December 18, 2025; A Slice of My Life

Now that I’ve been retired for a full year, reflecting on my experiences so far, it has been different than what I thought it would be. The most consistent element of retirement that I didn’t count on was loneliness. Being by myself is a big part of retirement; it’s hard to find people who don’t have to work and want to spend time with me. They are all doing their own things in their own houses, so I must leave the house to get social interaction.

I didn’t realize how much pickleball would mean to me, how it would become a daily ritual, something I seldom miss. I even brought my paddle to Spain, hoping to be able to play, but I was not.

All good, but I need more, so I am excited to set out and try to find someone who enjoys doing what I do and wants to spend time with me.

I realized that some of the most important times to me are the evening hours. These times between 6 pm and 8 pm are times when I want to hang out and talk about the day. I hope to spend more of these evenings in good company, not alone.

I also read the news with great trepidation, as Congress lets the ACA tax breaks expire, and so many Americans are going to be pinched hard by this. They have a chance to get it right, but the Senate also voted no, so unless they see the light, some families are going to be devastated. This hangs over me. I am aware that as someone on Medicare, I won’t be affected, but already my son Sam has seen his premiums jump, and it feels like the top of the iceberg.