Day Zero. Came in today to turn in my badge and laptop.... and realized on the ride in that I left my badge at home (no worries, my wife works here and can bring it in tomorrow). Actually been using vacation days since 12/23, tomorrow it will be "real". Writing my "good bye" e-mail, just wandering around the cubicle farm chatting, had lunch with my "lunch crew" and took a walk outside on an unusually warm January day in New England.
Part of me still can't believe I made it. But a bigger part of me can. I started telling myself in my 20s I wanted to retire at 55 and I almost made it. I turn 55 in 22 days . LBYM hard for 30+ years and 14 months ago, megacorp informed me that my whole job/group was going to be dissolved, and offered me a 3/4yr salary severance, retention bonus and I get my full pension. It could not have worked out any better for me. Truly owe so much to plain old luck. My DW will work for 3-4 more years (if she can stand it!).
So I guess I "qualify" for this forum now. Thanks to all for all the great discussion, perspective and encouragement!!!
Part of me still can't believe I made it. But a bigger part of me can. I started telling myself in my 20s I wanted to retire at 55 and I almost made it. I turn 55 in 22 days . LBYM hard for 30+ years and 14 months ago, megacorp informed me that my whole job/group was going to be dissolved, and offered me a 3/4yr salary severance, retention bonus and I get my full pension. It could not have worked out any better for me. Truly owe so much to plain old luck. My DW will work for 3-4 more years (if she can stand it!).
So I guess I "qualify" for this forum now. Thanks to all for all the great discussion, perspective and encouragement!!!