10 things that make me happy

There’s this thing going around my small blogosphere about ten things that make you happy. Like one blogger, I assume everyone has the same sort of things that are happy making: family, friends, etc. Since we've had so much snow (51 inches so far) and the sun is a rare visitor, I decided I could use a few moments to dwell on some small things that make me happy. So here’s my list:


10. Buttered toast: This is my favorite breakfast with #7. I use Rotella’s Pane di Casa bread and the combination is wonderful. Just butter will do (see #2).
9. Warm sunshine: I love a sunny day that’s perfect for a long walk. That means warm but not hot and plenty of #8.
8. Fluffy white clouds: Reminiscent of childhood. Fluffy white clouds make me want to lie on the ground and see shapes or sit by a lake with a friend.
7. A cup of coffee first thing in the morning: It isn’t just the coffee, is it? It’s the whole experience of sitting with a warm cup of coffee, relaxing and waking up. I’ve said for years that if I could hire one servant, she would have to be there when I wake up handing over a cup of the Joe.
6. When K-State wins a game, particularly against KU: I can’t help it. I am relentlessly happy about KSU sports. Even if they lose by a little bit or if they lose, but they played really well, I am very happy with my alma mater. As a matter of fact, it doesn’t really have to be sports – any competition like who gives the most money in the Big 12 or what university gets the most Truman Scholarships, I’m still really happy KSU wins the “game.”
5. Old movies: Typically there is something about the old movies I really like. They aren’t all good movies, but there’s a comfort level, a jolliness, a certain comedy, a trust that they won’t gross me out and my desire to watch the beginnings of what has turned into the current Hollywood, which I do not always enjoy at all.
4. Good gas mileage: My car is a hybrid and when I drive well and get good mileage, it praises me. It’s shallow, so sue me. I love it.
3. Learning something new: I have recently been asked why I learn Irish when it is such a difficult language or when I have no plans to go to Ireland and even if I did, they speak English. There’s just something I enjoy about tickling my brain this way.
2. Irish butter: I cook with it and will eat it on certain crackers, but I don't use it just as I do regular butter because it tastes so good. Whatever I put it on or in should not overwhelm the taste of the butter.
1. Twilight: It’s my favorite time of the day when the light fades and there’s a golden glow in the air. It’s very relaxing to sit outside or nap or walk or visit…just about anything is good at twilight.

That's my list. What makes you happy?