SIMPLE JOYS

I have a group text with all of my best friends from back home in Texas. We use it to keep up with each other, share important details of our lives, and just joke around for the most part. The other day, my friend Megan Alberse just randomly asked us all, "what are your simple joys in life?"

I was kind of taken aback by this question. I feel as though a lot of the time I am just going through the motions and moving through life quickly to get done all the things I need to. I stopped and read a few of my friends responses and began to think of my own.

While Megan listed things such as sun shining on trees, very large blankets, cold weather, the sound of subway tracks clicking, planning trips etc., my friend Francesca said things like her sharpie pen, seeing people be nice to others, and singing in the car.

Kasey said snowboarding down a slope and feeling the wind in her face, the water being as still as glass when she wakeboard, and pickles. Emily said, the rain, the smell of outside, driving in the rain, and grocery shopping when she is hungry.

My other friends listed some as well, but these were the first few who answered Meg's question. I really began to think about all the little, simple things that brought me joy and I compiled a list for all of you.

1. When people really and genuinely laugh at things I say
2. Fresh cut grass
3. Christmas Trees
4. Watching people hug after a long time apart
5. Painting with watercolors
6. Unexpected Gifts
7. Random texts from my mom saying 'I love you"
8. A really good smelling candle
9. The way my hair hits my face in the wind
10. Genuine smiles
11. Popsicles and ice cream cones melting
12. A warm cup of hot chocolate
13. Puppies licking my face
14. The outdoors

As the holiday season is beginning and coming into full swing, I encourage you all to seek joy and think about the simple things that bring your joy in your life. It really helps you to calm down and be thankful for what you have.