Worst case scenario

[SheilaT]

4. In 2001, the second week in September,

something happened that kept the U.S. stock market from opening that day. In fact, the market stayed closed all week and didn't open until the following Monday. When it did open, the market dropped a lot, and by the end of that week had lost about 14% of its value.

All of those losses were recovered in thirty days.

You might want to call your guy and discuss this with him. Chances are he'll tell you to stay put, especially if your investments truly are conservative.

Over the years I keep on hearing of people who sell everything and just keep the cash. Usually the sell at the bottom of the market, locking in losses, and if they want to get back in it's going to cost them a lot more. Steady, long-term investments are usually a safe bet. But do talk to your guy. He knows a whole lot more about you and your situation than any of us here.