I am an optimist in every sense of the word. My love language is words of affirmation, so basically I just love saying happy things that brighten everyone's day. In a world full of so much hate, controversy, and a decrease in genuine kindness, you have to become aware of the little things that are so meaningful.

1. A new day.

So yesterday sucked? Well today doesn't have to! You control what affects you. Someone said something hateful to you? If they are saying things that tear you down, do they really matter? Nope.

2. A sunny day after a week full of rain.

I currently live in Louisiana, so I've been affected by some of the awful rain that brought the flooding this summer. Seeing the sun after a week that brought several inches of rain was such a blessing. Instead of dwelling on how much it rained, you have to focus on how beautiful the sun was.

3. Friends that care about you.

I'd like to think that I'm kind to everyone, but my friend circle is small. Nothing is greater than having friends that can sense when you've had a bad day and will comfort you. They also are great at reminding you when you need to focus on yourself rather than other people.

4. Fuzzy socks.

Okay so anyone that needs ideas for what to get me for holidays can pretty much bet on the fact that I would love fuzzy socks no matter how hot it is outside. I don't know why, but looking at my feet with fuzzy socks on just makes me laugh because I realize that they're typically for children.

5. Your favorite fast food place.

Who needs a significant other when you have Whataburger, am I right? One less than perfect day can always be brightened with some French fries and a vanilla shake.

6. The compliment someone gave you a long time ago that you still remember.

There is a saying that you don't remember what people said, but you remember how they made you feel. Well I remember a little bit of both and sometimes I feel like God knows I need a little confidence boost, and He places that memory in my head. Someone called me a rude name? That's when I remember one of my friends telling me that I am a wonderful person who has a heart for others.

7. Shoes without laces.

Okay this one might be a stretch, but I actually hate having to tie my shoelaces. Give me some Jandals or slip on Vans, and I'm one happy camper.

8. Children who love everyone.

I absolutely love kids, so I enjoy every encounter I have with them. I really appreciate the ones who have some sort of profound knowledge that one only possesses in their childhood. One time I was babysitting twins and one got hurt and started crying, and the other said "It happened in the past and though it hurt, getting over it makes you stronger." Like how does a six year old say such fortune cookie stuff?

9. Conversations with strangers.

Okay this could potentially be negative, but I just love the people that will come up to you and strike up a conversation. You can learn so much about a person in a 30 minute conversation - what they've been through, learned, and how they've improved. Sometimes they are so willing to give advice to prevent you from making their mistakes.

10. Your education.

If you're reading this, then you were taught how to read at some point. Even though homework can be awful and test anxiety can make your hair gray, you were able to take advantage of a privilege not offered in many countries.

If you want to be on the fast track to seeing the good in more things, I encourage you to check out the Book of Awesome!