Present Joys: Summer, Sandals, Sunscreen Sticks and Strength

I’ve found myself saying “It feels like summer” a lot lately. Less so in reference to the increasingly unpleasant temps, but more because of the activities that have been filling our time. We’ve been shooting hoops, going for swims, and taking our dinners outside to eat on the stoop. There’s an undeniable “school’s out” energy that feels carefree, youthful, and vibrant. 🌞

In reference to an unexpected opportunity that I excitedly jumped on, Michelle texted me “Moving like a river!” Soon after that chat, we went on a camping trip with friends to Kings Canyon National Park where most of our time was spent sitting by, wading through, and jumping into the Kings River. The river’s current was never steady, flowing faster or slower depending on the time or location. Observing its shifting rhythm each day was a welcome meditation.

I finally visited sister dreamer: lauren halsey's architectural ode to tha surge n splurge of south central los angeles. Celebratory and assertive in its joyfulness, artist’s Lauren Halsey’s outdoor sculpture park was a dream to take in. I liked this excerpt from the welcome placard:

"sister dreamer is dream-like vision—not wish. That vision? Surge n splurge, more for the more and more.”

I recently purchased a pair of Xero sandals and appreciated that they offer printable templates on their website for you to find your correct size. The sandals I bought have an extremely thin sole and are debossed with their tagline, “Feel the world” — a quality I didn’t think I’d enjoy so much in a shoe!

The only thing to offer refreshing respite from all the pesky mosquito bites I’ve been getting this summer.

I visited my parents this weekend after not having seen them in many months. It was a short visit, but after not seeing them for so long, it was really nice to hug them and be in the same room together. As I move towards the desire for parenthood myself, I feel a draw towards my parents too. Perhaps I’m looking for them to help guide me in this potential next chapter or perhaps I simply feel a sense of awe in their own journey to and through parenthood and the courage I’m realizing it takes.

When we were in New York in May, Joyce whipped out a sunscreen stick (although I’m not remembering which exact one now). Since then, I’ve been on a bit of a kick trying different ones out. So far I’ve tried Dr. Jart+ and Bloomeffects and I like them both. I love how practical the sticks are for reapplication and how fun they are to use.

I started strength training for the first time ever in April of this year and have been consistent about it (yay!). I’m really enjoying the community aspect of a group strength class I’ve been going to. Everyone is positive, shows up with authenticity, and a-ok with taking the time they need to reach their goals. I am in awe of the strength I see in the room and feel so inspired to continue—especially as I’m feeling stronger myself. It feels rare, as I get older, to feel I am learning something completely new or discovering a new side or aspect of myself. I feel grateful for it.

I’m not exactly sure how I stumbled upon the Dominican Sisters Open Mic podcast, but, these sisters are such a bright light in what feels, at times, like a dimming world (or at the very least, relentlessly grim news cycle). One of the sisters’ joyful phrases is “Sister, yes!” when one of the sisters is agreeing with or excited about what the other is saying. Of course I know these nuns live a reality much different from my own, but it brings me joy to hear them so joyful in that life. Like there is room in that joy for us all.

There is something really special about the few blocks around our home, or at least that’s how I feel. There is always a cheerful sidewalk drawing, a bountiful basket of fruit to share, or, as was the case this past week, a treasure trove of hand-drawn cards with quotes on them meant to brighten a neighbors day. I think it’s our turn to share soon.

“I just started this and, wow, I need to watch my words. I have always known language is powerful, but I don’t think I’ve ever focused so closely on my own words or the words of others as this book demands its readers to. I started reading this because I want to improve how I listen and how I speak, and because I feel desperate for a present and a future where our leaders do so the same. Is it achievable?“ —Michelle

Present Joys is a project by Present Studio. We specialize in bespoke branding and web development for specialty e-commerce businesses looking to grow with intention.