Wednesday, March 13, 2024

First trip as a retired citizen

As stated previously, my employer became so toxic that it was causing health issues, so I retired. I retired about 15 months before I would have, as that is when Shelley will retire. Living the same lifestyle, I could be broke at 90 and feel better to be broke at 90 than dead rich at 70!

As I stated before, I am not sure how past my employer can be so blind to see that employees are fleeing.  My Division has 90 percent of all employees not in their position for more than 18 months!  Another division has 80 percent that are new in the past 2 years.  A few employees moved on after 18 months.  

My first trip as a retiree was a drive to Cary, North Carolina, where my son lives.  He planned a 150 mile bike race and I will crew for him later in the moth.  I spent a few days with him before heading out on a solo venture of the coast.  He is very busy, so he has little time to do anything during the week.

On March, 12, I woke up at 8 AM and made my tofu meal for the next two days. At 9 o’clock, I packed and left Cary, NC, for Carolina Beach. It is about a 2 1/2-hour drive, mostly on freeways. I could not check in at the campground until 3 PM, so I had plenty of time to check out the sites first. My first stop was Kure Beach Pier.  The sun was bright and 70 degrees, although there was a good wind. The waves were not overly large.  I was lucky as until March 15th, there was no reason to pay for parking and other activities.  I guess the start of the season is March 15!  I arrived just in time!


I parked and read a few chapters of Running With Sherman by Christopher McDougall . After an hour, I ventured south to the end of the road, the Fort Fisher Ferry. Opting not to go to the Ferry, I returned to Fort Fisher State Park . This was totally free and a very nice beach! I will return tomorrow!



It was about 4:00 PM when I headed to Carolina Beach State Park to check in to the campsite.  I am very fortunate to have a very secluded site.  Check-in was no issue; the set-up was easy since I was sleeping in the car.  I decided to take a hike on a local path.  They have been doing some prescribed burns, so the scenery was less than optimal.



I drove to check out the area before returning just before dark. As I thought I had been all set to sleep, I soon found out I had not organized as much as I desired. I almost exhausted myself with the number of times I laid down to sleep and then recalled something, like my mouthguard, which was in the suitcase!


I was all settled for the night at about 8:30 p.m. I watched two episodes of Matlock and went to sleep.


 

Thursday, February 8, 2024

I am officially tired - oops RETIRED

Friday, February 2, 2024 was my last day and I retired.  I actually say I did not retire, but I was paroled from the prison I was in for the last few years.  As I stated before, I am not sure how they can be so blind to see that long term employees are fleeing.  My Division has 80 percent of all employees not less than 10 years.  Another division has 80 percent that are new in the past 2 years. 

I rode a bicycle to work!   It was a rather chilly morning, but being February with no snow and 40° was unheard of. I got to work at about 10 o'clock and finished off some minor items before going to lunch with some co-workers. We went to the hot plate restaurant where they only served breakfast, but it was good. 

After lunch, I had my exit interview.  I think it was a general chore that they needed to do, and not sure anything I said will resolve the issues in that workplace.  I am just happy to be able to dump some of the toxic environment information before I left! 

Once I finished, I got on my bicycle and rode away for the last time. A co-worker took a video of that event and I recorded leaving the City limits.  Link to the video is https://youtu.be/PhQ5XU4VP3U?si=206xOC01rM-AewAM.


On February 5, 2024, I had a retirement party, RSVP only.  It was great.  So many people said they have not seen me smile or be that happy in years.  I assume that is common when you retire but feel more like paroled.


My first days have been nice.  No alarm clocks, I and free to do whatever comes to mind. Just relax and get the human body back into a stress free environment, after the past 5 years of hell I needed to endure to get to a point where I could retire!


This morning, when I was relaxing and reading, I saw the following for Super Bowl Tickets.  Made me laugh.


A good friend of mine has 2 tickets for the 2024 Super Bowl, 50 yrd line box seats. He paid $5,000 each, he didn't realize last year when he bought them, it was going to be on the same day as his wedding. If you're interested, he's looking for someone to take his place. It's at St. Michaels Church, at 3pm. The bride's name is Sheila she's 5'4", about 115 lbs, good cook too. She'll be the one in the white dress. Copy & paste to keep the laughs coming!


Carry on my friends, carry on!!!


Thursday, January 25, 2024

8 days - big change

 It's almost time! Just one week away from the day I've been eagerly anticipating- my retirement. Back in 2019, I set my sights on 2024 as the year I would hang up my hat.  Since then, I've been diligently preparing by saving as much as I could, sacrificing vacations and other activities to be able to tick off financial security, and preparing retirement plans from the list.

 

When I first envisioned my retirement in 2024, I was still deciding on a specific date. In September, to coincide with my birthday, or in May, marking my 30th anniversary. However, the increasingly toxic environment at work began to take a toll on my health, making it clear that I couldn’t continue.

 

Originally, I was going to call it a career last fall.  However, there were several advantages to the three-month delay. So, I went with my gut feeling, zoomed out on the lens of life, chose Groundhog Day 2024, and gave a 7-month notice!  Yes, that is 2/2/24.  Not because of the see-the-shadow background, but unlike Bill Murrey in the movie, I will wake up every day to total freedom from that toxic culture, mandates, deadlines, and responsibilities other than my own.  

 

Is it a good choice?  As humans, we never know the right choice, but we have to make it and live with the decisions.  I reviewed the numbers endlessly and came to the conclusion decreasing the risk of dying rich at the age of 70 yet broke at 92 years old was an easy decision.  We never know, and as stated in the past posts, many of my friends who waited into the late 60s to retire passed just past 70.  One fellow employee died before he retired, and another the day he was to retire.

 

One of the first things I realized is the best-made plans often need to be changed.  Originally, I planned a road trip for three weeks, starting the day after I retired.  That changed to going two weeks later.  Then, it changed to a late March departure. But that became problematic, so it was moved to a middle February departure.  Even that is questionable as I prepare this post. But one thing is certain: I'm looking forward to spending more time with my family, picking up new hobbies, and exploring the world at my own pace.

 

The key point is that it does not matter.  In 8 days, I will have my adjustable schedule and very few demands that are not flexible. Exiting that toxic and unhealthy environment will be a progressive move toward health improvement.  I know I am already feeling better, as my responsibilities have decreased as I transition.

 

A few months ago, I decided to wait to shave or cut my hair until I retired.  I may wait a little longer as I do not have to look professional for anything.  As you can see below, I fit the part of a grumpy old mountain man well.

 

 

 

Carry on, my friends, carry on!

Sunday, December 31, 2023

Year in review - short version

 “Look at my abundance” – Karen Gibbs – RIP - August 7, 1977 (age 21)

 Those words are used more often this year by many who knew Karen as we age!  Life is precious, and too often, that is forgotten.  This year, as I prepare for major life changes, I have used that statement more often!

 

Last family photo
My 2023 started with the realization that my job was going to kill me.  The stress of the past five years has begun to take a major health toll.  The first 25 years were the outstanding with great leadership.  Now, people avoid the place.  In my division, 80 percent (of 10 employees) have not been in their position for more than 18 months.  Three are replacements for people who quit after a few months and we may see more leave soon.  Toxic is a kind word to describe the organization.


In October my physician provided a firm warning that if I want to continue life, things NEED TO CHANGE.  Medicine and routine blood infusions are a band-aide.  That was coupled with the death of my father, the passing of my beloved 8-year-old old Golden Retriever, and a few younger friends, including Becky Schindler has made my decision to retire early a requirement, not a choice.  I hired Becky 30 years ago and worked with her the entire time.  She passed away in 2023 at 50 years old.  I contemplated, would I rather continue this job so there is no retirement financial concerns or leave early with questionable finances? 

 


Porter myPAL

 My financial adviser forecasts at age 92 I would be broke if I lived the retirement I planned.  That includes spending 35% more than I do now and includes inflation.  I decided being broke at 92 poor is better than being dead rich at 70.  Therefore, I put in my 6 month notice in July that I am retiring on February 2, 2024 at age 61 1/2.  I chose that day as I told my employer I wanted February 4, 2024 (2424) but that was on a Sunday, so I went with Friday, February 2 - Groundhog Day.

 

In August, I also decided not to cut my hair or shave until I retired.  I did something similar with COVID, and my son Chris made the best comparison.  What do you think?  The kid sure has my humor!  Let me update you on the family, starting with Chris.  By the way, I will always call him Chris even though he reminds me it is Topher!  The full name is Christopher.  I like the first half, and he likes the second.  Kind of like a glass half full or half empty thing, all up to preference.


 

Chris himself experienced a roller coaster for a few years.  In 2022, my only grandson, Jake, passed away.  He was born conditions that we knew would result in a short life, yet he surpassed all expectations.  At times, I thought Jake was Chris’s crutch in life.  Gave him purpose and direction.  Maybe some of my blood was passed on, as we never quit.  Jake pushed longer than anticipated, and Chris never quit being his father.  After Jake’s passing, Chris started a new chapter, including getting engaged.  Chris moved in May 2023 to Salam, Massachusetts with his fiancĂ©. Fortunately, he was able to retain a position with US Back.  A secure job is important, that is for sure!  He always loved Massachusetts and lighthouses.  It was good for him to get out of Fargo, where so much of his life was centered around Jake.  We communicate when we can.  Chris is what I refer to as my “Cats in the Cradle” child.  If you know the song, I think you will understand.



 

Jordan and his partner Kira still live in Cary, North Carolina, with their only child, LuLu, the prized Australian Shepherd.  Kira is holding the neighbor child in the photo – no kids.  They decided I needed a granddog so I felt like I had a reason to come visit.  I also love to take take care of LuLu they both needed to travel for work.  Kira travels at least once every two months.  Jordan still travels for work more frequent since COVID stopped travel.  Since COVID, it is all international.  Mostly Germany, Korea, Australia, and New Zealand.  

 

Jordan loves to bicycle.  He rode over 13,000 miles in 2022.  In March 2023, Jordan was in a serious bicycle accident.  His right shoulder was shattered, and he had bone fragments close to blood vessels that could have resulted in death.  After extensive surgeries and rehabilitation, he regained full movement and activities in October.  He still bikes, but running is not half of his workouts.

 

As Shelley and I prepare to retire (she is in May of 2025), she decided to replace the windows, siding, and roof of the house.  That way, we eliminate the need to expend the funds in retirement.  


Shelley continues to be busy with seven grandchildren, ages six months to 8 years old.  Three live in Fayetteville, Arkansas, and four in Brentwood, Tennessee.  Even though we live in the same house, we can go weeks without seeing each other.  She flew to one of the locations and worked remotely every six weeks.  Look forward to retirement and making those trips together.

 


In fact, this Christmas, Shelley was in Tennessee, and I watched the fort  alone.  While it may sound sad, I enjoyed the downtime.  The time to think and prepare for the new chapter in my life starts February 2, 2024.  May it be a long and enjoyable life change!


Carry on my friends, carry on!

Sunday, December 17, 2023

Great trail ideas for biking in retirement

Since I stopped running, biking has become my most significant activity.  I have long dreamed of long, casual bike rides with no time limit.  Those where I can ride and enjoy life and the beauty of that around me.  

I researched some trains and Larry Lee, who retired about 7 years ago, shared with me some of the great trails he has found.  Here is a list of some that intrigue me:

Multiple Day Trails

The Great Allegheny Passage Starting in Cumberland, Maryland and ending in Downtown Pittsburgh. It is a spectacular 150-mile nonmotorized path that soars over valleys, snakes around mountains, and skirts alongside several rivers on a nearly-level, crushed-limestone surface. Tracing old footpaths and railroad corridors through the wilderness, it offers glimpses into the country’s westward expansion and industrial might. When paired with the connecting C&O Canal Towpath, it makes long-distance trail travel possible between Pittsburgh and Washington, D.C. 

Silver Comet Trail and Chief Ladiga TrailThe Silver Comet Trail runs 62 miles, from Smyrna on the outskirts of Atlanta, to the Georgia/Alabama state line.  There it connects to the Chief Ladiga Trail and winds through 33 miles of scenic Alabama countryside.  Together, the Chief Ladiga and Silver Comet add up to nearly 100 miles of blissful trail!  

The Paul Bunyan State Trail is 115 miles long and has a couple of short on-road connections through the cities of Baxter and Bemidji. It is the longest of Minnesota's state trails and the longest continuously paved rail-trail in the country. 

The Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes is a spectacular trail that runs for 73 miles on smooth asphalt.  It spans the Idaho panhandle between Mullan and Plummer. It was created through a unique partnership between the Coeur d’Alene Tribe, Union Pacific Railroad, the U. S. Government, and the State of Idaho. The trail meanders through the historic Silver Valley, along the Coeur d’Alene River, past scenic Lake Coeur d’Alene, and through rolling farmlands to Plummer. Twenty developed trailheads provide entry points, and there are twenty scenic waysides along the route with tables to stop for a picnic or a short rest. 

George S. Mickelson Trail - This is a 108-mile trail through South Dakota.  The map has varied elevations and many great sites to enjoy!  In total, there are 4 tunnels (between Hill City and Rochford), 35 interpretative signs (great lessons in history), and more than 100 bridges. 

The Katy State Trail is a 237-mile trail stretching across most of the state of Missouri.  Over half the trail's length follows Lewis and Clark's path up the Missouri River, where you can ride beneath towering river bluffs while eagles circle overhead.  After leaving the river, the trail meanders through peaceful farmland and small-town America.

Wabash Trace Nature Trail - The Trail is a converted railroad right-of-way running 63 miles through the scenic Southwest Iowa countryside. It has +72 bridges.  It is close to home in Iowa.


Singe Day Trails

The Provo River Parkway trail - This is a 15.2-mile point-to-point trail near Provo, Utah. Generally considered a moderately challenging route with about 800 feet of climb.

The Grand Teton National Park Trail - This 7.8-mile point-to-point trail near Moose, Wyoming is generally considered an easy route.  My son did this segment when he rode from Canada to Denver, and I drove as. a crew member.  It was spectacular!

The River Mountains Trail - The River Mountains Trail is approximately 34 miles in length and surrounds the River Mountains connecting Lake Mead National Recreation Area, Hoover Dam, Henderson, Boulder City and the rest of the Las Vegas Valley.

The Heartland State Trail could be a multiple-day ride for an out and back!  It was one of the first rail-to-trail projects in the country. It is a 49-mile multiple-use trail between Park Rapids and Cass Lake. The trail is located entirely on a level abandoned railroad grade, except for a four-mile segment north of Walker that is on sharply rolling terrain for snowmobilers.


Banks-Vernonia State Trail is the first “rails-to-trails” park in Oregon. The trail follows an abandoned railroad bed that stretches 21 miles between the cities of Banks and Vernonia, with highlights including 13 bridges and views from the 733-foot long, 80-foot high Buxton Trestle, open to hikers and bicyclists. A ground-level equestrian bypass crosses Mendenhall Creek. The south end of the trail begins in Banks, a town of 1,900 surrounded by agricultural operations. Heading north, the trail passes agricultural lands and riparian areas before reaching the thickly forested foothills of the Coast Range and ending in Vernonia, a town of 2,200 surrounded by private timberland and small farms.


Hugh S. Branyon TrailThe 28-mile path in Gulf State Park takes riders through nine different ecosystems including coastal dunes; freshwater lakes and marshes; and maritime forests peppered with longleaf pines, palmettos, and moody oaks dripping in Spanish moss; over boardwalk bridges to a white sand beach; and past Lefty the resident alligator’s usual hangout and the nests of two mating pairs of bald eagles.


I am not looking for mountain bike trails; rails to trails are my favorite.  Do you have any suggestions?


Carry on my friends, carry on!