come up smiling
To emerge from an unpleasant or challenging situation with a positive outlook or demeanor. I'm just so impressed by Bonnie's resolve. She seems to come up smiling no matter what happens to her.
come up smiling
recover from adversity and cheerfully face the future. informal 1989 Woman's Realm But despite her ordeal courageous Kelly has come up smiling and is now looking forward to a bright future.