The longer I’m on this earth the more I realize it’s the little things that wow me the most. I’m not saying that I don’t enjoy big surprises, a romantic something or a trip to somewhere great that takes careful planning, but really it’s those tiny moments of feeling just so good where you are and what’s the word — safe, maybe? Secure, settled, calm, serene.
At one time that seemed boring to me — calm, settled. Not anymore. I’ll take serene over drama anyday. It’s usually the simplest gestures that make my heart flutter or leap a little.
Some Little Things
Ahhhh.
Hubby, whether he works an early morning or the afternoon, makes coffee every single morning (he makes it better, I’m not sure why) and brings me a cup. If he leaves early, early he’ll put the coffee on the bedside table and then lean over and kiss me. I’ll pull him in and hug, hug, hug him.
If I’m in a low mood, my pups will sense this and hop up in my lap and sprawl all over me, as if to soak up some of that little sad that still visits me. It works. I swear they can understand what I’m feeling. I look deep into their eyes and tell them I love them and I KNOW they love me back. Have you read the article in the New York Times, Dogs Are People, Too? Nuff’ said.
It’s listening to someone you love when he/she is ill and knowing that just the listening is enough. Getting a text from someone unexpected that makes you smile or laugh out loud. It’s spaghetti on a rainy day with wine and some opera playing. It’s those I-can’t-stop-laughing-and-it’s-hard-to-catch-my-breath times between you and people that really know you — flaws and all.
Fresh flowers in a vase.
Purple tulips in my favorite vase.
Seashells in a jar.
My seashells from sooo many different places. I have these in jars all over the place. In every room.
Popcorn and movies on a weekday with thunderstorms. A drive on a beautiful day listening to good music. A walk. Simple, little things.
A Big Thing That’s Now a Little Thing
I moved this ginormous picture that I’ve never really liked to our new place. Years ago, my sister gave me this big print of an urn-like thing with flowers. It wasn’t my style but hubby and I had just moved into a new home and we were doing Thanksgiving that year.
I had the print framed for a spot that would hang over a couch that looked lonely against a big wall. (FYI — never buy anything to fill a spot, it’s not good feng shui.) Anyyyy – way, it hung there and I never really enjoyed looking at it. When I got to my new digs, I still didn’t but I kept thinking, I paid a pretty good chunk to have it framed so, I can’t just throw it out.
I made it into a chalkboard.
Giant Chalkboard. I’m just getting started.
Now, when I have an idea, or I want to draw something or there’s a book I need to make a note of I do it on this giant chalkboard that’s nearby where I write. I’ve got these brightly-colored markers that just make me so happy when I write with them. I’ll write little notes and hubby will read them on his way in. He’ll leave me one that I can read on my way out.
Hubby’s poetry.
My deep, well thought-out flowery prose.
Little things — make me so happy. Obviously, I’m way more poetic than he is.
***
What are some of your “little things” that make you happy? Make you want to jump up and down? Make your heart go THUMP THUMP. Tell it to me and Happy Monday.
Brigitte's Banter 
I love you. And I’m going to ask my dogs to soak up a little sadness. Thanks:)
Posted by michelleatplay | October 28, 2013, 11:16 amAh, Michelle, love you back. Thank you. I know your pups will do the trick. 😉 They are very wise and astute these precious creatures.
Posted by Brigitte | October 28, 2013, 11:31 amThere is a great song by Linda Eder called “Little Things” that I think you would love. I can’t find a full recording online, but here’s a link to the lyrics. http://www.allmusic.com/song/little-things-mt0008164930/lyrics Her husband co-wrote it.
And speaking of husbands, how did we ever get out of bed in the morning before they started bringing us coffee?! 🙂
Posted by notedinnashville | October 28, 2013, 11:25 amAnita, hey! Nice to see you. Thank you — I’m always looking and open to new music. And yeah, I don’t remember how I ever did. It is soooo nice. Thank you and Happy Monday.
Posted by Brigitte | October 28, 2013, 11:31 amLittle things indeed, Brigitte. Movies and popcorn during thunderstorms? Yes!
Posted by mabukach | October 28, 2013, 11:28 amIsn’t it just THE BEST? We once watched almost the entire seasons of The Sopranos during a hurricane about six years ago near Charleston. It wasn’t a giant one, just one that gently raged. Thanks, Mike — good to see you.
Posted by Brigitte | October 28, 2013, 11:33 amNow that sounds like time well spent – watching Sopranos during a cane. 🙂
Posted by mabukach | October 30, 2013, 11:53 pmOh yeah! Fugettaboutit. (don’t know how to spell that).
Posted by Brigitte | October 31, 2013, 10:55 amThis post is spot on! It is the little things that bring great joy! I love your chalkboard idea!
xo
Posted by dianasschwenk | October 28, 2013, 11:57 amHey D, thank you! You should get/make yourself one. It’s fun. Happy Monday. xo
Posted by Brigitte | October 28, 2013, 12:03 pmI have a whiteboard!
Posted by dianasschwenk | October 28, 2013, 1:19 pmWoo-hoo! 😀 I love whiteboards too.
Posted by Brigitte | October 28, 2013, 1:41 pm“I’ll take serene over drama anyday.”—I am with you on that. I, too, love the little things. For example, Saturday night when my family huddled downstairs to watch our favorite sitcoms we’d taped over the week, I looked around at my men laughing and thought, “This is all I need to make me happy.” Sappy for sure, but I felt so content just to be.
I love that you made the print into a chalkboard. What a great idea, and every time you use it, you can think of your sister. Very nice. 🙂
Posted by Carrie Rubin | October 28, 2013, 12:31 pmSounds like a fine Saturday night to me, Carrie and it’s not at all sappy. I feel the same way.
Yeah, I just painted a bonding agent over the plexi-glass then a few coats of chalkboard paint — voila! Thanks, Carrie.
Posted by Brigitte | October 28, 2013, 12:41 pmSee? I would never think to do that. I admire people like you who can creatively think outside the box. That’s one of the limitations of my left-brain dominance.
Posted by Carrie Rubin | October 28, 2013, 12:46 pmThere’s usually a lot of good things outside that box. And hello, you wrote a book so I think you’ve gone way outside that box, my friend. 😉
Posted by Brigitte | October 28, 2013, 1:02 pmYes, but it’s more story than pretty words and hidden meanings. I’m not so good at that part. 🙂
Posted by Carrie Rubin | October 28, 2013, 1:08 pmStory is a good thing and takes a creative mind. Story sells.
Posted by Brigitte | October 28, 2013, 1:49 pmI think it’s the little things that make up a happy life! I love rainy days where I can hunker down and be creative – beading, writing or hanging out in my studio. My sweet kitty Cielo giving ear rubs or a lovely hug from Peter. Even a glass of sparking water with lime! Gratitude for those everyday small things brings so much happiness!
Thanks, Brigitte!
Cathy
Posted by Cathy Ulrich | October 28, 2013, 12:56 pmI so agree. Oh Cathy, how nice that you have a separate studio to create. That is on my list of must-haves. If we can ever stay put long enough, I WILL have it. I can literally see it in my mind. And yeah, it is the simplest things that are the best. You’re welcome — thank you.
Posted by Brigitte | October 28, 2013, 1:04 pmHey there. You already know I adore the simple things.right now I’m sitting in my yard, in the sun with my devil dog and blue skies. Mid afternoon break doesn’t get any better than this.
I love when my dude makes the coffee and fetches my newspaper in the early am. Sweet heaven 🙂
Posted by unfetteredbs | October 28, 2013, 1:00 pmI know you can relate, my soul sister. That devil dog sounds divine as does that blue-sky-sitting-in-the-backyard thang you got going on. And yeah, sweet heaven indeed.
Posted by Brigitte | October 28, 2013, 1:05 pmOh, I love this post, Brigitte. I definitely hold on to the little things in life. A cup of coffee in the morning. I think my husband makes it better than me, too! A nice glass of wine, a nice view, reading a good book all bundled up in blankets, a movie with popcorn all keep me going. I love the seashell jars. Those are really pretty.
Posted by The Bumble Files | October 28, 2013, 1:32 pmHey Amy, oh reading a good book is up there too! I love blankets and sheets — soft ones when it’s cold outside. What is it about the coffee thing? My husband likes to cook way more than I do. Show me a man that cooks and serves his partner coffee and that’s a good man indeed. ;). And I have seashells in Mason jars too. They’re just all over the place. Thanks and nice to see you here.
Posted by Brigitte | October 28, 2013, 1:44 pmEarly morning routine, no doubt. I get up at six, do my journal and check my blog. At seven, I wake up Peggy and put together a continental breakfast of coffee, fresh fruit and a pastry. On Wednesdays and Sundays it is breakfast in bed. The rest of the week we eat in the library, chat, read, and watch the deer herd that has adopted our property as part of its territory. A beautiful four-point buck dropped by today. The deer stare in the window at us as we stare out at them. 🙂 I always have three non-fiction books I am working on while Peggy prefers word puzzles and fiction. At nine we do our Qigong Tai Chi and start our regular work day.
Lovely blog, Brigitte. –Curt
Posted by Curt Mekemson | October 28, 2013, 2:31 pmCurt, now that sounds WONDERFUL. You guys and the deer, making a connection — how cool is that?? I took a Tai Chi class a few times years ago. I think it is just beautiful and soothing — poetry in motion. We have such a gorgeous park nearby and I pointed out to Jeff the other day how great it would be to witness and be involved in Tai Chi amongst all that green. You’ve inspired me! Give my best to your lovely other half and glad you enjoyed the post, Curt.
Posted by Brigitte | October 28, 2013, 2:36 pmI have the chalkboard and jar of shells, too! I love being surprised by something Teen or Little One have drawn on the chalkboard, always brings a smile.
Posted by Fish Out of Water | October 28, 2013, 3:42 pmGreat minds, Fish is all I’m saying. Thank you and so nice to see you.
Posted by Brigitte | October 28, 2013, 5:42 pmOur Joe.
Posted by Addie | October 28, 2013, 3:52 pmOh yes, that sweet little one. How’s it going Addie?
Posted by Brigitte | October 28, 2013, 5:43 pmOh! Thank you for asking!! He’s actually six months old–almost–I was telling Lisa I can’t believe I actually kept quiet that long!! He’s just wonderful, spectacular, adorable, gumming everything and if we could bottle that scent, minus the smelly bottom scent, we’d be rich. Rich, I tell you!
Posted by Addie | October 29, 2013, 12:49 amSweet baby! And I think that’s one of the best smells in the world — rubbing your cheek against that incredibly soft, fuzzy head and breathing in all the goodness baby smell! And you’re right, only if it could be bottled. But there’s just some things that can’t be reproduced. 😉
Posted by Brigitte | October 29, 2013, 8:55 amThe chalkboard is a great idea! And the little things are the best, aren’t they? Like long walks together and still holding hands after 22 years of marriage. Those are two of my favorites. : )
Posted by jmmcdowell | October 28, 2013, 7:37 pmHi JM, thanks and your “little things” sound divine.
Posted by Brigitte | October 29, 2013, 8:46 amLittle things that make me happy: the smell of freshly cut grass, meeting friends for hot chocolate on a chilly evening, making snow angels, wandering around the city without an agenda, snail mail from friends, friendly strangers, long hugs, 75 degrees and sunny, uncontrollable laughter, great books, driving with the radio up and no destination in mind, and emails and blog posts from Brigitte. 🙂 xoxo
Posted by Carly | October 28, 2013, 8:59 pmI grew up smelling that freshly-cut grass thing and I do remember once getting snail mail from people I Iove but it’s been a long while! All yours sound just wonderful, Carly and likewise to you, my friend. Miss you. xxoo
Posted by Brigitte | October 29, 2013, 8:49 amI get oh so so excited about coming downstairs and putting a k-cup in my keurig. Like, dance-around-the-house-happy. My boyfriend gave it to me for my birthday. He’s a keeper, obviously.
Posted by Aussa Lorens | October 28, 2013, 9:08 pmThat sounds like a very good thing, Aussa! Welcome and hope you’ll stop in again.
Posted by Brigitte | October 29, 2013, 8:50 amLove the chalkboard idea. I didn’t know that about choosing a print for a space.
When Danny brings me coffee or asks to read my latest edits. A phone call from a friend or family member. It’s all good!
Posted by susielindau | October 28, 2013, 9:13 pmThanks, Susie — great to see you! I should have written that “just to fill a space.” In other words, don’t hang something up that doesn’t bring you joy or make you happy just to fill a space. And you’re right, it is all good. 😉
Posted by Brigitte | October 29, 2013, 8:52 amAfter enduring another day of mind numbing monotony at The Grind, I really appreciate it when the Express train home arrives quickly and I can get a seat, Then, I can tune out the day and read the New Yorker on my iPhone all the way home. That pleases me very much.
Posted by lameadventures | October 28, 2013, 11:12 pmI remember having to wait on those trains at times when I’d go into the city so when they show up right on time, yeah that’s a good thing. Wouldn’t you love to get published in the New Yorker? Now that’d be a good thing. Thanks, V.
Posted by Brigitte | October 29, 2013, 8:53 amBrig, how did we go from cherishing the simple pleasures to me getting published in the most revered literary magazine in the nation? Short answer: yes. And I’d also welcome an Academy Award for screenwriting – like that will ever happen, either. I’m content to stick with what I rate: the small stuff.
Posted by lameadventures | October 29, 2013, 9:30 amI know, I know. I get carried away. But it’s a simple pleasure to dream about such things, so that’s my logic. I often imagine I’m in a movie when I listen to certain songs on my iPod. Another simple thing. Maybe I’m just simple. Rut-ro.
Posted by Brigitte | October 29, 2013, 9:33 amI recently bought a box of Lady Grey tea from the Twinings shop in London (yup, the original one!) and I’ve been hooked. Earl Grey has always been slightly too strong for me so this version is absolutely perfect. I’ve even been drinking it more than my usual morning coffee, so I think that says a lot. Love the chalkboard and the fact that you and your husband write notes to each other! (For the record, his poem made me smile but yours made me laugh. I think you win this round. 😉 ) I’ve been feeling a little jumbled lately but you’re right, it’s the little moments that count. I think you may have just inspired my next blog post. I love when that happens.
Posted by lillianccc | October 29, 2013, 6:55 amOh Lillian, that just sounds exquisite. And the fact that you’re drinking tea in London — sigh. Yeah, I got a new one from him this morning. And thank you, I think so too but his are just as special. I’m sure you are feeling a bit jumbled after this big move — it’ll level out and I do love when that happens. I’m so glad I had a little something (inspiration as you say) to do with your wonderful writing and I so look forward to reading your next post! Thanks, Lil.
Posted by Brigitte | October 29, 2013, 8:59 amI love Lady Grey too!
Posted by on thehomefrontandbeyond | October 29, 2013, 9:02 amOkay, now I have to get some of that tea.
Posted by Brigitte | October 29, 2013, 9:05 amIt is lovely
Posted by on thehomefrontandbeyond | October 29, 2013, 9:11 amIt’s fantastic, isn’t it? This is why we’re friends. 😉
Posted by lillianccc | October 29, 2013, 5:37 pmYES. 😀
Posted by Brigitte | October 29, 2013, 6:20 pmone of the many reasons!
Posted by on thehomefrontandbeyond | October 29, 2013, 6:22 pmthe fact that you are back makes me happy, as does a stack of unread magazines and books, a rainy afternoon, and forgetting all my troubles for awhile
Posted by on thehomefrontandbeyond | October 29, 2013, 9:02 amLou, what a nice thing to say — thank you. I’m reading one book and have another one waiting and I love reading on a rainy day. Have you read The Interestings by Meg Wolitizer? It’s a big fat good book. I hope you and yours are well and that you’ve received good news. Good thoughts and prayers to you, my friend. xo
Posted by Brigitte | October 29, 2013, 9:05 amI will find it and read it as I think you and I have very similar tastes in books
Posted by on thehomefrontandbeyond | October 29, 2013, 9:09 amI’ve read other books of hers. I just love her style. This one is a big one — 480 pages I think but I read it in a few days.
Posted by Brigitte | October 29, 2013, 9:10 amwent to the library site and reserved it
Posted by on thehomefrontandbeyond | October 29, 2013, 9:12 amYay! That’s what I had to do and it took a while — it’s popular right now.
Posted by Brigitte | October 29, 2013, 9:14 amWalking on the street hand-in-hand, stopping off for an ice-cream cone, reading the latest thriller/spy novel out-loud to sweet husband. Doesn’t take much, Brigitte, doesn’t take much! xoxoM
Posted by Margarita | October 30, 2013, 11:38 amThose sound great, M. And you’re right — it’s the little things. So great to see you. xo
Posted by Brigitte | October 31, 2013, 10:59 amSo glad I save my emails, I know I will read eventually!
I’m glad you have landed, you have had enough excitement.
AND I just moved my shells and sand dollars into a giant hurricane holder from Pottery Barn! Love that, I may have to get more to spread the seashore love.
xoxox
Posted by Maggie O'C | November 8, 2013, 7:51 pmMags, I’m the same way as I’m just now reading this. And yeah, I’ve had enough to last me for a while. You have a good eye, woman. That jar is from Pottery Barn. I just love looking at them (shells). Hope you’re good my friend. xo
Posted by Brigitte | November 9, 2013, 3:00 pmSea shells in jars, sea shells in the garden, sea shell collecting every time I go to a beach! I guess I’m a water person even though I’m an earth sign 🙂
Posted by wordswithnannaprawn | November 12, 2013, 6:09 amYes! I’m an earth sign too, Nanna. Maybe marrying a water sign inspired some of that. 😉
Posted by Brigitte | November 12, 2013, 8:25 amI like it when people are grateful for things. Most of us live pretty nice lives if we think about it, and thinking about it a positive exercise. I like your chalkboard a lot. I have a dry-erase board and a mini-chalkboard piggy bank.
Posted by Smaktakula | November 21, 2013, 2:56 pmHey Smak — great to see you. Hope you and yours are wonderful. You’re so right about that, most of us do. That chalkboard has been a big motivator for me. Not sure why, other than I guess I like the ritual of writing things I want, things to do, exercise — all kinds of stuff and it’s cool erasing the ones I accomplish. I’ve never seen a mini chalkboard piggy bank but it sounds cool.
Posted by Brigitte | November 21, 2013, 4:27 pmWhat a beautiful post before the holidays. Because the little things are so much more precious than anything money could by!! BTW~it’s a scientific fact that husbands always make coffee better! 🙂 lovely post sharing now! 🙂
Posted by Inion N. Mathair | December 9, 2013, 6:03 amGinger and Natalie — So great to see you again and thank you! I believe that to be true about men making better coffee. ;). Hope you and yours are having a glorious holiday season.
Posted by Brigitte | December 9, 2013, 9:14 amI found this blog via Inion N. Mathair..and I think it is just fantastic! Looking forward to reading more 🙂
Posted by Johney | December 9, 2013, 7:40 amThanks, Johney — glad you enjoyed and hope you’ll stop in again.
Posted by Brigitte | December 9, 2013, 9:15 am