So, I’ve really struggled with how to resume blogging during all of the turmoil our country is going through right now. Nothing seems significant that I usually write about and yet the little joys of life seem so important at the same time. My heart is broken, as is so many of yours, for what happened to George Floyd and what’s been happening for centuries. I’m hurt for my Black friends who are hurting and for the hurts they’ve had to endure for years. They have been very gracious to me and I’m so appreciative.
Social media seems important but also feels like a war zone right now. Do you post or not post? Does it come across as calculated or as heartfelt? Does it seem action-taking or self-congratulatory? Is it too much or is it too little? Everyone is on the offensive and defensive at the same time. It’s hard to navigate. We are all quick to assume what someone else might think about the issues based on what they look like, how they speak or where they worship. It’s not always that simple to know someone’s heart. We could all use and give more grace these days. We all have more to learn. Although many things in our country need to change, God is still unchanging and all-knowing. I find a lot of comfort in that.
As for getting back into the swing of things here, I’m sharing a quick list of Good Things I discovered in May as a reminder that there is still good in our world. It may not be groundbreaking or life-altering but I hope this a small bright spot in your day. . .
These two turned eight(!!). And I ran out of birthday wrapping paper. . .
Reposting this song that our choir did a while ago. It’s the prayer I need right now.
Beach towels mysteriously disappear from Summer to Summer in our house. These are a good deal and I was happy enough with the first set that I ended up ordering a second.
I just finished this book and it couldn’t have been more timely. A memoir of a young Black man growing up in America.
I never dreamed I’d be putting face masks on my list but these are really pretty. :)
This teak planter. (Imagining with a boxwood. . .)
I finally got on the bandwagon of counting my steps and bought this inexpensive fit band.
This is my favorite yoga mat.
I just used a set of these white frames in my daughter’s room for pictures of her and her friends.
Love these swimsuits for my younger girls and they’re a deal on sale right now. (Many are under $12 with code.)
See my previous Good Things lists here.
Thank you for the post, Emily. During this difficult time, we must still journey day-to-day. We still need to care for our families, go to work (or work at home), check on our neighbors, and maintain our homes. Appreciate all of your posts, and you taking the time to inspire and encourage. Please allow me to encourage you as well.
Thank you, Terri. The encouragement is appreciated.
That looks like Christmas! The way our country and world is with people out of jobs and making house payments, making utility payments and not having food. I’m surprised.
Dang it, Phyllis, you totally busted me. Each wrapped gift is a diamond encrusted iPad, different colors of course.
(Give me a break!)
Thank you emily for your encouraging blog! I look forward to reading it. Enjoy your twins turning 8 Such a fun age! ❤️
Thank you Emily, keep up the good work, I always enjoy your posts, always! Need one of those ipads! Happy birthday to your twins!
STAYING POSITIVE ABOUT OUR COUNTRY.
Since I bought so many of them, I’m sure we’ll have a spare or two ;)
Wow Phyllis, maybe instead of judging you should thank her for supporting our struggling economy. Maybe we’re both wrong and these are homemade/passed down gifts. Maybe half of them are “essentials” like socks and underwear. Now do you see how silly it is to make assumptions about people? This past week at a minimum should have taught you that. I find it a good practice not worry with other people’s finances or parenting style – it’s really none of my business. These are stressful times. Can’t we all extend just a little extra grace to each other?
Thanks for the post Emily!
Emily- you are so dang sweet and I can NOT believe those babies are 8 years old!!! I have been following you since BEFORE you announced their existence! Congrats and Happy birthday! Where is Annie’s dress from ? Please know YOU are an encouragement to SO MANY!! Ignore anyone who is NOT being positive :)
xoxoxox-
Jennifer – long time reader from Oregon
Thank you :) The time has flown by!
Her dress is a Cat & Jack from Target.
Can you tell me where the light fixture is from? I have been looking for something similar for my dining room?
It’s the Dillon chandelier by Hudson Valley Lighting. More pics here: https://emilyaclark.com/2018/07/a-high-low-mix-in-our-kitchen-dining-area.html
Your description of social media was perfect and pretty much sums up what I’ve been contemplating for days. Thank you! And, I need those white frames for my 8 children’s silhouettes that are taped up. Your posts are always right on time for me and in such a nice voice. THANKS!
Thank you, Annie ❤️
Please keep going. Providing a space to unwind has it’s importance, too.
Also as another mom of boy/girl twins, I feel like I know everything that happened getting that photo. :)
Sometimes you just have to take what they’ll give you, right?? 😂
Emily, thank you for this post. I’m so weary of the world right now, and the song from your choir was like getting a spirit transfusion. I’m a seventy-two year old grandmother, but I’m so in awe of you and hope to be like you when I grow up. May God continue to hold you and your family in his loving hands.
I love to hear that it blessed you. I’m missing my choir these days.
Emily, thank you for posting these words of candor. To me, they are just the right amount of acknowledgement without sounding self congratulating. Your words resonate with me. I too have been holding back in posting about simple life pleasures that I have with my kids. Because it seems somehow disrespectful or dismissing of the current climate of unrest and struggles.
You are thoughtful. And apparently a super woman, taking care of such a big family in this difficult time. I’m struggling with my two.
Thanks for your kind words. ❤️
I’ve enjoyed your blog for years. Apparently, it’s been way more than 8 since I remember reading about your pregnancy with twins!! Happy birthday to your littles! Thank you for the content you provide and the time and energy you put into your thoughtful commentary on the world and your life. Thank you for being you!
Emily,
I rarely comment, but I have been following you since before the twins were born – I can still remember the photo you took of the look on your face when you found out you were having twins! :) I just want to say that I have looked forward to your posts even more during the last several months. You have such a kind and sincere way of integrating how we all feel, yet also give us a reprieve from the news cycle with beautiful decor to look at and it takes my mind off the heavy for just a few moments. Thank you!
I have wrapped similar looking gifts for our family and LIKE them! One of the things that I read about modern birthday celebrations (when my now 15-year-old was a toddler) was that the Victorians really celebrated childrens birthdays because so many babies were still born, died at birth or died from the many childhood diseases for which we now have vaccines. I say, Celebrate On! Those twins are adorable! What a blessing they are to you all and for them to grow up in a family who loves the Lord.
Cute picture, hope your kids enjoyed their birthday! Great chandelier, and I love the green walls.
Thank you for this post. This is such a difficult time for our country. We have no clear roadmap but I do think it’s important to stay positive, grateful, and KIND. I think your post is on the right path.
Thanks for the link to Lands’ End. I wear their swimsuits and they fit well and hold up to lots of use (Florida living!). Their cotton jersey coverups make a great summer dress. And they have POCKETS.
And Happy Birthday to the twins. I have so enjoyed watching your kids grow up. Before you know it, they’ll be driving. 😊
Also thanks for the link to that book. I want to educate myself as much as possible. I’m also going to read Sen. Scott’s book that he wrote with Trey Gowdy. Trying to get on the right path… towards healing.
Love everything you post and watching your fine family grow! This picture is priceless! Love your ideas for wrapping paper; better than store bought.