Always wanted to retire at 55; however, chance came along at 52 to go out on a "special early" and I got two years salary as a buyout. Couldn't see working those two years for nothing so I slipped out. Just passed my 21st year of retirement.
So far truly retired. No PT. No self-employment. No consulting. I do maintain the house myself and plan purchases to keep expenses down but haven't had a penny of earned income since MegaCorp's door slammed closed behind me.
I am not retired yet (no pension or SSA), just haven't worked since the age of 56. I had plan to give my 2 week notice 3/4's into 2005 but 6 months prior, management decided to lay me off with 6 month severance and health benefits. In addition, I received 26 weeks of unemployment benefits.
Life has its sweet surprises.