Day 1

 I wrapped up work about 11 a.m. yesterday. 

I was instructed to turn in my laptop and associated equipment (docking station, keyboard and mouse) at a local branch of the regional bank that has been my employer for the past ten-plus years. 

I would not say I was melancholy, but I was definitely pensive as I logged off for the final time. I was not just ending this segment of my working life but ending my working life in general. I thought back on all the years of working. I will post something soon that elaborates more on that. (I know you don't necessarily need to read that but humor me. It's cathartic.)

After turning in my equipment, I took Wife to lunch. We had a very nice time. 

After lunch, we ran a couple of errands. While we were in a store, I received a text message from someone with my employer, asking about the "travel charger" that goes with my laptop, the cord that is used when I am not hooked into the docking station. (Which was not on the list of items I was to return.) 

This was the perfect illustration of the current state of affairs. While I am being retrospective and even a little sentimental, they are wanting their cord. 

Yeah, you're welcome for the years of service and dedication. I'll get that right to you. 

And just like that, I was over it. As the saying goes, it's not personal; it's business. 

Today is the first full day of retirement. I woke at my usual time. I did some reading. Took some carboard to the recycling center. Threw away some stuff from work (all paper, mainly notes I have taken, no computer equipment). Some friends were leaving on a trip, and I took them to the airport. 

Now I am sitting in my favorite tap room, my first visit here in many months, writing this post. I will then do some reading. 

Tomorrow is Friday, the day before the weekend. The weekend will no longer hold the significance it once did. 

It's a new chapter, but one I think I am ready to embrace.