Really Retiring

Well, I've done it: gone to the social security office and applied for retirement. I should be getting those social security checks and pension checks fairly soon. I'm warming up to the idea, and this past week as I wasn't working I cleaned house (NOT my favorite thing!) and did some organizing of papers and "stuff." I still have some organizing to do, but when that's done there will just be cleaning, and then? I have several ideas of things I want to do with my time, but haven't settled on which ones will most occupy me. Getting back to making baskets, and taking more time to practice my dulcimer are two of those things. I also plan to do some more volunteering -- more than my once-a-year stint at Old Songs Festival in Altamont, NY. I'd like to help out with fund drives at my favorite public radio station, WAMC, and perhaps volunteer to read stories to children, either at the public library or at the local elementary school. That's the part of teaching that I miss.

There's also Caffe Lena who are always looking for volunteers. We were there Friday night for a concert by the Jamcrackers, Peggy Lynn, Dan Duggan, and Dan Berggren. They are among my favorite traditional musicians, along with John Kirk, Trish Miller, Rick Bunting, Susan Trump, and Christopher Shaw and Bridget Ball.

But for now, I'm taking my time. I have one preaching "gig" coming up, and there's still the possibility of a part-time pastorate. I'm going to try to be patient as I wait for some divine guidance as to what directions to take. I'm not ready for a rocking chair yet!