Happy

The other night, Patrick and I settled into the normal routine: finding something to watch on Netflix. Our go-to choices usually center around Arrested Development, AFV, or a food-related reality show (anything Gordon Ramsey). But recently I've been wanting to expand my horizons and explore some of the  documentaries Netflix has to offer. We had just finished 180° South, which I highly recommend. But I'd heard a lot about Happy, so I thought we'd try it next.

From the website:
Roko Belic, director of the Academy Award® nominated “Genghis Blues” now brings us HAPPY, a film that sets out to answer these questions and more. Taking us from the bayous of Louisiana to the deserts of Namibia, from the beaches of Brazil to the villages of Okinawa, HAPPY explores the secrets behind our most valued emotion.

Happy - A Documentary Trailer from Wadi Rum Films on Vimeo.

It was such a beautiful film. The filmmakers followed people from all over the world who have found true happiness in their lives. We live in a world that is so hung up on driving and striving to be happy, that often the subtleties of life - where true happy moments can come - are lost.

Carve out 90 minutes for this film. The message is so simple yet so profound, and is one that definitely hit home.

A Few Favorites

This Etsy shop

DeuceFashion. The pieces are so unique. Delicate yet eye-catching. Great quality too! (I own the earrings in the top left.)

1. Vintage Gold Art Deco Earrings - No longer available

2. Crystal Pendant Necklace - $29

3. Olive Jade Fan Cord Necklace - $30

4. Subtle Light Blue Crystal and Gold Chain Earrings - $17

This tea

From Blowing Rock Tea Co. Amazingly delicious, and (basically) local! Can't beat that combination.

This french press

I am far from an early adopter to the french press, but I bought my first one a month ago, and am in love. Simply the best coffee experience. I bought mine here.

How To Deal: Mind Clutter

Via Laura on Pinterest

As I was mulling this post over in my head, the term mind clutter popped up. Say what now? I, like so many others (especially women, am I right?), often find my mind so bogged down with doubts, worries, checklists, etc. that it's nearly impossible for me to live and enjoy the moment I'm in. It's just cluttered all up in there. Recently, I've been thinking about how to live more intentionally, without the worries and doubts and fears. And even more recently, I've been taking little baby steps to make it happen. I thought I'd list out some of the ideas I have had so far. Please keep in mind I am no expert. But there is a time to stop thinking and try, and I this is my time.

1. Eliminate the physical clutter in your life. This is the step I find easiest. I've never been much of a hoarder, and have always enjoyed getting rid of things I no longer need or want. Now that I am moving back into a small one-bedroom apartment, purging my belongings has become almost an obsession. And you know what? Little by little, I am starting to feel my mind clearing a bit. Breathing, if you will. Simply put, I have one less thing to worry about. It may not be as joy-filled for everyone, though. Go room by room, start making a list. I like to do it gradually so I can add to the list/pile as needed. The result will make the time so worth it.

2. Pray. Granted, this should be #1. But I thought I'd list ideas as they tend to occur in my own life. Often I find that it's only after attempting several other mind-calming activities that I remember to simply say a prayer. Find a quiet place, a few minutes, and talk to God.

3. Exercise. I feel a little dumb even posting this one. Like, hello, so obvious. But even though it's obvious to me doesn't mean I'll actually take the time to do it. The biggest key is to find something you won't hate doing for 15, 30, 60 minutes. I am no great athlete. I hate running. I have no upper body strength and almost no stamina. But I've found out I love yoga. And walking and biking. And attempting Insanity with Patrick. You will never regret the workouts you do.

4. Make up a positive mantra. Repeat it over and over. This may come from my time in yoga, but it's true. If you think positively, you will become more positive. (I am certainly proof of the reverse i.e. Think Negative, Be Negative.) Maybe it will be the same one every day. Maybe you'll make up a new one each morning. Find a word, phrase, Bible verse that speaks to you. Repeat it. Write it down. Today will be beautiful...

5. Write it down. This is why I've needed to blog. This is why the people in my life keep telling me to. Sometimes the easiest way to relieve some of the mind clutter is just to write it down. Write in a journal (which, admittedly, I am horrible at keep up). Write a blog post. Write a note to yourself then keep it or tear it up. I find that when I see my worries down on paper, they often seem smaller.

This is a daily struggle, but one that is so important. Hopefully I can keep my own advice moving forward.

-- Laura

In 250 Words

Since it's been over 2 months since my last entry, I decided to try a little challenge: a post a day in May (first seen over here). Day #1, the story of my life in 250 words or less. Here goes!

Me: In 250 Words

So unlike me. I'm never dramatic.

I was born in Ohio, to two amazing parents – and one awesome big brother. At 8, we moved down to North Carolina, where I’ve been ever since. I love living in the South. The weather is amazing, and there’s something so special about this place. For as long as I can remember, music has been an important part of my life. I started taking violin lessons at 6, and fell in love. At 11, though, I found my true love, singing, during a drama camp (I was super cool). And one day I will star on Broadway.

I was homeschooled all the way through, and eventually made my way to college. I majored in English there. Say what you want about liberal arts degrees, but I loved all of my classes. College was awesome. During that time, I also met a group of friends that have stuck by me – even four years later. They rule.

Since college, I’ve tried to figure out what to do next. It hasn’t always been an easy road (except the awesome 2 month stop in Prague), but I am thankful to be able to look back and see the little things that have brought me to each new stage. This current stage is especially awesome because it brought me to an incredible man. I trust that God has led me through all of my unpredictable life, and he will continue doing so. And I will keep hoping to see the beauty in every day.

I always try to make cute faces. But I really should stop. 

The Thing About Spring

I've had it, I'm dressing for spring. Can't you hear the birdies chirping?

Yesterday finally felt like spring. Granted, the weather has been rather normal for February here, but I am SO ready for warmth, longer days, and everything spring represents.

Flowers bloom. Love is in the air. Trips are taken. Trails are hiked.
It will be one year with one very special guy.

So much to look forward to.

My thankful toes will once more see the sun. And my not-so-thankful fair skin will likely get burned.
Gotta love it.

For the past 3 weeks or so, the first thing I've done when I wake up is check the 10 day forecast. I have been bummed most days, seeing 40, 45, maybe 54. But, finally, the forecast for next Saturday is 63. Could it really be? This is the definition of "it's the little things." But little thing or not, the air is about to change - and most certainly my winter mood with it.

What to Do, What to Do

So often I've thought about starting a blog - I follow enough. I used to have a great love for writing, having majored in English and all, but I can't remember the last time I wrote anything longer than a grocery list.

I don't live a glamorous life. I don't live in big city. I don't have a rockin', enviable wardrobe. But I miss having an outlet, whether people want to read it or not. So here I go.

What will I write about? I have no idea. This adventure is just beginning.
But I love this life God has blessed me with. So I hope you don't mind if I share a bit...