Giving Joy To Jake

Day 10 – 11-26-10: The following video shows the joy our puppy “Jake” receives when we play with him…and we of course receive joy while giving it!

 

 

Day 11 – 11-27-10: My friend came over to pick out some music and themes for the DVD I made for her.  As I was showing her the movies…I was filled with joy knowing that she really loves them.  I had my every six weeks hair appointment today and tipped my hairdresser more than usual…every bit of joy helps – and of course I was filled with joy that my gray roots are gone again!

Joy…Joy…Joy

Day 8 – 11-24-10: My friend Dee and I were invited to a get together at the “The Pub” in Hyde Park.  I don’t usually go out on the most popular bar night of the year, but I had a great time.  There were quite a few people there I haven’t seen in a couple of years…back when I was single.  We then headed to “Tellers” and ran into a group of ladies that belong to some of the same organizations that we do through meetup.com I gave everyone a quick neck/shoulder rub and could feel their tension melting.  When you’re single and not in a relationship, usually the only time you get a massage is when you pay for one.  Touch is a basic human need!

Earlier that day I went to the grocery and the cashier was very unpleasant with me… not sure why…but instead of returning the negative energy – I was very nice to her.  The more that you practice this…the easier it gets!

Day 9 – 11-25-10: I had requested the family and friends that came to our house for Thanksgiving today, to be prepared to share some things that they were thankful for.  We wrote our thoughts down, folded them up and then we each picked one to read out loud, so that everyone could guess whose it was.  This brought joy to all of us!

Universal Love…Project Joy

Day 7 – 11-23-10: Today I gave my son a massage.  People love my massages…I have very strong hands and this is one way that I have always given joy to people.  I give them freely…so next time I see you…just ask and ye shall receive.  I also gave myself joy today by putting my christmas tree up.  I know it’s a little early…usually I wait until the day after Thanksgiving…but I had fun!

The last few years I have had time to focus on myself…who am I…what do I enjoy, etc.  I’ve read a lot of books, traveled extensively, and met new friends.  I made a list of affirmations that I will have available to read hopefully every day:

  • I prosper wherever I turn and I know that I deserve prosperity of all kinds
  • I know that I deserve Love and accept it now
  • I give out Love and it is returned to me multiplied
  • I attract only healthy relationships
  • When I believe in myself, so do others
  • I am my own unique self – special, creative and wonderful
  • I am at peace
  • My life is full of love, joy and freedom.
  • I open my heart and allow wonderful things to flow into my life.
  • My body heals quickly and easily

 

I’ve also made a list of what I believe and it will always be changing because life is change.  “Know Thyself” ~Socrates~

I believe…

  • In a higher power
  • To attain inner peace…you need to know yourself, what you believe, accept yourself (including flaws), be free from fear, and learn to control our thoughts
  • in miracles
  • in having gratitude for what you have
  • that healing ourselves is connected with healing others
  • that others treat us the way we treat ourselves and that we get what we think we deserve
  • its important to focus on others and build them up
  • its important to be non-judgmental and accept others and yourself
  • in nurturing the mind, body and spirit
  • that finding things we are good at and enjoy – increase confidence
  • its important to be aware and to be present in the moment (to see, not just look)
  • its important to listen to others
  • its important in relationships to state our needs/feelings; to have trust, communication, forgiveness and respect
  • each person can change the world for the better
  • its important to have friends/family (support system)(people to love and be loved by)
  • in generosity (time, gifts, knowledge)
  • being the best we can be is a life-long pursuit
  • in perseverance (for those things that matter to us)
  • life is neither black nor white – its every color in between
  • respect for the earth, oneself and others is important
  • in giving assistance and kindness wherever needed
  • in honesty and truthfulness
  • your actions reveal what you believe

Feel Good Ambassador

Day 5 – 11-21-10: Yesterday, I worked on my friend’s movie projects all day…and then my mother called and wanted me to come over to visit.  Although I usually see her at least once a week, I didn’t feel like it.  But I decided who better to spread some joy to than my own mother.  So, upon arrival I gave her a massage and we had a pleasant visit!  I don’t know if anyone’s like me…but sometimes it seems easier to spread joy to those outside of my immediate family.

Day 6 – 11-22-10: Had a great visit with my old boss this afternoon/evening.  We haven’t worked together in over four years, but have kept in touch at least once or twice a year.  She came out to my house and sat on the deck enjoying the unusually warm weather, followed with dinner out at the “Asian Paradise” restaurant in Mason.  We had some yummy Shrimp Pad Thai.  To pay for part of the bill I used by Groupon gift certificate…I love those!  She says I definitely emanated  joy and inspired her to call a friend that she never calls because that friend always makes the effort.  I love making people feel good and would like a job with the title “Feel Good Ambassador”.

Project Joy – Day 3 & 4

Day 3 – 11-19-10: Yesterday was a good day…I called an Aunt and a Cousin, whom I rarely speak to, unless there is a crisis.  They both asked right away if something was wrong and I explained that I was calling just to chat!  I phoned a friend that used to be my boss and made plans for her to come over next week to see my new house and visit.  She knows I’ve been looking for a job and e-mailed me later that day about an opportunity she heard about.  Spreading joy seems to spread backwards!  I also phoned one of my brothers and told him that I loved him…that I know I don’t tell him enough.  He said, “I read your post”, but also that he loves me!

I called the St. Vincent de Paul organization and the Freestore Food Bank and am waiting to hear back from them about volunteer opportunities.

This morning I drove to my friend’s house and let her watch the DVD I made of my old home movies/scanned photos, etc.  She loved it and wants me to do the same with hers.  I left with 13 VHS tapes that I’m converting to DVD and then making into mini movies.  It’s a paid job…but at a much discounted rate…so I believe she was filled with anticipation and joy thinking of the outcome.

 

Day 4 – 11-20-10: I called another cousin and invited she and her family over next weekend.  She is really wanting our extended family to connect more…it seems we get together mainly for weddings and funerals.  Last year I had a mini family reunion and it was great to be able to visit with family that I rarely see or have never met!

I’m busy working away on my friend’s movie projects.  As I watch their precious family memories, I feel closer to them and realize they’ve entrusted me with their most valuable material possessions!  The day is not over yet…so I’m sure more opportunities to spread joy will arise…

Baby Justin

My OCD tendencies are in full drive since I’ve discovered iMovie.  One of the results is a movie starring my grown son…when he was a baby.  After pouring over hours of footage, I’ve condensed a couple of movies…one being when he was a cute baby.  I’m sure many people have home movies that they never watch for good reasons…they’re too long and a bit boring.  If you’re one of those people and want a good deal…hire me!

I was limited as to which song I could choose as back-up music because when you upload to YouTube there are copyright infringement issues, but I still like the song.

I am so grateful that I was able to have a child…it’s something many may take for granted…but I believe it is a gift.  Although he’s been a handful…the joys and love are irreplaceable.  As a parent, I believe you learn so much about life, yourself and others!