Five Years and They Have Flown
How time flies when you are having fun. It was five years ago that I retired as the Watonwan County Assessor (actually on February 28th of 2009). After doing a grocery run today I stopped in at the courthouse for a brief visit. Many friends are still working the W-2 Forms and those friends are precious and priceless. Just like the rest of the world time has slipped away from us getting together to stay connected. Today I made myself a promise to make it happen oftener in the near future.
Did I have huge plans for retirement? Not really. I never let myself plan that far ahead as the job kept me busy right to the end. I knew I wanted to spend more time with my children and grandchildren, no longer having to use vacation days from work to be on hand for the time I could help out or just enjoy them with my full attention. It was easier to spend time with my Mom that next year. I was so thankful for that year as she passed away in April of 2010.
Some days during these five years I would never have anticipated or dreamt could be real – but then life is a day by day experience with no preview or rehearsal and for sure no do-overs. I am thankful for each day and always hope for best. My Grandmother Laura Wendlandt was also my Christian Sponsor. At the age of 93 she lived her days in a mobile home especially equipped for her in her wheelchair with an attitude that was second to none. She told me repeatedly, “You have to make each day to the good and have something to show for each day.” I have my daily work cut out for me.