I wish I could get to the point where I can realize that I am dreaming when I am dreaming. Some people can do that... I can't. I fly a lot in dreams as well, but I usually can't control where I land. I'd say 85% of my dreams involve me leaving the ground on a regular and uncontrolled basis, whether it's jumping, driving a car over hills, or flapping my arms to fly.
I think the happy thoughts idea is worth a try, I also am a fan of sound machines/nature recordings. I like rain forest type stuff with frogs, crickets, birds, etc. Ocean waves are always nice too. I also burn incense when I go to sleep, helps to relax me.