Joyful Journal v.31 - Getting Prepped for Spring
Just when the year starts to feel like it's finally hitting its stride, February shows up — still a little chilly, but with this quiet, hopeful undercurrent that something new is on its way.
I love this in-between season more than people give it credit for. The days are getting longer (have you noticed?!), the seed catalogs are arriving, and there's something in the air that feels like a gentle nudge: it's almost time.
This month's Joyful Journal is a little love letter to that feeling — fresh starts, small joys, and the beauty of a season that's still blooming.
Grab something warm (or cold), find your favorite spot, and settle in. 🌿
A Few Thoughts as Winter Starts to Loosen Its Grip
January can feel like the month we plan to reset, but February? February is actually when I start to feel it. The pressure of "new year, new me" softens, and what's left is something quieter and more real.
This is the season I like to ask myself: What do I actually want more of this year? Not goals written in a planner — but feelings. More slow mornings. More dinners with friends. More creating or crafting just because it feels good. I have kept true to a few of my ‘resolutions’ so far.
- Being early vs. Running late
- Wearing more lipstick
- Working on a fun IG page that's been on my mind
I'm giving myself permission to ease into spring instead of rushing toward it. Less striving, more noticing. If you need that same permission slip, consider this yours. 🌸
Things I've Loved Lately
A few things that have been making February feel a little brighter around here:
I just started a new book and I’m really enjoying it so far. Paired with this darling mug for my new tea obsession. Add in these two for sweetener & you’ll be hooked (the branding is extra dreamy)!
I have my eye on a few spring-like things to freshen up my wardrobe! This bag is darling and I’ve added this top to my cart!
Adding these to my kitchen (where I live) — the colors are everything!
A Few Early Spring Favorites
I LOVE a good facial. I haven’t made time for one, but I’ve tried to do my best to keep up with my skin this winter! I am loving the products I am using (I am a pretty simple skin gal, but seeing good things with these!)
A few things on repeat lately:
- My favorite brand came out with this new cleanser
- These two products are new to me and I am loving them for exfoliating and moisture.
- This product is kind of magical. I don’t know what or why or how it works, but it does!
As We Move Into This New Season…
If February has a message, I think it's this: you don't have to be fully bloomed to feel ready!
Growth is happening even when we can't see it yet. In the garden (which I dream about having), in our relationships, in ourselves. The quiet work of winter is becoming something — and that something is worth celebrating, even before it's fully visible.
So this month, I hope you:
- Drop a small bundle of flowers off to a friend (this tag makes it complete and thoughtful)
- Send a handwritten note to a friend who's on your mind.
- Refresh your desk or kitchen counter with a new notepad that sparks joy!
From our Joy Creative Shop family to yours — thank you for being here in this new pre-spring season. There is so much blooming and I can’t wait to share more with you soon.
With so much joy (and a little spring in my step 🌷),
Xo, Steph
Founder & Chief Encouragement Officer
