February Blues: 5 Tips to Help You Beat The Blues this time of Year!

February Blues!  I really don't like them (we don't use the word hate at our house, but if I could...). This time every year that I begin to get the winter blues.  The skies are so gray. The temperature is cold.  When will winter end?  We have had a few spring teasers, but I am ready for the real deal.  I want blue skies and green grass and I want it now!  In addition to the crummy weather, it feels like the work load is piling up at school and home.  No matter how hard I try, the negative energy is hard to fight. Does anyone else feel this way?  So, I have to dig down deep to keep up my positive energy and stay focused and happy.  This blog post is about finding the positive in life, when the negative is dragging you down.  Just a few tips for surviving this tough time...I will survive!

1. Be grateful and thankful for the good things in your life!
 The first one might seem easier than it is, but I really try to do this at all times. Keeping a gratitude journal is one way be mindful of the wonderful things in your life.  For lent this year, my promise was to write 3 things I am thankful for everyday in my calendar.  It only takes me a few minutes, and it has been a great daily reminder of the many things I am grateful for in my life.  I hope to keep it up all year.

2. The power of music is incredible.

I can't say I am super cool and hip these days when it comes to the type of music I listen to in the car or at home. But, my suggestion is to listen to the music you love.  I am typically a Classic Rock type of girl.  Fleetwood Mac and Beatles are my go to music choices.  My girls and I would give a strong recommendation to Elizabeth Mitchell!  I spend most of my time driving a mini-van listening to children's tunes (not cool I know, but I said good-bye to cool a long time ago).  I will listen to Elizabeth Mitchell all day long.  She is awesome.  We all love her, even my hip, music loving husband.  Try out this song. The title is LOVELY DAY. You wont be able to resist the smile that creeps up on your face.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1KuKNku0fvo

3. Get moving!

"Exercise is considered vital for maintaining mental fitness, and it can reduce stress. Studies show that it is very effective at reducing fatigue, improving alertness and concentration, and at enhancing overall cognitive function. This can be especially helpful when stress has depleted your energy or ability to concentrate."

http://www.adaa.org/living-with-anxiety/managing-anxiety/exercise-stress-and-anxiety

Find an exercise routine you love. I am so lucky to have found a studio (Fit Formula in Brookside) and work out routine that I LOVE!  I work out many mornings at 5:00 am.  I know it seems crazy, but for me, it's the only time that works and it is the most amazing way to start my day.  I truly love it!  It has changed my life and it gives me the sweat and energy to make it through the day.  When I get home, I get a few minutes of quiet and a hot cup of coffee in silence to enjoy.  Those moments are priceless.  Did I mention how muchI love it???  Get moving to help beat those blues.

4. Watch what you eat.
A healthy diet is ALWAYS important.  But did you know there are certain foods that are said to actually help reduce stress?  With dark chocolate on this list, I am willing to give it a try. The ten foods on this list are: nuts, dark chocolate, milk, green tea, cheese, blueberries, avocados, oranges, and green leafy vegetables. 

http://www.stylecraze.com/articles/stress-relieving-foods-for-you/?ref=pin

5. Essential Oils

I am new to this category, but I am excited to start experimenting with some recipes and oils.  I have pinned some recipes and blends and I am ready to begin my essential oil journey.  The company that I have purchased oils from recently is Young Living.  They actually have an oil called Stress Away. I think I should buy this bottle in bulk! I also found a recipe called "Happy Place" and it sounds delightful.  Here is a picture of it below:

Saving the best for last!  The true joy of my life...MY FAMILY.  When life is tough and things are hard, I just look at them and smile.

I am not a doctor and I am not saying these things will cure any illnesses or ailments.  But, I certainly have the February Blues right now and I could use a little pick me up!  Couldn't you????

Inspired by Pinterest...

I love Pinterest!  I could shout it from the top of the mountain.  If you haven't joined the Pinterest movement, I highly suggest it.  In my house, I have been known to be quite the Pinterest junkie.  I can get lost in the endless number of pins in the huge variety of categories.  Yes, I am a pinner.  At times I am a very active and aggressive pinner.  Pinterest has awoken the inner creative beast inside of me and for that I am very greatful.  It has been hiding for a very long time.  It is a great source of inspiration and ideas.  It is a great place for beginners to begin and get ideas.  The awesome part is that you can make each idea your own.  I don't have time to take an art class, but I learned how to make a photo canvas on my own here.  Although my time is precious and I have very little free time these days, I enjoy creating.  It helps fullfill a personal need and want of accomplishment.  Check out Pinterest if you have not already.  Perhaps it will awaken something inside of you...  I have had so much fun! Below are a few of the many projects I have been inspired to create in my home.  I have had so much fun!

I made letters for Sophie's room.  (I met my friend Mod Podge)

I learned how to make photo canvases.  I think they turned out well!

I have made a few homemade art projects.

I have been inspired by many quotes here.

I researched countless gallery walls on Pinterest before creating my own.

I got many tips about painting furniture and painted this china cabinet. 

Inspired...

I find inspiration everywhere!  I am a woman, wife, mother, sister, friend, teacher, runner, chef and much much more.  These days women do it all.  My life has changed so much in recent years and I am inspired to be a better person everyday.  I have grown and matured (a little).   I am learning more each day about the woman I am and the woman I want to be.  I have a wonderful husband and two amazing daughters.  They love and support me unconditionally.  I want to be the best I can be for them.  I want to share the things and ideas that have inspired me with YOU!  Perhaps it will spark something inside of you.  Cook a new recipe, be creative, find meaning through quotes and poetry.  I have a new passion for love and life.  I hope you find inspiration too...

This is my latest most inspiring poject.  It is a gallery wall.  I have spent months planning it.  I have also spent countless hours pinning gallery walls.  I have collected frames, pictures, and quotes that are meaningful to me and my family.  I decided there would be some rules for the wall, but I didn't want it to be too planned...even though I had been planning it for months.  So here it is...maybe it will inspire your gallery wall.



I love this quote. So simple.

This is in Croatia.



G. for Gouttierre (obviously)



Our honeymoon in Jamaica.

Nestor in Hawaii.

The finished product.



Nice family rules.

We got engaged here.