> I started investing only last year, and
> investing tiny amounts ($50/month or so). My
> return's only about 7%... not as good as
> Dien, but a whole lot better than the stock
> market itself, bank savings account, money
> market, etc.

> I enjoy it. It's kind of a grand cosmic game
> of strategy (and outwitting the odds.) It
> does mean paying careful attention to the
> news and accepting that you, like Warren
> Buffet, will have investments that go down.
> The trick is knowing when to get out.

Hi Mel,

Congratulations on your returns! Because the markets did so badly in 2001, you've really given the markets a walloping!

I think these bad times can be good training.... Anyone can make money from stocks in a "bull" market, it's tougher to make money in a "bear" market. But if you can, then when the "bull" market comes along again, you know you'll probably get some truly spectacular returns!

And you won't have to fear a "bear" market any more either.... :)

- Dien Rice