Writer’s block and struggling with anxiety has hit me in a bad way this week, so I thought I’d focus on something that I know I can talk about. And that’s all the things this week that have made me happy!
While I’ve been struggling to keep my anxiety under wraps as of late, I’ve found that focussing on things that make me happy can make a big difference for me mentally. And of course, a shout out and thank you to Little Miss Katy’s Happy Monday’s post for reminding me that it’s important to focus on the good things that have happened (you can read her latest post here).
10 things that made me happy this week
Autumnal candles
Even a Jo Malone store has nothing on my flat at the moment. Every single time, I walk into a Homesense, I walk out with a new candle(s). I can’t help it. I need all of the scents. Favorites currently include Woodsmoked Bourbon, Pumpkin Space, Maple Bark and Chai. Please if you spot me in a Homesense over the next six weeks, forcibly remove me from the property and I will enjoy my candle emporium at home.
Tall plants
It seems I’m starting off my week of happy with all the things I can’t stop buying. Tall plants from IKEA are one of my favourite parts about our flat. I actually want to buy several more for our conservatory room (it gets the most light). I’d also like to know everyone’s thoughts on fake plants or flowers. I seem to be going through quite a few flower bouquets and am starting to consider investing in a few fake ones to brighten up my darker rooms (where the real ones won’t flourish as much).
Hot chocolate
Is there anything more satisfying than curling up on the sofa with a big mug of hot cocoa? It’s become my go-to drink in the evenings and I’m not remotely sorry about it. I’m a fan of drinking Cadbury Highlights (a little more low-cal considering I’m having it daily) in a cuppa with a splash of almond milk.
The arrival of the pink velvet chair
It’s finally arrived! I’ve been waiting to order this chair forever. Originally, we were going to order a pink velvet bed frame – which I was incredibly excited about. But unfortunately shipping and processing times meant that if we’d ordered the pink velvet bed… we still wouldn’t have it delivered to our flat. So I compromised on the colour, opting for a cream instead – which I love wholeheartedly. And it meant that I could order a cheeky pink velvet cocktail chair for the bedroom. Don’t be fooled though, it’s already become “the clothes chair” that all women have in their rooms.
Joe’s birthday!
Last weekend Joe turned thirty! I can hardly believe how quickly time flies, because it seems like just yesterday we were talking about his 23rd. I baked a chocolate cake (OK, used Betty Crocker mix) and it was a hit. We even had everyone come round our flat for the afternoon for food, drinks and well, of course, dessert. It was so fun for everyone to see our space – and to celebrate Joe’s birthday surrounded by family and friends. We’ve pressed pause on our usual holiday away for his birthday because we’ve only just moved in… vowing to save our adventure for later in the year (or early next year).
Reading again
Oh my goodness how good does it feel to put your phone away and dig into a good book? I’ve been so happy to sink my teeth into some new reads this week. My friend Jaye brought me over a stack of novels to get into and I’ve done just that. I started off with Whistle in the Dark by Emma Healey. I liked it, but didn’t love it. I found some of the characters frustrating. But at the same time – I had to finish the book. Does anything else do that? Jaye and I chatted about it. It’s one of those things, you just have to finish the book even if you’re not in love with it. Anyways, I’m now reading something else, The Image of You by Adele Parks. No spoilers please!
A new skincare routine
A few weeks ago I started using Dermologica products and I have to say, I’ve really been enjoying the switch up. I think it’s always nice to treat your skin to something new. I’m definitely on the hunt for upgrading my skincare and haircare game, so any and all suggestions are welcome.
Smokey bonfire smells
Is there anything better than that smell wafting into your home? No. I love every minute of it.
Playing cards at the pub & steak and ale pies
As another birthday treat for Joe, we wanted to explore a little more of our area, so we hopped on a train to visit a few local pubs. The Jolly Sailor is a cute old pub that overlooks a marina. We sat outside for a little while before retiring inside. Filled with old wooden beams and log fires everywhere, we cosied in, ordered a round of drinks along with steak and ale pies. Our phones were away and we played card games. It’s nice doing something a little different like this, isn’t it?
Supporting independent artists
This is majorly important to me. I know that my home is a mixture of brands, but I think it’s also extremely important to shop independently too. I ordered prints from some of my favourite artists (and gals!), Jemma from Dorkfaceblog and Emma from Emma Inks for my flat. I’ll be doing a proper post on this in full including a few more cool independents that I’m loving, but I’m so excited to get my gallery wall organised.
And that’s it from me this week. It feels good to focus on what’s been going well and how I feel because of that rather than to dwell on over analysis or what ifs.
What made you happy in the last week?
Kelly x