Happiness is...

THIS. This is what my life is all about. This is what makes my heart swell, my throat tighten, my grin wrinkles show, my self  accomplishment  feelings emerge. It's what I've worked for (but didn't know it at the time) for the last 15 years.  Lazy weekends at home, getting some running in, cold beers on the back patio, celebrating these summer days.. It's all happening. Of course every day one could add to the list, but here is my happiness currently:
1. Tyler Rains is the man. He grilled a tremendous meal for my family for fathers day. He's handsome. He picked Cullen up outside and took a running leap over the beach ball sprinkler. (Takes skills, trust me.) He's respectful. He loves me genuinely. His knowledge base is incredible. (Lately I'm very dependent on basketball stats.) He's handsome. He is best buddies with Cullen without even trying. (And HE'S the punisher!!)  Did I mention he's so handsome?

2. S. F. Nickel is a captain. Besides bringing an armory of water battle with him today at Father's day lunch, he can pull everyone together for a common cause, and this is because he is him. The simple, yet experienced parent that has unconditional love for EVERYONE. He loves silently but open and honestly. How do you teach that? How can I show my own kid how important the traits of his daddy and grandpas are??

(totally welling up here... Let's keep going..)

3. Family. We've been lucky enough to talk with every single family member one way or another this weekend. Lunches, Jack Riley nights, water fun, new motorcycle visits... It makes me feel complete. Really. Sometimes it's days, sometimes weeks between catching up. Contact made with every brother and sister and mom and dad and then some. With some sickness and loss in both of our families lately, this TLC of familiar voices mends hearts.

4. Fresh flowers, produce, baking at home for friends, seeing friends, knowing what friends will be around forever, experiencing friendships through talk and listening and time.. Make the time, make the effort. It's well worth it.

5. Cullen pooped in the toilet once. Not since, but once is better than none right?