Retirement Book

Following is the entire text of the story. The words in red represent the personalized information.

Paul's
Retirement
Roast

This book was written
in honor of
Paul Becker
to celebrate his retirement from
UARCO
June 30, 2004

With love from
Your family
June 30, 2004

Paul Becker officially retired from UARCO on June 30, 2004.  He had spent 32 long, tough years on the job and was now looking forward to a change of pace.  The adjustment from a hectic work schedule to a life of leisure would not be easy for Paul.  He was known to Bill and John as a hard worker, one who could always be counted on regardless of the circumstances.

"Hey Paul, have you finished that rush job that was due yesterday?"

One thing Paul wouldn't miss was the daily grind.  Getting up early each day, working all morning without a break, grabbing a quick lunch, and staying late at night would soon be a thing of the past.  Paul rarely took a day off and generally skipped his vacation to help Bill and John at work.

Paul often worked twelve hours and slept twelve hours.  His boss was upset because they were the same twelve hours.

Paul had had a long, distinguished career.  His last job, Salesman at UARCO undoubtedly was one of the most important in the organization.  Paul often commented that they would have a tough time finding a replacement for him.

"You want a replacement for Paul?  What about that new kid in the mail room?"

Retirement would provide Paul and Kathy with an opportunity to travel.  Being a highly organized individual, Paul could go anywhere at a moment's notice.

"Paul, it says 'pack light,' not 'pack the light.' "

Retirement would also provide Paul and Kathy with a chance to spend more time with Debbie and Doug.  Being such a popular individual, Paul wondered if he would ever have any time to himself.

"I don't care if your bags are already packed, Paul.  Could you at least wait until we invite you?"

Paul was looking forward to a life of leisure.  Relaxing mornings, pleasant lunches, peaceful strolls and time for his favorite activities, such as racquetball and golf, would fill his days.  The daily grind would quickly be forgotten.

"Sorry Paul, I don't care what the doctor ordered.  You can't come back to work for a rest!"

While most people fear the economic uncertainties of retirement, Paul and Kathy had nothing to worry about.  Paul's motto was "A penny saved is a penny earned."  His sound investments over the years had built a comfortable nest egg.

"How could I be out of money?  I still have checks left!"

Paul's retirement get-together was attended by family and special friends.  As always, Paul tried to entertain everyone with stories about his achievements, however small.  The enraptured crowd hung on his every word.  They had to - it was his party!

"Thank goodness Paul will only retire once!"

With love from
Your family
June 30, 2004

Here are sample pages from the inside of the book.  To read the story, click on the "Read the Story" tab to the left.

The Retirement book contains black and white illustrations featuring funny captions about the retiree. As a keepsake book, it also includes removable pages on which you can add photos or pass around for notes from friends or family.  It also includes a lined page on which to record gifts, notes or other memories.  Samples of these pages are below.

• Quality, hard-cover personalized book
• Insert pages on which to add photos or write notes to the retiree (2 double-sided pages)
• Lined page on which to record gifts, notes or other memories (1 page)
• 26 pages
• Measures 6 3/4" x 8 1/4"