Inspired by a recent Book Friends Forever podcast episode we thought we’d talk about the little things that bring us joy, both within publishing and outside of it. Share your joys with us in the comments.
Christine: Thrift store shopping is not only good for my wardrobe, the environment, and my wallet but it gives me a creativity boost. I love finding a gem in the racks—it’s so satisfying!
Vicky: Meeting up with friends. I tend to be an introvert, but I do love getting together with small groups of trusted friends.
C: Speaking of friends, I love trying out a new coffee shop with my friends. Even better when one of the friends is Vicky and we discover a great place to co-work (or just chat!) together.
V: Yes to the new coffee shop, and I’m in a mocha kick right now. That bit of chocolate and sugar makes me happy for the day!
C: Doing puzzles. I’ve started listening to a podcast while doing a 1000-piece puzzle and I find it so relaxing. And there’s such satisfaction in finding the right piece.
V: My nine-year-old also recently got into puzzles and it’s definitely improved my state of mind. Now I can sit down and puzzle for a few minutes instead of doom scrolling.
C: Hiking. I don’t hike enough lately but when I get out on the trails it makes me happy.
V: Yes to exercise! I find that yoga helps both my mind and my body (especially when I’ve been typing/drawing a lot and my arm starts to cramp up)!
C: More exercise: lifting weights. When I go up to a new weight or manage more reps it’s so satisfying.
V: I don’t do it enough, but I love going out dancing or just dancing around my house.
C: Getting in flow. Just this week I spent an hour on my middle grade novel as a treat (and a break from my contracted nonfiction project) and I got that flow feeling which I don’t feel as often as I’d like.
V: Ahh, I love the flow! I’ve abandoned my chores the last two days and I’m very pleased to be making creative progress. It feels so good! So, I’m just one-upping your answer.
C: Buying myself flowers from Trader Joe’s always feels like a nice treat.
V: I just like making stuff. Origami, felting, pottery… it’s nice to make stuff with your hands.
C: Plus one to crafting. This is something I do not do enough despite it being one of my favorite things to do.
V: I feel like this is frowned upon as NOT doing something, but I love naps. It’s a little break for my brain and my body, and it’s just for me.
C: Nothing wrong with napping if it brings you joy. My next one is sunsets, especially if they’re over the ocean.
V: Being out in nature brings me awe. It’s easy to forget how stunning the world is when we’re stuck on our screens. I love that my kids are so into nature and remind me to be out there with them.
C: Yes to all things nature. Being by the ocean always makes me happy. The sound of waves crashing is so soothing.
V: I love snacks. I think food is just one of the best things in life. Right now, I’m really into Greek yogurt with Love Crunch granola on it. Also, mangoes. Also, cheese curls. Also, Thai lime and chili almonds from Trader Joe’s. Also, donuts. I could go on.
C: All of those snacks sound delicious. Introducing my girls to my favorite movies brings me so much joy. This week we watched Greta Gerwig’s Little Women which is one of my top movies (and books) and I loved seeing it through my girls’ eyes.
V: TV and books are on my list too. I love digging into characters and stories. I just started Killing Eve last night and I’m enjoying Sandra Oh and Fiona Shaw’s performances! I’ve also just started reading Erin Entrada’s The First State of Being.
C: Oh yes, I also love getting lost in a good book that makes me sad that it’s ended. I also love musicals. I’m so excited to see Six in a few months when it comes to San Jose on tour. Even listening to the soundtracks of my favorite musicals makes me happy but there’s nothing like seeing an in-person performance.
V: Oh, I might be seeing that one too! Hmmm, I don’t love musicals in the same way that I used to (it’s complicated), but I do love art installations! I love taking the time to look at something in a new way, or being awed by something wonderful whether it’s in nature or art.
These are just a few of our favorite things. What brings you joy?
I didn't have time to read this when it arrived and am just catching up on a few things now, but the title "Finding Joy" made me save it! Finding Joy is the most important thing always, but especially now.
I had to smile when you mentioned dancing because since the beginning of the year I've gone from 3 dance classes per week to 6 days a week. I take classes at 3 different places with 5 different teachers because that is where I find joy (escape) in the combination of music + movement + community. The people are an interesting tapestry of ages, body types, ethnicities, genders, and when we dance it doesn't matter. That's the best part.
The other joy for me is being out on the trail with Charlie and our BFFs - mine and her 2 canines who are his BFFs which we try to make happen most days, weather permitting.
And of course in between I find time for reading, writing, and chocolate. ;)
This is such a good list. It brings a smile to my face!