I am seated in my home office after spending the morning at a coffee shop working on my laptop. During my drive home, I happened upon an interview on the CBC Radio's Tapestry show.  The man being interviewed said, "Happiness is a dish with many ingredients." I love that sentiment. He expressed that happiness tends to be a by-product during one's pursuit of happiness - and that connection is a big part. I agree.
I'm going to find the full interview online and the name of his book. Capturing these thoughts here right now while I remember. And, so glad I had the radio set to that station at the right time.
As I arrived home, I found first Christmas card in mailbox. It's from a thoughtful Gateway Woman in the U.K. I met her as part of the online B program. Her kindness moves me so much - connection does bring happiness in many forms:)  xx

...later afternoon additional note: I checked and learned the radio interview was between the author Meik Wiking who was being interviewed by Mary Hynes.  I've copied a link to the interview and an article below. I've heard of his book The Little Book of Hygge but haven't read yet. They talked today about his most recent book which I'm now really looking forward to reading - The Art of Making Memories: How to Create and Remember Happy Moments. 

Article:  Treasure map of happy memories: a guide to remembering the best moments of your life:  https://www.cbc.ca/radio/tapestry/treasure-map-of-happy-memories-a-guide-to-remembering-the-best-moments-of-your-life-1.5386117

My first two posts express thoughts that run through my mind in terms of what I 'want to say' to our larger society - feeling that more empathy and inclusiveness would help. This post turns back to sharing what else has helped me in my experience.
I'm a visual person, hence the photos! In addition to all these visual representatives, other things that help...

• Minimizing social situations where I'll be the only non-parent - or, at least, preparing myself with conversation starters and taking 'time-out breathers' if needed 
• Learning to appreciate and enjoy solo walks
• Being outdoors, open space
• Minimizing social media when family-focused postings feel relentless...holidays, back-to-school, etc.
• Connecting with other women without children - friendship with women who 'get it' firsthand has been vital to my healing. I've met women through the Gateway Women community who've brought comfort, laughter and kinship in ways I never imagined possible.

Both new and longer-term friendships enrich my life.  Loving, supportive family and friends (aka. kindly empathetic and gently listen without suggestion) lift me too! Beyond measure:)
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Feeling lifted has certainly taken time and courage - more thoughts for another day:)