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Don't Ask Me If I'm Happy

Happy? Why does everyone have to be happy all the time? — Doc Martin , S6E7 This blog post was inspired by a conversation with Fran in which she mentioned asking a friend, “Are you happy?” After what I imagine was a moment’s hesitation her friend answered, “Sometimes yes. Sometimes no.” I smiled at the answer but it reminded me of something I struggle with a lot. We take for granted that everyone uses words in the same way. This is fine when we’re discussing material things or events. If I told you I spent six hours in my local coffee shop working on this blog post, you’d know what I meant. If I said I enjoyed myself you’d nod, relating my use of enjoyed to situations you’d label with the same word. But we don’t necessarily use it in the same way. We might label distinctly different emotions with the same word, and use different labels for essentially the same experience. I told Fran that if she was to ask me “Are you happy?” I’d first have to think about what that word means ...
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On the Pursuit of Happiness: Thoughts and Hopes for Happiness Happens Month

Clap along if you know what happiness is to you. — Pharrell Williams. “Happy.” Founded in 2000 by the Society of Happy People (SOHP), Happiness Happens Month is observed each August as a celebration of the things that make us happy. To mark the occasion I posted the following request on our social media channels. ARE YOU HAPPY? I’m writing a blog post about happiness and would welcome your thoughts and experiences. What does happiness mean to you? What makes you happy? What was the last time you felt happy? The contributions are presented here with only minor edits for clarity. Happiness for me is when I’m dissatisfied enough to get on with something. Happiness = getting satisfaction out of life. (Paul) I’m happy as I’ve got my 2 kids by my side, through the good and bad days. (Joanne) Happiness, for me, is a carefree, safe, content feeling. (Sandra) I am happy everyday because I am choosing the lifestyle that makes me feel grounded and content. Enjoying the beauty o...
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Our Top Posts of the Month (July 2026)

Check out our top blog posts for the past month. Posts are listed by the number of page views they attracted during the month, most popular first.
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Rip It Up and Start Again: A Blogger’s Guide to Disappointment

And there were times I’d take my pen And feel obliged to start again. — Orange Juice. “Rip it Up.” I think I just decided to scrap the blog post I’ve been writing as a guest piece for Sophie’s blog. I’ve been working on it almost every day for two weeks. It’s not writer’s block. I’ve written more than enough words. Most of the individual paragraphs are ok in themselves but the piece as a whole simply doesn’t work. Sigh. I remember writing those words. It was July 15 this year and I was sitting at the slightly wobbly table on the balcony of the cottage I’d rented at Windermere Marina Village in the Lake District. I’d settled in with a coffee and my little writing setup — my Android tablet on its stand and the larger of my two Bluetooth keyboards — hoping to find some creative clarity. I’d had such high hopes for that blog post. A title I was happy with. A great photo sourced from Unsplash. A solid lead into the piece, inspired by something my friend and fellow blogger Soph...
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Keep Calm and Fidget On: A Personal Look at Fidget Toys for International Self-Care Day

Falling each year on July 24, International Self-Care Day is an opportunity to promote self-care as a vital part of our health and wellbeing. The date (represented as 24/7 in most parts of the world, 7/24 in the US) reminds us that self-care is important twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. What Is Self-Care? Self-care is one of those terms that’s difficult to define, not least because it can mean different things to different people. I find the following definition of self-care by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) helpful. Self-care means taking the time to do things that help you live well and improve both your physical health and mental health. When it comes to your mental health, self-care can help you manage stress, lower your risk of illness, and increase your energy. Even small acts of self-care in your daily life can have a big impact. Self-care looks different for everyone, and it is important to find what you need and enjoy. It may take trial an...
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What Do You Say When You Don't Know What to Say?

TW: Mention of suicide, self-harm, rape, and abuse
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In-Between Moments: What Two Small Coffee Cups Taught Me About the Meaning of Life

Every gift from a friend is a wish for your happiness. — Richard Bach Even before I opened the package I knew it contained something special. Something chosen for me with care by a friend known for thoughtful gifting. The label confirmed my anticipatory delight. ♡ kindred | mugs made for connection I’ve written previously about my favourite coffee mugs . Surely here was a challenger for the crown. Opening the box I found not a mug but two ceramic beakers. I took them out. They felt good in my hand. I liked the simple two tone design. But surely they were too small? I stood them beside a regular coffee mug on the adjustable table that serves as my desk when I work from home. I was doubtful of Kindred’s assertion that “This joyful little duo is made for your in-between moments — just the right size for a flat white, matcha latte, or a slightly generous espresso.” Their website lists the beakers as 7.5 cm tall with a capacity of 195 ml. A small Americano at my local coff...
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