One reason that this blog has brought me so much happiness is that blogging has widened my circle of friends so much.

I met Melanie Notkin because we’re both interested in using social media to engage with readers, and I’m very excited for her this week — her first book just hit the shelves, Savvy Auntie: The Ultimate Guide for Cool Aunts, Great-Aunts, Godmothers, and All Women Who Love Kids. In it, she shines a light on relationships that bring a tremendous amount of love and happiness — the bond among “aunties” and their nieces, nephews, god-children, etc.

I knew Melanie has done a lot of thinking about happiness, so I was eager to hear what she had to say.

Gretchen: What’s a simple activity that consistently makes you happier?

Melanie: I call my nephew and nieces to hear the sound of their voices. Nothing puts a smile on my face faster than that.

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