The End of Summer- Did you Actually Enjoy Yours?

The beginning of August marks the back to school frenzy and the sad realization summer is coming to an end.  The season summons so much childhood nostalgia for all of us.  Have you ever stopped to think what exactly makes that time seem so magical in retrospect?
I ran across an article from a teacher that has some great tips on how to Relax and lose yourself in the wonder of summer- 

 "I hear the comment about how lucky teachers are to have summers off, and I think I know what that person is really saying. I suspect the individual is wanting to get back the elusive feeling of “summer” —no responsibilities and no stress. "

So we can recreate that feeling anytime you make up your mind to do it. The hard part is making up your mind to JUST BE! Our culture has bought into the cult of busy so much that is induces all sorts of guilt and 'monkey mind' to try to relax without an agenda.  Even on vacation when it's time to recharge our mental batteries far too many are trying to pack days with endless activities that have no meaning to anyone other than checking off a box.  Before the end of the summer, try to take some time to bring back that feeling.  If you can't do it till winter, of course I have some places of eternal summer to send you.  =)

So 

Throwback Thursday Memories

Have you checked out Throwback Thursday or Flashback Friday? These are some of my 

favorite social media hashtags. Digging up old pictures to 

laugh and reminisce reminds me of how quickly time slides by.  (Also how much my hair changes!)  This week I posted this pic on Instagram of me in 2006 aboard the Norwegian Jewel.  Some people decorate nurseries and nest before the baby comes, we travel!  There's nothing like endless food to a pregnant lady.  There were lots of reasons not to take this trip though.  It really wasn't in the budget, I was a little past the cruise line cutoff and lots of other reasons...but wow did we have an incredible time!    I don't remember how much it cost and the room category, all the details that sometimes take over the planning convo, but  we have some indelible memories. (like me trying to get in and out of that bamboo raft in Jamaica!) Are you waiting for a milestone or occasion to take a trip?  Waiting for the kids to get older, work to slow  down, more money etc.?  Remember your journey is about collecting those dear memories.  Never miss an opportunity to seize those moments.  Perhaps it's time to begin where you are and just go!