“If you’re reading this… Congratulations, you’re alive. If that’s not something to smile about, then I don’t know what is.” ~ Chad Sugg

Clothespins? yeah . . . clothespins. they make me smile

My home – makes me smile. Driving past it, pulling into the driveway. Walking into it. Spending time there. It’s my Oasis of Serenity, my peaceful place.

Something as simple as doing laundry and hanging it outside with those clothespins make me smile.

Now matter what shitty things happen to me, or what is said or done, I can come home and leave it on the doorstep. Heck let’s leave it on the street, don’t even let it in the driveway.

Watching my kids grow and mature and question – that really makes me smile. I do and have done what I can to raise them right, but they are free spirits with their own ideas. Hearing them question events, watching them struggle with ideas as they grow into the wonderful people they will be – fills my heart right up to the brim!

Oils – help set the stage for relaxation. A little frankincense with coconut oil rubbed into my skin smells wonderful and keeps it soft. A bit of peppermint, lemon and lavender in the diffuser helps calm and restore a sense of peace before bedtime.

Choosing color schemes and adding my personal touches to the house – takes time but in the end it will be worth it. Every room a pleasure in which to spend time. It must appeal to all the senses. Life is an ongoing sensual experience – if you’re not using them and appreciating them, you’re missing out!

Food – really makes me smile. I like to cook it and eat it! Flavors also make me smile. Combinations of taste that hit the tongue and spark a smile and usually a “Mmmmmmm . . .” or as Dave would say “a food-gasm” are the best. I like to call them flavor explosions.

Water – maybe it’s the sign of Cancer or the fact that we are made up of 78-80% water. Sinking into a warm bath as the water slides over my skin or relaxing as the spray of the shower hits my back. When I’m lucky enough to be at the other home – the massage of the hot tub jets against my muscles. Even placing my hands in warm dishwater is an experience that pulls the corners of my mouth up into a smile.

What sights or sounds, flavors or tastes, make you smile?