Two Minutes Du Jour

There’s a special kind of happiness that comes from looking forward to something. All of last week, my daughter and I had a date on the calendar: Saturday afternoon, 1 to 3 p.m., a neighborhood boulangerie, two coffees, and poems typed on demand.

We arrived at La Boulangerie Marguerite in Northeast Minneapolis to the happy hum of a spring afternoon. The poets were seated at tables with their vintage typewriters—tactile, charming, and full of promise. We ordered a cold press and a café au lait, shared a few poem topics, and in return received original poems crafted for my husband and my grandson.

The energy was joyful, generous, and sincere. You give a few details—just a word, a memory, a mood—and minutes later, a poet hands you a poem that feels like it’s been waiting just for you.

After a long winter, it felt good to get out. To feel the change of season, to make space for something small and inspiring. And maybe that’s what made it special—it wasn’t a big plan or a long day. It was just a two-hour outing with someone I love, and something to look forward to all week.

Here’s my invitation to you: what could you plan for next weekend? Something to anticipate and look forward to starting today – Monday. Not a major trip or a complicated gathering. Just a small, out-of-the-ordinary experience. Something you’ll circle on your calendar. Something that gives you a reason to smile every time you think of it in the days leading up to it.

Whether it’s a poetry pop-up, a new neighborhood walk, or a trip to your favorite coffee shop with someone who brings you joy—build in a micro joy. Let yourself look forward to it. Let it fill your weekend with meaning, and your week with hope.

Two Links Du Jour:

Typewriter Poets: Poetry on Demand at La Boulangerie Marguerite

85 Fun Spring Activities to Do as the Weather Warms Up – Real Simple