Yesterday a friend sent me a short but really sweet email to applaud me for all that I’d accomplished in the last two years. It was completely unexpected, but (of course) really made my day. All too often I focus solely on the future- on ways I can grow or be better. I rarely step back to take in how far I’ve come or even allow myself to feel good about what I’ve done. We don’t do this enough for ourselves! That email set the tone for my entire day, and it probably took my friend less than five minutes to write.
It’s kind of ironic because lately I’ve been thinking a lot about the relationships and friendships in my life- which ones are most important and where I should be investing my time. And also how the smallest of gestures can really make a world of difference. I’m always the first to say… I don’t have time! I’m too busy! But I’ve found making the time to write a thoughtful comment on a blog I admire, send a handwritten note, or take an hour out of my day to catch up with a friend over the phone makes me personally feel so much better (and actually better at my job). It’s totally worth the time away from my desk. I sent six handwritten notes this week and it felt amazing! Plus sitting on my living room rug surrounded by pretty stationary is kind of the best way to unwind after a long day at the computer. Know what I mean?
I’m off to Saratoga for the weekend to assist with the annual Farm Aid concert (hello John Mellencamp and Dave Matthews Band!)- you can follow along on instagram as I chronicle my travels. I’ll see you back here on Monday for some state of the blog talk and changes thanks to the feedback on the survey. You still have until this Sunday to fill it out, so if you haven’t already done so- you can do so right here. Remember, all constructive criticism welcome!
Here are a few fun links… have a great weekend! xx
- How to boost your mood in 7 minutes.
- I’ve fallen in love with Clementine Daily. Favorites include this interview with Bonnie Tsang and this round up of 8 Natural Household Cleaners.
- 23 Things Every Woman Should Stop Doing found via Young, Married, Chic.
- So thrilled and honored to be in Ladies’ Home Journal’s food blogger network! And among the likes of Joy the Baker, What’s Gaby Cooking, and the Brown Eyed Baker. #pinchme
- I can’t wait to make this five ingredient pasta.
- Nars’ Scarlett Empress has become my fall lip. The picture makes it look way darker. It’s really closer to a berry color, making it perfect for blondes.
- The “Back to Fall” campaign I coordinated for Rank & Style launched this week! So many good posts around getting your wardrobe, beauty regime, and gym routine in line for fall.
- Catch a little interview I did on Rank & Style where I share my advice for women trying to start their own business, my favorite cocktail in the city, and more.
- And lastly, the Clara Dress from M.M. LAFLEUR- it’s heeeeere! More to come on this in a few weeks.
Image by Mike Gilger for Raleigh Simple Evening, found via wit+delight
Making and keeping contact with friends has been something I fear I’ve been failing at, and your post hit at the right time. I think I’ll be writing some hand-written notes to friends this weekend. Your friend’s little note to you is really a reminder that it doesn’t take much time to make someone’s day.
1) that sounds like an amazing weekend plan! and 2) I totally feel you on the staying connected thing — I wrote a few ‘just because’ notes this week and had a little skip in my step as a I dropped them in mailbox.
I’m right there with you on the handwritten notes - there are few things I love more in this life than lovely stationery, and I love the thought that something so simple can make such an impact on a loved one!
Loved that Huffington Post list! So many good points on what women should stop doing.
I’ve been reading your blog for the past few years and have seen all the changes that have been made! You’re blog remains one of the few that I regularly read and enjoy the different themed posts you write. Congratulations on being in that network, you deserve it!