Enjoying The Simple Things

One of the joys of retirement is having the luxury of taking time to do the things you enjoy, and finding joy in daily routines.  I used to walk the dog quickly around the block in the morning, all the while thinking of what was waiting for me at the office.  Dinner was a rushed affair, throwing something together quickly and definitely not enjoying the cooking process.  Evening and weekend events were balanced against the to-do list at home, and the pressures of work.  I would read about courses and events taking place on weekdays and long for the time I could participate.  

Well, that time has come.  I have said before that I feel like I am very busy in retirement, but maybe part of that is that I am taking time to enjoy every day tasks, and am taking advantage of activities during the day that were not available to me pre-retirement.  

I still walk the dog of course.  But now I take my time and notice how the trees are changing every day, see the new flowers starting to bud, and soon we will be able to see the little goslings and ducklings at the lake.  

I have rediscovered a joy of cooking.  My partner and I share the cooking, but I can honestly say I am enjoying planning meals, experimenting with new dishes, and taking the time to shop for fresh ingredients.  

I am enjoying planning lunches, dinners and just “play dates” with my friends.  This coming weekend there is a studio tour in Stratford which I am looking forward to.  Instead of trying to fit it in between the household chores, this will be the focus for one day on the weekend. 

I have taken up yoga again, taking a class that is offered during the day.  My friend and I like to attend theatre and we especially love the matinees.  It is great to spend the afternoon in the theatre, and then have the evening free afterward!  I have already taken advantage of a number of courses offered during the day, and I am sure there will be more to come.  

The one thing I have not learned to do well, is just relax and do nothing.  But summer is coming and I will be able to go to the beach during the week when it is quieter!  

So yes, retirees can be busy.  But if you focus on the things that bring you joy, you will be busy at enjoying life!  For my retired readers, what are the joys you have discovered or rediscovered now that you have time?