So you retired. Now you have lots of time to relax and take naps. But, according to your kids, you have nothing to do. Ha, we are busier now than we’ve ever been.
Our decision to move closer to our son, grandkids and their families in Utah has kept us on the run. We are expected to attend every holiday or event, which are never-ending. The only smart thing we did was to move to Southern Utah while they all live in the Salt Lake City area.
We know of several parents who moved to be closer to their children, only to have the children move somewhere else. Or, the children think they now have a built-in babysitter or pet-sitter. We’re a five-hour drive away from my family now, and that’s just fine. It’s much better than the four-hour flight from Atlanta for our occasional visits in the past.
Staying with my son and his wife, we have our own bedroom and nearby bathroom. The accommodations are very comfortable, but it’s not like being at home.
Our routine is totally upended.
We’re used to getting up and having quiet mornings with our coffee before facing daily chores, or my part-time job at a local grocery store. When we are visiting, everyone is up and going early most of the time. Sometimes we are barely out of bed when we must throw on some clothes and head out to a parade or to watch some endurance race they have entered. We never really know what all is planned until we get there, so we must pack clothes for any activity that comes up because the weather can be unpredictable. We have to pack a variety of options. My wife has an outfit for any possibility.
One of those possibilities for me is the chance to play golf with my son. Something else to pack. He’s 20 years younger but the old man can still hold his own on the links.
At the end of the day, we usually retire to bed fairly early. That doesn’t happen when we’re visiting. The conversations and or partying can go on late into the night. The family all love to get together, inviting friends and neighbors for cookouts or celebrating birthdays.
Meals are different than our fare at home. In addition to the cookouts in the backyard, there are dinners at their many favorite restaurants. Sometimes, it’s just the four of us dining. But usually more like what seems a cast of thousands.
We’re on a fixed income and sometimes, the restaurant meals can become quite expensive, which puts a small burden on our budget. But we love to go along and join in the fun so we learn to eat lightly and pick out smaller fare from the menus. Often there are senior options that are smaller and less expensive.
It’s always great to see the family and watch the great-grandchildren grow up.
They demand our attention, telling us about their school activities or wanting us to play games with them. That’s a special benefit of being closer and we enjoy it immensely.
Christmas is a very high energy affair. With so many little ones, the hustle and bustle of making the holiday special is truly exhausting. Seems like millions of presents to shop for and wrap. The term “presents under the tree” is extended to gifts practically covering the room. And the highlight is the grandsons all dressed as elves and grandpa (me) putting on the Santa suit so they can all sit in his lap and express their wishes. Whew! It’s a grand affair but we’re exhausted by the end of the night.
Our visits are usually three or four days. By the time we pack up and hit the highway to return to our peaceful southern life, we are more than ready for some relaxation and a nap or two.
– Ryan from St. George, Utah, a FAR customer who is finding purpose in this new stage of his life.
* The opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions or views of the Finance of America Reverse (LLC).
This article is intended for general informational and educational purposes only, and should not be construed as financial or tax advice. For more information about whether a reverse mortgage may be right for you, you should consult an independent financial advisor. For tax advice, please consult a tax professional.
I WANT TO KEEP UP TO DATE ON RETIREMENT TRENDS
Follow Us.