Go/Go—–Slow/Go—–No/Go
July 18, 2024
“Punishment is not for revenge, but to lessen crime and reform the criminal.” Elizabeth Fry, English Quaker, prison reformer, 1780-1845.
For the average American, you will be able to enjoy retirement for about 16 years, from age 65 to age 81. Of course, many retire early, and many others live beyond age 81, I hope so!
For your retirement years, there are clearly 3 Stages of Retirement. Here they are:
STAGE 1. Go/Go-in this stage you are quite active taking 6-7 trips a year. Trips to Jamacia, the beach, a river cruise, to the mountains for a Xmas tree, perhaps 1 golf trip, and 1-2 trips to visit children. You are also active around the house with numerous projects. You cut your own lawn, plant flowers and maybe a tomato plant. You spread your own mulch. You play golf, some tennis, and/or pickleball. You clean your car-inside and out. And-you go to dinner with friends 1-2X a month. During this stage, you lose weight. Your dog, Molly, has slowed, but remains a very good companion. Life is good.
STAGE 2. Slow/Go-your trips decrease to 4-5 each year. One trip via air. At the beach, you rent ground floor unit. Your trips to visit children are shorter in duration. Too much noise! No more tennis. Sometimes you play just 9 holes from the “hybrid tees”. When eating out, you seek quiet restaurants. Afternoon naps are common. Your wife starts doing puzzles. You might have a joint replaced (knee/hip). At least one or two cocktails/wine every night. Your weight goes up slightly. Your TV room has a sectional sofa with 2-3 fleece throws. Molly sleeps 20 hours a day. Ugh! The IRS forces you to withdraw money (RMD). You consider the purchase of a convertible. Ha! life is good.
STAGE 3. No/Go-only one car trip a year, usually to the beach. If your children want to see you, they have to come to your house. Lawn service handles outside maintenance. Your wife and you prefer large print books. You enjoy the miniseries “Bridgerton.” You cook at home and eat dinner around 5pm. Your afternoon naps begin at 2pm. For exercise, you walk the neighborhood. Your pharmacist knows you by your first name. You have gained 10-15 lbs. but remain in good shape. Molly has passed, not being replaced. Life is still good.
To quote Joe Walsh, guitarist, “The Eagles” “life’s been good to me so far.”
Enjoy yourself!!
High Truths and Low Lies 
Your version of retirement is very simplistic and seems to cater to the rich and famous, possibly yourself. Another version is a spouse has a health concern such as cancer and all the waking hours are spent keeping the person alive and comfortable.
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