As they say, there are two ways to do things: the right way and again. I sure hope that I’m doing this retirement thing the “right” way, because I would hate to have to do it “again.” I’m enjoying not working and having plenty of free time, but time is never free. Every hour, it seems, new and unexpected expenses pop up. Water heater repairs, the need for a high wind cap on my roof vent, shipping, gifts, income taxes, and dental bills top today’s list. More money seems to be going out than coming in, and it’s eating into travel budgets.

 

A new water heater looms in my future, and I know that “right and again” plays into that decision. At least, I got a solid night’s sleep last night, not the usual up every two hours. If sleep doesn’t go “right” than the “again” is a nap. I woke up stunned, after six or seven straight hours, and it took awhile to get my bearings. Usually, I’ve been up several times, preparing for the inevitable 6 a.m. alarm, but this morning it was kind of a shock. I can’t decide which option is better, but there should be no need for a nap today.

 

Errands have occupied most of today, including trips to the library, McDonald’s, the post office, the grocery store, and hair stylist. Everything took longer than expected – the hassles of retirement. The library didn’t open until ten, the drive-thru was slow, the dog got sick in the car, the grocery was out of what I needed, packaging a shipment was costly, and everyone decided to get their hair cut at the same time. At least, the weather is “right” with blue skies, but it’s sure to rain “again” soon, and that’s not being pessimistic – rather realistic!

 

My dad retired on several occasions, each time choosing to go back to work. Retirement was not the “right” fit for him, so he went to work once “again.” Maybe in the future I will feel that way, but for now I’m perfectly content with enjoying my freedom. I’ve earned this time that feels “right” for me, so I would hate to return to the workforce “again.” I am not bored yet, just perpetually worried about having enough money!