else's best solution. You just think it is to make you feel superior.
> Nah, unlike you, I’m not trying to brag about being the best.
> > What does RMD income matter?
> For one thing, RMDs are taxed as ordinary income, rather than lower rates
> such as via LTCG, so it merits a temporal optimization analysis to see about
> strategies to minimize income taxes due, rather than just ignoring it.
> > It just shows I was successful in accumulating wealth.
> Which we’ve already been unnecessarily been told about, ad nauseam.
> > About half the income is pensions/Social Security. A big piece has become
> > dividend funds in recent years. The rest is RMD.
>
> > At this point stock appreciation has far outpaced RMD withdrawals. Based on historic stock returns I have another decade or so before %RMD hits even 7%.
>
> > If the market keeps up until then I can always pay the taxes and put some back
> > if I want to. But, who knows if I'll even need to fret over that?
>
>
> > I never said my dental bills make me a victim of a broken health insurance system.
> No, you said that my comment which noted that they’re expensive means I was trying
> to be a victim, while I never actually complaining about such personal expenses:
> I was explicitly commenting on how US healthcare is broken to cause such high expenses.
> > It's more than dental bills. Legal bills for trust revisions, unexpected bills for HVAC issues,
> > fall property taxes, the trip west, and balance due on our Vail lift tickets all had to be paid
> > over September/October. Well, the property tax is due November 15. After that the spend
> > burn cools down again.
> Where the trust revisions, property taxes, and vacation costs are all very clearly highly
> discretionary and/or highly predictable, leaving just dental & HVAC as budget “surprises”.
> > Anyway, I keep a healthy checking/savings balance I am probably worrying because
> > I have so little else to worry about.
> Where “healthy” is still low enough that you get stressed over something sub-$10K… /s
>
> > As for Alan, …
>
> Except for how it’s yet another burr under your saddle, cowboy…irrelevant.
> > As for the Paris Metro I know it VERY well. I don't need instructions.
> Even when jet-lagged? Given your whines about airfare costs, for you to be
> paying for Business Class is more than just a tad unlikely.
> > Roisey Bus-Red Line/Opera-Les Halles-Purple Line/Montparnasse Bienvenue-
> > 2 minute walk to the hotel.
> Figure 30 minutes.
> > Then to Versailles, just the Green Line train. Did that a few years back.
> Green Line goes to Versailles Chantiers, not Versailles Château Rive Gauche.
> The Yellow RER-C to Rive Gauche cuts off a kilometer (each way) of walking.
> > To anywhere in Paris just look at the map, and make sure you have a paper
> > copy with you. Ce n’est pas un problème pour moi monsieur!
> I so like to still have a crib sheet for planning, but there’s iPhone Apps today which
> make it much easier, especially while on the fly. Plus there’s tools now that help
> to ID the optimal exit to use based on where you’re going after you get off.
> But you be you.
> > We will figure out the escalators when we get there. I don't remember
> > many Metro stations with elevators.
> I wasn’t referencing escalators, but rather that there’s sections which totally lack
> any automation for elevation changes: just straight-up staircases to lug up/down.
> You or I may implicitly understand these, but you did mention that you’re traveling
> with two who’ve never been there before, so “forewarned is forearmed” applies.
>
> -hh

Like I said we will figure it out when we get there. If they don't want to go Metro with the baggage we will get a taxi. The hotel's Metro station is literally across the street from the hotel, which sets us up nicely for touring the city.

Yes, my RMD income is ordinary income. But it's been accumulating with no taxes paid on contributions and earnings since I started the program in 1982.. I don't need any formal analysis to know that putting that money back for current income at age 77 was a good idea.

On Thursday, October 26, 2023 at 9:21:07 AM UTC-4, Thomas E. wrote:
> On Friday, October 20, 2023 at 6:17:51 PM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
> > On Friday, October 20, 2023 at 1:47:07 PM UTC-4, Thomas E. wrote:
> > > On Friday, October 20, 2023 at 9:48:08 AM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
> > > > On Thursday, October 19, 2023 at 12:16:56 PM UTC-4, Thomas E. wrote:
> > > > > On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 5:30:17 PM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
> > > > > > On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 3:46:31 PM UTC-4, Thomas E. wrote:
> > > > > > > On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 2:19:40 PM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
> > > > > > > > On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 8:33:08 AM UTC-4, Thomas E. wrote:
> > > > > > > > > ...
> > > > > > > > > My main personal financial challenge this summer has been estate planning, including paperwork
> > > > > > > > > for funding revised trusts. And, my investment advisor changed firms and his staff made an error
> > > > > > > > > in the 401k transfer that is taking a while to fix. My retirement income is now about $20k a month
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > With how much of that likely being due to being RMDs? 33%? More?
> > > > (Hmm...)
> > > > > > > > > Having said that, recent expenses for estate planning, unplanned dental issues, and
> > > > > > > > > 2024 upfront travel payments have stretched the cash flow a bit. :)
> > > > > > > > ...
> > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > Idiot, If I sell my house I can buy something similar, a multi-bedroom condo, another house,
> > > > > or use the money to fund assisted living.
> > > > And since the same is the same for Alan too, why even mention this?
> > > > > Alan faces major hurdles if he wants to get anything larger, but so do I.
> > > > "And since the same is the same for Alan too, why even mention this?"
> > > > > The difference is I already own a roomy home, he is living in something on the order of my 2.5 car garage.
> > > > Which the Market says is still worth more than your place, so so what? Its not like he's been
> > > > expressing complaints about inadequate living space, so other than to express your own feelings
> > > > of comparative inferiority, why do you care?
> > > > > No need to check the local Metro stations. The hotel is across the street from Gare Montparnasse
> > > > > with multiple Metro lines. I'll figure out the ticketing later.
> > > > Being proximate to major train stations has convenient transit links, sure, but also downsides
> > > > such as often more noise, business establishments that many travelers find .. unsavory.
> > > > Plus there's also invariably more pickpockets looking to prey on tourists.
> > > > > We will be using RoisyBus to get to the hotel, after that all transfers are included.
> > > > Good choice IMO. Do take some time pre-departure to "map out" the route from where
> > > > the RoisyBus stops at Opera and how to get to the Opera Metro entrance. Likewise, map
> > > > out in advance the plan for the Metro to get to your destination stop: which line, in which
> > > > direction (and what's the wrong direction), where to transfer, how many stops en route, etc.
> > > > FYI, the Opera station also has staircases to navigate with one's luggage (I didn't bother
> > > > looking to see if there were any elevators).
> > > >
> > > >
> > > > > It was an expensive dentist bill, and another one coming in January.
> > > >
> > > > Took me a bit to find it:
> > > >
> > > > "Only those with victim disorder regard health care as broken."
> > > > - Tom Elam, Apr 28, 2023 [11:54:39 AM]
> > > > > But the major short-term stress is pre-pay for Canada and France trips.
> > > > > OTOH the cash is in savings, so it's just me fretting about it.
> > > > Reducing stress is what trip insurance is for
> > > > (FYI, a $15K & 12 month policy from Allianz is just $1.5K)
> > > > > You have your preferences, I have mine. You seem to think you have it all figured out,
> > > > > and you do for yourself. Via la difference.
> > > > Nah, I only need to have it figured out better than you do.
> > > >
> > > >
> > > > -hh
> > >
> > > Hugh, you sum it all up with "Nah, I only need to have it figured out better than you do. "
> >
> > Merely because that suffices to deflate your puffed up ego.
> >
> > > Your best solution is not anybody else's best solution. You just think it is to make you feel superior.
> >
> > Nah, unlike you, I’m not trying to brag about being the best.
> >
> > > What does RMD income matter?
> >
> > For one thing, RMDs are taxed as ordinary income, rather than lower rates
> > such as via LTCG, so it merits a temporal optimization analysis to see about
> > strategies to minimize income taxes due, rather than just ignoring it.
> >
> > > It just shows I was successful in accumulating wealth.
> >
> > Which we’ve already been unnecessarily been told about, ad nauseam.
> >
> > > About half the income is pensions/Social Security. A big piece has become
> > > dividend funds in recent years. The rest is RMD.
> >
> > > At this point stock appreciation has far outpaced RMD withdrawals. Based on
> > > historic stock returns I have another decade or so before %RMD hits even 7%.
> >
> > > If the market keeps up until then I can always pay the taxes and put some back
> > > if I want to. But, who knows if I'll even need to fret over that?
> >
> >
> > > I never said my dental bills make me a victim of a broken health insurance system.
> >
> > No, you said that my comment which noted that they’re expensive means I was trying
> > to be a victim, while I never actually complaining about such personal expenses:
> > I was explicitly commenting on how US healthcare is broken to cause such high expenses.
> >
> > > It's more than dental bills. Legal bills for trust revisions, unexpected bills for HVAC issues,
> > > fall property taxes, the trip west, and balance due on our Vail lift tickets all had to be paid
> > > over September/October. Well, the property tax is due November 15. After that the spend
> > > burn cools down again.
> >
> > Where the trust revisions, property taxes, and vacation costs are all very clearly highly
> > discretionary and/or highly predictable, leaving just dental & HVAC as budget “surprises”.
> >
> > > Anyway, I keep a healthy checking/savings balance I am probably worrying because
> > > I have so little else to worry about.
> >
> > Where “healthy” is still low enough that you get stressed over something sub-$10K… /s
> >
> > > As for Alan, …
> >
> > Except for how it’s yet another burr under your saddle, cowboy…irrelevant.
> >
> > > As for the Paris Metro I know it VERY well. I don't need instructions..
> >
> > Even when jet-lagged? Given your whines about airfare costs, for you to be
> > paying for Business Class is more than just a tad unlikely.
> >
> > > Roisey Bus-Red Line/Opera-Les Halles-Purple Line/Montparnasse Bienvenue-
> > > 2 minute walk to the hotel.
> > Figure 30 minutes.
> >
> > > Then to Versailles, just the Green Line train. Did that a few years back.
> >
> > Green Line goes to Versailles Chantiers, not Versailles Château Rive Gauche.
> > The Yellow RER-C to Rive Gauche cuts off a kilometer (each way) of walking.
> > > To anywhere in Paris just look at the map, and make sure you have a paper
> > > copy with you. Ce n’est pas un problème pour moi monsieur!
> >
> > I so like to still have a crib sheet for planning, but there’s iPhone Apps today which
> > make it much easier, especially while on the fly. Plus there’s tools now that help
> > to ID the optimal exit to use based on where you’re going after you get off.
> > But you be you.
> >
> > > We will figure out the escalators when we get there. I don't remember
> > > many Metro stations with elevators.
> > I wasn’t referencing escalators, but rather that there’s sections which totally lack
> > any automation for elevation changes: just straight-up staircases to lug up/down.
> > You or I may implicitly understand these, but you did mention that you’re traveling
> > with two who’ve never been there before, so “forewarned is forearmed” applies.
>
> Like I said we will figure it out when we get there.

On 2023-10-26 05:58, Thomas E. wrote:
> On Friday, October 20, 2023 at 4:07:06 PM UTC-4, Alan wrote:
>> On 2023-10-20 12:46, Thomas E. wrote:
>>> On Friday, October 20, 2023 at 2:01:11 PM UTC-4, Alan wrote:
>>>> On 2023-10-20 10:47, Thomas E. wrote:
>>>>> On Friday, October 20, 2023 at 9:48:08 AM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
>>>>>> On Thursday, October 19, 2023 at 12:16:56 PM UTC-4, Thomas E.
>>>>>> wrote:
>>>>>>> On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 5:30:17 PM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
>>>>>>>> On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 3:46:31 PM UTC-4, Thomas E.
>>>>>>>> wrote:
>>>>>>>>> On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 2:19:40 PM UTC-4, -hh
>>>>>>>>> wrote:
>>>>>>>>>> On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 8:33:08 AM UTC-4, Thomas
>>>>>>>>>> E. wrote:
>>>>>>>>>>> ... My main personal financial challenge this summer
>>>>>>>>>>> has been estate planning, including paperwork for
>>>>>>>>>>> funding revised trusts. And, my investment advisor
>>>>>>>>>>> changed firms and his staff made an error in the 401k
>>>>>>>>>>> transfer that is taking a while to fix. My retirement
>>>>>>>>>>> income is now about $20k a month
>>>>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>>>> With how much of that likely being due to being RMDs?
>>>>>>>>>> 33%? More?
>>>>>> (Hmm...)
>>>>>>>>>>> Having said that, recent expenses for estate
>>>>>>>>>>> planning, unplanned dental issues, and 2024 upfront
>>>>>>>>>>> travel payments have stretched the cash flow a bit.
>>>>>>>>>>> :)
>>>>>>>>>> ...
>>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>> Idiot, If I sell my house I can buy something similar, a
>>>>>>> multi-bedroom condo, another house, or use the money to fund
>>>>>>> assisted living.
>>>>>> And since the same is the same for Alan too, why even mention
>>>>>> this?
>>>>>>> Alan faces major hurdles if he wants to get anything larger,
>>>>>>> but so do I.
>>>>>> "And since the same is the same for Alan too, why even mention
>>>>>> this?"
>>>>>>> The difference is I already own a roomy home, he is living
>>>>>>> in something on the order of my 2.5 car garage.
>>>>>> Which the Market says is still worth more than your place, so
>>>>>> so what? Its not like he's been expressing complaints about
>>>>>> inadequate living space, so other than to express your own
>>>>>> feelings of comparative inferiority, why do you care?
>>>>>>> No need to check the local Metro stations. The hotel is
>>>>>>> across the street from Gare Montparnasse with multiple Metro
>>>>>>> lines. I'll figure out the ticketing later.
>>>>>> Being proximate to major train stations has convenient transit
>>>>>> links, sure, but also downsides such as often more noise,
>>>>>> business establishments that many travelers find .. unsavory.
>>>>>> Plus there's also invariably more pickpockets looking to prey
>>>>>> on tourists.
>>>>>>> We will be using RoisyBus to get to the hotel, after that
>>>>>>> all transfers are included.
>>>>>> Good choice IMO. Do take some time pre-departure to "map out"
>>>>>> the route from where the RoisyBus stops at Opera and how to get
>>>>>> to the Opera Metro entrance. Likewise, map out in advance the
>>>>>> plan for the Metro to get to your destination stop: which line,
>>>>>> in which direction (and what's the wrong direction), where to
>>>>>> transfer, how many stops en route, etc. FYI, the Opera station
>>>>>> also has staircases to navigate with one's luggage (I didn't
>>>>>> bother looking to see if there were any elevators).
>>>>>>
>>>>>>
>>>>>>> It was an expensive dentist bill, and another one coming in
>>>>>>> January.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> Took me a bit to find it:
>>>>>>
>>>>>> "Only those with victim disorder regard health care as broken."
>>>>>> - Tom Elam, Apr 28, 2023 [11:54:39 AM]
>>>>>>> But the major short-term stress is pre-pay for Canada and
>>>>>>> France trips. OTOH the cash is in savings, so it's just me
>>>>>>> fretting about it.
>>>>>> Reducing stress is what trip insurance is for (FYI, a $15K &
>>>>>> 12 month policy from Allianz is just $1.5K)
>>>>>>> You have your preferences, I have mine. You seem to think
>>>>>>> you have it all figured out, and you do for yourself. Via la
>>>>>>> difference.
>>>>>> Nah, I only need to have it figured out better than you do.
>>>>>>
>>>>>>
>>>>>> -hh
>>>>>
>>>>> Hugh, you sum it all up with "Nah, I only need to have it figured
>>>>> out better than you do. " Your best solution is not anybody
>>>>> else's best solution. You just think it is to make you feel
>>>>> superior.
>>>> Irony, you lying little shit.
>>>>>
>>>>> As for Alan, his career as expressed on CSMA is a lie. Evidence
>>>>> that I have indicates that he has not been financially successful
>>>>> as a computer consultant. Yet he portrays a picture of expertise.
>>>>> Or maybe he is technically savvy, and treats customers the way he
>>>>> treats those who disagree with him in newsgroups.
>>>> Says the "man" who couldn't even read that I had figured out how to
>>>> get to "Devices and Printers"...
>>>>
>>>> ...and who called a LinkedIn page my "company website".
>>>
>>> After I told you how.
>> That's simply another lie from a lying little shit.
>>
>> My post showing that I did open Devices and Printers precedes your post,
>> little shit.
>>
>> So explain how "After" works in that claim.
>>> Now I just sent you instructions on how to open Control Panel and get
>>> to the Devices and Printer panel page you needed without opening
>>> Settings. You just want to bitch.
>> I just wanted to express my frustration with yet more functionality
>> broken for no good reason.
>>>
>>> It is a pitiful excuse for a company presence. So is your URL site.
>>> I'll give you that.
>> I note you don't refute that you erroneously referred to a page at
>> LinkedIn as my "company website".
>>>
>>> I note you don't refute the lack of financial success claim.
>>>
>>> And, I'm not the one who is supposed to be tech savvy, that's you. I
>>> never had any formal computer training or claimed to be a
>>> computer/software consultant. If I'm wrong in that arena well I'm not
>>> supposed to be good at it in the first place.
>>>
>>> For me to believe that you are financially sound you need at least to
>>> clear up the matter I brought to your attention via email. I just
>>> checked again. Progress but not cleared.
>> I'll clear it up in person.
>
> Alan, here is your original post:
>
> <start quote>
>
> Oct 14, 2023, 6:35:36 PM (11 days ago)
>
> Windows 11 continues Microsoft's slow deprecation of Control Panel...
>
> ...but they're doing a terrible job of it.
>
> I had a climate call me because he was unable to print from Chrome or
> Edge, and I quickly learned that you can no longer go to "Devices and
> Printers" in Control Panel to remove and re-install printers.
>
> You get immediately shunted to Settings.
>
> Except, in Settings' interface to your printers, you can end up with
> entries YOU CAN'T REMOVE.
>
> Normally, you click on the entry for a printer (there's a ">" character
> at the right end of the line) and that leads you to a page of settings
> specific to that printer.
>
> But this guy had the same printer listed FIVE times and only two of them
> had that ">", and the other three wouldn't respond to a click in any
> way. "Troubleshooting" was no use, because it only showed two copies of
> the printer, and not the ones that I couldn't access.
>
> So after a lot of fooling around, I finally tried... ...I don't know it
> was either "Advanced settings" or "More settings" on one of the printers
> that I COULD access...
>
> ...and you know what it did?
>
> It led me back to the "Devices and Printers" control panel...
>
> ...I COULDN'T ACCESS DIRECTLY FROM THE CONTROL PANEL.
>
> How nonsensical.
>
> <End Quote>
>
> Where in this post does it say you found the Control Panel window showing all printers and fixed the problem?

On 2023-10-26 06:04, Thomas E. wrote:
> On Friday, October 20, 2023 at 6:54:04 PM UTC-4, Alan wrote:
>> On 2023-10-20 15:17, -hh wrote:
>>>> As for Alan, …
>>> Except for how it’s yet another burr under your saddle, cowboy…irrelevant.
>> To the point where he's now stalking me, and emailing me (this morning):
>>
>> 'BTW, the contact form at About/Contact – BakerMEDIA is broken. Thus the
>> direct email. Don't get much traffic on that site?'
>>
>> And it's not the first time. September 1, 2020:
>>
>> '(Subject: "https://www.vrcbc.ca/classified/") Maybe you should take the
>> ad down if your car found a home? If not, that explains a lot.'
>>
>>
>> Complete with vague threats:
>>
>> 'If you your address is still the condo number where the company site is
>> registered I have something I need to mail to you. It’s for your own good.'
>
> The link you supplied does not mention you. It was not a threat, I was trying to be helpful.

Where did I mention "threat", you little lying shit?

On Thursday, October 26, 2023 at 11:37:16 AM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
> On Thursday, October 26, 2023 at 9:21:07 AM UTC-4, Thomas E. wrote:
> > On Friday, October 20, 2023 at 6:17:51 PM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
> > > On Friday, October 20, 2023 at 1:47:07 PM UTC-4, Thomas E. wrote:
> > > > On Friday, October 20, 2023 at 9:48:08 AM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
> > > > > On Thursday, October 19, 2023 at 12:16:56 PM UTC-4, Thomas E. wrote:
> > > > > > On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 5:30:17 PM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
> > > > > > > On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 3:46:31 PM UTC-4, Thomas E. wrote:
> > > > > > > > On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 2:19:40 PM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
> > > > > > > > > On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 8:33:08 AM UTC-4, Thomas E. wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > ...
> > > > > > > > > > My main personal financial challenge this summer has been estate planning, including paperwork
> > > > > > > > > > for funding revised trusts. And, my investment advisor changed firms and his staff made an error
> > > > > > > > > > in the 401k transfer that is taking a while to fix. My retirement income is now about $20k a month
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > With how much of that likely being due to being RMDs? 33%? More?
> > > > > (Hmm...)
> > > > > > > > > > Having said that, recent expenses for estate planning, unplanned dental issues, and
> > > > > > > > > > 2024 upfront travel payments have stretched the cash flow a bit. :)
> > > > > > > > > ...
> > > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Idiot, If I sell my house I can buy something similar, a multi-bedroom condo, another house,
> > > > > > or use the money to fund assisted living.
> > > > > And since the same is the same for Alan too, why even mention this?
> > > > > > Alan faces major hurdles if he wants to get anything larger, but so do I.
> > > > > "And since the same is the same for Alan too, why even mention this?"
> > > > > > The difference is I already own a roomy home, he is living in something on the order of my 2.5 car garage.
> > > > > Which the Market says is still worth more than your place, so so what? Its not like he's been
> > > > > expressing complaints about inadequate living space, so other than to express your own feelings
> > > > > of comparative inferiority, why do you care?
> > > > > > No need to check the local Metro stations. The hotel is across the street from Gare Montparnasse
> > > > > > with multiple Metro lines. I'll figure out the ticketing later.
> > > > > Being proximate to major train stations has convenient transit links, sure, but also downsides
> > > > > such as often more noise, business establishments that many travelers find .. unsavory.
> > > > > Plus there's also invariably more pickpockets looking to prey on tourists.
> > > > > > We will be using RoisyBus to get to the hotel, after that all transfers are included.
> > > > > Good choice IMO. Do take some time pre-departure to "map out" the route from where
> > > > > the RoisyBus stops at Opera and how to get to the Opera Metro entrance. Likewise, map
> > > > > out in advance the plan for the Metro to get to your destination stop: which line, in which
> > > > > direction (and what's the wrong direction), where to transfer, how many stops en route, etc.
> > > > > FYI, the Opera station also has staircases to navigate with one's luggage (I didn't bother
> > > > > looking to see if there were any elevators).
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > > It was an expensive dentist bill, and another one coming in January.
> > > > >
> > > > > Took me a bit to find it:
> > > > >
> > > > > "Only those with victim disorder regard health care as broken."
> > > > > - Tom Elam, Apr 28, 2023 [11:54:39 AM]
> > > > > > But the major short-term stress is pre-pay for Canada and France trips.
> > > > > > OTOH the cash is in savings, so it's just me fretting about it.
> > > > > Reducing stress is what trip insurance is for
> > > > > (FYI, a $15K & 12 month policy from Allianz is just $1.5K)
> > > > > > You have your preferences, I have mine. You seem to think you have it all figured out,
> > > > > > and you do for yourself. Via la difference.
> > > > > Nah, I only need to have it figured out better than you do.
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > -hh
> > > >
> > > > Hugh, you sum it all up with "Nah, I only need to have it figured out better than you do. "
> > >
> > > Merely because that suffices to deflate your puffed up ego.
> > >
> > > > Your best solution is not anybody else's best solution. You just think it is to make you feel superior.
> > >
> > > Nah, unlike you, I’m not trying to brag about being the best.
> > >
> > > > What does RMD income matter?
> > >
> > > For one thing, RMDs are taxed as ordinary income, rather than lower rates
> > > such as via LTCG, so it merits a temporal optimization analysis to see about
> > > strategies to minimize income taxes due, rather than just ignoring it..
> > >
> > > > It just shows I was successful in accumulating wealth.
> > >
> > > Which we’ve already been unnecessarily been told about, ad nauseam.
> > >
> > > > About half the income is pensions/Social Security. A big piece has become
> > > > dividend funds in recent years. The rest is RMD.
> > >
> > > > At this point stock appreciation has far outpaced RMD withdrawals. Based on
> > > > historic stock returns I have another decade or so before %RMD hits even 7%.
> > >
> > > > If the market keeps up until then I can always pay the taxes and put some back
> > > > if I want to. But, who knows if I'll even need to fret over that?
> > >
> > >
> > > > I never said my dental bills make me a victim of a broken health insurance system.
> > >
> > > No, you said that my comment which noted that they’re expensive means I was trying
> > > to be a victim, while I never actually complaining about such personal expenses:
> > > I was explicitly commenting on how US healthcare is broken to cause such high expenses.
> > >
> > > > It's more than dental bills. Legal bills for trust revisions, unexpected bills for HVAC issues,
> > > > fall property taxes, the trip west, and balance due on our Vail lift tickets all had to be paid
> > > > over September/October. Well, the property tax is due November 15. After that the spend
> > > > burn cools down again.
> > >
> > > Where the trust revisions, property taxes, and vacation costs are all very clearly highly
> > > discretionary and/or highly predictable, leaving just dental & HVAC as budget “surprises”.
> > >
> > > > Anyway, I keep a healthy checking/savings balance I am probably worrying because
> > > > I have so little else to worry about.
> > >
> > > Where “healthy” is still low enough that you get stressed over something sub-$10K… /s
> > >
> > > > As for Alan, …
> > >
> > > Except for how it’s yet another burr under your saddle, cowboy…irrelevant.
> > >
> > > > As for the Paris Metro I know it VERY well. I don't need instructions.
> > >
> > > Even when jet-lagged? Given your whines about airfare costs, for you to be
> > > paying for Business Class is more than just a tad unlikely.
> > >
> > > > Roisey Bus-Red Line/Opera-Les Halles-Purple Line/Montparnasse Bienvenue-
> > > > 2 minute walk to the hotel.
> > > Figure 30 minutes.
> > >
> > > > Then to Versailles, just the Green Line train. Did that a few years back.
> > >
> > > Green Line goes to Versailles Chantiers, not Versailles Château Rive Gauche.
> > > The Yellow RER-C to Rive Gauche cuts off a kilometer (each way) of walking.
> > > > To anywhere in Paris just look at the map, and make sure you have a paper
> > > > copy with you. Ce n’est pas un problème pour moi monsieur!
> > >
> > > I so like to still have a crib sheet for planning, but there’s iPhone Apps today which
> > > make it much easier, especially while on the fly. Plus there’s tools now that help
> > > to ID the optimal exit to use based on where you’re going after you get off.
> > > But you be you.
> > >
> > > > We will figure out the escalators when we get there. I don't remember
> > > > many Metro stations with elevators.
> > > I wasn’t referencing escalators, but rather that there’s sections which totally lack
> > > any automation for elevation changes: just straight-up staircases to lug up/down.
> > > You or I may implicitly understand these, but you did mention that you’re traveling
> > > with two who’ve never been there before, so “forewarned is forearmed” applies.
> >
> > Like I said we will figure it out when we get there.
> Which is taking the risk of being cognitively reduced due to jet lag.
> > If they don't want to go Metro with the baggage we will get a taxi.
> Sure .. but the nearest taxi stand to the Roissybus stop at Opéra is .. which direction?
> Oh, right: without prior planning you do not know how close/far a taxi stand may be,
> let alone with direction.
> > The hotel's Metro station is literally across the street from the hotel, which sets us up nicely for touring the city.
> Sure, and with the accompanying pedestrian crowds, especially at peak commuter periods,
> which is also why its going to be a half hour (minimum) each time you go out anywhere.
> > Yes, my RMD income is ordinary income. But it's been accumulating with no taxes paid on
> > contributions and earnings since I started the program in 1982. I don't need any formal analysis
> > to know that putting that money back for current income at age 77 was a good idea.
> Except the point was for looking to optimize its taxation. But if you're happy to not plan & fork out
> an extra, oh, +5% or so just on higher marginal income taxes ... that's again your business: just
> kindly avoid all complaining about inflation rates when being tax-inefficient.
>
> -hh

On Thursday, October 26, 2023 at 11:53:24 AM UTC-4, Alan wrote:
> On 2023-10-26 06:04, Thomas E. wrote:
> > On Friday, October 20, 2023 at 6:54:04 PM UTC-4, Alan wrote:
> >> On 2023-10-20 15:17, -hh wrote:
> >>>> As for Alan, …
> >>> Except for how it’s yet another burr under your saddle, cowboy…irrelevant.
> >> To the point where he's now stalking me, and emailing me (this morning):
> >>
> >> 'BTW, the contact form at About/Contact – BakerMEDIA is broken.. Thus the
> >> direct email. Don't get much traffic on that site?'
> >>
> >> And it's not the first time. September 1, 2020:
> >>
> >> '(Subject: "https://www.vrcbc.ca/classified/") Maybe you should take the
> >> ad down if your car found a home? If not, that explains a lot.'
> >>
> >>
> >> Complete with vague threats:
> >>
> >> 'If you your address is still the condo number where the company site is
> >> registered I have something I need to mail to you. It’s for your own good.'
> >
> > The link you supplied does not mention you. It was not a threat, I was trying to be helpful.
> Where did I mention "threat", you little lying shit?

"I'll clear this up with you in person."

On Thursday, November 2, 2023 at 3:13:39 PM UTC-4, Thomas E. wrote:
> On Thursday, October 26, 2023 at 11:37:16 AM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
> > On Thursday, October 26, 2023 at 9:21:07 AM UTC-4, Thomas E. wrote:
> > > On Friday, October 20, 2023 at 6:17:51 PM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
> > > > On Friday, October 20, 2023 at 1:47:07 PM UTC-4, Thomas E. wrote:
> > > > > On Friday, October 20, 2023 at 9:48:08 AM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
> > > > > > On Thursday, October 19, 2023 at 12:16:56 PM UTC-4, Thomas E. wrote:
> > > > > > > On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 5:30:17 PM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
> > > > > > > > On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 3:46:31 PM UTC-4, Thomas E. wrote:
> > > > > > > > > On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 2:19:40 PM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 8:33:08 AM UTC-4, Thomas E. wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > ...
> > > > > > > > > > > My main personal financial challenge this summer has been estate planning, including paperwork
> > > > > > > > > > > for funding revised trusts. And, my investment advisor changed firms and his staff made an error
> > > > > > > > > > > in the 401k transfer that is taking a while to fix. My retirement income is now about $20k a month
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > With how much of that likely being due to being RMDs? 33%? More?
> > > > > > (Hmm...)
> > > > > > > > > > > Having said that, recent expenses for estate planning, unplanned dental issues, and
> > > > > > > > > > > 2024 upfront travel payments have stretched the cash flow a bit. :)
> > > > > > > > > > ...
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > Idiot, If I sell my house I can buy something similar, a multi-bedroom condo, another house,
> > > > > > > or use the money to fund assisted living.
> > > > > > And since the same is the same for Alan too, why even mention this?
> > > > > > > Alan faces major hurdles if he wants to get anything larger, but so do I.
> > > > > > "And since the same is the same for Alan too, why even mention this?"
> > > > > > > The difference is I already own a roomy home, he is living in something on the order of my 2.5 car garage.
> > > > > > Which the Market says is still worth more than your place, so so what? Its not like he's been
> > > > > > expressing complaints about inadequate living space, so other than to express your own feelings
> > > > > > of comparative inferiority, why do you care?
> > > > > > > No need to check the local Metro stations. The hotel is across the street from Gare Montparnasse
> > > > > > > with multiple Metro lines. I'll figure out the ticketing later.
> > > > > > Being proximate to major train stations has convenient transit links, sure, but also downsides
> > > > > > such as often more noise, business establishments that many travelers find .. unsavory.
> > > > > > Plus there's also invariably more pickpockets looking to prey on tourists.
> > > > > > > We will be using RoisyBus to get to the hotel, after that all transfers are included.
> > > > > > Good choice IMO. Do take some time pre-departure to "map out" the route from where
> > > > > > the RoisyBus stops at Opera and how to get to the Opera Metro entrance. Likewise, map
> > > > > > out in advance the plan for the Metro to get to your destination stop: which line, in which
> > > > > > direction (and what's the wrong direction), where to transfer, how many stops en route, etc.
> > > > > > FYI, the Opera station also has staircases to navigate with one's luggage (I didn't bother
> > > > > > looking to see if there were any elevators).
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > > > It was an expensive dentist bill, and another one coming in January.
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Took me a bit to find it:
> > > > > >
> > > > > > "Only those with victim disorder regard health care as broken."
> > > > > > - Tom Elam, Apr 28, 2023 [11:54:39 AM]
> > > > > > > But the major short-term stress is pre-pay for Canada and France trips.
> > > > > > > OTOH the cash is in savings, so it's just me fretting about it.
> > > > > > Reducing stress is what trip insurance is for
> > > > > > (FYI, a $15K & 12 month policy from Allianz is just $1.5K)
> > > > > > > You have your preferences, I have mine. You seem to think you have it all figured out,
> > > > > > > and you do for yourself. Via la difference.
> > > > > > Nah, I only need to have it figured out better than you do.
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > > -hh
> > > > >
> > > > > Hugh, you sum it all up with "Nah, I only need to have it figured out better than you do. "
> > > >
> > > > Merely because that suffices to deflate your puffed up ego.
> > > >
> > > > > Your best solution is not anybody else's best solution. You just think it is to make you feel superior.
> > > >
> > > > Nah, unlike you, I’m not trying to brag about being the best.
> > > >
> > > > > What does RMD income matter?
> > > >
> > > > For one thing, RMDs are taxed as ordinary income, rather than lower rates
> > > > such as via LTCG, so it merits a temporal optimization analysis to see about
> > > > strategies to minimize income taxes due, rather than just ignoring it.
> > > >
> > > > > It just shows I was successful in accumulating wealth.
> > > >
> > > > Which we’ve already been unnecessarily been told about, ad nauseam.
> > > >
> > > > > About half the income is pensions/Social Security. A big piece has become
> > > > > dividend funds in recent years. The rest is RMD.
> > > >
> > > > > At this point stock appreciation has far outpaced RMD withdrawals.. Based on
> > > > > historic stock returns I have another decade or so before %RMD hits even 7%.
> > > >
> > > > > If the market keeps up until then I can always pay the taxes and put some back
> > > > > if I want to. But, who knows if I'll even need to fret over that?
> > > >
> > > >
> > > > > I never said my dental bills make me a victim of a broken health insurance system.
> > > >
> > > > No, you said that my comment which noted that they’re expensive means I was trying
> > > > to be a victim, while I never actually complaining about such personal expenses:
> > > > I was explicitly commenting on how US healthcare is broken to cause such high expenses.
> > > >
> > > > > It's more than dental bills. Legal bills for trust revisions, unexpected bills for HVAC issues,
> > > > > fall property taxes, the trip west, and balance due on our Vail lift tickets all had to be paid
> > > > > over September/October. Well, the property tax is due November 15.. After that the spend
> > > > > burn cools down again.
> > > >
> > > > Where the trust revisions, property taxes, and vacation costs are all very clearly highly
> > > > discretionary and/or highly predictable, leaving just dental & HVAC as budget “surprises”.
> > > >
> > > > > Anyway, I keep a healthy checking/savings balance I am probably worrying because
> > > > > I have so little else to worry about.
> > > >
> > > > Where “healthy” is still low enough that you get stressed over something sub-$10K… /s
> > > >
> > > > > As for Alan, …
> > > >
> > > > Except for how it’s yet another burr under your saddle, cowboy…irrelevant.
> > > >
> > > > > As for the Paris Metro I know it VERY well. I don't need instructions.
> > > >
> > > > Even when jet-lagged? Given your whines about airfare costs, for you to be
> > > > paying for Business Class is more than just a tad unlikely.
> > > >
> > > > > Roisey Bus-Red Line/Opera-Les Halles-Purple Line/Montparnasse Bienvenue-
> > > > > 2 minute walk to the hotel.
> > > > Figure 30 minutes.
> > > >
> > > > > Then to Versailles, just the Green Line train. Did that a few years back.
> > > >
> > > > Green Line goes to Versailles Chantiers, not Versailles Château Rive Gauche.
> > > > The Yellow RER-C to Rive Gauche cuts off a kilometer (each way) of walking.
> > > > > To anywhere in Paris just look at the map, and make sure you have a paper
> > > > > copy with you. Ce n’est pas un problème pour moi monsieur!
> > > >
> > > > I so like to still have a crib sheet for planning, but there’s iPhone Apps today which
> > > > make it much easier, especially while on the fly. Plus there’s tools now that help
> > > > to ID the optimal exit to use based on where you’re going after you get off.
> > > > But you be you.
> > > >
> > > > > We will figure out the escalators when we get there. I don't remember
> > > > > many Metro stations with elevators.
> > > > I wasn’t referencing escalators, but rather that there’s sections which totally lack
> > > > any automation for elevation changes: just straight-up staircases to lug up/down.
> > > > You or I may implicitly understand these, but you did mention that you’re traveling
> > > > with two who’ve never been there before, so “forewarned is forearmed” applies.
> > >
> > > Like I said we will figure it out when we get there.
> > Which is taking the risk of being cognitively reduced due to jet lag.
> > > If they don't want to go Metro with the baggage we will get a taxi.
> > Sure .. but the nearest taxi stand to the Roissybus stop at Opéra is .. which direction?
> > Oh, right: without prior planning you do not know how close/far a taxi stand may be,
> > let alone with direction.
> > > The hotel's Metro station is literally across the street from the hotel, which sets us up nicely for touring the city.
> > Sure, and with the accompanying pedestrian crowds, especially at peak commuter periods,
> > which is also why its going to be a half hour (minimum) each time you go out anywhere.
> > > Yes, my RMD income is ordinary income. But it's been accumulating with no taxes paid on
> > > contributions and earnings since I started the program in 1982. I don't need any formal analysis
> > > to know that putting that money back for current income at age 77 was a good idea.
> >
> > Except the point was for looking to optimize its taxation. But if you're happy to not plan & fork out
> > an extra, oh, +5% or so just on higher marginal income taxes ... that's again your business: just
> > kindly avoid all complaining about inflation rates when being tax-inefficient.
> >
>
> Hugh, I have one of the best financial advisors in the area. Based on his advice (and
> just common sense) we put back all we could in a self-employed 401K during my high
> earning years, paying no income taxes, just Medicare and FICA, on 401K contributions.

On Thursday, November 2, 2023 at 6:40:34 PM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
> On Thursday, November 2, 2023 at 3:13:39 PM UTC-4, Thomas E. wrote:
> > On Thursday, October 26, 2023 at 11:37:16 AM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
> > > On Thursday, October 26, 2023 at 9:21:07 AM UTC-4, Thomas E. wrote:
> > > > On Friday, October 20, 2023 at 6:17:51 PM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
> > > > > On Friday, October 20, 2023 at 1:47:07 PM UTC-4, Thomas E.. wrote:
> > > > > > On Friday, October 20, 2023 at 9:48:08 AM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
> > > > > > > On Thursday, October 19, 2023 at 12:16:56 PM UTC-4, Thomas E. wrote:
> > > > > > > > On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 5:30:17 PM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
> > > > > > > > > On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 3:46:31 PM UTC-4, Thomas E. wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 2:19:40 PM UTC-4, -hh wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > On Sunday, October 15, 2023 at 8:33:08 AM UTC-4, Thomas E. wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > ...
> > > > > > > > > > > > My main personal financial challenge this summer has been estate planning, including paperwork
> > > > > > > > > > > > for funding revised trusts. And, my investment advisor changed firms and his staff made an error
> > > > > > > > > > > > in the 401k transfer that is taking a while to fix. My retirement income is now about $20k a month
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > With how much of that likely being due to being RMDs? 33%? More?
> > > > > > > (Hmm...)
> > > > > > > > > > > > Having said that, recent expenses for estate planning, unplanned dental issues, and
> > > > > > > > > > > > 2024 upfront travel payments have stretched the cash flow a bit. :)
> > > > > > > > > > > ...
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > Idiot, If I sell my house I can buy something similar, a multi-bedroom condo, another house,
> > > > > > > > or use the money to fund assisted living.
> > > > > > > And since the same is the same for Alan too, why even mention this?
> > > > > > > > Alan faces major hurdles if he wants to get anything larger, but so do I.
> > > > > > > "And since the same is the same for Alan too, why even mention this?"
> > > > > > > > The difference is I already own a roomy home, he is living in something on the order of my 2.5 car garage.
> > > > > > > Which the Market says is still worth more than your place, so so what? Its not like he's been
> > > > > > > expressing complaints about inadequate living space, so other than to express your own feelings
> > > > > > > of comparative inferiority, why do you care?
> > > > > > > > No need to check the local Metro stations. The hotel is across the street from Gare Montparnasse
> > > > > > > > with multiple Metro lines. I'll figure out the ticketing later.
> > > > > > > Being proximate to major train stations has convenient transit links, sure, but also downsides
> > > > > > > such as often more noise, business establishments that many travelers find .. unsavory.
> > > > > > > Plus there's also invariably more pickpockets looking to prey on tourists.
> > > > > > > > We will be using RoisyBus to get to the hotel, after that all transfers are included.
> > > > > > > Good choice IMO. Do take some time pre-departure to "map out" the route from where
> > > > > > > the RoisyBus stops at Opera and how to get to the Opera Metro entrance. Likewise, map
> > > > > > > out in advance the plan for the Metro to get to your destination stop: which line, in which
> > > > > > > direction (and what's the wrong direction), where to transfer, how many stops en route, etc.
> > > > > > > FYI, the Opera station also has staircases to navigate with one's luggage (I didn't bother
> > > > > > > looking to see if there were any elevators).
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > It was an expensive dentist bill, and another one coming in January.
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > Took me a bit to find it:
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > "Only those with victim disorder regard health care as broken.."
> > > > > > > - Tom Elam, Apr 28, 2023 [11:54:39 AM]
> > > > > > > > But the major short-term stress is pre-pay for Canada and France trips.
> > > > > > > > OTOH the cash is in savings, so it's just me fretting about it.
> > > > > > > Reducing stress is what trip insurance is for
> > > > > > > (FYI, a $15K & 12 month policy from Allianz is just $1.5K)
> > > > > > > > You have your preferences, I have mine. You seem to think you have it all figured out,
> > > > > > > > and you do for yourself. Via la difference.
> > > > > > > Nah, I only need to have it figured out better than you do.
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > -hh
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Hugh, you sum it all up with "Nah, I only need to have it figured out better than you do. "
> > > > >
> > > > > Merely because that suffices to deflate your puffed up ego.
> > > > >
> > > > > > Your best solution is not anybody else's best solution. You just think it is to make you feel superior.
> > > > >
> > > > > Nah, unlike you, I’m not trying to brag about being the best.
> > > > >
> > > > > > What does RMD income matter?
> > > > >
> > > > > For one thing, RMDs are taxed as ordinary income, rather than lower rates
> > > > > such as via LTCG, so it merits a temporal optimization analysis to see about
> > > > > strategies to minimize income taxes due, rather than just ignoring it.
> > > > >
> > > > > > It just shows I was successful in accumulating wealth.
> > > > >
> > > > > Which we’ve already been unnecessarily been told about, ad nauseam.
> > > > >
> > > > > > About half the income is pensions/Social Security. A big piece has become
> > > > > > dividend funds in recent years. The rest is RMD.
> > > > >
> > > > > > At this point stock appreciation has far outpaced RMD withdrawals. Based on
> > > > > > historic stock returns I have another decade or so before %RMD hits even 7%.
> > > > >
> > > > > > If the market keeps up until then I can always pay the taxes and put some back
> > > > > > if I want to. But, who knows if I'll even need to fret over that?
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > > I never said my dental bills make me a victim of a broken health insurance system.
> > > > >
> > > > > No, you said that my comment which noted that they’re expensive means I was trying
> > > > > to be a victim, while I never actually complaining about such personal expenses:
> > > > > I was explicitly commenting on how US healthcare is broken to cause such high expenses.
> > > > >
> > > > > > It's more than dental bills. Legal bills for trust revisions, unexpected bills for HVAC issues,
> > > > > > fall property taxes, the trip west, and balance due on our Vail lift tickets all had to be paid
> > > > > > over September/October. Well, the property tax is due November 15. After that the spend
> > > > > > burn cools down again.
> > > > >
> > > > > Where the trust revisions, property taxes, and vacation costs are all very clearly highly
> > > > > discretionary and/or highly predictable, leaving just dental & HVAC as budget “surprises”.
> > > > >
> > > > > > Anyway, I keep a healthy checking/savings balance I am probably worrying because
> > > > > > I have so little else to worry about.
> > > > >
> > > > > Where “healthy” is still low enough that you get stressed over something sub-$10K… /s
> > > > >
> > > > > > As for Alan, …
> > > > >
> > > > > Except for how it’s yet another burr under your saddle, cowboy…irrelevant.
> > > > >
> > > > > > As for the Paris Metro I know it VERY well. I don't need instructions.
> > > > >
> > > > > Even when jet-lagged? Given your whines about airfare costs, for you to be
> > > > > paying for Business Class is more than just a tad unlikely.
> > > > >
> > > > > > Roisey Bus-Red Line/Opera-Les Halles-Purple Line/Montparnasse Bienvenue-
> > > > > > 2 minute walk to the hotel.
> > > > > Figure 30 minutes.
> > > > >
> > > > > > Then to Versailles, just the Green Line train. Did that a few years back.
> > > > >
> > > > > Green Line goes to Versailles Chantiers, not Versailles Château Rive Gauche.
> > > > > The Yellow RER-C to Rive Gauche cuts off a kilometer (each way) of walking.
> > > > > > To anywhere in Paris just look at the map, and make sure you have a paper
> > > > > > copy with you. Ce n’est pas un problème pour moi monsieur!
> > > > >
> > > > > I so like to still have a crib sheet for planning, but there’s iPhone Apps today which
> > > > > make it much easier, especially while on the fly. Plus there’s tools now that help
> > > > > to ID the optimal exit to use based on where you’re going after you get off.
> > > > > But you be you.
> > > > >
> > > > > > We will figure out the escalators when we get there. I don't remember
> > > > > > many Metro stations with elevators.
> > > > > I wasn’t referencing escalators, but rather that there’s sections which totally lack
> > > > > any automation for elevation changes: just straight-up staircases to lug up/down.
> > > > > You or I may implicitly understand these, but you did mention that you’re traveling
> > > > > with two who’ve never been there before, so “forewarned is forearmed” applies.
> > > >
> > > > Like I said we will figure it out when we get there.
> > > Which is taking the risk of being cognitively reduced due to jet lag.
> > > > If they don't want to go Metro with the baggage we will get a taxi.
> > > Sure .. but the nearest taxi stand to the Roissybus stop at Opéra is .. which direction?
> > > Oh, right: without prior planning you do not know how close/far a taxi stand may be,
> > > let alone with direction.
> > > > The hotel's Metro station is literally across the street from the hotel, which sets us up nicely for touring the city.
> > > Sure, and with the accompanying pedestrian crowds, especially at peak commuter periods,
> > > which is also why its going to be a half hour (minimum) each time you go out anywhere.
> > > > Yes, my RMD income is ordinary income. But it's been accumulating with no taxes paid on
> > > > contributions and earnings since I started the program in 1982. I don't need any formal analysis
> > > > to know that putting that money back for current income at age 77 was a good idea.
> > >
> > > Except the point was for looking to optimize its taxation. But if you're happy to not plan & fork out
> > > an extra, oh, +5% or so just on higher marginal income taxes ... that's again your business: just
> > > kindly avoid all complaining about inflation rates when being tax-inefficient.
> > >
> >
> > Hugh, I have one of the best financial advisors in the area. Based on his advice (and
> > just common sense) we put back all we could in a self-employed 401K during my high
> > earning years, paying no income taxes, just Medicare and FICA, on 401K contributions.
> At that point in time, that may have been good advice. But the 2017 TCJA threw a curveball.
> > Now that I'm retired with no earned income and enjoying earnings from that money put
> > back for many years my marginal tax rate is the same or lower than when I had earned income.
> With how much of that due to the TCJA versus lower income?
> > My marginal FIT rate this year is 22%.
> Which is an AGI for MFJ of roughly $90K to $191K … for now. If you’re on the upper end of
> that, after the TCJA expires, your Marginal income tax rate will jump from 22% to 32%.
> The obvious way to minimize that is to Rothify more now, before the rates expire: eating
> up the current 24% bracket enables converting up to an AGI of $354K, which saves 8%
> percentage points (32% vs 24%) on marginal tax rates. If you don’t want to believe me, go ask
> your financial advisor.
> > I looked up 2014. It was about average for self-employed earnings. My marginal FIT rate
> > was 15%. But, only because I put $33.6k into the 401k. Had I not done so the marginal
> > rate would have been 25%. As it was, the total federal marginal rate was 15% + 1.45% +
> > 12.4% = 28.45% (but slightly lower as half the FICA was deductible.) Had I not put money
> > back in the 401K the marginal rate was 38.45%.
> Which was pre-TCJA, plus it looks like you’re also including self-employed SSA & Medicare %’s.
> > The 2014 Roth limit was $6,500, far less than the 401K. For tax deferred wealth accumulation
> > long term the 401K was the way to go. The conventional IRA limit was also $6,500, much lower
> > than the 401k. The game-changer for me was the much higher 401K limits ($54,600 in 2014)
> > in a time when we were making a very comfortable income on pensions and consulting income.
> Irrelevant to the contemplation of doing Roth conversions today from a 401(k) and/or Traditional IRA.
> > In 2014 we went to Colorado for 2 weeks, Hawaii for a week, and spent 2+ weeks touring
> > England, Scotland and Ireland.
> For us, 2014 was only a couple of weeks in the Caymans, a pair of domestic flights to TN, plus
> over to Switzerland & Italy in Europe too…all with zero subsidies/leveraging from business travel.
> > I received a new passport yesterday, and looking forward to using it next year!
> Hope that you opted for the “extra pages” option upfront, as on our last renewal we found
> that Dept State had discontinued the “add pages” option for passports after issue.
> > My advisor and I modelled alternatives when I started the business, and the self-employed
> > 401k was by far the way to go. Before that, when I was working for Lilly, the company 401K
> > money was matched up to $-for-$ with company stock. When I retired the stock I was gifted
> > (with zero immediate tax consequences) all those 20+ years was worth far more than what
> > I put in. Had I not contributed to the 401K there would have been no stock match and I would
> > not be anywhere near I am today at over $3 mill net worth and no debt.
> “Blue Chip Stocks appreciate; film at 11.” /s
> > As an aside, since we were married in 2003 our #1 discretionary expense category is by far vacations.
> Based on what you’ve said/shared, an “aside” parameterized estimate is that it’s ~$20K/yr.
> > Your situation may be far different. :)
> Perhaps it is different.. or perhaps it is not: money buys down risks, and increases opportunities
> and comfort/convenience, but it doesn’t guarantee happiness.
>
> -hh