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

Well, I certainly didn’t plan on interrupting my weekly flow of highlighting 5 things, big or small that bring me joy. Life just got crazy all of the sudden, and I simply couldn’t manage it all… Add to that a hurricane coming our way, and, well, it’s easy to see how things got out of control.

A lot has happened in recent weeks, and I will be recapping some of it in my month-at-a—glance post later this week [hopefully]. Until then, here are the 5 things that are bringing me joy this week:

• The fact that we had a peaceful summer, weather-wise. Summers mark the hurricane season in Florida, and it is by far my least favorite time of the year here. With that said, the unusually quiet season we’ve had definitely brought us joy. Especially as, with an impending hurricane headed our way as we speak, I’m reminded of the dreadful feelings it brings. Needless to say, not having to worry about this for several months has been exhilarating.

• Plenty of preparation time. In times like these, it is strange to talk about joy as that is not something that does it… however, the healthy amount of “heads up” before it all goes down brings feelings of gratitude, and in some ways, joy, as well (like lending a helping hand to someone who needs it during this time).

• James May: Our man in… It’s been a delight watching this different kind of travel documentary… Apart from it helping us learn about places and facts we weren’t aware of, we’ve also laughed out loud at the many awkward and, of course, comedic situations throughout the entire series.

• This song. It’s just… happy — the rhythm that is, and it makes us dance as soon as it comes on… Give it a listen and see if it does the same for you.

• The slightest chill in the air. That might have to do with hurricane Ian, but cooler temps (even if for Florida that means the 80s), sure give us… life, especially with the threat of losing power for a few days #smallwins.

What’s bringing YOU joy this week?

xo,

Em