Save money and be happy

By Rachel Boger

For the Salisbury Post

The main advice for those planning ahead for retirement is to save your money and invest wisely. Things you feel you can't live without need to be put aside and save that amount of money for your future.

One day you'll look back and wonder why you ever even wanted them. No salary increase or overtime pay available for retirees.

Make friends and maintain those friendships through the years and spend time with them whenever you can. If you get an urge to call or visit a friend, don't ignore it and follow your heart. One day, you'll be standing at the graveside and wish you'd made more time with that special friend. Be a good neighbor and help others when you can.

If there is something you want to do or try, go for it! No time like the present, because one day you'll look back and wish you had and wonder why you didn't. Follow your dreams! Don't make "I wish I had" or "If I had only" your words to reflect on your past. Take care of your health to be able to have quality of life.

Treasure your family and show your love in actions and words to keep relationships strong. What a lonely existence to go through life alienated from close family.

I guess the one thing I love about retirement is being able to sleep at night rather than nap during the day after 34 years of night shift. And a rainy night is a bonus!

Lastly, make yourself a "bucket list" like in the movie and do those things you always dreamed of. Life is too short not to be happy most of the time. If you want a pet and your family thinks a big old dog is too much for an old lady, get one anyway and enjoy. My bulldog's name is Tank and he's a real treasure!