Little things that make me happy

By Bill Fox/Columnist

A few weeks ago, I wrote a column on “Hunting for Happiness.” This week, I thought I would share some of the things that make me happy. Perhaps you might agree with some, and perhaps let me know what else makes you happy?

A smile from a stranger as we pass by each other.

Children playing, reminding me of how happy and playful and carefree children can be.

A small gesture of kindness from someone. It could be the recent “pay it forward” at Tim Hortons. Although I have never been a recipient, it still makes me happy to know that people are doing this.

Music of all types, but especially the oldies that our local station plays that take me back to pleasant memories.

Hearing on the radio the music of The Standstills, a local two-piece band.

Open-mike Tuesday nights at Simcoe Blues and Jazz bar, where everyone from beginners to accomplished and talented musicians share their talents.

Sitting on my balcony on the eighth floor, looking south at Oshawa from just north of Bond St….just the view makes me happy.

Seeing Blue Jays…both the baseball ones (when they win) and the ones that come every morning and evening to our balcony birdfeeder.

A big hug from someone you haven’t seen in a while.

Trips with my wife to see out of town concerts. For example, this past weekend we saw Charlie Pride and the next night, comedian Bill Engvall.

Sipping on my half mango iced tea with lots of ice on a hot day.

A beautiful sunset or sunrise.

Fishing, although I only go for the few weeks a year while at my wife’s family cottage. When I come back empty handed, my wife will tell everyone I’m happy just “watching the fish” on my fish-finder.

Sleeping in, knowing there is nothing in particular that I have to get up for that can’t wait.

A good movie or book…I recently saw the new Meryl Streep movie Ricki and the Flash, which was not too realistic, but had a happy ending. That made me feel happy.

Fresh organic food, especially the beefsteak tomatoes from our balcony garden. I had forgotten what real tomatoes tasted like.

A meaningful sermon or lesson from a priest or minister that just doesn’t elaborate on the readings, but challenges the congregation in a meaningful way to act more Christian.

Reconnecting with old friends, which seems to have happened quite a bit lately. Although there are physical changes, they haven’t changed much and are still lots of fun to be with.

Family meals…the best kind of meals, especially when all the family can be there.

Traveling out west to see our oldest son and his young family.

My 93-year-old dad’s shortbread…he is becoming renowned in Bowmanville as the shortbread man.

Laughing, laughing, laughing!

Watching old TV clips of Tim Conway on the old Carol Burnett show.

Watching my four sons, now all in their 30s, kibitzing with each other.

People showing you a small kindness, such as holding a door or elevator for you.

Honest and smiling store keepers, like those at my favourite smoke shop on Stevenson Road.

Lastly when someone compliments me on one of my columns. Who is not happy with compliments?

And lastly, receiving emails at bdeefox@hotmail.com.