Greetings!
Hello again, friends…
We just made it back from a whirlwind trip to Blowing Rock – beautiful as always, but let’s just say the journey home was anything but smooth. Still, it feels good to be back in our little corner of NSB. Now if only the Florida heat and humidity would take a vacation too!
Embrace Your Best Life 🌞
~ Shari Roese
📖 Navigating Friendship
Friendships are one of the true joys of life, and in retirement, they often take on new meaning. As your routine shifts and you gain more time and freedom, some relationships may fade while others deepen—or new ones blossom entirely. Embracing this change with grace can lead to richer, more fulfilling connections in this next chapter.
- Let go of guilt and allow friendships to evolve – It’s natural for some connections to drift, making space for relationships that better align with who you are today.
- Rekindle or start fresh – Retirement is the perfect time to reach out to old friends or meet new ones through hobbies, classes, or community events.
- Nurture what matters most – The best friendships don’t require constant upkeep, just a little intention, shared joy, and genuine presence.
Your social circle doesn’t have to shrink—it can expand in beautiful, unexpected ways. By staying open, being proactive, and investing in relationships that bring you joy, you’ll create a vibrant support system that adds meaning to every day. In friendship, just like in life, it’s never too late for a fresh start.
📖 Staycation!
You don’t need a boarding pass to experience joy, adventure, and relaxation—sometimes the best getaways are right outside your door. A well-planned staycation offers all the benefits of a vacation without the stress of travel, packing, or expense. With a little creativity, your home or hometown can become the perfect retreat.
- Skip the travel hassle, keep the fun – No airports, no suitcases—just more time for rest, discovery, and delight.
- Rediscover your surroundings – Local museums, parks, or even a backyard dinner can feel fresh with the right mindset.
- Craft your own vibe – Whether it’s a spa day, foodie tour, or nature adventure, staycations are endlessly customizable.
Staycations are about intention, not location. By treating your time and space with the same care you would on a big trip, you’ll unlock a sense of joy and renewal that’s often closer than you think. So go ahead—put out the “Do Not Disturb” sign and savor the beauty of being home.
“It’s never too late to be what you might have been.” ~ George Eliot”
Finding My Groove: Building a Daily Routine After Retirement
Retirement is supposed to be relaxing, right? That’s what I thought. But somewhere between wanting more freedom and having too much freedom, I found myself floundering a bit. The truth is, I’ve been struggling to create a daily routine that feels balanced and productive—one that includes time for exercise, writing blog posts, and filming content for our websites.
Before retirement, my days were structured out of necessity. Work deadlines, meetings, commuting—they all dictated my schedule. Now, with no clock to punch and no one expecting me at 9 AM sharp, I’ve had to figure out how to build that structure on my own. And wow, that’s been harder than I expected.
Some days, I’d get caught up answering emails and suddenly it’s 3 PM and I haven’t worked out—or written a single word. Other days I’d film content in a burst of inspiration but then crash and skip the rest of my plan. I thought flexibility would be the dream. But it turns out I need some kind of rhythm to feel focused and fulfilled.
So lately, I’ve been experimenting with a loose daily routine. Nothing rigid—just gentle guideposts to help me move through the day with more intention:
- Mornings are now for movement—whether it’s a walk, pilates, or just stretching with a cup of coffee nearby.
- Late mornings are for creative work—blog writing, brainstorming, or filming when the light is good and my energy is up.
- Afternoons are more flexible. Sometimes I do admin tasks, sometimes I rest or run errands. I’m learning to honor the ebb and flow of energy instead of forcing it.
It’s still a work in progress. I’m giving myself grace on the off days and celebrating the small wins—like when I actually hit all three of my priorities in one day.
I know I’m not alone in this. Retirement brings so many wonderful opportunities, but it also asks us to redefine productivity and purpose on our own terms. If you’ve felt the same, I’d love to hear how you’re approaching your routine. Maybe we can inspire each other to find a rhythm that feels just right.
Embrace Your Best Life 🌹
❣️Shari
📚 Children’s Book Brain Teasers
- Which beloved bear “of very little brain” is always getting into trouble in the Hundred Acre Wood?
- What classic book begins with the words, “Where’s Papa going with that ax?”
- Who is the curious little monkey who lives with the Man with the Yellow Hat?
🧰 Resource Roundup
🙏 National Park Service: Share your love for the great outdoors by volunteering with the National Park Service. Your time can help preserve and protect the nation’s natural and cultural treasures. Enjoy the beauty of nature while making a difference!
🎭 Theater Visits: Attend live performances and support your local arts scene.
💡 Explore: Check out our Essential Guides for handpicked tips and tools to help you live this chapter with ease, fun, and a little flair. From travel must-haves to creative hobbies and wellness picks, there’s something for everyone.
💭 Parting Thought
“Being part of a community gives us a sense of belonging. Participate in local events, volunteer, and connect with your neighbors. Together, we can create a supportive and vibrant community”
✅ Answers
- Winnie the Pooh
- Charlotte’s Web
- Curious George
