So, it happened. I retired from a great academic career in the middle of a global pandemic. Yep. Who could have imagined life would evolve the way it did when I submitted my notice in February, 2020?

I loved my job and I worked a lot. Probably too much. Ten-hour days were the norm and after a long commute home, I’d grab a quick dinner with my husband, put on my jammies and sit in bed answering emails before dozing off. Weekend time was often allocated to unfinished projects, work events, and more unanswered emails (did I mention the crazy volume of emails?). Even so, I was incredibly blessed: a dream position, awesome colleagues, inspirational students, and most importantly, the feeling of making a difference in the world.

There was just one thing missing. Time. Time for family and self-care. And speaking of time… I had just turned sixty-one which for some reason, elicited a strong sense of urgency and desire for change. After much consideration, I realized it was time to shift priorities and reimagine a different existence. One that focused on family, new adventures, and lifelong learning. Retirement is a new chapter, one where Mondays are just another day to savor. Welcome to my journey as I navigate and embrace my best life.