don't feel too stressed about saving since i know I'm doing well on my retirement. I try to have around $30k to $40k in savings (emergency fund) and also contribute to a 529 as well.

I used to have more in savings, but have come to realize that life is short and I want to live and explore the world right now with my wife (and sometimes my kids) while I am young and healthy. We've made an effort to visit different countries every year over the past 7 years and the memories we've made doing it have been great. It is also a good way to keep the family close together as the kids remember these trips fondly.

I also don't spend money on cars. All of our cars are old, but work great. I'd rather travel the world than drive a nice car.

So in summary, I'm all about balance. You need to save, but don't go overboard and enjoy life. Your kids will be gone and out of the house soon and you don't want to regret not taking trips and building memories with them.