Things That Make Me Happy

I have been trying to dwell in the positives this past week.  Choosing to think on things that make me happy.  So I made a list of things that just make my heart smile. (*DISCLAIMER: these are just a few of many things that make me happy, not the only 7 things that do.  I am merely trying to give examples.*)

~ sunny, breezy balmy weather when I can open up my house and just enjoy the fresh air

~ fresh cut, sweet smelling flowers on my dinning room table

~obedient children

~chocolate

~ a completely clean house

~ yummy smelling candles lit about my house

~ SLEEP!

Upon reflection, I realized that, while I am grateful when these things happen, and yes they do make me happy, I can not hang my contentment on them.  In thinking on these things and trying to stay positive, I really got discontent this week.  The weather didn't cooperate, I do have flowers on my table but for a few days I did not, my children have most certainly disobeyed this week (and I have had to discipline them by myself), if I eat too much chocolate my health (and weight!) will suffer, my house has been a wreck and because of my curious, in-to-EVERYTHING kiddos I have not lit any candles this week.  Last but not least, my sleep has been taken from me.  My little sweet Se has wanted to eat every 2 hours of late.

So, where does that leave me?

Exhausted and unhappy?  Yes and yes.

It is so very easy for me to get down this time of year.  The winter seems to drag on and on (the snow day this week is proof of that!) and I am getting less and less sleep (not sure what is up with my 6 month old).  But, there is one thing I can ALWAYS turn to to lift my spirits.  I keep thinking of the verses in Philippians.

"Rejoice in the Lord always.  I will say it again: Rejoice!  Let your gentleness be evident to all.  The Lord is near.  Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.  Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is admirable-if anything is excellent or praiseworthy-think about such things.  Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me-put it into practice.  And the God of peace will be with you." 

Philippians 4:4-9