Never A Dull Moment Around Here

 

I’ve been retired for a few years now, and I’m still figuring out what retirement is really supposed to look like. You would think after a few years I would have it all figured out, but that’s not how it works. Retirement is a big change, and it takes time to get used to having more free time and making your own schedule.

One thing I’ve learned is that retirement isn’t just about money. Of course, money is important, and you have to pay attention to what you’re spending and make sure you don’t run out. But it’s also about how you spend your time. When you don’t have a job telling you where to be and when to be there, you have to figure out what makes your days worthwhile.

I’m still learning what works for me. Some days I have plenty to do, and other days I wonder what I’m going to do with myself. I think that’s normal. You go from having a routine for most of your life to suddenly having a lot more freedom. It takes some getting used to.

For me, figuring out retirement is still a work in progress. I’m learning to enjoy the simple things, spend time doing what I like, and not feel like I always have to be busy. I don’t think there’s one right way to be retired. You just have to find what works for you and enjoy this part of life as much as you can.

Cash Condensing aka Moving Money

Monday Check-In: Keep Moving In Retirement

 One thing I’m learning about retirement is that staying active doesn’t happen by accident. It takes intention. That’s one of the reasons I decided to take on a 75 Soft challenge. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about building healthy habits that I can stick with for the long haul.

My goals are pretty simple:
• Drink 100 ounces of water every day.
• Walk for 45 minutes daily.
• Go to the gym three times a week.
• Stay within my calorie goal.
• Aim for 100 grams of protein each day.
• Practice getting up from the floor every evening. It may sound like an odd thing to practice, but staying strong and maintaining mobility could make a huge difference as we get older.

Here in Central Florida, the heat has been relentless. Summer is always hot, but this year feels especially intense. Because of that, we kept things pretty low-key this weekend. Sometimes retirement isn’t about packing every day with activities—sometimes it’s about taking care of the things that need to be done while staying cool.

Friday was my favorite day of the weekend because I got to spend it with my daughter. We made our usual trip to Costco, then headed to Home Depot and Lowe’s. I picked up new covers and cushions for our outdoor furniture since they’re all 50% off this time of year. If you’re willing to shop out of season, there are some great bargains to be found!

After running our errands, we spent the afternoon floating in the pool. It was the perfect way to escape the Florida heat and enjoy some quality time together.

The rest of the weekend was productive. I stayed home, worked on my eBay business, listed new items, and cleaned out older listings as I get ready for the busy third and fourth quarter selling season. Retirement has taught me that there is always something meaningful to work on, whether it’s building a side hustle, organizing the house, or simply investing in your health.

My biggest takeaway this week is this: Keep moving. Even if it’s too hot to hike, too rainy to garden, or you don’t feel like exercising, do something. Take a walk, spend time in the pool, go to the gym, stretch, or simply practice getting up from the floor. Those little things add up over time.

Retirement isn’t about slowing down—it’s about creating a life where you can keep doing the things you love for as many years as possible. Every healthy choice we make today is an investment in tomorrow.

I hope you all have a wonderful week. Stay hydrated, stay active, and remember that every small step counts. We don’t have to be perfect—we just have to keep moving.

Mid Week Check In

 

 Retirement has been anything but slow around here! Between working on my little eBay side hustle and tackling projects around the house, my days have been full. 

Every item I list and every sale that comes in reminds me that retirement doesn’t have to mean stopping—it can be a chance to build something that gives you purpose while bringing in a little extra income.

We’ve also been making steady progress on the house. So far we’ve put on a new roof, upgraded the drainfield, changed the exterior paint, and completely remodeled one bathroom. Another bathroom is next on the list, but we’re taking it one project at a time. I’ve learned that retirement isn’t a race. Sometimes the biggest accomplishments happen one small step at a time.

I’m also staying committed to taking better care of myself. I’ve been getting to the gym three mornings a week and trying to fit in a walk almost every day. The weight isn’t falling off overnight, but I’m feeling stronger, building healthier habits, and reminding myself that consistency is far more important than perfection.

Retirement is turning into a season of growth in so many ways—improving our home, improving my health, growing a small business, and learning to appreciate the journey instead of always focusing on the destination. If you’re in retirement too, I’d love to hear what you’re working toward right now. What’s one goal you’re making progress on this week?

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Cash Stuffing My Way to Being 1 Month Ahead in Retirement

Welcome back to Figuring Out Retirement

I am cash stuffing my sinking funds, working on my One Month Ahead Challenge.  Retirement budgeting isn't about perfection. It's about making intentional choices, celebrating small wins, and building financial peace one envelope at a time. 

A Little Orlando Day Trip

 Sometimes retirement looks a lot like an ordinary Tuesday… and honestly, those are often my favorite days.

I started the day with a drive to Orlando for a haircut and one very special delivery. This beautiful vintage ceramic Christmas tree was heading to its new home. I sold it to a friend, and while I always liked it, I never really loved it. You know how some things just sit around waiting for the right person? Well, that person finally came along. It was time to let it go and let someone else enjoy it.

After that, I met my daughter for lunch at Chipotle. We ordered two kids meals, and I have to say, that’s a lot of food for the money! The total came to just over $15, and part of that was because she added a side of queso. Rice, beans, protein, tortillas, and a drink… honestly, it’s one of my favorite budget-friendly lunch options. We both left full and happy.

Since I was already in Orlando, I decided to swing by the Russell Home thrift store. Unfortunately, I learned they’re closed on Sundays and Mondays. Oops! It turned into a quick drive-by instead of a shopping trip, but that’s okay. Not every adventure needs a thrift haul.

Of course, Florida decided to do what Florida does best and threw in a little afternoon rain shower.

Back home, dinner was simple. My husband had pancakes, and I made myself scrambled eggs. Nothing fancy, just easy and satisfying.

To finish off the day, we headed to Home Depot to look at exterior paint colors for the house. If you’ve ever stood in front of an entire wall of paint samples, you know exactly how overwhelming that can be! We looked at greens, blues, neutrals, and everything in between. We haven’t made a final decision yet, but we’re getting closer. I’ll definitely keep you posted on what we choose.

Retirement isn’t always big vacations and exciting adventures. Sometimes it’s lunch with your daughter, letting go of something you’ve had for years, dodging Florida rainstorms, and dreaming about a fresh coat of paint on the house.

And honestly?

That’s a pretty good day.

What about you? What’s one small thing you did today that made you smile?

Still Figuring Out Retirement: A Life Update After a Year Away

 t’s Been A While…

A year ago, I was writing regularly here on Figuring Out Retirement. Then life happened. 

The funny thing about retirement is that you think you’ll have all the time in the world, and somehow your days still fill up.

Over the past year, some things have changed and some things have stayed exactly the same.

I’m still thrifting and treasure hunting whenever I can. There’s nothing quite like finding a hidden gem for a few dollars and turning it into a little profit. My Happy Girl Thrift adventures continue, and I still get excited every time something sells.

I’m still spending time with my family, cheering on my grandchildren, and enjoying the little moments that make life sweet.

Maggie and Booker are still keeping me company and reminding me who’s really in charge around here.

I’ve continued volunteering at the thrift store, which gets me out of the house, keeps me moving, and lets me spend time with some wonderful people. It’s hard work sometimes, but it’s good for the soul.

One of my biggest focuses this year has been my health. I’ve been working on losing weight, walking more, making better food choices, and learning that progress doesn’t have to be perfect to be meaningful. Slow and steady turns out to be pretty powerful.

Financially, I’m still doing what I’ve always done—budgeting, saving, cash stuffing, and finding creative ways to make retirement work without spending a fortune. Retirement isn’t about being rich. It’s about creating a life you enjoy with the resources you have.

And perhaps the biggest lesson I’ve learned this year is that retirement isn’t a destination. It’s an ongoing process of figuring things out.

Some days I have everything planned. Other days I’m making it up as I go.

I think that’s true for most of us.

So if you’re still here after my long blogging break, thank you.

I’m hoping to spend more time sharing the everyday moments again—the thrift finds, the budgeting wins, the weight-loss journey, the cats, the family stories, and all the little adventures that come with this season of life.

After all, I’m still figuring out retirement.

And maybe you are too.

Thank you for stopping by.

 Lisa

What Happened Wednesday

Today was a busy day.  I photographed about 20 clothing items to list on eBay, they will be in my draft section.  I tend to release about 5 a day to keep the eBay algorithm happy.  Only one item sold today.  I currently have about 111 items listed.  My eBay store is happygirlthirft if you are interested in having a look. I will put a link to my store on the sidebar. 

We continued to work on painting the bedroom.  I did the second coat of cut-in along the ceiling on two walls.  My husband finished the first coat on all the walls.   The walls were a sherbert orange.  I liked that color about 10 years ago.  It is definitely time for a change.  Now the color is a light, light aqua green.  It's pretty neutral and calming. 

Today was my grandson's 16th birthday. We went over to their home to celebrate.  The theme was Sasquatch.  My daughter does not do typical themes and decor.  We go for the less obvious.  

Have you used ChatGPT for anything?  I have found it very helpful for many things.  It helped me write my grandson's birthday card and it came up with a cover for the card.  The grandson is into auto mechanics. 

The rest of the evening was TV time after we got home from my daughter's home.  It was really a good time and my grandson loved the attention and the fun theme.  

How was your Wednesday?

Tuesday In Review : Thrifting, Sale

 I was up early this morning, about 4:30 AM.  What do I do when I get up this early? I check my email, and my bank accounts, and look at eBay, Poshmark, and Mercari to see if anything sold or if I can send offers. Then I check FaceBook, TikTok and drink coffee, and watch the news for about 30 minutes.  There was no walking this AM, we are painting a bedroom and I have to save my knees to get up and down on the ladder to paint the second coat of trim. 

I have a few shirts to list, and I am going to the thrift store to see if I can find any more items to buy.  They are having clothes marked at $1 a piece.  I look for mostly men's clothing and jeans.  It seems that they are easier customers to deal with when it comes to clothes.  Not always, but mostly. 

 

One sale on Mercari today.  It is a set of ultrasound study cards for Vascular ultrasound. My ultrasound days are way behind me and I have been selling all of my books and study guides. I am surprised that some of them are still desireable. 

I have been trying to get my rental back in shape.  We are meeting a guy about refinishing the terrazzo floors.  If that is too expensive, then we will put the carpet down.  I have feelers out for painters that are recommended by friends and family as well.  The house needs a new coat of paint inside and out. Truthfully, it needs a lot of updating.  We will do as much as we can given our time frame. 

Our grandson was over today.  He and my husband are working on a project truck.  It is about 20 years old and needs SO MUCH work.  But, my grandson is focused on becoming a mechanic when he graduates, so the hands-on training is definitely very helpful. He stayed for dinner which was spaghetti and meatballs.  Afterward, we took him home and then finished out the night watching TV. Not very exciting, but I don't mind boring at all. 

How was your Tuesday?  

Monday in Review

 Monday:  Three miles walked starting at 6:00 AM.  One mile with a weighted vest.  I've been watching too many Skinny Tok videos on TikTok and have been motivated to add a weighted vest to my walking routine for the last 6 weeks. 

 The vest weighs 11 lbs and can go up to 20 lbs. The daily goal is to get at least 10,000 steps. Most days, I get at least 10,000 and then some. The total for the day was 11,641 steps.

I have been reselling part-time since January of this year.  I closed down my eBay store in August 2023 and took a break.  As it turned out, I needed the extra free time to take care of my husband who was in and out of the hospital for most of 2024.  He was out of work since Mar 2024 and officially retired in March 2025.  Most health issues are under control now, but he really does not feel like he can work right now.  Not that he has to; it's more for something to do. 

WHAT SOLD AND SHIPPED MONDAY

Today, I will be packing up one item that sold on Poshmark and two that sold on eBay. Currently, I have about 100 items listed, some hard goods and some clothing. Reselling is my retirement hobby that keeps me busy and helps me not lose track of the day. I am goal-oriented and need structure in my daily routine.  

The afternoon was a quick power nap and a trip to Aldi where I spent $64.11.  The summer showers are already starting and I had to dodge storms.  The store was picked over a bit, as there were out of red and yellow peppers and carrots.  I typically go in the AM and don't have any problems getting everything on my list. 

Had a nice chat with the oldest son this evening. He is working out of state and moving from my rental to start his life with a really great woman.  We are working out the logistics of moving all of his stuff. It's a lot of stuff. He'll be about 90 minutes away.  I will miss having him so close. Sigh....

My new renter will be my daughter and her family. She starts a new position in Orlando and this puts her about 10 minutes from her job.  She was just 3 minutes away and now she will be 40 minutes away.  This move will be a great thing for her and her family. But, I will miss having her so close. 

Also had a nice chat with the middle son this evening.  It's so nice to hear from them kiddos weekly.  He's headed out of town for work and will be back Saturday.  He invited us to the beach for Sunday, Mother's Day. It's a possibility. 

That's a wrap for Monday.  How was your Monday?  Do anything fun? 

 

Classic Thanksgiving Crafts That Are Fun and Budget Friendly

 Here are some classic Thanksgiving crafts that are fun, budget-friendly, and perfect for adding a festive touch to any gathering!

1. DIY Pinecone Turkeys

• What You’ll Need: Pinecones, colored craft paper (or fabric scraps), glue, googly eyes (optional), scissors.
• Instructions: Use the pinecone as the turkey's body. Cut out feather shapes from colored paper and glue them onto the pinecone to create a fan of feathers at the back. Add a small paper triangle for the beak, and stick on googly eyes if you have them! This is a fun activity for kids and adults alike, and these little turkeys make adorable table decorations.

2. Gratitude Trees

• What You’ll Need: A few bare branches (from the yard or craft store), a vase or jar, small pieces of paper (cut into leaf shapes if possible), string or ribbon, and markers.
• Instructions: Place the branches in a vase, securing them so they stay upright. Guests can write something they’re thankful for on a paper "leaf" and tie it to a branch. By the end of the gathering, the tree will be full of heartfelt notes. This doubles as a lovely centerpiece that reminds everyone of the season’s true spirit.

3. Corn Husk Wreaths

• What You’ll Need: A foam wreath base, dried corn husks (from the grocery store or craft section), a hot glue gun, and optional ribbon.
• Instructions: Glue layers of corn husks onto the foam base, overlapping them to create a natural, layered look. Add a ribbon for hanging or a bow for an extra touch. This wreath brings a warm, rustic feel to any front door or table.

4. Painted Pumpkin Place Cards

• What You’ll Need: Mini pumpkins, acrylic paint, small brushes, and cardstock or name tag paper.
• Instructions: Paint fun designs or just the stems of mini pumpkins to match your table decor. Write each guest’s name on a small card and place it in front of or beside the pumpkin. These double as festive decor and personalized place cards!

5. Thanksgiving Candle Holders with Leaves

photo credit Lily Childers

• What You’ll Need: Small glass jars, Mod Podge, fall leaves (real or faux), and tea lights or LED candles.
• Instructions: Brush Mod Podge onto the outside of a jar, place a leaf on it, and coat it with another layer of Mod Podge. Once dry, place a tea light inside for a cozy, autumnal glow. These look lovely clustered on a mantel or as table decor.

Our grandkids are getting older, but what I have found is that even the silliest of crafting activities during the holidays can grow special memories. 

Wednesday What Not

 I returned to the dentist yesterday to get the molds done for the new night guard. I dreaded getting the molds done.  But I did it for the first time for both top and bottom and survived. 

Yesterday, I did go to the gym and walked two miles.  The temps are not too bad in the morning, it is the humidity that will get you.  Today was a no-gym day, and I will return on Thursday and Friday.  There will also be walking. 

Today, I hit up a couple of grocery stores. First was Publix.  They had BOGO cake mixes, and for our indulge day on Saturday, I am going to make a chocolate cake with vanilla icing.  Then I went to Aldi and picked up more than I thought I would.  Mostly vegetables, and assorted meats.  I did get a couple of rib-eye steaks for later this month.  We have good luck with the rib eye steaks from Aldi. 

I have a few things to do in my former eBay workspace.  Things have kinda gotten a little crazy in there. I am trying to find a hobby of sorts to occupy my mind and time.  I can't really go too far from the house because of hubs health.  We just never know how he will feel from day to day. I have looked into junk journaling.  Cutting and gluing seems like it might be okay.  Just like back in kindergarten lol. 

What fun hobbies do you have ?  I need ideas!

Six Month Car Check Up

Can you see the hidden Mickeys? It a Disney electric car. Not for me lol

 The weekend was uneventful.  We went to the fish place, and we decided to eat there.  That cost a bit
more as we enjoyed a couple of draft beers.  It was worth every penny. We also went to feed the community cats at a friend's house.  She is away for the summer and we help her and her cats out while she is gone. 

Sunday, I did get my 4-mile walk in yesterday.  We live in a hilly area of Florida and I did a couple of long hills in the walk.  On Sundays, traffic is very light and it is a pleasure to get out and walk.  There is low noise and hardly any gas fumes.  What did we have for dinner?  Hmm... Oh yes, it was frozen hamburger patties from Aldi on the grill and yellow squash, zucchini, and cabbage in the air fryer. We don't use hamburger buns, but we do use Dave's Killer bread in place of the buns. 

Today, I had an appointment at the dealership for a parts recall on my car. While there, I also had the tires rotated and my oil changed.  I really like going to this dealership, they are respectful and when something has to be done to the car they make me feel like it's necessary and not just an add on.  I usually run it by my husband it is a costly item.  He remembers more of what they have done in the past than I do. 

I did get to the gym this morning but I did not get my walk completed because of the car appointment. If it cools down, I will try to get in a couple of miles completed this evening.  I may try to add on an extra gym day this week. I usually use free weights and a couple of the machines that the gym has.  Most of the machine exercises are the same I did when I had my knees replaced. Never want to do that again. 

I reapplied to Target.  Again.  We will see.  I am always hopeful and persistent.  Have not heard back from Starbucks yet.  You never know!

How was your weekend?