50 Things That Make Me Happy TAG

I've been seeing these posts floating around a lot lately, and they're really inspiring and just make me happy whenever I read them, so I decided to write one today since I have a lot of extra time on my hands- Happy Presidents Day! And thank you, George Washington, for making it so that I don't have classes today <3 b="">

1. Kitty paws
2. Latte art
3. Tropical places
4. Watching John Hues movies
5. Planting a garden
6. Big cups of black tea
7. Dark days, with lots of rain
8. Adopting a stray animal
9. Sleeping with my cat
10. Hearing my favorite song come on Spotify
11. Finding a new favorite app
12. Summer nights, out on the porch with a candle
13. Watching movies on the big screen
14. The smell of coffee and breakfast in the morning
15. Fuzzy, soft blankets on a cold day
16. Stephen King books
17. Seeing the city
18. The smell of lavender
19. Watching TV on a rainy day
20. Taking hikes early in the morning
21. Waking up on a rainy day, under the covers, all cozy
22. Buying new notebooks
23. Learning something new
24. Knowing that I helped someone today
25. Drawing with ink
26. Feeling beautiful
27. Laughing until my stomach hurts
28. Making someone else laugh really hard
29. Changing the wallpaper on my phone
30. Painting my nails
31. Shopping for new clothes
32. Eating caramel toffee scones
33. Drawing something, and then liking it
34. Shopping for fireworks in the summertime
35. Swimming on the hottest day of the year
36. Counting down the days until vacation
37. Eating something healthy
38. Going on adventures with your friends
39. Having a sweet tooth
40. Perfect comfy summer outfits
41. Shopping for things online
42. Getting packages in the mail
43. Changing into soft pajamas after a long day
44. Taking super relaxing, hot baths
45. Sunsets on vacation
46. Eating my favorite candy
47. Forest adventures
48. Making cheese sticks
49. Playing on the PS4
50. Curling my hair

I had so much fun writing this, and I can't wait to write another one in the future- it was so easy to come up with a bunch of things that just make me really happy. 

xo Savannah

How to Keep Your Readers Happy

Having a blog is actually quite difficult, because it's all about criticism. People are constantly criticizing you for endless reasons, and it's hard to keep them happy, because not everyone wants the same thing. Perhaps one person doesn't like something about your design and wants you to change it, but another person thinks it looks great just the way it is. Who are you going to listen to? You're probably going to freak out, get stressed, and wonder how to keep these random people happy. Keeping them happy is easy, but for some people, it can be a but harder. But I thought about writing a blogging tips post today because I haven't written one in a few weeks or so, and I like to have a variety of posts on this blog, so here you go- a tutorial on how to keep those reading your blog happy & engaged. 

First, have a pretty design. I've been thinking about redoing my blog design for a little while now, and I think it's a good idea, so tell me what you would think about that in the comments. I've said this before- uber neon is out, make sure your photos are the right size, and for god's sake, PLEASE have a legible font. Not all of us have the easiest time reading tiny, loopy cursive. Don't have too many gadgets, it will distract from the content. Try to limit the number of ads on your page, especially pop-up ones. I don't like those pop-up ads that ask me to subscribe to your blog- it's annoying and I'm not gonna subscribe the first time visiting your site. 

You need to have consistent content that doesn't include too many subjects. I keep it easy- DIYs, journaling, blogging tips, listicles, art, nail art, etc. If you've never written about fitness ever on this blog, then don't write about fitness because it has nothing to do with anything. Also, try to do something weekly that your readers will look forward to- such as Friday DIY roundups, Sunday Favorites, nail art Saturday, Motivation Monday, etc. It's awesome, and it gives you something to write that day, instead of planning something random. When I say "be consistent", I mean, don't write every day for a month and then drop of the face of the earth for a couple of weeks. Seriously, WHAT? That's weird and we want to expect a new post every day, every week, 3 times a month, whatever. 

Again with the content- make sure it's good content! Write something worth reading, not something just for the sake of writing. If you don't have any good content to share today (I know this goes against what I said above, sorry), then take a day off. The next day, tell them you had blogger's block and your readers will probably understand and will always forgive you. Just remember- DON'T WRITE FOR THE SAKE OF WRITING! Have quality content. That's all I have to say. 

I say this so much it's become my life quote- turn the freaking Captcha off becaue ain't nobody wanna do that every time they leave a comment. I use Disqus because it's pretty and people like it, and it's totally free (try it out).

That's all I really have to say for today, I feel like this was a little rant, and if it was, SORRY :( I know people don't like little rants, and even though I feel like I wrote one, don't write one yourself because that will NOT keep your readers happy and engaged. Thanks for reading!

xx Savannah

Happy Independence Day!!

Happy July, Everyone!

Credit goes to Chibird. 

 

Happy Father's Day 2015!

30 Movies to Watch When You're Bummed

I decided to make a list of movies to watch when you're glum or blue. I know what you're thinking, and no, this isn't a list of sad movies; it's a list of happy, uplifting movies that I love and you should, too. These are great to watch whenever, though, it doesn't just have to be when you're bummed- but of you are feeling down, then look some of these up on Netflix, or rent them from your local Radioshack, or maybe you already own them. If you're perfectly happy and are just looking for something to watch, then pick something from this list and check it out sometime. These are all movies that I have watched and loved, and some are sort of new, others are sort of old, depending on the way you look at it. Tell me in the comments below what your favorite movie is. 

1. The Wild Thorberrys 

2. Legally Blonde 

3. Garfield

4. Dumb and Dumber

5. Paddington

6. School of Rock

7. Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2

8. The Smurfs

9. Spy Kids 

10. The Croods

11. Spy Kids: All the Time in the World

12. Lilo and Stitch

13. Ferris Bueller's Day Off

14. Castle in the Sky

15. Hoodwinked

16. The Addams Family

17. Addams Family Values

18. Finding Nemo

19. Big Hero 6 

20. Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs

21. The Nut Job

22. Overboard

23. Blades of Glory

24. War Games

25. Back to the Future

26. Back to the Future Part II

27. Lilo and Stitch 2: Stitch Has a Glitch

28. Stitch the Movie 

29. Into the Woods 

30. Dolphin Tale 

Alright, yes, most of those are kids movies, and yes, that's Lilo and Stitch- but don't argue with me because you agree that Lilo and Stitch is the best movie of all time. Thanks for reading!

xx Savannah

3 Reasons Why I'm Happy Today

It's Tuesday the 26th, yesterday was Memorial Day, and it's really starting to warm up here in Oregon. Yesterday, it was in the late 70's and I believe early 80's. I got lots of gardening done, I planted all of my seeds, and also helped with the corn- 3 very long rows of it. Though our garden isn't as big as it was last year, I think it's better that we aren't harvesting so much food that we can't eat or give away (we are only 4 people, and we always eat and give away so much) so maybe this year will be very different. I know you probably think it's late in the year, but if I remember right, we planted our corn as late as June 20 last year and it thrived. Last night was so much fun, we barbequed chicken kabobs and they were just simply oh so delicious. 

1. I found this great recipe for cookies-n-cream ice cream, and it was AMAZING! I 10/10 100% recommend it, it was creamy and amazing. I am still astounded at how it came out- so good. 

2. I'm so glad I have my seeds planted and ready to sprout! I planted carrots, onions, acorn squash, and a variety of wildflowers and sunflowers. 

3. I've been watching a lot of Threadbanger's Man vs. Pin videos on Youtube- they are so addicting, you should check them out sometime!! :D

Leave a comment below, I'd love to know about the source of your positivity today! Thanks for reading. 

xx Savannah

Happy Memorial Day!

Happy Memorial Day, readers! Today is the day to cherish your freedom and be happy that you can go outside and feel the sunshine on your skin and hear the birds chirp and listen to the neighbors chop down an enormous oak tree right next to your house. Yes, they did that- the second I walked outside this morning to say hello to my precious dogs, and listen to the chainsaw that had been going on all morning, and massive oak crashed to the ground- Darwin and Seamus both ran toward the sound, being the smart border collies that they are (what kind of dog does that, though??). I yelled TIIIMMMBEERRR!!!!! and we all had a good laugh and it's so warm outside right now. 
 
Anyway, to those who are not looking forward to growing old (and getting wrinkles, but don't worry about that, just drink some BLACK TEA), just remember- you're lucky that you are able to grow old. Those who have served aren't as lucky. Happy Memorial Day, and don't forget to express your gratitude; perhaps donate to a charity (I did!). Thank you for reading, and thank you, those who have served out country.

xx Savannah

3 Reasons Why I'm Happy Today

My favorite day to write these has always been Mondays because it's the beginning of a new week and most people get pretty stressed out at the beginning of a new week, what with work/school/etc., so it's a good idea to spread some positivity like this- along with Motivation Monday, that is. It rained soo much yesterday, and now it seems that Oregon is having an awfully cloudy morning today- good thing we rearranged our living room, now we have a comfy space to play board games. Isn't that the best thing to do when it rains, besides being upstairs in a house with a metal roof, so that you can hear every little droplet making it's descent to the earth?

1. I found a new fashion/style blog that I just LOVE right now, it's amazing- It's Not Her, It's Me. 

2. I've been thinking about maybe participating in FMS's Photo-a-Day via Facebook. It looks really fun, and I encourage you to, too!

3. It's really warming up- I stuck my feet into the pool yesterday, and it was pretty warm! Now I just need to clean it :P

Let's start off this week with three pieces of positivity- why are you happy today/this week? Leave a comment below, I'd love to know! Thanks for reading!

xx Savannah

Don't Worry, Be Happy

(photo credit- I made this on Picmonkey!! :D)

 

3 Reasons Why I'm Happy Today

I guess I haven't done one of these in a while, probably because I used to do them so often that I assumed you guys wanted a break from it! Is anyone else just always excited for Monday, the start of a new week? It's a fresh beginning, and everyone needs one in their life, no matter what. Mother's Day is this Sunday! Do you celebrate it? Do you get your mom gifts, or do you just celebrate Father's day? Are neither of these holidays relevant in other countries? Lots of questions, I'd love for you to answer a few in the comments :) Here's why I'm SMILING... (and you should, too). 
 
1. I just figured out how to make a text mask on the Picmonkey Blog, click here to find out how and make your own. 

2. I just recently Pinned a TON of blogging tips on Pinterest and you should totally check out my Blogging Tips board, so click on over here to see what I just Pinned.

3. My dogs have been living the dream lately since I got my bike out and have been taking them for bike rides every morning and afternoon for the past couple of weeks. 

Leave a comment about happiness, or write your own blog post about 3 reasons why you're happy today- don't worry, I wouldn't sue you (for now). Thanks for reading!

xx Savannah

3 Reasons Why I'm Happy Today

It's Spirit Week!!! Today is Super Hero day, so I've got my Wonder Woman short on along with my new jeans I got in Seattle. Celebrate with me, and dress as your favorite super hero, too. Anyway, let's talk about why I'm happy besides the fact that it's Spirit Week this week; today is Monday, the start of a new day and a new week. Did y'all have a great weekend? What did you do? Leave a comment, tell me, don't be scared- I'll reply as soon as possible. 

1. I went shopping at H&M on Saturday and got just the cutest clothes, to add to m collection of Old Navy clothes from Friday. 

2. I brought back some gifts for my friends from Seattle- a loofah and conditioner for Isabelly, lotion for my Narsha, and shampoo for Nessie (she asked for it). 

3. The Fault in Our Stars (the movie) is on today because I just finished the book this weekend, so I'll be posting both a book and a movie review before the week is over. 

Why are you happy this Monday, the day who is notorious for not being happy? Leave a comment below telling me ONE reason why you're happy today. Thanks for reading!

xx Savannah

3 Reasons Why I'm Happy Today

It's WEDNESDAY... (does anyone else go through the spelling of Wednesday in their head like "ok wed.... nesss... DAY.") Happy hump day! Okay, funny story that happened on Monday- my best friend and I were in Leadership (reading) and the teacher was just sitting at his desk for a while and we were looking at each other (my friend and I), then the teacher ranDOMLY APPEARED with a Batman Pez dispenser and quietly says "Pez" and gives us both Pez and walks around the whole time saying "PEZ". It was hilarious. 

1. I'm going on a 3 day trip to Seattle on Thursday.. SHOP TILL YOU DROP.

2. I got the Fault in Our Stars, FINALLY. It's good. 

3. I got a hover Pin it button!! (DON'T YOU LOVE IT?) Test it out on a picture... hehe. 

Also, isn't that just a beautiful picture of Elephants & Espressos? Adorably delicious. 
Thanks for reading today, leave a comment below and tell me if you like my new hover Pin it button. 

xx Savannah

3 Reasons Why I'm Happy Today

It's Monday- but this week is different, so I only have a 3 day week, and I'm excited for that; it means I have more time to blog (and sleep). I'm so excited to just have my 4 day weekend already, but I'm wondering why I don't get this more often- I feel like they replaced all of the no-school days with late-start days. I'd rather skip school altogether, but sleeping in an hour is nice, too. 

1. We got Lay's Cheesy Garlic Bread potato chips; they're my favorite kind, ever. Don't be skeptical- just try them, you will thank me, but never forgive me because once you start you will never stop.

2. I had my schedule flip-flopped due to testing and everything is soooo confusing- whoever came up with it really didn't think through 900 kids have everything they know turned upside down. 

3. We finally got cookie dough ice cream- it is so delicious, this is the only thing I need in my life after a flip-flopped schedule. It needs more cookie dough, though.. Or maybe I just need a tub of cookie dough to myself. 

Why are happy this week?? Leave a comment below and have an awesome week!

xx Savannah

3 Reasons Why I'm Happy Today

Happy Monday, readers. Monday morning is both the start of a new day and a new week, if you don't remember that I say this just about every single Monday ever- but it doesn't get old, does it? :) So, it's Motivation Monday, so I just posted a couple of inspiring quotes to get you pumped and inspired (and totally motivated) for the upcoming week. I have a test Wednesday- what do you have on Wednesday? Hopefully it's cake, because cake is just a positive thing that everyone should have- what's your favorite kind of cake? Leave a comment below and tell me. 

1. Last night I added a gadget that allows readers to subscribe by email- I've been afraid to add one because I thought no one would subscribe, but apparently they will. 

2. I have a ton of ideas for blog posts brainstormed and I can't wait to write them all. 

3. Nothing but Easter candy- I have the biggest sweet tooth ever, and it's time to show it. 

So, why are you happy today- or this week? Leave a comment below telling me. Thanks for reading, I'll write again tomorrow!

xx Savannah

 

3 Reasons Why I'm Happy Today

Happy Easter and welcome, Spring, everyone!! I'm so glad it's finally Easter, now it really feels like Spring outside- despite the constant rain (Thanks, OREGON!). We made a couple batches of cookies this morning and brought them to the potluck we went to. The egg hunt was not ruined from the rain, it only made it more challenging considering we were shivering- and I found a couple of eggs for the younger kids. Here's yet another positive addition to our day, 3 reasons why I'm happy. 

1. There's a ton of cookies left over for me to eat (YUMM!). 

2. I just made my favorite kind of soda- Cherry Cola. 

3. I read Fat Mum Slim's travel diary for when she went to Tazmania- you can read it, too, right here. 

I can't wait to see you again tomorrow morning (Monday morning- ugh) for more reasons to be happy. Thanks for reading!

xx Savannah

Happy Easter!

3 Reasons Why I'm Happy Today

It's another lazy Saturday, but this time, I'm glad to be in Oregon and not chilling at the beach in Maui. That sounds strange, but I love our cool Spring days and all those crazy people that you see- and also debating over what to get for dinner because Cave Junction does NOT have nearly enough restaurants. Anyway, here are 3 reasons why I'm happy, and I'd love for you to leave a comment about why you're happy, too.

1. We got Moose Tracks ice cream for dessert, and that's just the best thing ever- except they mixed it up a bit, and now it has brownie bites in it instead of mini PB cups. Yumm!!!

2. My best friend Maya came over by surprise today and we walked the dogs around together- that was such a pleasant surprise, considering I was lonely without much food around (haha). 

3. I've planned out a ton of blog posts, so I'm excited to get a little more into brainstorming :)

*BONUS* Tomorrow is Easter, so I'm really happy about that :)

I hope you have a great Easter tomorrow, and I'd love for you to leave a comment below. Thanks for reading!

xx Savannah

3 Reasons Why I'm Happy Today

There are plenty of reasons why I'm happy today, including the fact that it is, indeed, Friday and I just love Fridays. You might ask why- a. It's the end of the week. b. I get to do a Friday DIY roundup. c. I just really don't know, it has a certain vibe. d. LATE START. So here's why I'm happy, and I hope everyone is having a really great day today- I'm having my favorite tea, just because of Friday. (My favorite tea is Earl Grey)

1. I just sent an email to Kate from Clover and Dot regarding a free blogging template she's doing a product test for, see if you can catch it, she's only picking one or two people ;)

2. Easter is coming up, so I have the whole weekend to be Spring-y (and I got a cute Easter dress in Maui)

3. I'm back in blogging after getting back from Maui and finally finding my computer (haha) so I'm glad to be back in my routine.

I'm really excited for this whole weekend, because I'm always looking for some time to relax, and also I'm gonna take care of my mom who just had some surgery :( I hope she's better by Easter!

p.s. Here's that recipe for the white chocolate cheesecake pictured above ;)

3 Reasons Why I'm Happy Today

It's HUMP DAY! Happy Wednesday, readers, and most of all, Happy Hump Day. I am needing to pack because I leave for Maui tomorrow, so I have a list of things to pack. I'm terribly sorry if I miss a few posts, because I won't be bringing my laptop, so I have to share one.. with the rest of my family. But they all love sleeping in, so while they sleep in till 11:30am, I'll be up at 7:00am with the computer all to myself. At least, that's how I did it in Mexico. 

1. My aunt taught me how to knit- I can't wait to knit myself a cat suit. 

2. I'll have 2 travel journals in Maui- a notebook, and this blog. 

3. I have just enough books to pack for Maui, because I read LIKE CRAZY on vacation. I read more on vacation than in school, seriously. 

I hope you all have a great day and a great rest of the week, and I'm gonna try and post as much as I can before I leave!

xx Savannah