Connecting with Joy

Parenting is not going to be a comfortable path. There will be confusing, exhausting, and painful days, we will make mistakes, our kids will make mistakes, our parents will think we're crazy, our neighbors will hear us yelling.

But, in the midst of it all, there is joy. We talk a lot about joy in December. I'm making a commitment this month to make space for joy every day. I'm starting with noticing the small things that are already going on in my life that bring me joy--
The smell of my sheets and towels, fresh off the clothesline on this windy day. Beautiful.
Two amaryllis bulbs sprouting on my windowsill. It is making me happy just to look at them.
Dark chocolate covered almonds. Yum.
A quiet house and nothing I am scheduled to do out in the world. Spacious. A chance for much needed rest and 'me' time.

How about you? What is already going on in your world that brings you joy?

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