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.

Top Ten

Top Ten :  Things I've learned from my dad

1. Cussing does make you feel better sometimes.
2. The weather is beside the point.  If there is something to be done outside, just do it.  Wear more clothes if you need to.  What do you think rain slickers are for anyway?  Stop complaining and get to work.
3. Animals can be a whole lot better company than humans sometimes.
4. Sincere gratitude is never a bad idea.
5. Do it right the first time.  Hard work can make you really happy.
6. Stuff doesn't not make you happy.  More tack however can make work a lot more comfortable.  Spending a lot of money on the right thing is not frivolous.
7. Those little Dolly Madison apple pies really are good.
8. You can learn a lot by watching other professionals in your field very carefully.  Probably more by watching than by asking a million questions.
9. Forgiveness and understanding are powerful gifts.
10. Sometimes distance helps you see (and love) someone more clearly and compassionately.

I love you Dad.