I took early retirement just over a year ago, at 57. I made it for almost 5 months before my financial cushion went flat, so I'm now working part time to supplement my pension, more than half of which goes to pay for my health, vision, and dental insurance. I don't dare give that up because it's a good plan - better than most. I am working on setting up my own business(es) and taking my time to find the perfect niche. I am also taking classes part time. My partner is home all the time and has been for quite a while - he's self employed and works out of our home. We don't get in each other's way at all. He is great about honoring my space and time, as I do his. There are times when we do things together; times when he goes off to do something he wants; and times I go off to do what I want. What I love about our relationship is that we're not 'joined at the hip' at all. We have great discussions about anything and everything and have some interests in common and just as many that we do alone.

Sometimes I wish I hadn't retired early, but if I had stayed at my job I would have been a basket case by now. I retired mostly to save my sanity and don't miss any of the BS, although I do miss some of the people in my office. But we get together every couple of months or so for lunch. After hearing some of their stories, I'm very glad I'm not there any more!!