A few of my ideas on getting in shape for the new year 2026,

It’s been two years since I retired. On my last day in May 2023, I realized the path to retirement is similar for many—work routines can be challenging to leave behind, and the adjustment brings its own challenges. Retirement is enjoyable, but the transition comes with quirks: concerns about finances, health, and shifting routines.

Adapting to new sleeping and eating habits feels unsettling at times. Personally, I’ve faced most side effects of retirement, but I’m learning to embrace this new phase. My wife and I, both semi-retired, have traveled across the USA in our RV, catching up on sights we missed while raising kids. We’re now empty nesters but stay close to our children and grandchildren; life is busy and rewarding.

Traveling has led me to new hobbies:

Metal Detection: of the lost and buried. This past year on the road, we have unearthed so many items it filled up our find basket. When we were at the Fort in Gulf Shores, we could not detect. The digging around the island has led to discoveries of many ancient artifacts, including pottery from the tribes to lost unexploded ordnance left by the US military in the 1830s – this only adds to the fun of knowing there are so many lost items we sometimes get lost in time detecting and digging. I will be adding a “Finder’s page” soon with photos of the most interesting finds and where we got them.

Trail Walking: We’ve explored countless parks and hiked to stay fit.

Birdwatching: While I wasn’t previously interested, I’ve come to enjoy it, especially eagles in Alaska, which are said to be as numerous as robins in the northern states.

Mindfulness & Meditation: Using apps and classes to reduce stress.

Social Tabletop Gaming: Hosting board game nights with friends.

I’m trusting the best of it all is yet to come. Stay tuned for more

A lifestyle to enable us to be our best.

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