Happy Weekend!

After a busy week that's pulled me in so many directions, I'm looking forward to the weekend. I'm hoping to do whatever I feel like -- whether that's getting out and about or simply floating through the next few days. I'm not sure which it will be yet, and that's sort of perfect.

Here's to following your bliss this weekend!

Photo from here via here on Pinterest.

Clearing

I've been thinking about relaxation lately. I'm not sure I'm very good at it! Yes, I do my share of lazing around, but do I ever let my mind completely relax? Do I ever let my body truly unwind? Sometimes I think I should force myself to simply be, just spend a period of time with no electronics or even books or magazines or other distractions and see what happens.

This gorgeous, minimalist home in Dorset, featured on House to Home, seems blissfully free of unnecessary extras. Don't you think you could do some great thinking -- and clearing of your mind -- in a place like this?

Photos from here. 

Chill

Yesterday I had a meltdown. I've been fortunate so far in my pregnancy not to feel very sick, but being tired and emotional and seeing my body change has been a bit tough. I was feeling fat and icky and crabby and decided to go for a run yesterday morning. Just as I was about to leave, my husband gave me a compliment. I realize now that I should have smiled and thanked him for the nice words. Did I do that? No. I blew up at him and told him my body is no longer an acceptable topic of conversation, then bolted off on my run. Nice, huh? I later apologized and he was very sweet and understanding, but sheesh, I need to get a handle on this!

I should try to calm down -- relax, take a breath, appreciate all the wonderful things around me. Maybe I'll browse through this gorgeous, cozy, serene New York country home, featured on House to Home, and pretend I'm lounging there today! 

Photos from here. 

Decked Out

Wait a minute, when did it become Thursday? This week has been flying by, and it's only going to get busier. It's a good kind of busy, but nevertheless I am craving some nice, low-key relaxation time. I might have a little window on Saturday to kick back with a book on the deck. 

I hope the experience is as relaxing as this incredible deck, featured on Canadian House and Home, looks. The light wood and bright white is such an understated, elegant, calming and refreshing combination. Ahhhh ... 

Photo from here.

Carefree

There was a beautiful freshness in the air today that made me rush home from work. I got to enjoy it on a late-afternoon walk with my husband and dog. It even prompted me to crank open the windows and let this gorgeous air in. The house was freezing within ten minutes but I can still smell a hint of the outdoors inside, which makes it all worth it.

I think this amazing beach house from House Beautiful shares some of that sentiment. The wood, the muted colors, the relaxed furniture, even the fact that everything isn't perfectly tidy -- it's wonderful!

Take a look at a few of the rooms and prepare to be inspired to let go, just a little bit.

Photos from here.

Ahhhh ...

I am relaxed, calm, serene even. I feel refreshed. I feel wonderful. This is probably because my husband and I got to spend the weekend at a spa. Whirlpools, saunas, massages, facials and lots of lounging ... two days perfectly spent, in my opinion.

Here's hoping these glorious feelings last.

Photo from here.