[kenstogie]

I'm a Fed Emp too, Bump up your contributions to at least 6% they match higher than 3 points I am pretty sure. Take a look at your tax bracket and adjust contiributions as necessary to be in a lower one. Also this isn't so much investing as wise money management. Take advantage of your Med Flex Spending, it will reduce your taxable income and your not technically earning that but the end result is the same.... More $$$ in your pocket.

I am not an investing guru but people sometimes ask "How do you save money so well?"
I always tell them "write down everything you spend money on for a month". Funny but people rarely ever do but if they did they would find out in reality where there money actually goes.

The more organized you are with your money the better you'll be able to utilize it.

Also read "Rich Dad, Poor Dad" what a great book.