We tend to have the idea that the more we have, the happier we will be. The more likes on our pictures, the more friends we have, the more clothes we have, the more money we have. But after years of personally focusing on these things to determine my quality of life, I’ve found that it’s the little things in life that matter the most. The little things in life bring me the most joy.

When I think of my happiness, I think of a day spent on the beach. I don’t need any fancy drinks or a waiter by my side. All I need is the water and the sand. It’s not about if I’m getting tan or about getting a cute picture in my bathing suit. It’s simply embracing the natural beauties in life that God has graced us with.

I think of an afternoon laying next to my dog in his bed. Simply listening to him breathe as I lay my head on his chest and watch him fall asleep beside me. It's him licking my face endlessly when I walk in the door.

I think of visiting my grandma and talking with her for hours about life and her experiences. Laughing about old family memories and the times that we have shared together. Taking her mind off of the pain she experiences every day by simply spending time with her.

I think of eating dinner on the porch on a summer night with my entire family. No cell phones in hand. Constant laughter and memories shared over one of my mom's amazing home cooked meals that we all helped contributed in making. The people I love all around me and a full belly.

I think of giving back to those that aren’t as fortunate as I am. Just going out of my way to do something for others with absolutely no thought of anything in return. Coming together with others to make a difference in the world and knowing that someone else is going to feel happiness.

I think about walking outside on a beautiful spring day with the sun shining on my face and birds chirping. Flowers begin to bloom and everything comes back alive again after the winter.

I think of laying in my mom's arms after a long day and forgetting all my troubles. Cracking jokes and watching our favorite chick flicks until we fall asleep. It's us going for a walk on a beautiful afternoon and talking about life.

The list of little things that matter in life can go on and on. We tend to focus on things that bring us sadness rather than joy. Think of the simple things that make you happy and go out and do them. This life is made for memories and connections with other people. It is made to be present in the moment and to create a life you love to live.