Lately, I’ve been realizing that it’s not always the big things that make life feel exciting. Sometimes it’s the little things that make an ordinary day feel less ordinary. As a very type A planner, I’m always looking forward to the next weekend, break, or exciting event on my calendar. Throughout this semester, I’ve learned to stop waiting for the big moments and to start appreciating the little ones. Here are a few of the little things that have been making my days a little brighter lately, and maybe they’ll inspire you to find or appreciate a few of your own.
Café Miel
Coffee has always been one of my favorite things, but recently, I’ve found a new signature order: a cafĂ© miel. This drink is the perfect mix of sweet and spiced with honey and cinnamon, and it’s surprisingly easy to make at home in the morning. Having a simple signature drink is such an easy way to make getting out of bed a little more exciting.Â
Menchie’s runs and new bffs
Recently, my friends and I have been obsessed with Menchie’s. I am a true believer that a sweet treat can turn a bad day into a great one. My friends and I recently became close with a group of freshman boys and now, every single day, someone is texting the group chat to ask “Who wants to go to Menchie’s”. I find it funny how something as simple as getting dessert can turn into some of my favorite memories. Sometimes, the best friendships come from the most unexpected places.Â
Yoga with Hannah and RachelÂ
Every Sunday at 3 PM you can find me, Hannah, and Rachel at Hot Yoga Ann Arbor for Hot Sculpt. This class has become a constant in my calendar and something I always look forward to. Moving my body after a weekend of going out or studying is such a good way to reset, get out of the house, and feel refreshed before starting a new week. Our weekly car rides always bring us closer together, and we somehow always go on a Trader Joe’s run to pick up new seasonal snacks. It’s become a little Sunday tradition that I will miss so much when we go home in the summer.Â
Crunchy leaves
My favorite part of fall is going on walks in a cozy sweatshirt and hearing the crunch of the colorful leaves under my feet. There is something about the crisp air, changing leaves, and cool outside air that makes the most ordinary walk more special. I love “taking the long way” to enjoy the weather before Ann Arbor gets cold again. I never feel like I need a destination or a plan, just a good hoodie, a pretty fall day and a reason to get outside.Â
New finsta
For years, I’ve been talking about making a “finsta,” but this year finally felt like the time to start. There is something fun about having a place to post all the random, unfiltered moments that don’t necessarily make it on any other social media platforms. With all of the weekend updates and crazy story posts, my “finsta” has quickly become a little scrapbook of college memories.
Cute workout sets
I am a firm believer that a cute outfit can make anything easier. Whether I’m heading to class, going to the gym, or running errands, putting together an outfit makes me feel like I can accomplish more. Going to the gym or a workout class feels so much easier with a cute set active set on. Sometimes, it’s the small things that give me the extra push to get out the door.Â
None of these things are particularly life-changing — that’s honestly the point. They are just little routines, random traditions, and everyday moments that have made this semester more enjoyable. I’m learning that I don’t need a big event to look forward to. Sometimes, a coffee before class, spontaneous dessert run, or a Sunday afternoon with friends is more than enough.