There are some things in life that people don’t like to talk about. For most people, they don’t talk about how much they earn. Others don’t like to discuss their age. For my parents, the topic of ‘retirement’ was taboo until recently. The GFC did nothing to help the cause as both decided to stay on working for a few extra years. Pressed to divulge when they planned to throw it in, I was repeatedly told ‘a couple more years’.

I have noticed more recently that Mum and Dad have been taking more holidays and enjoying themselves a lot more. Given Mums job at Singapore Airlines, for a long time we have enjoyed the benefits of staff travel. So they have been making the most of the 10% airfares all over the world. They have just enjoyed a whirlwind 2 weeks in New York and surrounding areas. Whilst not as exciting, I was lucky enough to mind the family home and the cat that wants to be let outside at 5am each morning. A close second to an overseas trip you will agree.

To my amazement, a few weeks ago Mum announced that she will retire next year and that my father will follow suit a few months later. I was quite shocked. For as long as I can remember my parents have been working. Both putting in considerable time and effort to provide a better life for my sister and me.

It is great to see that they are now focused on enjoying their hard earned money together. Taking holidays around Australia and overseas. They have got plans to do a few projects around the home for a while and continue their charity work. I doubt they will buy a 4WD and a caravan, but I’m sure they will do plenty more exploring around our amazing country for many years to come now. They love to ski and after much yelling and bossing from their son, are skiing better now than they have ever before.

There is a great sporting adage that says “you are a long time retired”.

Seeing how young and energetic my parents still are, it just goes to show that doesn’t only apply to sports careers.