Back from Vacation

Taking a vacation should be required for everyone at least twice a year. There are many benefits of taking vacations. It gives us opportunities to review our lives, take a break from our daily routine, get re-centered, and re-create. Europeans have the right idea -- they take summer vacations -- 6-8 weeks each year.

I just got back from a short vacation -- and was scolded by a woman in an internet cafe for working on my vacation. I have to admit I was guilty. Perhaps next time I should make sure not to have access to computers, cell phones, and technology. Then I won't run the risk of working while I should be relaxing.

I realized this trip that I really do need a vacation -- a vacation where I can truly relax. I'm thinking the far reaches of Alaska would be nice.

I wonder what has happened in American society -- we work longer hours, take less time off, are more stressed out, have more health problems, and seem less relaxed than other cultures. Do we think we're going to get behind if we take a break? Probably. I've been there myself.

But the benefits of vacations are so great not only in mental and physical health, but also in emotional health and productivity.

So, take a break -- go on a vacation -- and relax. It will pay off in the long run! I'm thinking I'll take another one and leave the laptop at home. :-)

Stadium of Fire - Amazing!

The Stadium of Fire last night was incredible! I loved every minute of it. I did get front row seats which made it so great. Brooks & Dunn gave a great concert -- fun, upbeat, very cool, and I loved it.

Corbin Bleu was the highlight for some of my nieces and nephews -- they actually got to meet him and get his autograph. He was so genuine and sweet and gave a great performance.

Of course, Fred Willard was hilarious as always.

Plus I always love the F-16 flyover and the skydivers.

And it was really nice to have Glenn Beck there -- he was so personable, and supportive of the troops -- no politics -- just great tributes. I would love to see him come back again.

The fireworks were amazing! This year they had a Disney theme -- and the fireworks were perfectly choreographed to each song and theme. It was so much fun. And then the powerful highlight was a live recreation of the soldiers holding the Iwo Jima flag -- they held so still I think most people thought it was a statue.

Anyway, what a great show! I don't know how they put all of that together with a full concert, full fireworks show, tons of entertainment and keep prices so low.

So, I'm already looking forward to next year. I hope all of those involved will feel our support and gratitude for putting together such a wonderful show.

Stadium of Fire 2007

I'm so excited for the Stadium of Fire this year. Glenn Beck is coming along with Brooks & Dunn, Corbin Bleu from High School Musical, and the best fireworks in the West. I'm going to sit on the front row, like last year, and I'm very happy about that. It's so fun being right in the middle of the action.

I think the show is almost sold out, so if you don't have your tickets yet, you can get them through Stadium of Fire.