By Gretchen Rubin

Happiness interview: Monica Rich Kosann.

I've been thinking a lot about the role of the idea of "home" to happiness, and so I was interested to read Monica Rich Kosann's book, Living with What You Love: Decorating with Family Photos, Cherished Heirlooms, and Collectibles. It fit into my own ideas of cultivating a shrine and using family photos, mementos, and beloved objects to make home more homey.

It turned out that Monica and I have several odd connections -- small world! -- so I was particularly interested to hear her thoughts about happiness.

Gretchen: What's a simple activity that consistently makes you happier?
Monica: Hanging out with my dogs.

Wat's something you know now about happiness that you didn't know when you were 18 years old?
That... More...