Check the entire “5 things that bring me joy this week” weekly series here.

Another install of my weekly series that highlights things — big and small, that put a smile on my face.

It’s been HOT and we’ve continued being on a tight schedule which, most likely, will last for several more months. We’re trying to make the best of it and take in the joyful moments as well as the more challenging ones… They’re all part of life, and we sure learned new things along the way.

Here are the things that are bringing me joy this week:

• The new Stranger Things trailer! We’re all ready for Stranger Things 4 volume 2 over here and can’t wait for it to drop. Watching this fresh trailer brings me joy as we’re promised some very intense episodes.

• Reading! I wrote a few weeks ago that I was looking forward to getting back into reading. Since, I’ve caught up on A Cats and Dogs Cozy Mystery by Fiona Grace, and am currently enjoying The French Gardener by Santa Montefiore. I recommend them both if you’re looking for light summer reads! And if you’re in the mood for more reads, check my book picks here — there’s something for everyone, I’m sure!

• Crepe myrtle season! Seeing these abundantly blooming trees just about everywhere right now sure brings a lot of joy. I’m so glad they’re popular around here — the explosion of color is sure to cheer one up!

• Kombucha, with this lemon berry being our go-to flavor right now — so refreshing and yummy! We don’t drink alcohol (personal choice), and I so look forward to enjoying a kombucha towards the end of our day! It’s just so darn tasty and revitalizing, especially on hot days. Other favorite flavors include raspberry lemon, strawberry serenity, gingerberry, and watermelon wonder. You’re welcome!

• Catching up with “old” friends that I haven’t talked to in a while. Doesn’t it just feel good?

What’s bringing YOU joy this week?