I haven’t freestyled a blog post in some time, which isn’t to say that 99% of my writing isn’t off the cuff or unplanned (it typically is), but every now and then it’s nice to sit a minute and let the words flow.
I have felt a bit off lately, and I’m not sure if It’s a mild case of seasonal depression (which tends to hit end of summer for me) or if It’s the never-ending shitstorm of terrible weather we’ve had these past few weeks (months?). We’ve alternated between hot and sticky and rainy with a chance of sweaty balls for so long I can’t remember my last good hair day (sometime in May, I believe. RIP curls).
Our house is starting to feel like a home. This weekend I pestered Bryan until he finally got the hint that we needed to hang paintings on the walls. Those few hangings made a world of difference. Maybe not for him (on the list of priorities, decorations doesn’t really rank in the top three) but it mattered to me.
I’ve been receiving updates from my brother and his girlfriend as they make their way around familiar small villages in Germany where many of my family members still reside. I miss them and I miss traveling in general and I hope that we can squeeze in at least one trip in 2018. Who knew that buying a house would be such a huge financial burden? Answer: everyone.
Today is World Suicide Prevention Day. I know I say it all the time, but it’s worth repeating—the smallest gesture can go the longest way for someone in need. When was the last time you complimented a stranger, bought someone a cup of coffee, or picked up flowers for a loved one, just because? I went out to eat some time ago and I complimented a woman on her earrings. She looked taken aback but genuinely touched as she gently rubbed her ear, and I vowed that day to drop compliments liberally and as often as possible. We’ll never know someone else’s struggles so why not play a role in their happiness, even if only for a fleeting moment?
Have a look at this video, and tell me what’s on your mind in the comments. Take care of yourselves, and each other <3
I am always so happy when someone drops an unexpected compliment and I definitely have been trying to return the favor! It’s such a nice little thing to do for someone!
It seems like everyone I know has been battling seasonal depression this summer. It’s been a tough season. You are so right about how important it is to reach out and try to be a little sunshine in someone else’s life. You don’t know what kind of an impact you could have on the lives of others just by being kind and acknowledging their presence. Lives could be changed…
Hope you are feeling brighter soon, sweet friend. <3
Random, genuine compliments are amazing. I think it’s important to remember that we’re all going through something – big or small – so we should do our best to be kind and spread cheer.
I hope you can get back to Germany soon and see family, and just travel in general. I know I really wan to travel more, but it’s a pricey habit! LOL
-lauren
Im so happy the house is coming together. How can it be that Fall is my second favorite season but I get get the Fall Blues. I guess I just love summer to much! OK, now about that video. Girrrrl! I have so many feels right now. I smiled and cried though it. Much like I have through my life. Suicide is something that punches me right in the heart. Something I had become far to familiar with but can’t seem to bring myself to talk about much. Not out of shame or anything, but its something that is hard to put into words. If that makes sense. This was such a great message to get out there. Tomorrow for sure needs us all! Together we are everything! Thanks for sharing that!
Feeling a little depressed is normal. We all have that. But if it goes beyond that, you should try to take some time off for yourself and meditate or write in a journal or such. Blogging helps too but sometimes you can get lazy to even blog.
I am glad your house is becoming your home. That is such a beautiful feeling. I love this 😀 I hope you always feel that way.
It is never enough to talk about the suicide prevention day. You can say it as much as you want. It is such an important topic. In fact, thanks for reminding me. 🙂
Compliments are much needed. Whether it is to a friend or to a stranger, you are so right. I love how you complimented that woman on her earrings. This is so beautiful. I should do that too but I just find that very awkward.
Right?? My family thinks I complain about the weather too much… haha.. that’s because it’s terrible!
Thanks for sharing the video. Powerful stuff. I get weird from working home alone all day if I don’t recharge out in the world and connect with others.
Charlotte,
I am so very happy for you both with your house! Can’t wait to see photos. Thank you for mentioning suicide prevention day- that’s so important!! Hope you are well my dear. XOXO