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Yesterday as the clerk rang up my groceries at Trader Joe's, he asked me what I had planned for the day. "Chores," I answered, cheerfully. "Are you going to do anything fun?" he persisted. I felt a little bit annoyed, as I was just there to shop, not to explain how and why I spend my time.
I had run the dogs along the Walkydog that morning. The exercise was energizing for all of us, and I love the buzz of endorphins it brings. So do my canines. I told him that I was looking forward to making delicious meals with all of the items I had purchased.
I thought about the times when I was a dance teacher making barely enough money to make ends meet. Grocery shopping in those days took careful planning, so I that didn't go over my small budget. My mom used to tell me on the phone that she wished I didn't have to work so hard. It was a difficult and strenuous time, but I got through it. Sometimes she would slip me a gift card for groceries in the mail. It was our secret. I always appreciated it.
So, now that I'm retired, it is a relief to be able to relax at the market and be able to buy what I want. I can splurge on blueberries, raspberries, popsicles, cookies, and candy. There was a time when I only made my desserts from scratch, and bought all of the ingredients in bulk. There were no extras: no vacations, meals out, new clothes, etc. It was part of the sacrifice of being a dance teacher.
Tight finances make life very tense. The man behind the register didn't really understand all that, but your priorities change as you age. I am happy sitting on my porch, gazing at my glorious garden, and reading an entertaining library book. A happy and peaceful retirement is built over time. It takes planning and preparation.
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Your heading reminded me of a Miss Read book with the same name. She managed to fill her days with lovely things after a lifetime as a teacher ending up as head of a small village school.
ReplyDeleteDo you know the Miss Read books? xx
I love the Miss Read books and would recommend themMary
DeleteI am enjoying this one, Mary. I think I will order the others, as well.
DeleteNo, I don't. Joy. What a coincidence. I will Google them.
ReplyDeleteWe are on the same wavelength again Stephenie. Nothing really makes me happier than sitting in my yard enjoying the lovely sights I have worked so hard to achieve over the years. DH and I worked diligently for decades and now we can have the life we feel we deserve. It may be a quiet life, boring to some folks, but we can travel whenever and however we wish and also have a home which is perfect for us. I will also look up the Miss Read books.
ReplyDeleteThat's fantastic, Anita. It's rewarding to improve your soil and see the plants and trees thrive. I just ordered the Miss Read book that Joy mentioned. It sounds like a book we would all enjoy.
ReplyDeleteIt's so wonderful that you are enjoying your retirement, Stephenie. I've been reading a few articles, recently, about retired people finding they aren't able to have the life they had hoped to live in retirement due to cost of living going up, health issues, etc. You planned for your retirement well and are able to enjoy it. :)
ReplyDeleteThanks, Bless. There have been some unexpected expenses, but fortunately I was able to cover them. It helps to think ahead and try to prevent problems. My father warned me about inflation when he was still alive.
DeleteI found that as a yoga teacher and healer, that I had to work the equivalent of one and a half jobs/incomes each week, to keep my head above water. It was a financially sparse and exhausting time. I'm really grateful to live in New Zealand where everyone gets a pension. It has made life a lot easier.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad that your financial life is easier now, Ratnamurti. It's ironic how stressful it is to be a yoga teacher/healer.
DeleteHow strange that I've had the same conversation with my friend this morning. My life is so relaxed and I love nothing more than pottering in my garden or a good book and a cup of coffee
ReplyDeleteThat's wonderful, Cherie. You are reaping the rewards of your working years and beautiful garden.
DeleteHello Stephannie, I am 1 month and 10 days away from retiring and I have been suffering from anxiety, I have fear, I don't know something is wrong with me, I knit and also do presses for girls, so I shouldn't worry about reaching retirement, but no I know... I think I'll have to seek help
ReplyDeleteYou are nearing the finish line, Geovanna. Change can be stressful. It usually helps to journal. Let us know how you are doing...
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