…a mid-holiday season “small happiness” list.

1.) Egg nog
2.) Thick blankets
3.) Ginormous leaves that do not match up to a single tree along my running route

4.) Colorful Christmas lights that make running and driving at night so cheerful
5.) Looking ahead to lots of holiday plans
6.) Dogs. Especially dogs named Buddy.

7.) Christmas cards from friends (Amy, Kelli…this means you.)
8.) People who hold doors and elevators — with a smile
9.) My fearless, funny children

10.) Freshly cut/purchased Christmas trees strapped to car tops
11.) Meaningful work
12.) The way sports can unite people in shared loyalty and joy (Mizzou game being projected at a Christmas tree lot below. Tough result, but so cool.)

13.) Unexpected gifts from friends that are absolutely perfect (Don…this means you.)
14.) Hugs that say “I mean it.”
15.) Cats that warm their buns on our floor vents

16.) The realization that most people really do want to make a difference and just do some good in the world
17.) Christmas movie marathons
18.) Solitude, silence, and stillness — even for just a few minutes

A small glimpse into my life lately.

It’s amazing how, when you pause to think about it, lots of little things can fill up so much space in one’s spirit and become really big things.