Perspective - A 46-year-old Sr. Director in tech (Bay Area-based, working remotely from Southern California) and his 44-year-old wife have three kids (11-year-old twins and a 9-year-old), and have seen their net worth grow from $4.2M to $5.7M in just three years. After a wildfire in Colorado uprooted their family, they relocated to SoCal, acquired a new primary home, and turned their old home into a rental. Their high $650K total income is split between salary, RSUs (company stock), and $100K from two rentals. Annual expenses rose from $80K to $140K intentionally to focus on experiences and travel with their children before the “window closes,” prioritizing memories over more saving. They still invest simply (low-cost index funds), but value time, presence, and family legacy more than chasing extra yield. Their goal: maintain principle, live off growth, and build strong relationships and adventures while the kids are young.