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If you've visited for awhile, you may remember that my FIL has been seriously ill over much of the winter. The preliminary diagnosis of cancer has been ruled out, thank heavens. He's much, much better. So far so good apparently. The underlying chronic illnesses are still there, albeit better controlled (for now).
The biggest surprise has been my MIL's forced retirement from the company she worked for. She had nearly 30 years there & planned to work another 6-7 years until their mandatory retirement age. One day in April she's getting ready to leave & she's told, "As of today you're retired with full benefits. Do not report for work again. There will be a meeting about your benefits in two weeks' time." End of story. Of course, there are quite a few people who're suffering severe financial problems due to the sudden lack of employment, but fortunately my ILs are ok despite his medical bills.
Now that they're both retired, they've planned to take a long, slow trip around the southern US by minivan. The only sure destination being Key West. My MIL has wanted him (the FIL) to take her there for years, but it was always postponed. Not after this winter! They plan to be gone until Son #1's graduation next month. He can't fly due to medical issues, so they're driving. Stop whenever & wherever they like, for as long as they like.
No one knows for sure how long his health will hold up until he gets ill again- or if he'll make it through next time. So I think they're striking while the iron is hot. More power to them, IMO. I think it's a wonderful idea, although my paternal grandparents were on their long dreamed of around the world cruise when he finally succumbed to emphysema & I can't help but think of that now.
5 comments:
It's crazy about jobs. All through school we were told there were going to be lots of jobs because the baby boomers were going to be retiring, but now we are at the point that all those jobs are supposed to be available and people are living longer and working as long as they possibly can.
That's awful about her job! But their trip sounds absolutely fantastic! It sounds like my kind of vacation.
Hopefully this change will be well worth it for them. The idea of just living every moment is so courageous for them both and I hope that this trip is something they can both hold close to their hearts.
CindyS
So glad to hear your FIL is doing better, and things are under control.
That's some company your MIL worked for "Thanks, there's the door..."
Hopefully his health will be strong enough to enjoy their trip and many more years together.
Kailana- The gov't tells us the economy & the employment outlook is strong- but tell that to all the people you see at the local employment offices!
Jenster- I hope we can eventually take trips like that too.
CindyS- I'm sure they'll treasure it. My SIL, BIL & DD live with them- it's quite a crowded place. No peace or privacy. It'd drive me batty in no time.
Tara Marie- My MIL was very very surprised, to say the least. Apparently the jobs went S to Mexico.
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