Hi Reader,

I'm happy to share that I just had power restored to my house a few days ago, so I'm able to share July's wallpaper featuring this quote: "Once you need less, you will have more," which resonates deeply with me.

If you read my last newsletter, you'll understand why I couldn't design a wallpaper this past June. Where I live, Guam, was hit by Typhoon Mawar with damaging winds up to 185 mph (295 km/h). Not only was she strong, but she moved as slow as 6 mph (10 km/h). You could say she loved Guam so much, she stayed longer than she planned. Longer than WE ALL PLANNED, REALLY. You can read more about the aftermath in my last newsletter here.​

So yes, the typhoon sucked. But the aftermath sucked EVEN MORE. I didn't have running water for 2 weeks, and I just got power restored to my house, which took 1 month. The domino effect of the aftermath would explain this month's quote. It captured the perspective I had in the back of my mind and brought it forward.

Stripped of the luxuries I got used to, the aftermath reminded me of how fragile my modern comforts are. So, I began appreciating simple living. And what I found was abundance—in simple activities, in relationships, in joy. Basic necessities like clean, running water and electricity felt like a gift. And I found true excitement in the essentials: drinking water, a roof to cover my head, a stove to cook with, a table to eat on, a bucket to shower with, and my husband, who really stepped up even before the typhoon.

This eye-opening experience pushed my husband and I to make intentional decisions in simplifying our lives. Here are some of the changes we've made:

• We started catching rainwater, reducing our dependency on external water sources. It feels liberating to have control over this vital resource.
• I shifted my focus from ornamental plants to productive ones, growing herbs and vegetables that not only beautify our yard but also provide us sustenance. Although, my current worry is that another typhoon might take it away. I'll deal with that when the time comes. Unfortunately, we're expecting more typhoons because of El Niño.
• We invested in a portable solar panel to charge electronics like lanterns, cellphones, and a rechargable fan.
• Speaking of fans, after a month of sleeping without air conditioning in Guam's hot and humid weather, we've grown accustomed to fans. I also realized how cold it actually gets at night. This will help lower our power bill.
• We installed a clothesline in the backyard to dry our laundry. We'll reserve our dryer for rainy days. Though, a sacrifice I'm not willing to make (yet) is our washing machine. Clean clothes at the push of a button too amazing to let go!

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These are some of the decisions we made, and we continue to make more as we discover what else we need to simplify. It's amazing how simple solutions can empower us to be more self-reliant. When we let go of excess, we create space for the things that truly matter. This far into our journey, we feel more peace of mind, and we definitely feel happier.

As I share my story, I hope you're inspired to embrace the joy in the little things and find contentment in the essentials. Life's true treasures lie in the moments weoverlook. So, take a deep breath, pause, and appreciate the simplicity that surrounds you.

I wish you a July filled with gratitude, simplicity, and abundance in joy!

Best,

Jojo

P.S. It's sobering to think that some people on-island, still don't have power, or even a home to come back to. If you'd like to donate to the Red Cross disaster relief in Guam, click here. Every dollar brings us closer to restoring hope and normalcy to the families that need it the most. Thank you so much.