I officially retired this afternoon. I turned in my truck, keys, credit cards, and phone. Since there was nobody at the office, I just locked the door on my way out, closed the gate, and forever was finished with a 43 year career in construction. In a way, it was bittersweet. In another, it was like having a doctor tell you "You're in perfect health, and should live many more years.".
I had some thoughts about what's next, but realized that was way too much to think about right now, since the pressure of having to be twenty steps in front of everything on a project takes a toll over the years. It's time to rest, reflect, and adapt. The race is over, and I managed to stay in front of most of the pack. I'll enjoy finishing, and being a spectator for now.
Jess, congratulations. Enjoy your retirement time!
ReplyDeleteCongratulations.
ReplyDeleteGood for you!
ReplyDeleteCongra+ula+ions!
ReplyDeleteKick back and relax for a while...enjoy not going in for a while.
Thank you all. My mind is still not used to not thinking about what Monday will involve instead of the job. From here on, it will probably be what will be good for breakfast.
ReplyDeleteContratulations! Retirement is a wonderful thing.
ReplyDeleteI hope all goes well for you.
ReplyDeleteJess, I retired a year and a half ago after a 40 year career in the industry and 34 years at the same company. People constantly ask me: "How do you like being retired?" and "Do you miss it?"
ReplyDeleteI love being retired, and no, I don't miss it - though I do sometimes miss the camaraderie with the folks I worked with day to day.
Roll with it. With me, it was like a weight of stress was lifted off my shoulders. Indeed, it took me - and might take you - about three to four months just to get out of the "I'm on an extended vacation." mindset. But pretty soon, your life will take on a whole new tempo.
Congratulations!
Congrats!
ReplyDelete