Let’s face it, life is crazy. There are plenty of days that fly by and I sit and wonder, “What did I even accomplish today?” Keeping up with emails, social media, a toddler running a muck, two dogs that like to romp around the house, meetings, sessions, wedding prep, laundry. Many times the feeling is overwhelming. Yet, one of my goals this year, especially since this is my 2nd year at home with Harper and running my business is to enjoy as much as possible. Not everyday do I have an amazing wedding, a super fun session, or a day when my child is an angel. Most times the actions of a toddler test my patience, the laundry has been sitting in a basket for a week, and my workspace looks like a bomb exploded. But, is that really what it’s about? So for a little perspective with all the crazy important events in life, I wanted to step back and share with you the small simply things that light up my world. Finding delight in the smallest of things will keep you (and me) going. It would be hard to tell you that my loves are all included in this top ten list. Because that would be a lie. Obviously my family, friends, and the love I have for my business would be at the top. However, this list of stuff I love is made up of simple everyday joys that make me happy. Sit back and enjoy this little insight into my life in no particular order. 

1. Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream

Nothing finishes off a stressful day better than a bit of mint chocolate chip! In a bowl, cone, or my favorite in milkshake form…it just touches my soul! 

2. Anything Disney

Let’s face it. With a three year old, I’m surrounded by Disney! But, I wouldn’t have it any other way! My love for Disney existed before Harper arrived and Josh and I made the conscious effort to inject this love into her life. As Josh said when Harper, as a baby, couldn’t keep her eyes off of Mickey Mouse on the tv, “There’s just something about that mouse!” But even all those beautiful princesses and their messages of independence, strength, and good will make my heart happy. Especially raising a daughter of my own. 

3. The Beach

Now this, unfortunately, isn’t an every day reality in my life. Although we aren’t close to a beach here in central Illinois, we do our best to hit the beach (or the Shore as my family from Philly lovingly refers to it) at least every other year. New Jersey is normally where my family vacations. My parents and their families gathered in these beach side communities growing up. However, I have a love for ALL beaches! From vacations in FL to the pristine sand in Hawaii, where Josh and I went for our honeymoon, I haven’t met a beach I didn’t like. 

4. List Making

If you looked at my desk currently, you could probably find at least 3-4 different lists going. From my weekly “Things to Accomplish” list, keeping track of long term things to do, as well as groceries to buy. You can see them all. This love for the list definitely came from my dad. The need to check things off and stay organized runs deep in my family. My dad’s choice of organization product….Manilla Folders! The man has a manilla folder for everything! No joke! From vacation plans, to receipts, to home improvement ideas. If he wants to remember it, he prints it and puts it in a folder. It’s become quite the running joke in our family! Between the two of us we should probably buy stock in manilla folders and Post It notes! 

5. Oreos…Double Stuffed to be exact

They are the perfect combination of chocolate cookie and creme filled goodness! And some milk for dunking and it’s PERFECTION! 

6. Yoga Pants

I probably need to wear these to remind myself to go workout after all my double stuffed Oreos and mint chocolate chip milkshakes! But in all seriousness….Yoga Pants RULE!

7. New Socks

Continuing with the theme of clothing loves, new socks people! It’s one of my favorite things! Christmas time is the best when I know that Santa will be stuffing my stocking with brand new soft socks! That’s all I really need! Like hugs for my feet! 

8. Repurposing for Home Decor/Home Decor in General

I LOVE finding new uses for old, unique pieces. I have a blast when I get to go antique shopping and see what treasures I can find. An old ladder to hold our plethora of blankets, glass containers in beautiful colors (many we found and used on our wedding reception tables) are scattered about our home, and varying plates that hang on our walls including one that was owned by Josh’s grandparents. So many options and not enough space. 

9. Football

If you didn’t already know, my family is originally from Philadelphia. I was born there, much of our family and friends are still there, and we make frequent road trips back as often as possible. The Philadelphia Eagles are who we root for. We have a love/hate relationship with them and we long for championship seasons. But often end having heart palpitations. If I don’t have sessions or weddings on a Sunday during football season, you can find me watching as much football as I’m allowed! 

10. Harper Kisses

Last but certainly not least, my child has the ability to give the best kisses of all time! All you have to do is ask and most times she will stop what she is doing, hold your face in her tiny hands, and plant a wet kiss right on your lips! I hope she never gets tired of me asking for this token of love because I can’t get enough. I’m absolutely in LOVE with her kisses. 

Hopefully you had fun getting to know the small things I love in my life. My mom always says it doesn’t take much to make me happy. Pretty sure she calls me a “Simple Tool” as well. I think that is a term of endearment! Those little items and experiences I hold near and dear to my heart. What are some of your simple pleasures in your life? 

Warm Regards, 
Lauren

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