it's the little things.

I've been trying to focus on the little things in my life lately, because I've found if I focus too much on the big things, I go to a weird place that isn't pleasant for me or those around me (think bugging your boyfriend about the fact that you want to get engaged, want a house so your dog can come back to live with you, etc..). While the big things in life are really great (obviously, or they wouldn't be big things), the little things can be pretty great as well.

Here are some of the little things that I've been loving as of late:


Our beautiful, simple Christmas tree. We didn't go all out on the ornaments this year, mainly because we don't have very many, but I honestly kind of liked it. Sam and I spent the last month just sitting in the dark with only our tree lights on...and it was glorious.

The fact that Sam's desk houses a picture of Bella, and that the last time I was in KC he asked me to send him a picture of our dogs. Adorable.

A well stocked pantry. This is something a lot of people would be grateful for, and I need to remember that.

Beautiful flowers.

A nifty trick I learned on Pinterest...Stick your candle in the fridge for a few minutes...

 And then the wax pops right out of the candle holder!

Another Pinterest trick my mom found: mix Dawn dish soap and white vinegar together in equal parts to scrub your shower with. This is amazing!

Christmas lights, Christmas lights, Christmas lights. 

These sheets from Target are genius and they tell you which edge of the sheet is supposed to be at the foot of the bed. Thank you again, Target.

Sam gave me this as one of my "stocking stuffers". Combining two of my favorite things: Starbucks coffee and ice cream. I'm not sure why people use drugs when something like this exists. Plus, how amazing is it that Sam knows it's one of my favorite ice creams (Please, you know I can't just choose one!)? 

What sort of simple things are you enjoying in your life these days?

happiness is...

I've been in bed for about 48 hours now thanks to a rogue Limeade from Topsy's. Sam told me he heard from his mom that there have been some recent E. coli breakouts, so I'm fairly certain that's the culprit, but regardless, I've been stuck in my bed all weekend, which sounds so great when you're out running around but is MISERABLE when 5 blankets (including one that is electric), some flannel PJ pants and your warmest socks still aren't making you feel better.


So what am I doing to make myself feel better? Showing you the things that DO make me happy.

 Puppy snuggles.

 Gourmet cupcakes, yum.

This picture.

Starbucks Peppermint Mocha (we're so close, so so close).

Down comforters.

My uggs. Don't judge.




What makes you happy? And hope you all had a better weekend than a bout with food poisoning! Wish me luck with the chicken my mom made for dinner...eek.