Like a premature baby, retirement arrived a bit early but with relief and a great deal of welcome. Before it came, people told me that I would look back and wonder how I managed to work and get everything else done. They were right, I certainly do.

I used to believe that I would work “for a few more years”, right up until the very moment that I sat in my managers office and spoke the words “I think I need to retire”. I truly enjoyed my job as a nurse and felt valued as part of an effective team. I was never in a hurry to stop working right up until the moment that I did.

Now, I keep thinking that I should sign up for Tai Chi or create a calendar of events to attend or volunteer for something. And then I take a nap in a sunbeam. My life has room for naps, afternoon bike rides, morning coffee in pajamas,cozy socks and sweaters and studio time. Unhurried playing in the studio time.

It's like when I was pregnant with our frst child. I had ideas and dreams of what my new life as a mum would be. Right up until the moment our daughter was born and then our new chapter began unfolding of it’s own accord.

That's what retirement is like so far: a new chapter of life gently unfolding of it’s own accord.