You know, even in times of trial and tribulation, there’s joy to be found.

It had been a bit of a downer day so I went for a stroll. I knew a new store that featured items for men was holding a grand opening, so I decided to see what it was all about. And I’m darn glad I did!

As I viewed the numerous items on the store’s shelves, the owner came over to me. We started a chat about the many unique gift items in the store, and he explained the sources of many of the items. They are all made in country and there’s sustainability (growing trees) associated with one clothing item. It was an interesting and joyful time as I meandered around the store. I wished them well, and assured the owners I would see them again soon.

Walking away from the new store, I began to realize my downer feeling was disappearing. It just proves that joy can be found anywhere.

I’ve noticed a number of young families out and about the town. It’s pleasing to see these families. They give us a chance to smile and to remember our times with young children, and it’s joyful to hear the children talking, see them play and hear them laughing. The children remind us of the innocence of joy.

Have you noticed the colorful trees all around us? They are so beautiful as they bloom and share their flowers with us. It’s fun to walk under such a crabapple tree and have some of the colorful petals fall on you. Nature never fails to bring joy at this time of the year. Of course, we probably don’t find much joy in a hail storm or a tornado! But, overall, enjoy the joy of the season. It’s fleeting!

There’s also a lot of joy for me to taste old and new beverages. Sipping a Campo Viejo Granacha from Spain is welcoming back an old friend to my taste buds. The nice tastes of currants and raspberry are welcome. Having a dram of a new whiskey is very interesting to me. I seek the rich complexity of the liquid — from the initial sip to the finish. I’m currently introducing myself to Barrell Bourbon. It has an ABV (alcohol by volume) of over 59%, so caution is advised. But, the flavors! It’s made from different barrel aged whiskeys and is delicious.

Very soon, I’ll be hosting a beer tasting event. We’ll taste a number of brews, and I’m hopeful the attendees will notice the differences between the beers. Of course, there will be a little back ground given about each pour as I give them ales, lagers, stouts and IPAs (India Pale Ale). It’s my hope we all find joy while we’re together.

Hmmm … being together…

I am well aware that families have their moments of trials and tribulations. But family centers us, and for those of us fortunate to have that familial base, we will always find a way to bring forth the happy times of being together.

Maybe if you know someone without a family, ask if they would join you for a cup of coffee. Who knows what will come from that reach out. It’s worth a try.

Don’t forget those thoughts of yesterday called memories. We live in the present, look back at the past and find all those moments preserved in our book of memories. Find joy in the fact that you can remember as well as you do.

For me, there’s joy to be found in the silence of peace. Whether it’s during a hike along a local bluff trail or sitting quietly with a family member or friend, I am always reminded that one doesn’t have to talk to honor the person next to you. The silent gift of presence is full of quiet joy.

Hey! How about the joy of your favorite food? Doesn’t that taste always bring a sense of happiness to you? In a few days, we’ll have some family members visiting us. I look forward to having a bowl of chicken wild rice soup with them as we dine at our local historic restaurant. In a way, nature is speaking to me via the taste of the wild rice. The family, the soup, and of course, a glass of wine along with family chatter is always pleasing. There’s nothing but joy!

May your days be filled with joy.

As always, eat and drink in moderation, but laugh with reckless abandon!

Cheers!