10 Ways to Be Kind to Yourself

I love that you are spreading joy and making a difference daily!

You make your way through the day, being kind, courteous and just plain nice to people.

You smile, open doors and treat others with respect.

You point out the positive, encourage those that are struggling and still do what you can to bring people up.

You Are Kind…to most people.

There is one very important person that you tend to forget.

YOURSELF

You know I’m speaking the truth here.  Most of us are extremely critical of ourselves and there usually isn’t a good reason for it at all.

10 Ways that everyone can be Kinder to themselves:

1. Looks – This is first on my list because I know that everyone has something about their looks that they are dissatisfied with.  Did you see that key word? EVERYONE.  You aren’t alone in this.  Everyone has something they hate about themselves.  Long nose, big butt, frizzy hair, point ears, bushy eyebrows etc.  When those people that love you the most look at you, they don’t see the things you are most critical of; they see YOU – the core of you!  Your heart, how you love, how you give and how you care.  When they flip through their pictures of you, they look at what you were doing, remember how much fun you were having and how special you are.  Sure, work on losing weight if you need to, go to the eyebrow waxing torture chamber and tame the crazy hair somehow…but do NOT let those things hold you back from enjoying the gift of daily blessings and joy with those you love.  Take the pictures, laugh with friends and have fun! Those that love you most will always love you regardless of your looks.
2. Goals – Everyone has goals and dreams that they long to reach.  Trouble is, we set such unrealistic goals that we can never reach them.  We often think that if we shoot for the moon and miss, we’ll land in the stars and that is true.  Trouble is there are those that if they don’t reach their goals, they let that disappointment steal their joy and they simply stop trying.  Learn to set goals that are attainable and keep raising the bar as you reach your goals. A small step forward is still a step forward.  My friend and coach Bridget Haymond has an excellent article on this.  I hope you’ll take time to read it and start reaching those goals you set. Article Here-->  The 8 Beatitudes of Goal Setting
3. To Do Lists – Raise your hand if you are guilty of the never ending to do list.  (Yes, my  hand is up) Many people will judge the success of their day based on if they got everything done from their list or not.  Don’t do this.  You are putting unnecessary pressure on yourself.  Let that list guide you.  My list is because my memory is horrible.  When I think of something that needs to be done, I jot it down so that I will not forget it.  Don’t let your to do list bring you down and keep you there.  Use the list for what it was intended for….a tool to keep you on track. Here are some fun printables that I use to help me remember.
4. Moments of Joy – Our days are busy, our nights seem short and before we know it, it’s time to go to bed only to get up and do it again the next day.  Take some time to enjoy some moments that make your heart smile.  It might be a manicure, a makeover or it might be some time curled up with a book and your favorite cup of tea or coffee.  Don’t let a single day pass you by without enjoying a special moment for yourself.  Don't let these thieves steal your Joy. 
5. Housework – This is truly never ending.   There will always be something to do in your home.  Always.  If you have small kids, don’t let housework interfere with some play time.  Make sure you play with the kids.  The housework will always be there, but the children won’t.  If you have unexpected guests and your house isn’t white glove presentable, smile and enjoy the company.  They aren’t there to see how you keep house; they are there to see you. PS...delegate.  Get your kids involved. This will ensure that they can truly take care of themselves when they are older.
6. Activities – Everyone is busy and no one wants to say no.  We have to take child 1 here, child 2 there and still find time to make family time count.  Yes, you want your children to experience sports and other activities, but keep in mind it is ok to say no.  Don’t over schedule them or yourself.  If someone asks for your help and you can’t do it, kindly say “I’d like to but I can’t.” Or say, “I can’t do that, but I can do this for you” and then offer up what you could do.  My philosophy is it never hurts to ask because the very worst that can happen is they will say no.  Here is an article on taming the madness of special occasions.
7. Laugh – This is a must.  You need to be able to laugh at yourself and for yourself.  If you need to watch funny videos or read a joke a day, make sure you take some time to laugh today!  Laughter lifts the heavy heart and helps you through the difficult days.  And besides, your heart will thank you! I love crazy random things. Here is where I pin those things.
8. Celebrate your strengths – You have things you excel in! Celebrate them and do them.  Use what you are good at to help you reach your goals and those things that you struggle with, ask for help.  Don’t beat yourself up because you can’t do something.  Find someone who excels in what you are weak at and work together.  Focus on what you are good at and move past what you struggle with.  We all struggle and we all need help with things.  Ask for help when you need it and don’t feel guilty.
9. Let It Go – There are days when I simply wish I didn’t care so much.  It’s something that I struggle with but every day, I’m learning to let go of things that I can’t control.  I’ve always been a “roll with it” kind of gal, but the “let me fix it” “take charge” person in me just wants to handle things.  That just isn’t going to always be possible.  You truly have to “Change what you can, Fix what is wrong and find the good in the rest!” - Here is more on Letting Go
10. YOU Matter – Many struggle with feeling useless.  As soon as you get this settled in your heart, you will be kinder to yourself.  You are the world to someone and you matter more to them than you’ll ever know.  Write it on your mirror, make a note to yourself at the top of your to do list or calendar – “I will be kind to myself today because I matter!”

FREEBIE – just because I truly want you to be kind to yourself, just like you are to others – One extra – keep a good attitude.  I know when life beats you up and the struggle is great it is the most difficult time to maintain a positive attitude, but trust me – it will help you more than you realize!

Respect yourself, love yourself and be kind to yourself!

I challenge you to take the time today to be kind to yourself.

JOYn the conversation:

If you are willing to take time to be kinder to yourself, let me know.

What do you struggle with?  Are you willing to share it? Doing so will help and encourage others.

What are your thoughts about how we treat ourselves? How else can we be kind to ourselves?

Do you have an article relating to this? If so, please take a moment and leave a link in the comment section so that others can easily hop over there and be encouraged.

Please visit our main site for this article & share your thoughts as well as check out other links on this topic. - http://www.spreading-joy.org/site/10-ways-to-be-kind-to-yourself/

Heart for Others

Heart for Others

Spreading Joy Corporation was founded on the fact that everyone has a desire to give more, do more and make an impact with their lives.  We all have a Heart for Others.

We all want to make a difference, but many feel that they can’t due to lack of resources.

We go to groups of all kinds to help remind them that YES – yes you can impact this world for good, starting with your own corner of the world.

Heart for Others Day is a fundraiser to help enable us to do more of this during 2013.  We want to be able to meet with any group that asks without having them worry about financing.  We want those that are the most discouraged and often forgotten about to realize that yes, they are cared about and someone will come and help them see the resources that they have to make their life count.  We want to show our heart for others, so that those can confidently go and show their heart for others.

We also know that finances are tight for so many right now and that giving all over this world is down.  We aren’t asking for much…..a simple $5 from anyone who sees this will be HUGE.

This fundraiser will easily be seen by over 4000 people over the next few weeks and if each of those that see this will simply give $5 our goal will be met.

Trouble is, not everyone will due to guilt, difficulties and a host of other reasons.  On the other hand, there are those that can give more than $5 and we truly hope you will do so.

Will you JOYn us on Heart for Others day on February 14^th by making a donation of any size?  Will you set a reminder in your calendar? Mail your gift in? PLAN on being part of our Heart for Others Day?

Let me remind you of a few things about your gift:

• There are ZERO paid employees in our Non Profit – Z E R O. So your funds will be use for others
• My family makes monthly donations as well, to help cover the day to day expenses – again, so that YOUR gifts can be used for OTHERS
• We aren’t here to get rich or get noticed, but we are here to help others feel rich enough to impact their corner of the world and your gift goes toward giving away our book, going into schools and other places to help encourage people face to face.
• We are very public about what we do, so any events will always be followed up by photos, updates and links as often as we can.  We want you to know beyond doubt how you are making a difference for others.

Please use all of your networking sites to re post this article – be a voice for us and share your heart for others by doing so

Please plan on making a donation of any size on Feb 14 and SHOW your heart for others (mail in or use the handy PayPal button over on the right sidebar)

Please email a link to this page to everyone in your address book, asking them to show their heart for others

Please, if you are a person of prayer, pray over our organization for direction, wisdom and more opportunities to encourage others in their journey. 

Thank you for how you are spreading joy with us!

Any gift of $25 or more will automatically receive our book Spreading Joy Daily.  If you already have it or know it would encourage someone and would like it sent somewhere else, please let me know by placing their name and address in the NOTE section of your donation when you give via paypal. 

You can mail your gift to:

Spreading Joy Corporation

PO Box 1771

Denver NC 28037

Thank you for having a heart for others!

Let’s harness the power of our voices!

Let’s harness the power of technology!

Let’s harness the power of teamwork!

Let’s all come together to see something remarkable happen, right before our very eyes.

Will you JOYn us?

Will you be a giant and use your voice?

Will you spread the word and try and round up others to do the same?

20 Inexpensive yet Heartwarming Ideas

Christmas is a time for giving, loving and sharing.  

If you are like me, you have so many people you want to give to but finances just don’t allow you to give at the level your heart desires.  

Instead of cutting people off of your list, adjust it a little bit with some inexpensive gifts that are easy to make and will warm the heart with fond memories.

Practical, easy….memorable…let’s get to it hmm?  

(Read all the way to the bottom to see how easy it is to make gifts dipped in chocolate, I think you’ll be surprised.)

Inexpensive, Easy yet Heartwarming Gifts:

1.  Notes in a Jar – This gift can last an entire year long! A gorgeous jar from the dollar store and 365 notes, quotes, smiles and virtual hugs will warm hearts each day for an entire year!  You can easily doll up the jar with ribbon found in the dollar store as well.  Using notes like “Cause JOY”, “You Matter” to inspire them or use your favorite quotes.  If you know they love the Bible, mix it up with your favorite encouraging Bible Verses.
2. Framed Photo – Give a gorgeous photo of the family that is already framed.  Take a beautiful sunset/sunrise photo and add a quote to it and frame that.  If they love the ocean or mountains, use a picture from there, add in a verse or quote and frame that.  Every time they look at it, joy will fill their heart with thoughts of you!
3. Cup of Joy – Take a gorgeous coffee cup, tea cup and saucer and fill it full of sweet treats, coffee, coffee creamers etc for the coffee enthusiast in your world.  It will serve double duty as it holds some delicious treats as well as provides them a cup of warm thoughts throughout the year.
4. Homemade Treats – Easier to do than you realize! Bake up a batch of brownies, chex mix or even dip some pretzels, marshmallows or Nutter Butter cookies in chocolate and drizzle with favorite sprinkles for a sweet gift.  You can get the little kids involved here and have a day of making memories as well as gifts.  The sky is the limit with these delicious gifts!
5. Heartwarming, hand written letter – Sometimes there is just nothing better than a hand written letter of thanks, love and appreciation.  It can be read and re-read anytime!  You’d be surprised a just how heartwarming this gift truly can be.
6. Photo Collage – We love photos and when you add 3 or 4 in one, the smiles just get bigger.  Make a photo collage of your times together, the parties or celebrations.  Do one with kids through the years, skipping a few years in between so they can see how they’ve grown.  If a picture is worth a thousand words, then this will surely be priceless!
7. A box of Kisses – With the decorative boxes that are available these days, this will be super easy and bring lots of smiles each time a kiss is unwrapped.  Find a cute box, fill full of kisses and toss in a handwritten card and you are handing over a gift of love!  Mix it up by giving “hugs and kisses” together.
8. Handmade Ornament – For the crafty types, this is quite an easy gift.  Me, not so much, but some of them, I feel like even I could do.  Take a clear round bulb, square or whatever you have, toss in some gifts you’ve cut off a garland, some shiny gift filler, or write on it with paint pens and poof, you’ve got an awesome gift that will be treasured each Christmas.
9. Gifts in a Jar – Brownies, cookies, soups and spices can be amazing gifts when you toss all the dry ingredients in a jar, attach instructions and package in a fun, creative way.  Thousands of recipes will provide HUGE smiles as they are being prepared! If the jars are too expensive, use some Ziploc bags and then place in a Christmas Cello Bag that you get 10 in a pack from the dollar store.
10. Personalized Cookie Plate – Using a Christmas plate from the dollar store and some markers, and a little baking in the oven, you can personalize this gift and then add some cookies you’ve prepared just for them.  The plate can also have a memory such as hand prints, feet prints etc.  When you combine a foot with 2 hands, you have an instant angel for Grandma and Grandpa.  Be sure to jot down what year and the age of the child.
11. The Write Stuff – Give a nice journal and gel pens to someone.  On the first page tell them how thankful you are for them and that you hope they can fill this journal with warm thought s from their grateful heart.
12. Board Games & Snacks – inspire a time of food and fun with friends with this gift. There is nothing like game night! Great laughter, lots of memories and some whining….if you are like me and lose most of the time.  PRICELESS!
13. Note Cards and Stamps – A gift that will keep on giving! The stamps will cost the most, but you can get the cards for a buck at the dollar store.  Package it in a nice cello bag and know that your gift will encourage more than the one you gave it to.
14. Fuzzy Socks & Lotion – What a nice treat for the often forgot about feet.  Use jergens or another non girly smelling lotion just in case someone is particular about smells, toss in some cute fuzzy socks and you’ll be warming hearts as well as feet.
15. Cocoa – A cup, chocolate dipped spoon, chocolate dipped marshmallows, chocolate dipped peppermint stick and you’ve got a sweet treat!
16. Strawberries and Chocolate – After you’ve dipped your strawberries, place them in some mini cupcake liners, put in a cute Christmas box and you’ve got a sweet treat that is sure to impress!
17. Candies in a Jar – You’ve seen it in Cracker Barrel and other country stores, talk about easy to make. Purchase some fireballs, m&m’s, reese’s pieces or other old fashioned candy and toss it in a jar, add ribbon and card and instant goodness! Did I mention fireballs?
18. Fudge a little bit – I’ve never made fudge but hear that it’s really easy.  Pour it into metal cookie cutters or muffin liners, wrap and you’ve got a perfect little gift that is sure to please.
19. Personalized Survival Kit – By personalized I mean things that the recipient will adore, personalized. For instance, one year the kids got their dad a survival kit, it included his favorites & things he uses often: Honey bun, Starbucks cold coffee, BC Powder, cassette tapes from the thrift store, tie (also from the thrift store), note pad, pens, Sponge Bob stuff, gum, mints, and other things that I can no longer remember.  Point is – everyone has little things that they love and adore, why not package it up and make is special just for them.
20. Video – One True Media will take your pictures and make them into an amazing video for FREE.  What a gift!  Have fun gathering up all the memories and preparing them for a video that will easily import over to youtube.

There you have it! 20 easy, peasy ideas that are sure to warm the heart.

The thing you have to keep in mind is that people will love the fact you took the time to put something together like this for them.

Enjoy Christmas and other times of gift giving without the unnecessary guilt, even times of simple laughter together is a priceless gift that will last for a lifetime.

May I add in one more?  A Bonus:

The Spreading Joy Daily book, pair it with a mug, Reese’s Cups or just a note will be a gift that keeps on giving. You will be empowering others to make a difference without breaking the bank.  It’s filled with practical ideas for each day and you’ll find that as you make a difference, your heart will be flooded with great joy!  (PS, all proceeds goes right back into making a difference for others….double the joy.)

Ohh, I almost forgot -  Giving chocolate dipped items is really as easy as melt, dip, decorate and package.

Many of these white chocolate bars or milk chocolate bars have their own microwavable dish so the cleanup is easy.  

For about 10 bucks, you can get 2 blocks of these melting candies, package of marshmallows, pretzel rods, graham crackers or my personal favorite Nutter Butter Cookies, dip, sprinkle with fun and package for gifting.

I’d love for you to post pictures of what you’ve done over at our fan page – http://facebook.com/spreadingjoycorp

Also if you have a link on easy gift ideas, please do feel free to share it below in the comment section so others can be inspired and encouraged!

Spreading Joy is as easy as sharing this article on twitter, facebook, pinterest or emailing to your friends.  Use the handy buttons below to do so.

Thank you for your efforts in Spreading Joy and making a difference!

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. 

Back to School 2012

Helping those that can’t help themselves….isn’t that what giving and spreading joy is truly all about?

Y O U are awesome at just that.

Y O U were instrumental in giving away 251 backpacks over the course of 3 weekends to children that may grow up to become Pastors, Teachers, Doctors, Lawyers, Nurses, Business Owners,  etc.

They would have gladly ran up and hugged you and said thanked you personally, (well, the shy one’s would have quietly whispered thank you while looking down at their feet…but know that their hearts were soaring) but they couldn’t, so I’m using my voice to thank you!

The laughter, giggles and listening to them exclaim with delight as they picked out their favorite color was great fun!

Because of your heart, your giving spirit and your willingness to do what you can, where you are with what you have; these children went back to school with a huge smile on their face and joy in their hearts.

Here are the items we included in each bad for the kids: 

• 3 Spiral Notebooks
• 1 package of loose leaf paper
• 1 Package of pens
• 1 package of pencils
• 1 box of crayons
• 1 package of colored pencils
• 1 bottle of glue
• 1 glue stick
• 1 highlighter
• 1 eraser
• 1 pocket folder
• 1 pack of snack crackers
• and ONE Package of Reese's Cups!

Thank you just doesn’t seem to be enough, but it comes wrapped with great love and gratitude!

Thank you to those who had a desire to give big, but finances didn’t allow them to, so they used their voice!

Thank you to all those who gave financial gifts so that we could go out and purchase the items needed to help get their school year off to an amazing start!

Thank you to the volunteers for making this event go as smoothly as it did!

Thank you to New Grace Baptist Church for allowing us to host the main event at your fellowship hall.

Thank you to those who went shopping with me and for me, when I had went to every store within an hour’s drive and still came up short for what we needed.

Thank you to Pastor Williams and Pastor Paul for your part in sponsoring this event and partnering with us to bring hope and joy to these kids!

Thank YOU – without YOU, we wouldn't be helping the shy kid that quietly asked for purple or the excited kid that loudly proclaimed he wanted green and all the other kids in between that shared ideas on how THEY can make a difference too! Also, without YOU  there would be more mom’s in tears, wondering what they are going to give up so that they can simply get the basic supplies for yet another year of school.  

Thank you for helping 251 less moms shed those kinds of tears this year!

Y O U are awesome at spreading JOY!

 Thank YOU

I Remember

I remember the excitement of Christmas and thinking it would never get here (Wait..that was JUST last week *grins*)

I remember Thanksgiving trips to the mountains to see my Grandmother and other family members

I remember the many, many games of kill the man with the ball

I remember playing dodgeball in our street till way past we were supposed to

I remember walking to school and enjoying it

I remember my favorite doll being my Baby-That-Away and I carried her everywhere, until my Dad sat on her accidentially

I remember playing freeze tag

I remember always being the pitcher for the softball games and my brothers aiming at me when they were at bat

I remember a bus that came by on Sundays to take us to Church

I remember getting up and making Mom's coffee early for her for a while

I remember sleeping with the window open as we had no air conditioning

I remember walking in the snow, always

I remember walking down the railroad tracks with Mom & Angie - but when we got to the bridge, I'd go down the hill, across the road and back up again.

I remember riding our bikes everywhere, even 4 to 8 miles away to the grocery store

I remember only having enough for "today" and being the happiest ever

I remember walking home in the rain from the grocery store and stomping through the puddles

I remember thumping Mom in the head and her chasing me down, sitting on me, thumping me back and NOT getting up when the cable dude came in to install our new "gift"

I remember getting up in the mornings and running to the heater to get ready as only one room had heat

I remember my first kiss, and then later.... I remember wishing I had not wasted it on someone who truly didn't care

I remember burning up our toaster oven and feeling horrible as a teen because we had nothing else to cook with....nothing

I remember playing card games with Mom until 2 or 3 am and singing most of the time. The torture she endured while we had fun

I remember going to sleep anticipating Christmas and dreaming of wrapped presents all around me

I remember not having much by way of "things" but always feeling more loved than I could describe

I remember the few wonderful trips to the beach, Dad taking me WAY out, but I wasn't afraid as he was a giant in my eyes. I remember him lifting me high above the water and giggling with delight

I remember the crab that got out of the coffee pot at the beach house and chased me out of the bathroom

I remember popping HUGE bags of popcorn and the popcorn fights

I remember chasing down the boys that picked on the girl that lived behind us

I remember being afraid of the "monster" under the bed, but not the bully down the road

I remember loving to sit in the library at school and reading, holding a rag doll that was always in the rocking chair

I remember never being picked for any team in school until last

I remember loving the balance beam

I remember keeping to myself in school with one or two close friends, and I often wonder where one from elementary school is

I remember loving each of my elementary teachers dearly - even the 4th grade teachers assistant that was always so mean to me and wouldn't help me OR allow me to call her MOM in class. She totally made me work for those A's

I remember being a safety patrol in school and loving helping the smaller kids

I remember watching scary movies with my mom till the wee hours of the morning

I remember hardly ever spending the night away from home

I remember wishing I could give my mom everything she needed...not realizing that loving her unconditionally was enough

I remember going to the Christmas Tree lot and picking the biggest tree they had. I remember Daddy always saying yes, even though it had to be cut way down

I remember so many things!

Some good, some bad and some worse - but more than anything, I remember always being loved....no matter what.

All these things, good and bad, have shaped my heart into what it is today.

and for THAT - I'm truly thankful.



What are some of the things you remember?

Permission to Speak Freely

Permission to speak freely by Anne Jackson is an awesome book that talks about how we let our fears stop us from speaking freely about anything. Freely speaking on our thoughts and fears about church, relationships, addictions, depression, family etc. Her single statement “Fear Won” caught my heart. Fear wins out so often over so many things in so many of our lives. This book reminds us that we may never be completely free of fear, but that we can live a courageous life, speaking freely about the issues we have faced or are facing.

Many people struggle with depression and seasons of depression, wondering why they still fight it or are fearful of what others will think about them taking antidepressants etc. She sums it up nicely when talking about seasons of depression saying “feelings of insecurity and worthlessness is a chain I may never be able to break.”

She generously gives the gift of courage by stepping out and speaking out about her addictions, abuse and fear of talking freely about them. She says “something in us begins to come alive in us when we see people overcome fear.” We draw courage from others who, regardless of fear, stand up and speak up.

Sometimes our fears of living our dreams keep up from even taking the first step. Anne puts it this way “Their hearts are fighting for their dreams, yet fear claws away at their spirits, telling them their dreams are impossible.” Sometimes it doesn’t take much more than a single twinge of fear to hold us back.

This book is very uplifting and encouraging. Whether you are fighting seasons of depression, feelings of worthlessness, or anything else that grips your heart in fear, Permission to Speak Freely is sure to encourage you and maybe you’ll find the gift of going 2^nd is something you can give to others by sharing your story.

One of my favorite quotes by Anne:

I had now seen the redemption and freedom that occurs when the darkness is forced into the light, disguised as awkwardly spoken words

The audio book is read by Anne Jackson, the author. I feel that we could actually feel more of what she was feeling as she recounts some of what was going through her mind and heart while she was retelling her story. Very well done.

I’d like to thank Christian Audio for the complimentary copy of this book through their Reviewers’program. Follow Christian Audio on Twitter here. Check their site each month for a free audio book download. Good stuff there!

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

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

The Little Things

"Holding Pure Joy! Thanks Chris!

Some time ago, I came across a saying

It's the little things that make life Big

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

{{{HUGS}} yall