I know, I know, I know…it’s been a long while since I published a Happiness Report! (Facepalm) See what had happened was…I took the week of our vacation off, and that just continued for a few more weeks as I got busy and preoccupied. But assure you, it was not because there was a lack of happiness. Quite the contrary! But I did notice that without reflection and cataloging, it’s easy to lose sight of all the positive things in your life. As this pandemic continues much longer than we anticipated, and we approach a tumultuous election, it’s so easy to get caught up in everything that is going wrong or to think that the sky is falling. Well, Chicken Little, my challenge to you is to keep track of the happy things. Make a list and refer to it often. Because not every day is good, but there sure is something good in every day.

Here’s what’s been rocking my world the last few days:

1. Breakfast Date. Last Monday was a bank holiday, so I had the day off from work. Shockingly I hadn’t filled my calendar with tasks, so I asked Chad if he could go into work a little later so we could grab breakfast together. Shack just opened in Lenexa, and they invited me in for a visit, so we took advantage and grabbed a morning date. The staff was so friendly, and the food was delicious. But the best part was starting my day, uninterrupted with my guy, enjoying some sweet time together.

2. Lunch Date. Okay so I know that I said that I didn’t stack my day off calendar with appointments and tasks, but having meals with people I love hardly seems like a burden. So last Monday, I kept the dine out train rolling and had lunch with my friend Mindy. Chances are, if you found me because you love my Kansas City adventures, you probably follow Mindy too. Because @KansasCityBucketList is my recommendation for anyone wanting the best KC content, and it has been for years. Not only does Mindy operate this successful account, but she is also very generous with her time, resources, and connections and has become kind of an informal influencer mentor for me, but more importantly a friend. Additionally, Mindy works for City Lifestyle and is the one that got me roped into being a contributor. She had asked if she could do a story on our family for National Adoption Month, and I used it as an excuse to go to lunch. We met at Chez Elle, which has been on both of our bucket lists for a long time. It’s such a fun spot in our city, and the crepes did not disappoint.

3. Business Tour. The very first event that I went to when I became a blogger/influencer was in February 2019, and it was a popup photo shoot. I was so very nervous to attend, and I had no idea what I was walking to that day. And I never could have known that the girls I would meet would wind up being some of my closest friends. At that event, I met this woman that owned a business called Sour Lemon, which is an Apple Cider Vinegar beverage. Have y’all ever tried ACV? Gross. And ouch. I always hear that it has so many great health benefits, but I just can’t choke it down. But Sour Lemon found a way to flavor ACV and make it delicious! At that time, they were only operating as a pop up and brewing in their kitchen. But last week, I stopped by to visit their bottling and distribution center! It is so incredible and inspiring to see how much they have grown in such a short amount of time!

4. Perfect Fall Night. There is a local PR firm, and if an invite from them ever hits my inbox, I make every effort to attend. The passion and dedication they have for the businesses they support always manifests itself into these unique, immersive experiences. Last week, they invited me to a small event at Affare, to enjoy a wine tasting and light bites. We sat out on the patio, which is one of the best hidden gems in this city. The weather was perfect, and it was such a special night.

5. A Sweet Celebration. When you look forward to becoming a mom, there are things you picture, moments you imagine, and celebrations you can’t wait to have. One thing that I’ve always looked forward to celebrating is my child’s half birthdays. I love any excuse to celebrate and make memories, and I see this as such a fun thing to make special. Jack’s Half Birthday was on Saturday, and it was the perfect excuse for a family fun day. His breakfast was served with a candle, and he wished for a cupcake. (My child for sure.) We were lazy in the morning, and then we hit the road. We drove to the Iron District for lunch and ice cream, and then we went to watch the choo choos, which are Jack’s current obsession. He is still talking about his fun adventure and keeps saying, “Thank you for my candle!”

I hope you all have a wonderful week. Don’t forget to make that list! You’re gonna need it!

XOXO,

Molly B.