2025 was not the year I had expected it to be. Retirement came earlier than expected. I was a bit nervous about it, but I have no regrets as my workplace had become unbearably stressful and was just a shit-show of bad management decisions. It felt so good to step away.
Retirement has been an adjustment. The first few months felt a bit surreal. It took some time to find my routine and be comfortable with not being busy all the time. I am now finding that I enjoy relaxing and being at home I tend to procrastinate getting out and going places and doing things. I have settled so well into my daily routine I find it difficult to step away.
The holidays have disrupted it a bit. My workouts at the gym haven't been as frequent or intense as they had been. I am currently in the middle of a several day break but I will be back at it on January 2. It will be time to get serious as I have a trip to Big Bend in February, and then Peru in March.
So this takes me to the New Year, 2026. Adventure awaits. I am stepping out of my comfort zone and heading off on my own to pursue adventures that I only had ever dreamed about. I am going to do the things that have brought joy into my life in the past, just on a much grander scale. Volunteering, and trekking in the mountains of Peru and Nepal. I am nervous and yet incredibly excited. It will be an amazing year. I will be immersing myself in new cultures and experiences. The locations will be inspiring. I hope that the work will be too. I also hope that I can inspire others to chase their dreams, no matter where you are in your life.
Happy New Year and Happy Adventures!