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! ✨
Hi, friends!
I hope everyone is enjoying their summer, at least the unofficial start of it. I know we are — soaking in the summer sun, cooling off with library visits, lounging at the pool and beach, binging all the beach reads, and enjoying an occasional melty, ice cream treat.
Living in a small coastal town, our area does up most holidays, especially summer, and I’ve been finding that I want to revel in it all as we experience our first summer in the Golden Isles. This is also the last summer before my oldest starts school. School starts August 6th, and I want to make the most of summer, soaking in all the rest and fun while it lasts.
With that being said, I’ve been finding that I’ve been choosing reading, resting, and hosting over writing. We recently hosted my parents for a little over a month, and we’re preparing to host my sister and her family, along with other family and friends, within the upcoming weeks and months.
Nevertheless, I still desire to document this time and connect with you all, even if it’s sharing only a few lines or two. I love the way that
simplifies her Friday newsletter, 5 Quick Things, during the summer, and I was inspired to do the same. So with that being said, I’m simplifying these weekly (Joy)Caps for the summer. Think of them as postcards from my week—quick highlights, simple joys, and things worth sharing, all with a side of sunshine and grace.
The Joy List ✨
Sunday service. We had spent the previous Sunday home resting and recovering from a stomach bug, so I was thankful to be back in the house of God this Sunday as our church spends this summer walking through the fruits of the Spirit. This was also the second Sunday that my daughter didn’t cry during drop off at children’s church. For her, this is major progress. 🙌🏾
Summer reading program library days. Participating in the summer reading program is so nostalgic for me. I remember reading as much as I could to earn that personal pan pizza from Pizza Hut and free movie rentals from Blockbuster back in the day 🤣. While the personal pan pizza is no longer a thing, I’ve been enjoying logging our books with the kids and attending the numerous events that our county’s libraries offer. This week we attended a hula dancing show, a reptile show, storytime, and had a short visit while I picked up some of my library holds. I pray and hope that these will become apart of my kids’ core memories.
Hubby having an unexpected day off. My husband had a route change t enjoying the afternoon together and taking the kids for ice cream.
A beach day with the kids. There has been rain on the forecast for the last three weeks that’s made it hard to plan outdoor activities. On Thursday, I took a chance and packed the car the night before to head to the beach with the kids. We got there around 9:45 am — the perfect time to enjoy it before the heat fully kicks in and all the people arrive.
* I shared a note on our beach essentials so far as frequent beach goers.
Weekly Faves 🫶🏾💕
Books
The Love Hatersby Katherine Center — Such a wholesome and feel-good rom-com.
stated, Carley put her whole foot in this one. What a great follow-up to Every Summer After.
Loved both of these so much that I plan on purchasing!
Podcasts
Grace As You Go 🕊️
Sometimes grace looks like full calendars, sandy toes, and library stacks. Other times, it’s choosing rest over routine and presence over productivity. As this summer unfolds, may we release the pressure to do it all and embrace the gift of simply being present in the moment.
“In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength.” — Isaiah 30:15
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Your Turn! 👉🏾 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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I need a boog bag now we are going to the pool. I’m going to try to find the best local “beach” and go there more often. 🏖️