A change of pace is in order--not just a vacation, which may become as stressful as my current routine, but a change in lifestyle. I want to celebrate life everyday. But how can I do that and keep all the balls in the air? I think if I lived on an island off the coast of Greece, then I could live the life that I dream.

Practically, a new life in the Mediterranean is not really an option and chances are I wouldn't escape all of my worries in a new environment. However, I can borrow and adopt the nuances of the Mediterranean that will enhance my current lifestyle. My husband and I can take time to walk around our neighborhood for evening strolls, as I imagine couples there have done for centuries. A Mediterranean cooking class will help us learn how to replace the frozen microwaveable meals with delicious and balanced traditional dishes. I can designate a night just for gathering with my friends to catch up much like I imagine friends do in the bistros of Italy. I can look forward to my normally hectic mornings by waking earlier and relaxing with a light breakfast while collecting my thoughts and preparing for the day.

However, I can borrow and adopt the nuances of the Mediterranean that will enhance my current lifestyle.

Time can be something I savor rather than race against. Simple yet deliberate steps borrowed from a culture that seems to have held secrets about a better way of life can help me transform my own. I realize that I can bring aspects of the Mediterranean lifestyle into my daily routine to become a happier, healthier and more satisfied person.

But first, maybe I'll take that Mediterranean cruise to do a little research...