Neopia's Golden Years

Oh, and what respectable and honorable Neopians they are. For instance, Old Wocky Johnson, who had never spoken to me before in his life, called to me when I was walking by his house to get to the Marketplace. I waved and said hello, and instead of keeping quiet, he said, "Ehh! Get off my lawn!" Wow. What inspiring words that we should all live by. Ehh, get off my lawn. Not "please" get-off-my-lawn, but "ehh" get-off-my-lawn. I felt like I should have been taking notes.

How wonderful to be in your golden years at last, when all of this time you've heard how wonderful it can be. Are you ready to retire? And if so, where to?

When you've felt like you have served your time managing your city and its upkeep, it's time to settle down and rest after your hard years of working. After all, these aren't called "The Golden Years" for nothing! The work you've done is the polishing of the golden years, and the joys that you've put into your community the golden tint. There are other ways to be golden other than a paint brush, you know!

What do I do once I retire?

I'm glad you asked. =) This is the time of leisurely activities that you always wanted to do in your spare time, but couldn't exactly find an opportune moment. Try these things from the list below:

Pfishing: There is nothing more relaxing than casting out your line, relaxing the pole in your hands, watching the bobber as it bounces on the surface, and tipping back your khaki hat to take a quick nap. Pfishing is low-stress and requires only a few ounces of energy. However, if you reel in something such as a Whalin or fierce Sharky, you're on your own. Note: I am not responsible for any Pfishing injuries... sprained shoulder, bump on the head, horrible case of itchy feet, it's not my problem.

Board Games: When I was a kid and had all of the time in the world, chess and checkers were two of my favorite games. Now that I'm older I don't really have the time, but if I were retired, I'd be playing one of these games all day! Unfortunately, you will need to wake up Old Wocky Johnson because you do need a partner for these games. Remember to get a hat to keep the sun off your head if you're playing outside, and bring a patchy blanket because there may be a draft. A box of tissues wouldn't be a bad idea either.

Shuffle Board: This may just be one of my favorite games, and I promise you that there are always all sorts of Neopians lined up to play! Just remember to use a little extra strength when pushing the discs because it is much easier to give a little rather than too much. All you'll need for this one is a comfortable place to sit once it isn't your turn.

Sight seeing: Okay, I promise this isn't as crazy as it sounds. Some folks say you're never more alive than when you put yourself out there to do something crazy. I say you're never more alive when you've reached the peak of the highest mountain in Shenkuu! If you're not in the shape for something that adventurous, then perhaps try a visit to Qasala. Even if it's just a neighboring marketplace to the Lost Desert, getting out into the hot, arid, sandy air will be good for you. And it'll make you sleepy... again!

Now that your mind is filled with dozens of (well, about four) ideas to do once you've retired, here comes the next big question. Where would you like to live once you've retired? Rephrased: Where would you like to retire to? Don't worry; I'm here to assist you! Below I've compiled a list of the top places to retire. Without further ado...

Top Places to Retire (in no particular order):

Exotic Isle - If you like the warmth of the sun and a gentle breeze ruffling your fur, Mystery Island or Lutari Island would be a great place for you to retire. If you are looking for easy going activities and a peaceful environment, I suggest any of the fabulous Islands. Well... maybe not Krawk Island unless you liked the roughness of it! Otherwise, stick to the isles that don't say stuff like, "I'm gonna steal yer booty!" O_O

Worlds of Mystery - "Mystery" not as in the Island, necessarily, because you must be losing your memory in your old age: we've already covered that! "Mystery" as in Shenkuu or Meridell. If you are into amusement, either one of these choices would be a wise place to retire. Shenkuu's serene gardens and mountainous appearance portray a sense of mystery and help to spike curiosity in its wandering paths. Meridell is a great place to attend tournaments, visit King Skarl's castle, and kiss some Mortogs. Plus, you could always check out Meridell's neighboring world, Brightvale.

Relaxing Cities - Faerieland and Neopia Central are considered the relaxing cities. I think Faerieland is a bit self-explanatory... how could you not be relaxed sitting on a cloud all day while beautiful Faeries float by. If you start getting into Quests, however, this all can change very quickly. The second most relaxing city would be Neopia Central itself. Simplicity is relaxation... so be sure not to wander off into the bazaar. Who knows what crazy shops they have in there!

To conclude this brief article about the joys of The Golden Years, I'd just like to say thank you for making Neopia a wonderful world. Without our senior citizens, where would the world obtain its wisdom and patience? From who else would we learn how to eat the steamed mushy stuff that they say is so good for you? But most importantly, where else would we learn that our golden years are exactly what they are cracked up to be?

Enjoy those golden years, Neopia. Stay young at heart!

Author's Note: Thanks for reading. Edited by beewitched2. My inbox is always open for comments/thoughts. =)