The Big List of Happy Things!
It’s easy to feel anxious when the immediate future seems uncertain, so I wanted to bring a little light into your life with this list of happy, helpful resources! I hope these will brighten your day as we spend time at home and that it helps make the social distancing feel a little less overwhelming. If you have other ideas, please share in the comments, we’re in this together. xo, H
Art & Creativity
One of the most amazing ways I’ve seen people cope with their time at home is through creativity. If you feel inspired to learn something new, Skillshare offers two free months of premium membership, and Creative Live is taking $15 off your first class - this was one of my favorites. I suggest browsing classes on both platforms to see what sparks your interest!
An American artist now living in the South of France, Jamie makes gorgeous still life photographs. She’s creating one every day for the next month, and started the hashtag #isolationcreation to encourage others to create along with her! Exploring your creative side is a great way to make the most of extra time spent at home.
ONLINE ART CLASSES
Jeanne Oliver has dozens and dozens of online art classes. You can browse more than 30 Free courses or search the entire directory to find a course that teaches the artistic medium you prefer or want to learn more about. Who knows? You may discover a hidden talent!
Also, if you’re suddenly faced with homeschooling for the very first time, Jeanne shared some great ideas in this Instagram story!
Cooking
Now is the perfect time to try out new recipes and old favorites, like my Lemon Pepper Pappardelle & Chicken Soup. Or try your hand at making French classics or pastry by The Cooks Atelier. Or, even better, get their incredible book!
Everything about this Half Baked Harvest recipe looks comforting….and delicious! If you’re making do with pantry staples, you can’t go wrong with pasta!
Bri Emery, the creative behind the popular blog Design Love Fest, just launched her new project - a “mindfulness website with relaxing cooking videos.” The videos are shot with gorgeous soft light and soothing sounds.
Spring Cleaning
If cleaning and organizing makes you feel in-control, then you might find my pantry organization ideas helpful. There’s something really satisfying about seeing all your oatmeal, nuts, and pasta perfectly organized into glass jars - isn’t there?
Movies & TV
This is such a feel-good movie! If you haven’t seen it, you can watch it now on Netflix, and if you have seen it, it’s the perfect lighthearted movie to re-watch.
Set in rural 1977 Georgia, a misfit girl dreams of life in outer space. When a competition offers her the chance to dream, she recruits a makeshift troop of Birdie Scouts, forging friendships that will last a lifetime.
If you grew up reading Anne of Green Gables, this Netflix show is a must-watch. Anne’s exuberance and positive attitude is contagious!
Stretch & Move
Reading
Amazon is currently offering a 30 day free trial. You gain access to unlimited books, audiobooks, and some magazine titles, on any device. Now is a great time to catch up on that reading list!
The Libby app allows you to borrow books and audiobooks for free thanks to its partnership with local libraries! I’m currently listening to Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell.
HAPPY NEWS FROM AROUND THE GLOBE
For when you need a dose of sunshine and encouragement!
