Simple Joys

I’ve always been a sentimental person, but these days I’m frequently noticing just how filled up I feel by the simplest things. I’ve found myself recognizing them more and more – the quick moments that unexpectedly and briefly make me forget that there’s anything negative in the world.

The funny thing is, a lot of these moments aren’t picture-worthy or things I’d even share with others; they’re just moments I quietly feel so content and happy. They’re moments I feel almost certain I’ll yearn to have back years down the road. Surely you know what I mean as I’m hopeful that everybody has these little moments in their own way.

I’ve noticed that some (most) of them involve my daughters, some involve my husband, and some revolve around my own silly interests or hobbies. I’ve probably had moments like this my entire life, but there’s possibly something about the season of life I’m in right now that’s causing me to notice (and greatly appreciate) them each time.

While we didn’t do anything worth writing home about this weekend, I found myself piecing together a handful of these simple joys which collectively made up a wonderful couple of days.

When our Saturday breakfast spot (The Chef) had a long wait, we decided to order food to-go and enjoy it at a nearby park. The weather was perfect, the company of other young families around was nice to see, and the girls both ate well. Jamie and I both recognized how awesome it was that Sadie could sit on the bench and eat without us next to her to make sure she didn’t fall. Simple and joyful.

Speaking of The Chef, Jamie stayed back with the girls at the park while I drove a mile down the road to pick up our food. When I walked into the restaurant, it was a sea of purple. K State would play a home football game later that morning, so everyone was filling up on some great food before heading to the game. You could just feel the energy in this tiny restaurant. Everyone was so fired up, friendly, and united. I adore this about living in a college town. Everybody is friends on game day, and the atmosphere is contagious.

I posted on Instagram last week that Jamie and I were both feeling a little “off” when it came to thinking about the one-year anniversary of Hadley’s accident. Without me knowing, he decided to book her a morning at a local equestrian farm (the same one where we had her birthday party last year) so that she could participate in their WeeRide program. It was a total surprise, and Hadley loved it. You know what I loved more than seeing Hadley’s face? Watching Jamie. He couldn’t stop smiling. He loved watching her light up over every little thing they did with the horses. I can’t explain what a bond he has with our girls.

A materialistic simple joy: Pulling into our driveway and seeing a package I’d been waiting on all week. I couldn’t wait to open it!

When I saw Jamie turn on our Keurig Saturday afternoon to make a cup of coffee, I asked if he’d make me one after he made his. Without missing a beat, he responded “How about I’ll make yours first?” Happy sigh. Marriage to me is recognizing these little moments where you put each other first, and connecting those dots can equal a lot of joy and appreciation.

Parenting simple joy: Spontaneous “silly time” of chasing each other, tickling, tent-making, and letting the kids climb on you. It would be hard for me to think of something that makes me genuinely happier than hearing our girls belly-laugh.

End-of-the-day joy: Melting into the couch with Jamie on the other end, who had just sat down after checking to make sure both girls were asleep (it was only 7:25!). I had a glass of wine, he had a beer, and we cheered to a wonderful day of doing nothing out of the ordinary. The best kind of day.

A “me time” simple joy: Going for a morning run when it’s 65 degrees out, listening to Hillsong, and watching the sun rise. Ah. Talk about having a pep in your step.

Let’s chat!

What have simple joys looked like for you lately? I’d love to hear what makes you happy. 🙂