I took an early retirement and did the same thing you are currently doing - buying in preparation; but I agree with ksellers, save your $s to spend once you join the "retirement club". I still have fabric (have been retired 5 yrs now) that I have not used. I would suggest buying rulers, machines, etc. instead of the fabric prior your retirement. Also, I have learned from my past practice that it is smarter to plan a quilt then buy the fabric. Thank goodness that I do love the scrappy look.