It’s now official, I got my signed separation papers late yesterday from The Washington Post, and that long-term ride will come to an end soon. It’s been a very interesting experience. One I’ll probably spend some time on in future posts but it’s time to savor the last few weeks in Newspaper Publishing.

In some ways, I’m so excited I could run through a wall. In others, a relaxing wave comes over me, I might just sleep the first few days. Or I could be a nervous wreck with so much unused energy that I’ll drive those around me crazy.

Between now and then I have lots to do and finalize. Many people to thank and wish well. I guess our house is in order as well as it’s ever going to be. And next year begins what I hope is a great chapter in our lives.

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Control

This is an interesting feeling. I’ll again have more control over my life and time for the first time since I was a young teenager. Flexibility on when to rise and crash. Time to play sports or someone to yell “Road Trip” or relax with friends at someone’s home and enjoy a meal.

The ability to look at my better half and suggest a long or short trip and not worry about the work awaiting me when I get back or the interruptions while on vacation from work. Or to just lay in a hammock side by side knowing that we don’t have to move to have a meal at a specific time to allow me to get to work on time.

Returning to my first career love (Arts) and the opportunity to practice those crafts and not starve myself or my family at the same time.

Resuming my physical fitness. The last time I was in really good shape was in my teens and maybe early 20s. But I’m closer to that now than I’ve ever been in decades and while I have some work to do I’m on that path to good fitness and hopefully health.

It’s almost like starting over again. Like being fresh out of high school and having all the options in front of you, and I have a large family and a network of great friends to enjoy it with.

One of the lines in an old song from Rush album 2112 that I like is “We have assumed Control.” That “we”, is my better half and I. Then again I hear control is an illusion.

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Random Thoughts of the Day

• I didn’t make much progress overnight, but I did have some fun.
• Space heater, my winter survival tool.
• I guess it is kind of ironic that the first call I got to schedule something after my retirement date was from the doctor’s scheduling person for my colonoscopy appointment.
• It felt good to pick up the cameras again yesterday.
• Only when you’re short on time do you realize you haven’t made the best use of time along the way.