I’d been struggling to see the sunshine in life, but for the last few days I’ve felt glorious: positive, full of life, and with a healthy appetite for fun (and, also, for food).
It’s one of the unfortunate truths in life that the principles of mindfulness are much easier to follow when you’re feeling good than they are when you’re down – when you really need them. I’m writing this list of stuff I enjoy, partially because (as you, dear reader, already know) I’m an actual saint, and partially because I think having a public, concrete reminder of them will help me out next time I need an injection of sunshine.
Anyway, here’s some blessed stuff.
Doing your weekly shop
Maybe I just don’t get out enough, but the rush I get from doing my food shop is exhilarating. I love food, I like cooking, and I enjoy fluorescent lights. A trip to my local Albert is a joy and a pleasure.
Noticing creatures
Most commonly, dogs and squirrels. Given the season, most other creatures have hibernated or emigrated, but the other day I did see a hedgehog (the gentleman pictured is for illustrative purposes only) and once, when I was living in Petersburg, I saw a woman holding a ferret.
Seeing animals brings me great joy. I think because I’m so happy I get to wear clothes and live in a house.
Leaves
Truly, the feathers of trees.
Prague is an exceptionally leafy city, and I think this, along with the beer (of course), contributes to a generally high standard of living.
Treating yourself
This one is tricky because the way I take care of myself is usually based on food and/or spending loads of money. I’m concerned about my waistline and my wallet, so I’m trying to find pleasure in free stuff, like walking the long way home or going to bed a little bit earlier.
Listening to new music
I’m a particular fan of music that people I love have recommended.
Throwing stuff away
No one needs that many clothes!
Car boot sales
Now you’ve got rid of all that shit, you need more shit.
Abandoned buildings
Praha 
haha 
haha 
Surprise! SPB
Learning new words
Not just fun foreign words, but also English words, like ossicle or pellicule.
Wearing mismatched clothes
and, last but not least,
Getting a tattoo
My parents might not love it, but it really does rejuvenate you to get something you love on your skin forever.
