At almost age 76, I just announced my retirement. [View all]

[MineralMan]

I've been down to just one regular client for my writing and editorial services now for 12 years. Today, I emailed him and explained that I was no longer going to be writing for him. I put him on hold not long after my parents died on January 6, but didn't actually quit. He was not surprised at the news. He's moving in new directions anyhow, which don't interest me all that much, so I don't have to learn a new field to write about.

My wife and I are on Social Security, and she's still working at age 65. I inherited some money from my parents' estate and we have paid off all of our debts in full, with a good amount of assets still left. We're also selling our previous home after buying a different one and paying cash for it. Proceeds from that sale will add to our available assets, as well.

So, we did the math. Our monthly expenses are way now that the debts are gone. With only a small amount needed from our other assets each month, those funds will outlast us, almost certainly. So, why not take a permanent break from working for someone else on my part?

I have a couple of book projects that need finishing, but those are on subjects of my choosing, not someone else's, so I'll continue to work at writing, but not for an income. It will be nice to have time to devote to my own projects, despite little chance that they'll produce much income, even when finished.

I did not think I'd ever be able to retire, so: Thanks Mom and Dad for your hard work and thrift!