That Which Sparks Joy

Remember a few months ago when I read that life-changing book about getting rid of junk that doesn't make you happy? And I live with a bunch of junk collectors who think everything makes them happy?

The concept of making decisions based on what brings joy has governed a lot of my choices lately (keeping in mind that life is crammed with non-joy activities, like living in a NYC heat wave).

Being in New York has presented us with more options than we can handle in our pea brains, so we choose things based on "Does this spark joy? Does it make me happy to do this activity/eat this pizza for the 3rd time today/look at one more apartment that will inevitably be wrong?" I'm really glad I've taken this approach. At the end of the day, though we be sweaty, miserably exhausted, with blistered feet and heat stroke, we feel fulfilled.

I'm going on and on for two reasons:

1) Many of you have asked what fun things we're doing here. Answer: things that spark joy.

2) Some things aren't bringing me joy and it's caused me to seriously reevaluate my life. My kids being in Utah for WAY TOO LONG, my job with the World's Worst Boss, the difficulty we've had finding a respectable place to live (we've given up on affordable), and the heat. There are no air conditioners. Sometimes window units. Mostly not. We heard one lady yelling into her phone the other day, "It's hot and disgusting out here!" Very wise words.


I feel like I should share some sparks of joy so that a) I don't get myself into a major depressions about life and b) against reason, this city is growing on me and it's kind of hard to feel at least a little enchanted.

For example, I've discovered a love for modern art, which makes my soul sing. Who knew?


I took this while Jacob was driving over the Brooklyn bridge. The Manhattan skyline sparks a lot of joy, probably because every building is so unique.


Yankee Stadium is a little piece of joy in the middle of yucky Bronx. The Yankees themselves, however, are decidedly divas and need to take the drama out of the rafters.


In case you didn't already know, this is the end. It's not dead yet, it's just the end. Or as Jacob would say, "It's only MOSTLY dead." (Princess Bride reference)


NYC will fatten me, especially if I keep accidentally finding delicious little crepes places. This one was savory, so it had mozzarella, tomato and basil. 


"I have a theory that the hieroglyphics are really just an ancient comic strip about a character named Sphinxy." 


A terrible pic in front of the Met, one of my favorite spots so far. Jacob won't yet admit to the fact that we spent an hour and a half just looking at EVERY SINGLE weapon and armor there. (zzzzzzzz)




Comments

Jennifer Walker said…
Waiter--there is too much pepper in my paprikash. Your posts make me soo happy! Stay cool, my dear sister friend.
July 22, 2015 at 8:00 AM
Unknown said…
I'm glad we can connect here! I miss you terribly.
July 24, 2015 at 5:48 PM
Beth said…
YES! Things that spark joy! The MET. FOOD. Those two things are pure joy. Don't party too hard my NYC LADY!
July 28, 2015 at 10:45 AM
Unknown said…
Maybe I could just party until the kids get here? :) And use it as a chance to eat all the food they won't touch.
July 30, 2015 at 6:38 PM
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