Melissa (heart heart heart)

tops my gratitude list.

Thanks a bunches Wendy!!!!!! 
This was my sweet co-worker's way of appreciating me 
=) 
Love it!

Look for the beauty

in everyday things.

So far I am successfully maintaining my daily gardening duties.  My flowers are blooming, even my herb garden is thriving!  It's a miracle.   a total freaking miracle.

Now, let me share a story with you.  It is a dramatic story of loss; yet, within this moment of loss you will see how the beauty of others can emerge...

"Kaylee if you bring him in the store you might lose him" I distinctly recall saying to my sweet daughter.
...Moments after arriving home from our shopping excursion, I soon discovered that my daughter lost her Shamu.  I began calling the 3 stores we had visited to try to locate him.  One place we visited was a thrift store.  Great. Good luck on that one, right?!  yes, yes, a long shot, I know...but I called anyways.  A man answered, I detailed my dilemma.  He understood surprisingly well how important a lost toy was to a child, he told me, describing his horrific ordeal trying to comfort a distraught son who too had lost his treasured toy. 

The kind worker searched high and low, securing all workers on the hunt, even calling employees who had been working...Devastation could be heard in his voice as he informed me that they could not find the whale. 

At moments I thought to explain to this kind man the truth.  The truth being that I was not doing this to relieve my daughter, I was doing this because that whale was expensive!  I had just bought him days before at Seaworld, and you can only imagine how much that toy cost!!!  I felt ashamed to tell him the truth, that really Kaylee was not losing any sleep, nor her appetite, over all this.  I will keep that my little secret.

You, yourself

deserve your love and affection.
-Buddha

done.

Listen

...with a willingness to be altered.

Today I had planned to take Kaylee out to a baseball game.  When I picked her up from school I went on and on about how much fun the baseball game would be.  I was so hyped up about it myself I almost forgot to ask if she was excited about it too.  So then I asked.  To my surprise she told me she didn't want to go to the game, she wanted to watch a movie.  I started talking her out of the movie idea and hyping up the baseball game some more.  That's when I realized I wasn't really listening to her.  When I listened to her, I found out that she really wanted to watch a movie, eat PB&Js and have a slumber party with all her stuffed friends (and me!).

Sometimes it's good to be altered.

Cheer for yourself...

...then pass this on to someone else.

Hip hip hooray!  Go me, I rock.  High 5 to self!

Ok, Vickie, new owner of a pasta maker...your turn!  You are the unsuspecting victim recipient of a self-cheering note.  Cheer yourelf on as you slave over making noodles all day.  Then pass that note on to another lucky soul!!

Above all else, I love you.

it's good to review your priorities.

So what is most important to me....let's review this thought for a second.
Family-yes...well my sweet lil Kaylee is tippy-top on my list!  Followed by all other members of my amazing family  :)
Friends-I realized I want to keep better connected to my friends.  Dinner out with my cousin and some closer friends from high school reminded me of this tonight. 
Smarts-I don't want to be stupid, so I'll try to be smart.  It occurs to me that as much as my classes drive me crazy each semester, I like being challenged...and I always like a good chance to flex that lovely gray- and white-matter I call my "brain".
Love-I think I'll defer this one for another day.  You know you can't rush love, alright?!??

*~Being Kind~*

Board Game Night!

Pull out a borad game and engage your child (and your inner child)!

Kaylee and I battled it out in Scrabble Junior.  She won. 
I don't want to talk about it.

Wish

They really do come true!

Make a wish into the well

That's all you have to do

And if you hear it echoing

Your wish will soon come true

I'm wishing, I'm wishing....for.....

Just keep your eyes peeled

For it will come true.

Appreciation Day

...it's an everyday holiday!

I do feel like I was especially appreciative this weekend.  I appreciated the kind men and women who attended my work's event this weekend.  I appreciated the delicious meals I was allowed to partake on.  I appreciated company from good people as I did such things as shopped, watched a ridiculous movie and reorganized my hallway nook.  I expressed my appreciation to my dad and brother for working hard on my house this weekend, again.  I told Kaylee how much I adore and appreciate all her smiles, giggles and cuddles.  That made her laugh.  I said thanks.  I also appreciate my boss donating a basil plant to me to nuture and grow...I hope I can nourish it like I do with my living friendships.

Friendship is a living thing

that lasts only as long as it is nourished with kindness, empathy and understanding.

This was just weird.  Friendship is a living thing?  I think its more like "friends are living things"...  I'm so confuseeeeddddd. lol.  Hmmmmmm...well....I do feel like a lot of my friendships are alive and nourished, indeed.

Anyways, I decided to just not be mean to my friends LOL.  I was a very kind friend today, if I must say so myself.  Go me.

My friends and I....nourishing our friendship.

Take a hiatus from the to-do's!

I tried this at work.  Unfortunately this happens to be an extremely busy week!  I did take a bathroom break though.  And I took a walk/coffee break.  So I think that was a well deserved temporary hiatus from work, all while successfully avoiding the risk of being fired.  My to-do's definitely got done! LOL

feather your nest with friends

I'm so glad the calendar explained this one more! LOL

tape photos of friends to random things in your home - the sillier, the better!

Are you my friend? You might be taped somewhere.  If you want to know where, feel free to ask  ;-P

Dom, you are officially my coffee greeter.

Share

One dozen Krispy Kreme donuts - up for grabs!  hehe

Mother's Day

a day to honor everything that mothers give...

I have always appreciated my mom...her sweet and easy-going nature, her loving comfort, her honesty, and that confidence and surety she shares with me telling me that everything will be alright, even when I feel like I'm stumbling off a cliff. 

Let me take a moment to describe one thing that sets my mom apart from other people. 
My mom is strong. 
Not the kind of strong that's in your face and bulging protrusive veins.  My mom is a much more honest and interesting strong...she's has the quiet discrete strength.  She doesn't look for a fanfare when she has to hurdle obstacles, nor does she use hardships as excuses, in fact you would never even realize my mom has gone through struggles that trump most other people's challenges.  She doesn't complain about her struggles and honestly I sometimes even forget what my mom has been through...but I do recognize how amazing and brave she is.  She is possibly the most courageous person I know.

Enjoy the sights around you

Today I took Kaylee for a bike ride and enjoyed the fresh air, warm sun, and beautiful scene  =)  Very refreshing!

Clearly my child doesn't look where she's going.

An Amazing Teacher

Today I let Kaylee's awesome teacher, Miss Michelle, know how much I appreciate what she does.  Not only does she give me comfort knowing that Kaylee is in good, loving and educating hands; she is so nuturing and attentive to Kaylee's needs.  Kaylee adores her.  She adores Kaylee.  It's a beautiful thing  :)

Hopscotch

Give up your parking spot

Today I kindly gave up my parking spot.  Granted, the spot is not reserved for me, BUT I always park in the same spot.  Therefore it is my spot.  And I gave it up to the 'lucky' driver who parked there today.

Now my confession. 
I didn't mind giving up that spot today.  Why? Well, because I arrived at work earlier than usual...finding that a more lucrative spot was available to me at this early-bird hour.  I opted for this prime spot, justifying that I was following the calendar's instructions.  I later discovered that by taking this amazing spot, the driver of the minivan usually parked in this spot was forced to take my less amazing spot.  Funny how those things happen.

Celebrate Cousins

I got to enjoy girl-time with one of my cousins and my sis this weekend!  YAY! 

I truly do love my cousins, and wish I could see them more often.  I will be seeing cousins and other family members this coming weekend, though, so I can celebrate them more then!

LOVE.

our actions come full circle

I consider myself a loving person.  I love to make people happy; to help, to listen, to get a job done.  I'll go out of my way to do it.  I work extra hard and sometimes wonder if people notice.  I shouldn't expect a fanfare, but I do find myself hoping for recognition.  Then someone acknowledges me, compliments me, rewards me...and it makes me feel good.  That's my full circle.

I hope I give others their full circle.

inhale * exhale * relax. repeat.

i am calm. relaxed.  ::breathe::

Calm, Cool, & Cooking

do more of what you love

I love surprising people.  So that's what I did today  :) 
First up, Kaylee...I took her to pick out a movie tonight, and she was sooo ecstatic!  She chose the Princess and the Pauper.  Then I had an opportunity to spoil my sister with some discounted dining and drinking at Hula Bay, so I did it.  I love getting chances to give back to people I love!

Also, I got to check out my new pots and pan set from Ikea.  Didn't use any of them tonight BUT I'm looking forward to using them tomorrow  =)

A Baseball. It can cure an angry child.

To the man who gave me a baseball, Thank You. 
You see, I was patiently sitting as I was being screamed at and nearly beaten to death by a 2 year old child...when literally, I believe this man saved my life. 

Let me back up and explain more. 

I took Kaylee to a baseball game tonight.  My friend has three boys around Kay's age, so I invited them to join us.  They accepted.  At the ballgame my friend's middle child needed a bathroom break. 

"Can you watch them while I take him to the bathroom?" 

...was pretty much the last thing I recall before blacking out. 
Kidding, kidding.  I didn't black out. 

So let me share what happened next.  The scathing fury of a toddler who has separation anxiety and has been left with someone they aren't terribly familiar with (a.k.a. "me") was officially unleashed.  I prayed.  I held on to him out of fear as I was screamed at and beaten for what seemed like an eternity.  Occassionally Kaylee and Jack (the older child) would come chat with me, which helped to distract me from the beating I was enduring. 

....Suddenly, a man appeared before me.  I don't even think words were exchanged.  I think the pity in his eyes and the wounds on my body spoke it all. He handed me a baseball.  I handed the baseball to the child. The child stopped screaming.  A few minutes later he also stopped beating me up.  I lived.

Whoaaaaaaa, I got Catching Up to do

Hi. I'm Mel, of LWYA. 
I have been overwhelmed.
I have not been updating this blog.
Can you find it in your heart to forgive me? 

Here's my story.


Between classes wrapping up meaning tons of assignments, exams, papers and presentations due *finals week is here!!*, huge projects at work, nursing a sick child, keeping said child entertained, renovating kitchen, making new friends, and fighting this awful awful cold I now have............I have not had the energy to update this blog   :(
 
BUT things are starting to ease up and I look forward to jumping back onto LWYA posts. It's my therapy and I probably need some about now, haha.

Pick-me-up Kindness

I hope I made your day.

Notice the details in nature

delight in the miracles that quietly surround you every day.

Although I endured horrendous body aches today, I managed to water my blooming garden.  I then laid down on my lounger while Kaylee played in the back yard.  It really was a beautiful day.  Except for the pollen.  ...which I guess is a necessary irritant if I want to keep enjoying the beauty of nature.  ::grins::

Here are some all natural details I spotted  :)

Plan a KINDNESS egg hunt

See if the kids can help each other find all the eggs.

Didn't work.  Dude, they're kids and the eggs are brightly colored and filled with goodies.  I can't pull off miracles, ya know!  They did all find the eggs though, but seriously it was every kid for themself.

Decorate the eggs with loving, joyful words.

Ahhh, now this I can do.

Donating red fuel

If you are comfortable donating blood, make an appointment.

I'm not.  Sorry.  I don't weigh enough to donate blood anyways, Okay??  BUT, I'll tell you what.  I'll find someone to donate on my behalf.

==April 5, 2010==
In steps Jeff, who weighs enough and is happy to donate blood.  He's like a red lifesaver.  ew, why'd I type that?  Anyways, he did it.  He donated blood during his lunch break!  What a great guy!!!!!  He even sent proof, LOL.

April Fools

release your inner-comedian!

My sister and I giggled ferociously as we came up with this silly e-mail!  Click on it to see it larger  :)

Friendliness is Kindness

Passing by someone on the sidewalk, simply say "good morning" or "good afternoon."

I know this sounds easy, but it's not.  Now I consider myself a naturally friendly person, and as I pass by people I typically smile at them.  BUT for some reason I couldn't find a good 'moment' to say a greeting to people as they passed by.  Either they weren't making eye contact or there were large groups of people (while walking on campus); it was tricky! 

Soooooo then I went out for ice cream.  As I was leaving I said "have a good night" to someone and I held the door for them.  My dear friend pointed out that I was on a sidewalk.  I wasn't meaning for it to be my moment, but I suppose sometimes moments are supposed to find you.

Thanks for finding me, moment.

Nourish your whole self

your good heart deserves to be a healthy heart.

Running to the store?

While in the parking lot, look for someone who is emptying their shopping cart, and offer to take it back for them.

I pulled into my spot, discretely positioning myself two spots from my prey.  An older, yet capable woman certainly willing to accept a helping hand I concluded.  The plan was simple...time it right, have patience while unloading Kaylee.  Make it seem natural.  Act like you don't see her at first, I cautioned myself.  I glanced over as she began unloading her groceries from the cart...at that moment my heart grew two sizes.  Taking the cart was not enough, no no, I would help her unload it as well I determined.  I walked over with my sweet lovely daughter beside me, "Can I help you unload your cart?"  I sweetly asked.  "No." she simply said.  I was speechless.  I walked away shamed. 

I spotted an abandoned cart on my way in.  I grabbed a hold of it, and decided it would have to do.

Brothers * Sisters

What are you grateful for in your siblings?

Dear Brother, have I told you how much I appreciate you?  I see everything you do for me.  You are always here...quietly fixing things around my house, building and crafting things for Kaylee, cleaning up my messes, fixing my computer, it goes on and on.  You lend a hand with things even when I don't ask.  You just do it because you care.  It means a lot to me, and I know I don't alwys tell you how much it does.  But it does.  I love you!

Dear Sister, I am grateful I get to share my genetic code with you.  I do still think we would have been one big giant if our embryo hadn't split, so I thank you for not letting that happen.  I also feel blessed to have my best friend who is also my sister.  The fact that you have such a remarkable fashion sense and that we are the same size is a huge bonus.  You are my soul-sister.  Love you!

High Five

What are you proud of today?

Hmmmm.  Well, as I stop and think about it....I'm proud of myself for a lot of things today.  I'm proud of myself for courageously being a full-time mom to a sassy preschooler, a full-time employee, AND a part-time graduate student all at one time. (Whoaaaa, check that out!...I squeeze "two and a half times" into "one time"!)
Today I found myself juggling the responsibilities of all three not-so-easy and oh-so-important areas of my life.

.........generally speaking, this is not unusual. 

The tricky part was the excessive and unexpected curve balls that got thrown into my circus-side-show-loop, which I endearingly call "my life."

In any case, I'm most proud of myself for not dropping the ball on any of these...you know, like forgetting to pick up my child at preschool or something. 

So big high five to me ...as I peek into child's room to make sure I actually did pick her up!

the silver lining

Raining?  Look for the silver lining...pull on your galoshes & splash in the puddles.

Okay, so that's not me, but then again...she's kind of half-me.  Yes, my sweet baby-girl kindly sported her rainboots in the tub tonight for LWYA.  Isn't she adorable?!  .......Unfortunately I didn't have any galoshes of my own, BUT if I had a pair, I totally would have joined in!

What I did do was run around in the light rain tonight, as I was picking up my lil sweetie!  See!

kindness is GREEN

Try growing veggies, flowers, or herbs at home in recycled cans or jars.  True it's a small step, but you can still feel good about decreasing your carbon footprint.  (& kids love it!)

I'm growing herbs.  Gourmet herbs, in fact, via the renowned Chia Garden system.  I'm sure you are all thinking to yourselves that this does not appear to fit the "recycled" distinction outlined above. 
     -But let me explain.-
You see, I received this Gourmet Chia Herb Garden kit a year ago as a gift from my amazing grandparents.  However, being as intimidated as I am by gardening, I put it aside. 

Now...what was once a lovely boxed conversation piece,

LWYA has officially recycled to become my lovely herb garden!

Before

After

Culinary delight, for sharing

Dear Dom,

Thank you for being brave.  Not only did you find the courage to try my "chicken fajita 'n stuffing casserole" for which I completely made up the recipe.  You dug down deeper to find the strength to eat it after learning it was a week old.  I hope it was everything you expected and more!  I cannot wait to hear your rave review.

Sincerely,
LWYA

p.s. I cannot believe you ate half of it!  I almost feel like you were committing a suicide attempt.

Are you part of a club?

How can your club help another group in need?

A mom from a playgroup I am in recently informed our group of this:

A family friend has a son in Afghanistan who is serving this third tour. They are in a rural area where they have a lot of contact with the locals. As an active mom of three children I have been known to run my kids to McDonald's in the past and the little toys they get with their happy meals never seem to leave my car. So, for years I have been collecting these types of toys along with the toys they get at the dentist; the doctor; Chuck E. Cheese.....you get the idea.

I would like for our group to compile any toys we are willing to donate. We can then mail them to our friend serving in Afghanistan, so that he and his fellow soldiers can hand them out to the Afghani children.

...I am definitely on board with this idea!!

my "Zen Den"

create a cozy corner for you in your home.

Well I'm in the middle of renovating my kitchen and dining room...so everything is strewn about! 
I have dusty corners, cluttered corners and demolished corners, but I don't really have an available corner to make cozy...soooooooooooo, we're headed outside.

I've been meaning to create a nice area to eat breakfast outside...so this weekend I made it happen!  =) 
Look how cozy it is!!

Gift of Kindness, pass it on.

Kindness is a gift you can give over & over & over...

And now............The "insider's view"

...keep in mind, the contents will continuosuly change as people take-and-add to it!  Who knows what treasures may be discovered as this lovely water bottle changes hands.  Yes, it truly is the gift of kindness that keeps on giving!

Give to those in need

If you have books, craft projects, or puzzles that haven't been used in years, why not take them to a center or home that could really use them?

I couldn't agree more.  I actually try to do this often, especially with my daughter's toys, books, clothes and furniture she outgrows through the years. I never consign things like I plan because I always find specific people who can use these things and end up just giving it away.

I recently gave away a stash of toilet paper rolls I had accumulated thinking I would some day use them with Kay for a craft project.  Well that has yet to happen....So imagine my surprise when her daycare posted a request to parents for empty toilet paper rolls!  I couldn't make this stuff up. 

Next up:  A biggie I will be giving away soon is Kay's outdoor Climb-and-Slide! I also have a bunch of size 7-9 shoes (several brand new) that I will be giving away soon too  =)

Are you lucky?

How can you make it someone else's lucky day?

I'm sure noooooo one else would have come up with this idea, LOL. 

I cleverly went and bought EIGHT scratch-off tickets.  Four went to specific people I know, and four I handed out to complete strangers.  All I asked in return was for anyone who wins something to post a comment here on my blog.  Even if no one wins, I hope people appreciated the thought  =)

Happy St. Patrick's Day! 
LWYA...even if it's at a bar drinking irish whiskey.

Lonely? Be Kind.

When you feel alone, do something kind for someone else.

Reb went home, Dom was in meeting with boss, el jefe was behind a closed door. I was officially alone.

Then I got an e-mail, and my lonely world suddenly didn't feel so lonely.  It went something like this:
============================
From: C-Tho
Sent: Tuesday, March 16, 2010 2:50 PM
To: Lisa
Cc: Mel (ME)
Subject: report

Hi Lisa,
I think the report is good to go except for the following: page numbering and updating of table of content page numbers. I can’t figure it out again…I know Mel was able to help out last time, so I’m cc-ing her on this email in case she would be willing to help (would you be able to, Mel?).

Thank you!
C-Tho
============================
From: Mel
Sent: Tuesday, March 16, 2010 2:54 PM
To: C-Tho; Lisa
Subject: RE: report

Happy to help if you need me :)
-Mel
============================
From: Lisa
Sent: Tuesday, March 16, 2010 2:56 PM
To: Mel
Subject: RE: report

Yes, yes, yes, PLEASE!!??? :) You ARE the expert after all!!
============================

Well how could I say no?? haha.  Of course I really did go up and helped them.  In fact, I knocked their socks off with my ultimate pagination skills, creating what some may consider a visual masterpiece!...others may just call it page numbers.

life is dog-gone good!

Mailman Appreciation Day

Note left Saturday on my mailbox expressing my appreciation for such consistent service, rain or shine.  The mailman never showed.

That or I didn't have any mail, hehe.

p.s. I'm leaving it up for Monday.

Share said the hare.

Locks of Love makes wigs for kids suffering from medical hair loss.  Visit http://www.locksoflove.org/ for details on donating your 'do.

This is something that I really would do if I could.  Unfortunately my hair is too short. 

So I will make a commitment instead.  When my hair is long enough to donate without leaving me bald or boyish looking, I will cut it and donate to Locks of Love.

Kindness frightens...er, brightens...any day

It really does.

Both.

Kids.....

......they keep saying the kindest things!

So I needed to listen for the kind things kids say. 

This one is debatable, but I will give half-credit. 
As I dropped off my daughter to preschool, her and her best friend were complimenting eachother's shoes.  It was very sweet...very kind indeed...except for one major flaw.  They neglected to compliment my lovely boots.  As my daughter would say...."you lose!"  haha.  kidding kidding.  Truly they are beautiful girls inside and out.

my strength for others who aren't as strong

"you can use your health for those who are ill by donating blood or signing up for a charity walk/run."

Ummm...not that I'm a wuss or anything, but I'll choose the charity walk/run! 
Seriously, I never realized how hard it is to search for a charity walk!  Usually the opportunity to presents itself, rather than having to find one.  So my search started on facebook, where there was an Autism Walk that I considered participating in.  I had decided not to since the timing was a little tricky, but maybe this means I should make it happen.  Result:  I am "tentatively registered."

Another one I have labored over trying to register for is the USF Relay for Life next month.  You'd think it would be easy but I had the hardest time trying to figure out how to join a team!!!  Several consultations later it happened...I finally figured out how to search for pre-formed teams when you do not know of any specific team you want to join. Awaiting me are several potentials, but I must be patient. yes. I must wait for my walking-mates to help me pick our winning team.

Show off Talents at a Nursing Home

....darn! I already had plans tonight with family.  I'll have to revisit this one  =)

Revisiting Last Weekend

Thursday, February 25th:  Friendship is an affordable luxury, splurge on taking time to connect with a distant girlfriend.
Us girls (and kiddos) took a train trip to North Carolina.  I think that totally counts!!  We went the distance together and had plenty of connecting time  =)  Love ya's!

Friday, February 26th:  You don't need to be a great cook to get rave reviews; just drop off home-cooked food to someone in need.
Well in case I wasn't clear before, we were out of town for this one.  So I relied on the "home-cooking" of Mellow Mushroom to get me through this one!  A slice of Gourmet White pizza, waiting for a lucky recipient.  In case you were wondering, that pizza is soooo yummy!!!!!!!!!!!  As we walked to the Museum of Natural History, I spotted a gentleman who looked like he could use a delicious slice of pizza.  I approached him.  Kelly and Pam watched on via glass door reflection.  I explained that the pizza had his name written all over it if he wanted it.  He was surprised, grateful, and sincere.  He accepted. 
It was a good thing...strangely I was glad he got it.

Sat/Sunday February 27-28th:  Compliment the acts of kindness & compassion that you see in children.
This one is all Damian's!  He was such a gentleman on our trip, I think he held every door for us girls.  Compliments to you Damian, your momma raised you well  ;-)

Sometimes friends just listen

I heard everything you said.  *hugs*

hidden messages

For Kaylee

This was waiting on her seat as I picked her up from school. 

We were on our way to her first day of dance class.

She loved it.

"This is so cute" she said. "I loooove this note" ::pause:: 

"I love you mommy"

somebunny

Be Kind to Preggies

Do I know someone who's pregnant?
   -----> Why yes, I do! 

One gal in particular popped into my mind right away in fact.

Saw her a couple weeks ago, in fact.  But I would say it's about time I touched base again  =) 

Reminisce

Steal a few minutes for yourself & sit down with a family photo album.

Wow.  Time flies!  I decided to take a moment to scroll through Kaylee's blog to reminisce on all our special moments together. 

I can't believe I've been doing her blog since August 2007! 

But more importantly, I cannot believe how much she has grown. 
It's easy to forget how many transitions and stages kids go through...living in the moment, the changes are so gradual, they don't really hit you.  But then you look back at the past few years and it takes your breath away.  I feel like I've been sucker punched, it stings a little because I know I won't get those moments back.  You have to love those things when you have them, because once a baby outgrows each stage, they don't go back (well....besides potty training). 

...Then suddenly you blink and your baby is running, skipping and doing cartwheels in the grass.  They no longer have those chubby baby cheeks and the folds of baby fat at their knees and elbows.  They're talking to you, and sometimes even "talking back" to you.  They're coming up with their own plans on what they want to do, and they no longer even need your assistance putting on a bandaid.  But they still cuddle, they still need your comfort, and they still make your heart flutter with happiness every time they smile, giggle, and gaze into your eyes.

Kids say the Kindest things

"you're making me fall in love with you!"

...said 4yr old Kaylee as I "swung her to dry" following her late late 10pm bath tonight.  She was giggling up a storm, loving every minute of it. That smile was lifting and her giggles made me soar.  =)

Need to catch up!

I accomplished the challenges for Thursday through Sunday, but was out of town and haven't been able to blog 'em!!!  I'll post my adventures of trying to accomplish them soon - So stay tuned!

~HUG~

If your sweetie looks sad or stressed, a little TLC may help.

My sweet Kaylee, I know sometimes you get frustrated at those Monkey Tree Kids.  I took the time to give you advice this morning, like a mom should do....ways to deal with them, avoid them, and tips on how to find things to enjoy.  You hung in there, and your day was great. 

Secretly though, Kaylee, as much as I talked the mom-talk, my biggest hope was that my warm hugs and kisses would be enough to comfort and assure you.  I hope they did.  Because isn't that the power of being a mom? ...that unmatched tender-love-and-care that can calm your worries and touch your heart. 

I'd like to share with you the outline of my evening...

• Pick up Kay from preschool
• Race back to work
• Have dinner in a classroom
• Met with project team for 2 hours
• Drive home

Wanna know the best part of my day today?
As I shut down the computer after my team meeting, Kaylee cuddled up on my lap and whispered "I love you mommy."  Four words I will never tire of hearing. 

I love you Kaylee.

Ask questions

• Why is she asking so many questions?
• Will she ever stop?
• How does she walk in those boots?
• Should I jump out of a plane?
• Do I have fleas in my hair?
• How will my interview go?
• Is there any coffee left?
• Why is he beating that box of sugar?
• How many bowls of tortillas will we knock out?
• What is the meaning of life?

These were some of the many questions you may have asked yourself today.  I know I asked myself 4 of the 10 today.  But beyond that, I asked other people questions.  I wanted to learn about you, study you, appreciate you, and at some times...get weirded out by you.  But it's cool, because you are all you's.  Some are the "Kings of Small Talk" some are the "Balloons of Long Winded-ness" others are the "Queens of Questions" ...and some apparently just hate sugar.

If you're feeling unhappy...

...unkind or un-your-normal-self, find a mirror and make a crazy face at yourself.

Actually, today I felt normal.  I know, I know...a huge surprise to those who know me!

I will, however, share a random crazy face story from today...
Attentively I sat and listened as a speaker shared information during an ITE seminar.  Several co-workers and friends attended as well, and I considered myself in good company.  The presentation concluded.  My boss and I, finding one another in the mass, spoke jovially of how I agreed to teach transportation to my daughter's preschool.  I mentioned my intent to ask the presenter for handouts, insider tips, and of course goodies for the kids.  Still discussing this lovely idea, my boss and I drew closer to the speaker.
      Then I tripped.
I didn't fall.  Clearly that would have just been embarrassing.
...all I did was gasp, make a crazy face, stumble awkwardly, and throw my coffee (somehow missing the many onlookers).

The end.

Send a letter

to a former teacher or mentor, acknowledging the impact they made on your life.

You may not remember, but in your class I had encountered a tough group-member dilemma.  By nature, I am a non-confrontational girl.  You taught me a valuable life lesson....on being strong and taking a stand for what I knew was right (even if it meant I could be negatively affected as a result).  I discovered that the greater good is still worth fighting for; and that good people will respect you for this.  To this day, I sometimes think back to your class and how much I learned...both by the books and off the beaten path.  You were a great teacher and mentor.

If you chew gum....

...when you're flying, offer the person next to you a piece.

Welcome aboard U.S. MelWay flight 613.  I will take this moment to point out the two emergency exits available, as there is likely to be a lot of turbulence on this flight.  Upon the ridiculously high-speed take-off, the cabin pressure will change creating an intense discomfort that can only be relieved by the chewing of gum.  I hope you brought some because.....

Unfortunately, I have none. 

You see, although I was kindly given two pieces of gum last night by my LWYA supporter, I failed to catch that it was to be reserved for today's challenge.  Strange because I don't even like gum.  For some reason, as those two chewy, undigestable pieces of goodness sat on my desk I decided I wanted one. 

One down. One left.

So I still have a chance....right?  To complete the challenge I just need to offer a piece of gum to someone else on this flight called my life - so I only need one piece!  Welllll that's when my boss came in and as we chatted she noticed the gum on my desk and asked if she could have it.  Of course I said yes.  ::Reminding all that I don't even like gum::

So here I am today, gumless.  Therefore, I declare yesterday my gum-sharing day.

just be

I am me.
I just be.

Yes. It is true.  Your beloved Mel is back...brilliant and winsome as ever, I assure.

be brilliant

fail.

be quirky

"Quirky....?  Well that shouldn't be hard for you!" I was told

There have been recent discussions at work related to having commonsense on "scents" in the workplace.  This scentsitive issue deals with people smelling up the place...which is giving certain someones a big stinkin' headache.  Scent-sensitivity is now being considered a disability, giving affected persons protection from foul odors under ADA.

I decided to begin a new crusade. 
I am initiating efforts to prevent the wearing of gold shiny apparel and accessories in the workplace. 

- It hurts my eyes -

Like the sun...you know you should not look directly upon it, but you do.  And when you do, it pains your eyes.  Take for example Reb's golden shoes today.  They were all I could see.  Their sheer radiance blinded my left eye to numbness yet solar-pained my right eye.  They have disabled me. 
...This is why I will be requesting ADA accommodations to be made for my visual aversion to the golden beauty of apparel and accessories.

be remarkable

Have you ever had so much work to do that although you fiercely needed to use the restroom, you simply could not break to do so...? 

That was me this afternoon at work. 

How things got weird.
After I kindly lent a pen to a co-worker, they tossed it to me as I sat with my boss, both of us working feverishly........Lunging forward in a desperate attempt to catch the pen, I managed to find the inner strength to not pee myself.
THAT is something I consider nothing less than remarkable!

be connected

I was going to make a "plugged in" joke, but oddly they all just seemed inappropriate!

So I will be serious now.  Here's how I came to be connected today:

I connected with other mommas at a Valentines Playdate!  Always good times with those gals  =)
....I also made a new connection on POF, so I'll give myself extra credit.

Of course the best connection today was celebrating with my family for my mom's birthday!  Family connection tops it all!!

It was a great day!

be charming

I accomplished this on so many levels, it's not even funny!
I even "all-naturally" charmed my way to an extra $150 in my pockets.
Yes, I am just that charming.  ;-)

be gracious

gra·cious (grā'shəs)    adj.

1. Characterized by kindness and warm courtesy.
I was expressly gracious to my professor tonight for a great lecture.
2. Characterized by tact and propriety: responded to the insult with gracious humor.
Being gracious, I discretely kept my ex in check this morning.
3. Of a merciful or compassionate nature.
I was gracious as I tended to my daughter's boo-boo tonight.  Bandaids and kisses graciously make boo-boos better.
4. Condescendingly courteous; indulgent.
Graciously, I let my ex's obvious lie slide while in mediation.  I'm certain the mediator caught the lie too.  p.s. he's a terrible liar.
5. Characterized by charm or beauty; graceful.
Phong, I thank you for your gracious compliment; it was beautiful and it made my day!
6. Characterized by elegance and good taste: gracious living.
My gracious living will be even more gracious once I finish renovations!
7. Archaic Enjoying favor or grace; acceptable or pleasing.
The gracious boys appreciated my help on their brochure.
interj. Used to express surprise or mild emotion.
Goodness gracious!  How did I manage to fill in all those blanks???

be marvelous

i am.

People marvel at me...

...every day.
                                      kind of.

be winsome

I'm gonna be honest, I had no idea what the word "winsome" meant.  So Reb looked it up....

Easy enough, right?  Wrong.  Today was just not my "winsome day" ...sorry calendar. 

As someone cleverly told me today...

                      ya winsome, ya losesome

In any case, I will share this story with you:

Luckily I was so full of winsomeness yesterday that it carried over to today.  Jeff was welcomed back to his office with tons of mini and redundant 'task completed' notes hidden throughout his office.  Yes, it was my charming and childlike response to his efforts the day prior to remind me to complete a task..using every means available. 

Handwritten note, e-mails...and alas, the phone call. 

I heard he also spray-painted the message on the side of our building and then hired a pilot to air-write the task reminder in the sky....but I missed those two.

Special Agent of Kindness

This morning, while running late, I decided that a donut run was a good idea.  My daughter, Kay, agreed. While ordering our donuts-to-go, I noticed Krispy Kreme's $5 Monday Dozen special.  Without even realizing that today I was to be a Special Agent of Kindness, my natural reserve of kindness sprung a leak.  I bought a dozen donuts to share.

I also made some delicious yirgacheffe coffee for my girl Pam (and whoever else grabbed a cup)! 

To wrap the day's kindness up, I would like to share a kind act someone did for me...Special Deputy Agent C.J. paid one penny in order to save me $2 on lunch today.  Don't ask how it worked, it just did!  And it was VERY kind!  =)

Mel
~LWYA~
Special Agent, Kindness Division

Notes on Windshield (N.o.W.)

N.o.W. #1:
"Thank you Dad"...for changing my oil, building me a utility shed (co-built with Doug-THANKS!) and most importantly being the greatest dad!

I also want to point out that my dad deserves a Thank You N.o.W. from his neighbor.  As my dad worked on my car he heard a neighbor frantic on the phone asking desperately for someone to hurry over to shut off his water because their house was flooding. 

My dad, being the greatest, grabbed his tools-ran right over-and shut off their water.

N.o.W. #2:
"Thank you Pam"...for cleaning up at Evos after I lost track of time, and had to rush off to pick up Kaylee!

A pick "you" up

Offer to pick up a friend's child after such-and-such practice or meeting.

Kolpy, finally - your time to shine! 
.....So I hear baby Dmitri's in daycare, awaiting pick-up this afternoon.  Well, I'd like to offer my "mom's taxi" service to you, and at no charge. 

Oh......wait, you said "yes"?
Um, you know you don't have to accept, I just have to offer.  Don't look at me like that Kolpy.  We both know logistically it would be a nightmare.  Car seat installation, child handling, timeliness, coordinated drop off scheduling...bleh.  You don't want to deal with all that. 
Good. I'm glad you agree.

One child pick-up successfully "offered"

Kindness pops up everywhere...

...be on the look-out! Where will you spot kindness today?

   Spotting 1:  
Kelly, for short, is kind.  In fact, so kind that she helped fill an empty seat in our transportation planning Jeopardy game today!  She also kindly whooped our a$$es.

   Spotting 2:  
Achilleas, Hot Greek God (HGG) as I call him, held the door for me as I left work. -That's Kind
As if that wasn't nice enough, I mentioned to HGG that I wanted to repay a stranger who helped me on Tuesday.  Being so busy tonight, though, I just didn't have time to do it...and that made me sad :(  He asked if they were nearby, but they weren't.  He was actually willing to go on my behalf! -That's Super Kind

   Spotting 3:  
Dom and Reb rearranged the office today.  It looks so inviting now!
 
   Spotting 4:  
Special thanks to my lovely parents for watching Kaylee tonight  =)

Create Laughter

Composite conversation from today:

"So what's your task today" she asked
"It says I have to make people laugh" I responded
"Oh! You should trip down the hall.....people laugh at that sort of stuff" Reb interjects
"Just don't hurt yourself, because people won't laugh then" Jan warns
"I don't want to trip in the hall" I whine
"Hmmm...I probably shouldn't tell people I have to create laughter.  You all might give me a hard time and resist laughing!!" I joke
::Kristine chuckles::
"Oh wait, darn, I laughed" Kristine realizes

Task accomplished.

Sunshine

Keep your face to the sunshine & you cannot see the shadow. 

-Helen Keller

I am grateful.

simple. nice. easy.

If you are returning dishes to someone, write a little "thank-you" on a piece of paper & tape it to the dish.

To my mom:

Thanks for the pumpkin pie. 

...It was delicious!

Oh, wait now....what's this?  A container, and it needs to be returned.

Kindness -like cake- is sweetest when shared!

Have your cake and eat it too, I like to say. 

Get ready. Get set. Eat. ...It's in the work lounge.

***I sincerely apologize to anyone I offended by marking my e-mail announcing free cake as "low priority," clearly that was a misrepresentation of the true importance of such an e-mail***

Oh, and lastly, thank you Kolpy for thanking Publix and not me.  lol

Balance

For those who missed out on cookies yesterday...here is my attempt to balance things out!  Yes, a balanced diet of cookies for all!

wait a seconddddddddddd.  I missed someone.....cookie-consumer Arunima, you have become the star of this post:

Balancing checkbook....

Yummy in "my" Tummy

Not quite......more like yummy in their tummies! 

Why not make a few extra cookies & share it with someone who could use an extra helping of care.

I think I made 12 happy people today!  =)
See below for proof.

p.s. I think Jeff ("El Jefe") was the winner for the most in need of an extra helping of care today LOL.

Kids say the kindest things

After interrogating several teachers at Kay's school, I found my winner:

Abbey, noticing yogurt splattered on the floor with her eagle eyes, saved the day in what was sure to be a mess as teacher nearly laid the cot down upon the yogurt slop.

Very kind, Abbey, very kind.  ...but I have to ask, Abbey, who put the yogurt mess there to begin with??......yes, it'll be our lil secret...

There's a baby on my finger.

Sink Into Your Soul

First off, I believe I unintentionally accomplished this.  You know how sometimes you do something knowing it will make someone else happy, and you find yourself surprised at how much it affects you too..?  Here is my story.

Scenario:  I left dirty dishes in the sink at work even though there is clear signage NOT to do so.  Times were tough, okay?! lol. Though my intentions were to return Saturday morning, I neglected to leave an informative letter to that effect; again my fault.  Lynn, a kind co-worker, discovered my dirty dirty dishes and washed them.  The note she left, which I discovered Saturday morning, informed me of the good deed she had done, but had a sense of disappointment.  I felt bad.

How I made things better:  I went shopping....for Lynn, that is! 

I bought her a lovely token of my appreciation and apologies.  Of course I knew she would love the thoughtful gesture - who doesn't like getting gifts?  What I didn't realize was how it would also make me feel.  Honestly, I felt so proud and good about myself, like there was this extra sense of mutual respect and bonding.  It was weird.  It was great.  It was a pure, natural, unexpected moment that in my opnion reached my soul.

On a side note, I'm interpreting this task as a pamper yourself moment too.
...........Bubble bath and wine, here I come!

ENJOY Right here * Right now

Saturday morning...I am here, now, enjoying myself.

It is Sunday afternoon. I am enjoying my time with Kaylee right now.  I wanted to get ice cream with Kay but she said no thanks.  I didn't enjoy not getting ice cream.  But I got over it.
Next up we are going to enjoy dinner and movie time with the family!

Chuckle and Smile

Chuckle or smile at the things that usually irritate you...

If I laughed at you today, it's not necessarily because you are funny.  Sorry.

Sing Out Loud

...she's living life loud & clear!

So I have to freaking sing out loud?!  Okay Dom, Kolpy, and Reb...you guys could have warned me to practice a few ditties!!

========
Reb you are off the hook.
Thanks for having a birthday tomorrow....since I won't see you tomorrow, the only appropriate action is to celebrate your birthday today.  Shall we begin? 
ahem. 
Haaaaaaappy birthday, to you.  Haaaaappy Birthday, to you.  Haaaaaaappy birthday, dear Rebeccaaaaaaaaa. Happy birthday tooooooooooooooo YOU!

....and then I went there. yes. I sang Happy birthday in Spanish!

Cumpleaños feliz
Cumpleaños feliz
Te deseamos todos
¡Cumpleaños feliz!
========

Thanks for also applauding my chorus rendition of Shut up and let me go, by The Ting Tings. 

I ain't freakin' , I ain't Fakin' this
I ain't freakin’ , I ain't Fakin' this


***UPDATE***
I also led Kaylee's class in an emotionally charged rendition of The Wheels on the Bus.  It was touching.


CONFESSION: I chickened out and didn't post this song I sang, but I got brave yesterday....so here it is, DLG!

Growing Through Transitions

Challenges.

Growth. Knowledge. Power.

I ate my Wheaties today.

Certificate of Completion.