8 Things That Bring Me Joy

As I write this I find myself outside on my porch because my power has gone out due to a strong thunderstorm passing by. I don’t mind the power going out really, as it quiets the world for a moment allowing me to really enjoy the thunderstorm in all its glory.

Taking time to enjoy this atmospherical phenomenon has got me thinking about all the other things that bring me a ridiculous amount of joy but I tend to forget about in the busyness of daily life.

1. Reading – I love cuddling up in bed with a good story. I find it hard sometimes to convince myself to read when I’ve got a million and one things going on. Who else can relate? But every time I find a little time to spare, I’m so glad I have. Getting the chance to imagine all the characters and settings in your mind, and knowing them as if they are real is such a treasure. Like a little secret world that’s all your own. One book I’ve adored reading during quarantine is Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman. I’ve linked it in case you’re in for a good, story-twisting read.

2. Going to the zoo – I absolutely LOVE going to the zoo. The most exciting part for me is getting to see all the animals from all over the world, and learning about their habitats, diets, and family hierarchies. The best zoo I have ever been to is the St. Louis Zoo in Missouri. First off, its FREE, (how freaking amazing is that??), but also it is the largest zoo I’d ever been in. It honestly took John and I one whole day, 10 am – 6 pm, to get through its entirety and if we could have spent more time there, we would have.

3. Riding the train – Now when I say trains I’m not meaning subways, monorails, or bullet trains, I mean regular moving Amtrak trains. To me this is the greatest form of transportation. Sure it may take a bit longer than a bullet train or airplane, but you have plenty of leg room, a dining car, sleeping quarters, and (the best part) massive windows that allow you to see the underbelly of towns as you swiftly move on by. It’s awesome!

4. Dancing – Dancing probably seems like an obvious one but for me no matter if I dance in a big group, or by myself in my own living room, it always ups my mood and gives me a little boost of sexy confidence, and who doesn’t love that?

5. Science Center’s – Science center’s are amazing for all the hands on learning aspects. At a science center you can get swept away in a tornado, film yourself reporting the weather, manipulate gravity, or even discover the stories hidden in the night skies. I will say, sometimes these places can be packed with kids and school field trips, which can be a little upsetting when you want to play with cool science stuff too! But most science center’s actually have what’s called an “Adult’s Only” night, where they open the science center for only those 21 & up, and they even serve alcohol! I frequently attend the Orlando Science Center’s adult’s only night and it’s always a good time. If this is something you’re interested in, check out your local science center and see if they offer this option.

7. Interior Decorating – Making a place a home cannot be understated. I really want my home to be a place I can come to after a long day of work and be able to relax, feel cozy, and be surrounded by things that make me happy. On Etsy I am always find something really cute and unique, or I try to make them myself from how-to’s I find on Pinterest. If I’m looking for larger budget friendly finds I can always be sure to find something great at Target or Shein.

8. Board Games – Getting the whole group of family/friends together for a night of board games encompasses some of my favorite memories. Just doing something together, no phones, no TV distractions, and watching the competitiveness unleash, always stands for an absolute hilarious time. Whenever I’m looking for a new board game to play or want to sell my old ones I turn to BoardGameCo. It’s a great site where you can buy, sell, or trade board games, which is awesome when you want to try new games and don’t want to spend a ton of money!

So there you have it! 8 things that bring me a ridiculous amount of joy. Maybe some of those were on your list, or maybe you discovered something entirely new. Either way I hope you spend the rest of your day getting to spend a little time doing some of the things that bring you joy. As for me, I’ll be heading back inside as my electricity is finally back. Hallelujah!