In 1996, my husband and I moved from the Bay Area to Flagstaff Arizona (small town) to get away from the rat race (no long commutes anymore, less money, still pretty expensive housing, but we had a little extra put away so we are okay that way.)

So, when we first moved here, I worked full time at at least 1/2 of my Bay Area Salary, my husband worked part time at a little less salary than he made before. we managed, we did fine and still started saving money.

Then, I went to 4 days a week (I'm a paralegal) about 2 years ago. A little less money coming in but not bad - I like my job and I have a lot of time off.

Then, about a year ago, my husband quit his full time job (xray tech) and did not work for about 8 months and then has worked part time (he does ont work as much as I do right now) and we are still doing okay! I even went to the Colorado Bike tour last year, went on a 3 day cruise and went surfing for a week in LaJolla last week! Lots of riding and small trips as well.

So, yes, we are out of the rat race although we still work some and it is wonderful! You just have to plan, and execute and don't go out to dinner as often, eat your lunch at home, don't commute as far or do it on your bike, etc. It really is not that hard once you make up your mind to do it!

Life is GOOD!