29 day giving challenge

 I've read Cami Walker's book, "The 29 Gifts" many times now and taken on her challenge - giving a gift every day for 29 days straight - a few times.  Each time I'm amazed at how this simple act can bring so much healing and happiness to my life.  I felt like I was due for a spiritual/happiness tuneup, so I'm beginning again.

I'm on day 3 of this 29 day giving challenge.  Day one I gave the gift of time - a long lunch and chat and many hugs to a dear friend (really a gift to myself too).  It felt so good to connect with her. 

Day two, I bought a blue and brown striped photo album with a big baby blue bow, for a my brother and his wife, to celebrate their new grandson.  We are not close, and usually I am ok with that, but seeing the two of them holding this new little child, I felt my heart bursting with love and happiness for them.  The birth of a baby, the first grandchild, seemed so special to me, and I wanted to share my joy with them and send a gift.

Today (day 3) is a very funny gift.  Our family has a 6 month old puppy, and unfortunately he has to be home alone for a few hours every day while kids are at school and grown-ups are at work.  He has our other 2 dogs to keep him company, but today he went a little crazy and chewed up everything in sight.  I walked in and took a long look, let out a huge sigh, then saw his sweet face, sending me an apology with those big brown eyes.  Instead of disciplining him I gave him some love and attention.  And then I took him out for some needed exercise.  The rest of this afternoon is a gift to myself - I'm recovering from a surgery and haven't been resting enough, so for the next few hours I'm going to chill out.