While technically still employed, I am currently burning through accumulated PTO which will take me to May 1st, my first day of being officially retired. My extended vacation leading up to retirement started in mid-November.
So what's next?
I really see no reason to feel rushed to figure out what I'm doing next. 39+ years as a software engineer/tech support person/team jester has been fulfilling from a career perspective. The next few months I plan to just look around, soak everything in, and relax; take a breather. So far, this extended PTO time has given me a few opportunities to begin that process...
- I have been periodically helping at the local food pantry. They are always eager for someone to assist with loading the trailers/vans/trucks for the various non-profits who are picking up food for the folks they help.
- I am blessed to have a beautiful granddaughter. Over the last few months, I have been able to provide "emergency babysitting" services. TBH, there's probably nothing I can do that will provide more joy than that.
- Exercise - I can now go to a nearby gym before "peak crowds" arrive. It's important for me to accept that old age is my world now, and regular exercise is even more important now.
Along with these activities I have a few more in mind:
- Fishing - I love to fish. That does not mean I passionately want to catch fish. I just want to "fish to be fishing". I can now wander around to all the nearby lakes, state parks, rivers, etc. and soak in nature.
- Coffee - Even though I live in a smaller community, there is an abundance of coffee shops. Time to get to know those a bit better.
- Learning - I always loved learning new technology. No reason that can't continue.
- Reading - I have never been a power reader. However, as of recently I have been reminded how much I enjoy reading on my Kindle.
- Travel - Since my better half still wants to work for a few years, my idea of travel in this context are day drives somewhere. Perhaps to visit family that live kind of close, or maybe a drive/hike. More to come on this one.
- Tech Reviews - I have started a separate blog where I hope to talk nerd stuff and possibly provide my thoughts on tech topics (from a dinosaur's perspective). The Nostalgic Nerd
So, the way I see it, I have lots of opportunities to stay busy. I have zero fear I will be unhappy in retirement.
Let's have some fun...as life is intended to be lived.
