Often times we get so wrapped up in our day-to-day activities that it is easy to overlook the little things. We take for granted things that are right in front of our face because we are rushing about in a constant stressed out state. Feeling that we can only relax when we are on vacation or somewhere other than where we currently are. We can be happier if we lost ten pounds or were a few years younger. Enough of that nonsense! Why not find joy where you are? 

Recently a friend and I tasked each other with finding new places to see in our city of Houston. It is so easy to get stuck in a rut! I have decided to take it to another level and push myself to be more creative in finding new spaces as well as trying new things fashion wise. I don’t know about you but I find so much joy in colorful places and clothing. In order to keep this promise to myself to live outside of my box and hopefully to inspire you to do the same “Find Joy Where You Are” will now be a weekly feature on Channelling Dolly! 

A cactus is something that immediately makes me happy! So much so that my last trip to Arizona resulted in at least 100 photos of cactus. When I spied this kimono on the Pink Coconut site I had to have it! For this look I belted it to turn the kimono more into a wrap dress effect. 

A guarantee to this new weekly feature is that you will certainly see a lot of local art. Creativity is always an outlet that brings joy to others. This Lionel Richie mural is just off of Main Street in Midtown Houston.

Friday night the moon was so beautiful. In order to admire it the boy and I went to Clear Lake and got a better view. Photos do not do it justice. 

Today I spent soaking up the sun in Galveston. If you are not familiar with Galveston it is an island about an hour from Houston.  There are many historical homes, beaches and quaint little shops to visit while there. 

The Strand in Galveston is one of the busiest areas of town. The street is full of boutiques, restaurants, murals and my favorite-La King’s Confectionery. If you have a sweet tooth like I do this confectionery is not to be missed. Think candy store meets old school soda shop and you have an idea of the joy this spot beholds! 

Today I visited two local shops that I had never been to in Galveston. The Kitchen Chick is the cutest little kitchen gadget store I have ever seen! Not only do they have beautiful murals on the outside of their store, the inside has a cool mid-century mod vibe! 

The second shop I visited for the first time this weekend was Hendley Market. If you are an architecture fan this shop is located in a historic building dating back to 1858. The eclectic design as well as the wide range of goods sold here make this a must shop spot when on the Strand.

I gave you all a fair warning that I was going to have street art overload on this feature and this fits the bill! This beautiful mural off the Strand fills the entire block of this building. 

So as you can see there is more than one way to look at things in your life. You can find your local area dull or lacking inspiration or you can go out and find joy where you are!