I can never understand this fear men have of their wives over their hobby. You share a life, share interests and yet something that makes 1/2 of the relationship happy is at odds with the wife. There should be a greater understanding that you each have interests and encourage each other to enjoy their passions.
I am more fortunate than I ever thought. I have a relationship where I am not threatened by an unhappy wife if I buy something. I have an audio system, a home theater, an CVO Street Glide and more toys that likely total as much as some people’s houses. She has her hobbies and passions. Having our own passions has kept our marriage as a great friendship instead a battle of the sexes.
Retirement has been wonderful as I have hobbies. Music, audio, movies, woodworking, photography, motorcycling and flying. If not for a great partner and hobbies, you might as well sit in your easy chair and wait for the inevitable outcome.
I hope you enjoy retirement. Don’t kid yourself, you’re not done changing your system. It’s a passion and change is the renewal of that passion.