The Link Up: All The Things That Made Us Smile This Week

Every week we look forward to the link up because it gives us a chance to honestly recommend what we are loving right now. We love knowing what other people are reading, listening to, wearing, and consuming. So it is fun to create that space here for the people who also enjoy good, honest reviews. This week, in light of what is happening all over the world, we wanted to share what has made us smile this past week in hopes that it will bring joy and a little bit of comfort during this anxious time.

But before we get into all the wonderful videos, we wanted to let you know that our Brighten Up Any Room Design Giveaway deadline has been extended to this Wednesday 3/18. Once we hopefully (and swiftly) see an end to this incredibly hard time, we will be nothing but excited to give someone a fresh start with a beautiful room makeover (with some stunning Velux Skylights). Click the link to enter:)

From Emily: I’ve been watching this video since 2012 whenever I feel sad. It’s the music, the realness, the people who care, the amount of effort, the happiness – it gives me HOPE and makes my heart feel full of warm water every time. 

From Jess: Just as I was looking for a happy video or link to put in this week, this one popped up and I almost immediately started welling up. It shows how important and powerful community is. I even saw it in the grocery store the other day. People were just extra kind and soft as to relieve the familiar look of not knowing what the coming weeks were going to look like. It just goes to show that we can take care of each other even if it’s at a distance.

Also From Jess: This is the link to that beautiful home in the opening photo. No surprise it’s from our new favorite design firm, Reath Design.

From Caitlin: This weekend, I finally have an open schedule that I’ll be using to clean with the ferocity of Gayle in one of my all-time favorite videos. (PS. Does this remind you of your mom, or have YOU become this person?)

From Emily: Some people watch cat videos, I guess I watch real people singing songs I love. This video is on repeat (probably once a month) and I suppose to relate to it, but also admire the talent. 

From Mallory: This and this are my two favorite SNL skits. Ever. You’ll enjoy this one if you’ve been to New York for more than 3 days or this one if you’ve participated in at least 1 musical production in your lifetime. Enjoy!

From Ryann: Watching stand up comedy is probably my favorite form of escapism, and recently watched Nate Bergatze’s special and I was in tears laughing. Here’s a snippet to give you a taste of his insanely dry and hysterical humor.

From Sara: I can spend hours on the Instagram account @thedodo. It’s just full of sweet animal stories of rescues and rehabilitations and it makes my heart happy.

From Julie: This isn’t a funny video, but it is hands down the best Pad Thai I’ve ever put into my belly. The best part is you can throw in all those random veggies from your fridge so it’s different every time you make it.

Also, I know this seems narcissistic to recommend my own video, but I watch this when I need to be reminded that I’m not just here for pillow fluffing and begging for a swipe up. I’m sure it affects me more because I love Sylvia and she is part of my family, someone whose life was changed, but I cry every single time I watch it and feel more inspired to be the person that made her happy that day. Here is the video for your easy viewing pleasure…

Now we’d love to hear from you. What have you been doing to stay positive? And what type of content would you like to see from us going forward? Let us know in the comments and stay safe. xx