It is always strange how the first few days back on land are so different. It seems like one has to adjust to so many things! Firstly, the steady ground underfoot makes me almost seasick! Fortunately, neither Andre nor myself ever suffer from seasickness, but when I’ve been on the water for a long time and I set foot on land, I experience a queasiness for a few days, which I imagine is almost like feeling seasick. Then off course the dress code. All of a sudden you need to look decent before sticking your nose out the door, no more leisurely lounging in your pj’s while sipping coffee and watching a new day unfold.
Although it is wonderful to step through the door of our apartment into an airconditioned area with everything neat and tidy as I have left it months ago, it can sometimes feel almost claustrophobic. I miss the open ocean, the fresh air, the gentle rocking of the boat, the crystal clear water beneath our hull, the birds greeting the new day with enthusiasm, fish jumping out of the water to get away from predators and the odd ray flying into the sky and then slapping down hard on the water to get rid of pesky parasites.
It is also amazing how quickly life falls back into it’s old “normality”. Errands, laundry, church, dinner with friends, shopping, cleaning. And then off course, the long list of repairs and alterations to the boat that we carefully discussed at length while sitting in the cockpit sipping cocktails while the sun was setting. There is always something that needs change – another post here, another handrail there, create more space and organize better. There is also new additions to make the boat safer. We are constantly reminded that every year is a little bit different than the previous, things can and should be done with more ease if we want to continue this lifestyle for as long as possible.
I am so grateful for us both still being healthy and energetic and we both enjoy life on land as well as on the ocean. I believe that as long as you keep a keen interest in something (or anything) retirement should be a time to relax and reflect, but also to make new memories and do the things you enjoy most.