Welcome to Joy Ride, a monthly dose of joy, good things, creativity prompts, and gratitude by writer Jennifer Chen. If you like it, please share this newsletter with someone who might like it too.
Your Pep Talk
My six-year-old twins went through a fighting streak recently—arguing over toys, space, one copying the other. The list was endless. Brendan and I were frustrated. Nobody was happy. I’m in the middle of reading Good Inside by Dr. Becky Kennedy, and she recommends a check-in method called: Love Levels.
During hard moments, I’ll ask my kids, “Where is your love level?” They might point to their knees. My job—no matter how annoyed I am—is to give them a hug until their love level goes above their head. And you know what? We all started doing it, and the fights simmered down. My twins even check on each other’s love levels now.
I’m sharing this with you because we all need a moment of grace and love, especially when we’re tired, crabby, or angry. Check in on yourself, your best friend, your kid, and dole out the love that you all deserve. I hope this moment allows you to hit a love level above your head.
My Latest News
I joined WriteGirl as a volunteer mentor. For SELF, I’m working on an essay about how reading romance novels helped my mental health. I’m taking a class on how to write chapter books with the lovely Marcie Colleen through The Writing Barn. And I got two more blurbs for my debut book!
Check Out This...
TikTok: This tiny turtle named Fig lives his best life every day. I find it very soothing to watch him walk around.
TV SHOW: Abbott Elementary season 2 is fantastic. If you need the world’s best pep talk, watch Sheryl Lee Ralph’s stunning Emmy acceptance speech (skip to the 5-minute mark).
BOOK: Inciting Joy by Ross Gay. I adore Gay’s lyrical writing. This essay collection ponders the intersection of joy and hardships in the most vulnerable way possible.
FUNDRAISER: WriteGirl is currently raising money to send care kits to their teen members. These care kits include a journal, pen, and creative writing materials.
I'm Grateful For...
Ziggy and Zoey. We celebrated their 4th birthday recently. Chloe wanted to throw them a party so she and Brendan made birthday banners and hats while Clark and I baked sweet potato treats. They got new stuffed toys and lots of love for their birthdays.
I love the Love Level! We can all use that affirmation! As always I have enjoyed this issue.