Over the past year, I have been trying to be more intentional about journaling. You wouldn't think it hard for a writer to find time to journal, but time isn't always on my side (as a mom of three). I've wanted to focus on the things that are making me happy, rather than the things that are making me feel frustrated (because that list seems to be so long). If I dwell on the crummy stuff, I'm likely not to walk around with a smile on my face. Each night before bed, I take a minute to jot down (on paper or digitally) five things that made me happy that day. At the end of each week, I choose five things that were highlights of the week and reflect on those things. It reminds me of all the good things I have in my life- much to be grateful for.

Here are five highlights from the past week, which are making me happy...

1. Time with friends

Both of my kiddos had friends over to play last week. It made them so happy to be able to have friends over in our new house. The house may still be under construction, but that doesn't mean life stops. It brought me a lot of joy to set snacks out, set up activities, and hear the laughter of children in my home again.

2. Time with family

We had a wonderful visit with Sacha's grandparents from TN this past weekend. We took a day trip to Lake Junaluska to enjoy lunch and conversations with them. We had not seen them since before COVID, and they had not yet met Baby C, so it was a very special visit. As a wonderful bonus, Sacha's Aunt Amy was there, also. She is so fun, and it was awesome to get to spend time with her, too.

3. Wedding

One of my dear friend's daughter is getting married this weekend. I have the honor of singing during her wedding, and it makes my heart so happy. This family is so special to me, and I can't believe this amazing young lady is getting married (because she was a baby like yesterday). My dad is playing for the wedding, which means that we get to sing and play together, and that is always a gift to me, too.

4. House Progress

We're almost ready to put drywall up in our kitchen! I am overjoyed that I will soon not have to look at studs and exposed wiring. Projects are getting done all over the house, including the upstairs bathroom. We're plugging along, and it's wonderful because school will be starting soon and I need everything to be organized so we can function as a family.

5. My Kids

You know, as ready as I am for school to start back up, so we can be back to our routines, I am really going to miss my kids being home with me during the day. They have been so wonderful all summer. They've been helpful, well behaved, and they have been awesome siblings- with each other, and with their baby sister. B has really stepped up to help me with Baby C, and most of the time, I don't even have to ask him for help. They have been doing chores, getting along, helping me organize things in the house, and helping with projects. I can't wait until we get to take our family vacation in October so I can spoil them a little bit. They really deserve it!

I could go on with more good things, but for now, I'll leave you with the challenge to keep your own daily list or journal so you can focus on the good things in your life, too. I'm also sharing a beautiful watercolor journal, which I love, and that you can grab for under $15.00 on Amazon, so you can start journaling ASAP.

What five things are making you happy this week? I'd love for you to share them in the comments or over on our socials.

Wishing you a wonderful day, filled with happiness and joy!