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10 Little Joys That Fill My Days as a Mother and Photographer

A little boy and girl who are brother and sister walking in a field, holding hands, and laughing.

Motherhood is busy and beautiful, loud and sacred. And in the whirlwind of schoolwork, snack crumbs, editing galleries, and folding laundry, I’ve found that what fills my soul most are the little joys of motherhood—the quiet, fleeting moments that bring a smile to my face and anchor me back into gratitude.

These aren’t the big milestones. They’re the everyday things—the slow, simple, sacred bits of life that remind me just how full it already is.

Here are 10 of those little joys that fill my days:

1. A Hot Cup of Coffee (That I Get to Finish)

Not reheated. Not forgotten on the counter. Just hot and quiet, first thing in the morning, paired with my Bible and journal, and spending time with Jesus before the chaos of the day begins. It’s a moment that’s mine alone, even if the rest of the house is starting to stir.

A latte in mug sitting on the table with a heart shaped design in the frothy milk.

2. Hearing my Kids Giggle and Squeal

There is nothing more contagious than the belly laughs of little ones. It’s joy in its purest form, and it reminds me how lucky I am to be theirs.

A little boy and girl who are brother and sister walking in a field, holding hands, and laughing.

3. Clean sheets and a made bed

It’s such a small act, but slipping into crisp, cool sheets at the end of a long day feels like a tiny reset button at the end of a long day. I actually make my bed every morning. It was something that my mom had me do when I was younger, and now I can’t not do it. It just makes the room feel put together and less messy.

4. Candles flickering in the evening

Especially in the fall, I light one of my favorite candles (Bath and Body works candles are my go to!) and it instantly makes my home feel cozy and calm.

5. The Sound of a Storm While I’m Cozy Inside

Give me thunder, soft lighting, and a book while the rain hits the windows. Maybe it’s the way the world quiets down for a moment, or the way the thunder reminds me I’m small and safe all at once.

6. Baking Something Just Because

There’s something so grounding about baking from scratch. The mess, the smells, the anticipation… it all feels like home.

A loaf of golden brown banana walnut bread cooling on the stove.

7. Creating traditions with my family

Whether it’s Friday game nights or our favorite fall outings, building traditions and making memories on purpose is one of my favorite things. It’s legacy, it’s love, it’s connection. Some of the best memories I have from my childhood and my family are from traditions we had, and it’s something I want to pass down to my children.

8. Deep Conversations

Whether with a friend or my husband, I crave those talks that leave you feeling seen and full. The kind where phones are down, hearts are open, and time seems to pause. These moments are the ones I carry with me.

9. A Clean House (Even If Just for a Moment)

Let’s be real—it doesn’t last. But that feeling when everything is put away and the counters are wiped? *Chef’s kiss.* I love it and it helps me relax.

10. Writing or Reading Something That Moves Me

Words are my love language. Whether it’s a handwritten note, a journal entry, or a few pages of a good book, this always fills me back up.

Why These Little Joys Matter

The little joys of motherhood aren’t just background noise. They’re the heartbeat. And when I look back one day, I know it won’t be the to-do list I remember. It’ll be the smell of a fall candle burning while my kids squeal in the background. The giggle fits at bedtime. The Saturday morning waffles. The tiny moments that made a big life.

Maybe you’ll recognize a few of these little joys in your own life—or maybe this will inspire you to pause and name a few of your own. I truly believe that the more we notice the good, the more we invite it in.

I’d love to know: What’s one little joy that’s filling your days right now? 💛
Drop them in the comments or send me a message—I love connecting over these sweet moments of life.

📸 Want to freeze some of your little joys in time?

Click here to learn more about how I photograph motherhood and family sessions.

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I'm Lindsay

Lifestyle maternity, newborn, & family photographer serving Tuscaloosa, Alabama, Central Alabama, & beyond!

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