I was walking on the beach in Santa Barbara with my mom today. She was talking to me about my dad, and how he’s getting close to retirement age…but what would he do all day if he were to retire?
She went on to talk about how work has been his life for many years. How even when on vacation (like today), he still works, and how my mom has given up trying to stop him and instead tries to give him a couple of hours to toil away instead. Because he’s a perfectionist, and always tries to do what’s right, and has a sense of honor in what he does.
I can’t say that I measure up to all of these same characteristics, but I can say that a lot of these qualities also ring true in me, the apple not falling far from the tree. Case in point, as she was explaining all of this to me, I was checking my work email incessantly, responding only with “uh huh’s” every now and again. I’m confident that the various people I’ve gone on vacation with can attest to similar.
Note to self: make sure I have some other hobbies before I retire. Luckily I have the whole photography, guitar, wood working thing going for me at the moment. Hope it sticks.
I suppose that model train set that’s been packed & moved all those times since the early 70’s is not an ample replacement for work. He gives government service a very good name.
My mom has reported the same concern (probably as expressed via yours). It can be a rough adjustment. I hope he shifts into the new gear well, of course. Is this something she worries about more than him? Does he express any concerns?
He’s given his entire adult life in service of the USA. Service to others may be a motivator. Would he consider using his skills to assist a non-profit? There are many options for skilled & energetic folks.
And you have this writing thing.
Erica – Good point! I can always count on you to bolster the waning self-confidence 🙂
Cousin Bill – Mom definitely worries more than Dad. I think he just wants to take it easy, but she sees that as a ticket out of life (which I can’t help but agree with). The non-profit is a good idea! I’ll relay it through Committee…
Oh yeah, forgot to mention that I want to know about the wood working.
ah, well it’s nothing like your husband’s work, but I aspire to that level of detail! I’ve always had a thing for designing modern furniture, so I’ve been slowly making prototypes for my personal use with the idea that I’d someday sell the designs. I’m pretty happy with a dresser, my bed, and a few other little things I’ve made over the years.
Next one I’ve been thinking of will be a TV stand thingie…
Pictures?