I’m practicing the pursuit of happiness. I’ve been practicing this for years and the process changes all the time. This is one of my life goals. That’s what the pursuit really means…to practice being happy, joyful and living a meaningful life, as often as possible. I’m not always happy…that’s not my goal because that’s an unreasonable expectation. Life happens and it’s messy. It’s real. Sh** happens. But we get to choose how we react to the times of sickness, sadness, hurt, ugliness and bad stuff that happens. And hope they leave us as quickly as possible so we can get on with the good stuff. Right?

I’m learning how to deal with the times I feel unhappy in a less emotional way because my goal is to continuously be aware and to adapt and be patient until happiness returns again. I also think you can find peace and grace through the process of unhappiness or depression if you want that. Not in every condition of course, but hopefully there is hope in every situation. In time.

How was your weekend? What made you happy?

I had a great, relaxing weekend. I spent time alone with Charlie yesterday. I went to his soccer game and watched the best game of his season.

We then went to get his hair cut, and out for lunch. He took a friend to spooktacular miniature golfing and I had fun watching them be kids.

I’m fully aware that he’s growing up and I’m busy soaking in all the minutes.

Today I enjoyed time in the kitchen making a family favorite Thai yellow curry and Indian butter chicken. I love the art of cooking. I love the process of creating something for us all to enjoy. I love hearing my family tell me how good the house smells and I love the joy from sharing a family meal. Now if someone else could do the clean up, it would be all good! 🙂

Jeff and I did some furniture shopping together as we are trying to redo our living room. Nothing fancy, just looking for more storage space for our little house. I think we found something we like.

And finally, another highlight from my day was attending a book signing from a very inspirational woman and friend.

Coach Niru was the first professional Indian woman to win a round at the Grand Slam (Australian Open). She became a professional tennis player when there weren’t any girls playing tennis. She was encouraged by her father who was self taught and he helped support her to achieve her dreams. She wrote a book about her journey and her story that I’m excited to read, called The Moonballer, a term that describes a lob play in tennis and describes her modest beginnings. You can find the book on amazon.com: http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/0989953904/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1382328523&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX110_SY165_QL70#immersive_view?1382328557409http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/0989953904/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1382328523&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX110_SY165_QL70#immersive_view?1382328557409

I love her spirit and the peace and confidence she exudes with her friendly smile. Time to go read!! Congratulations Niru! You must be so proud of yourself and accomplishments. I admire you.

Have a good week, everybody.