In the times we’re going through right now, there could be 101 reasons why you don’t feel like smiling. But I’m also sure that for every one of those reasons, you’ll probably also find a reason to smile – if you look carefully.
A newsletter I received from Cheryl Richardson read:
This week, become aware of the little things that make you smile. As you notice them, pay attention to how they make you feel. If they feel good, really good, attach value to them immediately. Tell yourself, “This is the kind of experience that matters. I want more of this in my life.”
The Little Things That Make Me Smile
So I start to notice and pay attention to the little things that make me smile. And I realize that my list grows – if only I let it. I wrote this post in 2013 and have updated it with a new list of things that made me smile today! I thought it was so relevant for these time.
- Pablo and Lucky giving me an early morning nuzzle to let me know they are awake.
- An early morning cuddle from my husband.
- My first cup of coffee in the morning.
- A local stray dog (the kids around have called him Bruno) that comes so happily to greet Pablo and me on our walk,
- A wholesome breakfast made by my husband
- The scent of my soap, shampoo, talc and cream.
- The scent of a agarbatthi ( joss stick ) I’ve burned as I work.
- A crazy conversation with an old friend that went on and on – with so many pauses for laughter.
- A picture another friend sent me of her newly born granddaughter! (Yes, some of my contemporaries are grandparents!)
- The sounds of birds and watching them come to feed at the feeder we have our little front patch.
This list is only from today and it’s certainly not complete.
There’s lots more where that came from – thousands of other moments that I haven’t listed here. Isn’t that reason to smile?
The little things? The little moments? They aren’t little.
Joh Kabat-Zinn
What are the things that made you smile today?
Those are wise words indeed. This is what I’m trying to teach my kids, as well. If you can find something to smile about when the chips are down, you can get through anything in life.
Apeksha Rao recently posted..Movers and shakers
Oh this is a fantastic activity to do to get the spirits up during this lockdown time. Thank you for sharing this, Corinne. I will do a post like this next time. ❤️
Vinitha recently posted..54 Things To Do When You are Bored
I have been waiting for one particular rose plant to start blooming. The reason being, all the rest of my rose plants started flowering except that one. Today, in the morning when i went to my balcony to water the plants I saw a small bud surface on that rose plant. Seeing that made me smile and it filled my heart with joy!
Life is these simple moments which we tend to overlook when we are running. Virus has certainly made us look into the little blessings.
Little things we take for granted and the ones that make us smile from within!
My birdies make me smile first thing in the morning. The picture of my Chikoo that suddenly pops up in my FB feed surprises me and makes me smile as I think of the times I spent with him. Hubby’s sense of humour makes me smile. 🙂 And yes, the chats with friends, the laughter, the inside jokes…they all make me smile and forget the stress.
It is these small little things that makes life so beautiful and make a huge difference too! Loved reading this post ♥
That’s a lovely list Cory, and Im tempted to make one of mine in my journal, right away.
Thanks for this cheery post amidst the uncertain times.
Natasha recently posted..Palacio do Deao, a Charming Mansion in Goa: #WordlessWednesday #WednesdayWisdom
Glad you liked it, Natasha. I’d love to take a peek at your list.
Stay safe and well.
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..Chop Wood Carry Water and Wash Hands
How simple things can make one happy.
Those ten points are something everyone goes through, but we seldom pause and smile 🙂
Joe recently posted..Reis Magos (Part-I)
How interesting– as I comment on this I note you start the article with “101 reasons” why one may not smile and there are 101 comments saying how people smiled. That makes me smile 🙂 🙂 🙂
bhavana recently posted..Adios Chennai, Hyderabad Calling…
What a nice observations, Bhavana! It made me smile too. ♥
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..Speaking My Truth
Awesome! I agree that little things are not so little. I started noting down the list of things iam grateful for every day. Feels good.
Indeed, and sometimes it is these small things that we neglect while we go over stressing about the larger challenges we face in our lives. Your post definitely made me think of my own list. And like you pointed out, it is the really simple things that bring us joy while we go chasing happiness elsewhere.
Rachna recently posted..Give and let live!
I’ve learned the awesome power of focusing on the small things that we so take for granted in our daily routine, Rachna. I’ve seen how gratitude automatically accompanies this practice and then leaves not much room for cribbing. Thanks for sharing. ♥
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..Speaking My Truth
Ah, I am late here otherwise would have joined the linky love. Reading your list made me smile wide this morning adding to the quota of morning smiles. Points 2, 4, 8 and 9 are absolute lovely reasons to smile. I would also add some more here,
* Listening to the talk R gives in super cute mode
* A thoughtful comment on my post
* Smiling at a random stranger
I have many more things that make me smile but I wouldn’t want to take a lot of space.
Keep smiling and loving.
Joy always,
Susan
Susan Deborah recently posted..The uncommon truth about common sense!
Thanks, Sus. Now I’m ever so curious about R’s talk in super cute mode – video please! 😉 You’re welcome to using as much space as you want here, anytime!
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..Speaking My Truth
Pheww. so many comments!! I had to scroll down soooooooo much! he he…
My niece’s smile is so divine.. it’s contagious. She is barely 3 months old. 🙂
Punam recently posted..Memories – 2010
Wow! Didn’t realize you had a niece, Punam. Yes, children have a special way of making us smile!
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..Writing and Living Free
Wonderful topic Corrine! Thanks a tonne for this post! I really made me sit back and count my blessings! Thanks a lot! 🙂
And here is my post: http://jincythinks.blogspot.in/2013/02/the-little-things-that-make-me-smile.html
Jincy Varghese recently posted..DON’T!!
Thanks, Jincy. I thoroughly enjoyed reading your list – I’m sure it’s adding to the smiles of many others!
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..Speaking My Truth
Glad I’m late to the party because I got to enjoy all the commenters’ reasons to smile. And you have a gazillion comments to make you smile! I call smiling one of the two starter habits in the 10 Steps. (The other starter habit is belly breathing.)
Galen Pearl recently posted..To Question or Not To Question?
I’m surprised at the response too, Galen – the simple things, huh? 🙂 Belly breathing and smiling sounds like fantastic habits to form.
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..The Little Things That Make Me Smile
Thanks so much, Roshini. ♥
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..The 7x7x7x7 Writing Prompt
You are right, Corinne. There are many things we fail to notice that brings a smile on our face. Today, the thing that brought a smile on my face…umm…the small brownies with orange and pink shaded cream on top of it..I was passing by to heat my food at work and saw them on a table…got so tempted that I went back and grabbed one…yummyy…and my son’s everyday good night hug and kiss are the best…no matter what happens..we yell at him, scold him, punish him, he does that..kids are so forgetful..and that’s a blessing 🙂
Latha recently posted..Me and My Darling – 8
The brownies sounds delicious and you telling me about them made me smile, Latha. Yes, kids can bring loads of smiles into our lives!
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..The 7x7x7x7 Writing Prompt
I love this post. I too get happy with my favorite soap. I thought I was odd.
AdrianaIris recently posted..Colortopia …
Mmmmm..now I’m wondering what your favorite soap, Adriana. Mine is sandalwood. Ever tried it?
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..The Little Things That Make Me Smile
Lovely list. Sometimes it’s too easy to forget the ‘good’ things in life!
Paula Martin recently posted..Weekend Writing Warriors
Thanks, Paula. Oh yes, but we can’t afford to forget what really matters, can we? 🙂
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..The 7x7x7x7 Writing Prompt
My dear friend,
It is always nice when we lift each other’s spirit. You are very good at this. Nice post as always.
So nice to have you back on the internet, Andy. Your comeback lifted a lot of spirits! 🙂
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..The Little Things That Make Me Smile
so sweet! what made me smile today? first thing this morning, feeling appreciation for the work i’m doing in The Artists Way. my girlfriend texting me just to say ‘i love you!’ the beautiful photos i was processing from last night — i’m amazed by the quality of the ‘capture’ and also reminded of the fun of the event. talking with another girlfriend about something i learned in The Artists Way this morning about handling anger and seeing the light come on behind her eyes about a challenge she was facing with that subject — realizing again we’re all connected. reading your post and reliving my smiles. thank you! xoxoxo
Dangerous Linda recently posted..my-black-history part 1: “i was born a poor black child”
The Artist’s Way is a huge part of my conversation too these days, Linda. It’s amazing how it affects us – when all it does is remind us to be ourselves. You are one of my reasons for smiling too! ♥
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..The Little Things That Make Me Smile
Great topic! I am so glad you shared. This is just the sort of topic to help me get back into the swing of things. I’ve been gone for awhile, but I am back to blogging.
Susan Dusterhoft
Today’s Working Woman
todaysworkingwoman25.blogspot.com
Welcome back to blogging, Susan and thanks for your lovely post on the hop!
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..Writing and Living Free
Such a fab idea!! I am going to do this as my next post!!
So many things make me smile, and it would be lovely to make a list! 🙂
Thank you Corinne 🙂
Pixie recently posted..The 7x7x7x7 Writing Prompt
My post is done and I’ve borrowed the same title! I hope that’s ok 🙂
Pixie recently posted..The Little Things That Make Me Smile
Glad you liked the prompt. You’re most welcome to the title – that was the idea! 🙂 Loved your post!
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..The Little Things That Make Me Smile
–Just reading what makes you smile makes me SMILE 🙂 Xxx
YOU always make me smile, Kim! ♥
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..The 7x7x7x7 Writing Prompt
Hi Corinne
I try to smile when things aren’t so great, it is hard to stay stressed and angry when you use those smile muscles.
My Siamese cat that I have a conversation with makes me laugh. I smile when both of the cats are asleep and they make little sounds, I wonder what they are dreaming about. Life would be pretty boring if they were not in it. They bring so much joy.
Mary
Mary Stephenson recently posted..Memories and How Well They Serve Us
So true, Mary. A smile can be mood changing. Pets are a huge source of joy, aren’t they? I’m not a cat person, but our Pablo (a boxer) brings us much joy and madness!
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..The 7x7x7x7 Writing Prompt
My daughter who is living in Santa Fe and going to college, texting me to tell she found a job. She is keen to earn her own pocket money. I am proud of her determination and smile as I read her early morning greeting. “I got it, the job I wanted it. Made me smile.
Brenda recently posted..I Have Loved You
That’s great news, Brenda. I remember the posts you wrote when she was going off to college – so glad she’s settled in so well. Thanks for sharing.
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..The Little Things That Make Me Smile
I was not following ur blog and I realised this today 🙁
What made me smile today? Well write my brat is sleeping in my lap feeling very secure and here I am typing away…a serene moment but very precious 🙂
Smita Beohar recently posted..That Salman Khan Moment of my life!!!!
I realize too that I haven’t been reading yours either, Smita. Thanks for stopping by. I can picture the moment you’ve shared and know why it’s so precious to you. ♥
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..The 7x7x7x7 Writing Prompt
Your blog doesn’t open in my office 🙁
I wonder why….any ideas?
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..The Little Things That Make Me Smile
Corrine,
A cuddle with my wife – of course..
A sumptuous meal..
Seeing my old friends at a function in our college.
Got the opportunity to judge the various food stall at our college.
Seeing my mother smile…
I can add on to the list and you deserve a 21 gun salute for sharing this amazing article and making us realize the importance of small things that makes us smile..
Inspiring Citizen Rafi recently posted..A Mani Karthik SPICY Interview – Journey Through Arabian Sea, From Cochin to Silicon Valley And 3 Blogs Worth Millions
Thanks for adding your list, Rafi. I see food made it twice in your list. I’m guessing you are a good Hyderabadi, right? 😉
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..The 7x7x7x7 Writing Prompt
Hello Corrine,
Yes, you are rite..I am a foodie..How about you?
I am not from Hydreabad..A crossbreed infact..he he he..
Oops. ..Sorry I don’t know how I arrived at the fact that you live in Hyderabad. Now I’m curious to know where…
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..The 7x7x7x7 Writing Prompt
Hello Corrine,
I currently live in God’s own country and I believe you are from the city of dreams, Mumbai.
Are you still curious about the land when the whole world belongs to God??
Inspiring Citizen Rafi recently posted..Real Inspirational Story Of A Courageous Village Boy Who Battled To Reach The Top Of The World – Series 1
Now I know – just love God’s own country! 🙂 I’m in Mumbai though a part of me is in Hyderabad – where I spent most of my life!
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..Speaking My Truth
This is beautiful! I’m going to start doing this in my life. I find verbalizing the fact that I’m enjoying a moment helps, too. Just saying, “I’m so happy right now,” really affirms it in my being.
femmefrugality recently posted..Big Let-Downs on the Deal Front
Verbalizing is a fantastic way of affirming a good feeling, Brynne. Great addition. Thank you.
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..The 7x7x7x7 Writing Prompt
Loved the list! If the beginning of the day was so good, i am sure the day went on the be one of the perfect days 🙂
Thanks, Akanksha. It was. But then all days are – or at least that’s how I wish to remember them! 😉
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..The Little Things That Make Me Smile
Oh how beautiful! There are so many things to smile about each and everyday…and this day, what brought me to smile first thing in the morning is the sight of my mom… a wonderful breakfast… music… our newly painted stairs and walls, my Saturdate’s SMS, friends’ messages 🙂 I feel so loved and blessed… what is just missing is a cuddle from my husband LOL…
Lots of love BS ~ your list also made me smile 😉
melissa recently posted..Immersed: First part
Thanks for sharing all that makes you smile, Melissa. The one that’s missing made me smile – knowing that someday soon it will be on your list! Wishing, hoping, praying….
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..The Little Things That Make Me Smile
Hi Jenn – I’m so glad I could host this hop – the topic just ‘ came to me’ and I’m looking forward to reading the other posts too.
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..The Little Things That Make Me Smile
I think it’s so easy to focus on the bad things, the uncomfortable things, and the sad things that happen to us day to day, but it takes a strong person to focus on the small things that make you smile, because that is really what get’s us through. Thank you for sharing!
Rachel Harper recently posted..Organize your 2013 – G! Magazine Article
You said it so well, Rachel. I do think that if we can make a habit of focus on things that make us smile, life would be much simpler for us and the people we live with!; )
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..The Little Things That Make Me Smile
awesome topic! iuno what i’d write for this one but your reasons are great 🙂
Jenny recently posted..My son, the little shutter bug
Thanks so much, Jenny. Your blog looks wonderful now!
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..The Little Things That Make Me Smile
Awesome list! <3 Very wonderful prompt. Uplifting and fun!! I love this <3
Emily Rose recently posted..The Little Things That Make Me Smile
Thanks, Emily Rose. Your list of things that made you smile was inspiring!
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..The 7x7x7x7 Writing Prompt
HI Corinne,
This is the post of the day for me, I was down and out because of some personal reasons but your post lifted the spirit. We at times overlook some small things and search for the joy in big things.
Thanks for sharing this.
Sapna
sapna recently posted..This Naive Blogger is a Beggar by all means(An infographics)
Thank you for sharing, Sapna. I’m glad this post helped you feel better. I know your posts always bring a smile to my face. ♥
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..The 7x7x7x7 Writing Prompt
Isn’t it amazing how it is the little things that make us smile. Loved your list – it made me smile too.
Suzy recently posted..UBC 31 – This Moment – Rugby Sevens
Thanks, Suzy. Yours was very inspiring, my friend!
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..The 7x7x7x7 Writing Prompt
aww I am the one who should be thankful to you for being part of this journey with my twins. All your lovely comments makes me feel blessed. Hugs and this is such a warm post that will bring a smile on anyone’s face
Sakshi recently posted..Moo
Thanks for sharing your joy with us, Sakshi. They’re lovely little fellows and it’s so great to see Mother-love in action! 🙂
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..The 7x7x7x7 Writing Prompt
Totally agree with your sentiment! Everything depends on our attitude towards life!
Roshni recently posted..I need your help!
Thanks, Roshini. Yes, attitude makes us happy or depressed – take your choice, right? 🙂
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..The 7x7x7x7 Writing Prompt
Your post on smiling made me smile!
Audrey Howitt recently posted..Rain in Fussen
Thanks so much, Audrey. Your comment did that to me. 😉
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..The Little Things That Make Me Smile
There certainly are many little things that will make us smile each day if only we take the time to let them.
Joyce recently posted..Writer’s Post: Little Things That Make Me Smile
Oh yes, there are, Joyce. Thank you for sharing your list of ‘happies’ 🙂
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..The Little Things That Make Me Smile
Beautiful post and was so very happy to link up this week with my post of what makes me happy. Thanks for hosting Corinne 🙂
Thanks for linking up, Janine.
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..The Little Things That Make Me Smile
What a marvellous idea and an instant mood brightener! Thank you, Corinne, for this great post. I found it on the Writer’s Post group and will be joining your blog hop shortly. Cheers!
Debbie recently posted..WORDLESS WEDNESDAY 30.1.13
Thanks for joining the hop, Debbie. Loved your post too.
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..The Little Things That Make Me Smile
Things which make us smile are often those little things happening each day which also make us grateful. Smiling fills our lives with joy and radiates that joy to everyone around us. That’s what your post did for me today, Corinne!
Blessings and love!
Martha Orlando recently posted.."Hopelessly Devoted to You . . ."
You’re so right, Martha. The little things are what bring us so much joy! Keep smiling – you certainly know how to spread the smiles. ♥
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..The Little Things That Make Me Smile
Nice post…we should take time to appreciate everything around us…but sometimes life gets in the way. Finishing Day 31 of the Blog Challenge made me smile today, mending my mobile phone and having fun at my French conversation class this morning also made me smile.
Congratulations on completing the UBC. Well done – that’s surely a reason to smile!
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..The Little Things That Make Me Smile
I love this post! Thanks for being first on my list of reasons to smile today!
Liz recently posted..Ultimate Blog Challenge Wrap Up and Thank You!
Thanks for stopping by, Liz.
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..Writing and Living Free
Hi Corinee,
Very nice topic Corinee.It is a great thing that can give you happiness in the world “smile”.I have huge list to smile.When i wake up in the morning first thing i go to my pet dog silently and see his activity he at that time plays alot and looks very funny, i go to shower i remember some old things i smile, i come to my table to see the comments on my blog and smile. i have many thing to smile sometime i dont have anything still i smile i dont know why i realize it afterward. LOL its funny.
Thank You
Shorya Bist
From Youthofest
Shorya Bist recently posted..How to live a happy life?
Dogs do have a way of making us smile, don’t they, Shorya? What breed is yours and what’s his name? Our Pablo, a boxer, is absolutely nuts!
Yes, the feedback from readers does make us smile – as your comment just did! 🙂
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..Friendship Redefined?
Such a wonderful list and this prompt warms my heart. I can not wait to write my contribution. Thank you for the inspiration!!!
Kathy
http://gigglingtruckerswife.blogspot.com
Kathy recently posted..Popularity
Thanks, Kathy. Loved reading your post too.
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..The 7x7x7x7 Writing Prompt
Oh Corinne, your list made me smile 🙂 As I’m just getting started in my day, the quiet of the morning makes me smile, the snowflakes slowly passing through the brisk air outside my window is certainly bringing a smile to my face. And, of course, my hot cup of coffee and my ‘blankie’ over my legs is bringing a smile to my face.
I’ll have to check this blog hop out and maybe later I can join in. My father has been ill and in the bed for almost 2 weeks now and has consumed quite a bit of my time.
Mary Hudak-Collins recently posted..Kolaczki or Polish Rogaliki?
Thank you for sharing the simple things that make you smile, Mary. I’m sorry to hear about your Dad. I do hope he’s doing better now.
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..Writing and Living Free
Indeed! And your post made me smile too! Thanks for the gin and tonic.
umashankar recently posted..Beloved by Toni Morrison -A Review
You’re very welcome, USP. The gin and tonic is on me! 😉
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..The Little Things That Make Me Smile
What a great post! Very positive! It reminds me of the concept of finding gratitude in the small things of life.
This morning, what made me smile, was meeting warm, not icy air, as I went outside to walk my dog.
Having a home that hummed with electricity, children eating a nourishing breakfast, and reading a status update from a fb friend where he wrote the following:
“Today I’m going to give to those who can’t repay. This includes giving hope to someone who has given up.”
How beautiful is that??
Hope today brings many smiles for you Corinne. <3
Hi Jessica – Thank you for sharing what made you happy. It’s amazing how much focusing on the simple things can bring an attitude of gratitude into our lives.
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..Friendship Redefined?
I can spend hours together smiling looking at some of my very interesting pictures over the years
B k Chowla recently posted..DIRTY MONEY
Looking at old pictures is certainly a great way to bring smiles, Mr Chowla.
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..The Little Things That Make Me Smile
As I read this post and gave a thought to what makes me smile, my list looked like yours in some points ( esp.point no. 8 ) 😉 Then slowly,as I mulled over it , the list became longer . You see, this in itself brought a smile to my lips.
sharmila recently posted..The White Quilt
Point No.8 – you too? I wonder who you’ve been having these crazy conversations with, Sharmila!
Oh yes, the more we focus on the good stuff, the longer the list gets!
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..The Little Things That Make Me Smile
Familiar with point no. 8. And, now we know what you do the rest of the time.
Inspirational post again.
Point 8? I wonder why that is, Janaki? 😉 Like Jose says, now you all know how I waste my time! 😉
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..The Little Things That Make Me Smile
This is a great exercise. I’ll definitely do this, starting today. I’ll really make an effort to attach significance to the things that make me smile and remember them. They’ll be good for when I don’t feel so good. 🙂
Anne recently posted..How To Build Confidence In Positives
Oh yes, Anne. I am finding it a very useful exercise too. It’s hard to stay unhappy when you remember to smile! 😉
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..The Little Things That Make Me Smile
Very nice thought Corinne. Actually there is lot in life to be happy about.
Jas recently posted..When a Pesky Relative Comes Calling
Oh yes, so much to be happy and thankful for, Jas!
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..The Little Things That Make Me Smile
Things that made me smile today so far and it’s only 10am here! Being woken by my precious five year old. Eating breakfast with him. Reading this post. Watching my boy sit at his school desk with his little pals. Seeing a dog on a lead determined to go his own way despite his owner tugging him the other way. My nine feral cats gathered in the garden awaiting breakfast.
Thanks for sharing, Claire. Children and animals certainly have a way of bringing a smile to our face!
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..The Little Things That Make Me Smile
What a wonderful thought for a post! Listing what makes us smile would certainly add more smiles in our day and also will help us to appreciate smaller things better!
Shilpa Garg recently posted..7x7x7x7
Ah thanks, Shilpa. It was Cheryl Richardson that set me off. And yes, appreciation is certainly a way to make us smile more.
Corinne Rodrigues recently posted..Friendship Redefined?