Thinking about joy in February seemed challenging at best. Even though it’s the shortest month it always feels a little rough to get through. This year I changed my mindset about and used February as an opportunity to discover what brings me joy. Challenge accepted!
ICE CREAM
I’m a big proponent of ice cream in the winter. Especially in February. I’ve been a fan of raspberry cheesecake from my local ice creamery. Swoon worthy!
GOODWILL
Goodwill is one of my very favorite places on Earth. It’s funny because growing up, I wouldn’t be caught dead in Goodwill. The thought of used clothes felt icky and the home and furniture department was so unimportant that I never bothered to head over that way. Rewind to my 37-year-old self and the home and furniture department is my favorite part.
the movies
I’m in my movies by myself phase and it’s making me happy as a clam. I went to a theatre in my neighborhood that I’d never been to before and I was the only one there! I’ve never had a whole theatre to myself before and it was glorious!
dance
These last few months I’ve felt like I’m coming out of something intense. It feels like I’m beginning to see a light through a tunnel of depression. One of the ways I gauge this is by how much I dance. I’ve found myself dancing for no reason lately. Even without music. I’m taking full advantage of this extra pep in my step and embracing the moments I feel like dancing.
THE GYM
The gym has been a wonderful tool for me. I’ve never felt confident at the gym, but I go in spite of that. My theory is the more I practice going to the gym, the more comfortable I feel. While some days are better than others, it’s something that I’ve never given up on and I do get more comfortable with it when I’m consistent. February is a month where I’m usually consistent with the gym.
HANDMADE ART
Art is one of the things that make up my foundation. It isn’t something I’m naturally good at or anything that comes naturally to me. It takes a ton of practice and thought. It’s my teacher, my muse and my future.
CHASING SUNSETS
Lately I’ve been very grateful for sunny days. It’s a reminder that winter isn’t forever and just like things I’m going through in my life, seasons change. I have a neurological condition that makes me very light sensitive. It’s made me think a lot about my relationship with sunlight. Something that I will continue to do.
What brings you joy in February?