RETIREMENT --- 'IDENTITY THEFT'?

I was raised by my parents to always work for what you want.  We didn't have all of the luxuries that the kids have today....no  cell phones, no T.V,s, no computers........I could go on and on. So working was just an accepted part of life if you wanted anything.  I bought my first pair of skis, a bike, and a used 1950 Chevy (my dream car).
 
I have had the following jobs in my life: babysitter, camp counselor, technical illustrator, draftswoman, interior decorator for O.J. Simpson in 1970, occupational therapist for 35 yrs. specializing in hands, pediatrics, and geriatrics.  I am also a proud wife and mother of my 49 year old daughter and grandmother to her two children; 24 year old Patrick and 21 year old Emily.  My special needs son is 41 years old and he continues to need assistance in many areas.  I am also the stepmother to my husband's 3 sons and their 3 children.
 
When you retire do you lose your identity?........Hence 'Identity Theft'?  Well, some people do and it is true they die......literally. The challenge is to build a NEW life..........a time to give back.  I feel that my O.T. profession was so good to me.  It allowed me to grow in so many aspects and to support myself.  Now that I am retired, it is time to say 'thank you' AND give back through teaching and volunteering.

I have kept my O.T. registration and insurance so I can give my neighbors free home evaluations along with home equipment recommendations (and loan some equipment if I can), make hand splints, etc.  I have also mentored young O.T.s just out of school. My husband, Bob, and I have also joined the gym to stay in shape. (Now that is WORK!:)
 
Currently, the major part of my retirement, along with my husband, is being a docent (teacher) at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo in Colorado Springs, Colorado (USA).  Staying OPEN to new activities is the real secret.  Bob and I read about the opportunity at the zoo in the newspaper and jumped in feet first.  We took 100 hours of classes at the zoo along with weekly tests, a final, and certifications in different areas.  A docent must volunteer 30 hours per year to be a docent.  Bob and I delight in holding the baby wallabies (joeys) for the public to touch. I am also looking into working with the special needs volunteers at the zoo.
Life is to live, give, and share with others. 

I heard a great saying recently: "Take a walk with a turtle so you can stop and smell the roses." 

:-) Petie

Here is a link to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo if you'd like to read more about it! -- www.cmzoo.org/