tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19888780499872732072024-02-20T14:19:50.942-05:00Smiling, Laughing & Loving LifeSpreading Happiness as I Craft, Bake & Photograph My Way Through LifeJessica (aka Faeanne)http://www.blogger.com/profile/10044799535501329570noreply@blogger.comBlogger63125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988878049987273207.post-77659998286251725092012-11-09T13:41:00.001-05:002012-11-09T13:41:35.356-05:00Handed out smiles today<p>I found some individual mints at the dollar store today when I was shopping and just had to pick them up. They had smiley faces on one side & “Smile, Be Happy” on the other. They’re just like these:</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-j5AWgNG3xgs/UJ1OWcf_CMI/AAAAAAAAhOU/lrjjmjeyVTA/s1600-h/smiley%252520mints%25255B14%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="smiley mints" border="0" alt="smiley mints" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-05qspFe6t8w/UJ1OXTQkgrI/AAAAAAAAhOc/NkuD6nAS_vs/smiley%252520mints_thumb%25255B8%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="242" height="242"></a></p> <p>I gave them away to people inside & out of Walmart. Simply told them they needed a smile & to have a good day. Then I seen an elderly lady loading groceries into the trunk of her car by herself and helped her finish. I’m trying to be on the lookout for more RAOK opportunities that I can do. It’s hard some days- the rush of go-go-go life tries to control me. ;o) But I figure if I keep trying & make kindness a priority it’ll all balance out.</p> <p>Now to go work on some fun kindness for my family- dishes done & laundry going will be a big kindness to the hubs. And getting a surprise advent calendar for the kids done before Dec. 1st will be a kindness to them. (Last year was the first year I dropped the ball on the fun Christmas traditions I do & I want to make sure it doesn’t happen again this year!)</p> <p> <div style="padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: none; padding-top: 0px" id="scid:0767317B-992E-4b12-91E0-4F059A8CECA8:b719403a-476b-478e-af1b-c0b74c9f212f" class="wlWriterEditableSmartContent">Technorati Tags: <a href="http://technorati.com/tags/RAOK" rel="tag">RAOK</a>,<a href="http://technorati.com/tags/random+acts+of+kindness" rel="tag">random acts of kindness</a></div></p> Jessica (aka Faeanne)http://www.blogger.com/profile/10044799535501329570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988878049987273207.post-63904520371545202272012-11-03T13:41:00.001-04:002012-11-03T13:41:30.282-04:00Flowers for Random Strangers<p>Seeing a marked down bouquet of flowers at Kroger's the other day and I felt the need to just do a total random act of kindness again. So a few days late I celebrated a monthly holiday I’ve neglected for quite some time- GFTAS Day. No pics because it was a spur of the moment thing & I’m one of those weird people that don’t have the standard camera-equipped cell phone. But that’s ok- this puts the focus on the giving like it should be.</p> <p>I separated the bunch to be able to spread the joy out more. I seen a lady get out of the car next to me with her grandson outside the dollar store as I was leaving, so I decided she was my first “victim”. I left some pretty flowers (no idea what kind) on the windshield of her car. Then as I was leaving I seen an older woman getting in her vehicle. I quickly parked my van & knocked on her window (bet that was a surprise) and when she cracked her door I told her “this is for you” as I gave her a rose. Her face instantly lit up and she thanked me. </p> <p>Next stop on my errand list was Wal-Mart. When I was getting ready to go inside there was a lady loading her cartful of groceries in the back of her vehicle. While she was busy I laid a rose on the top of her cart and told her it was for her. Her demeanor instantly changed from on of drudgery to joy. She thanked me brightly and I wished her a good day. Her response was that she was already now.</p> <p>A drive through the grocery store parking lot revealed an elderly woman putting bags in her vehicle. I don’t know quite what she thought of being handed a rose from a stranger- I don’t think she got past the surprise before I was back in the van on the way again.</p> <p>Left with a small broken stemmed carnation I was stumped until I went through the drive-thru at my bank. While the teller inside was depositing my money I taped a RAOK from <a href="http://www.helpothers.org/" target="_blank">HelpOthers.com</a> onto the stem. When I retrieved my receipt I slyly put the flower in the carrier thing for the next banker to find.</p> <p> </p> <p>I forgot how much fun it was to celebrate this random kindness holiday created by a kind giving soul. I definitely want to do it more often!</p> <div style="padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: none; padding-top: 0px" id="scid:0767317B-992E-4b12-91E0-4F059A8CECA8:00cbe07e-333c-47ab-a9f8-4206c7727ad8" class="wlWriterEditableSmartContent">Technorati Tags: <a href="http://technorati.com/tags/RAOK" rel="tag">RAOK</a>,<a href="http://technorati.com/tags/random+acts+of+kindness" rel="tag">random acts of kindness</a>,<a href="http://technorati.com/tags/GFTAS+Day" rel="tag">GFTAS Day</a></div> Jessica (aka Faeanne)http://www.blogger.com/profile/10044799535501329570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988878049987273207.post-11086504342044897102012-11-01T14:40:00.001-04:002012-11-01T14:40:00.416-04:002012 Gratitude Challenge- 30 Days of Thankfulness<p>November = 30 Days of Thankfulness being shared. Last year I was inspired by an Attitude of Gratitude Challenge put forth by Kendra at <a href="http://www.meandmyinsanity.com/">My Insanity</a> for the month of November and while my blogging skills about it lapsed considerably- I enjoyed the focus it helped me put on being thankful and expressing it to others. So this year I’m going to once again do a daily tally of what I am thankful for in my life. Whether I can find another blog that’s hosting a similar challenge to join or if I go solo- you can bet I’ll be counting my blessings daily. I’ll even try and find the time to share them virtually- but no promises because life’s full of fun & crazies and needs to be enjoyed more than by just sitting in front of a computer screen.</p> <p>I think my personal challenge this time is to do more than virtually write & verbally express what I’m thankful for. I’m going to strive to show others in a more personal way that they are blessings in my life.</p> <p> </p> <blockquote> <p><font size="3"><font face="Lucida Handwriting"><font face="Lucida Bright"><strong>Day 1:</strong> I'm thankful for the journey of my life- it has made me the person I am today. All the trials & tribulations, joys & sorrows have taught me so many lessons. And the greatest one is that you should always focus on the good things- for there is always something to be thankful for every day of your life.</font> </font></font></p></blockquote> Jessica (aka Faeanne)http://www.blogger.com/profile/10044799535501329570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988878049987273207.post-35085053323010515172012-09-21T15:38:00.002-04:002012-09-21T15:38:12.687-04:00Home Sweet Home<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d2Tm6ST1ZUo/UFzCFA41qKI/AAAAAAAAhN4/3fDXabYZIWo/s1600/DSCN6861.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d2Tm6ST1ZUo/UFzCFA41qKI/AAAAAAAAhN4/3fDXabYZIWo/s320/DSCN6861.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Jessica (aka Faeanne)http://www.blogger.com/profile/10044799535501329570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988878049987273207.post-61605934955055791842012-07-01T07:30:00.000-04:002012-07-01T07:30:01.075-04:00Baby Buggy Cake<p>Here’s the baby shower cake I did for my SIL. Turned out real cute- though there was a few things (like usual) that if I would have changed if I would of had more time. I wish I would of taken a picture at home before travel. Unfortunately the heat & the new frosting recipe I used didn’t play well together. (Though the recipe was reportedly good in high temps.) When I got opened the cake box at the park I discovered the ruffles & border slid off the edge of the cake in a couple spots.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/--AYZonEha44/T--tca_5ufI/AAAAAAAAg0Y/dKNoXBr5HZY/s1600-h/DSCN6056%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="A baby buggy cake I made for my SIL's baby shower." border="0" alt="A baby buggy cake I made for my SIL's baby shower." src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-dkdEn3_V484/T--tcvoQ9nI/AAAAAAAAg0g/fvMyLefMU7I/DSCN6056_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="364" height="484"></a></p> <p>I have another cake to do next weekend- for a non-family member! It will be my first paid cake- though I’m just going to charge enough to cover my expenses. I’m trying to work towards making my hobby more into a small home business. But I need to do some serious work on my decorating skills before I feel comfortable doing cakes for strangers. I have a few goals & things to do before I take the full step. </p> Jessica (aka Faeanne)http://www.blogger.com/profile/10044799535501329570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988878049987273207.post-44303011302870709142012-06-25T09:44:00.001-04:002012-06-25T09:44:15.756-04:00Monday Ramblings<p>It’s a quiet Monday morning. Peaceful. </p> <p>It was a bit nippy this morning when I rode bikes with the Littles to their Summer Adventure Camp. But it’s nice getting out that early. I got my garden & flower bed watered. Eldest & his friend are still snoozing. At least that’s what I’m assuming- I haven’t heard any noise come from the room yet. The dog hasn’t even woke up yet. So it’s just me. And after a crazy week or so of work crap & the start of summer vacation- I like some just me time.</p> <p>I think I’m going to take my nook outside & sit at the free patio set our neighbor gave us this weekend. Read for a bit before it’s time to be a responsible grownup again. Yep- dishes, laundry, shower, dress clothes & such are all gonna have to wait. </p> Jessica (aka Faeanne)http://www.blogger.com/profile/10044799535501329570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988878049987273207.post-87849089297616549572012-06-20T14:57:00.001-04:002012-06-20T14:57:52.891-04:00Summer Bucket List Challenge<blockquote></blockquote> <p> </p> <p>I’m joining the Summer Bucket List Challenge at the Happy Family Movement. I’ve always admired all the summer lists I’ve seen posted all over Pinterest & Blog-land. It’s been one of those “I should do that” things, that never gets done. Not this summer!</p> <p>I’m *going* to do it! It doesn’t have to be perfect or cute or half as awesome-looking as all the ones I seen online. It just has to be *done*.</p> <p>If you want to join me & all the other happy family’s- check it out here:</p> <p><a title="http://thehappyfamilymovement.com/joyful-family-living-simple-ideas-for-happy-families/summer-bucket-list-challenge-2012/" href="http://thehappyfamilymovement.com/joyful-family-living-simple-ideas-for-happy-families/summer-bucket-list-challenge-2012/">http://thehappyfamilymovement.com/joyful-family-living-simple-ideas-for-happy-families/summer-bucket-list-challenge-2012/</a></p> <p>Now- I’m off to start my list. I’ll be back when I get it finished! </p> Jessica (aka Faeanne)http://www.blogger.com/profile/10044799535501329570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988878049987273207.post-64752181595447529852012-05-14T11:20:00.001-04:002012-06-15T10:24:00.450-04:00Mother’s Day 2012<p> </p> <p>Sweet Cards</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-MSWRc1Q3SuU/T7Eit_OhClI/AAAAAAAAgkM/_Y69IznG2VQ/s1600-h/Mothers%252520day%252520card%252520collage%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Mothers day card collage" border="0" alt="Mothers day card collage" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Q5Ju5gAbHf4/T7EiuEs7bLI/AAAAAAAAgkU/5RWiidAVu84/Mothers%252520day%252520card%252520collage_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="484" height="484"></a></p> <p>A fun card</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-QgNzZrQxwig/T7EiuU-UgFI/AAAAAAAAgk8/9drGpYR9k_8/s1600-h/Dylan%252527s%252520Mothers%252520Day%252520Card%252520Collage%25255B12%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Dylan's Mothers Day Card Collage" border="0" alt="Dylan's Mothers Day Card Collage" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-vVcXFB0rrF0/T7Eiu1Kak7I/AAAAAAAAglA/1x2kp5Rp5Do/Dylan%252527s%252520Mothers%252520Day%252520Card%252520Collage_thumb%25255B10%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="484" height="354"></a></p> <p>Simple Treasures</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-przGtf7OCiU/T7EivS4WlRI/AAAAAAAAgks/zxqbSc2nVRY/s1600-h/Mother%252527s%252520Day%252520Collage%25255B31%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Mother's Day Collage" border="0" alt="Mother's Day Collage" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-WZmS0va-v14/T7Eiv3dGxdI/AAAAAAAAgk0/dErd27oDgoE/Mother%252527s%252520Day%252520Collage_thumb%25255B29%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="483" height="486"></a></p> <p>Thanks to my fantastic hubs & wonderful boys I had an awesome M-day. I love my family!</p> Jessica (aka Faeanne)http://www.blogger.com/profile/10044799535501329570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988878049987273207.post-35897167762701061462012-03-09T14:44:00.001-05:002012-03-09T14:44:31.770-05:00Expenses up, Income down. Sigh.<p> </p> <p>So it looks like I have to tighten the ship around here. The financial one that is. Pirates have been spotted on the horizon and they’re after my gold.</p> <p>In plain english- my hubs called with some unsettling news. He only gets to work 2 days next week. He’s our main source of income. That is going to be a big blow to our budget. I do work, but my part-time job is supposed to be for extras like home improvement, adding to our savings, paying down debt & maybe a little bit of fun every now & then. It’s not enough to even come close to making up for what he’ll lose in his next paycheck. </p> <p>And of course this news comes AFTER I squeezed out the money for Eldest to take driver’s training. (Not a cheap decision.) And right after I get an estimate for how much the rest of Eldest’s dental care is going to cost. (Oral surgery is not cheap.) And this is in addition to the cost of the orthodontist’s costs. Oh- and our “rent” is going up next month too. </p> <p>It seems everything is on the rise & adding up- gas, food, expenses, bills- except our income! I know in my heart we’ll manage & make it through, but it doesn’t stop the worry, the stress & the bit of panic from welling up inside me. I’m going to have to combat it with smarts & frugality. The budget I started, but didn’t completely finish? That’s going to be trimmed & tightened even more and put into effect immediately. Any place I can drop stuff I’m going to have to. The only problem is- that’s hard to do when you don’t have much extra to start with!</p> <p>Well- enough complaining about finance for today. I should spend some of my time & energy with my finance binder to get a good idea of how this is going to affect us and what I can do to minimize the damage. I think some chocolate might help this be more bearable………….</p> Jessica (aka Faeanne)http://www.blogger.com/profile/10044799535501329570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988878049987273207.post-58746572248745595282012-02-27T12:36:00.001-05:002012-02-27T12:36:53.708-05:00Another angel for Heaven<p> </p> <p>It’s with tears in my eyes and a heavy heart that I type this. I’ve sat here most of the day feeling sad and wishing there was a way I could make things better for others. Sometimes I can't understand why life has to be so hard. A friend of ours lost his son yesterday. I still don’t understand how such a healthy, vibrant young man could be gone so quickly. We were all worried when we heard that he was found unconscious as he was walking to a friends house and the doctor’s couldn’t find out what was wrong. Our thoughts & prayers were with him & his family as we awaited news. Nothing conclusive ever came. Never in our thoughts did we imagine he wouldn’t make it, that they wouldn’t “fix” him- he was to young, to good of a kid, to full of LIFE. So it was an even greater shock when we heard the news when we got home last night. In the space of a week he went from bowling awesome in a tournament to his family having to make the decision to let him go because they son they knew & loved wasn’t here anymore. </p> <p>I can’t begin to imagine how his parents feel. How his brothers that he was so close to feel. What’s making it hit home even harder is he was friends with my oldest. He was about the age of my boy. I look at Eldest and I can’t even imagine my life without him. It’s just crazy to even contemplate. Yet that’s the reality a family has to face now.</p> <p>He was such a great kid. I remember before they moved the brothers would always stop at the house and talk and hang out. Everyone loved him & his brothers. Why does things like this have to happen to such good people?</p> <p>This has made me appreciate every moment I have with my boys & makes me want to hug them close every chance I can get. I don’t know how I would survive without them.</p> <p>All my love, prayers, thoughts & everything I have go out to the Sparh & Herman family and to all his friends. God Bless you Owyn- Heaven is lucky to have gained such an angel as you.</p> Jessica (aka Faeanne)http://www.blogger.com/profile/10044799535501329570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988878049987273207.post-71417867788568762762011-12-13T09:58:00.003-05:002011-12-13T09:58:46.327-05:00PIF 12 Gifts of ChristmasWhile doing my morning browsing of Facebook I stumbled upon a link to the most wonderful thing:<br />
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A Pay It Forward Christmas Project called "<a href="http://www.chicagonow.com/chain-links/2011/11/12-gifts-of-christmas/" target="_blank">The 12 Gifts of Christmas</a>." <br />
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Put the focus on the true meaning of Christmas this season- Giving. Not the giving of expensive toys & electronics or what-not. But the Giving that really counts- the giving of your time, of your thoughts, of your love, of yourself. Here is an opportunity for you to give the greatest gift of all this holiday season- the gift of Kindness.<br />
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Starting today & for all the remaining days till Christmas join me & many others as we gift RAOK's. It won't take hardly any time or money for you to participate. Every day has a great suggestion- but if it doesn't work for you- then do something that does. It does not matter what you do as long as you GIVE.<br />
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If you're on Facebook and want to join the event there- here's the link. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/315454065150001/" target="_blank">Facebook 12 Gifts of Christmas Event</a>. But you don't need to be on FB to do this- comment here and share your gifts that way! If you blog it I'd love to read it there too! I'll do my best to share my 12 Gifts of Christmas with you daily- but I might have to play catch-up on some days because life does tend to keep me busy. :o)<br />
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PS- There's a printable of the 12 Gifts of Christmas I found on the FB event page to help you remember. If you would like the link I can send it to you- I didn't want to post the picture here b/c it's not my creation. :o)<br />
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<br />Jessica (aka Faeanne)http://www.blogger.com/profile/10044799535501329570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988878049987273207.post-25698485526137959612011-12-09T08:51:00.000-05:002011-12-09T09:45:34.629-05:00Just call me HappyHappy. Smiling. Content.<br />
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That's what I am this morning. I feel peaceful inside and and a great amount of simple happiness radiating from within. <br />
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A Few Suspected Causes:<br />
<ol>
<li>Big, fluffy snowflakes.</li>
<li>Sweet little boys who make their mommy breakfast toast </li>
<li>News stories about Kindness <object classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=9,0,47,0" height="412" id="flashObj" width="420"><param name="movie" value="http://c.brightcove.com/services/viewer/federated_f9?isVid=1" />
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<li>Christmas music. <iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/NRGdmZa3CQ4" width="420"></iframe></li>
<li>Email from my husband simply b/c he wanted to tell me he loved me. *love*</li>
<li>Silly country songs on the radio <iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/BKZqGJONH68" width="420"></iframe></li>
<li>FB tags from friends (J- you're so sweet!)</li>
</ol>
Today is going to be a *Great* day. :o) <br />
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<br />Jessica (aka Faeanne)http://www.blogger.com/profile/10044799535501329570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988878049987273207.post-3515910473027637822011-12-09T08:46:00.000-05:002011-12-09T08:56:26.293-05:00Secret Santa Pays Off LayawaysThis is the news I love to see & read- uplifting stories about people doing good. A woman in the Grand Rapids, Michigan area paid off 3 Christmas layaways at a Kmart store for people she didn't know. And her kindness has spurred others- there now has been at least one other "copycat" of goodness. Love it. Just imagine the amount of happiness that has been spread and the possibility that so much more can be paid forward!<br />
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Here's the article & one of the video clips:<br />
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<a href="http://www.theblaze.com/stories/tis-the-season-secret-santas-pay-off-needy-families-layaway-bills-at-local-kmart/" target="_blank">Secret Santa pays off Christmas Lawaway bills for families </a><br />
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<a href="http://www.woodtv.com/dpp/news/local/grand_rapids/Secret-Santa-pays-off-layaway-balances">Secret Santa picks up 3 layaway bills: woodtv.com</a></div>
<br />Jessica (aka Faeanne)http://www.blogger.com/profile/10044799535501329570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988878049987273207.post-87162272158355057622011-12-05T09:57:00.001-05:002011-12-05T10:29:55.693-05:00The 4 Gift Rule & My Own Expanded VersionI seen this posted on FB by one of my best friends:<br />
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I've always believed this gift-giving rule is great. It keeps things simple and prevents over-buying (and spending), curbs the "gimmes" and helps not fill up your house with a bunch of over-priced, poorly-made, going-to-be-broken-or-forgotten-about-within-a-week junk. It helps us re-focus on what this holiday season really is about. Whether that is religious or spiritual beliefs or simply a focus on kindness, giving and family & friends. :o)<br />
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While I think this rule is great- I've never been able to go quite that simple. We do something along these lines- but I couldn't cut back to just 4 gifts. I guess have the expanded version of the 4 gift rule. LOL<br />
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<blockquote>
<ol>
<li><b>Something they Want</b> (usually a toy or video game)</li>
<li><b>Something they Need/can Wear</b> (Eldest always needs clothes since he grows so fast & the Littles always get a new shirt b/c ALL of their clothes are second-hand and I think they deserve something new at least once a year. Usually socks & undies show up too.)</li>
<li><b>Something to Read</b> (a new book)</li>
<li><b>Something to Play</b> (a board or card game)</li>
<li><b>Something to Do</b> (usually a jigsaw puzzle or a word search/puzzle type book)</li>
<li><b>Something to Create</b> (like a coloring book, drawing pad, art supplies)</li>
<li><b>Something to Watch</b> (a movie) This one isn't a must- but it usually is included b/c I find great deals on new or used DVD's and we love having family movie time. :o)</li>
</ol>
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Then of course there's the gifts Santa brings. He brings 1 or 2 gifts for each boy off their wishlist, depending on what they are. Momma had a talk with Santa a few years ago and asked him to cut back on his gifts and he was nice enough to agree. Mommy also is in contact with Santa each year to let him know what items are ok to bring and what ones she requests be vetoed. ;o)<br />
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Santa also takes the time to help fill the stockings. He decided to make Mom's Christmas morning a little less hectic by putting an orange in the toe, along with a small juice bottle & mini donuts for us to munch on while opening gifts. He's usually pretty thoughtful and sticks a new toothbrush in there as well. And he never forgets some cool fun-flavored chapstick for the boys either. If the boys were extra good that year then he puts in a small candy treat & small toy (like matchbox car or new earbuds) as well. Mom sometimes will sneak a few things in the stocking before Santa comes too- especially in Daddy's stocking.<br />
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Now I'm curious as to what all other parent's gift giving ideas/rules at
Christmas are. How do you control the craziness of this gift-giving
season frenzy? Or do you not even try? Please share with me in the
comments. No judgement here. :o) Just curious. While I admit I'm not
able to go as simple as this rule- our tree is nearly as over-loaded as
it once used to be years ago.Jessica (aka Faeanne)http://www.blogger.com/profile/10044799535501329570noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988878049987273207.post-64244562899530690962011-11-28T01:00:00.000-05:002011-11-28T01:00:01.025-05:00Positive Affirmation ChallengeSo- how did everyone do with last week's Positivity Challenge? Did it help clear your mind of negativity and replace it with a more peaceful & happier mindset? Did you spend less time leaking toxic comments and more time being thankful for the good things around you? I know I did and I hope the same for you. :o)<br />
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This week I want to build on last week's challenge. If simply refraining from saying negative things improves your life- what about taking it a step further? Turn your negative thoughts into positive affirmations.<br />
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Every time you find yourself thinking a negative thought about someone- I want you to stop yourself and reverse your thoughts. Find something positive about them instead- and then <b>share it</b>. Pay them a compliment. Tell them how much you appreciate them. Thank them for what they do for you. Go out of your way to put some positivity back in their day and out into the world. </blockquote>
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And if at first you're uncomfortable with verbally expressing nice things towards others- then simply smile at them. That simple action alone is worth a million words. :o)<br />
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When you find yourself seething about how your co-worker left you a mound of work- stop and remember how he stayed over an hour off-clock to help you get caught up last week and leave him a note thanking him for it. After you get home from a long day at work and notice your husband left a pile of dirty dishes in the sink- instead of yelling about the mess he made, tell him how great dinner was and how much you appreciate not having to cook tonight. The next time you find yourself thinking how rude the one lady at the PTO meeting is- compliment her on how pretty her necklace is instead.<br />
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There is ALWAYS something positive you can say or do in any situation. You just have to retrain your brain to look for the good instead of the bad. If you practice it daily, soon you won't even have to try- it will become habit. You'll automatically notice that the grumpy cashier is simply overwhelmed by the sudden rush and is trying her best- and that when you get to the counter and smile at her and tell her she's doing a great job her whole demeanor changes and she suddenly is able to handle her job better. And it's all because you took a moment's time to make your interaction a positive experience instead of a negative one. :o)Jessica (aka Faeanne)http://www.blogger.com/profile/10044799535501329570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988878049987273207.post-4700648276461591212011-11-24T06:00:00.000-05:002011-11-24T06:00:00.954-05:00Turkey, stuffing, rolls, pumpkin pie & load of other sweet goodies and family- what a great day it is going to be! I am off to spend the day with my parents, brother & sisters and all the nieces & nephews. It's going to be an extra special Thanksgiving this year- my sister that lives Arkansas is up & I haven't seen her in years! :o)<br />
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I hope you all get to enjoy some great food and have a relaxing & wonderful day with your loved ones.<br />
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(Hopefully we all can make it through today without eating so much that we can't fit in our pants tomorrow!) LOL <br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: x-large;">Happy Thanksgiving!</span></div>Jessica (aka Faeanne)http://www.blogger.com/profile/10044799535501329570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988878049987273207.post-49584360770696993172011-11-21T08:19:00.001-05:002011-11-21T09:47:23.304-05:00Positivity Challenge<h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}">
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<span style="font-size: small;">I'm starting this week off with a challenge for all of you- a Positivity Challenge if you will. <a data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/page.php?id=268993724398" href="https://www.facebook.com/Help0thers">HelpOthers</a> has once again inspired me with one of their FB posts. When I was doing my morning wake-up peruse of FB I can across this post of theirs:</span></div>
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Restrain from criticizing or saying anything negative to anyone this week.</span></span></blockquote>
I'm sure almost every one's initial response to that is a negative thought- that there's no way they could do that. Many people would claim that such a thing is impossible. And I believe that is due to the world we live in now- a place where freedom of speech is commonly mistaken for a license to say whatever bad comment you want to someone without restraint. But just because you <i>can</i> do or say something, <u>doesn't</u> mean you <i>should</i>. If more people simply stopped to filter what was coming out of their mouths we would see an immediate change in our world. If more people started focusing on the positive of those around them and less on the negative- our would would improve greatly.<br />
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So this is what I'm asking & challenging anyone who reads this to do:<br />
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For one week keep all negative thoughts to yourself. Bite your tongue when you feel foul words or statements trying to creep out of your mouth. Don't criticize- empathize. If you find yourself thinking something negative about someone- shift your thoughts to something positive instead. </div>
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If going a whole week seems like a lofty goal for you- then make it a daily goal. See if you can go just one day and I'm sure you'll surprise yourself. :o)<br />
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Oh- and this challenge does include spouses, significant others, children, in-laws & extended family as well. ;o) So- if you find yourself stressing over the fact that you now have 5 pounds of stuffing because Aunt Idna changed her mind about she was bringing to Thanksgiving dinner without consulting you. Or you overheard your MIL remarking to your husband how much better her pumpkin pie tastes than yours. Or when your little angels and their cousins turn into Tasmanian Devils and demolish the play room in 2 seconds flat- don't blow your top and spew all that negativity out at them. Instead push it back and notice how every one's having second & third helpings of Aunt Idna's stuff and not complaining for once that there's not enough to go around. Hear that your husband didn't agree with his mother, but tactfully changed the subject and then remember how at dessert you had to slap his hand when he tried to make off with a whole pie you made. As you're calling in the bulldozer to clean up all the toys- think about how well all the kids played together and for once none of them were glued to an electronic device or screen and that great picture you took of all the cousins building the tallest lego tower ever created. :o)Jessica (aka Faeanne)http://www.blogger.com/profile/10044799535501329570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988878049987273207.post-39067805004233468112011-11-20T06:00:00.000-05:002011-11-20T06:00:00.139-05:00Life Vest Inside - Kindness Boomerang - "One Day"<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/nwAYpLVyeFU?fs=1" width="480"></iframe><br />
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I discovered this great video on <a href="http://www.pifexperience.org/life-vest-inside-check-them-out-great-video-inside/">Pay It Forward Experience</a> from <a href="http://www.lifevestinside.com/">www.lifevestinside.com</a> showing how one simple kindness act spurs so many more.<br />
When you're kind to someone that kindness gets passed on & on and reaches many others.Jessica (aka Faeanne)http://www.blogger.com/profile/10044799535501329570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988878049987273207.post-86113738566680759122011-11-19T09:19:00.001-05:002011-11-19T10:07:27.769-05:00Rediscovering the "Giver's High"I think my favorite thing about doing RAOK's is the look of absolute happy surprise on the recipient's face. When you RAOK a stranger at first they are always wary of you- they don't know you, why are you walking up to them, why are are trying to talk to them. You know in their mind what they're thinking is "What does she want? I don't have time for this- I'm not buying anything." It's always with reluctance that they give you their attention. And to watch the suspicion on their face be replaced with pure shock & joy when they realize that you are giving them something simply out of kindness- wanting nothing in return is one of the best moments to experience ever. I wish everyone could feel the inner joy you get from doing RAOK's. It's like being on a natural buzz- a "Giver's High" that just lights you up from inside and you can't help but smile and spend the rest of the day in a great mood. <br />
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I rediscovered this awesome feeling Thursday thanks to a simple kindness suggestions posted on Facebook from <a href="http://www.helpothers.org/" target="_blank">Help Others</a>. When I was checking my FB in the morning I seen "Give a candy bar to a school crossing guard this morning, He stands at the corner everday with a smile. :) ---smileswithhope" And I realized- I can do that. It was such a small, simple thing and would only take me a moment's time. I actually had the candy bars since my Tank is selling some to earn money for his State Bowling<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}"> Tournament and where we live now there are 2 crossing guards I see every morning. We were running late & I had to work that morning- but I just felt that need to do it. So I grabbed 2 candy bars, a highlighter & some tape before I herded my Lil' Man to the van. I quickly scribbled a message with a smiley face on it made from the highlighter on 2 scrap papers and taped them to the candy bars. On my way to dropping my boy off at the bus stop (hoping we weren't going to miss it) I stopped at the first corner & rolled my window down motioning to the first crossing guard, He approached my van & I handed him the candy simply telling him to have a good day before continuing on. I did the same for the second guard- pulling up beside his vehicle. Seeing both their faces alight with smiles just made me feel so good inside. And I carried that feeling with me into work and for the rest of the day. It cost me only $2 and a few moments of my time to brighten someone elses day and my own as well. There's no pictures of it- no proof to share- because I did it for me & for the simple act of kindness- not for my blog.</span><br />
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<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}">I want that feeling- that inner happiness from giving- that knowledge that I made someone smile for no reason- more often. I let the excuses that life has gotten so crazy, that I've been so busy with kids & work & the new house, that we don't have any extra change to spare stop me from experiencing that feeling. And that's all they are-- excuses. They're not real valid reasons.- there's nothing physically stopping me. I just need to make the time, budget the change & make the effort to go out of my way to do extra kind things. And I'm going to start doing that more. When I read a simple RAOK idea- I'm going to DO it, not just save the idea for sometime when I have more time. And if I have time- I'll blog about it. I'd love to start posting a RAOK Idea to challenge everyone every day- whether it''s my own idea or one I discovered through one of my kindness blogs. But I'm not going to worry about it if I don't. Because it's passing on the kindness & making the world a better place that is most important, blogging about it is secondary. :o)</span>Jessica (aka Faeanne)http://www.blogger.com/profile/10044799535501329570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988878049987273207.post-88560685290562368722011-11-16T10:54:00.000-05:002011-11-18T09:01:53.800-05:00KarmaTube: Sounds of Kindness<a href="http://www.karmatube.org/videos.php?id=2227">KarmaTube: Sounds of Kindness</a><br />
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How awesome is this?!?!?! Born from a tragedy comes a great kindness sharing opportunity. I would be oh so honored if I ever came across something like this.<br />
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<a href="http://www.karmatube.org/"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/31943424?title=0&byline=0&portrait=0&color=ff0179" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="540"></iframe></a><br />
<a href="http://www.karmatube.org/">Video from </a><a href="http://www.karmatube.org/">KarmaTube</a><br />
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<br />Jessica (aka Faeanne)http://www.blogger.com/profile/10044799535501329570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988878049987273207.post-1581321045957802702011-11-16T10:39:00.001-05:002011-11-16T10:46:01.788-05:00Computer ProblemsSorry for the absence in blogging- it is due to a computer malfunction. :o/<br />
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Unfortunately my main desktop pc that houses all my life within it has decided it needs a break. Hopefully I'll have it fixed or get a replacement soon. Till then the blogging will only be done sporadically on my Mini Dell. (Boy do I miss my big pc & Windows Live Writer!)<br />
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BTW- I still have been daily thinking & doing my gratitude challenge even if I haven't been able to post them. :o) Jessica (aka Faeanne)http://www.blogger.com/profile/10044799535501329570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988878049987273207.post-24228708291012701212011-11-07T09:24:00.001-05:002011-11-07T09:24:13.591-05:00Attitude of Gratitude- Weekend Edition<p>On the weekends whatever time I’m not working are devoted to spending with my family. I try not to spend much time on the computer- so no Facebook, no blogging & limited Pinterest. ;o) But that doesn’t mean I’m not committed to my Gratitude Challenges for this month, so here’s my belated blogged things I was grateful for this weekend. </p> <p><u><strong>Day 4</strong></u></p> <p>Saturday I was thankful for my surroundings. I am blessed to live in this beautiful state of Michigan, in a wonderful community & now a great neighborhood. We got to enjoy a gorgeous Michigan fall day and see Mother Nature in her autumn glory. Hubs & I went for a walk in the neighborhood- letting Bell have a field day smelling the scents & playing in the leaf piles in the road. While my little salesman Tank, with his little brother as his helper, went door-to-door (within our sight) in our new neighborhood selling candy bars to earn money to go to the Michigan Youth State Bowling Tournament. Thanks to the gracious & wonderful new neighbors we have now he sold almost an entire box & was one very happy camper! </p> <p><u><strong>Day 5</strong></u></p> <p>Yesterday the thing I felt most grateful for was my awesome husband. I worked a long 10 hour shift on little sleep (my own fault) and there’s no way I could of made it through the day without his help. He brought me food to work (including a Frosty!), took care of the kids all day by himself- including taking them to do their make-up games for their bowling league, cleaned the house and cooked dinner. He even had my plate ready when I got home! I got to sit down right away and eat, then just relax & enjoy his company for what was left of the evening. </p> Jessica (aka Faeanne)http://www.blogger.com/profile/10044799535501329570noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988878049987273207.post-8923739516301525012011-11-04T12:37:00.001-04:002011-11-04T13:26:44.096-04:00Attitude of Gratitude Challenge- Day 3<p>Today I am feeling extremely grateful for having such awesome friends & family. I put out a last minute plea on Facebook asking for people to support my youngest Cub Scout & his pack by ordering popcorn. I was feeling bad for my little man- he only had 6 orders and we have to turn it in tomorrow morning- usually we fill his entire sheet & then some. I kind of felt bad asking like that on FB, especially when it seems like every time you turn around now-a-days there’s a kid asking you to buy this or that from a fundraiser. But this is truly one of the few fundraisers I’ve pushed every year since I know it’s the pack’s main source of funds that pay for the Cub Scout’s activities and if we’re lucky (which we have been the last few years) pays for the complete cost of all the boys to go to the Cub Scout Camp in the summer. </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/--BZ0jeqADeA/TrQgAYojW_I/AAAAAAAAdTc/4XVP0-uV6FI/s1600-h/SupportScoutingYardSign%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="SupportScoutingYardSign" border="0" alt="SupportScoutingYardSign" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/--A0GbxLxU-Q/TrQgAvbbijI/AAAAAAAAdTg/NS1BZ5LlNYA/SupportScoutingYardSign_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="148"></a> </p> <p>So- I swallowed my pride & the thought of how impersonal it seemed to ask in such a way and blatantly put it out there thinking maybe I’d get one or two more orders for my lil’ man and hoping that I wouldn’t annoy my FB friends too much by asking. And the response from my friends & family has humbled me. I’ve been able to add 4 more orders to his sheet- that’s helped us reach almost half a page! I know to many that might not seem to be much. But to me it means a lot. It’s not something they had to do- they could easily ignore a FB posting. But because they could help, they did out of the niceness in their hearts. That’s 4 more people willing to help me out, help Dante out, help out a wonderful group of men & women who are trying to help young boys become great men. That’s 4 people who are volunteering to spend their hard-earned money on popcorn, even in this tough economic times, because they care.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-FsvwN-YWtZg/TrQgA4z4mzI/AAAAAAAAdTs/FmS0729VGBs/s1600-h/Logan%252520Arrow%252520of%252520Light%252520Ceremony%2525205.31.11.11-2%25255B12%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="Dante & his Cub Scout Leader" border="0" alt="Dante & his Cub Scout Leader" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-nX3CaYK1mqc/TrQgBPn4JxI/AAAAAAAAdT0/r25wB-I25Aw/Logan%252520Arrow%252520of%252520Light%252520Ceremony%2525205.31.11.11-2_thumb%25255B10%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="186" height="246"></a><strong><font size="2">Dante & His Cub Scout Leader </font></strong></p> <p>I tell you- it’s little things like this that make my day. :o) I’m so grateful to all of you- those that ordered & those that couldn’t. You all are great people & I’m glad to have you in my life!</p> Jessica (aka Faeanne)http://www.blogger.com/profile/10044799535501329570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988878049987273207.post-68833498972665188672011-11-03T08:54:00.001-04:002011-11-03T08:54:41.763-04:00Attitude of Gratitude Challenge- Day 2<p>I am thankful for this sweet little boy who every school morning by climbs in bed and cuddles with me. It’s the absolute best way to wake up!</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-pBtZEjNF6W4/TrKPD9bxNyI/AAAAAAAAdTA/8jRNfdjjytY/s1600-h/100_3277%25255B11%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="100_3277" border="0" alt="100_3277" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-P0-N07aHooE/TrKPEKFMjCI/AAAAAAAAdTE/nps63lYsoas/100_3277_thumb%25255B9%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a></p> Jessica (aka Faeanne)http://www.blogger.com/profile/10044799535501329570noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1988878049987273207.post-78269437934618920682011-11-02T16:33:00.001-04:002011-11-02T16:33:01.932-04:00Attitude of Gratitude Challenge- Day 1<p>I am Thankful for a sweet & understanding husband that listens to me rant and supports me in whatever I want to do. :o)</p> Jessica (aka Faeanne)http://www.blogger.com/profile/10044799535501329570noreply@blogger.com0