Grateful Heart

When November rolls around each year, so many people start the 30 days of Thankfulness on their Social Media sites.  I love reading them, I love seeing what people are thankful for and I love how it encourages others to do the same.

The thing that gets me though is why does it have to end?  

You are already updating your status daily; you are already sharing pictures, plans and pray requests.  You are there, so why not continue it?  Why not share something daily that you are thankful for.

Yes, November is the month that we celebrate Thanksgiving, but why not celebrate all year through?

For me, I want to express gratitude daily.

I look for the beauty in the ordinary, the rainbow after the rain and the good in the pain.  I try to express thanks for something each day, just like I do one act of JOY for someone each day.

Diligence is the key.  Instead of keeping it to myself, I will start posting something daily that I’m thankful for.  It may be online or in my journal, but I won’t let my expression of thanks end after the festivities have ended.  I won’t let April roll through without participating in some type of thanksgiving.

Will you?

Will you give daily thanks when this month of Thanksgiving is over?

I know things may get tough, finances may be difficult and the trials may seem to come in waves, but even if these things happen, there is still something to be thankful for, the question is, will you look up from the muck and mire to find it?  Will you notice the light in the dark?  Will you share what you find so that others can see the light in the dark as well?

I hope you will.

If you start something online, I encourage you to leave the link below, so that others can easily find it and be encouraged. 

Will you start by listing 4 or 5 “ordinary” things that you are so thankful for and encourage others to see the beauty in the ordinary?

I hope you will.

Spreading JOY is as easy as sharing this on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.

Thank you for your efforts in Spreading Joy AND giving THANKS….daily.

PS…I’ll start

My beautifully ordinary things that I’m very thankful for:

• Christmas Music anytime of the year
• Silliness with friends
• Waking up and not realizing I had even fallen asleep
• Hope for tomorrow
• Dishes being done by someone else

I could add sooo much more, but am hoping you will too. 

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!

Priceless Gifts

We all love giving and making a difference. Spreading Joy is what I love to call it. The problem is that many of us look at our giving in the wrong fashion. We look at what we can’t do, don’t have or dwell on the huge things that we may never be able to do.

There are so many gifts that are given to us and we treasure them, but when WE give them back to others, we often miss the value of what we are giving away. We feel small and worthless because we can’t do more. These gifts are priceless and should be given freely and often.

Let’s look at some examples together:

The Gift of Strength – Women are strong. We’ll step in between danger and our children in an instant and think nothing of it. We’ll face monsters that lurk in the dark, giants that terrorize our kids and a million other things that make our children and families feel weak and defeated. Men will think nothing of protecting their family and closest friends, even if they are facing certain death. When you strengthen another by lending a hand, agreeing in prayer or simply being their rock in times of deep sorrow and pain, you are giving those people the strength to take the next step, to put one foot in front of the other. You know what it feels like when your world has been shaken to the core and then how wonderful it is when a friend steps up to encourage you. During those times when your world is falling apart, a true friend to strengthen you is priceless. Value this gift more as you are that friend that steps in when it seems the world has stepped out.

The Gift of Time – In this hurry up society where the elderly are pushed aside, kids are sat in front of the TV and there is never enough time for anything or anyone anymore, this gift is more valuable than we seem to realize. I love family gatherings, I love girls’ night out and I love one on one time with my kids. That phone call out of the blue is often a ray of hope. Give the gift of time, knowing that this gift will always be treasured.

The Gift of Love – Unconditional love is simply amazing. Being loved just for you is a priceless gift we all desire. We feel like we have to prove things to others, be something that we are not or have the nicest things before “others” will love and accept us. Knowing that we are loved when we are whiny, bratty, disobedient, fearful, doubtful and even when we build walls, shutting out our friends is a precious gift. Why, then, do we not value it more when we give this gift away? You don’t just love your friends that live in the fanciest of homes, drive the best cars and provide the best dinner parties. You don’t just love those family members that never cause you grief or always are helpful. You love your family and friends unconditionally and in doing so; you make a huge impact on each of those hearts.

The Gift of Peace – When the tears are flowing, uncertainty and anxiety are bursting from your heart, then a precious friend steps up, puts a loving arm around us and reassures us, it will be ok. We don’t have to go through things alone. When we have a friend that will hold our hand as well as touch our heart with kindness as we are going through the valley brings us amazing peace because we know someone cares and is willing to help us get through. This gift allows us to take one more step, knowing that it’s truly going to be ok. I pray you use this gift often as you wrap your arms around someone hurting and assure them that “it” will be ok while you listen to them, allowing them to empty their heart of pain.

The Gift of Prayer – When we pray for others, we are sometimes guilty of thinking “I wish I could do more.” Well, I do that occasionally. Praying for someone is absolutely the greatest gift ever! I’m boldly going before the throne of grace on their behalf and asking God the Father to find favor with them. I’m going before the One that knows their pain, feels their grief and is right in the midst of their trials. I’m seeking help from the One that can help when no other can. The gift of prayer is perfect as one size fits all and anyone can do it! I don’t know about you, but when I wake up to an email or message that says “I’m praying for you” my heart immediately smiles because I was being wrapped in prayer while I slept. I have a policy that I never break. My mind is usually running everywhere, so when someone pops into my mind and on my heart, I’ll say a prayer for them. I do this, knowing that God placed them there for a reason since it was out of the blue. I do try and contact them to let them know, but sometimes that just doesn’t work out. Give the gift of prayer, without feeling like you should do more.

The Gift of Forgiveness – Pain is pain, regardless of who caused it, where it comes from and how deep it cuts to our core, it hurts! There are some that choose to hold a grudge and will simply not let go and they refuse to give the gift of forgiveness. As long as we are in this earthly body, WE will hurt others. We will disappoint, discourage and cause pain and have to ask forgiveness of those we cause this hurt to. Remember that when someone has to ask you to forgive them. Think for a moment....who do you need to forgive? Give this gift freely, without the give and take of reminding and remembering the pain.

The Gift of Courage – Standing alone is so frightening. We all feel uncomfortable and so very alone when all eyes are on us. When you step up, stand up and lead the way, you may never realize it, but you are giving someone else courage to do the same. Many do not want to stand alone and are fearful, so your simple act of leading the way empowers others with the confidence to do the same. Step up, speak up, stand out! Go…boldly so!

The Gift of Compassion – When you give the gift of compassion you instantly make a difference. Be compassionate, even if you don’t understand what is going on or how someone could have gotten into “that” situation. Be compassionate with your family, friends and co-workers as you may not realize what sadness or discouragement is running through their heart. Be compassionate…period. Many people are hostel and indifferent to those who are facing hard times. Your gift of compassion is received with a grateful heart and will be passed on. Someone will remember this gift and pass it to another that is facing difficulty. Look through the eyes of compassion today, as you never know when you’ll need others to look on you with compassion.

The Gift of Hope – All the resources are gone…. there seems to be no job, no money, no family members that will come to the rescue…no hope. You see the need, you do what you can to help as well as do what you can to show them other resources and avenues that can be taken. You give hope that tomorrow will be better, you inspire them to keep going, keep looking and remind them that someone cares. There’s nothing like the gift of hope. May I remind you to keep doing what you can with what you have and inspire others to do the same! The gift of hope is amazing.

The Gift of JOY – Joy is contagious! Don’t you just love being around people that are happy, joyful and that just seem to enjoy each moment of life? I love watching people like this! You can be going through a sad time, times of trials and discouragement and when someone like this comes your way, you can’t help but to smile by simply being around them. I love giving the gift of joy because this gift gets passed around easily! Giving out smiles, looking people in the eye and being super friendly is something that we all are capable of doing. Create JOY!



These are priceless gifts that we treasure when we get them from others! Why do we not see the value in them as we give them away to others?

I hope this encourages you to re-think your gift giving, refocus your values on these kinds of gifts and that it reminds you that you are awesome at spreading joy! I hope you’ll remember these gifts as you thinking about giving to others.

One of my goals is to make sure that I’m spreading joy daily and I hope that you’ll make that as your goal as well!

For ideas on making a difference without spending a penny – click here:

50 Ways of Making a Difference without Spending a Penny

Need more still? Another 50 ways right here!

One more?

Making a Difference is as Easy as ABC….

This post was adapted from a guest post that I did for the Women's Bible Cafe.

To see the Biblical application, click here.

Demonstrating the Love Of God

Pastor Michael Harrison of The Community Fellowship in Collinsville VA invited me to come and see what was happening in their community for Back2School 2011. I was honored with the invitation and decided to make the trip to see what was going on in his corner of the world. What I saw and experienced was nothing short of amazing.

The entire event was very well laid out, from beginning to end. People came at their designated times, signed in and went to the story area. They were told about Christ and about washing feet/serving and how we show love for each other by serving and helping. The next station was where all the children received free haircuts if they choose to. People from his church, community and others that wanted to help make the day special volunteered to cut hair. Even though it meant standing much of the day, these volunteers were very professional, giving these children great cuts to start their school year off with.

Then the children moved on to received their new shoes and a pair of socks. I had the honor of working in this area. There were about 25 chairs set up for the kids to sit in and we (the workers) sat on the floor in front of them. We removed their shoes, sock and told our runner what size we needed. As we washed their feet, we chatted about what they wanted to be when they grew up and anything else that came up. 3 of the children that I served were enjoying their birthday that day.

I'd LOOOOVE to have a pair of these!!

The best part was when the new shoes came out and their eyes would light up. From girly pink converse, to sky blue and then the one’s that had hope, JOY and love on them. Some of the shoes lit up, some had Speed Racer and the Mach 5 on them, but ALL of them brought mile wide smiles from the kids as well as the parents and grandparents. I was blessed to be able to pray with each and every child that I served. Talk about an honor. Several of the children gave me the biggest hugs and thanked me before leaving. I smiled and said you are welcome and invited them to come and be part of this awesome church, knowing I was just a visitor for a day and that the thanks belonged to a church with a huge heart for others.

They left that area and went on to receive 5 articles of clothes. This clothing area was nothing like I’ve ever seen. They looked neatly pressed. I had the chance to speak with Nancy, who heads up the clothing closet and she told me that 25 precious ladies help keep it neat and in order by volunteering their time each week.

Once the kids received their clothes, they were then able to receive their brand new backpack filled with various school supplies.

I pretty much stayed in the one area from 9:45 am to 5:30pm. My husband worked in various places through the day. They started at 8am and I have no clue when the cleanup ended so that services could take place on Sunday morning.

Washing Feet

I can’t imagine the work that was put into this event through the entire year and invite Pastor Harrison to share in the comments below anything his heart desires.

The ladies I worked alongside of were simply wonderful! Everyone was super nice and had no idea I was from so far away, not that that mattered, as we are all brothers and sisters in Christ.

I felt at home there, serving with them and look forward to going back next year and even helping where we can before then.

It’s my honor to support them financially, to be a voice for them and to do what I can to help.

I went there to spread some joy and be a blessing to Pastor Harrison as well as to see how they are making a difference in their community so that maybe one day, my community can reach out to others in the same fashion. I received a wealth of information on making a huge event like this happen as well as back2school supplies for my own upcoming event. Unbelievable!

If you are in the area, I invite you to check them out. If you are on twitter, I invite you to follow @michaelharrison and his church @the_community.

Thank you Pastor Harrison for the invitation and the opportunity to serve your community!

Please visit the following

The Community Fellowship – church link

Pastor Harrison’s Blog

Information on the Dream Center in Collinsville VA

Here is a link to Pastor Harrison’s Summary – in short 938 students came to the event and when you include adults over 2,000 people showed up. Over 400 haircuts were given, and over 230 volunteers helped to ensure this event was the best it could be.

Amazing. Completely Amazing.

St. Luke's

A few weeks ago, I took some travel size toiletries by to St. Luke’s Episcopal Church for the Hesed House of Hope, our local homeless shelter. To help the homeless in our area, I left a huge box of shampoos, soaps, lotions, toothbrushes and toothpaste on the back porch of this huge, gorgeous home that is a wonderful part of our small town history. No one came to the door, so I left my Spreading Joy business card in the box and left.

This prompted a phone call from Father Miles. I didn’t leave a note or anything as to what it was for and for all he knew it could have been someone sending him a “hint.” (He said it, I didn’t)

We chatted for a moment about the box of goodies and I filled him in on my day job that allows me to travel each week and I just save those items, bring them home and when I get a box of them, I’ll donate it the homeless shelter. This lead to more questions about Spreading Joy and a meeting over coffee. I love coffee. I love meeting new people…such JOY!

We met and in our discussion he came up with the idea of giving up some negative things for Lent and replacing them with positive, JOYful things.

Thanks Father Miles for the Opportunity to talk about JOY

He graciously invited me to come and share my heart for finding joy. Joy is there…always. But sometimes we are so focused on the problems we deal with day that we miss it completely. While we can’t change our circumstances, we can certainly choose how we respond to those situations. We can choose to focus on the positive things that are all about us and slowly start to move forward and out from under the cloud of despair. Am I saying that we should never get angry? Never whine, cry, pout or pitch a fit? Noooo, not hardly. I do all of these things and sometimes, even more than I want to or should. I’m simply saying that we do not have to “STAY” in this place, that we can move beyond the clouds….if we choose to. It’s our choice.

When I concluded, he challenged us to give up the concept that we don’t matter, because we do; to give up the notion that we can’t make a difference, because we can; to give up idea that it just isn’t going to get better, because it will.

I’ve really enjoyed my visits at St. Luke’s and the members have always welcomed me and my family with open arms.

I’m thankful for the new friends I’ve found there and for any opportunity that I can be a blessing to them and to leadership in the

A View from the Cemetary

future.

For More Information, Please visit them by clicking the various links below.

St. Luke’s Episcopal church

Find them on Facebook

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

30 Day Challenge Jan 2011

I love spreading joy to others, but more than that, I love how easy it is to get into the habit of spreading joy. A new year is upon us and it is my goal to help you see just how easy it is to get into the habit of spreading JOY.

The 30 Day Challenge - ONE thing a day for someone else, on purpose. That’s all it takes. It can be for family, friends or random people. Your mind will be looking, thinking and preparing for ways of spreading joy in no time. By the end of the month you’ll have gotten yourself into the habit of spreading joy and it will be a natural thing for you to do as you meander through your day.

Here is the challenge.

Will you publicly join me in developing this habit of spreading joy? If so, please let me know. I’d like to add your name here to a list – so that I won’t forget who is joining me, but so that I can encourage you too. If you are on twitter, please include your twitter name, cause I’m old and forgetful like that!

Together we can journal our daily acts of joy. I will write in my journal each day about what was done and then every 3 days or so, come back here and update things in the comment section. I would encourage you to do so as well. This will encourage everyone that is participating.

I’ve done this challenge publicly before and here is a link to how it turned out.

I would love to hear how this challenge affected your daily outlook, if you had any troubles and just over all, how it made your heart feel, to think, plan and then execute this challenge.

Ideas to get you going:

• Give away reesecups and Little Debbie Cakes randomly
• Have a NO chore day for family
• Leave the closer parking space for someone else
• Purchase a book of stamps and mail to Spreading Joy
• Recycle, recycle, recycle
• Have a “Eat dessert first” night with your family.
• Make a financial donation to Spreading Joy, see if your company matches charitable giving – 2 acts in one
• Meet someone for coffee and purchase it for them. Enjoy the chat.
• Sign up for this challenge and invite others to do so as well!

There are some ideas to get you going. If you need more, don’t forget that there are a total of 100 ways of making a difference WITHOUT spending one single penny listed here and here on this web site.

Are you ready to take the challenge? Are you ready to develop the habit of spreading joy?

Those taking the 30 day challenge:

@spreadingJOY

@smooth_stone

@GodsWordisTruth

IF we all do just 1 act of JOY a day – so far we are up to 93 #actsofJOY for the month!! wow. I’m so excited to be making a difference this way!!

Thanks for JOYning me!!

{{{HUGS}}} yall

Thank You

for delighting in my delight
for noticing when I need to be noticed
for paying attention to what makes me happy
and knowing no gesture is too small
for loving me as always
and the humor that makes me giggle - sometimes 3 days later
for the hugs everyday, so little to most but so HUGE in my eyes
for calling when you can
for helping me get through the day
for always knowing...always!
for honestly communicating with me
and allowing me to see you through
for the sparkle in my eye when I see your eyes sparkle
for the words that inspire me to give more
for listening when I need to empty my heart and soul of hurt
for the guidance when I feel lost
thank you for all the treasures that you give to my heart
for the smile that lights my face each day
for the unexpected kindness you flood me with
for accepting me just as I am
and encouraging the little girl in me to run free
for your amazing smile that chases away gloom....

Thank You!

No Tomorrow

My Last pic that I took with my Dad. I miss you Daddy!

The Father's Day cards, commercials and other various reminders have been going on for a while now. Just last night, as I walked by the cards, my heart ached as I wanted one more chance to say Happy Father's Day Daddy.

I need to write more about him, as he was the original Joy Spreader. Always giving to others, $20, here - candy for bank tellers there, helping out the guy that had a truck load of watermelons by purchasing them all and GIVING them away. Doing all the things I dream of doing. Making a difference the way I dream of making.

Until last year with Megan, I can not remember writing any poetry of any kind. But these words flooded my heart this past week and it's with tears of joy and sorrow, I'm sharing them with you here.

No Tomorrow


The times of love, smiles and hugs
The times of grief and sorrow
All have a special place deep within my heart
For with him, there is no tomorrow


I sit and think and smile inside
I wonder what you would say and do
My heart longs to see, to touch and hear you,
To tell you, once more….I love you


Father’s Day is bitter sweet
As you are finally free of pain
My heart and soul realize the miles
As my loss is heavens gain


I love you Dad, I miss you deeply
Your laughter, your love, your smile
This time of separation, free from your hugs
Will make the wait…. all worth the while.





Me and My Daddy

Interview with a Cowboy

Robert Wilson, @CwbyWsdm on twitter was kind enough to interview me on his blog talk radio. This act alone is an amazing way of spreading joy as it allowed me to get the word out to many that I could not have reached without his help.

Cowboy Wisdom NLP Coaching energizes personal expansion spiritual enrichment with common sense. I am Hypnotherapist Neuro-Linguistic Speaker Published Author.

Cowboy Wisdom

Cowboy = Common sense savvy and fundamental life know-how

Wisdom = My Inner Lore that provides you with a saddle to ride through your journey of growth in all facets of your life.

I am an everyday life coach, brimming with common sense and wisdom for constructive fundamental change. Straight forward thoughts parallel an uncomplicated life with a positive lasso thrown to the Universe for visible results in your life. Cowboy Wisdom is fundamental life coaching with you focusing on your intentions, triggering a domino effect of positive changes in your life.

Your wagon train is beginning right now to the new frontiers of your life. Are you ready to saddle up and start?

Here is the link to the Blog Talk Interview! Enjoy

Spreading JOY Blog Talk Interview

Thank you, Robert, for allowing me to talk about my passion of Spreading Joy and encouraging others to make a difference where they are, with what they have. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to tell others that "There's No Joy like Spreading Joy!" and Thank you for always starting my day out with a smile.

What do you think of the interview? Do you think we could be spreading joy across America? Do you think we'll be able to raise $20,000 for our Back2School project?

Do you realize that the little things you do adds up to be HUGE rewards, return and will continue to grow in the hearts of those you touch?

{{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

Getting To Know YOU!

I am an open book. I tweet/talk publicly about myself, family, likes and dislikes. (ok, so I grumble about my dislikes, but still!) I'm happy, silly, joyful, serious, concerned and whine in the cuuutest suuuthern axcent ever.

I have a list of a "few" things about me on my blog. (ok..so it's NOT a few...it's actually over 40...and I could add more..just sayin. I should update the picture over there though, as it is from 2006. I have added a few more wrinkles and some gray hair.) I love letting people get to know me because I LOVE getting to know people. All kinds of people, from far and near and all back grounds.

Having said all that - to say - I love social media and the reach it gives me. I love that I have friends (YES friends!) that live in Africa, Australia, Scotland, Canada etc and have never met them personally - but I feel as though I've known them for such a long time. I love the friendships that I've developed. I love learning about these wonderful people. I want to share some of them with you.

I hope you'll click on the links and learn more about them. These lists can be found on their personal blogs. I have loved reading them, learning more about them and becoming their friend. I hope that you will too.

Gene Bowker follow him on twitter @geneslens - Gene takes awesome pictures and writes from the heart! Fun follow, giver, friend - Read more about Gene

Elaine Kelly follow her on twitter @elaineremains - My chihuahua and I are trying to take over the world, it's a work in progress. (Elaine has an amazing photo blog. Her pictures are awesome and she is quite talented.) And, doesn't mind me umm.. mooning her - with @greetums cards - of course!! Read more About Elaine

Richard Mayhan follow him on twitter @mcProdigal - Counselor & advocate, Tworship Leader, married, apologetics, technology, math, music-loving guy. Was prodigal for 27 years. Now gives hope to all parents of prodigals. They can and do return. Read more about Richard.

Michele Langlo follow her on twitter @shadowedwriter - Hiding in the shadows, she loves to write and is amazing at it. She also has an amazing love of the ocean. shhh..our secret..don't tell anyone! Read more about Michele

Dino Jag follow him on twitter @dinojag - Makin music... & lovin life and it shows. Huge heart for others and always brings a smile! Read more about Dino

Lark Neville follow her on twitter @larkn0298 - Poet, technical writer, movie lover, voracious reader. Horror flick chicks & dudes love her! (I love her heart and passion for writing and others) Read more about Lark

Stash Serafin follow him on twitter @stashskate - Inspiring blind ice skater. Motivational speaker, co-author teaches ice skating as a metaphor of life. (Completely inspiring!) Read more about Stash

Melinda Lancaster follow her on twitter @heartcures - A follower of Christ who ministers, teaches, counsels, writes, in hopes of offering encouragement to those who grow weary on the road called life. Read more about Melinda **Special Note** I have to give Melinda Credit for this idea. Way back 37 1/2 years ago (grins), after reading my list of about me - we discussed getting more "About Me" lists from various tweeple. Thank you for this idea and I'm honored to include you in my list!

Bonnie Squires follow her on twitter @bonnie67 - Wife and Mom of 8. I have many interest Crafts, Recipes & Social Network sites. (Love her blog article called Just Some Hugs - I love hugs!!) Read more about Bonnie.

Michael Sarles follow him on twitter @mas_is_more - Kind acts of randomness. Sports fan, tall guy, sarcastic much, lived in L.A., Israel, NYC, Boston & now Dallas. Former mental health pro. & marketing consultant - #7 is totally my FAV on his list! I can totally see him looking DOWN saying this! Read more about Michael.

Rio Denali - follow her on twitter @NotTypicalBlond - Her bio grabbed me from the get go! Not your typical blond. Former military, formally trained in FBI interrogation techniques, and with a degree in law... Rio might just surprise you. You KNOW you want to know! Read more about Rio.

Gina Stark - follow her on twitter @SuuperG - Some people think I'm egotistical-but enough about THEM! Here 4 laughs & inspiration.Freelance writer/blogger.Love travel, dance,fuud,horses,hiking 2much2 list! (ok, had to twist her arm a tad bit...*grinning* but - turned out nicely!) Read more about Gina.

Corey - follow her on twitter @la_loquita - I dance like no one is watching. I smile at everyone. I walk-barefoot in the sand. I dream under the stars. I love till it hurts. I giggle like a girl. (I love YOUR giggle) Read more about Corey.

Tegan Cole - follow her on twitter @sandalgal - Yankee Fan, Thinker, A little bit of everything...I'm real, that's what I am... (She is REALly cool. Love bantering back n forth with her, @marrangee and @Christianrep - although, I think she plays favs with THEM - *grinning* Read more about Tegan.

I want to get to know YOU more. Do you have a blog that you can do an "About Me" post and share with me? I'd love to list you here!

No blog? Well, you can still tell us about you! Sure you can! Look Below! See that box down there? Yeah...the comment box! How about putting a list there and make sure you include your twitter name - so we can KNOW who you are there are well.

I can't WAIT to get to know you more!

{{{{HUGS}}}} Yall!