Fly a Kite

Spring wasn't all about bunnies and birthdays.

We had other big news in our family.

My mom made this video to share....

   
  An Incredible Journey from Patricia Dunaway on Vimeo.

RETIRED!!!

On March 31, 2017 (my Juliet's first birthday), my parents retired together.

When my mom announced the news, her facebook page exploded with sweet comments from patients and colleagues.  I saved a few of many, so that Walt and Juliet could read one day.

Their retirement was more emotional for me than I expected.  I was excited for them, and also feeling the bittersweet emotions that come with saying goodbye.  This was a major chapter in their lives, coming to an end.  A  huge accomplishment and milestone.

I feel so much gratitude and appreciation.  TARC and PCA/UofL provided a lifetime of happiness and memories for me.  They did so much more than put food on my table and a roof over my head.  They gave me family vacations, memorable birthdays/holidays...my first car.... a dream wedding...  the list is so long.  I will forever be proud to call these two companies mine....  and always grateful for the opportunities that they gave to my family.

And to say that I'm proud of my parents, doesn't sound adequate enough.   Their professional/work accomplishments are many, and I personally reaped the fruits of their labor for many years.

But do you know what the best part of retirement has been so far??

Just having them home every day.

The day after Easter (Troy had taken the day off), we went to the Indianapolis Zoo. And now that mom and dad are home through the week....  they were able to join us. 

In the very short time that they've been retired, we've had countless opportunities to enjoy them more.  

Not only outings, but little things.

Like calling them with... "hey, we're eating a Popsicle on the back porch..want to come down?"  Or, "we're taking kites to the field to fly...  want to join us?"  When normally, they would have been working (or preparing for work the next day),  they now will hop on their bicycles (they live one street over), and join us on a whim. 

Being able to enjoy life on a whim is what retirement is all about I guess.

Congratulations Mom and Dad!  I am full of pride and thanks for all that you've accomplished and given.   I hope that this next phase of life is your most beautiful yet!  I hope that your days feel carefree, easy and peaceful.  You've earned this special time.

I hope that you stay up late, sip your morning coffee slowly..... enjoy long walks, slow sunsets, and all of the other details of life that while working... you miss.

I hope that you feel life slow down....  with more time to enjoy the little things...  

...more time to fly a kite.