That’s a Big Lot of Happy

“That’s a big lot of happy”.

That’s what the guy who passed us on the trail today said.

I’m pretty sure he was talking about me. I’m generally a pretty happy dog, and that fellow on the trail picked up on that. I think I might have made him a little bit happier too. I’m glad to share my happiness, especially these days, as it gets a little colder and darker out, and the rains are coming, along with the longer nights.  If I were a different kind of dog, that might make me feel a little sad. But instead of my mood changing with the weather, my happiness comes from the inside out, at least most of the time.

I’ve been thinking about how to live a happy life. It’s not always easy. Caryn doesn’t always make biscuits for me when I ask. Or give me seconds on dinner. Dahlia has been stealing my chair at night. And sometimes it’s just too windy to go on a hike in the woods.

I could grouse over those things, but in the end it just makes me feel bad, so what’s the point? Instead I try to let those things go. The key is to remember what’s important, find happiness in all good things, and share your heart with others.

Here’s what keeps me happy:

the joy of meeting up with old friends…

….and making new ones whenever possible

Getting out into nature always lifts my spirits

as does a good nap (naps are particularly good at raising the happiness ratio).

Sharing helps to open the heart

even if you sometimes have to put up with some peculiar behaviors

I’m always around if someone needs a snuggle

I like to make sure my loved ones don’t work too hard

So that there are no misunderstandings, I try to be very specific about my needs

And I never miss an opportunity to tell someone how much I love them

What makes you a big lot of happy? You can send me a photo, a story, a happiness tale. Just click on “Submit Your Story” link at the top right and send me your story! xox, Tashi