Three days until Christmas. Three days. How is it that the holiday’s almost here? Maybe you’re like me—so immersed in the busyness of the season that time’s slipped by quickly, leaving a trail of (happy) exhaustion in its wake. Over our way, we’ve shopped, baked, and visited. We’ve watched movies. We’ve viewed pretty lights and attended holiday musicals. We’ve soaked …
Why Joy Matters
Several years ago I blogged about something that struck a chord with people. The subject? Joy. That’s right. Joy. That simple little word we so often take for granted or we neglect to share because of other priorities. To date, 10 Characteristics of a Joy-Bearer is my most popular blog post since I started blogging five years ago. I couldn’t …
Five Cheery Thoughts to Kick Off Your Holiday
Hello, my friend! I hope you’ve had a great week! Temperatures shifted where we’re at in the Ozarks. A few days ago we had highs in the upper fifties. Today, we can subtract about eighteen or so degrees from that. Brrr… It’s beginning to feel a lot like Christmas! Of course—they tell us by the big day, temps should creep …
Three Heartfelt, Homespun Thoughts to Light Up Your Day
In the midst of our back-to-school hustle and bustle, the rat race of school prep, clothes shopping, and various appointments, it’s easy to get lost in the “noise.” As I shopped my socks off yesterday with our teenage daughter, some thoughts crossed my mind. That mannequin needs a head. Why does every store look the same? Where are the bargains—not …
Want More Joy? Say Goodbye to Your Gremlins!
When the film Gremlins was released at the box office in 1984, this horror/comedy introduced cute, furry creatures that morphed into sinister monsters. The movie garnered a PG-13 rating—something that was still new at the time—because of some violent content and language. Gremlins appealed to a lot of folks, but I didn’t like it. No surprise there—even then, I was …
Feel Good Friday
Have you had a hectic week? Me, too! I think Feel Good Friday is in order! Sit back, relax, and prepare to unwind for minute. If you’re looking for a quick pick-me-up, you’ve come to the right place. (And don’t forget to check out last Friday’s post if you missed Downtime Dillydallying: 15 Tips to a Stress-Free Weekend.) This week …
Top 10 Traits Joy-Bearers Have in Common
Happy Friday! As another busy week draws to a close, I wanted to revisit a favorite topic–JOY! It’s a subject that’s near and dear to my heart because joy is something I think we’re sorely lacking in day-to-day life.* No, we’re not always going to feel at the top of our game. There will be days of indecision and times …
Merry Christmas…and a Blog Break!
Beginning today through January 3rd, 2014 I’m on a blogging break. I’ll miss you! The winner of my December giveaway is: Andrew B. Congratulations, Andrew! Please contact me ASAP with a mailing address so I can get your fabulous goodies in the mail to you. To My Readers… 2013 has been a busy year. I started new writing projects and …
Top 20 Ways Writers Spread Joy
I’m a people-lover. And because I care about people (YOU) I love to spread joy! I’ve had some disappointments. I’ve walked the valley. (I’ve shared some of those trials here and here.) I think when we experience life’s heartaches, we view others’ hardships through a fresh lens. We’re more inclined to nitpick less, listen better, and love more. Sometimes, it’s …