> When I turned 50, and realized ........  Now, I'm failing competently at
> retirement..........

> My thought about such simple idiocy as mid-life walk-abouts is that it was
> important for me to do as a time for re-defining the fellow I am, have been
> and want to be ... Nothing particularly profound ... just feeling that life is
> one helluva hoot and, as my grandmother who raised me said a few time... "Life
> is good, give it back and make the best use of it."
>
> Hope this isn't more than you wanted to know ... Just sort of fun to describe
> the process ... wsith but one additional thought: You've got to be willing to
> not depend on someone for company all the time, take it when it comes, but
> spend time just laying around, contemplating you navel, and checking out to
> make sure you're not going nuts once in awhile ...

I would agree w/ the age 50 midlife crisis scenario.  Glad you did what you
did. My reaction to the crisis 6 years ago when I turned 50 was to get back
into VW buses, after not having 1 since my 2nd year in college back in the
late 60's.  I now have 3, would get more if the SO didn't buy a new house/
bring home new dogs, etc. every time I bring another 1 home.

I really envy your commitment to get away & rethink your life.  I have only
done this on a part time basis, going to bus campouts/shows all over the
country, but for only 3-9 days at a time.  Unfortunately, I have never taken
off for more than 2 weeks at a time, & at that only a couple of times, & I
know I have really missed out on "smelling the roses'.  It takes discipline
to give it all up or organize your life so that you can hit the road for
extended periods.  I need to do that, & envy those that are able to balance
their lives in that manner! I have my own private practice & could leave the
office to my very competent staff/partner, but instead I only daydream of
making the journey to Tierra Del Fuego or Capetown in the Westy.

Thanks for sharing.

Tom Buese