Being tucked away in my cozy and warm home, on this cold and rainy day is just one part of Today’s BGD. I’m feeling so fortunate to have the support and push from the people I love and admire most. When I first began writing this blog, it was largely to have a creative outlet, to document all of our home projects, to share in our camping and hiking adventures, and to promote that one can have a full, satisfying life without having to spend a lot money.
I spent my afternoon listening to the rain fall, coupled with John Coltrane on my iPad, reading Blog Inc, and making notes and dreaming up plans in my new Day Designer.

The iPad was gifted to me by my husband. After watching me blog on my phone and seeing how dedicated I had become, he wanted to show me he was proud and to make it easier for me to write.
Blog Inc was gifted to me by my friend, Keely. Without her, I don’t know that I would have ever started this project. She has been a consistent source of encouragement and inspiration.
The Day Designer was gifted to me by my sister, Domonique. I’ve always wanted to set a good example for my little sister, but sometimes she’s the one pushing me to do better and be better. This new tool has motivated me in a whole new way.

I know that these people believe in me, and that makes me feel like I’m in the right place, doing the right thing. The second and most important part of Today’s BGD, is having supportive and loving people in my life.

xo

Some days are just better than others, and today is kind of a blah day. In this blah state, I’m choosing to think about a better day, this past Monday. I’d like to preface this by saying, I’m not a huge shopper, and it’s not because I don’t like it, but my frugal side usually takes over. Monday, I allowed myself to indulge a little because I was with one of my favorite shopping buddies, my bestie, Jackie. We hit HomeGoods, and it’s always an adventure with Jackie, Monday was no different–complete with road rage (not the scary kind, the kind you can laugh about), crazy hair (neither of us cared to put ourselves together on Monday, apparently), and a trip to Home Depot (where they looove Jackie and her vast knowledge of all things hardware and DIY). Anyway, it was a really fun day with a friend I don’t spend nearly enough time with, and here’s the loot from our magical Monday.

My favorite item of the whole day is this mirrored tray. It looks so perfect on my dining room table with a vase full of flowers.

I found these great note cards too. I love a good card.

Last but not least, I got a new sketch book and colored pencils. I’m very excited to put it to good use.

xo

Donuts may be making their first appearance as a BGD, but I promise that it won’t be their last. Donuts are unhealthy, but with their delicious dough, covered in chocolate and sprinkles, they can bring instant joy to an office.  Today is going to be long and grueling for us here at my office, so I thought I may need to bring in the big guns.

It’s time to get to work and handle business, but first, enjoy a donut.

Have a great Thursday!
xo

Image from http://nmvandy.tumblr.com

I can’t wait to share a meal with friends tonight. Not only are these friends food lovers, but they love to laugh and we always have a good time together. Earlier this month we planned a “family” dinner  and vowed to make it a more regular thing. We realized how ridiculous it is that we don’t see each other often when we only live a couple miles from each other. Sure we are all busy, but one should never be too busy for friends and food, the best of combinations. Last time our hosts made a lasagna, salad and garlic bread, so this time around I’m sticking with the lasagna theme and bringing over a Mexican Lasagna. Here’s the recipe if you want to give it a try.

Here’s to our second “family” dinner, my BGD.

xo

I found this today on Cupcakes & Cashmere and fell in love. I need to put this up in my office and at home. Today’s BGD, appreciating the path to creativity.

xo

Today, I am inspired by the words of Martin Luther King Jr. Even on a small scale, it feels far better to smile and laugh, than to scowl and be angry.

Image from pinterest.com

I hope this brightens your Monday.
xo

Wearing this scarf always reminds me of my sister. It was a great birthday gift and every time I put it on, it adds a punch of color to my (almost always) neutral outfit, and it makes me think of my little sis. If you surround yourself with the things you love, things that hold meaning, they aren’t just things anymore. I had a nice chat with my sister last night, and although we don’t live under the same roof anymore, or in the same state for that matter, she is always close to my heart. This scarf isn’t just a scarf, it’s a reminder of someone very special to me.

Have a great Tuesday!
xo

Today’s BGD is all about words that inspire. I hope this speaks to you the way it did to me.

Image from La Dolce Vita

Have a great Thursday!
xo

Let me first explain a bit about “Today’s BGD”. Since the whole idea of this blog is to remember to find the beauty in the greyest of days and to make the most with what you have, I’m going to devote a post category to my own personal BGD’s. For my very first “Today’s BGD”, I’m embracing the fun in being an organized & creative person. I enjoy all kinds of crafts and art, and we have a guest room that doubles as a work room for me…that I never use. I have been thinking of ways to revamp the room to make it more a more welcoming work space. Although today just another day at work, the thought of having a creative space to work in is my beauty, in an otherwise grey day.

Image from http://www.hearthandmade.co.uk

Happy Friday!
xo