 |
| Who could resist these beautiful leaves? |
Today is the 3 year anniversary of when I retired. Wow! It's really hard to believe that 3 years have elapsed since I left the work force.
Here are some things I've learned about myself as a retired person:
I am learning how to procrastinate. Bad thing when you manage projects, but an ok thing in retirement. I don't have to do everything today. Sometimes it can wait until the next day. I haven't yet reached "I put the pro in procrastination" status which is how Mike defines himself, but I certainly cut myself more slack.
I am still way too analytical. Somehow I can't seem to turn off that part of my brain. I analyze the heck out of everything. Sometimes that's ok, especially when it prevents an error. But other times it's just a pain!
I am learning to breathe in nature. Whether it be flowers or trees or clouds, I can easily get lost in the moment.
I am finding my own routine as a retired person. I love the freedom to relax in the morning with a cup of tea and the news. This is such a delight after decade of racing off to work.
I enjoy variety. Too much of the same bores me. Not much has changed here since work days. If things are the same too long, I'll change them. I think that's why I have a variety of interests, and I focus on one for awhile and move onto the next.
I am still a type A personality, but I've softened a bit. I smile and laugh more, and I'm generally a happy person. But as Mike can tell you, sometimes "the old Diane" kicks in and pushes too much.
I love creativity, and I'm so happy to apply that now to art, photography and writing instead of solving work problems. My happiest days are ones where I've created something new.
I can sleep now. I am able to remember my dreams, and they are no longer dreams about people chasing me and wanting to harm me. If I wake up now, I fall asleep quickly. And no alarm clock. It's a dream come true.
I am learning my way around Indy. I thought it would never happen, but I can now find my way to major destinations here. Still direction impaired, I'm thankful for the "Maps" application on my phone and iPad.
I am comfortable in "our house" now. I was so afraid this would always feel like Mike's house, but by merging "stuff" and tastes, we are creating our own place. And it feels great!
I am paying more attention to my health. Ok, that doesn't yet mean I'm exercising more, but if a problem comes up, I'm pretty quick to get it checked out. In the past, I was always too busy to leave work, but now I can schedule a doctor appointment quickly as needed.
I don't spend money like I used to. Mike told me tonight that I'm thinking like a "true retiree". I really evaluate whether I need that new sweater or pair of boots, where in the past I would have spent money without much question.
I enjoy traveling, but I love my life at home. We've been to some great places since I retired, but I no longer NEED to get away like I did while working. Now it's more a matter of places Mike and I want to visit.
I love the ability to spend time with family and friends. With Mike and I being in the same city, we are able to plan and have impromptu visits with family and friends. It's a priority for both of us.
I am learning some carpentry skills by being an apprentice to Mike. We've worked on building a bike rack and rebuilt the porch this summer. I am getting a better understanding of how things go together, but I am still not comfortable operating power tools that have blades. Probably for the best!
I am still a klutz. Falling on a hickory nut and breaking my arm while walking through the neighborhood last Fall tells me that grace and agility do NOT come automatically with retirement.
I do not miss work. At all. I am starting to think about a next activity, but I'm pretty sure it will not be project management.
I am grateful. I thank God every day for all the blessings in my life.
Here's a look at the last 3 years:
 |
| Mardi Gras parade in Ensenada |
 |
| Hiking at Beehive Basin in Montana |
 |
| Cabra Castle in Ireland |
 |
| Caribbean cruise with friends |
 |
| Indianapolis Indians game |
 |
| Family visit |
 |
| Thanksgiving |
 |
| Volunteering at Lucas Oil Stadium before Indy's Super Bowl |
 |
| Iron Man and Black Widow |
 |
| Woodstock Party |
 |
| Painting the bike rack |
 |
| Cleaning old cast iron chairs |
 |
| Creating our new music room |
 |
| Sewing coin purses |
 |
| Rebuilding the porch |
 |
| Enjoying the moment! |
.jpg)
