When Mommy's Happy, Everyone is Happy!

Well, I'm back from my blissful month long vacation! I enjoyed wonderful times with family and friends that were truly memorable - unbelievable boating, gorgeous beach days and lots of laughs - pretty much my favorite activities I try to get in while enjoying a little R&R. I did try something new on my vacation this year that really helped me do three things even better - be a better wife, be a better mom and be a better me. I carved out a little "me" time early in the morning while everyone was still sleeping and went for a walk/run around the pond that is near my house. No ipod, just my water bottle and the sounds of nature to get me going and wake me up. I noticed houses I had never noticed before, I admired gorgeous hydrangea bushes and beautifully crafted stone walkways. I smelled the fresh sea air and felt the warm sun on my skin. Did my thighs get smaller? Not sure. Did I lose weight? I don't know. Did I awaken my mind and my body to something new and feel energized to start another fabulous day? You bet! My goal was not to engage in a hardcore workout, but to cultivate a little time to myself that automatically put me in a good mood so that I was able to face the day with a smile. Whatever came my way, I felt like I could handle it. Taking care of myself first made it much easier to take care of my family's needs, whatever they happened to be that day. That's why the flight attendant always says - please put your oxygen mask on first and then assist your child. Try it - carve out some time just for yourself and see what happens. Whether it's taking some time in the morning to read a good book, trying a new yoga class, going to get a manicure - whatever it is, do it without feeling selfish or guilty. Do it because it helps you be a better person, employee, daughter, mother...fill in the blank. Just remember, when mommy is happy everyone is happy!

The Simple Life & A Great Summer Cocktail

I am packing up for a month at my Cape house and I am so looking forward to the "simple life" that we have cultivated down there. By choice, we do not receive mail, have just basic channels on our TV, only family and close friends know our house phone number and much to my children's chagrin, we do not have internet access! I do plan on staying connected via my new cell phone and wireless internet access at the local library - just don't tell my kids ;) I'm looking forward to lazy beach days, having my morning Teeccino on the deck, getting lost in a good beach read, being fully present in the moment with my family and enjoying my favorite summer drink! Now, I'm not a big drinker, usually just sticking to a good red wine on occasion since I have given up my once favorite cocktail - a margarita, due to it's high sugar content, but have found a new fave. Here's my recipe for a sugar-free mojito - the perfect blend of lime and mint. So refreshing on a hot, summer night! Sugar Free Mojito In a Tall Glass Combine: 1 shot of white rum 1 1/2 packets SweetLeaf Stevia 12 or more fresh mint leaves Juice of 1/2 a lime 7 ounces lime seltzer - add at the end Mix the rum, stevia and lime juice together and add the mint leaves. Using a long spoon, crush the mint leaves into the bottom of the glass. Then fill the rest of the glass with the lime seltzer, stir and enjoy! Don't forget to drink responsibly and have some smart snacks on hand, such as some nuts or guacamole and raw veggies as the alcohol may trigger a chip & dip fest. So, cultivate your own simple life wherever you may be - unplug, unwind and enjoy each moment!