15 things that brought me joy this week

There’s a lot going on these days.

I’ll be the first to admit that I’ve slowly distanced myself from my social media feeds, because nothing is really making me feel good. The news is depressing, it feels like incredible work to engage with other bloggers (at no fault to anyone but my energy reserve), I get angry when I see posts complaining about at-home orders, I’m associating my value too closely to my like count (or lack there-of), and I feel a surge of guilt when I’m reminded that I have not been working out with any regularity.

It’s easy to get into a negative head space. I know that it’s normal and that all bets are off in a worldwide pandemic. Sure, I know. I know, I know, I know. But when is anxiety and comparison and negativity ever truly rational? I know, but I feel.

So, here we are. I’ve decided to take action. In addition to casting my phone to the side, I’ve compiled a reflective list to talk about 15 things that have made me happy in the past week. I need this, and maybe you do too.

1. A Room with a View

I’ve been admiring the view from our rental’s master bedroom lately. As I spend a last few days in this home, I’m soaking it all in.

2. New Tattoos

I finally was able to add my highly anticipated tattoo designs this week, and I’m hella happy about it. I love this floral wrap and sun inked by the incredibly talented Kat at Hole in the Wall Tattoos in Glenwood Springs. Follow her on Instagram at @ katmaxman!

3. We Closed on a FREAKING House!

I didn’t want this to be my first item, because I’ve written a lot about this lately (Steps to Buying a Home, Saying Goodbye to Our First Home, monthly updates), but it’s absolutely a milestone that we’ll always remember. Cheers!!!!!

4. Picking Out Our New Pup

As I’ve mentioned in the past, my main motivation for buying a house was geared toward dog ownership. We’ve recently placed a deposit on a goldendoodle and chosen our pup. Here’s our future doggo, who comes home June 6. 🙂 <3

5. Before and After

On our third day of home ownership, Chad and I started what will likely be a tireless painting project to update the many walls of our home. We started in our master bedroom, and because we are…not talented painters, this task took us all damn day. The before and after shot has brought me lots of joy, though.

6. A Clean House

Because we are nearing the end of our rental lease, our landlords advertised our place and held showings. We were knee-deep in boxes and moving and so I dedicated an entire day to getting the place showroom-ready. Though I was exhausted afterward, I was also extremely thankful to have a cleaner place to enjoy during our last weeks here.

7. Parks and Recreation

I’ve watched some damn good television over the past few months, especially with recent releases and highly anticipated new seasons. This week, however, I’ve gravitated toward re-watching an old favorite. Parks and Rec is a comfort show, guaranteed to make me belly laugh and expand my heart with wholesome content and beautiful character development.

8. Morning Coffee and Cuddle Break

One of the best things about the quarantine is that Chad has been working from home. And the ever better part of that, is how Chad makes coffee every day and brings it upstairs to me while I’m waking up. He also jumps into bed and gives me a quick cuddle. Let me say, this is probably the most amazing way to wake up, and is such a delight. I’m spoiled, and I have a feeling that I’ll miss these moments most when life returns to normalcy.

9. This Photo Of Shylo

Yup. This photo of my parents’ pup Shylo is definitely a highlight of my week.

10. My Parents

My parents are the best. They spent their Saturday helping me move quite a lot of boxes into our new house while Chad was at work. We got a lot done, plus they treated me to some delicious fish tacos and a margarita. Lots of excitement and joy there!

And special shout-out to my mom, in honor of Mother’s Day. She is wonderful and makes me feel loved and supported and special all the time, and I feel really lucky to have her as my partner in fun-spirited crime. Love you, Mommo!!!

11. An Order Was Placed

I received an order from my online store! I was happy to send out a batch of my Thinking of You cards. Thanks for your support of my small business, Sheryl!

12. New Freelance Client

I have a new freelance writing client! I’m writing several blog posts a month for my insurance agent. My dad is the district manager of the western slope of Colorado and I used to be his receptionist back in his agent days (and my summer job days), so this feels like very familiar terrain for me. I’m grateful for this new project.

13. Besties are Getting Married

After making the terribly difficult decision to postpone their large August wedding, my besties decided to hold an intimate ceremony at the end of May for their family and bridal parties. Chad and I are over-the-moon excited and so happy for them and their love.

14. I Painted My Nails

It’s all about the little things, right?! Well, I busted out the nail polish one last time before packing it up. This small act of self care brought me some joy for sure.

15. Curbside Pickup Rocks

Chad and I recently ordered some delicious food from Slope and Hatch in Glenwood Springs, and it was such a treat. I’m so glad we got to support a local biz and stay safe doing so.

What brought you joy this week?