It is not easy to maintain a sense of self and a sense of direction. The media and the commercialization of our society continually undermine it. Retirement throws us into a new world where we have to assert ourselves. Work is no longer our major source of identification.

There is no question about the connection between retirement, food and retirement. We like to "do lunch". We have time to linger over a meal that tempts us with more and more food and drink. We like to travel and taste exotic foods. We gain weight. And that is not good.

There are some things that seem to evolve right along us us as we age. One of them is the physical change. We all know that. Some things we may have not experienced before and never really felt the need to inquire into. Dermatology is one.

"Death and taxes are the only two things of which you can be sure", goes an old family and possibly universal saying. Retired folks are old enough to know both are true. This podast focuses on just the death factor and being prepared.

It isn't easy to keep up with technological changes. It takes intention, effort and time to even keep close. Out other choice is to refuse and stay the course. Living with only snail-mail, a land-line and an antenna on the roof would take an adjustment.

Friends can make all the difference in one's life. We not only want them but we need them. Retirement can bring an end to many long term friendships. We, and our friends, tend to move on. What to do? Sometimes we just have to extend ourselves.

Relaxing is something I had to learn. I guess I learned to be tense first. Then came conscious effort to master the relaxation. Sometimes we don't even recognize that we are tense. It is important to know the difference.

This is a continuation of the previous podcast focused on going south for the winter. What is it like?

Retirement and going south for the winter seem to go together like cookies and ice cream. We just made such a move. Here is a brief description of our experience. It might help you consider steps involved.

ALASKA! That is the dream destination of many, many retirees. We just want to go. This is one of those dreams that is readily available and possible. Here is a story of how I went to Alaska and suggestions for you to venture north.