Dream vs Reality

To begin with I'll admit I am retired and prior to retirement I had a vision of what my tranquil, easy life would be like.

• My dream morning: I wake up on my own volition, sun streaming in the window, song birds twittering sweetly to each other. I brew a cup of coffee, log on to my laptop (or I-phone or tablet) to leisurely catch up on my facebook and twitter and google+ friends and family. I might post a thing or two about what I've been up to or what I'm planning for the day. I might need a second cup of coffee to get it all done but who cares, I've got all day! Then, I'll take the dog for a walk, grab some lunch, and get going on my projects - writing blogs posts, writing my current family book, or researching online. I'll break for dinner when I get hungry, then if there's not a meeting to attend, I'll get back to work or catch a webinar or a web radio show on genealogy.
• My reality: I wake up between 5:30 and 6:30 to the sound of my dog giving herself a "bath" or chewing on her paws. I'm up and showered by 7; While my husband takes his shower, I  brush the dog's coat and teeth and send her out to potty, prepare breakfast - no biggie mind you , just cereal or English muffins -, and brew some coffee. No time to log on now, we have to head out to a State park or bike trail or somewhere like that for our walk with the dog. Hurry up 'cause it's almost time for lunch; we're on a schedule you know!! Finally, about noon, I'm allowed about four hours to do whatever I want which means I usually rush through fb, twitter, and google+ so I can get to my projects. I've only got until about 4pm before my time and attention are required elsewhere once again.
• Truth: I'm oh so grateful to have a husband who after all these years (50 this year) still wants me by his side for almost everything. I'm happy to have the privilege to sit next to him and watch tv in the evening; even if it means I miss a webinar or two. There's no way to know how long we'll have together and I would hate to regret not spending these precious hours with him.

Come to think of it, my dream morning could get to be pretty lonely. I'd rather share my retirement with all its give and take than have complete control without the love of my life.