Can you believe it’s been almost three years since we retired? As I approach the start of year 3, I can honestly say my everyday activities are as I envisioned them to be and they will continue to evolve. It’s been a journey to get to this point. Believe it when the retirement gurus tell you that it’ll take 2-3 years before you finally begin to feel settled in retirement.

People ask if we plan to remain where we currently live long-term. No. Making the decision on whether or not to stay in the same area took some time. In the end, I really want a smaller house in a less populated area, preferably near a body of water. That’s all I know. We don’t have to make a decision today – or anytime soon, for that matter. Eventually, we’ll need a house with fewer stairs and something that’s easier to maintain.

Meanwhile, the school-based R.E.A.D. program was definitely worth the work and 2-1/2 year wait. I thoroughly enjoy working with the kids to improve their literacy skills. This week, Sadie and I started our 4th week of the program. All the kids came right on time, ready to work. It’s been wonderful! FYI, Big Girl and I made 38 therapy dog visits in 2024 totaling 80 hours of visit time. Wonder what our stats will be at the end of 2025?

Quilting activities ebb and flow. I sew with friends at least one day a week. I’m taking a breather on personal projects after the intense focus on the Bonnie Hunter mystery quilt. Placemats and pillowcases for community service are currently on my worktable. I’m teaching sewing and machine maintenance classes throughout 2025 at the SQTM. I’ll also be a student at guild and regional quilt events, as well. 

Travel is something hubs and I both said we wanted to do more of in 2025.  I’m sure we will. Mind you, retirement travel doesn’t always resemble the glamorous jet-setting round the world often portrayed in retirement ads. As a couple, it’s usually 1-2 trips by plane with some weekend getaways sprinkled throughout the year. We currently have two destinations in mind, with dates TBD.  Other travel involves volunteer work and hobbies. Occasionally, we go together, but it’s usually done solo or with friends. 

Since Hurricane Helene, hubs has become so involved with Team Rubicon that he’s been gone at least two weeks of every month. It’s worthwhile work that I’m happy to support.  Besides, my own volunteer and teaching commitments have me tied to an academic calendar through mid-May. (Spring break will be spent at a quilt retreat!) Road trips are something that I have missed. Having a high-mileage older car with some quirks is fine for local trips, but not long ones. QuiltCon in Raleigh was her last major trip. Test drives of my top 3 new vehicle candidates are next week. Once that’s decided, then it’s a matter of finding/waiting on the specific model/trim level to become available. 

If you’ve worked with a professional to develop a solid retirement plan, money worries should ease significantly by year 3. It did for me. All I can say is follow your plan. Give yourself permission to spend money, especially in the early years of your retirement while you’re able to enjoy it.  This has been a hard mindshift for me, but I’m adjusting!