ABFer, Early lifestyle choices, some were required. Always was tight with my funds and busted my butt, was a single dad of 2, small town America, extended family. Family is up early and goes to bed late. Group/family business besides regular job. Invested well. Paid attention, rolled into money market few months before crashes, pulled out reinvest. Older well maintained vehicles, older home, did own upgrades and maintenance, no toys on interest/payments. Bought needs, not wants. So, 7 years ago when last one went off to college, was able to multiply savings quickly with this lifestyle. Kids learned to work and hit the books, So scholarships and working way through. Taught'm to be independent and be appreciative what they had and give back to others. 1 is finishing specialized cancer treatment med school, other is back, working outside full time and within family business.