Day 45 of quarantine, but who's counting?  (Apparently, I am).  It has been a struggle to find the joy in each day.  I am holding on to Psalm 51:12 "Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me."  God is the restorer of joy.  And that joy comes from the understanding of my salvation.  Something I need to come back to every day, many times throughout the day, when it feels like I am on a carousel ride that won't stop.

I have a weekly call with some dear ladies and one of the things we share is what is bringing us joy in this season.  Sometimes, there are long sighs as we rack our brains and search our hearts for the good, when it feels like so much of life is hard right now.  Sometimes, there are smiles and laughter as we delight in each other's joys.  Learning how to cook from a middle schooler?  That sounds entertaining!  We are honest, we are vulnerable and ultimately we help each other fix our eyes on the restorer of joy.  These are the kinds of calls I want to be on.  These are the kinds of calls I NEED to be on, because when left to my own devices, I am very capable of sitting in my own feelings and following negativity down some deep holes.  I am grateful for those weekly calls and for the other dear ones in my life who call and message and help me lift my head up.

Here are some of the things I'm grateful for, the things that are bringing me joy in this season:

Revival of afternoon nap time!

Outdoor space to run around, and ducks!

Nature and the handiness of my husband

Puzzles.  He can do the same puzzle over and over and be so happy.

Fires at night in our living room

Coffee is definitely part of my joy in the morning (plus who doesn't love some pancakes with fruit?)

What is bringing you joy today?  This week?  This month?  I'd love to know!
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