Escaping Work and Embracing Life: My Week of Freedom

Whether you are retired or simply looking for a break from work, finding meaningful activities that bring joy is essential for maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Each week, I have the luxury of dedicating myself to pursuits that nourish both mind and soul. Here, I share how I spend my week off and what brings me such profound satisfaction.

The Dream of Timberline Lodge

Sometimes, my week begins in the majestic changing beauty of nature, up at Timberline Lodge on Mount Hood. ‘Stay up at Timberline Lodge… I don’t want to ever come back.’ I imagine this sentiment rings especially true for someone who grew up on a country farm and loves the wilderness.

Despite the allure of the mountains, retirement offers even greater freedom. As a retired individual, I truly embrace the week when I have no responsibilities tied to work, allowing me to dedicate every moment to personal passions and hobbies.

My Unpaid Week: A Scientist’s Way of Life

Even in retirement, I continue to engage in activities that challenge my intellect and reward me with a sense of accomplishment. ‘I write programs, invent new CNC devices, teach… yeah pretty much like every other week in my life except I don’t get paid for it.’ This volunteer work is not just a hobby; it is my play. I am driven by the desire to contribute to society and help innovate in the fields of technology and education.

Homebody Bliss

For many, the idea of spending a week off traveling might seem exciting, but for a homebody like me, there is immense joy in the familiar. ‘Sleep. Read an astonishing number of books. Spend more time with my husband. Haunt bookstores that are farther away from me.’ My home is a sanctuary filled with books and experiences that fill my day. I also occasionally binge-watch television series, but only content that I have been eagerly waiting to watch.

Exploring the World of Dreams

Dreams hold a special place in my life. While asleep, I often record my dreams to analyze their content and find inspiration. ‘I record my dreams to see what I can bring back from dreamland. How strange interpretations of reality are there? How can I use them? Some dreams are more lucid. Strange dreamland adventures…’ This exploration of my subconscious mind provides a unique window into the world of creativity and imagination.

Work and Play

I believe that work can indeed be play. My current project is to save failing civilizations through innovative programs and inventions. ‘Work is play. I play at saving your failing civilization. I wish you were doing a better job. But you and likely I are weak. We haven’t planned for the inevitable.’ While I am optimistic, the acknowledgment of limitations and the importance of foresight adds depth to my work-life philosophy.

A Quest for Home Improvement

Life often involves practical considerations, such as home improvement. At 62, I have prioritized tackling various home repair tasks that promise to enhance the comfort and safety of my home. ‘I have been catching up on some long-intended home improvement/repairs. Sometime not too long from now it will be more difficult to deal with ladders and crawl spaces. ’ This summer has been dedicated to renovating various parts of my house, and I am left with only one project: new decks. This will be tackled first thing next spring.

Relaxation and Nature

After completing these projects, I focus on relaxation and indulging in the healing power of nature. ‘I come home, eat, go to meetings sometimes but mostly relax and get ready for the next day. RELAX!! REJOICING NATURE. ’ Simplicity and natural beauty are the key ingredients of my rejuvenation.