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.

How’s your January going so far? I think the month is going by fairly quickly, considering that we’re almost at the end of it (time to get my month-at-a-glance post ready!).

This past weekend was the coldest we’ve had so far, and wow, was it unpleasant. We ran a few errands and came home ASAP to warm ourselves and the place up. But we’re not having that problem this week…

It’s almost the weekend for us, and we have some fun things planned and I can’t wait! Until then, here are 5 things that bring me joy this week:

• the warmth! We’re being spoiled with beautiful weather this week (after frigid temperatures that stubbornly stuck around for a long while), and my joy is indescribable. Yes, I know I’ll complain about it being too warm soon enough… we’ll call it the circle of life… Until then, I’m relishing in it, before the next cold “wave” comes next week…

• fresh air! As in, being able to open the windows to “exchange” the air without freezing.

• this 3D crystal ball that features a hummingbird, and another very specific one that I can’t seem to find. My husband gave them to me to remind me of the things I love and bring me joy (the choice isn’t random). I have them on my desk and whenever the sun hits them, joy overtakes me. I am this close to starting a collection as I’m obsessed. There are so many adorable 3D crystal balls I want... Like this kitty playing with butterflies, this hummingbird one (yes, I love them!), this tulips and butterflies one, this cherry blossom… oh, my, the list goes on. Note: These would make great gifts for any occasion, including Valentine’s.

• a small painting depicting a tumultuous sea on a [vintage] bamboo easel that we just received. It’s a special gift as the painting was done by my late GIL, and it just speaks to me (we all know I adore the ocean!)

• my mini carnations going strong. After 3 weeks of enjoying the most beautiful pink carnations that looked like garden roses (or even peonies), my husband replaced them with… mini carnations in a color of his choosing. They remind me of variegated crocuses and yes, bring me joy! Seriously, don’t underestimate carnations (including the mini ones) — they are gorgeous and last a long time.

What’s bringing YOU joy this week?

xo,

Em