Spreading Joy

Making a Difference One Person At a Time One Day At a Time

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Calming Beach SLEEP STORY for DEEP SLEEP and Relaxation | Sleep With Ocean Waves in Background

An overactive mind when trying to sleep can make the next day super unproductive because you are simply exhausted.

Do you look for ways to calm your overactive mind each night?

Are you tired of staring at nothingness and hoping for sleep?

We understand and care. I often deal with insomnia and know how frustrating it can be to need deep restful sleep and yet, it seems to never come.

This sleep story is set beside the ocean, spoken softly so that you can listen to the words, calm your overactive mind and drift off to sleep.

Enjoy a few moments of relaxation before the story begins and then allow yourself to naturally fall asleep

Thank you for allowing me to be with you on this journey. Be sure to save this to your favorite playlist for sleep stories.

Joyfully Yours

Marie

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AY9581 Life In and Out

Imagine being the only witness to a murder and then…the Prime Suspect

Author Mark Faler takes us through the events that lead up to the murder and the fearful, chaotic time afterwards.

As a teen having seen first had what this murderer was capable of, he feared for his family and made what would be the most difficult decision ever.

Not realizing how these choices would affect his family long term, Faler honestly discusses his actions and the consequences as a result of those actions.

I love true life books and this was a true to life as it gets.

It was my great honor to bring this book to life and work with Author Mark Faler to tell his story before, during and after prison.

You can purchase a paperback copy here: https://amzn.to/3dgiLvz

Click THIS link to get the Audiobook

Please, if you do get this book – take just a moment to leave a review. and thank you

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Jesus Said

Meditating on the Words of Christ

Jesus Said -- 01 -- Matthew 22:37 Many Christians do not like the term Meditate or Meditation -- as they almost always think of New Age, Monks and the like. The Bible is clear that we should meditate on God’s word.

Joshua 1:8 This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success. Psalm 1:2 But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.

Psalm 77:12 I will meditate also of all thy work, and talk of thy doings. Psalm 19:4 Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer. The truth is that the Lord delights in us and wants us to spend time with Him. Focusing on him each day is the best way to live your best life! Moments with Jesus IS moments of joy and we all need a little more joy in our world!

In the Series -- Jesus Said, we are going to focus on the Words of Christ. You know, the ones typically written in Red in any Bible. Before you throw something at me, I DO know that the entire Bible is the Word of the Lord. But, for this devotional, we are going to focus on these words in particular. We literally can meditate on God’s words till our last breath and never exhaust the knowledge found in the Bible.

Thanks for going on this journey with me! Let’s feast on God’s word, shall we? What is YOUR favorite Words from Christ? I’ll add it to my series if I haven’t done so already!

Matthew 22:37 Jesus Said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul and with all thy mind DONE

It absolutely cannot get any clearer than this verse.  We are to love God with all that we have. Literally every part of our being, including our soul and mind.  When we love God with our minds, it will change how we see and think about things.  When our minds are so full of love for the Lord, we will see others the way Christ sees others.  We will love others the way Jesus loves, we will embody the positive attributes of our Lord and Savior. 

Read or say these positive affirmations out loud:

Lord, I love you with all that is within me.  

I love your word and how it directs me. 

I love your everlasting love for me.

I am thankful for the ability to display my love for you publicly.

I am thankful for the ability to love you freely and openly without fear. 

I am thankful for being heir to your throne, for being a child of the King.

I love you Lord because you love me first.

My heart and mind will focus on you each day.

My love for you grows stronger each day.

I am thankful for your love for me, so that I can love you.

I Love you Lord, with all my heart, all my soul and all of my mind.

Here is an audio version of this devotional. Enjoy!

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Treasure Kingdom Review

Treasure Kingdom Review

Treasure Kingdom is an uplifting fictional book about two teens that get pulled into a book. These teens, like many teens, are dealing with so many things that are heavy on their hearts and minds, such as grief, fitting in, and/or finding their identity in Christ. 

This is a positive and uplifting book that is honestly a breath of fresh air. It’s fun, full of things that so many can relate to as well as real – truthfully and painfully….real. 

The Author is reminding us that while we may face struggles, we as christians, do not face them alone, even when the enemy does his best to make us feel that way. 

The characters are great, the story line is amazing and this wonderful work of fiction is a must read for older pre-teens, teens and young adults – or anyone that wants to have a little escape from reality. 

I’m excited about this book and cannot wait to dive into her next one! 

You can Listen to this book here: Treasure Kingdom on Audible

Or purchase from Amazon here: https://amzn.to/2LtgUZg 

Where is your treasure? Who, in your world would love this book? 

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In Preparation for the Process

In Preparation for the process book review

Have you ever been going along and just enjoying the blessings of life and then out of nowhere, life changes drastically? Things that you never expected begin to happen and you find yourself looking at life thinking…wow…. This is really happening? 

Author Michelle Johnson reminds us that “preparation is not planning. Plan all you want, but if you are not prepared, you will not have the character or the stamina needed to go through the process of life and ultimately fulfill your purpose.” 

Going through the process to get to your life’s purpose can be painful and the author skillfully takes us through her very own process which came out of nowhere so that we can be inspired to do what we are called to do! 

Listen to this book via Audible here: https://adbl.co/3ffsL8D

Purchase a copy of the book from Amazon here: https://amzn.to/3ufPQ0b

Favorite Quotes: 

“Purpose is not confined to a position, wealth or status. Rather, the propose of purpose is to fulfill what you were destined to do in this world…make a difference and leave a legacy for ths generation and the ones to follow.”

“Life experiences are not intended to make you throw in the towel; rather, they serve to generate valuable lessons that prepare you for purpose.” 

“Your rarity should be celebrated and not defined by others. You are MOST WANTED as-is.” 

Also – I LOVE the Self Assessment Quiz that helps you start finding your purpose! 

So, the question is – what is your purpose? Are you prepared to go through the process to get there? 

Thanks for stopping by! I know your heart will be encouraged as you read or listen to this book!

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Eve, Where Are You?: Confronting Toxic Practices Against the Advancement of Women

Author Dr. Nicole L Davis has beautifully touched on a subject that most people shy away from. Women leaders in the church in a male dominated world.

The marketplace is finally seeing the worth women leaders bring to their organizations and Dr. Davis shows many examples from the Bible of strong women leaders. Many women feel God has called them to do so much more than they are with their life. Because strong women are often looked upon as bossy or negative attributes, many women quietly go with the flow, never allowing the Lord to use them to their fullest ability and for His glory.

She wisely points out that gifts and talents are transferable and what works in the marketplace, will work in ministry and also works in your personal ministry outside of the church, in your everyday life.

This book is empowering and encouraging, reminding women of their real value, their real worth and the real things that God can do with His divine creation.

Favorite quotes:

As a Christian, the kingdom and the church are in you, and they are you.

We must make a conscious effort to eradicate beliefs and teachings that divide, separate, harm and neglect the women within our ranks who also have the responsibility and the God-given authority of caring for the church and it’s members.

 When God created Eve, He looked upon her and was satisfied with his handiwork. I want to encourage all women by saying that God’s approval of us has not changed.

I had the honor and privilege of Narrating and Bringing this Book to life! You can purchase that here on Audible –  http://bit.ly/evewhereareyouaudio

or

Get your hard copy or kindle version here: https://amzn.to/3bBSeaw

About the Author:

Tony and Nicole Davis reside in Owings Mills, Maryland. They have been married for almost 30 years, and have the honor of parenting two adult sons.

As co-authors and family and marriage mentors, they have purposed to create thought-provoking, soul-searching, and behavior-altering devotionals for couples, parents, and individuals to read over and over. Their aim is to be catalysts in showing people how to establish their desired relationship experiences–at home or in the marketplace.

They are also co-founders of Empower to Engage; a Christian-based organization designed to equip men and women with resources and strategies to become effective leaders. Tony and Nicole believe people must first be able to lead themselves well and then exemplify this leadership in every area of their lives, thus empowering them to impact our evolving society for good.

For more resources offered by Tony and Nicole, visit www.empowertoengage.com.

Connect with Dr. Davis:

Phone 800-345-0805

Email: info@empowertoengage.com

Websites: www.empowertoengage.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/empowertoengage

Website: www.evewhereareyou.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/evewhereareyou

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Research-Backed Mindfulness & Wellness Serene App

Meet Serene
Journal, meditate and feel calm and relaxed and solve your challenging problems by developing action plans.

Serene features:

Your very own private journal.

Record your mood, thoughts and feelings after every session. Making journaling a habit is now super easy.

Solve challenges in your life and develop action plans.

Serene’s unique cognitive techniques helps you cope with any challenges.

Meditate, Anytime & Anywhere.

Browse through an extensive list of guided mindfulness meditations.

Serene helps you lower stress.

Feel calm, relaxed and serene using research-backed techniques.

Different meditations, for all occasions.

Guided mindfulness meditations covering many topics and situations.

Meditative, atmospheric nature soundscapes.

Transport yourself back to nature with atmospheric sounds.

Pre-Order Serene iOS app today.

Serene is currently available as an iOS app pre-order on iPhone.

App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/serene-ai-powered-wellness/id1512561442

or

https://www.getserene.app

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Letting Go

Letting go of the things that weigh me down

We all hold on to so much junk and past hurts. What do you need to let go of?

I am letting go of things that hold me down and keep me from being my best self. 

I am letting go of past hurts so that I can forgive and move on, knowing that life is amazing and is waiting on me. 

I am letting go of  negative thoughts that consume me and keep me from growing and doing all that I’m capable of accomplishing

I am letting go of guilt of past failures, wrong choices and bad decisions knowing that every day is full of amazing opportunities just for me

I am letting go of fear and stepping out into the unknown with boldness and confidence 

I am letting go of my insecurities, knowing that I am capable, determined and able to accomplish anything I set my mind to

I am letting go of the past so that I can embrace the future with strength and courage. 

What do you need to let go of today? Please let us know in the comments below so we can encourage you. 

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Don’t Quit

Don't Quit

So many people are facing more issues than ever. Health issues, employment issues, financial issues. So many are discouraged and depressed and are simply ready to give up.

Don’t quit.

Things will not always be this way. Just like seasons change, these things will change too! 

How can you keep going when you want to give up?

  • Set small daily goals that you can achieve
  • Reflect on your blessings, big and small
  • Show yourself some love and kindness by relaxing 
  • Journey to another world in a new book
  • Empty your heart of your feelings by writing them in a journal

How do you keep going? We’d love to hear your ideas! Please list them in the comments below and encourage others to keep going on their journey. 

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Exploring Wisdom from Proverbs

Wisdom From Proverbs - inviting you to live wisely

I love the wisdom found in the book of Proverbs! Common sense items that any one of us can actually use in our lives should we choose to implement them.

Here are some nuggets of wisdom that I hope will encourage you on your life’s journey.

What is your favorite nugget of Wisdom from Proverbs?

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Resolutions You CAN Keep

I love the possibilities of a new year! I love the fact that each day is a clean slate with which to work. I love how at the beginning of a new year people make resolutions to better themselves. What I don’t love is how we tend to make unrealistic expectations of ourselves, setting us up for failure from the beginning.

We can make resolutions we can actually keep.

Be Encouraged as you waltz into this year!

Thank you for Spreading Joy and Making a Difference!

What are some of your Resolutions this year?

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Families Are Thankful

Thank you for Spreading Joy

We wanted to send out a special thank you to everyone who helped make Christmas Joy possible this year!

Yes, it looked a lot different and we truly missed the hugs and laughter but due to Covid, we felt it was necessary to not gather together this year to keep everyone as safe as possible.

We have awesome volunteers and people who reached deep into their hearts and gave to still help 25 children have the best Christmas possible.

Your hearts for others is like no other!

While there are no hand drawn cards of thanks, I can tell you beyond doubt that these children loved the gifts you provided for them!

Thank you for Spreading Joy in the midst of a pandemic

Thank you for Spreading Joy to those in need when you were probably in need yourself

Thank you for loving others and making a difference!

I’d like to send a special thank you to the Charlotte Iron Mountain Team who went above and beyond for an entire family! Your hearts amaze me and I’m honored to know and love you guys!

I’d like to send a special thank you to the Patterson Pope Team and all those who stepped up and gave and poured out love and kindness. It’s an honor to be part of your team on a daily basis.

A huge thank you to Denver Mini Storage for always keeping our thing safe and secure!

Thank you to Olive Garden in Gastonia for collecting toys with an Angel Tree again this year! You guys make such a huge difference in the lives of so many!

Thank you to the many volunteers who picked up toys, delivered toys and did all that you could to make this Christmas the greatest.

This world needs the love of each and every one of you! Keep Spreading Joy, keep loving the hurting and helping where you can. You are making a huge difference one person at a time!

With Love, Hugs and a heart full of Gratitude

Marie

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103 Powerful Affirmations on Gratitude

103 Powerful Affirmations on Gratitude – 21 Day Challenge 

Gratitude is a powerful resource that most people typically do not use.  Gratitude can bring positivity into your world instantly. Simple words of thanks can help battle depression, anxiety and other mental issues because the mind is a powerful thing. Filling it full of positivity and gratitude is a natural boost

Things you have or don’t have do not determine the joy you experience.  YOU determine the joy you have and experience.  

We can teach our brain to notice the good, find the good and positivity and then express gratitude. 

My goal for this meditation is to help you create a habit of gratitude that will allow you to notice and even appreciate the littlest of things. 

This is life changing.  Our goal is to have you closing your eyes each night reflecting on the amazing things of your day, even if your day was not the greatest. 

Focusing on good as you go to sleep allows you to wake up refreshed with energy to face your day.  This is a habit we all need. 

Or you can start your day with gratitude. Either will be an amazing thing for your mind and body. 

Please join us each day for 21 Days to make this a habit! Let me know in the comments below so that I can encourage you during this journey! 

Thank you for joining me on this journey. I’m glad you are here. 

Get into a comfortable position.  Or if you are simply listening while you are starting your day and  getting your morning going, that is perfectly fine too.  When you can, take some time for yourself to stop and go through this meditation

Take a moment to take in a few deep breaths. This helps the body to relax.  If your mind begins to drift while you are breathing, it’s ok. Bring your attention back to your breathing 

Focus on my voice as you take relaxing breaths, relaxing your arms and hands. Letting the tension go in your legs and feet.  Relax your shoulders and neck as your breathing starts to return to normal. 

I am grateful for my past and how it prepares me to be my best self

I am grateful for my future as I know anything is possible

I am grateful for my present because each day is a gift and filled with many wonderful things

I am grateful for my health and how beautiful my life is

I am grateful for the love I have in my life and for my life

I am grateful for the people who fill my life with so many great experiences

I am grateful for my family and the beauty the bring to my world

I am grateful for my friends and the memories we share

I am grateful for the people in my world and the lessons learned with each one

I am grateful for my life. For the wonderful life I can experience 

I am grateful for the many positive things in my life 

I am grateful for the joy that is in each and every day

I am grateful for the beauty that surrounds me

I am grateful for the gift of each new day and the opportunities it brings 

I am grateful for the air I breathe and the gorgeous nature that I can gaze on anytime

I am grateful for sunshine

I am grateful for the many little blessings that fill each day

I am grateful for the music that is at my fingertips 

I am grateful for the smiles, hugs and kisses that brighten my day

I am grateful  for weekends

I am grateful for family traditions

I am grateful for the moment to escape into a good book or movie

I am grateful for my home and the safety and security it provides

I am grateful for gentle breezes

I am grateful for the warmth of the sun on my skin

I am grateful for time to reflect

I am grateful for the kindness of strangers

I am grateful for the comfort of my bed

I am grateful for long showers or baths 

I am grateful for the ability to learn

I am grateful for comfortable pajamas

I am grateful for laughter

I am grateful for my favorite treats 

I am grateful for the gorgeous moon and bright stars 

I am grateful for each sunrise and sunset 

I am grateful for beautiful flowers

I am grateful for the songs the birds sing

I am grateful for the beautiful butterflies

I am grateful for all of the sounds of nature

I am grateful for the babbling brook and ocean waves 

I am grateful for the leaves blowing in the wind 

I am grateful for the relaxing gentle sounds of rain

I am grateful for me time, to reflect, grow and express gratitude 

I am grateful for the seasons of life

I am grateful for each victory

I am grateful for lessons learned in each hardship

I am grateful for 2nd chances

I am grateful for the possibilities of each day

I am grateful for random adventures 

I am grateful for promises kept 

I am grateful for my job

I am grateful this season in my life

I am grateful for my community 

I am grateful for my body, mind and heart

I am grateful for the challenges I’ve overcome. They remind me of my strength

I am grateful for the daily things that make my life easier 

I am grateful for the appliances that I have access to 

I am grateful for the food I have 

I am grateful for having exactly what I need and many of my wants 

I am grateful for the photos that remind me of my amazing life 

I am grateful for the teachers who helped to mold me into who I am today 

I am grateful for my core values that define me

I am grateful for technology that allows me to experience so many amazing things 

I am grateful for the generosity of others 

I am grateful for the talents I possess 

I am grateful for the people in my world who make me laugh and fill my life with love and kindness

I am grateful for those that display courage when their heart is full of fear 

I am grateful for those that get up again after the world has knocked them down over and over, they give me hope 

I am grateful for the compassion that lives in my heart as well as the compassionate souls around me 

I am grateful for the abundance that fills my world

I am grateful for limitless opportunities each day brings 

I am grateful for the peaceful moments in my life 

I am grateful for those that motivate me to be my best self 

I am grateful for the success I have experienced 

I am grateful for the wise words that are shared with me 

I am grateful for hope

I am grateful for the many acts of kindness I have witnessed as well as participated in

I am grateful for my accomplishments 

I am grateful for those that show sincere appreciation 

I am grateful for the ability to rest when needed 

I am grateful for choices and clarity when making those choices 

I am grateful for the deliciousness that I get to partake of each day 

I am grateful that dreams can become reality

I am grateful for peace of mind in the midst of uncertainty 

I am grateful for those that encourage others without being prompted 

I am grateful for the access I have to all of my favorite things 

I am grateful for forgiveness

I am grateful for the giggles of small children 

I am grateful for the weekends

I am grateful for those that go the extra mile 

I am grateful to be able to go the extra mile for others 

I am grateful for the ability to make a difference 

I am grateful for meaningful conversations 

I am grateful for time to meditate and reflect 

I am grateful for the ability to overcome 

I am grateful for simple pleasures

I am grateful for quietness

I am grateful for simplicity

I am grateful for smiles

I am grateful for nights of deep, peaceful sleep 

I am grateful for my past, present and future. 

I am grateful for right here, right now

I am grateful

Thank you for allowing me to take you on this journey of gratitude.  I am grateful for you! 

If you are doing the 21 Day Gratitude Challenge, please do comment below so that I can encourage you.  

Also – what would you add? List it below and let me know if I could use that in my next gratitude video. 

May your day overflow with great joy!

Here are some items from Amazon that will help you on your Gratitude Journey:

A Good Day starts with Gratitude – Journal

Choosing Gratitude – Your Journey to JOY

3 Minute Gratitude Journal for Kids

This post contains affiliate links, meaning if you purchase anything from these links a small, yet helpful portion of the costs is given back to us at no additional cost to you. thanks for supporting us in this fashion.

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Merry McSparkles

Missing out on visiting Santa this year? Get a message from Santa’s Number One Christmas Elf! 

Christmas greeting from Merry McSparkles

This Gig Includes:

14 Messages in .mp3 files for your child to listen to! F O U R T E E N!!! 

2 photos you can print and give to them

Topics:

  1. Introduction to Merry McSparkles 
  2. List checked once 
  3. Candy cane delivery
  4. Christmas cleaning
  5. Letter to Ms. Clause 
  6. Gratitude
  7. Hot chocolate and snowmen
  8. We saw a naughty – use to get kids back on track
  9. Christmas music all year
  10. Spending time with the reindeer
  11. Santa’s fitting and favorites
  12. Santa has checked his list TWICE
  13. Packing Day – loading Santa’s sleigh
  14. CHRISTMAS EVE

Your kids will be delighted everytime you tell them you got a message from Merry McSparkles! 

We’ve attached 3 for your listening pleasure. We’ve priced this so that everyone can afford it but we know many are struggling this time of year. 

If you’d like to donate a copy for Single Moms, I’m in contact with many& will let them know it was a gift from you

Please Click The Gig Extra&donate a copy or 2! 

Thanks in advance for Spreading Christmas Joy with US! 

I’m excited to be part of the Christmas Magic for your children!

Don’t delay Click Here, listen to the samples and ORDER TODAY

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Psalms to Comfort

This year has been tough on so many! So many people have broken hearts, health issues, depression and chronic illness battles.

It can feel like it is never ending! When you don’t know what to do, where to find comfort or feel like you cannot make it, turn to Psalms in your Bible. So much comfort and raw emotion is found there.

You’ll quickly see you are not alone.

Here is a video that discusses just 31 Verses of Comfort from the book of Psalms.

May you empty your heart of hurt and allow God to fill it with His love, remembrance of past victories and peace that only He can give!

What is YOUR favorite Psalm? I’d love to know.

Joyfully Yours,

Marie