I started chronicling everyday experiences and things that I enjoyed last month. It is a worthwhile exercise to determine what fuels your day-to-day and what ordinary occurrences offer the most happiness. Here are a few of my everyday delights for February.
1. This photograph. I took a photography class last year and captured this snapshot. It is the screen saver on my computer. So every morning I am reminded of beauty, peace, and quiet.
2. Downton Abbey. I am not a television watcher, but I do carve out time to watch Downton Abbey every Sunday night. I love how the characters are developed and have an affinity for Maggie Smith’s character, The Countess of Grantham. The bonus: my husband watches it with me.
3. David Whyte Poetry. In the last few years, I’ve discovered the power of poetry. David Whyte’s words often resonate with me. Here is a poem I adore:
Enough
Enough. These few words are enough.
If not these words, this breath.
If not this breath, this sitting here.
This opening to the life
we have refused
again and again
until now.
Until now
4. My coffee mug. Most mornings I hear the coffee pour into my favorite coffee mug. I love the typewriter logo on the side. A daily reminder that it is a privilege and honor to write. Indeed, an everyday delight.
Welcome! I am a lawyer turned freelance writer, essayist, and editor. On staff at Literary Mama and the co-founder and co-editor of the literary journal, The Sunlight Press, my essays and reported work have appeared in The Washington Post, The Lily, Saveur, Civil Eats, Brain, Child, ESPN and elsewhere. I am currently at work on a memoir on grief and culture and how it provides perspective on life’s ordinary graces. I invite you to appreciate the ordinary with me. I hope my daily practice of seeing the magic in the mundane helps you celebrate and find more of these moments in your life too.
I love the simplicity in life that provides us with both calm and joy.
Simple ordinary pleasures are so fun to savor.
Fantastic list!
Thanks, Windy. Glad you enjoyed it.
Oh Downton… I love it so. Wasn’t the finale this season so much nicer than last year’s? It left me with a huge smile on my face.
Sarah,
I enjoyed the finale, but questioned the ending because he introduced so many new characters. I presume he is setting it up for next season. Despite my minor reservations, I thought the finale was festive and interesting.
Enjoyed your list..love the photo! 🙂
Thanks, Ayala. Glad the photo caught your eye.
So lovely. I’ve also recently begun to enjoy poetry, unlike I had before. Reading it in the morning makes such a difference in my day.
Tricia,
Starting the day with poetry verses is much like a silent, but active meditation. What a lovely way to begin in the morning.
Great list….I have a favorite mug too. It says “I love mom”. 🙂