This can be a strange time of year - literally.

• The end of Winter.
• The expectations of Spring.
• The "spring forward" of clocks that creates time warps as states and countries shift on different days or not at all.
• The realization that a quarter of the year is already done. (Really, 2026?!)

It's not just time that toys with our emotions. As quick examples:

• Current events - political, economic, and more.
• The growing coverage of AI with its many dominoes of impact.
• Even the weather: I'm in Colorado for a few weeks in what is usually an annual ski trip, but the temperature has reached 75 degrees this weekend.

For all of that and more, this visual spoke to me - creating a menu of "treats" to shift your mood.

This is a great list - and also, how fun would it be to create a personalized menu for yourself, complete with doodles around the edges?

As with play, what brings each of us joy is unique.

The items on their list can be a starter, but each of us would have unique items on our own list based on what interests us, what is near us, and what we most desire in this moment. For me,

• Grab yourself a bouquet of flower while you’re doing a grocery run became: build a LEGO flower stem.
• Since I haven't painted my nails since high school, try a new spring nail color dropped entirely.
• Cook with fresh ingredients and enjoy the sensory experience of cooking was a nice reminder to tap into all of the senses for joy even in regular daily activities.

Your turn...

What if you took time today to create a menu in your journal - or to pin on your refrigerator - of specials, entrees, sides, and appetizers to bring you a bit more joy this Spring?

If you're not sure where to start, do the doodles first. That can set the stage for you to slow down and prepare for the reflection.

These are the categories used in the menu I shared. Your menu could include any or all of these:

• Appetizers (quick mood boosts if you have five minutes or less…)
• Entrees (momentum-building activities if you have an hour or more…)
• Sides (easy energy shift add-ons)
• Desserts (little treats)
• Specials (main character moments worth planning for)

Remember, this is not a to-do list. It is not even long-term. It's seasonal. It's a menu of options so you won't have to think so much when you recognize you need a little joy.

It's not cheating to start with their lists. Like me, you may find that some inspire related ideas, some are great as is, and some don't make it on your menu in any form. Regardless, it may help you jumpstart your own lists.

And whether you started with doodles or left that to the end, feel free to bring some final doodle touches to your menu as an extra step.

Wishing you a full menu and ample treats of joy as you transition from Winter to Spring,

Mary PS - I've started releasing episodes in the Lead with a dash of Play podcast again. If you need a small entree item (only 30 minutes) or a sweet dessert, check it out!