Hi, I'm Sarah.  My journey into gratitude and happiness began from a deeply personal place—through seasons of loneliness, isolation, and some of life’s toughest challenges. What helped me navigate those moments wasn’t just blind optimism, but intentional gratitude and a growing understanding of how small acts of awareness could reshape my life.

 Along the way, I leaned into academic research on happiness, gratitude, and life satisfaction, and I have spent decades focused on workplace well-being and human connection. That path led me to my purpose: helping others cultivate joy, resilience, and meaningful relationships. 

Today, I guide The Happiness Haven as a sanctuary for intentional living, community connection, and joyful presence—and I truly believe that even the smallest silver thread can hold a life together.

And I'm Kris. I'm a force for joy, laughter, and community connection, and I’ve been showing up for people for a long time. 

From my early days with gay student groups in 1980s Texas to volunteering during the AIDS crisis, and continuing the work of education and advocacy today, I’ve always believed in inclusion, resilience, and the power of showing up with love and more than a little humor. 

For nearly 20 years, I’ve been a certified laughter yoga leader, using playful energy and genuine connection to help people rediscover joy. Laughter, to me, isn’t just fun, it’s healing. It’s a way back to ourselves and to one another. #ComeLaughWithMe

My other passion? Spending as much time as possible on my kayak, exploring nature's abundant awesomeness.