The start of the holiday season flies in like a tornado. To avoid getting swept up Dorothy-style, I bookend my day by noting a few moments of joy that captured my attention. The act of writing them down keeps me from turning into a witch. The moments on paper return to me as a happiness boost.
I love flipping back through my journal to see what I have captured. What did I notice? What brought me joy? An unexpected popover from a friend, an inspiring yoga class, a beautiful hike, laughing over cocktails. Paper and pen to note what lights me up brings a smile across my face. I enjoy journaling so much that I often give them as a gift.
A few of my favorites from December have been:
A walk in the woods.
Strolling through shops in town with friends.
Discovering a new song.
Reading a new book.
Slipping into freshly laundered sheets.
Scratching a dog’s ears.
The smell of baking bread.
Giving a deep hug.
Hearing “I love you, Mom.”
Writing a thank you note.
Soaking in a warm bath.
Wearing socks with a fun message on them.
Hearing a cat purr.
Wearing jewelry that sparks a conversation.
Kissing.
The first time a friend invited me to go away with her family for a weekend, my mom baked cookies and tucked a bottle of wine into my duffle bag. The idea embarrassed me and not because my mother’s cookies resembled little rocks. “Trust me,” she urged, “they will appreciate the gesture.” She was right and I have arrived bearing gifts ever since. When I have forgotten to come bearing gifts, I have sent a framed photo from the weekend. A joyful reminder of our joyful time together.
I used to create photo albums that told the story of our experiences. Those transformed into digital photo books, then digital albums to share with a click. Eventually, my phone became a cyber junk drawer.
My grandmothers would send postcards from trips to share in the experience. To let us know that they were thinking of us. I encouraged our sons to do the same, but that is another lost art. I make a habit of grabbing a tiny memento, card, matches- anything to remind myself of the adventure after it is over. Many of these items crowd for space in jars, bowls, or any surfaces on my desk or bookcases. If I pick up one item, it can immediately send me a burst of joy over the memory.
For our home, I hung a wooden tray on the wall and displayed many of these items. These tiny little things create a collection that sparks joy as I walk by them or share their stories. It has inspired guests to add to the board, leaving their mark. Visiting the South Woodstock Country Store or Woody’s Mercantile always inspires little goodies to appear on the shelf.
My journal is not on display for group consumption, and this visible collection will grow over time. It is a gift that keeps on giving. Who can look at a little emotional support pickle and not crack a smile?