Looking for the Good, the Bad and the Ugly of Retirement. Update/ GOOD NEWS!!!!!

[Sue, Murphy and Bella ()*o*()]

Since Dk has been a big part of my life for the past 6 years, I've decided to reach out to all you dear people who are living the retired life to share some insight into what retirement looks like to you now.
I just turned 60, have a fabulous job, work 3 days, 11 hours per day, work with wonderful staff and new mommies and babies. I make what many would consider very good income. My work days are long and demanding and challenging, both mentally and physically as I probably walk an average of 5-6 miles a day throughout the unit, and am standing a good part of the day as well.

BUT, I am just tired. Tired of the committment, tired of the responsiblity, tired of all the requirements of hospital employment. Tired of being gone 3 whole long days a week. I leave at 6:30am and not home til 6:30 pm and just come home and go to bed because it's such a long mentally draining day. (I am also up everymorning at 4:20 to go to Crossfit at 5:00 before work)
I love, love , love staying home. I have always been a home body and have many hobbies and activities to be as busy as I want to be. First and foremost, I have two amazing grandchildren that I see and have hours and hours of playtime with at least 1-2 times a week, However, I just feel like I am missing out on more with them.
And the finanical loss would be considerate, but it would certainly not send us to the Food Stamp line or buying Purina.
When is it enough? When did you decide and what helped you make up your mind? Does anyone have any regrets or wish they had stayed employed longer? I would very much appreciate your thoughts and feelings about this, as I am just making myself miserable with indecision. Thanks in advance.

update:
After so much great input from everyone here and discussing this with DH and family, we have our sights set for this Oct. I feel such a sense of relief and that sense of dread on the mornings of work is greatly lessened. Still there tho. Find myself wishing it was Oct already. We are preparing financially and it's looking very do-able with some minor adjustments, but nothing earth shattering. I am as frugal as they come, so my spending habits won't change. I always said I'd still be looking for coupons and sales even if I won a HUGE lottery. Just in my blood I guess. Thank you to everyone who replied as your input was valuable and all taken into consideration in this decision. You are all just such a kind and generous group of friends.

GOOD NEWS!!!!! I will be very busy in retirement. We have grandbaby #3 on the way!!!!! Due in Feb. Wanted to share that with my Dk family. thanks

[Sue, Murphy and Bella ()*o*()]

Almost there Lynda. Your life is busy and full of good things. I look forward to being just as busy.

[DJ & Chance]

Happy retirement.  I wish mine was now but I need to wait just a few more years.  Hard to do.

[Lonnie & Libby Lu]

I do blieve when it is time to retire, one just knows and it sounds like you are there!  Enjoy retirement, the new babies, family and your cottage!  We love retirement and never looked back!  

[Sue, Murphy and Bella ()*o*()]

Thank you ! One friend just told me that the other day..."When you walk out that door for the last time, don't look back".  SOunds like good advice. 

[Bonnie and Kona]

Twin grandsons sounds like the perfect retirement gift for you!!! Congratulations!!! Enjoy it all.

[Sue, Murphy and Bella ()*o*()]

I was praying for a sign from above for the final life event that would push me over the fence on my decision. Can't think of anything more retirement worthy!  We are all just over the moon excited. She is 24 weeks today, boys are 1#6 oz and 1#7oz by Ultrasound this afternoon.  Now the fun of choosing names and quilting baby quilts!!

[Linda, Charlie Brown and Beau]

OMD Sue ~ twins! How wonderful  I am so happy you have made your decision and turned in your notice - your friend is so right, do not look back!  Now it is time to move forward and enjoy your days as you would like, and dance like no one is watching you!  Looking forward to seeing photos of those cute little babies - they are going to be so happy to have a grandma that can spend lots of time with them! 

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

Congratulations on your retirement and on the twins! What great news!

[Sue, Murphy and Bella ()*o*()]

Thanks Karen!

[Gail and Bailey]

Happy Retirement, Sue!  Congrats on the twins!  You are going to love being able to see those babies all the time and not have to worry about work!  Looking forward to seeing pictures!!

[Sue, Murphy and Bella ()*o*()]

I think you are so right. Work really interfers with my grandbaby time!!

[Kathryn digregorio]

Hi Sue,  You did it !!!!!!  Congratulations, isnt it the truth that you know when you know it is time.  So happy for you, enjoy your retirement and those new babies.  Please keep us updated.    

Kate and Breezy