The Sunday(ish) Scoop: June is off to a Joyful Start

June is off to a great start! For me, it’s been filled with joyful moments that have truly filled my cup. Life hasn’t been a perfect story lately, but what keeps me going is focusing on the joy that’s present every day. In May, I started tracking one thing that brings me joy each day. It’s a simple gratitude practice that helps me center on the good rather than dwell on the negative. I’ve also been capturing many of those moments through photography, snapping pictures when I’m in my happiest state.

Here’s what I’m loving, liking, and looking forward to this week:

What I’m Loving

The highlight of last week was spending so much time with friends. I’m in a season of seeking out unconventional ways to connect that don’t always involve food. Last Sunday, my friend Holy and I went to a Gua Sha class co-hosted by E + Rose and HeyDay Facial Studio at the Clermont Hotel in Atlanta. It’s such a gift to find friends who enjoy wellness as much as I do.

One of my closest college friends, Barbara came to town for work and we soaked up every second together. We met for dinner and talked until the restaurant closed. Though we talk all the time by phone, it had been nearly a year since we’d seen each other. Later that week, we walked Atlanta’s BeltLine trail after a “meh” workday. We walked and talked. It rained, but we laughed through it and ran to shelter and food.

I ended the week with manicures and pedicures with my friend Sonya.

I also made a Saturday stop at the Peachtree Road Farmers Market to pick up some local goods. With grocery shortages making headlines, I’m doubling down on supporting local businesses. I wrapped up the weekend by celebrating my dad for Father’s Day. We cooked together. We made Steak and salmon I picked up from Whole Foods. It was simple and special.

What I’m Reading

I just started Vera Wong’s Unsolicited Advice for Murderers, a witty whodunit with a comedic twist. This summer, my friends and I are challenging each other to read more. I’ve just hit a page-turning moment and can’t wait to see how it unfolds.

What I’m Liking

TV Show: The Love Hotel – The season finale premiered on Bravo last night and I can’t wait to watch it today.

Workout: PVolve and Barre3 Online. I’ve been prioritizing at least one in-person workout each week. If you follow me on Instagram, you know I love my local PVolve studio, especially their progressive weight training classes. I also recently added a Barre3 Online membership, which gives me access to a great catalog of at-home workouts. It’s the best of both worlds.

Podcasts I Loved

On a budget? Don’t miss this episode from NPR featuring wallet-friendly ideas for summer fun that won’t break the bank.

Links I’ve Loved

I loved these two home tours from Homeworthy. Each home beautifully reflects the owner’s personal style, thoughtfully woven with elements from their family heritage. One woman incorporated touches of her Bahamian roots, while the other paid homage to her North Carolina military upbringing.

A friend and I are reviving our book club this summer. We haven’t landed on a book yet, but I really enjoyed this Refinery29 article about Black women romance novelists who are changing the game in publishing. It’s full of inspiration and great recommendations to consider.

What I’m Looking Forward To

I’ve got a few vacation days coming up this week and I’m looking forward to the rest and quality time with family.

Thanks for your patience as I ease back into regular writing. I hope you have a joyful week ahead.

Comment below and tell me your favorite joyful moment from last week.