I feel so blessed to have loads of free time no after working so hard for over 40 yrs in a stressful occupation. My health suffered but I get by.
My dilemma now is - am I wasting time? I am not really a joiner (until I find something I really like) and my hobbies like reading, crosswords etc are quite sedentary. I like to walk and enjoy pottering in the garden. We go to the cinema, theatre, walks, the odd pub outing etc. I get out and about with OH and my friends and we see family regularly and babysit etc, but I really am guilty of wasting my days doing nothing much! I know I have earned that right, but life (and mobility now we are getting on a bit) is so precious I feel I should be packing as much into my retirement as I can.
I absolutely love days without plans when the biggest decision we have to make is what we are having for dinner.
The days do fly by now but most evenings, although the day has been enjoyable and fun, I don't feel I have achieved much at all. I am quite happy but feeling somewhat guilty for not getting out there more. So many seem very involved in lots of groups, volunteering or regular child care.
I think I have had such a strong work ethic all my life (no choice as a single mother!) that now I am luxuriating in not making decisions or plans.