👋 Welcome to Smileworthy, where we round up all the good things happening out there that are not receiving the attention they deserve!

This week, we’re celebrating the heartwarming helpers and incredible animals making the world a better place. From heroic barbers offering free haircuts to veterans to hero cops and eager beavers saving millions of dollars with their dam-building skills, we've got a roundup of good news that will uplift you. ✨

Let’s jump right in.

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Happy Headlines 📰

It’s not all doom and gloom out there. Here’s some positive news items from publications around the world.

🖼️ $8 thrift store painting turns out to be a masterpiece worth thousands

💈 Barbershop in Idaho gives free haircuts to veterans as a tribute to service

🦫 These eager beavers saved the Czech government $1.2 million

🇮🇩 Indonesia launches huge free meals program to feed children and fight malnutrition

👮 Hero cop dives into a frozen lake to save a boy

🐈 Cat is rescued after five days trapped underground during a record-breaking storm

🏀 UMass will pay a student who made a half-court shot $10,000 even though his foot was on the line

🧶 Volunteers knit giant quilt of 1,000 blankets in memory of homeless people who died in the cold

♻️ Renewables provided 90% of new US capacity in 2024

💕 Emotional moment dog returned to its owners eight years after being stolen

Quick Lifts ❤️

This Valentine's Day, we're celebrating love with three heartwarming proposal stories that will make you swoon (and one that will make you cry with laughter!) ❤️

Woman Says “Yes” to Proposal Across Two Boats Before Accidentally Hitting Throttle, Sending Fiancé Flying Into Water

This couple’s engagement got off to a rocky start…thankfully they were unharmed in the accident.

Wholesome Dad Blocks Passersby for Daughter’s Proposal in Sweet Gesture

Dad level 100.

Pilot Proposes at 7500ft to Girlfriend Who Helped Realize Flight School Dream

This guy takes love to new heights.

Smileworthy Snapshots 📸 

A quirky photo feature each week.

It’s An Inside Job! Cops Expose Snack Thief As Own K9 Officer In Hilarious Post

Meet K-9 Ice, the Wyandotte Police Department's latest "criminal." This four-legged officer was recently caught red-handed (or should we say, red-pawed?) stealing a coworker's lunch! His "mugshot" has gone viral after the force published it on their Facebook page, showing him looking hilariously shocked at the accusations. While Ice has a history of "rummaging through trash cans" and "taking food right from coworkers' hands," the public has rallied to his defense, demanding the charges be dropped. Looks like this furry friend might just get away with his crime!

Read the full story here.

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Live Life Happily 😃

Tips from experts in their fields on how to live a happier, healthier life.

Embracing the "Low-Buy" Trend

Looking to save money, improve your mental health and help the environment? TikTok's "low-buy" trend might be just what you need. Unlike its stricter predecessor, the "no-buy" challenge, the low-buy approach offers a more flexible and realistic way to curb spending and achieve financial wellness while also simply buying less stuff that ends up in landfills.

How Does it Work?

The beauty of the low-buy challenge lies in its adaptability. You create your own rules based on your individual needs and lifestyle. Whether it's limiting non-essential purchases, prioritizing secondhand items, or setting a specific budget for certain categories, the goal is to be mindful of your spending habits and make conscious choices.

The Benefits: More Than Just Money

Beyond the obvious financial advantages, the low-buy trend can positively impact your mental well-being. Studies have shown a strong link between financial well-being and reduced stress, improved motivation, and even better physical health. Plus, by buying less “stuff” we can help reduce landfill waste (remember: 100 billion new clothing garments are produced globally every year to feed our fast fashion appetites, which isn’t sustainable.)

By taking control of your finances, you're also taking control of your life. This can lead to increased confidence, reduced anxiety, and a greater sense of freedom, according to to Peter Muennig, professor of health policy and management at the Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health.

Finding Your Low-Buy Balance

The key to success with the low-buy challenge is to find a balance that works for you. It's not about deprivation but about making conscious choices.

Don't be afraid to incorporate rewards for sticking to your rules, as this can help reinforce positive habits and make the challenge more enjoyable, according to Gretchen Rubin, award-winning author of the Happiness Project.

So, if you're ready to take charge of your finances and boost your well-being, give the low-buy trend a try. It might just be the perfect way to start your journey toward a happier, healthier, and more financially secure you.

Want to go deeper on this TikTok trend? Read the full article here.

Before You Go…A Serotonin Booster* 📺

A doorbell camera captured the wholesome moment an Amazon delivery driver wary of a dog sitting on the porch overcame his fear in the most wholesome way.

*Studies show that watching cute, heartwarming videos can boost your mood. So sit back and start your weekend positively!

P.S. Fancy spreading some extra sunshine? ☀️ Your support helps us keep the good vibes flowing and brings these heartwarming stories to life. If you're feeling the Happily spirit, why not buy our team a virtual coffee? ☕ It's like a warm hug for our hearts, and it fuels our mission to share the best of humanity with you. Just click here to show your support! buymeacoffee.com/happily