Retirement Talk for Boomers, Seniors, and Retirees

265 New Directions?

del@retirementtalk.org — Sun, 5 Feb 2012 10:34:01 -0800

Things change. People die. Interests evolve. We sense we need a change. Our mind goes round and round. Here is an example that might stimulate consideration of your own issues.

264 Retirement: It's About More Than Money

del@retirementtalk.org — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 10:50:20 -0800

This is the beginning of a book that is based on all of the previous podcasts numbers 1 through 263. Chapter One deals with the question: When Should I Retire?

263 Changing Gears

del@retirementtalk.org — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 12:27:36 -0800

Retirement is a time of change. We have to be able to change direction and speed. When we need a little help it is understandable - and available.

262 Take Care - Of Your Feet?

del@retirementtalk.org — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 10:24:29 -0800

Retirement gives us time. Time to think and time to act. Taking care of ourselves is one thing we may consider more than we have. Taking care includes taking care of our feet. Think about it.

261 The Sky Is Not Falling

del@retirementtalk.org — Sun, 8 Jan 2012 12:40:39 -0800

How many crisis can we handle? Retired people have one advantage over younger people. We have had more experiences. We have lived longer. We have lived through lots of "end of the world" scenarios.

260: A Time To Dream

del@retirementtalk.org — Sun, 1 Jan 2012 09:20:03 -0800

Dreams don't have to end in childhood. I mean dreams about what we are going to do in life. Retirement is a great time to go to the well and look for something new.

259: Retirement and Movies

del@retirementtalk.org — Mon, 26 Dec 2011 08:54:59 -0800

Retirement affords us a special time in life when we can pick and choose how we spend our time. One could do worse than make movies a big part of retirement.

258: Give Life a Poke

del@retirementtalk.org — Sun, 18 Dec 2011 09:29:53 -0800

Retirement is a time of freedom for many. It is a time to "do it my way". Why not take advantage and poke around at whatever.

257 Home Projects

del@retirementtalk.org — Sun, 11 Dec 2011 10:42:38 -0800

Retirement gives us time to do something with our lives that we never managed during our working careers. Working with our hands can be a wonderful change for some of us. We can learn something new and enjoy the end products.

256: Money: is there anything else?

del@retirementtalk.org — Sun, 4 Dec 2011 10:48:47 -0800

Sometimes it feels like money is all that matters. By the time we retire many of us know there is more to life than that which money can buy.

255 Coffee and Retirement

del@retirementtalk.org — Sat, 26 Nov 2011 10:02:14 -0800

A person could do worse than drink a cup of coffee every day in the middle of the afternoon. Drink it in a coffee shop with character and a friend and you have arrived.

254 1000Months

del@retirementtalk.org — Sun, 20 Nov 2011 11:01:33 -0800

Having regrets in life is not something we seek. We would like to be satisfied with our life choices. Do we know where our 1000 months are going?

253 Kindness, Gentleness and Compassion

del@retirementtalk.org — Sun, 20 Nov 2011 10:53:36 -0800

What do we really want to do with our life? Some goals may be more within our own grasps than we realize. We may be unaware or overlook the importance of some life disciplines.

252 Get a Coach

del@retirementtalk.org — Sun, 6 Nov 2011 08:39:21 -0800

Sometimes we need a little help or encouragement doing something or learning something. We need a teacher or in the common vernacular, a 'coach'. We've used them and loved them

251 Road Trip Reflections

del@retirementtalk.org — Sun, 30 Oct 2011 17:25:27 -0700

A time to re-examine our own lives should never be passed by. A road trip can provide the perfect setting for thinking outside the box of normal surroundings. Our vision may be enhanced under a different light.

250 Mojave, Death Valley and Yosemite

del@retirementtalk.org — Sun, 23 Oct 2011 20:46:14 -0700

Turn around time for our road trip. Three beautiful national parks and lightly driven roads greet our next move. Hot morning coffee, great music and beautiful fall colors combine to bring a real sense of contentment. No need to rush life.

249 Tucson

del@retirementtalk.org — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 22:24:49 -0700

Tucson is a town I have wanted to visit for a long time. We always think there maybe another place that we might rather live than where we now live. This visit was an eye opener for me.

248 Mountain Meadow Massacre

del@retirementtalk.org — Sun, 9 Oct 2011 08:32:19 -0700

Some things escape us as we move through life. The Mountain Meadow Massacre is one. A long road trip gives us time to take in things that may get overlooked by the masses. It is always good to get off the beaten path once in a while.

247 Road Trip: Bellingham to Salt Lake City

del@retirementtalk.org — Sun, 2 Oct 2011 08:25:52 -0700

e point the car south and east to start an extended road trip. It is fall and it is beautiful all over the country. The Northwest is no different.We are off to a good start. And we find espresso everywhere.

246 Road Trip - The Southwest

del@retirementtalk.org — Sun, 2 Oct 2011 08:13:47 -0700

One of the joys of a road trip is anticipation. Deciding where to go and making more detailed plans is required. How to travel? Where to travel? When to travel? Here is the plan.

245 Small is Beautiful

del@retirementtalk.org — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 19:01:29 -0700

Jar lids and morning sunrises; small cars and small houses; small businesses and small corporations. One doesn't seem to fit. Perhaps it should. Retirement is a great time to reread some old books and do some new thinking. Or at least do some new thinking.

244 Talking Across Generations

del@retirementtalk.org — Sun, 11 Sep 2011 10:37:21 -0700

Listening and talking to someone from another generation can be very rewarding. If we think about making an effort perhaps the label of "elder" can become meaningful in our lives.

243 "The Ten Thousand Hour Rule"

del@retirementtalk.org — Sun, 4 Sep 2011 14:07:01 -0700

How many hours does it take doing something before you become successful - or an expert? Perhaps a better question might be: "Must you become an expert at anything?" Is that what you really want?

242 Technology - Keeping Up

del@retirementtalk.org — Sun, 28 Aug 2011 10:33:00 -0700

Is it really worth keeping up with technological changes? It seems to move faster all the time and require constant updating. Does it enrich our lives? Or should we just shut the door and crawl in a hole?

241 Tai Chi

del@retirementtalk.org — Wed, 24 Aug 2011 08:56:25 -0700

Tai Chi is often times mentioned in connection with retirement and good health. I've practiced it daily for the last 15 years. Here are some of my thoughts concerning including it in life.

240 (098): "We Are Here To Help You"

del@retirementtalk.org — Sat, 13 Aug 2011 22:18:53 -0700

Sometimes choice of words affects us more than we are aware. Retired folks have years of experience on which to rely for clarity. We need to exercise due diligence, or we can be tricked.

239 (141) Downsizing

del@retirementtalk.org — Sat, 6 Aug 2011 09:42:41 -0700

The idea of downsizing brings many questions to mind. The location and size of the house in which we live is important. Perhaps more important than we realize. It can be an opportunity to reevaluate the way we live.

238 "What Am I Doing Here"

del@retirementtalk.org — Sat, 30 Jul 2011 18:19:17 -0700

How long would you want to live? Looks like almost anything may soon be possible. You might want to give this possibility a little more thought. Be careful what you wish for.

237 (039) Moving to be Closer to Children

del@retirementtalk.org — Sun, 24 Jul 2011 10:13:16 -0700

Retirement is often accompanied by an impulse to be close to our children. The children, and/or the parents, find themselves considering the means to reunite the family. What's to be said for moving or staying put when it comes to reuniting the family?

236 Watermelon Burgers

del@retirementtalk.org — Fri, 15 Jul 2011 09:51:30 -0700

Retirement gives us time to do things we could only dream of during our working career. We can be more careful with our health and with our moral judgments. Eating animals verses eating plants serves as a perfect example.

235 Human Touch

del@retirementtalk.org — Fri, 15 Jul 2011 09:37:23 -0700

Demands on Social Security seem to be calling for changes in retirement. Maybe you have an idea that could change the system? This might be an opportunity for creative thought.

234 The Dark Ages

del@retirementtalk.org — Fri, 1 Jul 2011 18:16:22 -0700

This would be a good time to sit down with our grandchildren and tell a few stories that must be learned - about the scientific method and reason. A return of the Dark Ages is not desirable.

233 Take a Risk

del@retirementtalk.org — Sun, 26 Jun 2011 15:44:58 -0700

It is nice to have a quiet, safe routine to our life. But sometimes it can be downright boring. Taking a risk doesn't have to end when one moves into retirement. Maybe this is the best time to step out on the edge.

232 Pick a Fight

del@retirementtalk.org — Sun, 19 Jun 2011 10:40:11 -0700

Retirement might be the perfect time to pick a fight with some bully. Sometimes change doesn't come easy. We may need to throw our weight around at times. It isn't always a bad thing.

231Murder Trial

del@retirementtalk.org — Fri, 10 Jun 2011 14:07:20 -0700

All citizens are entitled to a speedy public trial. Sometimes dramatic events occur close to home. Witnessing a murder trial can be an interesting and educational experience. The court houses are public places and you are welcome to attend.

230 Retired and Traveling by Train

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 2 Jun 2011 11:36:29 -0700

Train travel is becoming a more appealing method of transportation. Roy Ingham shares some of his thoughts gained via riding Amtrak on many extensive trips over the last decade or so. From one corner of the country to another, he has ridden the rails.

229 Road Trip USA - Planning

del@retirementtalk.org — Fri, 27 May 2011 10:39:12 -0700

An oft heard dream of many retirees is to, "Take a road trip around the America". We are gearing up for just such a trip. We will document our venture here through several podcasts. What works and what doesn't? When you take the trip you can avoid the mistakes.

228 Questions and Answers

del@retirementtalk.org — Fri, 20 May 2011 10:34:25 -0700

We start asking "Why" at an early age. Is there any end? Seems like that by the time we are retired we would have the answers; at least many of them. Seems like we leave of a lot of them hanging.

227 Don't Waffle

del@retirementtalk.org — Sat, 14 May 2011 17:30:47 -0700

Think before you act. Good advice? It takes time to think. Is that waffling? Procrastinating? Sometimes words appear to lead us a particular way that may or may not be very wise. Retirement gives us time to think a little more closely about what we are really doing with our lives.

226 Whose Problem Is It?

del@retirementtalk.org — Sat, 7 May 2011 14:17:22 -0700

Retirement is a time to leave some things behind. We make a major change in our lives. Perhaps there are a few problems we can also leave behind. We may want to rethink what are our problems and what are someone else's.

225 "Man Thinking"

del@retirementtalk.org — Sat, 30 Apr 2011 14:54:23 -0700

"Who am I? What am I? I don't even know who or what I am. What is retirement all about?" These questions are pretty common these days. Here is one possible answer.

224 Poetry

del@retirementtalk.org — Sun, 24 Apr 2011 14:17:48 -0700

"Now I become myself" is the title of a poem and is a phrase that can easily be applied to the retired. Poetry has a way of reaching into the heart. Perhaps we now have time to listen.

223 "How Am I Doing Doc?"

del@retirementtalk.org — Sun, 17 Apr 2011 10:44:09 -0700

Retirement and heart attacks sometimes seem to go together. We just retire and then... Guest, Dennis McKinnon describes his experience of exuberant retirement, heart attack and road to recovery in this episode.

222 Keeping Healthy Part 2

del@retirementtalk.org — Sat, 9 Apr 2011 17:16:53 -0700

There are lots of theories on what keeps us healthy. Here are some ideas you might like. Then again, you might not. When it comes to your own health you really do have a choice.

221 Keeping Healthy

del@retirementtalk.org — Sun, 3 Apr 2011 10:12:34 -0700

There are lots of theories on what keeps us healthy. Here are some ideas you might like. Then again, you might not. When it comes to your own health you really do have a choice.

220 The Lost Art of Conversation

del@retirementtalk.org — Sun, 27 Mar 2011 09:02:50 -0700

Conversation is basic to being human. Ever notice how everyone wants to talk and no one seems to want to listen. Both are required elements of conversation. What has happened? We need to take care with what we do with it.

219 Imagination & What To Do

del@retirementtalk.org — Sun, 20 Mar 2011 12:45:21 -0700

What kind of retirement can we imagine. This seems to be a major factor in what we do with our retirement. It takes effort on our part. No parents, teachers or bosses are here to help - or hinder.

218 Something New

del@retirementtalk.org — Tue, 15 Mar 2011 21:06:08 -0700

Surprise can be a good thing in retirement. Sometime life can become just too slow, if not boring. We might want to to allow for a little serendipity into our later years.

217 The Hot Generation

del@retirementtalk.org — Sun, 6 Mar 2011 13:06:46 -0800

Retired people talk a lot about grandchildren. We hope to leave them more of an inheritance than global warming. How are we doing on that count? Where has reason gone?

216 Guilt and "Dong Nothing"

Sun, 6 Mar 2011 13:00:19 -0800

Guilt can be a terrible thing. Life lessons teach us to do something worthwhile; "Get up and get busy". What happens when we decide to sit down and relax? Is it so bad to live in the moment. And actually enjoy the little things in life?

215 Looking for Something to Do?

del@retirementtalk.org — Fri, 18 Feb 2011 17:26:42 -0800

Feel guilty about retirement? Think you should be doing something worthwhile? Feeling patriotic? Here is a project that just might interest you: US Uncut.

214 Retirement Talk; Get Involved

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 17 Feb 2011 10:37:13 -0800

Looking for something to do in retirement? Here is something you can do right from your easy chair. You can take part in this podcast program. It's open to all. Do you have a story?

213 Exercise: January Challenge and Family

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 10 Feb 2011 09:28:58 -0800

Maintaining an exercise routine is necessary for good health. It isn't easy to do. Here is an example of bringing family members together who live thousands of miles apart into a daily exercise regime.

212 Keeping Up Financially Part 3

del@retirementtalk.org — Sat, 5 Feb 2011 11:46:33 -0800

Will we have enough money to live out our life? Retired people all have to deal with this question. Seeing into the future is impossible. But we can make the best guess at what we may need. Some factors are under our control.

211 Keeping Up Financially Part 2

del@retirementtalk.org — Wed, 2 Feb 2011 15:16:39 -0800

210 Keeping Up Financially

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 13 Jan 2011 22:09:59 -0800

209 Community College

del@retirementtalk.org — Wed, 5 Jan 2011 19:51:02 -0800

We all want to lead an interesting life. Retirement gives us a chance to learn about anything we want. Community colleges are a place we may want to investigate.

208 Positive Thinking?

del@retirementtalk.org — Sun, 19 Dec 2010 19:25:47 -0800

Positive thinking has its limits. To doubt it is not fashionable but is certainly reasonable. Think about all the problems you may have avoided with a little more consideration. You may have retired earlier.

207 Medically Assisted End of Life

del@retirementtalk.org — Sun, 12 Dec 2010 10:20:01 -0800

Death is something we all face. Suffering at the end of life is something that can be endured or avoided. It is our choice - in some states. "You Don't Know Jack" deals with this topic in a very powerful way.

206 Friends, Then and Now

del@retirementtalk.org — Fri, 3 Dec 2010 17:16:03 -0800

Retirement brings special challenges concerning friendship. The job is no longer there to provide an easy source for meeting new people and bringing us in daily contact with others. New sources must be explored.

205 Staying Focused

del@retirementtalk.org — Sun, 28 Nov 2010 09:30:41 -0800

We live in a busy world. There are so many distractions or choices. When our job ends we can be overwhelmed with overchoice. Some of us choose to just lay low and stay home. There must be a way?

204 Making the Most of It

del@retirementtalk.org — Fri, 19 Nov 2010 17:19:37 -0800

"The unexamined life is not worth living". Eileen Allen is a living inspiration to all of us that hold Socrates beliefs. A recent visit with the author of "I Like Being Old" verifies her practice and beliefs.

203 Ready to Learn

del@retirementtalk.org — Fri, 12 Nov 2010 20:15:20 -0800

Retiring calls for trying something new. We may be ready to learn something today that has escaped us in the past; learn a foreign language, garden, paint, write or fulfill a secret wish. We can fill in the gaps.

202 Elections and Courage

del@retirementtalk.org — Fri, 5 Nov 2010 14:18:36 -0700

Political elections take special effort on the part of voters; both to participate and then to accept the results. What can we tell our children when they become discouraged?

201 If Everyone Else Lives In Poverty

del@retirementtalk.org — Fri, 29 Oct 2010 14:55:53 -0700

It isn't much fun to have enough money to live well if everything around you is falling to pieces. We retired folks sure don't want the neighborhood to become a ghetto after we retire. Maybe we need to examine our attitude about paying taxes and what we get for them.

200 "Free At Last"

del@retirementtalk.org — Fri, 22 Oct 2010 17:11:19 -0700

Many seem to fine that after spending a life time accumulating things they serve only as an anchor when we want to be free. Perhaps retirement is the perfect time to rid ourselves of more than just our jobs.

199 Health, Tai Chi and the Lost Wallet

del@retirementtalk.org — Sun, 17 Oct 2010 10:52:17 -0700

Health and the practice of Tai Chi keep being touted in the press. Seeing the flowing beauty of actual Tai Chi can be memorable. Perhaps more memorable that loosing one's wallet. (first ran in 2008)

198 Dogs and Retirement

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 7 Oct 2010 21:51:57 -0700

Retirement may be a great time for having a dog. It can bring companionship and serve as a reason for getting some exercise. On the other hand, it may be the worst time to have a dog.

197 Alarm Clocks and the News

del@retirementtalk.org — Fri, 1 Oct 2010 14:37:47 -0700

Waking up to an alarm clock is not something retired people need to do. Neither do we need to wake up to an alarm radio broadcast of the news. Where does this word 'alarm' fit into a retired lifestyle?

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Fri, 1 Oct 2010 14:37:27 -0700

196 The Pacific Northwest

del@retirementtalk.org — Fri, 24 Sep 2010 10:40:38 -0700

Choosing a place to retire is an opportunity and a challenge. We like to think we can make a good decision. A double murder in our back yard before we even moved in gave us second thoughts.

195 Traveling by Plane

del@retirementtalk.org — Mon, 20 Sep 2010 17:41:30 -0700

We have become use to flying around in what use to be friendly skies. Traveling by plane isn't what it use to be. It has not only became less enjoyable but now we find out it does a lot of damage to the environment.

194 Kicking Back Without Guilt

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 16 Sep 2010 17:31:12 -0700

We like to think we are on the right track if we are busy. We are a busy culture. We like to do things. We have elevated it to new levels with multi-tasking. But what is to be said for just sitting still and enjoying life?

193 What do you do?

del@retirementtalk.org — Sun, 29 Aug 2010 14:12:11 -0700

Explaining to others what you do in retirement is not an easy task. People constantly ask that question but it is time consuming to answer it honestly.

192 Finding Meaning in Retirement

del@retirementtalk.org — Sat, 21 Aug 2010 14:18:54 -0700

Sometimes we can't decide what to do with our retirement. We can't decide if we want to become a writer or a gardener. Would it be better to travel or study art. What to do?

191 Finding Meaning in Life

del@retirementtalk.org — Sat, 14 Aug 2010 12:18:23 -0700

After ending our careers and passing through the stage of raising children many of us find ourselves once again searching for meaning during the retirement years. We search for something that will give meaning to our lives not just in retirement but in our lives.

190 Working with Your Hands

del@retirementtalk.org — Fri, 6 Aug 2010 09:42:27 -0700

Working with your hands brings a certain sense of satisfaction that many retired people pursue. Sitting behind a desk and tapping computer keys just doesn't seem to bring the same sense of achievement as fashioning a beautiful piece of furniture, creating a work of art or building a geodesic dome.

189 An iPad?

del@retirementtalk.org — Fri, 30 Jul 2010 17:08:59 -0700

As retired folks do we really need to keep up with the latest technology? Can't we just sit back in the rocker and let the world go by? We can. But do we really want that?

188 On Becoming a Vegetarian at 67

del@retirementtalk.org — Fri, 23 Jul 2010 22:05:15 -0700

What do you do when there is going to be no turkey at Thanksgiving Dinner? For us, it resulted in becoming vegetarians. It isn't really difficult at all. We have found it enjoyable and tasty.

187 How Will I Die?

del@retirementtalk.org — Fri, 16 Jul 2010 17:52:46 -0700

Retirement is a time to reflect on our entire life. Sometimes considerations of our own death wade in for consideration. Is this something we need to worry about? Or, should we just focus on life?

186 Denialism and Grandchildren

del@retirementtalk.org — Wed, 14 Jul 2010 09:34:39 -0700

Ever tell your grandchildren how important it is to tell the truth? We all know that it doesn't pay to live a lie. Sometimes truth doesn't fit our fancy but we know we have to deal with reality in life.

185 In Praise of Slow Travel

del@retirementtalk.org — Fri, 2 Jul 2010 09:02:16 -0700

Taking a road trip requires some planning. It may be best for all of us to slow down a bit as we set about to enjoy a vacation. It's something to consider. Sometimes less is more and in respect to travel it is absolutely true.

184 A Second Opinion

del@retirementtalk.org — Sun, 27 Jun 2010 08:41:29 -0700

Retirement may mean many more trips to the doctor. Sometimes we don't agree with the doctor's diagnosis and desire a second opinion. Here is an example that illustrates the importance of asserting ourselves when it comes to our health.(Update of Episode 016)

183 Retiring Together

del@retirementtalk.org — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 09:22:51 -0700

Are there special problems for couples who retire at th same time? Are the men always, "underfoot"? Here are some illustrations of what worked for us over 23 years.

182 Another Relocation Alternative

del@retirementtalk.org — Fri, 11 Jun 2010 20:49:44 -0700

Here is an example of how you can stay in your own home town and yet move away at the same time. Living in two places at once is possible - in a way.

181 The Relocating Alternative

del@retirementtalk.org — Fri, 4 Jun 2010 14:21:51 -0700

Retiring and relocating are often times linked together. Once our job ends we are free to move about the country. Will be opt for that choice or not? It might work for us and then again....

180 What Now Part 2

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 27 May 2010 18:10:54 -0700

Retirement gives us time to do many different things with our lives. Our choices are often times determined by our imagination and our concept of what will bring us the most happiness. Here are a couple of examples that illustrate the decision making process.

179 What Now?

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 20 May 2010 19:56:12 -0700

After retirement we are faced with the deciding what to do with the rest of our life. How do we address this question? Are there any guidelines or suggestions? One constant seems to be universal: the desire for happiness. We had best know wherein it lies if we ever hope to find it.

178 How Much Money Is Enough?

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 13 May 2010 17:54:24 -0700

When considering retirement, we always wonder if we will have enough money. How can we possible know? Here is what we did - and it seems to have worked - so far.

177 When Should I Retire?

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 6 May 2010 17:30:00 -0700

Deciding if and when to retire are questions many or us wrestle. The pros and the cons can battle on endlessly. Here are some of the reasons my wife and I used making our decision. We are very happy with the consequences.

176 Nursing Homes

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 29 Apr 2010 14:35:52 -0700

Retirement seems to be accompanied by the need to visit nursing homes. Parents or friends many times relocate to these facilities as we grow older. Dick Smith shares some of the lessons he has learned that might help with these sometimes difficult visits.

175 Learning from Friends

del@retirementtalk.org — Fri, 16 Apr 2010 10:39:25 -0700

Ever notice how other people sometimes do the most interesting things? We can find examples and inspiration for what makes for a good retirement from others. Sometimes it is our own friends who help illustrate the range of possibilities.

174 Friend Turn Over

del@retirementtalk.org — Wed, 14 Apr 2010 10:21:18 -0700

One thing that enhances everything including retirement is good friends. Keeping that fact in the front of our mind might make retirement much more fulfilling.Unfortunately, friends have a way of disappearing. What to do?

173 Deciding to be Happy

del@retirementtalk.org — Fri, 2 Apr 2010 13:23:32 -0700

Can we choose to be happy and have it really happen? Here is a story of one person who did just that. K. Eileen Allen has written a book entitled, "I Like Being Old". Not that I'm "old" or that you are. But we can all learn something from her. Here is what I took away from her story concerning happiness.

172 Frog Spit Ch 2 Part 2

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 18:04:58 -0700

We continue our publication of Jackie Spinks' new memoir. This humorous rumination of early family life in a mill town in the Pacific Northwest will bring back many thoughts of attitudes and activities of days gone by. And for retired people it can serve as an inspiration of what is possible when one is 80.

171 Frog Spit Ch. 2 Part 1

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 21:05:01 -0800

Jackie Spinks continues her reading of her new book. Previous episodes can be found in the Archives and on Jackie Sprinks page.

170 Winter Olympics Vancouver 2010

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 25 Mar 2010 14:36:39 -0700

What's it like to attend a Winter Olympics? We are having that experience now. So far...even for retired people and for people that are not "rich" it is a great experience! Sometimes life's exotic treats don't lie far from our door step.

169 "Frog Spit" part 2

del@retirementtalk.org — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 15:28:48 -0800

We continue our publication of Jackie Spinks new memoir. This humorous rumination of early family life in a mill town in the Pacific Northwest will bring back many thoughts of attitudes and activities of days gone by. And for retired people it can serve as an inspiration of what is possible when one is 80.

168 "Frog Spit"

del@retirementtalk.org — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 10:13:44 -0800

With this Episode we begin publishing "Frog Spit" a memoir written and read by Jackie Spinks. Jackie grew up in Bellingham, Washington and her humorous writing makes the people, place and time come alive. (This audio book will be published in an ongoing series. Publication of the written text will follow. Look for it on her archive page.)

167 Afraid of Missing Something

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 4 Feb 2010 17:29:14 -0800

Life presents us with all sorts of opportunities and choices. Sometimes we know exactly which we want to choose. Sometimes we want to do them all. What to do?

166 Thought that Go Back and Forth

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 28 Jan 2010 14:27:45 -0800

Multitasking just seems to violate all principles of retirement. We are suppose to slow down and take life a little easier. Dick Smith talks about some of his conflicts and solutions to the problem.

165 Taking a Risk

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 19:16:38 -0800

Taking a risk by definition always implies a bit of danger; we could get hurt. Doing some thing new and different always includes this factor. We could fail. It can also make life a bit more interesting and exciting. What to do?

164 No One To Talk To

del@retirementtalk.org — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 14:01:37 -0800

Having someone to talk to can be a problem for anyone. As we age conversational isolation can be a more sever problem. We seem to only engage with the TV - and it always just one way. No one listens to us.

163 The January Challenge

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 7 Jan 2010 18:02:22 -0800

January is a time of year when we try to change our lives for the better. Exercise is touted as one of the most important contributors to good health. We know that when we stop moving, we are in trouble. What to do?

162 Looking Ahead; Looking Back

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 31 Dec 2009 17:36:41 -0800

In retirement some of us tend to look forward to the future. Others of us tend to look back over our own life. Either way, we make decisions as to the way we spend our retirement years. Making no decisions is a choice we try to avoid. For some of us, it isn't easy.

161 Weather

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 10:38:45 -0800

Our motto has always been to, "Never let the weather dictate what you do with your life". Some people pay a lot of attention to weather. There are lots of reasons to move or relocate when one retires. Weather is one of the main ones, but it is not the only one.

160 Aging and Expectations

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 17:36:07 -0800

Great expectations are things we associate with young people. But in this time period retired people may have thirty or forty years of good life ahead of them. What are the expectations? Do we prepare for this period in life? Perhaps we should.

159 Changing Our Ways

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 3 Dec 2009 20:17:15 -0800

Sometimes we just get tired of doing the same ol' thing. We want to change our ways. Here is a great example of a person doing just exactly that. And he isn't a spring chicken.

158 Elders and the Environment

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 10:34:35 -0800

Where did you learn to care about the environment? Who were your mentors? What role can today's elders play in the care of our earth? These questions evolved out of a recent conference I attended in Vancouver, BC. If your looking for something to do in retirement this might be a good choice.

157 From Career to Vocation

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 14:19:05 -0800

Many people turn something they do for fun into a career. Creating a joyful retirement may be the time to go the other way and turn a career into a vocation. Dick Smith is our guest.

156 Screen Apnea

del@retirementtalk.org — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 14:52:35 -0800

Screen Apnea is like sleep apnea. It is a breathing problem. Ever notice how when you work on a computer or gaze at TV how the time just slips by. We tend to forget the rest of the world. Now it seems we even forget to breath; at least not like we should.

155 Chop Wood; Carry Water

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 5 Nov 2009 19:50:34 -0800

Retiring means an active lifestyle for many. Just because we stop working for money doesn't mean we live in a world without things to do. Providing for family, friends, and humanity calls for action even from the enlightened, or perhaps especially from the enlightened.

154 Amounting to Something

del@retirementtalk.org — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 19:37:56 -0700

Retirement brings many changes to our lives. The goal of "Amounting to something," is one we have lived with for a long time. Jackie Spinks believes that absence of this may be the great equalizer between men and women. She finds these the happiest days of her life.

153 "Who Made That Rule, Anyway?"

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 14:13:54 -0700

The way we live is often determined by a set of existing rules. Sometimes we may need to pause and inquire as to their validity. Retired people enjoy a lifetime of experience by which to substantiate their views.

152 "Flat-Earthers" How Do We Know What Is True?

del@retirementtalk.org — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 10:04:38 -0700

Two widely divergent political groups dominate our countries politics. Why is there such a wide gulf between the two? Where do we get our beliefs? Are we even of the same species?

151 Venturing Into Politics

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 8 Oct 2009 20:06:47 -0700

Retirement years are time where one has time to read, talk, write and practice politics. Politics can become a main interest for many retired folks. Wisdom gained through years of living might make political life more meaningful for all.

150 How Much Is Enough

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 1 Oct 2009 14:21:34 -0700

Thoughts of retiring always bring thoughts of money. Do we have enough to live on the rest of our life? Here is an example of thoughts that we weighed when considering the money question. So far so good.

149 Out of the Box

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 13:59:28 -0700

Retirement is a major life change for us all. We find ourselves "Out of the box" we have been living in for years. Dick Smith shares some thoughts on this new beginning.

148 Bicycling and Retirement

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 17:12:42 -0700

Bicycling and retirement seem to go together for many of us. Bicycling can combine fun with exercise, running errands, and just getting around our community. It is good for our health, our pocket book, our environment and our health. Amazing!

147 Memoir is Retirement

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 14:07:23 -0700

Joining a memoir writing group can help in understanding our entire life. It helps us look back; it helps us examine the present and it helps us clarity our connection to others. Dick smith shares these recent thoughts.

146 Tenting, Biking and Elderhostel

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 3 Sep 2009 20:30:01 -0700

Tenting, biking and Elderhostel somehow seemed tied together. They seem to attract like-minded people: young at heart, adventurous, and interesting. Age does not seem to dampen their enthusiasm for life. Here is the story of three such travelers.

145 Contemplating Religion

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 14:05:16 -0700

Jackie Spinks takes a look at religion in this podcast. A lifetime of experiences have shaped her thoughts and beliefs. One thing about it: religious or not, we spend a lot of time trying to sort out our thoughts concerning this subject.

144 Retirement Talk and Technology

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 17:03:16 -0700

Here is a description of the technology used and the technological changes that have been required to maintain this podcast as it moves into its fourth year of production. If podcasting is something you have considered in retirement this information might be useful.

143 Desirability of Dumb?

del@retirementtalk.org — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 17:53:10 -0700

Humorous writer Jackie Spinks had a conversation the other day that triggered some thoughts about the word "Dumb". Seems like that is in vogue these days. Heaven knows, we wouldn't want to be accused of being smart.

142 Retirement and Traveling by Train

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 19:52:51 -0700

141 Downsizing

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 10:38:11 -0700

The idea of Downsizing brings many questions to mind. The location and size of the house in which we live is important. Perhaps more important than we realize. It can be an opportunity to re-evaluate the way we live.

140 Michael Jackson Meets John Donne

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 9 Jul 2009 10:02:37 -0700

"Any man's death diminishes me...". John Donne's famous words were brought to mind by Michael Jackson's memorial service. We all have at least two things in common: we all make mistakes and we all die.

139 John's Departure

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 2 Jul 2009 10:00:22 -0700

Links to the past continue to be broken as we age. We learn to value what we have. Retirement has it's challenges and dealing with the death of a friend is one. Dick Smith shares his thoughts concerning his friend John.

138 Retirement and Reunions

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 13:46:59 -0700

Retirement and reunions seems to go hand in hand. The question: "Are you going to the reunion?" comes up often. I just experienced my first. Here's the story.

137 Retirement's Many Roads

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 15:27:11 -0700

My neighbor down the street retired last year and is still, "lost". He can't figure out what he wants to do with all of this time. Retirement can freeze us with over-choice. It is important to make a choice.

136 Gardening

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 10:15:31 -0700

In this episode Dick Smith shares his thoughts with us concerning his recent retirement project of creating a garden. The process has brought to mind other gardens and people that have been part of his life.

135 Doing the Dishes

del@retirementtalk.org — Fri, 5 Jun 2009 15:44:28 -0700

Daily routines present themselves to us in retirement - like it or not. Is it possible to turn these into pleasurable moments? The Myth of Sisyphus may be our salvation. Can we learn to, "love our rock"?

134 The Boxer - My Father

del@retirementtalk.org — Fri, 5 Jun 2009 15:37:12 -0700

Jackie Spinks relates a story about her family history. It seems her Grandmother was not fond of her daughter marrying a boxer. But a boxer with brown eyes and a car...hard to stay away from.

133 Retirement and Needs

del@retirementtalk.org — Fri, 5 Jun 2009 15:31:25 -0700

We all have needs throughout our lives. In this podcast Dick Smith considers our needs and how they relate to retired folks. What do we need to not only sustain us but to allow us to flourish at this stage in our lives.

132 Heroes

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 7 May 2009 17:39:14 -0700

We all have heroes. We need heroes. Pete Seeger is one of mine. Here is a guy with a banjo and a backbone who became an icon during his life time. What is it about people that make them heroic in our minds or our lives?

131 Time for Indulgence - The Coffee Shop

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 17:29:12 -0700

Taking time for coffee is one of the pleasure of our retired life. For over twenty years we have found time for a trip to the coffee shop on a daily basis. Some might call this a wast of time; but time that is enjoyed is never time wasted.

130 Road Trip Part 2: Lessons Learned

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 17:22:30 -0700

The last step in the Epicurean development of the Cult of Happiness is to reflect on our planning and actualization. In completing the Road Trip Series the reflections prove enlightening. There were steps to emulate and omissions that should be corrected.

129 Reviewing the History of Our Time

del@retirementtalk.org — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 09:43:07 -0700

Dick Smith Finds inspiration while drinking coffee with other retired friends. Their conversation and minds mix and bring different views to lives that have spanned the same time frame.

128 Retirement, Poetry, and the Immigrant

del@retirementtalk.org — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 09:37:16 -0700

Jackie Spinks tries her hand at poetry in this podcast. Her father - the immigrant - and the depression come together to give us a unique picture of the depression and the present economic predicament.

127 Road Trip Part 20: Retirement Values and Patriotism

del@retirementtalk.org — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 09:24:57 -0700

Retirement may be a time to "kick-back" in some ways. It can afford us more time to consider our own values and those of our community. Dick Smith writes letters to the editor of the local newspaper expressing his values.

126 Road Trip Part 19: The Road Runs to Denver

del@retirementtalk.org — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 09:20:36 -0700

I could move to Denver, Colorado. Driving from Jackson, Mississippi we made miles. The road was straight and flat. We did find some interesting stops, but the city of Denver and the local neighborhood of our friend were gems.

125 Road Trip Part 18: Mississippi

del@retirementtalk.org — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 09:16:02 -0700

A memorable stop on our road trip was the great state of Mississippi. We went there to pay homage to two great American writers and visit a cousin. We left with a deeper understanding of what it means to live in the south.

124 Road Trip Part 17: Blue Ridge Mountain Parkway to Graceland

del@retirementtalk.org — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 09:11:26 -0700

Driving the Blue Ridge Mountain Parkway can be beautiful in the winter - beautiful vistas and little to no traffic. But the home of Elvis Presley was the highlight of these few days. For anyone of retirement age, visiting Graceland will bring back lots of memories.

123 Road Trip Part 16: Chesapeake Bay to Monticello

del@retirementtalk.org — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 09:04:43 -0700

This retirement podcast comes from our turning point on our road trip. We turn west from Chesapeake Bay and head west. Without clear direction, we tend south and west. Charlottesville, Virginia becomes our next stop.

122 Road Trip Part 15: Washington D.C.

del@retirementtalk.org — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 09:00:26 -0700

Washington DC is a destination point on this road trip. Retirement talk often evolves into discussion of our nation's capital. This retirement podcast tells of a four day visit to the famed city. It proves a demanding but rewarding city to visit.

121 Road Trip Part 14: Durham and Chapel Hill

del@retirementtalk.org — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 08:53:48 -0700

Durham and Chapel Hill are college towns: Duke and the University of North Carolina. The towns are similar in many ways. They are great places to live according to the residents. Retirement Talk looks at each of them.

120 Road Trip Part 13: Savannah and Strength Training

del@retirementtalk.org — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 19:55:25 -0700

This retirement podcast follows our road trip through Savannah, Georgia. It then moves through South Carolina and visit with a retired friend who has found his key to retirement in competitive weight lifting.

119 Road Trip Part 12: Sarasota

del@retirementtalk.org — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 19:51:06 -0700

For many, the senior lifestyle dream involves moving to Florida. Our road trip included a stop in both Panama City and in Sarasota. We could visit some friends and check out the appeal.

118 Road Trip Part 11: Bay Saint Louis to Panama City

del@retirementtalk.org — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 19:47:14 -0700

This retirement podcast follows our journey along the Gulf of Mexico focusing on Bay Saint Louis and Panama City. The real story is about visiting old friends. Retirees, be the boomers or seniors, can find pure enjoyment by renewing old friendships.

124 Road Trip Part 17: Blue Ridge Parkway to Graceland

del@retirementtalk.org — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 10:15:57 -0700

117 Road Trip Part 10: New Orleans

del@retirementtalk.org — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 19:41:02 -0700

"I love New Orleans". Everyone I met who lives in New Orleans said that. No exceptions. This retirement podcast is focused on our road trip stop in New Orleans. From the French Quarter to Katrina, I have a few observations.

116 Road Trip Part 9: From Ruidoso to New Orleans

del@retirementtalk.org — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 19:36:32 -0700

Ruidoso, New Mexico works well with my friends senior lifestyle. They moved here at age 78 and love it. Big Bend National Park, Austin and San Antonio are also visited in this podcast.

115 Road Trip Part 8: Forced Retirement and Sun City

del@retirementtalk.org — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 19:28:42 -0700

In this retirement podcast a more difficult retirement is discussed; a medical retirement. How does one deal with health demands that end work and force retirement? In this interview we meet and talk to a fibromyalgia victim. Hearing such stories help all of us gain perspective on our own lives.

114 Road Trip Part 7: Retirement in Sun City, Arizona

del@retirementtalk.org — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 19:23:50 -0700

Retirement lifestyle choices lead many Americans to Sun City, Arizona. This interview gives one view of why it is such a great place to retire for some. Others may conclude that it is not for them.

113 Road Trip Part 6: Hope, Arizona and RV'ing

del@retirementtalk.org — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 19:18:17 -0700

For many retirees their senior lifestyle revolves around traveling to warm climates with an RV. Here is an example of one place and one person who has been doing that very thing for 13 years. You might like it; then again...

112 Road Trip Part 5: Starting Out, or Actualization

del@retirementtalk.org — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 17:52:18 -0700

The day the trip starts can be filled with surprises. Our road trip across the country was no different. It seemed like the gods were planning against us, but the trip did get underway. We went from Bellingham, Washington to Sutter Creek, California in this first leg of the trip.

111 Road Trip Part 4: Why Travel?

del@retirementtalk.org — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 17:42:44 -0700

Why do we always seem to want to travel? It seems to be part of retirement lifestyle. Before we take a trip we might want to clarify in our mind just exactly what we hope to gain. Perhaps we are better off staying home.

110 Road Trip Part 3: A Place to Stay

del@retirementtalk.org — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 17:36:46 -0700

There are many ways to travel. Where to sleep each night is a particularly important consideration. Our trip plan revolves around home exchanges as established basis from which to experience general areas. Here's the plan.

109 Road Trip Part 2 - The Vehicle

del@retirementtalk.org — Fri, 5 Dec 2008 10:33:56 -0800

This retirement podcast is part of a series concerning taking a road trip across America. A major consideration has to be what type of vehicle will serve the needs of an extended venture. Here is the path we took. The reasons and goals are discussed.

108 Our True Home

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 27 Nov 2008 14:54:56 -0800

John McCain recently revealed the ownership of nine homes at the present time. Dick Smith had eight houses, but not all at the same time. Converting a house into a home is a trick. I'm not sure it can be done with nine at a time.

107 Road Trip USA - Planning

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 10:32:28 -0800

An often heard dream of many retirees is to, "Take a road trip around the America". We are gearing up for just such a trip. We will document our venture here through several podcasts. What works and what doesn't? When you take the trip you can avoid the mistakes.

106 "Because I Said So!"

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 19:31:13 -0800

We have all heard the words in the title of this retirement podcast. Sometimes they were said to us and sometimes we said them to others. Dick Smith believes retirement gives us time to change our mind and attitudes.

105 Being Taken Advantage Of

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 6 Nov 2008 14:03:43 -0800

Being taken advantage of is a lifelong problem. Retirement does not exempt us from this difficulty. We all fall victim sometime, or we know someone who has. We can learn from sharing our stories.

104 Risky Business

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 14:11:01 -0700

A senior lifestyle can include taking a risk. As we age we tend to avoid big risk taking. Sometimes we need to screw up our courage and step out on a limb. It makes life more exciting and interesting.

103 Mentors

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 14:12:45 -0700

We all remember people who had exceptional influence on our lives. In this memoir, Dick Smith relates some of his favorite people who played a role in making him who he is today.

102 Guilt, Stress and Retirement

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:42:42 -0700

Lessons learned in early life can stay with us throughout life. Guilt - unwarranted guilt - is one of those lessons that can remain undiscovered but yet produce life long stress. Overcoming stress is necessary for an enjoyable retirement lifestyle.

101 Abortion, Absolutism, and Aging

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 9 Oct 2008 13:36:43 -0700

Jackie Spinks looks back over eighty years of personal experience related to the issue of abortion and how our values are formed. One thing about getting older; it gives us perspective. We retired folks might want to share it.

100 Retirement by Projects

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 2 Oct 2008 15:03:51 -0700

Retirement Talk is one hundred episodes old and still growing. The role it plays in my retired life serves as a focal point for using projects as a method of retirement living.

099 Retirement and Neighbors

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 2 Oct 2008 15:03:39 -0700

Neighbors can make retirement miserable, or if approached with care, become tolerable if not enjoyable. Retired folks need to move cautiously when they venture into the neighborhood. Care must be taken.

098 "We are Here to Help You"

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 09:27:01 -0700

Sometimes choice of words affects us more than we are aware. Retired folks have years of experience on which to rely for clarity. We need to exercise due diligence.

097 Exercise - for the Brain?

del@retirementtalk.org — Sat, 13 Sep 2008 17:37:43 -0700

We know our muscles, lungs and cardiovascular system needs to get some exercise. We may not connect this exercise with the best thing in the world we can do for our brain. But, it seems to be true.

096 Government: Under the Constitution?

del@retirementtalk.org — Tue, 5 Aug 2008 21:35:16 -0700

One topic of conversation that is prevalent among the retired people I know is politics. There is a lot of experience and history among we older folks that can make for varied thoughts concerning the way we govern ourselves. This podcast offers a glimpse into a recent political discussion.

095 A Lifelong Interest - Geodesic Domes

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 21:00:55 -0700

Retirement brings many topics of discussion into our lives. Some may continue on from youth. Dick Smith shares with us his everlasting interest in geodesic domes.

094 Retirement and A Work of Love

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 10:52:23 -0700

Some times society values what we choose to do with our life in retirement with continued income. Imagine, doing what you really want and getting paid for it? My friend, Lewis, created a perfect match.

093 Recording Stories - "On The Loose"

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 14:48:01 -0700

Many of us imagine ourselves recording stories of ourselves, or someone else, before it is too late. It is a great thing to do in the retirement phase of life. In this retirement podcast, Dick Smith shares a story written in his Senior Memoirs Writing Group about doing the very thing.

092 Suicide - A Final Decision

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 3 Jul 2008 10:18:41 -0700

Suicide is a topic that is rarely discussed and yet remains a very real possibility. This retirement podcast is not taking an advocacy position but is just relating the story of four people I know who have chosen this path. It springs from retirement talk with some friends.

091 Aging and Frustration

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 10:42:45 -0700

Frustration seems to be part of life. Retirement and being a Senior Citizen doesn't make one immune to sleepless nights and worry over trivial matters. Hopefully, with all of our life experiences, we can manage it a bit better.

090 The Cleanest Wash - Housekeeping Excellence

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 14:16:10 -0700

Retirement gives us time to find the beauty in former daily routine. Jackie Spinks takes a moment to reflect on a time when life was hard and people were close. The Monday morning wash set the tone for neighbors, families, and towns.

089 Slow Down and Pick Up the Pace

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 14:56:29 -0700

Having a retirement of our own choosing is what most of us desire. We want time in our life to do whatever we choose. Other people and events have a way of under mining this dream of independence. We need all of our resources to live the retirement we have always imagined.

088 Senior Memoirs Writing Group

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 5 Jun 2008 12:11:27 -0700

Retired people and seniors have experiences and knowledge that needs to be shared. We all need to be heard and we all need to listen. Dick Smith shares with us his current experience in a memoirs writing group for seniors.

087 Staying Fit in Retirement

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 29 May 2008 17:43:40 -0700

Staying fit is needed throughout life. Enjoyment of retirement calls for special attention to this need. Luckily, we have a head start on all other segments of society. We've had more practice.

086 Food, Weight, and Retirement

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 22 May 2008 14:19:25 -0700

Retired people like to eat. We have time and tastes that make good eating possible. The problem: eating too much good food . It is easy to, "do lunch". It is easy to linger over a good meal. It is easy to gain weight and ruin our health.

085 Writing a Book - with a Young Child

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 15 May 2008 09:07:42 -0700

Dick Smith shares a story of a retirement activity that might be well used by many of us. Writing a book with a grandchild, or young child at a school, might be just the thing to create a little mystery and change our lives.

084 Being Prepared - for Death

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 8 May 2008 13:50:28 -0700

Death happens to each of us. Lying silently, tied to a container of drugs, in a nursing home for days or weeks waiting for death to finally end our pain is one way. There are many ways to die. Thinking and talking about this process is something that is in short supply

083 Does Retirement Call for a Dermatologist?

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 1 May 2008 09:14:36 -0700

Physical beauty is of paramount importance most of our lives. With age comes retirement and hopefully wisdom. We learn that there are more important attributes to beauty that the physical. This may be one of retirement's greatest benefits.

082 Looking Back - 60 years

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 14:00:39 -0700

Jackie Spinks is my guest. Her recent conversation has focused on the 1940s and her memories of why she formed opinions she held at that time.

081 Birds

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 17 Apr 2008 13:56:17 -0700

Retirement and birds; how do they fit together? When four birds are killed by flying into my windows glass during breakfast, it got me thinking. Retirement may be a great time to speak up on behalf of birds.

080 Aging - and Music

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 18:52:49 -0700

From birth to death, music is a part of life. The love of one type of music seems to be every changing. Is there yet another door into the world of music? Perhaps retirement offers us another, yet unexpected, opportunity to expand our appreciation.

079 Technology - Keeping Up

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 3 Apr 2008 10:31:17 -0700

Technological changes keep coming at us. Some retired folks give up, What's a person to do? Should we become exhausted chasing something that never stops, or, kickback and let the world roll on without us? Do any of these "technological gadgets" really help us older folks? Or are they all for kids?

078 The Good Ol' Days - Dentistry

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 14:01:01 -0700

Jackie Spinks look back with clear vision at part of what makes up our past. Time in the dentist's chair was all part of the "good old days". Lets be honest.

077 Friends

del@retirementtalk.org — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 18:21:43 -0700

We all have moments when we think we don't have enough friends. Where can we get some new friends? That is a question that is often asked. Maybe if we look back we will find direction to developing new friends.

076 Learning to Relax

del@retirementtalk.org — Wed, 5 Mar 2008 08:56:22 -0800

Retirement gives us time to examine ourselves better than ever before in our lives. Living with tension in our body can be something that has developed over a lifetime. We may not be aware of what has become, "natural". Learning to relax may still be within our grasp.

075 Retirement and Upkeep

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 28 Feb 2008 14:18:02 -0800

It is easy to let things slide. The paint on the house ages. The drapes fade and sag. The belt gets tighter around the waist. Upkeep is need for the house, furniture, body and the mind. Neglect upkeep and the slide into old age becomes all to evident to everyone. Of course, some go beyond just keeping up to actually improving. Life get better!

074 War Stories - A Place and A Time

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 21 Feb 2008 16:49:02 -0800

Telling old stories to folks that aren't interested is an open pit for retired folks. Dick Smith talks of the need for the telling and yet the care concerning when and where the telling takes place.

073 Alaska - Go Now!

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 18:20:13 -0800

Traveling to Alaska is one activity the seems to be on many a retired person's list. The lure of the North and Arctic is well founded. And the time to go will never be better than the present moment. The journey is easier than you might think. Retirement is the time to actualize that long held dream.

072 Age 80 and Looking Ahead

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 7 Feb 2008 16:53:10 -0800

Jackie Spinks takes a shot at 2030. She paints with a broad brush. She is familiar with making mistakes and seems only sure that more will be made, What will the future look like?

071 Relating to Grandchildren

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 19:38:30 -0800

Communicating across generations is a challenge. We must all invent our own methods. Computer kids pose unique challenges. We need a plan. Grandparents have a unique position to pass on wisdom gathered from experience.

070 Generational Criticism

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 17:10:18 -0800

Each generation seems to have its complaints concerning the generation following. Understanding this common condition may help us better manage our own views of human behavior.

069 Habits

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 16:47:13 -0800

By the time we reach retirement age we have almost cemented in some habits. We all have them. Yet, changing them is possible. The trick is to develop good ones rather than bad ones. Aristotle gave us some good advice on this one.

068 Politics, Truth, and Common Sense

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 10:28:44 -0800

Important political issues are like Elephants running through out living room. They are massive, numerous, and completely ignored. When it comes to politics, truth and common sense have taken on these Elephant-like characteristics.

067 New Year's Resolutions and A Life List

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 3 Jan 2008 12:59:01 -0800

New Year's Resolutions are intended to guide us through the year. A Life List can do that on a much more grand scale. Retirement is a great milestone when a new list might be in order.

066 Holidays and Getting Older

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 20:28:51 -0800

Holidays can be trying times for the retired. We are suppose to enjoy them. Best that we not get caught without a plan.

065 "This Old House"

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 20 Dec 2007 10:18:48 -0800

Time takes a toll on a house and on a person alike. Repair and maintenance are needed. Retirement is a time to become a weaver of sorts. It is a time to repair and embellish. Dick Smith is my guest.

064 Would You Like To Be Young Again?

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 13 Dec 2007 19:44:15 -0800

"I think old is better". Jackie Spinks has drawn some conclusions concerning various phases of life. She speaks from years of experience.

063 Getting Around

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 6 Dec 2007 16:19:30 -0800

Transportation can be a serious problem as we move into retirement years. We live in a car focused environment and our car days may be numbered. Getting to the store, post office, restaurant, etc. can be challenging. How do we cope with getting around as we age

062 Dredging Up Old Memories

del@retirementtalk.org — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 08:35:03 -0800

Experiences can take on new form when evaluated later in life. We may have learned to be a bit more compassionate - even to ourselves. It may be worth the time to reexamine some of our troubling thoughts.

061 My Aumakua or Place In The World

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 22 Nov 2007 13:59:18 -0800

Retirement is the last act in this drama called life. What will be the nature of this - final act? New dimensions other than work will have to serve to identify us.

060 Retired and No Time To Shave

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 14:06:36 -0800

Retirement can be a time of hesitation, retreat, and drift. Or, it can be a very busy time of doing exactly what you want. The key is to know what you want.

059 Retirement: A Time for Understanding

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 8 Nov 2007 10:46:27 -0800

Human development is well charted for the young. There is little guidance for the retired. Retirement gives us time to come to terms with what makes us and the world go round. It also gives us time to find the center of ourselves.

058 Casinos

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 1 Nov 2007 10:41:00 -0700

Casinos have sprouted up like flowers, or weeds, - blooming all along the roads. They can be dangerous places; especially for retired folks

057 Gun Control - Kenya Style

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 25 Oct 2007 11:34:33 -0700

Reaching retirement age has it's benefits. Life experiences help shape our thinking. Political promises can appear transparent. Gun Control is a perfect example.

056 Retirement and Dogs

del@retirementtalk.org — Wed, 17 Oct 2007 15:07:52 -0700

Dogs give us unconditional love. This can be an invaluable addition to life at the time of retirement. There can be problems, but having a dog can bring a whole new reason for living into our life. And it gets us outside.

055 Is the World Better Off?

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 14:55:39 -0700

We would all like to leave the world a better place. We like to think that our generation will correct mistakes made by our elders. Our children will inherit a better place. I was surprised by my conclusions.

054 Social Isolation and Retirement

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 4 Oct 2007 10:08:05 -0700

Social isolation is a major problem in retirement. We can loose all emotional contact with people. Our dignity and sense of self worth can force us to retreat. What to do?

053 Death, Escape, Retirement

del@retirementtalk.org — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 19:23:53 -0700

Enjoying retirement is a result of many factors. The most important being that death has not snatched us away earlier. If we escape it long enough, we may enjoy retirement and a good story.

052 Retirement and Freedom

Mon, 17 Sep 2007 17:55:11 -0700

"Freedom" is a word that is often used in conjunction with retirement. For some, this freedom is appreciated and liberating. Other retirees seem to drowned in it. They can't move. What makes for these apparently different results?

051 Retirement and Technology

del@retirementtalk.org — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 20:25:00 -0700

This age of technology isn't easy for some of us. It requires that we learn something new constantly. Of course, learning can be fun and the world in which we live can be very exciting. Best to keep up than die early.

050 Retirement and Not Looking So Hot

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 30 Aug 2007 17:35:39 -0700

Retirement is usually associated with growing older - and inevitable changes in our physical appearance. Our culture seems to worship youth. What are we retirees to do? Jackie Spinks shares some thoughts with us.

049 "Love Trips"

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 23 Aug 2007 17:54:44 -0700

Love Trips refer to those trips we retired folks take to see our grandchildren, children, or parents. We usually fly. Is that method a transportation destined to end in light of global warming or climate change? This threat is very much a possibility.

048 Escaping Big Worries?

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 16 Aug 2007 20:06:19 -0700

Major worries seem to follow us all the days of our lives: war, pestilence, and famine. Is retirement a time when one might be allowed a few moments of escaping this human condition?

047 Killing the Wicked Witch of Time

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 9 Aug 2007 20:20:37 -0700

How does our concept of time change when we retire? Does it change? Roy Ingham talks of the way time has changed for him since retirement.

046 Life as a Sandwich Board: Political Activism

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 2 Aug 2007 17:51:29 -0700

Retirement can give us time to do whatever we choose. Roy Ingham is 82 and is an inspiration to anyone who may choose to live a life as a true political activist.

045 Planning My Funeral

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 20:49:21 -0700

A recent funeral I attended drew my attention to the need, or opportunity, to plan my own funeral. It is more of a case of what you might not want than what you want to have included.

044 Retirement and Priorities

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 19 Jul 2007 14:22:17 -0700

Many of us always claim that we want to get something done but just never get it done. Could it be that we just need to establish priorities? We need to shut things out of our life and make room for what we really do desire.

043 Retirement, Alarm Clocks, and News

del@retirementtalk.org — Fri, 13 Jul 2007 10:31:20 -0700

Alarm clocks can be bashed when one retires. Life can be lived without alarms. One might also consider the onslaught of alarming news as well. Perhaps it is time to temper or tame it.

042 Death of a Son

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 5 Jul 2007 17:47:10 -0700

When a child dies, a difficult time faces the parent. This is true if the parent is young or retired. Dick Smith shares his experience of facing this time of tragedy at the age of 81.

041 Retirement, News, and Weather

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 28 Jun 2007 17:42:48 -0700

Why do some of us devote so much of our time to being informed about news and weather? Is this good use of our retirement time? Why do we do this? What am I doing with the rest of my life?

040 Health, Tai Chi, and the Lost Wallet

del@retirementtalk.org — Fri, 22 Jun 2007 17:18:17 -0700

Health and the practice of Tai Chi keep being touted in the press. Seeing the flowing beauty of actual Tai Chi can be memorable. Perhaps more memorable that loosing one's wallet.

039 Retirement and Moving to be Close to Family

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 14 Jun 2007 19:47:13 -0700

038 History - Learning from Other's Experience

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 7 Jun 2007 21:31:04 -0700

Sometimes it is better to let other's make the mistakes; listen to their stories and then move forward. Boomers and seniors have a lot to share with younger generations that might be very rewarding.

037 Retirement and Home Exchange

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 24 May 2007 14:24:59 -0700

Retirement brings lots of new opportunities. The Home exchange network. You agree to trade the use of your residence for that of someone else's. The trade is cash free.

036 Dignity, Identity, and Health Care

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 17 May 2007 14:38:24 -0700

Maintaining human dignity is a life long issue. Identity theft is a daily challenge. Our health care system sometimes makes demands on our dignity and identity that is a concern for all.

035 Owning an RV - What's It Like?

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 10 May 2007 17:43:42 -0700

How much does owning an RV cost? What is so good about it? What are major problems? What is life like in an RV?

034 Grandfathers, Granddaughters, and History

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 3 May 2007 17:29:32 -0700

Grandfathers should never argue with granddaughters. But, on the value of history a wide gap is developing between generations.

033 A Career for Life - "The Silver Tsunami"

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 16:50:40 -0700

A life goal for some of us is to retire and change our life. . Many older workers are choosing to continue work and never quit or change direction. Here is an example.

032 The Con

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 19 Apr 2007 22:17:59 -0700

"The Con" is something we have to be concerned with all of our life. Here a couple of examples that may remind us of the importance of not allowing ourselves to be taken to the cleaners.

031 "A Ripe Old Age"

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 12 Apr 2007 18:57:38 -0700

What does it mean to live to a ripe old age. Young Gene died at age 11 and a recent news story talked of a man 110 years old taking a new wife - age 30. What does all this mean concerning, "A ripe old age"?

030 Loneliness and Senior Citizens

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 5 Apr 2007 17:48:38 -0700

Loneliness is an issue for all people. Senior Citizens face a peculiar type of loneliness that may call for learning new behaviors. Jackie Spinks shares her outlook on the issue in this episode.

029 Advantages to Aging

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 29 Mar 2007 18:06:25 -0800

Judging character, automatic muscle movements, and accumulation of skill and knowledge are some of the recently reported advantages of aging. This is good news for those of us that are in the retirement zone.
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028 Elderly Sex - A Personal Testimony

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 22 Mar 2007 18:00:32 -0800

A frank statement of sex and the elderly is shared with us by a 79 year old woman. Be prepared for honesty and openness concerning this life time concern.

027 Mexico - Treasure of Sierra Madres

del@retirementtalk.org — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 09:48:12 -0800

Retirement and travel sometimes open unexpected opportunities. This is a story of trying to make connections with Humphrey Bogart, treasure and madness. Follow us on our trip to San Sebastian.

026 Dealing with Aches and Pains

del@retirementtalk.org — Sun, 11 Mar 2007 10:19:40 -0800

Dick Smith shares ideas with us in dealing with the aches and pains that come later in life. He deals the aches and pains we have and those that others have. What to do?

025 Retiring in Mexico - Two Examples

del@retirementtalk.org — Sat, 3 Mar 2007 09:52:50 -0800

Thinking of moving to Mexico? Here are two examples of people who wanted something different. They moved to off-the-road places in Mexico: sun, beaches, surf, no automobiles, - paradise?

024 Retirement and Travel by Plane - Mexico

del@retirement.org — Tue, 27 Feb 2007 19:22:25 -0800

Traveling by plane can be more difficult as one gets older and as plane travel changes. Del talks of his recent journey to Mexico and the challenges and rewards.

023 Death and Decision Making: Part 2

Del@retirementtalk.org — Fri, 9 Feb 2007 19:28:37 -0800

Dealing with death and the promise of eternal happiness can effect our decisions in life. This story of a swami and enlightenment can shed light on this question.

022 Telling the Truth - A Luxury of Growing Older

del@retirementtalk.org — Sun, 4 Feb 2007 11:06:30 -0800

Jackie Spinks shares her experience of telling the truth when it comes to religious preferences throughout life. Why should shame or guilt be associated with, "atheist"?

021 Death and Decision Making

del@retirementtalk.org — Sat, 27 Jan 2007 19:08:13 -0800

This is the first of a series dealing our concept of death and how that influences all the decisions of our life. Hopefully this story will lead you to consider your own deep thoughts concerning this matter that takes special meaning during the later stages of our life.

020 Worry and Getting Older.

del@retirementtalk.org — Sun, 14 Jan 2007 18:29:17 -0800

There are things we worry about when we are young and then there are things we worry about when we get older. Some are the same, but many are different. Jackie Spinks talks about worry and the role it has played in her life and her families.

019 Work and Play

del@retirementtalk.org — Sat, 6 Jan 2007 19:19:19 -0800

Dick Smith finds that retirement allows time for reviewing and perfecting work skills that have been gained over a lifetime. It is also a time to pray at activities that one has always dreamed of.

018: Retirement Without Guilt

del@retirementtalk.org — Sun, 17 Dec 2006 15:12:52 -0800

Many of us feel some sense of guilt when we retire. We think we should be working; doing something productive with our lives. What is to be said of the person who just wants to sit back, enjoy a few years of relaxation and assume the position of just being?

017: A Time to Reconnect

del@retirementtalk.org — Sat, 9 Dec 2006 21:12:14 -0800

At retirement we have the opportunity to review our lives in the records and memories of our extended families. This is a good time to dig out old family pictures and reconnect with former friends and relatives that have shared our lives.

016: Health and A Second Opinion

del@retirementtalk.org — Sat, 2 Dec 2006 16:54:58 -0800

Retirement may mean many more trips to the doctor. Sometimes we don't agree with the doctor's diagnosis and desire a second opinion. This example illustrates the importance of asserting ourselves when it comes to our health.

015: The Man in the Mirror

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 30 Nov 2006 17:18:37 -0800

Retirement means that we must identify ourselves with the availability of a job title. The question, "Who are we?" becomes a bit more complicated. Friends can help in reflecting our new identity.

014: It's Not So Bad To Grow Old

del@retirementtalk.org — Sun, 19 Nov 2006 14:45:22 -0800

Jackie Spinks has lived over three quarters of a century. She concludes that life is not so bad as one grows older. Her gems of wisdom collected sparkle with humor.

013: What Do You Do?

del@retirementtalk.org — Sat, 18 Nov 2006 09:06:33 -0800

The question of, "What do you do?" is asked many times of retired people. Here is an example of how very difficult it can be to honestly answer this question. Sometimes, "What we do", is not given to a short answer. We do many things.

012: Retirement Wisdom Concerning People and Priorities

del@retirementtalk.org — Sat, 18 Nov 2006 08:58:19 -0800

Retirement affords us time for a consideration of our life. Sometimes the value of friends from the past can take on special meaning as we reflect on our time with them.

011: Taking Life As It Comes

del@retirementtalk.org — Sat, 18 Nov 2006 08:55:44 -0800

Retirement can bring many challenges to each of us. Dick Smith tells us of his manner of dealing with change by, "taking life as it comes".

010: Retiring at the Same Time as Your Spouse

del@retirementtalk.org — Sat, 18 Nov 2006 08:54:15 -0800

Retiring at the same time as your spouse is often times seen as a problem - or a potential problem. Here is an example of how it seemed to have worked out very well.

009: A Relocating Alternative in Retirement

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 16 Nov 2006 17:12:52 -0800

Contentment with where you live and a desire for a change sometimes creates conflict for the retired. We could move if we wanted to. Or, we could stay where we are. Is it possible to do both. We have..

008: Tying the Past to the Present

del@retirementtalk.org — Thu, 16 Nov 2006 16:59:40 -0800

Road trips after retirement can sometimes lend insight into history, the present time, and one's own life. Dick Smith and his wife Linda Sutherland illustrate this beautifully in this story.

007: A Sense of Place

del@retirementttalk.org — Thu, 16 Nov 2006 12:05:52 -0800

Developing a sense of place when moving to a new location can be a real challenge. Roy Ingham has moved twice since reaching age 65 and has made two such successful moves.

006: Road Trip via Car