Random Act of Kindness: Day Thirty-four

Random Act of Kindness: Day Thirty-four 
Our Mission: Coloring Outside the Lines 
Our Location: Vidant Medical Center Children's Hospital 
Our Target: All the children that love to color 


We filled a large basket with 10 Easter Activity and Coloring Books and boxes of crayons. The boys made two handmade kindness/get well cards for the children who were sick and in recovery at the children's hospital. We went to the hospital and the boys delivered it to the attendant in the lobby of the Children's hospital. She asked did we want her to pass it out to the children as they came in, and we said to pass it out to as many children that wanted to color as she could :) Coloring always makes us happy and feel better and we hope that the Children's Ward of the Hospital will be even more colorful after we left.....You have to color outside of the lines once in awhile if you want your life to be a masterpiece ♥ Go grab a box of crayolas and get your coloring on!

Gratefuls and Did Wells

"Before you go to bed, write down three ‘gratefuls’ for the day and three ‘did wells’ (they can even include something as simple as doing the laundry) - the results can be amazing!"-Carol Burnett

Random Act of Kindness: Day Thirty-three

Random Day of Kindness: Day Thirty-three 
Our Mission: Doughnut Delight 
Our Location: Our Local Krispy Kreme 
Our Target: Two patrons going through drive thru 


The boys made two Kindness cards decorated with chocolate and sprinkled covered doughnuts before we went to the ECU play "The Secret Garden". After the play we went to Krispy Kreme and ordered a dozen Hot Fresh Now glazed doughnuts and asked the clerk to place them in two 1/2 dozen boxes. We gave her the two cards and asked that the next two drive thru patrons were to receive the cards along with one of the boxes of doughnuts. The store was packed and it was very busy tonight. We watched the clerk take the free doughnuts to the drive thru cashier and explain what to do. The cashier looked puzzled asked her to say it again and we could see her say "these are free?" By the time we walked out we saw the first recipient get her free doughnuts and card. Once we got inside our car the next vehicle was getting the second batch of hot fresh now doughnuts! Mission Bon Appetit!

Life's Little Instructions by William Snell

Life's Little Instructions by William Snell
95 years old - Circa 1993


Sing in the shower.
Treat everyone you meet like you want to be treated.
Watch a sunrise at least once a year.
Never refuse homemade brownies.
Strive for excellence, not perfection.
Plant a tree on your birthday.
Learn three clean jokes.
Returned borrowed vehicles with the gas tank full.
Never waste an opportunity to tell someone you love them.
Leave everything a little better than you found it.
Keep it simple.
Think big thoughts, but relish small pleasures.
Become the most positive and enthusiastic person you know.
Be forgiving on yourself and others.
Say "thank you" a lot.
Say "please" a lot.
Avoid negative people.
Wear polished shoes.
Remember other people's birthdays.
Commit yourself to constant improvement.
Have a firm handshake.
Send lots of valentines cards, sign them.
Look people in the eye.
Be the first to say "hello".
Return all things you borrow.
Make new friends but cherish the old ones.
Keep secrets.
Plant flowers every spring.
Have a dog.
Always accept an outstretched hand.
Stop blaming others.
Take responsibility for every area of your life.
Wave at kids in school buses.
Be there when people need you.
Don't expect life to be fair.
Never underestimate the power of love.
Drink champagne for no reason at all.
Live your life as an exclamation, not an explanation.
Don't be afraid to say, "I made a mistake".
Don't be afraid to say, "I don't know".
Compliment even small improvements.
Keep your promises no matter what.
Marry only for love.
Rekindle old friendships.
Count your blessings.
Call your mother.
And your father too, if they happen to be alive.

Random Act of Kindness: Day Thirty-two

Random Act of Kindness: Day Thirty-two 
Our Mission: Go Fly A Kite 
Our Location: A local Park in our Town
Our Target: Two boys playing. 


The boys made two home made Kindness cards with Kite stamps and we bought two kites and set out on our mission. We drove to another park and the boys glanced over the park to find two boys that they would make their special delivery. Immediately they found two boys racing each other, one in a green shirt, one in a blue shirt. Cooper and Elliott quickly ran out and raced over to them but as they got closer the boys took off for another race! It was quite humorous to see the boys run even further and faster to catch up to them. I watched them as they gave the kites to the two boys and then the delightful smiles on all their faces. As Cooper and Elliott ran back they were smiling the entire way. Elliott got into the car and said "that boy was really nice, he said thank you so much, this kite is really nice" Cooper said the boy he gave his too said thank you too and that the parents were all asking them what was the gift for. We could see the parents smiling reading the cards and looking to see where Cooper and Elliott ran off too! Lauren Bacall once said "Imagination is the highest kite one can fly"....May their dreams and imagination fly as high as their kites today and always.

Kindness Cooties are Spreading!!

woke up to such a beautiful message posted that I had to share it as my status Oonagh (a good friend in our neighborhood) "Bobbi, I was at the Dollar Tree yesterday and the cashier was telling everyone about a random act of kindness by a lovely lady. She said she is getting her son to make a card for the firefighters and bring a treat as a way of paying it forward and plans to do more RAK. All in the queue were impressed! So, now you know, what you're doing is making a lasting difference and spreading fast!" ♥ That just made my day!! Because in the end, only kindness matters ♥

The Power of Kindness by Mac Anderson

A True Act of Kindness - Sweet Animation

"You have not lived today until you have done something for someone who can never repay you."— John Bunyan

INSPIRATIONAL - HOW GREAT I AM

“Autism, is part of my child, it's not everything he is. My child is so much more than a diagnosis.” ― Sandra L Coelho

CLICK HERE TO DONATE TO ELLIOTT'S TEAM

"A small group of thoughtful people could change the world. Indeed, it's the only thing that ever has"...YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE..let's start at the start and build a masterpiece...what kind of world do you want..START NOW! Donate as little as $10 to honor Elliott and countless others.Thank you for supporting Autism Society - North Carolina. Your contribution is greatly appreciated.

Use the Talents you Possess

‎"Are you willing to stoop down and consider the needs and desires of little children; to remember the weaknesses and lonliness of people who are growing old; to stop asking how much your friends love you, and to ask yourself if you love them enough; to bear in mind the things that other people have to bear on their hearts; to trim your lamp so that it will give more light and less smoke, and to carry it in front so that your shadow will fall behind you; to make a grave for your ugly thougts and a garden for your kindly feelings, with the gate open? Are you willing to do these things for a day? Use what talents you possess; the woods would be very silent if no birds sang there except those that sang best. "— Henry Van Dyke

Random Act of Kindness: Day Thirty-one

Random Act of Kindness: Day Thirty-one 
Our Mission: A Bouquet of Kindness 
Our Location: The Dollar Tree 
Our Target: Clerk at the Dollar Store 


We went to Sam's and picked up a Spring bouquet and the boys made a beautifully decorated kindness card with flowers colored all over it. We drove over to the Dollar Store (after debating where to take the flowers, they boys first wanted to go to Walmart).  I pulled up to the front of the store and told the boys they could go in and I'd be watching from the front window.  They went inside to give it to the only clerk working tonight. She had a line of people and when they gave her the flowers they just stood there. I was outside the store window watching and wondering why they were just standing there. Cooper turned around and mouthed she wanted to give them a hug (and he made a hug sign with his arms hugging the air) I made the ok sign back to him. The ladies that were in line that were walking out told me how nice the boys were for doing that. Elliott came out and said the clerk said that "we were going to make her cry that no one has given her flowers in a very long time".....then Elliott said she asked about Cub Scouts (they had just come from a meeting and were in their uniform) and asked if they were doing it for their Pack....they said no. She asked them if they were doing this with a church...they said no. They told her it was an act of Kindness from our family. She smiled and said "Thank You" and gave them each a big hug. You never know how something so little can mean so much to someone else...with each random act, we get a glimpse of that....We've had so many great ideas for our kindness goodie bags from the Dollar Store, though all of the the items there are just one dollar...but the kindness is priceless!

Getting caught "after" an Act of Kindness

update on our Random Acts of Kindness....we try to stay anonymous for the most part ...like last night at Sonic Jonathan and I sat in the car while the boys delivered the "goodie" bag but the family spotted us and waved and we waved back....Well, today a lady comes up to Jonathan at the hospital and said "you were at Sonic last night weren't you"...and he tried to deny it but she said she recognized him and that it was her daughter that received the gift and that it really inspired them as a family to want to do something like this. Then she also said that when Elliott gave the gift to her daughter that he looked like he was Superman (from feeling so good about what he was doing swelled up with pride) 


we like being anonymous...we don't always get to see the reaction of who gets the surprise, and we do things so randomly.... when we do get to see their faces, the smiles, the best reward is the feeling we get from doing for others but when we do 'get caught' and hear the stories from these families we are so touched and moved....This entire experience has given so much more to our family, so much more than we could have ever expected!


It's contagious....the kindness cooties are spreading!!

Random Act of Kindness: Day Thirty

Random Act of Kindness: Day Thirty 
Our Mission: Hippity Hoppity Easters on It's Way 
Our Location: Sonic 
Our Target: A little girl playing on the outdoor play area 


We packed a goodie bag with a Kindness note, a bottle of bubbles, sidewalk chalk, a huge sheet of Easter and Bunny Stickers, a water toy and added a Bunny Balloon on a stick inside and headed to Sonic. The boys found a little girl and immediately set out to give her the gift. She was way up on the slide and they waited until she came down and gave her the bag. Her mom looked shocked and smiled asking what did she get. She looked over at us and smiled and waved as the little girl started to show her all of her "treats" We drove off and their entire family was waving at us!! We talked about this being our day 30 and we have 10 more to go.....it's kind of bittersweet and we are not ready to stop! The thing I will remember the most is the smiles on the peoples faces and the ones that are on my boys faces as they do each Random Act of Kindness.....that is priceless!!

Don't Let Anyone Define Your Limits

"In many ways, the work of a critic is easy. We risk very little yet enjoy a position over those who offer up their work and their selves to our judgment. We thrive on negative criticism, which is fun to write and to read. But the bitter truth we critics must face is that, in the grand scheme of things, the average piece of junk is more meaningful than our criticism designating it so. But there are times when a critic truly risks something, and that is in the discovery and defense of the new. Last night, I experienced something new, an extraordinary meal from a singularly unexpected source. To say that both the meal and its maker have challenged my preconceptions is a gross understatement. They have rocked me to my core. In the past, I have made no secret of my disdain for Chef Gusteau's famous motto: Anyone can cook. But I realize that only now do I truly understand what he meant. Not everyone can become a great artist, but a great artist can come from anywhere. It is difficult to imagine more humble origins than those of the genius now cooking at Gusteau's, who is, in this critic's opinion, nothing less than the finest chef in France. I will be returning to Gusteau's soon, hungry for more." ~ Anton Ego in Ratatouille 


I ♥ Love this!

Create your Path

“It’s not any one thing you do that makes the difference. It’s everything you do that makes the difference. Instead of focusing on one monumental choice you want or need to make, look at all your choices as if they are parts of the big choice. Our life is the sum total of all our choices and all that we do. Sometimes the little choices can help us make or find the big choices. It’s everything we do that creates the forks in the road in our life.” Don Shapiro, author Life Is A Fork In The Road ~ As you walk along the path of your life, the only fork in the Road is the one you create for yourself.....what path are you creating?

Random Act of Kindness: Day Twenty-nine

Random Act of Kindness: Day Twenty-nine 
Our Mission: Stop Hunger Now 
Our Location: Ebenezer Methodist Church 
Our Target: International aid all over the world 


Thanks to my great friend Liz who signed us up along with her family today to go to her church and help the Stop Hunger Now organization.  We put on our hairnets and became an assembly line that worked together packaging dehydrated, high protein, nutritious meals to be used in crisis situations, for school feeding programs, and for orphanages in developing countries around the world. We helped package food for 25,000 people in less than an hour...making the total packaged for the day by the church a whopping 50,000!! Each time we reached a thousand, someone would get to hit the "gong" aka cymbal and Cooper and Elliott both got to do it!! We poured rice, soy protein, dehydrated vegetables, and a vitamin C packet much like the video below. Each bag would feed up to six people. Then after we had 5 bags someone would run the bin over to be weighed and the bag sealed and then a 13 would be packaged in a box. What a wonderful experience for all of us today!! We had such a wonderful time listening to the praise and worship band that kept us motivated and inspired the entire time! We met so many wonderful families...and one that is coming to Cherry Point this year!! We can't wait to do this again and are so grateful that Liz signed us up to help!!!

Random Act of Kindness: Day Twenty-eight

Random Act of Kindness: Day Twenty Twenty-eight 
Our Mission: Free Ticket to Ride 
Our Location: Metro Stop at Franconia/Springfield 
Our Target: Four lucky metro riders! 


We had purchased four all day passes to ride the metro. After enjoying a wonderful day in DC touring all the museums and monuments and while eating lunch we decided our act of kindness would be to pass on or passes that would be good for four people to ride anywhere in DC until 3AM as a pay it forward "ticket to ride". We went up to the first lady and offered it to her and then her friend was about to purchase another and we gave her another ticket. They were shocked and very grateful. There was a man waiting in line and we offered him a free ticket to ride. He looked completely surprised when we told him he could go anywhere in DC that he wanted to for the rest of the night! A twenty something girl was nearby and she heard us giving away tickets and said "I could really use one". We passed our remaining ticket on to her. They were all really thankful and smiling....We were singing the Beatles song "they all got a ticket to ride...because we care" ♥

The Quilt ~ The Tapestry of Life

This is a story that I often shared with patients when I worked as a counselor at in inpatient alcohol and drug treatment facility.  It has always been one of my favorites and every so often I pull it out and read it.   Thought I would share it with you all!


The Quilt ~ The Tapestry of Life


As I faced my Maker at the last judgment, I knelt before the Lord along with all the other souls.


Before each of us laid our lives like the squares of a quilt in many piles; an angel sat before each of us sewing our quilt squares together into a tapestry that is our life.


As my angel took each piece of cloth off the pile, I noticed how ragged and empty each of my squares was. They were filled with giant holes. Each square was labeled with a part of my life that had been difficult, the challenges and temptations I was faced with in every day life. I saw that the hardships I endured were the largest holes of all.


I glanced around me. Nobody else had such squares. Other than a tiny hole here and there, the other tapestries were filled with rich color and the bright hues of worldly fortune. I gazed upon my own life and was disheartened.


My angel was sewing the ragged pieces of cloth together, threadbare and empty, like binding air.


Finally the time came when each life was to be displayed, held up to the light, the scrutiny of truth. The others rose, each in turn, holding up their tapestries. So filled their lives had been. My angel looked upon me, and nodded for me to rise.


My gaze dropped to the ground in shame. I hadn't had all the earthly fortunes. I had love in my life, and laughter, but there had also been trials of illness, and wealth, and false accusations that took from me my world, as I knew it. I had to start over many times. I often struggled with the temptation to quit, only to somehow muster the strength to pick up and begin again. I spent many nights on my knees in prayer, asking for help and guidance in my life. I had often been held up to ridicule, which I endured painfully, each time offering it up to the Father in hopes that I would not melt within my skin beneath the judgmental gaze of those who unfairly judged me.


And now, I had to face the truth. My life was what it was, and I had to accept it for what it was.


I rose and slowly lifted the combined squares of my life to the light.


An awe-filled gasp filled the air. I gazed around at the others who stared at me with wide eyes.


Then I looked upon the tapestry before me. Light flooded the many holes, creating an image, the face of Christ. Then our Lord stood before me, with warmth and love in His eyes. He said, 'Every time you gave over your life to Me, it became My life, My hardships, and My struggles.


Each point of light in your life is when you stepped aside and let Me shine through, until there was more of Me than there was of you....'


May all our quilts be threadbare and worn, allowing Christ's love to shine through!

Random Act of Kindness: Day Twenty-seven

Random Act of Kindness: Day Twenty-seven
Our Mission: McFlurry in a Hurry 
Our location: McDonalds 
Our Target: the guy in the truck behind us.


We pulled up to McDonalds and ordered an M&M McFlurry.  We get to the cashier and pay and as we proceeded to the next window we told the attendant to give it to the car behind us with and gave her a note to give him.  Her eyes grew wider as she read our note and agreed.  We watched her pass the note and the McFlurry as we were pulling out.  We do not know who was shocked more the cashier or the guy as we drove away. We are on our way to VA to visit family and have spread our Random Acts of Kindness across the state lines!  Look out we are spreading our Kindness cooties!!

Random Act of Kindness: Day Twenty-six

Random Act of Kindness: Day Twenty-six
Our Mission: Gumball Treasure 
Our Location: ToysRus and Walmart 
Our Target: anyone who visits the gumballs machines for a 25-50 cent trinket. 


We were loaded with quarters but too late to add to the meters of patrons downtown (we'll save that for another Random Act) So we decided to go to Walmart and found the megaload of gumballs machines. We chose not to turn any with candy items but only those that had toy prizes. The boys got excited turning each one around, carefully checking to see if the toy had dropped down under each lid. One even dropped down a two for the price of one toy surprise! The boys were so delighted after we left Walmart that we went straight to ToysRus next door and left a little kindness in each of their prize gumball machines. The bigger prizes were 50 cents and smaller ones for 25 cents. Elliott said "how will they know it's a random act of kindness" And I said "well if they put money in the machine they will think they got two items" then I said "but if someone just comes along and lifts the lid, like some little ones like to do...then they will get a free prize" And I told them that "it is a free surprise for someone and who knows who will find them or if someone will find them all at one time!" Their eyes were wide and their imaginations were creating all kinds of scenarios about who would find the toys and what they might say when they discovered our hidden treasures. Random Acts of Kindness...sometimes it is all about the little things ♥ Not knowing who or when will find the surprise under each door, only that we were spreading kindness just a little more!!

Beethoven's 5 Secrets - OneRepublic (Cello/Orchestral Cover) - The Piano...

“Don’t only practice your art, but force your way into its secrets, for it and knowledge can raise men to the Divine.To play without passion is inexcusable!” ― Ludwig van Beethoven 

Fruit of The Spirit

"You will find as you look back upon your life that the moments when you have truly lived are the moments when you have done things in the spirit of love." ~ Henry Drummond

Random Act of Kindness: Day Twenty-five

Random Act of Kindness: Day Twenty-five 
Our Mission: Family Fun Night 
Our Location: I-HOP 
Our Target: A family enjoying "breakfast" for dinner. 


We made our goodie bag, consisting of a giant popcorn red and white stripped popcorn container, placed four smaller red and white stripped popcorn containers inside, a package 10 twix snack size candy bars and a box of popcorn. The boys wrote a homemade Family Fun Night card with the inside saying "Just add your favorite movie and enjoy" and we placed a gold star balloon taped to the bigger popcorn tin. We set out for I-HOP to find a family enjoying "breakfast". We went in and the hostess wanted to seat us, but we explained we needed her help. She looked bewildered at us at first and we asked her to deliver the gift to the family nearby after we left the restaurant. She then asked "Do I tell them it's from you" And we said "No, there is a note inside" She smiled as we ran out to meet dad in the get-a-way car. As we pulled off we saw the balloon floating at the family's table and we talked about how it would feel to get a surprise like that if we were out to eat dinner ♥ This Random Act of kindness was brought to you by Lights, Camera, Action, Roll 'Em :)

Random Act of Kindness: Day Twenty-four

Random Act of Kindness: Day Twenty-four 
Our Mission: To buy a soldier a pizza 
Our Location: July 4th, 2012 Overseas at a Military base 
Our Target: Our US servicemen and women 


Tonight we decided to donate to a cause and came across this one. The boys are very patriotic and we hated that we missed donating for the superbowl, they delivered 10,000 pizzas then and their goal for July 4th is 50,000. We did our part and when we celebrate with fireworks and enjoy the beach, we will remember our random act of kindness from this day think about the service men and women enjoying their pizza!!! If you want to learn more about it or help donate go to this link Pizzas4Patriots

Pizzas4Patriots Corporate Trailer

Go to the link and donate so our servicemen and women can enjoy Pizza on July 4th!!

Tips To Live A Happy And Rewarding Life

Random Act of Kindness: Day Twenty-three

Random Act of Kindness: Day Twenty-three 
Our Mission: Sunday Morning Surprise 
Our Location: A house in our neighborhood 
Our Target: An unsuspecting family to receive a breakfast blessing!!


This morning we went to Krispy Kreme to get breakfast and picked up an extra dozen of Hot Fresh Now doughnuts. We enjoyed our breakfast and waited until after 9AM to go out and deliver the goodies. The boys really wanted to take their Memaw and PawPaw to see a "ding dong ditch" in action...we place our homemade kindness card, a curly ribbon bow on top of the box and off we went. We drove around the neighborhood looking for a house that had lights on inside (signs that we would not be waking someone up) We found a few with lots of cars and a few with lights on. (We soon realized that some houses may have had a St. Patrick's Day part or may have been out late and may not enjoy an early morning surprise). We thought for sure we'd find a house nearby that was up and getting ready for church. We had to be sure someone was home, and that we were not waking someone up. It was close to 9:15, so it was not too early for a surprise. We knew of a house that had children and the boys decided that would be the one. They walked up to the door, rang the bell twice and knocked on the door. I prepared my mom and dad to watch the boys faces as they run back to the car (which is truly the priceless part of a ding dong ditch). They are "running for their lives" racing back to the car. Elliott got to the car and said "go go go, we heard someone say 'who's there' and they were coming to the door". Cooper said the same. We drove off laughing from the excitement of watching them run back to the car. We hope the family enjoys their Sunday morning Surprise ♥

Random Act of Kindness Day Twenty-two

Random Act of Kindness: Day Twenty-two
Our Mission: A wee bit of Irish Fun
Our Location: Barnes and Noble 
Our Target: Two ladies sitting in the cafe having a wonderful conversation. 


It is St. Patrick's Day and after a wonderful day at the Cub Scout derby we went out to an Irish Pub for dinner with the family.  After dinner we were discussing what our random act of kindness would be,  After the boys had a visit by a Leprechaun this morning and we were in the spirit to have some fun showing their grandparents a wee bit of fun with our Random Acts of Kindness.   The boys wanted to take my parents on a Ding Dong Ditch after dinner tonight but because it was too dark we asked what other one would they like to do. The dessert surprise was the winner. We had Memaw as our accomplice. We went into Barnes and Noble cafe and saw several tables to choose from. Mom found a man sitting alone, Cooper pointed at a couple, Elliott pointed to the ladies. The ladies were having a very cheerful conversation and laughing..like two great friends catching up on each others lives. We ordered two Ultimate Chocolate Chunk with Caramel Brownies with a side of whipcream and chocolate drizzle. We gave the cafe clerk our handmade card and asked her to deliver the order to the two ladies by the window. We went and watched her deliver the sweet treats and watched them both smile as they both read the card. The boys were trying to show their Memaw how they are like "Secret Agents" and Cooper was trying to get closer and closer without being discovered. We decided that we better go look at books before we were spotted. While we were looking at books, Elliott was playing and having so much fun with these amazing puppets that a nice older lady stopped to play with him and struck up a conversation. She even put a bunny on her hand and said she was going to show her her husband how cute it is. I told Cooper that Elliott was performing another random act of kindness. He said "how?" I told him by talking to a stranger and how the two of them were having fun and being silly, smiling and having fun with the puppets was a random act of kindness in it's truest form ♥ That someone may have just walked by those puppets but Elliott made them look like so much fun that someone joined in with him! We bought a few books and out the door we went...and those two ladies were still sitting there at the window...with their desserts (partly eaten and boxed up to take home) Perhaps they too were going to take the rest home and share a random act of kindness too ♥

The Leprechaun has struck again

lesson learned...NEVER clean your house prior to St. Patrick's Day....green glitter, confetti, green dye...OH MY...the little mischievous Leprechaun has struck...my downstairs has been toilet papered...my boys noses are green...there are toys tossed all over...why did I clean??? Two bathrooms show signs that a leprechauns been naughty....we must leave him a note to flush after he goes to the potty!!! He played Jenga and Trouble and green was the winner...pirate cards on the floor...the kids will be cleaning until dinner!! Gold coins that he left...a shamrocks delight, he left two movies for viewing for later tonight....The boys have cub scout Derby Day at 9:20 in the morning...do think they will be focused? Or Leprechaun for longing?

Make time to enjoy the simple things in life

"If we make our goal to live a life of compassion and unconditional love, then the world will indeed become a garden where all kinds of flowers can bloom and grow." -- Elisabeth Kubler-Ross ♥ May you plant seeds of kindness, shower them with love and compassion and what will grow will be more beautiful than any flower garden you've ever known!! 

Random Act of Kindness: Day Twenty-one

Random Act of Kindness: Day Twenty-one 
Our Mission: Fun in the Park 
Our Location: Our Neighborhood Public Park
 Our Target: Triplets playfully enjoying their afternoon with their grandparents. 


We packed a small gift bag with bubbles, sidewalk chalk and a water toy shaped like a fish (not one that squirts but on the you push the button and have to try and get the rings on the posts inside). Cooper and Elliott walked up and gave the gift to the grandparents and said "this is for you" They said "thank you so much" and the boys were walking back to the car smiling as the grandparents read the note and then waved and smiled at me in the car. As we drove away we could see bubbles in the air ♥ Springtime Fun was in the air!!

50 People 1 Question | San Clemente

If  you could tell the world just one thing what would it be? 


These 50 people one question videos are very thought provoking.  I loved the answers given, some honest, some humorous, some spiritual...but it got people thinking.  


I would say if I could tell the world just one thing it would be...to spend as much time as you could with those that you love and love you.


I have been blessed to be a stay at home mommy.  And with that comes certain societal stigmas...did I want a career?  Yes I had one, I went to college and had a wonderful degree in a field that I loved.  Do I regret leaving the working world.  Not for one minute.  Do I plan to go back to work?  Someday, if the decision is right for me and my family.  I didn't plan on being a stay at home mommy, if not for being placed on bed rest I would have probably returned to work.  But with being on bed rest our family had to make sacrifices to adjust to a one income salary.  I think that was definitely arranged by God.  I really feel that He created a path, an option for me.  Now I am not begrudging anyone who chooses to work. For me, and my family I truly feel that my role at home has been the best job in the world.  Yes, my husband works more hours as his income for one days shift would equal close to a weeks worth of pay for me.  Not everyone has that choice.  And those that have to work, I know they realize how incredibly important that quality time is with their family and loved ones.  There is no winner in the debate of who is better a stay at home mom or a working mom..for we are all working moms.  As women we should lift each other up, rather than tear each other down.  Being a a stay at home mom doesn't make me a better mom no more than a working mom makes her a better mom.  We all do the very best that we can.  And we are all ok!  I used to work with the elderly, and I think there is so much wisdom that comes from conversations with them.  I can say that in all of my conversations with the women and with the men...not one said I wish I would have spent more time at work.  Or I wish I had worked more and not stayed home with my family.  I realize how blessed and lucky I am to be able to stay at home.  I am so blessed to have the love of so many wonderful friends and family members.  Those that know me in ways that I still find bewildering.  As if their paths were crossed into mine, and at times those that I love truly transcend a season, a reason, and a lifetime.    Tomorrow isn't promised to any of us....so that is why I feel that it is so important to spend as much time as you can with those that you love and love you.  There isn't a job, a career, a hobby, a sport, a special trip, a must see TV show or anything worth more than the time spent with those you love.  There isn't nothing in the world that is more important to me.  It's the most precious thing we all can have...and yet, too often we get too busy, caught up in something, or do not have enough time...MAKE time.  The bonds with those that we love, and love us...are never unbroken.

Randon Act of Kindness Day 21

Random Act of Kindness: Day 21 In honor of the Irish, today we call a Mulligan ;) Busy, crazy day, full of everyday kindness.....but alas the hours passed by too quicky for a wee bit of randomness. No worries....tomorrow we'll make up for it!!!

Fifty People, One Question | Short Film

POWERFUL....What would wish for by the end of the day.....one thing, what would it be?

Color outside the lines

Making a Difference

"What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make." — Jane Goodall ♥ Try giving a little extra kindness today and see what a difference that makes!

Random Act of Kindness Day Twenty

Random Act of Kindness: Day Twenty 
Our Mission: Spring into Fun
Our Location: A local park 
Our target: a little girl and boy playing 


We made a quick stop to our dollar store to get a sand pail and shovel. We filled it with a medium sized ball, a bottle of bubbles and sidewalk chalk. We placed a small hand held smiley faced balloon on a stick inside the handle of the sandcastle shaped sand pail. Off we went to our local park...but no one was to be found. We then went to Sonic to see if anyone was there...and there was! But we quickly realized we knew the family that was there...and we wouldn't be random. The boys said have one of the workers take it to them, but I reminded them that I am friends with them on facebook and they would know. So we went to a park around the corner about two miles away and as we turned into it, we found it was filled with lots of joyful children enjoying this summer like evening. We quickly spotted a young girl and boy near their mother by the picnic table area. The boys were excited and quickly set out to deliver our Spring Into Fun gift. Cooper walked up to the little girl and said "This is for you" She said "thank you" and Cooper and Elliott darted back for the "getaway car". As we were backing out we could see the mom looking back at us and smiling as the little girl brought it over to her and they read the kindness card. We drove away to beautiful smiles!! What a way to end this gorgeous day!!

Validation

The Kindness Button

When you get dressed each day remember to fasten your kindness button!!

"The flower of kindness will grow. Maybe not now, but it will some day. And in kind that kindness will flow, for kindness grows in this way." ~ Robert Alan Silverstein Plants your seeds of kindness today, for that is how kindness grows

Random Act of Kindness Day Nineteen

Random Act of Kindness: Day Nineteen 
Our Mission: Bouquet of Kindness 
Our Location: Burger King Drive thru 
Our Target: the cashier at window number two 


Tonight was our Cub Scout night...which means it is one of our busiest days. We had to get our Derby cars ready for this Saturday and we choose to perform a flower delivery again after our Cub Scout meeting (. We choose a beautiful spring bouquet with stargazer lilies, daisies, lavender agapanthus, purple liatris, and pink alstromeria....it was a gorgeous variety of lavender and pink with a splash of blue! We decided to go to Burger King and surprise another cashier in drive thru with a bouquet of kindness. We pulled up and when they went to take our order we said "we are here to make a delivery to window number 2". The cashier was puzzled and asked us to repeat it again. We explained we had a delivery for window number 2 and she said to pull around. Cooper had the flowers and as we pulled up he lowered his window and the cashier leaned out. He handed her the flowers and she said "are these for me?" The manager behind her looked shocked and she said that is so nice...we only saw three workers up front and they all looked like they thought we were part of a hidden camera tv show when we gave her the flowers. The looks on their faces were priceless!! We pulled away and looked back at all three of them were smiling and looking at the flowers in the front of the restaurant. This is one RAK that is worth repeating a few more times over Lent!

Seeds of Kindness

~ this is what a seed of kindness can grow into ~

Light from a Kindness Candle

"Thousands of candles can be lit from a single candle, and the life of the candle will not be shortened. Happiness never decreases by being shared." ~ Share the light of your candle...pass on more kindness and happiness today ♥

Having a fit over fitted sheets

Life is too short to fold fitted sheets....I truly believe this is one of those urban myths, or else we would have been taught this skill and have adapted ways to make it easier.....people don't fold them, we just wad them into a rectangular shape! Can I get an Amen?

I think anyone who can do this must be a Saint to possess this skill...Mine start off with great determination but end up balled up and folded...which is pretty much why I like to wash/dry the sheets and put them straight back onto the bed!  Anyone that who knows how to do this needs to teach a course to helpless domesticated diva wannabees like me to develop this origami art form sheet folding skill!!

Random Act of Kindness: Day Eighteen

Random Act of Kindness: Day Eighteen

Our Mission: 911

Our location: Greenville Police Department 

Our Target: Officers on duty tonight. 

The boys made two homemade cards for our local police department. We went to the Greenville Police Department this evening and delivered 3 Artisan Gourmet Loaf Cakes: one raspberry swirl, one lemon iced and the other chocolate marble. We met a nice officer who came out and spoke briefly with the boys, shook all of our hands and said how much they all would enjoy what we brought them. We told him we hope they had a quiet night this evening and thanked him for his service to our community! Code 7 and 10-4 ♥ (that means 'meal break' and message received)

The Life your Heart is Yearning to Live

 "I'm trying to show by my actions that you can make a far better world if you just care enough. That's all you have to do. It's no big deal. One act of kindness a day can do it." ~ Betty Williams ~  May your cup of kindness runneth over today!!

Random Act of Kindness Day Seventeen

Random Act of Kindness: Day Seventeen
Our Mission: Seashells by the Seashore
 Our Location: Emerald Isle
Our Target: Beachcombers

We took a big beautiful basket of shells.  We scattered them one by one placing them along the shore (out of the tides reach) as we walked to the Bogue Inlet Pier. We hope someone will enjoy the treasures we leave behind when they are walking along the beach today!

What a beautiful day to walk along the beach. After we had scattered the last of our shells, Elliott came upon a couple of ladies who were looking at something up near the dunes...where there are tiny broken shells they were finding sharks teeth. One of the ladies gave him two of the teeth they found...Elliott came running to us all excited! We stopped and spoke with the ladies and she gave Cooper some of the teeth as well. We told the boys see how acts of kindness can boomerang....and someone did something kind in return. By the time we walked back, we didn't see a single shell we had dropped on the beach....every last one had been collected! What a fabulous way to end our day at the beach! Kindness is contagious!!

“Kindness to children, love for children, goodness to children-- these are the only investments that never fail.” ― Henry David Thoreau 


Today is the day of the Eastern Carolina Odyssey of the Mind Competition. We have been volunteering time to coach a team of "out of the box" problem solvers for almost 3 months. Today they will have two performances, and I know they will be amazing... 



I do not consider this as a part of our Random Acts of Kindness...volunteering with the kids after school each week (sometimes twice when we rehearsed on Saturdays) was what I considered an everyday kindness.  This gave 7 kids the opportunity to be a part of the Odyssey of the Mind experience that they otherwise would not have had (due to lack of staff at their school able to fulfill this role).   Volunteering a the school on any level benefits every child there.  My kids were on the team and it was a worthwhile experience working with the kids and seeing their creative problem solving skills and how they worked as a team developing a skit to perform (from props, to costumes, to storylines, painting backdrops, inventing devices, etc).  To watch their imaginations ignite and see what they could do was amazing...it has been an honor and a privilege to have been their coach!


<side note> Though we were not able to keep from breaking our 40 days in a row random acts of kindness, we did not let this get us down.  Some days things come up and even though we went into this with the best of intentions,  because they are "random" acts, they do not always go as planned.  We realize that it is ok that we miss a day here or there over Lent (because we have been doing Random Acts of Kindness on Sundays during Lent when we could opt to refrain)...However it is worthy to report that we were performing everyday kindness acts which are just as important and mean even more so now!  

Random Act of Kindness: Day Sixteen

Random Act of Kindness: Day Sixteen 
Our Mission: Special Delivery 
Our Location: Our Mailbox 
Our Target: Our Mail carrier (or one of the subs that runs our route) 


The boys made two Thank You cards with their stamps and crayons...They even had a dog running after the mail truck! Then they placed their notes on top of a package of Girl Scout Cookies and we took some curling ribbon and made a "fancy bow" to place on the top. We our package out and placed it in our mailbox...the red flag is up. Now we are waiting to see who will get our special delivery today!!! The boys said "they will know that it is us" and I said yes, but it is "random" and "kind" to give cookies to our US Postal Worker on an ordinary Friday in March!!!

Our favorite and regular Mail carrier pulled up....the boys pressed their noses on the blinds to watch her read the notes...She smiled as she read them, then she looked over at our house and I suspect she could see the boys peering through the blinds as I heard her say "Is this for me?" Elliott opened the door and said "Yes, it is for you" and she smiled and said "Thank You". The boys were jumping up and down as she left because it was their favorite Mail Carrier "Karen" and that is who they were hoping would be the one today!!

The Story Behind Our Random Acts of Kindness

We started Random Acts of Kindness 16 days ago.  I've been asked several times, why were doing it, how did we get started, and how has it impacted our family.  We have shared on here and on facebook, the things we have done.  In doing so, we have shared what we've done not for praise or thanks, but to encourage others to try or to see how easy it is to share a random act of kindness.   Too often, I would be guilty of hearing a story like we've shared, and thing...wow, that is so cool.  I would think that must have been an awesome experience, how great that there are still nice people in this world.  Then someone posted on facebook not too long ago..to get off the sidelines and get into the game.  And for some reason that clicked with me.  Why couldn't I try to do more, instead of sitting on the couch watching a show, get out and do more.  Could it make a difference.  Would it have an impact?  I can honestly say the impact we thought would be the pay it forward part, the thought of all these people passing a random act forward...but the greatest impact has been on our family life.  The planning and sharing of the process, what we've learned and discovered about each other along the way.  The boys have written in their journals and have developed a habit of being more aware of kindness whether it is random or an everyday act. 

When we've planned a random act, they never go as planned...we want to get something as a surprise and only twice (the movies and the fish) the recipient has been aware of who we were.  We've got plenty of random things that do not cost a thing on our radar (and have even done some) we have to wait for clearance at the homeless shelter, nursing home and food bank. Because of confidentiality we (being a family and not affiliated with a church or organization) didn't plan on the fact that places have coordinators and we have to be screened or the process. In many of the places we've called we have to arrange it with a coordinator and we couldn't just show up. We didn't factor that in when we just decided over Lent we'd give more of ourselves instead of giving up something in sacrifice.  Had we really thought it out we would have planned better to mix it up more, but just as as random as the acts we are participating in this came upon us rather randomly.  We did start off with randomly giving things, "writing letters", passing out kisses, picking up a neighbor's paper each day...and posted those....We really wanted the kids to get excited about giving. We scoured the internet for random acts of kindness ideas. There were tons of things to pick from. We made a limit that if we were to buy anything it had to be 5-8 bucks max. We do not have any money to spare so as a family we've had to cut back in order to give. I wanted the kids to see that you can give a little and see the impact it has. We soon learned that the random acts on the internet were filled with things like smiling at a stranger, give a compliment, open a door, etc. While these were all very kind things...we had a big family discussion about it. We talked about "everyday" kindness and "random" acts of kindness. We made a list of things we'd like to do, and if we were to receive a random act what would make us surprised and want to do a random act. We wanted to show everyone could do a random kindness act and even hope to inspire someone to try it. A few are joining in and they've shared things they've done.  And not every random act has to cost a thing...The movie ticket mission, we were gifted three movie tickets after viewing the Lorax. The manager gave them to us because there was a large crowd of school kids (after school program) and because it was so loud they offered our group that went to see the movie a  chance to come back and see it again. We had enjoyed ourselves at the movie, so instead of coming back and using them ourselves...we took those tickets and paid them forward. We are raising money for the Autism Society in a 5K race on April 28th. We donated money to the Jump Rope for heart at school. On the 24th we are helping to box items for the homeless shelter (while I am home visiting family in VA). I also volunteer at the school as an Odyssey of the Mind Coach so that 7 additional kids were able to participate in this years competition. I also volunteer at the school to help with their school store on Fridays. Yesterday Jonathan volunteered 8 hours drawing lab work at the homeless shelter for over 77 people. And once the weather cooperates we are going to "clean up the park" and another neighborhood family is going to join us. But I will have to say this, the one time that we did buy someones fish....and our random act of kindness cover was "blown" was one of the most touching stories. To run into the family again the next day and then they shared their story, I tell you it was so touching that two little fish gave them hope.  There have been moments like that where I felt that God had orchestrated or as a dear friend said it was a "divine appointment". The line between what an everyday kindness and a random act of kindness can be blurred at times. 

Just like the Stop KONY video, where those horrific acts were happening in Uganda and nobody knew or did anything about it, until this video made people stop and take notice.....that this happens in more places than we are willing to admit.  Too often people don't tend to notice acts of "everyday kindness" but they do stop and take notice of "random acts". We wanted the boys to really understand the difference. Also if more people are aware of random acts they would become more of the everyday kindness that is around them. One seed grows and the roots and branches may go in different directions but the seed started out as Kindness. And if one person just paid it forward it makes a chain reaction. 

The other side to the random acts of kindness it that we discussed with the kids not to have an expectation. We aren't doing them to pat ourselves on the back or say look what we did.  They discovered this when we passed out the candy kisses. Some people were in a hurry, some thought we were trying to "sell" something, some didn't want to be bothered....that we couldn't have expectations that what we thought was a kind gesture would be received as kind on the other end. We have learned so many lessons in just 16 days...and I am sure there are more to come. The real joy is when we are able to sit unnoticed and watch the expression on someones face when they open one of our handmade kindness cards. It is contagious and we wish we could do more...but the point of the acts we have done was to show how much one family could do and to see the impact it could have.   Volunteering our time and realizing that you can't just "show up to help" has been a hurdle we didn't plan on and it's something to consider if you want to plan those types of Random Acts into your routine.   I think the most important thing I would hope anyone would get from reading about our Random Acts of Kindness is to know that we all are capable of doing this and to realize that everyday we should be kind, but once in a while it is nice to be "random"....I often say this quote goes through my head the most over the past few days......"I do it for the joy it brings, because I am a joyful girl,because the world owes me nothing and we owe each other the world"......and the second one came at the end of the Lorax movie.... "Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better.  It's not."

Little Country Store closes it's doors

So sad to see this country store is closing.....Many a memory was made riding bikes to this store....with cards attached to our bicycle wheels with clothespin to make a motoring sound....Trading in grape Nehi bottles to get nickels for candy, icecream, or A&W rootbeer....The good old days ♥


Many memories were made on hot summer days....when all one could do was ride a bike and this little country store was the closest thing to our house.  Soda from a glass bottle never tasted so good or so refreshing after riding up to this store after racing friends and cousins on our bikes. You didn't feel like a kid, you felt so independent and free.  Riding your bike with a little change in your pocket knowing you were going to be able to buy yourself a little treat.  Pop Rocks, candy cigarettes...indulging in all the forbidden candy that our mom's would never buy for us!  The doors may close on a country store, but may our memories always remain open to us of a time gone by.   

Momastery.com Lesson #2 : Don’t Carpe Diem

2011 Lesson #2 : Don’t Carpe Diem  click on this link to take you the amazing blogger who wrote this!


Every time I’m out with my kids – this seems to happen:



An older woman stops us, puts her hand over her heart and says something like, “Oh- Enjoy every moment. This time goes by so fast.”

Everywhere I go, someone is telling me to seize the moment, raise my awareness, be happy, enjoy every second, etc, etc, etc.

I know that this message is right and good. But as 2011 closes, I have finally allowed myself to admit that it just doesn’t work for me. It bugs me. This CARPE DIEM message makes me paranoid and panicky. Especially during this phase of my life – while I’m raising young kids. Being told, in a million different ways to CARPE DIEM makes me worry that if I’m not in a constant state of intense gratitude and ecstasy, I’m doing something wrong.

I think parenting young children (and old ones, I’ve heard) is a little like climbing Mount Everest. Brave, adventurous souls try it because they’ve heard there’s magic in the climb. They try because they believe that finishing, or even attempting the climb are impressive accomplishments. They try because during the climb, if they allow themselves to pause and lift their eyes and minds from the pain and drudgery, the views are breathtaking. They try because even though it hurts and it’s hard, there are moments that make it worth the hard. These moments are so intense and unique that many people who reach the top start planning, almost immediately, to climb again. Even though any climber will tell you that  most of the climb is treacherous, exhausting, killer. That they literally cried most of the way up.

And so I think that if there were people stationed, say, every thirty feet along Mount Everest yelling to the climbers – “ARE YOU ENJOYING YOURSELF!? IF NOT, YOU SHOULD BE! ONE DAY YOU’LL BE SORRY YOU DIDN’T!” TRUST US!! IT’LL BE OVER TOO SOON! CARPE DIEM!”  - those well-meaning, nostalgic cheerleaders might be physically thrown from the mountain.

Now. I’m not suggesting that the sweet old ladies who tell me to ENJOY MYSELF be thrown from a mountain. These are wonderful ladies. Monkees, probably. But last week, a woman approached me in the Target line and said the following: “Sugar, I hope you are enjoying this. I loved every single second of parenting my two girls. Every single moment. These days go by so fast.”

At that particular moment, Amma had swiped a bra from the cart and arranged  it over her sweater, while sucking a lollipop undoubtedly found on the ground. She also had three shop-lifted clip-on neon feathers stuck in her hair. She looked exactly like a contestant from Toddlers and Tiaras. A losing contestant. I couldn’t find Chase anywhere, and Tish was sucking the pen from the credit card machine  WHILE the woman in front of me was trying to use it. And so I just looked at the woman, smiled and said, “Thank you. Yes. Me too. I am enjoying every single moment. Especially this one. Yes. Thank you.”

That’s not exactly what I wanted to say, though.

There was a famous writer who, when asked if she loved writing, replied, “No. but I love having written.” What I wanted to say to this sweet woman was, “Are you sure? Are you sure you don’t mean you love having parented?”

I love having written. And I love having parented. My favorite part of each day is when the kids are put to sleep (to bed) and Craig and I sink into the couch to watch some quality TV, like Celebrity Wife Swap, and congratulate each other on a job well done. Or a job done, at least.



Every time I write a post like this, I get emails suggesting that I’m being negative. I have received this particular message four or five times – G, if you can’t handle the three you have, why do you want a fourth?

That one always stings, and I don’t think it’s quite fair. Parenting is hard. Just like lots of important jobs are hard. Why is it that the second a mother admits that it’s hard, people feel the need to suggest that maybe she’s not doing it right? Or that she certainly shouldn’t add more to her load. Maybe the fact that it’s so hard means she IS doing it right…in her own way…and she happens to be honest.

Craig is a software salesman. It’s a hard job in this economy. And he comes home each day and talks a little bit about how hard it is. And I don’t ever feel the need to suggest that he’s not doing it right, or that he’s negative for noticing that it’s hard, or that maybe he shouldn’t even consider taking on more responsibility. And I doubt anybody comes by his office to make sure he’s ENJOYING HIMSELF. I doubt his boss peeks in his office and says: “This career stuff…it goes  so fast…ARE YOU ENJOYING EVERY MOMENT IN THERE, CRAIG???? THE FISCAL YEAR FLIES BY!! CARPE DIEM, CRAIG!”

My point is this. I used to worry that not only was I failing to do a good enough job at parenting, but that I wasn’t enjoying it enough. Double failure.  I felt guilty because I wasn’t in parental ecstasy every hour of every day and I wasn’t MAKING THE MOST OF EVERY MOMENT like the mamas in the parenting magazines seemed to be doing. I felt guilty because honestly, I was tired and cranky and ready for the day to be over quite often. And because I knew that one day, I’d wake up and the kids would be gone, and I’d be the old lady in the grocery store with my hand over my heart. Would I be able to say I enjoyed every moment? No.

But the fact remains that I will be that nostalgic lady. I just hope to be one with a clear memory. And here’s what I hope to say to the younger mama gritting her teeth in line:

 “It’s helluva hard, isn’t it? You’re a good mom, I can tell. And I like your kids, especially that one peeing in the corner. She’s my favorite. Carry on, warrior. Six hours till bedtime.” And hopefully, every once in a while, I’ll add- “Let me pick up that grocery bill for ya, sister. Go put those kids in the van and pull on up- I’ll have them bring your groceries out.”



Anyway. Clearly, Carpe Diem doesn’t work for me. I can’t even carpe fifteen minutes in a row, so a whole diem is out of the question.

Here’s what does work for me:



There are two different types of time. Chronos time is what we live in. It’s regular time, it’s one minute at a time, it’s staring down the clock till bedtime time, it’s ten excruciating minutes in the Target line time, it’s four screaming minutes in time out time, it’s two hours till daddy gets home time. Chronos is the hard, slow passing time we parents often live in.

Then there’s Kairos time. Kairos is God’s time. It’s time outside of time. It’s metaphysical time. Kairos is those magical moments in which time stands still. I have a few of those moments each day, and I cherish them.

Like when I actually stop what I’m doing and really look at Tish. I notice how perfectly smooth and brownish her skin is.  I notice the perfect curves of her teeny elf mouth and her asianish brown eyes, and I breathe in her soft Tishy smell. In these moments, I see that her mouth is moving but I can’t hear her because all I can think is – This is the first time I’ve really seen Tish all day, and my God – she is so beautiful. Kairos.

Like when I’m stuck in chronos time in the grocery line and I’m haggard and annoyed and angry at the slow check-out clerk. And then I look at my cart and I’m transported out of chronos. And suddenly I notice the piles of healthy food I’ll feed my children to grow their bodies and minds and I remember that most of the world’s mamas would kill for this opportunity. This chance to stand in a grocery line with enough money to pay. And I just stare at my cart. At the abundance. The bounty. Thank you, God. Kairos.

Or when I curl up in my cozy bed with Theo asleep at my feet and Craig asleep by my side and I listen to  them both breathing. And for a moment, I think- how did a girl like me get so lucky? To go to bed each night surrounded by this breath, this love, this peace, this warmth? Kairos.

These kairos moments leave as fast as they come- but I mark them. I say the word kairos in my head each time I leave chronos. And at the end of the day, I don’t remember exactly what my kairos moments were, but I remember I had them. And that makes the pain of the daily parenting climb worth it.

If I had a couple Kairos moments during the day, I call it a success.

Carpe a couple of Kairoses a day.



Good enough for me.

Drink it Up!

Today, fill your cup of life with sunshine and laughter~ Dodinsky

And a cup of Love and Sprinkle it with Kindness!!

New Rule: Be Kinder Than Necessary

Shall we make a new rule of life from tonight? Always try to be a little kinder than is necessary ~ James Barrie ♥ Gratitude bursts forth when we share or receive kindness… and living a grateful life engenders more kindness in turn....share a little kindness today!!!

Privilege of a lifetime

KONY 2012

This is a documentary...what is saddening about it is that it takes this long before people get involved...don't wait to get involved in things that matter.  People matter....Kindness matters.....Don't wait another day, find something that you are passionate about and get involved.  Compassionate hearts can stop the HATE in this world

Random Act of Kindness Day Fifteen

Random Act of Kindness: Day Fifteen
Our Mission: Operation Bookworm
Our Location: Barnes and Noble
Our Target: An unsuspecting boy/girl in the children's book section.

We went into Barnes and Noble and instantly saw a young girl looking at two books that she was debating on which one to get (her head was going back and forth as if she was saying eenie meenie miney moe) We watched her place the books back on the shelf and we quickly grabbed the book and had a book seller assist us. The bookseller said "There are still good people in this world" :) The book was dropped off and we hear her say "OH, how cool!" and she read the note that Cooper had written. Then we saw her dad come over and asked what happened. She told him and then about 5 minutes later we ran into them and the father asked did we "do it". I said "do what" and he said his daughter just got a free book...I said that is awesome but we were looking for their dad. And off we went, the dad kept asking the booksellers to find who bought the books so he could thank them. Then we spotted a young boy who was asking the bookseller about Ronald Dahl books and he found what he was looking for. We quickly found another copy and went to get his book. Then we looked back and saw both he and his mother were in line. We asked the two ladies in front of us if we could jump in line because we were paying for a book for someone in line. They ladies let us go ahead (we thanked them for helping us) A different book seller was there and we told him the book was for the boy and his mother, that they were going to be purchasing this same book and not to let them buy it but to give them our bag. We placed Elliott's card in the bag and then we went to the clearance books and watched them approach the cashier. We heard the mom say "That was so nice" and the young boy read the card. She asked too, for a description of who did it so she could thank us. The booksellers were very helpful to not blow our cover. The boys shared on the way home that they were going to do Random Acts of Kindness with their kids. I told them that I hope that they will always remember this time and that I love that they want to pass this tradition onto their children. Then they asked me when I am a Grandma would I do Random Act of Kindness with them. I said Yes I would. Cooper said "You are going to be the coolest Grandma" and Elliott said "she already is the coolest mom" ♥

Tiara and Cape wearing Day!!

 Here I come to save the Daaaaaaaaaaay ;) Random Act of Kindness to make you laugh.....but seriuosly, I do have a tiara and cape ♥ And I am not afraid to use them!!

Fill Your Days With Kindness

“I expect to pass through life but once. If therefore there be any kindness I can show...let me do it now.” ― William Penn Tomorrow is not promised to any of us, our future's are uncertain....make your days filled with kindness...Singing in honor of a beloved DJ who's life was cut short yesterday..."Goooood Morning family, friends and acquaintances too..... bop bop doobie doobie doobie doobie down down doobie doobie doobie doobie doo" ♥ (RIP Brian Strobel and your doobie doo song)

Random Act of Kindness Day Fourteen

Random Act of Kindness: Day Fourteen
Our Mission: Balloon Bouquet
 Our Locations: Brrrrberrry Frozen Yogurt and Shoe Carnival
Our Target: A family with little kids

First stop we went to the dollar tree, we purchased several balloons, two of Mrs. Fields chocolate chip cookie dough candy boxes, and a bag of tootsie roll pops, and two small green bags. Elliott found a penny on the floor (we know Grandma is watching us in Heaven ♥ ) We hurried back to the car and made two goodie bags and tied two balloons on each. The boys dropped their homemade kindness cards decorated with balloons and placed them inside the bags. We didn't know where we were going to take them, we had planned to go to a park but it was getting dark. Just then we spotted a group of people going into BrrrBerry Yogurt Shop. We waited until they went into the back to make their yogurt, we dashed in and asked the cashier to give our goodie bag to the little girl in the pink jacket. We ran out of the store. The boys felt like they were on a secret mission. We got in our car and watched from a distance...we saw the surprised look on all their faces when they went to pay for their yogurt. We watched them read the card and the mom made a "wow" gesture to the little girl. The boys really liked that part. Then we were off to IHop to drop off the next goodie bag but just as we were going there we saw a mom with two kids trying on shoes inside Shoe Carnival. We decided this was a good place for a Balloon Bouquet. We again raced in the store like secret ninjas trying to not to get caught. We found an employee and asked her to take our care package to the mom with two kids over in the corner. We quickly ran out the store and barely made it into our car when she gave them the balloon bouquet....the little boy was sitting on the floor with his eyes wide fixated on the balloons and he was smiling. Who doesn't love a little treat and a couple of balloons on a random Wednesday? We hope that we made it an extraordinary day ♥

Kindness is a Universal Language

This is so true...at the Dollar Tree the little boy who received our Random Act of Kindness was Hispanic and his parents at first were not understanding why a gift was being given to them...the language barrier of not being able to understand that they did not have to pay for the two toys for their son and it was a given by a stranger did not come across at first....that is where Kindness bridged the gap and made the language universal!!

STOP KONY ~ The movement starts now!

 Please Click here and watch how you can help!

Click on the above link to watch this moving video and find out how you can be part of the movement to STOP KONY!!

Give a Compliment!

There is a sad tendency in our world today for persons to cut one another down. Did you ever realize that it does not take very much  in the way of brainpower to make remarks that may wound another? Try the opposite of that. Try handing out compliments.   Gordon B. Hinckley