Life has been a bit hectic lately (to say the least). From helping plan my sister’s wedding (congrats again!), to working non-stop, going out of town, and somehow trying to squeeze in some sleep, my head has been spinning and quite frankly, I’ve been questioning my sanity (no, really, I have).

But I can easily say the ONE thing that has kept me sane is music.

I really love music.

There are not too many things that can stop me dead in my tracks, brush away some stress, and put a smile on my face other than a catchy beat, a chorus, or even a little clapping. To say that I have one favorite song is absolutely unrealistic and not happening. Ever. There are too many amazing artists, old and new, to have just one favorite. However, I can say that there is one song I don’t think I could live without. It’s that song that always makes me want to roll down my windows, play my fake steering wheel drums, sing at the top of my lungs and clap…

I mean, who doesn’t like clapping?

Read the lyrics.

So, what song can you not live without?

Come on, I know you’ve got one!

Photo credit: http://weheartit.com/entry/13902363

One of my most absolute favorite things in the world is surprises. I’m not talking about the birthday gift surprise that you awkwardly have to open in front of a large group of people and pretend to love even if it’s the ugliest thing you’ve seen in your entire life. Or the phone call you get from some long lost relative “Surprise! I’m coming to stay with you for two weeks!”

I’m talking about those little “put you in your happy place” things. You know…the “thoughtful” stuff. The card you receive in the mail for no particular reason with a Starbucks gift card tucked inside, or the chocolate bar that’s traveled all the way back from Canada, or simply the discovery of amazing new music. These are the little things that I think bring you back to life – that lift your day and give it a light push in the direction leading to a smile on your face.

I think I can thoroughly thank my parents for my love of the little things in life. My Mom and Dad are known for bringing back little “treats” from the dreadful trips to Wal-Mart, Publix, Target – you know…the ones you NEVER wanted to go on because they’ll probably be gone the entire day and hell, they might even come back with a new car (yes, this really happened one time)…I digress. My Mom was always the one to bring back a cute pair of earrings, or shirt she found on sale, or even just a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup. My Dad on the other hand was a little easier to read. It was usually a trip to the gas station for an after school snack (slushi’s were always my number one pick).

So, what little things in your life or day have lifted you up and pushed you in a happy direction?

“Remember even though the outside world might be raining, if you keep on smiling the sun will soon show its face and smile back at you.” ~Anna Lee