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With Valentine’s Day only a few days away, we think of our loved ones, our partners, grandchildren, and other family members and shower them with tokens of love.

Waking up and doing one powerful thing first thing in the morning, like reaching out to a friend or reflecting on gratitude, can set the tone for the rest of the day and help start the day with intention.

I wonder if you think of remembering your closest and longest-lasting friendships. And what about friendships you value?

I believe, especially after 50, these friendships can only enhance your life because every person experiences happiness differently, and starting the day with a connection can make the world feel brighter. Girlfriends increase your sense of belonging and purpose. You no longer feel as invisible or lonely when you communicate with a dear friend. Wouldn’t it be nice to remember them on this Valentine’s Day?

Before the virus disrupted all of our lives, we led a socially active and normal existence. This is no longer the case. But we can be resolute, determined, and unwavering and find joy in our lives. Success in life often begins with how you start the day. Getting enough sleep is essential, as a good night’s rest lays the foundation for waking up happy and full of positive energy. One of the best cures is… a strong relationship with a best girlfriend.

This morning as I sit at my keyboard, I recall a brunch I was invited to attend. What made the brunch special was that my place card and my best friend’s were next to each other. Gail and I have been friends since we were six years old. It feels good to start the day with positive memories and connections. I felt a huge dose of happiness.

MY MORNINGS BEGIN WITH A DAILY DOSE OF HAPPINESS

I begin my day early in the morning when all but the sun is still. She is beginning to rise in the east in all her glory. She makes me very happy almost as much as a best friend.

I am most comfortable writing to you when all is silent in our condo-in-the-sky, except for very soft symphonic music. I especially enjoy listening to Mozart on my Google Nest Hub Max (I LOVE this gadget!). The uplifting music, combined with the peaceful morning atmosphere, fills me with total joy in the quiet of the day because I withdraw into my thoughts that I ultimately share with you. Even though I do not know many of you, we share a bond. Friendships are about sharing. I am happy thinking about us, and the emotional support from loved ones contributes greatly to our health and overall well being.

At 8:00 am I am either in my pilates class or walking my pooch, America. Engaging in physical activity in the morning supports my physical health and helps in reducing stress, which in turn improves my mood and overall well being. I am a happy camper taking care of my body and taking care of my pooch.

After my class and walk, I find joy in sharing a healthy breakfast with my Ultimate Concierge, Shelly. Sharing a nutritious food-based meal in the morning is a wonderful opportunity to express gratitude, and it can improve our mood and overall well being. But there is another very important piece of the puzzle that makes me gloriously happy…

These morning routines are key to finding happiness and achieving a happier life.

Morning Habits for Energy: Invigorate Your Start

How you begin your morning can truly shape the rest of your day. Establishing a morning routine filled with energizing habits is a powerful tool for setting a positive tone and boosting your overall well-being. When you wake up, take a few moments to stretch your body and feel the gentle movement awaken your senses. Even a simple stretch or a few deep breaths can help you feel more present and ready to embrace the day ahead.

Start your day by expressing gratitude—think of one thing, big or small, that you are thankful for. This simple act of focusing on gratitude can shift your mindset and help you approach the entire day with a more positive outlook. As you move through your morning, try to stay in the present moment. Whether you’re sipping your favorite cup of tea, enjoying a nourishing breakfast, or simply watching the sunrise, allow yourself to fully experience and appreciate these moments.

Another wonderful habit is to hydrate your body first thing in the morning. A glass of water can do wonders for your energy and overall well being. If you have a few extra minutes, step outside for a breath of fresh air or a brisk walk—nature has a magical way of lifting our spirits and helping us find happiness in the little things.

Remember, darling, your morning routine doesn’t have to be complicated. The key is to create habits that help you focus on what matters most, cultivate a positive mindset, and set a positive tone for your entire day. By starting your day with intention and gratitude, you’ll find yourself feeling more energized, joyful, and ready to embrace all that life has to offer.

Nourishment and Nutrition: Feeding Your Body and Soul

Starting your day with nourishment is one of the most loving things you can do for yourself. A balanced breakfast not only fuels your body but also sets a positive tone for your entire day. When you take a few moments to truly savor your morning meal, you’re giving yourself the gift of presence—focusing on the present moment and appreciating the little things that bring happiness.

Expressing gratitude for the food on your table can transform a simple breakfast into a mindful ritual. Whether it’s a bowl of fresh fruit, a slice of whole-grain toast, or a warm cup of tea, pause to notice the flavors, colors, and textures. This mindful approach to eating helps you connect with your body and supports your overall well being.

Incorporating physical activity, like a brisk walk after breakfast, can further boost your mood and physical health. Moving your body in the morning helps you feel energized and ready to embrace the day ahead. By prioritizing nourishment and gentle movement, you create a foundation for a happier life—one that supports your health, mood, and overall happiness from the very first moments of your morning routine.

Mindfulness and Meditation: Physical Activity

Let’s talk about one of the most powerful tools you can add to your morning routine: mindfulness and meditation. Taking just a few moments each morning to sit quietly, breathe deeply, and focus on the present moment can set a positive tone for your entire day. When you start your day by expressing gratitude and centering yourself, you create a sense of calm that carries you through whatever life brings. These practices are also known to support and improve mental health, making them an essential part of a healthy routine.

I encourage you to begin your mornings by sitting in a comfortable spot, closing your eyes, and taking a few deep breaths. As you breathe in and out, focus on the present moment—let go of any stress or negative emotions from yesterday, and allow yourself to feel grateful for the little things around you. This simple act of mindfulness can help you cultivate a positive mindset, reduce stress, and increase your overall happiness and well-being.

Meditation doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Even a few minutes of quiet reflection can help you feel more grounded and ready to face a busy day. Whether you’re planning to spend time with loved ones, tackle a to do list, or simply enjoy a peaceful morning, starting your day with mindfulness and meditation can help you focus on what truly matters. Remember, darling, happiness often begins in the quiet moments we create for ourselves.

Setting Intentions and Goals: Charting Your Course

There’s something truly powerful about taking a few minutes each morning to set your intentions and goals. This simple act can help you start your day on a positive note, giving you a sense of purpose and direction. Writing down your goals or creating a to do list allows you to focus on what matters most, helping you stay motivated and organized as you move through your morning routine.

Setting positive intentions doesn’t have to be complicated. It might be as simple as deciding to approach the day with kindness, to be patient with yourself, or to focus on one thing you want to accomplish. By creating a positive mindset at the start of your day, you invite hope and success into your life.

Remember, darling, your intentions and goals are there to guide you, not to add pressure. Be gentle with yourself and allow for flexibility—life is full of surprises, and sometimes the best moments are the ones we didn’t plan. By starting your day with positive intentions, you create a powerful tool for happiness and fulfillment, helping you chart a course toward a brighter, more joyful life.

Productivity and Time Management: Making the Most of Your Morning

A well-planned morning routine can be the secret to a more joyful and productive day. When you start your day with a clear plan, you create a sense of calm and focus that helps you avoid feeling stressed or overwhelmed. Take a few moments to review your to do list, prioritize your tasks, and set realistic expectations for yourself.

Incorporating practices like gratitude journaling, meditation, or deep breathing into your morning can help you reduce stress and improve your overall well being. These small acts of self-care allow you to pause, reflect, and reconnect with what brings you happiness and joy. Remember, it’s perfectly okay to take breaks and say no to things that don’t serve your well being.

By managing your time with intention, you create space for more joy and fulfillment in your life. A balanced morning routine isn’t about doing more—it’s about focusing on what truly matters and making room for happiness, calm, and gratitude in every moment.

Phone a Friend

Phone calls to one another add joy and magic to each day.

When I hear a Gail’s voice on the other end of the line say, “Hi Honey,” (she always calls me Honey) it is the frosting on the cake. There is no better way to start a day than, talk, talk, talk and share intimate feelings with your best friend.

I hope you noticed, darling, I said phone call.

Emails and text messages or any type of social media, where there is no intimate interaction, don’t count. Phone calls foster meaningful connections that digital messages simply can’t replicate.

I have a feeling most of you reach for your cell phone to send an email or text or use Facebook or Messenger.

You dash off an email or text to an old friend, “Let’s have lunch and catch up. We have not talked in ages. When are you available?” There is no consistency. Or you think to call and decide to call later but then you forget.

Look what you are missing in life. You could boost your happiness and hers. You could reduce your stress and hers. And, you could help one another cope. This is a way to give a valentines to both of you.

Let’s be honest with ourselves. The phone still counts!

You are aware everyone has the need for emotional connections. But do you ‘remember’ that the best way to connect is either in a phone call or video call like Zoom (or, again, on my favorite tech gadget, the Google Nest Hub Max.) Strong bonds occur through verbal and visual interactions.

Emails and texting will never be the best way to sharing your private feelings with your closest girlfriend(s).

Me and Gail

My best friend Gail and I  share joys, fears, wish lists, and problems and ask each other for advice on all subjects. From where did you buy your new bras to a simple and succinct “I need help.” We laugh, get angry and always forgive and make up. We are always honest with one another because our friendship goes back to our youth. Over the phone, I can hear the expression in her voice. We have intimate conversations.

So darling, pick up your phone and call your oldest and dearest friend(s )and gift her a valentine…your friendship.

Why life-long girlfriends make me happy

I recall sitting next to Gail at brunch made me feel like the luckiest gal in the room. As I picked at my boring egg white vegetable omelet, I thought about our time together. These cherished memories brought back moments of our youth and long forgotten stories. I thought about the paths our lives took. I thought about our intimacy.

Other Worthwhile Friendships

I’ve been thinking on a broader level about friendship. Many of you do not have a long-standing best friend to call every morning. That should not stop you because…

There are other worthwhile types of friendship. There are value friendships. They play a different role of adding value to your life and vice versa. I have friends of all ages who add value to my life. They are not long-lasting friendships but they are very worthwhile because they provide me with happiness and essential social support. Consider getting into the routine and starting a daily call. I know they would be glad.

Rise to the occasion. Women need women. It is never too late to start a long-lasting friendship. It will take climbing the stairs. I believe women over 50 crave female companionship. It is time to look at the value of friendship that does not have to be long-term because it is one of the best ways to feel better about yourself and your life. I will be your valentine. Will you be mine?

Overcoming Challenges: Turning Obstacles into Opportunities

Every morning brings a new opportunity to face life’s challenges with a positive mindset. When obstacles arise, it’s natural to feel negative emotions or become stressed, but these moments can also be powerful tools for growth and learning. By focusing on gratitude and the support of loved ones and friends, you can cultivate an optimistic outlook that helps you navigate even the toughest days.

If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, take a few deep breaths and remind yourself of the good things in your life. Reframing challenges as opportunities allows you to build resilience and create a more positive, hopeful perspective. Remember, darling, it’s okay to ask for support—whether from family, friends, or a professional. You don’t have to face everything alone.

By embracing challenges as part of your morning routine, you empower yourself to create happiness and well being, no matter what life brings. Each day is a new chance to focus on gratitude, lean on your support system, and turn obstacles into stepping stones toward a happier, more fulfilling life.

My Challenge to You to Increase Your Daily Happiness

Now, I have a little challenge for you—one that can transform your mornings and your life. I invite you to start your day on a positive note by adding one or more of these habits to your morning routine: gratitude journaling, positive affirmations, a brisk walk, or a few minutes of meditation.

When you wake up, take a deep breath and let yourself feel the fresh air fill your lungs. Focus on the good things in your life, no matter how small. Write down three things you’re grateful for in your journal, and reflect on why they bring you joy. If you feel inspired, share your gratitude with a friend or family member—sometimes a simple conversation can bring you even closer together.

If you love being outdoors, take a brisk walk in nature and listen to the sounds around you. Let your mind wander, and allow yourself to feel happy and present in the moment. Or, if you prefer, sit quietly and meditate for a few minutes, setting a positive intention for your day.

By focusing on gratitude and starting your day with positive intentions, you’ll create an optimistic outlook that can carry you through any challenges. Plan your day, prioritize what matters, and make time for the things that bring you joy. Remember, happiness is a choice, and you have the power to create a happier, healthier, and more fulfilling life—one morning at a time.

Wouldn’t Valentine’s Day be your perfect opportunity to start the lovely routine of a phone call with a best friend? This would become a daily dose of happiness.

More and more research suggests that our social circles keep us mentally well. Keeping your oldest friendships alive by staying connected by phone or Zoom and putting your energy into reconnecting with old friends not only supports your well-being, but also fosters a sense of belonging.

Surprising Things the Sun Taught Me About Friendship

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