Things That Make Me Happy - Happy Gathering Challenge

This is my Photo Essay of the things that make me happy.  They are simple, but I'm the kind of person who enjoys the simple things in life. 

The Loves of My Life - my 4 nieces and nephews.  These are their pics from when they were born.  Each is special to me in their own way. 

This is Aubrie.  She is the oldest and just turned 14 last month.  She lived with me until she was almost 2 years old.  Aubrie is the social butterfly of the group.

This is Kaylee.  She is 12.  She's the spitting image of her mom, the other 3 look more like my brother.  She the most determined child I've ever met.  When she wants to accomplish something, she will.

This is Bryce.  He's 8, soon to be 9.  He's the old soul of the bunch.  He's the most compassionate, sympathetic, empathetic, caring human being I've ever met, adult or otherwise.  He's very special for a child.  He's destined for great things.

This is Ayden.  He's 6, but will turn 7 next month.  He was born on Sept. 11th.  The actual day of the terrorist attacks.  This little guy had a difficult birth, which is why his face is bloated.  He's also extra special because he has autism. 

Newest Addition to My Family 

My Oscar - even though he can be a rascal, he still makes me happy.  He's the most unusual cat I've ever come across (and I've had a lot of cats in my day) and all the quirky things that he does really makes me laugh. 

My Friends

This is my best friend Joe and his significant other, Mariwan.  Joe and I have been friends for over 22 years.  I have another really good friend, Dave, that I do not have a picture of, but we have also been friends for 22 years.  Joe and Mariwan have been together for about 12 years and she has also become a good friend of mine.

This is Chris and Joe.  Chris is another friend.  My friends make me happy because I enjoy spending time with them just hanging out, watching movies, playing poker (A LOT), taking trips, playing sports, doing dinner, etc...  They have  been really good to me, especially through the really tough times - that's how you know they are good friends.

And Last, But Not Least

MY LOVE OF MUSIC - (Ok, have you stopped laughing yet?  Get it out of your system.  I know that you can't believe you are seeing all of that Barbra Streisand music.  It's not an illusion) 

Anyway, music to me has been my life line at times.  Since this is supposed to be about happy stuff, I won't get into why it has been my life line, but singing and listening to music brings me more joy than I can put into words. 

Briefly, yes, I love listening Barbra Streisand.  I know, I'm a nerd, dork, etc... I also really enjoy showtunes.  Whatever?  For the record, I also listen to more contemporary music.

Thanks for letting me share some of the things that make me happy!  And thanks for taking the time to read my Photo Essay.