I thought I had it all figured out. I had road mapped my life out so perfectly, and of course, my plans included being married, with children, being successful, which would equal lots of money, which would equal and secure happiness. That's the dream, right? To live that perfect life, without a worry or care...

As it turns out, there's no such thing as a perfect life. There can't be- because there are zero perfect people in this world. We're all just trying to make it through the race, one lap at a time. I am so fortunate to have married my best friend. I dreamed of marrying someone who would love, honor, and respect me, be a wonderful father and role model, and support me in my endeavours... and that dream came true. I dreamed of one day writing music, recording a CD, having my songs played on the radio, and sharing my music- sharing God's love with others... and that dream came true. I dreamed of becoming a mother, to a precious child who would hold the key to my heart... and that dream came true. I dreamed of becoming a writer, who would share words of hope and encouragement with anyone who was willing to read them... and that dream came true.

Just a couple of kids...

And yet, I've wanted more. I've longed for more. I've thought, 'there must be more to life than this.' I've been wondering if this is as good as it gets? I feel like this every now and then, and I suppose it's only natural, as society deems it acceptable for us to always be wanting more- bigger, better. When I stop thinking about myself for just one moment, and take a look around, I see so many beautiful things... memories, trinkets, precious gifts, my beautiful family, the roof over my head, meals waiting to be prepared in my fridge or pantry, and I can only thank the Lord, because He truly made a way for me and my family, when we felt pretty hopeless.

So happy & blessed to be this sweet little guy's mom...

Happiness can't be bought. Happiness can't be earned. Happiness is found in the smallest gestures, the silliest moments, and in each of us, when we let our joy bubble up to the surface. Happiness comes in the form of my husband of almost seven years, making waffles for our family on a Saturday morning... or in the form of a hug and kiss from my three-year-old son, after we've spent a day apart. Happiness fills my heart, when I'm writing music with my dad, when I'm on a shopping trip with my mom, when I'm laughing to the point of tears with my sister, or when I'm catching up on the phone with my grandmother.

I'm reminded of a quote by Denis Waitley, which says, 'Happiness cannot be traveled to, owned, earned, worn or consumed. Happiness is the spiritual experience of living every minute with love, grace, and gratitude.' Indeed.

And if you need a little 'happy' in your day, this always gets our family moving and grooving together- and makes us oh, so happy...

Share what makes you happy...

Friday, August 8th was National Happiness Happens Day. Happy Family Brands will be spreading happiness for the rest of the month on their social channels, and they would love to share your Happiness story too! Happy Family Brands will share these stories on our Twitter feed throughout the month of August and will post a recap on our blog at the end of the month. Be sure to follow them on Facebook and Twitter, and check out their month of Happiness giveaways, too!

We'd love to hear your thoughts on 'Happiness Happens.' Feel free to leave us a comment or share on Twitter, using the hashtag #HappinessHappens!

Be happy...



Disclosure: This is a sponsored post on behalf of Happy Family Brands, written by me. All thoughts and opinions shared are my own.