A Little Pick-Me-Up

Ever have those weeks where you get in a funk?
You know, the ones that no matter how hard you try, you still seem to be at the end of your rope? Those are the weeks where the tiny things that are normally no biggie completely overwhelms you.

At some point you kind of give up on life temporarily...

...and then you sulk.

(and you're totally okay with it.)


That's where I'm at this week. I've let everything pile on to the point where it crushes my spirit, and takes away from my generally happy/always optimistic personality. And then I get to asking, "who is this crazy lady?"

After awhile, the temporary gratification of wallowing fades, and it's in that moment you realize life is too short to be not see the beauty.

That's when you have to choose to be happy...

Source: a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net via Meg on Pinterest

I read an incredible quote that I fell in love with, and it led me down a more joyful path today. Maybe it will offer you some encouragement too...

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“If you don't like something, change it. If you can't change it,

change your attitude.”

- Maya Angelou

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Huh...
Change your attitude.

My attitude is pretty terrible?
Woah, talk about wake up call.


So I may not be able to fix a given situation, but I can choose how I want to view it. I can decide to let it roll off my back or let it get me down.

Well, I kind of like that idea, although it sounds easier that it is. And I don't think a lot of people like to talk about how choosing joy in any circumstance is hard. Because it takes some courage to do that.

But you know what?

It's totally doable.
We have the strength to power though.

So today, I'm focusing on changing my crappy attitude. I will choose joy today, and it's not easy. But I've made myself a happy list of things that make life great.

{ My Happy }

+  a sweet puppy dog kiss when I woke up

+ light traffic

+ my mom was super thoughtful and made me green smoothie for breakfast

(and organized my WHOLE room yesterday!)

+ minimal e-mails in the work inbox

+ warm coffee

+ date night = watching an animated movie in our sweats
+ parentals took the pups to their haircuts

+ an encouraging "I love you" text from Adam

+ wedding shower this weekend

+ sleeping in and time to workout

+ a realization that at the end of 37 days, no matter what happens,

I get to marry my best friend

+ super bowl party sunday at the almost in-laws

+ antigua is waiting for me

+ pay day is Friday

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And you know what I am also so thankful for today?

You.

As I reflect on my humble little blog, I am just blown away by the friendships I've made, and the encouragement I've gotten from my blog friends.

It's incredible that you visit. It's heartwarming to the core that you leave comments and send e-mails because you care.

You truly brighten up my spirits and make life fun.

Thanks for being you.

...and thanks for adding to my happy.

May you find courage and joy for whatever struggles you're facing today, dear friends!

You are loved.

Meet the Girls!

Boy, do I hve a treat for you guys!
For as long as I have been blogging, I have loved finding new little blog gems. I scour friend's blog rolls trying to find those diamonds in the rough, and I have found many of YOU that way! :)

Well today, I have four fantastic blogs for you to checkout!

These gals are absolutely fantastic, I follow each and every one of them, and I think you all are missing if you don't already. So here are some fo my friends - go say hello, and let them know where they can find you too!

{ Meet the Girls }

Katie @ AKontheGo

1) Introduce yourself and tell us what your blog about!
Hi, my name is Katie and I write over at aKonthego. My blog is about living your life to the fullest one day at a time. Through sharing about my own style, family, green living, food, cooking, fitness, emotions, relationships, travel, oh and of course my dog Watson, I hope to inspire you to encounter your own life. Feel it, taste it, touch it, live it! Each day is an opportunity to live!


2) What are your favorite things about fall?
My favorite thing about fall is when the temperature drops and the leaves begin to change. After living in other states without such drastic seasons I get really excited about the changes in Minnesota weather. Fall offers up a fresh start and plenty of opportunities to cozy up with my family. Fall is by far my favorite season. Hot cider, warm blankets, and crisp air. What could be better?


3) Why do you enjoy blogging?

I have always preferred to communicate through writing. I'm the girl who keeps a journal, writes notes and letters, and pours her heart out in greeting cards. I enjoy blogging because I feel like i have a lot to say about my crazy life and most of it could benefit someone else. I enjoy sharing my experiences and connecting with a big world from my home.

4) Describe your blog in 5 words!
Interesting, insightful, inspiring, reflective and open.


5) Why should people stop by?
I've been asking myself this same question recently. I think people should stop by for a refreshing viewpoint of the world. They should read for some inspiration and tips on living a full life. They should keep reading for great stories about a sometimes unconventional life. Most importantly they should stick around because big things are about to happen this winter and I'm excited to share it with them.

Rachel @ Simple Little Joys

1) Introduce yourself and tell us what your blog about!
My name is Rachel and I blog at {simple.little.joys}! I blog about anything and everything that life entails: weekend fun, DIY projects, fun recipes, my weight loss journey, and all the simple little joys in between!


2) What are your favorite things about fall?
My favorite things about fall…oh goodness, that's a hard one to narrow down. Well definitely all of the fabulous decor, first off! Pumpkin ANYTHING. All of the yummy fall goodies that we love to bake! The crisp in the air makes me happy! I love being able to wear jeans, boots, and a pretty scarf on a daily basis. Fall is my favorite!


3) Why do you enjoy blogging?

I love blogging because it really helps me document my life…helps me remember all of the little moments that happen while the big things are going on, too! The thing I love most about blogging is all of the amazing friendships I've created and the wonderful women that I "know" through this crazy blog world!

4) Describe your blog in 5 words!

Gracious, I don't know 5 words to describe my blog! Help me out here haha I'll have to think on that one!

5) Why should people stop by?

I'm just a 20-something girl, living life and enjoying the ride…I always keep it honest and real. I get a huge kick out of trying new recipes, baking up a storm, and crafting, so you're sure to find something fun! I love to have a good time and enjoy life to the fullest, so I'd love to have you stop by and stay awhile.

Nikki @ From a Miss to a Mrs.

1) Introduce yourself and tell us what your blog about!

From a Miss to a Mrs. I blog about planning and paying for a wedding, being a newlywed, cooking, home decor and dogs. Pretty much a hodgepodge of a twenty something newlywed.

2) What are your favorite things about fall?

I love boots and sweaters!! and fall scents (like apple spice or cinnamon coffee) and I love the fall flavors that come with coffee and holidays.

3) Why do you enjoy blogging?

I started my blog because our family is spread out, but now my family doesn't read it and my blogging friends do! I love blogging because I get to meet and reach out to new people from all over, and share my special life and the fun things I do with others :)


4) Describe your blog in 5 words!
Fun, energetic, honest, yummy, helpful


5) Why should people stop by?

If you're into dogs, books, cooking, sangria recipes and being in love, my blog is the place for you. I don't do fashion posts and I'm not a super crafty DIYer (although I do try) but I am an honest look into being a newlywed at 25 and all the joy and drama that goes with it.

Hannah @ Flamingos in Raincoats

1) Introduce yourself and tell us what your blog about!

Hannah, Flamingos in Raincoats, I'd call my blog a "lifestyle" blog, whatever that means! I love to blog about food, music, and my day to day life as a grad student and newlywed living in North Carolina.

2) What are your favorite things about fall?
Oh! I love everything about fall! i love the temperature drop, the pretty fall leaves, apple cider, pumpkins, and boots with tights!

3) Why do you enjoy blogging?
I enjoy blogging because it's a great creative outlet for me. I like the idea of keeping journals, but typing is so much easier than hand writing everything! Blogging is a great way for me to preserve moments of my life and it's a fantastic way to keep track of all of my recipes!

4) Describe your blog in 5 words!

Flamingos wearing raincoats... duh! ;)

5) Why should people stop by?

stop by for funny stuff, stuff to eat, stuff to make you roll your eyes, and stuff that i hope you'll enjoy reading!

 

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So there you have it - aren't they fabulous?! Seriously, go stop by and say hi to the girls - you would be CRAZY not to!!

Want to find out how you can be included in next month's "Meet the Girls"? Click here for more information - I'd be happy to include you! :)

 More posts coming this week, so stay tuned...

+ bachelorette party recap / photos
+ daily inspiration
+ super yummy recipe!
+ friday confessional
+ more!!

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PS - Don't miss this week's link-up!
Drop by the Mingle Monday Blog Hop and pick up some new blog followers!

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