Finding Joy After 50: Coloring Books, Labubu & Stationery

Who says fun is only for kids? Honestly, some of the things I loved growing up—coloring books, stuffed toys, scented pens, and cute stationery—still make me happy today. And guess what? I’m not alone. More and more women over 50 are rediscovering the little joys that bring comfort, creativity, and just plain fun into everyday life.

My Lifelong Love: Coloring & Stationery

Some things you just never outgrow. For me, it’s always been coloring books, stationery, and scented pens. I loved collecting them when I was younger—the smell of the pens, the cuteness of the designs, the bright colors. Even now, they bring back that same joy.

And coloring? Oh, it’s still one of my favorite hobbies. There’s something so calming about sitting down with a coloring book and getting lost in the colors. It feels like meditation, but in a fun, creative way. My mind slows down, I feel more relaxed, and sometimes it’s the perfect “me time” at the end of the day.

Plush Toys Aren’t Just for Kids

Okay, confession time—I never thought I’d be into plush toys as an adult. But there’s something about them that’s comforting and sweet. A soft toy on the bed or even a quirky one on the shelf can make me smile.

Ever heard of the very famous Labubu? You know the plush toys, Millennials and Genz are obsessing over. At first, I just didn’t get it. “It’s not even cute,” I told myself. I couldn’t understand why people were obsessed. But then last Christmas, my son surprised me with the entire Labubu “Have a Seat” collection. My heart melted. Labubus comes in a blind box. So, opening the boxes was the highlight of our Christmas Eve.

I knew how hard it was to find them, so it wasn’t just about the toys—it was about the thought. I realized he had probably noticed me carrying a plush toy in my bag on a Disneyland trip, and he wanted to give me something that would make me smile. Suddenly, Labubu wasn’t just a toy—it became a sweet reminder of how love and small gestures can warm your heart.

The Charm of Stationery (and Why It Still Makes Me Happy)

If you’ve ever opened a brand-new notebook or written with a smooth pen, you’ll understand this one. Stationery has always been my weakness. Cute notebooks, pretty journals, scented pens—I adore them all. Writing a quick note, jotting down gratitude lists, or just doodling feels so much more special when I use something pretty.

It’s not just about being practical—it’s about surrounding myself with little things that spark joy and make everyday routines a little brighter.

Why These Simple Pleasures Matter After 50

Life after 50 often feels more intentional. We slow down a bit, we reflect more, and we start choosing things that truly bring us joy. For me, it’s not about “outgrowing” the hobbies I loved as a kid—it’s about embracing them even more.

Coloring, plush toys, and stationery might seem simple, but they’re little self-care rituals. They remind me that happiness doesn’t always come from big achievements—it often comes from these small, heartwarming moments that brighten our days.

Final Thoughts

So if you’re over 50 and still find yourself drawn to coloring books, cute pens, or even plush toys—embrace it! These little joys are not “childish.” They’re part of what makes life fun, cozy, and meaningful. After all, growing older doesn’t mean losing your sense of play—it means knowing exactly what makes you smile and leaning into it.