It’s been a full year now. How are you finding retirement? Has anything surprised you?
I’m glad that I’m retired. My mom has had a few health issues and I’m thankful that I have the time to take her to doctor appointments and help her in general.
I am an extrovert, and what has surprised me is the lack of daily conversations. At work, I would touch base and chat with so many people. I miss my colleagues, I miss the daily banter, and I miss helping people.
Were you able to do the things you planned to do in retirement?
Yes. I’ve definitely been able to help friends and family. I’ve done a bit of decluttering (still have a ways to go—all those photo albums and hard drives 😊). I’ve played a good amount of pickleball and tennis. I started swimming laps, which I really enjoy, and I bike consistently. I haven’t played as much golf as I thought I would or taken extended visits to see friends. I’m still looking forward to doing that!
Where did you retire to?
This is a good question but not a simple answer. I travel between southern Maine in the summer and southwest Florida in the winter with a good bit of my home base in Fairfax City mixed in.