The luxury of both wild and domestic raspberries!
I have been retired almost two months now---58 days. But I still feel that the shoes don't really fit. It is like I bought a lovely pair of Manolo Blahniks on sale and have worn them for 58 days straight and am still conscious that they are on my feet and that they fit a little stiffly. They also are so luxurious and attention getting that I keep thinking I don't deserve them and they don't quite go with my personality or my pace.
Don't get me wrong. I have no regrets about quitting work. I do not feel lost when I get up in the morning and do not have to rush off to work. In contrast, I luxuriate in the opposite, pacing my morning with a slow cup of coffee and reading while the sun comes up.
I do not feel badly about being on a tighter budget and once again in my life looking at price per unit and looking at coupons when I shop. I am so lucky in having everything I want that a little frugality is a nice seasoning to my life. (Of course, if this administration continues to ignore the downward spiral of this economy, I may be wearing tennis shoes soon.)
But I have so much time to ponder my future. The work that I am doing now (gardening, cooking, decorating) does not require focused thought and so I have time to let my mind wander in other directions. To overwork garment analogies I guess I am waiting for the other shoe to drop!
Tabor, congratulations and good for you! I don't regret giving up the rat race one tiny bit. If I do have to watch my pennies more closely (and I certainly do), then I am more than compensated by having time for tea and reading, for long walks, gardening, cooking and slow summer thoughts.
ReplyDeleteI understand exactly what you're saying. I left work in April and don't think I'll be returning, unlike the last two times I retired. It still doesn't feel quite real. I'm enjoying my time in the garden, etc. but feel a wee twinge of guilt at having so much leisure time. I'm sure I'll get over it.
ReplyDeleteI still work 2-3 days a week (whenever I can) and I love doing it, so I won't stop. I already have to watch my pennies and use coupons, and if this administration isn't over soon, I will be wearing the same shoes I wore 10 years ago!!
ReplyDeleteDon't knock it. Retirement only comes around once.
ReplyDeleteTabor
ReplyDeleteI do not seem to ever stop. I go from garden, house, computer, writing and beginning photo projects, bake, etc. My last 10 years has consisted of building 3 homes and creating gardens Have simplified each time, need or want nothing and live simply. Seems I always have to have a project. I am totally content at this time but it may be because I have rolled past 3 score and 10.
Enjoy this time.
I am still restless at times but it is getting better.
it is interesting. i have a few friends who returned to part-time work, not because they had to have the extra money (though it is nice) but because they were having a hard transition in learning to live without the structure work provides. since i don't like structure i am happier without it. i create it as i go or as i see the need. (I have NEVER even worn a watch!)
ReplyDeletei can hardly wait for the next inauguration! it should be a HUGE party!! oh, to be in DC for this one. i have never wanted to be there for one until now. i think it is a direct reponse to the frustration and sadness i have felt with this administration. it is going to take us a few years to climb out of this mire bush and his posse have planted us in. :(
oh, to retire....I cannot wait until I can write of my retirement....You will hear me screaming with joy from Mphs, TN
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on your retirement!
ReplyDeleteKnowing you, you will find something that will give you lots of satisfaction and maybe even give you "a little cash.:"
In the meantime enjoy that morning coffee!
Millie
You lovely Path Finder - you say it so well (even the being on a tighter budget)
ReplyDeleteI think I am almost at the point where the Powers That Be will say I can retire (without losing 25% of my pension for going early).....
I am hardly breathing in case it fails at the last hurdle....