We retired people don’t need vacations for rest, the way we used to when we worked full-time. But most of us still crave the chance to change things up: to change the pace, change the place, and spend some time recharging. We need to vary things a little. I know I do.
The Italians call it dolce far niente, a sweet doing nothing. (The “nothing” there means doing nothing unpleasant, or required.) And that’s pretty much my plan.
So for the next six weeks, I’ll be kicking back. If possible, I’ll be heading to the cooler shores of Nova Scotia. But in in any case, I’ll be eating cold watermelon, fresh peaches, and corn on the cob. I’ll be sipping iced drinks–iced coffee, gin and tonics, and even some fruity, girly drinks with umbrellas–while I chat with my guy on the back terrace or read some undemanding fiction. I’ll take some early morning walks and bike-rides. I’ll play around with my frothy fiction. I may even take some naps.
To all of you, too, I wish some leisurely days, spent doing whatever makes you happy. Enjoy!
Hi Nancy! I’ve never heard the phrase “dolce far niente” but I completely get it. In fact I too will be taking a step back…not completely gone but completely without commitment for the next 75 days or so. Like you I want the freedom to do that “sweet nothing” if and when I choose. Have a wonderful rest of your summer and we’ll connect back in the fall. ~Kathy
Yes, I think it was your lead (or at least your model) that made me realize that a few weeks off would be a good idea! I hope we both make it across the border, to cooler climes!
I am taking a week off, doing very little, sitting in a cafe in Taos, New Mexico. Randell is taking me to Taos and for adventures in the National Forest. We are seeing Summer of Soul later today. I will think of you!
Can I ask how you’re getting into Nova Scotia? Perhaps you’re a Canadian citizen? I’m still told I can’t enter Canada from Michigan to visit family, so wonder if I’m missing something I could do to accomplish this. I miss my sister.
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Hi, Noelle — How hard not to see your family! For us, it’s been hard, too, even though it’s just a cottage we miss. BUT, as you’ve probably seen, the border is open as of August 9th! I’m assuming that the Monday will be a little crazy at the border crossings, so we’re going up on Wednesday. I still have to figure out the app you have to have and getting a negative PCR test, but that all seems workable. Good luck getting across and seeing your sister!
Esther