as of today, the magic number is 16 which indicates a new chapter in our home. it symbolizes achievement, loyalty, and perseverance. also, it represents a new routine, adjustments, and compromise.
donna has 16 more working days before she retires. she has worked since she was barely an adult. her professions have taken her to several places inside and outside the USA. having had at least three major career changes and many jobs within those careers, her time has been filled with excitement, danger, fulfillment, frustration, and stress. and now, she can say good-bye to full-time work.
anyone who knows donna views her as a super-energetic woman. as such, her retirement years will include projects, occasional part-time work, and continual learning. donna is a lifetime student and a voracious reader. she will discover new interests and roles. she loves life! my pride for her is immense.
during the eight months of retirement, i have found a satisfying pace with plenty of alone time. solitude has become a friend, a teacher, and a comfort. and at 5:30 each day, i looking forward to donna walking in the door having finished yet another day of work. four o'clock finds me watching the clock in anticipation of her arrival and of an evening spent together.
this transitions comes with challenges for her and me. since both of us are retired, we will spend much more time together. as much as i am looking forward to that, i understand that it will be a time of adjustment for both of us. and i am sure we will have to change, compromise, and at times compete for 'space'. we will learn how to live with each other in a whole new way.
the biggest challenge for me is facing the unknown. i have so many questions about our 'duel retirement' status. the unknown brings with it both anticipation and anxiety. how will our new life together take shape? that will only be answered after 16 working days from now.
the most valuable assets we have are our love, commitment, and strong communication skills. already having many conversations about her retirement, we have built an important context for sharing our thoughts and feelings about this transition. expressing our dreams, hopes, and fears have provided a way to move into this 'new life' together.
finally, i have confidence that we will not only work out the kinks, but will find a contented, satisfying lifestyle together. strong evidence from the last 26 years together proves to me that we will be not just ok, but that we will be wildly successful at this next phase of our lives.
welcome home donna. ivry, ruthie and i await you with open arms!
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