new life after retirement

legs55 so sorry to hear about your DH, you're right, it's great that you had that extra time with him, and I'm so pleased to hear that you have settled happily now after what must have been a traumatic time, exacerbated by house moves. GL with the future

If you love animals have you thought of being a puppy walker for guide dogs in training. I have a friend who does this. I think you have them for the first 12 months until they're old enough to go to a training centre. Only trouble is you have to part with them after you've grown attached and start all over again with another one.

There are some interesting suggestions given by others and vounteering as a support worker might be something to consider. Another idea might be to do a TEFL Course (Teacher of English as a Foreign Language). I have friends who have done that and it can be very well paid. You can sometimes find the courses relatively cheaply, and you can more or less set your own hours for the lessons you give, which can often be internet based. With so many imigrants here you could probably get work on a Council run scheme as well.

After almost 40 years in the same job, attending pointless meetings, training, bonding etc, I couldn't wait to retire at 60. I love it. DH and I do as we please (I realise we are both lucky to be here and that some folks are not so lucky). I get up when I want and do what I want to do each day. I felt no pressure to do anything else, retrain or volunteer. However I do now listen to readers at a local school which I enjoy. I also help out occasionally on school trips. Schools are always desperate for volunteers.

Great ideas already. I find I need something physically active (I bowl and do yoga). Something to keep the mind active (I go to a book club a french class and a german group) something creative (a writing group and two poetry groups) and something to help.others (I am sec
At bowls club) most of these activities are free or low cost
Enjoy your retirement. It is a wonderful gift

Sorry, I didn't mean to post this twice!

I love being retired. I finished work in April this year and cannot say I have missed work
I get to spend more time with my grandchildren and doing all the pottering in my garden that I want. I have considered volunteering but have decided to wait and enjoy my new freedom for a bit.

Sounds like you may have answered your own question!!!!
Whatever you choose..be it something creative..or with animals, enjoy every moment!
A very happy retirement to you

Retirement is lovely and I think that if you can fill your time with things which you enjoy at your speed then that's doing pretty well.

Good idea to cut your working days gradually. I'm about to request this myself. Can your employer refuse though?

What's retirement? It might be a cliche but there aren't enough hours in the day...
The freedom to do everything - or nothing. Just enjoy!

After living in a tiny village with no facilities, I am preparing to move to Edinburgh and can't wait to get my life back. I've completely downsized from a 4 bedroom detached house to a small 2 bedroom flat.
I can't wait to visit museums and art galleries again. Go to see Opera and walk by the sea.
I feel like the time when I first left home to get married, it's feels like a new adventure
I am going to wait before I volunteer for anything and just do what I want for a year or two.

Marianne there's a huge variety of U3A groups in Edinburgh and a volunteer exchange with masses of volunteering opportunities available. Something for everyone. Also GN meet ups happen here quite often. You'll have a great time here!

I retired at 63 to help look after small granddaughter. I re-trained as a childminder, doing the course on an evening. Met new friends ( almost all under 40yrs) . When me and property were checked by Ofsted they passed me/hubby and our bungalow as good, saying as we had no stairs, there is a huge shortage of childminders for wheelchair/disabled children. The children keep you fit and they are fun to be around. You can then choose your days and hours you would like to work. I based mine around looking after granddaughter at the same time. It is also up to you if you look after babies, toddlers or just after school children. Just one or two suited me for two/three days a week. the average pay is £5.50 per child per hour. The downside is lots of record keeping, usually on an evening. But a very rewarding job. My granddaughter started school so I gave it up sadly. (Time for me, holidays) BUT another grandchild will now need looking after as mum goes back to work shortly. I won't take more children now though as it is six years later and I will be too old. I loved every minute of childcare. Retiring is for old people !!!!!!! Enjoy whatever you decide to do.