Midway through our meal yesterday, our waitress said, "Happiness is a choice. I choose to be happy." Her affirmation caused me to remember an article I had read this week about how happiness changes as we grow older. Happiness for the young is provided by extraordinary events, such as vacations or concerts while the older folks (my age group and beyond) find happiness in ordinary times: a meal with a spouse or friend, sitting quietly in a favorite spot, or watching the birds at the feeder. I found it fascinating to consider how simple happiness can be.

I would hope that this photo (Yes, it's not possible that I took this picture, although it could be a selfie!) represents a happy time. Yes, here I have hair! and I'm working on a tan (that hasn't changed) and from the brick sidewalk in the background, this is on Eighth Street in Peru, Indiana. Different things make me happy now. It's a choice. I choose to be happy.