#409: Those Little Messages Inside Dove Dark Chocolates

Reason to Be Happy #409:

Those Little Messages Inside 

Dove Dark Chocolates

 So, not only do you get to eat a melt-in-your-mouth Dove dark chocolate, which is really a reason to be happy all by itself, you also get a lovely little message like, "You are exactly where you are supposed to be" or "Take this moment. Enjoy it." Reminders such as, "You make everything lovely," and "Take good care of yourself" brighten any day. And I did mention that you're eating chocolate, right?

#408: A Fella Who Brings You Flowers "Because It's Thursday"

Reason to Be Happy #408:

A Fella Who Brings You Flowers "Because It's Thursday"

 Forgive me if that's sappy, but it's a lovely thing, receiving flowers "just because." And Gerbera daisies happen to be my favorite. (So is this fella).

#407: Having Everything You Need to Make Pasta Sauce Right in Your Own Backyard

Reason to Be Happy #407:

Having Everything You Need to Make 

Pasta Sauce

Right in Your Own Backyard

 I love my garden. I love fresh pasta sauce. And I love walking outside with a basket and picking everything I need to make it from my own yard—tomatoes, basil, thyme, oregano, peppers. Okay, full disclosure: that onion came from my CSA box. But the rest I grew myself!

#406: This Llama Wearing a Hat

Reason to be Happy #406:

This Llama Wearing a Hat

 I met this fine fellow at the West Virginia State Fair. He was a flirt and kept reaching his head out to visit with me...but as soon as I pulled out my camera, I swear he "posed"—he turned his head to the side and stood very still. As soon as I put the camera away, he returned to his previous antics. Look at those eye lashes! And his speckles! What a handsome guy! I'm a sucker for an animal in a hat.

#405: Peanut Butter Rice Krispy Treats with Chocolate Icing

Reason to Be Happy #405:

Peanut Butter Rice Krispy Treats with Chocolate Icing

 I know, I know, I already used Rice Krispy Treats as a reason to be happy way back, but this is different. Believe me, it's a whole new level of happiness! Whoever dreamed up this recipe is a genius, in my humble opinion. Adding additional layers of happiness (and awesomeness) is the fact that this lovely treat was baked by my sweet man's wonderful (and talented) mother. Aww…is that enough sugar for the day? :-)

#404: Rainy Days for Writing

Reason to Be Happy #404:

Rainy Days for Writing

 I love my writing office so so much. I've designed quite an inspiring view for myself...but that view can also be a distraction because I love puttering in my garden almost as much as I love writing.

 Rainy days are my friend. I get all the benefits of that gorgeous garden view, but none of the temptation to go out there. I settle in, with good coffee and a purring cat, and stay at the desk. Ahh...