Made it!  Whew!  The weight of the world has fallen from my shoulders.  I LOVE being retired.  It is strangely familiar given that I have had Summers off for over 32 years.  However, I get to keep reminding myself that I do NOT have to return. Summer break just gets to keep going. 

    Growing up I did not live in a family with financial resources.  My parents are dependent on Social Security for their subsistence. I have NOT even calculated SS into my retirement plan.  It isn't needed.  I would rather, frankly, that those benefits go to people who have worked hard in their lives but have NOT been as fortunate as I.  Or better yet provide medicare for everyone.The USA's health care system is total shit.  A same-aged friend is one of those.  He has lived a life rich in travel and experiences. He has worked hard his entire life.  He deserves to enjoy these final years in rest and ease.  

    I am very proud of my wife and I that we have planned and saved such that we are financially independent; and, that we may pass along a financial legacy that is as profound as the ethical and moral legacy that my wife has given the kids.  *wink* I find that being elderly is freeing. I give zero fucks what others think of me.  I only care that I am demonstrating to my kids and grandchild that they can count on me through the good times and the bad times.  Nothing else even registers on the radar anymore.  Fuck the social convention of "always be contributing and productive."  I don't owe society a damned thing.

    As an introvert, I find that people now want to spend time with me (since I now have so much of it).  I am horrible at saying no and drawing boundaries in this area.  Usually I am surprised that anyone wants to spent time with me.  I try to be curmudgeonly, but apparently I suck at it, or people just ignore it.  I make an exception for my kids.  I am at their beck and call anytime day or night. And I gladly savor every minute in their presence.  But the statement by Thoreau, " I have never found a companion as companionable as solitude" sings to my very soul.  I am happiest when I am alone.  But now, I am infused with a sense of peace that I cherish.  Ridding my life of the anxieties of the workaday world is better than I had even hoped. Have always looked forward to retirement. Now that it is here it is even better than in my dreams.  My mental health has not been this good since I was a youth.  And good for me!