This year, I made a vow to myself to treat summer a bit differently than I have the last several years.
At one point, maybe 2-3 years ago, I vividly remember having a conversation with a friend and us whining about how “summer isn’t what it used to be when we were kids” and “it’s just another season.” Later that night, I was lying in bed and thinking, “Wow. We really sounded like two negative Nancy’s.” It wasn’t one of my best moments and after a lot of thought, I realized that it was my mentality and outlook on the situation.
A Secret to Happiness
When I started paying closer attention to what really makes me feel happy and content (as talked about here and here), I knew that one of the biggest factors is having exciting things to look forward to.
Fun fact: Studies actually show that the excitement and lead-up to our plans is as important as the plans themselves. When we have things to look forward to, something triggers in our brain and as humans, we become happier people. Makes so much sense!
I went into this summer with the mindset that, “It’s going to be one of the best summers yet!” We didn’t have any fancy trips planned but I knew it wasn’t about that. Smaller weekend getaways would make me as happy; in addition to: plans with loved ones, work and home projects, and even something as simple as having a great book to look forward to reading.With that being said, I wanted to share a few photos from the last month; Glimpses into moments that brought me happiness.
The above photo was taken on an evening that I spent finishing The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo. If you’re a book (or kindle) reader and haven’t read it yet, put it on your list! It’s one of the best books I’ve read this year.
Button Down | Denim | Sandals: Hermes (similar alternative) | Bag | Sunglasses
Dress: Self Portrait (on sale, wearing a size 4)
Project with Veuve Clicquot
Two Piece Jumpsuit | Sandals | Sunglasses
The above photos are from a trip for a project with Veuve Clicquot. My best friend Susy came along, for what was our first getaway since having babies over 2+ years ago. The getaway was special for so many reasons but the highlights are getting to work with a brand I love & admire and I having two nights of uninterrupted, quality girl time.
Naturally, the trip involved lots of champagne! The best part? We could actually enjoy ourselves without worrying about waking up to take care of little people. Susy has two little ones, 17 months apart!
Blazer: Mango (wearing a size 2 ) | Denim Skirt | Belt | Canvas Tote | Shoes: Chanel | Sunglasses: Celine ‘Tilda’
Heading to the Poconos for a weekend getaway with the family! I ended up taking the blazer off and swapping out these Chanel slides to my slides. I should add that this Rag & Bone tote is ideal for travel.
Skirt | Button Down | Sneakers: Castaner (love this brand!) | Necklaces: Edge of Ember and BYCHARI |Backpack: Chanel Gabrielle (smaller size)
So far, this summer has been one of my favorites in a long time!
26 comments
dIANA
I feel like I’ve had the same negative feelings and need to change that asap! Is that book more gossipy (love a juicy story!) and of course lvoe all your pics and Nate is getting so big!
July 9, 2018sharon
Interesting fact that the leading up to and planning of trips makes us happy. I never really thought about it but now, realize that’s me a nut shell. I literally smile ear to ear talking about plans to travel. I guess I like making plans. P.s. When I saw your blazer, jean skirt and Chanel look on Instagram, I recreated it for a night out with my husband. You have the best style inspo.
July 9, 2018http://www.forthewonderer.com
Allie
I always love having something to look forward to too. Countdowns make everything so much sweeter! Cheers to a wonderful July! xAllie
July 9, 2018http://www.theallthatglittersblog.com
briana
I loved Evelyn Hugo! It’s the perfect summer read for someone who wants something dishy but with depth.
briana | youngsophisticate.com
July 9, 2018YZ Chan
Glad to hear that your Summer is going well! Lovely outfits as usual. x
http://www.yzwears.com
July 9, 2018jada
I 100% agree with you on how to make summer a happier season. It is so easy to fall into the slump of unhappiness when you see other people going on amazing vacations or doing what seems like more exciting adventures. I think that weekend trips can be just as fulfilling! Thanks for sharing.
http://THEGIRLFROMCONNECTICUT.COM/
July 9, 2018Ewa Macherowska
So lovely! 🙂
http://www.evdaily.blogspot.com
July 9, 2018Joelle regh
I absolutely agree with you! It’s all about our mindset and how we look at things! I love this advice! And of course, absolutely love your pictures!
xo Joëlle
http://www.joellesstyle.com
July 9, 2018Mireia
What a beautiful post!
Mireia from TGL
July 9, 2018https://thegoldlipstick.com/
BeingIsabella
I really like the concept of this post. In truth, the older I get, the faster time really does go by. Although this can be quite disheartening at times, it always inspires me to do my best and make the most out of every moment. I try to cut negative influences out of my life as much as possible, and really do things that make ME happy. If there’s something that I can’t get away from, then I try to find the good in it. I completely agree with what you said that the lead up to an exciting event is just as important as the actual event. We really have to start making more exciting memories! I wish you the best of summers!!
http://www.beingisabella.com
July 9, 2018Jae
It’s always nice to have something to look forward to!
July 9, 2018Jae
http://www.allthatjae.com
Shadowy_last
Hubby and I were just having a very similar conversation. We did a western Mediterranean tour with our 5 year old last summer. This summer though has been low key but equally amazing. I’ve done two girlfriends only cottage trips, one family and friends cottage trip over Canada day long weekend and one coming up for one full week early Aug, we also renovated our kitchen this summer as well as our basement bathroom. Small things (though kitchen was pricy lol) that have made me so happy. I’ve truly been having one of the best summers of my life.
Your backyard looks gorgeous Helena. That’s my next sunner’s project.
July 9, 2018jessenia tejada
Love this!!
July 10, 2018Kristie
Couldn’t agree with you more about this. It’s like we become too adult to have a really good time. It’s easy to get into that mindset and stay there. Glad you want to reboot. It’s a great idea. Plus, it sounds like your Summer has been great so far. That has to be soooo worth it. Enjoy! 😊
July 10, 2018baby names
Great mindset. Thank you for sharing the post! It helps me realize many things. I did many things that I didn’t last year, so in some ways, this summer is great for me 🙂
July 11, 2018Jalisa
I haven’t been able to stop by and read as often as I would’ve liked because these past few weeks have been so overwhelming. To say that reading this post was very much needed is an understatement. As a new mom, I often find myself complaining about things that I shouldn’t and getting so wrapped up in the to-do’s and not so much the moment. Thank you of sharing your new found perspective and such chic outfit ideas, as always.
July 11, 2018Jandrew
I always like your posts and this one made me think. I have history of depression and anxiety and have found that creating positive self-talk is a great way to brighten my mood and create happiness. Happiness just doesn’t happen , from my experience we create it ! Thanks so much for this thoughtful post !
July 14, 2018Enjoy the rest of the summer!
Jandrew
Dress The Part
http://www.jandrewspeaks.com
temple run 3
Wow, the clothes she wears are so beautiful.
July 16, 2018norton.com/setup
Nice post keep updating more ..!!
July 25, 2018Waiting for next post
mcafee.com/activate
Great mindset. Thank you for sharing the post! It helps me realize many things. I did many things that I didn’t last year, so in some ways, this summer is great for me
July 27, 2018drivers Asus
look amazing views
September 6, 2018Raju
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September 10, 2018Ali Enza
Build up and planning is definitely half the fun of any adventure! Love your photographs!
September 12, 2018karan
nice post…..
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February 9, 2019Ame
Planning a trip is always fun and exiting. Making memories with the people we love will stay forever. Love the pictures!
https://www.laglamourstyle.com/
May 15, 2019Anna Hassan
A mindset change can make all the difference to our perspective
May 26, 2019