This here is the last Mighty Summit giveaway! Hello, trusty tote.
Large Natural Zip Top Canvas Tote Bag by Lands End
Man, these things are useful, and strong. We use ours to carry our child like an expensive, overbred dog. No, I kid. We use it on our yacht.
Yours will not say “Gifts” on the front, but it will have yellow trim. You could use it to carry around all these books:
You Lost Me There, by Rosecrans Baldwin
Hey, my friend Rosecrans is a novelist! Even better, the book he wrote is very good, and you will like it. It’s about a memory specialist who loses his wife and later finds a set of index cards covered in her writing. He comes to learn that his memories of a perfect partnership aren’t true to his wife’s feelings of isolation and disenchantment with the marriage.
No One Cares What You Had fro Lunch, by Margaret Mason
This is a signed copy of my book, which is not a novel. But! It is very green and full of good ideas for your blog.
Wiley’s Guide to California Wine
In which you will learn that California wine is delicious. Apologies for the spoiler.
This is the book Laura edited full of great writing and photography from women around the Web. Also, it is pretty.
In addition to the tote, Lands’ End also threw in a gift card. You could use yours for this. Or this. Or one of these. Whatever you want, really.
$50 Gift Card from Soma Intimates
And who doesn’t need new skivvies?
To enter, please tell us about one thing that always makes you happy. And remember that we still have a few open giveaways, so put your name in over there too if you haven’t already.
Fine print: Please only leave one comment for each giveaway, because it’s the nice thing to do, and also because multiple entries will be disqualified. I’ll use random.org to select the winner, and I’ll announce who won at the top of this post and in a separate post next Monday.
Vacation with my husband!
A kiss on the cheek from my children before they leave for school :-)
One thing that always makes me happy is seeing a little kid immersed in a book in public.
One thing that always makes me happy – seeing my daughter or my husband sleeping soundly. Their peacefullness puts me in a happy place. And if I get to be awake a while when they’re asleep – doing things *I* want to do.. Even happier! :-)
Ooh, I so want one of these totes. Adorable! One thing that always makes me happy is the smell of lilacs in the spring. Especially first thing in the morning, when they’re all damp and dewy. Sadly, now that I live in Northern California, my encounters with this smell are few and far between. What’s up with that — I thought we could grow anything there? :-)
A new pen always makes me happy – the way the ink just rolls out smoothly makes me want to write love letters.
One thing that makes me happy – As a lifelong non-lover of exercise, I’m now in shape enough to appreciate the moment in a workout (specifically swimming for me) when it actually feels delicious to be moving and using my body toward its potential. I always thought that feeling was a myth.
enjoying a good meal with friends – like the early canadian thanksgiving dinner with good friends this past weekend!
One thing that always makes me happy? Clean sheets day!
Autumn light always makes me happy.
A perfectly sunny, crisp Fall day.
Fresh flowers make me happy!
I just figured this out (I’m a bit of a slow learner, it seems), but making good decisions that benefit my family and me makes me very happy. Who knew?
What makes me happy is when my friends remind me how lucky I am to have them.
The fall / changing leaves.
Going into my daughter’s room when she is waking up, she always smiles and giggles and it just makes my heart MELT with joy. It is the best way to wake up.
One thing that always makes me happy is waking up early in the morning to find my beautiful grey kitty curled up at my side purring away contentedly.
Reading other people’s life lists and saying to myself “hey–I’ve done that!” I think of the enjoyment I had while doing it, the enjoyment the other person will some day have as well, but what makes me the most happy is that I remember even though I’ve not done a lot of things on my own life list yet, I have actually had a pretty awesome life so far.
What makes me the happiest is waking up to my husband and our child each and every morning. They are what recharge my battery! ;)
A hug from someone I love (and who loves me back!) always makes me happy.
Hearing my daughter laughing.
Happy Dog Tail wagging never ceases to make me happy. Especially when the whole back half of them wags in unison.
One thing that always makes me happy: the logic puzzles in Make magazine!
Cuddling with my ginormous Newfie always does the trick for me! Thanks for the contest.
having my future husband tell me that we are building a wonderful life together (like he did last night). having that reminder from him when things get uncertain is the thing that makes me the happiest.
My son and daughter’s insane bedhead in the morning.
my hubby!!
Finally taking control of our finances and feeling like we’re going to make it. Lame? Possibly. True? Totally.
The ocean. Especially now that I live in the desert.
I love looking out my office window and seeing the clouds get “trapped” by the mountains.
Wow… so much. Bringing home a new book (or two, or ten) from the library. Harmonizing with the nine other women in my choir. Having a clean and beautiful dining room table. Getting “that look” from my boyfriend. And like Annie: a beautiful, new pen, and also a new notebook to write in!
Biking home from the train station on a perfect spring evening, a gentle breeze releasing a mist of apple blossoms.
Spending quality time with a dear friend over a good meal.
Corgi puppies!
Something that always makes me happy: driving in the sun through a beautiful region (like my Columbia River Gorge) with good music.
looking {and laughing} at old family pictures. :)
BBC Costume Drama!! Bleak House, Pride and Prejudice, and Little Dorritt make me so happy!
One thing that always makes me happy is listening to my son laugh.
The one thing that makes me happy? The one thing that always makes me truly happy is when have a whole day off with nothing that I “have” to do. It rarely happens with kids. I have to make an effort to do nothing. (sigh)
Watching videos of bulldog puppies.
A great stationery store makes me happy.
Yesterday made me happy. Oysters and Champagne in Dolores Park with my best buds, my daughter and my husband, Blue Angels flying overhead. Man, I love this city.
Playing ukulele!
My giant ridiculous puppies always make me happy… even when they’ve just stolen my dessert off the counter again.
Whenever I hear my dog snore I smile and chuckle to myself. That always makes me happy!
Picking an outfit to wear on the plane ride before a big trip.
xx m
my son when he says “mama!”
Posing for our annual family group photo at my parents’ house on Christmas night – and watching the group grow over the years.
Wine tasting in Traverse City, MI, with my husband. We’ve never had wine in California, but the wines in norther Michigan are exquisite and the views are even better. ♥
My sweet, sweet rescue mutt makes me happy, no matter how bad of a day I’m having, she just makes me feel great when I see those big brown eyes.
Giving my parents that first hug when I step off the airplane. Yes, I’m 27. No, that doesn’t bother me one bit.
WATERFALLS! Thankfully, Washington state is riddled with mountains and the water than runs off ’em. Specifically, Deception Pass has a delightful bridge you can stand on and see the water fall and feel it rushing over the rocks under you. It’s glorious and makes me feel like I can do anything.
Fall makes me happy! Oktoberfest! Pumpkins! Halloween! Blue skies!
Right now iced chai lattes that I make at home from concentrate. I’m pregnant, and it’s the only thing besides water that even sounds good. Water can get old fast. :)
Having a plan work out makes me incredibly happy. :)
Oddly: Liver in whiskey cream sauce. I just discovered this.
Seeing the joy in the eyes of my chunky, lovable pit bull when she sees my car pull up to the house ALWAYS makes my day brighter. To recall an image I’ve seen around the web: “I owe it to her to be worthy of such devotion.” =)
The way my almost-nine-year-old daughter greets me when I come home every day always makes me happy. I hope she’ll always be so glad to see me!
The look on my daughter’s face when I walk into a room as she puts her hands to her mouth and screams with delight to see me.
Hearing my kid laugh always make me happy. It always seemed like such a cliche, until I experienced it. There truly is no more beautiful sound.
Warm chai tea with a snuggly blanket while it snows/storms/thunders outside. Yum.
Oysters on the half shell and a glass of white wine.
Watching my daughter grow.
Giving gifts.
little kids in obvious “i picked out my own outfit!” clothes.
A good cup of coffee, a good book, and a lazy Saturday morning.
The first email of the day from my husband always makes me happy. I’m not much of a morning person, but I get some coffee in me and then see his name pop up on my screen and I’m smiling.
Sunshine always makes me happy. Always.
A great big hug and kiss from my babies.
Laughter and hugs with those closest to me always make me happy..
Snuggles!!!
my mom’s fried chicken and mashed potatoes. listening to the younger two send their older sister off to school with “goodbyes” and “we love yous”. two-in-one. Still fair?
A good book :)
Well, one thing that makes me happy is to have a functional bag to carry my life in. Reading also makes me happy. Especially in a comfy bed, with just the right amount of covers.
I derive a great sense of happiness and comfort from a bowl of oatmeal and a nice cup of black tea. Simplicity at it’s best.
A finished to-do list.
Balloons. You’d have to be having the worst day ever not to smile at balloons.
That book IS good. We are glad that Mr. Baldwin calls NC home now.
Any Buddy Holly song – they always make me smile and feel lighter about life!
Baking always makes me happy. A good hour or two in the kitchen covered in flour and chocolate and I’m all sunshine and rainbows.
My cat jumping up and sleeping in my lap. Making people laugh. Singing out loud, really loud, in my car.
Bike riding makes me happy! And doughnuts with coffee. Unexpected visitors from out of town. Seeing my daughter dance. Swimming in the ocean.
Kisses from my kids.
Laying on my couch watching West Wing DVDs and doing Sudoku puzzles. Yes, at the same time. Yes, I am nerdy :)
An hour at Office Depot, deli sliced roast beef, and brushing my daughter’s hair. Yup yup.
Puppies!
Seeing the forsythia I planted in my front yard in full bloom. It’s the first sign that the winter will actually win and that spring is on the way.
What makes me happy? The smell of the ocean and eucalyptus trees around the Marin Headlands. I want to bottle it up and carry it with me, always.
Book+roaring fire+big storm outside+G&T = happy :)
Enjoyed the incongruity of fall colors and 80 degrees yesterday in the park.
Belly-laughing babies make me happy
Always makes me happy: grilled pizza night with fig jam, quattro formaggio, prosciutto and Penzey’s pizza spice.
My morning cup of tea never fails to make me happy.
Hearing my son (12 mo) laugh out loud unexpectedly – like this weekend when I was swatting a fly, saying “shoot”, or reading a story.
Crisp fall days with colorful leaves. Even pictures of them.
crisp fall days always make me happy!
Heavily foggy mornings make me happy. You go out in them and it’s like adventure is right around every corner. Is that a mysterious masked man, or a mailbox? Do those lights belong to a cavebeing, or an approaching car? It’s just extremely good fun.
Hearing my nephew say “Auntie, auntie.”
Always makes me happy? Smiles from strangers.
nice fall weather, warm socks, and cuddling up with some pancakes and coffee on a morning off.
Getting a hug and snuggle from my daughters.
The smell of a campfire.
making memories with my wonderful husband.
Looking back through so many silly pictures I’d forgotten all about. They give me so many laugh-out-loud moments.
This kind of sounds sad, but food always makes me happy. Not in the I eat my feelings kind of way, but a good dinner (especially one with my better half) can melt away just about anything horrible.
Oysters and dirty gin martinis with my husband. Yum and yum and yum.
Rooting through the covers every morning to find our wee little dog, usually curled up with my fiance, and waking her up for breakfast. The look on her face makes me so happy every single time, even if I’m determined to be sleepy and grumpy.
My nephews. Make me happy all the time. Bad day + a little Skype can turn any day around!
Hanging out with my girlfriends. I had my 40th birthday party over the weekend with 8 of my closest girlfriends and oh the fun and hysterics and giggling we had. Makes me warm & happy inside.
Traveling with my husband. :)
Singing accapella hymns with my family.
My dog — still just a puppy — and thanksgiving with my sister.
Picking my boy up from daycare and hearing all about his day. Even if his day was about Legos and dinosaurs.
Good music always makes me happy!
Returning home to Duluth and seeing the skyline at night. The view is best when driving from Wisconsin, about 15 miles out.
An extra 20-minutes of sleep, books on a rainy morning, and the real smiles of my two kids (not the ones they use EVERY SINGLE TIME someone tries to photograph them!).
When I walk in the door after work and my husband drops whatever he’s doing to give me a hug.
Watching the sunset. Bonus happy points if I am at the beach as it sets.
Bookstores!
Bubble Tea! It’s a drink, it’s a food…it’s delicious.
Happiness is comments from new friends on my blog, a cup of coffee and the end of a good book on a Sunday morning, downloading a fun Photoshop brush, and a long walk with with dog on a perfectly crisp fall day.
Picking up my daughter from pre-school. She shouts “Momma” and runs smack into me with a big hug. Her older sister (now 6) is too big to do this anymore, so I relish it a bit more every day.
As a mom of 6…I love the first few moments of silence after the last child leaves in the morning. Ahhhhh.
my 5-yr-old’s explanations of the world and cuddling with him during story time before bed.
bright sunshine on cooler days
Warm sweaters and a perfect sunny fall day.
Giving someone a gift they really love.
thinking about autumn produce at the farmer’s market.
Reading on the subway, furnishing my new apartment, the comic book store just across the street! That’s three things.
The fact that it’s now officially hot chocolate weather is making me happy.
Watching my daughter (2 yo) develop her skills: hopping down the sidewalk, exclaiming ‘Oh Noooooo!’ (which doesn’t have to have a reason), scaling and hanging from our birch tree or waving/yelling ‘Hi’ as she runs wildly in circles.
Walking my dogs!
that first day after the fall time change when i leave work and it’s dark and all the street and car lights are lovely and glowy.
Kittens or puppies!
A grilled cheese and tomato soup accompanied by a mug of cocoa. They used to serve this combo at summer camp on rainy days and it still makes happy. It just feels cozy and comforting.
Well, new bras and books sure make me happy so I would LOVE to win this giveway. :)
The look on my son’s face when he spots me in the crowd of parents at pick up time.
Oatmeal with nuts, fruit and a little brown sugar pretty much makes my entire day. Bike rides with really good music. Sunday night dinners with my husband and two daughters.
Coming home to my darling after a long, grueling day… or vice versa
Being able to only say on thing is HARD! So I’ll say the first thing that came to my mind when I read the question: vaction. But there are lots of other things that make me happy!
Getting text messages from my best friend whenever she hears a Rilo Kiley song being played in a public place. It’s been going on for years between us and it’s fun to celebrate the success of a group we love.
Most recently witnessed in a Victoria’s Secret store in southwestern Virginia.
When my kids crawl into bed with me on weekend mornings for lots of snuggling. Also when they crawl back out and find something to do with themselves so I can sleep for a bit longer.
My daughter is (almost) 3 and she still asks me to hold her like a baby. And not even when she’s tired, just because sometimes. I absolutely love it because I know it’s not going to last much longer.
Books, without fail. (And I’ve been meaning to get the Rosencrans Baldwin book since it came out!)
The smell right after it rains. Gets me every time.
It makes me happy to acquire the perfect gift for someone. I love finding that exact right thing that I know he or she will love.
an elderly couple holding hands
Hiking with my three dogs!
Watching my son enjoying the beach always makes me happy.
My kid’s Patty Bouvier style throaty laugh.
Also a BLT.
It always makes me happy to start reading a new book. No matter how many times I do it, each book feels like a present.
A cup of tea and a good book always makes me happy.
when our dogs join us in bed on weekend mornings for some family snuggle time, we’re all together and everything is right ;)
When my littlest son “cheeses” for the camera. I’m pretty sure his big brother taught him that one, and it never fails to make me laugh.
Oooh very nice.
Drinking red wine on the back porch with my fiancé always makes me. The way my iPhone autocorrects the word fiancé to include the appropriate accent makes me happy. In fact, I’m still in that stage where having a fiancé at all makes me very, very happy.
But mostly it’s the fiancé on the back porch with the wine. Every time.
Dancing with my two year-old. Puts a smile on my face every time.
Hearing my daughter laugh.
The 84 mile relay run I ran this weekend in which I experienced runner’s high for the first time in a long time!
Sharing a caramel apple with my husband last night made me happy.
An unexpected gift
Seeing dogs playing in the dog park. I don’t have one but they are usually goofy and having fun when I walk by on my way home.
seriously these giveaways are AWESOME. I’d love the wine for dummies book because frankly.. yea i frequently wear the dunce cap when having to talk about wine.
Hearing a song I love but haven’t heard in years being played in a store. Makes shopping in crowded store much more bearable.
Going to visit my almost-two-year-old niece, and seeing her SO EXCITED to see my car that she’s waving through the window with BOTH her little hands. Fantastic.
Also, wine pretty much does it every time too.
Puppies!! How can puppies not make you happy??
wind in trees – gets me every time
Hanging out on the beach on a sunny day in San Francisco with my family!
Sunshine makes me happy-especially in the winter!
Coming home to two happy, bouncing dogs that are always thrilled to see me no matter how crappy my day has been.
The smell behind my dog’s ears. Pie. Frost on dead leaves on the ground. Pancakes. Peppermint ice tea when it’s warm outside.
Oh! And hey! I crossed off one of the five things I’m doing by the end of the year this week!
I got a custom toy portrait of my childhood teddy bear done by Jennifer Maher. It is wonderful! There is a picture of it on her website here!
Now I just have to learn how to make tortillas, play backgammon, finish my Associate’s Degree, and buy one more cashmere sweater! :)
Watching my dog sleep reliably makes me happier than just about anything else on this earth. He is just ridiculously cute.
Good food shared with good friends
My kitten’s fuzzy white tummy. Wuzza wuzza wuzza.
a fresh, hot cup of green tea always makes me happy.
Waking up in the morning to find my dogs face resting right next to mine on the pillow!
Being with my boys (husband and son) always, always, always makes me happy.
A good book and a comfy chair. And, maybe a kitten or two curled up at my feet.
Sunshine on my shoulders….
The beginning of fall!
An ice cold beer after working in the garden for a few hours on a hot, sunny day.
Buying new fabric! I love to carry the folded yardage into the house and stack it on my craft table before washing it.
Good friends that have lunches that make you late for meetings with the boss. You know it’s okay though b/c if you get fired they will take you in.
My daughter’s head on my shoulder.
Sinking my toes into the sand on the first beach trip of the summer…
Petting my dog’s tender, soft ears…makes me happy and calm.
One thing that always makes me happy is the sound of a real belly laugh from my nineteen month old daughter, especially if I’m the one making her laugh like that. Oh, the power!
Hot apple cider season always makes me happy!
Successfully completing a sewing project. I started teaching myself to sew last summer and I’m always so pleased (and a little surprised) when I’m really satisfied with a project.
The thing that always makes me happy is at the end of the work day, when I get to my daughter’s daycare, and I get to watch her face light up just because I’m there. She smiles, yells, “MOMMY!” and jumps into my arms to give me a squeezy hug. I look forward to it every day.
Peet’s Italian Roast coffee!!!!
A nap always makes me happy.
It could be a quick nap on the couch with my arm flung over my eyes to keep out the light…or a full-fledged “am going to crawl into that bed for at least two hours to catch up on some sleep” experience.
As I wake up each morning–and before I even get out of bed or turn to kiss my husband–I think of three things that I’m grateful for that day. Waking up and knowing that I have so much to be thankful for always makes me happy, and always starts my day off right.
A perfect autumn day, like yesterday. Sunshine, blue sky, colorful foliage, breezy, exploring the river with my husband on his sidewheel paddleboat.
Free time always makes me happy, so I buy it whenever possible.
Yesterday I saw my two dear friends marry each other. It was such a beautiful wedding and so moving to see two people who obviously belong together have that ritual. I’m still feeling so happy for them.
Cotton candy. Also; winning giveaways.
The thought of drinking hot chocolate.
I love it when my twin boys are belly-laughing with one another. I can’t think of one other thing on this planet that makes me happy like that.
Feeding people always makes me happy. I love to host and cook. So much.
when I have blog posts from friends’ blogs unread in google reader.
Sesame Street always makes me happy. I don’t have kids but I do find myself still watching Sesame Street on the occasional Saturday morning and it always makes me feel warm and fuzzy.
Apple butter.
Salted caramels always make me happy. So does the first day of spring sweeping through New York, and a book so good I have to read it walking home from the subway.
One thing that always makes me happy is cool, drizzly autumn days (especially if I can stay at home and nap the day away).
Knowing I am loved.
The momentarily feeling of weightlessness when I go over a small hill in a car. Or when there’s slight turbulence while flying.
I’m really happy when I get to snuggle with my husband when he gets back from his business trips to SF:)
Sunday brunch with my friends.
My son playing with my husband ALWAYS makes me happy. Little boys with their daddy is a beautiful thing :)
Indian summer over a weekend as a respite before the cold sets in!
Growing things makes me happy
The movie “Enchanted April”. LOVE. Just thinking about it makes me happy.
Spin class… love the endorphins, love working out with other people (all of my other exercise is solo), love feeling strong and sweaty at the end.
Sunshine! Living in Portland, we get more than our share of rain and gloomy overcast days. (This summer in particular was wet and cold.)Just seeing the sun stream in through my office window (like it’s doing right now) never fails to lift my spirits and make me smile.
The unconditional love of my pups…I swear it can cure anything!
Spending time with my mom.
what an excellent bag! and excellent items inside!
Telling people to “save yo drama for yo mama” makes me happy
Squirrels. Seeing squirrels being all squirrely-frolicksome always lights up the pleasure-centers in my brain. It is my fondest wish to someday have a pet squirrel of my very own.
Dancing and singing to “September” by Earth, Wind & Fire!
Making a big dinner for close friends.
Spending time with our two dogs
Nothing better than a tote filled with goodies!
When I see someone belting out a song in their car.
A beautiful sunshiny fall day, like today, walking along the beach beside the ocean. Hearing the waves hit the shore, the gulls, and the dogs run up and down chasing after sticks. I have a good book in hand and the time to stop and sit on a log and read it, soaking up the sun and fresh ocean air.
Riding my bicycle makes me happy. I ride so that I know how the trees smell after a rain, so that I know when the leaves erupt in fall color, so that I see the first tiny blooms of spring, so that I know the moon’s cycle, so that I can hear the whispers of Mother Nature.
Walking to a neighborhood coffee shop on a crisp fall morning. Love the chill in the air!
The first day it’s cold enough to wear a sweater, sip a hot drink, and feel the air nip at my nose after a long, hot, humid summer.
Driving through the mountains in the fall with the windows down and the music blasting.
It’s the best remedy for feeling melancholy.
My son’s huge smile and excited giggling when I return home from work!
a pumpkin spice latte from starbucks!
Taking a nice long bath pretty much always makes me a happy camper. Which probably means I’m not much of a camper. I’m fine with that.
clean sheets & freshly shaven legs.
of course they are each nice on their own, but particularly AWESOME together.
Roller skating ALWAYS makes me happy! I feel like I’m flying :)
Hugs and “I wub you mommy.” from my toddler make me happy every day.
My camera. And books. And french fries.
Sunday morning…crisp fall air…open windows…cozy pj’s…snuggly husband and baby and dog…fresh coffee…New York Times…nowhere to be but the couch. Sigh.
Hearing my running training app say “You are halfway done!” and “Last run coming up!” Also, long drives alone through Eastern Ontario during fall time.
The way my boyfriend knows me so well, he anticipates my needs. I am forever grateful.
Wegman’s Grocery Store
As ridiculous as it may sound, I get extremely giddy each & every time I hear the tv-staticky noise that plays right before the HBO logo pops up at the beginning of each show. I <3 HBO.
shallow as it seems, my hair iron! would have killed for this device back in high school when my hair always won the battle of the frizz.
Lazy Sunday afternoons!
Hugs. Definitely hugs.
Sitting in front of the fire on a snowy day with a Jane Austen book & a cup of hot chai
Hearing a baby laugh.
Paco (my dog) smiling at me when I get home.
A meandering bicycle ride on the trail through the marshes near my house. Even the bugs and heat in the summer can’t make me ever regret choosing an afternoon ride, and the fall is particularly wonderful.
A hug from my youngest son.
Sitting down with a shiny new book that I just KNOW I’m going to love always makes me happy. Bonus points if that comes with a snuggling dog and/or my fiance’s lap while he’s watching football over my head.
The gorgeous fall leaves in the mountains near my home. I love it!
My loving, supportive family that was chosen for me and my local loving, supportive family that I have chosen for myself.
A lazy sunday afternoon with my kids, and of course, ice cream.
My dogs.
Dusting makes me absurdly happy. Luckily, I work in a library, where the dust never stops.
When I think about how far I’ve come even though there’s a lot left to do.
A good book on a rainy day makes me happy.
My family. They are healthy and happy, and I am way blessed.
My kiddos’ laughing makes me happy.
My two dogs!
One thing that always makes me happy is when I accidentally hear “Mmm Bop” on the radio or elsewhere. It doesn’t count if I purposely put it on–although that usually makes me happy, too.
My husband’s soft, warm touch.
coffee with my husband in the middle of the day to figure out Big Things, like houses and babies. It’s a complicated happy.
A good book.
Alpacas, or really any member of the camelid family, always make me happy!
“I love you, mommy” always makes me happy! ^_^
My family always, always, ALWAYS makes me happy. And good coffee!
Seeing my kid’s face when I pick her up after work. And a new Elizabeth Hoyt novel.
Pumpkin season! Warm days, cool nights, orange leaves, and spiced pumpkin everything…
Every time I enter my house, I’m welcomed by the worlds happiest dog. She wags her tail, nay.. she wags her entire 55 pound body. It doesn’t matter if I’ve been gone for five minutes, or five days, I get the same welcome. It makes me smile, it makes me happy, it makes me feel like I’m the luckiest person in the entire world.
Babysitters make me happy
Mr Big telling me that I am the most beautiful thing in the world and kissing me EVEN when it’s first thing in the morning and I have bedhead and dragon breath
A clean kitchen!
Cutting open a perfectly ripe avocado! Despite years of trying to perfect the squeeze and press method of selecting a perfect avocado at the market I always hold my breath when I cut into it because sometimes it has mushy brown spots and sometimes it’s still too hard. A perfectly ripe avocado is a thing of delicious wonder and worth the risk!
a pint of sorbet and a stack of magazines.
the fact that it is October 11th today and outside it’s 28 degrees (that’s celsius, folks)
my kids’ smiles. always.
My weekly potluck with friends.
my daughter’s smile and my husband’s hugs! also, pumpkin pie. :)
A late night shower followed by clean sheets and a beloved book.
Rainy (or snowy) days with nothing more important to do than watch a movie and drink hot chocolate always make me happy.
When my oh-so-teeny godson (seriously, he’s just barely 2) gives me the BIGGEST hug he can (I don’t see him often) … which totally results in his-face-squished-against-my-neck-because-his-arms-are-two-short goodness. Ah, the love!
Big bear hugs from my boyfriend always make me happy. We’re doing the long-distance bit right now so every hug is doubly special! :)
Catching up with old friends.
certain shades of the color green make me very happy.
My niece always makes me happy. Her smile when she sees me almost brings me to tears. She’s amazing.
My son saying mommy, always.
a hike, seeing either of kids curled up with a book, hearing my husband loving the dogs as he comes in the door from work, cooking pasta sauce with a big glass of red wine in my hand.
Oh… and winning cool stuff! That makes me happy too.
My dog. A golden retriever named Wilson who is an old soul. Always willing to sing with you, walk with you and eat crunchy snacks with you.
Winning things makes me happy!
Beyond that, chocolate *always* makes me happy.
My dogs make me happy. Sounds cheesy, but they live each day to the fullest and don’t hold a grudge about the fact that their lives were miserable before they were rescued and adopted.
My daughter running towards me saying, “mommy!” well that and her purposely bad chicken impression.
Tea parties and picnic dinner parties with my 3 year old make me happy. But really, and and all special time with my girl is happiness.
And great fitting jeans!
A cup of hot coffee/tea always makes me happy and content. Which might explain why I try to mainline the stuff during my workday….
I live in MN, and my happy moment is when I am bundled up outside in the wintry tundra, it is so cold that the snow is squeaky under my boots and my nostrils stick together when I breathe in deep the freezing fresh air.
Campfires. Even better if s’mores are included!
A long walk on the trails!
Walking downtown on a chilly Fall day with a good cup of coffee! Happy!
Honeycrisp apples always make me happy!
Crisp, fall weather.
I am always, always melty happy when my daughter puts her arms around me right when she wakes up in that sweet voice she uses only right then, saying “momma.” always.
Now that I live in Seattle, and most of my dear friends are still at “home” in SF, I would have to say what makes me happy are trips home & catching up with my girlfriends. The ones who knew me when I was a Girl Scout & bleached my hair…those friendships are much different than the ones with the ladies I have befriended post-kids.
Margaritas on a porch in lovely weather.
The man who says “what’s wrong?” – when I occasionally answer “I’m alright” to the daily question of “how are you?” after all these years. He gets me *and* is still patient with me.
That, and lighting candles on a Saturday morning in the dark of winter instead of turning on the lights as I make coffee.
Dancing to live music with my boyfriend. We’re pretty terrible but he never fails to ask me to dance. I love that about him.
That feeling immediately after yoga or any exercise.
Just thinking about my niece and nephew…they are truly my happy place when I am stuck in an MRI, traffic, or a stalled subway.
Today: Green tea mochi.
Reading a good book outide on a beautiful night always makes me happy.
My daughter Lucy laughing. It makes me happy every time I hear it. She is 9 months old and every day gets better and better.
I’ve still never won anything on a blog, wouldn’t this be fun for me? Come on proverbial dice!
My kids, of course!
Crispy Belgian French fries and sleeping in on Sundays.
My family. Because they are rad. Also, rocky road ice cream.
My mom’s dog Moses. he is a happy making machine.
skype brainstorming sessions on rainy days with my creative friends
New episodes of my favorite TV shows. Don’t judge me!
Clean sheets make me very, very happy. Freshly ironed sheets, now that is the way directly to my heart.
Trader Joes’ Chai – made for me by my husband… today is our anniversary as well (we are celebrating our 2nd)! What a wonderful gift for a girl who isn’t a morning person!
perfect sweater wearing weather and the word “piglet” i am so happy even typing it!
When a person laughs at my jokes. Makes me happy every time.
The smell of library books, hot coffee, and clean sheets…all warm and wonderful!
One thing that makes me happy is watching the birds eat at the bird feeders outside our big window by our dining table. I love knowing that I am feeding these tiny little creatures and helping them fill up on goodness before the winter months, even if their bird poop is killing my huge rhododendron.
Hearing “C’mon Eileen” or “Walking on Sunshine” on the radio!
Oddly enough, giving something away that is truly appreciated by the recipient always makes me happy.
Snuggling with my cat when he purrs unto my ear.
“Total Eclipse of the Heart.” What can I say? And if I’m allowed to indulge in a second – and much bigger happy-maker – baby laughter.
OCD, yes, but getting to the end of the month and being under budget makes me practically giddy. Because while a lot of things and activities make me happy, being under budget makes me happy, relieves my anxiety about finances and lets me go spend that little bit of extra money (to meet budget) in any number of ways that make me happy. Like a latte with my mom, fresh flowers, the next fix-up for the house or a new toy or treat for the dog.
Watching my hubby wrestle with our little boy. They both love it so much!
Since I live in Seattle where we recently received two inches of rain in 24 hours, nothing says happiness better than sunshine streaming through the windows in the morning.
There is nothing quite so lovely as a white fluffy bleachy-clean bath towel!
Seeing my boys smile.
My dog! He has been there for me for 6 years now and he gives me utter joy every single day.
A windy day always makes me happy!!
A good book with a glass of wine!
When the Japanese Maples in the yard start to change color in the Fall.
playing with my niece, especially when i try to make her giggle!
my cat. he’s a vintage model who purrs more than any other cat i’ve met.
Spring air after rain.
Watching a baseball game at the stadium.
Falling asleep with my beloved yellow tom, Frank, snuggled in the nook of my arm. Bliss.
Making soup always makes me happy. It is my favorite category of food, I only cook it when the mood strikes (which is actually quite often) and it can make a very complex meal with very little effort.
Remembering when my husband said these magical words: “I wish I had a business to give you so that you could run it.” This makes me smile every time.
Waking up on a sunny day and feeling completely refreshed.
Baaaby animals! Always good for those warm fuzzies.
It always makes me happy to sit back at the end of a long day with a large glass of red wine and a DVR full of Real Housewives.
MY daughter sleeping makes me happy.
Going to San Francisco makes me happy. I love everything about it from Alcatraz to the BART. I need to plan a trip there soon…
My doggie Ralphy (Malti-Yorki) always makes me happy! He is always so excited to see me, and he always makes me laugh.
My dog has an amazing ability to make me laugh!
My three year old son Ethan always makes me happy.
Even though I am far too old for it, thumping house music (especially on a Friday night) always makes me happy!
i have a labradoodle that would most certainly not fit – but i am sure that i could find oodles of other things to carry around!
2nd comment oops!
My children make me laugh :)
my goddaughter’s toothy toddler grin.
It makes me so happy when my 9 month old and 3 year old take afternoon naps at the same time!
One thing that always makes me happy is when my students make things for me. Usually it’s pictures of things I like or things in history (I’m a middle school history teacher), but I did have one that made me a “man-eating sheep” (you’d have to be in my class) out of cotton balls, a plastic egg, and a toilet paper tube.
Our kitten, Lucy. We have 2 cats and I love them both with all of my heart. There’s just something about Lucy that always always brings a smile to my face.
truly? when AZ starts cooling down and I can throw open my windows (this usually happens around Halloween. sigh)
But today? What would make me truly happy is for my current thousands of ants in residence would just disappear. And also for my laundry to do itself.
These are AMAZING giveaways!
hmmmm….if I won I’d keep the tote and some of the books and the lands end card. BUT, THE BEST PART IS: CHRISTMAS PRESENTS!!!! You would save me so much money! :)
Birthdays make me happy – anyone’s birthday…not just my own. I love to celebrate and see other people get honored and receive gifts!
The way my dogs greet me when I’ve been away for any amount of time — 5 minutes or 5 days. Now that’s love!
When I sit down on my couch and my cat, who is sitting in his favorite spot, soaking in a sun beam, and snoozing, gets up and sits next to me looking for snuggles. Because, I mean, he just picked me over his little kitty-heaven. I’m better than a sunbeam.
What always makes me happy–turning into my driveway and seeing my dog turn and from the front window so he can meet me at the door.
my 2 month old smiling… can’t get enough.
A big smile from my sweet two year old boy!
It’s simple, and maybe silly, but a cup of tea every morning always, always makes me feel content and happy.
The fact that I’m hanging with my mom this weekend
I don’t know about always, but pretty reliably: My husband. I still love that feeling of “Ooh! He’s about to walk through that door! And there he is.”
My dog, Ruby, never fails to make me happy
Autumn leaves against a bright blue sky. Never fails.
my kids…and white wine :)
Watching people get picked up in the airport. I don’t get to witness it very often but I can’t help but grin ear to ear when I see that first hug!
Walking in the woods (our backyard, technically) makes me happy!
yellow and red leaves during the fall in Minnesota
Mad Men episodes waiting on the DVR! Oh, and free stuff…
Christmas carols sung outdoors. Preferably with hot mulled wine. Mmmm.
Sitting in the dirt underneath a tree on a sunny day and looking up through the branches.
Seeing kids dance. They are just so carefree and unencumbered by hang ups.
Planning a trip to someplace I’ve never been before.
I love when it rains as the sun shines. Love it.
Getting my little girl out of her crib after a long nap. She always is giggling and smiling when I pop in to find her playing with her little toy lambs!
The knowledge that I’ll get to go home in 286 days!
Is it sappy to say that my eight month old always makes me happy? :)
Retail therapy: A party dress that is funky/classy/trendy AND flattering. It’s not a myth, I’ve seen it.
Our waggy-tailed dog who is always excited to see me when I come home from a long day at work!
cooking with my children.
This may sound lame, but spending time with my cats always makes me happy.
Without fail, my daughter’s gap-toothed grin.
Karaoke with the whole crew.
Shopping always makes me happy :)
I love seeing people singing in their cars.
My bed – seriously, I love my bed. Especially when my husband is in it.
trips to my homestate of michigan!
My husband, he makes me so happy every single day.
a windy night with cricket sounds.
My son’s smile first thing in the morning
The unconditional love given to me by my cats always makes me happy. That and soft wet kisses on my eye from my manfriend. :)
Puppies, especially the one trying to eat my laptop at the moment :)
And I would like the Land’s End giftcard so I can get him something more appropriate to chew on :)
Just being with my hubby :)
It always, always makes me happy to wake up my daughter in the morning. Whether it’s a grump or a grin I get in return I love her transition from snuggly sleepy muffin face to stretchy gap-toothy sparkly-eyed wakefulness. She’s seven now, and I’m still loving it.
Thanks!
Spending time with my best friend, Sarah. We don’t live near each other so every moment we can spend together makes me very happy!
Because I can never pick favourites, I’ll pick my top 3 things that make me happy:
-Booking airplane tickets to see my family
-When letters and packages arrive in the post (it’s like Christmas!)
-My afterwork hug from my husband…. *sigh*
summer vacation!
Fresh air and movement, singing and dance.
Girl Scout cookies! Such a treat when that time of year comes around and I get to indulge in all the thin mints, samoas, etc. that my little heart desires! :o)
Tea and lit candles on a crisp autumn night.
My nephew makes me happy. He’s almost 2 and 100% toddler boy. Running everywhere, exuberant, throwing things, investigating and all in that juicy, still-a-little-bit-baby package. I love his pudgy thighs and chubby arms, especially when they are wrapped around my neck. Very squoogy.
Fresh-baked chocolate chip cookies!
YARN always makes me happy~
The fall colours outside my kitchen window right now.
Driving in the car by myself…I get to listen to whatever I want for once!
perfectly baked cookies right out of the oven.
When the cat actually wants to snuggle. Rare but delightful.
A visit to the yarn shop, just to touch, smell, and squeeze all the different colors and fibers. A treat for the senses!
A long road trip with good songs to listen to along the way.
Skipping rocks always makes me happy. Overhearing my Gramps tell other people I’m the best rock skipper makes me even happier.
a fresh pedicure ALWAYS makes me happy!
The way my dog follows me around the house like I’m a goddess he worships.
The first non-humid day after the LONG hot Florida summer…and of course when my sweet daughter says she loves me – that’s a showstopper.
One thing that always makes me happy is a new magazine. It’s like a little present in my mail box every month.
Hugs from my daughter!
Watching my dog sitting, looking out the window. Especially when she sees a cat, and sort of quietly wimpers, but doesn’t bark, because it’s not allowed in the house.
my fluffy cat’s belly
When little kids can’t pronounce my name and call me Cor-tee or Corky.
Looking at photos of my kids when they were little never fails to make me happy.
A nice walk outside on a beautiful fall day — like today!
Petting purring kitties and listening to Pinback!
BEER! Beer always makes me happy.
My kids laughing. It’s cheesy but…they fight a lot and it makes me happy when they get along!
cooking and baking for people and seeing them enjoy the food I prepared for them. there’s nothing like it!
7-ll Slurpees and big, fat, slow moving snowflakes
dandelions… I know most people see them as weeds to get rid of, but my 2 year old always picks them and brings them to me. For him, he still sees the beauty in things we have been conditioned not to… I hope he stays that way!
Good music always makes me happy!
Our family dinners. We laugh, we tell stories, we argue, and we laugh some more.
Ice cream in the park.
Babies of any kind! Especially when they’re enraptured with the universe.
You know what, books make me happy. My husband & my best friend are my two favorite bookstore companions. I love to flip & smell the pages, admire nice covers and reread the really good parts. Currently, I am immersed in textbooks so my fun reading is on a hiatus. But, I colorcoded (I know, nerd) our only bookshelf for behind my desk so I can at least look at them sitting pretty everyday!
crunching through the fall leaves on my bike!
Swimming. Swimming always makes me happy. Even when I’m in the middle of a miserably difficult set, I know I’ll be happier when I’m done.
Coming home to my smiling dogies at the end of a long day!
Really good desserts. I just had an ice cream sandwich with lunch, which was a good way to make me happy on a Monday.
Something that always makes me happy: my son’s laughter. That’s a never-fail smile inducer.
Not to kiss up or anything, but it was also pretty happy to read what made other folks happy. That’s happy as well.
Champagne always makes me happy!
I love this question, and try to remind myself to ask it every day because no matter how crappy a day can be, there’s ALWAYS something that is guaranteed to make me smile and breathe.
The sunset. Particularly when viewed from the beach, the hilltop or the palm tree-lined avenue – all three of which are accessible to me on any given day.
I am always, always happy if I get a good night’s sleep.
Creating new memories with my family. Every weekend we plan something fun to do. Also, ice cream.
Watching people sneeze. As long as I’m outside the splash zone. It’s one of the most hilarious sites you can stumble upon.
My girlfriends make me happy.
I went through a spell where I didn’t have solid women in my life, outside of my family members.
Since moving to San Francisco I have made friends with the most wonderful women, women who stand up and show up for each other. Last night they threw me a surprise party and looking around that table at all of the amazing women, I knew for sure that I am a very, very lucky person.
Lame I know, but listening to Teenage Dream by Katy Perry!!!!!!!
a very sharp pencil…oh how I loathe dull graphite!
Spending time with my boyfriend and my mom.
Thanks again for these awesome giveaways!! Happiness is free time! A bath, a massage, crafting and date nights during said free time equals more happiness! Also, there is no rush like that when you find the perfect vintage clothing/sale item.
The Mamma Mia Original London Cast soundtrack….there is NOTHING that can’t be cured (at least for a little bit) when you listen to it.
Waking up with the windows open and a soft kitty on my bed. Fresh air makes their fur smell so good!
Fresh flowers in my apartment!
Holding a baby and Jan Karon’s Mitford Series.
Good weather and friends always make me happy. Oh and pastry. Pastry makes me very happy.
when my twin babies hug each other and go “Aaahhh”
Clean sheets on the bed.
Seeing any small child happy makes me happy. Also, puppies.
Nothing makes me happier than picking my kid up at the end of the day.
Finishing a task I’ve been putting off for too long!
Watching it rain while the sun is shining. Makes me smile every time.
The smell of my little boy’s head always makes me happy. Even when he’s sweaty.
When in the dark, early morning my husband grunts, “Cuddle.”
bright fall sun shining through clean windows
This cooler fall weather, and all 3 animals (2 cats and a dog) on my lap.
Weather cool enough so I can wear pj pants.
Thinking about my childhood cat JJ. She was darling and easily the best cat ever.
Watching a kid stand up on a surfboard for the first time. Their exhilaration=good stuff!
One thing that makes me happy – watching my puppy run in the backyard of my parents house. She is a city dog and the backyard is a nice vacation for her.
Old people holding hands. Period.
Something that always makes me happy and giggly is when my boyfriend grabs me for a slow dance in an unexpected place, like the dairy aisle of the grocery store.
Cooking for my friends and family. If you’d told me that would be my answer 5 years ago, I would have laughed at you!
Picking my daughter up from school!
Affection from my kids – especially the teenage boy.
90’s era hip hop music. Old. School.
Flag football and soccer.
Long, laughter-filled phone chats with faraway friends.
Family…turning-cartwheels-down-a-hall-happy or pull-my-hair-out-at-the-root crazy depending on the day. ;)
Cuddling with my 3 year old!
As we descended our first Catskill peak (Hunter Mountain), the sun set over the ridge west of us. It had been a long, moderately strenuous but overall successful hike – a wonderful way to spend our anniversary. When we signed out in the log at the trail head, we realized we’d been the only ones to register that day and, somehow, that made it even more special. Memories like that make me happy.
My candidate winning
Standing ovations.
Only once have I been a recipient of one but have participated in many. The effect is always the same–a rush of joy that fills me to the core.
The smell of warm, fabric softenered laundry always makes me happy.
The changing leaves and colder weather always make me happy.
my camera
I’m sure someone has already said this, but what always makes me happy is that wonderful smell of burning leaves that fills the air in upstate New York during the fall. It just makes me feel cozy.
Baby giggles!
seeing my best friend, mary :)
Making my family laugh. And cooking for for people I love.
My kids laughing together. Best sound in the world.
Watching my little boys laugh and play together when they don’t know I’m looking.
A beautiful fall afternoon that smells of the coming winter. That is what makes me happy right now.
Cookbooks… and workouts after they’re done. :)
Finding a way to live and work full time in a sarong has made me incredibly happy… I own more sarongs than I do any other article of clothing!
Knowing that it’s going to get better.
Watching Family Feud. I always shout out the answers, and feel like a legend when I guess correctly.
Big belly-laughs from my daughters. That’s the obvious one.
The smell of warm night air through a screened window. That’s the one that always surprises me.
Beyond my very-soon-to-be husband during all seasons, which is true but borders on too cheesy, I’d say nothing makes me happier than a cup of tea, my grandmother’s armchair and a roaring fire on a late fall day.
Smelling the spine of a book.
Oh, and whatever book I’m currently devouring. How could I have left that off my happy scenario!?
A pedicure. So original!
Chocolate makes me happy!
seeing my husband’s car coming up the drive
getting squirt-your-own frozen yogurt with my daughter on a hot day.
A baby’s belly laugh. Whether a relative or a stranger…impossible not to smile.
My 13 year old stepson and my husband creating a new inside joke so corny that you’d have to be related to us to laugh
Laying down, face forward in the bow of our boat as my fiwnce drives the boat. The sensation of flying over the water knowing my love is with me is such a feeling of joy & freedom!
Those perfectly clear days when the Golden Gate Bridge looks red all the way from Berkeley.
My puppy, Chomsky.
Hot coffee on a cold morning. Simple, but oh so awesome.
eating a raspberry picked from our garden.
My daughter’s kisses and hugs always fill me with happiness!
A hot bath and a good book.
Brunch, out or in and definitely involving eggs and good friends!
Lunch dates with my mom!
the smell of leaf piles burning in the fall
A pair of good fitting jeans!
My dog bouncing around trying to tell me she’s hungry. I laugh every time.
my daughter calling Bob Marley “the father”
After a day of work, I drive home thinking about how I can’t wait to see my husband and my son. I always, always feel happy to be going home to them.
My husband, he is pretty incredible.
People watching at the airport. Yes, there are a lot of angry, grumpy people but there are also a lot of people so excited and happy. When I’m stuck somewhere I always like to watch different people and imagine where they might be off to or what is going on with them.
Sunday brunch with delicious food and good friends
surprise sunbeams on cloudy days
new shoes
lazy weekends
When my dog sleeps on her back with her belly showing. That makes me happy! She’s so cute!
the downy-soft fur on the top of my dog’s head right between her hears
hearing my 4yo boy flush the toilet. He was almost 4 years before he finally peed on the potty. Every flush I hear I give myself a pat on the back!
My puppy!
On our early morning walks, my dog always runs so fast on her way to the next tree/bush/fire hidrant. That’s not her normal gait, and it makes me laugh.
the sound of baby palms slapping together when they clap
Curling up on the sofa with the blanket my Gran crocheted, closing my eyes, and enjoying a quite 5 minutes!
Independent bookstores.
Getting a beer and a burger with friends and then heading to a concert at the 9:30 Club in Washington, D.C.!
Also: reruns of The Mary Tyler Moore Show.
the scent of creosote in the air after a desert monsoon. sunshine after days of gray. long phone conversations with distant friends. my husband’s sparkly eyes.
Rainy day that’s cold enough to have a blanket a friend made for me over my feet/lap, and a stack of books to read!
Tea.
Black tea, British-style with milk and sugar, to be precise. It warms me up and reminds me of when I lived in the U.K. I don’t drink it as often as coffee, but when I do, it reminds me of adventures past.
Watching my kids playing together. (They’re still small and haven’t learned to fight yet…)
A day off, even with children. ooooh or maybe my best friend being due any minute with her first baby! ya, that one.
ALWAYS makes me happy – all of the laundry clean, folded and put away.
Walking past laundromats makes my pep peppier.
always makes me happy: the feel of a brisk autumn breeze
Ice cream! Always.
Snuggling with my boyfriend always makes me happy. Even is he is annoying me. Also, give my baby Luke a bath.
Anything that makes me think of summer. Getting into a warm car, a big spreading leaves, the smell of creosote, the sound of skateboards on the sidewalks, garden-fresh vegetables, and on and on.
my scottish terrier pup maisie!
my fav memory of eating watermelon outside my best friend’s apartment and dreaming of marrying him. which i did 4 years later!
Sleeping in always makes me happy!
Blowing on my little guy’s tummy making “belly farts”.
coffee, summer and the ocean
My son’s bulldog-underbite grin never fails to get a reaction.
My dog — one of those cute, white, slippers of a pet.
pale pink always makes me happy. and three-day weekends!
The smell of lilacs like the ones that used to grow in my grandmother’s garden.
The part during Catholic mass where people turn to each other to say “peace be with you.”
Rhubarb crumble with custard makes me happy all the time any time.
Uninhabited, until tears comes out, uncontrollable laughter with friends.
Live choral music always makes the hair on the back of my neck stand up in gladness, whether I’m part of making it or not.
smiles and hugs from the kiddos at the end of a long day
Coming home from work and finding that my husband has made cookies for me!
Reading a book when there are no pressing deadlines … just me and the words. That always makes me happy!
Seeing people being kind to one another
My baby’s non-toothy grin!
Love it when my husband walks in the door!
cuddling with my two-year-old.
the ocean.
thanks for all the giveaways!
Every single night, as soon as I get in bed, my cat rushes in to the room, curls up at my feet, and starts purring. I end every day smiling.
Oh my gosh, I was going to say exactly what Rebecca 559 said! There’s some commercial (I think for insurance) that shows people seeing other kindnesses and passing it on. LOVE that commercial. Makes me smile like an idiot every time.
Seeing people singing along to the radio while stuck in traffic. Rock on, sistergirl.
The smell of fresh lemons, without fail.
Sunshine on my face!
The sun coming up over the Organ Mts. Sunrise makes me wish I was a morning person.
The vase of pinwheels on my desk.
Any time my fiance and I can get away for a little while. No matter where it is.
the golden hour of light in the evening
My pup wagging his little butt (not just tail, his whole BUTT) when I walk in the room.
sunny October days in New England! Just spent the weekend in the park with two kids and the dog jumping in piles of leaves. Yay!
An unexpected text or call from someone you were just thinking about :-)
Cuddling with my three little boys.
A little (rare) quiet, alone time!! (And why do I feel guilty typing that out!?)
My daughters big, toothless, smile
Eating crabs. Its close to dinner time, so I’m not surprised that my answer revolves around food. I love crabs though, king, snow, or maryland blue. And everytime I eat them, I am so happy!
The combination of sunny skies, a song that makes you tap your fingers to the beat, and driving a long straight road. It just works. :)
Cooking dinner with my friends always makes me happy!
A chocolate chip cookie!
Hrm…in honor of being on vacation in London right now, I’ll say that travel always makes me happy!
Mac and Cheese.
The smell of cinnamon!
Vacation, even a one-day vacation.
Swimming in the ocean on a gentle day when the waves are big and swelling… I could be rocked to sleep by that ocean over and over again!
One thing that always makes me happy is the first big rain storm after a long, dry summer.
Recipe for the one thing that always makes me happy:
Wake up early: 6 am on a late spring morning, just as the sun is rising.
Put on pants and hoodie. Go outside and smile at the mist rising over the grass on the playing fields.
Run 5k over the bridges, over the water which looks like glass. Watch for herons. Watch the crew team come rowing below the bridges, shooting out like a huge waterstrider.
Come back grinning because I am utterly amazed at what my body can do. 3 miles?! for fun?! Are you kidding me?! Stretch.
Make two cups of hot chocolate. Two slices of toast. Slowly, slowly.
Go downstairs and knock on the Boy’s door. Leave the toast and hot chocolate on his desk. Sit with him until he’s woken all the way up. It helps to rub his neck. It’s okay if breakfast gets cold.
Eat breakfast. Grin at each other like silly people. Know that today is going to be a *good* day.
My boys making each other laugh – the best, happiest sound in the world!
The smell of an approaching rainstorm.
Husband snuggles.
The sound of my son laughing.
Watching my kids sleep. Nothing better than peaceful sleeping children.
My puppy at the door always makes me happy!
Gray hairs popping out and the sudden realization that I am now old enough to be the “cool mom”, and that I am.
The look on my girlies faces when they hear their favorite song. Pure excitement and loveliness.
dinner plate sized dahlias and pats on the derriere from my husband!
Big trees, small birds, and an ice cream cone :)
a nice cup of tea
My puppy picking up a toy to show me whenever I come home.
One of my best friends, that I met on the internet, and have never met in “real” life, makes me happy!
When my baby smiles that gummy smile at me.
going out to brunch by myself with the Sunday New York Times or a good book. It’s an hour of total decadence.
My husband and kids often make me happy. But when they fail, high point beer never lets me down. ;)
Hitting snooze and cuddling for ten extra minutes every morning
Sunshine. Never fails.
kittens. kittens are happiness, incarnate.
Waking up, filling up the teapot and lighting the stove.
Summer evenings when my husband takes the kids to the park and I can go on a long bike ride.
I love today’s giveaway. Can I withdraw my entries in the previous giveaways and enter my name four times in today’s?
A warm cup of coffee in my hands. SOOOOOOO GOOOOOOD.
The sound of the ocean…
A warm evening makes me happy – we get only a few in my climate. I like the ones in Hawaii.
Sunrises and Sunsets never fail to make me happy. Its the little things. A promise of what is to come, and a reassurance that there is something much much bigger than the little things I have to take care of each day and its all very beautiful.
The one thing that always makes me happy is this perfect little baby of mine. I didn’t expect to be quite so filled with joy over the roundness of his little head, his sweet smile and the way he taps my neck when he nurses. He’s our 6th baby and I was just sure that he would be lovely but was taken off guard by just how happy I am with him around.
A really good cup of coffee always make me happy!
Those soft, round peppermint candy.
Easy! My baby, especially when she falls asleep on me.
Baby giggles!
my husband’s smile… like the real, rockin the crows feet because his eyes get squinty when he REALLY MEANS IT smile. that’s the best.
Playing Rock Band 2 with my friends who are half a world away.
Sometimes my kids laugh in their sleep. It’s divine.
That first moment when I climb into bed at the end of the day. Delicious. Always makes me happy!
Falling leaves :)
Watching my two year-old bust a move to “I Like To Move It” in our living room.
two way tie…
1. packing for a trip, even just an overnight and
2.a BLT on wheat very light mayo.
happy!!
aretha franklin on the turntable. can’t be beat.
Cupcakes. Just the right amount of happy.
One thing that always makes me happy: time outside on a beautiful day!
When my husband reaches out to touch me in the morning, even before he’s fully awake.
My dog. No matter what kind of day I had or how long she was left alone, she’s always so happy to see me. Like I’m a present she wasn’t expecting. It’s hard not to be warmed by that kind of greeting.
When my 1 1/2 year old does the robot dance and says, “vobot! vobot!”
climbing into a freshly (?) made bed after a bath (and shaved legs)!
a sloppy kiss from my toddler boy
I’ll go there… great sex. Oh yes.
My job makes me happy, and I feel so unbelievably lucky to be able to say that.
A breeze coming through my windows while I think and contemplate about the next step in my life.
Bernese Mountain Dogs
One thing that always makes me happy is when my cats cuddle with me in bed (which rarely happens).
The sound of my kids making each other laugh so hard they almost throw up.
Pumpkin spice lattes!
Dramatic weather (thunder! lightning! hail! torrential downpour!) on a day when I know I don’t have to leave the house.
Eating pizza with my 13 year old boy!
Catching up with old and good friends
Being snowed in on a weekend with my husband, dog and cat!
Taking my fashion inspiration from a 14 year old (Tavi!) and finally being brave enough to wear “clashing” prints. Silly, but true. (One of many many things that make me happy, to be sure).
When my 2 year old says Kisses!
always makes me happy to read chapter books in bed with my 6 year old daughter, then kiss her goodnight.
Oh, one thing that always makes me happy is the sight of bright orange leaves on a previously green-leafed tree against the backdrop of a crisp blue sky. Ahhhh, autumn.
A really good cup of coffee.
Grilled cheese is never-fail to make me happy! It’s so constant and comforting. Not to mention cheesy–one of the best adjectives in the world!
Oh man, I cannot be angry while walking outdoors through aisles of fresh produce and baked goods: aka the farmer’s market. It would probably be included on great ideas for the perfect date.
A long, hot, uninterrupted shower always makes me happy.
(oh these are great, love the read through!) When I spend time outside, that makes me happy. Either in my Kayak on a tidal river, with my kids on a trail hike, lunch time walk or running down a soccer ball on a proper turf field with cleats on.. the movement with the fresh air is something that always perks me up and I think “Right now, this is happy.” 36 suddenly becomes 14 again.
Fresh flowers/vegetables from my garden….and having my 3 year-old daughter garden with me!
A day of uninterrupted reading!
learning new things
The one thing that always makes me happy in general and also happy that I have had kids is kissing them when they are asleep. Let’s face it some days withe little darlings are rough but all is right with the world when you can peak in on a little person sleeping.
My goofy dog with a grin on his face…it always makes me happy!
The first look I get of my son every morning. I swear he is so much sweeter when he’s just woken up, and I’ve been thinking that for almost 10 years.
This baby in my belly.
One thing that always make me happy: Hearing my daughter shout, “Mommy!” and come running when she sees me round the corner on the red boardwalk at preschool pickup.
My daughter’s smile when she sees me first thing in the morning :)
Bi-Rite Salted Caramel ice cream!
Giant strawberry milkshakes make me grin automatically. Especially in cheery cups.
Feeling my baby girl move – 10 weeks (give or take) until we get to meet her!
Vanilla Ceylon tea from The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf.
my bathroom being sparkling clean.
Looking through old missions trip photos.
The reaction of my dogs when I get home from work. They are so excited to see me every time. It’s the best.
the 30 minutes of after-shower but before the really-have-to-get-up-now-and-get-ready cuddle time with my husband each day.
Nothing is more perfect than the moment that you press the shutter and know that you just took an amazing picture. Pure happiness.
My dog, Sunday, because she is so full of joy and she makes me spend so much more time than I ever would at the park.
“Dog Days Are Over” by Florence and the Machine, which is getting totally played out but still makes me giddy and dance-y.
Corn chowder. Memories to back it up and tasty, to boot!
A loaf of bread fresh out of the oven, mmmmmm.
Crawling into bed at the end of the day.
Napping with the windows open.
Kids/babies laughing.
Visiting newborns.
Talking to my dog in a high pitched voice, watching her get so excited she runs in circles never fails to make me smile.
Red headed cub scouts in uniform. Makes me wish I had a little boy.
My 16 year old son always makes me happy. He and I share the same brain.. it’s scary sometimes how much we think alike. He is my heart.
Coming home always makes me happy. Even if my people/animals aren’t here to great me, even if the house is a mess, even if there’s a million things to be done, the walls scream of comfort and love.
Cinnamon coffee, every time.
One thing that makes me happy… The way I catch my husband looking at me sometimes when I’m completely absorbed in something…and how he then smiles to himself before getting back to work.
Olives. Olives never don’t make me happy.
Birthdays! Even though they mean I’m old!
a hug from my husband ALWAYS makes me happy. it’s calm, peaceful and safe in there.
A new notebook.
Really good chocolate.
Surprising my kids with something fun.
Bookstores.
The way the air smells on a sunny fall day.
All of these things I experienced this weekend – a very happy weekend indeed!
The smell of something delicious baking in the oven. That, or tonic with limes.
The one thing that always makes me happy is endless time in a used bookstore. There’s one in the Bay Area, in Menlo Park near downtown. It has an actual wooden BRIDGE to cross from the main building to the paperbacks section. A nook for the kids’ books where I can ferret out all the Madeleine L’Engle and L.M. Montgomery books I mistakenly shed during my younger years. A huge, austere room for history books. Tall stacks, tight corners. It’s my actual happy place, and my #1 source of Agatha Christies and Virginia Woolfs. :)
The smell of trees and grass after a good rain. Never fails.
Climbing into fresh bed linens after a shower.
Waking up next to my boy on lazy Sundays.
When my usually evil and crazy cat wants to cuddle.
The smell of fresh mown hay. It makes me smile, even when I’m running. And I hate running!
It makes me happy when someone asks me to tell a story, when we’re in a social setting and they ask it as though only I can tell it right, and it will be wildly entertaining for all. That makes me feel super glowy.
Benjamin Shurley.
Having time to make something or take a class to learn something new….always makes me happy.
Eating dessert first makes me very, very happy.
No matter what is going on, my sweet little Lola makes me so happy. Her smiling face and outstretched arms and little tail… Oh, didn’t I mention that she’s a dog?
A leisurely walk on a cool, crisp morning.
Warm, gooey, homemade chocolate chip cookies fresh out of the oven. They make me very happy.
My chihuahua, Pocket.
Ice cream sundaes with salted caramel sauce and homemade hot fudge.
Ellie running up to me and hugging/kissing my baby belly!
That moment when you get the popcorn hull unstuck from between your teeth. It is so triumphant!
Riding my bike – coasting down the hill home after work always puts a smile on my face!
Painting always makes me happy!
Well, my children laughing together always makes me happy. But so does that memory of my husband ordering a double quarter-pounder with cheese by mistake when we were feeding our hangovers at McDonald’s that one time. In fact, that one makes me laugh maniacally. I mean, who in their right mind wants half a pound of McDonald’s MEAT? Ew.
One thing that always makes me happy is sharing an impromptu picnic with friends up on the blue ridge parkway, we managed quite a few this past summer and it always put me in a great mood for days.
The laughter of my children.
Laughter always makes me smile. Always. Also, curled up on the couch with my family watching a classic makes me smile too!
The first day of summer. It’s freedom :)
New books from old bookstores. Oatmeal chocolate-chip cookies fresh out of the oven. Being told my 2-year-old daughter is extraordinarily sweet, bright, funny or well-mannered. Spontaneous hugs and kisses from said daughter. A cool breeze on a sunny day. Sharing good food and good wine with good friends. Spooning with my husband on a freshly-made bed. The smell of bacon frying. High heels. Crossing something off my life list. Winning!
Playing with my two adorable nephews makes me happy, no matter what mood I’m in when they show up!
happiness = weekends away. apple crisp and fires and fall colors.
A cup of strong black tea with milk in it always makes me happy.
A good, warm apple pie ALWAYS makes me happy :)
Movies where the underdog wins make me happy.
Baking
sleeping late under warm blankets on a cold day
Lounging in bed on lazy Sunday mornings with my husband and daughter always makes me happy :)
My boys. My hilarious, intuitive, sensitive, cool and crazy 4-year old. And my husband, who makes me smile every time I think about him.
A nap!
A good glass of red wine. Always.
There are many things that make me happy but I just can’t pass up my 2 year old grabbing my hand and saying, “I lub you Mama!”
Seeing my little girl respond to my voice. Something I thought might never happen
Listening to my daughters laugh.
One thing that always makes me happy is having a drink with a friend.
Sunsets in the fall.
Cuddling my granddaughter.
Polka dots always make me happy :o)
Turtles. Turtles always make me happy.
playing with my new humane society cat. she’s crazy, in a good way.
Gardening, both indoor and outdoor, makes me happy. I guess I like to watch things grow. :)
My kids giggling always cheers me up!
The first time I look up to realize that the trees are changing colours.
Sitting on our porch, watching the sunset, nice glass of wine and some yummy dinner in the oven.
shopping at a bookstore always makes me happy!
Falling asleep without setting the alarm clock.
sunshine
Unrequested and unexpected hugs from my children. Oh, and ducks. Few things are more amusing than ducks.
thunderstorms.
Good coffee and pastries.
Coming home from a trip and climbing into my own bed.
seeing the SF skyline, especially at night!
Vacation!
babies wearing sunglasses–never fails to make me smile!
Sleeping in, then staying in bed long after I’ve awoken with a cup of coffee and a good book. Haven’t done that in forever, because we have a 20 mo. old, but the sweet memory sustains me….
Another child reference … but my kids always have and I’m pretty sure they always will. So, I guess that would be two things, but please don’t disqualify me!
Hearing the song ‘Georgia on my mind’ since I’m a Georgian in exile.
Lipgloss or an organized bathroom drawer; either one always make me feel like the world is ok.
Watching my vegetables grow makes me happy.
Perfectly flakey and browned pie crusts. mmm.
bundled up in bed,with the window cracked open, reading a book on a cold day
the library.
I am happiest when drinking that first cup of joe in the morning. Strong, dark, with a little half and half. Second to that is watching my oldest daughter play roller derby. She is amazing! Her derby name is Honey Hellfire and she makes me proud…
UB40’s cover of “Red Red Wine.”
a snuggle with my husband. Yes really.
my daughter makes me happy. she’s only 3, and some days we want to strangle each other, but the good moments are really really good and make all the annoying 3-year-old stuff totally worthwhile.
My dog Louie makes me happy!
Cuddling with my pups on my lunch break makes me super happy.
Going to see live music always makes me happy. And walking my dog. And good beer.
waking up in the morning and messaging my boyfriend on the computer. i haven’t seen him in 3 months and there’s a 6 hour time difference, so computer time is important.
taking a warm towel from a basket of freshly dried laundry and draping it over my shoulders while i fold the rest of the basket makes me feel like a happy, cozy laundry superhero.
Gin and tonics with lots of ice, especially after work. Also, my kitten sleeping with her head on her paw. So cute!
Watching my husband and son play and laugh together. It’s the best.
the sound of my youngest daughter’s full-on giggle . . . it’s infectious and joyful and the essence of what childhood should be . . .
Britney Spears always makes me happy, like always.
Mojito Mondays. No, seriously. Mondays suck, and the superstrong mojitos served by hot bartenders never fail to make my life a better place!
Going for a hike with my honey, my son and my 2 dogs today to the top of a mountain:)
A chick flick!
Hanging out with my husband (no, seriously!). He’s my best friend and our busy schedules rarely accommodate “just us” time.
feeling my baby move around inside my belly!
A hot steaming mug of tea.
A good book, a thunderstorm, a nap…any of these alone make me happy, but a day that includes all three = pure bliss.
Something that always makes me happy is the sounds of the accordion!
Just one? Oh man. The ocean. And Lily, my blind pup sidekick. Yeah, I cheated, just had to say two.
Listening to my wedding processional music never fails. It just happens to be the end credits to Legend of Zelda: The Windwaker, but it’s beautiful.
The recordings we have of our kids’ baby laughs. Oh my, there is nothing better. Not just the sound, but also that memory of realizing that they really could respond to us, and oh man what a great trip it’s gonna be.
Working in the garden, even if it’s just pulling a few weeds after I get home from the office.
well of course there are the obvious things about my kids and husband but today what really made me happy was finding a $10 bill in the washing machine! I love suprise washer money!! I took my kids out for a Slurpee afterschool treat with it! YAY!
When one of my nieces or nephews says, “I love you,” it’s so sweet!
Espresso drunk in bed first thing in the a.m. Extra happy…when my husband brings it to me in a preheated cup…ahhhh.
winning makes me happy! c’mon, lucky #787!
My dog makes me happy. He’s a beagle-basset mix, and he’s just the silliest, squishiest, sweetest dog in the world.
Warm sheets, a new book and a bear hug from my guy.
When my oldest friends tell me how seeing me again, no matter how long it has been, feels like we’ve only been apart for a few weeks. Smiiiiiiile!
Reading (blogs, books, magazines), Pretty images, Family, and Friends!
This giveaway looks AMAZING! :)
drooly openmouthed kisses from my baby. makes me smile every time.
Taking the dog for a walk. Her tail wags the entire time. Never fails to lighten my mood.
My four-year-old niece makes me happier than nearly anything. She is smart and funny and adorable, and even on those occasions when she is also tired and cranky (because being four is hard work), she still makes me smile.
Warming my cold hands and legs up on my husband when we get into bed. He is long suffering.
Sunshine and laughter
Pumpkins!
Wine. My dog’s little paws when I get home. Armenian Pilaf.
Swimming in warm seas.
Watching my kid singing in school’s show.
Smile = when my 2 year old says “not yet. soon” and holds his palm out to me in response to something I’ve asked of him.
Forehead kisses before I drift off to sleep.
Cotton candy. I’ve never eaten a sad piece.
One thing that makes me happy: When my 4 yr old nephew looks up at me and says, “Adrienne, you’re my best girl. I love you.” Then he smashes his Hero Factory men. His love is one of the happiest things in my life.
Puppet shows, magic shows, and Hide n Seek via Skype with a 4 year old who lives 3000 miles away. Pure Joy!
And also- Holy crap, #799.
Rain. Yep, rain ALWAYS makes me happy. Particularly the sound of it splashing outside.
Used book stores and quiet coffee shops where I can write.
Taking naps with my cat.
The smell of earl grey tea brewing in the morning before I’m really completely awake.
A nice long run.
My husband has a distinctive face he makes when he laughs really hard – not polite laughing, or ironic chuckling, but really, really laughing because something was funny enough to deserve it. That face always makes me happy.
Listening to my 16 year old daughter tell me about her day … she still trusts me and doesn’t think I’m totally foolish!
My daughter’s giggle :)
a blue sky always cheers me up
Watching Audrey Hepburn sing “I Could Have Danced All Night” in “My Fair Lady”.
long chats with friends
My one-year-old daugher running towards me, arms stretched out for a hug, when I pick her up from her day care.
Being serenaded by my 4-year old son!
A beautifully sunny day and kissing my cat.
Reading a Chalet School book.
The look on my daughter’s face when I pick her up at the end of the day.
when I wake up before my kids and have a few moments of calm.
What makes me happy is when I get my mother to laugh really hard at a joke or a story I’m telling.
Driving with the windows down on a mild sunny day. Spending the whole day in my pajamas reading a book.
One thing that always makes me happy is “selfish Saturdays” that means doing things I really want to do on Saturdays. Not thinking about work, not cleaning the house (unless I want to). I start with pilates and go from there. This week my sister and I have massages and pedicures scheduled, just because we needed it.
Seeing my husband after work!
the accordian!
Simply, the rising sun.
A spontaneous hug from my daughter
My kids always make me happy. Cliche, but as true as the sun rising in the East.
Hot, gooey chocolate chip cookies right out of the oven!
Riding my bike, feeling the wind in my face and just being out in the quiet.
Tea with milk and honey always makes me happy.
Bookstores.
Shiny jewelry!
Reading by the fire with the family.
Cinnamon Apple Spice tea!
Hot tea and my knitting on a rainy day.
Snuggles with my little boy!
A sunny breezy day, dressed in a flouncy-skirted dress clasping an ice cream cone in one hand and my Love’s hand in the other!
Warm sunny days at the beach!!!
I love to organize things in rainbow order. Clothes, M&M’s.
Also my almost one year old said her first word yesterday, and I’ve been smiling ever since.
“Clap”
And daydreaming about art I’d like to make someday in the future.
A short, light bout of rain makes me happy. It’s like hitting a refresh button.
One thing that always makes me happy is hearing my daughters giggle together. It makes me happy because usually they are usually fighting.
My children’s laughter
Dancing ALWAYS makes me happy. Especially when I’m in ballet class and my whole world melts away from me for a couple of hours. Bliss.
One thing that always makes me happy … is having a nice pile of clean folded laundry (especially when I didn’t have to fold it)!
Coffee outside in the morning – never fails. :)
Watching my husband and son play! Never fails!
One thing that always makes me happy: kissing the top of my son’s head and feeling his soft, fluffy hair.
Spending time with my daughter and husband :)
Hearing my two daughters laugh with each other. It warms my heart to think of their friendship as they grow older.
Nachos.
a trip to the zoo!
“Shambala,” as sung by Rockapella on their 1995 album, Primer. Every time.
what makes me happy dishes done dinner cooking kids playing hubby busy and me some book time :)
animals. even the “gross” or inconvenient ones (like spiders and particularly slobbery dogs!)
Sleeping in with the boyfriend on weekends with no plans (a real rarity)!
There’s a photo of my cousin’s baby holding a balloon while smiling at our aunt that always cheers me up.
Curling up on the couch with my hunky boyfriend and a big bowl of homemade popcorn to watch HBO shows!
Using the cast iron frying pans that belonged to my late grandmother. She cooked thousands of meals for her family in those pans, and it makes me happy to follow in her footsteps.
Sunshine! Living in Northern Michigan, you have to appreciate it; there are months and months when the sun just doesn’t come out at all!
Snuggling in bed on a cold morning! Why yes, I happened to do that *this* morning :)
A beautiful sunny clear sky, which we don’t get very often in northern England, so we have to treasure them.
The smell of freshly cut grass (reminds me of my days playing soccer…sigh). And kisses from my girls (ages 3 and 1). I better throw in kisses from my hubby as well. :)
Hearing my kids laugh and joke together. Or hearing one of them help the other with homework.
Spontaneous laughter.
Spending time with my 79 year old grandmother never fails to put a smile on my face. She is such a treasure to me!
Something that always makes me happy? That sound of purring every morning when we let the foster kittens out of their bedroom. There’s nothing more genuine than a kitten purring.
Books make me happy. People keep trying to sell me on e-readers and while I understand the convience that comes from being able to carry around a hundred books in one thin, manageable gadget, my collection of books brings me comfort. They’re my security blanket and no place can be called home until I have my books around me.
Snuggling a sleeping baby always makes me happy, whether I know the kid or not. It is just so calming and peaceful
Eggs. Eggs are pretty consistent in their ability to make me happy.
Going for a walk on a beautiful day always does the trick.
A good cuddle :).
school holidays always make me happy. libraries make me happy. hugs from my honey.
Fall leaves on the ground.
Exercise! No matter how bad my attitude going in, if I force myself to break a sweat I always end up feeling better.
Being outside in autumn
While there are a variety of things that make me happy, in the food category is: Potatoes. I love them mashed, hashed, baked, scalloped, fried or any other way you could think of. I could eat potatoes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, everyday(I just don’t think my thighs would like all the carbs…).
A nice California bottle of red wine makes me very happy.
A well-stocked, comfortable bookstore that serves good latte.
Love the fashion tips!
I love to hear the feral cats I care for banging on the back door if I’m late with breakfast. It’s nice to have someone always looking forward to seeing you.
New pens and paperclips always always always make me happy.
Pick me pick me!! Would love to win the well stocked tote!
The smell of crisp autumn air makes me happy. My daughters’ laughter makes me happy, too. And, sweet baby plum tomatoes — happiness in food form.
Naps! Naps make me happy. I lay down for twenty minutes (with my handy nap timing alarm clock) and I wake up with a grin on my face.
A soft breeze on a warm day.
Love the tote! Sunny fall days make me happy – I love the light this time of year, and coupled with the changing leaves – it’s perfection!
A hug from my husband
A big gulp of fresh air, on a sunny day of course!! So restorative to the soul!! Love your blog Maggie!!
Being inside on a drizzly day with a warm beverage and a thick blanket.
Sleeping in makes me happy! Why is the pillow so much more comfortable in the morning?
wine and cheese make me very happy… especially when my best friend is involved in the eating and drinking process.
Sitting on my husband’s lap after a long day at work always makes me feel at ease and truly happy. I can almost smell his cologne if I think hard enough.
riding in the car, sunroof open & singing along ALWAYS makes me happy. Doubly so if there’s someone singing with me.
Playing the music really loud and dancing around the house.
Wild critters wandering through my yard. They bring me a sense of contentment that passes for happiness.
Nothing is more fun than going to the dog park. It never fails to cheer me up on the gloomiest of days.
Chocolate makes me happy. Oh and smelling my son’s baby skin; he is just so delicious. :)
Rolling over and shutting off the alarm because it’s the weekend and it’s time to sleep in late.
A lazy Sunday morning with the New York Times and GOOD coffee…
Giving myself a chunk of time, away from everyone and everything, to reflect and be thoughtful. And blueberries in my oatmeal.
Feeling this little baby kick in my belly! :)
Books always make me happy! No, really. It’s like this post can see into my soul.
The smell of my baby’s neck. Even when it smells faintly of barfed-up breastmilk, it still smells like home.
Going to my Great Grams house and going through the “junk jewelry” box. She passed a year ago, but luckily, her stuff is all still in it’s place and I can go over and relish in fake pearls and rinestone broaches. At 26, I think it’s important to indulge in childhood pleasures like this.
That moment in the movie theater when the lights dim.
A book and coffee.
Getting home early from work!
My morning commute. I know that’s really weird, but I find taking the subway to work really relaxing–it makes me feel like a good version of myself.
The way my husband’s eyes crinkle in the corners when he smiles…
Ice Cream. Always.
without fail the unbridled affection of my dog makes me happy.
The way my dog greets me first thing in the morning as if he hasn’t seen me in YEARS.
leaning against the kitchen counter; drinking that first cup of coffee of the day.
My kids always make me happy!
My son yelling to me from his bed asking for me to rub his back. Even though he’s supposed to have been asleep for an hour. Hope that doesn’t stop anytime soon…
Live music always makes me happy…it’s my reason for livin’.
sprinkles..specifically but, baking in general…oh how it makes me smile just to think about home made goodness!
I want to say my lovely dog but you said ALWAYS makes me happy. He’s close. But not quite an ALWAYS thing just yet. He’s super cute and I would actually carry him around in that tote bag, because I could zip it part way closed to discourage him trying to squirm out of the bag and across the subway car chasing a stray grape dropped by a homeless man….erm….hypothetically.
A good book, though, that always makes me happy. I love to nap on the subway during my commute if I haven’t gotten enough sleep but if I’ve got a good book, it makes me too happy to read the book instead. Good books are a balm for the soul.
chai latte with a shot of espresso. never disappoints. :)
It’s cheesy and cliched, but I’m always happy when my husband comes home from work. We really are best friends, so every minute we spend together is fun and fantastic!
Oh lots of things! Kiss by Prince, the smell of a campfire, Bob Marley, a Big Squeeze from my bf, game night, boardwalk food, Meet Me in St. Louis…the list goes on!
pretty dresses, cloche hats, and my husband!
The antics of the two year old (as long as it doesn’t involve injury) always makes me happy. :)
One thing that always makes me happy is a 3-day weekend.
I’m always happy after a shot of tequila, a backrub from my husband or a long talk with my best friend. <3
the Fall chill in the air – just enough so I can break out a scarf, without breaking a sweat – and no need for a heavy coat and layers.
Watching my Basset Hound chase his cat sister (and never even get close). My husband calls it low rolling thunder.
My brother getting engaged to a girl he loves – that we love too!
Kittens!
Dinner and movie night with my family….we’re all just tuned into being together.
My 2 beautiful girls!!!
My son always makes me happy. Even when he’s being “that” kid – by the time he’s asleep like a little angel, I am always so thankful and happy that he’s mine!
having dough between my fingers
Babies is large sunglasses or hats. Dogs itching their backs in the grass. A rare sunny, warm day in March. Advice columns.
nutella on anything.