You often see that sign as a placekeeper; a promise of things to come.
Yesterday, I retired from my job of 24 years. I'll be 50 in February - I worked there for nearly half my life. Today I have felt a bit disconnected... a little like I had something amputated, or like I've experienced a broken relationship. A good friend counseled me to "stop looking back - this is not a time for reflection, but a time to move FORWARD and make plans."
So here's the thing. I'm FREE now. Free from the stress and depression that filled my days. Free from the battered-woman-syndrome that had become my coping mechanism. Free from the inability to take time off for anyone or anything. Free from the bully who ruled my life. Free from the toxic atmosphere I breathed for 8 hours a day.
I can feel a fresh breeze blowing through my spirit, and the desire to take charge of my time and my creativity.
Watch this space. Look for much more frequent glimpses of what I'm weaving, spinning, knitting, and creating.
And watch for a woman who sees joy in the distance, not so far off as she'd supposed.
Congratulations on your retirement! Bless you in the new year!
ReplyDeleteCongratulations! A change like that in your life can result in those feelings of being ungrounded and restless and lost. Time to put some positive predictability in your day. Happy New Year Debbie! Can't wait to hear about your upcoming adventures.
ReplyDeleteFantastic! welcome to the world of endless Saturdays and sleeping in and.... and...
ReplyDeleteWeaving more!
By the way, I see you have also won Hilary's contest and gaining one of her wonderful.... (ah, I'm not going to spoil it...go and see)
:) Susan
Here's to fresh breezes, renewed creativity and a new lease on life. Happy New Year!
ReplyDeleteCongratulations and I sincerely hope retirement is wonderful for you. Happy New Year and happy new life, too!
ReplyDeleteDear Debby!
ReplyDeleteCongratulations! It's finally happened!
Take the time to grieve the loss of the bully - in order not become your own because this is the life you are used to.
I wish you much strength and all the support you need to get off to a good start to the second half of your live!
I myself can't wait to see the first results of your unleashed creativity. I hope to learn a lot from you again!
Happy new year to you and your family
alke
Happy New Year, Debbie!
ReplyDeleteMay it hold good health and happiness for you, and may the path ahead be easier to navigate, than the path you have been walking....
Be warned, though, that AFTER retirement you'll be busier than you ever were BEFORE retirement (ask me how I know)! The saving grace is that you'll be busier doing things you want to do, not so much things yo have to do. Congratulations!
ReplyDeleteHappy New Year and congratulations on your retirement.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on your retirement!
ReplyDeleteDebbie, I "retired" a day before Christmas, and I don't feel anywhere near there yet. Too many family problems that are yet to work themselves out. At least I don't have the artificial time schedule to work to. Regards, Tammy
ReplyDeleteYea - congrats on the retirement and moving on to Joy.
ReplyDeleteLiving close to the Rockies means I am home but my now deceased grandfather loved the Gulf Coast and one day I'll have to go down to see what lit up his eyes.
I am so happy for you!!! Hugs!!
ReplyDelete