Very sound (consumer) financial advice. I'd like to believe no one will bitch about this sharing of info, as it's what you will hear from any financial advisor, money magazine, investment guide. I would have been provoked by the tone of the question you were asked, so I'll interpret your response as not being intentionally disparaging of those who are not able to follow the wisdom you offered.

Most of us simply don't have enough cash for a home. Not everyone can save enough to pay cash for a home if they live in an expensive real estate market, are young or have children, or selected a career based on emotional rather than financial fulfillment. I've got 44% equity in my home at the age of 33; I'm lucky. But I'll never have the willpower to quit impulse shopping. I wish I did have have as much as you and your wife—it's a smart way to live.

Kelly