Since I last blogged, you won't believe the nutty adventures I've had! I was lucky enough to be able to visit Mexico's Riviera Maya...during a tropical storm! Yikes!

The gusty winds bent the palm trees in half and rain often soaked me to the skin. But during the rare rays of sunshine, I zip-lined over treetops (wheeeee) and paddled a raft through a grotto of stalactites! My arms are still sore!

When I got back, I thought reading my ZNotes would offer a little rest and relaxation. Heh, not! It turns out that you Zwinkies have as many wild adventures as I do...if not more!

We've got skateboarders like skatergirly22, windsurfers like daisyboo2cute, and even adventurous eaters like katiethekitty01, who has chowed down on ramen tacos! (Sounds yumzzz.)

I've also heard from some folks who have hit roadblocks trying new and exciting things. To my Zwinkies facing daunting challenges this summer: don't call a Wah-mbulance just yet! Trying a new sport or hobby, making new friends, or heading out to strange, distant places (where hey, who knows, there might be a tropical storm!) can unseat even the most masterful of Adventurers. That doesn't mean you still can't have a great time!

Here are three tips that I try to summon when I need some mental muscle to keep it moving during tough times:

1. Take a breath. Or three. Or three hundred. Pausing in the middle of a new endeavor gives you time to collect yourself, evaluate the situation, and go fresh into your next attempt. I always take a breather before entering a room of strangers or zooming down a snowy mountain trail to mellow my nerves.

2. Laugh. Be honest, it can be pretty funny -- and fun! -- to fall face first into a frothy wave or go tush-down in a bank of snow. Tumbling around like a toddler is part of the fun of being a n00b. Turn tearjerkers into gigglefests by simply changing your frame of mind!

3. Be proud that you're trying. Um, hello? Look at all those people clinging to the sidelines. Major props to you for getting out there and getting your feet wet!

You got me? Good! Then get out there and have a great summer! Drop me a ZNote or find me at The Beach to tell me what you're up to!

'Til next time, high five!

Ms. Adventure