I worked hard during my early adulthood and saved even harder. I paid cash for my first (small) home. This house represents a significant piece of our retirement assets. My husband (we've been married for 20 years) had three children, ages 12, 13, and 16 when we met. My youngest step-daughter needed a lot of extra love and patience. We bonded tightly, or so I thought. My step-children are all successful, decent adults who have faced and overcome their own hardships. The youngest has always held an extra special place in my heart.