A song popped into my head this morning…”My Favorite Things.” How is it that when I think of my favorite things, I feel better? Even thinking about making a list of them causes my heart to soar and puts a smile on my face. So many favorite things involve the senses, or memories, activities or ideas. I could start a list here, but I don’t have all day, and like a friend of mine says, “I smile.” Right now, that’s enough.

Often, after sharing an activity with our granddaughters, we ask them, “What was your favorite part?” It’s fascinating to note how observant they are and what different responses they have. Their spontaneous reactions help me to notice and appreciate far more than I would have by myself. I’m storing up more favorite things for the future.

So when the dog bites, or I’m sad, I remember, and I smile.