Lately I’ve been having difficulty getting the words out. My thoughts are disjointed paragraphs, and maybe that’s a reflection of life right now.
Lately I’ve been studying Gracie and Cooper’s faces, hoping I won’t find any signs of aging—but I do. And I think it’s the cruelest joke of all that man’s best friend doesn’t live nearly as long as man.
I cry often lately. Can’t blame it on PMS either (or pregnancy—might as well throw that out there). Maybe it’s just change.
Lately I’ve had a strong desire to get organized and finish projects. I think it’s an important step that needs to be taken before other, bigger steps.
Lately I’ve realized that I can only do me. I can’t do someone else. But I can sure do a better me than anyone else can.
Lately I’ve been placing happy little things in strategic places where I know I’ll see them, and I know they’ll make me smile.
what can I say, I love cool rocks.
obviously.
Expecto Patronum—from here. (a reminder of our power over circumstances and fear)
Lately I have been happy, despite sometimes being sad.
And lately, I think I’m realizing that’s key—accepting life as it comes at you, every single day. Some days will be better than others. Some days (like yesterday! sheesh!) you will just wake up on the wrong side of the bed and stay there the entire day, and on days like that, it’s important to just treat yourself, if you can. To celebrate life by doing something that you love (like watching Harry Potter… not that I did that), and understand that tomorrow is another day and a new chance.
Today is that new chance. And I’m happy to take it.
83 comments:
Couldn't have said it better myself.
Love this post.
http://inthekitchenandonthecouch.blogspot.com/
I'm so glad you wrote this because the other day I was going crazy for no reason. I am just crying and in a pissy mood. It was so weird!
Love this post, and that adorable picture of Gracie.
<3
WAIT! before finishing reading the post did i read right ARE YOU PREGNANT??
OMG, it's like I could have wrote this post myself... weird and comforting ! thanks for sharing Jenni. Have a beautiful day girl !
Beautiful post, and OMG that print. YES.
I've been feeling the same way lately. I'm in a funk (or just terribly homesick) and it sucks.' Some days are better than others!
Hugs from Holland
xxx
You write so beautifully my dear. And I think you can blame some of it on being a girl. I’ve been a bit of the same way lately! happy. Really happy with things lately. But inside nervous. dreading when my boyfriend leaves for baseball in 3 weeks. Lot of conflicting emotions!
Oh Jenni, i send you a big hug. I am happy that you take every little moment and makes it yours, keep smiling.
Love this, Jenni! So true--all we can do it take life as it comes at you and try and do the best we can. Thanks for the reminder! :)
~Tiffany
http://tiffanyd22.blogspot.com
You make me smile when I want to karate chop someone in the throat and I love you for it.
This post is so true and is exactly how I'm feeling right now. But this is the only life I have and it's my responsibility to make it awesome and not let douchelords ruin it for me! Or my own terrible attitude ruin it for me.
PS - I would love to stay in bed all day.
My baby girl's fur around her mouth seems to get more gray by the day :( So I just cherish that little love bug as much as I can while she's still here.
Girl. I strongly believe January is THE WORST month (even if my sister was born during it...). It's gross and bleak and we're all on a post-holiday hangover. But you're a great lady, and I'm glad to hear you're happy. Because it's totally ok to be sad. And It's totally ok to be sad in Boston with me.
Wait. Who said that?
Beautiful post, Jenni.
And LOVE that print!!
This is exactly what I needed right now. I had the most ridiculous day yesterday - falling off a ladder at work (not high enough to hurt myself, just enough to bruise my ego) and having to get the YMCA staff to cut my lock off my locker because I left the key inside. Sometimes the best advice really is to just breathe and let things happen. I hope today is a better day for both of us. I'm sure mine will be, because it may or may not involve watching HP after seeing your art.
Your blog is such a blessing in my life. I'm thankful for you genuine heart and the reminder that I'm not the only one who has off days (so there's no need to beat myself up over it).
I like this life lately kind of post. I think I should write a life lately post, even if I can't share EVERYTHING about life lately on the blog yet. I cry a lot too. Mostly happy tears. And I feel like my effort to be a better me forces me to re-evaluate a lot more than I would normally be comfortable with.
we are on the EXACT same wavelength right now...big time. everything you said. me. right now. and yesterday. these are the moments i wish we lived next door to each other.
i feel ya. and i blame the time of year!!! dark days, post-holidays, etc. etc.
I had "one of those days" recently. I can never explain its origin and trying to only makes it worse so instead I cry and somehow getting those tears out along with a day of stillness makes it better. My hubby and I call those times as, " being in a funk". When I say that he just knows there's nothing that can be done and leaves me be. Thank you for sharing.
theminiriccos.blogspot.com
Oh Jenni, I just loved reading this! So down to earth and real, yet so hopeful! You are so great at writing :)
I know what you mean. Yesterday I definitely woke up on the wrong side of the bed. Today is a new day and that in itself is a great reason to smile :)
You're so inspiring...even when you don't feel inspired yourself!
And no worries. I love Harold (he's a man now) Potter as well!
'And I think it’s the cruelest joke of all that man’s best friend doesn’t live nearly as long as man.'
So unbelievably true. I lost my dog in November at just age 10. He had been with me from ages 13-23. He died with his head in my lap and I'm still so confused as to why they have to leave so much earlier than other species. It's not really fair, is it?
Sending you happy thoughts today Jenni!! I get in slumps sometimes too...in fact, Tuesday I wanted to come home and cry and eat chocolate icecream and I realized my period was coming (oh and not to mention the crappy weather!). I just try to remind myself that this will pass and that life is so much more than the little things that push my buttons. Hang in there...I would totally be smilin' if I was looking at your bedroom wall! I love it
I'm speechless.
It's literally like you took the words right out of my mouth.
Cheers to a new day, J. Let's enjoy it.
Yay for a new chance!! I resonate so strongly with this post today. I love that you're putting things that make you happy or remind you of something good nearby, like pockets of refuge. I have a cabinet full of candles that I open sometimes just to take a whiff of all the good, cozy, comforting smells. And I've stacked my favorite books on my nightstand to keep me company. I have to remind myself that material things are not the actual comfort and joy but the reminder of the presence of comfort and joy in my life.
When Madigan does go, I am just going to lose it. I have no idea how I will be able to live without her. I just cannot even fathom it.
Thanks for such an honest, heart-felt post this morning...
Great post. It's interesting reading the comments because it seems a lot of us are feeling the same way.
It's hard to accept and understand some days but your insight is beautiful. Thanks for being you!
http://annmichelesworld.blogspot.com/
Great post! Needed this today! I have been feeling this way too, this entire week! I cry at every little thing and have been in the worse mood!
I hope you have a great day!
Like you and many of the other commenters, I'm totally going through the same thing. I didn't even go to class twice this week because I just wanted to go home and get into bed and be alone. major depression right now and questioning everything.
Every day I fear my dog Daisy's death too. She's 12 and her face has turned completely white and she has trouble walking. I'm not going to be able to handle it when she dies. It's my biggest fear.
And I agree with Alexandria... come to Boston and get cupcakes with us and we can all de-sad together. Maybe a vacation here is just what you need.. ? :)
I've been having a lot of the same thoughts/feelings lately too Jenni! I've really learned that I need to wake up each day with an attitude that I'm going to make the most of my day whatever that means.... and I'm not going to dwell in my yesterdays.
Here's to making the most of today! (:
Gosh Jenni, I have felt sort of the same way lately. I can't explain it really. Some sort of post holiday depression but...not. Spring (Texas winter) cleaning, organizing, and happy days mixed with an uninspired feeling. I am in a weird haze. I too seek comfort in things I love. My favorite movies over and over. Thanks for this post. Great job on communicating "realness". XO, Heather
my nephew loves cool rocks, and he often leaves them lying around my apartment. once in a while...i'll see a pair of them, casting shadows.
it's the cutest thing, and it reminds me of his dirty hands!
This is beautiful. And I SO know how you feel! I am a regular crier, whether hormone induced or not. I think sometimes things are better solved with tears - whether they're big things, small things, (or often in my case) unknown things.
Glad to hear you're happy, too. We all need a little of both sometimes (well, more like a lot of the happy and a little less of the sad).
I love this post. It's true, sometimes you have a crappy day but it's important to remember the little things that make you smile. Oh and so you know, after I read your resolution post about making shit happen. I wrote that(MAKE SHIT HAPPEN) on my chalkboard in the kitchen,where I knew I would see it everyday, and it has helped so much! So thanks for that! : )
What a perfectly said post. Thank you. My co-worker said to me yesterday "this too shall pass" and it is so true. Even if there is no "this", maybe it's just a feeling, but keeping in mind that it will pass helps me get through it. And as odd as it sounds, sometimes it feels good to have a few sad days. It makes the happy ones that much better.
And it truly is such a cruel, cruel joke about mans best friend.
Was going to leave a novel for a comment, but decided to email it instead :) .
beautiful my dear.
It is so hard and heartbreaking thinking of when our dogs and cat will go before us, even though I've gone through it before. My girl has a mask, and over the past year (she's 7.2- I refuse to admit to 8) it's lost most of its black and been blending more and more with her white face. I keep threatening to color it in with a sharpie, but really it just digs at my heart each time I notice it lighter. I'm sorry Gracie and Cooper are showing age- but hey, I'll let you in on our house challenge- the oldest known dog lived to be 29. We plan on beating that twofold :)
It seems we've all been feeling this way this week. Beyond me, you're the 2nd person who's expressed this in a post.
My horrible day was Tuesday. Crying, deeply down and many other things. Then Wed. everything was right again. I hope today is your 'right again' day.
Emily at Amazing Grapes
Love this post! It perfectly captures my life right now. Every day is a new day and I am so thankful for that. It's exciting not knowing what the next day will bring, even though they might not all be amazing.
Well said, lady. That is all I can say.
I hope you're feeling better today. Sending love and prayers in your direction.
xo,
Jenna
Love that you did this for yourself. Love that print and love you positively!
Jenni...you and your rocks! Since I now know it's not a particular VARIETY but the APPEARANCE of the rock, I always get a smile anytime you refer to your rocks! And child, that's some collection of mighty fine appearing rocksI hope the sunshine is back in your heart today. We all get those 'gray' days and I think your approach to facing that day was a good one.
Much love and prayers for you and yours...y'all are always in my heart.
Hugs~
Hey Jenni,
Don't let yourself get too down! We all go through some up and down days and even more than a few down days that may sometimes turn into little funks. I, myself have been going through a little one lately being so far away from my family and friends. But just remember all the absolutely wonderful things about your life and that every day is truly a blessing. Of course a little (or a lot!) of Harry Potter never hurts either.
Keep your head up, girl!
Britta
http://thebootsparade.blogspot.com/
i'm glad i wasn't the only one who felt that way yesterday! today is another day -- except i already have a run in my tights. i treated myself yesterday with my first sampling of mini eggs for the season and the movie, Valentine's Day.
Stephanie
www.cupcakeandwhiskey.com
Really love this post. : )
I can completely relate. Lately, things have just been a little off and I am trying to restore balance in my life. Thanks for sharing.
This is a lovely post. Everyone gets down in the dumps sometimes. I love that you put little things that make you happy around the house. So sweet!
I've never commented on a blog before but I couldn't help myself today. You are so similar to my sister! She's collected rocks as long as I can remember and is also Harry Potter obsessed! As in, I have a niece named Lily James!
... lately I've been dreading turning 25 (tomorrow YIKES).
wish. me. luck.
ohhhh....goodness.
This was EXACTLY what I needed today...my life is NO WHERE near where I thought I'd be, (hello divorce with a 16 month old...) I just cried in the bath room because I'm feeling so lost and overwhelmed! :{ But tomorrow is another day...
xo,
Dani
Girl. Me too. Seriously, when you write that post about Blue Monday I couldn't believe how true it was and how it has lasted all this week! I've just had this funk that I can't seem to shake. I think its the weather, lack of exercise, worn out from my job, and missing my friends at home. My methods of coping had been lots of chocolate....
Girl. Me too. Seriously, when you write that post about Blue Monday I couldn't believe how true it was and how it has lasted all this week! I've just had this funk that I can't seem to shake. I think its the weather, lack of exercise, worn out from my job, and missing my friends at home. My methods of coping had been lots of chocolate....
Jenni,
I'm a new follower...and this post hits home for sure! There are a lot of struggles happening in life right now, each pulling a different direction. I appreciate your truthfulness in the blah, and your positiveness (yes, I enjoy making up my own words) in the FACT that tomorrow is another opportunity! YOU ROCK!
Angie
eachdayinthislife.blogspot.com
you do such magic with words Jenni...such a blessing!! this is a beautiful post indeed!
LOVE this post, perfectly describes a 'chick day' when you can't seem to find the right words to explain why you feel like you do. <3
Maybe dogs don't live as long as man so they can all be in heaven waiting for us. Nice thought....
Love you Jenni.... :-)
Love how you put this...yesterday was one of those who-the-heck-is-this-crazy-woman-oops-it's-actually-me and then this morning, after lots of Jesus and chocolate croissants, things looked a little better :)
Hi Jenni!
Hope your week gets brighter :)
Have you already mentioned what preset you use for your photos on this post? I love it and you use it on your photos often!
thx!
xo
-W.
Hi Jenni,
I love your blog - HUGE blog crush :)
Reading your post I couldn't help but think of The Secret. After reading the how you and and your husband met story I set my self 3 'to do's' over the Christmas holidays. One was to walk every day, one was to eat healthily 80% of the time and the other was to read The Secret. I did all 3 since the 1st of January and I can say I feel a lot better. I still have flat days but I do what The Secret says of opening the book at a random page and it always provides the help that I need at that time whether it's remembering to be grateful, improving my thought process or just to have a laugh.
Thank you for helping me to feel better in 2012, I am grateful for finding your blog :)
With love
Robyn :)
I love cool rocks too! Your photos are very artistic. I enjoyed reading your blog; I'll have to read older posts. And, don't worry, this is the time of year when most of us get a little blue.....but then the next day is sunshiny yellow again! Take care,
Jen
Your photos are so beautiful. Today is also one of those days I have to accept for myself! Every day is a new day, you get a chance to start over again!
I love everything you said :)
And I love that idea of putting things around you, like rocks or pictures, that make you happy when you see them. That's a great idea.
And of course to treat yourself! I always make sure to treat myself when I can. Well, if it involves spending money, I don't really treat myself(I'm so frugal it's not even funny), but if I can, I'll convince myself to!
Sorry you've been sad at times though :( I've been there.
This is very true. I've been thinking about this a lot lately, actually. I may not be the coolest person ever, but I'm the coolest me I can be!
Today has been one of those days for me. Just.... sad. And lonely. Can't wait for tomorrow, but for now I'll make do with a glass of wine and a new episode of grey's anatomy. Sending you hugs from NY!
Looks like this post hit home for many. Jenni you are a genius! You make people connect with you on such a deep level and your words just sing the tune that "lately".....many of us have been humming! And like you said...we just have to accept it. As they say....it is what it is. Tomorrow is a new day. Tomorrow will be better. No two days are the same. "Hakuna Matata" it means no worries:)
I love this post, and totally agree with you that in an ideal world, our furry friends would have the same life expectancies as we do. :(
Amen, girl! Comforting to know we all have times like this. Hang in there, shug!
Love the HP quote...I need to put one in my classroom. Great idea!
I love your new layout.....like really love. I also really love that HP print. And this post....how you're coming to your own.
Dear Jenni,
So, I tried to send an email to you, but it said that the email in your contact page is not recognized. I read your blog everyday and love it. Anyway, I know Matthew is busy with law school, but I recently saw a commercial for a show that just screamed his name; it's called "Doomsday Preppers" and it's on the National Geographic channel. Thanks for writing you blog. It often brings a smile to by day! Have a fantastic day tomorrow.
Best,
Jenn
jennmartinez1984@gmail.com
I discovered your blog from Katie Running on Happiness. So glad that she had you as a blogger guest. I have been coming, reading and being a nosey on your blog. I love and adore it so much!
Happiness and acceptance are the keys to life. Your post is definitely one of my favorite things today!
Thank you Jenni for sharing and hopefully that "lately" of yours will continue to become a continuous progression ;)
Wow something is seriously up. Whereever I look people feel strange things.
I've been so angry lately and cannot figure it out. Haven't cried in a long time because I am blocked. I used to cry all the time. Just like that. And it used to give me relief. Now i can't cry. I'm broken... hence the anger maybe, it had nowhere to go...
xx
Beautifully put and I LOVE THAT HARRY POTTER EXPECTO PATRONUM PIC! Gorgeous! It rocks! Where did you get it? Or did you make it?
Natalie
www.projectdowhatyoulove.wordpress.com
I needed this post. And I need to remember that everyday is a new change, and one to celebrate, regardless of the circumstance that are sometimes out of our hands. Hang in there! :)
So true Jenni! Hang in there Jenni! It happens to all of us! I think it's part of growing up and or part of life. I think it happens to men also thet just hide their feelings mote rhan us lol. Sending a big hug your way! Xo
Mmhhmmm. We're on the same page girl. Keep you're chin up.
The picture of your pup made me kinda sad. I look at my little Lucy everyday and wonder why she can't be around forever. It's so sad. From one dog mom to another, I feel ya!
New follower :-)
Amira
AmiraGray.blogspot.com
Your words are so moving, love! You got them out just fine. I know exactly how you feel though. Exactly.
Perfectly put. :) And I so feel the same way about our dogs. My baby girl turns 3 on Sunday & I have to admit that it makes me sad. I don't want her to age. I wish I could stop time. It feels like just a few months ago that we brought her home at 8 weeks old. We're going to do something fun with the dogs on Sunday to celebrate, like a hike...followed by Frosty Paws for them. ;)
Mendi @ Her Late Night Cravings
So beautifully written... here is to life and what's on hold!
you're such an honest writer. i love it. and it's true. go celebrate life, dammit. cause what's the point if you don't?
I blame this time of the year. It's the winter season it gets people down. Hang in there girl!
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