And the pursuit of happiness.

Around this time last year, with Josh's prompting, I decided to exercise my right to happiness. Since then, I've exercised the shit out of that right! Just kidding. It's been a journey filled with ups and downs, and I've learned about myself.

In no way am I advocating for the idea that "it's all about you" or that happiness is the most important thing in life, but sometimes doing a couple little things a day can really improve your mood and outlook. For me, it also helps keep things in perspective.

Here's my list of ways I pursue happiness (and pictures of some of my favorite things):

1. Greet and pet Tia first thing when I get home

2. When Josh gets home, I stop what I'm doing and hug him and make eye contact

3. Sit on my porch and drink a glass of wine when I get home from work

4. Buy fancy cheese and eat a small piece a day (especially good with that glass of wine!)

5. See Bubbie, even if it means cancelling plans with humans

6. Read a book in the park before the sun goes down

7. Call or get together with a friend

8. Write a thank you note

9. Organize something

10. Take a long time to cook something extra special

11. Take a day long road trip

12. Get outside and sit somewhere quiet

13. Draw or write a poem

14. Pick or buy flowers and put them on my table

What about you? In what small ways do you pause and enjoy something?