Small Things: Big Joys
Noticing the everyday things that quietly make life sweeter
I want to begin by acknowledging the pain, grief, and anger many of us are feeling in this moment in our country. If you’re a reader here, I imagine we share a belief that peaceful protest - and protecting one another from harmful government action - is essential to a healthy democracy. Many of you have likely already seen ways to donate in Minneapolis or support targeted and vulnerable communities closer to home. Let’s continue to take care of one another and keep working toward a democracy that truly includes us all.
Now, onto finding joy… even in a sometimes broken, hostile world where we could all use more of it. Joy, too, is a form of resistance.
I love knowing what people actually use in their daily lives - the quiet, often unspoken joy of the mundane fabric of our days. I recently heard a quote about how it’s the ordinary moments that are our life: the morning cup of coffee, the carpool line at school, the wave hello to a neighbor. It is, in fact, the small moments that make up the whole thing!
So I looked around my home and took notice of the little items that bring joy and meaning to my everyday. Not the fabulous bag that gets pulled out twice a year, or the hand-beaded dress that makes a big entrance, but the things that show up, day after day.
I love this blanket. Every morning I sit in my favorite chair, heating pad turned on low, coffee in hand, easing into the day while I check emails (and okay, okay, Instagram too). I wrap myself up in this throw and just arrive. True bliss, friends.
My family uses these napkins for every breakfast, lunch, and dinner we enjoy at home. I wash them probably three times a week, and I love how, with each meal, they get softer and more worn-in. These colorful napkins, made in Ethiopia, bring a sense of craft and care to our table. I truly love them!
I was devoted to the BeautyCounter (now Counter) body wash for years, and it’s still great. But I decided to try this line from Tracee Ellis Ross (RIP the absolute best sitcome, Black-ish), and I’m not going back.!The amber scent is so, so good. A shower must-have now.
I cannot stop listening to this song. Her voice, her bouncy hair, her infectious energy - it all just works! … Spotify, play Man I Need… again.
She’s so pretty, and so practical! A beautiful camel shade, that longer, drapey silhouette that works with jeans, dresses… everything. Warm without being bulky. A forever closet staple.
My Christopher John Rogers rainbow sweater
Ahhh, the colors! The joy! I packed this sweater for Sundance and loved spreading a little sunshine among the snowy mountains. Jeans + this sweater = outfit done! Instant mood lift. *My sweater is old, but here is a newer option. I also found one on Poshmark.
Good Weather Sunscreen Tint in Warm Glow
I.do.not.leave.the.house without sunscreen. Period! I’ve spent far too much money erasing sunspots to suddenly be irresponsible now - please. This mineral sunscreen with a slight tint is so, so good. A soft glow, a hint of sparkle, and fewer lasers at the derm’s office… maybe. :) Truly some of the best money I spend.
OK, friends! Short and sweet and full of big joys for me!
With love,
Great round up!