LOL - just read your second post. (the one about the wife etc). The wife/mortgage and kids - I've got the trifecta there....but the wife is happy there's a dedicated punting bank b/c it means I never bet our dough.

I have a mortgage because real estate is the one safe bet there is. I work and save etc b/c I want more real estate. I keep the punting separate because that way you have the best true guide of if you're winning or losing - your balance.