Christmas JOY – The Celebration

December 22, 2010 By 10 Comments

It started like any other morning before a Spreading Joy event.  A million things running through my mind and this time, it’s a little different because I’m planning and handling much of the Christmas JOY event for the ladies at the Battered Womens Shelter & children from my hotel room in Virginia.  Then it hits me.  SNOW!! It was supposed to snow over night. I hurry to the huge window in my room and sure enough, IT’S SNOWING!!!! The little girl in me is so very excited! I can immediately see that there are several inches on the ground already.  I’m supposed to work a half day and then head home to Charlotte NC and start picking up toys for Friday nights Christmas JOY event!  I quickly get ready and head to work.

Much like a child that can’t wait to get out in the snow, I find a window and look out.  It is pouring snow!  Buckets! My heart is filled with worry at this point.  How am I going to make it home? I call my sister.  Tell her what I’m seeing.  She tries to comfort me saying, things will be a little stressful but it will be ok.  I quickly tell her that “you are NOT seeing what I’m seeing!”  We chat about the possibilities of me not making it back.  Two of the greatest things I love are both now tugging at my heart, snow and Spreading Joy.  I head back to work thinking ok, it will work out no matter if I get home or not.  I’m just going to enjoy my gift of snow! I finish out my half day of work, head back to my hotel and preparations start.  The phone calls to my mom, sister and friends asking for help.  The planning of who will do what, just in case I can’t make it back into town.  These ladies deserve a wonderful meal, a time of fun and laughter and these toys for their kids.  I’m determined to make it happen and with friends and family that have huge hearts, it goes off without a hitch!

The phone calls come in, “you won’t believe what Clark Nexsen collected for this event!” My friends Dave and Dale from Iron Mountain assure me it will be fine for them to bring the toys to me! Wow! Not only did they collect toys, but made things easier for me by bringing them to me, knowing that I was short on time! Amazing!

We get to the church, start setting up, sorting toys, picking up food, decorating and having fun.  Later that evening I hop aboard a bus with my brother in law and we had to pick up the ladies and children.  We are enjoying a trip back and I tease the ladies that we are having MY favorite meal – HOT DOGS! I giggle and tell them that Olive Garden has graciously given pasta, salad and bread sticks.  We are all excited.

Everyone gets settled, and is eating, laughing, relaxing and having fun.  There are enough workers so that the ladies that need help with their small children can eat their meals without worry for their tiny ones.  I love the view, the children laughing and slurping up spaghetti, the moms smiling and chatting with one another.  Peace, happiness and pure JOY surround me!  My heart is soaring beyond belief!

The children stay in the fellowship hall and I take the ladies with me next door so that they can “shop” for their children.  I thank them for coming and being such a wonderful part of my Christmas!  I have been thinking about them all week and take a few minutes to tell them the wonderful attributes I see in them.  I give them instructions as to where to find the toys, the gift wrapping stations and such.  I wander through the halls as the ladies “shop”, listening to the giggling, listening to the oooohhhhh and ahhhh’s, listening to the thrill in their hearts as they pick out toys for their children.  There are Easy Bake Ovens, dolls, Barbie dolls, stuff animals, play dough sets, Tonka Trucks, footballs, basket balls, games and so much more!  There are literally 4 rooms full of toys for these wonderful ladies to choose from!

The ladies finish wrapping and start heading to get their children and load back on the bus and van.  Several people volunteer to follow behind to “haul” presents as there’s no way all the people and the gifts are going to fit.  I love each and every single HUG that I am receiving! The sparkly eyes, bright smiles and huge warm HUGS are priceless.  Everyone leaves and I look around and the Spreading JOY heroes have already started cleaning up! Wow!! Amazing!

The night is perfect.  Chaos, silliness, fun, Christmas music, laughter, toys, food, drinks, hugs and the mile wide smiles make it memorable!

But, the giving is not over with yet! Sunday, more toys are given out.  To a local church and some for a teacher who has some homeless children in her class.  Thursday NIGHT – MORE toys will be given away!! A week of Christmas JOY, my heart can hardly stand it! It is flooded with happiness and JOY!

We were able to distribute 545 toys and books this year.  This is no small feat as we normally have 8 or 10 companies collecting toys and this year, we didn’t have that many.

Thank you seems so small in the light of what YOU did to make Christmas JOY 2010 possible.

Thank you to the director of Amy’s House, Vicky, for the wonderful work you do to help these ladies! It is my honor to make a difference for them, to encourage them and to remind them just how very special they are!

Thank you to Olive Garden for providing the meal for us! There was plenty of delicious food for everyone to enjoy! Thank you to Jim Taylor and Marvin McAllister for picking up food for us.  Thank you Dave Finley for meeting me with toys and saving me so much time.  Thank you Momma, Angie and Meg for picking up toys on Thursday for me while I enjoyed my gift of snow and stayed safely at the hotel.  Thank you Dale and Jeanne Strickland for being available at a phone calls notice to pick up toys for me and for helping out the night of the event.

Thank you to Pastor Jerry Taylor and Mrs. Taylor of New Grace Baptist Church for the use of your wonderful facilities and being available “just in case” I was snowed in!  Thank you to the wonderful members of New Grace for volunteering to help serve, sort, clean, wrap, entertain and for the great JOY you brought my way!  I could not have made it without your help!

Thank you to Patterson Pope for giving us employees paid Community Service time to make a difference in our world!

Thank you to my family for supporting Spreading JOY the way you do, helping and allowing me to make a difference right where I am.  Thank you Tripp and Bob for driving the vehicles to bring the ladies to the church.

Thank you Quiznos, Iron Mountain, Clark Nexsen, Arthur Squad, Stone Pump and Trench and Linden ARP church for collecting toys.

Thank you my precious twitterverse for your online donations, the interviews to spread the word and for using your voice to reach people that I couldn’t reach without your help! You were instrumental in making Christmas JOY 2010 a huge success!

YOU are all HEROES and I hope as you watch the video, read and recount this week of Spreading JOY that your heart is flooded with warmth, love and pure delight for the part that YOU played for Christmas

Thank you!!

{{HUGS}} yall

Sharing this IS spreading joy

Filed Under: encouraging, fun, giving, passion, Spreading Joy, thanks, twitter Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Rhymes of a Random Soul

November 20, 2010 By 3 Comments

Dreams DO Come True

Serving HUGS on a Platter and Tears in a Tea Cup – That grabbed my attention as I am unashamedly a hugger by nature.  I’m also a JOYous person but I’m one that cries….and probably do so more than you’d imagine.

I can’t remember exactly how we came to meet online, but I knew when I saw her tag line that Lauri would be someone I would enjoy getting to know.  I checked out her blog and found that this creative gal takes various prompts and can turn them into poetry.

I read through the great writing on her website and saw a poem that spoke to my heart.  Even Happy Cries Sometimes.  Talking about how we all lose our “happy” from time to time.  Sometimes there is not a reason, sometimes you’ll never know why.  Amazing Poem. I hope you’ll check it out

Lauri has compiled her poetry into a book, thus fulfilling a dream.  Alaurilee - Rhymes of a Random Soul – I’ve always loved Lauri’s poems.  Having the personal pleasure of a REAL hug from this awesome poet, I knew her book was sure to inspire.  When I received my copy I immediately “thummed” through it for my favorite poem - “Even Happy Cries Sometimes” - There it was on page 160!

Awesome Gift From Lauri

If you love poetry, grab the book. You’ll love it, as there are 172 pages full of amazing poetry.  (Thanks Lauri for my copy.) I am honored that she even wrote a poem about the Gift of Spreading Joy. I hope you’ll check it out and comment on it.

Here is a little more about Lauri:

Lauri loves reaching out to others and is a huge supporter of those struggling with life threatening illnesses. She has personally been touched by her husband’s struggles with the pain of Chronic Crohn’s Disease. Having several friends and family members touched by cancer, she is inspired by those in the fight of their lives. To show her support, she has walked in the ‘Buddy’s Race for the Cure’ for the past 3 years and participated in the inaugural Cards4Cancer project in April, 2010; writing a special poem for cancer fighters and organized the making of 200 cards for a local Cancer Center.
As a wife, mother, and Mamaw to her adorable grandchildren, she is a lover of smiles, hugs and ladybugs. She cherishes her family, her friends and every blessed moment life grants her.  For a detailed look at her, the book and the how’s and why’s of her writing, enjoy this link to an interview from  her.  Follow on twitter as well @grnladybug

Love the LadyBug!!

A Sampling of Lauri’s Poetry:

The Future

Hope for the future,
don’t dwell in the past.
Live in the present
and make today last.

Pray for tomorrow;
let life live on.
Hope for the future
because yesterday’s gone.


Gentle Rain

Gentle rain
splattering down,
calm me with
your lullaby song.

Cleanse my wounds
and ease my pain;
heal my world
oh gentle rain.

Softly fall
on such a melancholy day,
on, gentle rain,
wash all my troubles away.

Lauri and I will be hosting a “virtual meet the Author” online at www.tinychat.com/spreadingJOY.  It will be Saturday December  4th at 2pm EST.  Lauri will be available to chat with and sign any books that get ordered. I love getting books signed by the authors!  I hope that you’ll plan on joining us!

She even does customized poetry – here is more information about that.

Order the book, tell her SpreadingJOY sent you and her HUGE heart will donate 10% back to our non profit to help others! YOUR act of joy, going farther – how cool is that?

I will be giving away a copy of this awesome book.  To be entered to win, leave a comment below.  You’ll be glad you did if you are the lucky winner of this book!!

{{HUGS}} yall

Sharing this IS spreading joy

Filed Under: Book Reviews, fun, Spreading Joy Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Another 50 Ways of Making a Difference

October 10, 2010 By 35 Comments

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

26.   Return a favor – without being asked.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

34. VOTE – Don’t let this opportunity pass you by.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What are your thoughts?

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

((HUGS)) Yall

Sharing this IS spreading joy

Filed Under: challenge, choices, frugal, fun, giving, Spreading Joy Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Little Things

October 3, 2010 By 9 Comments

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! (I’m ordering the 3,650 Things To Be Happy About Calendar again this year. Click the link and you can to ;) )

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

 

 

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Always A Mom

September 4, 2010 By Leave a Comment

Me and Mom Mother's Day 2010

When I was growing up and dreamed of getting married, having children and being a Mommie, I never really knew what all that entailed. I knew that Mom’s did so much for so many and always loved and respected my Mom for all that she has done for me over the years.

Even though I am a wife – I may not always be one. I will, however, always and forever be a Mom!

Moms wear so many hats and I’m often amazed at what all we can accomplish when we set our minds to it!

We are wife, mom, gourmet chef, short order cook, doctor, referee, entertainer, taxi driver, organizer, event coordinator, slayer of horrible monsters that lurk in closets. We provide miracle kisses that heal all scrapes, scratches and other injuries that do not require stitches or casts. We are alarm clocks to get the day started and the light switch when it’s “lights out” for the day. We are the believer of dreams, encouragers to the end and the gentle shove out of the nest when fear arises. We are a constant reminder that can’t never could and that won’t never will but if you think you can, then you probably will. We are a light in the dark and the sunshine on a rainy day. We sacrifice great things of the present for even greater things in the future. We cry tears of joy as well as endure the tears of sorrow. We handle untimely disasters single handedly while always knowing where the other shoe is. We know that the book you need is on the 2nd shelf to the left – if you’d just look there, you’d see. We multitask better than the most powerful CEO and can whip up a school project hours before it is due. We will believe when no one else around will and keep pressing towards the prize when everyone else is at a complete halt.

Even though we hate it sometimes, we are also the bad guy in this story of life. Hindering our children from doing what they “want” to do when they think it is ok. We are the policeman that strives to keep order and peace as well as the Security guard that keeps watch in the night for dangers that are lurking. We are the backbone when they are weak, yet softly praying that when the kids are older they will have the courage to do what is right on their own. We are determined to preserve and protect and will face the greatest danger for our children – all because we are always a Mom. Even though the kids may think of us as strict, mean, aggravating, ridiculous, uncooperative, hateful and just plain behind in the times – we will always be MOM.

I used to tell my Mom that “I’ll never say that to MY kids!” When ever she said “Because I said so.” Did that hold true? NO, absolutely not. In all honesty I probably said everything she said and then some.

That is why I LOVE this video. It reminds me that I am not alone. Other Moms say the same things to THEIR children. We are always a Mom and these things that Moms say will continue to be said by Moms all over the world!

Thanks Mom for always believing, loving and for giving me something good to grow up to be…just like you!

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Wordless Wednesday

August 11, 2010 By Leave a Comment

Wordless Wednesday What do you See?

Photo Thx Tammy van Molken

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Session 6 – Bible in 90 Days

July 13, 2010 By Leave a Comment

I am loving the reading as well as listening to the Bible during this journey.  At this point I’m thinking that it may be the Bible in 97 days, but really – is that a bad thing?  It is a tough thing to do, but I’m finding it very rewarding to put in the time and effort.

I love the fact that new things are jumping out at me, that reminders are tugging at my heart and make me smile when I think to myself “oh….yeah, I knew that.” 

If you ARE keeping up, then you’ll realize that I’m behind with the sessions as well. Not even going to make excuses here, just going to give you the information you need and SMILE real big and move on.

Reading Schedule:

  • Day 36 Nehemiah 13:15 – Job 7:21
  • Day 37 Job 8:1 – Job 24:25
  • Day 38 Job 25:1 – Job 41:34
  • Day 39 Job 42:1 – Psalm 24:10
  • Day 40 Psalm 25:1 – Psalm 45:14
  • Day 41 Psalm 45:15 – Psalm 69:21
  • Day 42 Psalm 69:22 – Psalm 89:13

Questions:

1.  Based on your reading so far, what are three or 4 ways God intends for us to benefit from the Scriptures?

God Reveals Himself to us  ~ God instructs us regarding how to live ~ God demonstrates His love for us ~ God gave the Bible so we could have ready references to answer many of our questions.

2.  What questions did your reading generate this week?

3.  Imagine what the temple might have looked like. What would have been the most striking to you.

4.  In his life and writings, Ezra adamantly encouraged people to follow the Law. Who could you encourage this week to read the Bible?

5.  List and describe some of Nehemiah’s leadership qualities. Would they be relevant for today’s leaders?  Did you learn anything that would help you as you lead others?

6. What is your favorite Psalm? Why? Do you have more than 1 that you turn to time and time again?

Books you’ll encounter this week:

Esther – Describing events several decades prior to those described in Nehemiah, the events in Esther may have enabled those in Nehemiah.  (This is my favorite book. Classic rags to riches – Cinderella story, as well as amazing woman risking her own life to save her country.)

Job- Scholars believe that Job was a contemporary of the patriarchs. In this philosophical idscourse, God allows Satan to test Job, then clears up some misconceptions of Job and his friends.

Psalms – One of the best-loved books of the Bible, Psalms is a collection of 150 hymns and poems, authored over a period of hundreds of years.

Click here to Listen to the Bible as you read it.

This Weeks Study Guide. There is good stuff here, don’t pass this by!

Here is the audio lesson . (You’ll need to log in!)

Please listen the lessons. I have the dvd’s but can’t post them here…copyright rules. We can discuss what you heard here as well. Listen while you cook, clean or are just taking time to enjoy this journey. I hope you’ll take advantage of this free resource. Listen towards the end of the 7 day time frame, as THIS would be what we would be watching/discussing if we were to be meeting weekly.

If you are seeing this for the first time, we started on June 1st, but you can start right now, just go to Session 1 and begin. Here is the main information page as well.

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