1. My dog, Milly, will never fail to bring me joy. She is always there for me, and in my eyes, will never do wrong. She absolutely loves going on walks and is the best travel buddy I could ask for. Milly loves everyone around her, and although sometimes I wish she didn’t want to see EVERYONE in her path, her joy reminds me to take a minute to be grateful for where I’m at.

2. My mom and I have gone on some pretty cool adventures together. My whole family has also gone on road trips, but the ones that we go on, just the two of us, have taught me so much. As a woman, she has always made sure to teach me independence, confidence, and the idea that I can do anything I put my mind to. As of right now, we have driven through California, Idaho, Washington, Oregon, Utah, Arizona, and Nevada, but hopefully, we’ll be able to explore more in the future.

3. I recently started volunteering at a barn, and it always makes me so happy. When I go there, it feels like the air is lighter, and the things that were bothering me are suddenly gone. The horses are so sweet, and it gives me a sense of purpose on the days I get to be there. My favorite horse, Sedona, is so beautiful and kind. All of the horses at the barn are rescues, but despite their challenging pasts, they are still happy, and that brings me joy too.

4. Reporting on football games is hands-down one of the most exciting things I have ever been a part of. When I am on the sidelines, I feel not only the energy of the crowd but also from the players. I’ve learned so much about football, writing, and being a journalist from the hours I have spent on the sidelines. My favorite experience was at the Arizona vs. Utah game, where I was able to sit in the press conference and take photos on the field. The other reporters were so kind and taught me lessons that I will never forget.

5. My family is always up for a camping trip, and the ones I have been on in Tucson always bring me so much joy. The views, spending time with my family, and getting out into nature change my perspective on life. Sometimes, we even go with our church, which always provides some good laughs. Sometimes it’s cold or uncomfortable, but that never stops us from making lifelong memories with each other.

6. The beach, especially Bells Beach, where my grandfather owns a cabin, makes me more happy than most other things. When we pull into the drive-way, it feels like coming home. It is a breathtakingly beautiful place to enjoy, especially with my papa, grandma, uncle, aunt, and cousins. It’s a place we all share a love for and there I have learned so much.

7. Fruit snacks are unarguably the best food ever created. They always make me feel a little spark of joy, especially in the midst of a long run. It also brings me joy to share them with my dad. Since I can’t have the orange-flavored ones, I always give them to him – our little tradition.

8. Last year, I got to experience my first press conference! Since then, I have been able to go to one more, but remembering my first one will always put a smile on my face. It is not only because of the experience but the bravery I had to walk up to a senator and interview her. All of the other reporters there were so kind, and they gave me so much insight into a world that I will someday be a part of.

9. Running, racing, and getting medals are some of my favorite feelings because it makes me feel confident in who I am. They make me feel accomplished and like I can do anything. I have been running cross country, track, and the trails since my freshman year of high school, and I have gained so many friends, memories, and life lessons. My coaches, teammates, and parents have always encouraged me and helped me improve, and I’m so grateful for their support.

10. Last but certainly not least, fantasy football. This season, my first season of playing, I decided to start a family league, and boy was it fun. I did not in fact win…or do very well, but it always made me happy. It’s so simple, but it was a fun way to get through the week. Next year, my dad and I have epic plans, and hopefully I will place higher than 7th…out of 8.