Seizing Joy

 

Lately, I've been thinking even more about finding joy in simple pleasures. Life just keeps getting busier and busier, and if I'm not careful, I can easily get caught up in the everyday, mundane routines, leaving me with little time for more enjoyable activities. And yes, that includes blogging :)

The thing is, over the last few weeks, I've made a determined effort to seize more of these little moments of joy. I've prioritised my own wellbeing (this is still very difficult for me),  and I've really begun to feel a difference in the way that I feel. Better still, others have noticed as well. Even when I've been feeling tired, I've somehow found a little bit of motivation to do something that I know will make me happy. And believe me, that can be more than a little challenging at times.

So, I thought that I would share with you just a few of the very ordinary things that have brought me joy recently. 

First off, was going paddle boarding with Lily. Last weekend we spent a very enjoyable time paddling out on the lake. It was early in the morning, so there were very few people around, and the water was lovely and still. There is something almost meditative about being on the water in this way. Very relaxing. 

After the long spell of spring sunshine, the elderflowers appeared much earlier than usual, so I thought I might have missed my chance to make some elderflower cordial. Luckily, I remembered a couple of trees, not too far away, that were able to provide me with just enough flower heads, so that I could enjoy my favourite summer drink.

The blackcurrant bush provided me with plenty of fruit this year, and I've now got three jars of delicious jam in the cupboard.

While we were in Copenhagen, Lily enjoyed one of the chocolate chip scones from the bakery. I remembered that in my old Bero book, there was a recipe for chocolate chip cookies that I thought was very similar, and she loved them! I guess I'll be baking them more often from now on. 

The garden has been looking lovely this last week. The flower beds have filled out and the beetroot and carrots look to be coming along very nicely indeed. 

Preparing my lunches for the week. I feel much less hurried when I'm organised. And getting my meals ready in this way, means that I know I'll be eating something that's good for me.

Favourite flowers from a friend. Just because. Isn't that kind!

I've been out running several times, along the lanes and through the village. The hedgerows are looking gorgeous just now, and the scent of the Honeysuckle is so strong. 

A morning walk along the shore. Sea air, sand, and I even fouund a few small pieces of sea glass. 

Watching a deer up ahead of me, on the path through the woods.

And finally, catching a Solstice sunset at the end of a busy week.

Back soon. 

J. X