Blogging About Joy
Day 50
January 29, 2026
“What did You Discover Today?”
I know, I know, we’re dominated by our phones. That doesn’t mean that a sweet text message can’t bring us joy. I got one of those today. For the last few days, my son, daughter-in-law, and baby went on a short get away to a cabin in the boonies. The text message simply informed me that my 8-week-old granddaughter is fascinated with ceiling fans.
Today I’m finding joy in the fact that our little lady is discovering something new every day.
Where did you find joy?
Blogging About Joy
Day 49
January 28, 2026
“A Quiet Evening Going Back in Time”
Tonight, has been a quiet evening, and I found joy getting back to Jeff Pearlman’s book on the Showtime Lakers. It’s a 400-page read, and I’ve been working on it for over two weeks. It will probably take me another two weeks to complete it.
The book traces the arrival of Magic Johnson and the winning basketball of the 1980s. As I read, I’m realizing those Lakers were the perfect metaphor for the decade.
People who grew up in the ’80s were called the MTV Generation. A lot of pop culture. It was also known as the Decade of Greed and Excess. The Forum in Los Angeles was packed with celebrities like Dyan Cannon and Jack Nicholson. Fans didn’t just come to watch basketball. They came to be seen.
For many, the 1980s felt like one long party. Of course, I haven’t reached the part where Magic Johnson contracts AIDS.
For me, the ’80s looked a little different. It was the decade I got married, became a father, and spent most of my time wondering if I’d be able to make a living in a complicated world. When I wasn’t watching the Lakers or other sports, I had my nose to the grindstone, or in a pile of bills.
It makes me wonder.
Were the 1980s like the 1920s?
Was the LA Forum the Yankee Stadium of its time?
Was Babe Ruth the Magic Johnson of the ’20s?
And was alcohol, which was illegal in the ’20s, that generation’s version of cocaine?
Meanwhile, in 2026, I’m reading about Showtime while my granddaughter is busy discovering her own world.
I don’t know. I’m just thinking out loud, slowly turning pages, occasionally checking the score of a game that ended 40 years ago, and smiling at how every generation gets its own version of “showtime.”
Tonight, I found joy in a quiet evening, traveling back in time, and then back to the present.
Where are you finding joy tonight?
Blogging About Joy
Day 48
January 27, 2026
“Teamwork”
Tonight was another Toastmasters contest, held as a hybrid meeting. I person at Acapulco Restaurant in Alameda and on Zoom. Since I’m out of town for work, I joined online. Last Saturday I wrote about the speakers at the Speakers Forum Contest. That makes sense. Toastmasters is known for public speaking. Tonight I want to highlight the people behind the scenes.
Would you believe that it takes 12 volunteers to support five contestants. We needed a Toastmaster which is the emcee, timers, judges, a chief judge, ballot counters, and a contest chair to oversee things. That’s a lot of moving parts, all powered by people giving their time.
It’s a labor of love. These volunteers keep our organization thriving while building skills they carry into their day jobs and other community service.
Now that the Alameda Tongue Twisters contest is complete, the winners move on to the Area Contest where many of tonight’s volunteers will continue their service.
Tonight, I found joy in teamwork. Where did you find joy?
Blogging About Joy
Day 47
January 26, 2026
“Sweet Sounds”
She’s eight weeks old today, and while I didn’t get to see her in person, my son sent me a video. She’s lying on her back, wearing a heart-covered onesie, chattering away. They weren’t words. I guess you’d call them coos. Then she’d stop for a couple of seconds, yawn, and then start chattering again. It was clear she was trying to talk with her mom and dad.
When I visited her yesterday, it was also the first time I saw her really hold her head up and start looking around. It boggles my mind how fast this happens. The only sounds she made were cries. Somehow, all of this changed overnight.
Thinking back to those first couple of weeks, she was just a little peanut, with her eyes usually closed. Now she’s aware of her surroundings and beginning to recognize the people in her life.
I can’t wait to see her again. I’ll bet we have a conversation.
Today I found joy in sweet sounds. Where did you find joy?
Blogging About Joy
Day 46
January 25, 2026
“Justice Will be Served”
For the past 46 days, this blog has been therapy for me. It began shortly after the birth of my granddaughter. I’m consumed me with immense joy combined with the immense fear that I’m having with the chaos and violence in our country. I started this blog so that the fear would not consume me.
Today I find joy in the fact that at some point, justice will be served. This is not about revenge; it’s purely about justice.
At some point, whether it is next week, next year, or years from now, the people committing these atrocities will be prosecuted. When they are prosecuted, I find joy in the fact that they will benefit from the real American Justice System. I find joy in the fact that they will benefit from all the rights that they are denying the people currently being harmed. When these people are prosecuted, whether government officials who oversee these atrocities or newly hired ICE Agents:
I find joy that they will only be arrested because of probable cause.
I find joy in the fact that the charges against them will be explained to them, and they will have contact with their family and will be able to get counsel from an attorney whether they can afford one or not.
I find joy in the fact that they will be considered innocent until proven guilty.
I find joy in the fact that they will be assigned a judge who will treat them with respect. I find joy in the fact that they won’t be found guilty unless 12 of their peers agree they are guilty.
I find joy in the fact that the people who are found guilty will be given fair punishment and the ones who are sent to prison will be treated humanely.
While what’s happening now is scary, chaotic, and I’m afraid more innocent people are going to die, I find joy in the fact that some day justice will be served. Where do you find joy?
Blogging About Joy
Day 45
January 24, 2026
“Leaving Our Comfort Zones”
As I mentioned last night, I brought banana bread to Speakers Forum Toastmasters. I’m happy to report that it held its own alongside among other things, two wonderful quiches, fruit, and macaroni salad. Not bad for a couple of overripe bananas.
The highlight of the morning was the speech contest.
Before I get into that, I want to share a little about what brings people to Toastmasters. We come from all walks of life and all age groups. Today’s meeting included people in their 30s all the way up to their 80s. Men, women, and just about every ethnic background you can imagine.
Some people think Toastmasters is only for folks who want to spend their lives speaking in front of large audiences. While a few fall into that category, many simply want to communicate better at work. Maybe they have to present once a week to six people in a conference room, and their fear of speaking is holding them back. Some want to sharpen their interview skills. One of the most valuable things we learn at Toastmasters is how to give and receive feedback. In my opinion, people who do that well will never be without a job.
Now to the contest.
Five contestants competed in the Table Topics (Impromptu Speaking) Contest, and four competed in the International Speech Contest. Afterward, the speakers were asked, “How did this contest make you stretch?”
The first contestant, who happened to win, said she was nervous because she had to speak first. That alone pushed her out of her comfort zone.
The second contestant stretched herself by competing for the very first time.
The third got up at 5:00 AM to calm her nerves with a workout.
The fourth shared that most of her speaking experience is on Zoom. Speaking in person to about 25 people was a big step outside her comfort zone.
Today I found joy in watching people grow by leaving their comfort zones. Where did you find joy?
Blogging About Joy
Day 44
January 23, 2026
“Over Ripe Bananas, YouTube, and an Oven”
When I left for my sales trip on Tuesday, I did a full fridge audit. Everything had either been eaten or safely tucked into the freezer so it wouldn’t go bad. Everything, that is, except two bananas that were aggressively ripening on the counter.
This morning at breakfast, those bananas officially crossed the line. Too ripe for cereal. Too ripe for polite company. What was I to do?
The answer was obvious. Banana bread.
Today’s joy came from heading to YouTube, pulling up John Kanell from The Preppy Kitchen, and following along step by step. About 30 minutes of prep, an hour in the oven, and suddenly the house smelled like competence and good decision-making.
Tomorrow, I’ll find even more joy when I share the banana bread with my Speakers Forum Toastmaster friends.
If you enjoy puttering around in the kitchen, YouTube is a gold mine. Type in your favorite food and prepare to be inspired, and possibly very full.
Today I found joy in making banana bread. Where did you find joy?
Blogging About Joy
January 22, 2026
Day 43
“Landing Safely in Oakland”
Tonight, my sales trip officially ended when my flight landed safely in Oakland. I wouldn’t say I’m afraid of flying. I’d call it healthy apprehension. It’s a similar feeling to the feeling I get before making a sales call or speaking in front of a group.
There is one key difference. If I blow a sales call or stumble through a speech, the worst outcomes are a bruised ego, a little embarrassment, and maybe a lighter commission check. Gravity, thankfully, is not involved.
Over the years, I’ve had my share of driving mishaps. I’ve messed up as a driver. I’ve been a passenger when the driver messed up. Monday evening, I almost ran out of gas. I’ve also been in a car when someone in another car messed up. In none of those moments, did my life flash before my eyes. Mostly, it flashed irritation or embarrassment.
Flying feels different. I don’t want to be in the air when someone messes up. Not the pilot of my plane, not the pilot of the plane next to mine, and not the mechanic on the ground.
So tonight, I found joy in something simple and profound. Touching down safely in Oakland.
Where did you find joy today?
Blogging About Joy
Day 42
January 21, 2026
Sales Calls that Aren’t Sales Calls
Today I found joy in three “sales calls” that turned out to be anything but.
Each visit was with an established customer who had recently received the holiday card I sent, complete with photos of my granddaughter. Three times I walked into an office, and three times the first words I heard were some version of, “We got your card, she’s adorable.” That was my cue to pull out my phone and show them the rest of the photos.
The funny thing is, at the end of the day I wasn’t quite sure what to write in my daily report. No business was covered.
I suppose the lesson is this. If a salesperson over a certain age stops by and you don’t want to hear a pitch, just ask if they have pictures of their grandchildren. You’ll both have a good time and you won’t have to buy anything.
Today I found joy in bragging about my granddaughter. Where did you find joy?
Blogging About Joy
Day 41
January 2 0, 2026
“Inspired by Toastmasters”
Tonight, I found my Tuesday night joy at my Alameda Tongue Twisters Toastmasters meeting.
With the meeting theme “Inspirational Speeches,” all the attendees left the meeting inspired. Barbie talked about a milestone birthday that she’s celebrating and life lessons she’s learned, When Heinz talked about deciding to go back to work after trying retirement, he said, “If my job wasn’t my job, it would be my hobby.” Then Heidi inspired us by talking about a book she’s writing. It was a night filled with joy, inspiration, and good feelings.
Here’s my plug for the night; If you’d like to come with me to one of our Tongue Twister meetings, message me. Hearing personal stories like tonight brings me more joy than anything I’d be watching on TV.
Tonight, I found joy and inspiration at a Toastmasters Meeting meeting. Where did you find joy?
Blogging About Joy
Day 40
January 19, 2026
“When Doggie Becomes Big Brother”
It was Mother’s Day when the kids announced they were having a baby. It was a beautiful moment for the whole family.
As spring turned into summer and the anticipation grew, one question kept coming up. How would their dog handle a baby rocking his world?
The five-year-old terrier had owned the place. By owned it, I mean he received everyone’s attention. Anytime we visited, he jumped on us and went out of his mind. When he saw Great-Grandma, it was even better because she always had treats. We all wondered how this would work once a baby arrived and started getting the spotlight.
So we made a plan. Whenever we visited, we would give the dog attention first. We weren’t sure how effective it would be, but it was Plan A.
What we discovered was very cool. The dog enjoys being a big brother.
During the first week the baby was home from the hospital, the kids sent photos of the dog relaxing next to her while she napped or was being fed.
The last couple of times I visited, I said hello to the dog and noticed something new. He didn’t jump on me and barely paid attention to me at all. He wanted to be next to the baby.
Who would’ve thought? At seven weeks old, the baby has already captured his heart. The puppy would rather give his attention to his little sister than to grandpa.
Today I find joy in my grand-puppy growing into his role as a big brother. Where are you finding joy?
Blogging About Joy
Day 39
January 18 2026
“Simple Conveniences that we Take for Granted”
Last night, after my buddy and I watched the 49ers game, it was time for cleanup. Pizza boxes, dishes, wine glasses. All the usual end-of-the-night tasks, capped off by the walk downstairs to the garbage, compost, and recycling bins. I was tired, grumpy about the 49ers loss, and ready for sleep.
When I got back upstairs, it hit me. All I had to do was separate the trash, compost, and recycling, then put everything in the bins. That was it. The rest was up to the guys who would show up on Wednesday to pick it up. They're the ones who do all the work to make my life easier. I didn’t have to give it another thought.
Today I feel joy and gratitude about the conveniences that I usually take for granted. What conveniences bring you joy?
Blogging About Joy
Day 38
January 17, 2026
Pitchers & Catchers
There I was, barely settled into my seat for the 49er-Seahawk playoff game and the 9ers are behind 7-0. They were absolutly dismantled by Seattle much the same way as they were dismantled in Seattle two weeks ago. While I'm disapointed, I can't be too upset about it because Seattle is obviously the better team.
So let's find the joy! The joy is realizing that on February 10th, three weeks from Tuesday, pitchers and catchers report to SF Giant Spring Training in Scottsdale, AZ. Baseball brings me joy and makes everything better. What joy in your life makes everything better for you?
Blogging about Joy
Day 37
January 16, 2026
“The Joy of Living in a Waling Town”
It was a sunshiny day in Alameda. The type of day when running an errand means walking an errand. Init was a nice walk of just over two miles to Webster Street. A dose of fresh air, that cleared my head and soothed my soul.
Another great thing about Alameda is the convenient bus service we have with AC Transit. When I finished my errand on Webster St. and decided that I had enough fresh air, head clearing, and soul soothing, I jumped on a bus and got dropped of a half a block from my house.
Today I found joy on a good walk and a comfortable bus. Where did you find joy today?
Blogging About Joy
Day 36
January 15, 2026
“Two Days in a Row, Hanging Out With Baby”
This morning my when my son texted me asking if we could talk about something, I said, "sure". Since there was something that I needed to drop off, I asked if it would make sense if I stopped by. He texted back with what I wanted to hear. “Sure.”
When I arrived, as glad as I was to see the kids, I walked right over to the basinet to say hi to the baby. She was lying on her back, wearing a light colored onesie, relaxed with her beautiful wide open dark eyes, looking right at me. We had this great conversation as I used words and she communicated with her face and eyes.
After my son picked her up, walked her around, and changed her diaper, he gave her to me. I held her while sitting on the couch for a while, then walked with her around the house as we looked at photos until it was time for her to eat. Back on the couch we went, my son prepared a bottle, and she enjoyed a wonderful meal.
When she got finished, she looked at me, I chatted with her some more, in her own way she chatted with me, and she went to sleep in my arms. It was also good for my son & daughter-in-law becasue they got to get things done while I was holding the baby. A lot of win-wins.
After about 20 minutes of sleeping, I gave her back to her dad when it was time for me to go. I left feeling overwhelming joy.
Today I felt the joy of getting a baby fix two days in a row. What brought you joy today?
Blogging About Joy
Day 35
January 14, 2026
“Great-Grandma’s Voice”
Today was a fantastic day, starting with a joyful lunch at Mom’s and her famous tuna salad. While the tuna was delicious, the real highlight was a visit from my granddaughter.
Over the six weeks since her birth, I’ve been able to see her about once a week. While seeing her every day would be ideal, weekly visits mean that each time I see her, there’s something new. She’s already grown out of her newborn clothes and today she was wearing a stylish muted orange onesie.
The most beautiful moment came when she heard Great-Grandma’s voice from the kitchen. We could see her eyes move toward the sound. When Great-Grandma came over to talk with her, she looked right at her, clearly recognizing the voice.
Today I found joy in witnessing my granddaughter recognize her great-grandmother’s voice. Where did you find joy?
Blogging About Joy
Day 34
January 13, 2026
“Beating Loneliness”
Do you have thoughts about the loneliness epidemic? It reflects a growing trend of people isolating themselves in their homes, where their primary interaction is with computers, tablets, and televisions.
Fewer people are spending time with others. This epidemic of loneliness has taken a toll on both mental and physical health, increasing the risk of depression and cognitive decline.
One of the strongest antidotes to loneliness is intentional connection. When you go out and interact with others, three important things happen. First, you discover that there are good people who share your interests. Second, you get a break from the endless stream of negativity that pours out of our devices. Third, you simply have fun.
This week, I’m finding joy in staying connected. Last night was improv, tonight is Toastmasters, and tomorrow there is a committee meeting for an upcoming golf tournament. There will be an abundance of joy.
What activities are bringing you joy this week?
Blogging About Joy
Day 33
January 12, 2026
“Great Stories Mixed With Gossip”
Anyone who knows me knows that I’m a sports junkie. I also enjoy a moderate amount of gossip. Last week I went down a YouTube rabbit hole, watching a bunch of videos by Sportswriter, Jeff Pearlman. Pearlman spoke glowingly about Bo Jackson, not so glowing about Barry Bonds, and spread great gossip about the 1986 New York Mets. After learning that Pearlman has written 11 books, I went to the library and found “Show Time, Magic, Kareem, Riley, and the Los Angeles Lakers Dynasty of the 1980s.
While I’m not a Laker fan, I’m finding joy in Jeff Pearlman’s ability to tell a story and spread just enough gossip to make it interesting. Where did you find joy today?
Blogging About Joy
Day 32
January 11, 2026
“Rocking the Boat”
Today I found joy at a social gathering with six of my Toastmasters friends. We all brought food that was incredible. When you get a group of Toastmasters together, it’s guaranteed that Table Topics will break out. That’s our version of impromptu speaking.
We each spoke twice, responding to thoughtful prompts like. What’s a truth you’ve learned about change? Tell us about a moment that began as ordinary until it wasn’t. What we ignore controls us. What does that mean to you? If not now, when?
Every speaker offered something interesting, which led to rich discussions after each response. My biggest takeaway came after I shared a situation where I need to rock the boat. That makes me uncomfortable because rocking the boat is outside my comfort zone. After our discussion, I realized that growth often comes from rocking the boat myself, and sometimes from others rocking mine.
Today I found joy in leaving a Table Topics session with greater clarity that boat rocking could be good for the souls of everyone involved.
Where did you find joy today?
Blogging About Joy
Day 31
January 10, 2026
Baby’s First Big Family Gathering
Last night I saw my granddaughter for the first time since New Year’s Day, when she was just over four weeks old. On that day, Mom was talking to her, and she looked straight into her great-grandma’s eyes, as if she were hanging on every word.
Last night, at nearly six weeks old, we gathered as a family of eleven. When I looked into her eyes, her alertness felt different. It was as if she was beginning to understand that she is part of a loving family. She’s learning that she brings us an abundance of joy, and that she is surrounded by an abundance of love.
Last night, I found joy in watching my six-week-old granddaughter simply enjoy being with her people.
Blogging About Joy
Day 30
January 9, 2026
“Why Am I Doing This?”
2025 was pretty weird wasn’t it? And it doesn’t look like 2026 will be any less chaotic. The most jarring thing is, is that some crazy things happened about two weeks ago but I can’t remember what they were because crazier things happened this week. What’s going to happen next week that will make me forget what happened this week?
As December rolled around and my granddaughter came into my life, I was filled with a type of joy that I did not know I could feel. As the joy in my life increased and the chaos in the outside world continued, I started to wonder if our country has ever been led by people who were more joyless. I’m not talking about agreeing or disagreeing with policies, I’m just talking about the basic feeling of joy. The deep, enduring sense of inner well-being, contentment, or delight.
I’m old enough to have seen 13 US Presidents come and go and it seemed like each one had their own unique way of expressing authentic joy. Night after night, Johnny Carson would make fun of presidents, and they would find a time to come on his show and laugh with him. Even Nixon went on Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In.
Growing up, I remember that as chaotic as the 1960’s were, Americans of all political persuasions felt joy when Neil Armstrong took one small step for man and one giant leap for humanity. Are you old enough to remember the US Hockey Team winning the Gold Medal in Lake Placid? We were all on the same page, Americans were filled with joy.
As chaotic as times are now, many Americans are joyfully following Buddhist Monks who are walking from Fort Worth Texas to Washington DC. The Monks are filled with humility, no screaming, no yelling, no insults, they’re just finding joy by expressing their desire for peace.
So, I’ve committed to 90 days of posting about joy. Whether I continue to post after 90 days or move on to something else, I guarantee I’ll find something to feel joyful about every day. I encourage you to also find joy everyday.
Today I found joy in posting about joy. Where did you find joy today? #MakeAmericaJoyfulAgain
Blogging About Joy
Day 29
January 8, 2026
Football & Decluttering
1
Today was a day where I just went about my business I did some things that were fun, some things that were fairly interesting, and some just made me say blah. I had no idea what joy I would write about today.
As I was watching the Fiesta Bowl, I was wondering if something would happen in the football game that would bring me joy. Since I have no rooting interest in a game between Miami and Ole Miss, I had no idea what it would be.
And then halftime came, I walked into the bedroom, opened a drawer, said to myself, I DON’T NEED THAT ANYMORE. As halftime ended, I had filled a bag with items to donate, then as I watched the 3rd quarter, I filled another, then I filled another, and I spent the evening filling five bags?
In the course of one hour, I feel lighter! Today I found joy in football & decluttering. Where did you find joy today?
Blogging About Joy
Day 29
January 7, 2026
Connecting With Family
Tonight, I found joy in a visit from family who traveled to California from the East Coast. Can I pat myself on the back and brag about the lasagna I cooked? We not only ate, we also had and evening filled with catching up on our current activities, sharing memories of days gone by, and celebrating our growing family. Life is good.
Tonight I found joy in family connnection. Where did you find joy today?
Blogging About Joy
Day 27
January 6, 2025
The Alameda Tongue Twister Meeting
Tonight, I found joy in my Alameda Tongue Toastmaster meeting. A Toastmaster meeting has three parts; Prepared speeches, Impromptu speaking, and since Toastmasters is about improving our skills, the third part of the meeting is Evaluation/Feedback. We not only have evaluators who evaluate speeches, we have an evaluator who evaluates the meeting as a whole. If we expect people to come to a Toastmaster meeting, we want to make sure our meetings are good and we try to make them better every week.
Tonight Richard was fantastic as general evaluator. While he was generous in mentioning the things that went well in the meeting he had great ideas on how to keep things on time. No attendee finds joy in a meeting that gets off to a late start and then runs late.
Tonight I found joy in a great Alameda Tongue Twister Meeting. Where did you find joy?
Blogging About Joy
Day 26
January 5, 2026
“Dine and Connect”
This afternoon I found joy volunteering for Dine and Connect. I along with about a dozen of my friends from New Bridges United Methodist Church to put together meals for about 130 Alamedans who are food insecure. Dine and Connect is a project where several of Alameda’s places of worship collaborate to make the biggest impact that we can. Each place of worship hosts Dine and Connect one night per month.. Our evening is the first Monday of each month.
Along with the feeling of satisfaction that comes with volunteering, great camaraderie is built among the volunteers and the members of the community who access the meals.
Today I found joy in Dine and Connect where did you find joy?
Blogging About Joy
Day 25
January 3, 2025
“Cleaning the Garage”
After putting my Christmas decorations away on Friday, yesterday I found joy in organizing the garage. What started as a quick trip to Office Depot to find a container for my wreath turned into something more. Once that task was done, I kept going. I replaced cardboard boxes with plastic containers, set aside knickknacks to donate, and tossed a few things. I even vacuumed garage.
Last night, as I relaxed, I felt a quiet sense of satisfaction from a job well done. I found joy in a garage that’s organized. How long will it stay organized, that’s another question. Where did you find joy yesterday?
Blogging About Joy
Day 24
January 4, 2025
“Walking for Peace”
Today the Buddhist Monks who are waking for peace are bringing me joy. The are currently in Georgia and headed to Washington DC. I also find joy believing they will make a difference. May they travel safely.
Blogging About Joy
Day 23
January 2, 2026
“Quiet”
Last night I left our family New Year’s celebration feeling both satisfied and exhausted. December brought our family a new baby, along with many joyful celebrations.
Today, I found joy in simple quiet. I organized my work files and helped Mom sort through boxes so she can take down her Christmas decorations. Yes, at 89, Mom still does most of her own decorating. I also took down my own decorations.
Now, for the rest of the evening, I’m watching football, as the SMU Mustangs with a 24-0 halftime lead are 0finding more joy than the Arizona Wildcats.
Today I found joy in a calm, quiet day. Where did you find joy today?
Blogging About Joy
Day 22
January 1, 2026
“Bonding With Great Grandma”
Today, Mom and I started the new year by visiting the kids and their new baby. She turned one month old today, and I hadn’t seen her since Christmas. It was immediately clear how much difference just one week can make in a baby’s first month.
When we arrived, her mom was feeding her. Watching the way she worked the bottle, it was obvious she was thoroughly enjoying her meal.
The first thing I noticed after she finished eating was how alert she was compared to Christmas Day. Her mom handed her to me, and she stayed wide awake as we walked around the house together. After a bit, I passed her to my Mom, and there was an immediate connection.
As Mom chatted with her, the baby seemed to be hanging on every word. Her little mouth stayed open, as if she were trying to smile, or maybe even talk, with her great-grandmother.
On this New Year’s Day, 2026, I found joy in witnessing this beautiful moment of connection between a baby and her great grandma.
Where did you find joy?
Blogging About Joy
Day 21
December 31, 2025
“New Years Eve at the 1400”
What are you doing for New Year’s Eve?
My family and I have a tradition of celebrating at 1400 Bar & Grill. Coop and Yanni opened the restaurant in 2011, and my son Phil was the very first chef they hired. Over the years, 1400 has become a true Alameda institution, so we’re guaranteed to run into friends who love the place as much as we do.
The highlight of the evening is always the bagpipers, who come in to play “Auld Lang Syne.”
New Year’s Eve at 1400 is where I find joy. Where do you find joy?
Blogging About Joy
Day 20
December 30, 2025
“Home From Business Travel”
Even though it’s only an hour flight from Oakland to LA, when you factor in the need to get to the airport a couple of hours early, flight delays, and dealing with the car rental center, I prefer the six hour drive up and down highway 5. No worries about airline schedules.
Today I left a client call in Tarzana at 10:00 AM and nothing filled my soul with more joy than walking into the house, turning on the TV and watching a College Bowl Game.
What brought you joy today?
Blogging About Joy
Day 19
December 29, 2025
“California Hosting the World”
As 2025 comes to an end, I’m on my last trip to visit clients in Southern California to visit After starting the day began in San Bernadino, there was a one-hour drive to visit a client in Pasadena. As I’m heading down the 210, I say to myself, “after I call on my client, I’m going to check out the Tournament of Roses Parade route and then see what kind of activities are going on at the Rose Bowl Stadium in preparation for Thursday’s festivities”
What I saw was a whole bunch of hard workers getting the parade route ready and a whole bunch of Indiana Hoosier and Alabama Crimson Tide fans browsing the memorabilia shops that were set up for the event. Smiles and good cheer ware everywhere.
Now full disclosure, I’m jealous of these fans. Their teams are in the Rose Bowl while I’ve spent a lifetime waiting for my Cal Bears to get in. That said, right now, it’s 22 degrees in Bloomington, IN and 40 degrees in Tuscaloosa, AB. It seemed that everyone enjoyed being outdoors wearing sweaters instead of down jackets.
The part that I felt the most joy about was these fans from the Mid-West and Southern parts of the United States are probably not just going to the Rose Bowl, many are going to Disneyland, others will stroll down Hollywood Blvd, a few might even head north to San Francisco and check out the Wine Country. I’ll bet some of the fans will even visit some of our California Dispensaries.
We in California find joy in hosting the world, particularly at major sporting events. We love when people from outside our state find joy in our state. I bet some of the Crimson Tide fans here for this game also had a good time in Santa Clara/Silicon Valley/San Francisco a few years ago when we hosted the National Championship Game.
On behalf of the state of California, I ask only one thing. When you get home and you hear someone who has never been to California badmouth the state, “too woke, too much crime, too much whatever,” please tell them the truth; you went to California and saw it firsthand, people are nice, you felt safe, and you had a great time. The reason I’m asking you to do that is because I truly believe that’s what your experience will be.
That said, we in California are going to be fine either way. When the parade and football game are over, we’ll pack everything up and get ready to invite the world to Super Bowl on February 8 at Levi’s Stadium. And we’ll be delighted when those who experience Northern California in February will meet nice people, feel safe and have a good time just like you did at the Rose Bowl.
I find joy in bragging about California. Where do you find joy?
Blogging About Joy
Day 18
December 28, 2025
“Soup Weather”
Yesterday was cold. Outdoors it was day for jackets, hats, and gloves. Indoors it was a day to have the heater on. In my family, this is called soup weather, as we find nothing more soothing on a cold night than soup. Last night I found great joy in the two bowls of chicken soup that I had for dinner.
Where do you find joy?
Blogging About Joy
Day 17
December 27, 2025
“The Old American Football League”
Last night, after days of Christmas celebrations, I found joy on a YouTube bender. I spent hours watching American Football League Championship games from the 1960s.
First, Joe Namath and the New York Jets broke the hearts of Daryle Lamonica and the Oakland Raiders. A few weeks later, Broadway Joe guaranteed a Super Bowl III victory and then delivered. I’ve spent a lifetime wondering what might have happened if the Raiders had beaten the Jets. Maybe Al Davis would have been the one guaranteeing a Super Bowl win. LOL
The following year brought more heartbreak, when the Kansas City Chiefs beat the Raiders then won the Super Bowl.
My friends and I found no joy in those losses. Year after year there were wins all season long and then losses in the championship games. As pre-teens, we lived and died with the Raiders as we watched the games together. There was joy when the Raiders won, pain when they lost, and comfort knowing that February would bring spring training and baseball and all would be good. Other than our sports teams, we didn’t have a care in the world.
Today I find joy in the fact that almost 60 years later, my friends and I, scattered all over the country, spend football weekends texting each other about whichever game we’re watching. I find joy in the fact that when it comes to sports, we haven’t grown up. In fact, the jury is still out on whether we’ve grown up at all.
Where do you find joy?
Blogging About Joy
Day 16
December 26, 2025
Baby’s First Christmas Part II
She was asleep when she arrived at Mom’s house on Christmas. She was so peaceful, I couldn’t take my eyes off of her. I watched her little tummy going up and down, once in a while her little cheeks would quiver as if she might be dreaming. What could she be dreaming about? Then she’d start stirring and I’d think, “oh good, now she’s awake. Grandpa can hold her.” Not so fast. She’d go back to sleep, which was the best thing for her. It was a big day for her as she got to visit both sets of grandparents.
After sleeping for about 90 minutes, Mom and Dad changed her diaper, my sister-in-law held her and then I got my chance. She got fussy as I was holding her, she was ready for her mom to give her Christmas Dinner.
Incredible joy as this is her one and only 1st Christmas. The next year will be filled with many “firsts” and then next year her Christmas will be filled with wonder and curiosity.
This is going to be a great ride! What brings you joy?
Blogging About Joy
Day 15
December 25, 2025
“Celebrating Christmas at Mom’s”
Today I find joy in the quiet of Christmas morning. I’m alone with my thoughts until the afternoon celebration at Mom’s. We’ll be a small group of six. The first order of business will be watching Warriors basketball at 2:00. Then we’ll eat dinner and open gifts.
There’s a special kind of family joy in knowing she’s 89 and still able to host us. We’ll all bring something to munch on. My contribution is focaccia, a traditional Italian bread.
Last night I prepared the dough and let it bulk and ferment overnight. This morning I’ll finish it with olive oil, rosemary, garlic, and maybe tomatoes before baking it.
Today I find joy in gathering with family, and focaccia. Where are you finding joy?
Blogging About Joy
Day 14
December 24, 2025
Baby’s First Christmas
Today brought an abundance of joy.
The family came over to my place to celebrate Christmas Eve and my granddaughter’s first Christmas. It was also her first visit to my home. I couldn’t wait for them to arrive. All morning I kept checking the clock, wishing it would move faster.
When they finally got here, it was wonderful. Mom absolutely loves being a great-grandmother. She fed the baby and then burped her, soaking in every moment. And as the baby soaked her diaper, the parents are responsible for changing it. Ah, the joys of being a Grandparent/Great Grandparent.
I gave my granddaughter a tour of the house, describing everything to her. We stood by the window as I talked about activities that were happening outside. Even though I know she doesn’t understand my words yet, those little conversations feel important. I believe they’re part of the bond we’re beginning to build.
Today, I’m finding joy in my granddaughter’s first Christmas. What brought you joy?
Blogging About Joy
Day 13
December 23, 2025
Joy in the Grocery Store
This morning was grocery shopping day for tomorrow when I host our family Christmas Eve. I found a combination joy and gratitude in the fact that I live in a place and time where I could find whatever I needed to prepare the meal. What a blessing it is to have five supermarket options in one small community like Alameda.
I also realize that not everyone has these options. One of our biggest challenges over the last decade has been inflation and uncertainty that has added stress to the grocery and gift shopping of the Holiday Season. There has also been an increase in food deserts. Areas where people have limited or no access to supermarkets with healthy food options. They’re forced to do most of their shopping at convenience stores where the healthy options are limited.
As we enjoy our celebrations, let’s be grateful an find the joy of lending a helping hand when we can.
Where do you find joy?
Blogging About Joy
Day 12
December 22, 2025
Rain, a Warm House & Football
Yesterday I found joy spending the day warm and dry while watching football. What could be better? The Steelers and Lions played in the afternoon, followed by the Ravens and Patriots in the evening. While I didn’t really have rooting interests in either of the games. I thought back to the ancient rivalries that my Oakland Raiders. Now that the Raiders are in Las Vegas, I don’t think about them much anymore.
Yesterday’s games were fun to watch and the finishes were exciting. A relaxing afternoon and evening that is leading into a busy and joyful week of Christmas celebrations and family time.
Where do you find joy?
Blogging About Joy
Day 11
December 21, 2025
The Joy of a Nap
Do you ever have a day that starts with plenty of sleep, yet your body keeps asking for more? Yesterday was one of those days for me.
After a great meeting, I headed back to Alameda. As I drove home, the yawns kept coming. It was my body’s quiet way of saying, slow down.
When I got home, I ate something, turned on the football game, and settled into my easy chair. Before I realized it, I was asleep. Twenty minutes later, I woke up feeling renewed. That small pause gave me the energy and motivation to get on my exercise bike while watching the Commanders and Eagles game.
Yesterday reminded me that joy sometimes comes from listening to what we need, not pushing through. I found joy in a nap.
Where do you find joy?
Blogging About Joy
Day 10
December 20, 2025
Nonno Business
Yesterday my little grandaughter and I connected. When I got over to their house, late in the afternoon, Mom was holding her. When it was my turn, she was awake and I could see her beautiful dark eyes. As we sat on the couch I held her, sometimes cradling her until she got fussy and then I’d hold her with her head on my shoulder. At one point she got hungry and I got to feed her. When her tummy was full, we walked around somemore, looing out the window at the soaked leaves that the rain had knocked off of the trees. We talked the whole time. Finally as her head was on my shoulder and I couldn’t see her eyes, I asked Mom if she was asleep. She said yes. When it was time for me to go home, my son packed a container of food for me to microvave and eat for dinner.
Being a Nonno brings me joy. What brings you joy?
Blogging About Joy
Day 9
December 19
Fratellanza Christmas Party
Last night was the Members’ Christmas Dinner at the Fratellanza Club. The Frat, as we call it, is a warm and welcoming club in Oakland that was formed in 1932 by immigrants from the Piedmonte region of Italy. My grandfather and my dad were members, so I’ve been part of the club my entire life.
Last night I was joined by my brother Jim and my cousins Buzz, Tim, and Tyler, along with a couple hundred other members. My son Phil couldn’t make it because he’s a new dad and was on baby duty.
The dinner itself is always amazing. We walk into the dining room and find tables already set with bread, large salad platters, and wine. Each place setting starts with a plate of salami and cheese. We serve ourselves salad, and when a platter is empty, another one appears. After that, the same joyful routine continues with pasta, then roast beef. Ice cream completes the meal.
The evening wraps up with acknowledgements of member milestones and contributions. Several members received pins for ten years of membership. My friend Kyle was honored with his twenty-five-year pin. Members who have been in the club for fifty years were asked to stand, which is always moving to see. One of our most active members, Don, received the Award of Merit for extraordinary service to the club.
The Fratellanza Club has brought me a lifetime of joy.
What brings you joy?
Blogging about Joy
Day 8
December 18, 2025
Park Street Alameda
Alameda is a walking town, and walking up and down Park Street brings me real joy. Yesterday, between spurts of rain, I ducked into Rocket House Reuse.
It’s a legendary spot packed with used books, comics, vinyl records, CDs, DVDs, and vintage clothing. The kind of place where time slows down.
Vintage gear has always been right up my alley. As a kid, I collected baseball and football cards, Sports Illustrated magazines, and ticket stubs from special events. I kept them all. I still have my tickets to Games 1, 6, and 7 of the 1973 World Series between the New York Mets and the Oakland A’s. Those tickets matter to me because I watched the A’s win the Series in seven games. It was also the last time Willie Mays ever took the field as a major leaguer.
Today, when you go to a big event, all you get is a barcode on your phone. Back then, the ticket itself told a story. Old tickets to ballgames, concerts, and moments in time feel priceless now.
While browsing, I picked up a book about Julius Irving. Dr. J who wasn’t just a Hall of Fame basketball player. He revolutionized the game and helped force the merger of the NBA and ABA. A once-in-a-lifetime athlete.
Then I came across some old Huey Lewis and the News vinyl. Instantly, I was back in the days when Huey Lewis and the News and the San Francisco 49ers ruled the town. If you went to a Niners game, there was a good chance Huey Lewis and the News were singing the national anthem. The 49ers owned the Bay Area sports scene, and Huey Lewis and the News owned the music scene. Joe Montana, Dwight Clark, and other Niners were regulars in the San Francisco nightlife.
That’s my joy. Wandering the shops on Park Street and letting memories find me.
What’s your joy?
Blogging About Joy
Day 7
December 17
Alameda Tongue Twisters
Last night, Alameda Tongue Twisters met at Acapulco Restaurant in Alameda. Tongue Twisters is a Toastmasters club that my friends, Valerie, Tyree, Eddie, and I formed in 2011. That adds up to 14 years of joy. Toastmasters gives everyday people a chance to get over a fear of public speaking, practice impromptu speaking, and learn how to give and receive feedback.
Last night, Richard served as Toastmaster, meaning that he emceed the meeting. We had two prepared sp999eeches; I gave an 8-minute speech bragging about my new granddaughter, complete with photos. Gary gave an educational 10-minute speech about building confidence.
After taking a short break, Lelton evaluated my speech and Ron evaluated Gary’s. The most useful feedback that I got was that while the people in the room got a good view of the baby pictures, I could have done a better job showing the pictures to the audience on Zoom. That’s something that I can correct next time, even if I’m speaking on a different subject.
After evaluations, Heidi presided over the Table Topics part of the meeting. She asked questions of four people who came up to the lectern and gave a 1–2-minute response to the impromptu question.
The meeting ended with Bill evaluating the meeting as a whole so we can have an even better meeting next Tuesday. Hienz had such a good time, he joined the club.
I find joy in Toastmasters because everyone is welcome and it’s a fun way to improve our skills. We have a saying in Toastmasters, “you can’t do it wrong, you can only do it better next time.”
So, I guess today’s joy blog is a commercial for Toastmasters. LOL. Feel free to DM me if you like more information.
Where do you find joy?
Blogging About Joy
Day 6
December 16
The Moth
Last night I went to The Moth Story Slam in Oakland. The Moth is a worldwide storytelling community where everyday people share personal stories tied to a theme. On the night of the event, anyone who wants to tell a story puts their name in a hat. Ten names are drawn, and those storytellers each get five to six minutes on stage.
I showed up with a story ready and added my name to the hat. That’s always the nerve-wracking part. Once your name is in, your story starts looping in your head just in case you get called. I’ve put my name in many times and have only been chosen twice. That makes for a tense evening where there are only two things that can relieve the tension. If you get called on, you tell the story and the tension goes away immediately after you finish. The tension also goes away after the 10th person gets chosen. Once that happens, you know you’re not going to the mic. Last night’s theme was obsession. The story I planned was about my obsession with baseball
While I wasn’t picked last night, the ten people who were picked told wonderful stories. Three really stood out. My friend Yael went first and shared a story about a dance audition where she met Gregory Hines. A woman named Darlene told a powerful story about family struggles and triumphs. Another friend, JP, told a hilarious story about watching crows interact. Jp’s story was judged to be the winner of the event.
What I love about these nights is that the only guarantee is that we’ll hear ten stories. The uncertainty, and the small knot of anxiety that comes with it, is part of the joy.
What brings you joy?
Blogging About Joy
Day 5
Family Connections
December 15, 2025
My family has a happy history of longevity. My mother is thriving as she approaches 90. Likewise, my father and grandparents lived well into their mid to late 80s. This was brought home to me yesterday when I attended a cousin’s 95th birthday celebration, a milestone for someone who grew up with my father.
We’re two branches of a beautiful family tree, that has maintained a close relationship throughout our lives. My brother and I built strong connections with her children during shared vacations, and maintained family ties have through the generations that followed. Our families has found joy in staying connected as we raised children and has continued as our children become parents themselves.
This occasion reflects both the joy and pride within our extended family as we honor 95 years and counting of a well lived and celebrating my little granddaughter who has recently joined our family.
Blogging With Steve,
Day 3
What Brings You Joy?
December 13, 2025
What brings me joy? Two weeks ago, I experienced a profound moment of happiness with the arrival of my first granddaughter. She was actually due a week later. At the time, I had made plans to be out of town for a three-day business trip, meeting with customers in Southern California.
After settling into my hotel room and preparing to go to sleep, I received a text message from my son, letting me know that his wife was in labor at the hospital. That night, I found it hard to sleep, tossing and turning with anticipation and excitement. When morning came, I woke up to another message from my son, this time with a photo of a beautiful baby girl named Madison.
As soon as I saw Madison’s picture, I knew I had to let my boss know I was postponing my Southern California trip. After having breakfast, I headed home, eager to meet my granddaughter for the first time. Not only did I become a grandpa for the first time, but my mom became a great-grandmother for the first time.
That afternoon, we visited Madison and spent precious moments with her. I was fortunate to see her again on the following Saturday and then on Sunday and Monday, before finally leaving for the trip I had previously scheduled.
My life has grown in so many ways with Madison’s arrival. She is truly beautiful, and on the day, she was born, I told her, “You’re bringing us a lot of joy and we’re bringing you a lot of love. We’re going to help you grow up to be strong, confident, and true to yourself.
What brings you joy?
Blogging With Steve, Day 2
“What Brings You Joy?”
December 12, 2025
Today is Day Two of my 90 Day Blogging Challenge. Today’s joy starts out with something that wasn’t so joyful. One night about four months ago my car was stolen from in front of my house. It was a dependable 2015 Prius that got me where I needed to go. During my search for another car, I found many similar cars that had payments within my budget. Low and behold, I visited a dealership and found a 1997 Toyota that was in great shape. I took it on a test drive, looked through a folder that had complete service records, and decided that this car would work for me. I could purchase this 28-year-old car with cash and not be saddled with a monthly payment.
The only concern was that this car may not be capable of making my monthly trip to Southern California, which usually covers about 900 miles, round trip. This week after having the car serviced, I made the trip and the old car was wonderful. In fact, there were times when I caught myself exceeding 80 miles per hour on Highway 5.
Today I’m joyful that I’m not saddled with a car payment and I didn’t get a speeding ticket in my car that hit the market in the last century.
What is bringing you joy?
Blogging With Steve, Day 1
“What Brings You Joy?”
December 11, 2025
What do you do when something mundane turns out to be special. Professionally I’m an account executive, yesterday as I was calling on customers, I distributed my company’s 2026 Calendar. When I presented it to Customer #1, she said thank you and we had a pleasant conversation. When I presented it to Customer #2, he said thank you and we also had a pleasant conversation. The third customer I presented it to said, “Thank you! We’ve been looking forward to getting this!” While also had a pleasant conversation the joy that she brought to me by expressing excitement about getting the calendar gave me a jolt of energy that lasted for the rest of the day.
Today is Day one of my 90 Day Blogging Challenge. Why a blog challenge? About six years ago, I took on a public speaking challenge from presentation coach Darren LaCroix. The challenge was to do go to Facebook or whichever social media site that we choose and do a video every day for 90 days. Now I’ve decided to take the same principle into a bogging challenge.
While some blog entries will be longer than others the key to this project is to find at least one thing, every day that brings me joy. What brings you joy?