Positive Thoughts Only

Hi there and happy Sunday! 👋🏼 It's been a while since I've posted last and with everything going on in the world, I thought this would be a good opportunity to stay more in touch with others and stretch my creative muscles once again.

I'm not alone when I say things have been a bit rocky lately. All of the recent changes and uncertainty has been amplified by the serious state New York City - my home - finds itself in. I'd be lying if I said I haven't contemplated an escape plan or day dreamed of being in an house over a one bedroom apartment with a fire escape for outdoor space. It's so easy to focus on worst case scenarios and panic each time a siren sounds. But amidst all of the chaos, I've found myself blessed with supportive loved ones who help me stay positive and make each day beautiful in it's own way.

I've also found it's important now more than ever to prioritize things that make you happy. So in celebration of the small joys of life, here's a list of things I've found keep the negative thoughts at bay and help me destress after a tough day (or week).



Herbal Tea
For the past few month's I've slowly started to switch to exclusively drinking herbal tea. The Republic of Tea has a beautiful array of unique herbals to choose from. If you're feeling stressed or having difficulty falling asleep, would definitely recommend Get Relaxed or Beauty Sleep. Nothing beats sipping deliciously warm tea to unwind and this small bit of comfort has made a world of difference.


Face Masks
When I think of relaxation and self care, face masks come to front of mind -- who's surprised. The Sephora sheet masks have historically been my go to. They're relaxing, have great benefits for your skin, and silly to wear with friends and family. Nothing kills stress better than laughing with loved ones because you all look absolutely ridiculous. If sheet masks aren't your thing, I've also started using sleeping masks. Glow Recipe's Watermelon + Avocado masks -- 10/10.


Yoga + Running
There are a ton of apps giving free memberships while we're all cooped up. Right now the Down Dog app is giving free access until May 1st. This was a huge game changer for me. When I'm tense from sitting in front of my computer all day, a 20 minute yoga sesh is the perfect way to clear my mind, get the blood pumping and just reset. And for days you need something more, a long run through the neighborhood is just what the doctored order.


Puzzles
I am a sucker for puzzles. Have been as long as I can remember. And I am not alone. The amount of people posting pictures of puzzles on social media has skyrocketed in the last few weeks. If you want to take a break from the screens and concentrate on a challenge, Barnes and Noble has so. many. options. Last weekend I finished a 1000 piece puzzle in two days.  👀 Think I need stock up on a few more...


Nancy Drew Games
Okay, hear me out. I know this last one definitely shows off my geeky side, but I've been obsessed with Nancy Drew games for as long as I can remember. If you like mysteries and want a challenge, would 100% recommend downloading one of these games. It's a running joke in my family that we can't beat a single game without looking up some of the answers, but that's because these games are challenging. See if you can beat them without any hints - bet you you can't! In the past few months, I've played Ghost of Thornton Hall, The Silent Spy and Labyrinth of Lies. Currently on Alibi in Ashes - but there all such good games. Pick any one of them. You can't go wrong.




What are you doing to bring little moments of joy to your life?

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Real Talk: When Friendships Get Tough

It's hump day, y'all! That means that tomorrow is Thursday, Light Up Night is the day after and Thanksgiving shortly follows. Exciting things to come! Today's blog post is another in my 'Real Talk' series. I've noticed a huge amount of personal growth since I've graduated. I've been tested and tested again and I've learned so much about the world and my resilience and perseverance. I've talked a little about this in previous Real Talk posts (catch up here and here), and today I am once again getting personal. As much as I love writing #ootd posts, monthly goals and other light, fun posts like that, there's something impacting about my more personal posts. While I'm able to talk through my own problems and my growth in the world, I also have a feeling (or at least a hope) I am helping someone. I have a hope that by opening up here, I make an impact on someone else's life-- I help them see things a little differently, I give them a little bit of confidence. Whatever might be the result, Real Talk posts continue to push what I'm willing to share and help me put to words my worldview and experiences.

Lately, I've realized how much of a coward I've been in my friendships. There, I've said it & I'll be the first to admit it. I've always been terrified to address a friend who has done something wrong or an action they've taken that I've found offense in. Every friendship has their ups and downs-- we wouldn't be human if it didn't happen. For me though, ever since I can remember I've always worried that standing up for myself or addressing an issue would ruin the friendship, so I've ignored it. I've pushed the issue down, thought of anything else to distract me. And I always had the naive thought that this was for the best--that I was helping the relationship. I refused to 'call people out' because I didn't want them to be mad at me. Honestly, this is really how I've functioned in most aspects of my life.



What I've learned since graduating is that addressing these issues or standing up for yourself is a good thing and can actually help strengthen a friendship or relationship in the long run. You can't live your life in fear of confronting people--especially when the friendship or relationship means a lot to you. Now, this isn't to say you should fly off the handle every time a problem comes up. While I am the first to admit I get emotional when I am upset, I've found I can discuss issues best when I'm not foaming at the mouth. (People tend to take you more serious when you use this approach :P ) But even more so, when you do fly off the handle, even if your claim is valid, you may end up doing more damage. (( Cue, my worst fear. ))



Looking back on the times I've stood up for myself or brought up an issue, sure the relationship was strained for a bit. That will happen. But what I've found is that after the smoke clears, the mutual respect has been strengthened and there's an understanding that if something else comes up you'll both be open with each other and able to get through it. It's honestly a work in progress for me and I definitely catch myself falling back into old habits, but I've been trying to make an honest effort. Because, look, if Serena and Blair went through 6 seasons of fight after fight and still came out as the ruling queens they are, your relationship can, too!

Life may throw hella curve balls at you and there may be times when friendships are tested, but you should never be afraid to stand up for what you believe in or stand up for the friendships and relationships that mean the most to you. Does this resonate with you? Do you feel your relationships are stronger after discussing issues or am I just going crazy?!? :P I'd love to hear your stories in the comments below. 

xoxo,

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