The Weekly (Joy)Cap
Week of August 23rd- August 30th (24') | Unlikely Provision, Girl Time, & Documenting Daily Joys ✨
This is the (Joy)Cap where I share a weekly reflection or lesson and a roundup of links, recommendations, and everything that’s bringing me joy, inviting you to do the same. Think of this as a weekly coffee date with my close friends. ☕️💕🫶🏾 Join me on a weekly joy hunt and start receiving the (Joy)Cap by subscribing today! ✨
The Lord is so gracious and kind when He sends you reprieve and refreshment when you need it. That’s what this week was for me. It was a little lighter on the decision-making and strategizing and heavier on the resting and being. The kids and I came down with a slight cold that we were recovering from during the top half of the week. Just as the colds cleared up, one of my best friends came into town to visit and hang out. And let me tell you, I needed that girl time.
As I look back on the week, I realize that her visit was God’s provision for me. The slowing down, resting on the couch, eating good food, indulging in treats, remembering and laughing, temporarily forgetting — these were all opportunities for refreshment. Sometimes, when I pray and ask God for His provision, I ask that He provide resources — usually (financial) resources that would lighten the load or the burden of what I have to carry. But provision can take on many different forms — mental, emotional, physical, spiritual — He’s able to provide not just some of our needs but all our needs regardless of how big or small, seen or unseen. All these glimmers were simple gifts, provided to me by a gracious God who knew what I needed at that moment. And I’m so thankful.
And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus. Now all glory to God our Father forever and ever! Amen.
- Philippians 4:19-20
What Brought Me Joy ✨
Unplanned Starbucks trips. Last Friday, my husband uncharacteristically got off of work before 9 am, so I took advantage of his presence and took a serendipitous trip to Starbucks for my first pumpkin cream cold brew of the season. I returned to the house and sipped on my cold brew while the kids played outside. It was a great morning.
Waffle House breakfast. My husband got home early again another morning and brought me Waffle House for breakfast, another unexpected delight. I’m taking advantage of his temporary schedule (and these mornings when I don’t have to cook) while they last.
One of my besties coming into town. One of my best friends rode in from Charlotte to visit, and she came bearing Starbucks, charcuterie, and chocolate cake. Although we talk nearly every day, it was nice to just sit and chat in person. Due to being home with the kids and my friend group being scattered, I appreciated the adult conversation and the change in the cadence of our days.
Just a few snaps that I actually remembered to take. Most times I am so present in the moment that I forget to take photos! 4. Finding these pumpkin wooden spoons at Hobby Lobby. I’ve been seeing these cutie spoons featured in fall decor videos on YouTube for years. I was happy to see that my local Hobby Lobby had them in stock.
Lately, I’ve been testing out keeping a running note of what’s bringing me joy. It’s a form of micro-journaling, in the moment, and makes sure that I’m not missing any opportunities to seek joy and cultivate gratitude. I’m still testing whether I want to continue to use Apple Notes or switch to Notion, where I keep mostly everything digitally. I don’t like how adding photos feels wonky in Notes. I will eventually report back with what works best for me.
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Currently Reading 📚
This week I finished The Love Script by Toni Shiloh, Sweet Magnolias A Slice of Heaven by Sheryl Woods, Summer on Highland Beach by Sunny Hostin, Cold Clay by Juneau Black, and The Last Thing He Told Me by Laura Dave, and The Bookstore Sisters by Alice Hoffman.
When in Rome by Sarah Adams has been sitting on my nightstand for months, so I was excited to finally get to it. So far, it’s been the perfect small-town romance to transition from summer into fall reading.
I was honored to be sent Sacred Work by author Peggy Bodde to review. Women’s leadership has always been a huge part of my work, so I look forward to getting into this more over the next month.
Motherhood is one of the most beautiful, complex journeys. There is so much pressure to get things right. I’ve been looking for something to encourage me in my own journey, so I was excited to find The Mission of Motherhood by Sally Clarkson available on Libby.
I’m always sharing my thoughts in real-time on Fable and Instagram. For ratings and reviews, check out my Goodreads.
Currently Listening 🎧
If you are tired, worn out, or have hit a dry patch in your faith, this episode will be refreshment and nourishment to your weary soul as Kristen Wetherell shares how we can continue to grow our appetite for God’s Word in all seasons.
I would love to hear from you! What brought you joy this week? Leave a comment, or send me a direct message!
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My joy this week was taking the kids to the beach for the first time and seeing their excitement and wonder at playing in the ocean