I'm scared to retire

someone. not just 'some'

I think it depends on your own nature. If you are a basically happy sort of person, then you will most likely be happy in retirement. But if you are some who is inclined to get down easily, then I would say, give it a lot of thought.

The part time idea is a good one.

bagforlife retire now! You have obviously built a happy working life and enjoyed yourself, so you will have a successful retirement. Just think of all the times you have thought you would like to do something but work has got in the way. When you are retired you can do them. You can get up on a sunny morning and think I fancy a walk in the country. You can take up hobbies you never managed because (as you say) you were too tired. I paint, do tai chi, lead walks, give talks and have time to spend with my DGCs (that's best of all). Can't say if you will have anything to say to your DH cos I haven't got one, but if you fill your days you can talk if you want to. I was a teacher for 30+ years and have never regretted retiring. If you are worried look at the skills you have and think about where they would be useful, then offer your services to a charity. I did events for a charity the first few years of my retirement until I realised it was taking up more time than work had, so I cut back, just help occasionally now. There's a whole world out there go for it!!

Could you perhaps go part time, say 2 or three days a week for now? I found that was a good way to start winding down. It could also give you more opportunities to visit your daughter and grandchild. (I still enjoy the lazy mornings and chat with DH when he is not playing bowls).

I so echo your sentiments. There was recently a thread on here about all the benefits of retirement and I think everyone, without fail, said how great it was.

I'm scared too, because I'm not a practical person and don't really enjoy gardening, cooking, sewing etc. What I do enjoy is challenges and variety, so I feel I want to carry on working forever!