Today has been a quiet day. I'm struggling to find reasons to be happy and excited each day, so I thought I'd just list some of the things that I love about spending time at home.

This summer definitely has not been what I expected it to be. Between not being able to find a job that gives me hours, being lonely, and being several hundred dollars in debt, I've forgotten that even though I feel stuck, there's still good stuff happening around me that I should be appreciating. I have a wonderful family that supports me in every single thing I do, food to eat, and an air conditioned home that has saved me from several heat strokes this summer. There's so much to be thankful for.

I love people. For the most part. Okay. Like 97% of the time, I truly love people.

I love watching the way a person wraps their arms inside their jacket when it’s a bit breezy at night.

I love how wonderful homemade popcorn tastes when it's freshly popped.

I love snuggling up with a soft blanket and watching Once Upon A Time.

I love the way people walk down the street holding hands with a loved one.

I love the way a parent puts their child on their shoulders when it’s busy on the sidewalk.

I love the way my sister greets me each morning with a smile and a giant hug.

I love smiles.

I love to smile.

I love smiling at people.

I love when they smile back.

I love the way sunshine kisses my skin, and leaves a soft red glow on the surface after a day of wandering.

I love the way my heart pounds inside my chest as I go for my run each morning.

I love the way my muscles ache after a good workout.

I love the way my sister gently encourages me to push my limits and breathe deeply during our workouts.

I love the way fresh kale crunches in a salad.

I love the way gouda cheese and apples compliment each other so well.

I love the sound of my scooter rumbling to a start.

I love how musical the sound of birds chirping is.

I love the way old friends greet you with soft kisses on your cheek and a small embrace.

I love the sound of a wind chime when the breeze blows just right.

I love the way my 5 year old sister splashes in the pool and dunks her head under water.

I love when people go out of their way to be kind just because they want to be.

I love the way my 5 year old sister smiles when she drops her entire plate in her lap at the dining room table.

I love the whir of the air conditioner in my room.

I love how warm my bed is each night despite the cold air circling the room.

I love the way my mom puts smiley faces at the ends of her text messages.

I love the way the night goes dark, and the sky instantly becomes twinkly and bright.

I love spending time with my family each day.

I love getting to know my siblings a little better each day.

I love being home for the summer.

I think it's super important to remember that no matter how bad things may seem, there's always a reason to smile and spread joy to your community. I hope this inspires you to think about things that bring light to your life, and to celebrate them. Tell someone you love them today. Until next time.