Every Day Joy

Day 437 - Music

2011-02-17T17:57:00.000-05:00

Music gets me through. Through difficult times, bad moods or a chore I simply dread. Today was no different. My in-laws are visiting this weekend and there was so much to do. I've had a sick kid home for over a week and so many chores had been pushed to the wayside. Just turn up the music and chores are almost a joy to complete. Almost. (At least there was joy in the music!)

Day 436 - Retro Lunch Boxes

2011-02-16T14:12:00.000-05:00

I was in a store today that had retro lunch boxes. The metal ones with stripes and plaids and polka dots and tv shows and music groups and cartoon characters. It brought be back. I almost bought one. I should have bought one. Because having those memories flood back was fun. Such a simple little item making such an impact. Maybe I'll go back and get one. Because we all deserve a little retro joy!

Day 435 - Field Trip

2011-02-15T17:49:00.000-05:00

Field Trip! I love accompanying my kids on their school field trips. Today we saw Sleeping Beauty ballet. Sure the kids were a little bored - especially my boys. But there was so much to talk about on the way home. The costumes. The special effects. Who fell asleep. It was my youngest son's first field trip. So he didn't care that it was boring. He was just glad to feel like a big kid, hanging with his friends, eating lunch outside. A fun trip and a joy for me to witness.

Day 434 - Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T21:46:00.000-05:00

Valentine's Day isn't just for boyfriends and girlfriends and husbands and wives. It's for me and my kids, too. I had so much fun sneaking little boxes of candy with heart shaped wrapping paper where they would find them. And they had so much fun receiving and sending Valentines at school today. Sweet reminders of how much joy we all bring each other.

Day 433 - Date Day

2011-02-13T16:05:00.000-05:00

We don't have date nights (and a good thing, too, 'cause I'm not much of a night person). We have date days. And today we celebrated Valentine's with a little lunch, a little shopping. It's nice to get out and have adult conversation and dream a little together. Some early joy in an early Valentine's date day!

Day 432 - Online Errands

2011-02-12T19:17:00.000-05:00

I kicked out a bunch of errands today. All online. Banking. Shopping. Letter writing. Sometimes my dinosaur of a computer annoys the heck out of me. But today? He was my best friend. I can't believe how productive I was today. You name it. I got it done! Now that's joy!

Day 431 - Groupon

2011-02-11T17:12:00.001-05:00

I've just discovered this site and saved a boatload of money on an attraction near us that I knew my in-laws would be interested in. Tickets that were typically 7 dollars were only one dollar each. What would normally cost 49 dollars only cost a mere 7 bucks. Now that's a little added joy to my wallet!

Day 430 - Angel Food Cake

2011-02-10T23:14:00.001-05:00

My sweet cravings typically include chocolate, coca-cola and ice cream. I'm not a big candy, cookie and cake person. And I rarely choose to enjoy angel food cake. But tonight I had a luscious piece, complete with fresh strawberries. It was simply divine. Who knew? Angel food cake could taste of joy.

Day 429 - Yoga

2011-02-09T14:10:00.000-05:00

I haven't lost the weight I wanted to. And I honestly thought yoga would be more helpful in that area. Maybe I'm expecting too much from one exercise practice. But I keep plugging along. I've kept at it longer than any other exercise regimen. I'm not sure why. What I do know is that yoga makes me feel so good. Yoga is joy, in my opinion.

Day 428 - Good Books

2011-02-08T22:43:00.001-05:00

A good read. I crave a good read once in a while. Sometime to immerse myself in. I've found it with The Book Thief. Fascinating story. Interesting story-telling. It's one I look forward to finding time for. And while the subject matter certainly isn't "joyful" --- looking forward to snuggling on the couch, getting lost in the story brings a little joy to my day.

Day 427 - Modern Medicine

2011-02-07T22:25:00.000-05:00

I love Chinese medicine. I love how natural and organic it is. I love the miracles it seems to create - non-invasive, simple, pure. But sometimes, modern medicine needs to step in. My son has been struggling with high fevers and what we thought was an ear infection. We were doing all the right things but his fever had been in the 103-104 range for 5 days now. It was time to try something else. And lo and behold, after two doses of antibiotics, his temperature is normal. Overall, I think we, as a culture, overdo antibiotics. But when you use them when you're supposed to? Joy!

Day 426 - Secretariat

2011-02-06T19:46:00.001-05:00

No news here that I'm a big Disney fan. I'll watch any movie they produce. Secretariat was no exception. We watched it today, cuddled on the couch, with popcorn and drinks and enjoyed every minute. I love how Disney creates movies both kids and parents can enjoy together. And I loved the story of this amazing horse. My parents owned a race horse once, and I never witnessed mistreatment of the animals. I did, however, witness the pure joy that horses seem to feel, being allowed to stretch their legs and move as fast as they can. Secretariat seemed to embody that joy. Plain and simple.

Day 425 - Stat Counter

2011-02-05T11:12:00.000-05:00

I wish I were more timely in publishing my daily joy. And I've explained before how I carry a little notebook with me to jot down the joy of the day so I don't forget. I hate it that I haven't made the time to regularly utilize this blog - both for joy posting and for exploring those few who check in or have a similar blog mission. I will try to do better. I truly will. But for now, for today, when I'm a little discouraged by the lack of interest in my humble blog - Stat Counter shines a little joy. It says that, yes, indeed, people are peeking in. Not many. But a few. Making it worth it to me to continue.

Day 424 - Turtles

2011-02-04T13:35:00.000-05:00

Turtles. Simply turtles. You know when someone laughs and then, even though you don't get the joke, you laugh too? Today was one of those days. Just the mere mention of them sent my youngest into a fit of giggles. So today's joy is brought to you by turtles.

Day 423 - Alaskan Go Fish

2011-02-03T17:12:00.000-05:00

My mother-in-law buys the kids the craziest and best gifts sometimes. Last summer they went on an Alaskan cruise and bought the boys a card game - Alaskan Go-Fish. My oldest son is home sick today and he wanted to play. Pretty soon we were playing the best out of 5, the best out of 7, the best out of 15. Yes, 15 games asking each other, "Do you have any Pink Salmon? Do you have any Brook Trout?" Hilarious and joy!

Day 422 - Hot Chocolate

2011-02-02T16:32:00.001-05:00

Such a simple, winter drink but brings back such good memories of snowy afternoons of my childhood. I no longer live in the snow (thank goodness!) but that doesn't mean I can't share my love of hot chocolate with my kids. Today was a rainy and bitterly cold day. Hot chocolate and whipped cream to the rescue! Chocolate joy in a cup!

Day 421 - Pathwords

2011-02-01T12:02:00.000-05:00

I love this Facebook/Zynga game. Each round is five minutes long and the time just flies. I'm a good player but not the best player....yet. ;) Practice makes perfect, right? It's a pastime that exercises parts of my brain and allows other parts to relax. And a balanced brain brings me joy.

Day 420 - Hint Water

2011-01-31T15:03:00.000-05:00

I have been craving this water and I hate how hard it is to purchase in bulk. I probably should just go to Amazon and try to get it delivered. I could drink this stuff all day long. And I'm trying so hard to stay away from the sugary cokes and sweet teas I succumb to all day long. I found one in the back of the refrigerator just a few moments ago and, I mean it, JOY. Truly. It's like tasting joy.

Day 419 - A Fresh Coat of Paint

2011-01-30T21:16:00.001-05:00

It's amazing to me what a fresh coat of paint can do to change the look of your home. We've been talking about painting the boys' bedroom and bath for some time now. And we're finally doing it. Or should I say, my husband is doing it and I'm prepping, cleaning up after and keeping the kids out of his hair. What a difference it has made! The bath is a sandy beach color that fits their seaside decor so perfectly. And the bedroom is shaping up with a gorgeous denim blue color to start. Their bedroom is going to be three colors; the blue, some of the sandy brown and a stripe of red. We'll be finishing next weekend but already it looks amazing! A color boost of joy!

Day 418 - Library

2011-01-29T19:51:00.001-05:00

I love our library. I love thumbing through the stacks. I love cozy-ing up to the fireplace (our library has a fireplace!) and sifting through my selections. I especially love it when I can come here alone and putter around without children in tow. Today's hour in the library was simple, pure, absolute joy. (Thanks, husband!)

Day 417 - Berry Pie

2011-01-28T14:18:00.000-05:00

I'm suprising my family tonight with a berry pie. They've been requesting cherry pie but I had fresh blueberries leftover, so I snuck those in, too. And because I'm hopeless with pie crust, I made a strusel topping, instead. It smells so delicious in this house right now. I can't wait to dig in. A little joy for my family and certainly joy in making this yummy dessert!

Day 416 - Aveda Foot Cream

2011-01-27T17:02:00.001-05:00

To continue an Aveda theme....I love their foot cream. A little pricey, yes. But does it work? Absolutely! I'm not very good at remembering to use it regularly. Since Christmas, I've make good progress, applying it about 3 times a week at night before bed. And what a difference it's made! No cracks. No snags. Just smooth, soft feet. This is worth continuing. Joy in foot cream? You'd better believe it!

Day 415 - Aveda Shampure

2011-01-26T13:34:00.000-05:00

I should be a spokesperson for Aveda. I've used their products since I was a teen - when they were first introduced. I was a competitive swimmer at the time and their hair products kept my hair shiny and healthy, despite being submerged in chlorine for 3-4 hours a day. When I would get my hair cut the stylist never believed that I was a swimmer. But I was. And Aveda shampoos and conditioners are what kept my swimming secret. Today, I adore the Shampure line. Whenever I take a break from them (which I did recently) I come crawling back to Shampure. Thank you Aveda, for a little hair healthy joy!

Day 414 - Snail Mail

2011-01-25T12:02:00.000-05:00

I sure love receiving snail mail but I love sending snail mail almost as much. Today, I was on a roll. I sent two birthday cards, a note to my sister, a magazine article to a friend and a silly card for a blogging buddy. I had intended to just sit down and send the birthday cards, as one was long overdue. But then I remembered this silly card I had and I knew just the person to send it to. It snowballed from there and before I knew it, I was putting stamps on five pieces of snail mail. It's so much fun to receive. And a joy to send!

Day 413 - Scented Candles

2011-01-24T19:52:00.000-05:00

I love to cook but sometimes I don't like lingering cooking smells. That's where my scented candles come out to play. I'm pretty picky about my scented candles, though. They can't be too flowery and I'm not fond of cinnamon or fruit smells. I typically stick with the clean scents of fresh laundry or the sea. Sometimes I allow vanilla to sneak in. Tonight, after dinner, I wanted a fresh, clean start for the day tomorrow. I scrubbed the kitchen and then lit my favorite candle that reminds me of the beach. Ahhhhh. Scented joy. I feel warmer already.

Day 412 - Reinventing Leftovers

2011-01-23T19:48:00.000-05:00

We had a luscious beef stew on Saturday. With tons leftover. I couldn't stomach another helping of beef stew. What to do? Reinvent my leftovers. I added more vegetables, more beef stock and a little flour to thicken the sauce. Then I topped it with puffy pastry. Voila! Beef pot pie. Saute a little bok choy and we had ourselves another winter hearty meal. With leftovers. See? There is joy in having leftovers!

Day 411 - Cardinals

2011-01-22T11:43:00.000-05:00

Cardinals are such a beautiful bird. Especially in winter when their brillant color is so striking against the dull palette of winter. I cheat by stocking my bird feeder with cardinal friendly food. I just love looking out my bedroom window and watching them flock to eat. They dart back and forth from trees to feeder. A dizzy array of color on this dull, winter morning. And a moment of joy just watching them.

Day 410 - Walks With My Dog

2011-01-21T10:32:00.000-05:00

I just love a solitary walk with my dog. Sure, some days I try to find every excuse in the book not to take him for his walk. And some days my excuses win. But not this morning. And it was so chilly and so still and quiet that I was able to sneak onto the cart path of the golf course near us. No one was playing golf on this chilly morning. So it was just me and my dog and the birds and squirrels. It was nice to take a walk off the beaten path. And it was truly serene. A little solitary joy in our solitary walk.

Day 409 - Fage Greek Yogurt with Honey

2011-01-20T11:05:00.001-05:00

Remember when yogurt actually tasted like yogurt? Yeah. Me neither. Actually, yes, I do. Way, way back in the day - we're talking 1970s - yogurt tasted like yogurt. Not this overly sweetened dessert stuff they try to pass along to you as "health food" now. Greek yogurt is the closest thing I can find to the olden-day-yogurt. And Fage's Greek yogurt with honey is my absolute fav. I actually hide them behind leftovers in my fridge so no one else finds them and eats them up. They're mine! My joy.

Day 408 - PhotoPass

2011-01-19T20:08:00.000-05:00

Disney's PhotoPass is one of my greatest travel joys. It truly is. So easy. You just get a card from the first photographer you see. They take your picture, scan the card and you're off for more fun (or more pics.) Then, when you get home, you view your pictures online and choose to purchase one, two or all. No pressure. And a great way to get everyone in a picture. (Usually, I'm behind the camera - so very few family shots in our family albums!) They also have mugs, calendars and photo books to create with your pictures. I'm starting to sound like an advertisement - but I had so much fun today viewing our pics and creating our photo book. A little extra Disney joy, even after the trip!

Day 407 - Click Clack Moo

2011-01-18T21:02:00.001-05:00

My boys love this series. Thank goodness they don't feel too old for it yet, because I love it, too. It's one of my favorite things to read to them before bed. Duck just cracks us up. Clever stories, funny illustrations and never scary- great bedtime entertainment. These books we can read again and again and again. Easy bedtime joy!

Day 406 - Coffee In A Pretty China Cup

2011-01-17T20:50:00.003-05:00

I inherited some of my grandmother's pretty china cups, saucers and dessert plates. And I never use them. They sit, lonely, in a pretty glass cabinet, only to be admired. While we were snowed in I wondered: What am I saving these for? Why not use them? So I did. And I swear it made my coffee and tea taste so much sweeter. It was so much fun to sip my hot beverage from such a pretty, dainty cup. It's the only way I'll drink my coffee and tea from now on. Why? Because it brings me joy.

Day 405 - Kung Fu

2011-01-16T19:34:00.003-05:00

Three hours of (relative) bliss. The boys have Kung Fu tonight. We've been trapped at home together for a week now. Count 'em. 7 whole days! My husband is taking them to their weekly Kung Fu lesson tonight and they'll be there for 3 hours. Only my teenage daughter to contend with and that's a piece of cake. Sigh. Bliss. Joy.

Day 404 - Anna and Kristina's Grocery Bag

2011-01-15T19:30:00.000-05:00

I've discovered a new show. Anna and Kristina's Grocery Bag. Now, the show isn't exactly new but it's new to me. They are a fun couple of women who test out products and cookbooks and share the results with the viewer. They have a fun sense of humor and they make the same mistakes I make in the kitchen, laughing at themselves the whole way. I like, too, how they're not afraid to criticize a cookbook or product. Sometimes books get their stamp of approval. Sometimes they don't. I can't wait to watch more. Anna and Kristina bring a little bit of joy to my TV viewing and kitchen experience.

Day 403 - Home, Again!

2011-01-14T10:24:00.002-05:00

Home again, home again, jiggity jig! The boys had school today. But they said, if you couldn't make it because of the weather it would be an excused absence. Good thing. Because we started out slowly, very slowly. And I planned a route that would take the most traveled road. But more ice! On top of ice! Thick layers of ice all over the road I had to take - the busiest road I could think of taking. This is ridiculous. We aren't built for this kind of weather. Thank goodness we're all home safely. Trapped again (and that's getting a bit old) but home safe? Pure and simple joy.

Day 402 - Home Safely

2011-01-13T14:07:00.001-05:00

There's no place like home. There's no place like home. There's no place like home! I feel a bit like Dorothy today. I ventured out for the first time since Sunday. We were out of milk, bread, eggs and orange juice. Little left for dinners, either. To save a few bucks, I decided to go to Wal-Mart. Slip sliding down a road where the ice hadn't melted I witnessed a truck go off into a ditch. I had to turn around (but not after sliding down the hill in reverse first) and make everyone else behind me do the same. Sorry people! And thank you to the nice young man in the white truck for helping me maneuver my car on the only dry patch of road so I could turn around. I stopped at Publix (which is a little more expensive but just outside my subdivision) and then went straight home. I'm not going out again unless I have to! Ahhhhhh, it's a joy to be home!

Day 401 - Brady Bunch

2011-01-12T16:04:00.001-05:00

It's a little hard today to find joy. I'm trying. But my husband has been stuck at his office. Our snow turned to ice and he couldn't get home. For two days. Fingers crossed he can come home tonight. But we've been trapped in our home and my pantry and frig weren't prepared for this. We won't starve but we're sick of this hodgepodge of meals I've been putting together. Snuggling on the couch today with my boys was so nice though. We watched Brady Bunch re-runs and giggled and for a little while I forgot that my husband was stuck and losing business each day schools are closed and the mortgage is due, along with Christmas bills. A little Brady joy to the rescue.

Day 400 - 400

2011-01-11T13:59:00.001-05:00

Who knew I'd be at it this long? I sure didn't. My goal was to record joy for a year. One year of joy. But I've kept going. My little notebook, where I record the bits of joy to later post here, has turned into 3 notebooks. I'm on my third one and still going. This has been so much fun. Despite the fact that I have no audience and no comments. I have no idea if I'm inspiring anyone out there but I don't care. I'm inspiring me. And that is joy all by itself.

Day 399 - Snow!

2011-01-10T11:55:00.000-05:00

So pretty to look at. But not fun to drive in. School has been cancelled and the pantry is full. We can stay home today and play and not have to worry about a thing. (Oh, my poor husband who had to go to work today!) I'm looking forward to a day of fun with my kids today. We'll bake and play games and watch old movies. A lot of snow, a lot of joy!

Day 398 - Gift Cards

2011-01-09T21:50:00.001-05:00

My husband's patients will sometimes give him or our family a gift for Christmas. Many times they come in the form of restaurant gift cards. We received one of these - a Darden restaurant gift card. Since we've never eaten at Longhorns before, we decided to give it a try. Frankly, I wasn't that impressed. The quality of the steak wasn't that great. But hey, we didn't have to pay for it. A gift card allowed us to try something we hadn't tried before. Now that's joy.

Day 397 - Phone Cover

2011-01-08T15:00:00.000-05:00

I typically don't like cutesy stuff. But I do like the unexpected. Especially when it makes me smile. Snoopy, Woodstock and peace signs do just that. I found this phone cover and every time I pull my phone out of my purse it makes me smile. You need to fill your life with little unexpected bits of joy. And I have one safely tucked away in my purse, making me smile every time I use my phone.

Day 396 - Sleep Mask

2011-01-07T09:36:00.000-05:00

I feel a little weird writing about my sleep mask. But it brings me joy more times...er, nights, than I can count. I've written about it before. And I felt just as weird then as I do now mentioning it. But I love it. Love, love, love it. I swear it helps me get a better nights sleep. And last night was no exception. So, here's to many more nights of joy with my sleep mask!

Day 395 - Food Processor

2011-01-06T18:31:00.000-05:00

I've wanted one for a long time. A long, long, long time. I kept telling myself that I would save up for food processor. But I never did. So my dear, sweet in-laws gave me a check for Christmas to pick out the one I wanted and finally quit dreaming of one. It was enough for a 7-cup Cuisinart Food Processor. On a whim, I decided to check out Costco to see if they carried them. They did. And because it was Costco, I had enough money for the 14-cup Cuisinart Food Processor! Oh dear, sweet food chopping joy!

Day 394 - Fast Food

2011-01-05T20:08:00.000-05:00

Take your pick. I've been cooking and cooking and cooking for a house full of guests for the past month. Ok. Only the past two weeks, but it feels like forever. Today, after school, when the boys said they were hungry I ran through the drive-thru at McDonalds. When we got home and I felt uninspired for dinner? I called Domninos. I feel a tiny bit guilty, feeding my kids fast food twice in one day. Just a tiny bit, though. It's been mom's home cooking for days on end and I needed a break from kitchen duty. Bring on a little fast food joy!

Day 393 - Back to School!

2011-01-04T12:12:00.000-05:00

I adore my children. You know that. But after 18 days straight with them underfoot. With me being their sole entertainer, chef and maid? I'm tired. There is so much more work around the house when the kids are home creating little messes. And today, they are safely tucked away at school. I just finished picking up, all the machines are humming along and the dog is walked. It's just me, a cup of tea and my new cookbook to thumb through. For moms, there is joy when the kids go back to school.

Day 392 - Laila Lotion

2011-01-03T13:19:00.001-05:00

It's my splurge. I know women spend much more on fragrance and lotions. But I'm very low maintenance when it comes to products. I'm happy with my tried and true shampoos. I don't own many perfumes and lotions. But I love, love, love my Laila fragrance products - especially the body lotion. It reminds me of EPCOT at Disney World, where I first discovered it. It's a soft, subtle scent that fits me perfectly. And for me, it's a joyful scent.

Day 391 - GPS Date Day

2011-01-02T23:08:00.001-05:00

I purchased a GPS for my husband for Christmas. He didn't ask for it. So, I was really nervous about getting him one. He's a bit picky. Because of this, he always knows everything he's getting for Christmas. I wanted to surprise him. And surprise him I did. Thank my lucky stars, he loved it. So much so, we decided to go on a GPS date - tool around our area, playing with the GPS and see where it takes us. We had so much fun. So many laughs. Only one tiny argument. (That should probably be called a disagreement that got resolved quickly - great for us!) Yay! Joy!

Day 390 - A Lazy Day

2011-01-01T14:27:00.000-05:00

All of the holiday hoopla is done. Christmas decorations are down (well, most of them.) Shopping is complete and the frig and pantry are full of food. Today is a lazy day here at Chez Joy. Rose Bowl parade. Football. Munching on leftovers. Board games with the kids and cramming for book club. My kind of day. My kind of joy. Happy New Year, y'all!

Day 389 - An Uneventful Year

2010-12-31T15:13:00.000-05:00

I have watched my sister and some friends go through such struggles this past year. Death. Divorce. Financial. Oh sure. We've had our share of woe. But nothing we couldn't work through. Thank goodness. My husband is self-employed and the economy has affected his business. But we're still here. We're still solvent. We're hanging in there. I know this isn't a very sunny way of looking at it; but I'm so thankful for this uneventful year. There is joy is surviving.

Day 388 - Re-runs

2010-12-30T13:06:00.001-05:00

I can't use re-runs here...but I CAN on my other blog! And thank goodness! Because we have had guests non-stop since December 20th. And it won't end until this weekend. I'm ready to send up the white flag. But instead, I'll use re-runs on my other blog to tide me over. Joy doesn't even begin to describe!

Day 387 - Leftovers

2010-12-29T20:39:00.000-05:00

Some people love 'em. Some people hate 'em. Me? I'm in the "love 'em" category. Especially holiday leftovers. We're finishing up the last of them and I'm actually kind of sad. I keep looking to the next big holiday and wondering what I'll make then - so I can have lots of leftovers. When you love what you had, having them again makes it twice as nice. Plus, you don't have to cook again. Just zap in the microwave and you have dinner! Yep. I'm weird. I find joy in leftovers.

Day 386 - Hot Chocolate

2010-12-28T16:03:00.001-05:00

With marshmallows. With whipped cream. Any way you like it, hot chocolate is the perfect drink on a chilly, chilly day. We had snow over the weekend and it's still pretty chilly here. The boys wanted to play outside but didn't last long. Soon they were inside again and begging for hot chocolate. Of course, I couldn't turn them down and I couldn't pass up a cup for myself. Hot chocolate on a chilly day is joy - no matter how you dress it up!

Day 385 - A Groomed Puppy

2010-12-27T18:28:00.000-05:00

He's not exactly a puppy. He's a three year old Golden Retriever. But he thinks he's still a puppy. Without the sweet puppy breath and the ease of bathing a puppy in the bathtub. So I take him to a groomer a few times a year. Especially when the weather is cold. And when he comes back he's so soft and sweet and kissable. I don't mind cuddling him when he's been to the groomer. Today was no exception. A little grooming joy and my puppy is fresh and clean!

Day 384 - My Son

2010-12-26T18:25:00.002-05:00

Easy, peasy little joy post today! My son is too funny! He's so creative and funny and fun. He's wanted a DJ system for a long time and finally, this Christmas, it was under the tree. He's played with it pretty much non-stop since he opened it. But today, he decided to add a little bling, a little spice, a little attitude. Meet my little Joe Cool! He was cracking us up all afternoon! A little DJ Joy!

Day 383 - Christmas Day

2010-12-25T09:38:00.000-05:00

It's here! Christmas Day! No secret to the three of you who follow this humble, little blog - but Christmas is my all-time favorite holiday. The reason for the season means so much to me - as do all the little Christmas miracles and goodwill that seems to occur this time of year. It's truly a great reminder to me to give unconditionally and enjoy the spirit of every season. It's a reminder I carry with me throughout the year but feel it most of all, now. Happy, happy Christmas to you and your family!

Day 382 - Christmas Eve

2010-12-24T16:34:00.000-05:00

It's almost over. All the anticipation for the big day. I love preparing for the holidays. And now, it's Christmas Eve. Time to put the finishing touches on presents and baking. Time to savor all the preparations already made. I adore Christmas. I'll be sad to see it go. But for now, Christmas Eve will bring me so much joy - anticipating tomorrow!

Day 381 - Chamomile Tea

2010-12-23T22:09:00.001-05:00

The past month as been a tough one. I seem to be getting hit from all sides with struggles. Things too personal to air here. And we got hit with yet another one today. When will it stop? When it rains, it freakin' pours. This holiday time of year is my favorite -- and I refuse to let these roadblocks ruin my holiday. It's the end of the day. I'm sipping my favorite comfort drink of chamomile tea. Warm, steaming cup of joy to help heal.

Day 380 - Time to Cook

2010-12-22T21:23:00.000-05:00

When my in-laws are here I am chopped liver to my kids. They love Grammie and Grandpa. And Grammy loves to entertain the kids. So, I am free to cook/bake/putz in the kitchen to my hearts content. It is absolute heaven. And I cooked up a storm today. Joy, joy, joy!

Day 379 - House Guests

2010-12-21T14:49:00.000-05:00

I have a love/hate relationship with house guests. I love having them. I love planning the meals. I love entertaining them. I love the company. I hate the mess. Sometimes, I hate having to entertain and the constant company. But today, our house guests arrive and I am in the "joy" mode of anticipation. The menu is planned, the sheets are clean and on the bed. And my kids are jazzed that their grandparents will be here in a few hours. Today...for today, anyway....house guests = joy.

Day 378 - A Quiet Cup of Coffee

2010-12-20T09:43:00.000-05:00

My mother used to set her alarm to wake up an hour before the rest of us. She liked to sit in the living room, with her cup of coffee and enjoy the quiet. I actually had that opportunity and it was bliss. I suddenly get why she would forfeit an hour of sleep to enjoy the peace. I was able to start my day relaxed and refreshed and (after a cup of caffeine) ready to do. A simple, quiet cup of joe brought a little joy to start my day.

Day 377 - Sunday With Nothing To Do

2010-12-19T20:19:00.000-05:00

A day with no plans. I love them! To bits! And today was one of those days. Of course, we had many things on our to-do list. But no where we had to go. All the Christmas shopping is done. I could pick and choose what I wanted to do, when I wanted to do it. And in the end, it was a very productive day. I love days like these. Joy, joy, joy!

Day 376 - Dinner with Friends

2010-12-18T23:32:00.001-05:00

It is so nice when you find a couple where you enjoy them equally. I know that sounds harsh, but I know you know what I mean. You like the wife, but the husband annoys the heck out of you. Or the husband is great, but the wife gets on your nerves. We have friends, a great couple where all of us get along so very, very well. And as I get older, I'm finding that kind of friendship rare. Tonight, we went out to dinner with the two of them and we had so much fun. We told our sitter just two hours - it was just dinner, after all. We visited with them for four. Time flew. Because time spent with them contains a lot of joy.

Day 375 - ABBA

2010-12-17T18:27:00.000-05:00

I can't believe I'm admitting this. But I enjoy ABBA. I have no idea why. I love their harmonies. I love to sing along. While I say I love all types of music - alternative and rock are my favorites. I rarely listen to pop. With ABBA I make an exception. And today, with ABBA blasting from my ipod, I cleaned the kitchen like nobody's business. I sheepishly admit, ABBA brings me joy.

Day 374 - Menus Planned

2010-12-16T21:16:00.001-05:00

I have all the copies of my recipes that I want to make in the next two weeks. We have house guests arriving this weekend and then more the weekend after that. Two weeks with people invading my space. One way that I stay sane is cooking for them all. Truly. Cooking is my therapy. And since my mother-in-law and my sister don't enjoy it as much as I do, they stay away. It's my time alone in the kitchen when my house is full of people. Today, I've been planning my menus and shopping lists and it's been so much fun. So much joy!

Day 373 - Getting To Bed Early

2010-12-15T20:31:00.000-05:00

It's been a crummy day. Really yucky. Everything has seemed to go wrong. But now? The house is quiet. The kids are all in bed. I'm tired and crabby. So, I'm going to bed. Early. Really early. And I don't care. Because, there's a little joy in knowing that I can just hide under those covers, go to sleep and pray it all looks better in the morning. Good night!

Day 372 - Laura Calder

2010-12-14T14:29:00.000-05:00

Laura Calder is my new favorite television chef. I minored in French in college. I've been to France twice. And each time, it felt like home. If I were in a different place in my life, I would move there in a heartbeat. Instead, I must be content to live vicariously through others or read books, watch movies or cook French food. Laura Calder has a quirky style I love. It's funny but she looks and even has the same haircut as my high school French teacher. I love watching her show, French Food at Home. And today, I had about 5 episodes taped. I watched all of them and completely inspired for holiday cooking, I've just finished printing recipes off the Cooking Channel website. I love to cook and I love learning from Laura Calder. See? There is joy in cooking.

Day 371 - Amazon.com

2010-12-13T17:35:00.000-05:00

Amazon? I love you. No. I really mean it. I loooooovvvvveeee you! Especially during the holiday season. You're quick. You're thorough. You have so many great suggestions. I love the product reviews and the free shipping. You have made my holiday shopping an absolute breeze! Prices are right. And you can't beat the crowds. As in, NO crowds. None. Nada. Zip. That alone is pure joy to me. Amazon totally equals joy in my book!

Day 370 - Snow

2010-12-12T21:24:00.002-05:00

We've had snow on and off all day long. Nothing is sticking. But outside our window we've watched huge, fluffy flakes drift down. My husband was disappointed that it wasn't sticking. But my #1son said, "It's still pretty to look at." How right he is. It's gorgeous. I'm glad I don't live in this kind of weather all winter long. But the few times a year that we get snow? It sure is pretty to look at! A little snow joy!

Day 369 - Twinkling Lights

2010-12-11T21:50:00.002-05:00

Christmas lights. Our neighborhood seems to be going overboard this year. And I don't mind. I love homes that are decorated for the holidays. We look forward to nights like tonight, when we have time to take a little drive and see all the lights. There's also a house a few miles from us that decorates their few acres with lights that are set to music. You just turn your radio to the station they have listed on the sign in front of their house. All the lights go on/off/fade/dance to the music on your radio. Now that's some serious Christmas decor! We love it! Twinkling lights bring this family joy!

Day 366 - Happy Birthday Blog!

2010-12-10T19:08:00.001-05:00

Today I turn one! Make that......my blog turns one! Happy Birthday to Every Day Joy! One year of documenting joy! And even though I'm not always timely on publishing --- it hasn't been that difficult to find. Joy, that is. Happy, happy birthday to us!

Day 365 - Almost A Year

2010-12-09T16:16:00.000-05:00

The anticipation is great! Today is my 365th post. That means, tomorrow is my birthday --- well, my blog's birthday. When I started this, I had no idea if I would follow through. It just sounded like a good idea at the time. And a year later, I have no idea if anyone is reading. Not many comment. But I don't run out there and plug this blog, advertise it, beg for comments. It's just a humble, little reminder out there in the big, huge world of blogging to look for joy in each and every day. This has been a wonderful discipline for me. And has made my own life so much richer. Happy Almost Anniversary blog! You truly bring me joy!

Day 364 - Cozy Sweater

2010-12-08T16:04:00.001-05:00

I have a favorite sweater. It's such a favorite I just realized I wore the same exact sweater for our Christmas card twice before. Oops. Everyone out there is going to think I only own one sweater. But I love it. What can I say? It brings me joy!

Day 363 - Caramel Macchiato

2010-12-07T09:59:00.000-05:00

From Starbucks. Heaven in a cup. Once a week or so (more "or so" than I'd care to admit) I pick up a Caramel Macchiato from Starbucks and then come home and sip and enjoy the quiet. That's exactly what I'm doing today. Did I say 'heaven in a cup?' I meant Joy in a cup!

Day 362 - Ranch Dressing

2010-12-06T20:28:00.000-05:00

Homemade ranch dressing. With buttermilk. It's the best. Typically, in cold weather, we don't eat much salad. And after not eating it for a while my teeth start to crave the crunch of a crisp, fresh salad. Tonight I made one with three kinds of baby lettuces and fresh, homemade ranch dressing. Yum. Yum. Yum. Creamy joy over crispy greens!

Day 361 - Trivia Night

2010-12-05T16:48:00.001-05:00

We're trying a new place for trivia tonight with our friends and I'm excited. It seems like it's been too long since my husband and I have been out and conversed with adults. Plus, I'm hoping this new place might be a keeper. We're tired of the menu at the other place and this new location is closer to our home. Fingers crossed! Because you all know how much joy trivia night brings me!

Day 360 - Christmas Tree

2010-12-04T19:21:00.000-05:00

It's tradition. We always get the Christmas tree on the weekend closest to my birthday. So today, on this cold, wet and rainy day (which my husband says always seems to happen this weekend) we got our Christmas Tree. We went to a family owned tree farm about an hour from our home. We chose a beautiful Fraser Fir and put it up in a new place this year. When we put it in our living room (a room we only sometimes use) we never get to see it. This year, it's in our family room so we can enjoy it every day. Which is wonderful because I definitely find joy in Christmas trees!

Day 359 - My Birthday!

2010-12-03T15:33:00.000-05:00

It's my birthday. Today. Yay! Ok. Sometimes, not so yay. I'm not liking the year I've turned. I am soooo into my forties now and it's feeling old. And I'm taking stock in my life and I'm wondering if I've accomplished enough. But then I think, "Hey! It's my birthday today!" and I forget how old I am and how my bucket list is still so very long. I just think about today and smile. I'm happy. I've got three wonderful kids and a husband who loves me. And it's my birthday! There's certainly joy in that!

Day 358 - Fireplace

2010-12-02T12:25:00.000-05:00

It is cold out there. Bitter cold. And while I prefer a wood burning fireplace, the convenience of a gas fireplace sure is nice right about now. The kids are in school. The washing machine and dishwasher are humming. And I'm sitting here with a good book, a cup of tea and a little fire in the fireplace. The wind howls out my window but I don't care. It's toasty warm in here. A little joy in the fireplace today.

Day 357 - Good News at the Dentist!

2010-12-01T17:10:00.000-05:00

I hate the dentist. And it doesn't help that I was blessed with horrible teeth. I wore braces forever and no matter what my impeccable teeth cleaning habits are like, I still get cavities. As you get older you need crowns. And that's exactly what I expected to have to schedule today. At my last cleaning, the dentist told me to start saving for 2 crowns because that's what it looked like I would need. But today she said I only needed one partial crown (less money!) and just replace the old filling on the other tooth. Woo-hoo! Not the perfect news but much better than I expected! Joy at the dentist. Who knew?

Day 356 - Almost December

2010-11-30T10:14:00.000-05:00

I flipped my little daily wooden calendar this morning and realized it's the last day of November. The very last day! I don't like to rush time. I like to savor the season. But because it's the last day of the month, that means I can start with our advent calendars beginning tomorrow. My heart bounced with a little joy when I realized that! December is almost here!

Day 355 - Routines

2010-11-29T14:12:00.000-05:00

I can't believe I haven't written about this before. Don't get me wrong. I love surprises. I love spontaneity. But I also love getting back into our routines. After a week+ at Disney World and then the Thanksgiving holiday, I am sooooooo glad to be back in our routines. The kids at school. My husband at work. Me, back to my daily chores and responsibilities. Today, I'm finding joy with every familiar minute of our daily schedule. Ahhhhh, back into our routines.

Day 354 - The Last Suitcase

2010-11-28T17:30:00.002-05:00

My cold followed me to Disney World. It followed me home, too. I'm running at about 72% and it's driving me crazy. I have had no energy to unpack or do laundry but I did it anyway. And guess what? I'm finally finished! The last load of laundry and the last suitcase is unpacked and tucked away, resting up for our next trip. It's taken me a bit longer than it usually does; which is probably why it's something I found joy in today. Such a simple thing, but I'm so glad this chore is finished.

Day 353 - Holiday Decorating

2010-11-27T22:04:00.000-05:00

It's tradition. The weekend after Thanksgiving I pull out all of the Christmas decorations. We've spent that last 10 hours decorating the inside and the outside of the house. We play Christmas carols (I never tire of them!). We laugh. We reminisce. We disagree about where to put things. Most of all, we have fun. This year was no exception. Lots and lots of joy in holiday decorating!

Day 352 - Black Friday

2010-11-26T15:58:00.000-05:00

Last year, my daughter wanted to shop on Black Friday. I hate shopping. I'm a have-a-mission-go-in-and-get-it-then-leave kind of shopper. But she begged and she pleaded. So I said, OK. But only if we leave at 5am (knowing she'd rather sleep in). She called my bluff and we went. At 5am. And we had a blast! Who knew? We decided then and there to make it a yearly tradition. Off we went today and it was so much fun. We shopped. We stopped for breakfast and coffee. We shopped some more. It was some amazing one-on-one time with my daughter and we even found a few deals, too. Even to a non-shopper, there is joy in Black Friday.

Day 351 - Thanksgiving

2010-11-25T11:50:00.000-05:00

This entire blog is, essentially, about giving thanks. And I love it that Americans are the first to designate an entire day, an entire holiday to stop and recognize the bounty that is in our lives. I have so very much to be thankful for. My husband. My children. My family. My friends. The three of you who stop in to see what I'm thankful for each day. Thank you, faithful few readers. Thanks for peeking in. Happy, happy Thanksgiving to you and yours!

Day 350 - Cranberry Relish

2010-11-24T16:44:00.000-05:00

I love the holidays. I love preparing for them. And the Wednesday before Thanksgiving is when I get into full swing. Today, about the only thing I have the energy for is to make my cranberry relish. It HAS to be made the day before you eat it. It needs 24 hours so all the flavors can mix and mingle, get to know each other and create an amazing, fruity, gingery little burst with each bite of turkey. I love the methodical chopping. The scents. The sounds of the wooden spoon hitting my favorite glass bowl with each stir. I find joy in eating my cranberry relish but making it brings joy, too!

Day 349 - Catching Up

2010-11-23T14:18:00.000-05:00

Catching up with rest. My friends. The mail. Bills (yuck!). My television shows. I'm feeling exhausted after this trip and today is a day to catch up. I'm done with the yucky chores (bills) and now it's time for a cup of tea and some time to laze on the couch, call a friend, read my magazines or watch a show that I've taped. Now, if the boys will just give me the time to do it! Because catching up is where I'm finding my joy today!

Day 348 - Home

2010-11-22T21:26:00.001-05:00

After a long trip that went by oh-so-quickly, it's good to be home. Sure, we miss Disney World. It is truly a magical place for our family. But to be in our own comfy beds, familiar space and surroundings? Dorothy was right. There's no place like home. And it's a wonderful thing to find joy in coming home.

Day 347 - Last Day

2010-11-21T16:02:00.001-05:00

Today is a bit bittersweet. It's our last day in my favorite place in the world. But we all miss home. We all miss my husband/their dad/my daughter/their sister. We've ended our trip in our two favorite parks, EPCOT and Magic Kingdom. We're riding all of our favorite rides one last time. Saying goodbye until next time. But there is some joy to be found: in the memories we've created, in the "one last times," in the planning for the next visit and in the anticipation of going home.

Day 346 - Toy Story Mania

2010-11-20T19:57:00.000-05:00

Best ride ever! We are having a blast and so much fun competing against each other on Toy Story Mania. Sure it's a long wait with these horrendous lines. But soooooo worth it! The excitement in my boys' faces is thrilling. I'm so glad I'm having this time with them. Definitely worth it. Full of joy.

Day 345 - Time With My Boys

2010-11-19T16:51:00.000-05:00

I'm on vacation with my boys. I had almost ten years with my daughter of one-on-one time. Then, BAM! We adopt and I'm pregnant with our third child. The boys have always been part of a family of 5. And while I'm not getting one-on-one time with each of them this week, I am getting lots of quality time with just the two of them. We laugh. We play. We snuggle at the end of the day. It's been a blast with lots of joy sprinkled into every day.

Day 344 - Gotcha Day!

2010-11-18T15:44:00.002-05:00

It's my son's Gotcha Day! For those of you not well-versed in adoption-speak, Gotcha Day is the day we "gotcha!" Seven years ago today our sweet little bundle of joy arrived. We picked him up at the Chicago airport. I remember it as if it were yesterday. In his little yellow traveling outfit. Us not knowing which formula to use because all of the instructions were written in Korean. Getting to know you all these years has been amazing. I truly would be lost without you in our lives. You bring us such sweet, amazing joy!

Day 343 - Learning at Disney

2010-11-17T19:25:00.000-05:00

When I was still teaching, I would chaperone the trips our school would take to Disney. We participated in their YES program, Youth Education Series. It's an amazing program with amazing teaching moments. When I home-schooled our daughter, I was able to apply much of what I learned and create amazing lessons for her. Now, I'm here with the boys and it's not all roller coasters and Toy Story rides. We're watching educational films. Playing in a technology lab. Learning about manatees. Trying foods from different countries. I can't say enough about the multitude of learning opportunities on a Disney vacation. And as a former teacher, learning while at Disney World = joy!

Day 342 - A Christmas Party

2010-11-16T22:21:00.000-05:00

Christmas at Disney is so festive and fun. The Osbourne Lights at Disney Hollywood Studios. The resorts decorated to the hilt. And then Mickey's Christmas Party with real snow, hot chocolate and cookies - in the middle of Florida - is not to be missed. I know it's a little early for a Christmas party. But it's never too early for a little Christmas joy.

Day 341 - Coral Reef

2010-11-15T21:37:00.000-05:00

Not a real coral reef, but the one at Disney. It's one of my oldest son's favorite restaurants and I was able to snag a reservation - which is difficult last minute. Huge aquarium windows flank one whole side of the restaurant and you can what the fish while you dine. The look of his face when we walked in was utter joy. The highlight of our day!

Day 340 - Magical Place

2010-11-14T21:15:00.000-05:00

Disney truly is a magical place for me. I'm here with my kids and it's possibly my favorite place in the world. The sights. The sounds. The tastes. The fun. The joy. Nothing else needs to be said. Simply magical.

Day 339 - Singing in the Car

2010-11-13T19:08:00.000-05:00

We're on a long trip. And while a DVD player in the car is awesome, so is popping in a CD and singing along. My boys and I are on a Mom/Kids only trip together and I had little surprises for them and movies for the DVD player and even a scavenger hunt. But the most fun? Singing in the car with them. We sang and sang to our hearts content. Joyful noise, for sure!

Day 338 - Friday!

2010-11-12T16:04:00.000-05:00

It's Friday! The last day of the work week. The last day of the school week. And the last day before I take my boys on a fun trip to my favorite place in the world! The anticipation has been killing us and now, it's finally here. I've been busy, busy, busy - packing and doing last minute errands. But I don't care. It's a joyful Friday for me!

Day 337 - Acupuncture

2010-11-11T21:01:00.000-05:00

Thank goodness I have my own private acupuncturist. I know this cold would have hit me harder, if it weren't for the fact that I married an acupuncturist. I just call him at work and say, "I have a slight fever, some congestion and a scratchy throat" and he tells me exactly what herbs to take. And then, when he comes home he gives me an acupuncture treatment. I'm feeling so much better already. Ahhhhhh, the joys of acupuncture!

Day 336 - Chinese Take-Out

2010-11-10T20:36:00.001-05:00

It's official. I'm sick. Standing up for long periods of time wipe me out. My nose is stuffed. I'm achy and crabby. Time for Chinese take-out. My family loves it. They can get whatever they want and I can sip wanton soup and not feel guilty for not making dinner. Who knew Chinese take-out could bring joy?