The percentage of American workers with virtually no retirement savings grew for the third straight year, according to a survey released Tuesday.

Like many households, Wener and Tieun Vieux have suffered a few financial jolts of late.

Question: My husband and I have been happily married for 28 years. Careful spending and sound planning over time has provided us with a very comfortable financial future. Although we're compatible in many ways, our outlook differs when it comes to enjoying our money. I'm more of a saver and I hate to shop. I'm already retired, and when my husband retires in a year we'll begin drawing on our retirement savings. Can you suggest some tips on how we can communicate effectively about spending our money? How do we assure that we'll both have the independence to decide how we want to spend "our share" without judgment? --Margaret M.

You're probably feeling a lot better about your 401(k) these days, and not without reason. The average balance for experienced workers, after declining 19% in 2008, bounced back 29% last year, including new contributions.

Question: I lost about 40% of my retirement savings after taking early retirement. I'm now 55 and have $650,000 left. Can you suggest a portfolio that provides capital appreciation, income and growth? I require about $6,000 a month to live on. --Bill, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania