How’s that again?

So far, it seems that the number of questions answered in this retirement-focused blog is exceeded only by the number of questions the answers raised:

New Question #1
You say you plan to sell (more than your normal, periodic, small liquidations) when everything looks rosy, and not sell (any more than your normal, periodic, small liquidations) when you’re feeling depressed about the market. How are you feeling today?

New Answer #1
Fine, thanks. Not particularly positive or negative. If I had to choose, I’d say things may be closer to too rosy than to too depressed, but not close enough to alter anyone’s strategic retirement funding program.

New Question #2
You said you will do some things to help assure that your level of cash reserves is sufficient. What things?

New Answer #2
I’ll try to limit the possible costly surprises. Here’s how.

a. If those who depend on me would be hurt financially by my death, I’ll maintain enough life insurance to cover the loss of income (wages, pension, whatever) that would occur with my death.

b. If those who depend on me would be hurt financially by my disability, I’ll maintain enough disability insurance to cover the loss of income (wages, pension, whatever) that would occur with my disability.

c. To protect against high and increasing health care costs, I’ll carry some health and long-term care insurance.

d. To offset any large casualty losses, I’ll insure my home and cars, but with large deductibles to keep the premiums down.

e. To help me weather any mid-retirement financial set-backs, I’ll try to keep my fixed costs of living to a minimum.

f. To keep myself and my spouse financially flexible, I’ll constantly work to appreciate the multitude of non-financial gifts we are so fortunate to have so that we won’t be so troubled by things financial.

Other suggestions? (There may be prizes involved!)