Ten things that make me happy

A few months ago, I was tagged by the lovely Ania at The Sane Mum  to write a post about the ten things that make me happy. You can read her post here. As you’ve probably realised from my weekly gratitude posts, I love looking back on the positive things that happen to us, no matter how big or small. I think it’s really therapeutic and good for your mental health to focus on the positive. So I really liked the idea of this happy post. I then promptly forgot about it and didn’t see her link. Sorry Ania. But here I am now with my happy ten.

My girls

I’ve decided that these two can count as one. Becoming a mum was without a doubt the best decision I ever made. Don’t get me wrong, it’s tough at times, we all know that. But their little faces, their developing characters, watching them learn and grow into the people they are going to be…. It’s a really amazing journey. Each of my girls makes me smile every single day. No matter how hard a day we are having, they will always do something to make me happy.

My husband

Clearly, Gary, this is in no particular order! I remember before I met my husband, feeling like all the good men were taken. I’d missed my chance and I was going to turn into the crazy horse lady who was eternally single and making her way through dating all the bad boys in the home counties. Then he came along and restored my faith. He’s not perfect. But neither am I. And he puts up with all my faults, my nagging, my moaning, and loves me unconditionally. He can make me happy just by putting his key in the front door at the end of the day – I’m always pleased to see him.

Family and friends

I really believe that without people to surround us, good people, we can never be truly content. I know that some people love their own company, as do I at times. But a good old natter, a catch up, a giggle or even just a quick text, never fail to make me happy. I don’t see enough of my friends with our busy lives, but when I do, I always leave feeling better for it.

Ben the horse

Almost 23 years ago, I met the first love of my life. He whinnied at me from his stable door and it was love at first sight. I somehow convinced my parents that they should let me buy him when he came up for sale and it was one of the best decisions of my life. I was bullied at school, and when I got into horses, I always had something to look forward to, to keep me going. That horse has been there through my teens and into adulthood. He knows all my secrets and he gives a super cuddle if you’re a bit down. Even though it’s tricky to fit in time with him now, I still love going up to see him every day, and half an hour at the yard with him sets me up for whatever the day throws at me.

Writing

It’s in my blood. My dad was a journalist, and I’ve always loved to tell a story. I spent four years as a journalist, and loved every moment of it. I’m lucky enough to live in an online world now, where, although journalism is no longer my job, I can still blog and have an outlet. Even when I was little, I used to write and write. Stories, diaries, poems, anything. It’s a bit like a therapy to me and helps me to get my thoughts in order more than talking or thinking ever can.

Holiday

Whether it’s a good old trip abroad to the sunshine, or something closer to home, having a break is good for the soul. We recently rediscovered Centre Parcs with the girls and I just adore spending a week in that little bubble. No housework, nowhere to be, no routine, just time out and time with loved ones. Bliss. I also love exploring new places, as much as I love lying on the beach and reading a good book.

Reading

I have always loved a good novel. You can lose yourself in someone else’s story and forget about everything else. I have recently started to read before I go to sleep every night again, like I always used to. I think it really helps me to clear my mind and be able to rest better.

Reality TV

Perhaps one of my more guilty pleasures, but honestly, anything on ITVBe makes me happy. TOWIE, RHOC, Mummy diaries, and more recently Love Island, all make me happy. I really look forward to zoning out at the end of the day and getting caught up in other people’s dramas.

Sleep

I mourn the loss of sleep since we had children. I used to schedule in afternoon naps, early nights and lie-ins as if they were work. I’m hideous in the mornings at the best of times, but after not enough sleep, Gary is cowering in the corner. I love nothing more than an early night, snuggling with loads of cushions, a cup of tea and the iPad. It just doesn’t happen often enough any more.

Hair, beauty and clothes

Another three things that have taken a back seat since I became a mum, but when they look good, it makes me happy. It’s materialistic, it’s shallow, I know that. But I do think that taking pride in your appearance gives anyone confidence. I’m not suggesting that I need to do every school run in heels and a full face of slap. But if my grey roots are covered, my brows are groomed and I’ve pulled together a half decent outfit, I’m far more ready to face the day.

 

I’m now tagging the following bloggers to take part and tell us what ten things make them happy:

Tina at Girls’ Gospel

Phil at Parenting Phils

Maria at Suburban Mum

Rachel at Life with Amelia