u/IllustratorDismal288

My doctor requested a sleep apnea home study a few weeks ago and I am waiting. I also had a TMS session last Thursday. It was #6 and I feel really bad. I have to lay down because my mind feels like a electric storm. I believe all my symptoms are caused by both conditions. I wear a Samsung watch and notified me this morning of moderate to severe sleep apnea and I should consult my doctor which I already did. Has anyone been dealing with this?

Greetings all!

I'm currently sitting at about $277k in my TSP and my long-term goal is to reach $1 million in about 4 years. The more I run the numbers, the more impossible it seems.

Right now I'm contributing 9% to my Roth TSP. I converted from a Traditional TSP to Roth a few years ago. My investments have mostly been in the C Fund, but I've been wondering if I should be mixing in the S, I, or even F Fundinstead.

I also have about $44k between a money market account and a Roth IRA with Fidelity.

A few questions:

• Is going from $277k to $1M in 4 years even remotely realistic without dramatically increasing my contributions?
• Would changing my allocation between the C, S, I, and F Funds make a meaningful difference, or is this mostly a math problem?
• For those who have grown their TSP aggressively, what allocation and contribution strategy worked for you?

Chat GPT analytics:

Based on what you shared, the math suggests your goal and timeline don't quite line up.

• Age: 57
• Single, unmarried, no children
• Years of service: 17
• Salary: $108,000
• Planned retirement: About 4 years (around age 61)
• Current TSP: $277,000
• Current contribution: 9% Roth TSP (plus agency matching, if you're receiving it)
• Other investments: About $44,000 in a money market and Roth IRA with Fidelity

If your TSP earned a strong 10% annual return and you continued contributing 9%, you'd likely end up somewhere around $450,000–$500,000 in your TSP after 4 years (depending on raises, matching, and market performance), not $1 million.

To reach $1 million in four years starting from $277,000 would require either:

• Exceptionally high investment returns (well beyond historical averages), or
• Very large additional contributions from other assets, or
• Continuing to work and invest for several more years.

I also see a lot of federal retirement and financial advisors advertising on Facebook, offering free TSP and FERS retirement portfolio analyses. Has anyone here worked with one they would actually recommend? If you've had a good experience with a reputable advisor who understands federal benefits, I'd appreciate any recommendations.

I'm open to increasing my contributions if that's what it takes, but I'm trying to understand whether this goal is achievable or if I need to adjust my expectations.

Has anyone attained this aggressive goal?

Thanks in advance for any advice or insights.

Happy 4th!!!

I'm a 57-year-old Hispanic man, never married, no children, and I've been single for most of my adult life. I've had a few serious relationships over the years, but I realized we weren't compatible and chose not to continue them. As I've gotten older, I also recognize that living independently for so long makes commitment a different challenge than it was when I was younger.

I have a stable career, have been with my employer for 17 years, and hope to retire in another 3–4 years. I'm well educated, have earned several degrees and certifications (including PMP), developed and patented a product, have excellent credit, and live a simple, comfortable life with my ESA dog. Overall, I consider myself responsible, respectful, and financially stable.

I hadn't dated in about four years, but recently decided to give Bumble and Tinder another try.

I matched with someone on Bumble, and our conversations through the app seemed to be going well. The next day, she asked if we could talk on the phone. I happily agreed. We talked for about 25 minutes, and then she suddenly hung up.

I assumed the call had been interrupted, so I called her back. She didn't answer. A few minutes later, she sent a text saying she was working from home, had a customer, and had to end the call. She wished me a good day.

I replied asking if we could talk later.

That was three weeks ago, and I never heard from her again.

This isn't the first time something like this has happened to me on dating apps. It leaves me wondering if it's my communication style, if I somehow come across the wrong way on the phone, or if this is simply the reality of online dating today.

I'm not bothered if someone decides we're not compatible. That's completely fair. What I struggle with is when someone disappears after what seemed like a pleasant conversation. I'd much rather receive a simple message saying, "I enjoyed talking with you, but I don't think we're a good match." It might be uncomfortable for a moment, but at least both people have closure and can move on respectfully.

At this point, I'm taking a break from dating apps. They just haven't been a positive experience for me.

For those who have found love through Bumble, Tinder, or other dating apps, I'm genuinely happy for you and wish you all the best.

For everyone else—especially those in their 50s—has this been your experience too? From what I 've read in other posts, it seems that ghosting is the new norm?

Greetings, all

I've been living at The Parc in Gahanna, and honestly, I really like it. The location is perfect for me—it's close to just about everything, and my commute to work in Whitehall is only about 10 minutes.

My only issue is the cost. Right now, my 1-bedroom is $1,380/month, and after water and trash, I'm paying about $1,440/month. It's all-electric, which I love, but the rent is getting to the point where it's almost an entire paycheck for me each month.

My lease is up in September, and my renewal will be $1,385 before utilities. I could stay, and I really don't want to leave because it's been a great place, but I wanted to see if there are any apartments in the Gahanna, Whitehall, Reynoldsburg, or East Columbus area that offer similar quality for a little less.

Here's what I'm looking for:

• All-electric (I'd rather not have a gas bill.)
• Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring throughout—I'd really like to avoid carpet.
• A reasonable grace period for rent (I've always paid on the 1st, but having 3 days or so would be a nice safety net.)

I also have an ESA dog. He's had a few accidents over the years and unfortunately damaged the carpet. I already paid about $1,600 once to replace the carpet, and if I move out, I may end up paying for replacement again. That's another reason I'd really prefer a place with LVP instead of carpet.

If anyone has recommendations for apartments that are clean, well-managed, and a little more affordable than The Parc, I'd really appreciate it. Thanks and Happy 4th!

I am contemplating ending TMS due to copays. I calculated $1,800 in copays for 36 sessions. How is anyone coping with the copays?

I have been diabetic since 2005 (est) and I always take Metformin 500 mg 4 pills a day. My A1C Jan 2026 was 10 and in June 2026 came down to 8.3 It 's still high, but my meter readings are ranging between 60 to 125 even after eating. I am taking Rybelsus 14mg and it helped substantially in reducing my glucose. I am integrating 1 hr of water aerobics to fight stress. Today, my fasting reading was 105 and after breakfast was 125 without pills. I will meet an endo this month to discuss options. In all honesty, I am forcing myself to eat since I am not feeling hungry at all. Hope everyone is making progress.

I had my 3rd session last Thursday and I feel my brain is fried and my emotional wellbeing being is not any better but worse. I am angrier and bitter. They are recommending 36 sessions and I know is early to.make an assessment, but i am going to stop it. I have been dealing with forgetfulness, headaches, and irritation is not getting any better. I just texted the medical assistant, I am going to stop this nonsense treatment. It is not only painful, but expensive. I think this is another medical shenanigan just to collect money.

Greetings

I’m trying to make a decision about whether to stay in Columbus or relocate in the next few years, and I’d appreciate some outside perspective.I’ve worked in the same federal role for about 17 years and have a stable job I’m grateful for. I may be able to retire in ~3 years (around 2030). I also applied for a possible lateral transfer to Puerto Rico, but I haven’t heard back yet. I would like to leave because I can't stand winters.

The challenge is personal, not professional.I struggle with isolation where I live. I spend most nights and weekends alone. I’ve tried volunteering, church, dog parks, and dating apps, but I haven’t really been able to build a social circle here. My mother passed away two years ago, and I don’t have close family nearby (I do have some distant family in Puerto Rico).

I’ve been considering a move to Puerto Rico because I would at least have more social connection opportunities, even though I know it comes with tradeoffs and challenges.

Right now I’m trying to decide between:

Going month-to-month on my lease while I figure out a potential relocation

Renewing and staying in a stable housing situation until retirement

I do have a dog, and I’m also trying to factor in housing stability and practical logistics.

I’d appreciate any advice from people who’ve had to choose between staying in a stable situation vs relocating for quality of life or social reasons. Please be kind.

Greetings friends

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I have received an (NOR) for multiple positions, specifically being referred to the Hiring Manager at Kennedy Space Center (KSC). A few days ago, I shared my predicament regarding a potential transition from the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) to NASA. My current role is quite favorable, and a previous lateral move to another supply chain organization did not prove successful, leading me to return to my prior position in 2023. I have a great supervisor who gave me outstanding reviews on DPMAP and I am trusted and liked by my comrades and stakeholders. Lately, I have been sitting on higher ops meeting which are GS 13 level and above and been performing acting branch chief duties while my supervisor is on leave and I don't want to break the trust they have instilled in me. However, I mentioned to my supervisor in a.casual conversation that after my mom passing two years ago I want to be closer to the small family I have in Puerto Rico. I am eternally grateful for everything DLA has given me throughout the years. But, I hate the brutal winters here and I am traumatized about the upcoming winter. I can potentially retire in 4 yrs all things consider.

I am experiencing significant apprehension about undertaking a similar transition again, particularly given the current volatile circumstances I heard stories about funding issues there. Any feedback is much appreciated.

Break ================/

We appreciate your interest in the Public Notice - Administrative / Management (Direct Hire) position at NASA, advertised under vacancy announcement KSC-26-DE-12981940-CWO.

Your rating is

Eligible for the following position or positions:

GS-0301-13; You are tentatively eligible for this series/grade combination based on your self-rating of your qualifications.

GS-0343-13; You are tentatively eligible for this series/grade combination based on your self-rating of your qualifications.

GS-0346-13; You are tentatively eligible for this series/grade combination based on your self-rating of your qualifications.

​

You have been referred to the hiring manager for position GS-0301-13 in Kennedy Space Center, Florida

You have been referred to the hiring manager for position GS-0343-13 in Kennedy Space Center, Florida

You have been referred to the hiring manager for position GS-0346-13 in Kennedy Space Center, Florida

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I would like to know about the leadership and culture of GSA, more specifically FAS. It is ranked one of the Best Places to Work For in the the federal government. Any feedback is appreciated

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Greetings,

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I have identified a Job Opportunity Announcement for a Mission Support Specialist career ladder (GS 9, 11, 12) in Aguadilla, PR, for which I believe I am qualified. As a current GS 12 in Columbus, Ohio, I am seeking insights from individuals who have transitioned from the Department of Defense (DOD) to Homeland Security or Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Specifically, I am interested in understanding the work environment and organizational culture within these agencies, though I anticipate some similarities to the DOD.

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Having served with the DOD for 17 years, I am considering retirement within the next three to four years, contingent on various factors. My personal preferences include a warmer climate, opportunities for social engagement, and a suitable environment for my pet. My objective is to conclude my professional career in a more desirable location. As a native Boricua, I also have family in the region, particularly after the passing of my mother two years ago. Any feedback regarding these aspects would be greatly appreciated.

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PS I am fully aware of the LUMA nonsense, Acueducto, and the mess from the local government.

I am ADHD with anxiety, depression and an overloaded nervous system according to ChatGPT feedback. I started TMS last week went on my 2nd round today. I am experiencing tiredness, weakness, irritable moods, disorientation, forgetfulness and every little thing bothers me. I am a good person but I struggle with rumination since I spent too much time alone. I am not sure if this therapy would help. Supposedly, I have to complete 36 sessions. Any feedback or inputs would be appreciated.

Anyone has any luck dating in Cbus? I am a Hispanic, male 57 yrs old, never married, no children with a stable career and getting closer to retirement if social security does not go bankrupt. I recently got my PMP certification and other Agile certs as well. I earned a patent design and working on my utility patent . I consider myself a go getter. i live alone with my 13 yr old pup. Lately, I have been browsing dating apps e,g Our Time Bumble, Tinder, Match and they really sucks. I am getting likes but no messages and sometimes get a message and when I respond back I get ghosted. Weird shit tbh.Any recommendations would be appreciated. Have a great weekend!!!

I have almost 17 yrs as DOD/DOW Civilian working in logisitcs and supply chain and I am so ready to leave. I am 57 yrs old and it really sucks to wait another 3 or 4 yrs to retire. I am doing great at my current role.Sometimes, I ve been put as acting branch chief when sup goes on leave.and thats ok. There are 5 GS 12 and we are suppose to rotate, I guess. I appreciate the vote of confidence but is becoming a habit and lately they are calling me to managerial meetings. My sup is great and ranked me 5 outstanding on DPMAP. THAT WAS AWESOME!!!!

But, I also feel overwhelmed to be in place where I don't want to be from a personal living standpoint. I am bored, no friends here and no family or acquaintances. I spent my free time taking courses and finally achieved a milestone with my PMP, Scrum Master and Product Owner certs, now working towards my CPMAI. I am also a patent inventor. I do all these things to stay relevant and busy.

In all honesty, I wish I could back to PR where I am originally from, but I am unable to do a transfer and with all the infrastructure problems and poor government it seems not to be an option. There not too many federal

jobs there. I am.doing well for myself here with a good ROTH TSP and ROTH IRA and a little emergency fund and I thank God for that, but I am not fitting in. I have done volunteer work, churches, festivals. etc. I feel totally disconnected

I am starting TMS treatment to see if I can feel better and I started doing some water aerobics now that we are in summertime. Another fact is my mom died two years ago and I am all alone with my pup.

If someone has a similar experience, please share feedback and be nice. Thank you and have a blessed Sunday.

I earned my PMP last April and I am exploring CPMAI cert. I am a DOD Civilian GS 12 working with forecasts and demand planning. While studying the course, I noticed that one of the patterns is Predictive Analytics and Decision Support which correlates to my job. I believe my agency is implementing AI to enhance forecast accuracy as well as leadtimes , but I don't work directly with AI. Currently, I am reviewing a Udemy course from Frederiko Meixoto and there are lots of technical terms that I am not familiar with. I am knowledgeable on some algorithms at my job like regression, etc, but i am doing the quizzes and have no clue how to respond. I think someone mentioned to read PMI Leading and Managing AI so that's my next step. I have the ECO and Claude.ai questions and You Tube videos. I noticed this exam has similarities with the PMP. Any feedback for a go/no go is truly appreciate it. Best of luck for the test takers.

I have been employed with DLA for almost 17 yrs and I am eternally grateful for the opportunity. Cbus has been really good to me in certain aspects, but I would like to explore working for another agency somewhere in Florida or my hometown Puerto Rico. I hate winters and would like to haul ass on September because is when.my lease expire. I cannot handle another winter for health reasons and I don't have any acquaintances either. I can potentially retire in 2030 with 20 yrs. But, me and my pup are miserable here at this present time. Appreciate any guidance.

I've been 17 yrs with the agency. Want to know others people insights or feedback about working there.

I paid Thoughts to Paper on May 7 for a patent search / patentability review and received the invoice the same day. Since then, I’ve been following up periodically asking for delivery status.

The paralegal originally told me I should expect results around May 22 or early the following week. We are now past that timeframe and communication has become slower than expected.

To be fair, this same firm handled a design patent for me about two years ago and everything was smooth and on time, so I did have a positive prior experience with them.

This time, however, feels different and I’m starting to get a little anxious.

I already did a lot of the preliminary legwork myself using AI tools like Claude to help organize prior art searches and concept comparisons. What I mainly hired them for was a professional patentability opinion — basically, in layman’s terms:

Does prior art already exist?

Is the idea likely novel?

Is it potentially patentable before I spend more money?

For those who have gone through utility patent searches or patentability opinions before:

Is this timeline normal?

How long did your search/opinion take?

Did delays usually mean workload backlog or something else?

At what point would you start escalating concerns?

Trying not to overreact or assume the worst, but I also don’t want to ignore red flags if they exist.

I started federal service in 2010 and, to be honest, I had almost no investing knowledge back then. Nobody really explained the TSP to me, and I stayed stuck in the G Fund for many years because I thought “safe” automatically meant “smart.”

Eventually, a lady I worked with took the time to explain fund allocation, compounding, and the differences between the C, S, I, and G funds. That conversation completely changed how I viewed retirement investing. I’m grateful because otherwise I probably would have stayed in G forever.

I’m now 57 years old with around $273K in TSP. Currently contributing 8% Roth and 1% Traditional. I may need to work until around 2035, but honestly I’m not even sure when I want to retire anymore. I also have a Fidelity Money Market and Roth IRA combined totalling 43k.

Current situation- No kids, unmarried, no prior military and trying to figure out what the next phase of life is supposed to look like financially and personally.

Part of me regrets the years I lost sitting in G Fund. Another part of me knows I can’t change the past and should focus on making smarter decisions now.

For those closer to retirement:

Did anyone else start investing late or stay too conservative early on?

Would you still stay aggressive at my age?

How did you know when you were financially and mentally ready to retire?

Any advice for federal employees trying to catch up later in the game?

Appreciate any perspective from others who’ve been through this.

I'm a DOD Civilian with DLA, 16 years of service, and my lease is up in September. I have a great supervisor and I am eternally grateful for this opportunity. I was born and raised in PR. I've been in Columbus, Ohio for work (10 yrs) and Huntsville, AL (4 yrs) and honestly I'm done with the winters and the distance from family and I don't seem to connect well here. Recently, my 76 yr old aunt fell and broke her wrist. She had surgery. My brother was supporting her during the surgery. My mom passed 2 yrs ago and I am kind of regretting not being there for her. Puerto Rico is home and I'm seriously considering making the move. However, I hate the infrastructure issues with roads, power grid causing blackouts and the inefficiencies of the local government and the crime.

I've been browsing USAJOBS and I know the federal footprint in PR is limited. From what I can tell the main agencies posting are:

- IRS

- FAA

- DEA

- Homeland Security/CBP

- GSA (occasionally)

Most postings seem to be internal or hard to find.

I'm not looking to leave federal service — I want to stay in and ideally land something at the GS-12 or GS-13 level. I have my PMP, CSM, and CSPO and I'm currently in logistics/supply chain but open to pivoting into project or program management.

**If you're a fed working in Puerto Rico I'd love to hear from you:**

- How did you find your position?

- Are there agencies with a stronger federal presence than what shows up on USAJOBS?

- Any advice for someone trying to make this move before losing their mind in another Ohio winter?

DMs open. Appreciate any feedback from anyone who's navigated