Posts

Wealth

Pam: Through judicious financial planning and lots and lots of luck, we are now in an extremely comfortable position. I do obsess over long term care and out living our money, but for the time being, we can buy anything we want. It also helps that we don’t want much. No Lamborghinis for us. We couldn’t get in or out in any case.  I also worry that the good times in the stock market may be over, or heading that way, so I am beginning to move money into CDs. Always nerve-racking to make financial decisions.  Grant: I spent my bachelor phase before Pam (40 years ago) using the  401 plan at work for savings, then taking my pay check to the bank, putting enough for the month’s bills and checks in the account, and getting cash for the rest.  I essentially lived out of pocket; did not use credit cards.  One of my secret attractions to Pam was that she would do the financial planning and management. Pam is great at it.  For having one salary, growing a family, and ...
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Health

  Pam: I am in great health, with the caveat that the dang doctors always feel a need to add, for my age. Low blood pressure and cholesterol; fairly low weight (164#); good strength (but not as much as I’d like);  above average, for my age, mobility. Major complaints: not really any. My hands have lost strength, but there are tools and other people by to help. My eyes are officially dry which is annoying, especially since I read mostly on my iPad which studies show that I don’t blink as often as I should. I tire much more easily. Medications and remedies: I take alendeonate sodium weekly for my osteoporosis, although the next time I see a doctor, I’m going to find out about the yearly shots. Also glucosamine and calcium. I use estradiol cream, however I’m not sure why. Maybe to keep a molecule or two of hormones floating around. After a year of pricey prescribed eyedrops, twice a day, I’m now taking pricey vitamins and wearing a heated eye pad twice a day for 15 minutes to see...
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Why?

  Pam: We are entering uncharted (for us) territory: getting old, then, hopefully, getting really old. It dawned on me when we were at Grant’s last doctor’s appointment, it is like having your first baby. Your whole life is different. Of course billions of other people have had this experience. But it is the first time for you. Other people try to explain what to expect and how to prepare. You read books, you think you have an idea, but nothing is like the actually of being in your new life.  That’s what I want to explore and record here: our new lives as old people.  Grant:   Grant already feels like really old is here.  I am still mobile, moderately healthy, and alert (when not taking a seated, unexpected, nap).   But I still read silly SciFi and Fantasy novels, play stupid computer games, and cook most meals.  To the exclusion of most other stuff.  Pam is still willing to handle finances and arrange our travel and social plans, which is a bless...
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