CARTOONS are signs that one shouldn’t take life too seriously. Animated characters keep one childlike, peppy and injected with good humor.

Upon waking up, my husband and I like to immediately tune in to either Cartoon Network, the Disney Channel or Nickelodeon while we prepare for work. We start our day off with a little silliness and lots of good smiles. We like the humor of “The Fairly OddParents,” about a boy who has two fairy godparents. Sometimes we catch “Justice League,” “Little Einsteins” and “Ben 10.” Mornings are much lighter to manage when you’ve got company like that!

I suppose cartoons bring such joy to me because I still feel like a kid when I watch them. They remind me to look at life with a happier disposition, that it’s okay to be silly, and that hey, anything is possible — like having fairies for godparents.

Yoshi is one my favorite characters. He’s the dinosaur from the Mario Bros. game. I’m not too fond of reptiles, but his big nose, playful stance and big smile make me smile myself. My fondness for Yoshi has triggered me to collect Yoshi stuff! Donald Duck also makes me giggle, especially when he throws one of those tantrums. Akazukin Chacha is also a favorite because of her curious eyes and friendly demeanor. Yep, cartoons really make me smile.

Who’s your favorite cartoon character? Do you still watch cartoons! I hope you do!