My Very Own Happiness Project

We took Jace to camp on Sunday. It was an exciting day for him as he loves camp and two buddies went with him. And? It was an exciting day for me because it meant a child-free week. What's not to love?

But today is Tuesday and I miss him. I miss his stories and his laughter and his hugs and I even miss his obnoxious ways. And I am finding myself determining to be more patient and more diligent--basically having lots of parental overhaul moments. Jace is 13 years old now--a bonafide teenager. It won't be long until he, too, is all grown up and Roy and I are left with echoing walls. I want to enjoy, to cherish, to look back with few regrets.

I have started reading a book called The Happiness Project. I'm late to the game on this one as it was a rage a few years back and I'm just now discovering it. (Thanks, Erin.) But it has an intriguing premise. The author gives herself a year to purposefully create happiness in her life. She works on one ideal a month, charts her progress, and then adds a second ideal the next month, and so on. She compares herself to Benjamin Franklin and his quest for perfection, for those of you who have read The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin. Anyway, this book has given me room for thought as I've contemplated what my ideals would be for my very own happiness project. Here are a few of my own ideas:

1.  I need to take more time to play. I am far too practical. That would cost too much in gas...Packing a picnic is so much work!...I am often far too content to hang in my swing in my front yard rather than go on an adventure. My incredible friend, Jacque, is an adventurer. She keeps things rolling, finds things to do, discovers the world around her. She is inspiring and I wish we lived closer as I know she would get me out of the neighborhood where I tend to hibernate. Anyway, Roy, Jace and I went Zen Tubing while she was here--floated down the French Broad where conversation never lacked and the raw beauty of North Carolina never ceased to amaze me. Afterwards, Roy said, "That was so much fun. I didn't think I'd like it but I'll do it again." North Carolina is the land of opportunity when it comes to outdoor fun. We need to cultivate that adventuresome spirit.

2.  Read more books. I have learned the joy of Netflix and unfortunately, it saps a lot of my time. But recently I've determined to read more, to get back to the things I love. I've always been a great self-entertainer as I am a lover of words. And so, I am going to do my best to conquer a book a week, alternating between informational or self-help and entertainment. I admire those who are avid readers and know a little about a lot.

3.  Make my home a haven. My bedroom? Not so much. It is strictly utilitarian. But I was inspired by this book I read recently called The Magic of Tidying Up where she discusses the importance of making every room soothing to our souls. I lamented to Jacque that I just don't have the money for a whole new bedroom suit and so it may be a few years before my bedroom becomes a hideaway. And she told me my view is all wrong--that I just need to change up the little things: hang a picture that speaks to me on the wall, get a new comforter, add a couple of throw pillows, bring in a cozy lamp...And she's right. I need to add small touches to each of the rooms in my house and it would make a world of difference. So...that's on my very own Happiness Project List.

4.  Get more sleep. I have been surviving on about 6 hours each night. But last night I forced myself to go to bed at 9:30 and I woke up before my alarm--the true test for whether you're well-rested. I need to make that a regular habit.

5.  Media-free. I need to put my phone down more, focus on being present with those around me.

So there's my beginning. I am sure my list will grow as I continue reading this book, but for now, I'm inspired to make small changes to my world so that I create a life that is filled...

with joy,
with adventure,
with love,
with laughter,
with hope.