It's just been short of seven months since I retired at age
62. I've been receiving my retirement
pay from work and starting this January, when I turn 63, I'll begin to receive
my Social Security checks.
Susan's Social Security benefits begins this month. Add to that the 401k I have tucked away from
my years at the credit union and our saving account we'll be taken care of
during our Golden Years. By no means will be rich-but comfortable.
We've selected a health plan and at age 65 more government
benefits will kick in.
Throw in the fact that we owe no debts, our house is paid
off and we have our health (so far) the future looks promising.
Before I go any further it's important that I place credit
where credit is due.
If it were not for God blessing our family, NONE of this
would have been possible.
I thank God everyday for all that he's provided: our
retirement, health, food, clothing, housing, transportation, family, friends
and most importantly - our salvation.
It's one thing to live on this Earth, it's quite another
matter where we'll spend eternity.
Thankfully Susan and I are both saved-both of our kids professed to be
saved when they were young. Let's hope
that's true.
Things certainly have changed in my life over the last seven months. I sleep in longer, I've
lost weight, my blood pressure is down and my whole life has slowed down
considerably.
Things that seemed so important when I was working seem
trivial now. I no longer feel the need
to 'perform'.
I enjoy reading, putzing around the house and yard, going
out with my wife to shop or eat, riding my bike, reading, relaxing and writing
my website and blog.
I've met a few other collectors my age and I've even started
weeding out my collection and selling things.
I'm holding off certain 'favorite' items to the last to sell. Toys and items my kids want are sorted out
and waiting for them when they want them.
One thing has surprised me though. I no longer feel the need to draw. In fact, I've stopped drawing all together. It's no longer enjoyable-if it ever was.
What I mean to say is, for so many years I made my living
drawing, designing and what seemed forever struggling with deadlines-whether it
was when I was in commercial art or teaching high school classes.
Now that I've retired it's almost painful to pick up a
drawing pencil.
I suppose that will change once I get the urge that I don't
'have to' draw.
When and if I go back to drawing, it will be because I want
to, not because I have to. We'll see.
As for now I'm enjoying spending time with Susan, visiting
friends, attending church, taking trips, sorting through my various collections and generally
taking life slow and easy.
It's taking some getting used to and learning how not
to feel guilty about not working but I'm sure I'll get used to it. I plan on spending my last years quietly and
enjoying every minute God has granted me of life here on Earth.
