Golden

Dear friends, the topic of most conversations in our home these days are mostly focused on our health and our upcoming retirement, aka “The Golden Years” (smile). For us (me and my hubby) it is the phase of life that begins around the age of 65-67 and hopefully continues through our 80’s and beyond (God willing). The term “Golden Years” reflects the wealth of wisdom and experiences that come with age, and we have plans to enjoy our senior years to the fullest, and enjoy travel, less stress and the joy of time spent together unburdened by the 9-5 that has tethered us for so long.

As seniors we have plenty of stories, insights and perspectives on life that may be considered worth knowing by the younger people in our lives, if they were to ask. We have a plethora of information available at any time. (smile) We have spent years raising families, working and meeting countless responsibilities and we look forward to the sense of freedom and leisure that will come with retirement. We also look forward to spending quality time with each other and our loved ones.

We can’t forget that retirement will also mean:

• No need to set the alarm
• Breakfast any time of the day
• No set schedule (this one will be a challenge for me)
• Eat what we want and when we are hungry (healthy food choices)
• Less stress
• More time with family
• Free time to pursue hobbies and interests
• Purge-downsize
• Volunteer
• Stay active
• Join clubs and local groups with shared interests
• Watch the sun rise
• Watch the sun set

Sadly, some retirees find themselves alone and that can be depressing. So, it is important to maintain relationships not only with your family but with your friends too.  “Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up the other. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up!” Ecclesiastes 4:9 

Studies have found socializing can strengthen our immune systems, help us recover more quickly from an illness and can even help us get a better night’s sleep. Friends can help us celebrate good times and provide support during bad times too. Finding new friends in our golden years can be difficult and may require a little extra effort, but it’ll be worth it.

As seniors we will face a few challenges including the cost of living and making sure our health is a top priority. Although our retirement adventures are something to look forward to, they can’t be enjoyed if we are not healthy.

 As many of you know I have been blogging intermittently this year (the year of sick). I’m praying our health challenges, my hubby has had some too, will get kicked to the curb soon. I will be going in for biopsies in the middle of October. I will keep you posted. (smile)

Are you retired? Looking forward to retirement? Have you faced any challenges in retirement?