The Glories of an Ordinary Day

Retirement has brought many changes to my life almost all for the better. I will describe today that might seem quite ordinary, but really is full of detail and interest.

Firstly life is still governed by the alarm clock albeit not so early, even though the Today Programme burst into life in our bedroom around 7:45. Now to many of you that will be decadently late, however any alarm is still accompanied by the urge to get further under the duvet. Why did the alarm clock disturb us today, well Marion was off to the gym.

The first big change is that breakfast is a slower civilised affair; there is time for conversation, to read the Guardian (albeit on-line), and a generally more relaxed start to the day. So because Marion had gone to the gym I do the morning chores. They are interrupted by a long call from daughter (Laura) who is walking between offices. We catch up on her weekend in Paris, the challenges of her job, the latest plots in the Archers, and the prospects for the Boro’s top of the table clash on Saturday. By this time Marion has returned and we co-ordinate diaries, diaries seem to need a lot more co-ordination than when we were working. We must be doing more!!!!!!

Then it is a walk to friends to deliver a parcel and Christmas cards, boy was the wind cold but I returned home invigorated. This is again a major difference; although at my advanced years the exercise is less vigorous, everyday I am able to undertake some activity. The great thing is that I feel better for it, and have some of my best thoughts, not that great really, during this exercise. Then it is back home for lunch; again because everybody has more time it is a healthy option.

Then as its is Christmas it is time to do some internet shopping, this time it is very pleasurable some cheese for Christmas and a present for the offspring. Not to be revealed as they may read this blog. What follows is some ME time, when I read, write letters, or undertake some Internet research. Today’s research was into fantasy rail holidays in India next year.

Of course then it is time to write this blog, I try to write one a day, but do not necessarily publish in the same order. To my surprise I am really enjoying the discipline of regularly writing this, I hope the readership is enjoying it.

Phew… and I haven’t got to the evening yet. So what is my concern, how I am going to fit future activities that I have planned, continuing education, voluntary work, grandchildren, holidays etc……… So ordinary days are really enjoyable, and every day is different. How on earth did I find time for work?