My people are my family, my friends, my partner, and those who are happy to welcome a conversation with me! I love spending time with people, being social, and connecting with those around me. When I am alone, nothing makes me happier than spending time in my kitchen cooking. I love the process of it all, and even when I am starving I take my time to prepare my meal with love. Being half Italian, I love making pastas and roasting vegetables but I am also in love with the spices and freshness of a lot of Mexican cuisine (which I also spend a lot of time preparing). The only way that I could be more joyful than when doing these two things separately is combining them to cook for those I love.

Seriously though? What brings me joy is accomplishment - and seeing the physical manifestation of an idea take form.

Outside of the professional field, my friends, family, my partner, and sports all bring me joy. Being able to surround myself with good company helps me stay grounded and decompress when I am not in the academic or work setting.

First and foremost my family brings me joy , whose love and support inspire me every day. I also find joy in teaching and encouraging the next generation to pursue greatness and realize their potential.

What really bring me joy is giving people joy. I love to cook not for me but for others to enjoy. In my bleak part-time job, what brings me joy is helping people understand and learn, helping people not feel alone and cared for (I work at bank). What brings me joy is creating a moment with someone that we will both remember for our lives. I get joy from the satisfaction knowing that I was able to give a part of me to someone (even saying high, smiling or laughing with someone).

My family brings me joy too. Spending time with my fiance, his parents and grandmother, and my cousins always puts more strength in my heart through the laughs we share. Knowing that Christmas season is coming makes me joyfully expectant that I'll get to see my family more often to make more memories.

There's also the superficial things like cooking, drawing, reading, and watching my favourite shows!

Additionally, my family and friends bring me so much joy everyday. I am extremely grateful for my parents, my sister, my grandparents and extended family. These people shaped who I am and always support me. Sunday lunches at my grandparents' houses with my parents, sister, aunts, uncles, and cousins were a weekly event. I grew up very close to extended family and this taught me how important these relationships are. Further, the friends I have made from elementary school to present have become like family to me! I am so lucky to have incredible people in my life who are so loving and caring.

There are also all the little things that bring me joy! Like coffee, a sunny day, a pretty scenery, a good walk, etc.,

Connecting/spending time with friends, family

Listening to music, watching a movie/show (that are amusing/entertaining)

Savouring a favourite cup of coffee/tea in peace

Trying out comfort foods or special treats that bring a sense of warmth

achieving/accomplishing a challenging task/milestone (personal development)

Learning something intriguing / insightful

Random acts of kindness (paying it forward), volunteering, help others in need

-HJC