8 Simple Things Bringing Me Joy Right Now

Happy Friday! How was your week? We’re all hyped about TLOASG aka TS12, yes? (*The Life of A Showgirl by Taylor Swift). 🧡

I’m breaking format with today’s post and sharing a few simple moments that have brought me joy lately. Maybe it can serve as a reminder to create your own list of what’s making you happy. These are moments and observations that can’t be purchased or consumed. Just sparkling scenes that make me feel warm, comforted, and happy when I remember them.

I’m sharing some quick recs at the bottom, plus my stream-of-consciousness highlights from the Taylor Swift x New Heights podcast episode. For the readers who care (aka my people)!

—Alisha

P.S. I thought it would be fun to do an end-of-summer AMA with you. Do you have a question for me about career, newsletters, books, motherhood, or anything else? Drop them here in this form, and I’ll pull together a post for next week!

P.P.S. Thanks for all your book club suggestions—there were SO many good ones to choose from. I’ve got a shortlist going and hope to announce the September pick next week…!

8 Simple Things Bringing Me Joy Right Now

1 // Surprise veggies and neighborly drop-ins.

The other day, I was working from the couch when the doorbell rang. At the door was our neighbor, stopping by to say hello and share her garden’s bounty—tomatoes and zucchini, still warm from the sun. That night, we turned them into tomato–mayo sandwiches.

It was such a simple, sweet gesture, and a reminder of how nice it is to know your neighbors and chat every now and then. In just a few minutes, we learned a bit about each other, swapped phone numbers, and bridged the gap I’d been feeling since leaving our old, friendlier neighborhood. Turns out, all it takes is someone showing up—whether with cherry tomatoes, cookies, or just a hello. Next time, maybe I’ll be the one knocking. Do you know your neighbors?...