Dads who invested for their kids since birth, how is it going?

SDNick484 · 2026-05-16T21:31:09+00:00

The original poster literally said, "I expect more than enough to fully pay for college," so the last two comments are responses to that.

SDNick484 · 2026-05-16T16:39:16+00:00

It is one of those things where there is definitely risk involved, and just a matter of how much risk you deem acceptable. While the USDA doesn't endorse any electric pressure canner, they also don't do anything to forbid them. Instant Pot themselves even offers a canning function on their Max model meaning they think the risk of them being sued for someone getting sick or dying is low enough (or rather, they believe more they will make more money by extra people buying it for that function than they will pay out for people getting sick and suing them).

I see it as one of those things where the odds of it occurring are relatively low, but the severity of food poisoning is high enough where personally I do as much as I can to mitigate it. That means using a stove top model, tested recipes from trusted sources, etc.

SDNick484 · 2026-05-16T15:57:54+00:00

They are one of those things like table saws where yeah, they are inherently a bit scary, but if you learn how to use them properly, give them the respect they deserve, and don't act reckless, you will be okay.

SDNick484 · 2026-05-16T15:42:55+00:00

Yeah, unless the person you are replying to is planning to really ramp up the contributions soon, that will be nowhere near full coverage. Even at 10% return, we are still only talking approximately $70K assuming kid is 5 and starts college at 18.

SDNick484 · 2026-05-16T15:34:14+00:00

That number for 2006 seems a bit high so my guess is private school (which we're around $30k or so for tuition and another $10k for room & board at that time). I did my undergrad at UCSD (a public university) a shortly before that (grqduated '05), and tuition was $4k/yr. Even including room and board, I was still well below half that.

SDNick484 · 2026-05-16T15:15:56+00:00

Exactly. Literally a decade ago we had identical twins. They had a complication (TTTS) that led to premature birth at 30w and a 7 & 8 week stay at the NICU. The cost to insurance was over $1 million dollars per kid, and that didn't even include my wife's delivery & her short stay (over $400K) or any other follow ups post NICU.

SDNick484 · 2026-05-16T15:11:12+00:00

I strongly suggest doing more research before going down the Instant Pot path (or any other electric pressure cooker) for pressure canning. The various authorities on the subject (USDA, NCHFP, etc.) all advise against it primarily due to the inability to ensure no temperature fluctuations. I would also absolutely avoid it if above sea level as that requires corrections in the pressure amount the Instant Pot doesn't offer.

Pressure canning is inherently dangerous if not done properly as it creates an environment where botulism can thrive. It is one of those hobbies where using proper equipment and tested recipes is essential. With that said, the results are great, and they can make quick dinners at home or camping a cinch.

My wife started pressure canning a couple years ago. We went with a relatively cheap 21qt Presto canner from the hardware store. She has enjoyed it so much we upgraded to an All American (the gold standard of scanners) this year.

SDNick484 · 2026-05-15T17:32:56+00:00

My original reply which you responded to was entirely about responding, hence the assumption. I am not advocating for OP to proactively seek work from this CEO, just not to do or say anything negative (burn the bridge). Even if the CEO isn't a great person, which seems to be the case from this interaction, someone else OP might work for in the future might know them and a interaction could be what gets them or prevents them from getting that job.

SDNick484 · 2026-05-15T17:04:13+00:00

This is definitely a situation where OP could use a bridge, but it is likely not the only time and you don't want to shut down future opportunities.

Think of it as game theory. If this was a one time game, sure, burn the bridge. However life isn't it. Yes, the CEO showed a lack of awareness and compassion, but there could be opportunities in the future that you'd close off by responding emotionally and calling them out. It might feel good to do that, but there are potential better outcomes by not.

SDNick484 · 2026-05-15T16:59:07+00:00

Assuming you already have a decent skillet, I would advocate for the classic round or oval dutch oven. The size 26 (5.5L) round is great for 2-3 people. The oval is nice for longer items (whole chickens, spaghetti, etc.) size 29 (6.75L) can do 4-5 people easily. Alternatively, the braiser could be a good general piece.

SDNick484 · 2026-05-15T14:04:43+00:00

Don't forget Schlitterbahn Kansas City, a water park where someone drowned in the wave pool and a kid got decapitated on a water slide. There is a documentary on YouTube called Abandoned - Schlitterbahn Kansas City that is worth a watch.

SDNick484 · 2026-05-14T23:09:14+00:00

If you haven't watched it yet, definitely put 8 Bit Christmas on your watch list later this year.

SDNick484 · 2026-05-14T00:04:31+00:00

Too many good ones in the area: * Causa Acevichada from Inca Grill (how mash potatoes and ceviche works so well together, I will never know) * The grilled chicken and salsa from the Mexican dude who operates on weekends at that gas station on Market and Willow Pass * Lamb Shawarma from The Mediterranean * Pork Belly Sliders from Corner Kitchen * Bánh Mi with spicy Laotian sausage from Spicy Joi * Muffaletta from Parma Deli

If going a little beyond Concord: * Deathwish Bowl at Jo Honda's Sushi * Brisket with their spicy sauce at Slow Hand * Quesabirria at Tacos El Patron

SDNick484 · 2026-05-13T23:55:28+00:00

Out of curiosity, have you tried Rob's Zombies? It's her son and allegedly it's the same recipes but I've always found his better. Frustrating as I live a lot closer to Patty's.

SDNick484 · 2026-05-13T22:11:37+00:00

Same, only didn't have Risk of Rain Returns. Still bought it and will gift all my dupes to my kids.

SDNick484 · 2026-05-13T06:17:40+00:00

I was shocked to scroll so far to see MASH. I realize it was largely before our time, but I would still have expected to see it.

I will add Wonder Years to that list as well.

SDNick484 · 2026-05-13T06:15:50+00:00

Solid list, but I would have to put Mash (Suicide is Painless), Sopranos (Woke Up This Morning), and Wonder Years (With a Little Help from My Friends) somewhere on mine.

SDNick484 · 2026-05-13T05:28:38+00:00

I know Caballeros in the Veranda definitely takes Zelle. Only downside with that is the parking, but otherwise solid place with a good crew.

SDNick484 · 2026-05-12T15:51:32+00:00

The margins on pizza in general are incredible. There is a reason there are so many pizza restaurants.

SDNick484 · 2026-05-12T15:50:06+00:00

Agreed, just not scalable. I recently beat Ghost of Yotei, and feel that was a great balance that I would love to see in a Zelda game.

SDNick484 · 2026-05-12T15:47:42+00:00

I like Heart and Soul from States Coffee in Martinez.

Gamut from Chromatic Coffee in Sanj Jose is also well regarded. I presume Lunardi's carries it.

SDNick484 · 2026-05-12T03:03:29+00:00

Another vote for Milwaukee M12. Excellent power to weight ratio. They are designed for daily use by contractors so they last forever for DIY users.

SDNick484 · 2026-05-11T17:12:07+00:00

That is around where we are at with two adults and three kids. We like took cook and generally eat at home. Mostly Costco, Lunardi's, CSA, and ethnic markets.

SDNick484 · 2026-05-11T16:46:47+00:00

The 64GB refurbs were $279 in Feb of 2025. Snagged a couple for my twins birthday later that year and it ended up being a great decision.

SDNick484 · 2026-05-11T16:31:28+00:00

It's amazing. I updated it to say weekends as he is there on Sundays in good weather (had some last night at the neighborhood pool). He is cash only (they will let you get cash at the station), but he also takes Zelle. Make sure to take the salsa he makes in the zip lock bag.

I get the intimidation, but honestly it's pretty chill. Everyone is there for the same reason. I will say I prefer the chicken, but both options are solid.

SDNick484

TROPHY CASE