The Seeds of an Idea!

October 9, 2011 -- That was the date that we first articulated the concept of taking a family sabbatical or in our terms a "practice retirement."  That was the day the seeds of our adventure were planted.

Prior to that date, the idea of taking a family sabbatical was just an obscure concept bouncing around in our heads. Neither of us had this firmly on our bucket list.  Yet, we knew we needed to find a way to slow down and think about how we wanted to live our lives and make the most of our time together.

Over the years, we slowly put together our "seeds of life" and eventually we had a very nice collection.  "Now" we decided was the time to throw these seeds in the ground and hopefully a garden will grow.

We always thought we invented the concept of "work hard/play hard."  Of course, we now realize this motto is followed by many of our close friends, family members and role models.  We have both learned that we are much better spouses, parents and professionals when we make time for our minds to clear the clutter.

Originally, travel and social outlets were our nectar of choice. A weekend of pampering or non-stop laughing certainly provides wonderful physical and mental rejuvenating benefits.  Yet, like many American traditions, these quickie get-a-ways provide only short-term gratification, but not long-term benefits.  Like a good meal that you plan, buy the ingredients, pair the right wine and then spend the evening sharing with others is much more enjoyable than a 1/2 hour meal that you gorge yourself in the name of some holiday.

We are also driven by the idea that you need to "learn" how to retire if you want to enjoy it.  If we continue to burn the candle at both ends in the name of achieving some level of professional or financial success, will we actually be able to enjoy the fruits of our labor?  Perhaps -- but we didn't want to take the chance. Instead, we wanted to spend time together as a family practicing what it would be like to be "retired".  We couldn't do it at home, so why not in a far-away destination that offers, excitement, history and vibrant city life -- Barcelona.

After 2 1/2 years of carefully tending the seeds that we sowed, our adventure has now sprouted -- the last day of May, 2014 we arrived in Paris and spent a few days exploring the City; then on to Liege, Belguim to visit our exchange daughter, Julie.  We are now in Barcelona for the beginning of a five week attempt to slow down, enjoy what life offers and continue our search for balance.

We appreciate the tremendous support we have received in helping our small seedlings grow and flourish. Through this blog, we hope to share cuttings of our experience with you. Watch for posts and photos from the entire family as we continue to practice how to retire and SLOW DOWN. Please share your thoughts and stories from home as we also hope to keep one foot in America.

The morning of our departure Friday, May 30th.