Totally Summer-ized!

I just got back spending a week with my husband's family in New England.  We had a wonderful time.  We left just five days after I finished school because we discovered some awesome airfares.      We usually go on vacation in July, so this was very different for us.  But, I gotta tell you, it was one of the best things I've ever done to separate myself from the school year and get into Summer-mode!  I believe this will become an annual tradition for me!

Speaking of vacation, we visited the most beautiful places!   First we were in Boston.  Then we spent a few days at Wells Beach in Maine.  We drove into the mountains of Maine to the Rangely Lake.  There were many stretches of road that said to watch out for moose!  We visited the family farm in central Massachusetts (it will be 100 years old next year!) and the family quarry where my sons got a lesson on making asphalt.  Then we headed down to Connecticut to visit our wonderful friends and their three boys.  And we had to go to Stew Leonard's in Danbury.  I miss that place.  It is a grocery shopping experience and little kids love it.  We went through Sandy Hook in Newtown, but just seeing the signs brought tears to my eyes.  Heavy sigh.  It was a whirlwind trip, but we had a terrific time.  

I was reading blogs while I was gone, and I made a note to be sure I hooked up with my friend's, Kristen's at Teach 'n Tex, PMA (Positive Mental Attitude) Wednesday.  

Her linky celebrates the philosophy that "success is achieved by those who try and keep trying with a positive mental attitude."

So true!  So I am sharing one of my favorite reminders that helps me keep positive, even during the times when I am nearly biting my tongue off!  The tiny words below say, "Rise above it!"  It has taken me YEARS to ignore provocation.  With age comes wisdom and I've finally learned that taking the high road is always the best way to travel.   And by doing so, I believe that it allows the provocateur to reflect on their words, not mine.  

One last thought about positive energy.....

As I was in New England this week, I couldn't help noticing the number of women that were wearing this distinctive set of bracelets.  I finally asked my husband's cousin's wife, what is the significance of the bracelets I see everyone wearing?  Well, the bracelets are called "Alexi and Ani" and each one has its own "positive energy" message.  

So, my husband's cousin's wife (Thank you, Debbie!) bought me my first one.  It is a Pineapple which symbolizes warmth and friendship.  It is also a well-know symbol of welcoming and a safe return in New England.  Now I am hooked!  So, for my birthday present to myself (my birthday is Saturday) I bought 4 more:

Apple:  symbol of insight, wisdom, and teacher
Path of Life (Infinity Symbol): strength, motivation, & knowledge
Mother Mary (The Miraculous Medal): grace, compassion & hope
Initial "D":  to celebrate me!

Here is my collection of Positive Energy!  I love it!

All of the Alex and Ani bangles are made of recycled metal and are Made in America with love!  If you have Alex and Ani bracelets or decide to get one, please share which ones you have.  The Apple is $5 off until the end of June!  

Sending positive energy your way!