re: 401k averages? Saving too much or too little?

In my opinion, the true "nut" of the 401k is the getting out of paying the high tax rate on that money now, combined with withdrawing that money at a lower tax rate later. The difference in tax rate is the key. If you think you will get a decreased tax rate, then by all means, save the max in the 401k.

Hope that helps. By reading your story, I'm sure you will do well.

ETA: and I agree with the poster that said you need to have less than a years salary in emergency fund and the rest of that money needs to be seeking a higher ROI.