Pockets of Joy

How small moments stretch time and turn summer into something worth remembering.

“happiness is often quietly waiting to be noticed”

I’ve been thinking about how often we say “life flies by” or “where did the time go?” I’ve started to wonder if maybe life isn’t actually rushing past us… maybe we’re just rushing thought it.

I think when we slow down enough to notice the birdsong, the scent of dinner simmering, the feel of warm laundry on our arms—we’re reminded that time isn’t always slipping away. Sometimes, it’s waiting for us to noice it.

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Creating Pockets of Joy

Joy doesn’t always come in big, life-changing waves. Sometimes, it shows up in the tiniest corners of our day—a favorite mug in your hands, sunlight on the floor, your go-to song playing while you make dinner. This week, try creating small pockets of joy on purpose. Light the candle. Add whipped cream to your coffee. Wear the outfit that makes you feel like yourself. These little sparks don’t just make a moment brighter—they remind us that happiness is often quietly waiting to be noticed.

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Dinner Conversation Cards from Friend of Mine

A lovely dinner card deck designed to spark meaningful, heartfelt conversation around the table. They’re perfect for slowing down, connecting, and making your meals feel a little more special.

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Forget snack of the week—this is snack of the SUMMER!

Like a wine tasting but for tomatoes, and it’s everything. It’s fresh, fun, and basically the ultimate summer snack.

Thank you to the queen: @alessandrabrontsema

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My Summer Hosting Picks on Amazon

Patterned Napkins

Perfect for layering textures and adding charm to any summer table.

Gingham Plates in Fun Colors

These playful plates are a picnic dream.

Wicker Ice Bucket

Keep drinks cool with this cottagecore-approved cooler.

Colorful Patterned Wine Glasses

A splash of color for your lemonade or rosé.

Textured Placemats

These placemats add just enough structure while keeping things soft and breezy.

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There’s something timeless about gathering outside in the summer—barefoot in the grass, string lights overhead, the sound of laughter mingling with the hum of crickets. This season invites us to slow down and savor our meals, our friendships, and the way golden hour lingers just a little longer. Whether it’s a backyard, a porch, or a patch of grass at the park, there’s magic to be made in setting a table under the sky.

A few favorite touches for an outdoor summer gathering:

– Set out mismatched napkins and colorful glassware for a playful, effortless vibe

– Keep a little basket of bug spray, sunscreen, and cozy blankets nearby

– Light candles or string lights as the sun sets to keep the mood glowing

– Serve something cold and simple—like fruit-infused water, a crisp salad, or popsicles for dessert

– Let music play softly in the background (a little vintage jazz or Norah Jones never hurts)

- Hand-drawn menus for a personal, thoughtful detail

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GARDEN

Everything in the garden feels a little wilder right now—leaves stretching, vines climbing, herbs ready to be clipped and tossed into dinner. This is the moment where the garden begins to earn its keep, turning sunlight and water into something we can taste and touch.

Garden Tip:

If you’re growing herbs like basil, thyme, or mint, try harvesting in the morning when the oils are most fragrant. Snip a few sprigs and pop them into a jar of water on your kitchen counter. This keeps them fresh and makes the whole room smell like summer.

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What’s something big or small I can do this week just because it brings me joy?

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🌼 Want more of The Slow Living Lane?

If you’ve been loving these weekly letters, you’ll adore the Slow Living Lane Monthly Edition.
It’s a deeper, longer, more personal letter filled with seasonal reflections, gentle prompts, curated inspiration, and behind-the-scenes moments from my world.

This is the version where we linger a little longer.
Where we let slowness stretch out across the page.