It's Done!

Last Thursday, I drove 2 hours North in the pouring rain (which didn't bother me a bit) to submit my retirement paperwork. 

The staff answered some important questions and gave me hearty congratulations when it was all said and done.  I walked out with an "official retirement date" of April 26th, and I will "sign-out" at my worksite the previous day.  In the meantime, I will continue to use up my leave credits until my "last day" on the clock. 

On Saturday, I snuck into work to clean out my office, which was bittersweet.  I just didn't want to deal with a lot of people as I did that, so instead I wrote a memorandum telling them of my decision to retire and said my goodbyes that way. 

Now, I'm thoroughly enjoying my new life and exploring the possibilities of where I go from here.  At 52 years of age, I am young and healthy enough to do anything.....and believe me, I've got a bunch of ideas.

First, I am going to apply for my Private Investigator's license, and hopefully work part-time in that field.  Should make for some interesting journal entries. 

Then, there's a professional book in my field, that is sorely in need of updating.....which has been calling my name.  It's a subject near and dear to my heart, in fact, I've taught lots of classes on the subject.  It would involve lots of research and interviews, but it would be fascinating!  It's a much needed learning tool for correctional staff throughout the country and I believe it would sell well in the specialty market. 

But first, I am going to finish up my remodeling and home organization, which is somewhat hampered by the oldest adult child moving home again, since we've got boxes and boxes of her stuff to put away.  Certainly enough to keep us both busy for awhile.  Yesterday, I picked out my new carpet, which will be installed tomorrow in the living room and up the stairs.  Upon completion of the upstairs organization, we'll carpet the upper floor rooms. 

So, there's lots to do and way more time to accomplish those things. 

I'm lovin' it!!!