Busier Than I Thought I’d Be

I had this delusional thought that I’d finally have time to sit back and relax once I retired. I think I didn’t think that one through.

In my mind, retirement meant freedom — no schedules, no responsibilities, no “To Dos” that included anyone but me. I’d get up whenever I wanted, right? Except… I still wake at 5:30. I’d sip coffee leisurely in my pajamas on the back porch — unless it’s Thursday morning and the yard guy is mowing the grass. Grocery delivery would make life easier — as long as I’m home within the scheduled two-hour window.

Sure, I don’t have to head off to work anymore. But somehow, my days at home are just as full — maybe even fuller. And though I’m no longer shuttling kids to their extracurriculars, I’ve filled that time with my own.

My dad used to say he was busier in retirement than when he worked. I smiled back then. Now? I nod in full agreement. So true. So true.

But don’t get me wrong — I love this time in my life. I’m just over a year into retirement, and I’m still adjusting. And more than anything, I’m grateful.

I’m grateful for my circadian rhythm — waking at 5:30 allows me to get things done early. I can finish housekeeping, get in my daily exercise, and prepare for the day — all before 9:00 a.m. That sounds like a win to me.

I’m grateful for my quiet porch time (on non-mowing days). I love listening to the birds, to the kids waiting for the school bus, and watching the trees shift with the seasons. I take pride in my garden and admire the work I’ve put into it.

I’m grateful for grocery delivery. Living on a fixed income means I need to plan carefully — and avoiding impulse buys at the store helps a lot. I can choose meals that nourish me. Bonus: I don’t have to face the People of Walmart. (IYKYK — if you know, you know.)

I’m grateful for the time to keep my home in order. When I was working, dishes would pile up (yes, I’m ashamed of that), laundry sat around for weeks (also ashamed), and the vacuum? Let’s just say it collected more dust than it picked up — story for another time.

I’m grateful for my new extracurriculars. This summer, I’ve been rehearsing for The Music Man with our local community theater. It’s stretched my creative muscles and introduced me to so many wonderful people. After that wraps, I’ll start rehearsals for our community choir’s Christmas concert.

And I’m deeply grateful for this blog. Writing The Retired Widow allows me to reflect, connect, and share my story. And recently, I’ve started sharing videos on YouTube, too — another unexpected joy of this busy new chapter.

Whew! That’s a lot. I’m busier than I thought I’d be — but I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Now it’s your turn:
What are you doing in retirement? I’d love to hear from you.

Blessings,
Bethanne