Day Two of Giveaway Week — Happier at Home!

by Katy on February 4, 2014 · 281 comments

Happier at Home paperback

Today is DAY TWO of The Non-Consumer Advocate’s GIVEAWAY WEEK! 

Today I have three, count ’em three paperback copies of Gretchen Rubin’s Happier at Home: Kiss More, Jump More, Abandon Self-Control, and My Other Experiments in Everyday Life.

Rubin wrote this book as a companion to her wildly successful The Happiness Project, and it’s just as enlightening as its predecessor.

“As she conducted the year-long project that became The Happiness Project, Gretchen Rubin realized that her home, in all its aspects, was the most crucial element influencing her happiness.

So, starting in September (the new January), Gretchen dedicated a school year—from September through May—to concentrate on the factors that matter for home, such as possessions, marriage, time, parenthood, body, neighborhood. How can she control the cubicle in her pocket? How might she highlight her family’s most treasured possessions? How, for so long, had she overlooked the importance of the sense of smell? And it really was time to replace that dud toaster.

As in The Happiness Project, each month has a theme and finds Gretchen experimenting with several concrete, manageable resolutions meant to boost her happiness. With her signature blend of memoir, research, and experimentation, Gretchen’s passion for her subject jumps off the page, and reading just a few chapters of this book will inspire readers to find more happiness in their own lives.”

I first read this book in 2012 while on a non-stop flight from Oregon to New York for my Today Show appearance, and was happy to find myself thoroughly engrossed. (Flying is so boring!) I was lucky enough to meet up with Gretchen for dinner, where we discussed the book, our lives and blogging in general. She is a very astute individual, both as a writer and in person.

I thoroughly recommend Happier at Home for anyone who is looking to become more in control of their own happiness.

How to Enter: Write your name and one small thing that makes you happy in the comments section.

U.S. Residents only, enter one time only. I will randomly choose three winners Sunday, February 9th at 9 P.M.

Click HERE to enter Monday’s giveaway for a copy of TurboTax.

Katy Wolk-Stanley

“Use it up, wear it out, make it do or do without.”

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Disclosure: I was given one review copy of Happier at Home as part of this giveaway.

{ 281 comments… read them below or add one }

patti February 4, 2014 at 9:54 am

Sewing makes me happy. I totally zone out when I do.

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Kristin February 4, 2014 at 9:58 am

My 28-day budget makes me happy. Doing a budget the coincides with our income cycle makes budgeting so much easier.

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Diane C February 4, 2014 at 9:58 am

My new home and my family inside it make me happy every day.

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kathi February 4, 2014 at 10:01 am

Cooking from scratch makes me feel great.

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SUnny February 4, 2014 at 10:07 am

Riding my bike makes me happy!

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A. Marie February 4, 2014 at 10:07 am

Even after 35+ years, my darling husband still makes me very happy indeed. (Actually, he’s not a small thing, but I hope he still counts?)

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Eliza February 5, 2014 at 12:47 am

This made me giggle (and also, an ‘aww’).

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Amy O February 4, 2014 at 10:09 am

Reese’s peanut butter cups.

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Elizabeth V. February 4, 2014 at 10:10 am

My name is Elizabeth and one small thing that makes me happy is organic grass-fed whole milk 🙂

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Reese February 4, 2014 at 10:11 am

Getting a text message in the morning saying, “Good Morning” from someone who obviously cares enough to take the time out of his day to think about me.

Small things <3

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melissa February 4, 2014 at 10:12 am

My name is Melissa and babies make me happy!

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Val February 4, 2014 at 10:13 am

A spontaneous hug from my 14 year old son makes my heart hum. 🙂

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Sarah February 4, 2014 at 10:16 am

Playing with my dogs

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Gigi February 4, 2014 at 10:18 am

My pets make me happy. All 5 of ’em.

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Elizabeth February 4, 2014 at 10:19 am

Watching my 14 year old girl and 16 year old boy play competative soccer

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Karen3848 February 4, 2014 at 10:21 am

Karen – meeting my Goodreads Goal for books read for the year makes me happy!

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Linda M February 4, 2014 at 10:21 am

My family and friends make me very happy:)

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Diane February 4, 2014 at 10:23 am

Diane – baking makes me happy!

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Colleen February 4, 2014 at 10:23 am

Find a few minutes every day to read makes me happy. I need to dedicate more minutes to this, actually.

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Julie February 4, 2014 at 10:23 am

Julie – My friends and family make me happy!

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Colleen February 4, 2014 at 10:24 am

Finding a few minutes every day to read makes me happy. I need to dedicate more minutes to this, actually.

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Michelle W. February 4, 2014 at 10:28 am

Michelle W. Taking photos makes me happy.

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Sara S February 4, 2014 at 10:30 am

good conversation 🙂

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Linda February 4, 2014 at 10:33 am

That my children love playing board games as much as I do.

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Kristin February 4, 2014 at 10:35 am

Snow days make me extremely happy! 🙂

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Chris B. February 4, 2014 at 10:36 am

weather makes me happy – it shows me every day that I am part of this beautiful big world.

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Rachel S. February 4, 2014 at 10:40 am

Rachel. Seeing my foster dogs go to their new homes makes me very happy!

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NMPatricia February 4, 2014 at 10:41 am

A clean bathroom.

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Leslie Dye February 4, 2014 at 10:45 am

My children make me happy!

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Megyn February 4, 2014 at 10:45 am

Baby kittens…nothing better!

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Jennifer Meadows February 4, 2014 at 10:48 am

Jennifer. Getting up early to enjoy some reading time while our house is still quiet makes me happy 🙂

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Jennifer Meadows February 4, 2014 at 10:49 am

Jennifer. Getting up early to enjoy some reading time and a cup of coffee while our house is still quiet makes me happy 🙂

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Gloria February 4, 2014 at 10:50 am

Singing makes me happy!

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Kate February 4, 2014 at 10:56 am

A favorite song popping up on Pandora.

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Gail F February 4, 2014 at 10:57 am

Knitting makes me happy.

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Jennifer February 4, 2014 at 10:58 am

Bare feet. I can’t stand wearing socks indoors, even in the winter. My toes need to be free! 🙂

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Hannah February 4, 2014 at 11:01 am

Bad pun jokes make me happy. Cackling-with-laughter happy. For example:

“Did you know that when coral gets stressed, it dies? If I were coral, I’d have been dead years ago.”
“What does coral have to be stressed about?”
“Current events.”

^_^

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Little Miss Moneybags February 4, 2014 at 11:05 am

Soy chai latte. Perfect for those cold winter days.

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Becky February 4, 2014 at 11:06 am

My name is Becky, my weekly zumba class that I get to take with my best friend makes me happy!

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Maggie February 4, 2014 at 11:06 am

Snuggles from my 19-month old son make me very happy!

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Sarah February 4, 2014 at 11:11 am

Sarah L. homemade comfort foods simmering on the stove.

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Angie February 4, 2014 at 11:13 am

The smell of freshly-mown grass makes me happy!

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Jenn February 4, 2014 at 11:14 am

Making homemade soap makes me happy!

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Bonnie February 4, 2014 at 11:18 am

My 4 year old son saying “Mom you’re my BFF”

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Cristie February 4, 2014 at 11:23 am

My silly, awkward, clumsy Saint Bernard makes me happy.

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TraciFree February 4, 2014 at 11:24 am

Happiness is overhearing your husband brag to his friends about that awesome hat his wife found at the thriftstore, for only $1!

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Sarah February 4, 2014 at 11:27 am

Hugs from my three year old makes me happy. Even happier when they’re accompanied by kisses (without teeth) :).

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Sweta February 4, 2014 at 11:31 am

Spending time with friends.

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lisa February 4, 2014 at 11:34 am

Pets <3

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Kristen February 4, 2014 at 11:41 am

Sewing makes me happy.

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Rebecca February 4, 2014 at 11:42 am

I love using up leftovers in the fridge to make a new and different meal.

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Katy February 4, 2014 at 11:49 am

I am loving all these comments, they are what’s making me happy today.

Katy

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Erin February 4, 2014 at 11:52 am

Yoga makes me happy!

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tena February 4, 2014 at 11:52 am

Tena h. , wintery days and hot cocoa

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Brandi February 4, 2014 at 11:55 am

My (now 7 year old) kitty makes me happy!

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Judy Chapin February 4, 2014 at 11:57 am

Lovely smelling candles (perfect for the forthcoming snowstorm tonight) make me happy! Thanks for the giveaway.

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April Sanicola February 4, 2014 at 12:09 pm

My little dog Tinker!!

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Lesley Parent February 4, 2014 at 12:13 pm

Streaming Netflix makes me happy!

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Susan February 4, 2014 at 12:28 pm

Picking up all the stray pieces of paper all over the house and putting them away makes me happy. I would love this book!!

–Susan

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Emma February 4, 2014 at 12:28 pm

Going for bicycle rides makes me happy. Also, reading your blog makes me happy.

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kristin February 4, 2014 at 12:29 pm

using my instant hot faucet to make tea in my favorite mug.

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Jenny February 4, 2014 at 12:44 pm

It makes me so very happy to laze around in my hammock while people-watching at the neighborhood park. I can’t wait for the weather to warm up so I can do this again.

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Alyson C. February 4, 2014 at 12:46 pm

Curling up on the couch with a blanket and a good book (from the library, of course) makes me happy.

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Susan K February 4, 2014 at 12:50 pm

When I overhear my two boys being sweet to each other, it makes me happy.

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Elizabeth B February 4, 2014 at 12:51 pm

Elizabeth Bales-Stutes

Seeing my bed all neatly made makes me happy.

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Lisa February 4, 2014 at 12:55 pm

Snow days! 🙂

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Jane February 4, 2014 at 12:58 pm

Our new furnace that was installed last summer! So we’re nice and warm this cold and snowy winter!

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Sarah G. February 4, 2014 at 12:58 pm

Sarah G.
Quality time with my husband definitely makes me happy.

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Megan M February 4, 2014 at 1:07 pm

A hot bath and plenty of time to sit in it.

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Mary C. February 4, 2014 at 1:09 pm

Fan-girling over Benedict Cumberbatch in Sherlock with my eleven-year old daughter makes me happy!

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Laura February 4, 2014 at 1:09 pm

Having about 2/3 less stuff that we did a year ago makes me happier than I ever imagined!

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Jenny February 4, 2014 at 1:12 pm

Baking makes me happy!

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Susan February 4, 2014 at 1:29 pm

Susan
Somebody else doing the dishes

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Kelly February 4, 2014 at 1:33 pm

Kelly
My daughters kisses. They fill my heart with enough joy to face anything. Thank God she is generous and sweet!

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Oma Chastka February 4, 2014 at 1:34 pm

friends make me happy

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Sadye February 4, 2014 at 1:50 pm

My cats 🙂

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Stacey February 4, 2014 at 1:52 pm

The look on my dog’s face when she comes into the room with a toy and I start to play with her makes me very happy.

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Anne Burner February 4, 2014 at 1:55 pm

What makes me happy is being curled up on the sofa with hot chocolate, with classical or jazz playing on the radio as I read a good (library) book. Double points if a cat joins me. ^_^

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Debbie Weaver February 4, 2014 at 2:00 pm

The grateful, happy, excited faces of all the dogs when I do an early-morning volunteer shift at the animal shelter. 🙂

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Barb @ 1SentenceDiary February 4, 2014 at 2:08 pm

Reading a really good book makes me happy. Also, listening to my kiddos laughing.

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Michele Daggar February 4, 2014 at 2:14 pm

My daily Diet Pepsi makes me happy!

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Barb @ 1SentenceDiary February 4, 2014 at 2:20 pm

Reading a good book makes me happy, as does listening to the sound of my kids laughing.

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Dani February 4, 2014 at 2:22 pm

Going home to leftovers for dinner is making me happy today!

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Michelle February 4, 2014 at 2:24 pm

a bright moon on snow makes me pause and be happy!

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Dawn T February 4, 2014 at 2:24 pm

All my chickens running across the yard to greet me every time I go outside!

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K D February 4, 2014 at 2:31 pm

The ability to take dawdle in a hot shower, what a luxury.

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Brittany February 4, 2014 at 2:31 pm

A cup of hot tea makes me happy!

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rebecca February 4, 2014 at 2:34 pm

my dog Lola

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Cynthia Reimer February 4, 2014 at 2:42 pm

Tea in a pretty teacup.

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Brenda February 4, 2014 at 3:03 pm

An empty laundry basket!

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Amanda S February 4, 2014 at 3:05 pm

Something that makes me very happy: when I’m sitting down and my cat crawls into my lap and lays her head on me and wraps her arm around my pregnant belly. It’s so adorable.

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Kim A February 4, 2014 at 3:07 pm

Savings money makes me happy.

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Chrissy February 4, 2014 at 3:13 pm

Happiness is a cuddly baby.

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Jacqueline February 4, 2014 at 3:15 pm

Friends and family

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Zoya February 4, 2014 at 3:19 pm

sunshine! 🙂

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Savannah L February 4, 2014 at 3:21 pm

A cup of hot strong coffee in the morning makes me happy and functional! 🙂

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LuAnn February 4, 2014 at 3:24 pm

Being safe in my home and watching the snow fall. Thanks.

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Christie February 4, 2014 at 3:29 pm

A warm cup of coffee, curled up with a good book. Ah, that is my true happiness! 😀

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mb welch February 4, 2014 at 3:36 pm

Mary Beth is happy when everybody is home together.

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Maureen February 4, 2014 at 3:40 pm

Homemade chocolate chip cookies. Made by me.

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Jessica February 4, 2014 at 3:42 pm

My kids make me happy.

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Carrie Dennett February 4, 2014 at 3:43 pm

Waking up when my body says it’s time (instead of when the alarm clock says it’s time) makes me happy!

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Susy February 4, 2014 at 3:46 pm

Sewing makes my soul happy!

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Becky February 4, 2014 at 3:49 pm

Oooh! I loved Gretchen’s first book. Thank you for the chance to win this one.

Today I’m feeling happy because, after several months of unemployment, I’ve been offered a job! And though that’s a big thing, the bit that actually delights me most is that the job will be in a beautiful building on a lovely body of water. After a career of jobs in ho-hum locations, I am looking forward to lunch hours spent looking at a pretty view (and feeding the ducks)!

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Connor February 4, 2014 at 3:49 pm

Using the bowl that my late grandmother gave me when I’m kneading bread.

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Andrea Schott February 4, 2014 at 3:50 pm

Sunshine!

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Carol February 4, 2014 at 3:56 pm

Sunny days in winter make me happy.

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Laura February 4, 2014 at 4:07 pm

When my kids squeal when I say “my friend Katy from Portland” when they ask me where I learned such and such. : )

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Cheryl February 4, 2014 at 4:17 pm

A clean kitchen

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Kristi Taylor February 4, 2014 at 4:17 pm

Yes, please enter me to win this book – it sounds fabulous!!

Mornings when my little guy (4 yrs old!) sleeps in with me are some of my happiest moments; waking up slowly, snuggling & playing little “wake up” games we invent each morning. Pure joy!!

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Carol February 4, 2014 at 4:24 pm

Thrift shopping makes me happy!

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Beth February 4, 2014 at 4:32 pm

30 minutes of morning time before anyone else is up, alone with tea, journal, and a view out my front window is the happiest way to start my day!

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Theresa Palmer February 4, 2014 at 4:40 pm

My husband makes me happy!

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Marianne February 4, 2014 at 4:49 pm

Having a child. I never knew it would be this much fun or the joy she could bring me and my husband. We both agree this is the happiest time in our lives. 🙂

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Kerrie February 4, 2014 at 4:50 pm

Reading old favorites to my kids makes me happy 🙂

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Karen fr/ NE February 4, 2014 at 4:50 pm

Watching the birds at our bird feeder and bird bath (with heater) gives me much pleasure. How do they stay warm when the wind chill is -26!

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michelle d February 4, 2014 at 4:53 pm

Listening to my boys play and make up stories. Some wild imaginations around here.

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Julie Long February 4, 2014 at 4:55 pm

I love crawling into bed with warm blankets on cold winter nights like this one, and feeling so incredibly blessed and grateful that I have that opportunity.

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Julie Long February 4, 2014 at 4:55 pm

I love crawling into bed with warm blankets on cold winter nights like this one, and feeling so incredibly blessed and grateful that I have that opportunity.

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Nina Nelson February 4, 2014 at 5:00 pm

Drinking a cup of lavender earl grey tea while reading a great book.

~Nina Nelson

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Sarah February 4, 2014 at 5:01 pm

My daily afternoon cup of tea and its accompanying reading material make me unreasonably happy for such a small thing!

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Linda February 4, 2014 at 5:03 pm

Waking up early and having a quiet house to myself to read and drink coffee.

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Debbie February 4, 2014 at 5:19 pm

Watching the morning news and drinking my first cup of coffee with my pug dog snuggled beside me — that makes me happy!

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Mary Ann February 4, 2014 at 5:26 pm

A slice of freshly made bread with butter.

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Sandy February 4, 2014 at 5:31 pm

Coming home from work and having my pets greet me so happily at the door! It’s wonderful after a hard day at work to be greeting with such love!

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susan February 4, 2014 at 5:32 pm

Walks on our deer trail with my small, very sweet rescue dog make me happier than anything else in the world!
She is my very 1st dog (I’m 60!) and my joy with her is endless – no amount of money can replace this.

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Amelia February 4, 2014 at 5:33 pm

Singing along to music in my car makes me happy.

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Tara February 4, 2014 at 5:36 pm

Coffee and naps.

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Christina February 4, 2014 at 5:41 pm

Sitting still in the morning, hands curled around a warm cup of coffee and breathing in the possibility of a new day.

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Jennie February 4, 2014 at 5:47 pm

What makes me happy is starting the weekend sitting by a window (in the winter) or on the porch (warm days) with a cup of tea and writing in my journal.

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Melissa February 4, 2014 at 5:58 pm

Looking out at the snowy landscape makes me happy.

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jennifer g February 4, 2014 at 6:06 pm

I can name two, sleeping past 8 AM and a fresh cup of hot coffee

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Melanie Fuller February 4, 2014 at 6:18 pm

A good cup of coffee!

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Terri W. February 4, 2014 at 6:29 pm

My Bible study group!

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Tish Oberley February 4, 2014 at 6:31 pm

My boyfriend and I live far away from each other. I am happy when we send each other spontaneous e-mails during the day.

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Ani Mia February 4, 2014 at 6:33 pm

a good book and an hour of quiet.

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Michelle February 4, 2014 at 6:37 pm

Dancing in our small kitchen with my four young kids to the tunes of ABBA! We laugh so much – it always amazes me 🙂
Thanks for the chance to win this book – I loved The Happiness Project!

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JJ Horan February 4, 2014 at 6:44 pm

Watching the doves landing on the top of the fence outside the kitchen window makes me smile inside with happiness because they are finding what they need to live in the area.

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Katharine February 4, 2014 at 6:46 pm

Watching my son play with toys that were mine when I was a child makes me happy.

(And I loved Gretchen’s other book.)

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lene February 4, 2014 at 6:48 pm

My name is Lene, and I’m happy right now, in fact. My husband and son are safe here at home, we’re all enjoying our nightly mugs of tea, and I have both my knitting and my touchpad full of books (with large fonts for my old eyes) within grabbing distance. Can’t get better than this!

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Rebekah February 4, 2014 at 7:01 pm

Cooking dinner with my teenage daughter makes me happy.

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Cheri February 4, 2014 at 7:02 pm

My nice cozy bed makes me so happy.

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Linda February 4, 2014 at 7:07 pm

My morning coffee.

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Lea February 4, 2014 at 7:09 pm

Baking!

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Kim c February 4, 2014 at 7:20 pm

My hubby makes me happy, definitely!

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Adrienne February 4, 2014 at 7:21 pm

Music! Adrienne

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Gina M February 4, 2014 at 7:22 pm

When my kids play together happily… that makes me happy.

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Jennifer February 4, 2014 at 7:24 pm

seeing the doves outside the kitchen window……knowing they have found what they need to live near

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Laura February 4, 2014 at 7:26 pm

Browsing the used book store or the new releases section of the library. Even if I don’t go home with anything, you get all new ideas and get excited about reading some neglected books at home.

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Deborah C. Williams February 4, 2014 at 7:32 pm

Taking care of my FAMILY!

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Jennifer February 4, 2014 at 7:40 pm

watching the doves outside the kitchen window…..knowing they have what they need to live near

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JOAN WIBERG February 4, 2014 at 7:43 pm

CHOCOLATE. (MILK CHOCOLATE….HERSHEY BARS….MANDmS…

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Charlotte February 4, 2014 at 7:44 pm

Waking up before the sunrise!

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Marina February 4, 2014 at 7:51 pm

Snuggles with my puppy make me happy.

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Tammy February 4, 2014 at 7:59 pm

What makes me happy:
The feel of the velvety softness of a horses’ nose. I enjoyed that today on a walk with a neighbor. There were horses in a field next to the road we were walking on. They came to inquire about the noisy dogs we were walking. We were able to get close enough for a few moments of enjoyment.

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Janelle February 4, 2014 at 8:02 pm

The smell of homemade bread baking.

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Pam February 4, 2014 at 8:19 pm

Having breakfast with my husband and baby son every morning.

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Lia February 4, 2014 at 8:21 pm

Staying present in each moment….scratch that. Attempting to stay present in each glorious, horrifying, gratifying, painful and beautiful moment without losing sight of purpose.
And my son-in-law’s home-roasted (in a converted retro popcorn popper!) coffee.

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kathleen February 4, 2014 at 8:23 pm

Making Valentines!

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Lia February 4, 2014 at 8:25 pm

A freshly ground & pressed cup of my son-in-law’s home-roasted coffee, enjoyed with my darlin’ daughter as we catch up on our lives!

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Morgan February 4, 2014 at 8:37 pm

Making a yummy, healthy, from scratch meal at night for myself and my boyfriend makes me really happy. Us having together at night makes me really happy after a long day!

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Amy February 4, 2014 at 8:51 pm

Amy’s small thing – watching my cat and dog play and chase each other around the apartment!

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mollyblock February 4, 2014 at 8:56 pm

Living in the moment.

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Amie February 4, 2014 at 8:59 pm

Zero bars. Yummmmm….

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Jessica February 4, 2014 at 9:00 pm

Sitting down to enjoy an espresso every morning before driving to school.

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Patti Powell February 4, 2014 at 9:02 pm

My family

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Leslie February 4, 2014 at 9:13 pm

Pancakes and sausages for supper on a snowy evening.

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Barb February 4, 2014 at 9:14 pm

I’m so happy I don’t have to go out in this crazy snow storm we’re having in the midwest!

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Laura Heitkamp February 4, 2014 at 9:19 pm

A small thing that makes me happy: I went to the thrift store with the goal of buying a coffee mug because I broke one of my two mugs today. I found one with dandelions on it (my favorite flower), it’s perfect and I love it.

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Kandace February 4, 2014 at 9:25 pm

Snow cream! (Trying to make lemonade out of this snowy, icy lemon of a winter.)

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Cherie February 4, 2014 at 9:36 pm

Hot baths, good books and my family make me happy 🙂

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Barbara February 4, 2014 at 9:43 pm

My 2 little guys and my daughter … I just love how much they have fun together with their friends, and how innocent and sweet their pretend games are.

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Erica February 4, 2014 at 9:45 pm

Making things from scratch make me happy.

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Elizabeth February 4, 2014 at 10:13 pm

Days when I get to sleep late.

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Suzanne Perkins February 4, 2014 at 10:54 pm

I just checked this book out from the library! I read her first book and would love my own copy!

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Celeste S February 4, 2014 at 10:56 pm

the morning cup of coffee before everyone wakes!

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Jacci February 5, 2014 at 2:43 am

A few minutes of quiet time before hubby and the kids wake up!

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Judy February 5, 2014 at 3:09 am

Seeing and playing with my grandchildren!

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karen February 5, 2014 at 3:21 am

I learned two things from observing my grandmother as a child that greatly contribute to my happiness level: eat out on Friday nights (who wants to cook after a week at work?) and have a cleaning lady!!!!
The third thing I discovered on my own – get a pedicure. For me, these three things are worth the money investment for their happiness return!

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April Schroeder February 5, 2014 at 3:24 am

Pistachio Gelato!

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melinda harbaugh February 5, 2014 at 3:45 am

Seeing my husband and our children goof around and be silly….very much the simple things in life!

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Erin B February 5, 2014 at 3:48 am

My dog makes me very happy!

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Carol Doane (@TheClassicCarol) February 5, 2014 at 3:57 am

A clean basement and I don’t have one.

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Carol Doane (@TheClassicCarol) February 5, 2014 at 4:01 am

A clean basement and I don’t have one

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Marcia February 5, 2014 at 4:41 am

Coming home from the library with a stack of books makes me happy. I get so psyched to borrow them and it also thrills me that after I read them I return them and get the clutter out of my house!

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Emilie February 5, 2014 at 4:48 am

My cat’s sweet face always makes me happy

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Paul N February 5, 2014 at 4:57 am

Getting together with friends makes me happy.

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Sarah February 5, 2014 at 5:21 am

Sarah. My dogs.

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Sharon February 5, 2014 at 5:23 am

Sharon R. is happiest at home with her family, especially when there’s nowhere to go and no chores to do!

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Jean February 5, 2014 at 5:30 am

The peacefulness of knitting, sewing, needlework and seeing what can be created with a piece of string (yarn, thread) and a square of fabric and quietly reading give me happiness and enjoyment within my home.
Thank you.

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Pidge February 5, 2014 at 5:44 am

Being warm and cozy at home with my family on a snow day!

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Sharon February 5, 2014 at 5:55 am

When I’m home with my family with no place to go and no chores to do. Just to spend time together doing the simple things.

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Linda February 5, 2014 at 6:01 am

Playing with my grandson.

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Ann February 5, 2014 at 6:10 am

Going to one of the many great parks here in my town and painting a landscape — really looking at what’s before me and trying to capture for others (and myself) the essence of what it is I’m seeing and feeling at that moment in time.

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Ann Y. February 5, 2014 at 6:31 am

My husband ! Thanks for the offer – Ann Y. Please excuse multiple posts on the underwear posts….my computer kept saying it timed out. Had to change browsers, did not know they went through. Sorry !

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Christine C February 5, 2014 at 6:35 am

My happiness is snuggles from my family, especially after a bath. Smell + sight + touch = joy.

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Elizabeth February 5, 2014 at 6:46 am

Sunshine and warm weather…reading a book outside. (Oh, someday spring will come…)

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Maryanne February 5, 2014 at 6:49 am

A hot soak in the tub after a 5 mile run!

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Tracy February 5, 2014 at 6:59 am

Tracy Neumire

Reading!

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Karen Z February 5, 2014 at 7:15 am

A nice hot cup of coffee in my kitchen in the morning.

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Karen Z February 5, 2014 at 7:19 am

Having a great cup of coffee in the a.m. in my kitchen.

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Kat H. February 5, 2014 at 7:24 am

Right now, getting an outdoor workout in despite winter weather.

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Cheryl February 5, 2014 at 7:27 am

Snuggling with my son.

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Katie February 5, 2014 at 7:30 am

Eating two clementine oranges and a piece of peanut butter toast for breakfast makes me very happy.

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CP February 5, 2014 at 7:36 am

A clean and organized house is making me happy right now (if only I had it)!

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stephanie girard February 5, 2014 at 7:43 am

Stephanie g
My kids helping each other pick up their toys

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Yvonne February 5, 2014 at 8:02 am

Date nights with my husband are a must for my happiness!

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claudia February 5, 2014 at 8:47 am

Watching my crazy poodle jump for a thrown tennis ball–she’s so joyful!
Claudia K.

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Shea February 5, 2014 at 9:04 am

People being nice to each other on NYC subways and busses always makes me smile.

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Carol F February 5, 2014 at 9:11 am

Dishes are done and sink is clean!

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Jens February 5, 2014 at 9:25 am

Making a nice pot of soup out of bits from the freezer when it’s snowing outside!

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Kay February 5, 2014 at 9:47 am

Chatting online with my niece who lives to far away to visit regularly!

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Linda from mass February 5, 2014 at 10:00 am

Cooking for my family and friends always makes me happy!

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Linda from mass February 5, 2014 at 10:05 am

Cooking for my family and friends!

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Linn February 5, 2014 at 10:05 am

Crunching leaves with my feet. Linn Y.

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Nancy K. February 5, 2014 at 10:07 am

The first sip of the first cup of coffee in the morning. Ahhhh!

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Ashley Kinsinger February 5, 2014 at 10:34 am

I LOVE her first book – can’t wait to win this one 🙂

Thanks!

Ashley Kinsinger

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Kiersten Hyman February 5, 2014 at 10:45 am

Kiersten Hyman- What’s making me happy right now? Watching my 16 year old daughter shoveling snow in our driveway- she’s providing us some funny entertainment as she fights the snow and also clearing our driveway for us. Win-win!

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Sarah February 5, 2014 at 11:28 am

Though I love my boyfriend more than anything, I can really be happy about having a night alone. 🙂

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Kathy Magee February 5, 2014 at 12:20 pm

Kathy Magee–Helping my granddaughters with crafts,gardening, etc. makes me happy.

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Lorraine February 5, 2014 at 1:01 pm

Good tea

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Amy February 5, 2014 at 1:04 pm

Working on a crochet/knitting project while catching up on Dr. Who!

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sarah k @ the pajama chef February 5, 2014 at 1:21 pm

running makes me happy – Sarah Keil

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Tammie February 5, 2014 at 1:52 pm

getting to spend each and every day with my kiddos whom I homeschool!

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J.D February 5, 2014 at 2:06 pm

The pat, pat, pat of tiny feet running across the kitchen floor makes me very happy. Julia

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Tami February 5, 2014 at 2:28 pm

Unseasonable sunshine in Seattle!

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Jody February 5, 2014 at 3:19 pm

Happiness is spending time with my family who all live far and wide!

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Kim from Philadelphia February 5, 2014 at 4:24 pm

A nice, hot, cup of dark coffee with a dash of cream.

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Kim February 5, 2014 at 4:36 pm

Looks like a good book.

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Lisa Brooks February 5, 2014 at 5:25 pm

An early bedtime!

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Martha February 5, 2014 at 5:26 pm

Yoga class!!

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Gina Bello February 5, 2014 at 5:30 pm

My bull terrier, Coco:)

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Kathy Felton February 5, 2014 at 6:54 pm

Looking at a beautiful sunrise

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Denise Kirk February 5, 2014 at 7:28 pm

A warm sunny day, bright blue sky, and a wonderful warm breeze!!

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Katrina February 5, 2014 at 7:56 pm

Sewing something requested by kids and them loving the final product

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Kim February 5, 2014 at 8:13 pm

That each day the sun sets a little bit later than the day before! That means every day I’m 1 day closer to summer!

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Cara February 5, 2014 at 9:22 pm

Cara
The movie “Before Sunrise”.

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Emily February 5, 2014 at 9:24 pm

Being still–even if just for a moment–makes me happy 🙂

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Jenny February 5, 2014 at 9:24 pm

Jenny S.
my first cup of Earl Grey tea in the morning!

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Henria O. February 6, 2014 at 4:34 am

Group hugs with my children! 🙂

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Sandi February 6, 2014 at 6:22 am

Saturday mornings, cup of tea, catching up on your blog from the week brings deep contentment to my heart.

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Paige February 6, 2014 at 6:39 am

Canning and making my household more efficient while teaching my kids the same.

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Erin Mazur February 6, 2014 at 7:29 am

Erin M. 🙂

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Kori Jock February 6, 2014 at 7:40 am

Kori Jock; looking out the window at falling snow.

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Bernadette February 6, 2014 at 7:50 am

Dance parties with my 7 year old daughter.

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Jean February 6, 2014 at 8:05 am

The chance to win Gretchen’s new book makes me happy–I gained a lot of insights from the first one!

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Gretchen February 6, 2014 at 8:21 am

Using things up! Empty bottles, leftover containers, fabric scraps, spools of thread = bliss

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Allison February 6, 2014 at 8:28 am

Drinking tea out of a beautiful, porcelain teacup from the one teacup I kept from my grandmother’s antique teacup collection. Something about fine, old china makes the tea taste 100% more delicious!

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Christine February 6, 2014 at 9:16 am

Perfect cup of tea makes me happy:)

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jacqui homer February 6, 2014 at 9:23 am

Going thrifting in Chicago with my daughters!

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Christy February 6, 2014 at 9:44 am

Snuggling on the couch on Friday night after a long week of work with the dogs, cats, and hubby.

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LH February 6, 2014 at 10:28 am

I am a huge fan of Gretchen’s website and would love to win a copy of her newest book!

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Amy S February 6, 2014 at 11:11 am

Hot coffee with cream. heaven. Amy S.

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Bonnie February 6, 2014 at 12:54 pm

Sunshine when it’s 0 degrees here in WI

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Susan February 6, 2014 at 3:25 pm

Spending time with my dear husband and 8 fabulous kids!

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Lee Broom February 6, 2014 at 3:40 pm

My husband and children make me happy!

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Lee Broom February 6, 2014 at 3:43 pm

Lee Broom – My husband and children make me happy!

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Patricia Davis February 6, 2014 at 4:39 pm

It makes me really happy when I fill the coffee pot the night before and set out my breakfast dishes. In the morning it makes it super easy to slip into the new day! (This is my first entry ever.)

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Elisabeth Golub February 6, 2014 at 5:43 pm

Hanging out with my 2 month old in bed when she first wakes up in the morning!

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Karen February 6, 2014 at 6:04 pm

Karen

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Koliti February 6, 2014 at 8:29 pm

It makes me happy to work on little art projects with supplies I already have.

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Julie February 7, 2014 at 8:02 am

Julie Walton

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Amie February 7, 2014 at 8:45 am

Warm sun on a cold day makes me happy!

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Andrea February 7, 2014 at 9:57 am

Andrea G

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Leigh February 7, 2014 at 12:00 pm

Riding my bike on a quiet summer morning. 🙂

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Katie A February 7, 2014 at 3:14 pm

Beaches – Katie A

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CarrieP February 7, 2014 at 7:54 pm

One thing that makes me really happy is reading.

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siobhan cravens February 8, 2014 at 5:30 am

I read her other book and would love to read this one

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Marcy February 8, 2014 at 5:57 am

One small thing that makes me happy in the winter is freshly washed flannel sheets! -Marcy

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JennH February 8, 2014 at 6:18 am

Jenn H – winning a book would make me super happy!

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Alice February 8, 2014 at 7:35 am

Alice; and happening upon the local gluten-free bakery last night made me very happy (as did their awesome raspberry-chocolate cupcake).

Thanks for hosting such a fun week!

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Marge February 8, 2014 at 1:30 pm

What a great sight. i’d love to win the book!

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Chris Smith February 8, 2014 at 3:16 pm

Chris Smith

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Laura February 8, 2014 at 3:16 pm

A hot cup of tea in the evening makes me happy.

Laura

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Sally Turnipseed February 8, 2014 at 7:23 pm

Can’t wait to read! I love the concept of happiness linked to our home..

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Stephanie Hudspeth February 8, 2014 at 8:34 pm

My baby girl who was born February 3 is the greatest joy in my life.

– Stephanie Hudspeth

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joyce howden February 9, 2014 at 4:29 am

I would love yo win.. Joyce Howden

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Sandi February 9, 2014 at 7:24 am

A quiet Saturday morning with a cup of decaf and catching up on your blog posts from the past week always give my soul a chance to say Ahhhhh……

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Classic Carol February 9, 2014 at 7:39 am

Classic Carol 🙂

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Shannon B February 9, 2014 at 6:17 pm

Shannon B – it makes me happy knowing that eventually it will thaw out here!

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Lara B February 10, 2014 at 7:20 pm

Lara B

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