Fourth Down and Inches

 

Why Am I Using a Football Reference?

I asked myself that same question when I decided to change the focus of this blog—especially since I don't even like football. Well, it's not that I hate football; it's just not my sport of choice. I'll sit down and watch a game, though typically only the second half. To me, that's the most exciting part—where the stakes are higher, and every play counts. Whether my team is getting their butts kicked, winning by a mile, or locked in a nail-biter, those moments keep me hooked. (And hey, let's be honest, Taylor Swift dating Travis Kelce has made football a bit more intriguing lately!)

My husband, on the other hand, is a huge football fan. I knew that going into our marriage, and honestly, I'm totally fine with it. While some women jokingly call themselves "football widows," I prefer to think of myself as free—free to do whatever I want while he's immersed in the games.

When football season starts, he lights up like a kid at Christmas, running downstairs to a pile of presents. Between his three fantasy football leagues, NFL Sunday Ticket, and watching games on multiple screens (TVs, iPad, computer—you name it), it's clear he's got a full-blown obsession. And you know what? It makes him happy. So, I just leave a bowl of potato chips and a bottle of Deer Park water out for him and let him enjoy.

This enthusiasm has been a big influence on my life, not just because we've been married for ages but because it got me thinking about life in general. To me, life feels a bit like a game of quarters. The first quarter was my childhood, from birth through elementary school (Go Oaks School 3!). The second quarter was high school through college (Go Oceanside High and University of Maryland!). The third quarter started after college and leads up to now. And here I am, in the fourth quarter of my life. The game is winding down, but I'm determined to make the play that converts this fourth down into a first. After all, as I've seen, not all my friends have been lucky enough to continue their game.

So, this blog is going to be my way of exploring this "fourth down," which I'm calling Retirement. I'll look back on my life but focus on looking forward, sharing my plans, reflections, and, of course, my love of books.

Before I go, just a quick note: I originally started this blog because I love to read, and friends kept asking me for book recommendations. That hasn't changed—I read even more now (thanks, insomnia!). So, expect plenty of book shares along the way.

Join me on this journey as I navigate the fourth quarter of life, aiming for more first downs.