I just got back from an incredible family vacation in Puglia, Italy, where my daily routine included swimming, pasta, and sorbet on repeat. Adjusting back to real-life was a lot and these everyday pick-me-ups are making it a bit easier.
On this trip, I was the most present I’ve been in a long time—not thinking about a single to-do list and largely keeping my phone out of sight. But reality came crashing in the minute we got home.
The to-do list kept growing: unpacking, mountains of laundry, clearing out the entire fridge (we lost power for 22 hours while we were away), and handling a stack of returns. Honestly though, the thing stressing me out the most was how to respond to a very cool opportunity that landed in my inbox. I was in logistics mode, trying to figure out how to make it work for me and my family.
In the middle of all the chaos, I’ve been leaning on a few everyday pick-me-ups to help me reset, recharge, and feel just a little more like myself again.
A Call with a Close Friend
There’s nothing quite like a good old-fashioned phone call with someone who knows you really well. (Hi, Devin!) Most days our communication is limited to sending each other animal videos and memes. But this week, we both had the time for a real conversation! It was nice.
She gave me a fresh perspective, and an idea I wouldn’t have thought of on my own. Sometimes talking it out with your girlfriends is just what you need to turn the day around.
My Own Magic by Anna Kloots
As I was catching up on social, I saw that Anna Kloots, a travel writer I follow, just got engaged to her French boyfriend. In a world with so much negativity, it was nice to see something positive pop into my feed. I was in need of something fun to read so I picked up her book: My Own Magic.
Full disclosure, it’s not entirely uplifting. A big portion is detailing the demise of her marriage. But most importantly we get to see Anna discover herself in the process and also forge her own path. It was a quick, inspiring read.
The Simplest Cherry Pie Smoothie
It’s the easiest summer smoothie ever—and it tastes like cherry pie in a glass.
Here’s what you need:
- 1 cup frozen cherries
- 1 banana
- A handful of walnuts
- Water to blend
Toss it all in the blender and enjoy. It’s naturally sweet and very refreshing. I’m even thinking about pouring it into popsicle molds for a frozen treat.
Picking Fresh Flowers from the Yard
The previous owners of our house planted a few hydrangeas around the property. They are beautiful shades of pink and blue. This week, I cut a few for the kitchen table. I love how something so simple can brighten your home and mood.
This Lizzo Song
Right before our Italy trip, I rewatched some episodes of Emily in Paris—specifically the ones where she’s dancing through Rome. There’s one scene where “2 Be Loved (Am I Ready)” by Lizzo plays, and it instantly became my song of my summer. Now I play it whenever I need a quick vibe shift.
Takeaways: Five Everyday Pick-Me-Ups
Coming back from vacation can feel jarring. One minute you’re sipping an Aperol Spritz in the sun, and the next, you’re knee-deep in laundry, emails, and overwhelm. But I’ve learned that sometimes a few simple everyday pick-me-ups can ease the transition.
These five things were giving me life this week. They reminded me that small joys matter, and even a little fun can brighten an overwhelming day. Maybe it’s a phone call, a fresh cut flower, or a Lizzo song on full blast.
What’s been lifting you up lately? I’d love to hear your pick-me-ups too.
P.S. Luke told me he loves a “family summer” while we were playing outside. Definitely, an unexpected pick-me-up.
