I’ve really been struggling with happiness lately. Actually, I have gone through a variety of emotions – I was sad, disappointed, then accepting. I was actually pretty ok over the weekend. But then I woke up Tuesday feeling at a loss. Nothing was making me inherently happy. I had a dour outlook on life and found it very difficult to turn my attitude around. Over the weekend when I was feeling better, I started thinking about all the great stuff in my life – all the little things that make it easier yet complex and truly blessed. I thought it might be nice to try and detail them in hopes I can continue feeling at peace with everything.

I once blogged about a book I read and I want this entry to follow those lines: little things that bring about that feeling of pure happiness, wonder, contentedness.

• Whenever a child randomly wants a hug. Sometimes the frenetic nature of our lives means I don’t always take time to appreciate their love but these little moments force me to see them and cherish them.
• The song “Don’t Stop” by Fleetwood Mac. Heard it a million times but it came on the radio the other day at a particularly vulnerable time for me. Its words really struck a chord at that moment. Sometimes we can’t look back, especially if what’s done is done and you know the only way is to look forward to the next day.
• Evening beer. You know me, I’m a beer drinker anyway. But sometimes after a rough day, one beer is such a nice refreshing get-away from the stress.
• My house. Even though we need to move to get more living space, I really do like it. It was a great starter home and has its charms.
• The feeling after a run. Sadly, I have not been able to do this lately because of my heel but I think about how exhilarating it is to push my body to the limits. I love the sweat, the exertion, the finishing it and knowing I worked out and the rest of the day is mine.
• The exact moment when I realize my coffee has kicked in. It’s a magical time.
• When one of my favorite songs comes on the radio and I’m driving alone, maybe on a very curvy road. Something about the way I handle my car on turns and blast a very good piece of music is freeing.
• My photo collection. I’ve been good about taking pics for years now and we store and backup and make sure they’re safe. A portion of those go up on flickr and sometimes when I am feeling low, I scroll through. The chronological order of everything we’ve done makes me feel accomplished and thankful.
• Sunshine! I feel like Superman sometimes because I am recharged by the sun.
• When I realize that my list has finally put me in a good mood.