Hi I’m Caroline, and I’m a planner.

Not just a regular planner, I’m talking about the kind that has a written planner, two paper calendars and three iPhone calendars, that are all color-coded. I’m also the girl that had most of our wedding planned before we got engaged (no shame, it turned out great IMO).

Since I’m a planner, I often feel like I’m looking forward to the next “big” thing. Whether it be a work trip, a vacation, out-of-state visitors or a big event, I have it marked and eyes set.

In 2019, my word of intent is “joy”. I know pure joy can only come from God, but I believe that a form joy can be found in the simplest things—I know this too, but I often overlook it.

Although I love setting my out-of-office’s up for a stellar vacay as much as the next girl (okay, probably more) I think there’s still things to be seen and enjoyed Monday through Thursday. To combat my future gaze, I’ve been spending more time trying to enjoy the small things. Really tasting my food, quiet trail rides, taking time to read, and completely unplugging for meals with my husband to name a few.

I do think there is a motivating factor in looking forward to big events, but it’s important not to overlook the small stuff that is in between, and that’s something I’m still learning how to do.

While I work on focusing on the joy in my 2019, what sparks joy for you? What small things fill your tank? Me: my daily iced tea from AJ’s. What’s the next big thing you’re looking forward to? We have a family vacation to the beach in June and drumroll please…we finally booked our honeymoon! We will finally be celebrating just over a year later. We’re headed to Maui before the holidays and I. am. stoked. This is my first trip to Hawaii so please share any recommendations of things to eat/sip/experience!

XO, C