Another thing: Can you go over this one more time:
Something like $8,000 a year, after taxes, would be more than enough, as long as I can continue to live in my parents' house rent-free.
What made you decide you're okay with living with your parents for the rest of your life? Did you really give up hope or something?
Well, for one, I like the house I live in, and, for the most part, my parents let me do what I want. I just don't feel any particular need or desire to move out and, financially at least, I'm getting a great deal. Moving out would drive up my expenses enormously, because I'd no longer be able to use my parents' stuff, including their HDTV, their internet connection, and all those other things. (Incidentally, I have a first cousin once removed who never moved out of his parents' house. Unlike me, though, he does have a job.)
As for giving up hope, well, yeah...
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