Joy List

Do you have a list of things that bring you joy?  Things that just make you so happy no matter what is going on in your crazy busy perfectly imperfect life?

I recently sat down one afternoon and just journaled out all of the things that make me happy.  Surprisingly, most of the things were small–we aren’t talking like romantic trips to Paris for the weekend.  I’m talking stuff like chai tea lattes from Starbucks, trying a new trendy spot for dinner, and driving with the car windows down while listening to 80s music.

Here’s some of my list in no particular order:

• Sunsets (especially from the hilltop at the ranch or on the beach)
• Movie dates with James
• Making cookies with Callie (chocolate chip cookies are our favs!)
• Getting a manicure
• New notebooks or planners
• Doing something nice for someone that’s not expected (unexpected compliments or gifts are the best!)

• Watching Callie dance
• Watching old Disney movies that I loved as a kid with Callie
• Lipgloss
• Having a piece I wrote impact others
• New podcasts
• A clean car
• Love notes from James
• Bundt cakes
• The smell of pine
• Coffee mugs
• A good workout
• 80s music

• Brunch with my girls
• Drinking coffee with James
• Hand written cards
• Anything cinnamon
• Observing Callie model a servant’s heart
• Baby Yoda memes
• Sundresses with flip flops (hello summer)
• Seeing Callie grow as an equestrian
• New books
• Trying a new recipe

I urge you to make your own Joy List and add to it frequently.  Look at it when you are having a hard day, when the odds seem stacked against you, and when you need a little bit of a boost.  Then on those days that you need it, find time to do one of those things where you can to lift your spirits.  If you can find ways to infuse joy into your every day life…..joy and wonder will always find you.