The year that is ending has been a mix of highlights and stumbles. I have enjoyed my satisfying retirement as much this year as any of the previous ones. My 41 year old marriage has never been stronger or more fulfilling. Family times are a constant joy. We have found a church with people who we like spending time with.
I fought a 6 month battle to properly diagnose and treat a medical condition. It wasn't life-threatening, just painful and it affected my lifestyle. I am disappointed that I continue to fight the battle of procrastination on things, little and large, on a regular basis.
2018 holds the promise of a visit with friends in California and a European river cruise for my birthday. I am pretty sure other trips, as yet unplanned, will happen. I will watch my grandkids grow up as responsible, loving individuals. Our weekly family gatherings for food and conversation will be a regular part of every Sunday.
My blogging will continue and new books are coming.
In short, 2018 looks good from here.
But, how did it arrive so quickly? Did I really retire from radio almost 17 years ago?
Are years still 365 days long?
Have a safe, sane, and happy start to the new year. I will have a fresh post in a few days.
It really is astonishing how quickly it flew by! I am excited for the new year. It always feels like a potentially delicious new food that hasn't been tasted before. I think I will eat it slowly, in small bites, so I can savour the flavour.
ReplyDeleteAll the very best to you and your family in 2018, as well as all the readers out there whose comments really add to your great blog in a large way. I am appreciative to all. Thank you for a great blog, Bob.
Thanks for the nice comment, Shelia. Yes, the readers are the primary motivator for me and this blog. After 7+ years, they give me a new perspective or fresh take on something every time.
DeleteAll the very best to you and hubby. And, stay warm!
Happy New Year to you and yours! Love reading your posts as much as ever. You kept your aches and pains you mentioned under “wraps” for no reason. Write about it because you may find a reader who solved the same issue.
ReplyDeleteI/we have been fortunate - - no big issues this year except wife is having a minor eye surgery next week to repair some cloudiness in the lens the MDs put in during cataract surgery a few years ago. They say she will be able to drive herself home because I will be at the dentist at the same time!
Anyhow, have a great 2018!
The medical problem was what is known as "silent acid reflux" that went misdiagnosed for a few months, involved a few scopes down my throat, and a camera through my stomach and into my upper intestines....not pleasant to think about. Nothing of serious concern was found though the lower part of my throat and vocal cords were a bit burned by acid.
DeleteThe fix was a modified diet, no naps within 2 hours of eating, no food after 7PM, and some over-the-counter meds. I've had virtually no problems for the last 45 days.
The very best to you and your wife during your doctor stuff and have a great 2018.
Hi Bob,
ReplyDeleteA happy and blessed 2018 to you and your family.
Enjoyed reading your blog and thanks for sharing your retiring life with your readers. I am an Asian and live outside US.
At this age we have to know our health better than anyone else. Whenever there is some changes we have to seek professional advice. Procrastination is the worse excuse.
Wishing everyone here peace, great health and happiness.
Belany
This may be my first comment from Malaysia! Thanks for the good wishes. Belany.
DeleteA very happy and productive new year to you, your family, and friends.
Happy New Year Bob!
ReplyDeleteMay 2018 bring smooth sailing and lovely family gatherings.
Right back at you, Janette!
DeleteLet's hope for a 2018 that fulfills our dreams and satisfies our soul.
Happy New Year, Bob. It does seem that time goes by quickly. Is it because life is full and good? Would time drag if life was boring and filled with angst? One of the luxuries of retirement is the gift of time and the freedom to use it as I may. I can already see the increased daylight with the passing of the winter solstice. Temperatures in the past week here have ranged from minus 30-40C. Remember that -40C = -40F. COLD - a good excuse to stay indoors except to get more wood for the fire. I've been pondering over my word for 2018. "Listen" was my word in 2017 and it served me well. I like to spend the last day of the year reflecting on the past year and making a plan for the coming one. In the words of John Lennon - another year over and a new one just begun.
ReplyDeleteDuring the 2+ years we lived in Iowa I endured winter temperatures that often were -20F or more below zero. Now, I put on a light jacket if it is below 70F above!
DeleteI have put away all last year's receipts, started a fresh budget for the new year, and am ready to go.
Happy New Year to you and yours, Bob! May 2018 be less stressful for our country and those who truly love it.
ReplyDeleteb
I wouldn't keep my fingers crossed that 2018 will be less stressful...midterm elections and all. But, maybe our way forward will be a little clearer.
DeleteBest to you and Dave (and doggies!).
Hi Bob! Happy New Year! YES to looking forward to positive experiences (and changes!) in the coming year. And if while on your future visit to California you pass through the Coachella Valley and have time for lunch, let us know. It would be great to meet IRL and chat about blogging and the world! ~Kathy
ReplyDeleteWe normally do the Palm Springs Film Festival every January, which would have been a perfect time. But, this year we are skipping it due to family conflicts and will be driving to the Laguna area in March. We will stay in touch.
DeleteI also had the pleasure of having my throat scoped out with a tiny little camera. No fun, but not too bad either, and it's a comfort to know that there's nothing seriously wrong. It's amazing what they can do these days, isn't it!?!
ReplyDeleteI learned that the gag reflex doesn't kick in if the scope is passed through the nose! Who knew until it happened to me, twice.
DeleteBob,
ReplyDeleteHappy New Year from an almost (June 2018) retired lurker. I found your blog several months ago as I started to explore the non-financial elements of my oncoming requirement. Thank you for sharing your retirement adventure, warts and all, with the rest of us.
You are very welcome, and thanks for becoming a non-lurker!
DeleteI wish you and Betty all the best in the coming year.
ReplyDeleteJude