Blog

July 20, 2017 by Spreading Joy

9th Annual School Supply Drive

The need is great.

No Gift is too small.

Your gift will bring hope, inspire dreams and remind a child that love is powerful!

Giving is super easy and 100% of your donation minus the paypal fee will go towards supplies for… Click To Tweet

Your gift will also benefit some first year teachers with much needed supplies. Many teachers get extra things they need out of their own finances and first year teachers will need so much more.

Will you help Spread a little JOY to their world?

You can mail a check to:

Spreading Joy Corp PO Box 1771 Denver NC 28037

Again, 100% of your donations minus paypal fees will go to this even.

Thanks in advance! Thanks for sharing, spreading the word and giving.

Thanks for your heart for others!

March 21, 2017 by Spreading Joy

Little is Much

Little is Much When God is in it

We are dreamers. We dream of doing huge things, having wonderful things and simply “making it.” We have lofty goals and take radical steps towards reaching them. Then, when we realize that what we want may never happen or the dreams may never come true, we sit in disbelief and wonder what we could have done differently. Sometimes we even decide “what’s the use, IT just doesn’t matter anymore” and put ourselves in a “do nothing” mode. This should be a red flag to us, but often it’s not.

We’ve taken our eyes off the prize, we are letting discouragement win and we forget that little is much when God is in it. Our hearts scream of doing more when in reality we need to focus on our strengths and remain faithful to do those things. We set our eyes on the unattainable when our eyes should be on the ordinary items within our reach. Those ordinary items will be the little things that God uses to do amazing work for His glory; after all, our labor IS for His glory….right?

Have you given much thought to the little things that God used? When 5,000 men (not to mention women and children) needed to be fed, Jesus didn’t send word to the nearest palace to have their servants bring the biggest and best foods available. He didn’t break out the finest china and whip up a five course meal using the top chefs of the land. A young boy offered Jesus a small lunch of bread and fish that was just enough for this one little boy and Jesus took his willingness, blessed it and served a multitude with 12 baskets to spare.

I constantly remind myself and others, it’s not in what we offer the Lord, it’s THAT we give of ourselves, use our talents and be available to follow His lead, even if it means ignoring our own hopes and dreams.

We focus on fears and failures when we should be focusing on the Father. We give in to our whiny selves and listen to that voice that says “why bother” when we should be faithful with the little things that God has entrusted us with.

Take some time to think about your talents and your strengths. Are you using those gifts for the Lord? Are you being faithful to what God has called you to do? We are all called to be edifying one another, are you building up others and encouraging them? Little is much when God is blessing it. You feel as though you don’t make a difference and even that you simply don’t matter, but you do. God looks at you through the eyes of compassion, longing for you to simply be faithful to do what you know is right in His eyes.

Little is much when God is in it – think about these little things:

You spend time each day praising the Lord via Social Media. Your praise is picked up by someone half a world away who is discouraged, but your thankfulness has reminded them of a past blessing. They are encouraged and strengthened. They are praising God regularly now, due to your praise.
You purchase the Bible study books but write in a regular notebook so you can pass along the book to someone else. You allow someone who is financially struggling to draw closer to the Lord. They draw closer, their family notices and someone else is hearing God’s tugging at their heart.
You give your last $10.00 to a special offering or ministry focused on others. A child receives something that his/her parent had no hope of getting them. They grow up, remembering the kindness of strangers and make it their mission to help others.
You leave a note for someone who seems a little bit down lately, telling them how special they are. They woke up crying tears of sorrow because they felt worthless, but later went to sleep, crying tears of joy because someone actually cares.
You smile and nod at a passerby, not knowing that their day has left them wondering how things will ever get better. Your compassionate smile reminded them that there is hope and tomorrow will bring another day to try again.

If you feel like you don’t have much to give or wonder how you could possibly make it one more month, give your little bit to Jesus and let Him use it. Give your talents, abilities, finances or lack thereof to the Lord and tell him it’s His, to do what he wants to with it and then trust him.

Trust Him for the wisdom of the next step, for the power to make it through one more day and for the ability to make a huge difference with what He’s given you.

You were given the strengths, talents, insights and wisdom that you have for a reason. You can influence others that no one else can. You have the ability to shine and be Matthew 5:16 out loud for the Lord. Remaining faithful to the little things you can do now will have you in the habit of faithfully following and serving the Lord, so that when He gives us more to do, He knows, beyond doubt, that we will be faithful to complete it.

YOU simply need to be available and willing to do whatever it is….BIG or SMALL that God wants you to do. When you do, trust that HE will bless it and use it mightily. Trust that your faithfulness to listen to your heart will encourage others to do the same.

Trust that little is MUCH more than you can ever imagine – when GOD is in it. Click To Tweet

Take stock in the ordinary resources you have around you. Get into the habit of spreading joy and making a difference with those resources and when more resources come your way, you’ll be faithful to make a difference with those as well.

Here are some ways to get you going:

50 Ways of Making a Difference without Spending a Penny http://www.spreading-joy.org/site/50-ways-to-make-a-difference-without-spending-a-penny/

Need more still? Another 50 ways right here http://www.spreading-joy.org/site/another-50-ways-of-making-a-difference/

Making a Difference is as Easy as ABC…. http://www.spreading-joy.org/site/abcs-of-making-a-difference/

Spreading Joy Daily – has 365 Ideas to get you going in making a difference – DAILY! – http://www.spreading-joy.org/site/spreading-joy-daily/ 100% of the sales of this book, goes right back into helping others!

Have you ever been richly blessed by a little gift? Have you ever given your last little bit and saw how it was able to blossom into more than you ever imagined?

Share your story and/or link below and be an encouragement to someone who may have forgotten that little is MUCH when God is in it.

Have fun Spreading JOY!

About Marie Wikle:

Seeing through the eyes of compassion and understanding the heart that desires to have an impact, Marie encourages others to see the full potential of the everyday, ordinary resources that is right within their reach.

Everyone needs to make a difference and with creative thinking and a unique look at the ordinary, she shows people all over the world just how easy it is to make a difference.

Marie is available to speak to your ladies group, child’s classroom or any other social gather so that you can hear firsthand how to step up, lead the way in innovative thinking and see just how easy the ordinary items of daily living can be used to make a difference.

When you are Spreading Joy Daily – you’ll quickly see that there is no joy like Spreading Joy!

March 17, 2017 by Spreading Joy

Hug in a Cup

I love finding cool gifts for my kids and this year for Valentine’s Day was no different. We celebrate “love” on Valentine’s Day with the entire family because I LOVE them.

This year, I found and ordered my coffee loving son coffee from Bean Box.

I don’t know about you, but to me and him, coffee is such a treat! It’s literally a hug in a cup. Good anytime of the day, served many different ways and you don’t need a special reason to enjoy!

When someone invites you for coffee, you know it will be anything but short and to the point. Friends and family take time to linger over coffee! Some of my fondest memories are sharing laughter with friends and family over a cup of coffee. We would always sit for hours

We Share love, laughter, tears, prayers and life over a cup of coffee. Click To Tweet

Sharing issues over coffee helps to ease the pain. Sharing love and laughter over coffee increases the joy!

The perfect cup of coffee is as individual as the person enjoying it!

I looked at different things online to send to my son and decided to go with Bean Box.

The coffee is shipped within 48 hours of roasting so it’s absolutely fresh! It’s roasted to order so you know it’s going to be delicious.

You can do coffee gifts, a one time gift, more personalized gifts and it’s really affordable.

At just $23 for a package of coffee, it’s perfect for a just because gift, Birthday Gift, Get Well Gift, Thank you gift etc.

This gives the ability to try coffees they may not otherwise get to try.

Got a coffee lover in your world? This might be the gift they will love!

Do you make coffee dates with your best friends, family or those that are discouraged?

Do you have a favorite local coffee shop? Leave the name of it and where it’s located in the comments below so those that stop by SJC and read this will know to check it out when traveling.

So, who in your world would love this gift?

PS – My son loved them all but out of the box he received, he loved the Bluebeard the best.

Affiliate link is used in this article. If you purchase or subscribe we will receive a small commission that will help with the financial side of this ministry.

Photography: loHi Media

Check them out on Instagram

March 14, 2017 by Spreading Joy

Wherever I Am

Charles Spurgeon said “Wherever you are, whatever your case, God will be with you.”

Have you ever simply just wrapped your heart in that thought?

Wherever I am…. God IS with me. No doubt about it.

When I’m on the mountain, He is there enjoying the fact that my heart is soaring!

When I’m walking through the valley, He is there…often carrying me because I lack the strength to simply go on.

When I’m burdened down with pain, questions and the fears that so easily paralyzes us, HE is there longing that we’d hand over every single weight that we try to carry.

When I’m praying for my children, for the courage for them to do His will, He is there, with HIS mighty arms wrapped around me.

When I’m looking forward to the ordinary joys of life, He is there basking in the delight that I’m sharing with Him.

When I’m faithfully serving the Lord, willingly following His direction for my life, He is there to guide and direct.

When I’m being stubborn and kicking against His will simply because of the unknown, He is there….patiently waiting for my childlike tantrum to end.

I remember my son preaching a few years back, reminding us that we should be so close to the Lord, that all we have to do is turn to Him….. simply t u r n.

Never, ever ever forget as you pray for your friend, child or family member that is away from the Lord, that He is also there with them too.

We may never understand why they have been away from God for so long, or why God just didn’t step in and immediately bring them right back, but one thing we can count on, is our Lord is always there for us.

Where are you right now? What is your heart facing?

Trust God

Be Encouraged

KNOW God is there with you right now!

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February 27, 2017 by Spreading Joy

Be Real

So many things these days are absolutely not real. From every commercial you see, to the magazine advertisements those things are touched up, sprayed up and changed so much, the original is nearly impossible to find.

We are so filtered (yes…I said we) that we forget what real beauty is like; real kindness is mistaken for flirting and real honest to goodness upright character is a rarity these days.

Be real! Enjoy the real things and make a real difference.

Let’s look at a few real things:

Real Problems: Never think you are alone in your problems, you positively are not. I’m tackling this one first because I know problems are real and I know bad things happen to good people and no one that works with or volunteers with Spreading Joy is free of Real Problems.

Homeless – this just isn’t about the beggar on the street anymore. Homelessness is often the single mom who struggles to make ends meet forcing her and her children to sleep in a car.
Loss of homes and vehicles – talk about a horrible blow. This is an awful thing and too many good people are affected by the realities of this.
Abuse – physical and emotional are both real and horrid. You can get help; you do not need to live this way. Please choose to step out even though times may get tough
Grief and loss – the very first year after losing someone close to you is such a difficult time. Even the first few years. There is no right way to grieve, but keeping your hurt and loss bottled up will turn into an explosion. Don’t know what to do to help someone who is grieving, here are a few ideas for you.
Depression and mental health issues – This is real and it’s an issue, especially in the Christian community because so many hide it. Feeling ashamed because if they were really focusing on Christ, their depression would go away…right? Wrong. Again, don’t go it alone, seek help, and talk it out. Here are some things about depression and having more joy in your day.
Chronic illness – some days getting out of bed is all some people can do. Don’t judge or belittle them. Pray for them and encourage them. This is real and these individual need real encouragement.

These things are why you need to be KIND every single day. You do not know who is facing what problem and the real heartache they are facing.

Real Blessing:

Daily Blessings – yes, this is real. It is there! We have to fight to see it sometimes, but trust me, there is good in every day. Look for it; capture it in writing, use a joy jar or happiness journal so when the days are hard you can be reminded of the god.
Little things – there are so many little things in our life that make life big! Count these as part of your real blessings!

Real Opportunities:

You will have real opportunities to influence the life of others. USE them. Don’t let them slip by you! You never know when a kind word or kind deed will change someone’s life.
An army of Ordinary People using their ordinary resources can and will make an extraordinary difference for Christ! We will help! Here are ideas for each day that anyone can do!
Every opportunity matters. Stop focusing on what you can’t do and focus on what you can do! Can’t pay off thousands of dollars in layaway for people? Then purchase a coffee or meal for someone. Do not negate the effect of what you do because the dollar amount doesn’t have the amount of zero’s behind it that you desire.
Opportunity to raise thankful and giving children. Yes…this is positively real and can be done. Let gratitude flow from you, from your heart each day and they will mimic this. Use specific things to teach them to give, to teach them gratitude. Seize this opportunity! Don’t let it pass you by.
Opportunity to encourage others – don’t be the person that says “how are you doing” and then be put off when they say they are having a bad day or not doing so well. Don’t be that person! Be the one who hugs them and says, “I’m sorry, let me pray with you right now” or look them in the eye and say, I’m so sorry to hear that, I’ll be in prayer for you! This IS HUGE!!! Be the one to actually care when you ask how someone is doing!
Opportunity to have a Christ Centered Home – You are in control of this. You can choose this and I hope you will. There is so much hope in Christ that even when you feel all hope is lost, saturating your heart with the Word of God will start to rebuild that hope.

Be real.

Be dependable.

Ask for help.

Give help and prayers without judgement.

Allow others to be real with you without fear.

Because I really want to know…what say ye?

Let’s get real on these and other topics in the comments below.

February 9, 2017 by Spreading Joy

Join the Story Box

The Story Box

So many people are looking for ways to get their small children out from in front of a screen. With all the educational apps and such it can be a very productive time.

One of my favorite past times is reading. I love to read. I love adventures, mysteries and the encouraging Bible Studies from several of my favorite Christian Authors.

For birthdays this year for my small nieces and nephew, I was looking around for different things to send them and came across The Story Box.

They will mail your child 2 books and the wrapping is gorgeous. You and your child and will enjoy these books for a long time.

This Subscription box will delight your child when they get a PACKAGE with their name on it and thrill them when they open it to find not just one brand new book, but T W O!

What child doesn’t love mail? Most little children love books too, so this is a win-win!

The books we received are:

My niece absolutely loved them! We read them several times.

Details on How it Works:

When you subscribe you’ll receive one package each month. It will contain two children’s books and a parent guide. There are 3 types of packages to choose from:

The Board Books Package – for children 0-2 ½
The Pictures Book Package – for children 2 ½ – 6
Family Package – for families with children in both age groups.
SHIPPING is Always Free!

Visit their What’s Inside Page for more info.

Did you know Join the Story Box is all about Spreading Joy? YES! They are! A portion of each subscription fee is used to purchase books and other educational materials to benefit children with disabilities and children from low-income families.

One of the things I love to do is to have bookstore dates. Well, consider this the bookstore coming to you! Happy Mail for the children! Besides, what child doesn’t love to receive mail? Hmmm?

Your grandchildren will love this! Even if you send them just one shipment. The littles in your home will love it! And seriously…a BOX for them!?! You know how excited you get when you get a package!

Check them out, send a book and make some memories! You’ll be glad you did!

*I received this box in return for my honest opinion. I am not required to give a positive review. All opinions are completely my own. I highly recommend this as a great way to get your children reading more.

*Affiliate links may be used in this post. Meaning that if you purchase these items we will receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. These funds help fund the growing cost of this ministry

February 7, 2017 by Spreading Joy

Write Back Soon

Each year we host a Christmas Party for the community we encourage and each year we usually have a hard time getting items for the older children.

I was searching for ideas and came across this book Write Back Soon by Karen Benke and thought it would be a huge addition for the gifts for the young ladies that would be attending.

It absolutely was!

We paired it with colored Pencils and some stencils and they were all taken!

It’s such a great book!

This book is filled with chapter after chapter of ideas, prompts and inspiration to reach out to others in your world via pen and paper!

From “Kinds of Correspondence” to “Gifts to Include in an Envelope” You have almost 200 pages of ideas to get those creative ideas flowing from your mind to actual paper!

Reminding you to write on the “Specific Days of the Year like National Handwriting Day, Do A Grouch a Favor Day, Thesaurus Day etc. there is no shortage of ideas here!

In a technology driven world, this book is refreshing and inspiring!

Benke even reminds us about the potential of the Letters’ Return. As many people do, her friend saved all of her handwritten notes and left them for her, reminding her “we’re all on loan to one another.”

I personally love sending my children and great-nieces and nephew postcards from my travel. When I’m blessed with grandchildren, I’ll do the same for them. Knowing someone is thinking of you while they are on vacation is pretty special!

Again, this book is packed with ideas so that you can grab paper and pen and easily get a just because letter/card in the mail.

Because I love Snail Mail and want you to send more letters, I’m giving a copy of this book away.

Simply leave a comment below about a letter or card you received from someone and how it made you feel. Easy right?!?

I’ll draw a winner on 2/14/17

Karen has other books – Rip the Page and Leap Write In! Sign up for her “Muse Letter” there as well and continue to be inspired.

Find her on:

FACEBOOK – https://www.facebook.com/karen.benke.1

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/pub/karen-benke/20/105/b65

Youtube: https://vimeo.com/user44483481

If you purchase via Amazon, don’t forget to start a smile.amazon.com and choose Spreading Joy as your Charity of Choice and Amazon Gives back to us at no additional cost to you! Win-Win!

*Copies of this book were donated for our Christmas Joy event and as a thank you, I am doing this review and to spread the word about this wonderful book. I have not received compensation for my review nor was I required to give a positive review.

February 2, 2017 by Spreading Joy

Help a Grieving Family with This Bundle

**Please NOTE this Ends 2/7/2017**

What happens when a bunch of business owners get together in the face 
of a difficult time for a friend? Well, you're about to find out. 

You see Crissy Herron lost her mom over Christmas, very unexpectedly. 
Of course it's been a very hard time for Crissy and family, and she 
hasn't had time to focus on work.

So her friends Kelly McCausey and Angela Wills stepped in to help set 
up a great bundle sale, inviting business owner friends with awesome 
products & programs.

The Great Big Life & Biz Bundle was born!

Crissy is the host.
Many incredible offers available.
All for ONE price.

Get it here 

They've set the price at just $19 but you don't get one product for 
that, you get ALL OF THEM. 

Over ONE THOUSAND DOLLARS worth of lifestyle and business expertise for 
one low price.
This is an offer not to be missed! 
Here's what you'll find inside:

- The Kindle Challenge 
- 3 Day Momentum Intensive
- Business Graphics Class
- Ultimate VA Business Planning Blueprint
- Outsourcing Kickstart Bundle
- Look Good to Feel Good PLR Pack
- Newsletter Starter Kit
- Google Analytics Client Care Kit
- 28 Day Fit & Healthy Jumpstart
- Createspace Intensive
- One Month at Mom Webs Hosting
- Master PLR $20 Discount
- Party Plan Magazine - Lifetime Access
- Above & Beyond Customer Service
- Get Visible On Facebook For Free - And Attract Your Ideal Clients
- Outsourcing for Podcasters
- 60 Second Video Rockstar 7 Day Challege
- Find Your Ideal Virtual Assistant
- Advanced Strategies For Getting More Clients
- Sugar Repair: 6 Week Program
- Money Manifestation Simplified
- Get Happy Now Toolkit
- Start a Business on a Thread Budget
- Learning to Use Images to Boost Your Business
- 4 Key Pages Your Business Website Must Have
- The Solopreneur's Guide to Thriving: Create a Season of Amazing 
Growth for Your Business
- Making Room for Happiness: Tips for Clearing Clutter & The Busy 
Woman's Daily Planner©
- Healthy You PLR Club
- Creating Powerful Devotions

Phew... Just a few awesome things there.

This package has a total real value of $1313.89 ... unbelievable!

Go here to grab this and find out more 

>>> Great BIG Life and Biz Bundle

January 16, 2017 by Spreading Joy

Volunteers Needed

Would you be willing to write children every month and encourage them?

Knowing the power of getting an encouraging note in the mail, we want to use that to be a huge encouragement to the children of Spreading Joy!

In 2016 we started sending each child a Birthday Card with an encouraging note. (Thank you Sarah!) The children absolutely loved it! You may be reading this and think it’s such a small thing but trust me when I say, this is H U G E!

Please consider volunteering for this!

Here is what will happen:

Fill out the form below and let us know your information
We will email you their names and age (8 children a month) so that you can send age appropriate encouragement.
You’ll write them either with a card, stationary, post card or just regular paper, put their name on it and a stamp (if you can do so) and then mail all of them in a one larger envelope back to me at PO Box 1771 Denver NC 28037
I will get your letters, address them and drop them off in the mail.
The next month you’ll get a different set of names. Our goal is to have you write all of our children. We have a core group of about 80ish.

Yes, you can include a book mark and/or a few stickers. Just make sure it would be ok with one stamp.

Anyone can do this! You can make this a family affair! Order pizza, some stickers and have an evening where everyone writes every child! Can you imagine how surprised these children will be?

What do you think? Will you use this as a means of Spreading Joy to others?

Can you draw? Are you creative? If so, you could make your letters look like some of these. (Check out the cool letter art)

If you’d be willing to write children every month, please use the sign up form below and let us know!

If you cannot write to the children, there is an easy way to impact hearts with us. Would you consider mailing us some cards, stamps and/or stickers? It would help tremendously! Thank you in advance for helping in any way you can!

Thank you for Volunteering for Spreading Joy! Thank you for changing lives with Spreading Joy!

Thank you for caring! You are ahhhmazin at Spreading Joy to Others!

** If you are on your mobile phone and want to volunteer, please use THIS LINK http://eepurl.com/cxB-uf

January 11, 2017 by Spreading Joy

Introducing the Walmart Beauty Box

Walmart Beauty Box

Subscription boxes are such a huge thing lately! I knew there were lots of them but I had no ideas that there are literally Subscription Boxes for anything you’d like. (Probably, I mean I’m assuming here but seriously, check out the hashtag #subscriptionbox and wow, you’ll see what I mean.)

And why not!?! In an age where no one sends snail mail anymore there is typically nothing happy happening in our mailboxes. Besides, with all the junk mail we get, mailboxes full of bills and other dreary things this is a wonderful way to brighten your day!

Before I give you the amazing details of this box, let me say right here that they have NO clue I’m even doing this! I’m sharing this with you because you can do this for yourself

B U T you can also use this as a means of Spreading Joy to someone else and it is VERY Affordable.

The Walmart Beauty Box comes out quarterly. Just 4 times a year but for the cost, you absolutely cannot beat it. HERE is the Spreading Joy part — You can even G I F T a subscription for the same cost! You need to know their birthday (including year) but you can send someone this gorgeous box of goodies F O U R times a year and brighten their day! It’s easy to set up once you’ve set up your account.

Here are the contents of the FALL Box for this year! I absolutely LOVE it! and the PRICE… I love that even more. I know…you are dying to know! (I’m waiting patiently on my Winter box! I am super excited!)

The Walmart Beauty Box is F R E E!

YES! you read that right. You only have to pay for shipping costs and that is just $5! Now you see how this can be a great gift for someone!?!

Who in your world could use a pick me up like this? Who could you gift this to so that they get some happy mail just or no reason? Who could use some encouragement?

Who would love to try some samples of larger products? I know I do, especially for hair care because I have the frizziest hair of all.

Think about it – You could gift this to yourself and 3 others for just $20 a quarter! Spreading JOY is so much fun isn’t it?

GIVEAWAY:

You know I love giving away things! It’s the Spreading Joy part of my heart, I just cannot help it.

Tell me who you would gift a subscription to and WHY – and then ONE of you will win a One Year Subscription for that person! I’ll choose one random person. Make sure you can provide me their birthday. I’m mail them a nice card and let them know that you nominated them and they won.

How fun!?!

Give Away Ends: 1/20/2017 at Midnight!

What are you waiting for, go…sign up! https://beautybox.walmart.com/

Do you subscribe to a monthly gift subscription? If so, what is it (if you don’t mind me asking?) Have you ever gifted anyone a Subscription Box?

Dear Walmart, thank you for making this such a fun, affordable thing! I love you for that.

*I’ve not received anything in return for this article. I’m spreading joy to you by introducing you to something that I think many will love. I’m thankful for Walmart and their ability to provide such a cool quarterly mailing at a super reasonable price.*

January 9, 2017 by Spreading Joy

What are you Expecting

What are you expecting this year?

You don’t have to look far to know that many people are spending a lot of time wondering what this year will hold for us.

I don’t have a crystal ball and wouldn’t really want to know.

A new year typically draws us to reflect on the past year. I’m no different. I love a New Year, new opportunities, new adventures and new things that in my wildest dreams I would never expect. Many people do struggle to be positive when a new year rolls around. I have that issue sometimes too. I struggle with wishing I could have done more, given more and made more of an impact the previous year. I feel guilty for not doing more.

Here at Spreading Joy, we tell people (and myself as well) that Spreading Joy is doing what you can with what you have. I understand the guilt that comes with “I wish I could do more” and hate when it creeps in my heart. I have to focus on the fact that we took everything that was given to us and did what we could with it. I have to focus on the facts of the previous year while I’m waltzing into the brand new year.

I know there will be circumstances that I absolutely cannot change but there are something that I’m expecting for this upcoming New Year. (This was the encouragement I shared at our recent Christmas Joy Event.)

Kindness – I will be kind. I will do random acts of kindness as well as acts of kindness on purpose. I will continue to spread joy daily and will share the things I do so that maybe it will inspire you to look around at the resources you have and do the same. To get the latest tips, suggestions and ideas, follow along on my Spreading Joy Journey here: http://instagram.com/spreadingjoyandlove
Compassion – I will be compassionate. If we are honest, every single one of us needs help at one time or another. Compassion is a precious gift that many are denied.
Positivity – I’m typically the positive one of the group. Always looking on the bright side, finding the good etc. I do struggle with depression and there are a lot of times I have to force myself to be positive. I get it. With so much of the news and Social Media channels full of negativity, I’m going to purposely find and share positive things and be positive.
Fun – We have to work, we have to provide for our families but we need to make sure we schedule some fun! It doesn’t have to be expensive as there are so many free things every community has for people to take advantage of. Bring fun into your day on purpose. I’d love to hear the ways that YOU bring fun into your day!
Inspiration – I will be sharing stories of others using what they love, their talents their gifts to make a difference. I have already started sharing those on the site. If you know of someone using the little things in their world to make a difference, would you please share with me? Read the previous inspiring stories here:
Character – I want to surround myself with those that have a great character. You know things that they do when no one is really looking. I want to surround myself with this so that I can continue to grow and be a person of great character. Are you teaching your children this or do they hang out with those that belong to the mean girls/boy club? Do they stand up with the bullies? Have you asked? Have you had a discussion about bullies in their school?
Respectful – People that respect nothing often feel they are entitled to everything. I’m looking for those that are just absolutely full of respect. Respect for their parents, the authority set above them (yes, teachers and law enforcement), respect for those around them, respect for property that doesn’t belong to them. It’s huge, it’s powerful. Surround yourself, your children and your family with those that are respectful
Encouragement – I will be encouraging where I can be. I know life isn’t always a bed of roses. Usually it’s full of ginormous thorns, but there is still the ability to be encouraging. We can change what we can and find the good in the rest. While we are going through life’s up’s and down’s be encouraging!
Loving – I will be loving and surround myself with those that do the same. So much hatred is flying through Social Media these days and I’m choosing to not engage with it. I’m not.

Again, there are a lot of things that will happen this year that I don’t expect. I can’t control that and will meet each one head on and fight through them.

One final Thought:

Let the best in you bring out the best in others!

Let the Best in you bring out the Best in Others! #spreadingJOY #YOUmatter #kindnessmatters #makeadifference pic.twitter.com/kWzDWh9GG6
— Marie Wikle (@spreadingJOY) January 8, 2017

What are you going to take control of this year? What are you expecting out of this year?

Are you going to let go of negativity? Are you going to embrace respect and those around you that are respectful?

What are you expecting? What are you teaching your children to look for and expect this year?

Some of this will take work because negativity is so abundant these days. Question is, are we willing to work at having a good year?

December 23, 2016 by Spreading Joy

What is Christmas Joy

What is Christmas JOY you ask?

Besides the obvious JOY of giving, loving and being together with family and friends (near and far) it’s an annual event that we here at Spreading Joy have every year.

We couldn’t do it without your help and the help of so many amazing people that are just oozing compassion and love!

With your help of spreading the word about our annual Christmas Joy Event, financial donations and volunteering, we are able to host a Christmas party for many families that need some help with gifts for their children.

We take the year and round up toys (thank you for your monthly donation!) and keep an eye out for amazing deals that will benefit the families we work with.

With your help we pull together food, drinks, desserts, snacks and some fun smaller toys for the kids to enjoy during the evening!

The candy store you help us to provide is the favorite of most everyone! This year we had 31 different candies for the children to drop in their bag. They were able to get several pieces of each one.

Keep in mind; it’s not about changing the world with your millions of dollars and endless resources. It’s about making a difference with the resources you have right here…right now. What will you do with what you have?

Thank you for helping us to change lives, we couldn’t accomplish a single thing without your help.

Onward to the party!

Before the kids arrived, we put stuffed animals out in the chairs so that the children could go ahead and have them too. (Thanks mom for that amazing idea! I love that we are spreading joy together!)

The food was provided by Olive Garden and a sweet family provided all the hot dogs that the children and the volunteers enjoyed.

The kids were given a super cute reusable bag with a brand new Bible, Art kit and then as the evening progressed, filled it with stickers, crafts, candy from the candy store and then the little items we had for them to choose from. (as pictured below) They hear the Christmas Story and have fun with their crafts and getting candy!

While the children are having fun, we take the mom’s to a separate place where I share something encouraging with them and then they shop for their children.

With your help we were able to let each mom choose 5 gifts to take and wrap for Christmas Morning. That’s pretty awesome! You guys are amazing!

After the cards were made, the candy was placed in their bags, we brought the kids over and let them get a toy to take home and enjoy now. They were all asking about then when they got there. Made my heart smile! A simple yet enormous gesture that is only made possible by the generosity of you and so many who make this event possible.

This party is to allow these families to step out of the hustle and bustle of life and have fun for a few hours. Everyone needs to do that don’t you think?

We usually have a tiny gift for the moms, sometimes we don’t have anything for them but they never complain because they love having toys for the kids. This year we gave them all a couple of nice necklace and earrings sets from The Joyful Jewel Junkie A N D we were surprised with a generous donation from Verizon. 21 Families received a brand new smart phone! Talk about being giddy with excitement! I was so thrilled and they were too!

They were so excited to get them! So many of them said it was a wonderful upgrade from their current phone and were beyond grateful for this generous gift!

Isn’t it amazing all that we accomplished because we all pulled our individual resources together! We all cared, gave, spread the word and asked for help. I cannot begin to list everyone that helped but I wanted to highlight a few people. If I forget anyone, it isn’t on purpose, it’s because I’m old and forgetful!

Verizon Wireless – thank you for the amazing gift to these families. I already love you and love your Hopeline program!

Clark Nexsen – thank you for collecting toys for us! You are always so generous to help out!

Iron Mountain (Charlotte Facility) – thank you for collecting toys for us and bringing them to us! Your generosity amazes me!

Gastonia Dodge – thank you for collecting toys for us! Without your focus on older children we would have certainly ran out of items

Olive Garden Gastonia – thank you for the spaghetti, salad and bread sticks! Thank you for allowing us to put angels on your tree! The gifts you collected were incredible! This is such a special treat for these families!

New Grace Baptist Church – for the use of your facilities, volunteers and love of Spreading Joy

Beth Haven Baptist Church – for Collecting toys, volunteers and your love of Spreading Joy

I want to extend a huge thank you to all of the individuals that gave a financial donation to enable us to purchase toys, candy and little treats for the kids. You’ll be getting cards from the children and some photos!

Thank you to everyone who worked to collect toys! Those who asked for help and shared all of the Social Media Posts!

Thank you to everyone who came and volunteered your time! So many hours are invested in this event and there is absolutely no way I could ever pull of something of this size by myself. YOU are Spreading Joy Heroes and I’m so honored to make a difference for others with you.

Thank you to Angie Blevins, who constantly works behind the scenes throughout the entire year to write and ask for donations. I am so thankful for your help, love and compassion for others. You are a gift to Spreading Joy and I’m thankful for you!

Remember, working together with our individual resources made this happen! You are important to so many! You may never know just how much you impacted the hearts of these families but know that you have made a huge difference!

Keep looking for ways to make a difference!

Keep Spreading Joy and being kind!

Thank you for Spreading Christmas Joy with us! Thank you for changing lives with us! Thank you for acting on the compassion that lives within your heart! Thank you!

Want to see more photos and cards? Yes, you really should! Please visit the following places and see the impact that your heart for others really has!

http://instagram.com/spreadingjoyandlove

http://facebook.com/spreadingjoycorp

I hope you’ll like our pages and follow along with us in 2017 because we will show you the things we are doing each to spread joy and make a difference!

*I’m honored to be a brand ambassador for Verizon Wireless. Any and all opinions about their services, products and such are completely my own. I occasionally receive items to review in exchange for my honest opinion. I’m so thankful for their Hope Line Phone program for Women in need.

November 21, 2016 by Spreading Joy

Where is the Gratitude

Where is the gratitude

We are an ungrateful people. We are. (and by we, I mean me….just being honest with you) We gripe and complain more than we should. Or at least I do. I’ve been dealing with a horrible bout of depression and it sucks the happiness, thankfulness and energy right out of my soul. It’s a horrible thing to say the least and then you layer on the negativity, thanklessness and such – it turns into a vicious cycle. There isn’t any obvious reason for the depression, it just is what it is and let me assure you, it’s anything but pretty.

We are raising a generation of entitlement filled spoiled brats that have zero respect for anything and it’s a shame. Many feel that they should have the best of everything given to them without having to be responsible for their actions or work for what they want.

Those of us that have what we want, need and desire are super ungrateful much of the time. (Just being honest here because no matter what we have, we want more.)

Where is the thankfulness? Where is the gratitude? Where is the kindness?

It doesn’t cost us a single penny to be kind, thankful or grateful! Not one!

Instead of always looking at what we don’t have, can’t get or desire, why not take time to focus on all that we do have? Many people in this world would love to have half the things that even the poorest American has and yet we gripe and complain on the daily because we want more.

We have a loving mom (or dad or both and step parents) that love us and yet we complain how they don’t provide us with more “stuff.” There are so many who don’t have this luxury and would give up all material things to be loved. It amazes me the number of children that are being tossed away (literally) abandoned, ignored and yes, even murdered by those that are supposed to love and take care of them.
We have a roof over our heads but it’s not nice enough, big enough, in the best place etc. There are so many homeless people, and I’m talking people that work but simply cannot make ends meet, so they live in their cars, a shelter or on the street. They would love to live in a tiny home that isn’t great or in the nicest neighborhood at all.
We have a vehicle to drive and sure it’s older, doesn’t sound great or look great but we aren’t walking every single place we need to go.
We have food in our pantry and sure we may have sandwiches more than gourmet meals but we get to have them. It’s staggering how many people and children go to bed hungry because there isn’t enough food
We have our health and yes we struggle with diseases, chronic illnesses or even mystery illnesses that no one even remotely knows that it is or how to treat it (been there, done that, you can have the t-shirt) but we have a chance each day to make the best of it and encourage each other through it. I know this is awful and often worse than horrible for many people who are fighting cancer, depression, and other disorders but can we take a little time each day to be grateful for some goodness that surrounds us? Something?
We have our jobs and so many of us would love to not have to work at all but that is never going to be the case for us, so we need to find the good in it or fine one where we can find the good.
We have so many little things that make our life big but we let the sadness and discouragement of the day steal the joy of those things from our hearts. I could literally list 100 things right here but will include a link to my Ginormous List of little things that make our life big.

Have you considered taking time to list out 3 or more things each day that you are thankful for, or things that bring you joy and happiness or something that made you smile today?

Have you thought of having a gratitude journal where you take just a few moments daily to write out a positive affirmation for yourself, your day and on the days that are extremely difficult you’ll have something tangible that you can hold and read to remind your heart that it’s going to be ok.

I know life is hard. I understand having issues you face on a daily basis. I understand medical issues that toss your whole world upside down and I understand the struggle with depression, discouragement and having times where no matter what you do you just feel awful.

B U T – I also know that every single day there is something to be grateful for, even if it’s just the love that someone shows me.

Over 430 children received school supplies because you cared and you had compassion. Thank you! http://www.spreading-joy.org/site/back-to-school-2016/ #compassion #makeadifference #bethechange #charity #spreadingJOY
A photo posted by Spreading Joy Corporation (@spreadingjoyandlove) on Aug 22, 2016 at 5:03pm PDT

How are you teaching your children to be grateful? Do you give them everything they want or do they have to earn things, show respect and be responsible?

Do you have a gratitude journal? Need a little help getting started? Here are some writing prompts you can use to get your mind going in the right direction.

Now, you should be expecting this last question – what 3 things are you thankful for today? Big things, little things, simple things….. anything.

Where is your gratitude? Is it covered up by the daily ick that we all battle? Do you try to dig it out?

November 18, 2016 by Spreading Joy

Strings and Things to Make a Difference

If it encourages just one person it is time well spent.

I believe this with all my heart do you? In our quest to make a huge impact, we forget about the O N E person that had their heart encouraged. We forget about the ONE person that smiled because we cared. We forget about the O N E person that decided to make a difference daily and then those hearts were inspired to do the same and so on and so forth.

Don’t forget about the O N E person because that matters!

That brings me to someone that is super crafty and using their talents to make a difference.

Are you the crafty type? If so, let me say right now that I’m super jealous of you but in a joyful kind of way.

I am not crafty, I’m not artsy but I want to be even though I know it just will never happen. You, on the other hand, might be so let me inspire you here just a little to use those talents for Spreading Joy to others!

It thrills me today to be able to introduce you to someone using their craftiness to make a difference.

Check out how this person is Spreading Joy to those around them.

I hope that you’ll follow along on this journey of joy and encourage them by liking their posts.

Instagram: Threads for Smiles – with a lot of string and a passion to make a difference, they create projects to lovingly send out into the world.

If you find one of their amazing gifts, I hope you’ll tag them on Instagram and thank them. Use #urlvd

Look how they are using their passion to bring smiles to the hearts of others!

Go, follow them on Instagram and be INSPIRED! Be reminded that the little things matter and that you can impact the corner of your world!

Do you make neat things like scarfs, hats, gloves? Are you crafty in this fashion? Will you consider using this gift in this kind of way? If you do, I hope when you share on Social Media (and please do share because you never know who you will inspire) that you’ll use the #spreadingJOY hashtag so that I can share what you are doing with others!

Think about what you have around your home that you could use. Think about the things that you LOVE to do and are good at doing and how you can use those things for Spreading Joy to other people.

If you just aren’t sure, leave me a comment below listing things you like to do, are passionate about and I’ll work with you on some ideas for making a difference! Would be my honor!

How are you using your craftiness to Spread Joy? I’d love to know. Share via Social Media using #spreadingJOY hashtag.

Have fun Spreading Joy Daily!

November 15, 2016 by Spreading Joy

Meeting Needs this Christmas

We know that Christmas is a special time for so many. We also know it’s a painful time for those who have lost a dear loved one recently. We also know many people dread it simply because they cannot give their families what they would love to.

My heart thinks about all those families that were affected by major flooding in West Virginia, Louisiana and North Carolina.

If you remember, we went to West Virginia with 2 truck loads of help and the devastation we encountered was heart breaking.

As part of our Annual Christmas Joy Event this year, we want to include the Children of West Virginia. We want to remind them that others haven’t forgotten even though the media has moved on. We want to fill hearts with Christmas Cheer and hopefully remove some of the overwhelming sadness and possibly dread they are experiencing.

As we prepare to help the children here and there, we’d love for you to partner with us. Donations are low this year and anything will be a tremendous help.

We are going to bring the children (and parents) in and feed them, have them write notes to the children in West Virginia that will be receiving the gifts and do some crafts and such with them. They will receive gifts themselves, as well as shop in our candy store.

Please keep in mind this year that we have zero paid employees, so your donation does’t go to a salary. The Mr. and I make donations to keep the administrative needs covered, so your donation doesn’t go to that either.

Many people are concerned with their donations at Christmas and rightly so.

Here are some ways you can help:

Make a financial donation – Every donation is huge here! Click the paypal button or mail it to us! The info for both of those are in our side bar at the top!
Send stickers – The children will be writing letters to encourage children who have lost everything! Please send all kinds of stickers! Christmas, love, smileys! Any kind!
Send $10 McDonald’s or Wal-Mart Gift Cards – We have several older children and these will be a wonderful gift for them.
Please consider sharing this page daily! Share on facebook, share on twitter, share with friends individually!
Ask others to get involved with a personal email. Point out to them that their donation doesn’t support a salary, it supports families in need.
Consider donating items that children would love. Maybe you own a store, or shop that has items these children would love.
Come volunteer with us. We’d love to have you!

Imagine having your child having lost every favorite toy they had. Imagine starting all over. Imagine wondering where the gifts will come from.

Can you imagine?