La Dolce Vita Retreats

I love to read and usually always have a book in my possession.  Today, I was at my hairdresser and one of his assistants asked me about a book I was reading, The Alchemist.  She expressed the fact that she loved Paulo Coelho’s books and we began a most enjoyable conversation about his style and his message. 

Over the course of the conversation I learned that she would be leaving the salon to become a full-time Mom for her 1 year old.  It brought back the best memories of my life – those that began when I made the choice to leave my career as an interior designer and dedicate 10 years to being Mom. It was my favorite “job”.  I fully understood that I was very fortunate to be able to do that,  and believe me, I appreciated every moment that I was able to be in that role. 

Our conversation reminded me of friendships that I so cherish and have enjoyed for 25+ years, ones that are a result of my children’s existence.  Most of our dearest friends I met in “mommy & me” classes or the kindergarten years at our children’s school.  I reflected on the special celebrations, the carpools, the multi-family vacations, the after school games…so many rich memories. 

I never would have had the opportunity to engage in that conversation with that smart young mother, or enjoyed my splendid memories, had I not had that book with me.  I am always amazed at the power of connectivity through simple things!

Blessings,

Janice

Each morning, upon arising, I take five minutes to reflect on my life and the elements in my life for which I am grateful.  Some people prefer that ritual to occur at night before retiring.  The timing is irrelevant but the daily ritual is critical.  When one lives his or her life from a perspective of gratitude and appreciation for what one has, rather than from a perspective of what one doesn’t, we are healthier mentally, physically and emotionally.  We are open to receiving and more generous in our daily lives.

I read an article once from a woman who saw the positive in what so many see as negative.  I wish that I had kept it, as it was so simple, but so wise.  For example, she mentioned that she felt blessed to pay taxes because it meant that she had employment.  She never griped about having to clean the house or mow the lawn, because it meant she had a place of shelter.  She loved having to go to the grocery store because it meant she was financially able to purchase food.  She didn’t mind having to ration water because it meant that she enjoyed clean, safe water.  She didn’t gripe about exercising because it meant she was physically able to use her limbs.  Car payments meant that at least she had a car.  You get the picture.

Everyday we open the paper we see the suffering of others and although we certainly empathize and many of us try to help in some way, we don’t always take the moment to reflect and be grateful for our many blessings.

This morning I received a message from my dear friend of many years.  We have globe trotted together, been through the marathon experiences of parenthood, been at each others’ sides during illness, divorce, death of friends, etc.  You name it. 

Today she told me she could no longer walk and that spinal fusion was imminent. 

Today I am grateful that I can walk because it means I can push her wheelchair.  I am grateful that I can drive, something I have always been loathe to do, because it means that I can take her out and about.  I am grateful that I am healthy and strong because it means that I can schlep the luggage through security when the time is right for her to travel once again.  I am grateful to have my friend in my life.  Throughout our lives, each of us has had to take on the role of pilot or co-pilot for each other.  I am grateful to be able to take on the role of pilot …for however long is necessary.

What is it you unconsciously gripe about or take for granted?  Next time, turn it around and see the positive.  You’d be surprised at how much for which you have to be gratetful.  Gratitude enriches our lives. 

Janice Briggs, founder of La Dolce Vita Retreats, values the relationships between mother and daughters and is always looking for ways to foster memorable experiences and cherished times.

In light of that interest, La Dolce Vita Retreats will discount the September 2009 retreat in Ravello (Amalfi Coast, Italy) and the October 2009 retreat in Tuscany by 10% if the trip(s) are reserved and paid in full by May 4th. 

This is a one time offer in honor of our mothers. So hurry and take advantage of this significant savings.

Visit www.ladolcevitaretreats.com for more information and registration forms or call 888-553-8482 for information or to book your reservations.

Offer expires midnight on May 4, 2009

10% is a significant savings!

See Janice Briggs on Facebook and view the photo album featuring picyures of gorgeous Portofino and surrounding areas!

Mother’s Day is right around the corner and what could be better as a gift to a mother than a mother-daughter vacation?  We have a spectacular Amalfi Coast trip in September 2009, an extraordinary cooking class vacation in Tuscany in October,  and a Bahamaian water sports and yoga delight on the pink sand beaches of Harbour Island in the Bahamas.

Give your mother the gift of La Dolce Vita!

Each of our trips includes meals, activities and lodging at close to what lodging alone would cost!  Although considered to be a luxury vacation, you’ll find our trips quite reasonable when you see what’s included!

If you are looking for exquisite locations, a luxury retreat, fine cuisine, yachting or cooking, hiking and yoga, music, history, art, gardens, and much more, all in one experience, don’t miss these wonderful opportunities of a lifetime with La Dolce Vita Retreats!

For an experience of a lifetime, and a mother’s day gift bar none, visit of website at www.ladolcevitaretreats.com    And hurry…..limited number of reservations are available and NOW is the time to go to Europe! 

Check back at this blog later today to see some magnificent pictures of Portofino where we are enjoying hiking, yachting, spa treatments and fantastic Italian cuisine!