Tool Talk
General Category => General Discussion => Topic started by: EVILDR235 on July 22, 2014, 07:28:45 PM
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I was just wondering how many people on this forum are retired ? I was forced to retire after working for 32 years at the same place as a engine mechanic. I am now glad it happened. i now just play around at home and collect S.S.
EvilDr235
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I am thinking about doing that real soon. Insurance is the hold up, Medicare coverage that is. My SS would buy groceries, but no high living, like going to a movie. 2 more years for me as the wage slave.
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I'm to damn poor to retire, plus I'm still a youngster @ 53.
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I prefer the term, "graduated from work." "Retired" sounds like I'm not doing anything, which sure isn't true.
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I've been " graduated from work " for 5 years. I like everything about it except the Pay!
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Haha, wasn't aware this forum was so populated with old timers! :P I guess that stands to reason... I've still got 35 years before I get to graduate from working :P If all goes well... Or, unless I make it big with my blacksmithing :P
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Retired in 1992. You do the math;I don't like big numbers.
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I finally told the bosses that I an going to retire at the end of this year.
Short part of a long story is that the owners of this business hired me 12 years ago and I had worked for them before. I was 60 and told them I would give them 10 years. It will be 12 in September, and I am ready to stay home and fool with old tools and photography. Mama retired at the end of this school year.
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I am only 19, probably the youngest on the forum.
At this point I think I have more plans for a wife an kids then I do retirement.
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Nola you're way too young to even be thinking wife.
Tools first
Wife only after you have ALL the tools and have learned the craft, and then ONLY with a PreNup.
Wife rule is only subject to change if her dad has a ton of money & tools he will give you for removing the girl from his grocery bill. 10 years after the wedding you start thinking kids.
I'm ain't retired, I'm obsolete to efficient shop productivity. Funny thing is the educated fool who told me that is on the Unemployment line, and I think the brilliant banker who financed buying the company is too.
Company closed down, 8 months after all us obsolete people went byeby. I got the phone list and my motorhome and told the banker I didn't want the company back for 10¢ on the loan amount.
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A friend once opined that the supposed lure of "retirement" was a shuck; that after "retirement" he worked harder than he ever did on a job. After a brief stint as a "wage slave" for Western Auto I partnered with a fellow and we evolved through building "vacation cabins" to building high-end custom homes for about 30 years (with never a call-back), while I "wintered over" restoring antiques for dealers in Santa Fe, mostly.
Then came ~19 years believing I had Parkinson's Disease, about half-way through which I couldn't write legibly, use my cabinet-makers' chisels, guide a welding rod, etc., etc. Turns out I had GMO (Genetically Modified Organism) poisoning and when I eliminated all GMOs from my diet, the physical Parkinson's-LIKE symptoms disappeared in something around 12 days. (The mental "stuff" has taken awhile longer to reverse.) That was a year ago and I recently turned 69.
Currently I'm "fire mitigating" (thinning, pruning, etc.) 88 acres of forest in the panhandle of Idaho (~36 acres done so far) and adjusting to the idea that I can do anything I choose to do. NOW, amongst other tom-foolery, I get to pass along — think: sell off — many of the tools I've "rescued" over the years and I just need to learn how to take GOOD photos to market them. (I never caught the shutter-bug bug.) My brother is gifting me with a tripod to help with the "GOOD" part, and ain't the sky the limit afterwards? (I'm a huge fan of auctions, let it be said, particularly those with boxes of rusty, unidentified "stuff" that no one [but me] is willing to deal with.)
"Retirement?" What's that? Feel free to color me strange, but be gentle because I'm ticklish. I have a photo of my paternal g'father, taken in early-summer of 1962, wearing a jean-jacket(!) and about to apply a grub hoe to some stuff he wanted to eliminate on his 350 acres of Cossatot(sp?) River-bottom land in SW Arkansas. He was 93 at the time and passed on at 97 after turning that land from jungle into parkland, by some folks' lights. He wore out rather than rusted out, and since '62 I've taken that as my life-plan. What am I gonna do otherwise, rock back and forth and keep tabs on the soaps? Oh, and I'm also planning to renovate my "hunter's cabin" so my dog-friend and I can live on less than the 7 cords of heating/cooking fuel a year we use right now. With some younger help on the driving-end of chainsaws, our (and their) wood-needs are happening.
Mind you, I'm not the least bit judgmental over how others have arranged for their "retirement years." I'm especially turned on by how so many in here have massaged their foci from "working for a living" into digging into the origins, manufacturers and so on of TOOLS. I believe (and am thankful that) there's room enuf in life a'plenty for all of us.
Lastly, I'll at least admit that tonight I'm tired (as usual) — but not REtired. *he grins*
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I actually retired twice, first from the United States Air Force in 1972, then finally retired for good in 1989.
James
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I retired 3 times. First time to 1/2 time for 7 years: then again to 5% time for 2 years and finally fully retired 2 years ago. I really enjoyed not rushing into full retirement.
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Nola you're way too young to even be thinking wife.
Tools first
Wife only after you have ALL the tools and have learned the craft, and then ONLY with a PreNup.
Wife rule is only subject to change if her dad has a ton of money & tools he will give you for removing the girl from his grocery bill. 10 years after the wedding you start thinking kids.
I'm ain't retired, I'm obsolete to efficient shop productivity. Funny thing is the educated fool who told me that is on the Unemployment line, and I think the brilliant banker who financed buying the company is too.
Company closed down, 8 months after all us obsolete people went byeby. I got the phone list and my motorhome and told the banker I didn't want the company back for 10¢ on the loan amount.
I agree with 99% of what Phil says, but if I had taken that advice I would have missed the greatest joys of my life.
My family moved to a foreign land (Texas) when I was 17. I moved there for 4 months or so until I turned 18 on Christmas Eve. January 1st I was back in Colorado.
Mrs. Chilly wanted to wait until fall to get married, I didn't want to live in my Aunts (beloved Aunt) basement that long. I tricked her and we had a June wedding. So far the honeymoon has lasted 33 yrs 1 month 17 days.
First child born later that year, next 4 came every 2 years or so. We were living on a shoestring for years, but the kids always had food, clothes, and access to activities. Never went to Disneyland, but they all know how to camp. Money came later, more than most so Mom was always able to be with the kids.
For me, I was ready at 18. But I didn't have to go to high school either. I went for a year and a half maybe. Long enough to be assigned a chemistry partner that I've stuck with ever since. (BTW -I was a lousy chemistry partner, I only came to class once or twice a week, always on Friday to blow in and take the test though. I think I've been a better husband type partner.)
So Neal, 2 opinions, neither better than the other. You filter them through your brain sieve, make your best choices, live with them, and be happy.
Chilly
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62 and can retire at partial benefits - but I don't think that's gonna work out. I have to do some investigating. For now still working 40 hrs a week as a mechanic/service manager for a small rental equipment company. Been with them for four years now and still like it.
Not likin' it a whole lot today though! It's hot, humid and the yard tractor won't start. It's parked right out in the direct sunlight too.
Neal, you're a smart young man and anyone who can hold his own with this group will do well in life.
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I can retire now, but every year I work will make it that much sweeter.
I'm 51 and I hope to last another 6 years (inherited disability will keep me from full time at some point.) In 2 or 3 yrs my retirement savings will make enough to grow the savings and to live off of. I'm lucky to have been contributing as much as is matched to savings since 18. I'm also lucky to be 15 yr vested in a fixed pension fund. I have profit sharing where I work that made 38% last year, that will make more than my paycheck does every year in 3 or 4 yrs. When you retire they make you pull that money out over a 5 yr period.
My father in law thought that one million in savings would be enough, but that was then. I think, to live comfortably and be able to do what you want, you need closer to 2 or 3 million. I'm working on my 2nd million, about to start my third. I gave up on the first and I'm about to give up on the 2nd.
I'm semi-retired now. I work from home mostly. I try to get into the office every week to make sure all my projects are on track. I can work wherever I have electricity and phone service. Mrs. Chilly drives me to jobsites for surveys and to check up on them.
When I do officially retire I'll still have the option of taking on as much design / engineering work as I want. I bumbled into a great career where I've never had to look for a job or fill out a resume. I've been blessed that way ( I feel it makes up for the loss of my sensory nervous system in some ways.)
My biggest retirement concern is having enough $'s in there to support Mrs. Chilly when I kick it. Pain and injury take a toll in years from your life, and her people tend to get past their octogenarian decade still running strong. So if it's five yrs or twenty five without me I still want her to be buying our grandkids cowboy boots.
I wouldn't trade my problems with anyone - they have always had blessings attached anyway, and I kinda like those. And my life gas been great, regardless.
Chilly
:smiley:
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I'm to damn poor to retire, plus I'm still a youngster @ 53.
I think we might be twins! lol
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For me, I was ready at 18. But I didn't have to go to high school either. I went for a year and a half maybe. Long enough to be assigned a chemistry partner that I've stuck with ever since. (BTW -I was a lousy chemistry partner, I only came to class once or twice a week, always on Friday to blow in and take the test though. I think I've been a better husband type partner.)
Sounds like you and your chemistry partner have had good chemistry for a long time now - if I'm reading you correctly that you met Mrs. Chilly in chemistry class.
Neal/Nola, don't be frantic to get married, but don't turn away from the possibility, if you meet the right woman, just because old geezers tell you to wait. That's a decision only you and the hypothetical she can make together.
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If I can afford to retire I will be old enough for full benefits in 11 months. I'll probably keep working for another 2 years if the work is still there. Our company is still feeling the effects of the down turn in the economy and our upper management has changed twice in 2 years.
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Worked federal civil service 33 years & auto mech 4 years before that. Been retired for 8 years now, love it!!! still fix anything I get my hands on, cars, small engines, furniture, appliances, Tools, etc.. Work part time maintaining equipment for nephew's High-rise window cleaning business.. I work when I feel like, Help family & friends when they need it. spend time with wife & kids. only thing is the lack of $$$ for more vacation trips. But the wife is happy, as her retirement job is working for "Vacations Hawaii". 1 week each month she escorts groups to Las Vegas, free room & meals, easy job & gets paid for it...
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I am retired. Worn out. Just got out of the hospital from a gall bladder operation.
Not getting better as quickly as I used too.
Having a hard time cleaning tools.
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I'm to damn poor to retire, plus I'm still a youngster @ 53.
I think we might be twins! lol
You are both ancient. I can hardly imagine 53 at my tender age of 51.
Chilly
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Oops, thought it said How many of you old geezers are retarded.
Was about to raise my hand....
Still a few years to go, not many, but a few....;P
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I'm to damn poor to retire, plus I'm still a youngster @ 53.
I think we might be twins! lol
You are both ancient. I can hardly imagine 53 at my tender age of 51.
Chilly
How'd you know?
I think I'm ancient every time I look in a mirror. It's why I'm learning to shave by touch! lol
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Better to be retired than referred.
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Tuesday my former boss asked me how I was finding retirement -- while we were traveling to a job site. I'm getting social security, but still looking for work, but I can take time for my own projects, and the SS checks mean I can be picky about the jobs I take on.
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I retired from the restaurant business, but rehired my self as a wood worker....... tool addict. Does that count!!!!!? At 37 I've retired from a lot of things in life...... tired of a lot of things too. Cheers, to always opening a new chapter in life no matter how old-------- full of expierince, smart people ---- that's what I meant to say!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
cheers,
bird
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By the way, isn't "old geezer" redundant? Are there young geezers?
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I retired at 58 and that was just over 11 years ago. I'm still trying to figure out how I had time to go to work!
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"OLD GEEZER" = 60+?????????
RETIRE? Judging by Google's definition: (of a place quiet and secluded; not seen or frequented by many people)............I suppose I already live a life of being retired.
Seriously - I have a different approach than most. Shackles make my ankles hurt, yet sweat smells of freedom. I tend to work when I have it (and pay forward), and then enjoy the things I enjoy when I don't have the work. No interest in awaiting my less healthy years to enjoy the finer things in life. I don't foresee a "retirement", rather an age where the ratio of time available for my own desires, versus other's, starts to swing to my favor.
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"OLD GEEZER" = 60+?????????
RETIRE? Judging by Google's definition: (of a place quiet and secluded; not seen or frequented by many people)............I suppose I already live a life of being retired.
Seriously - I have a different approach than most. Shackles make my ankles hurt, yet sweat smells of freedom. I tend to work when I have it (and pay forward), and then enjoy the things I enjoy when I don't have the work. No interest in awaiting my less healthy years to enjoy the finer things in life. I don't foresee a "retirement", rather an age where the ratio of time available for my own desires, versus other's, starts to swing to my favor.
How about those that have been 39 for more than 21 yrs?
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I quit working for wages when I was 55 and helped friends sometimes got expenses. No prescription drugs etc til I was 90. Was highly independent all those years. Rufused to be subservient. Survived some tight squeeks of course. Now at 91 every body runs and controls my life. MDs tell me I have a wore out body- Maybe they are trying to tell me I should act my age. Not easy. Busy doing historical research on several projects. Going to Motorcycle this WE and to big tool meet in Portland the following. Chuck Garrett
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I quit working for wages when I was 55 and helped friends sometimes got expenses. No prescription drugs etc til I was 90. Was highly independent all those years. Rufused to be subservient. Survived some tight squeeks of course. Now at 91 every body runs and controls my life. MDs tell me I have a wore out body- Maybe they are trying to tell me I should act my age. Not easy. Busy doing historical research on several projects. Going to Motorcycle this WE and to big tool meet in Portland the following. Chuck Garrett
Cheers, Mr. Garrett! My only neighbor within 5 miles is 92. I firmly believe her staying active is critical to continued defiance with the MDs (and family).
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I am only 71 (72 in December) and I ride my BMW often, just not to work. It gets over 115 at stop signs on the freeway feeder roads. I am retiring in December and will ride more then.
I have lots of things to keep me active in retirement.
Friday I bought a really beat BMW for parts. It is a pile of rust and corrosion , but was only $50!
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In the 1970s a neighbor was still driving an original Model A Ford. I friended him and found he was 94. A very proud man that bragged he still had his teeth, dark hair, and passed his drivers test without glasses. Helped rebuild the Ford when it got to the point of not getting up his driveway in low gear. He powered on for several more years. I'm only 63 but am on zero prescriptions, and want to stay that way. And yes I do have checkups. 2 more years til playtime. Grant, keep going! A BMW for $50? geeesh.
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A BMW for $50?
YES! Seller is a house flipper and sold everything left at a house he bought at give away prices to get it gone.
The BMW had been laying on its side for several years in the grass. I see 5 or 6 parts that I can use on mine right away. BMW part for the older ones are high when used, and out of this world when new.
I will part it out and use or save what I need and sell the rest on Craigslist or Ebay piece by piece. I'll probably make at least several hundred on parts sales.
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A BMW for $50?
YES! Seller is a house flipper and sold everything left at a house he bought at give away prices to get it gone.
The BMW had been laying on its side for several years in the grass. I see 5 or 6 parts that I can use on mine right away. BMW part for the older ones are high when used, and out of this world when new.
I will part it out and use or save what I need and sell the rest on Craigslist or Ebay piece by piece. I'll probably make at least several hundred on parts sales.
Noel,
I thought the $50 was a steal - then you share your plans. Major Hoover Maneuver!
As far as you guys living to retirement and not needing pills, I am a little envious. I think I am the source of several drug companies executive boats!
Chuck -I figured out your feelings about Drs in half the time it took you! At 45 one neurologist told me I shouldn't walk around but should use a wheelchair. He asked my Dr "How does he walk?" I have 2 that I have to see every month. In December I am 20 yrs less than Papaw, 52 yrs old chronologically but 94 years biologically.
I need 6 more yrs to be able to "retire." At that point I'll be comfortable in the knowledge that Mrs. Chilly will be taken care of. Then I'll be able to play with my hobbies.
Here's the funny thing - I still collect tools and plan on using them, but I probably won't bevable to! I will need one of those service animals. But I will need one that can pull a wrench. Do you think anyone us training service apes? Maybe a monkey?
I'll keep collecting tools in the hope that some of my grandkids will love working in the shop.
BTW - I stated earlier that I am a little envious of you chronologically older gentlemen. Envious, but not covetous. I wouldn't trade my lot with anyone. I've had and am having a great time. At some point I hope to meet you all in person. Maybe if I kick it sooner I'll see ya'all after your family gets done greeting you!
Vaya con Dios Amigos - treasure every year and take lots of pictures of tools and projects. (Thats some of what I have learned in the last 8 months from you all!)
Chilly
Aka Larry
Super powers include ability to wiggle my ears and huge gas reserves for future use when needed.
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Chilly, I have atrial fibrillation and have had it for 20 years! I have at least 9 pills to take every day. My insurance here at work is great, but that will change when I retire. We'll see how Medicare does. I might have to do without some of the drugs.
I still haven't had to get knee replacement but it is not far off.
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MDs tell me I have a wore out body- Maybe they are trying to tell me I should act my age.
Whatever you do, you are acting your age. It's just not what everyone else thinks your age is.
We have a woman in our choir in her 80s who can outrun most people half her age. An inspiration.
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At 71 I am still working. Soc Security and 1 small retirement wont pay the bills or pay off the student loans for my daughter of 26 -- she helps when she can. My BIGGEST mistake was never even thinking about getting old, and VERY LITTLE planning for it.
So my recommendation to all the young folks here is DON'T make that mistake. Take your future VERY seriously, Planning for Graduation from working SHOULD BE A PRIORITY!!!!! :angry: :smiley:
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I'm semi-retired, I work about 3 months of the year. When I'm working I work 12 hours days, 6 days a week for 5-6 weeks at a time.
Batz
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At 71 I am still working. Soc Security and 1 small retirement wont pay the bills or pay off the student loans for my daughter of 26 -- she helps when she can. My BIGGEST mistake was never even thinking about getting old, and VERY LITTLE planning for it.
So my recommendation to all the young folks here is DON'T make that mistake. Take your future VERY seriously, Planning for Graduation from working SHOULD BE A PRIORITY!!!!! :angry: :smiley:
+1 I always did since 19. Couldn't touch it without an act of congress. We didnt have much, and sometimes we debated full contributions to 401k and stuff like that. We held strong. Now at 51, and hoping to be able to work 6 more years, we are both glad we did it. I just want to get enough saved so that my wife could be comfortable without me.
Its amazing how much interest changes things when it is coming into your account instead of paying it out.
Save uncomfortably at least 10% of what you make. And put it intomsomething you cant take it out of easily.
In 30 or 35 years you will make as much interest as you do on your paycheck.
Chilly