u/DD9515

I'm currently in my early 40s, work in middle management in non-tech engineering, and make around $275k gross. It's a fairly low stress, mostly-remote job.

Since I was a typical frugal engineer throughout my 20s and 30s, I have around 3.5M saved. Although I'm self aware enough to realize that I'm in a better spot than the vast majority of people my age, I also live in a HCOL city, and I'm starting to feel like I'm fighting time. To truly fatFIRE, it will be another 12-15 years if markets perform near average, which could be optimistic after the recent run. I recognize the value of money diminishes with age, and I'm already realizing that I have lost interest in many things I looked forward to using money towards.

I'm constantly tempted to push harder and try to find something that brings in more income for the next 6-8 years. Although I appreciate the relaxed, remote role, I also get fulfillment out of challenges and hard work.

At my age, I feel like starting from scratch in tech is probably not a wise option or even feasible. Another option is consulting, but, as a solo consultant charging the typical $250-$300/hr in my field, this may not be much more lucrative than my current position after overhead unless I'm able to scale the business and hire employees.

I'm curious to hear others thoughts who may have been in a similar lower income role (for this subreddit).

I'm surprised by how rough the ride is on my 2013 RX350 FWD with 105k miles. I had a 2007 previously which I recall being much smoother.

It does not feel like there are any major issues with the suspension, but it's just firmer than expected over bumps. Any advice for aftermarket strut alternatives that may help?

Looking for recommendations for an area for parents in their 30s with a newborn. Most likely renting initially with the intent to later buy if the area works out.

We're currently in the SGV, but it seems like the primary entertainment around here is going out to eat. I would prefer to be in a more walkable area that's reasonably close to outdoor activities, entertainment, live music, and other events.

Good school options would be a plus for later down the line. Remaining within 30 minutes of the SGV would also be preferable.

I have a loose bumper cover that I need to paint. I planned to get a bodysuit and use new 3M organic vapor respirator filters with a half mask and goggles.

Does this sound reasonable for PPE, or should I just take the loss on the pre-mixed aerosol base coat paint and clear and pay to get it painted? Another option would be to buy 1k clear or see if a shop would just spray it with my supplies.

Thanks

My wife and I currently use Geico for two vehicles with a $300k/$500k injury liability coverage. We are renters, so we do not have home insurance. We have one infant.

What are the best options for $3M-$5M in umbrella coverage? Should I go through Geico or try another route since they will likely need to use a partner anyway?

What are you seeing quote-wise for this amount of coverage?

I'm looking for a convertible with 4 seats that can fit a rear facing car seat in the back. I am also looking for a car that I can find with a manual transmission.

The overall goal is to have a fun, enthusiast, driver's car to take out occasionally on nice days with the entire family.

I'm open on the budget, but I'm looking for something that will hold its value. So, I'm focused on 10-30 year old cars with lower mileage for the age.

So far, it seems like I may be limited to V8 Mustangs, V8 Camaros, and M3/M4s. An E46 or E93 sounds appealing, but I will have to do the upfront work to take care of all of the common issues. The Mustang and Camaro are less of my style since they look like rental cars in convertible form, but I can't deny the value and appeal.

Anything else to consider?