Tuesday Topics: Why I Started Blogging

I started blogging back in college when I was a junior. My midterm project that fall semester and final project was to create a blog. I created two blogs, one about my personal life and the other about restaurants in Salt Lake (I ate out all the time back then). That's how I got into blogging. That's the short answer for now. Let's fast forward four years to when I started Happy Joyful Day and here's why.

Life is full of trials and my life seems to be full of them. At the time, there were many trials happening and I could barely handle all of them. I hardly smiled and didn't count my blessings when the sun shone on my face. I knew that being so unhappy was not the way to live a fulfilling life.

I realized that I needed an outlet to remind me to find joy. That's when I came up with the name Happy Joyful Day. I came to the realization that blogging was for me and that I could write about whatever I wanted. Every day happiness and simplicity is what this blog is supposed to be all about.

For every single day is a Happy Joyful Day that is not to be wasted.

xoxo

Gratitude Lately {with a printable}

No, it's not Thanksgiving (it's barely starting to warm up finally. . .) but I thought it was high time that I start writing about every day gratitude. These are the amazing simple things that make me smile and help me sleep well at night. You know the song, "When I'm worried and I can't sleep . . . I count my blessings instead of sheep . . . " 

I am grateful for  . . . 

Homemade salads with fresh cheese in them. It's the only thing I feel like eating these days.

Happy cake after long days at work and late hours of homework. 

Being able to take a quick trip to Central Park on nice afternoon to read in the sun with Kevin.

Amazing smoothies from Pure Fare that only have fruit and no added sugar.

Sweet Sunday late evening walks when the city is quiet and still for a moment.

Green leafy trees outside the Comcast Center and that it's finally spring here in Philly!

What has brought you gratitude lately?

xoxo

P.S. Like my grateful watercolor? You can download the full 11 x 8.5 (for personal use only please). Follow my blog with Bloglovin

Tuesday Topics: Bucket List

We're down to two and this is a hard one on just which two to pick! Here's what first came to my mind.

1. Kiss on top of the Empire State Building

There is something sweet about this building and two of the best romantic movies of all time. While I've been to New York several times (enough to where I've lost count), I've never been kissed at the top. 

Anyone remember this great scene?

2. Visit Africa on a Humanitarian Trip

I have always wanted to see this exotic country and help its people. I am always touched whether it's reading about this place or watching people go there to provide relief. Africa is in my heart.

Those are only two items of many! What are some of your hopes and dreams for the future? I'd love to know!

I'm pretty sure that I need to take some time to write all of my goals down soon to make them happen!

xoxo



P.S.

The top photo of the Empire State building is by Irene Kung. Her New York photograph collection is stunning.

The painting of Africa is from poppyandpinecone and they can paint a heart in on an a specific country.

Weekend Links

Not enough words can explain how happy I am that it's the weekend! Today, I'm looking forward to seeing if I can find some good garage sale items. Keep your fingers crossed for me!

Ever since we went to Central Park last weekend, I've been dying to get ready to have lots of picnics this summer. Here's what to wear from Joanna.

I love the idea of a basket for two filled with yummy cheeses and crackers on a warm day. While Kevin and I don't drink wine, we do love our Izzies!

I saw this book at Anthro and almost bought it because it made me think of my mom.

I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream! A beautiful ode to ice cream.

Always add a touch of glitter!

Dream camera. On my someday list.

No rich child left behind. What are we doing for children who may not be rich?

Pocket is my new favorite app. I bet I'm the last person to know about this app, but it saves all my articles in one place so I can read it later whether I'm connected to the internet or not. It makes it handy to read saved articles on my phone while waiting in line.

Mint is my second favorite app. It's keeping me from over spending and honest by telling me where my money actually goes (I had a few wake up moments). Mint keeps track of all your money for you and will even remind you when your credit card payment is due. Genius. Here's to a better financial planning!

I want to start writing posts about gratitude. You should join me!

Happy weekend lovelies! I hope it's a good one!

xoxo


P.S. Sweet dressed up dog photos from Smitten Studio. Too cute! I've always wanted a dog but would never dare have one while living in the middle of Philadelphia.

Many Thanks

from kellybarton shop

Lately, it seems I've been really quiet and here's a little bit about it. I've seen trials come and go in my short lifetime but I've never seen any of them add up to what it has been lately. Normally, it's just one area in my life that I'm struggling with or working on. But right now, it's everything. It has been pouring down and the sun hasn't come out to shine yet (oh, it will eventually).

What has amazed me the most is those who have helped step in to warm me up and keep me dry until the storm is over. We all need people like that in our lives to help us weather the storm. From the bottom of my heart, thank you. . .

I have learned how important it is to surround myself with good people. It always surprises me who will step in when I need it most. They are heaven sent angels in my opinion. I love each and every one of them dearly.

I only hope that I can be such a person to help someone through their stormy trials and listen with understanding.

"True friends are always together in spirit." -Anne Shirley 

xoxo

Imagine

Imagine.

Imagine a world without sadness, hurt and anguish.

Imagine a world where people are kind and gentle.

Imagine a world where people help one another.

Imagine a world where happiness is abundant.

This could be our world and it begins with me

And you.

It can begin right now and we can spread joy.

Imagine.

xoxo


P.S. It was my first time climbing up to Strawberry Fields in Central Park. It should be a must on everyone's bucket list whether you're a Beatles fan or not!

Tuesday Topics: Four sites I check daily

My husband Kevin sent this to me. I definitely make his life more colorful and organized. :)

Besides your standard, Facebook, Gmail, Twitter. . . which I'm totally addicted to. . .

1. nytimes.com
You guessed it, I love my news and have been reading the Times since the first time I went to New York. I love New York and the Times is part of that. Monday nights, David Brooks comes out with his column for the week. And the digital subscription that you have to pay for now? Totally worth it.

2. Cup of Jo
I know, cheater answer because it's another blog. But it's one I check on every time I open the computer without fail. Joanna's tips and sweet spirit is something that I adore.

3. Pinterest
Again, cheater answer because it's social media. Who doesn't go on Pinterest these days? Too many ideas and quotes to not be addicted. When I'm in need of a quick pick-me-up for something inspiring, Pinterest is my go-to. You can follow me here.

4. Oh Happy Day
Okay, another blog. See how society has made me a social media person? Just seeing the yellow banner on this blog makes me smile. Oh wait, we also get to read amazing craft tutorials? Sold.

What are your favorite sites? I probably spend too much time online these days . . .

Here's a funny fact, I still prefer paper books and magazines. I'm in Barnes and Noble at least once a week if not more (especially thanks to my mom who renewed my membership rewards card :) !

xoxo


The shirt photo above was found on Google+