Chasing Seventies has taken on a profound new significance in my life. It transcends mere temperature; it’s a reflection of time’s passage. Having just celebrated my 65th birthday and made the bittersweet decision to retire from teaching, I find myself grappling with an exhilarating yet strange feeling. Transitioning from the daily ritual of rising with the dawn to envisaging a life filled with leisure is both liberating and daunting. What adventures await me? How will I navigate the void left by the absence of purpose? Will I long for the intricate dance of educational bureaucracy and the rich tapestry of adult drama? Will I yearn for those moments of witnessing my students evolve and thrive as I guided them through their learning journeys?

Only time will tell. It’s been about three weeks since I officially ceased my work, and the emotions swirling within me are like a tempest. Reflecting on my last days at the job, back in June, nostalgia flooded my heart as I meticulously packed up my workspace. Each item I placed in a box was a reminder of the countless lessons I poured my soul into and the colleagues who transformed into dear friends. That final day struck me profoundly; it was a soul-stirring realization that I was truly finished. No more copying pages for the next year, no more crafting innovative ideas for welcome back bulletin boards—my chapter had closed. I sat in silence as those around me labored passionately to prepare their classrooms for the summer, but in that stillness, I felt an overwhelming wave of sadness wash over me, almost as if I had been cast adrift. Is this really it? Is this all there is to it?

My dear colleagues, my cherished friends, and my beloved husband (who also happens to be my colleague) threw me an absolutely breathtaking retirement party at a nearby establishment. As I entered Gator Joe’s, I was utterly overwhelmed by the delightful surprise and their boundless generosity. It was a night filled with joy, laughter, and immeasurable happiness that chased away any lingering sadness. I will forever treasure this group of wonderfully eccentric ladies. And the man, oh, he will be by my side for all eternity.

School is back in session, and my husband has returned to work. I’m getting a glimpse of what retirement might be like, but honestly, I have my doubts. I can’t find my rhythm at all. There are so many things I’d like to tackle, yet I struggle to make a choice. My ADHD sure complicates things, driving me a bit mad. And let’s not even get started on the retirement process itself—it’s far from straightforward. So many steps to navigate! Add in the chaos of legally changing my name, and it feels like that’s taking away from what little fun I might have in this so-called “retirement.” Did someone actually suggest this would be enjoyable?

So, what is the connection to Chasing Seventies? When we travel, we frequently find ourselves in holding patterns, searching for optimal temperatures. We cannot simply transport ourselves to where comfort prevails; such an RV has yet to be designed. However, it is essential to understand that the journey surpasses the mere pursuit of the “feel good” destination; it is about appreciating the experience along the way. This sentiment resonates with me at this moment as I await Jim’s retirement next year and Kaelin’s transition to college. Although I am uncertain what my path will entail this year, I am confident that it will prove valuable in the end.

Ultimately, we will be thrilled to pack up Betty Deux, our precious feline companions, and set off on an exciting journey westward! This time, we will embrace a leisurely and intentional pace, allowing us to uncover the stunning destinations with the blissful temperatures in the 70s that we crave. We can’t wait to soak in as many breathtaking vistas of the United States as possible! The Grand Canyon, Yosemite, and the enchanting fall colors of New England are undoubtedly on our bucket list. We plan to linger in places filled with sentimental value and reconnect with friends and family, including our new granddaughter. Won’t that be absolutely magnificent!