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.

Well, hello 2023! I hope the year started on the right foot for you, and it only keeps getting better. It’s been a bit slow around here, but we’re building up, haha.

With that said, here’s the first edition of this year for my weekly series highlighting 5 things that bring me joy. Without further ado…

• the hope a new year brings. A clean slate, a fresh start, or so we tell ourselves. Even if it’s an illusion, it still brings joy.

• this incredible view above. The water was so calm, and the surroundings perfectly reflected in it. This was a much-needed scene after the holiday season, and seeing it brings joy every single time.

• experiencing the fog coming off the river. The air has been warm and muggy, and when we approached the river, we could clearly feel the cold. It was such an eerie experience but oh so fascinating to see!

• our little Enzo. This kitten is my nightmare and my joy, that’s for sure. It’s clear from his behavior and reactions that he understands us perfectly, which we find endearing. Though let’s not forget that he is a cat, and ultimately, does what he wants…

• the holiday excessiveness being over. The food, the decorations, and everything else associated with the season… at some point it becomes too much. I used to love keeping things up as long as possible but now I just want it all back to normal — it gets old and it loses its freshness (and magic). Maybe it’s just me…

What’s bringing YOU joy this week?

xo,

Em