Well that year flew by, although it’s not been without it’s challenges.
The relief of not getting up five days a week, to meet deadlines, smoke and mirrors, pulling rabbits from hats and spinning plates, is great. I don’t regret the decision to retire, in fact it’s one of the best I’ve made.
I, and a few others, doubted that I could survive without the problem solving, the cut and thrust of work life. I have, although adapting to it has proved a challenge for both me and Kevin, as we navigate spending more time together. I’ve realised that it’s important for us to have separate interests as well as joint ones. Another challenge is to fit these in with spending time with our grandson and our extended family and our friends.
I’ve had darker days where I’ve struggled, but these past few months have seen the light emerge and I know I have laughed more frequently which really is the best medicine.
I think I have the measure of it now, so it’s up to me/us to grab the bull by the horns and book that trip abroad, go to the theatre, visit family, friends, make those cards, recycle furniture, sell clothes I no longer need, but also be mindful of allowing some downtime if and when needed, knowing that we both may not need that at the same time.
I have high hopes for Year 2 with some fantastic travel plans and more to make a reality. There are new recipes to try, the garden to tend, and maybe even a new language to learn. I want to optimise this time where we have our health, the time and resources: a privilege to have all three.
My little life 