Happiness Project Toolbox

Received this word of encouragement today: I love reading your insightful view of the things you see...very elouquent. You should write a book. A book of pictures with your thoughts underneath. You'd sell millions:)

God not only walks with us through hard times......he turns them into stepping stones that take us places we never could have gone without them.

Yesterday was a full day going to the Orthopedic, getting lab work done, blood drawn - yet in all of this my son says how he was enjoying the day...did I mention it was HIM that was getting all this medical work done.

Early morning Orthopedic appointment - think this is the 4th for my son's knee injury - surgery seems to be unavoidable.

Excited to get up and get out and get some miles in this morning - stepped outside, just to decide how to dress - the temps feel perfect! Temps in the mid-70's - that's Awesome for January!

Heard the dogs barking - an unusual bark, then thought someone was coming up the drive. Hear this LOUD sound as if a train derailed - I couldn't figure out where to start running. Two words - wait, make that three...Surround Sound and Teenagers :)

I am enjoying seeing what I posted a year from today from Abe@timehop.com - actually wish I could have a bound book with all my entries and photos. Would be especially interesting if you could see several years and what occurred on any given day...

Couldn't figure out why the frost didn't glisten this morning, got up earlier than yesterday - things were just Wintery dull. Then all of a sudden the sun rose above the horizon, and everything changed in an instant. What a beautiful sight!

Frigid cold 20° - took in 4.5-5 miles yesterday early morn and captured some AMAZING shots - can't wait for todays first early light, so I can go again!

Incorporating many different things into my day. Started an on-line, Read the Bible in a year "Youversion.com" - so far going very well.

Trials and tribulations and growing through the teenage years - it's the season of changes, of independance, of us not wanting to let so much of the rope out at one time...and them wanting to spread their wings to fly.

2011 highlights - enrolled in a DSLR class, joined local photography club, entered a photography showcase, keep up with the 365|11 photo a day challenge, and took on several photosessions. Can't wait to see where this year takes me...

Joined an on-line Photography 52| 2012 project - hoping to get inspired {Week 1 - here I go...}

"Don't be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army, for the battle is not yours but God's" Faith requires that I turn all my problems, fears, and anxieties - into the hand of the Lord, then STAND, don't run...because He is sufficient!

That moment 8 months ago when I realized I'd done the same thing, with the same results for the past 16 years needed changing - well, here I am watching things unfold better than I could even imagine...

...Keep God's word tucked close to your heart, you never know how much what He gave you in the morning will carry you through the rest of your day...an anchor, a life ring, a calm in the middle of a storm.

Photos have been taking off - senior sessions booked, wedding July 4th and a fun couples session coming up. Excited to see where this goes...

Spent the weekend at a women's retreat - love those moments during our small group gathering of sharing that you see someone's eyes light up - those light bulb moments that you know is a beginning of a new journey!

God pours His perfect love into my imperfect heart - ♥

“Where will our country find leaders with integrity, courage, strength—all the family values—in ten, twenty, or thirty years? The answer is that you are teaching them, loving them, and raising them right now.” — Barbara Bush

Got motivated and organized my computer photo file, years worth of photos with random organization, deleted duplicates - thought it was great, until I opened Adobe and files were broken. Recovery mode today - never delete - it's there for a purpose!

How I love the way God works! Just when we decide He's too complicated to comprehend. He draws stick pictures. -Beth Moore

Wisdom came first, before the deeds of old; before the world began...when there were no oceans... when there were no springs... before the mountains were settled into place...Wisdom was there when he set the heavens in place... -Prov. 8

My husband gave me a new camera for Christmas - taking on this 365 11 project - neat to see how my photos and interest are developing...

In my devotional today, found this so cute: The best way to keep children at home is to make home a pleasant atmosphere - and to let the air out of the tires.

Lord uphold Japan in Your right hand and let Your peace saturate them. May the favor of the Lord rest on them, protect them and hide them in the shadow of Your wings Lord. Thank You Lord that You give strength to the weary.

Shopping with my sister and niece - also a day we heard firetrucks and smelled smoke all day - got home and found there were over 24 fires in Oklahoma. National level - an 8.9 earthquake hit just outside Tokyo - sets in motion a huge tsunamis.

Overheard a little boy ask his Mother if the puppy was still going to be flat in Heaven or if she thought God would blow him back up.

One drop of water helps to swell the ocean; a spark of fire helps to give light to the world; a drop of rain can assist to quench a drought. None are too small, too feeble, too poor to be of service - not one.

Sometimes God rescues us from our storms and other times He walks with us through our storms.

Going to try a new project called 365 2011 - taking a photo every day to document the year. I'm excited!

While organizing last night, ran across a letter my Mom's friend sent her about not wanting to go to Heaven without her - included her prayers for her salvation. When God lays someone on your heart with His promise, it will come to pass.

Use to think it was my responsibility to "fix" things around me, now days I take a step back and spend a lot of time praying - sure like the out come a whole lot better.

We are "fixers" in the family...the problem solvers...the peace makers. God-sized problems don't fit human-sized hands. Sometimes, the hardest thing is to simply let go - and let God.

When you hold on to unforgiveness - it's like having a body strapped to your back and the more unforgiveness, the more bodies. [Beth Moore] That visual alone makes me laugh, never quite thought of unforgiveness in that manner - but so true.

Not a good day to decide to order flowers. My online order messed up, so spent over 1 1/2 - 2 hours on hold - Funniest thing was after talking to assitant, he closes by saying, "Happy Valentine's Day!" Hahaha!

When things get too hot, turn up the prayerconditionioning!

For a little fun on those bone-chilling below freezing days try this: Boil [Rolling boil] about 4" of water in the microwave and go throw it in the air outside...it turns to snow! We did it while it was snowing outside. Pretty cool!

Our son got up this morning, and his first conversation was, "Has the snow ended - is more coming, is this it.....?" Didn't know there was anyone left in this area that wanted more snow - well, he lives here! Must be part snowman!

Imagine if someone could invent a snow melt fiber that is ultra thin, feather-light, has reflective properties that melt snow on contact - comes on super wide 12' large rolls that could be applied to driveways, walkways and porches - I'd buy a roll!

Saw this and couldn't help but laugh - Snow is a four letter word that starts with S.

There is still a thick blanketing of snow on the ground here, but with temps in the 40's - today has a feel of Spring, especially so after a week of low digit temperatures. Can't remember being so happy to see snow melt!

One vehicle stuck after storm - wondered if perhaps we'd have two after morning drive. Knock on wood - must have pushed the "easy" button this morning - no challenges at this end. So grateful for that!

Isn't it amazing how God knows what we need - this snowfall will soak in slowly and resaturate the ground, sure enjoying the sound of rain too this morning - we've had quite a dry spell here. A slow soak in his Word has been wonderful too -

Relieved & grateful! Got phone call from my husband, he finally made it to work - said roads are very treacherous, solid sheet of ice, bumpy and 20 mph all the way in - cars off in ditches - glad he made it safely!

My husbands boss called wondering if he was here - told him no, he left for work..... a long time ago. Actually thought that was him calling to let me know he made it safely. He took his cell, but isn't answering. Roads still treacherous -

Found out this week that one uses and rely on a washing machine daily without much thought - that is until it stops draining and spinning.

I live in a small town where every front porch has a welcome mat, roots are planted and every Friday night it looks like the whole town heads towards the lights to warm a bench and cheer on the local heros.

...just found this so powerful today: I am...You are, saved because mercy prompted God's patience (Gen. 8:21-22) . God's patience with us means salvation...how truly thankful I am for God's patience and mercy and His gift of salvation.

In realizing doing the same thing was not accomplishing anything but the same endless well treaded path - I changed my direction....and, what do you know, I see a spark of change that I haven't seen in a good long time.

I use to think it was my job to always confront the rain|problems, to step in it, to let it saturate me to the bones - now, I know it is better to let it flow away - to simply watch it gather somewhere else and to not disrupt it’s natural flow.

Signed up to win an iPad from David Ramsey - laughed with his email that followed the next day: "If you've been saving your extra fun money to purchase an iPad, keep doing so because you didn't win yesterday's giveaway. Hahaha, love it!

‎...the landscape of my family has changed - empty chairs of loved ones that I miss so much, new chairs have been added, the panaramic view seems to always be changing - embrace every moment this holiday season - bless all that fill these chairs!

Stepped into the garage, only to find cows were in there - certainly not something you see everyday. They broke a fence down trying to get to the pear tree - guess the pears are ALWAYS better on the other side of the fence.

There's not a party, a congressman, a senator, etc. elected that will fix your life. YOU have to fix YOUR life. - Dave Ramsey [Financial Peace]

My Mom finishes her chemotherapy a week before Thanksgiving this year - looking forward to celebrating life with her this year - this is going to be a Thanksgiving I'll never forget - so grateful for her.

...today is History in the making, most important election in 50 years - how neat to be a part of that....Go Vote!!

...if you're searching for a ray of hope, visit an Oncologist waiting room at a hospital - it's there, and you don't have to search for it - it finds you right where you are!

Praying about opening our home to allow our son to tutor some of his classmates that are struggling in Algebra, Chemistry and Geometry - an opportunity to serve others for God's glory...

After being sick on and off this past week with a respitory infection - felt good to get in a mile outdoor walk|jog this morning.

I may not know what waits this week but I know the One who will be there every moment to give what our hearts need the most -

...sure have enjoyed getting those daily calls|photos from Steve's while he's in Baltimore on a business trip, can't wait to see him - but, he'll be right back in the air Friday. Lord, thank you for your hedge of protection.

Oh man, that was unexpected - a loud boom then shaking the whole house - ran around the property just to see if a plane crashed or something....aaaah, I so felt that!! 5.1 Earthquake today.

We turn to God for help when our foundations are shaking, only to learn that it is God who is shaking them. - Charles West (this was my post yesterday - seems more appropriate for today - Oklahoma was hit with a 5.1 earthquake)

Quick phone call between meetings from my husband - he had just met Michael Oher [NFL Left Tackle for Baltimore Ravens-movie Blindside] - was heading back out to watch Monday Night Football with Michael Oher - now, that's cool!

Credit Card cancelled again while husband went out of state for business trip - third time now - it's like we have those security ankle bracelets on and as soon as we get a few miles from home we trip some alarm - and crazy happens!

‎"If you want to feel rich count the things in your life that money can't buy".

‎- there is just something about watching the sun rise, breathin' in this beautiful crisp October morning, seeing wildlife cross your path that just makes you feel so good you stepped outside to enjoy it -

...I'm actually thinking about going for a jog or getting some biking miles in before Steve heads out for his flight - that's just an indication I've had way too much coffee this morning.

...took the opportunity to physically walk out 120 feet - that alone will cause you to pause and pray -

Joy Killer - another carload of teens in car roll over this week. One was ejected over 120 feet he's in critical condition. None were wearing seatbelts - young people need to see the dangers of the road, slow down and drive without distractions.

Woke up to the sad truth today that Facebook is a place where people you once loved and respected .....can't spell.

I.m.-ing the grandma and i reply to her with the acronym IDK.... she takes a few minutes to reply. and simply asks me, "What does IDK mean?" I tell her "i don't know", her response.... "well you wrote it..." hahahahah gotta love her! ♥ -B.Shultz

‎... watched the NFL games last night, couldn't help but notice the field of pink, the pink cleats, and the hot pink headbands and gloves as they raise awareness about breast cancer - so awesome seeing these athletes wear pink!

When you hold resentment toward another, you are bound to that person or condition by an emotional link that is stronger than steel. Forgiveness is the only way to dissolve that link and get free.-

- Grace is .....love towards someone you have a hard time with.

I sure would love to go to the door of my Grandpa & Grandma's old home - Man, how I loved those bank of windows, that gigantic Pecan tree in the backyard and that floor furnace that melted the soles off all my shoes and caught my sweaters on fire!

...burned 350 calories :) yep, I tore off labels with listed calories and set fire to the whole pile - actually, I rode the bike, first time in a while, feeling pretty good...

During a business meeting, my husband ran across these Chocolate Peanut Clusters, after several minutes of commenting how good these were - the lady that brought them said, "You ought to like them - these are the recipe your wife shared with me!"

It’s a run through the mud kind of affection that you just can’t wrap in a pretty box - and, it sure feels like we are where we are suppose to be - covered up to our eyeballs in mud and loving every moment of it!

Today the Lord put a friend on my heart - had no peace until I called her. So tickled to hear her say, "Man, I've been thinking about you so much - just wish I had called you first!" Think she wanted me to hang up, so she could hurry and call back.

Community Fish Fry - Oh, the memories shared under that Old Hackberry tree, I can only begin to imagine the works the Lord has done on these grounds the past 17 years. Blessed from the warm hospitality. What a blessed day!

Woke to find 4 teenagers had lost their lives in early morning car accident, with two in critical condition. Such tragic news for their families and our community.

Winter is an etching, spring a watercolor, summer an oil painting and autumn a mosaic of them all...

It somehow echoes, "...you mean something special to me."

Sometimes it simply means you now recognize those who always expected you to rearrange your life for them - truth is, you’ll be happier if you stop shuffling your life - It’s so much more refreshing when they can meet you where you already are.

As I left early this morning, it was like watching smoke rise from the water. There were also these rays of translucent smoke drifting between the tree’s caught in the sunlight …..beautifully filtered, even in the darkest shadowing.

...my Mom has a Morning Glory plant that hasn't bloomed all year long - it just gets fuller. A few days ago, she looked out and saw something on the bush, - it was a huge white and purple blossom. These blooms appeared the day her chemo started.

‎...loved that phone call to my Mom this morning, nothing like I expected after her chemo treatments...talk, talk, talk, talk, talk, talk, talk, with exclamations of, "I just feel so GREAT!" ...talk, talk, talk, talk, talk.

Met some amazing people today that simply inspired and moved me - in a most UNEXPECTED place of joy and bubbling optimism... these inspiring souls were at the Cancer Center getting chemotherapy treatments.

...family signed up for an upcoming 5-K fun jog to support the All-Sports-Association of some awesome young people - what a great way to show we care and are cheerin' 'em on!!

...just realized that the things that use to bother me, totally uprooting my day - now, hardly gets a second thought or a moment of pause. Now, that makes for a happy day!

‎...much accomplished during our family work day, chainsawing, mowing, limbs, and most importantly located those nasty little Yellow Jackets for a project with gasoline a little later - now, cool down and get ready for some Oklahoma football -

Traded our gas thirsty suv for a little friendlier sipper - taking a little adjustment as I enjoyed the ability to pack out the vehicle with anything and everything - upper 30 mph is sure sounding sweet though!

...faced pouring rain coming home after my Mom's surgery yesterday - noticed the animals were pairing up two by two, thinking perhaps I should be concerned.

Met my mom, sister and niece for a day of shopping - don't usually enjoy shopping but that was so FUN!! Really must do that again -

...celebrating Mimi Birthday with the family today - thanking God for all the wonderful memories, blessings and love that has been stitched into our family.

It was a race against those dark ominious clouds last night. All I can say is, "Don't get between a girl and her John Deere when there is grass to be mowed and clouds rollin' in." bawhaha! Whoo, felt good to get a good portion of that done!

‎...you know it's got to be funny when a room full of young people are laughing down the hall and you find yourself laughing just listening to them. Laughter is.......contagious, and it's one of the things you don't mind catching!

…I told myself, “you can’t win this battle wearing flip-flops and sippin’ Pink Lemonade from your lawn chair - it just isn’t that kind of day.” I need the full armor of God for what‘s ahead, from protective armor to steel-toed combat boots -

I know...sometimes it feels impossible. But, here's the good news: there's really no such thing for you - because all things are possible with Him. With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible. Matthew 19:26

‎...Worry is merely unplugging hope and faith. Prayer supercharges both - and allows you to believe beyond what seems possible. I am believing for not only that peace, but also hope and faith, that passes all understanding.

‎...today, just another opportunity to believe His word, to step out in faith, and to be reminded...He covers us with His wings.

So much accomplished, small office almost completed painting - few touch ups and it'll be on to the decorating! Ground soaking rain & Monkey Bread - what could be better :)

Wrote a new poem today, "Why does living have to include, Goodbyes"? I've tried to anchor those goodbyes so they can't take you farther than the safety of my hand. But, they somehow ALWAYS break loose - like a storm on the horizon...

‎...Keep God's word tucked close to your heart, you never know how much what He gave you in the morning will carry you through the rest of your day...an anchor, a life ring, a calm in the middle of a storm.

The phone rang with the news we had been dreading, my Moms cancer has returned. Ran across that new album by Rascal Flatts, "Here comes goodbye". Sometimes life feels like chapters of goodbyes - but as long as I have breath, I hold on to faith...

...beginning of a new school season, seeing kiddo's going to school for the first time, wasn't that yesterday for us? In a few month he'll be flashing his own drivers license, instead of a backpack...time sure flies! I need a, "slow down" button.

Whatevers down in the well always comes up in the bucket. Our lives eventually reveal what's inside our well....

...saw a photo of a remake of a small room into an office space - inspired me enough to clean the catch-all room out, a quick trip to Lowe's, and delighted to have finished the day getting on a good splash of paint.

When the world says, "Give up," hope whispers, "Try it one more time." - Nothing more powerful than when "hope" is whispered. Borrowed this...so true!

‎"...reach for the stars - even if you have to stand on a cactus." Ran across this and thought, what a great visual - can't be comfortable standing on a cactus, but somedays it is the only thing in sight if you want to keep on reaching...

...starting to understand some of the mixed emotions my Dad went thru when I started my journey of independence - it's so difficult to let them go so they can take flight...

So far I have not replaced my phone, but have been focusing on recharging my own personal battery.....my soul.

...while checking out at Wal-mart, my son goes up to an elderly gentleman in a powered wheelchair and asks if he can assist him with his groceries. The man said, "I would so much like that." "Thank you young man, I've never had help before."

‎...a little sad going thru the speed boat racing photo's from this weekend, and running across those up-close-and-personal ones where we saw the racer and his pit crew only a few hours before the deadly crash. Sad day -

We come to love not by finding a perfect person, but by learning to see an imperfect person perfectly. [- Sam Keen] I am so grateful that someone saw beyond all my imperfections to love me.

‎...over heard drivers ed teacher talking to another instructor on cell, "We need to get working on our September schedule for drivers ed, but make sure to schedule it around OU and OSU football games - it's like a national holiday down here."

‎...it was a bit interesting to arrive on Main Street before any other cars, watched a beautiful red glowing sunrise - and, slowly watched the spaces fill with cars and activities - it was like watchin' a symphony on a movie projector in slow motion-

...ran upon a recipe for homemade Starbucks Mocha Frappuchino - oh my awesome goodness so refreshing! This might become an addiction!

...our problems have a shelf life - I'd have to say, that's one thing I'm glad to know expires. God's unconditional love never perishes!

...truly wish I could put today in a bottle, and carry it around with me - open the lid when I find my day in need of a little inspiration. My day was enveloped with inspiration from the Chickasaw Summer Arts young people. Wow!

...where would we be if it wasn't for the grace of God -

...from a small town girl gone country - yesterday, felt a little like I forgot and squat with my spurs on kind of day! Learning it's better to tackle on my knees than squattin' in my spurs!

I discovered, quite by accident, how richly it sometimes pays to let the other person do the talking.

‎...washing loads and loads of white karate gi's, clorox lingers heavy in the air, not enough carpeting to dry them all, so decided to hang outdoors in the sun - a local rancher just came up to our door and asked, "who are you surrending to?" - lol

...most memorable childhood places - for me, both my grandparent's homes - one a country farm, the other in town, I still love honeysuckle scents caught in the wind, peaches straight from the tree, sandstone porches, and rides on old car hoods.

Amazed by my transformation since the last time I posted - excitedly good stuff!

...got in some weights|6 mi of biking before Survivor - feels good to get that in my day.

Yesterdays news of two friends getting a divorce - now, that will personally effect your happiness level.

It felt odd to have the ability to watch that party, and know it was me they were talking about. Thankfully, I'm not mad, upset or sad - the old me would have been. Helps to stop a moment, and consider the source...

I was miserable yesterday, knowing I wasn't where I was suppose to be. So not fond of change, even those changes that I know ultimately will be great - are challenging for me. Need a little push, as my family waits patiently for me -

My inspirational thought for the day to myself, "If they can...why can't I - that's just it - I can!" Why not...

Another photo session, an engagement session this time, by an old railway station with such interesting features, brick facade, weathered doors and a detached caboose - so looking forward to this opportunity!

Best day during Spring Break was the surprise visit from my sistah, niece, and their new Saint Bernard puppy "Spanky". Photo session around town, and a fab♥ haircut & style they gave me - the photo's just a reminder of a great day!

Surprise party for friends 18 year old daughter - so fun...made me feel young. The cake was pink, black & white - so pretty, and tasted even better!!

Feeling quite inspired lately - creative, more than I have been in months. The ideas just keep flowing. Motivates me to read what inspires others - sparks action and enthusiasm in me.

I am getting back into designing - picked out coordinating fabrics yesterday, forgotten how much I enjoy the entire process from picking the fabric to designing and the final finished piece.

Finding that doing for others, just small thoughtful things in my day - has allowed me to get my focus off of me and my struggles. Whatever I was facing seems to have faded into the distance - serving others is like "Miracle Grow" -

The rainstorms have begun early this morning, no chance of me melting - so, think I'll get out and splash in it. I'm thirsty anyways, so bring on the rain.

It's a gift we give ourselves when we forgive others. What a greater gift we give, if we have the ability to forgive ourselves, for we learn by making mistakes.

My creative spark has been re-ignited, seems to have blown in with the changing of the seasons. It's been awhile since I've felt creatively inspired.

Took my car to the automated car wash (long wait, long line) - as it was first sunny day in a long time. Got car stuck against rail, only windshield washed -my attitude sank. My son (15) said don't let this ruin your day, this happens to everyone -

Finally able to do some manual work (that doesn't completely knock my back out for days) after a back injury that occurred mid- December - this has been quite a frustrating challenge for me.

I ♥ early morning exercise and watching the sun come up! There is just something about watching the sun emerge and rise through the trees - and what a glorious sun it is! I feel great!

I am thankful for all the gifted individuals in my life, that inspire - through a poem, a song, photography, a word spoken, or other talents ministering something heartfelt good to me.

Got a sad phone call last night about our nephew. My friend at church sang, CeCe Winans song, "He doesn't know his worth, He's too strong to be weak, Show him mercy, He's not on his knees....yet." I'm hanging on the power of God's mercy for him!

Spent the day working myself up into a ruffle with just thinking about the company dinner, much anxiety - all the normal issues of conversation. Came so close to backing out even after we got in the car. Glad I stayed the course - great evening.

Looked out my window this morning and saw that glorious sunrise that looked as if a broad brush had swiped a big bold streak of Crimson and Scarlet across the Eastern sky - my husband said, "Looks like a storms a coming!

When I find something good or useful, I like to share it. I ran across by accident a blog called Heart to Heart with Holley, Out of INsecurity - (21 day challenge). We are presently on day 6. http://blog.dayspring.com/2010/02/out-of-insecurity.

Injured my shoulder, neck and lower back mid December, it's now been 2 days that my shoulder and neck feel close to normal. That feels so good! Still problems and stiffness with lower back - but, being patient and taking care -

Realizing that I am knitted together with others of like mind, sharing the same things in my life, be it our joys, triumps or heartaches - and then being able to recognizing what a beautiful tapistry we are in the making!

I enjoy reading others posts... that alone is motivational, a load lightener, and a little ray of sunshine for the day!

Today, I called my husband at work and told him how much he means to me and how much I appreciate all he does, for his love, friendship, how he pours so many good thing into my life. A good man is worthy of praise - something, I hope I never forget.

Today when I looked in the mirror, it was not my face that I saw - but, the face of my Mother.

I am making conscience opportunities to feed myself and others in my life with words that brings life and encouragement - taking care of not only what I absorb, but what I pour into others, especially when I am hurt or disagree.

I'm seeing big results in my one on one communication with others - filling my time with reading "How to Win Friends and Influence People" - a dramatic, more thoughtful person rising,,,results of a back injury that turned into an unexpected blessing!

Happiness is discovering quite by accident, how richly it sometimes pays to let the other person do the majority of the talking. Learning to be a better listener - allowing others to talk about their life, has greater rewards than me speaking.

I have wondered what effect it would have if in those moment we want to lash out at someone, if we chose to partake in a random act of kindness instead. To press on through our emotions, and do something unexpectedly kind for them.

Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around.

Wish I could say that didn't bother me, but it did... Long time since I've felt like this - but, guess a little rain is only to be expected,,,doesn't mean I like it, sure glad sun sets, and rises to new beginnings!

...while looking out the window at all our downed tree's, my husband commented that it wasn't any harder than eating an elephant (should have seen the look on my face) - one bite at a time, he replies. That just made me laugh - now, I can do that!

It's been a little over a year that my Mother was diagnosed with breast cancer - spending the day with her today, bringing belated Valentine's and just counting every moment a blessing to spend with her.

It has been my habit for years, that when I am first introduced to a person that I say something to the effect that, "Everyone should have a nametag." In short, not taking the real effort to learn. Today, I see the benefits of making the effort.

Started a new book today, How to Win Friends and Influence People. On the chapter, "If you want to gather honey, don't kick over the beehive" - I am already learning that criticism, even in small doses brings out the swarm of bee's not the honey.

Last night, I heard my husband use the words, "We're operating in survival mode" when sharing with family about work situation. Much has transpired the last few months, and changes are a certainty. Peaceful - knowing we serve an unchanging God.

Never take someone for granted. Hold every person close to your heart, because one day you may wake up and realize that you've lost a diamond while you were too busy collecting stones...

Isn't it amazing how the presence of sunshine will totally lift a persons spirits? Bring on the sun -

Just assisted in what felt like an episode of Survivor with all this chainsawing and loading the truck - very productive day...just glad I didn't have to wear a swim suit =)

My husband surprised me with Bedre Chocolates - they are so good. I've decided to go back and give others some of these wonderful Bedre Chocolates. Good things are better shared - it's a double blessing!

Good workout - 34 minutes on exercise bike - burning 365 calories!! Feeling good =)

Some mountains are no more than a grain of sand and unworthy of being called a mountain by any standard - taking charge of some of these grains today.

Finished reading, The Fine Art of Small Talk by Debra Fine. Discovered mistakes that I was doing consistantly while communicating with others - now, that I know and am aware, can successfully focus on changing.

Even with 200+ tree's damaged on the property, feeling quite blessed with all these young energetic friends/neighbors with 4-wheelers should we find we need extra helpers.

A teen fell into my husband at the basketball game last night, it tickled her so much that she couldn't stop laughing - her laugh was so contagious, it set off a chain-reaction in our section. Grateful for those moments that make us laugh!

Such a great feeling to be able to get back on schedule with my exercise bike after a long week of ice and snow storms, loss of electric, and coming down with a bug for a week - just feels so good to feel good!

...remember a time when I didn't enjoy watching sports - now, I enjoy anything between school sports to the Superbowl, thoroughly enjoy cheering 'em on and tossing popcorn everywhere.

Superbowl Sunday - what's not to like about that! Food, family, the game - and how about those memorable commercials!

Such a productive day! We're learning all kinds of interesting trivia about Oklahoma for our son's Academic Meet on Tuesday. Now, just 30 more chapters of studying to go before the weekend winds down - sure glad learning can be so much fun together!!

This will preach, I saw it scrolling on here and I can't stop thinking about it, especially after the devistating ice storm that damaged so many of our old tree's. Best time to plant an Oak - 25 years ago, Second best: today!!

...looking at some unidentified shinning object just outside my window, it's round, glowing, and warm - whatever it is, I like it!! Can you tell it's been days since the sun has warmed us?

There is still a lot of storm damage, downed power lines and tree's. Heard school was in session. Wondered if we could even make it out of our long drive - we did! Seeing all those familiar faces just made us smile after this long week of storms!

Our electric returned after being without it for 3 days - so grateful for hot showers, shampoo, lights, the ability to wash clothes and dishes. Still 2" of ice on ground, 7 " of snow - but going to try and make it out today.

...woke this morning knowing we will rise above all of this storm damage, one day at a time - I will not focus on what was lost, but what still remains. Thank you Lord for that peace that passes all understanding...

We are surrounded by old Oak & Pecan Tree's - major ice storm came raining in. Last night I wept, as I heard one tree or limb after another crack and fall (100's) - a sound I will not soon forget. Today is a new day, a new beginning...

A major ice storm hit Oklahoma, major tree damage here - I'm grateful for insulated coveralls, my son's out-grown hunting boots, ugly stocking hats, a generator, and a good sense of humor! Thank you Lord for your protection

Major ice storm is trickling into our state as I type, powerlines, trees, automobiles starting to accumulate with ice - at the moment very grateful to have electric and a generator just in case power is lost.

Love your flaws cause IMPERFECT is the new perfect.

(pt. 2) end of our day yesterday - that has left us all in awe of what God can do to change a situation. Celebrating my Birthday officially this weekend - might have to incorporate a few snowballs,,,or ice skating, ...Big Storm Coming!

I am laughing on the inside, as I got sick early afternoon on my Birthday, and am recuperating today - but, honestly feel blessed, loved, and so very happy! Received a phone call to an answer to prayer for a young person in our life at the end of our

Re-connected with a friend of mine, my Maid-of-Honor in my wedding. I haven't seen her in over 13 year's, her oldest daughter married this year - I can't hardly believe it...she was 6. Cherish the moments, they have a tendency to sneek up on you!

What exciting games from beginning to end - the boys won 1st place in the Big 8 Jr. Basketball Conference. Whoo - I am still spinning from that explosive, energy packed game! Proud of them all -

Trying to take advantage of small window before the Big 8 Jr. Basketball Conference - rode bike 8 miles, burned 200 calories!

This is an inspirational youtube short clip, perhaps it will motivate you, in the least it will bring out a smile. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HU6u-TKxrEA

12 miles on stationary bike, 442 cal's burned, great motivational music, 2-8oz. glasses of H20 = a journey to a better me!

During my Bible study, I realized during my shoulder/neck injury that I had swaped pain for anger. I see now, how running into me wasn't overly pleasant these past 30 days. Lesson learned, next time I will process it before God.

...wasn't quite prepared for that phone call, but I've grown to realize God can do all things...change a situation, establish hope, bring restoration - nothing is too difficult for our mighty God! Praying about our family being a mentor for a teen -

Was just invited to an accountability group through facebook - shared this Happines Project Toolbox with the group as it has been a great motivator for keeping me on track - too good to keep to myself! Play on!

Just completed 20 minutes, burning 290 calories on the exercise bike - feels good to get that behind me early. Went to Big 8 basketball conferences last night - son's team will advance! Great game!

Got my Bible study in early this morning. ML day today - enjoying day off with my son. Big 8 Conferences this week - meeting my husband at his work and then off to the game, hope the guys do a fantastic job!!

Worked out on the bike 30 minutes, 10 miles and burned 350 calories - Yeah me!! Also, drank 2 8 oz. of water - I feel good!!

A 4.0 earthquake hit Midwest City, Oklahoma City today - we're use to tornado's not earthquakes! Watching Haiti - and all the devistation there - very humbling. Lord, bring aide and care to them.

Today, I am going to challenge myself to go thru my old sweats and replace them with something cute - comfort does not need to look frumpy - if you look good, you feel good!

Some days you just get up KNOWING it's going to be a good day - that's what today feels like. I'm running with it for all its worth! Let the day unfold -

While cleaning the office yesterday, I ran across Carnagie's book, The Quick and Easy Way to Effective Speaking. It just caught my eye - so here I am today - reading it. Imagine, if I can conquer this fear!

pt. 2: (which has been lost somewhere in transit - snow storm). Found out this morning that the girl I've been communicating with has also been engaged in Dunster. The artist's son proposed ♥ Another connection - that just made my day!

...Stephen and I were engaged in Dunster, England 20 years ago. We stumbled upon a local artist who had painted a replica of the town square (among his many works), we recently ordered a snow scene of this same town square - (which has been lost som.

Went to our first Thunder Basketball game, and had the opportunity to invite a friend for our son. Such great fun - must do again! Controlled my eating, just drank a soda, and chose tator tot's instead of a full meal afterwards - aah willpower!

Already accomplished so much today - more than a typical Saturday, got in 30 minutes spinning, burned 279 calories, completing laundry, ready my daily bible study in Esther, face mask, now shower, and then onto master bedroom for a little touch up.

...son rollin' in all bubbly from all-night lock-in, their karate demo team performed @ 4:30 a.m. - he said it was the best performance to date. He is a great motivator for me! Rode my exercise bike for 30 min/279 cal./8 miles. Drinking H20.

So excited to start this journey in the Happiness Project - what a great way to embark on this New Year to seek, actively pursue happiness thoughtfully. Enjoyed watching the College Alabama vs. Texas title game tonight - while riding the bike.