6 Things that Make Me Feel Calm

Things are kinda crazy right now, right? Even with all the uncertainty of things going on, I think it’s important to take a moment to think of the things that make you feel calm and happy. Read more bellow.

Because I can't seem to sleep. . . I made this in bed while @harleyjthefrenchie snored on my chest. I was thinking about the things that make me feel calm, especially with everything going on. I'm holding it together but there is a part of me that is having a hard time trusting what's to come. So, I'm going to focus my energy on the positive, and the things that make me feel calm and happy.. 🌼

1. Harley
2. My art/running my business
3. Baking/cooking/sharing with others
4. Yoga + meditation
5. Connection with my friends 💕
6. Nature 🏖 ⛰

A little Introduction during these Uncertain Times

For those of you that don't know me, my name is Brynne, and I'm an artist living in Laguna Beach, Ca. During this time, I feel compelled to share my gifts as...

How to Go from Sad to Happy

I asked this question on Facebook: What is 1 thing that lifts you up when you're feeling down? And here are the answers. I promise you'll feel happy just reading their posts.

1. A good conversation with a good friend

2. Hike with my doggies or a walk on the beach

3. Cooking

4. Dancing

5. Prayer

6. Happy hour with friends

7. My dog

8. Meditation. Or travel

9. Nature

10. Faith that pain or trouble is temporary and it will get better.. and that I'll come out stronger

11. Looking at all of the positive quotes on my Backward Prints tanks

12. My grandchildren, all 6 of them

13. Yoga, the beach, friends, wine

14. Daughter dogs n beach

15. Run on the beach

16. nature, sunrise, sunset, bare feet, swim

17. Sunsets, the ocean, beauty in nature

18. Writing a song about it

19. Getting outside and physical activity. Or good food

20. Coconut ice cream, friends, laughter, and enjoying the little things

Enjoy the Little Things

The crazy thing is, it really is all about the little things.  In April, I was diagnosed with degenerative disc disease.  It has been the most terrifying thing that has ever happened to me.  The things I once used to complain about hardly compares to what I've been facing each and every day.  I've been scared, sad, angry, and so worried about my future.  Here's the thing; this past summer, while I was exhibiting at the Sawdust Art Festival, I began to appreciate the little things.  I was overwhelmed by the love, joy, and laughter, that was blossoming all around me.  I received so many gifts this summer from old friends, new friends, and complete strangers. 

My friends daughter, Amelia, the cutest little two-year-old and I, became friends. I built upon a relationship with a dear friend of mine in my neighborhood, and I received a beautiful photograph framed in red wood from a new friend.  He told me, "I took this photo for you, I didn't know at the time, but it was meant to be for you."  I look at this photo which was taken at Morro Bay, in northern California, every day.  It reminds me to find stillness in my day, even when things are crazy.  I look at this bird, which is the focal point of the piece, and I see my reflection.  I feel I'm connected to this bird, and for some reason, I believe that everything is going to be all right. 

The universe is sending us gifts every second of the day.  In order to appreciate what life has to offer, we just have to stop, look, and take in the moment.  Be present, try not to dig in the past, or worry about the future.  Look around, and take in all of earths beauty.  I guarantee you'll find yourself smiling, and you might even begin to enjoy the little things. 

~Brynne

P.S.I want to say a special thanks to my friend Larissa Hacke.  I don't think I could have gotten through the summer without you.  You are such an incredible women.   Keep shining bright my friend. 

A New Year to be Grateful

Sometimes the small things end up being the really big things in life.

   I first read about the Gratitude Jar on Pinterest a year ago, and decided to make my own for 2014.  I admit I was really good at writing down my happy moments during the first few months, but not so much towards the end of the year.  On January 1, 2015, I emptied my jar, which was filled to the rim with tiny little folded notes, and read them one-by-one.  I can't tell you enough how rewarding it was to read all of those Happy moments from the entire year.  I took pictures of a few of them, and emailed the pictures to my Mom, Dad, and friends.  Their responses were priceless.  Who wouldn't want to be reminded of a wonderful memory?! 

I invite you to give this a go for 2015.

Here is what you need:

• 1 Jar
• 1 cup to include a pen + small scrap pieces of paper

   Every time something happens to you where you find yourself smiling throughout the day, write it down, and put that memory in the jar. You can also write down accomplishments, quotes, or anything else that makes you smile.  Be consistent throughout the year.  On January 1, 2016, you can empty your jar, and read all your notes.

I hope you will give this a try, and share this with your friends, and family.

with love,

Brynne

P.s. If you want to share & read what others are grateful for, check out The Gratitude Jar.