Blarg, I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed and out of sorts today. Do you ever find yourself in a funk? What cheers you up?(Photo by Lisa Steinbruek)
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Joanna Goddard
Welcome! I'm a magazine-writer-turned-blogger who lives in NYC with my husband and toddler son.
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retail therapy!
ReplyDeleteA nice, long bath with the computer perched on the laundry hamper and directed to something silly on Hulu.
ReplyDeleteHmmm, you could bake something delicious, perhaps with pumpkin. Or go a nice dinner date with your man, somewhere romantic with good service. Where you can linger over yummy food and wine.
ReplyDeleterefraining from retail therapy! Seriously though I'd just go walk by somewhere that has puppies.
ReplyDeleteshooting pictures always cheers me up
ReplyDeleteoh loved that pic!! how cute!!
ReplyDeleteyeah, i feel that way all the time and i can't cheer up that easily :(
love and x
listening to upbeat music that i can sing along with always helps lift my mood.
ReplyDeleteYou know what cheers me up? People watching! I go to a cafe/coffee shop, sit down at table, and just observe people while sipping hot chocolate, or whatever. It's really relxing, I have to admit. Peaceful. Plus it gives you a chance to reflect.
ReplyDeleteI hope you start feeling less overwhelmed soon darling! The holidays have a way of bringing on that feeling! :/
Dance Party! Listen to Junior Senior and unwind!
ReplyDeleteI agree with Cafe Fashionista - I usually go to a fave cafe and people watch or read a good book.
ReplyDeleteI like to watch romantic comedies or old movies too...that always cheers me up.
If all else fails - bubble baths are the cures for all ills...:) Feel better, we all feel the same way at times, especially this time of year! xxoo
putting on my favorite song, reorganizing/redecorating a small area of my apt, looking at old photos of friends and family to remind me of times when I was feeling inspired, and a chocolate snack never hurts either :) Feel better soon!
ReplyDeleteWatching my big furry dogs play cheers me no end.
ReplyDeleteAlso, unplugging the phone, a cup of hot tea, an old black and white movie, ivory flannel pajamas with my initials on the pocket, and socks.
Ahh I know the feeling! What I do is (if time allows it) I go to a café close by, make a list of everything I need to do while there... the smell of lattés and the music is always a nice way to calm myself and somehow it helps... or some Frank Sinatra. :)
ReplyDeleteHope your days goes better!
Audrey Hepburn's movies never failed to cheer me up. Also, watching a lot of your favorite tv series (Gilmore Girls for me) and never thinking about dieting.
ReplyDeleteOh shucks! Did you try that light yet? It seems so slightly odd and simplistic and even kind of weird at first, but SWEAR, you feel better in about three days. Magic. Changed everything about winter for me and I live someplace really, exceedingly lovely but: not sunny. At all. Here is the exact lamp written about in the NYT article [Brought on by Darkness, Disorder Needs Light, Published: December 18, 2007 by By RICHARD A. FRIEDMAN, M.D.] (I actually made sure to get the one they mention in the study). 30 minutes of fluorescent soft-white light at 10,000 lux a day
ReplyDeletehttp://www.up-lift.com/section/lighttherapy.html
It's on amazon.
While you are waiting for the lights arrival*FEDEX, I vote: HOT BATH with a great book and some Dr. Hauschka thrown in
You give so much joy Jo, know that.You are love and loved. xxxo
PS Here is the article again:
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/12/18/health/18mind.html?_r=1&scp=2&sq=seaonal%20affective%20disorder&st=cse
you guys are so sweet. i wasn't even going to say anything but now i'm so glad i did!
ReplyDeletea little lamb!
ReplyDeletelistening to music really loud, eating something unhealthy, calling an old friend, reading a new book, etc. feel better :)
At the moment, the spring rolls my Mum just brought me, watching Desperate Housewives with my bf, Zooey Dechaney and hanging with my best friends all nice and cosy sharing laughs.
ReplyDeletesewing something by hand always makes me feel confident as well as really calms me.
ReplyDeleteOh! And do try elfyourself.com, I did it yesterday with my all my family and we seriously died laughing!
ReplyDeleteHope you feel super duper soon!
(We've all been there if that's any consolation :) )
I woke up feeling the same this morning. I sat on my bed, closed my eyes and named in my head the 5 things I'm most thankful for and why. Before I opened my eyes I said aloud "Life is good."
ReplyDeletethe 62 degree weather outside in nyc cheered me up today!
ReplyDeleteA long walk with no phone, just an ipod set on a playlist (even if its a melancholy mix- sometimes that helps make your feelings seem more poignant)always clears my head and makes me feel refreshed.
ReplyDeleteCall a friend. Take a nice easy long walk to get things moving. Should be beautiful today. The high line would probably be gorgeous.
ReplyDeleteFUN ANSWER (When I'm down every once in a while):
ReplyDeleteI treat myself (all five senses) to simple things. I pick up a pastry from my favorite bakery, play my favorite record and dance around the room. I take a walk down Poets' Walk in Central Park and listening to the musicians and drawing.
RESPONSIBLE ANSWER (When I feel like my life's out of control):
In a notebook, I'll write down key feelings (e.g."I'm feeling overwhelmed about...")
and then I'll write big steps I can do to change them. Then I break down the steps even further into small manageable action items (that would take just a few minutes). I start to feel better when I begin to check things off and doing something about what I feel frustrated or overwhelmed with.
Tomorrow will be a better day! :)
Losing myself in a bookstore...
ReplyDeleteI get daily exercise, light therapy and take 3 grams fish oil every day-- all proven to combat winter blues-- and try and write in my little red love book (a list of things I love, like squids, a certain person's beard, paper balls, etc.. the list is neverending!)
ReplyDeleteAnd remember, the blues are temporary!
Shopping for underwear. And eating hummus.
ReplyDeleteListening to songs from my favorite artist and reading all the blogs I follow. :)
ReplyDeleteI'm in a funk too but I have exams to study for :(
You feel better!
aw joanna sorry you're in a funk! i've been feeling that way a lot lately too...usually i cook something delicious for myself, cuddle up on the couch and watch a funny movie. then i enjoy a "snuggle" which is just hot chocolate with peppermint schnapps. perfect if you're feeling cold & down :)
ReplyDeletechin up!
I do. Especially lately because I have four deadlines on the same day, just before Christmas, and am wondering what I've gotten myself into! For me, I like to turn on some relaxing music, sit down in a chair away from the computer, and let my mind wander. Sometimes I'll read or sometimes I'll just go outside for some fresh air. The key though is to unplug. Otherwise my brain and creativity feel completely fried! Hang in there, love:)
ReplyDeleteaw! it's so hard in the dark gloomy winter.
ReplyDeletebut i love a workout or run and lunch with a friend. it always does the trick.
hope you feel better!
I'd love to say retail therapy too, but I have no money. When I'm in a funk I always try to pamper myself in some way and today I'm in a funk too, so I'm off to get my brows shaped and tinted (love gift certificates). That way I'll look good even if I feel cranky.
ReplyDeleteHope your day improves!
Yes yes yes! Finals week has really been getting to me. The nice thing about art school though is that I can watch a movie while I work, so I've been watching romantic comedies out the wazoo! Also... Just taking 5 minutes away from everything and enjoying a nice piece of biscotti has really helped. Biscotti cures all.
ReplyDeleteParis Tea by Harney and Sons makes me feel better...catching up on all my favorite blogs...and baking imitations of my favorite starbucks treats (like their candied ginger gingerbread and cranberry bliss bars!) Oh, and snuggling. Sometimes I tell my fiance that I just really need to snuggle and sometimes I cry a little bit, but he doesn't mind. I always kind of like the down-in-the dumps mood because it gives me an excuse to full on nurture myself, you know? Take care!
ReplyDeleteI'm right there with you! The calm before the holiday storm is perhaps my least favorite time of year.
ReplyDeleteI just did a post on it a few weeks ago...along with what helps me: http://dailydivadish.com/2009/11/17/comfort-joy/
Some of favorite things are spicy candles, hot baths and a toasty-warm bed.
Hope your day gets better! ;)
When I'm in a funk I take the time to do something that I REALLY enjoy. For me that's usually baking :)Personally, I think it's a great way to cheer up because not only do you get to distract yourself by making something delicious but afterward you get to eat it!!
ReplyDeleteOh...and play really fun music while you bake! That's a must ;)
yes to the cafe trick. getting something comforting and perhaps just a little indulgent. but not too much. stopping by the book shop for a read i've been dreaming of for a long time. or going to the art store for a little inspiration and a project or two . . .
ReplyDeleteA piping hot cup of English Breakfast tea with milk and sugar, to be sipped while you read a book or browse through your favorite magazines.
ReplyDeletechocolate.
ReplyDeleteSinging...loudly...to a fun song
ReplyDeleteMy daughter
A walk by myself
My new dog
One of the cats purring
A look at the news...reminds me that my problems aren't all that big when compared all the stuff that's going on out there in the world
Making plans for the future
Reading a great magazine
Writing a letter to someone
music. Something poppy, upbeat, lovey. if you can force yourself to sing along/snap/whistle, eventually you won't be forcing it anymore. :)
ReplyDeleteWhiskey.
ReplyDeleteAwww... I know the feeling!
ReplyDeleteI like to get to some place that's energetic and festive, sometimes Starbucks works for me.
Also, here's a happy little short my boyfriend animated to remind me of my childhood:
http://vimeo.com/2750779
It always cheers me up!
xo
i JUST wrote about the same feeling yesterday! i like fun and/or cheesy dance workout videos. also twinkle lights and candles and french press coffee (either alone or while cuddling with someone special).
ReplyDeletei watch shirley temple videos of youtube to feel more cheerful. check out this one!
ReplyDeletehttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wNwFXLcrsbc
It may sound counterintuitive, but what seems to work best for me is to indulge the blues a little bit. Forcing myself to feel chipper just doesn't seem to work. I'll usually decide that the day is a wash, stay in my pajamas, and watch one of my favorite movies in bed (Groundhog Day, When Harry Met Sally, and Sense and Sensibility are my go-tos). A good cry often helps, as does a phone chat with a really good friend. When I feel like the bad mojo is out of my system, I'll take on a little project (like baking) to get me back in action. Hang in there :)
ReplyDeletewhen i'm in a funk...i like to find inspiration whether its through family friends or just some good music to give me some cheer.
ReplyDeletekeep busy, go to a tanning bed (wear sunblock to not get color, itll cheer you right up, promise!), get hot chocolate, indulge in fun things like cupcakes, have a fondue party for one and dance around your house while singing into your hairbrush!!! ....or just watch one really sad movie and cry it all out :)
ReplyDeletethere are a group of pigeons that hang out every morning around 7am, by a fountain on my way to work. they are always cooing and all fluffed up, crowding together for warmth. they cheer me up.
ReplyDeletethey sit there and watch the passersby without a care, just chilling out. i always get a big silly smile when i see them. no matter what.
:)
I like to watch comedies.. if it makes me smile I will get better.
ReplyDeletethesingular.blogspot.com
All I know is you'll feel better soon, reading your blog always cheers me up, wish I could do the same for you - hugs from a very rainy England x
ReplyDeleteWatching my favourite movies, baking, sewing, reading old favourites, shopping... those usually do the trick for me :) I hope you kick this funk soon!
ReplyDeleteit may sound silly, but reading inspirational blogs, like yours, always helps me look for the little moments of joy in each day! the reason i started blogging was to lift myself out of a funk...and i think its working!
ReplyDeleteNew York City Parks... When I feel on the cyan side, a trip to the park reminds me that even with only a few dollars in my pocket, I can enjoy a gallery of humanity and nature for free. <3
ReplyDeleteTaking a walk downtown with my i-pod.
ReplyDeleteEating something delicious.
Puppy or kitten therapy.
Hugging my son.
If the last doesn't work on me, it's time to consider meds.
Just go here http://cuteoverload.com/
ReplyDeletehappy times - its online prozac
I'm with your bro - puppies!
ReplyDeleteWhen my boyfriend was in Iraq, I made regular trips to the pet store...or as Flight of the Conchords call it - the cheap zoo. (FOTC episodes help too :) )
such a good laugh - http://cuteoverload.com/2009/12/01/this-just-in-runway-goat-couture-2010/
ReplyDeleteI was in SUCH a funk all morning, but since for some reason it's really nice here in Connecticut today (61 degrees and sunny!) I grabbed a couple of coworkers and we ate lunch in a park next to a pond. That fixed me right up :)
ReplyDeletedark chocolate, FOR SURE. Try it. The good stuff. I can almost promise you that it will make you feel happy within an hour. ;)
ReplyDeleteThis probably sounds bad a little shopping never hurts. I try not to over do it and spend more than I am comfortable with. And sometimes finding a birthday gift or christmas gift for friends or family is the perfect little high to help me get through. I also watch movies that I know will make me happy, classics like Love Actually, Sleepless in Seattle etc.
ReplyDeleteNot necessarily this extreme, but scientifically I did find this article interesting. It's about how in the past few 35 years research has shown women have become progressively less happy.
ReplyDeletehttp://www.elle.com/Beauty/Health-Fitness/Female-Depression-Why-Women-Are-Unhappier-Than-They-ve-Been-in-Years
Taking a vacay to a fabulous city, like NYC!!!! And I love the pic, we raise sheep and haven't had babies in a while.....miss that.
ReplyDeleteGirl time usually cheers me up! I've been feeling stressed and blue, and I went with two girlfriends to see New Moon last night and it lifted me up a ridiculous amount. It was fun to giggle and laugh about all the cheesy scenes. No deep thoughts, just a good laugh with the girls!
ReplyDeleteI buy a pretty dress and dance in my room with my ipod on in my underwear to a silly song no one should ever catch me dancing to like, "My Hump" by Black Eye Peas or something LOL ^_^ I hope you feel better! A nice restorative trip to the beach should also help!
ReplyDeleteWhat worked for me today was baking Pioneer Woman's cinnamon rolls and imagining how my family will gather 'round them!
ReplyDeleteAlso, maybe having a nice hot cocoa in a nice cafe. I'm sure Manhattan has one or two of those!
Hope you feel happier in no time, darling.
my kitty! pictures of baby animals are always good too -- nice pic :)
ReplyDeletewhat about the thought of You reaching so many people in such a sweet way?
ReplyDelete"My hump.... My hump my hump my hump...my lovely little lumps...check it out!" LOL!^__^ I'm giggling just singing it to myself HA!
ReplyDeletereminding myself that there are only 19 more days until the solstice and then the days will start getting longer again always cheers me up.
ReplyDeleteAs does talking to my almost 4 year old nephew about what he wants for Christmas. (to climb the tall ladder all by himself.)
Hugs are my #1 pick me up. Let yourself feel funky and get yourself a hug.
ReplyDeletea nice cup of tea, a buttery cookie and a chick flick with my cat :)
ReplyDeleteI definitely think baby farm animals are a good start!
ReplyDeletevitamin d, favourite smells like grapefruit or cedar or chocolate, hugs from someone special, reconnecting with friends you haven't seen in a while, and some exercise, even something simple like a meandering walk, or some yoga stretches.
ReplyDeletehope you're feeling better soon!
This kitty video might help!
ReplyDeletehttp://video.yahoo.com/watch/6522901/16929718
DATES chai go to sephora!! play with make up get your nails done feel girly :)
ReplyDeleteBaking and then sharing the treats with others always helps me. It's nice to sit around, relax and have some good laughs over something delicious.
ReplyDeleteAnd I love the lamb.
This video of a kitten helps too: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/11/27/the-cutest-video-of-all-t_n_372535.html
going to the mirror and making my most pathetic crying face with a double application of mascara. bring on the silly!
ReplyDeleteI find that music can change my mood more easily than I thought. I decided to make an Ultimate Happy Playlst.
ReplyDeleteYou can check it out here:
http://leni.typepad.com/life/2009/12/my-ultimate-happy-playlist.html
chocolats, a bath, lots of kisses...
ReplyDeleteGirl, the same thing's happening to me this week. You know what cheers me up?
ReplyDeleteVisiting A CUP OF JO! (Really! I'm not just buttering you up - this blog gives me much joy.)
Also - this time of year? Listening to Vince Guaraldi's Charlie Brown Christmas.
Feel better! xoxo
One thing that will always cheer me up is volunteering. There is nothing like it. It always puts a smile on my face, and makes me realize I really have nothing to be sad about because I lead a blessed life. just my 2 cents...
ReplyDeleteanother website that may make you laugh is 1000 Awesome things. It shows you how great the little things in life are: http://1000awesomethings.com/
I'm in a funk today too, you're not alone.
ReplyDeletea glass of wine, a soft blanket + a really great book! it helps my mind temporarily escape!
ReplyDeleteOh, Jo-I hear ya!
ReplyDeleteI'm sorry you are blue today.
I like to watch something really funny and force myself to laugh, I always feel better after.
This is good:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YIbFB112AtI&feature=fvw
Summer photos. Till the Christmas hype I go through all my archives editing, organizing, posting and remembering what a great time I had and the beautiful places I have seen.
ReplyDeleteI always feel better when my 3 yr old tells me to give him a bigger kiss when I drop him off at the sitters. Melts my heart and makes me smile:)
ReplyDeleteyou guys are so sweet. i love these. :)
ReplyDeleteSlowing down (I know that is hard at this time of year) and looking after myself. Getting together with a really good friend and just being silly. Playing- for real. Channel my inner child and play- have a pillow fight with someone. It helps shake up that dusty, musty winter blues mood and give it a run for its money. Also, if you are feeling especially overwhelmed know that you are only one person and do what you can. It doesn't have to be perfect and life won't stop if some stuff doesn't get done. Be kind to yourself.
ReplyDeleteCall your best friend. 30 minutes is all you need.
ReplyDeleteRunning, yoga, disappearing sans phone with my dog into the Utah mountains, baking, a vigorous kick boxing class, talking to my mom...I love retail therapy too, but often regret it later since I'm trying to save right now.
ReplyDeleteoh my goodness, i have had so much fun reading all these responses. you are all hilarious! joanna, you should put these together into a book. i mean: "biscotti cures all". genius!
ReplyDelete:)
nina
If you can't go to a place with kittens or puppies I always watch youtube videos of them. Always brings me to a happy state.
ReplyDeleteSometimes I feel inexplicably blue, but I snap out of it when I remind myself that it's *inexplicable* - I am so, so fortunate to have never experienced the death of a loved one or any other major calamity.
ReplyDeleteHonestly for me it's cleaning. I'm always loathe to start, but once I do I feel like it helps me fresh start and get re-motivated and energized. And if you can't make yourself clean, go wander in your own neighborhood on foot and marvel that you live in fab nyc!
ReplyDeleteThe full moon has thrown me off. I am in such an unpleasant mood. Darn those lunar cycles! The last full moon of 2009 is a rough one according to my friend. I can feel it though. I hope your mood brightens! I know your blog always brightens my day! I am sending warm wishes your way!
ReplyDeleteI just was on my way home from an unpleasant doctor's appointment and my treat to cheer myself up...expensive coffee. It's even better when I save it for moments when I really need it.
ReplyDeletejeez, and it's not even winter yet! do what i did: move to LA--you won't know it's winter.
ReplyDeleteA piece of the chocolate cake from the bakery around the corner, and a big cup of burn-your-mouth-hot tea... all consumed whilst placing a totally excessive Amazon order. That usually brightens me up quite a bit :)
ReplyDeleteI've been in a funk all day today. It was nice out this morning & now it's cold. I'm gunna try some retail therapy to help & a nap later. Hope your feelin better!
ReplyDeleteA peacoat, a cup of tea, and the writings of Truman Capote.
ReplyDeleteHellou,
ReplyDeleteI find watching movies like Ammeli, or anything visually inspiring helps...maybe a festive film like the holiday would work!~ Chin up :)
sleep. and being held. being held into sleep.
ReplyDeletei talk to one of my best girlfriends that i grew up with. i moved to the midwest and they are all still in california so it's uplifting to catch up and laugh. it's my ray of sunshine from back home especially when it's gray and cold here :)
ReplyDeletejoanna,
ReplyDeletea nice long walk, some fresh air really really helps.
winter is tough because it gets dark so early. but fresh air, i promise, the magic trick.
Jo - you are so inspirational! Its a tie between knitting & a long epsom salt BATH. Either one will cure a everything from a job loss to a weight gain;) speaking from experience, of course.
ReplyDeleteHot chocolate and funny blogs always cheer me up. Hope your cloudy skies clear up soon!
ReplyDeletewatching puppies at doggie day care through the windows of any location of biscuits and bath.
ReplyDeleterandom silly animal videos on you tube.
watching kids play on the alice and wonderland statue in central park.
and if all else fails, watching jackass or wild boyz on dvd.
Usually if I am feeling messed up or down in the dumps, I turn to my husband. He always helps me to feel better. I might not completely get out of my funk, but remembering that he's there for me (usually armed with a pint of ice cream and a hug) gives me a boost.
ReplyDeleteI hope you get feeling brighter soon!
holy nutzoly - these comments have all cheered me and yesterday was my blue day!
ReplyDeleteim a big fan of the bubble bath, chocolate and absolutely, positively surrendering to the feeling and having a good wallow. once out, it is easier to feel better. if time allows, i also aim for a "well day" and unplug from it all and read favorite books / magazines in bed. total recharge!
smiles, holly
Cookies, my husband, and english breakfast tea lattes!
ReplyDeleteI've definitely been there. When I'm down, I like to watch one of the BBC Jane Austen adaptations, call my mom, do yoga, take a nap, and journal. Even just looking at all these suggestions make me feel better!
ReplyDeleteBelly bumps with my husband. Take that as you will.
ReplyDeleteI hear yah! Thought of these...
ReplyDeletehttp://abbysroad.wordpress.com/2009/11/12/an-off-day/
http://abbysroad.wordpress.com/2009/11/23/bad-day-these-help/
For me, depends on the weather. If its rainy out, watching romantic comedies in my sweats is it. If its sunny, a walk through nature (beach, hike, whatever) or even just a workout. And then sometimes, its a drink with a good friend.
ReplyDeleteWith the stressful season, being single and unemployed and the gloomy weather, I understand. What works for me is the little four-legged furball currently shaking the heck out of his stuffed animal. I think he has a vendetta against it. Such an oddball he is :)
ReplyDeleteI hope your day cheers up!
good music!
ReplyDeletefor a quick fix, I love youtube... there is always something new swirling around the interwebs that will make me smile!
ReplyDeleteMy go-to video of the moment is this one from Oprah's season premiere episode on the streets of Chicago. (I wrote about it on my blog here... love it!)
A piece of my favorite dessert, doesnt matter how far I hae to drie, sitting and enjoying there or at home, as long as its melt in your mouth goodness.
ReplyDeleteThis is funny too
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LBC7pilGoPc
I've been in a funk lately too.
ReplyDeleteI just keep on going, keep on going.
And curling up next to my husband and having him tell me nice things works too.
Yes, feeling very out of sorts these days. A good cup of Chai tea gets me through.
ReplyDeleteJoni Mitchell
ReplyDeleteCheese
Fancy Beer
If those don't work I'll have to wait it out.
I invited my good friends Ben and Jerry over and we watch a couple of good B&W movies.
ReplyDeletea dance party for sure. all by yourself turn the music up loud :)
ReplyDeletexo
baking, either something thats your favorite or something totally new that you have been craving!
ReplyDeletei'm feeling the same this week! a walk with the dogs (i recommend borrowing one if needed :)) - their joy is enough to rub off! and a yoga class normally does the trick as well, followed by a glass of wine!
ReplyDeletecheers to a happy holiday season!
Not to make things worse but...it's not even officially winter yet!
ReplyDeleteI agree with Black Dog Salvage-walk a dog and you'll get so many smiles from people! My windsor always pushes his head up into my hand and gazes up at me :) And put some fun Christmas tunes on your ipod to listen to while you walk around-that fresh crisp air, puppyness and holiday songs may do the trick! Follow that up with a nap and it'll be the thing!
ReplyDeleteListening to an episode of This American Life or Radio Lab. Preferably while baking and/or eating carby sweets.
ReplyDeleteChocolate....and my favourite tunes!
ReplyDeletea nap.
ReplyDeletedancing around the apartment in my favorite underwear.
a long, hot shower.
making a big pot of soup and sipping a cup of it on the couch, wrapped up in my fiancés grandma's afghan.
a big, long hug from aforementioned fiancé.
another nap.
I'm with Hollie. When I'm really in a funk it's helpful for me to wander through stores mindlessly. I'm not there to buy but just to have time to process my thoughts.
ReplyDeleteFeel better.
Oh, definitely singing aloud to a really fun song!!
ReplyDeleteHope you get to feeling better! I know for me, it doesn't help when it starts getting dark at 4:30! What time does it get dark in NYC?
60 second crazy dance party to Beyonce.
ReplyDelete(And I blame the weather. 65 degrees in December is WRONG.)
This video will absolutely melt your heart and put you back into a great mood - cheer up jo! i have those days too:
ReplyDeletehttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kQc6bGlSEiE
You're on the right track with the lamby pic! I google search bunnies or cute animals - that always cheers me up. That and scrolling through my favorite blogs - like yours!
ReplyDeleteSo funny, I just blogged about that yesterady! And I said that I watch Amelie de Montmartre again, and again, because it always reminds me of the little things, and to love life. But when I've seen it too many times in a row, well, a bath, or some old school jazz, or a nice conversation with a good friend. Any of those! And chocolate.
ReplyDeleteI ve been feeling that for this whole past week! Im graduating college next week and all my finals are due! and the only thing that makes me feel better is the one thing I can't do right now, which is sleep. ='(
ReplyDeletemy mother told me once, if you're having one of those days either take a shower/bath or take a nap. one or both will help!
ReplyDeleteThat cute goat in the picture cheers me up. Just look at his smiling kid face. Adorable. I won a goat milking contest as a young child; the ridiculousness of that should be enough to cheer anyone up, I suppose.
ReplyDeleteMy lovely maltipoo, Pooma always cheers me up. :)
ReplyDeletehot spiced apple cider!!! mmmm
ReplyDeleteTaking care of my ferrets and watching them have fun always brightens up my day!
ReplyDeleteWatch old movies with loved ones. My best girlfriend and I used to make champagne cocktails and watch "High Society" with Bing Crosby, Grace Kelly and Frank Sinatra. My husband bought me "Singing in the Rain" too!
ReplyDeletea good run (or some other form of exercise + a hot shower) often does the trick for me...if not, there's always my standby - a google search for "Christmas puppies." Ha. works every time for me!
ReplyDeleteA run. If you don't like to run, a long walk. If you walk, make sure to stop by a coffee or tea shop and get something tasty to go as a treat. Sometimes I even let myself cry during the walk or run, and it's okay because by the time I get back home, I feel a lot better. Remember, being down is always temporary :-)
ReplyDeleteLife does get difficult at times and it's nice to know I'm not alone. Lately I've been trying to get my art "out there" and I sometimes get down and discouraged. What's been cheering me up lately are all the nice comments my blogger friends have been leaving for me and when I sell a painting it lights a fire in me that compells me to paint more. That's pretty much my life right now. Winter is a hard time for a lot of us. I think that's why I'm destined to live in Hawaii!:)
ReplyDeleteSometimes to get to the end of what you're going through you just have to go through it. After that, maybe have a good cry ... a good cry is a good way to hit the reset button. Then take a deep breath and do something you enjoy. For me it's getting a cup of coffee. Suddenly I'm renewed.
ReplyDeleteRickelle: Love your Flight of the Conchords reference, hilarious!
lately, a big cup of hot cocoa.
ReplyDeleteI know I've said it before, but a visit to Greenwich Letterpress (which is pretty low risk retail therapy) and the Frenchies on Christopher. It is my heaven and always cheers me up!
ReplyDeleteAlso, at Bonsignour, there is a regular named Annie who is 97'ish. She has lived in the West Village forever, and tells great stories. She also gives great advice if you have blues. She loves chatting and making new friends!
buying a new pair of beautiful shoes always cheers me up...
ReplyDeleteforget everything and focus on the small pleasures, like hot cocoa with huge amounts of whipped cream and ginger snaps. or put on music and read the newspaper or the best parts of your favorite book
ReplyDeletetaking photos, listening to good music, going for drives, baking, anything that gives me time to myself but keeps me busy really.
ReplyDeleteOne packet of salt and vinegar hula-hoops and a can of full-fat coca-cola.
ReplyDeleteIt's flurrying in Chicago and I am keeping warm and fuzzy with Dean Martin's = I've got my love to keep me warm and homemade Mexican Hot Chocolate. YUM! :)
ReplyDeletewarm vanilla chai!! with whipped cream, no doubt.
ReplyDeletexo.
http://thestarspurple.blogspot.com
sending you hugs & puppies; hope you feel better soon! :)
ReplyDeletei've been feeling a bit overwhelmed lately with school and final projects looming...
ReplyDeleteso tonight kiwi and i are going to make a bit batch of pasta, crack open a bottle of wine and just relax. it's going to be glorious.
hope you're in better spirits soon!
Usually, time alone will cheer me up --- probably because when I'm feeling overwhelmed I just want time to sort out the source of my stress on my own. I just go out for a casual dinner by myself (unless you count the latest British Vogue as a companion), or a walk. Or I do some house cleaning or baking or yoga. For some reason, those things always makes me feel more sorted.
ReplyDeletei'll second nick and say puppies! or a dog, of course, also does the trick nicely.
ReplyDeleteA tear jecker movie maybe on love gone wrong.
ReplyDeleteWatching 30 Rock always helps, always, along with a really good hot chocolate that's all frothy and creamy. Hugs to you. xo
ReplyDeleteHad a really awful day at work a while back and this video on Sharon Montrose's blog rescued my whole day!
ReplyDeletehttp://sharonmontrose.blogspot.com/2009/10/i-love-my-dog.html
Yes, I've totally had those days {or even weeks}. Case in point: this past week. I think it always helps me to call up a friend {or my mom} and talk about things {or have a slight breakdown}.
ReplyDeleteHope you get out of your funk soon!
Apparently muppets singing bohemian rhapsody, or bearded men singing about fonts.
ReplyDeleteMy S.A.D light therapy lamp!!! It's a freaking miracle,seriously. And wow..no way! I am GIVING ONE AWAY!! It's your lucky day!! Check it out!
ReplyDeletehttp://momedy.blogspot.com/2009/12/ultimate-winter-giveaway-sad-sun-touch.html
(Btw, as suspect as this seems I'm a regular reader. This isn't spam, just serendipitously timed, I don't get compensated by the company or anything :)
Even if you don't win BUY ONE. They rock. It will change your winter life.
When I feel overwhelmed it's usually because I don't feel I have enough time to do the things I want to do. My solution was to do something I hate (papers, grad school apps, etc) in a place that I love. I sit down in a local coffee shop, Vinaka in Carlsbad is my choice, and bust through my worst projects.
ReplyDeleteI love to bake cupcakes then eat them with a girlfriend along with never ending cups of tea :)
ReplyDeleteAlso listening to music from the early 90s always does the trick. xxx
Hot shower, sweatpants and a good meal!!!
ReplyDeleteFeel better
xoxox
Lexy
going to cuteoverload.com
ReplyDeleteOne of the reasons I left New York for Arizona is because the 9 months of winter became ridiculously unbearable emotionally. Since moving isn't the most practical remedy for you today, I recommend LOL cats, hot chocolate and mac-n-cheese.
ReplyDeletelove all these suggestions...this is very practical, but maybe pop the vitamin d & get some acupuncture/ massage? sometimes your happy hormones need some help to get balanced in the winter!
ReplyDeletei know how you feel - the alaskan darkness has been getting to me a bit, more than usual this time of year. i've been staying busy making books with lots of bright paper :) and playing with my crazy dog. hope you feel better soon.
ReplyDeleteLook for gifts for people!
ReplyDeletewhat a beautiful animal! One of my favorites!
ReplyDeletePut on some cheery music - French pop a la Francoise Hardy or Serge Gainsbourg always does it for me :)
ReplyDeleteThis time of year, a large mug of hot chocolate with or without Baileys (depending on how bad - or good - a day you're having) does the trick quite nicely.
ReplyDeleteI hope you're feeling better by the time you read this!
"Holly Golightly: You know those days when you get the mean reds?
ReplyDeletePaul Varjak: The mean reds, you mean like the blues?
Holly Golightly: No. The blues are because you're getting fat and maybe it's been raining too long, you're just sad that's all. The mean reds are horrible. Suddenly you're afraid and you don't know what you're afraid of. Do you ever get that feeling?
Paul Varjak: Sure.
Holly Golightly: Well, when I get it the only thing that does any good is to jump in a cab and go to Tiffany's. Calms me down right away. The quietness and the proud look of it; nothing very bad could happen to you there..."
:)
I work in a restaurant that is in an antique greenhouse- unfortunately for you we're located in Pennsylvania, about a half hour outside of philly, but I've found that even on the chilliest winter days being in the sunlit, cozy green house puts me in a great mood!
ReplyDeleteMy energetic Yorkie can always perk me up.
ReplyDeleteAnd sometimes it feels good to embrace the season--for wintertime that means turning on the space heater in my office, playing Barenaked Ladies holiday tunes, enjoying some Egyptian Licorice Yogi Tea, and writing or designing something for a client. Productive and cheering.
Chicken and dumplings always gets me out of a funk.
ReplyDeleteI always find myself in a funk around this time of year. I try to surround myself with close friends and get out of the house as much as possible. Retail therapy helps, too ;)
ReplyDeleteJoanna...if you're still reading comments: take yourself on a date with...yourself. A few weeks ago I wrote about going to a movie & buying hot chocolate. On the way home, buy some flowers but limit it to a small bunch. Then you don't fall into trap of buying too much stuff.
ReplyDeletexoxo
yes i do and three's company reruns. :)
ReplyDeleteJust blast some Styx! Or watch A League of Their Own. Either way, instant happiness.
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely. Once the sun hides, I find the only thing keeping me from drowning in work is knowing spring is out there somewhere.
ReplyDeleteI'm feeling the exact same way today! It's seems like the good is always followed by some bad... and when that happens it'd definitely time for some knitting by the fireplace, or watching Breakfast at tiffany's in your cutest pyjamas!
ReplyDeleteBeautiful flowers - every time! Even something as simple as a happy wee poppy or an anenome.
ReplyDeleteI hear this happens to people in NY all the time in the winter because there is less sun. Also, NY can be depressing. My teacher went through the same thing. Watch a movie with beaches :P
ReplyDeleteWatching Marx Brothers or screwball comedies (like My Favorite Wife)
ReplyDeleteDoing something nice for someone else. This one sounds so corny but it always cheers me up!
Cucumber sandwiches and a cup of tea.
ReplyDeletePair it with a good movie, or friend... or both!
First I'd print this list and keep it safe. Just reading everyone's comments has brought me joy. I especially love Melinda's little red book of love, and I've got to start one immediately. My favorite ways to make it through a funk: pray, remind myself that this too will pass, read Confessions of a Shopaholic for the umpteenth time, surf my blogroll--which always leaves me amazed at how much beauty, wonder, joy, enthusiasm, and passion there is in the world. I know valleys are a part of life, but I hope yours flies swiftly.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Paulette, there is a wonderful collection of wonderful tidbits of support and creativity. That alone should light you up like a Christmas tree. I also am a big fan of the bubble bath, and either sweet rose tea (my new love) or champagne. I also read a few pages of something by Alexandra Stoddard and instantly feel more relaxed, calm and beautiful.
ReplyDeletehomemade pizza and a bike ride!
ReplyDelete...a tall Soy Carmel Macchiato while listening to Owl City's, "Fireflies."
ReplyDeleteHope you feel better!
two things that never fail:
ReplyDelete1. have a mini dance party by myself. it is really hard to feel blue while dancing.
2. funny cat videos on youtube.
We walked in as someone was trying to burgle our house. Never even saw the person, but broken glass is everywhere. Anyway, yes, it's been a bad bad day. And as I read your post I totally empathized. What calmed me this evening was some alone time in a -- cliche -- bubble bath with a glass of Pinot Grigio. Plus the love of my sweetie husband and two adorable little girls.
ReplyDeletenice cuppa decaf in the evening, snuggling with my cat, big blanket, followed by turning in early to get some extra sleep. Hope you feel better soon. I do know how you feel.
ReplyDeleteAs Laura said.....(from breakfast at Tiffany)the mean reds......
ReplyDeleteMy solution
stay in bed (if that's an option)until you wanna get up.....
Or
flick through interior mags to find your ideal room/house/view... And stick it on the wall...
Or
daydream about your next vacation.... It doesn't have to be on the cards ....just imagine you've won some coin on the lottery!!!!!
If that fails....
Yep-chocolate martinis.....
Looking forward to your next post....
Ruth