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.

It has been so hot here lately that it’s put me in a bit of a mood. I mean, only minutes after stepping outside to water my plants, I get covered in sweat, and who the heck enjoys that?! We’re back to full-time indoor life, and that’s a life I’m never excited about living… With a long to-do list though, it’s been working out for now as I have been busy and just taking it day by day.

Here’s the list of 5 things that are bringing me joy this week:

• smoothie season. Or more like, me finally getting into a routine of making them. I keep the smoothie-making process quick and easy by using whatever frozen berries I have (usually strawberries), one or two fresh (or frozen) bananas, and plant-based milk. Lately, I’ve been adding these cacao nibs for extra nutrients and antioxidants. These smoothies are so healthy and delicious! And no, I don’t add any sort of sweetener.

• this perfume. Gardenia is one of my favorite flowers and scents, so when I came across this perfume, I decided to give it a try. The scent brings me joy and I think it’s a great summer fragrance, even if it doesn’t last long. I will be looking for other options but, for the time being, it does the job.

• linen pajamas. You already know about my love for linen and it should be no surprise that I look to incorporate it wherever possible. I cannot stand soft pajamas for the warm season — crisp cotton or linen is what I go for and these PJs are great. I usually size up for extra comfort.

• getting back into regularly exercising. One thing you should know about me is that I deeply dislike working out/exercising. I started going to the gym a few months ago, and no surprise there, with a new hectic schedule, I stopped going. I haven’t been feeling good about myself lately so I signed up for a workout program (that comes with accountability, aka, countless email reminders) and so far so good. As I am writing this, I am feeling the burn and moving is a bit painful, but it’s a good kind of pain, if that makes sense. No matter how I feel about exercising, doing it actually brings me joy… How long do you think this will last?

• this dress and the fact that it has pockets! Pockets bring me joy, it’s that simple.

What’s bringing YOU joy this week?

xo,

Em