It's hard to believe it, but today was my first official day of semi-retirement.
That's not to say I plan on taking it easy. It only means I am slowing down, way down.
Nearly three years ago I joined the most prestigious injury law firm of Kenneth J. Allen & Associates after spending 40+ years as a journalist.
All of it has been the greatest ride anyone could imagine. I've been fortunate enough to meet everyone from the President of the United States, to the now late Tom Ferebee - bombardier on the Enola Gay on its mission over Hiroshima, to Johnny Depp, who needs no introduction.
Adventures during my career are memories I will never forget; nor do I want to. They include flying into a hurricane with the US Air Force Hurricane Hunters, flying in B-52s on missions during Vietnam, traveling Route 66 "The Mother Road" in a new Corvette, and so many more I cannot begin to detail here.
And I don't plan on stopping. Adventure has been part of my life. Pushing the envelope has always been a thrill. Tell me I can't do something, and I'll usually prove you wrong.
Some of those challenges are more difficult than others. The greater the risk, the more I'll try to prove anyone wrong.
Take smoking for example.
I started that terrible habit a few months ago. I have had three women who I cherish nag me constantly. Finally, one of them said she would quit talking to me if I didn't quit. Well, I didn't and she did - quit talking to me that is.
That was it. I quit smoking then and there. It's only been four days, but I am feeling great about it. Valuable relationships in this short life are often few and far between. I was not about to jeopardize this one.
And it was just another difficult challenge, something I thrive on. So that's it with the smoking.
Besides, my next adventure is something I need to focus on.
Indy car racing has always excited me. Lo and behold, I found a Mario Andretti driving school right here in Chicagoland.
For Christmas I've asked my wife, Donna, to sign me up. After a few hours of instruction I'll take an Indy car out -- alone -- and see what kind of speed I can post. Of course I will be in constant radio contact with the crew chief who'll guide me through the turns.
After getting comfortable with a few laps under my belt, the pit crew will adjust the speed limiter and we will really see -- and feel -- what those guys do on Memorial Day weekend in Indianapolis.
So while today is my first day of semi-retirement, it really is only the beginning of another chapter in my already adventure filled life. I can hardly wait.
