I was sending my kids a Snapchat the other day - I was at a community garden space where I garden and in my Snap I used “my happy place” a couple of times - which they well know, it is!
It’s a place where from the moment I walk in, I feel like I leave everything else behind and I’m very present. I love the space there, the beauty and also the like-minded people who create garden and art and thrive on learning.
Where is your “Happy Place”?
Home is also a happy place for many - if home is your happy place, what room or spot specifically? For me it’s my deck. Eating a meal at our deck table or lounging and reading in our chaise lounge is a place/space I feel so very content.
I have to add one more because it’s so true. Water side. Time near a body of water - usually a lake = feels like home!
At home: My giant recliner, nicknamed “The Throne.” It’s made for someone 6-4 and 500 pounds. It’s almost like an extra large twin adjustable bed. I can curl up in it so nicely!
I also love road trips, just watching the world go by in a car. I feel free, like I can go anywhere and do anything.
I also love hiking mountain trails, with great views. I like seeing the world from high above.
I know most people love water. It’s just not a happy place for me at all. I don’t like getting wet - which is strange considering I was a USA swimmer who swam 20 hours/week for years…
The kitchen in the morning. First cup of coffee looking out the window at the backyard.
Stepping outside to run in the 'hood. Okay, so this is happier when the weather is nippy than when it is hot. That first step and deep breath of outside air.
Lane two at the pool. Slipping into the water, looking around to see who else is there, waving hi. We swim outdoors year round, so again, lungs full of air, eyes full of sky.
A) anywhere where I am in summer clothes and sandals or flip flops, B) the beach, C) in a kayak on any body of calm water
Growing up I spent all my summers in a house by the beach, where I could see the ocean from my bedroom. I don’t need to sit on the beach in the hot sun and I only swim if the water temp and ocean conditions are just right, but being in proximity of the ocean and all it has to offer - colors, movement, smells, breezes, boats - absolutely feels like home to me.
Sitting on the porch of our cabin, looking at the view. If winters weren’t so tough up there, I would live there year-round. Maybe when we retire we can spend summers there.
I love the ocean and the mountains. When H and I walk most evenings it is either to the beach or somewhere we can see the beach. Winters spent road tripping to western ski resorts and our time on the slopes makes me smile. When I am at home I love the times when I am curled up reading a book with a cat sitting next to me. All of these make me happy.
I live in a major city known for it’s lakes. The one nearest my house is a bit over a 1 mile walk (through my neighborhood, coffee shops and small stores on the way). I walk/run up to the lake multiple times a week all year long.
The lake has 2 paved loops - outer for bikes, inner for walking/running. There is a food place open May - October, daily AM yoga all summer, kayak/paddleboat rentals, etc. Live music 4x/week all summer. People fish all year long and oh yes there are 2 beaches! There are always lots of people (and dogs!) to see.
First thing in the morning: my back deck, with a cup of coffee in hand.
Anytime during the day/early evening: the beach
End of the day: in “my” spot on the couch, with a good book and a dog or two nestled in.
