I recently found myself thinking that the most memorable evenings are rarely planned.

My friends and I had just planned to grab a coffee. But an hour later, we were laughing along to a street musician, and then someone suggested we pop into a small café with live music. We ended up dancing as if no one else existed. I got home with tired legs, messy hair, and a smile that didn't fade until I fell asleep.

That is probably why I love life. It doesn’t always offer up grand events, but it knows how to turn an ordinary evening into a little adventure.

I love staying active: the gym keeps me in shape, music lifts my spirits, and a good TV series can be the perfect way to end a busy day. But what I value most are the people with whom it’s easy to laugh, share a comfortable silence, and simply be myself.

They say places create the atmosphere. I think it’s the people who do. And I always want to be around those who make me feel a little warmer inside after spending time with them.