Friday morning at 9:15 a.m., we parked the truck in front of Crown Jewels and Coin in Albuquerque. Two employees helped us carry the boxes, bags, binders, and an old briefcase into the room set aside for clients to sell their coins and jewelry.
“Are you ready for this? It’s going to be a long day.”
I nod and reply, “We blocked out the whole day for this. I’m looking forward to it.”
The coins that my husband inherited from his dad and mom have been sitting in our shed for about 10 years. When my husband retired in December, it seemed like a good time to start downsizing and this coin collection was the first thing to go.
It took several weekends of organizing and consolidating to get to the point where we could pack them up, get them appraised, and sell them.
Earl and Lou are experts and they sort through the coins quickly, letting us know what each group is worth. They bag up the coins, weigh them and write the price on each bag.
Sorting and a final inventory continues until 4:00 p.m. when they hand me a check for $25,810.
Just like that, we are several hundred pounds lighter and all that clutter is turned into cash.
It’s a common truth that life is short and we never know what the future may bring. This is why it’s important to enjoy each day and make the most of what we have, regardless of our age or stage in life.
Whether you are a retiree or still working, now is the time to pursue your dreams and make memories that will last a lifetime.
Whether it’s traveling to new places, spending time with loved ones, or simply taking the time to do what you love, it’s important to prioritize our happiness and well-being.
Make the most of each day and live life to the fullest, both now and in retirement.
Whether it’s downsizing to reduce clutter and simplify life, becoming a digital nomad and traveling the world, or living in two places to be close to family while still feeling free and independent, we can do it all.
Now that I’ve started the process of reducing clutter and letting go of things, it’s easier to say no to buying anything else.
Toby and I go out on a day trip and end with a browse through the gift shop. He asks if I want anything.
“No thanks. I have too much stuff already.”
As we grow older and enter retirement, it’s common to begin thinking about simplifying our lives and downsizing our possessions.
This can be a difficult process to start, especially for those who have accumulated a lot of material possessions over the years. However, downsizing can bring about a sense of freedom and lightness that can make the transition into retirement much smoother.
One of the most common things retirees downsize is their collections. Whether it’s a collection of figurines, stamps, coins, or vintage cars, these items can take up a lot of space and become overwhelming.
As Toby and I explored the Maxwell Museum of Anthropology this past weekend, I was reminded that our ancestors were tied to the land and traveled to find food and trade goods.
Now we have become the caretaker of things that tie us down to one place most of our lives.
Many retirees find that they can sell their collections or give them away to family members or museums, freeing up space and reducing clutter.
My dad has been a collector of minerals over his lifetime. He would go out exploring caves and mines and come home with minerals and gems he found. They had meaning and memories attached to them, but now they sit inside boxes on shelves taking up space.
He decided to donate them to a museum or University before he dies so nobody else has to deal with them.
It can be easy to accumulate possessions over the years, but eventually, it becomes clear that we don’t need so much stuff.
Downsizing helps retirees simplify their lives by letting go of things that they no longer use or need. This can result in a sense of liberation, allowing retirees to focus on the things that truly matter to them.
Many people have a strong attachment to their possessions, and letting go can be difficult. It’s important to approach downsizing with a positive attitude, recognizing that letting go of possessions is an opportunity to simplify your life and enjoy the freedom and adventure you can have instead.
It may be helpful to seek the assistance of a professional organizer or therapist during this process. They can help you work through any emotional barriers and guide you through the process of letting go.
Involve family members in the process, as they may have a different perspective on what items are truly important to keep.
While the process may be emotional, it’s an opportunity to embrace a minimalist lifestyle and enjoy a simpler, more relaxed way of life.
As technology continues to advance, it’s becoming easier for people to work from anywhere in the world.
For retirees who are looking for an exciting and adventurous lifestyle, becoming a digital nomad may be the perfect solution.
A digital nomad often creates content and lives in different places throughout the year.
Their work can be anything from writing, photography, or graphic design to software development or consulting. By utilizing technology and the internet, digital nomads are able to work from anywhere in the world, giving them the freedom to live and travel wherever they want.
Transitioning into this lifestyle as a retiree can be an opportunity to break free from the traditional mold of retirement and live where you’ve always dreamed about.
It’s important to have a clear understanding of the financial aspect of this lifestyle. Digital nomads need to have enough savings and investments to support themselves while they’re on the road. They also need to have a plan for healthcare and insurance, as this can be a challenge when traveling to different countries.
Another key aspect of being a digital nomad is having a strong support network. This can include friends, family, and other digital nomads who are living a similar lifestyle. By connecting with others, you can gain valuable insights, tips, and advice on how to make the most of this exciting way of life.
By embracing this lifestyle, you can experience new cultures, meet new people, and see the world in a whole new way.
With the right tools and support, anyone can become a digital nomad and start living the life of their dreams.
Another option for living a somewhat nomadic lifestyle is living with or near family for a few months at a time.
For many retirees, one of the biggest challenges is finding a balance between spending time with family and pursuing their own interests and goals.
One solution that many retirees are turning to is living in two places.
I’ve thought about living near my parents in Arizona in the winter and near our children in Vermont in the summer.
This arrangement allows empty nesters like me to spend quality time with their loved ones while still feeling free and independent.
We can enjoy the warmer weather and outdoor activities in Arizona and then head to Vermont to spend time with our children (and future grandchildren).
I think it would be wonderful to live in two different environments, giving us the best of both worlds.
In addition to living in two places, many retirees also take extended vacations to other countries.
This can be a great way to experience new cultures and see the world, while also spending quality time with loved ones.
We have family currently living in Germany and they plan to retire to Portugal. How delightful it would be to spend several weeks a year with them and see the local sights.
Whether it’s exploring the Romantic Road in Bavaria or gardening and cooking new dishes with family in Portugal, traveling to different countries can be an exciting and enriching experience.
Many retirees are afraid of spending too much money on travel. But it’s important to remember that retirement is a time to enjoy life and see the world.
By taking advantage of affordable travel options, staying with family, taking photos, and making memories instead of buying more things, we can travel the world without fear of running out of money.
As a senior retiree, there are many ways to save money on travel and still have an enjoyable and memorable trip. Here are some tips to help you save money on travel:
Travel during the off-season
By traveling during the off-season, you can save a lot of money on airfare, accommodations, and other travel expenses. Off-season travel also means fewer crowds and a more relaxing trip.
Use senior discounts
Many airlines, hotels, and rental car companies offer discounts to senior citizens.
When Toby and I travel, we always ask if there is a senior or veteran discount. Sometimes museums and other attractions will give us free entry just because we ask.
You can also sign up for frequent buyer cards wherever you shop. These cards often provide perks even beyond discounts because these companies want to get you on their email list.
Check online for other senior discounts such as National and State Park passes.
Look for package deals
Many travel companies offer package deals that include airfare, accommodations, and other activities. These package deals can be a great way to save money on your trip.
Use travel rewards
If you have credit cards that offer travel rewards, use them to pay for your travel expenses. You can earn points or miles that can be redeemed for free flights, hotel stays, and other travel expenses.
Stay with friends and family
If you have friends or family members who live in the area you are visiting, consider staying with them instead of booking a hotel. This can save you a lot of money in accommodations.
Use public transportation
Instead of renting a car or taking taxis, use public transportation to get around. This can be a much cheaper way to see the sights and explore your destination.
Research your destination
Before you travel, research your destination to find free or low-cost activities and attractions. This can save you a lot of money on entertainment and sightseeing.
I’m often surprised by how many free museums or historic sites we can find when we take the time to look.
By following these tips, you can save money on travel and still have an enjoyable and memorable trip.
Finding a balance between family and adventure means retirees can enjoy the best of both worlds and make the most of their retirement years.
Whether you’re exploring new countries or simply spending time with loved ones, retirement is a time to live life to the fullest and make memories that will last a lifetime.
If you’re a fan of travel and would love to learn more about things to see and do in New Mexico, please visit our YouTube channel, New Mexico Day Trips.
Love the idea of treasure hunting with the possibility of finding gold? Check out our YouTube channel, Garage Prospecting, and learn about the hobby of processing paydirt for gold at home.
Let’s wrap up today’s show again with a fun little poem that summarizes our topic.
Retirees on the go,
Excited to travel and explore,
But first they must let go,
Of clutter that they no longer adore.
With each item they shed,
They save money and gain space,
In their minds, a dream ahead,
Of adventure and a new place.
They donate and declutter,
Selling, gifting, or throwing away,
Their possessions no longer matter,
As they embark on a new way.
Their suitcases packed light,
Ready for new experiences and fun,
Their hearts filled with delight,
As they start a journey begun.
They travel to distant lands,
And discover new sights and sounds,
Their senses alive and grand,
As they explore new grounds.
Retirees on the go,
Living life to the fullest extent,
Reducing clutter and saving dough,
With each adventure, their dreams are met.
Have a great week and remember to start looking for free and inexpensive things to do in the town where you live. Then make a plan and schedule it. Ask a friend or family member to go with you and be sure to take lots of photos.
Welcome to Shelley Carney in the Land of Enchantment, a podcast that takes you on a journey across the beautiful state of New Mexico. Join me as I explore the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of this land and share my insights on life along the way. Whether you’re a traveler looking for inspiration and motivation or simply someone who enjoys contemplating the world around them, this podcast is for you. So, pack your bags, and let’s discover the Land of Enchantment together.
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