This is the start of a brand new series: The Simple Things. I loveeeee to write. Always have–whether it’s been school papers or personal journaling, God’s given me a love for expression through written word. Maybe because I’m shy and can articulate so much better this way? I don’t know, but my passion is directing the way. I’m not sure if it’s inspired by a Bible study I did earlier this year, or just purely spurned from my personality (probably both), but every week you can join me as I take the discipline to reflect on the simple things that bring joy to every day life in the midst of an overloaded world.

Small things bringing me joy this week:

-This movie: Mao’s Last Dancer. POWERFUL! You don’t have to love dance to thoroughly enjoy and be moved by it (Andy loved it!). BUT, as far as dancing goes–amazingly beautiful.

-Trader Joe’s frozen macaroons (above). Funny story: I bought these for a girl’s sleep over with a bestie, but the day of I had to text her and apologize that I wouldn’t be bringing them anymore. Why? I ate them.

–Lola’s delectable hot latte with melt-in-your-mouth shortbread cookies shared with a friend.

It was a Wednesday morning when I planned a coffee date with a friend “just because”. I put on a little extra makeup, did my hair, and slipped my feet into a favorite pair of heels. I was headed to one of my favorite downtown spots: Lola Coffeebar. I saw Millie’s sweet smiling face as I rounded the corner and found her waiting at a quaint table complete with umbrella. We embraced and complimented each other on the outfits. There’s something about being  a 20-something that gives a real sense that we’ve arrived at a fascinating new stage of life; a sense that we’re real grown-ups. A hip downtown coffee shop? Lipstick? Careers? How did we get here? It seems not long ago that I was that 16-year-old girl having sleep overs (hey wait–I’m still doing that!) and dreaming about who my first boyfriend would be. Now, I’m balancing a career and living a dream, I’m maintaining a home and enjoying each day as a wifey to a real quality man. A REAL MAN. Not just a celebrity crush we used to print pictures of and cover our walls and binders with. Life is moving fast! Today, I’m enjoying the moment–complete with lipstick, heels, and my real-life crush: hubby.

Follow along on instagram and see more from every day life!