The Power of Simple Joys

0

I’m not sure when exactly it happened, but sometime in my thirties I’ve come to appreciate something I used to overlook- the everyday, ordinary things that make me happy. In my twenties, the really big joys got more of my attention. A week-long vacation, new job, fun party, or special gift really stood out. Of course, I still enjoy all of those things now, but I’ve also come to notice and treasure all the little things that add joy to my life. Maybe it’s living through a global pandemic that shut everything down or becoming a mom who can’t hit the town with girlfriends anytime I want, but I’ve found that some of the sweetest things are the simplest. Here are some of my top simple joys.

A Good Cup of Coffee

While my coffee-drinking days began with the fancy, whipped cream laden beverages at Starbucks, I now love a simple cup of good coffee. Whether I make it at home or stop by one of my favorite local spots, coffee brightens my day SO much. If I can sit and enjoy it over conversation with a friend, that’s even better!

A Cozy Blanket

Someone recently gifted me a Barefoot Dreams blanket, and dare I say it is the softest thing I’ve ever touched. There’s nothing better than cozying up with a soft, warm blanket to watch TV, read a book, or just sit in silence (such a luxury!). 

A Good Book

I tend to have a lot on my mind on a daily basis. Getting lost in a book allows me to let go of my agenda and concerns for a little while and truly relax. 

Taking a Walk

My husband and I really discovered the therapeutic power of a walk at the beginning of the pandemic. We were eager to get out of the house but didn’t have anywhere to go. Regular walks saved us from going stir-crazy and allowed us to see other people, even if from a distance. It’s a practice we still turn to when we need some fresh air and time to decompress. 

Listening to a Podcast

An interesting podcast can turn even the most mundane tasks (I’m looking at you, laundry) into tolerable, even enjoyable, chores. I also love being able to learn from or connect with others from the comfort of my own home or car.

Anything Chocolate

Like, literally anything. I eat chocolate in some form or fashion pretty much every day. It doesn’t have to be a lot. A simple Hershey’s kiss or peanut butter cup will do the trick. 

Pajamas

The plethora of good pajamas on the market would have me think that I’m not alone on this one. Who doesn’t love the comfort of elastic waistbands and soft, loose-fitting fabric after a long day? 

The best thing about simple joys is that they often don’t cost much, if anything, and can be enjoyed regardless of your circumstances. Even on hard days, there is probably something to notice and savor. What are some of your simple joys?

Previous articleU-Pick Strawberry Farms :: In & Around Birmingham
Next articleUAB Callahan Eye Now Open in Pelham
Elaine Bradberry
Elaine is originally from Mobile, Alabama, but Birmingham has always had a special place in her heart. She made frequent trips to the Magic City as a child to visit relatives and envisioned living here one day. She is 8 years in and loves it! Elaine and her husband Kyle got married in 2019 and welcomed their son David at the beginning of 2021. She is a proud graduate of The University of Alabama and holds a bachelor's degree in Public Relations. She has worked in the nonprofit and corporate sector doing ministry, volunteer coordinating, marketing, and recruiting to name a few! She is currently a stay-at-home-mom navigating the new waters of parenthood. Her favorite things include running, hiking, baking, and eating her way through Birmingham's amazing food scene!