Why is something I saved lately to WordPad all of a sudden converting to Word?

Why is something I saved lately to WordPad all of a sudden converting to Word? I was trying to get by using WordPad, I will not be paying a subscription fee for Word, pathetic. And now this, it pops us, won't let me edit, reminds me to renew....what can I do ? And what alternate program can I use?
Answers

Ron75

I have LibreOffice in a computer running Windows 7pro and it works very well. Ron

New World Man

I don't use Windows - BUT I do use an office suite called LibreOffice - I use the Linux version, but they do make a version for Windows. And thate is how I am able to read, edit, and create MS Word files. No charge for it, gpl license.

Pete L

Libre Office or Open Office. Both are free.

night_train_to_memphis

Try right-clicking it and choosing to open it with WordPad. Abiword and LibreOffice may also be worthwhile.