Blog #3 – Book Review for Retirement and a Question

14,000 things to be happy about

BARBARA ANN KIPFER

Shopping with my wife in Florida, I saw this book displayed. The back cover which I am sharing got me to page through the book and eventually buy.

A baby’s yawn, brand-new pencils, that vacation feeling, the moon on the snow, blueberry muffins, a comfy chair in your favorite bookstore, farm cats, Silly Putty, always carrying a notebook, boathouses, cast-iron pans, reading poetry before bed, stargazing, the buzz of a bumblebee, twenty minutes all to yourself…

A quirky, compulsive, enchanting list of all the little things that make us happy: Items, places, thoughts, celebrations & our daily bread.     Workman Publishing

As I skimmed the book reviewing what makes Kipfer happy, I wondered what some of the experiences I had in the last 90 days that brought a smile to my face. I identified 3 things I like doing: Boating, Dining, and Writing.

Here are 4 examples of each topic that made me happy.

Boating

Boated with friends & family.

Saw sparkles on the water.

Dolphins jumped the boat’s wake.

Viewing the Eclipse on the Gulf.

Dining

Entrée with a cheese wheel

Dining on water.

Finding new restaurants.

Great venue to socialize with friends and family.

Writing

Writing my journal.

Writing website blogs.

Discovering and using AI.

Notes to friends and family.

What are some topics and examples that make you happy in Retirement?

"What are the Best Retirement Activities for Staying Active and Engaged?"

In retirement, my friends and I engage in a variety of activities that bring us joy, fulfillment, and keep us active. Here are some examples:

1. Traveling: Exploring new destinations both domestically and internationally.

2. Hiking and nature walks: Enjoying the great outdoors and staying active.

3. Art and crafts: Painting, pottery, and other creative pursuits.

4. Yoga and meditation: Maintaining physical and mental well-being.

5. Cooking and baking: Trying out new recipes and hosting dinner parties.

6. Tennis & Pickleball: Spending time on the courts and socializing with fellow retirees.

7. Volunteer work: Giving back to the community through various organizations and causes.

8. Book clubs: Discussing literature and exchanging book recommendations.

9. Fishing and boating: Enjoying leisure time on the water and catching up with friends.

10. Learning new skills: Taking classes or workshops on topics of interest.

11. Socializing: Attending gatherings, parties, and events with friends and family.

12. Swimming: In a pool or at a beach this activity is not seasonal.

13. Gardening: Tending to plants and enjoying the beauty of nature in our own backyard.

14. Photography: Capturing moments and creating lasting memories.

15. Wine tasting: Exploring different varieties and visiting vineyards.

16. Music: Playing instruments, attending concerts, and participating in musical groups.

17. Golfing: An occasional outing or a passion for the links contributes to some fun in the sun.
    

Overall, retirement offers us the freedom to pursue our passions, connect with loved ones, and enjoy life to the fullest.

Top of Form

Build Your Retirement Team

Building Your Retirement Team: Embracing Retirement with Support

Building and maintaining a retirement team has been an essential aspect of my retirement journey, adapting to the varying activities and needs that arise. Three distinct groups have played pivotal roles in enriching my retirement experiences, offering guidance, support, and camaraderie along the way.

Group 1: Business Professionals

Among the most invaluable contributors to my retirement journey are the business professionals who provide expertise and solutions to intricate problems. Led by Jeff, our trusted financial planner, this group offers financial guidance for both new and existing investments. Recently, Jeff provided invaluable assistance in drafting our will and devising an estate transfer strategy for our children's benefit. Additionally, the Freedom Boat Club has revolutionized my boating experience, offering tailored boating plans across my favorite destinations - The Chain, Chicago, and Florida.

Group 2: Friends

My circle of friends comprises a diverse array of individuals who play unique roles in enriching my retirement. From Kenny, who expertly handles my taxes, to Jack and Jim, my boating companions, each friend brings their own expertise and companionship to my retirement journey. I cherish the exchanges of ideas and adventures shared through texts, calls, and visits, as these interactions often provide valuable insights and perspectives.

Group 3: Family

At the heart of my retirement support system lies my family, whose unwavering support and guidance have been instrumental in navigating the complexities of retirement. My wife, Pat, stands as my foremost supporter, offering invaluable business and financial advice and enriching our retirement with shared experiences in both Chicago and Florida. My son's expertise in AI and website development has proven invaluable, while my daughters' social insights continually inspire new activities and adventures. Moreover, the joy of spending time with my grandchildren adds immeasurable value to my retirement, whether it's shopping at Target, boating, or attending sporting events.

Together, these three groups - business professionals, friends, and family - form the foundation of my retirement support system, making my retirement journey not only manageable but truly embraceable.