I think I have always prioritized experiences over possessions but when I was younger I’m not sure I actually thought about the subject enough to know that I had a preference. With retirement came the time to delve deeper and with age comes the realization that time is short so it’s important to figure out exactly what I want to spend my time doing.

I feel that I want to spend most of my time making memories. I want to experience things I have not yet been able to do and I want to make as many memories with my children, grandchildren and loved ones as possible.

I’ve ticked some things off my very unofficial bucket list. We visited several national parks and other beautiful places on extended camping trips in the last couple of years. We also spent a week at Burning Man, an event that has always intrigued me. These are some of the big places/events on the list but so far this year I have had to find ways to make memories that are a little closer to home.

Due to family obligations and illness, there won’t be a big camping trip this year. What I have discovered though is that there are so many things to do that are practically in my backyard and being closer to home (I define home as where most of my family and friends live) has allowed me to spend some really quality time with my kids and grandkids, and to see more of my friends as well.

In the end, is going to Europe any more exciting than watching the Orca show at SeaWorld with your grandchildren? Not for me. I’m grateful to have the time and energy to be with the ones I love and grateful to keep Europe on my very unofficial bucket list.