#99: Geese Flying Overhead

Reason to Be Happy #99:

When Geese Fly in Formation, Honking & Babbling like a Distant Traffic Jam, and They Pass Right Over Your Head

#98: Round Hay Bales

Reason to Be Happy #98:

Round Hay Bales

Their appearance in the fields is such a beautiful marker of the season change. I think of them as a kind of Heartland Stonehenge. (And they're fun to climb on!)

#97: The Scuttle Sound of Leaves on Sidewalk

Reason to Be Happy #97:

The Scuttle Sound Autumn Leaves Make on the Sidewalk

#96: The Blessing of the Animals

Reason to Be Happy #96:

The Blessing of the Animals

Many churches will have "the blessing of the pets" or "the blessing of the animals" in honor of the Feast of St. Francis in October. I was once lucky enough to attend one of the most well-known of these ceremonies at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in Manhattan.

When I first heard of this as a kid, I was offended because I thought we needed to be blessed by the animals, not the other way around! In any case, it's usually a very moving (and humorous) ceremony.

"Creatures minister to our needs every day. Without them, we could not live, and through them the human race greatly offends the Creator every time we fail to appreciate so great a blessing."

—St. Francis

#95: First Caramel Apple Spice of the Season

Reason to Be Happy #95:

The First Caramel Apple Spice of the Season

Is that the taste of autumn, or what?
Time to retire my Americano over ice until next summer...

#94: Giraffe Eyelashes

Reason to Be Happy #94:

Giraffe Eyelashes

Really, is there anything more outrageous, wonderful and over the top?
Good design, that. Actually, giraffes in general could be a reason. Just a reminder of all the wondrous variety in the world and in all the species.

#93: The Smell of Rain Hitting Concrete

Reason to Be Happy #93:

That Smell When the First Drops of Rain Hit Concrete