So I will do an episode dedicated to my journey of alternative menstrual care another time but, yes, I use a menstrual cup. Today's mind dump is about my musings on retirement. I honestly am striving to learn more about what options I have available as I simultaneously combat my mountain of debt. I live with aging parents. I have seen a wide spectrum of 70. I don't want to be 70 without options, access to transportation, or resources necessary for surviving old age. Aging is a natural process. Most of us don't think too deeply about it until we are knee deep in it. #YoungForever. My mom consistently last minute asks me to take them to appointments. I am a crutch and taken for granted. Filial piety has it's moments. They haven't thought about a lot of what ifs. And that is most of the pyre that fuels this post. They haven't thought about what happens if I am not here. They haven't thought of alternative methods of transportation if Mom can no longer drive. Mom is like, "we'll cross that bridge when the time comes," In regards to most questions. I don't expect anything. Part of the reason why I am trying to get rid of excess is because I am playing with the scenario of this house being sold. And a scenario of me leaving and not leaving a mess of stuff behind. This is a long ways along, but I want to be able to leave with peace of mind. Less stuff = less stuff to manage or worry about or maintain. I live in a world of folks downsizing from massive houses for one reason or five others. Less stuff, less consumption, more money to invest, and most importantly: more freedom. Less burdens. So yea. Still trying to figure it all out. I don't want to be super unprepared for retirement. Also I am super proud of the line, "preparing for a future that likely has NOTHING to do with the person I'm having dinner with." Bc it's true. Anyone who has things to accomplish: don't feel bad about not being able to go on dinner dates. Nothing wrong with prioritizing a future that likely has nothing to do with them, anyway. 💁🏻‍♀️ Live your life for You, first. You are the only one, at the end of the day, who is responsible for and invested in yourself and your happiness/prosperity.