Remember to smile...freebie

As I've shared in the past couple of years, times are extremely difficult for my husband and myself, financially. There are some days, I forget to smile. But then, I get a call from my niece, who tells me something funny that one of her little boys did. Or my husband cracks one of his corny/funny jokes. Or I get a dozen lovely comments in my e-mail from a new blog friend (thanks, Deb!!) who just discovered my word art. Or, while sorting through a box of things, I come across a letter written by my dad the summer before he died. Or Kate sends me another layout she prepared using my word art.




And then I remember all over again the healing power of a smile.

There are so many people in the world who are hurting because of losses, illnesses, financial challenges, and more...perhaps it is you, or someone you love. Share a smile with them today over a cup of coffee, or across a shopping cart...or looking in a mirror. You'll be so glad you did.

Blessings on your day,

Melanie

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Cuddle Buttons

We've been fortunate in my part of Texas to receive rain of some sort every day this week. As I mentioned earlier on Thursday, lightning and thunder accompanied just about every bit of that rain. I'm a creature of the rainy storms, so you won't find me complaining.

What I WILL complain about is the condition of the dogs after they come indoors from frolicking in the rain. ACK!!!!! Last night (in the wee hours) they bounded into our bedroom, basically looking like sheep. They are West Highland WHITE Terriers, but when they start digging around in wet soil, their snouts and feet are black. Sheep, I tell you...sheep! Of course, they want to cuddle with us to get dry.

We have muddy "pounce marks" all over our summertime comforter, which is mostly white. Well, it was.

All four of us did have a cuddle after my husband got up at 3:00 am and gave the dogs a shower.

Speaking of cuddles, we received a wedding invitation in the mail yesterday from my niece, who is getting married in September. It truly seems like just yesterday when I was cuddling that tiny porcelain doll with her dark hair and blue eyes. Her hair frequently changes colors now as she plays with her hairstyles, and her eyes are now that extraordinary color of gray-lavender that reflect the hues of whatever she is wearing. And she is still an absolute doll. Though, for some reason, she'd rather cuddle with her fiance' now. Hmmmmm. Imagine that. LOLOL.

Enjoy your Saturday,
Melanie

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surprised me

I was so shocked to learn yesterday that this layout of mine won layout of the week at DSO!! It was made for my participation in the Quote Challenge.



A very nice surprise to end a very busy week, in which I had had no time to scrap.

Speaking of smiles :), here's your gift for today:


have a blessed day,
Melanie

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Facelifts

Thank you for the kind comments and the anniversary greetings! That was nice to awaken to this morning.

Hope you can use today's crooked smile WA.

Blessings on your day,
Melanie

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An Oldie But Goodie

At least it is for me ... I've heard this all my life!

Today's posting is short but sweet. I'm enoying watching the rare summer lightning streaking across the sky this morning. It probably won't result in rain (boo hoo) but lightning always makes me feel alive. And SMILE.

Blessings on your day,
Melanie

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If not for you ...

Today's word art is in honor of YOU. Yes, all of you who leave me such kind comments, cute notes and terrific anecdotes. It means a lot. This smiling laugh is in your honor.

If not for you, it would be much less joy in the creating process. Thanks!!!!!

Blessings,

Melanie

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font credits: Beyond Wonderland, EK Brush Lettering, House Sitter's Club

From just around the corner, Joy saves the day...

There you are, just plodding along in life ... in your day ... or, in my case, still fighting with some weird, painful headaches -- when someone comes along and brightens your day by telling you that you did something "awesome." It was definitely a WOW moment for me to hear from Joy in that very way. She's one of the faithful ones who takes the time to send me messages from time to time, and I always appreciate them. This time, she did it expecting nothing in return, and I had to tell her right away that she made my day.

And then -- surely, no coincidence -- I later came across this quotation that instantly reminded me of Joy. DOWNLOAD

So, Joy, I hope this small token of appreciation brings at least a glimmer of a smile to you for the pleasure you bring to others. And speaking of those delightful moments, the rest of you REALLY should take the time to check out her blog and see the captivating photos of her recent trip to Alaska. Fantastic!

Blessings to you all,
Melanie