Many retirees say, "I am retired and I am bored." While they worked, they looked forward to retiring but they never "planned for retirement". The had no idea what they would do with all this free time. They have faced life's challenges of marriage, raising children and all the responsibilities of a family. The kids are gone and the grandkids come along and now it's time for retirement. What will they do now? Hopefully, they are going to keep busy. Retirees can do things around the house, like painting, fixing the porch or digging those new flower beds, but when they are finished with those chores, they need to do something for themselves to keep busy.

If you're retired, take that painting or knitting class, or fly making course if you're into fishing. Take up volunteering at the local hospital or animal shelter, but only if you love helping people and animals. There are jobs available for just a few hours a week at the Meals-on-Wheels program. If you have a Senior Corps program in your area, check it out since they help seniors find volunteer opportunities that match their abilities, interests, and experience. Visit the local senior center, there is always something going on and there are people of retirement age who may enjoy the same things you do.

If you still want to work for a pay check, try out the local Wal-Mart. They hire retirees, as do some of the local fast food restaurants as clean-up people. If you can travel, plan the dream trip you have always wanted to take. If you are into US history, go to Washington D.C. If you need a relaxing vacation, go to the mountains or the sea shore. Try new and exciting things you may have been putting off. Be sure to keep busy.