As 2018 is coming to a close, while it's been a wild year full of ups and downs, it's always nice to end the year on a positive note. Which is why I decided to list out some of the little things that make me happy. After all, it's the little things that give meaning to our lives.

1. Coffee

A warm and sweet cup of coffee in the morning makes getting up easier and makes a better start to my day. Whether it's iced or hot or made by my Keurig or by a Starbucks employee, I can guarantee I'm 110 times happier after I had my first sip of coffee.

2. Working out

There are all sorts of benefits to working out, including promoting happiness, but I truly enjoy going to the gym after a stressful day or even to procrastinate a homework assignment.

3. Good grades

Who doesn't love good grades, okay?? But having good grades keeps you motivated and helps to learn and enjoy school more.

4. Cats

Yes, I'm a cat person. There isn't a day that goes by that I don't say 'I miss my cats' or ask my mom for a picture of my cats. My friends know me so well that they tag me in photos or videos of cats. We love a good cat.

5. Deep conversations

Deep conversations are simple, yet always bring a smile to my face. No matter what the topic, even if it's something silly, just having a deep conversation with my friends or coworkers makes a deeper connection than just small talk.

6. Sunflowers

Yellow is a happy color and to me, nothing's better than an obnoxiously tall bright flower. This type of flower is one of my favorites and brighten up your day and home. Don't even get me started on fields of sunflowers...

7. The smell of books

I love reading, but the smell of a book is what gets me every time. I love old bookstores purely because of the smell. Super weird, but hey, it makes me happy.

8. Writing

I keep my writings pretty secret and I don't mind knowing no one will ever read it. Nothing about it is personal, but it's something I can have to myself that I can look back and see how much I've improved over the years.

9. Hoodies

I'm the person you probably make fun of when it's 90 degrees and I'm wearing a sweatshirt. No matter the weather, you can typically find me wearing a hoodie. They're warm, cozy, and perk me up if I'm feeling sad or stressed. And I really don't care if its 90 degrees plus. Sweatshirts are comfortable, okay?

10. Long drives

Long drives mean I can unwind after a day at work, listen to some new music, or it may even mean a road trip. Driving is fun and can even be calming. Least to say, I always enjoyed long road trips as a kid.