Finding My Ikigai: Crafting a New Chapter in Mexico

"As we walk into the future with purpose, our ikigai will reveal itself." 

The Dream That Keeps Growing

For as long as I can remember, I’ve had my eye on something just beyond the horizon — something that combines all the things I love into a new and meaningful chapter. I’ve always believed that retirement doesn’t mean the end of making a difference — just the start of doing it in a new way. And although I have a few years to go, I am thinking ahead. 

This was my first year as an Empty Nester, and as my blog suggested when I started writing, I have been on the search for the next chapter, my Ikigai. I started out unsure of what the future would hold for me, or how I would navigate these new uncharted waters. For the past 26 years my principal role has been Mom first, teacher second, and always a wanderlust at heart. 

Here’s what I know for sure:

1. I am retiring in Mexico.
2. I want to continue to make a difference.
3. I love traveling, art, and crafting.
4. I thrive when bringing people together.

From Vague Ideas to Clear Vision

Over the past few months, I’ve been collecting ideas — some from past experiences, others from spontaneous inspiration. None of them are groundbreaking on their own, but together, they’ve started forming something unique and deeply personal.

Slowly, they began to make sense.

As someone who’s always chased adventure — whether that meant moving to France at 17, studying in New York City, serving in the Peace Corps in South Africa, teaching in Japan — I’ve learned to trust that inner compass when it lights up. And now, it's pointing me toward something new, something big.

What is Ikigai?

In Japanese philosophy, Ikigai is your "reason for being" — the intersection of what you love, what you're good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for.

Here’s how my own Ikigai looks:

1. What I love: Crafting, traveling, meeting new people
2. What I'm good at: Planning trips, bringing people together
3. What the world needs: A place and time to relax and recharge, and more cross-cultural understanding
4. What I can be paid for: Creating unique, meaningful travel experiences

And at that magical intersection? That’s where my next chapter begins.

Training for the Next Adventure

Over the last several months, I’ve been working toward my Travel Consultant Certification and exploring what it takes to build my own travel and tour business. I can’t explain the rush it gives me — it feels just like those life-altering moments when I moved across the world, followed my instincts, and stepped into the unknown.

This summer, I’ll be heading to Mexico — not just to enjoy the beauty of my future home, but to begin researching my first Artisan Adventure for 2026!

Introducing: Wanderlust-Travel LLC

So, here it is — officially and with great excitement, I’m launching Wanderlust-Travel LLC: a boutique travel business curating Artisan Adventures for the wanderlust-hearted.

My mission? To bring together educators, creatives, and curious souls for transformative travel experiences rooted in art, culture, and connection.

What’s Next

This is just the beginning. As I explore Mexico, meet local artisans, and develop unforgettable itineraries, I’ll be sharing the journey here — and eventually, I hope to welcome you on one of these adventures.

Whether you're a teacher needing rest and renewal, a traveler craving authentic connection, or someone who's always dreamed of crafting your next chapter — I see you. This is for you.

Let the next adventure begin.

P.S. You are never too old to dream a new dream!