This is the tale of two American Corporate burnouts. Between us we had over 60 years with three different US corporate giants.
We never made or even got close to the board room. As VPs and Directors we really didn’t get to make major decisions but had to carry out what was ordered from above. We both were involved in projects that were frustrating, fun and at times interesting.
While driving back to Chicago, following the death of my mother, we decided to take a different path. Since then we decided we didn’t want to die at our desks.
Bob Seger said it best in his song, “Roll Me Away.”
“Stood alone on a mountain top
Starin’ out at the great divide
I could go east, I could go west
It was all up to me(us) to decide.”
We both worked to lose our jobs, with severance, sold our main home, our cars and 90% of our things. We are ready to hit the road. Wheels up on April 17th to Madrid.
Check in on us as we take our eclectic trip around the world. Perhaps we can meet up on the road. We have an itinerary page now.
A few things have changed. We left Chicago and now live in the Hilton Head SC area.
We love you guys and miss you already. Edgewood Drive is not the same. We depart for Riviera Maya on Thursday and return Easter Sunday. Hope you have a great Easter. Look at available days/nights after you return (we know you will be busy) but would love to see you.
Hugs
This is so cool – you guys are awesome. Right after we retired we took a 3 month trek around SE Asia, and had a blast. We saved our pennies by staying in some fairly “rustic” places, and splurged occasionally, but it was all wonderful. Since then we have travelled extensively, but never attempted around-the-world. I will follow your adventures with relish.
Leah
Bon Voyage. Great to see you both over lunch. You are inspirational! See you in a year or so. Will follow the journey closely here. Cheers! Rich
One week to go – we wish you safe travels and just have a blast – we are certain you will return fully re-energized and with a completely different perpsective of this crazy planet. Don’t forget, if you wish a Canadian stamp in those passports look us up – our door will always be open.
Salut et bon voyage !!!!!
Rita & Roger
Xxoxx
David and Julie, I’m so happy for you. I’ve had so many experiences…over 20 years in Europe…wow…we should get together and share. David
Well congrats on doing what all us corporate types dream of.
Grand Lido was not the same without both of you.
Although the hotel was sold, we just heard the hotel is remaining status quo and being renameds to Grand Lido Negril.
If you can stop by Jamaica in November, drinks are on me.
Safe trip.
IRE
So proud of you! Hope it is a blast and more.
…just found this from your post on FB! I am so amazed and inspired by what you are doing. I will keep a close watch on this blog to hear and see all the fantastic adventures ahead of you two! Safe travels!!
When you are in Barcelona I highly recommend you go on a Day Visit To Montserrat Spain – “The Trip of a Lifetime” Shirley & I felt it was one of the highlights of our trip to Barcelona. Have fun.
Sounds like you’re having a great time in Spain. Looks like much more fun than chilly wet Wichita. Enjoying the pics and notes! Keep ’em coming. 🙂
Dave…What a beautiful journey for you and your wife! Taking control of your life and doing what you want is awesome.
All the best,
Terri
You two are an inspiration! Thank you for sharing your travels and amazing experiences online. Enjoy every single moment of your journey together.
Misty Rager
I have enjoyed the continuing saga of your journeys. The photos of all you’ve seen have been enlightening.
Be well and remain safe.
Life is what you make of it.
I have finally caught up on reading your blog, so am now up-to-date on where you are. Really enjoyed reliving a lot of the places you’ve travelled and have added several of your destinations to my list of must-sees. Keep up the good work (not only the blogging, but the enjoying everything you see and do)