Have you ever noticed that a lot of life isn’t particularly exciting, romantic or perfect? I think for some reason we focus on these things and end up missing out on a lot of little, daily joys that are right there for us. The little daily joys can be found in the grind of day to day life. Without daily input and intention, things just won’t get done. The children won’t get educated, the laundry won’t wash itself, the dinner table won’t miraculously put out food and the months old rust stains on the porch won’t get wiped off. Tis life.
There’s a multitude of little joys that present themselves in these moments, like the thrill of actually getting the rust stains off of the porch, a child learning a new concept, the delight of a well-cooked meal and the absolute beauty that can be found during some of the dullest times. Things like glistening, freshly washed berries, the caramelization on a wonderfully cooked piece of meat and the beautiful shapes and colors of farmer’s market finds are there for us to enjoy.
Our work and toil isn’t meaningless. It all has purpose, necessity and beauty. This non-scratching cleaning powder that gives nearly instant results (here) brings me joy. Bye rust and marks of mystery. I was listening to some kids’ tunes on Pandora this week and a certain song came on. It features a girl singing about her daily toils and wonders when will her life begin, as if daily work and labor aren’t really life. Except, they are life and we can find a way to enjoy them and have peace in our hearts knowing that we are doing our best.
Try to not be jealous of my 1979 original countertops.
There’s a certain joy I get when I take the time to plan ahead a little. I know that my family will expect to eat in the coming week. I take about 15 minutes of actual hands-on time to prep a variety or two of bone broth (how to make: here, here, here), so I know my cooking will go quickly and be super flavorful and nutrient dense.
When fat rises to the top of the jar like this after making beef bone broth, it solidifies in the fridge and I can pull in right off and use it to roast cabbages and greens in the oven at any time during the week. The flavor of this small effort brings me joy and happiness.
What do you have in your daily duties that brings you beauty and joy?
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