As a "Oldie" .... mistakes are way of life... but you passed on the "Northwet" ... I'm from the "Frozen North" ... been in the South - traveled in the Southwest .... but haven't made it to the "Northwet" yet.
One of my dreams is to do a fly / buy, maybe a GW. Travel around the area for a while then head home on the northern routes. From what I've heard it is a treat for the senses to ride in the Northwest
Was kind of hoping to do it this year .... but I just purchased the farm house, and barns next to my house .... so it looks like I'll but it off for a few years while we rehab them....