We’re already into May…how did that happen! It seems like 2017 just began, and I was just making New Year’s Resolutions (or at least doing some soul searching, which you can read about here). Yet here we are, already within reach of summer. I’ll take it, y’all.
With spring comes a new feeling of joy, don’t you think? Something about this season gives me a spring in my step (lol, spring) and makes me feel so much happier and optimistic. I like to think that I’m a pretty positive person all year round, but I’m extra bouncy when the trees start blooming and the sun is shining.
(She says, as it’s pouring rain outside…)
Despite the weather not cooperating, spring is here in full force and I intend to make the most of this feeling of joy. JOY was one of my words in the aforementioned blog post, but it hasn’t really sunk in until now. There has been so much happening lately that has made me feel so simply happy, and I want to share some of the things that have been giving me joy lately!
…This will likely be one of the corniest things I post on my blog, so enjoy it while it lasts.
Spring
Ok we just talked about this. But spring makes me SO HAPPY. Last week, my coworkers and I went for a walk to get some lunch and took a pit stop at the local cemetery (AND PARK) where there was a gorgeous cherry blossom tree. Seeing those fresh pink blooms truly put the biggest smile on my face and – aside from getting some ‘gram worthy pics – it felt so good to see the world come to life. I feel like a TOTAL hippie being all “the trees and the flowers make my spirit soar” but liiiiike…..
Quality Time
I don’t know what has shifted, but I’ve felt bizarrely secure in my relationships lately. Maybe it’s just age (ah, the wisdom that comes with approaching a quarter century….[kidding]) but I feel so confident in my relationships with my girlfriends. I mentioned having an amazing girls’ day with my bestie Kathleen, and I’ve been able to spend some really special quality time with my best girls recently. Having people in my life that are SO kind, talented and genuine is the best feeling in the world.
Feelin’ Myself
I talked about this last week, but I chopped off my hair and am pretttttty into it. It’s crazy how something as simple as a haircut can change your outlook, but ever since I went for the lob, I’ve felt more confident and pretty than I’ve felt in a while. It’s vain, but if it improves my mood, let’s roll with it.
Love
I haven’t really had much to report on the wedding front, but now that I’ve had some time to settle down post-musical…GUYS, I’M GETTING MARRIED! TO A SUPER AMAZING AND LOVELY MAN! And I’m so excited! Last night we went to look at our first wedding venue, and it’s making it all seem real. As excited as I am to plan a wedding and host the best party we’ve ever hosted, I really am excited to simply call Stefan my husband. Gross. But it’s true.
PS ON THAT NOTE – someone help us come up with a wedding hashtag! Stef’s last name is Pal (I know, it’s no Carly Clydesdale, but Carly Pal will do!) We need assistance.
Travel
I leave for Amsterdam on Sunday! AHH! I’ve never been and I can’t wait to explore a new city. Maybe it’s because I love history, or maybe it’s because I love taking photos…but the prospect of going to a new place always makes me feel like a little kid on Christmas. Let me know your Amsterdam recommendations, I can’t wait to go on an adventure!
We also have a trip to Chicago planned in August (FINALLY) and are trying to make an Ontario road trip happen. Travel always sparks my creavitity, which leads us to…
Creativity
All of these things make my brain start buzzing in a totally-not-caffeine-fuelled way. With all of the cool things that have come into my life, I have a renewed joy for creating. I feel more inspired at work, I’m blogging (so that’s a plus), I ordered some new reeds online to start playing my saxophone again (sorry neighbours, you’re welcome asthmatic lungs), and I can’t wait to get back into my voice lessons this month.
Spring inspires me more than any other season, and I can’t wait to see what comes of this new burst of energy.
What brings you joy?
PS – Instagram Roundup and Back to Basics.