Sometimes we need to lighten things up in life and remember: LIFE IS GOOD.

So I wanted to share five little things that have been brightening my days.

First of all… the morning sun.
I live in Arizona. This is our time to shine, baby. The weather is PERFECT. And let’s be honest — most of us are lacking vitamin D. So mornings, afternoons, and before the sunny-sun goes down, I’ve been making it a point to bask in it.
It lifts my mood, feels good on my skin, and warms me inside and out.
Try it.

Second… choosing peace over productivity more often.
I know. This grates against my DNA.
But ever since my last post about stress — and my husband challenging my entire life with one sentence — I’ve actually enjoyed choosing not to be stressed. In those moments, I choose to just be.
So often there’s nothing I can do about the things I’m stressin’ over anyway. So I stay present. I give thanks. I love the people I’m around. Or I enjoy moments of quiet, alone.

Third….Going to bed when I’m tired instead of “one more thing.”
It’s true. I’ve given myself a bedtime. AND… I’m learning to wind down.
Sleep is way more important than we give it credit for — especially for us girls and our hormonal and metabolic health. I’ve decided to protect my sleep and take better care of myself. That “one more thing” can go on my to-do list for another day.

Fourth….Conversations that don’t need fixing.
Shhhhhhhh.
How often do we have conversations where something is “not quite right,” and we feel the need to correct, argue, teach, or throw in our opinion? Lately, I’ve been enjoying just… NOT.
Who cares? Will the world keep turning if our voices aren’t heard in that moment? Yes.
And the more I let things go, the more peace I have. Obviously this doesn’t mean avoiding necessary conversations or confrontation — but the little things we can and should let go of? Those aren’t worth damaging our peace or intimacy with the people we love.

And lastly….Taking life a little less seriously.
Rich will crack a joke, and I won’t laugh. WHY? Because I’m all up in my head. Because I’m trying to be SERIOUS and GET THINGS DONE!
What a drag.
At the end of my life, will I wish I ignored his silliness and got more done? Or will I wish I had laughed, seen his smile, appreciated his attempt to bring a smile to my face, and just enjoyed that moment with him?

Serious things, moments, and responsibilities will always be there. ALWAYS.  
But laughter? Take all you can get, sister.

What about you? What are your five things?
Pay attention. Let them matter. Enjoy them on purpose.
You don’t need a new season or a perfect plan —
life is happening right now. Don’t miss it.

LOVE, Annie