Summer is in full-swing here in small town Missouri and we’re most certainly having a blast. The sun is shining, the flowers are in full bloom and the fun level is cranked up on high.

Most of the time.

Fun-filled days or not, we all have not-so-fun moments in our everyday lives; moments of complete and utter chaos and stress, moments that push us closer and closer to the proverbial edge. More often than not, I feel like I’m teetering on that edge, torn between jumping head first into the pit of overwhelming despair or stepping back into the light.

Giving in to the negativity that often plague our lives can be tempting. It seems a heck of a lot easier to just throw your hands up and surrender. But, taking a moment to reflect on all the little bits of heaven that pop into our daily lives can make a world of difference.

Though I’ve had my fair share of not-so-fun moments over the last month, I’m stepping back into the light and celebrating the little bits of heaven that have pulled me back from the edge.

Moments that make me smile…

My husband’s kidney stone surgery went well and I couldn’t be more pleased. Sure he says and does stupid stuff on occasion, but I love the guy and can’t even begin to imagine how incredibly boring life would be if he wasn’t around to say such sweet things like, “our baby gets her cankles from you!” Oh no he didn’t.

Going for walks and picking wildflowers with my 8-year daughter, Amaya. Some of the sweetest childhood memories are made while doing the simplest of things together.

Splashing and swimming at Roubidoux Creek. The kids had a blast catching tadpoles while cooling off in the creek on a warm summer day. And I sat back, camera in hand, taking it all in. It was a great day.

Blowing bubbles and laying under the shade of a tree with my 2-year old daughter, Alana.

Stacking a massive, chest-high pile of firewood all. by. myself. Despite the fact that Mother Nature came rolling through the next day, tearing my pile to shreds with PMS-induced 70 mph winds, I was still very proud of my accomplishment.

Watching my mother-in-law’s eyes brim with tears as she hugged my children for the first time in a year. Despite the divorce and distance that separates us (I’ve since remarried), we’ve remained close. My children are the glue that binds us together. We love her and the entire family so much and I am incredibly thankful that divorce hasn’t broken the bond that we share.

Sprinkler time fun. I spent many summers running in and out of our backyard sprinkler as a kid and I just love watching my children do the same.

Looking through the amazing photos that have been pouring in to the Crazy Days of Summer Weekly Photo Challenge that I co-host with my dear friend Alicia (from Project Alicia). I’m blown away by all the awesome talent out there and humbled that so many folks have taken part in our weekly meme. Choosing only five favorites each week has certainly been tough, but Alicia and I are having fun every step of the way.

Eating popsicles. Lots and lots of popsicles.

Sitting back and relaxing while my husband made dinner one evening. He even cleaned the dishes!

Slipping and sliding a warm summer day away. Laughter. Squeals of delight. It really doesn’t get any better than that.

Planting flowers in my garden. I’m beyond excited that they’re flourishing and not withering away.

Creating colorful masterpieces with sidewalk chalk and washing them all away...

I’d love for you to share your smile-worthy moments with me too. What are some of the things you’ve been thankful for lately?