RE: the "early retirement" story.  Yeah, in the fairly narrow context (Monday mornings, i.e.: weekly schedule, commute in heavy traffic, etc.), sure.  Here's another.  "Gee, really should get down to it and do...(complete sentence.)  Naw.  Do it tomorrow."  As someone who retired a year and a half ago (still early, got at least 12-15 years to go), I REALLY like that. 

Says one commenter..."Can't get any better if you planned this phase of your life so carefully."

Well, planning carefully helps.  But it's the stuff NOT planned for, stuff ignored, that can derail retirement bliss.  A recent G&M story suggested  that people preparing for retirement consider marital counselling.  Sounds ridiculous, right? I mean NOW?

Millions will tell you (quietly, privately) it's not ridiculous.  What's ridiculous is thinking that one of the biggest changes in your life, your spouse's life (and that goes double if you BOTH quit work around the same time!) is going to be easy.  

Think again.