Forever35 Podcast Summary: Mini-Episode 423 – "Embracing the Microjoys"

Release Date: December 11, 2024
Hosts: Doree Shafrir & Elise Hu

In Mini-Episode 423 of the Forever35 podcast, hosts Doree Shafrir and Elise Hu delve into the concept of "microjoys"—the small, everyday moments that bring happiness and fulfillment. This episode, themed around the holiday season, intertwines personal anecdotes, listener interactions, and practical advice on finding joy in the little things amidst the hustle and bustle of festivities.

1. Introduction and Holiday Preparations

[03:26] Elise Hu:
Elise opens the conversation by asking Doree about her holiday preparations, including decorations and gift shopping challenges. Doree shares her minimalist approach this year, focusing on meaningful gifts rather than extravagant spending.

[03:40] Doree Shafrir:
“We’re not really doing, like, elaborate Christmas stuff this year just for money reasons. Henry is the only other real person I buy Christmas presents for, and he also gets Hanukkah presents.”

2. Thoughtful Gift-Giving and Challenges

The hosts discuss the nuances of selecting gifts that resonate with loved ones. Doree recounts an amusing exchange with her son, Henry, about a specific gift—tiny, squishy balls with spikes. This highlights the sometimes humorous challenges of meeting children’s specific requests.

[05:04] Doree Shafrir:
“They are 1.18 inches in diameter, so... I’m gonna get him a few other things. I’m not gonna just get him these little fidget.”

Elise shares her dilemma of choosing gifts for her family while preparing for a two-week overseas trip. She considers whether to pack smaller gifts or purchase them upon arrival, ultimately opting to utilize items already bought during her travels.

[07:45] Elise Hu:
“I have some things for my mom already. Getting my brother is tricky because he’s so stylish and specific with his tastes. I might get him something joint-related, like a knee brace.”

3. Celebrating Small Joys Through Gifts

The conversation shifts to innovative and affordable gift ideas that embody the spirit of microjoys. Doree praises inexpensive yet delightful items like foam airplanes, which bring instant park joy to children without breaking the bank.

[23:37] Doree Shafrir:
“We bring a lot of park joy.”

Elise adds that such simple gifts are not only budget-friendly but also foster creativity and outdoor play among kids.

[24:38] Elise Hu:
“Those are a great idea and very affordable.”

4. Listener Contributions and Book Recommendations

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to listener interactions and recommendations, particularly focusing on literature that emphasizes finding happiness in everyday moments.

[16:05] Elise Hu:
“There’s another book on the same theme that I gifted before—'Small Pleasures' from the School of Life.”

Doree highlights Cindy Spiegel’s book, "Micro Joys: Finding Hope, Especially When Life Is Not," commending its beautiful exposition on recognizing and appreciating daily magic.

[16:11] Doree Shafrir:
“Cindy writes so beautifully about taking notice of the everyday magic that makes up a life.”

The hosts agree to feature these book recommendations on their website and share how these resources have positively impacted their lives and those around them.

5. Nostalgia and Technology Evolution

Nostalgia plays a role as Doree and Elise reminisce about the early 2000s, discussing the evolution of technology and its impact on capturing memories.

[17:53] Listener:
“Watching the video was amazing... there aren't that many videos from that time period because people didn't have iPhones back then.”

Elise reflects on how technological advancements have changed the way we document and cherish moments.

[20:28] Doree Shafrir:
“Flip Video came out in 2006, so this would have been after. People were taking videos, but storage was a limitation.”

6. Product Recommendations: Kitchen Gadgets and More

The hosts continue to share practical recommendations, focusing on kitchen gadgets that simplify holiday cooking and meal preparation.

[23:10] Elise Hu:
“Yes, we did. The countertop air fryer is a game-changer.”

Doree expresses enthusiasm for the Ninja countertop air fryer, highlighting its multifunctionality and space-saving design.

[23:19] Elise Hu:
“The air fryer bakes, roasts, toasts, warms, and dehydrates.”

They also discuss affordable and versatile food products like Auga Auga’s sweet corn soup from Costco, which serves as a convenient and tasty winter meal option.

[29:12] Doree Shafrir:
“It is made by Auga Auga and comes in a pouch. It’s shelf-stable and vegan-friendly.”

7. Managing Product Availability and Recommendations List

Addressing the common issue of favorite products disappearing from stores, the hosts contemplate creating a centralized list of their and listeners’ recommended items.

[31:15] Elise Hu:
“If we do make some sort of collaborative list, it could be really more nostalgia, right?”

They acknowledge the challenge of maintaining stock but see value in sharing beloved products with their audience, adding a disclaimer about availability.

[31:25] Doree Shafrir:
“All right. Listen, if you happen to read this, I love you so much.”

8. Concluding Thoughts: Embracing Everyday Joys

As the episode wraps up, Doree and Elise reiterate the importance of recognizing and cherishing small moments of happiness. They encourage listeners to find joy in simplicity and to continue sharing their experiences and recommendations.

[31:58] Doree Shafrir:
“Thanks for listening, and we will talk to you soon.”

Notable Quotes:

• Doree Shafrir [03:40]:
  “Henry is the only other real person I buy Christmas presents for...”

• Elise Hu [07:45]:
  “I have some things for my mom already. Getting my brother is tricky because he’s so stylish and specific with his tastes.”

• Doree Shafrir [16:11]:
  “Cindy writes so beautifully about taking notice of the everyday magic that makes up a life.”

• Doree Shafrir [29:12]:
  “It is made by Auga Auga and comes in a pouch. It’s shelf-stable and vegan-friendly.”

Conclusion

In this heartwarming mini-episode, Doree and Elise emphasize the value of microjoys—those fleeting, simple pleasures that enrich our lives. Through personal stories, listener interactions, and thoughtful recommendations, they inspire listeners to pause and appreciate the small moments that collectively contribute to overall well-being, especially during the festive holiday season.

For more episodes and content, visit forever35podcast.com.