The Impossible Equation for Perfect Happiness

The more I work with the public, the more I am struck by the fact that people have very complicated algorithms for reaching perfect happiness. Oh, if I had a nickel for every time so well-meaning elderly visitor at work asked me: "But you're still in school . . .  right?!" . . . .  Lately the rumor that Andy and I are getting hitched soon as been circling amongst the peanut gallery.  Not only is this completely untrue, it reminds me that to many people, happiness just isn't happiness if it doesn't involve a marriage, 2.8 kids, and white picket fence.

I've never been much at math and as such, my equation for perfect happiness is a simple addition problem.

It goes a little bit like this:

One you . . .

Plus one childhood, world travel and an education . . .

Plus one degree . . . .

 one wonderful, loving boyfriend . . . .

some great friends . . . .

 

beautiful scenery . . .

a unique job . . .

And of course, plenty of cupcakes. 

Just like that: perfect happiness. 

See?! Simple! No need to quantify that by wedding rings or babies. No need to divide my career success by the number of degrees.

Just plain ol' first grade math. Just the way I like it.