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It has finally arrived. After about 50 years in the workforce, retirement is at hand. Why aren’t I in full-celebratory mode?
Well, there is so much that is unknown. How to fill the empty space and time? What about finances, paying the bills? Medicare, Social Security?
Wait a minute. Perhaps this misleading. This isn’t about me, specifically, but about her. My better half, Patty, has retired. For Patty, there have been stints as a salesperson and television weathercastor, but the last 26 years have been in education as classroom teacher, coach, inclusion support coach and more for Los Lunas Schools.
It was a natural for her because during elementary school, teachers would let Patty take over class instruction from time to time.
While there is certainly plenty of quiet rejoicing, this monumental moment might be reminiscent of the dynamic an engaged couple experiences as their wedding day approaches. The excitement may be tempered with apprehension and fear.
The transition for Patty seems to be going well, with her attention focused for now on things around the house and yard. Weeds tremble as she approaches. There is also some discussion on possible infrastructure improvement$.
Patty has a clear vision on her next act. She’s an amazing writer/story teller and gifted artist. I could be her talent agent! A podcast is probable, too, delving into education, athletics, the paranormal, parenting, pets, wait until you hear about Ricky Racoon, and much more.
After decades of the alarm ringing each weekday morning at 5:15 a.m. during the school year, the silence has been welcome. Now, it is my turn to quietly prepare for work as Patty sleeps. Talk about pressure.
Our cat, Amelia, is so confused about this schedule change she has become a living alarm clock. Before the sun comes up, Amelia has given Patty love swats on the face to rouse her from a deep sleep. She seems to be saying, “Get going!” One morning, Amelia used her front paws to push on Patty’s chest in an apparent feline version of CPR. “Are you OK?”
It will be interesting to see how life plays out over the next few months for Patty, with me observing. Will a calmness set in or will the stress level naturally crank up in late July as the start of the school year approaches? How much will I get under her skin?
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For sure, I will be watching closely, taking copious mental notes during this transition to help when my retirement arrives. No doubt it will be difficult.
Just last week I took a day off to go to an Albuquerque Isotopes afternoon game, but I was nervous and stressed about missing work. Patty has been asked several times if she is ready for me to retire, too. The unspoken answer is “no way.”
However, my scouting process for fun or educational things to do is well underway. I’m hitting up retired relatives and friends for insight into what has gone well or has been challenging.
There’s research into what local community and recreation centers have to offer. Will I take up tai chi, yoga or pickleball? Is there a nice hiking trail, not too strenuous? Bowling sounds like fun, but the closest lanes are about 26 miles from my house. Will Isleta Fun Connection reopen? A natatorium nearby would also be welcome.
With my career the focus for much of our marriage, it’s payback time. I owe Patty so much. Where to start? How about music, some dancing and concerts?
There were several out-of-town concerts she had an eye on, Scorpions and Mumford & Sons, but I dragged my feet because of cost and work obligations. Bad on me. I’m searching the internet to find other shows to book. Shh. It’s a secret.
Even though pulling the trigger on retirement seems a bit like rolling the dice at a casino, the possibilities are exciting. Exploring the history and beauty of New Mexico is long overdue. Plus, slip in a river cruise, add a standing date night, extra time with the grandkids, more reading and movies, basketball officiating, the Senior Olympics and volunteer work, and the calendar will fill up quickly. Slow down, old man!
Now, for all of you who are retired or thinking about it, I say good luck and RIP. Retire In Peace.
