The Little Things

Around this time of year, it's easy to start thinking about all of the things that we're waiting for -- spring, warmer temperatures, short sleeves, vacations, etc. In DC, we've been having what seems like an endless winter, filled with wind chills and snow days. Shockingly, even this winter lover is ready for the season to change, but as I always find, the key to making it through any situation is focusing on those little things that bring you happiness in the every day. 

I challenged myself to make a list of everything in my life right now that is bringing me happiness, and I encourage you to do the same. 

+ A chai latte on a rainy Wednesday morning
+ Losing myself in a good book 
+ Taking an afternoon nap, and not setting an alarm 
+ Binge-watching a guilty pleasure TV show (this is slightly embarrassing for me to admit, but I'm currently loving Pretty Little Liars)
+ Reacquainting myself with items in your closet & makeup bag that you've all but forgotten about 
+ Listening to podcasts on my way to work (current favorites are Ask Me Another and After The Jump) 
+ Clementines (aren't they one of the best things about late winter?)
+ Going to see Frozen with a good friend, getting frozen yogurt afterward and singing the songs in the car on the way home 
+ Watching Downton Abbey every Sunday (man, Mary is just super popular these days!)
+ Listening to the Girls: Marnie Songza station during the workday 
+ FaceTime calls with my parents, and my mom using emojis in texts 
+ Lighting a candle in the evenings when I get home from work 
+ Tulips from Trader Joe's, to brighten up our kitchen table (and remind me that spring is coming) 
+ A normal weekday night at home with my beau, after a week of super busy days 
+ My 82-year-old grandpa's Facebook posts 
+ Our annual Valentine's Day tradition: Chipotle for dinner 

Here's to making the most of these final winter days, and appreciating all the good that surrounds us. 

{Image via Pinterest} 

Favorite Books of 2013

I have always been a bookworm. My parents used to have to pry the latest Baby-Sitters Club book out of my hand so I could actually eat my dinner, and reading has always been one of my favorite things to do. 

For the past few years, I've been keeping track of books that I've read (or want to read) on Goodreads, and setting a yearly challenge for myself. For 2013, I challenged myself to read 30 books, and actually ended up reading 37. As I was looking back over the list of those that I read, I thought I'd share my favorites with you. 

Humans of New York, by Brandon Stanton
I happened upon Brandon's blog several months ago, and I look forward to seeing his daily portraits. This book is a collection of those portraits, which means that it's a quick "read" (I spent about an hour from cover to cover), but it's so beautiful and insightful. Brandon manages to capture the essence of these people, from newborn to 99. I laughed out loud and was extremely moved, and numerous photos required a lengthy second look. I borrowed it from the library, but it would make an excellent coffee table book and conversation starter.

Fangirl, by Rainbow Rowell
Rainbow Rowell certainly became one of my favorite authors this year, and Fangirl just might be my very favorite book that I read this year.  It was such a relatable, moving portrait of the first year of college and everything that comes along with it. Cath is an introvert with a love of writing fan fiction, a dad she feels guilty leaving at home, and a twin sister that is ready to shed her family baggage and have a new identity. Her quiet strength and growth over the course of her freshman year is lovely to watch, and I ended the book very hopeful for her future.

Unbroken, by Lauren Hillenbrand
I read this for my book club, and while it is definitely not my typical genre, I absolutely adored it. It follows Air Force bomber Louis Zamperini as he survives the unbelievable during and after World War II. While difficult to get through at several points, this book is incredible. I absolutely love Louie, and his story is inspiring and unforgettable.

The Husband's Secret, by Liane Moriarty
While clearly a lighter type of read, for me, this book had it all - fully drawn primary & secondary characters that are vulnerable & likeable, a well-timed plot that made it difficult to put down, and a well written and satisfying conclusion. Moriarty knows how to write a good story and give the characters an ending that they deserve. It isn't a deep, life-changing story, but I was left feeling like I'd watched a full series of a beloved TV show.

Eleanor & Park, by Rainbow Rowell
My first Rainbow Rowell book, and such a fantastic read! I listened to this as an audio book, so Eleanor & Park were my constant companions for a week and a half. More than once, I found myself lingering in the car just to hear a little more. This book is a beautiful, spot on portrait of falling in love for the first time and feeling not so alone as an awkward teenager. Eleanor and Park were extremely well drawn, as were the secondary characters (I loved Park's parents). Highly recommend, especially as an audio book - it's read by two different people, and I think the male & female voices made it more special.

The Silver Linings Playbook, by Matthew Quick
I saw the movie first, but I think it helped me enjoy the book even more. Pat was so optimistic despite everything he had been through, and I really found myself rooting for him. The takeaway is that it's never too late for a new beginning, and (not surprisingly) there really always is a silver lining. 

What books have you enjoyed recently? Though my to-read list is a mile long, I'm always looking for recommendations. 

Small Steps Toward Big Goals

Toward the end of 2013, I found Lara Casey's blog. I can't even remember how I stumbled upon it (maybe via Pinterest?), but once I got there, I settled in for a long visit. Lara is essentially overflowing with joy and happiness. Though she clearly has bad days, she has become a master at goal setting and achieving, as well as making what matters happen. I had been looking for a way to jumpstart 2014 and keep some good momentum going, so I decided to purchase her PowerSheets and dig in. 

Essentially, the PowerSheets aid you in determining what your goals are and then breaking them down into small, achievable steps. I found the process really gratifying and enjoyed reflecting upon what worked & didn't work last year. It gave me a perspective that simply wouldn't have been there if I had just jumped in to setting goals. There are worksheets to fill out on the way to figuring out your goals, detailed worksheets on each of 5 goals that you set, and then (my favorite part) monthly "tending" sheets where you break down your monthly, weekly, and daily goals. Check boxes and lists abound, which my type-A personality just loves.

But in all seriousness, breaking down goals into small, achievable steps over a 6-month or year process is such a great way to tackle things. Making monthly goals as the year progresses is all well and good, but actually looking ahead to see what small steps can be taken over the next 6 months is even better. 

For example, we can all have "get in shape" or "exercise more" as a yearly goal, but now I can say I'd like to complete the 30-day yoga challenge at home in February, go on a 30 minute walk at least 3 times a week in March, and sign up for a yoga workshop or class in April. Then, in my daily tending lists, I can put little check marks (so gratifying!) next to every day that I complete my daily goal. 

Lara's approach to goal setting (which you can read a series of blog posts about here) has absolutely inspired me to change the way I think about conquering my goals. It offers just the right amount of self reflection coupled with action items. I absolutely recommend it if you are searching for inspiration as the new year begins. 

This isn't a sponsored post, I just really love Lara and the PowerSheets. :)

Image via LaraCasey.com

Winter Favorites

I love the start of a fresh, new month, and the flipping of the calendar from January to February was just in the nick of time. I typically love winter (cable knit sweaters! cozy blankets! staying inside!), but these past few weeks even gave me a run for my money. 

The extreme cold, the dark nights, and lack of twinkling lights just made things seem a little bleak. Most nights I'd wearily trudge into my apartment after work, light a few candles, and curl up with a blanket or comforter on the couch -- not exactly what New Year's resolutions are made of.  

But yet, "to everything there is a season", as they say, and so I've decided to fully embrace the remaining winter days by indulging in those things that make it more bearable. 

// Josie Maran Argan Oil - my lovely friend Ashley gifted me with a little set of argan oil products for Christmas, and this 100% argan oil has been a lifesaver this winter. I've been using 3 or 4 drops on my face to moisturize it day and night, and have also been adding a few drops in with my body lotion on really cold days. 

// CeraVe Moisturizing Cream - I've had a lifelong issue with dry skin and eczema, and this thick, luxurious cream (available at the drugstore!) has completely transformed my typical itchy winter skin. I think I've tried every body lotion out there, and this is the one for me.

// Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer - I remember my mom giving me a tube of under eye concealer when I was about 11 years old, and I've used one every day since. Though the price tag on this is a little hefty, it's the best I've ever used, and the creamy consistency doesn't try out my under eye area. 

// David's Tea Cream of Earl Grey - I love many teas, but this earl grey with the addition of vanilla is the bee's knees. I have a cup almost every morning during these chilly months. With a little agave nectar and splash of coconut milk, it is divine. 

// Slipper Boots - I must admit that I laughed a little when I opened this Christmas present from my mom, but gosh darn it if I haven't worn them almost every day since! I chronically have cold feet, and changing into these when I get home from work keeps my feet toasty warm (and typically goes with the skinny jeans + striped shirt combo I've worn to work). 

// Fresh Sugar Balm in Rose - This has been a favorite for almost a year now, but the it's super moisturizing and give a sheer wash of a rosy color, and I've reached for it day and night to keep my lips from becoming dry & chapped. 

What products have been keeping you comfortable this winter? 

A Fresh Start

In previous years, I haven't really enjoyed the concept of making resolutions. To me, the focus always seemed to be on how we were deeply flawed and needed to "fix" ourselves in the coming year -- lose weight, save money, be the best versions of ourselves possible -- all just because the calendar flipped to January. I'm a big fan of the fresh start, but the fact that it can come at any time of the month, year, or week. 

Something about this year was different. For starters, I happened upon Lara Casey's blog and her phenomenal goal setting techniques. So, I opened up a new note in Evernote and just started typing -- what worked in 2013? What didn't work in 2013? Believe it or not, the words flowed freely, and I realized that 2013 was a big year for me and started momentum that I'd like to keep going.  

Here are part of my lists of what worked and didn't work for me last year: 

WHAT WORKED IN 2013 Highlights and things I’m proud of 

• Moving in with my boyfriend & taking a step forward in our relationship 
• Letting go of my  25 year friendship with my former best friend 
• Investing in my mental health & taking great strides in controlling my anxiety
• Reading 37 books 
• Traveling to California & Charleston 
• Singing in an alumni musical theater showcase at my college 
• Doing the 30 day yoga challenge 
• Watching quality TV - House of Cards, Scandal, Downton Abbey
• Investing in my friendships (girlfriends & couple friends) 

WHAT DIDN’T WORK IN 2013 Room for improvement 

• Work/life balance
• Mindless TV watching & social media checking 
• Oversleeping & running late to work  
• Letting other people's emotions control my own
• Having a negative attitude at work 
• Comparing myself to others 

I'm thankful for the inspiration that is surrounding me at this time of the year -- on blogs, Pinterest, and Twitter, as well as in "real life" around me. I think the process of reflecting on 2013 and looking forward to 2014 is a process I'll be continuing as the year progresses. 

Happy fresh start, friends! Let's keep this inspiration and reflection flowing all year long. 

{Image via Pinterest}

Be Present

It just feels like time is zipping by, doesn't it? Unbelievably, we find ourselves at the beginning of December, that month that is fill to the brim with parties, cookies, and to-do lists. This year more than ever, I've been hearing and reading more and more about slowing down and simplifying. So what if we don't send Christmas cards? If our cookies are store bought and not homemade? If the dress we wear to the holiday party is the same as last year? 

I recently happened upon Lara Casey's blog, which I absolutely love. She is doing a month-long project called #PresentDecember, encouraging others to gift others with being present instead of simply with a present. Reading her post really hit home, and has caused me to reflect on how I focus my attention both during this time of year and all year long. 

Put your phone down. Close your computer. When something great happens, don’t say, “I wish I would have had my camera,” say, “I’m so grateful that just happened!”  Look people in the eyes and give them the gift that changes things." -Lara Casey

How often am I mindlessly scrolling through Instagram or Facebook when I'm actually face to face with someone else? How many times have I gotten overwhelmed with the thought of holiday logistics or gift buying? The moments that I will remember from this holiday season are those where I connect with others -- when I savor a mug of tea with my mom, smile genuinely in a photo with my lady friends (who cares what we're wearing!), or chat with my dad as he makes over easy eggs for a late morning breakfast. 

My goal for this final month of 2013 is to slow down, savor, and be fully present. I know this will be a work in progress for me, but it's my intention as the month begins. 

{Image via Pinterest}

A Calm Life

"Keeping up with the Joneses" is no joke when you're in your 30s. It can appear that everyone is getting married, buying houses, having multiple babies, taking luxurious vacations, and decked out in the latest trends. In my world, I am pretty proud of myself when I make the bed, get to work reasonably on time, and manage to go to Trader Joe's on the weekend. But, as I've steadily been learning these past few months, it's okay to be happy with a calm life. 

This past weekend was one that was almost "ideal" for me -- a weekend that left me feeling connected, relaxed, and prepared for the week ahead. I didn't really do anything thrilling, I spent a lot of time at home and yet felt calm and peaceful as I got ready for bed last night. My handbag was cleaned out and organized, the fridge was full of food for the week, a good book awaited me on my nightstand, and there were fresh sheets on the bed. For me, that's about as good as it gets. 

As an introvert, finding things that "refill the well" and leave me recharged and ready to conquer a busy day or week are extremely important. While I enjoy socializing and especially one-on-one time with friends, too much socializing and not enough time taking care of things for myself leaves me feeling out of balance. Building time into my schedule as intentional downtime is absolutely essential to me. 

My favorite things that help keep me balanced (and that I try to make time for every week, if possible) are: 

+ Spending a weekend morning in bed with a cup of tea and a good book 

+ Setting aside time to tidy the apartment and go to the grocery store on Sundays 

+ Keeping my TV watching more intentional (i.e. just the shows I watch regularly and not mindless channel flipping) 

+ Spending the last 15 minutes of every work day (and 30 minutes on Friday) prioritizing my tasks for the next day 

+ Listening to audio books on my long commute 

+ One-on-one coffee dates with my favorite lady friends 

+ Literally scheduling downtime through the week or weekend, to spend as I please, not just time that happens to be available as it happens 

Because of this, I tend to not make very many social plans throughout the week and to be okay with only a few plans during the weekend. I also feel much better when things are tidy and in order (i.e. the dishes done and the bed made). Several weeks ago, I was home on a Friday night doing laundry and it struck me just how content I was doing just that. Other people were likely out clacking around in heels and sipping expensive martinis, but I was 100% happy with matching socks and watching Scandal. 

And so I realize, it really is okay to be happy with a calm life. After all, isn't life all about finding the things that make you happy, peaceful, and calm? I'm not saying I never feel the need to be out and about with red lipstick on, but I'm finding more and more of what makes me happy and making those things a priority. 

Wishing you a happy, relaxing week filled with the things you need. 

{Image via Pinterest}