What Makes Me Happy {simply lkj}

It's Wednesday and time for What Makes Me Happy. Today, Lauren of simplylkj will share her "happy things." Lauren is a great blogger friend who is friendly, caring, and compassionate. Let's show Lauren some LOVE.

Hi Y'all.  My name is Lauren, and I blog over at SimplyLKJ.  I was flattered when Ron asked me to participate in his new series, "What Makes Me Happy."

I met Ron through his bestie and fellow Atlantan, Amanda of Dixie Delights, who has already shared her What Makes Me Happy post with you all.  Both Ron and Amanda are the epitome of Southern Charm.

I adore Ron's sense of humor, design sense, swoon worthy holiday, and man oh man can he create an amazing cocktail.

As I share what Makes Me Happy, you will find it truly is the "simple things" in life that make me smile.

Number one, always, these three. My sweet hubby and best friend of almost 29 years (May 21) and these, "I don't know how I got so blessed to be your momma" girls, Elie and Kate.

Second, and with a very heavy heart...my sweet Mother In Law.  Sadly, we had to say our goodbyes recently.  You can read more about this "gem" here.  Knowing goodbye is not forever, makes me happy.

Springtime in Atlanta.  I will be honest, not everything about spring in Atlanta makes me happy.  The pollen is intolerable and the weather is all over the place.  80 today, storms coming this week and 50 later in the week.  But, the hint of what's to come is what makes me happy.

Ferns in the pots by the front door signal Spring has arrived.

As do begonias and caladiums in the flower bed.

 Our Encore azaleas are in full bloom. Love their vibrant pink color.

Our peonies are just waiting to burst open. Now if someone could only figure out how to make them last longer than a couple weeks.

And, our garden has been tilled and planted for the season. We love cooking with fresh herbs during the summer months.

Those of you who follow my blog know that we LOVE to cook. Creating gluten free/dairy free/egg free/soy free and nut free meals and desserts make us ALL happy campers.

And lastly, unconditional love...

Toby, Golden/Bordie Collie mix...afraid of his own shadow.

Kylee, Cairn Terrier, aka "the Princess".

Koda Bear, Corgi mix, Toby's best bud.

And, the newest addition...our youngest's daughter's "grad school puppy", Henley. Golden Retriever.  Came home weighing 11 lbs, 2/11/17, now weighs 25 lbs 4/2/17.

Thank you for allowing me to share what makes me happy.

Thanks, Lauren!

You can see more of my What Makes Me Happy posts HERE.

What Makes simplylkj Happy, y'all!