the makings of a happy stefi

PW would tell you there are a few things that make this girl happy. i could be in a horrible mood (yes, me.) and instantly these things will make me happy. not happy for a minute and then mad again, but, "oh yeah, that's what i want my life to be composed of " happy. the people i love. the clothes that make me feel good. activities that bring a wide smile to my face. places around the globe that really awaken my spirit. 

why, one must ask themselves,

 isn't my everyday 

composed of 

these people and places and things?

good question! i think that's what gretchen rubin is getting at in her happiness book. and what thich nhat hahn means when he says "everyday when you wake up, there are 24 brand new hours to live." maybe happiness isn't a moment, but a composition. finely tuned to awaken our spirits to the bigger picture. after all (you know what i'm going to say, right?): it is our days that make up our lives. {annie dilliard}

mini me.

with all that being said, the mystery isn't that much of a mystery. so i present to you today, a bit of a manifesta:

• i like my coffee black, my bath water hot, and my grandmother's oversized golden hoops. 
• i love a picnic, sparkling wine and an extra firm (but not burnt!) crust on a creme brulee
• handwritten letters are best, but if you must send an email, jump off the page with !!!, xoxox's and :) galore
• music should be played loudly enough that i can sing and you can't hear me. unless of course, you're playing acoustic guitar: then i'm all ears.
• balloons makes every occasion special. feeling blue? balloons. birthday? balloons. walk in the park? balloons.
• swimming: yes, please! my preference is the doggie-paddle, but the water-puppy within will do anything to stay afloat.
• long fingers and toes mean my jewelry must be made for royalty: big, shiny + a story with each piece.
• i'd rather be a driver than a passenger.
• everyday physical activity and moderation makes for a life-time of wellbeing. sometimes: splurge.
• golden: shoes, accessories, dresses, planners, pens. anything.
• while we're on the subject, pens: gel, no ballpoint. fountain, but of course. colorful, always.
• i'll never be early, but rarely am i running late.
• i can't sleep until i've written or called you back, thanked you properly for your kindness, or acknowledged a gift i've been given. if you haven't heard back from me, i promise you i'm not sleeping well.
• i say a prayer for peace every morning.
• some people have got it right. a particular person comes to mind: gg9a.
• backscratching makes my heart go pitter-patter.
• i love challenges, celebrations, honest conversation and meaningful exchanges. i'll never turn down a hug.
• family + friends are here to provide constant inspiration and love. 

and there you have it, stephanie's list o' inspiration and delight. 

what makes your heart soar?