35 Days of Favorites: Some Things Never Change

I was trying to figure out what favorite to write about today, on the last day of Favorites, the day of my birthday. I had a different post written up, but when it came down to it, I realized that I couldn’t skip over these favorites in my life:

Oh, I love my family. I am so very thankful for them, and for all the love and laughter and every other good thing they bring into my life. They are always the best part of each and every year, no matter what new things I might find or experience.

And I’m also very thankful for all of you. Thank you so much for taking the time to read my little list of favorites.

As I wrap up this year’s edition of Days of Favorites, I want to say this:

Be intentional about being joyful. If you are unhappy, figure out why. And then do something about it. Don’t sit around waiting for other people to make you happy.

Think about what you truly love. Look for joy in the small things. And then make those small things happen regularly.

I came across this quote the other day:

“When you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change.” (Dr. Wayne Dyer)

And when you go looking for joy and beauty, you will find so much more than if you sit around waiting for it to come to you.

Maybe some of my favorite things were silly. Maybe I made a big deal about something really small. But my life has gotten so much better since I started noticing.

But as much as I find joy in the small things, I need to also say that finding joy in the things that last is even more important. Make a big deal about the little things, but keep them little.

That’s what I’ve learned this year. (Some of it, at least!)

Thanks to everyone who has taken the time to comment, and share your own favorites with me. That is always the best part of this.

*You have all day today to make comments on any 35 Days of Favorites post, and I will announce the winner tomorrow.