What makes me smile? It’s the little things, those fleeting moments often lost in the flurry of daily life. They’re simple, sometimes almost hidden, yet rich with warmth. That first sip of chai in the morning is one of them—the way its warm, spiced aroma rises up like a cosy blanket, gently waking my sleepy mind. Yes, that little moment undeniably brings a smile to my face.

The laughter of my grandchildren is another one of life’s pure treasures. There’s something so freeing and uplifting in their giggles, a joy that transcends language and lingers in the air. Watching my youngest grandchild learn to smile, catching my gaze with her wide, innocent eyes—it’s pure, radiant joy. That tiny grin, those tentative expressions as she discovers this new way to connect with the world, melt my heart every single time.

Then, there are the wonders in nature that bring a quiet happiness. The colours of spring as my orchids begin to bloom, adding splashes of colour to the garden, or the little blue wrens flitting about with carefree energy. These sights ground me, bring me back to life’s simple beauty, and leave me with a calm, lasting smile.

Spending time with my grown-up children is another source of joy. Sitting around the table, sharing meals, stories, and laughter, fills me with pride and warmth. Watching them embrace life’s ups and downs, seeing them happy and doing well, makes me feel so incredibly blessed. But when they go through hard times, I feel their pain deeply, wishing I could shoulder some of the burden for them. Still, seeing them thrive and knowing they’re growing stronger with each challenge—that truly fills my heart.

Certain rituals bring me joy too, like the scent of freshly baked goodies straight out of the oven, filling the home with warmth and memories of my childhood. And each year, there’s the tradition of pulling out Christmas decorations, carefully unwrapping them, and placing them around the house. It’s such a simple pleasure, giving each decoration a proud spot, and watching them transform the space with festive cheer.

And finally, there are memories—especially those of childhood days spent in my grandmother’s kitchen, surrounded by the smell of her cooking and her warm laughter. Even now, those memories bring an immediate smile, like a sweet reminder of the love and care that’s passed down through generations. It’s these small, often-overlooked moments that fill my heart with joy and make life worth savouring.

If I wait for something else, I might miss the joy in the everyday. I wait for Christmas Day yet miss the pleasure of decorating and bringing warmth to my home. I wait for summer to arrive but overlook the soft beauty of spring blooming all around me. I wait for that perfect day, but in doing so, miss the perfect little moments that come each day, even amid life’s challenges. If I open my eyes to see, even a simple mug of spicy chai can bring a smile. Life’s happiness is here and now, waiting in the smallest of things.