There’s something sacred about an ordinary good day.
Not the kind of day where something huge happens.Not the kind where life dramatically changes.Just the kind where, for a few quiet hours, things feel… right.
Last week, I photographed a surprise proposal — last-minute, simple, joyful. I got to witness Black love in real time and be paid to do what I love, around people I love. That alone felt like a gift.
The next morning, I woke up, got myself together, and went to a tulip field out near Denton. Tulips have always been one of my favorite flowers (second only to sunflowers), and their season is so short you almost have to chase it. I’ve never been to a tulip field before, so I went by myself. I stepped in mud and messed up my shoe, but it was still beautiful. The sun was out. The colors were loud. And for a moment, I just let myself enjoy being there.
On the way home, I picked up food and ran into Walmart because my nephew FaceTimed me that morning with very important news: he used the potty for the first time and is officially done with diapers. His reward request? A giant cupcake with purple icing. So I baked one for him.
While leaving the store, a man collecting donations for breast cancer awareness stopped me. I didn’t have a lot to give, but I had enough to contribute. And honestly, it felt good to be able to do that — to have something to offer, even if it was small. He told me I was the nicest person he’d spoken to all day. I don’t know if that was true, but I know it reminded me how far a small interaction can go.
I think I’m writing this because I’ve spent a lot of time feeling lonely — even as someone who genuinely likes being alone. That contradiction has always been hard to explain. I need solitude to recharge, but sometimes solitude quietly turns into isolation. And isolation, if I’m honest, can get heavy.
Lately, I’ve been trying to return to something I used to do well: creating rhythm in my life again. Not big, dramatic changes. Just small choices. Going places alone. Letting the sun hit my face. Saying yes to simple joys. Showing up for the people I love. Letting gratitude be louder than the noise in my head.
This series of small events reminded me that life doesn’t have to be extraordinary to be beautiful.Sometimes beauty is just:
• Flowers in a field• A child proud of himself• Texas Roadhouse rolls waiting for pickup• Enough cash to give• A warm sun on a chilly day
Small things, but they add up. They always do.
If you’ve been feeling stuck, heavy, or disconnected, maybe this is your reminder too: do the small thing. Step outside. Text someone you love. Go somewhere by yourself. Buy the flowers. Bake the cupcake. Give what you can.
You might be surprised how much life is still waiting for you in the ordinary moments.
Today, I’m grateful to be finding my way back to them.
All Is Well,— Ashlee
Baking has been super comforting for me, though I need to consider my gym goals. 🫣 Visit my “From Scratch” recipe hub →
My oldest nephew is talking in full sentences, almost fully potty-trained, and turning 3 in a matter of weeks. 🥹
If you enjoyed this or any other post, feel free to fuel my fire by buying me a coffee. Any contributions are more than appreciated.
