Here’s what’s making us happy this week.

This week at Lit Hub, the spirit is one of happiness and joy, with various staff members indulging in culinary delights, musical pursuits, and family time. Jonny Diamond and his toddler have been harvesting apples from their backyard tree and transforming them into cakes, sauces, and crumbles. Sarah Diamond, our editor's wife, has even perfected a crowd-pleasing cake recipe.

Meanwhile, kitchen staff James Folta is enjoying classic recipes, inspired by the works of Richard Olney, a renowned food writer and painter. James particularly loves Olney's "Mushrooms Provençal," a simple yet filling dish that can be easily scaled for family gatherings. Another kitchen favorite is Jacques Pépin's Chicken in Mustard Sauce, which James notes for its silky sauce and ease of preparation.

Community Editor Oliver Scialdone injects humor into the week by questioning the survival of MomTok, reflecting on small inconveniences that can make a difficult day feel less overwhelming. Drew Broussard, our podcasts editor, is in a musical high, with his favorite being the new album by Australian singer-songwriter Julia Jacklin, as well as the first two singles from Aesop Rock's collaboration with Blockhead. Drew emphasizes the importance of seeking out full albums amidst the streaming singles culture.

Lastly, I, Brittany Allen, attended a New York Philharmonic concert where I experienced Gustavo Dudamel conducting Mahler's Fifth Symphony. The performance was a revelation, highlighting the physical engagement and emotional depth that classical music can offer. This experience, unlike any previous associations with conductors, left me with a newfound appreciation for the captivating nature of live classical performances.