Up and down. So has gone the week. The rhythm of life that reminds you that you are still alive. Grandma gone so soon after Grandpa said his goodbye. A trip to the bread window with my mom & sister to distract from the loss. Last day of homeschool to welcome summer in. Rain that came screaming down while snuggling in our trailer. A full gas tank surprise from Jesse. Sorrow and joy.
Some things that I can tangibly share with you that have brought a smile to my face this week and I hope they can do the same for you are:
The Happier Podcast with Gretchen Rubin and her sister, Elizabeth Craft.
This podcast is a delight! Derived from the title of Gretchen’s book The Happiness Project, the sisters explore good habits and methods to a happier life. 
They have a variety of segments that are so fun to listen to. I anticipate each week what new “Try This At Home” suggestions they will have or who gets the Gold Star vs. Demerit for the week. Sometimes they have guests who add in their own perspective, like Moby or Arianna Huffington.
I urge you to read her book, Better Than Before to gain greater insight into how you can change your own habits (I am listening to it on audiobook via the library after having read it last year, so, so good).
Click & Collect from Superstore
So someone will trudge through Superstore for me, bag my groceries and bring them to my vehicle for $3-5 and all I have to do is order ahead and show up in the window I choose? I am in!
I have been reading and listening to all different sources who tell you to weed out what you do that someone else could do for you at least 80% as well so you can focus your time where you are needed. The first recommendation for a mom is to hire a cleaner (side note, I have noticed that is not the first recommendation for men…). Since I make no money and am home more time than I am not, that did not seem like the first option for me. Cut down my grocery shopping time I can do. Plus, I can price check at home between brands while no one is demanding my attention or taking their own field trip through the store.
NOTE: downfalls that may occur include waiting a bit for them to bring out your groceries (I have waited from 6 min – 30 min, bring a book & read to your kids), they may not have everything you wanted but they will replace it with a suitable item if you choose so, and you do not get to choose your produce (mine has all been great, but I have heard tales about poor lettuce).
Cam’s Album Untamed
Untamed has been on repeat while driving sans children.
I love her intense sound and witty lyrics as you may have heard in her releases Burning House or Mayday. In true country fashion, there is much heartbreak, like in Runaway Train, which gets your blood pumping like a train is coming through. I love the lyrics in Want It All when she says she doesn’t want any “rocking chair regrets”. A word of caution if you have little people riding along, especially the sort who will repeat all that they hear, listen to Country Ain’t Never Been Pretty on your own. There is a great line about how most country singers ain’t never stepped in horse sh*% that may have you laughing out loud but may not want repeated!
What has been getting you smiling this week? Send me a pic or make a comment!!