I have Learned

This year has been a roller coaster of emotions.

I’ve been thinking lately on all the lessons that I’ve learned this year and here is a quick list of 30 things that I’ve learned.

I have learned:

1. Time together is a priceless gift
2. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder and those that truly love you will always see the beauty
3. Laughter and joy are contagious and we as a society need to do more of it on purpose
4. Changes usually end up for the best, even though the process is difficult sometimes
5. Pain is pain and it all hurts
6. Sometimes a phone call softens the horrid blows life throws at you
7. Just because something didn’t turn out the way we expected doesn’t mean we failed
8. Today is most important as tomorrow may never come
9. The pain, struggles and issues of today help to prepare me for tomorrow
10. Sometimes all you can do is cry
11. Yesterday can create a wiser today which creates a brighter tomorrow
12. That no matter how hard I try sometimes, that “it” just isn’t going to happen…and it’s ok
13. That there is beauty in brokenness
14. To focus on facts instead of feelings, because feelings can be and often are incorrect
15. Those that push us away need us the most
16. The legacy you leave is your choice
17. That even though your heart is in a million pieces that you can still love greater than you ever imagined
18. Unconditional love is such a gift
19. That sometimes there is just no understanding…that’s just the way it is
20. That even if it’s a good thing, it might not be good for you
21. Not to let the bad times steal the joy of the moment
22. That there will always be “something” going on, but more importantly the Lord is always by my side
23. Not to let the shallowness and criticism of others define who I am and what I do
24. That no matter how bad it gets, it will always work out for good….always
25. That spreading joy without expectation of anything in return has a far greater return than anyone can imagine
26. Anything that isn’t finished today, usually waits until tomorrow and it’s ok
27. That when I can’t even speak that uttering a simple prayer of “Lord, help me” can bring waves of grace and peace
28. That there is always hope
29. That I’m not going to please people, so I’m just going to focus on pleasing the Lord
30. That doing a little is better than doing nothing at all

Even though this is a mixture of good and bad…it’s truth, it’s real and authentic.

What have you learned through life’s lessons?

I hope that you’ll leave them below in the comment section and encourage those that will read this after you.

Making Memories

I love making memories with my kids

Maybe it’s because I just turned another year older recently.

Maybe it’s because the reality of an empty nest is upon me.

Maybe it’s because my baby will be graduating high school the same year my oldest baby is graduating college. (2013)

Maybe it’s because I never want to forget.

BUT lately, I’ve just been remembering and waltzing down memory lane.

It probably doesn’t surprise many of you to know that I’m a happy go lucky kind of gal.  Roll with it, fix what you can and smile through the rest.

Seriously, what else can you do? Right?

It's in that kind of spirit that I wanted to give you some fun things to do to simply make memories.  After all, that will mean more to you than a clean house, money in the bank and a nice car one day.  Mom’s seriously, if someone comes over and you have a sink full of dishes but you PLAYED with your kids, smile and say – dishes can wait, my kids can’t.

Making Memories is as simple as:

• Laying on a blanket looking at clouds and or stars
• Having an afternoon tea party with your princess and her stuffed friends
• Playing basketball in the yard
• Painting fingernails
• Walking in the park
• Reading out loud together
• Late night movie fests, with popcorn and m&m’s
• Mail cards to your small children. They LOVE getting mail. (ok, mail cards to your child...period. ) We all love mail!
• Take silly photos. Yes, we want the pretty family pictures, but always, always ALWAYS take the silly ones too.
• Dream together.  Know what your children dream of doing.  Secretly work to make it happen
• Toss the football
• Handle problems together
• Bake a cake and don’t wait for it too cool before frosting it and eating it. Such a treat.  And do NOT cut perfect squares.  Just scoop it out.
• Try new recipes together. If they don’t turn out, laugh!
• Share PB&J’s
• Buy chocolate chip cookie dough for the sole purpose of eating it raw
• Walk in the snow together. Try to catch snowflakes. Close your eyes and enjoy the coolness on your cheeks
• Sing in the car! Sing loud.
• Go to the park and swing.  If they have a tall sliding board, slide! If they have a see-saw, even better
• Explore your city together.  Let your child take pictures.  You’d be surprised at what they love….pictures are worth a thousand words
• Plan a day of NOTHING. NO chores, no dishes, no cooking – tell everyone – it’s a lazy day all around.
• Let your child play with the camera on your phone and be silly with them.
• Color. Seriously.  When is the last time you got a HUGE box of crayons and colored? (psst..make sure you color outside the lines)
• Ask your child what made them smile this week.
• Sit on the floor and play.
• Have a mad, crazy game night.  Order in Pizza and play one board game after another
• Hot Chocolate out with the kids
• Picnic outside with an ordinary meal
• Pop some popcorn and sprinkle with different flavorings. Try ranch, taco or even cinnamon sugar
• Text your kids.  Seriously.  Text them randomness, facts of the day, verse of the day, silly photos.
• Give turn down service. Leave a small piece of their favorite chocolate on their pillow and a note saying you love them.
• Play in the rain.  Just do it.  Treat it like snow.  Have fun!
• Hold hands.
• Always play music from a juke box. ALWAYS. Do not let this opportunity pass you by
• Have cereal for dinner
• Enjoy the extra sprinkles without question
• Roast marshmallows and hotdogs
• Blow bubbles
• Write on the porch or driveway with sidewalk chalk
• Play hopscotch
• Cry together.  (Not only will you make a wonderful memory of support, you’ll let your child know that it is ok to cry.)
• Shower them with hugs and kisses. Even when they don’t want them. They will thank you for it one day
• Always answer the question. Even if they’ve asked 100 times already.  Just answer it.
• Eat cotton candy together
• Collect sea shells together
• Gaze at a rainbow
• Volunteer together
• Have water balloon fights
• Play “cars” on the floor
• Enjoy go-kart riding with your kids
• Have dessert first
• Experiment with homemade pizza.  Use tortilla shells, wraps or bagels.  Have fun creating different kinds
• Have your kid’s friends over and have a peanut butter contest. See how creates the coolest sandwich w/peanut butter.
• Dance with your kids.  Be footloose and fancy free
• Catch lightning bugs
• Make homemade banana splits or sundaes.  Have toppings galore
• Spend time in a hammock together
• Host a neighborhood art exhibit
• Have a watermelon seed spitting contest. Only rule is EVERYONE must participate
• Play in the sprinkler
• Feed ducks
• Enjoy a petting zoo together.  Pet something you are afraid of
• Start a Thank you Journal, and add pics and notes about people who make a difference in your world and then DO something sweet for them
• Start a lemonade stand and donate proceeds to Spreading Joy
• Build a fort out of blankets and camp out in the living room
• Play in the town of “____” with huge cardboard boxes
• Silhouette art – draw an outline of your head and frame it.  Lamp without shade, black construction paper and it’s practically done.
• Jump rope
• Hula hoop
• Play in the band. Yes..you.  Mom, grab that broom and make it sing! Pots and wooden spoons make great instruments
• Make hand turkeys each year and watch how they grow
• Make, freeze and enjoy frozen kool-aid
• Whip up some mud pies.  Ohhhh the memories there.
• Watch the rain together.
• Go roller skating together
• Disney for everyone
• Make Snow Angels
• Remember out loud with your kids.  Talk about the fun, silly, serious things that you love about each of them.
• Send your child something unique to them for no reason. Again, everyone loves surprises in the mail
• Go for a long walk
• Fly a kite
• Plan a scavenger hunt.  Do it at a mall with pictures, or at home.  Leave fun clues.
• Cozy up by a warm fire and talk about nothing
• Bake cookies together
• Saturday Morning Cartoon Fest.  See if you can find some awesome cartoons of Yester Year.  Bugs Bunny, Road Runner etc.
• Pancakes for everyone.  Make a wide variety, chocolate chip, banana or sprinkle in some cinnamon for a delightful flavor.
• Is your child going on a sleepover or away for the weekend, week, summer etc? Slip a note into their bag telling them you'll miss them and love them. This seems so very small, but is actually HUGE in their eyes.

Tell me, what are some things that you do to make memories?  What memories do you have as a child that has just stuck with you?

Please share them with us as you never know who you’ll inspire to do those things to make memories of their own.

Inspire us in the comment section below

Boldly Face Tomorrow

Trials WILL come; it’s just a matter of when.

Tears WILL fall; it’s just a matter of how long.

Your Heart will break; it’s just a matter of how many pieces.

I understand this isn’t spreading joy, but it IS truth.

We can boldly face another day with a little preparation; after all, it is just a matter of time before we face storms and trials.

I believe I can say for certain that each one of us will face the following things:



Uncertainty:

You don’t know what you’ll be facing. You don’t know what situations will arise that are beyond your control. You don’t know about job issues, medical bills and other things. You don’t know what you’ll be facing. Choose to focus on the facts, not the uncertainty. Look at the facts and allow that to help give you direction. Sometimes all it takes is looking at things from a different view point. Don’t allow your emotions to drive you. Emotions are a tricky beast and can have our minds full of fear and doubt. Even when facing uncertainty, choose to maintain a good attitude while fixing what you can and working around the rest.



Disappointment:

I wish that you didn’t have to face disappointments, but the truth is that you WILL face it. Prepare for it in advance by looking for the good in the disappointment. It’s an old saying, but still rings true today, look for the silver lining. It’s always easier to see the negative, but if we teach ourselves to see the positive, it will get easier to find through each disappointment. I’m not telling you to ignore your hardships, I’m simply instructing you to look beyond them at what treasure may be forming because of the hardship.

The positive things are there, you have to look for them!



Fear:

Fear will consume us. You’ll be so afraid to do anything, to make decisions or even just take the next step if you are not aware of just how consuming fear is. Set your fears aside and focus on the truth of what is going on. The truth is that YOU are strong and you will make it through this. The truth is that you have people that care about you and will help you through it. Focus on the truth! Find the resources that are available and see if those will lead to more resources. As things start to fall into place, you’ll notice the fears subsiding. Let me encourage you to step out into the unknown. When you do, you’ll feel the courage coursing through you and that will give you the ability to take the next step, and the next one and the next one.



Difficulties:

When you are facing difficulties, you don’t have to face them alone. There are people who have been where you are and they are willing to walk with you. There are people who have been where you are going, they will help you out!

When we face difficulties, we clam up and withdraw and then try and face them alone. This is the time that we need to reach out so that we don’t have to battle the depression alone. Find a friend to share your fears and difficulties with and divide the pain and in doing this, you will also double the joy you share.

When you are facing difficulties that lead to depression, may I suggest you pour yourself into “others.” Regardless of the finances, we can all make a difference for others and that act alone will help bring deep down joy that no one or nothing can steal from you.

Here are 50 Ways to make a difference without spending a penny. YOU can make a difference!



Sorrow:

Facing sorrow is not easy. When someone is struggling, spend time with them, chat with them until they laugh. It doesn’t take a special talent, lots of money or gifts galore. It only takes a willing heart. Be sensitive to others when sorrows arise. Don’t assume someone should be over the grief they are going through. Don’t assume someone shouldn’t be hurting “over that situation.” We all deal with grief, pain and sorrow differently. Be sensitive and kind to those facing sorrow. If you are in the midst of sorrow or grief, know that it’s ok. There is no right way to grieve. Sometimes writing out your feelings – the good, bad and ugly is a way of releasing them. Sometimes, it’s a matter of sharing them verbally or counseling. Some may even need medical help. Whatever your means of facing your sorrow, remember YOU have friends and family that will help you face them. Don’t withdraw and try to go it alone. That’s what WE are here for.

Regret:

This is the ONE thing we can choose NOT to face. Regret. Regret will break us. The guilt of regret will weigh our hearts down and beat us.

We all have made bad decisions.

We can learn from our bad choices, we can decide that yes… I did “that” but I will NOT allow myself to be in that situation again. Don’t let regret keep you from boldly making a change in your life. Don’t let guilt keep you down when you are capable of doing so much for you and your family. Don’t let regret win. You are strong enough to use it, learn from it and then beat it.

Think about this:

If we are living in the past and worried about the future, how can we be effective today?

It’s simple - - - We can’t. Choose NOT to regret. Put those past mistakes to good use by learning from them and sharing what you’ve learned with others.



Emptiness:

There are times that you’ll feel empty, alone and like you don’t matter. It’s going to happen, it is just a matter of when. When you face this, once again I have to insist that you go on fact instead of feelings. Feelings are so tricky and emotional roller coasters are not very fun.

Here are the facts:

• YOU Matter – Not only do you matter, but you matter a LOT. You are the world to someone!


• YOU Make a difference – in so many ways. You feel as though you do nothing special and you are nothing special, but THAT is what MAKES you special. No one can make a difference like YOU do. NO one!


• YOU will make if past this – and when you do, you’ll soar to new heights that you didn’t even know existed.

Use this time of empty feelings to focus on making a difference for others instead of dwelling on how you feel. It can be as little as giving your children their favorite cereal for dinner, coloring with them in their coloring books. It could be something like telling an older friend thank you for helping to shape our world into what it is today and taking some time to hear how they did it. It could be something like extending patience to the cashier that is experiencing one rude customer after another. Take your mind off of the emptiness that is flooding your heart and place your focus on those around you. You’ll soon find the emptiness filling up with amazing JOY.



Overwhelmed:

Even the calmest person I know will face times when they are overwhelmed. It’s at this point that you simply can’t afford to feel guilty for stopping and doing something for yourself.

STOP right here, pull yourself away from everything for a little bit. Go outside, stretch and take 5 minutes to soak up the outdoors. When you can, take an some additional time to just step away from all that is pulling at you.

If you have young children, it may need to be for 15-30 minutes after they’ve gone to bed, but STOP and do something for yourself.

It doesn’t have to be expensive, it just needs to be done and done without guilt.

Read

Write in your journal

Gaze out the window

Listen to the sound of the rain

Take a nap on the couch – set a timer so you don’t over sleep.

If you don’t pull yourself out of the situation for a little bit, it will only get worse.



How are you boldly facing tomorrow? What other tips would you share with others?



To Hear an audio version of this, please click below:

Thanks Mom

A tender heart

A loving smile

Helping hands

Across every mile

Gentleness and strength

Wrapped up in one

She is always there

Like the morning sun

I love you Mom

Seems so small but true

Your unconditional love

Pours out from you

A million thank yous

Could never show

The love and gratitude

As my heart overflows

For all you do

For all you say

I adore you Mom

Today…and ALWAYS

Six Months

I didn't know it at the time but on February 20th, 2003 - I would hear news that would forever change my life. It was an honor actually, but when I was hearing it, I felt it was anything but an honor.

I was with my Dad at the hospital when the cardiologist came in to see him that morning. I knew my time with my Dad was limited, but what I was about to hear pierced through my heart like a dagger.

"John, if there is anything you want to do, do it now." I looked at the doctor and simply uttered "excuse me?"

The doctor went on to explain that my Dad's heart was only functioning at 13% or so and that it would not last more than 6 months at the very most. He told my Dad to do what he wanted to do, have what he wanted to have and take this time to get things in order. My body was numb, my heart was in shock. I remember wanting to cry out that 35 years is not enough time to spend with him. I had leaned up against the wall, to steady myself and the doctor asked me to step outside. He informed me that with my Dad's diabetes, that the sore on his foot would not heal and would contribute to his death as well - painfully so. He assured me that when the time come, he would call hospice in and make "it" as painless as possible. My heart agonized over the fact that I would not be able to stop this, that I would not be able to stop the pain and I would have to spend each and every moment with him that I could.

The doctor asked me if I was OK, and I simply nodded. We went back inside the room and he informed us that he'd be in there another day. The doctor left, I sat on the edge of the bed, wondering what was running through my Dad's heart. As I sat there, numb, my Dad spoke...asking me "Well, Daughter.....what do you think?" I immediately looked at him, eyeball to eyeball. Here I was wondering about him...and HE was wondering about me. Unbelievable. I kept looking at him and said "I think I'm going to miss you soooooo much." I sat quietly on the bed with him for a little bit. Gently crying because I didn't want to upset him to much, but there was no way I could hold in the tears.

Again, at the time, I didn't consider being with him to receive that kind of news an honor, but now I know beyond doubt that it was a priceless gift that I would not trade for the world.

Not everyone gets a six month warning to get their affairs straight, do what they want to do, see whom they want to see and so on. But he almost did. I had the difficult task to start making the calls. To tell my sister and brothers and step mom what I had just found out. I wanted anyone that wanted to see him, hug him and tell him just how special he was to have the chance to do so and time was of the essence.

As Dad got weaker, I moved in to help take care of him. I organized my work schedule to where I would work in the late afternoons or at night and help Angie take care of him during the day. I slept when he did and enjoyed many midnight egg sandwiches with him. It never bothered me that he could only eat a bite of the sandwich.

You may wonder why I'm sharing this with you. My Dad didn't get the full six months. He died on July 20th, 2003. We made sure that he laughed every chance he could and sometimes he simply laughed because he caught me and Angie "discussing things" between "ourselves" and we had NO clue he was awake. We made sure that anyone that wanted to see him had the chance and we all had time with him to tell him just how much he meant to us. I asked several times if there was anything he wanted and no matter what it was, I'd make sure he had it. Even though he was at the point nothing much would stay down when it came to food.

If you found out that you only had six months, what would you do? Who would you see? What calls would you make?

My next question is WHY would you wait until you only have six months? Start doing what you want to do. You have life dreams! Start on them. No matter how slowly you think you may be accomplishing them, start on them NOW. One of my dreams is to visit all 50 states. When we look at vacations, we look at a state we have not been to. Make the list and start chipping away at it. One of my dreams is to publish a book. In all of the spare time that I do not have, I'm slooooooowly chipping away at it. Work on those dreams NOW.

Schedule a visit with those that you have not seen and make those calls. We live in a period where it's easier now than ever to keep up with people we adore. Send the email, send the ecard or send the paper card. Tell those that are special to you just how special they are. Don't wait until you find out that you don't have much time left.

Do it now.

Six months is not long. Before we know it Christmas will be here again and it's only February.

Work towards your dreams
Plan the visit
Make the call
Give the hugs freely

Say I love you. Say it again. Say it once more.

Do it now, don't wait.

Tell me, what are some of your dreams you are working on.

Did you make the phone call, plan the visit or give the extra hugs? I hope so, I truly do!

{{{{HUGS}}}} yall

Photo: June 11, 2003 one of the last few photos of me and my dad

My Passion is Hindering MY PASSION

I love giving. I love making a difference for others. I love doing things as a surprise for those that I love as well as surprising complete strangers with Reese’s Cups and Little Debbie Cakes. I can honestly say that giving and doing for others is a passion.

Spreading joy and encouraging others is a passion as well. I love reminding people that they ARE making a difference with a simple $10 donation, that they are making a change within their community when they volunteer their time and that they will see a difference by doing what they can – right where they are.

So………

Why am I not spreading the word about Spreading Joy? Why am I not setting up meetings to encourage people and show them just how easy it is to make a difference without breaking the bank? Why am I not trying to get my foot in the door of local corporations and churches?

Simple! My passion for giving is hindering my passion for Spreading JOY. I don’t have a “gift” to leave these people, I don’t have anything “physical” to leave them and I let that stop me from giving them what I can offer….and that is joy, encouragement and ideas for making a difference with little to no resources.

A friend of mine, Harry Tucker, and I were discussing passion. He told me that passion could be a curse. I kind of chuckled and thought there is no way. Being passionate about something would help to get it done. I asked him to explain how that could be and he said

Passion is a curse when many people are afraid of it. It is a curse when it is bursting to produce results but is surrounded by apathy and indifference. If not expressed outwards, it can turn inwards.

Little did I know that I would soon be living that statement…Passion is a curse.

Another friend of mine, Richard Mayhan has developed a site called Mercy Junction. One Roof – Countless Resources. He is using this site to list all of the local places in his community that act as a resource for the needy. He includes things like food pantries, shelters, community dinners as well as National Hot-lines and other resources for those that are in need of assistance. Brilliant idea! He put hours upon hours of work into it. Soon afterwards, he had an opportunity to share Mercy Junction with a group of men and did an amazing job. The reason I mention this is that as I was reading how the meeting went, it dawned on me that he went, presented his ideas and passion for helping others without so much as a business card to leave them AND it was amazing!! (I wasn’t there, but I’ve heard him speak – so I’m SURE it was fantabulous!)

I’ve told you all of that to tell you this….

I’ve decided that in this year, I am going to set up meetings to present Spreading Joy Corporation to various organizations in my area. I’m going to offer encouragement to any church, civic group and ladies groups that will allow me to do so. (If you’d like to discuss how I can encourage your group, please email me.) I will start doing what I can, with what I have – right where I am; EVEN if I do not have anything to “leave with them.” I am going to work on emailing various corporations and seeing if they will partner with me and help me make a difference and try and personally contribute more to Spreading Joy each month financially to aid in this.

I am not going to let NOT having anything to give stop me anymore.

I will remind people that “There’s no joy like Spreading Joy.”

I’m going to do what I can, where I am, with what I have and NOT feel guilty. I am spreading joy and I am making a difference.

{{HUGS}} yall

What is YOUR passion? Has it been a tool to help push you into what you love or has it been a curse? Is it bursting to see results and you just don’t know which direction to go? Tell me….what are you doing with YOUR passion?

PS – you can follow Harry Tucker on twitter as @harrytucker and Richard Mayhan on twitter as @mcProdigal

ANOTHER 50 Ways to Make a Difference Without Spending a Penny

There is something deep within us all that knows it is better to give than to receive. That is why my heart is always screaming "There's NO joy like Spreading JOY!" Just like most people, this economy is killing me financially. I can't seem to get out from under the ever growing snowball of horror as far as getting ahead goes. That does NOT stop me from giving and making a difference. It's what I do, always has been, always will be.

This need to give inspired me to write 50 Ways to Make a Difference Without Spending a Penny last year. I'm honored to say that it has inspired many whose hearts have the desire to give, but their wallet says NO. My goal with these ideas is to get you to a point that you are keenly aware of ways to make a difference. That you'll recognize various chances that tend to pop up. I want your heart to soar as you are doing what you can, where you are, with that you have. And, believe me - it will.

EVERY act of joy, regardless of what it is, has limitless possibilities. You may never know just how far your selfless act of joy went.

It is my pleasure to present to you ANOTHER 50 ways of making a difference with OUT spending a single penny!

1. Click on Ads when visiting web sites. - You are already there reading & the owner of the site makes some money off each click, so why not?

2. Blog Comments - Take a few moments and tell the writer of the article if you liked or even disliked what was written. Feed back is always wonderful!

3. If you shop Amazon.com USE the affiliate link of a friend! WHY not let a small percentage of your purchase help someone? Don't know anyone? I know of 2. Richard @mcProdigal & Brett @ChristianRep (click their NAME to be directed to their sites which has their Amazon link there!)

4. Make every phone call extremely pleasant. Even the "Non helping" help desk calls.

5. Post Links to Charity organizational events to your facebook wall or twitter feed. If you can't donate a financial gift, donate your voice! Do it daily to help promote the event without being asked to.

6. If you know someone is having a rough day, make a video encouraging them to keep going and email it or facebook it to them. I have received a few of these, and LOVE it!

7. Donate your used computer, projectors etc to someone that doesn't have one. May take some time to research it, but completely worth it. Many single mom's would love NOT to have to go to a public library to use the internet.

8. Leave a comment below with a way of spreading joy without spending a penny. ;)

9. Establish a monthly "NO Chore Day" for your entire family. Mom - yes, this includes you too. Do something fun with that time. The dishes will wait for you!

10. Invite a friend over for coffee, dessert and a fun time of chatting.

11. Color with some children. Color with YOUR children. Don't even stay inside the lines. Be adventurous and color outside the lines.

12. Email this list to someone who has a huge heart but is without the financial means to make a difference.

13. Turn off all lights when leaving the room. (Mom's all over the world will thank you!)

14. Send an encouraging text to let someone know you were thinking of them.

15. Give a HUG - my goodness, just do it! One size fits all, you can't hug the wrong person and even if you are having an awesome day, a hug will just make it fantabulous!

16. When making homemade bread, double the recipe and give some away.

17. If you have someone's Instant Message or Skype contact info, leave them a message even if they are off line. They will find it and be encouraged when they log on.

18. Send Ecards to people in your email address book. I love using www.greetums.com and www.sendwisecards.com for this. The possibilities are truly endless. Go, encourage and email smiles!

19. Recently read a book that you loved? Has a friend given you a book that they had published? Write a review and post it without being asked to on your web site promoting it. Every bit of promotion helps. (I'm so far behind on this...I'm working on it!)

20. Surprise your family with a HOT breakfast one morning, instead of the traditional quick milk, juice and cereal as they are running out of the door.

21. Give kind words freely. Honestly, after a day of "you didn't accomplish this, you made a D on that test, you monthly projections were off by a long shot...blah, blah, blah" WE all need to hear more positive things that we did do.

22. Be generous with the pat on the backs, the handshakes and eye to eye contact. Positive reinforcement here!

23. When my head is on my desk, don't bother me. Honestly, there is reason.

24. Share confidence! Remind others that they CAN do this. They are excellent at what they do. They are strong and will make it through.

25. When you are sick with a head cold, don't write. Just don't do it. Spare us all the whinybrat ickiness and don't write. ok? (LOLOL, that is a note to myself. I currently have a cold and can't think of anything to write here and am feeling kind of bratty! Thus the "harshness" of #23. I'm leaving this, but will do a for real #25 and stop writing for the night.)

25. If you see someone in distress, tears or extremely emotional about something. Even if you don't know them, take a moment to smile and remind them that it WILL be alright. Don't make light of their situation, but do be encouraging.

26. Return a favor - without being asked.

27. Do not assume - Don't do it. What you think you might know isn't necessarily the truth of the actual known fact. You just never know....you know?

28. Wink at random people. Make sure you pass along a huge smile too!

29. Shake hands or some how, some way greet our wonderful Military personnel each and every time you see someone in uniform. Look them in the eyes and say thank you. Make this a rule! I never pass up this opportunity.

30. Take time to smell the roses. You pass them in the store, you pass them in gardens. Take the time to do it. You never know who is watching and how you will inspire them.

31. Write a note for your child(ren) expressing how proud of them you are. Leave it on their pillow or put it in their overnight bag. This is always fun for a lunch box too, especially if your child is young.

32. Be forgiving today. Bury the hatchet and let bygones, be bygones.

33. SLOW down - so you won't be grouchy! YOU know it's true. When you are in a hurry every SINGLE thing gets on your nerves and you are grouchy. (Pointing the finger at MYSELF!! I never do things slowly)

34. VOTE - Don't let this opportunity pass you by.

35. Tell those that you love, you love them. Seriously. Go on....I'll wait.

36. Designate your company MATCH to Spreading JOY. Many organizations will match your contributions 100 % up to a certain amount. Here are some Corporations that match donations.

37. Attend the party. Seriously. You were invited. The Host is working hard at putting it together! YOU will make someone happy...so GO - - have fun, sit back and ENJOY!

38. When singing in the car, LOUDLY, be aware of the feelings of others - if YOU are not alone. ;) Make sure its songs they can sing along to.

39. Phone calls - for NO reasons. Love this. Go ahead and make that call. You never know who you will encourage, whose day you'll make brighter and how that person just might have needed that encouragement at just that moment.

40. Eat Dessert FIRST. You will be a huge spreadingJOY hero to your family when you plan this. Go all out - do ice cream in waffle bowls. Have Reese's Cup Pie (and invite me over) or Chocolate Cake with Chocolate frosting. Have it first and have lots of fun!

41. Celebrate your UN-Birthday with your family. Make a cake from scratch, using basic ingredients from the pantry. The fun, laughter and the fact that it's your UN-birthday will have your home filled with great laughter and JOY!

42. Use a gift card that you received for someone else! Wow. HOW selfless is this? You'll make a difference and it will not have cost YOU a single cent.

43. Share your frequent flyer miles. Do you travel alot? Have an abundance of miles racked up. Offer a night or 2 at a hotel to someone. Let me know that you would be a resource of miles for Spreading JOY.

44. Do not wake up Grumpy. Let him sleep. ;) (hahahahaha. Ok, that is as old as the hills, but still funny to me.) Seriously. If you wake up grumpy, focus on others, think of the millions of little things that make YOUR life big and keep the ickiness to yourself until it passes. We want to be spreadingJOY not spreadingICK. Check out Confessions of a Cranky Gal.

45. Host an afternoon Tea Party with your child(ren). These will be cherished memories indeed. Before you know it, you'll be attending the wedding of your princess. Remember, PINKIES up!

46. Be happy for someone else's success AND help them, in any way, shape or form to be successful.

47. Watch your words. This reminds me of "Sticks and stones will break my bones, but words will never hurt me." yeah, you remember that rhyme. IT IS NOT TRUE! Your words are powerful! They will leave a mark on people! Either positive or negative. You get to choose! Choose wisely!

48. Help your child(ren) complete an act of joy every day. Starting joyful habits at a young age will instill a kindness that will last a life time.

49. Leave the mole hill small. Do not make a mountain out of it. Trust me, you'll face enough mountains in your lifetime. Don't add to it.

50. End on a positive note. I realize this cannot always be accomplished, but it is worth the effort.

51. Leave a sticky note of encouragement on a few of your co-workers computer. Don't sign it. Just do it.

There you have it! Another 50 ways of making a difference without spending a single penny. I love this stuff. Spreading joy has never been easier.

I know things are tough, but you are tougher. You can make a difference, right where you are, with what you have. Free your heart of guilt because you feel you can not make a difference. You can. Do one thing a day. Just one.

What are your thoughts?

Make sure you come back and tell me - How are YOU spreading joy?

((HUGS)) Yall

In A Valley

I'm in a valley. It's true. Have been for about a month now AND I love it! I do! I'm working in beautiful Salem Virginia. Mountains are everywhere I look. The ride to and from each week has been gorgeous with the color of the leaves changing to burnt orange and bright reds. Megan even asked me when I started working there, what is it was like. My reply was, "I'm in a valley." to which she responded ohhhhhh, niiiiice! I had to smile because I knew that I've been wondering about life's valleys.

Being in this majestic valley has got me thinking lately about "life's valleys."

We all go through the valley in life, there is no escaping it. It's a matter of when. My question to myself has been why don't I "look up" at the wonderful surroundings when I'm in life's valley, just as I'm doing while working here in the valley of Virginia? I know that I'm surrounded by a million little things that make life glorious and I also know the valleys are going to happen. So what is the disconnect?

Could it be that I'm so focused on the issues that I forget to look up and enjoy what is around me? Or maybe the discouragement during that time has put a huge cloud over me and I can't see the beauty that is all about me? Could it be that discontentment wastes my energy and I have no strength to focus on making it through the valley? Why have I never thought of looking up before?

We all have so many blessings in our life that should carry us from one valley to the next but when we are in those valleys - we tend to forget them, so our stay there seems much longer than necessary.

The valleys of life are hard. I've been in many of them and do not enjoy them during that time. I'm always thankful for friends I can come to for help, but like many - I sometimes choose not to ask, for fear of being a "burden".

I faced another closed door a few weeks back. My heart ached with great pain, discouragement and no music was there. Until I poured out my heart in the following words that day, I sat in silence. No singing, no happiness and fighting back the tears from yet one more closed door.

The Closed Door

Sometimes the hurt is too much to bare
Even though you say I can, I feel I can't share

The Load is heavy, the road is long
The heart is weary and has lost its song

I know there's hope that never ends
But for now it seems my life won't mend

I just want to be held, I'm tired and weak
I'll simply rest in silence, as I can't even speak

You are strong, I'm not. I can't even try
I can't stop the tears from falling from my eyes

This is me, this is all - there is nothing more
Such is my life - as I stand, facing the closed door.

Will I remember this in my next valley? Yes. Will it make a difference? I honestly don't know. Will I struggle along alone? I hope not. I hope that I will have the courage to ask for help that day, but it takes courage for that, and I'm far from courageous.

What do you think? Why do we not look up when we are in life's valley? Why do we struggle alone - without asking for help? We have great friendships and tons of resources, yet we choose to limp along through the valley - alone.

Tell me, what is the disconnect?

{{HUGS}} yall

I Wish

I wish I knew what was going on
I wish you’d let me see
I wish I could bring you smiles
Just the way that you do me

I wish I could melt the hurt away
I wish you’d let me in
I wish for you great happiness
And that your heart will soar high again

I wish away the sorrow
I wish away the dread
I wish you a thousand blessings
Upon your life instead

I wish you every kindness
I wish you joy and peace
I wish you amazing laughter
And great love that’s within reach

I wish these great things for you
And even a million more
And for every one that’s granted you
I wish for hope restored.

What do you wish for?

Have you ever wanted to help someone and didn't know what to say or do? What did you do?

{{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

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.

Magical Weekend

"Marie and Magician Maxwell Blade"

My mommie gave me a wonderful gift for my birthday. A trip to see my son who was in Arkansas in college. Though the trip was long and the time spent with Todd would be short, the weekend would turn out to be quite magical, indeed.

I always try and focus on the positive. There's usually a lot of negativity swirling all around to cover up the happy, so finding the joy in things can be difficult, but - always remember, the joy and happiness is there! Look for it!

The weekend was full of laughter, singing, coffee and getting turned around, spilt drinks, my mommie's broken Air Conditioner and my unexpected financial expenses that could have taken the joy out of the trip. But - choosing to focus on seeing my son, HIS birthday - I decide that we are going to have fun, no matter how tight the funds were. There had to be plenty of free things to see, do and enjoy. I was determined his 19th birthday would be amazing.

Todd was completely surprised to see us. No small feat, given the fact that he is always facebookin, texting, talking and the like. I actually thought my heart would burst as we pulled into the mall parking lot. We hug, cry and thanks to his wonderful boss, we leave for our weekend. I have no idea yet what we will do, but it will be great fun simply being with Todd for his birthday.

"The Glorious Majestic Hotel"

I love the historical feel of downtown Hot Springs Arkansas. The old buildings, and especially the Majestic Hotel. We walk around that evening and spend time looking at it, even though we are NOT supposed to be trespassing. I would love to sneak a peak inside. I can imagine the parties, the rooms, the dinners and the laughter. We see a guard, stop and speak for a bit. I'm secretly wishing he would invite me to see a few of the rooms. I love old buildings like that. He doesn't, I'm jealous, so we bid him a good night and head down the road. (Seriously, if YOU have connections, I'd looove to see the inside, even though it's abandoned!) We talk about going to the lake, but have no clue where the public lake access is.

A very nice gentleman over hears us and starts telling me where to go to access the lake. I'm getting excited as I can picture the lake and its beauty. He tells me that he'll write it down for me and asks if we are going to attend the magic show that night as he points to the entrance of Maxwell Blade's Magic Show. Woow!! I LOVE magic shows! I look at the entrance and back at the gentleman and realize that I'm speaking to the magician HIMSELF!! Oh my gosh! How cool is that?
"A Magical Weekend With Maxwell Blade"

He's traveled doing magic shows all over the world and has now settled into Hot Springs AR, where he is on vacation all the time. The show was spectacular! We settle in our seats, Todd treats me to a diet coke and we watch with awe and joy as the magic begins. The card tricks were awesome, especially the invisible cards! He pulls children from the audiance and has a blast with them! We laugh, we oooohh and aaahhhh. Bottles of wine come from empty containers that I can see through. Not just a few of them, no. An entire table full by the time the trick is complete.

This magician is not only gifted with the ability to WOW us with his magic, but also has a huge heart for others. He is a giving individual and has a goal of making a difference by doing 3 acts of joy a day. If you are trying to make sure you do one thing for others a day, that can be difficult, but 3 - that is simply wonderful. He even stayed around afterwards to speak to everyone of us, even though he had a long trip to make that night for an event the next day - one of "giving back".

If you are in Hot Springs Arkansas on a Friday or Saturday night, I encourage you to stop by and check out the show. I'll be there this coming weekend and will be paying it forward, making a difference and giving away a couple of tickets to this show.

Thank you, Maxwell Blade, for a magical weekend. For your heart for others, for the smiles, laughter and joy you bring into the hearts of all who visit your show.

Please visit www.maxwellblade.com

You can contact Maxwell Blade by calling 501-623-6200 501-623-6200
Mailing Address: 121 Central Avenue, Hot Springs, AR 71901
E-mail: blade39@windstream.net

Adult tickets cost $15.00.
Tickets for seniors 55 and up cost $13.00.
Tickets for children 12 and under cost $10.00.

Oh.....another thing! When I asked for his card, he promptly wrote his email on a playing card and handed it to me! *grinning* now THAT is very cool!

Make it magical today! No matter the problems, worries or other little aggravating things that poke their way into your day! Look for and find the joy in the journey!

{{{HUGS}}} Yall

Having Compassion and Making a Difference

Make video montages at www.OneTrueMedia.com

I'm constantly amazed at the amount of little things that can be done in a day to make a difference. No matter where we go, what we do, each and everyone of us have the power within ourselves to make a huge difference right where we are. Be it with smiles, hugs, kinds words, written note, helping someone out etc, we all have the ability to create change. When you add compassion to it, you get something else entirely.

compassion

[kuhm-pash-uhn] - a feeling of deep sympathy and sorrow for another who is stricken by misfortune, accompanied by a strong desire to alleviate the suffering.

Everyone, on some level, feels sorrow for others who have been stricken by misfortune. When you have compassion, the desire to do something, to alleviate the pain and suffering, takes over and your heart must act upon it. There is no stopping it. The desire is so forceful and great that your heart is grieved because you feel like you can't alleviate the suffering. Then it hits you. You realize that while it may be true, you can't stop the suffering, you can't change things by yourself and you certainly can't do it alone, the fact is that you don't have to. There are so many people who have a strong desire to make a difference!

There is safety in numbers, right? Well, when the compassionate join forces and come together, there is STRENGTH, HOPE and MIRACLES are bound to be right around the corner. New Year Of Hope (NYOH) was started because of a strong desire to make a difference. Compassion. When you have compassion, you'll notice every little detail, every miracle and every act of joy causes floods of joy in your own heart!

There is no way I can ever thank those that have come together for NYOH, allowing me to experience the flood gates of joy on my soul when I delivered the HOPE that you provided. The behind the scenes work, the asking, the praying, the begging and the phone calls were amazing. So many people gave what they could to bring this miracle to pass. Those that couldn't give were instrumental in spreading the word about the need - and we could not have made it without you either! You truly made a difference by telling as many people as you could, as often as you could. My heart thanks all of you for your part in NYOH.

Here is how things unfolded. Stick with me. This is a long post, but worth the read!

Finally, it's here. The day we've been waiting for! Delivering HOPE to Roxboro NC. Dwayne is expecting me to come down and deliver the rent for 2009. My heart has been huge these past few months, as I know that I'm delivering so much more.

We finally arrive in Roxboro. Please keep in mind that Dwayne is only expecting me to come down with the 2009 rent that YOU supplied. We get there and the HUGS are wonderful. I give him 2 extra, one for @blogomomma and @cupcakes5 (hey, they needed for him to have a hug from them too!) He invites us in, but I get Diana and we get a "few" things from the back of my car. I have her close her eyes before she opens the car door and she is so surprised as she sees "all" the gifts that await her. We take 2 trips to carry them in and Dwayne is just as surprised. There is 3 or 4 different types of journals, photo album, cute pen, 5 rubber - extra long pencils, box of Magnetos (a magnetic building pieces of sorts), Operation, Monopoly, Connect4, Trouble, 8 different fingernail polishes, 2 heart makeup kits, 2 books, m&m's, big blue box of crayola crayons, markers and other art items, HUGE bag of school supplies, inlcuding 3 1 inch binders, 10 or more pocket folders, spiral notebooks, glue sticks, 24 pack of pencils, 12 pack of pens, pencil holder, erasers, and then a few of my favorite things - as you know I love giving my favorite things too. 2 pair of cute adorable socks, 3 packs of Reese Cups, and a Gorilla Webkin. (I do so adore monkeys) There is a video coming that shows her opening everything, so if I have forgotten anything, you'll get to see it. Dwayne is pretty speechless at this point. I'm ready to explode because my heart is flooded with emotions, knowing the last two items.

I hand him a card, that talks about how we knew he's been discouraged, but things will be looking up soon. I hand write a note at the bottom. It's his first huge surprise.

"The Hampton Inn of Myrtle Beach SC has Partnered with Spreading Joy Corporation to provide you a week at the beach free of charge!"

Immediately, tears of joy from someone who has had to keep getting up, over and over from being knocked down. He shows Diana and she is delighted as she has never been to the beach with her father. I do not have the certificates with me, but 3 restaurants in the area have graciously agreed to provide a gift certificate for their meals. My goal is to have enough certificates for their week of eating by the time he goes so that their meals are completely paid for.

We start discussing the box. HOPE. I saw the box a few months ago in Michaels and grabbed it, knowing I would put a single certificate in it. Hope - there is so much possibility there, especially when people with a heart for others from ALL OVER THE WORLD come together to make a difference. I hand him the box. My smile is a mile wide and my heart is on cloud 37 1/2 because I know what is waiting for him. I ask him to open it and read it out loud. He starts reading - There's Hope that hever ends - dwaynereaves certificate! (That link is a copy for you to see) He gets to the 3 rd line and hangs his head and more TEARS of JOY. FINALLY, my heart is screaming. HE KNOWS!! I give more hugs and take the certificate and read it out loud for the video. He is speechless as he has just read

"Spreading Joy Heroes from all over the world have graciously paid your rent through December 31, 2010"

He had no clue at all. Few people knew of this and we had kept it a secret from everyone. All of you who gave - YOU had no idea what you were giving to!! You thought you were helping a gentleman keep his apartment and pay his debt from last year. Look at what YOUR giving turned into.

• 10 or 12 gifts, games and huge bag of back to school supplies and Reese Cups for Diana.


• Week at the beach with meals included. (I have time to round the meals up - gonna make the calls and ask)


• 2009-2010 RENT Taken care of Completely!

We talk, laugh and cry tears of joy and then, I must go and meet the man that helped make this possible - by trusting a girl that he had never talked to before, never met and had no idea if she would even come through on her promise. Ronnie - the landlord. Remember, I had called and asked him to allow me to raise funds for him with the help of @blogomomma from Chicago and he agreed to let Dwayne stay there in the apartment - even though we had no idea how long it would take to raise the funds needed to catch up on rent. I meet and of course HUG him and thank him from the bottom of my heart. He truly made a difference with the compassion that he had in his heart. The unique thing about Ronnie is - everytime I said thank you, he "gave" it back to me. What a giver! We presented Ronnie with a certificate as well. Such a small thing for his kind heart, but it comes from my heart and he understands that.

Many of you sent in your gifts with a heart felt sentiment "I wish I could do more". I love that your heart wants to give on a bigger level and even understand it, as does mine. Never apologize for giving what you can, and thank you for doing so! Many said, I can't give - you just don't understand, but I can email, tweet and ask others. Oh, after having my guy not work for half the year last year, I do understand! I also know how powerful one single voice can be! You never know who you will reach that has the means of making a difference! So thank you for your voice!

Thank you to @blogomomma who contacted me before Christmas and gave it a cool nifty name, started the ball rolling so that all I had to do was jump in and follow her lead. She did so much work and allowed me to experience complete joy as I delivered the gift that she worked hard to accomplish. I love you doll! You bless me.

Thank you to @cupcakes5 for your never ending voice, love and prayers and heart for others! My world is sweeter because you are in it!

Thank you to those who gave and would not allow us to add you to the list. You secret Spreading Joy heroes have a special place in my heart and I hope your heart is flooded with oceans of joy right now.

Thank you to everyone on this list -

that gave, tweeted and did what you could, with what you have. YOU are Spreading Joy! I hope your heart is soaring!

Thank you Ronnie, again - you are amazing!

Thank you Hampton Inn for providing a dream come true for a little girl and her father! You are fantabulous!

Thank you Marvin McAllister - my friend for allowing me to borrow your video camera. Maybe when Spreading Joy grows up a little more, I won't have to borrow it, but it is nice to know that you don't mind!

Thank you Steve Wikle for wrapping, riding along, videoing and putting up with the singing, giggling and all the "excited" talking the entire way up there. Thank you for being my biggest supporter in Spreading Joy. I love you.

(Shhh...don't tell anyone this is in this article - but ummmm - Have I forgotten anyone? - if so, pleeease do tell me so I can correct it!)

Here are the videos of all of the gifts being unwrapped as well as the "special gifts" that just made my day to deliver!! We could NOT have done this without YOU!

Thank you for allowing me this opportunity to deliver HOPE to Roxboro NC! Words can not express the gratitude that lies deep within my heart and soul for being able to make a difference. I know that Spreading Joy was only able to do this with YOUR help and I hope that you'll continue to partner with me, to do what we can, where we are, with what we have - so that we can - TOGETHER - Give BIG!

So, tell me. What do you think?

Did you ever imagine this? Do you see how your giving what you can, can restore hope? Oh...I truly hope so! I do.

***Dwayne tells his story as well as THANKS you for how you helped restore hope. Your heart should be flooded with unspeakable joy as you read how you made a difference in his life!***

{{{HUGS}}} Yall!