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Title: Living the Dream: My Journey to Retire Early, Travel, and Write

We all have dreams that keep us going—some small, some wild and sprawling. Mine? Well, let’s just say it’s a bit of a grand adventure. I’ve always believed that life should be more about the journey than the destination (unless the destination is Yellowstone with a side of fresh air and zero cell signal).

The Big Dream
My dream is to retire early, trade in the 9-to-5 for the open road and endless sunsets. Picture this: a cozy RV that doesn’t break the bank, a brand-new Harley glistening in the sunrise, and the freedom to roam where the road leads. My ultimate mission? Visit every single U.S. national park—yep, from Acadia to Zion.

Why This Dream?
It’s not just about travel. It’s about healing, too. Writing has always been my therapy, and as I visit each national park, I plan to keep writing—a new book about my travels and my journey through grief. Because sometimes, the best way to honor what we’ve lost is to keep moving forward, one mile at a time.

Sticking to the Back Roads
While highways promise speed, the real treasures hide on the back roads. That’s where I plan to wander—avoiding the interstates in favor of winding country lanes, quirky roadside diners, and surprise vistas that never make the travel guides. It’s in these hidden corners that I find the true soul of America: small towns, big skies, and that unhurried rhythm that lets you actually see the world around you. Because the best moments often come when you slow down and let nature—and life—work their quiet magic.

Supporting Mom and Pop Shops
One thing I’m committed to on this journey is supporting local businesses along the way. Forget the fast-food chains and big box stores; I’ll be seeking out the family-run diners, local coffee shops, and hardware stores with squeaky screen doors. These are the places where real stories live, where the coffee is hot and the conversation even warmer. Plus, every dollar spent there keeps small communities thriving—something worth investing in as I chase my own dreams.

How I Plan to Get There
Dreams don’t come true by accident (unless you win the lottery… in which case, please share your secrets!). Here’s my rough plan:

• Save smart and cut the fluff from my budget—no more daily $6 lattes, sorry Starbucks.
• Sell the excess—the clutter, the stuff that doesn’t matter when you’re chasing horizons.
• Research RVs and Harleys to find that sweet spot between comfort and cost.
• Plan a route—because while spontaneity is great, I’d rather not end up in the desert without water or a decent playlist.

The Writing Part
As I roll through each park, I’ll write. My next book will be a testament to the beauty of the world and the power of moving through grief. I’ll share stories of majestic landscapes, random roadside diners, and the kindness of strangers. And, of course, a few mechanical mishaps—because what’s an RV trip without at least one “oops” moment?

The Takeaway
If you’re reading this and thinking about your own dreams, here’s the thing: dreams need plans, but they also need a little bit of wildness. Be bold. Start small, but keep going. And don’t let fear—or the cost of gas—hold you back.

Join Me on This Journey
I’d love to hear from you. What’s your big dream? Are you planning your own great escape or already living it? Drop your thoughts in the comments, or share your favorite national park memories—I’m always on the lookout for new adventures and fellow dreamers. Let’s inspire each other to hit the road, live boldly, and chase those dreams together! 🚀🌲🏍️

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