Happiness can feel elusive at times, but when I stopped to list 30 things that bring me joy, I realized how many blessings fill my life. This exercise became a moment of gratitude, a reminder that happiness isn’t just a destination—it’s woven through relationships, memories, and small everyday moments.

Here’s my list:

The People Who Are My World

1. My wife, Daryl. Her presence, our partnership, and the quiet evenings we share. I wouldn’t trade our two anniversaries—our courthouse wedding on August 10, 2015, and our church ceremony on October 10—for anything.
2. My daughter, Lizzi. The joy of seeing the woman she’s become and remembering the day she was born in 1998.
3. My grandson, Sully. Being a grandfather is a brand-new joy—every laugh, every photo, and every video call is an instant smile.
4. My best friend, Scott. The comfort and history of a friendship that has lasted since 1990. Long, rambling phone calls that solve the world’s problems are the best.
5. Family memories. Hearing my mom, Judy’s, voice in an old recording, reflecting on time with my dad, Marvin, and my stepdad, Charles, and sharing rounds of golf with my brother, Jeff.

Faith and Foundational Peace

6. My relationship with Jesus. The ultimate source of peace and purpose in my life.
7. Quiet morning prayer. Setting the tone for the day before the chaos begins.
8. The certainty of God’s care. Knowing the Lord has me in the palm of His hand, especially when life feels uncertain.

The Joys of a Writer and Teacher

9. The spark of curiosity. Finding a compelling story while scanning the headlines.
10. The craft of writing. Re-reading something I’ve written and realizing it’s good, and the satisfaction of hitting “publish” on a blog post.
11. The smell of newsprint or a musty book. A sensory experience no screen can match.
12. A student’s “lightbulb moment.” Watching a concept finally click.
13. An engaged classroom. When every student is participating and the discussion is electric.
14. The feeling after a productive day. Knowing I gave everything I had to my students.

Simple Moments and Cherished Memories

15. A quiet back porch moment. Sipping a quality dram of bourbon as the world slows down.
16. The first cool breeze of fall. After a long, hot Jacksonville summer, it’s always welcome.
17. Crossing Jacksonville’s bridges. Catching the full skyline on a clear day.
18. Watching an old movie. Especially ones I used to watch with my dad.
19. Rewatching “Moonlighting.” Still laughing, even after seeing episodes dozens of times.
20. Hearing the perfect song at the perfect time. When it feels like the soundtrack to my life.
21. A favorite book in hand. The escape and inspiration reading always brings.
22. Road trips with friends. Long conversations, shared playlists, and the anticipation of where we’re going.
23. Sharing a meal with loved ones. The laughter and connection that happens around a dinner table.
24. The smell of fresh coffee. Especially in the early morning.
25. Helping someone. Even in small ways—it’s a joy to serve.
26. The sound of rain on the roof. A reminder to slow down and savor the moment.
27. Walking into church on Sunday. The peace and sense of belonging I feel there.
28. A really good sunset. Especially when the sky explodes with color over the water.
29. Hearing Sully say “Papi.” Every time it melts my heart.
30. Writing lists like this. Because it reminds me how much there is to be thankful for.

A Final Word

This list is a snapshot, a collection of blessings I’m profoundly grateful for. It reminds me that happiness isn’t just about milestones, but about the small and big moments that make life rich.

What’s on your list? Try this exercise—you might be surprised at how much joy is already present in your life.

Copyright © 2025 Doug DeBolt