Rake, you ask some tough questions. I am not much of a planner, but then my hubby plans enough for both of us. The things you have asked about are all important to think about, but I think that the idea of living for today means that you shouldn't borrow trouble. I think we should plan for... say retirement. But I am not going to loose sleep over whether I have enough for that time or not. I am not living for that time, but I am going to enjoy the time I have with my children while I am young. I am not going to worry about what my role is once they are adults and miss out on the today. Hope my rambling makes sense.