On Saturday, I got together with some friends to play our drums and spend some time together.  As we played a rhythm that wove in and out and created a beautiful sound, I realized that I was grinning from ear to ear.  That got me thinking about smiling.  Why do we smile, how do we smile, and why is it so infectious?

The first person who came to mind was my granddaughter, Cheyenne.  She may be only 2-1/2 years old, but this girl is a world-class smiler!

Only 4 months old, and already an expert!

From the time this kid was born, what people remarked most about her was her smile.  Some folks just turn up the corners of their mouths, but Chey smiles so big that her eyes get in on the action, too!  Are you smiling yet?

Trick or Treat! Can't eat the candy, but it sure is pretty!

Well, if you are smiling, that wouldn’t be surprising.  Smiles are contagious, you know!  And I think it’s a good thing!  Did you know that smiles can relieve stress and even boost your immune system?

This sure is fun!

This sure is fun!

Studies have shown that smiling can lower your blood pressure.  Smiling also releases endorphins and serotonin — natural brain chemicals that relieve pain and promote feelings of well-being.  I guess you could say that smiling is good for your health!

I am the prettiest flower of all!

So what are you waiting for?  Smile!  You might find that it lifts your spirits!

We don’t know where Cheyenne gets her amazing ability to smile…

Is it Genetic?

Maybe she gets it from her Dad…

It's Contagious!

Maybe from her Mom and her Dad…

That's me!

or from her Grandma…

Grandpa and Lily

or her Grandpa…or cousin Lily…

I love you, Cheyenne!

or cousin Ivy.

Judy and Al - Thanksgiving 2008

It could be from her great-grandparents…

Ruth Stead -- Great-great Grandma

or even her great-great grandma.

Smiling knows no age limits; and whether it’s genetic or contagious, it seems like a good way to go through life.  What are you waiting for?  Put a smile on your face!  Now you may say that it’s easy to smile when everything is going your way; so I’ll share one more picture of my smiley Cheyenne:

After surgery in December 2007

This one was taken on a wagon ride through the halls of the hospital after one of her five surgeries.

So no excuses!  Put on a smile; and while you’re smiling, just try to think sad thoughts…can’t do it, can you?  Wear that smile today and see how it changes the way you feel.  And while you’re at it, pass it on!