As we get older, we’re finally able to do the things that we’ve always wanted to do. As a kid and teenager, I loved going to Disney; my upcoming trip to re-visit the happiest place on Earth has got me thinking.

My whole life, I’ve dreamed of going to the Olympics. First, as an athlete, and later just as a spectator, I always thought that it was a great dream, but it would never actually happen. The cost, the logistics, it seemed impossible. At the start of this year’s Olympics, Brian and I starting talking about going to Rio for the 2016 Olympics, and I intend to make it happen. We both want to travel, and what better time to visit South America? With four years to plan and save, we can go.

Right now I’m looking up information about the Kellog Gymnastics Tour, and debating whether I’ll go. As in: I have the option to go. Another thing that I always wanted to do, but was always out of my reach. Going to see the Olympic Gymnastics All Around Gold Team is something I would have killed to do in 1996. And in 2012, I have the opportunity to do that. Not only that, but I can probably procure some decent seats. If Danell Leyva confirms that he’s going, I’m going to bring him an extra towel!

Another dream of mine was to visit Ireland. Lucky for me, my boyfriend loves Ireland (and is an Irish citizen to boot!), so visiting one of the countries of my heritage isn’t such a far  off dream. In fact, it’s another plan. Can we say exciting?

Then, as previously mentioned, there’s Disney! In exactly one month from today, I’ll be stepping foot into my first Disney park in over 10 years. I can’t begin to describe the excitement that I’ve experienced in merely the planning process of this magical vacation. I can’t imagine how much fun it’s actually going to be!

Life is an adventure, and every moment counts. I’m so excited about the realization that being a grown up means that every adventure is of your own imagination and creation. Things are looking up, world!