2020’s been a rough year thus far. Our days have been filled with a whole heck of a lot more loss, grief, tension, and emotional dissonance than many of us were expecting.

For some of us, this has caused our “joy tanks” to feel a bit depleted this season.

So this week, I wanted to share a few gems to help boost your spirits with a little bit of goodness and…dare I say…fun?

We’ll get through this season, Friend.

And remember, even while we’re in the midst of trials, God is constantly with us. Do your best to keep your eyes set on Him instead of your problems. Pull close to Him and He will provide the strength to help you face whatever it is up ahead.

FOR THE MIND

#1: Radical Acceptance

If you haven’t (virtually) met this fierce woman, I suggest you check her out. Summer is all-things body positivity and self-acceptance. In this podcast episode, Summer talks to Keri-Anne Livingstone on radical acceptance and becoming the truest version of “you.”

LISTEN HERE

FOR THE HEART

#2: Wonder

I can’t even tell you how much I love Wonder, a movie about a boy who struggles to “fit in” due to a facial abnormality. It’s been out for a while (released 2017), but this one’s still worth the watch. Have the Kleenex handy! I cried my eyes out.

CHECK IT OUT

FOR THE SOUL

#3: Life of the Beloved

I flew through this read by Henri J.M. Nouwen – it’s quite the gem. It speaks on our true identity as God’s “Beloved” and provides insight on spiritual living in a secular world. 

NAB A COPY

FOR THE BODY

#4: Happy Pants

I’m all about these pants from Everlane. Comfy, cute, and light-weight for Summer. Personal favorites: white and powder blue. But you do you! 

NAB A PAIR

JUST FOR FUN

#5: Watermelon Margaritas

Ummm…watermelon (one of my favorites) plus margaritas (fun!)? OK!!! Here’s a fun way to keep cool this July. Kick up your feet and treat yourself to one of these tasty summer drinks. (Tip: Add a splash of St. Germain liqueur to amp up the “yum” factor!)

BLEND IT

JUST FOR FUN (BONUS!)

#5+: Melon ‘Boucha

If you’re looking for a yummy refreshment that’s non-alcoholic, check out this Watermelon Kombucha drink. So tasty! (Kombucha not your thing? Swap it out with ginger ale.)

BLEND IT

Need Some Help Finding Joy in the “What Is”?

Here is another post on 3 strategies to help you access joy in whatever circumstance you find yourself in.