How do you measure happiness?

That’s a tricky question for many people who are constantly chasing after something bigger and better. Is it wrong to be ambitious? Of course not, don’ be silly. But at some point in your life you gotta ask yourself what makes you happy.

But really, how do you measure happiness? By the barrel? By the tub? By the ocean? By the truck? By the wallet? By the bag? What is it?

I realized expectations change as we get older. Young adults are eager to do great things as soon as they can. It is very important to achieve that American dream everybody is talking about. Although many people define “American dream” differently, but really it only means a few basic things: College education, marriage, kid(s), a house, cars, jobs, and lots of insurance policies.

Been there, done that. And I was exhausted and falling apart. At the end of the day all I wanted was some peace and quiet in my own room. I needed to get some sleep so I could go to work again the next day. Yes, work, work, work, and more work. Did I achieve the American dream? Yes, I did, for the most part anyway.

Let’s talk about my life for a minute. I looked at things and life differently ever since I retired from work. I appreciate simple and small things, in some small ways. Don’t get me wrong, money is still important unless you want to live on the streets. That’s illegal by the way.

What made me happy this morning? My husband made me breakfast and it was delicious. I was happy as a clam. Look at this yummy sandwich, who cares if my body is hurting and I have to do laundry today. I can’t talk with my mouth full.

— Smoked turkey and fried eggs on French bread.