RETIRED….. Now What? (my experiences of early retirement – it's not what you think)

There really is not a formula for being in a good mood. We all have them. And, if asked, I bet you can spout off several things that you would say would put you in a foul mood. It seems that being mad and/or angry, is easy to achieve and easily explained. But the mystery is what puts you in a good mood. And, I will narrow it down, beyond the physical presence of a spouse or lover. Because, we cannot define love and the aftereffects, so to say that puts you in a good mood, well, is a nebulous answer. So, the question goes… What puts you in a good mood?

I can define for you today, Sunday, April 3rd, and why I was in a good mood for the morning. It sure did not start well. 4:45 a.m. The sounds of pre barf coming from above. My 18 year old cat, was waiting for someone to get up and feed him his breakfast, but he decided that alarm by wretching vomit was the most appropriate way. From there, I was up like a shot, moving him from the headboard shelf to the hardwood floor to finish the job. (Nothing makes you move faster from a dead sleep) Then i could not go back to sleep, so up I stayed. I perused the news and drank a coffee, and began laundry day. It was chilly, cloudy and I was up for no good reason. The kids got up, everyone ate, got ready and then off they went to their Sunday excursion, Mom in the lead. So, it was me, the cats and piles of unfolded laundry. Still, no good mood achieved. Then, I went out. Plainly, to the grocer, and it happened.

Simply put, someone smiled and chatted with me about silliness in the store. Getting out of the way, making a really bad joke, but someone engaged with me. Just took the time, to speak and share. Simple. Positive people interaction. I was uplifted and came home and made everyone. an after event snack. I just wanted to be nice too, I think. extend that feeling, for others. Maybe I am odd? No, I know I am odd, but who isn’t. But if someone were to open the door for me at the coffee shop, it would make my morning. So, the answer, the little things. Those that we ignore, or shove aside. They make me happy. Make me feel, like there are those that are with me. Not wearing headphones in the gym, not staring at the floor, not outright walking faster to avoid eye contact. People. Being nice. Nice… What say you? Is your reason as simple, or is it more personal? No matter. Just notice it. And try to make it happen more often. enjoy…