Check the entire “5 things that bring me joy this week” weekly series here, a collection of seemingly insignificant things that serve as a reminder to appreciate the little things — those small joys that make a difference in our day-to-day.

Hello, hello, 2024!

It’s been a while, hasn’t it? Although it sounds robotic (or cliche, if you will), I really do hope that you had a nice holiday season and rang into the new year full of joy, hope, and determination.

I am more convinced with each passing year that we create our lives and circumstances with our own actions, reactions, and will, so take inventory... Yep, there’s my unsolicited advice for the new year.

That said, let’s jump into this week’s list of 5 things that bring me joy:

• the new year, duh! The fresh start, the possibilities, the excitement that comes with it… it all brings joy! Because you know what? We should dream big. And we should aim high!

• the fact that the holidays are over! Sure, it’s a bit sad but can we be honest? The holidays are also stressful, and busy, and keep you in some sort of limbo. No, I absolutely do not hate them, but I am glad to be done with special menu planning and cooking, the excess, the expectations and disruptions… There is beauty in the ordinary and the every day (which is the very reason for this series), and we should appreciate it... So yes, I am glad the holidays are over...

• this dress being back in stock and in a new color (also available here and already selling out)! I honestly love this dress (I have it in two colors/prints) — it’s TTS and only $50!

• sunshine. It’s so rare these days… yes, even in [central] Florida, so we’re enjoying it whenever it decides to “show up”.

• kiwi season. Or so I think since they’re been on sale lately and we sure have taken advantage of that, haha. What can I say? I love my fruits [and veggies]!

What’s bringing YOU joy this week?

xo,

Em