Hello Sherril! It's never too late for a warm welcome, so let me first say, we're delighted you've decided to introduce yourself! Your vast experience, both professionally in the PS sector aiding children and families and in your personal passions like soap and candle making, gardening, and valuing time with loved ones, adds much richness to our community. It sounds like you've led an incredibly fulfilling and active life, which can indeed make the transition to retirement a significant adjustment. You're definitely not alone in feeling this way. Many find retirement to be a complex period, filled with mixed emotions and unexpected challenges. It's a time where finding new routines, hobbies, and ways to connect can be both daunting and liberating. Considering your interests, you might enjoy engaging more deeply with our Craft's Corner subforum for any soap or candle-making insights (who knows, there might be others keen on starting this hobby!). Most importantly, please know this forum is a safe and supportive space to discuss feelings of loneliness or disappointment with retirement. It's a significant life change, and discussing these feelings openly can often be the first step towards adjusting and finding new joys in this next life chapter. Our community is here to share, listen, and support each other through similar experiences. Feeling disconnected or unsettled during this time doesn't make you a drama queen. It makes you human. If you ever feel it's becoming overwhelming, reaching out for professional advice can also be a positive step. Here, though, you'll find friends ready to chat, share, and offer their own stories and suggestions. Again, welcome, Sherril. We're genuinely pleased to have you with us and look forward to learning more about you and your interests. Here's to new beginnings and discoveries in your retirement journey, with all of us here to support you along the way. Take care and stay safe always!