Why We Can’t Get Enough of Cup of Jo
Some blogs are more than just websites——they feel like a comforting friend, a source of inspiration, and a guide through life’s ups and downs. For us at Mudd House Mercantile, Cup of Jo is exactly that. Visiting Joanna Goddard’s blog feels like sitting down with an old friend who always knows just what to say, delivering her words with warmth, humor, and a touch of magic.
If you’ve never explored Cup of Jo, let us tell you why we love it and how it inspires not just our business but our personal lives, too.
How We Fell in Love with Cup of Jo
It all started with my sister—aka my business partner—who has been a longtime reader of Cup of Jo. She introduced me to Joanna’s blog a while back, and, like many who stumble upon this gem, I was instantly hooked. Now, every morning begins with a cup of coffee and a deep dive into Jo’s latest musings or older posts that feel like discovering hidden treasures.
This simple ritual has become one of the highlights of my day, a moment of calm that sparks joy and sets a positive tone. It’s not just the content but the way Jo writes—it’s relatable, human, and brimming with authenticity.
But what is it about Cup of Jo's blog that makes it so special? Let’s take a closer look at why Joanna Goddard’s blog has become such a beloved space for so many—and why it resonates so deeply with what we’re building here at Mudd House Mercantile.
Joanna Goddard
Joanna Goddard (aka Jo) started blogging back in 2007, sharing bits of her life, style tips, and reflections on relationships. Over the years, Cup of Jo has grown into a powerhouse lifestyle blog, but Jo’s authentic, warm, and relatable voice has stayed the same.
Jo has this incredible way of making the universal feel personal and the personal feel universal. Whether she’s sharing a parenting win (or fail), diving into the messy beauty of relationships, or reflecting on loss, her writing feels like a hug. It’s no wonder her blog has become a space where readers feel seen, heard, and understood.
Why We Love It
At its core, Cup of Jo is about thoughtful living, creativity, and connection—all things we’re passionate about, too. Here’s what makes it a daily must-read:
It’s Real: Jo doesn’t hide behind filters or perfection. She shares life’s highs and lows in a way that’s raw, honest, and comforting.
It’s Relatable: From heartfelt essays to budget-friendly style tips, there’s something for everyone—whether you’re looking for parenting advice or a new book to read.
It’s Inspiring: Jo’s focus on creativity, and mindful living aligns so beautifully with our mission at Mudd House Mercantile.
A Few of Our Favorite Moments
If you’re new to Cup of Jo, here are a few posts that capture its magic:
“What Advice Would You Give Your Younger Self?”: This thought-provoking piece sparked heartfelt conversations among readers.
“3 Alternatives to Wrapping Paper”: A genius guide to sustainable gift wrapping (we loved this one!).
“13 Fun Activities to Do With Friends When Bored”: Creative ideas that make quality time even more special.
Why Cup of Jo Inspires Us
Reading Jo’s posts about thoughtful living feels like a nudge to keep making small, impactful changes. At Mudd House Mercantile, we’re on a mission to make eco-friendly choices simple and accessible. Whether it’s swapping out disposable kitchen products for reusable ones, embracing zero-waste cleaning with Redecker brushes, or finding joy in small sustainable swaps like Meli Wraps, we believe every little change adds up.
What we adore about Joanna is how she celebrates life’s small, intentional choices in a way that feels inspiring, not overwhelming. It’s about progress, not perfection—and that’s a mindset
Lessons We’ve Learned
Jo’s writing reminds us that the little things matter. Whether it’s choosing a sustainable product, savoring a slow morning with coffee, or connecting with others, these small acts add up.
Living mindfully is about progress, not perfection. It’s not about doing everything right but about doing something meaningful—and that’s a philosophy we carry into our business every day.
Mindful Living Made Easy
If you’re looking to embrace a more mindful lifestyle, here are some simple steps inspired by Cup of Jo and our own experiences:
Start Small: Swap single-use items for reusable ones. Check out our zero waste store for inspiration.
Simplify: Focus on quality over quantity, whether it’s the products you buy or the commitments you make.
Celebrate Imperfections: Mindful living isn’t about being perfect; it’s about being intentional.
Join the Conversation
What we love most about Cup of Jo is the sense of community it fosters. Readers share their stories, advice, and encouragement, creating a space where everyone feels welcome.
At Mudd House Mercantile, we strive to do the same. We want to build a community of people who care about the planet, support small businesses, and embrace the joy of thoughtful living.
Join Us in Living Mindfully
Cup of Jo isn’t just a blog; it’s a community. It’s a place where you can laugh, cry, learn, and feel less alone. For us, it’s also a reminder of why we do what we do: to make sustainable living approachable, exciting, and fun.
So, grab your favorite coffee mug, check out Cup of Jo (and maybe subscribe to her newsletter, The Big Salad), and then swing by our zero waste store to explore eco-friendly products that make living sustainably easier and more enjoyable.
Because, just like Jo, we believe the little things—whether it’s a beautiful post or a thoughtful product—can make a big difference.