An Airstream, Grandkids and the Outdoors
“I love you because you take me on adventures”, Megan
As Baby Boomers, and Empty Nester’s, our life paradigm is changing rapidly. The words Grandpa and Grandma and Retired are defined and lived differently than they were just 10 years ago.
What do those words and time of life mean now? Where’s the life manual? How do we do it?Can we copy how are parents lived those words? I say, “no way Jose”. We have the opportunity and the urgency to create a new new paradigm that we feel comfortable with and enjoy. At the same time it needs to “fit in” and benefit our children, grandchildren and family.
The possibilities for our new time in life are limitless. For me, it’s downsizing to a single level patio home, healthy eating, exercise, being outdoors more, writing, blogging, traveling, photography, cooking, reading, life long learning and becoming semi-retired and looking forward to “full retirement”. But, I never want to be fully retired. There’s too many fun things to do. If I can earn some more retirement money while doing all this that’s even better.
What does that mean to me? And, to YOU? The options are truly amazing and invigorating.
Today, I was surfing the world on the internet and found this story about a young family that is taking their toddler and a pick up and Airstream and touring our nations true treasures, our National Parks and other sites.
While you watch this think of the possibilities and how you might do something like this, with Grand kids!
For me, this really brings back fond memories as my father worked for the National Park Service and I got to visit most of the parks West of the Mississippi. I love the outdoors, and the beauty God created.
What does traveling as a young family have to do with Baby Boomers? As I mentioned, we’re re-inventing ourselves and can do almost anything. The first idea is to do what many Boomers are and travel the country with a trailer or motor-home. Sounds fun right? How about putting a little twist on that concept? You can take your grand kids with you!
What? Be stuck in a trailer with all that pent up energy? Yes. They will love being outdoors and exploring nature and America the Beautiful.
How? I recommend bonding with your grandchild by going on walks with them and test them with an sleepover at your house. If that goes well, try a day trip working up to a weekend or longer. Their age, maturity and interests will determine where you go. When choosing a place remember the trip is about them not only you. Give it a try. You’ll be surprised how much you learn about each other, how much fun you’ll have and the loving bond it creates. Besides, being outdoors rejuvenates your Spirit.
Thanks for stopping by today. Hope you enjoyed it. Come back soon.
Live Life Well, John