Happiness

My daughter, Lizzie, talked about happiness on her blog a few days ago, so I decided to talk a little bit about how I find happiness each day. I am so busy some days that it seems like I never take the time to just sit and think about what I am happy about. Or I don't take the time to enjoy my day. 

Because our internet can be sporadic, I am very happy when our MagicJack works and we are able to talk with our children who are in America while we are in China. Lizzie and I, and Sara and I were so used to talking almost every day when I was in Utah that it has been hard for all of us to not be able to just call on the phone at any time of day and say hi or tell good news. With the 14 or 15 hour time change, it is difficult to find the right time when each of us can answer the phone.

I find myself being happy and smiling when my student's get excited about learning a new English word. I also find happiness when I can lay in bed a few more minutes before I have to get up for work.

I am also happy when I get to spend time with Gary, whether it's at our apartment or spending some time exploring Qingdao. Today we were invited to a marriage celebration at Bathing Beach No.1 as part of a sports festival. Gary got to give a little speech which was greeted with applause. We did a little ceremony with dancing and then were given a certificate. After that we went on to look at some sand art some little kids did. It was so fun to shake hands with the children. Most of them could speak a little English. After we commented on their art, the parents wanted pictures with the children. It was great fun. Then it was on to a Chinese lunch with all sorts of stuff including Octopus. I tried it. Not really a fan.