W is for Wanderlust

 Wanderlust: the desire to travel the world. 

Where in the world do you want to go?

I have been to a few places outside of the United States, and I loved it. If I had the budget for it, I would love to see more of Europe, especially Italy and the Nordic countries. I have seen bits of Russia, England and Scotland. 

My itch to travel was sparked by my mother. She had the opportunity to travel a bit for work and I was able to tag along. My first trip was to Los Angeles followed by a trip to Ft. Lauderdale. The two things I remember from those trips were The Dodger game with my cousin mentioned in an earlier post and a Bart Simpson outfit bought in Florida. 

Another one of my mom’s work trips brought us to Phoenix. My sister joined us and we still talk about that trip. The memories with my mom are cherished now that she has been gone for nearly four years. The trip to Arizona I was in the middle of  summer, so naturally it was hot. When out for adventures, my mom would always have something to say about how hot it was. Apparently, I got a bit cheeky about hearing her complaints and told my sister that I was going to move to Phoenix when I was done with college. Andi and I were talking about that trip a few weeks ago when I was visiting Wisconsin. What great memories were made with my mom. I am very grateful for each trip with her and for the spark she ignited in me to travel more. 

I have shared this love of travel with my own children as well. We recently went to Bryce Canyon National Park and Cedar Breaks National Monument. The views are breathtaking and we enjoyed our little adventure together  

Ellis has his very own national park passport and he started collecting stamps when we were in San Francisco a few years ago. I love seeing his excitement for each new stamp and each new adventure. He actually bought his own passport stickers this time. It’s fun to see what he values. I like to think I ignited his wanderlust by making the roadtrip to Wisconsin each summer an experience filled with exciting stops. He still loves Mt. Rushmore and has made me promise we will road trip to a Wisconsin again before he graduates high school. He also has great apparitions to visit Japan  

Zarah is always up for adventure too. She may not ever know truly where we are but she always enjoys adventure and spending time with her family! She hopes to one day visit Australia. 🇦🇺 I have no clue where that desire comes from but I’m going to blame the cartoon Bluey for now. 

Be sure to share where you would like to visit.  I would love to hear all about your travel bucket list!