Spreading Joy

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 2^nd 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!

Photo Thx Tammy van Molken

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.

Lao Tzu said “A journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step.”  I have found that sometimes we take that first step naturally, other times it is quite by accident. Then there are the times that we are forced into taking that step with no control over what is happening, no look into what will be happening or no clue as to why it is happening.

That first step can often be scary, confusing and downright difficult.  When we are facing a new direction, a new journey of yet another thousand miles, sometimes it is so easy to over look the positive because we are afraid or focused on the unknown.  Instead of checking out the scenery along the way of our journey, we are focused on the “what ifs”.  We need to eliminate the “what if” game from our life and enjoy our journey, enjoy the beauty that is surrounding us and know that even with challenges that lay ahead, joy is swirling all around us, waiting to be noticed and appreciated. 

As my life takes a new direction, I’m not fearful, I’m not worried – I’m excited!  The last 4 years of my journey has been such a hodge podge of emotions, challenges and events.  When I embarked on that journey in April of 2006, I was fearful. It was the most difficult challenge I had ever faced and I literally stood, looking at my virtual mountain and thought “ok, swallow me up, get it over with….I’ll never be able to do this, NOT in a million years.”  The only thing that was consistent was change and I had never been presented with so much to learn all at once.  I was afraid of an epic fail. 

Not only was there NOT an Epic Fail – but it was the best four years ever. Challenges presented themselves. People came into my life, securing a permanent place in my heart, new things were learned, old ideas were tossed out the door.  New friendships were made, faith was increased. 

My new direction is in employment.  At my last assignment, there was lots of smiling, singing, problems and mercy – the food and gatherings were always such fun!  There were projects that seem to never end and then the easy ones that made you feel as though you accomplished something right away.  There was the infamous 3 day work week *ahem* and the immediate “NO” (with a big smile) as certain people came through the door looking for stuff.  There were those that brightened the day with their laughter, smiles and hugs, as well as the 2 that made my path smell wonderful as I journeyed down the halls.  There was the direct leadership, that was always appreciative, realistic and supportive and made the day enjoyable, regardless of the challenges and ocean of paperwork that continued to grow.

Has your direction changed recently? Are you standing at the bottom of the biggest mountain you’ve ever faced and are thinking, go ahead…swallow me up? Are you moving towards the unknown? 

What are you doing to appreciate the journey? Are you noticing the little things that make life Big while you fight your way down this road? I hope so, because the JOY is there, swirling all about you – begging for you to notice and appreciate it.

Go ahead! Take that first step….your next thousand miles awaits you!

{{{HUGS}}} Yall

As we near completing our first month of Bible reading, I’m excited that this goal is actually possible.  I’m still a little behind, but working diligently to catch up.   I hope that you are still on track and are enjoying your journey.  If you are behind, still work on it.  Think about it…how bad its it to have read through your bible in 100 days? hmmm? 

You can do this.  I have faith in you.

Bible Reading Schedule for this week:

• Day 22 1 Samuel 28:20 – 2 Samuel 12:10
• Day 23 2 Samuel 12:11 – 2 Samuel 22:18
• Day 24 2 Samuel 22:19 – 1 Kings 7:37
• Day 25 1 Kings 7:38 – 1 Kings 16:20
• Day 26 1 Kings 16:21 – 2 Kings 4:37
• Day 27 2 Kings 4:38 – 2 Kings 15:26
• Day 28 2 Kings  15:27 – 2 Kings 25:30

In the early 1990’s H. Jackson Brown wrote Life’s Little Instruction Book. His son was going to college and he watned to share some gems of wisdom that he had gleaned over the years. He collected 511 gems of wisdom that were to guide his son’s life.  For instance – learn to make great chili, never buy a house without a fireplace, overtip breakfast waitresses, be brave – even if you’re not, pretend to be – no one can tell the difference etc etc.

His son responded enthusiastically and the document made its way to a publisher and became a best seller. It’s hard to know whether anyone was transformed by this  – but the Bible…that’s a different story.  Billions of people have been changed by its message of hope and salvation.

Books you’ll Encounter This Week:

1 Kings – The book opens with the region of Solomon, a time when Israel enjoys a great deal of influence, wealth and worldwide recognition.  Yet, even as the world’s wisest man, Solomon is corrupted by worldly matters and the faiths of his wives and concubines. At his death the kingdom becomes divided.

2 Kings – Continues the account of the kings and the divided kingdom through the fall of Jerusalem

Reading Tips:

Many new people and names are introduced that can be hard to distinguish from one another.  Some events are described more than one and the kings of Israel and Judah are handled in rapid-fire succession.  To minimize confusion, slow down, read attentively.  Notice the patterns of behavior by the various kings.

Discussion:

1. Why do you think there is such a disconnect between modern Christians and the Bible?

2.  How is your perception of the Bible changing as you read each day?

3.  What questions evolved from your readings this week?

4.  Our reading shows us many instances when Israel only partially follows God’s commands. What are some examples and the results?

5.  Based on our reading to date, talk about what God tends to do whan a society turns to him for help.

6. List the tragedies and unfortunate events that befall Naomi and Ruth in the Book of Ruth. Does any good come from all of this?

7.  What are some examples of tragedy or hardship from which good has emerged?

8.  Do you have any “life instructions” you’d like to share?

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.

Starting Week 3 of our Journey through the Bible.  I have to confess, this is quite the challenge.  Of course everything has gotten busier to the Nth degree and reading 12 pages a day is difficult.  I have been reading everyday, but I must confess….I am behind.  I will be caught up by the end of this session. 

How are YOU doing? Are you ahead? Are you behind? What are your thoughts so far?

Reading Schedule for this week:

• Day 15 – Deuteronomy 23:12 – Deut 34:12
• Day 16 – Joshua 1:1 – Joshua 14:15
• Day 17 – Joshua 15:1 – Judges 3:27
• Day 18 – Judges 3:28 – Judges 15:12
• Day 19 – Judges 15:13 – I Samuel 2:29
• Day 20 – I Samuel – 2:30 – I Samuel 15:35
• Day 21 – I Samuel 16:1 – I Samuel 28:19

This Week’s Reading Tips:

Pay attention to the following people in your reading this week. How do these people interact with God? How faithful are they to God’s will?

• Joshua: Joshua, Rahab
• Judges: Deborah, Gideon, Samson
• Ruth: Ruth, Naomi, Boaz
• 1 Samuel: Samuel, Saul, David

Books You’ll Encourter This Week:

Joshua Overview: Moses’ former assistant becomes leader of the nation of Israel. The book celebrates the many victories that God brings to the Israelites under Joshua’s leadership. At the same time, the failure of the people to follow completely God’s plans plants the seeds for future failure.  KEY TEACHINGS: God kept his promise, giving the land he had  promised to Abraham many centuries earlier.   God is the one who brings victory; there is no foe that can withstand him.  God expects obedience.

Judges Overview: this book clearly delineates the impact of leaders who follow God from those who do not.  Some of the favorite Biblical personalities from children’s Sunday School are found here – Deborah, Gideon and Samson.  Key Teachings: God is patient, just and merciful.  God is able to accomplish his plan even through flawed individuals. God held the Israelites accountable to his expectations of them.

Ruth Overview: Ruth’s story of faithfulness is remarkable in its own right, made more so considering she was from Moab, a nation considerd an enemy of Israel. Ruth and Boaz are ancestors of Christ.  Key Teachings: God remained faithful to his people even when the times were characterized by unfaithfulness.  God provides for those who are faithful.

1 Samuel Overview: Samuel is not only a priest, prophet and judge, but a kingmaker. At God’s behest, Samuel anoints Saul the first king of Israel after the people call for a king.  God later directs Samuel to anoint Saul’s successor, David, which sets up a series of conflicts between Saul and David.  Key Teachings: God provided a king for his people.  God Reigns!  God’s power and sovereignty are demonstrated through his king.  God will punish even his chosen ones when they disobey.

Think about it:

“A young man asked God how long a million years was to him. God replied, it’s like a single second in your time. Then the young man asked God what a million dollars was to him. God replied, it’s like a single penny to you.  Then the young man asked God, Could I have one of your pennies? God smile and replied, sure…give me one second.”

God perceives time differently than we do. God gives us the same amount of time and the question isn’t if we have the time to read 12 pages a day, it is if we choose to.  How are we choosing to use our time?

Questions for discussion:

1.  Are you reading the Bible instead of other things in your life or in addition to?

2.  If you are still struggling with your reading, what activites can you eliminate? Where can you squeeze in more reading?

3.  What advice would you give to others who are just beginning this journey or are struggling to keep up.

Digging In:

4.  Refer to Leviticus and list the 5 main sacrifices

5. God lays out the elements and purposes of these offerings with some specificity. Is there too much detail here? What does this suggest about God’s involvement with his people’s lives?

6. What happens to Aaron’s sons in Leviticus 10: 1-2? What does this tell us about how God expectus us to interact with Him?

Applying it:

7.  In Numbers we find God’s people wandering in the wilderness for several decades after failing to believe God would lead them to victory.  Have you ever experienced a similar delay due to fear or similar lack of belief? How can we apply this to our lives today?

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.

Anyone that “knows” me knows that I completely adore Chuck Norris.  I always have, and always will. I can’t remember a time that I wasn’t completely infatuated with him.  I don’t know why, that is just the way it has been.  It could be his dashing smile, his sleeper hold, or his roundhouse kick – but what ever it is, he has always been the one person of influence I’ve longed to meet, but in my heart of hearts, felt that there was no humanly way possible.

Way back 25 years ago, when I was in the 11^th grade, a very wise teacher had us to list out some goals and dreams that we would love to achieve.  In this day and age, it’s called a Bucket List.  So, my 17 year old self that was shy, backwards and horribly awkward, thinks of a few things that will satisfy the teacher and turns them in.  All of the items are in random order, with the exception of the first thing! It is the most important.

1. Meet Chuck Norris
2. Fly in an airplane
3. Travel Overseas
4. Ride on a train
5. See Washington Redskins play
6. Go on a Cruise
7. Visit the Statue of Liberty

I must admit. Number 2 and 3 were a given.  Not much faith required there.  My Dad had sent my brothers overseas for a graduation present and I was graduating the next year, so that was easy.

Fly in an airplane – First time in 1986 and since then I have flown several times.  I love it.  Will fly anywhere you send me. 

Travel Overseas – My Graduation trip (1986) was to Germany, Austria and Switzerland! An amazing 12 days was spent seeing the castles, learning the history and taking in the breath taking scenery of the area. 

Ride on a train – I was able to ride on a train through the Swiss Alps.  We stopped for a snowball fight with complete strangers as well as students and adults that were traveling with us.  The train ride was an experience to remember.

Visit the Statue of Liberty – I have always adored Lady Liberty.  She is so beautiful, strong and a symbol of hope for many coming to the United States for the first time.  Completely unexpected, my Dad sent me, my sister Angie, my Step Mom and my Cousin Mike to New York for a 4 day weekend.  We stayed in New Jersey and took a train into New York everyday.  We were able to visit the Statue of Liberty as well as take the elevator up to her crown and look out over the city.  I completely enjoyed it, even though I’m horribly afraid of heights.  That trip also allowed us to visit the top of the World Trade Center – for which I’m eternally grateful for such a gift.  Again, the fear of heights kept me close to the wall and away from the railing – but I am able to say that I have that memory.  The memories of this trip is full of great laughter as people tripped over luggage or the curb of the side walk several times before we made it home safe and sound. 

See the Washington Redskins Play – This was during a time when Charlotte NC did NOT have an NFL team.  I had the privilege of having this dream come true on a basket ball court!  The Washington Redskins played the Miami Dolphins in a charity event at the UNCC college campus not far from my house.  My Dad found out about it and took me to see them.  Hey – the sheet didn’t say that it had to be a football game now did it? Mark another one off!! Side note – years later, when we did get a team, stadium and the works, I was able to see them play a few times. 

All of this has happened in a matter of a few years.  I’m down to 2 items, Meet Chuck Norris and go on a cruise.  Every new movie that came out, I’d watch, desire and wish more, but honestly….do I stand a chance of meeting him, naaah. 

Go on a Cruise – 1990, I’m several months pregnant and another dream is about to come true. My Dad sends me and my step mom on a 4 day cruise to the Bahamas.  I’m so excited as I get to fly again and mark one more thing off of my list.  The plane ride is wonderful.  I’m sick, but blame it on the baby as I had never been sick when flying before.  We enjoy the wonderful dinners, the shows, the tours, the island and the ocean – the vast, wonderful ocean.  Every night, we would park ourselves out on the top deck and sleep, listening to the sounds of the ocean gently rocking us back and forth, cradling us in this dream come true. 

Steve has always known of my fascination of Chuck Norris.  When I met Steve, I used to have a small 3×5 framed picture of Chuck Norris in my room.  Somewhere over time, that picture has disappeared, but the desire never did.  It only grew as more movies came out and then Walker Texas Ranger leapt onto the scene.  Chuck Norris was playing in a new episode every week, right in my living room.   I’d watch the episode, secretly despising Alex Cahill for always getting kidnapped or needing to be rescued.  I’d watch the movies with great joy and hope of meeting this TV star that was virtually unreachable. 

 In 2003, I revised my list as I had crossed off everything but one item.  I make the additions while sitting beside the ocean during Memorial Day weekend.  My kids were 12 and 8, and because my Dad’s heart was giving out and his death was in the near future, I was in a situation where I was thinking about life, it’s ending and I decided  That the list should be updated with more goals and dreams.  A few of the new items are:

• Visit and do something in all 50 States.
• Stay at the Hotel shaped like a sale in Dubai
• Start a Non Profit and make dreams come true.
• Read a book a month
• Read through the Bible multiple times
• Visit the Equator

This is just a few of the items that are on that list.  I’ll post the list elsewhere at some point.  The point is, the number 1 item was still just that…Number 1 and never going to be crossed off.  (Just being honest here.)

Social media is amazing.  I love twitter and the many, many connections and friends I have made.  I love learning about others and developed a list of things about me that I often share with others.  Number 6 on that list is I have wanted to meet Chuck Norris since I was 17.  (Really, can you help with this?) I share this list weekly  as well as talk about meeting him and on his birthday this year, the entire day I tweeted Chuck Norris Facts.  Many have seen the Chuck Norris request and have asked, emailed and tried to get me to him.  YOU know who you are and I Thank you!!

Every March 10^th – I send out my usual Happy Chuck Norris Day email.  It’s his birthday and it’s just what I do.  I may talk about what he has done, his code of ethics, his career, and his handsome good looks or just rattle off my favorite Chuck Norris facts.  I usually add pictures because one can never have to many pictures of Chuck Norris.

I sat beside the ocean January 1^st, 2010 and dreamed of what this year would hold.  Never in a million, bazillion years would I have guessed that I would be writing this article.  Never.  In fact, I talk about meeting Chuck Norris, laugh at my favorite jokes, but had just decided that it would never happen.  He turned 70 this year and in my heart of hearts, I felt that there was no way that I would ever get to meet him.   

May 12, 2010 I get an email that said Chuck Norris is going to be in Charlotte on Friday at the NRA Convention. Well, the convention center was 10 minutes from where I was sitting. I hop online and it’s sold out.  Wouldn’t you know it? So close but so far away.  Friday, I’m pouting on facebook.  I even make a statement like ” Ugggh!!! How can I be soooo close….and yet sooo far away?!?!?!? *pouting* what in the world?!? [shaking head]

Friday afternoon, my cousin Mike calls and tells me to check my email. A sales guy just left their office, leaving them with none other than tickets to the NRA at the convention center – which in HIS mind and MY mind equals ONE THING!!! OH my GOSH, I get to meet Chuck Norris!! I pick up the tickets, HUG my cousin and float through my night.

In line on Saturday morning, to purchase the book Black Belt Patriotism, it hits me…Today, I’m going to meet Chuck Norris! The tears start flowing.  I get the book and get in line.  Not far from the front of the line, Todd turns me around and points and sure enough – there HE is! WOOOOW!! I see him!!! I’m going to actually meet and talk to him! (more tears)  We wait patiently! He’s been signing books and chatting for a while, now.  I’m speaking with one of his workers and seeing that Todd and I are next in line when the worker tells me that Chuck Norris is going to take a break for a little bit.  I laugh!!! How funny is that! I’ve waited 25 years to meet him and he walks away!  I tell the worker that I’m tweeting that, and send outa tweet that said I was “next in line to meet Chuck Norris and he leaves….come back!!!”   He watches, making sure that I’m not sneaking a photo.  Altho, I’d love to have a photo with him, but that just was not the case today.

He comes back, I extend my hand and Chuck Norris shakes it.  I clasp his hand with my left hand and I’m giggling like a child on Christmas morning holding the best present ever! I look him in the eyes and get the chance to tell him that I’ve wanted to meet him since I was 17 and have waited for these 25 years.  He doesn’t rush us.  He listens and even comments that me wanting to meet him for so long is sweet.  He looks up and smiles, says Thank you, calls me by my name and shakes my hand again.  *grinning* “I TOUCHED Chuck Norris!!” I think to myself!   I do the 2 handed hand shake again…I have his hand in BOTH my hands!!  Wow..my heart is pounding.  It’s racing. I just met Chuck Norris!  I tell Todd to shake his hand, and he does.  Todd then takes a picture of “the hand” that shook Chuck Norris’s hand and facebooks it.  It’s nice to see my son excited!  I call Angie first.  I’m crying and can hardly speak. I met him!!!  She laughs with me! She knows how I’ve desired this for all these years.

I gaze at my autographed book.  With the hundreds of people that were there today, he will not likely remember me, unless he remembers the silly “older lady” that bounced over to his table immediately following the first break, giggling like crazy.  (and clapping) But me…well, I will never, ever forget that today is the day that a 25 year old dream came true.  Never! I can’t even begin to express how I’m feeling.  How my heart is full of unspeakable joy.  It is just amazing that this dream has now come true.

 My best friend and her husband called to “check on me” later on in the evening.  The only way I could describe myself was that I was “paralyzed with JOY”  – I was (am) so happy that I didn’t know what to think or do.  I tried to write this article earlier and the words wouldn’t come.  My heart was soaring well beyond cloud 37 ½! 

What dreams do you have?  Do you feel like they are simply out of reach?  Have you waited 10, 20 or 30 years and still have not had your dream come true.  Don’t give up.  Don’t!  While this may seem very insignificant in the realm of things, it has always been important to me.  I’ve joked about it, laughed about it…and have desired it greatly.  Don’t give up. Keep Dreaming and then move in the direction of your dreams!

I called my Mommie today.  I told her, Mom…guess what?!?  Finally, mom, finally.   I met Chuck Norris…can you believe it?  With that, the tears started again.  I could hardly talk.  I Love you Mom! I’m so glad I could share my joy with you!

[whispering….] Hey Dad….guess what Daddy?  (Tears falling) Did you see today?  I got to meet Chuck Norris! [nodding] and it was completely awesome!  I touched him and everything.  I wish you were here….I do.  I miss you so.

 {{{HUGS}} Yall.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Brett Corbett - follow him on twitter @ChristianRep - Christ Follower . Servant . Prayer Warrior . Patriot . Dad . Friend . Mentor Romans 8:28 Proverbs 3:5-6 Psalm 139 – (Loves the occassional HUG fest but don’t tell him I told you that! It’s OUR secret!! shhhhh!) Read more about Brett.

Fragmentz – follow her on twitter @fragmentz – She caught my eye with her dashing avatar and the fact that she can say alot about nothing at all.  I love that.  Excellent writer. Her Cardboard Testimony – Worthless, abused, ashamed, depressed, broken and wanting to die – BUT LEARNING TO LIVE AGAIN! Read more here.

Bridget Haymond - follow her on twitter @BridgetHaymond - Wife & Mother; Biblical Values Life Coach Leading with Gifts, Strengths & Purposeful Living; Motivator & Collaborator; Blogger; Music Lover & Humor Enthusiast! She gives AWESOME hugs! Read more about Bridget.

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

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

I can’t WAIT to get to know you more!

{{{{HUGS}}}} Yall!

When I treat myself, I love an extra hot Venti Cinnamon Dolce Latte (sugar free) from Starbucks or a Diet Coke and Reese Cup.  These simple little things bring me great joy and are truly a treat. 

Last year, I was looking for a journal (a treat for myself) and stumbled upon this cool desk calendar. 3,650 Things to be Happy About, by Barbara Ann Kipfer.  Being a lover of the million little things that bring joy to my day, I was intrigued. 

One was opened, so I began to flip through it.  10 items a day, everyday. How very cool! Giggling with excitement, I decide to treat myself to this wonderful little treasure.  2 months have passed and I must say, it has been one of the greatest gifts I’ve ever given myself.  I love tearing off the page, anxiously awaiting the next 10 things. 

I have not always agreed with some of them, but that is to be expected as everyone does not like the same things.  And then, there are the things that I have to “good search” to see what they are.  (Sorry Google, Good Searching makes sense, as they help out my little non profit.) I have learned something new from this calendar nearly every other day! For instance, did not know what a Yurt was.  Go on…Good Search it, if you need to. I did.

I decided to try and list 10 things a day for a week to see what I would come up with.  Some have to do with things that happened on that day – others, are just random things that popped into my head.  Here they are in no particular order:

Monday: Full moon hanging on a cloud, Gel Pens, soft Kleenex, board games, belly laughs, waking to a kiss, cool sunglasses, soft carpet, Atomic Fireballs, White out.

Tuesday: American Flag, rolling fog, cute note pads, making cotton candy, cloud shapes, Hot chocolate with marshmallows, Handwritten notes, roller coasters, forgiveness, Reese Cups with a Diet Coke

Wednesday: Cute Socks, Chuck Norris Facts, Free Books, Puppies, Statue of Liberty, heart dangle earrings, unconditional love, hot soup, cute purses, lightening bugs

Thursday: Watching my children sleep, Anticipating Christmas morning, huge sliding boards, Ringling Brothers Circus, itouch, Animal cookies, listening to rain, Long lingering HUGS, Hope, Blue Roses

Friday: Little Debbie Cakes, homemade lemonade, reading poetry, Old books from the thrift store, Service Men & Women, Breakfast for dinner, Choices, PB&J with Glass of Milk, Disney Classics, hot peanut butter cookies out of the oven

Saturday: Toddlers that ask millions of questions, Being safe in God’s arms, Singing loudly in the car, Sitting sideways in overstuffed chairs, quotes, Falling asleep listening to the ocean lap against the shore, Watching my kids make the right decision, reading poetry, Policemen & Firefighters, Riding with all the windows down in the car

Sunday: Coconut Cake, Having the Bible ready available in hand or online, Universal Studios, Unsweetened Iced Tea, Monkeys on anything and everything, See sawing with a friend, Blowing Bubbles, Cute adorable socks, m&m’s, handmade bracelets

The art of being happy lies in the power of extracting happiness from common things.–Henry Ward Beecher

These are just a few things that make me happy.  What about you?  Can you list 10 things a day that make you happy, so that at the end of the year you’ll have your very own 3,650 things to be happy about?  What about listing 10 things a day that are simply happy things?  For example, spaghetti dinners do not make me happy, as I do not like any form of pasta.  But – being at the spaghetti dinner with smiling friends and getting warm hugs – now…that is happy stuff.  See what I mean?

If you blog, I challenge you to list 10 happy things a day, blog it and then link back here.  I’d love to read it as well as share it with others!

If you don’t blog, consider listing your 10 happy things a day for the week in the comments below.  It will be wonderful to see the things that make YOU happy!

Again, I ask – What makes you happy?

{{{HUGS}}}

I have the Greatest nieces and nephews in all the land.  The youngest nephew, Jonathan, recently did a little thing for me.  He told his teacher about Spreading Joy Corporation and how we help people.  In his mind, he was just telling her about how his Aunt Marie was making a difference.  What he didn’t realize was that he was actually doing something huge and giving me an opportunity that I may never have gotten myself.

After meeting with his teacher, the preparations start. I want to introduce Spreading Joy Corporation to them. I want them to know what we do, what we’ve done and what we want to do! What our hopes, dreams and desires are.  I want them to know that we’ve had goals and fallen short of them, but we weren’t feeling guilty about it because we simply did what we could with what we had.  More than all of that, I want them to walk away empowered, feeling like they can make a difference. I want them to see and KNOW that there’s no joy like Spreading Joy.

I only have 30 minutes to speak to them and know that I have so much more than that to say, but am prepared to make it work. After introducing Spreading Joy to them, I quickly run through our accomplishments (article on that soon to be published) explaining to them that while we didn’t reach the individual goals we set, we were not feeling guilty.  We simply did what we could, with what we had and used that to make a difference.  I fill them in on New Year of Hope (NYOH).  Explaining where we were and that we needed $802 to deliver HOPE to Dwayne and his 10 year old daughter Diana. Oh, I can’t wait to deliver this. 

We spend much of our time talking about noticing and appreciating the little things that truly make life big. I’m a lover of the million little things in life that make my heart smile.  While I’m sharing this, I hand out Little Debbie Oatmeal Creme Pies.  The first guy to receive this Chris, wasn’t sure about what I was doing and offered it back as I was walking away.  I smile and told him to keep it, it’s what I love doing. My favorite thing to give out is Reese Cups, because they are my absolute favorite! But, Little Debbie makes is affordable to give sweet smiles.  While I’m “spreading joy” and passing out some of my favorite things, I want to remind everyone that holding the door for others, smiling at everyone, letting someone ahead in line and a whole slew of other “little” things make a huge difference. 

Middle school children do not have a lot of resources financially, but they do have huge hearts, creative minds and the power within themselves to make a huge difference.  We talk about a few of the 50 Ways to make a difference with spending a penny.  The list was printed out for them. I’m hoping that they will be inspired to start spreading joy from that.  I also tell them I want 50 more ways to make a difference for free and ask if they would consider sending in some ideas.

After giving Jason Lott a few of the “little things that make his life big”, I call 4 people (Tols Detmer, Thomas Butner, Madeline Tilley & Sabrina Twery) from the group of kids. Give them a “joy pack”.  This is not a gift for them to keep, I ask them to choose someone to give this to, someone that could use a little joy that day.  They are spreading joy heros.  They give freely, happily and everyone is hoping to be chosen. Are the bags huge gifts? NO. Remember, it’s the little things. 

The 4 heros come back to me after spreading joy.  I thank them for not grumbling, not whining and doing such a great job.  They are all smiling, standing there empty handed.  I’m hoping that their hearts are soaring because they just did something amazing!  Before I let them sit down, I give them a little something, more than what they just gave away – but still, little things, because I want them to know, first hand, little things are amazing!  I want them to realize that they (the huge hearted kids)  have the ability within themselves to make a huge difference.

So, what really happened because one little 11 year old boy cared? Well, let me tell you!

Spreading Joy was able to:

• Enjoy the snow while talking to one amazing teacher over delicious coffee
• Give away 300 joy packs of candy with our information attached to it.
• Joyfully hand out and throw into the crowd 10 Little Debbie Oatmeal Cream Pies
• Give away 6 yummilicious, simply the best treat on the face of the earth Reese Cup – Reese Eggs
• Give away 9 packs of lip gloss (with 8 different kinds in each) I think
• Give away 4 packs of fingernail polish (with 7 or 8 different kinds each)
• Give away 3 $10.00 McDonald’s gift cards
• Give away 3 boxes of a beautiful necklace set
• Give away 9 books (I love giving away books)
• Speak to around 200 middle school kids with HUGE amazing Hearts! (and several Amazing teachers too!)

And….imagine with me, for just a moment, if you will.  If those 200 individuals tell one other person, JUST 1 – that will be 400 people hearing about Spreading Joy Corporation for the first time. And – if that second set of people tell 1 other person, then we are up to around 600 people hearing for the first time. 

So, Jonathan, you amazing Spreading Joy hero – do you see how the “little” thing of telling 1 person, has made a HUGE difference? I hope so.  I hope others will too.

What did I get out of all of this?  Oh, yes, new people heard about Spreading Joy. Yes, I enjoyed presenting my passion to the school – they were attentive and fun to talk to! But more than that, the hugs, the laughter, the smiles, the bright sparkly eyes – from realizing that “hey!!! I can make a difference, right here – right NOW!” filled my heart with so much JOY, I floated through the rest of the day! I was literally flooded with great joy from the response of the children afterwards! Warm, receptive and their minds were already thinking of ways they could make a difference!  My heart was completely overflowing as I was extremely blessed by simply being able to hear their comments as they were heading back to class.

So, when you think that giving a little blue bunny is something small – ohhhh…THINK again!! HUGE!! Huge Spreading Joy Hero there!! I love this guy and someone with a HUGE heart was kind enough to make my day and give him to me!

When Reese Cups are on sale, buy one, get one free….Get them, give one and discover how AMAZING you feel when you are instantly transformed into a Spreading Joy Hero! Chris, the first receipient of the Little Debbie Cake, surprised me with an amazing treat at the end of the presentation! Thank you for the wonderful Reese Cup! It was fantabulous!

There is nothing like being flooded with great joy when you see, first hand, the little things that make life big!

Thank you Lincoln Charter School for having me at your wonderful School!  Thank you Ms. Paula Micol for inviting me to present my passion for making a difference. Thank you Jonathan, for being one child who cared and acted on it – and made a Huge Difference!

The question goes out to all who read this:

Have you ever considered for one moment, what telling just one person could do to help spread the word about Spreading Joy?  Do you see the amazing difference that just one person doing so has created? 

Who will you tell today?  Will you be a Spreading Joy Hero and spread the word about Spreading Joy? 

Thank you!

Thank you for making a huge difference, right where you are, with what you have, leaving the guilt behind – because you are truly making a difference!