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

Eyes on the prize, aka, the long weekend ahead, isn’t this everyone’s motto this week?

On another note, how are there only four months left out of this year? It feels like everyone just skipped over August, considering that I’ve been seeing so many talk about fall as soon as this month began… I feel bad about it now… is August joining January as the least-liked month of the year? I know it’s miserable as far as the heat goes, but still… I bet it’s the most-loved month in Europe though! You know, because some countries get the entire month off … Can you even imagine?

Jealousy aside, let’s talk about some [small] things that bring me joy this week — I hope you have a list of your own:

• the long weekend ahead. Let’s begin with the obvious because I am very much looking forward to it. And I bet I’m not the only one feeling joyous about it… We don’t have any big plans around here other than relaxing by doing things we enjoy doing… And that sounds good to me!

• a good thunderstorm. They never get old — I love the drama they bring on, haha. And to be clear, I always mean the non-destructive thunderstorms — I’m not one to find joy in destruction.

• these beautiful pearl drop earrings and these I just got. Because I am obsessed, I admit — a girl can never have too many pearls, right? Right? I’m supporting small businesses — I can’t go wrong with that… P.S. If there is news about this, I will choose pearls over diamonds any day.

• all. the. sales. So many great sales happening right now… If you’re looking to renew your wardrobe, now is the perfect time to do that… Banana Republic and Banana Republic Factory (my go-to lately) have amazing deals and finds. J.Crew, of course, is coming in hot with its fall sale, Mango is having its summer sale that includes plenty of fall things, and so on. Are you shopping this week?

• this dress I’m eyeing and hope it gets restocked! I was waiting to see it on “real people” before purchasing, since, you know, it’s not your average style, and, of course, it sold out in the meantime. I’m fairly certain it will come back so I’m [im]patiently waiting because this dress weirdly brings me joy, and it has me intrigued!

What’s bringing YOU joy this week?

xo,

Em