happiness.

I stumbled on this article a few weeks ago, and for whatever reason, it really struck a chord with me.

As I read the piece, I immediately started thinking about my answers. The farther I got, the more I started thinking about how many answers have changed - especially over the past year.

I think this might be a great addition to goal lists. Taking a moment to check in and see where one is on our goal paths is always a good idea, but so is answering the eternal question: Am I happy? 

If not (or you're on your way, this is a good list to start with.

8 Things Every Happy Woman Should have 

A go-to drink 

Gin and tonic, extra limes. 

Whiskey sour. 

A go-to karaoke song

Lose Yourself, Eminem & Careless Whisper, George Michael

A uniform

Monday to Friday: pencil skirts, lady-like dresses and a good leather jacket. Heels.

Weekend: Well-loved boyfriend jeans, tank top, big scarf and blazer/jacket. Flats. 

Always: Three silver bracelets my father got me in Mexico. Left wrist. Good manicure and pedicure. 

A hair stylist they love

I only trust my locks to one stylist, and she's in the Okanagan. Truth: every time I was back home from Toronto, whether I needed it or not, I got a haircut. 

An exercise routine 

It's no secret that dancing is my go-to and favourite form of exercise. Being in the studio a few times a week, with a couple yoga classes (and if I'm lucky, time to jump in the pool for a swim) keeps my mind and body in check. 

A hobby 

When I'm not dancing and working, I love to sip good cocktails with good friends, see live music in small venues, blog, cook and most recently, explore new neighbourhoods.  

A best friend 

I'm lucky enough to have a couple incredible girlfriends from various stages and parts of my life. There are 3-4 women from high school, university, my dance life, Toronto and Vancouver who would jump on a plane if I needed them (and vice versa). 

A healthy sense of self

Funny enough, during a Saturday night hangout, my friend and I fell onto this topic. That's when I realized three things about myself: 

1. Life is too short not to listen to good music 

2. I'm over trying to be perfect - my goal is to be as good as I can be

3. Compete with myself, not others 

leo.

"The way I define happiness is being the creator of your experience, 

choosing to take pleasure in what you have, right now, 

regardless of the circumstances, 

while being the best you that you can be."

— Leo Babauta 

I also just realized today that I am on the cusp of my blogette turning four years old! My oh my, how the time flies. 

Looking at my first few posts brought back a lot of memories of my first year of univeristy - I was in a completely different headspace and couldn't even fathom what the next few years of my life would be like. 

I was doubting everything, but for whatever reason, I stuck with my guy instinct. 

And here we are, four years later. Still infatuated with Toronto, but my scope, work and friend base has grown larger and more vibrant than I could have ever hoped. 

I'm happy to have this little corner of the web to chronicle my path. You've been good to me, blogette. Here's to the next chapter.