The Everyday Hero

Heroes

They don’t always leap tall buildings in a single bound and drive invisible jets.  They normally don’t run around with capes and tights and have lasso’s that force the truth from people.

Heroes come in all shapes and sizes.  Age isn’t a factor and neither is IQ.

Sometimes the biggest heroes are those that you’d never suspect.  Their clothing, their education and their current home/vehicle doesn't indicate in the least bit that there is a hero around, but make no mistake – they are there.

Dictionary.com says that a hero is

“a man of distinguished courage or ability, admired for his bravedeeds and noble qualities.”

My favorite Super hero is Wonder Woman.  She is an ordinary gal by day and when the circumstance calls for it, she transforms herself into a force to be reckoned with.

So many people feel that because they are simply “ordinary” that they don’t impact this world.  This simply isn't true.  The fact that you try says more about you than you'll ever realize!

It’s the ordinary people doing what they can day in and day out that leave the legacy and continually impacts the hearts of those they come in contact with.

Let me tell you of some of the heroes I know:

• Their bodies are worn, their hands don’t work like they use to and their memory is cloudy at best. They still get up, expecting to make a difference for others and do so to the best of their ability
• They are steady in the midst of instability
• Pain is their constant companion but they get up one more time and do what they can
• They give of the little resources that they have and expect nothing in return
• They seize daily opportunities to bring a smile to someone, knowing that it could change that person’s entire day
• They smile through the tears
• They try and try again AND try again....
• They are courageous, even when it seems everyone is paralyzed with fear
• They are consistent day in and day out with kindness to friends and family
• They play with their children, while remaining the parent that stands firm as an authority figure in their life, knowing that friendship will come one day
• They laugh…. But are completely serious when necessary
• They make memories and treasure them
• They go above and beyond what is asked without hesitation
• The realize the value of “a little bit”
• They are gentle and full of compassion, yet firm and stand strong
• They take action, not waiting and hoping that someone else will do it
• They positively influence people, while being well aware that they WILL influence someone daily, so they make it for the best
• The serve our country and stand strong for her, even if they have to stand alone

They are real… real as rain and I love surrounding myself with amazing heroes like this!  Many people let the “ordinary” fool them, but I always try and look past the ordinary, deep into the heart and find the extraordinary…the hero!

Why do we focus on the negative aspects of our self?  We are ok, just the way we are!

Why do we not see the hero that lies within our own heart?

I don’t want us to walk around puffed up and prideful, but too many people spend much of their lives at the other end of that thought, as if their life is meaningless.

YOU – you truly do matter and you make a huge difference! I’m thankful for the Spreading Joy Heroes that step up each month and make a donation to help make a positive impact on others. You are an amazing Spreading Joy Hero!

I’m thankful for those who give at each fundraiser, knowing that the kids we help will never get to personally tell them thank you – but still…they help anyway!  You are a Spreading Joy Hero!

Do you see the hero in the ordinary? Or does the ordinary just glaze over your heart and you miss the gem that is there, waiting to be discovered?

Do you appreciate when someone steps up, doing a little more than expected?

What about you? YOU ARE a hero to someone!  You may not feel like it on most days, but you are.

Tell me a little about the heroes in your world!  Share a little of their story!

Be a Hero today!

Have fun Spreading JOY!

Tournament Happenings

amazing talent played in this tournament

Tournament Happenings

This tournament was completely amazing.  I’m so honored to have been able to have sponsored it.

Here is what YOU provided to these awesome kids in Hot Springs Arkansas

Free Tournament  (HUGE as many can’t afford to play for awesome prizes)

Free Basketball

Free Lunch & all the water they needed/wanted

Free Cats Care wrist band (thank you Charlotte Bob Cats)

A free opportunity for each player on each team to win the following:

1^st place - $150 Gift card to Foot Locker

2^nd Place - $50 gift card to Hibbitt Sports

3^rd Place – A very nice basketball & water bottle

Half Court Contest – Winner receives $100 cash

Reese’s Cups for everyone that attended and extra for those that truly looooove them.

Capture some Awesome Shots

There were 8 teams – 24 players & about 60ish people total.  I was happy to see those that came out and cheered for their friends.

Kids start showing up early to practice.  It was awesome to just soak up the excitement.  There were many college kids there to help in any area needed.  These kids amaze me with their huge hearts.  They will always have a special place in my heart.

The teams start playing and one team makes it to the very end undefeated.  Nothing short of amazing.

The 2^nd team playing for 1^st place has played several games back to back AND has fought their way back from losing early on in the tournament.  We couldn’t have asked for a more intense game.

The kids are playing with all their might; the undefeated team loses their first game! It’s anybody’s game as the 2^nd game between these two team starts.

I’m snapping pictures and playing with the littlest cheerleader and I look up and see it!  The score is tied up – 13 to 13.  They are only playing to 15. Wow! It couldn’t have been any closer!  I see it… Dude shoots in the ball and no doubt, he scores!  The team that had lost early on had just made the winning shot!  Cheers and excitement all around.

The excitement was amazing.

A great start to Spreading Joy Across America

The half court shot?!? UNBELIEVABLE – not a single one of us was recording this as we just figured no one would get it! but…. Khory – a 15 yr old completely blew us away and made it! It was my honor to present to him his prize (on his birthday) of $100 CASH!  The gymnasium erupted with cheers and shouts! High fives were all over the place!

As if ALL of this wasn’t enough excitement and encouragement wasn’t enough…there is MORE.

Pastor Eric Capacci of Gospel Light Baptist Church and President/Founder of Champion Baptist College spoke and gave a devotional about “The next 24 hours being critical”

He discussed how quickly time flies and how we aren’t certain of tomorrow.  In his challenge, he also presented a clear presentation of the Gospel of Christ and 6 teen boys accepted Christ as their Savior.

God Wins.

Top row is 1st Place Winners!! $150 gift card to Foot Locker EACH

All the work, all the emails asking for donations and support for this event was worth every minute of it.  Spreading Joy can and often is a lot of work for me on the “organizing end” and needing donations part of things, but it is and always will be worth all the effort, hard work and long days that go with it.  When we can encourage those that are discouraged and beat up by the world, they will go on to encourage others.  The lasting effects may never, ever be realized.

We never want to be a Non Profit that is set on “making money and living the high life.”  But we will always and forever be the Non Profit that simply reminds others of the JOY of giving….even if it’s giving your time, voice or a hand.  Regardless of what it is…it is HUGE and has an awesome impact on the heart of others! And always will!

We will remind others to place value on their gifts, regardless of the size or value they may think it is.  We often negate the value of our voice or time spent in helping but those are priceless, as well as the financial gifts.

Remember, when you are doing what you can with what you have – when the finances increase, you’ll continue to do what you can and your financial giving will increase as well.

Thank you for making a huge impact in the life of these kids and those that came to watch & help.

2nd & 3rd place Winners!

We were able to give every child that was there (even those that came to “watch”) a free basketball.  We purchased 100 balls, so the ones that were left over, were given out as well to local neighborhood kids!  How awesome is that? Hmmm?

You guys are amazing Spreading Joy heroes!

Thank you for your HUGE heart and for your efforts in Spreading Joy!  Without you, none of this would have been possible. YOU are pretty awesome!

Ohh, and the 15 yr. old that won the half-court shot?  Get this:  He wasn’t going to stay.  Nope…they were just going to leave.

He and his friends saw the size of the older kids and thought there was NOOOO way they would win. I talked to them, told them the worst that could happen would be that they would get a free lunch, free basketball and wrist band and have a ton of fun…so stay!  And they did.  And then HE won the half-court shot! Simply amazing!

Your time, voice and financial contributions did this! YOU are awesome!

YOU did an awesome thing!! Thank you for Spreading JOY with me!

Ash Wednesday

Many people have already decided what they will be giving up for Ash Wednesday. I'd like to challenge you to look at things from a different approach.

I was chatting with Father Miles of St. Luke's Episcopal Church over coffee a few weeks ago, discussing ways that Spreading Joy could encourage his church. We were discussing the difficulties that we all face, the clouds that tend to hang over us, causing us to just see only the negative things that are surrounding us. He then had the idea that for Ash Wednesday, he would challenge his people to do something a little different this year. Instead of giving up coffee, Reese Cups, fast food or other things of that nature, that he would get them to focus on giving up negativity and replace it with JOY!

I love the idea, but as one that is always looking past the negativity and searching for joy on purpose, I know how difficult this can be. (Wait...am I being negative right there? uggghhh!!)

Replacing the negative, discouraging and depressing thoughts and actions with positive will certainly help anyone who decides to do so. When you are on purpose looking for the millions of little blessings that are swirling about you at any given time, you will be a much happier, positive person. Everyone will see a noticeable difference and want to know the source of your JOY!

Not wanting anyone to fail, I suggest that you replace, replace - replace. If you are trying to get rid of one thing, it is always easier to do so when you replace it with something better. Tell me, what is better than true joy from deep within? We can't always change the circumstances that brings the black cloud of despair over us and try to keep us down, but we can make a choice about staying "in" the negativity or moving past it.

I was speaking with a co-worker about Lent and giving up things for these 40 days today. She said that she will fast from something that will move her closer to God, such as gossip. She doesn't think that giving up coffee or Reese Cups would be wrong, but for her, personally - she wanted something that would help her to build her relationship with the Lord.

What are you giving up? Will you join others in giving up negativity and replace it with JOY, happiness, contentment and pure delight? Do you think this will be easy to do? Why or why not? If you fall short one day, will you keep going or will you simply give up?

I pray your cup overflows with unspeakable joy for these next 40 days and beyond!

{{{HUGS}}}} yall

PS

I'll have the honor of speaking and encouraging the members at St. Luke's on Sunday 3/14. I hope you'll click the link and check out this gorgeous Church.

Christmas JOY the Celebration

It started like any other morning before a Spreading Joy event. A million things running through my mind and this time, it’s a little different because I’m planning and handling much of the Christmas JOY event for the ladies at the Battered Womens Shelter & children from my hotel room in Virginia. Then it hits me. SNOW!! It was supposed to snow over night. I hurry to the huge window in my room and sure enough, IT’S SNOWING!!!! The little girl in me is so very excited! I can immediately see that there are several inches on the ground already. I’m supposed to work a half day and then head home to Charlotte NC and start picking up toys for Friday nights Christmas JOY event! I quickly get ready and head to work.

Much like a child that can’t wait to get out in the snow, I find a window and look out. It is pouring snow! Buckets! My heart is filled with worry at this point. How am I going to make it home? I call my sister. Tell her what I’m seeing. She tries to comfort me saying, things will be a little stressful but it will be ok. I quickly tell her that “you are NOT seeing what I’m seeing!” We chat about the possibilities of me not making it back. Two of the greatest things I love are both now tugging at my heart, snow and Spreading Joy. I head back to work thinking ok, it will work out no matter if I get home or not. I’m just going to enjoy my gift of snow! I finish out my half day of work, head back to my hotel and preparations start. The phone calls to my mom, sister and friends asking for help. The planning of who will do what, just in case I can’t make it back into town. These ladies deserve a wonderful meal, a time of fun and laughter and these toys for their kids. I’m determined to make it happen and with friends and family that have huge hearts, it goes off without a hitch!

The phone calls come in, “you won’t believe what Clark Nexsen collected for this event!” My friends Dave and Dale from Iron Mountain assure me it will be fine for them to bring the toys to me! Wow! Not only did they collect toys, but made things easier for me by bringing them to me, knowing that I was short on time! Amazing!

We get to the church, start setting up, sorting toys, picking up food, decorating and having fun. Later that evening I hop aboard a bus with my brother in law and we had to pick up the ladies and children. We are enjoying a trip back and I tease the ladies that we are having MY favorite meal – HOT DOGS! I giggle and tell them that Olive Garden has graciously given pasta, salad and bread sticks. We are all excited.

Everyone gets settled, and is eating, laughing, relaxing and having fun. There are enough workers so that the ladies that need help with their small children can eat their meals without worry for their tiny ones. I love the view, the children laughing and slurping up spaghetti, the moms smiling and chatting with one another. Peace, happiness and pure JOY surround me! My heart is soaring beyond belief!

The children stay in the fellowship hall and I take the ladies with me next door so that they can “shop” for their children. I thank them for coming and being such a wonderful part of my Christmas! I have been thinking about them all week and take a few minutes to tell them the wonderful attributes I see in them. I give them instructions as to where to find the toys, the gift wrapping stations and such. I wander through the halls as the ladies “shop”, listening to the giggling, listening to the oooohhhhh and ahhhh’s, listening to the thrill in their hearts as they pick out toys for their children. There are Easy Bake Ovens, dolls, Barbie dolls, stuff animals, play dough sets, Tonka Trucks, footballs, basket balls, games and so much more! There are literally 4 rooms full of toys for these wonderful ladies to choose from!

The ladies finish wrapping and start heading to get their children and load back on the bus and van. Several people volunteer to follow behind to “haul” presents as there’s no way all the people and the gifts are going to fit. I love each and every single HUG that I am receiving! The sparkly eyes, bright smiles and huge warm HUGS are priceless. Everyone leaves and I look around and the Spreading JOY heroes have already started cleaning up! Wow!! Amazing!

The night is perfect. Chaos, silliness, fun, Christmas music, laughter, toys, food, drinks, hugs and the mile wide smiles make it memorable!

But, the giving is not over with yet! Sunday, more toys are given out. To a local church and some for a teacher who has some homeless children in her class. Thursday NIGHT – MORE toys will be given away!! A week of Christmas JOY, my heart can hardly stand it! It is flooded with happiness and JOY!

We were able to distribute 545 toys and books this year. This is no small feat as we normally have 8 or 10 companies collecting toys and this year, we didn’t have that many.

Thank you seems so small in the light of what YOU did to make Christmas JOY 2010 possible.

Thank you to the director of Amy’s House, Vicky, for the wonderful work you do to help these ladies! It is my honor to make a difference for them, to encourage them and to remind them just how very special they are!

Thank you to Olive Garden for providing the meal for us! There was plenty of delicious food for everyone to enjoy! Thank you to Jim Taylor and Marvin McAllister for picking up food for us. Thank you Dave Finley for meeting me with toys and saving me so much time. Thank you Momma, Angie and Meg for picking up toys on Thursday for me while I enjoyed my gift of snow and stayed safely at the hotel. Thank you Dale and Jeanne Strickland for being available at a phone calls notice to pick up toys for me and for helping out the night of the event.

Thank you to Pastor Jerry Taylor and Mrs. Taylor of New Grace Baptist Church for the use of your wonderful facilities and being available “just in case” I was snowed in! Thank you to the wonderful members of New Grace for volunteering to help serve, sort, clean, wrap, entertain and for the great JOY you brought my way! I could not have made it without your help!

Thank you to Patterson Pope for giving us employees paid Community Service time to make a difference in our world!

Thank you to my family for supporting Spreading JOY the way you do, helping and allowing me to make a difference right where I am. Thank you Tripp and Bob for driving the vehicles to bring the ladies to the church.

Thank you Quiznos, Iron Mountain, Clark Nexsen, Arthur Squad, Stone Pump and Trench and Linden ARP church for collecting toys.

Thank you my precious twitterverse for your online donations, the interviews to spread the word and for using your voice to reach people that I couldn’t reach without your help! You were instrumental in making Christmas JOY 2010 a huge success!

YOU are all HEROES and I hope as you watch the video, read and recount this week of Spreading JOY that your heart is flooded with warmth, love and pure delight for the part that YOU played for Christmas

Thank you!!

{{HUGS}} yall

The Little Things

"Holding Pure Joy! Thanks Chris!

Some time ago, I came across a saying

It's the little things that make life Big

and instantly I fell in love with it, because my heart has always celebrated little things. I even asked my mom recently if I had always loved the little things in life as a child and she recalled that I did. That the small, wonderful and simple things were always amazing to me. Learning that made my heart smile.

Many that know me, know I love Reese Cups and the picture here is me holding a "GIFT" from a student that had just attended the concept of Spreading Joy presentation at their school. I held it up to Angie, saying in my mind "LOOOOOK what I just got!!" I was so excited because I came to the school that day to GIVE to the students, not expecting a single thing in return and he put what he had just heard to work by spreading joy MY way. Those kinds of unexpected little things will make my heart float through the day!

Inspired from a calendar of 10 Happy Things a day I purchased as a treat for myself last year, I started keeping a list in the back of my journal of the wonderful little things that make my heart smile. I've decided to share them with you here, hoping that as you journey through your day with a million little joys floating around you, you'll take time to notice them as well as appreciate them. Who knows, maybe you'll start a list of the little things that make your life BIG too!

In no particular order at all - Some of the little things that make my life BIG!

Coffee	Reesecups	Hugs	Diet Coke	Twinkling Eyes
Smiles	Missionaries	Gum	Books	Rainbows
Ocean	Sunrise	Sunset	Full Moon	Gel Pens w/Bright colors
Cloud Shapes	Bright Stars	Playdoh	Bible	Blowing Bubbles
Singing	Music	American Flag	Sunglasses	Handwritten Notes
Chuck Norris	Soft Carpet	Favorite Jeans	Monkeys	Roasted Marshmallows
Favorite Tennis shoes	Riding a Bike	Walk along a river	Roasted Marshmallows	Hot Chocolate w/marshmallows
Holding Hands	Blue Roses	Teddy Bears	Soft Kleenex	Over Sized Sweaters
Watching My kids sleep	Laying in grass alone	Sound of crashing waves	Laying in grass w/a friend	Catching snowflakes on tongue
Fresh Snowfall	Long necklaces	Wizard of Oz	Fireballs	Splashing in a puddle
M&M’s	Cute Socks	Technology	Toe Socks	Unsweetened Iced Tea
Breakfast	Christmas	Green LIghts	Soldiers	Heart dangle earrings
Standing Firm	Blackberry	Disney World	Nurses	Handmade bracelets
Jukebox full of Oldies	Lightning across the sky	Crossing a bridge w/out stopping	Police officers	Friends who call in the middle of the night
Roller Coasters	Puppies	Slinkies	Card games	Instant Messaging
Board Games	Cute Note Pads	Sticky Notes	White Out	Unconditional Love
Steady Rain	Rolling Fog	Crisp Breeze	Hot Soup	Waking to a kiss
Forgiveness	Cute Purses	Quotes	Poems	Making Cotton Candy
Belly Laughs	Pictures	Scrapbooking	Opals	Eating Cotton Candy
Sleeping Babies	Audio Bible	Audio Books	Skype	Thunder in the distance
Lemonade	Circus	Cute Sunglasses	iTunes	Precious moments
Face Painting	No Spill Days	iTouch	Hair Spray	Hot Cookies out of oven
Hugs from nieces/nephews	Watching when NO one sees	Overstuffed comfy chairs	My Heart Ring from Daddy	Hot Cake w/melted icing
Swinging on Swing	HUGE sliding boards	Empty Tomb of HOPE	Being SAFE in Gods Arms	Breakfast for Dinner
Choices	Triple Coupons	Coming Home	Operas	Hugs for NO reason
Walking Barefoot	Random Photos	Happy Endings	Roses	Little Debbie Cakes
Plants surviving in my house	Growing up to be my Mom	Being only ONE in the movie theater	Meeting new People	Sitting sideways in comfy chair
Ice Cold Slushies	Animal Cookies	Disney Classics	Hope	Always having music
Spreading JOY	Opportunities	Water Slides	God’s Power	Chuck Norris Bookmark
Golden Sunsets	God’s Plan	Safe flights	Free Dinner	Bath & Bodyworks
Smiles during tears	Toasted Bagels & Cream Cheese	Watching a merry go round	Movie Theater Popcorn	Social Media making world accessible
Hope Restored	New Watches	Misprints	Paper Clips	Kids that talk &talk….
Sparkles of love in eyes of friend	Kisses from Todd & Megan	Snow that is soft on day 2	Listening to the Rain	Watching my kids make the RIGHT decisions
Unplanned vacations	Full moon hanging on a cloud	Long lingering WARM hugs	Seeing Todd for 19th Bday	Hearing Harry Connick JR Sing in PERSON!
Blistex	Journey Perfume	Care Bears	Curve cologne	Monkey Bookmark
Sleeping to sound of ocean lapping at shore	PB&J Sandwiches w/Milk	Extra HOT Cinnamon Dolce Latte	Laughing thru nite w/a friend	Sleeping just after alarm goes off
Free Anything	Niagara falls	Contentment	A quick exit	Beach Trips w/Mom
Passing w/A “C”	God’s Character	God’s Promises	God’s Power	Free Audio Books
Golden Grahams	Curve 4 Women	Tweet-ups	Candid photos	Meeting Chuck Norris
Kids Praying	Being Welcome	Being Paid Up	…….Instead	Dreams Coming True
Singing YOU are my sunshine!	Power of Holy Spirit	Overhearing kids say something nice	Chocolate covered pretzels	Being held close as I sleep
Texts from my children	Sitting w/young people	Blowing bubbles w/gum	Kisses on the forehead	Chocolate covered Marshmallows
Seeing Dad in my dreams	A day of “To Don’ts”	Beauty in the Ordinary	Being loved as always	Saved messages in my Voice Mail
Unexpected help	Reesecups in mail	Being Found	Being Trusted	My Flower garden living
Angels Among us	Hugs from Santa	Being Noticed	Guidance	Ocean at Midnight
Not giving up	Pondering	Finishing	Soaring	Fireplace at 1 am
Cute Coffee Cups	Saying Thank YOU	Treasures of the heart	Courage to step out	Making a Difference
Smokies of TN	Cobblestone walkways	Firefighter friends in Boston	Acceptance of situation	Frequent Flier Miles
Early Morning Smiles	Loving with No Boundaries	Great things HE has done	Appreciating NOW	Learning to live again
Phone calls of thanks from ocean	Love that lasts forever	Realizing love hurts and it’s ok	Brightening MY corner of the world	Unbridled laughter of Teen girls
Meg sitting upside down	Todd’s time beside me talking about nothing	Noticing a smile & glance from across the room	Getting items donated for others	Discernment right on time
Getting what you need	Hearing what is NOT being said	Computer prayers answered	Sitting in Church w/mom	Being happy -regardless
Seeing Hearts Grow	My moms unconditional love	Winning the heart of a shy child	Hair blowing in the wind	Learning a friend is a true American Hero
Happy gatherings for no reason	Getting the gift that seemed ridiculous	Realizing the headache is easing up	Texts asking are you OK after horrid day	Kisses from my almost grown children
Laughing while others wonder	Unexpected gifts in the mail	Printing off cute photo hugs	Sight for sore eyes	Little Debbie making it easy to give by giving
Falling asleep immediately	Whiffs of old spice	Being prayed through	Color making my day bright	Laughing at myself
Friends Praying	Walmart @ 5 am	One More Day	Protection	Getting to the Point
Certainty	String cheese	2 hour naps	Another Chance	My John R. Rice Bible
Wild Flowers	New Journeys	Simple pleasures	Moments	Keeping things going
Giggling…a few days later	Honest Communication	Inspirational words	Listening…really listening	Being accepted just as I am
Being Believed in	Joy after the Pain	Blueberry Muffins	Family Cookout	Surprise phone calls
Strawberry yogurt	Extra night for free	Believing in my children	Brighter days ahead	Sharing my passion
Marie Pong	A car to borrow	New purse 4 free	Messages	Peace, glorious peace
Stress free ping pong	Cool nights after hot summer	Resources at fingertips	Hot apple cider w/cinnamon	Guilt leaving the heart
Passing with flying colors	Fasting & being close to God	Finding out you’ve inspired someone	Msg of Praise for blessing Psalm 6	Todd in suit & Tie for me
New book in mail	No bake cookies	Privacy!!!	Stickers	Knowing this isn’t all
Being inspired	Cool Sandals	Encouraging texts	Milk duds	1895 House a B&B
Learning from an expert	Being a persistent little booger	Beach all to myself	Emptying my heart of guilt	Trusting even when I don’t understand
m&m minis	Stickers in journal	Stickers on FB	Coming Home	Being a Homebody
Jesus - Always	Wanting to….	Gifts to myself	Silence	Cool sunglasses cheap
Todd saying “its perfect mom”	Foggy Quiet mornings	One of these days…being today	Exploring new places	Shaking hands w/40 military personnel
A smile that dries the tears	Bright paper to write on	Breeze from an open window	Sounds that brings smiles	Opportunities in another state
Going before security comes	Praying without ceasing	Travel and exploration	Coming home to a clean kitchen	Strength for tomorrow
Sweater when you need it	Moon hanging in the morning sky	Mountains every where I look	Recognizing simple miracles	Kids having the Bible I gave to them from 2nd grade & they are in 5th grade now
Friends sharing pics of beach & mountains	Visiting a new ice cream shop	Letting my light shine	Christmas Stockings	Watching a wall of rain approach
Lance cheese &pb crackers	Compliment from Princess Megan	Famous Author commenting on blog	Warm comfy Christmas sweaters	Phoning a friend, asking for help & getting it
Phone call from Todd	Contacts & Corrective lenses	Praying at Alter & a friend joins unexpectedly	Surprise Videos in email from friend	Unexpected knocks at door
Cool Journals	Chocolate Milk	Plums	Peace Lilies	Fixing a problem easily
Cool Whip	Sprinkles on top	Remembering	IT Heroes	Wonder Woman
Fresh Roasted chicken dinner	Fav Worship song being sung live	Dinner, movie & Bookstore date	Friends pics on FB	Watching my brothers with their Grand kids
Saying Yes to God and trusting	Muffins in the Mail	Mustard seed faith	Blissful UNeventfulness	Sausage Egg & Cheese McMuffin
Bewitched	Cool Boots	Blue Ridge Pkwy	Promises Kept	When the stars line up
Cake Icing Wars with Todd	Meg Blocking goals in soccer	Reading under a tree	Warmth from Fire Place	Cream Cheese Brownies
Sesame Chicken	Bundling up	Emergency Exits	Par 3	More than Enough
List making	Anklets	Bracelets	Cool shells	Stove Top Stuffing
Wireless Internet	Lucky Charms	Winter Olympics	“Getting” It	Hands free Headset
Laughing till I Cry	Del Sol Nail Polish	Mailing Gifts	Sleeping In	Hot hush puppies
Free E Books	Signed Book	Silly Book marks	Silly Putty	Chuck Norris Facts
Cute Stickers	Worship Songs	Balloon bouquets	Happy bunny	Key Chain from friend
Special Olympics & the smiles	Matching Hair color	Sugar free Lattes from McDonalds	Burger king Onion Rings	Weekend alone at beach
Scotch Tape	Sharpie Markers	Love Songs	Oldies	Paper Jam Free Days
Extra Strength Tylenol	Mechanical pencils	Chocolate cupcakes	Secrets of the heart	Finding lids for bowls easily
Faith	Oranges	Strawberries	Ranch Dip	Late nights on Twitter
Seizing the Day	Being Needed	An Extra Hug	Inner Strength	Living your Passion
Soothing rain	Bacon	Phases of moon	Bounciness	Upgrades for free
Wooden swing on tree w/ropes	Extra suite for guests	Sitting in warmth of sunshine	Kids doing what is asked on first request	Thinking of a friend late at night, calling and they answer
Exactly enough cake	Kisses from slobbery babies	Unexpected calls that make you laugh	Knowing what faith can do	Peanut Butter sticks
Messing with song director in church, during service	Wonder Woman to do book	Missionaries coming to visit church	Sitting with Angie in church	Minute maid sugar free lemonade
People Watching	Tip toeing	Wall of windows	Chips & salsa	Napping in the sun
Cute post it notes	Barefoot in grass	Romantic table for 2	Slow dancing	Love songs being sung to you
Laying in his arms	Children that prayin…believing	Laughter through troubles	Emails	Finding true love
Splitting a banana split	Ending the day with a friend	Arriving safely	Easter baskets	Sharing JOY with others
Facebook friends	God’s Strength	More than 1 bestest friend	Hot fudge brownie sundae	Starting a chain of yawning
Pony tail holders	Secret paths	Schoochin	Clean windows	Pimento cheese
Pig tails	Face paint	Challenge free trips	Corn dogs	Gazing at sky
Perseverance	Funny people	Something worth waiting for	Early morning thunder storms	Time capsules
Welcome home flowers	Watermelon	Emailed hugs	Feeling better after crying	Waking to roses
You Tube qued up	Help through the rain	Swimming	Being prayed for & not even knowing it	Deep, peaceful sleep – through the night

Whew.... that is a lot, I know. but trust me. this list will continue grow. Maybe the next set will be in color...as I do love writing in color. All of these things listed in my journal are in different colors.

What are some of the little things that make YOUR life big? What JOYS do you see daily that make your heart smile? I hope you'll take the time to tell us! You never know who YOU will inspire!

{{{HUGS}} yall

Finding JOY

It was my honor and pleasure to be a guest on the Setting Boundaries and Finding Sanity Blog Talk Radio with Diane Viere.

Setting Boundaries knows when we love an adult child whose life is out of control we can often feel helpless and hopeless. How do you step back into joy when your heart is filled with sorrow? Regardless of the type of sorrow you are feeling, there are ways of finding joy.

Finding joy among chaos and the feeling that your world is falling apart is completely possible and it was my pleasure to speak with her on that topic. This is a very honest and candid talk about being joyful - even through tears.

Setting Boundaries & Finding Sanity Blog Talk Radio Interview

Easy steps to Finding JOY when your heart is sorrowful:

• Give JOY - This should go without saying, but we often forget that it IS better to give than to receive. When we give anything to anyone, our hearts are often flooded with joy. Giving back doesn't have to always be expensive, huge gifts. Cards, smiles, hugs - simple pleasures are just as joyful as other gifts.


• Smile - Simple, yet can often can make a huge difference to a heart that is sorrowful.


• Do not compare - Don't do it. Comparing things, dwelling on the "have nots" is asking for sorrow.


• Notice and count the JOYs that are swirling all around you. - So many little things make our life big, yet we tend to miss it because we are counting our "sorrows" instead of our joys. One easy way to do this is by journaling. When you write down the JOYs, the happiness, the smile starters - you have something you can look at to remind yourself of the good times.


• Plan JOY - We plan meetings, Dr appts, visits here and there. Plan some joyful things. Plan a family night. Plan a walk in the park. Plan it and then expect joy. The only rule is that there is no discussion of the sorrow that surrounds you. PLAN and COUNT the joy.


• Remember, this too shall pass. We will have trials, tears and sorrow, but it won't always be this way. Look ahead into the future. Joy is coming.

Some Favorite quotes:

Sometimes your joy is the source of your smile, but sometimes your smile can be the source of your joy. Thich Nhat Hanh

Man is fond of counting his troubles, but he does not count his joys. Fyodor Dostoevsky

I could talk for days on end about finding joy, spreading joy and the like. I hope you'll be encouraged by listening to the interview and you'll start finding joy. Once you start looking for ways of spreading joy, you'll easily begin to notice opportunities for making a difference.

To easily get started, take the 30 day challenge. One act of joy a day for 30 days, to get you in the habit of spreading joy. If you think you can not afford to be spreading joy, think again! Here are 50 ways of making a difference without spending a penny.

Are you ready to find joy? If so, you'll soon realize that "There is NO joy like Spreading Joy!"

Follow Diane on Twitter http://twitter.com/partnerinSANITY as she regularly has free webinars and documents to help you while you are on the road to sanity!

So, tell me. How do you step into joy when your heart is sorrowful?

How are you spreading joy? Do you try to make a difference with someone at least ONCE daily?

Did this interview encourage you to find true joy, even through the tears? I can't wait to hear YOUR story of finding and spreading joy!

{{{HUGS}}} yall

Single Step

Lao Tzu said "A journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step." I have found that sometimes we take that first step naturally, other times it is quite by accident. Then there are the times that we are forced into taking that step with no control over what is happening, no look into what will be happening or no clue as to why it is happening.

That first step can often be scary, confusing and downright difficult. When we are facing a new direction, a new journey of yet another thousand miles, sometimes it is so easy to over look the positive because we are afraid or focused on the unknown. Instead of checking out the scenery along the way of our journey, we are focused on the "what ifs". We need to eliminate the "what if" game from our life and enjoy our journey, enjoy the beauty that is surrounding us and know that even with challenges that lay ahead, joy is swirling all around us, waiting to be noticed and appreciated.

As my life takes a new direction, I'm not fearful, I'm not worried - I'm excited! The last 4 years of my journey has been such a hodge podge of emotions, challenges and events. When I embarked on that journey in April of 2006, I was fearful. It was the most difficult challenge I had ever faced and I literally stood, looking at my virtual mountain and thought "ok, swallow me up, get it over with....I'll never be able to do this, NOT in a million years." The only thing that was consistent was change and I had never been presented with so much to learn all at once. I was afraid of an epic fail.

Not only was there NOT an Epic Fail - but it was the best four years ever. Challenges presented themselves. People came into my life, securing a permanent place in my heart, new things were learned, old ideas were tossed out the door. New friendships were made, faith was increased.

My new direction is in employment. At my last assignment, there was lots of smiling, singing, problems and mercy - the food and gatherings were always such fun! There were projects that seem to never end and then the easy ones that made you feel as though you accomplished something right away. There was the infamous 3 day work week *ahem* and the immediate "NO" (with a big smile) as certain people came through the door looking for stuff. There were those that brightened the day with their laughter, smiles and hugs, as well as the 2 that made my path smell wonderful as I journeyed down the halls. There was the direct leadership, that was always appreciative, realistic and supportive and made the day enjoyable, regardless of the challenges and ocean of paperwork that continued to grow.

Has your direction changed recently? Are you standing at the bottom of the biggest mountain you've ever faced and are thinking, go ahead...swallow me up? Are you moving towards the unknown?

What are you doing to appreciate the journey? Are you noticing the little things that make life Big while you fight your way down this road? I hope so, because the JOY is there, swirling all about you - begging for you to notice and appreciate it.

Go ahead! Take that first step....your next thousand miles awaits you!

{{{HUGS}}} Yall

Session 1 - The Bible in 90 Days

The bulk of this study will be over at www.spreading-joy.org - as that is where I will be checking the most. If you follow here, you may want to unsubscribe here, and follow over there.

Thank you for joining me on this journey through the Bible in 90 days. I hope that you are excited and as we near the end, that you'll be thrilled to have made your way through the Bible from cover to cover. I'm so excited! I have a lot of resources for you to get started with, so let's dive right in!

Here is a pdf version of the schedule that you can print off and use to track your reading.

Here is a free study guide for this week.

Reading Schedule for the Week:

Day 1 = Genesis 1:1 - Genesis 16:15
Day 2 = Genesis 17:1 - Genesis 28:19
Day 3 = Genesis 28:20 - Genesis 40:11
Day 4 = Genesis 40:12 - Genesis 50:26
Day 5 = Exodus 1:1 - Exodus 15:18
Day 6 = Exodus 15:19 - Exodus 28: to end
Day 7 = Exodus 29:1 - Exodus 40: to end

Click here to Listen to the Bible as you read it.

Here is the audio lesson for session one. (You'll need to log in!)

Please listen the lessons. I have the dvd's but can't post them here...copyright rules. We can discuss what you heard here as well. Listen while you cook, clean or are just taking time to enjoy this journey. I hope you'll take advantage of this free resource.

Story:

A deeply religious man lived in a house by the river, but one day the banks burst and the house was flooded. As the water level rose alarmingly, the man climbed onto the roof of the house. A Boat came by. "Climb aboard." called the captain. "No, I shall stay here," said the man. "God will take care of me." Twenty minutes later, the waters sill rising, the man climbed onto the chimney. Another boat came past. "Jump aboard," said the captain. "No, I shall stay here," said the man. "God will take care of me." With the water up to the man's waist, a helicopter suddenly swooped down. "Quick!" shouted the pilot. "Climb aboard!"

"No, I shall stay here," said the man. "God will take care of me." The water level continued to rise, soon the man was swept away from the chimney and drowned. Up in heaven, he sought out God. "I thought you said you would take care of me," he complained. God said, "I sent you two boats and a helicopter. What more do you want?"

Do you have any questions for me? If so, please ask away.

Group discussion questions:

1. Have you tried to read the Bible in its entirety? Did you make it? How long did it take?

2. What challenges did you face? If you didn't get all the way through, how far did you get?

3. What is the biggest challenge you are facing in this study (if any)?

4. What have you found rewarding so far in your attempts to read the Bible regularly?

5. If you've started to read through the entire Bible but have never finished it, what has kept you from finishing your goal?

6. What excites you most about the prospect of reading the entire Bible in 90 days?

7. Why do you believe it is important to read the entire Bible? What do you expect to discover in terms of practical living, spiritual growth, knowledge of history or other areas?

Reading Tips:

You'll be reading the Bible on your own. Set your schedule and plan to read each day. In 90 days, you'll have accomplished your goal.

We'll meet here on the blog post and discuss anything you need to cover. I don't claim to have all the answers, but we will find them together if need be. I'm hoping that as others chime in and discuss what they read, that any questions will be answered that way.

Try to read at different times to see what works best for you. Most of all, do not give up - even if you fall behind.

Understand what you can while reading, but remember - different things will "jump out" at you at different times.

Books you'll encounter this week:

Genesis - The adventure begins. Creation of the universe and all things in it.

Exodus - Slavery and the deliverance from Egypt.

If it's helpful to do so, print out this page, put it in your Bible and check off the schedule as you go along. Jot down some notes highlighting what you've read. Any knowledge gained, verses that spoke to you or just favorite passages.

Leave any comments, questions and items you'd like to discuss below. Also, please do take time to answer the discussion questions. You never know how you'll encourage someone to keep going after their goal!

If you are replying to someone, please include their name. If you are on twitter, please leave your twitter name, so others can follow you. I love getting to know others this way!

{{HUGS}} yall, let's do this!

A Dream Come True

"I just met Chuck Norris! WoooW!!!"

Anyone that “knows” me knows that I completely adore Chuck Norris. I always have, and always will. I can’t remember a time that I wasn’t completely infatuated with him. I don’t know why, that is just the way it has been. It could be his dashing smile, his sleeper hold, or his roundhouse kick – but what ever it is, he has always been the one person of influence I’ve longed to meet, but in my heart of hearts, felt that there was no humanly way possible.

Way back 25 years ago, when I was in the 11^th grade, a very wise teacher had us to list out some goals and dreams that we would love to achieve. In this day and age, it’s called a Bucket List. So, my 17 year old self that was shy, backwards and horribly awkward, thinks of a few things that will satisfy the teacher and turns them in. All of the items are in random order, with the exception of the first thing! It is the most important.

1. Meet Chuck Norris


2. Fly in an airplane


3. Travel Overseas


4. Ride on a train


5. See Washington Redskins play


6. Go on a Cruise


7. Visit the Statue of Liberty

I must admit. Number 2 and 3 were a given. Not much faith required there. My Dad had sent my brothers overseas for a graduation present and I was graduating the next year, so that was easy.

Fly in an airplane – First time in 1986 and since then I have flown several times. I love it. Will fly anywhere you send me.

Travel Overseas – My Graduation trip (1986) was to Germany, Austria and Switzerland! An amazing 12 days was spent seeing the castles, learning the history and taking in the breath taking scenery of the area.

Ride on a train – I was able to ride on a train through the Swiss Alps. We stopped for a snowball fight with complete strangers as well as students and adults that were traveling with us. The train ride was an experience to remember.

Visit the Statue of Liberty – I have always adored Lady Liberty. She is so beautiful, strong and a symbol of hope for many coming to the United States for the first time. Completely unexpected, my Dad sent me, my sister Angie, my Step Mom and my Cousin Mike to New York for a 4 day weekend. We stayed in New Jersey and took a train into New York everyday. We were able to visit the Statue of Liberty as well as take the elevator up to her crown and look out over the city. I completely enjoyed it, even though I’m horribly afraid of heights. That trip also allowed us to visit the top of the World Trade Center – for which I’m eternally grateful for such a gift. Again, the fear of heights kept me close to the wall and away from the railing – but I am able to say that I have that memory. The memories of this trip is full of great laughter as people tripped over luggage or the curb of the side walk several times before we made it home safe and sound.

See the Washington Redskins Play – This was during a time when Charlotte NC did NOT have an NFL team. I had the privilege of having this dream come true on a basket ball court! The Washington Redskins played the Miami Dolphins in a charity event at the UNCC college campus not far from my house. My Dad found out about it and took me to see them. Hey – the sheet didn’t say that it had to be a football game now did it? Mark another one off!! Side note – years later, when we did get a team, stadium and the works, I was able to see them play a few times.

All of this has happened in a matter of a few years. I’m down to 2 items, Meet Chuck Norris and go on a cruise. Every new movie that came out, I’d watch, desire and wish more, but honestly….do I stand a chance of meeting him, naaah.

Go on a Cruise – 1990, I’m several months pregnant and another dream is about to come true. My Dad sends me and my step mom on a 4 day cruise to the Bahamas. I’m so excited as I get to fly again and mark one more thing off of my list. The plane ride is wonderful. I’m sick, but blame it on the baby as I had never been sick when flying before. We enjoy the wonderful dinners, the shows, the tours, the island and the ocean – the vast, wonderful ocean. Every night, we would park ourselves out on the top deck and sleep, listening to the sounds of the ocean gently rocking us back and forth, cradling us in this dream come true.

Steve has always known of my fascination of Chuck Norris. When I met Steve, I used to have a small 3x5 framed picture of Chuck Norris in my room. Somewhere over time, that picture has disappeared, but the desire never did. It only grew as more movies came out and then Walker Texas Ranger leapt onto the scene. Chuck Norris was playing in a new episode every week, right in my living room. I’d watch the episode, secretly despising Alex Cahill for always getting kidnapped or needing to be rescued. I’d watch the movies with great joy and hope of meeting this TV star that was virtually unreachable.

In 2003, I revised my list as I had crossed off everything but one item. I make the additions while sitting beside the ocean during Memorial Day weekend. My kids were 12 and 8, and because my Dad's heart was giving out and his death was in the near future, I was in a situation where I was thinking about life, it’s ending and I decided That the list should be updated with more goals and dreams. A few of the new items are:

• Visit and do something in all 50 States.


• Stay at the Hotel shaped like a sale in Dubai


• Start a Non Profit and make dreams come true.


• Read a book a month


• Read through the Bible multiple times


• Visit the Equator

This is just a few of the items that are on that list. I’ll post the list elsewhere at some point. The point is, the number 1 item was still just that…Number 1 and never going to be crossed off. (Just being honest here.)

Social media is amazing. I love twitter and the many, many connections and friends I have made. I love learning about others and developed a list of things about me that I often share with others. Number 6 on that list is I have wanted to meet Chuck Norris since I was 17. (Really, can you help with this?) I share this list weekly as well as talk about meeting him and on his birthday this year, the entire day I tweeted Chuck Norris Facts. Many have seen the Chuck Norris request and have asked, emailed and tried to get me to him. YOU know who you are and I Thank you!!

Every March 10^th – I send out my usual Happy Chuck Norris Day email. It’s his birthday and it’s just what I do. I may talk about what he has done, his code of ethics, his career, and his handsome good looks or just rattle off my favorite Chuck Norris facts. I usually add pictures because one can never have to many pictures of Chuck Norris.

I sat beside the ocean January 1^st, 2010 and dreamed of what this year would hold. Never in a million, bazillion years would I have guessed that I would be writing this article. Never. In fact, I talk about meeting Chuck Norris, laugh at my favorite jokes, but had just decided that it would never happen. He turned 70 this year and in my heart of hearts, I felt that there was no way that I would ever get to meet him.

May 12, 2010 I get an email that said Chuck Norris is going to be in Charlotte on Friday at the NRA Convention. Well, the convention center was 10 minutes from where I was sitting. I hop online and it’s sold out. Wouldn’t you know it? So close but so far away. Friday, I’m pouting on facebook. I even make a statement like ” Ugggh!!! How can I be soooo close....and yet sooo far away?!?!?!? *pouting* what in the world?!? [shaking head]

Friday afternoon, my cousin Mike calls and tells me to check my email. A sales guy just left their office, leaving them with none other than tickets to the NRA at the convention center – which in HIS mind and MY mind equals ONE THING!!! OH my GOSH, I get to meet Chuck Norris!! I pick up the tickets, HUG my cousin and float through my night.

In line on Saturday morning, to purchase the book Black Belt Patriotism, it hits me…Today, I’m going to meet Chuck Norris! The tears start flowing. I get the book and get in line. Not far from the front of the line, Todd turns me around and points and sure enough – there HE is! WOOOOW!! I see him!!! I’m going to actually meet and talk to him! (more tears) We wait patiently! He’s been signing books and chatting for a while, now. I’m speaking with one of his workers and seeing that Todd and I are next in line when the worker tells me that Chuck Norris is going to take a break for a little bit. I laugh!!! How funny is that! I’ve waited 25 years to meet him and he walks away! I tell the worker that I’m tweeting that, and send outa tweet that said I was "next in line to meet Chuck Norris and he leaves....come back!!!" He watches, making sure that I’m not sneaking a photo. Altho, I’d love to have a photo with him, but that just was not the case today.

"You are looking at a Dream Come True! "

He comes back, I extend my hand and Chuck Norris shakes it. I clasp his hand with my left hand and I’m giggling like a child on Christmas morning holding the best present ever! I look him in the eyes and get the chance to tell him that I’ve wanted to meet him since I was 17 and have waited for these 25 years. He doesn’t rush us. He listens and even comments that me wanting to meet him for so long is sweet. He looks up and smiles, says Thank you, calls me by my name and shakes my hand again. *grinning* "I TOUCHED Chuck Norris!!" I think to myself! I do the 2 handed hand shake again…I have his hand in BOTH my hands!! Wow..my heart is pounding. It’s racing. I just met Chuck Norris! I tell Todd to shake his hand, and he does. Todd then takes a picture of “the hand” that shook Chuck Norris's hand and facebooks it. It’s nice to see my son excited! I call Angie first. I’m crying and can hardly speak. I met him!!! She laughs with me! She knows how I've desired this for all these years.

I gaze at my autographed book. With the hundreds of people that were there today, he will not likely remember me, unless he remembers the silly “older lady” that bounced over to his table immediately following the first break, giggling like crazy. (and clapping) But me…well, I will never, ever forget that today is the day that a 25 year old dream came true. Never! I can't even begin to express how I'm feeling. How my heart is full of unspeakable joy. It is just amazing that this dream has now come true.

My best friend and her husband called to “check on me” later on in the evening. The only way I could describe myself was that I was “paralyzed with JOY” - I was (am) so happy that I didn’t know what to think or do. I tried to write this article earlier and the words wouldn’t come. My heart was soaring well beyond cloud 37 ½!

What dreams do you have? Do you feel like they are simply out of reach? Have you waited 10, 20 or 30 years and still have not had your dream come true. Don’t give up. Don’t! While this may seem very insignificant in the realm of things, it has always been important to me. I’ve joked about it, laughed about it…and have desired it greatly. Don’t give up. Keep Dreaming and then move in the direction of your dreams!

I called my Mommie today. I told her, Mom…guess what?!? Finally, mom, finally. I met Chuck Norris…can you believe it? With that, the tears started again. I could hardly talk. I Love you Mom! I’m so glad I could share my joy with you!

"Angie said: "Step away from the signature....step away!" I can't stop gazing!"

[whispering….] Hey Dad….guess what Daddy? (Tears falling) Did you see today? I got to meet Chuck Norris! [nodding] and it was completely awesome! I touched him and everything. I wish you were here....I do. I miss you so.

{{{HUGS}} Yall.