Every time I turn on my computer or look at my phone, I'm filled with a new sense of dread. Just yesterday, I was at the aquarium with two of my favorite little kids. On the drive up, I was thinking about everything that's happening politically within our country and all of the acts of terrorism occurring domestically and abroad. It's depressing. Each day brings some new tragedy. I was hoping that yesterday, with the girls, we would have one good day. That ended when I opened my e-mail and saw the news alert about the shooting at the mall in Munich, Germany. When is the last time we had a day without incident? Hopefully today will be that day.

It's hard to remain positive or happy when we are constantly hit with new tragedies. It's critically important that each of us find ways to cope with the depressing way of the world these days. With everything that's going on in today's world, I've been thinking a lot about the things in my life that make me happy. Hopefully, I'll remember to cling to the good a little more from now on.

11. Good Books

There's very little I love more than being transported to a new world. That's what reading gives me. To be blunt, I enjoy reading more than I enjoy watching film or television. Why? When I read a book I get to image what the world looks like. I get to create the pictures in my mind. When I watch film and television, they pictures are already created.

10. The Ocean

Anyone who knows me knows that I love the water. I just love it. I would live in it if I could. There's nothing more peaceful than sitting on the beach and listening to the crescendo of the waves as they hit the shore. There's nothing more fun than diving into the ocean, riding the waves and being tossed around by them.

9. Baths

A bath can cure anything. I'm sure of that. Soaking in a tub full of hot water (it has to be hot water), listening to music and/or reading a book is the best way to relax.

8. Food

Comfort food is my best friend. Give me anything with cheese or carbs and I'm a happy camper. There is something so nourishing and fulfilling about eating a good meal. It has to be a good meal, though. None of that fast food stuff!

7. "Harry Potter"

It was the first book series that allowed me to fall in love with a fantastical world. Generally, I am not a fantasy enthusiast. There's something about "Harry Potter" that captured my heart. Anytime anything even remotely "Harry Potter" related is happening, I can't help but smile. One week until "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child" is published!

6. Fountain Soda

It's the best tasting soda there is. Enough said.

5. Disney

You can't be unhappy at Disney, you just can't. Every single time I see Splash Mountain, I become as giddy as little kid. It gets me every time and I love that it gets me every time.

4. Theater

Theater has been my passion since I was in middle school. It may have even saved my life (but that's another article). When I'm blessed enough to go see a live show, it makes me incredibly happy. There is nothing more electrifying than witnessing a live performance. The energy in the room and on the stage is addictive. Being pulled into the story unfolding before my eyes is a wonderful escape. It's one I'll never pass up.

3. My Dog

There's a reason that they say "a dog is man's best friend". The reason is that they are unconditionally loyal and will always love you, no matter what. When I'm home, my dog doesn't leave my side (unless someone is coming to the door and then all bets are off). Knowing that I can always count on him to let me snuggle with him and hug him and knowing he will always be excited to see me makes me so happy.

2. My Sister and Brother

Growing up, I always wanted siblings. Now that I have them, it makes me very happy to witness them growing into amazing people. As they get older, they're turning into friends too. That's the most special thing there is.

1. My Friends

They always know when something is wrong. They always know exactly the right thing to say. We've stuck by each other through a lot. I know that regardless of how messy my world gets or how disastrously the country and the world implode, we'll always be there for each other.