Happiness is...

When things in life are going well, it is really easy to be content and not acknowledge the day to day blessings that have brought about that happiness.  I have been very happy the last few weeks and don't want to let this feeling just fade away into the daily routine without sharing it. I have spent some time thinking about what has made me happy.  Here are some of my random thoughts:

Happiness is...

       

*The smell of homemade bread baking in the oven- I made some bread this week, and the aroma immediately reminded me of home.  If the word "home" had a smell, for me, it would be baking bread.  I came to the realization that if I want my children to have such a vivid and wonderful word association, I had better start making bread more often. :)

*Waking up to a cute baby waving from the crib saying, "Hi Mama"... even better is when it is "Hi Dada."

*Reconnecting with old friends

*Reading good books-  Already this month I have traveled to Hogwarts and Afghanistan. I have learned that love is the power that conquers evil, and come to understand that hope and redemption are possible in the bleakest circumstances.  I experienced excitement, fear, sorrow, and joy.  I feel changed through each experience, and when I close the book, I come back to my little corner of the world and recognize how truly blessed I am. 

  

*A perfect Spring day-  70 degrees, no wind, plenty of sunshine, and no coat necessary!  

*Homemade cinnamon rolls and a visit from a good friend

*A new computer

*Father and Son projects-  Jonathon and Christian planted some flowers together a few weeks ago.  The two master gardeners checked the little window pot every morning.  Finally, last Saturday, they saw a little green shoot.  They were both very excited about this development and insisted that I come to look.  I love that this has been such a fun way for them to spend time together.

*A clean house

*Having a good excuse (Christian) to play on the slide       

*Accomplishing something really hard-  Over the last 8 weeks, I have made a concerted effort to get regular exercise and eat better.  It has not been fun, but it is so rewarding to see the results.  Accomplishing difficult goals gives me self-confidence because I know, in a small way, I have mastered something that once had control over me.  I realize I am stronger than I thought. 

*Jello Jigglers- Low fat/low calorie and surprisingly fun to make and eat :)

*Video chatting with family

*Having the subway come immediately

*Being able to take a shower in the morning while Christian is watching and playing with "Tom" (Thomas the Tank Engine)

*Hearing Jonathon say, "My experiment worked"

There are so many things that make me happy.  I guess the key is to recognize them when they happen.  What makes you happy?