Maybe I have the best of both worlds? I live about 5 months a year 2-3 miles from my kids and near extended family. We see each other frequently, go on adventures, help out, visit their schools...

The rest of the year is spent either traveling or living 1500 miles away. We keep in touch with frequent calls, texts, and occasional visits. They have learned to rely on one another for help when we're away.

I don't think I would ever become permanent in our winter home because health and senior services are far below what we have in Minnesota. My parents and grandparents were wanderers too in their early senior years, returning home when they could no longer travel, so it seems normal in my family.