My whole working life I dreamed of what retirement would be for me. Wake up whenever I feel like it, potter around and just do what I wanted whenever I wanted. Perhaps jump into the car with my wife and just take off on a journey at will.
HUH!! Nothing like it at all. 2 years ago at the premature age of just 59, I was diagnosed with onset arthritis in the joint of my spine and hips as well as in both knees. This meant that I had to give up my own business of mowing and gardening that I had built from scratch and perhaps contemplate the notion of working a desk job for a boss. Something I swore I would never do again.
I managed to score a casual job with my trusted local lawn mower repair shop as a counter sales person. But, the day before I was to commence, tragedy struck when my wife suffered a major stroke.
So began my retirement, caring for her day and night as well as taking over all of the household duties that previously we had shared. It’s a labour of love and I’m not complaining because she is my soulmate, best friend, confidante and lifeline. It’s just not what I had planned.
The one saving grace amongst all of this was the birth of our first grandchild, a boy. He is my guiding light and the one thing that keeps me going. I love my wife and I love our 3 kids, but the love I have for my grandson?? Something I can’t put into words other than to say….extraordinary!
But….do you know what? I’m happy.
 
I migrated here almost 53 years ago. I was 21 and came out with my parents, younger brother and sister. Met a girl on the ship. She was retuning to her family in Adelaide, while l came to Melbourne. My dream was to start a new life. Found a job soon after arriving. Kept in touch with my girlfriend. I had my first job for 25 years. During that time aquired trade skills and know how. After 3 years got married, bought a house. Raised a family, my daughter first then my son. It really was "The Lucky country". Changed jobs several times, but all in the same trade. Retired just before turning 67. In retirement l'm a volunteer community transport driver. I also joined a Mens Shed . Not one to sit at home and do nothing. I'm 74 still doing the things l enjoy. This September my wife and celebrate our Golden wedding anniversary. Life has had it's ups and downs, but overall it's been good.
 
I migrated to Australia in 1982, walked straight into a job, bought ny first house here after selling our property in the UK, joined the St John Ambulance Brigade to make friends outside work, ended up doing a variety of courses, evebtually working as a volunteer on the Ambulance at Port Adelaide South Australia, changed my job to the Construction industry safety officer, eventually thanks to the industrial dispute between the South Australian State Government and the Ambulance Employees association which ended up with a planned phasing out of the Ambulance volunteers in the metro area, this caused a magor recruitment drive, I was one if the first to apply, found my perfect job, never regretted my decision to change jobs even though the salary was less than I was earning before, loved all my years as a Paramedic, met so many great people over the years, now I am retired with a head full of knowledge, many times I miss my job, then I look in the mirror and feel gratefull with what I had.
 
I migrated to Australia in 1982, walked straight into a job, bought ny first house here after selling our property in the UK, joined the St John Ambulance Brigade to make friends outside work, ended up doing a variety of courses, evebtually working as a volunteer on the Ambulance at Port Adelaide South Australia, changed my job to the Construction industry safety officer, eventually thanks to the industrial dispute between the South Australian State Government and the Ambulance Employees association which ended up with a planned phasing out of the Ambulance volunteers in the metro area, this caused a magor recruitment drive, I was one if the first to apply, found my perfect job, never regretted my decision to change jobs even though the salary was less than I was earning before, loved all my years as a Paramedic, met so many great people over the years, now Step into the world of Yoju Casino and embark on a thrilling gaming adventure. With its intuitive interface and lightning-fast performance, the platform offers a seamless experience from start to finish. Enjoy the convenience of secure payment options, making deposits and withdrawals effortless. Immerse yourself in https://yoju1.casino/au/games/slots an array of captivating slot games, each delivering excitement and the chance to win big. Remember to play responsibly, enjoy the ride, and cash out your winnings at the right moment. I am retired with a head full of knowledge, many times I miss my job, then I look in the mirror and feel gratefull with what I had.
you are direct proof that you don’t need to be afraid to try and leave your comfort zone) I wish you a peaceful retirement)
 
  • Like
Reactions: Wandiwa

Join the conversation

News, deals, games, and bargains for Aussies over 60. From everyday expenses like groceries and eating out, to electronics, fashion and travel, the club is all about helping you make your money go further.

Seniors Discount Club

The SDC searches for the best deals, discounts, and bargains for Aussies over 60. From everyday expenses like groceries and eating out, to electronics, fashion and travel, the club is all about helping you make your money go further.
  1. New members
  2. Jokes & fun
  3. Photography
  4. Nostalgia / Yesterday's Australia
  5. Food and Lifestyle
  6. Money Saving Hacks
  7. Offtopic / Everything else
  • We believe that retirement should be a time to relax and enjoy life, not worry about money. That's why we're here to help our members make the most of their retirement years. If you're over 60 and looking for ways to save money, connect with others, and have a laugh, we’d love to have you aboard.
  • Advertise with us

User Menu

Enjoyed Reading our Story?

  • Share this forum to your loved ones.
Change Weather Postcode×
Change Petrol Postcode×