I think it's a combination of both for me
I like to look at my numbers but I also like to reflect back on some of my most memorable hunts. Some good and some not so much. It sounds like you have a really great reason to get out there. Don't give that up. Before you know it she will have way more important things to occupy her.
#"s/Experience....Experience/#"s
In Maine...where it's "the way caching should be" the numbers just indicate how many great experiences you have had. :D Sure, certain plateaus are nice to reach but there is so much more as many of you have stated...the previously unknown places, beautiful views, events, making new friends, meeting for lunch, dinner or just a social drink. And it's something we can do year-round and can turn what might have been a boring day into an adventure. Our natural curiosity and competitive spirit to accept the challenge of finding a new cache will keep the numbers growing so it's hard to separate them.
The experience, definitely!
Numbers are nice for milestones, but the best part is the great places we've seen around the country, and within 25 miles of our home.