We asked some of the most inspiring local entrepreneurs and creatives what was bringing them joy and we hope the responses below inspire you to find more joy in your day-to-day life as well.
Gena Bradshaw Vitale
I am recently a new mother and this has been one of the most joyful times in my life. All of the things I have learned and integrated into my life brought me to this moment of having a daughter, being able to show up for her as my best. Read More>>
Hannah Linder
You’ll probably laugh at this one. And maybe it only brings me joy because it’s so new and so different from anything I’ve ever done. But several years ago, I stumbled across a small-town square dance, late on the last night of a local festival. The street was teeming with onlookers. The wooden platform creaked and thumped with cowboy boots and rhythmic flatfooting. Read More>>
Zachary Lamothe
Travel, especially with my kids. Although with them in tow can be difficult, it is ultimately a joy. I have three sons; they are currently ages 10, 6, and 3. This presents a challenge since all of them are at different levels with different interests. Read More>>
Jose Velasquez
The biggest thing outside of work that is providing me joy is a side venture that got cooked up with a group of my best friends. We founded an art studio that focuses on collectibles and short-form CG animation. We were inspired by Saturday morning cartoons where you could watch these awesome characters and then go and have fun with all these great toys afterwards. Read More>>
The Neaths
Outside of work, what’s been bringing us the most joy lately is spending time together in the Word, reading the Bible and the Apocrypha, and really diving deeper into our faith. We love praising and worshiping the Most High YAH as a family, and it’s been so refreshing to grow spiritually side by side. Read More>>
Sidni Cooper
Outside of working, cooking and exploring new hobbies to see what resonates with me as I get older brings me the most joy. Read More>>
Mike Norris
Photography. Photography isn’t my main gig and while it can some times be a job, it’s a very different part of the brain overall. It’s a nice outlet and a chance to slow down and look around. Read More>>
Olyvia Flores
Outside of my work, I find joy in creating meaningful experiences within my community. Through The Phoenix, I love taking part in playful and uplifting activities like water balloon fights, affirmation workshops, and full moon releases. Read More>>
Veronica Rogers
“I truly love working on my clothing line—it’s my passion. Being able to weave my own artwork into the designs brings me an incredible sense of accomplishment and meaning. My brand is called Care Wear, Mindful Fashion, and within it, I’ve created several collections, including one that’s especially close to my heart: Love in Action. Read More>>
Landon Loewen
I like to garden and this year we did a huge makeover of the garden areas and added chickens to the mix so it’s been a busy year in the garden to say the least. I really enjoy growing peppers and nightshade plants such as tomatoes, potatoes, tomatillos. It’s been the best garden I have ever grown , so that’s rewarding and inspiring. Read More>>
Christopher Carzoli
Reading. I made it a goal for my self to start reading physical books more. So now my everyday carry includes a book in my pack. Right now I’m reading Jeremy Renners book, I just started it so I can’t give you my opinion just yet but I think everyone should do this. Just read more. Get away from screens for 20 minutes a day. Read More>>
Mariana Pierce
Writing. I started writing back in college. Mostly poetry and short stories. I wrote from experiences, from travels, from changes, from love, from emotion. Writing always made me feel alive in a way no other creative outlet ever did. Until photography came in, which in a different way opened up a tangible form of expression and connection with myself and others. Read More>>
Eliza Evans
Lately, I have been making a conscious effort to savour small moments being present. Today, that meant taking the long way round when running errands to wander through meandering tree-lined path instead of taking the straight grey pavement; yesterday, it was sitting and sipping a herbal tea in silence without distractions; tomorrow it could be acknowledging an image or painting uninterrupted for a few minutes. Read More>>
Jeramy Purley
My wonderful partner has been a constant source of joy and inspiration in my life. Every day, she showers me with genuine love and unwavering support, and I’m grateful to be able to reciprocate that same love and encouragement. She’s my rock, my safe haven, and I make it a point to express my gratitude and adoration for her every single day. Read More>>
Viridiana Villalobos
Lately, I’ve really enjoyed making flower arrangements. I like to improvise—seeing and smelling the flowers, and creating a bouquet as I go. It helps me connect with my creativity and sensitivity, without the pressure of making something “perfect.” I’ve also volunteered at a local dog shelter called 4 Patas. Read More>>
