"They like me, they really like me"

Received some great news today. I will be starting an interesting new gig soon. YAY!  I'm excited.

I had a really good interview, so I had an inkling it would work out, but you never know until you get "the call."

The call that says, "We like you. We need you. We want you." Aww, I like you guys, too. LOL.

You might be wondering, what does Ms. Girl do for a living?

A few hints:

-The result of what I do is usually a staple in every home.

The product is always available and can be addicting.

-California's a popular place for it.

What's your guess???

My joy moment today was being offered (and accepting!) what sounds like a fab new gig.

Details to come, blog peeps. :-)

Stay tuned :-)

Ms. Girl
http://huntforhappy.blogspot.com/

Laugh and the World Laughs with You

As you know, I'm always on the "Hunt for Happy"... Hence the blog address, LOL.

Came across a video segment on CNN.com about "Laughter Yoga." Laughter Yoga?!  I thought, "That sounds funny"...  and it was.

Laughter Yoga consists of a bunch of people who get together just to laugh, whether they have something to laugh about or not.  End result... you guessed it... that happy feeling.

I know they say laughter is the best medicine, but I thought, "Don't you need a reason?" Turns out, not really. Check it out!  Click on the following link.

CNN Story-"Laughter"

I have to admit, watching a bunch of people laughing out loud, for no reason, was actually pretty funny.  Finding out they were 5,000 of these laughter clubs in 50 countries...  tickled my funny bone (Ha!) and piqued my interest.

The story featured a Laughter Yoga group right here in Cali...  and it's located at the beach. Hmm, two things I like to do... laugh and hang at the beach. Perhaps, I will partake in a chuckle or two :-)

My joy moment today, was coming across this interesting story, getting a giggle, and a new idea for my Happy Hunt.

I'm not usually laughing during a regular yoga class... although, the "downward facing dog" position is pretty funny, LOL.

I think I might like this type of yoga. We'll see!

Stay tuned :-)

Ms. Girl
http://huntforhappy.blogspot.com/

Things that make me flash my pearly whites

Happy Monday!

Wanted to start off the day on a positive note. Thought of a few things that always make me smile...

Baby's laughter

Good music

A sunny day / soaking up some sunshine

Little kids playing

Catching up with an old friend

A good hair day

My grandmother's laugh

A delicious meal

The beach

Sand between my toes

Puppies

Girl talk

Hanging with my friends

Heartwarming or inspiring news stories

Doing a good deed

My mom poking fun at me

Fun surprises

Chocolate

Hugs

Reunions

Relaxing pedicure/ foot massage

Watching my friend who (admittedly) can't dance, try to find his rhythm

A great movie

An old couple in love, holding hands

Ice cream

Spur of the moment adventure

Making someone laugh

Good sleep

Counting my blessings

My joy moment today was taking a few moments to reflect on the little things that bring me joy.

What makes you smile or brightens your day?  Do tell.

Inquiring (nosey) minds want to know, LOL.

Stay tuned :-)

Ms. Girl
http://huntforhappy.blogspot.com/

Discovery Zone

Today I found a great little park near my house that will be my new retreat spot. Any place near the water brings me tranquility, so this was a nice find and a pleasant way to spend a Sunday afternoon.  Here are a few pics of my new discovery.

Sunny day. Cool breeze. A good time.

This little discovery was my joy moment for today... and probably, many more days to come.

Hope you had a good one, friends.

Stay tuned :-)

Ms. Girl
http://huntforhappy.blogspot.com/

Saturday Slumber

Stayed up late on Friday night... up until 4am!  Wish I could say I was doing something fab and exciting, but alas, I was just hanging at the pad. I'm such a nocturnal bird.

Of course, I then ended up sleeping in pretty late today. Domino effect. Half the day was gone.

Part of me just wanted to veg-out on the couch the rest of the day. The other part of me wanted to salvage what was left of my Saturday and get some things done. Let me tell you, the first part was almost a sure winner... that couch was calling my name!

I finally got it together by late afternoon and played a mean game of catch-up on fun stuff (not!), like laundry and household duties. Then left the house by early evening, just in time to catch a little bit of sunshine and run a few errands, too. You better believe I was on that couch after all of that, LOL.

Yet, I felt good, afterwards. Tired! But good.

My joy moment today was turning around my slacker Saturday, kicking it into overdrive and making it a somewhat productive day.

Now I need a nap!  LOL. Here we go again!  :-)

Stay tuned :-)

Ms. Girl
http://huntforhappy.blogspot.com/

Friday Pick-Me-Up

Isn't it funny, how one small thing can turnaround your day?

Run of the mill Friday... I was looking forward to the weekend, when I received a call out of the blue about a possible, cool opportunity.

All of sudden, I came out of my Friday fog and got a little giddy thinking about, "what ifs" and possible scenarios.

BTW, I was given very little information and it's a slim chance that things will pan out... but I'm keeping the faith and the fingers crossed!  Anything is better than the Friday fog, LOL.

My joy moment today was a mid-day phone call that led to a perkier afternoon. Details to come... hopefully :-)

Hope you had a pleasant day, and a great weekend is on the way.

Stay tuned : -)

Ms. Girl
http://huntforhappy.blogspot.com/

I Love You

Today someone close to me told me that they loved me. They said they appreciated our friendship and that no matter what, they knew that I had their back and they had mine.  

The person wasn't sick or ill. They weren't delirious or depressed. They weren't moving away and never coming back. Actually, we were just talking about old times and our friendship.

In case I didn't know or they hadn't told me, they wanted me to know how much they cared.

If that doesn't make your day, I don't know what does! It was definitely my joy moment for today.

Thank you, my friend. Right back at ya!

Spread the love. Make someone's day. You'll be glad you did, and so will they.

Stay tuned :-)

Ms. Girl
http://huntforhappy.blogspot.com/

What's Your Fantasy?!

It was one of those days. You know, the stressful ones. Lots to do and not enough time to do it all.  The kind where you dream of hitting the lottery and driving off into the sunset. Instead, I was driving in bumper to bumper L.A. traffic, near sunset.  Not even close.

I needed a pick me up. Big time.  While I sat there choking on fumes and listening to the various car radios compete with each other, I starting daydreaming of things I'd rather be doing...

-Making summer plans. 

-Eating chocolate, because it makes everything better.  

-Ice cream... right up there with chocolate. 

-Getting a massage... I started to feel better just thinking about it.

-Planning a weeked getaway with the gal pals. Vegas, anyone?! 

-Chocolate. Sorry, I have a one track mind. 

-Hitting up stores during an all-expense paid shopping spree.  I was deep into fantasy mode.

-Walking the red carpet in designer duds for a high profile affair.  I think I'm watching too much "Access Hollywood." 

-On a date with Denzel, Matthew McConaughey, or some sexy celeb. If I'm going to go there, let's make it good. 

-Vacationing on a tropical island. Me. On a beach. Hot dude. Delectable food and drinks... and then...TRUCK HORN!... jolted me right out of my dream.  A massive big rig starting honking at the car next to me. Guess the guy next to me was daydreaming, too. Drive and daydream, buddy. Get with it!  LOL.   

I quickly returned to my happy place and started again.

-Chocolate.  LOL

My joy moment today was taking my mind off my crazy day and letting it wander to faraway places and fun ideas. My drive time didn't seem as long and it lessened my stress. 

Who says fantasies are just for kids?  

Stay tuned :-)

Ms. Girl
http://huntforhappy.blogspot.com/

What's up, Doc?

Went in for a check-up today. Sometimes, I'm like a little a kid when it comes to doc visits. I just want to get outta there... fast. Throw in a lollipop or a balloon, and I may stop whimpering.  Maybe. :-)

Surprisingly, it was a good visit. The personnel were incredibly friendly and the MD was thorough and pleasant. I was in and out, and nobody got hurt...  especially me, LOL.

My joy moment today was an easy, breezy check-up.  All systems are a go!

Whatever that means, LOL.

Stay tuned :-)

Ms. Girl
http://huntforhappy.blogspot.com/

Laughfest

Tonight I watched NBC's,"Last Comic Standing," a competition show in search of America's funniest comic.

Such a fun way to end a Monday night. I love comedy and I love to laugh. Just ask my neighbors, LOL.  I admire people who can get in front of an audience and give them a hearty chuckle. There was a time (a milli-second), when I thought I would like to try that. But I got stage fright just glancing at the stage.  

Comedy audiences are no joke (Ha! Okay, I'll stop), I should know, I'm one of them. We expect to have big laughs the minute a comic hits the stage... and they better keep 'em coming.  We're an impatient bunch.  It sounds like it would easy to go on stage and tell a few jokes for 2-5 minutes. Right? Not so much. Stand up there for a few minutes with bad material and see how long it is. Unfortunately, I've witnessed that. It's not pretty. That's where the talent and skill comes in... and for the great ones, it seems effortless. 

Tonight, I also had the pleasure of watching a comedian friend of mine perform on the show. She made it to the semi-finals... so proud of her!  I'm rooting for her to go all the way! 

My joy moment today was laughing it up as I watched several funny comedians (including my friend) compete for the show's top slot.

A little levity does a body good... and it's a pretty good night cap, too. 

Another 'funny' one for ya...
-"Mr. Denzel"

Stay tuned :-)

Ms. Girl 

http://huntforhappy.blogspot.com

Daddy Day

Father's day.  A wonderful occasion to celebrate dads. Today I spent time remembering two of my fav fathers, my dad and my granddad.  May they rest in peace.

Although, the holiday makes me sad because I miss them both, my joy moment today was reflecting on all the great times I shared with each of them. I'm thankful for the wonderful memories.

Gone but not forgotten, JC and RW. Cheers to my angels above.

And a Happy Father's Day to all the great dads!

Stay tuned :-)

Ms. Girl
http://huntforhappy.blogspot.com/

Book Lover

While out and about with a friend today, we had to make a stop at a Barnes and Noble, in search of a particular book she needed. I was more than happy to oblige. I don't get an opportunity to read as often as I'd like, so I was looking forward to the trip and picking up a good book. 

I love bookstores. Whenever I step inside, I always get an adrenalin rush looking at all the wonderful selections.  All of a sudden, I'm like a kid in a candy store.  I want them all and don't know where to begin.

Am I looking for a little mystery?  Do I want a little romance?  Do I want some adventure?  Hmmm, it almost sounds like a date.  LOL. It is, sort of. Because, during the time I'm reading the book, we will hopefully, have an intriguing, exciting and insightful relationship. Yes, I expect a lot from my book-dates. :-)

I love books. The great ones take your mind on a wonderful journey, at the end, leaving you with a little something special to remember them by.

My joy moment today was strolling up and down the aisles of the bookstore, perusing the various selections and later purchasing a couple that I can't wait to begin reading.

Bookworms unite!  LOL.

Stay tuned :-)

Ms. Girl
http://huntforhappy.blogspot.com/

To-Do... and Do... and Do

To-Do lists. I don't know about you guys and gals but I always seem to have an ever-growing To-Do list.

I'll check-off one item and two more things will come up that need to be added. It's never ending. Will there will ever be a time when the lists will be completely done?  Probably, when pigs fly. Unfortunately, they're not that organized yet. 

I guess, if we didn't have all this stuff to accomplish, we'd have nothing to do but hang out at the beach all day, and who wants that?  FYI... my hand is raised. In the meantime, I try to be productive and continue to whittle away! 

My joy moment today was kicking procrastination to the curb and checking 5 whole things off my list... Yeah, baby!  I have to admit it always feels good.   

Maybe there will be a beach day in the near future.

Gotta add that to the list! 

Stay tuned :-)

Ms. Girl
http://huntforhappy.blogspot.com/

Mania!

I'm not much of a sports fan, but living in California, it's kind of hard not to get wrapped up in Laker Mania. Every day this week, and the weeks leading up to today, the NBA Championship's notorious rivalry has been on the news, the net, and every media outlet.

You couldn't ignore the Celtics vs. Lakers, Game 7 frenzy. Believe me, I tried.  Just kidding... a little.  Of course, you had to tune in, it was sure to be a great showdown.

So there I was tonight, for the start of Game 7...  at the mall. I didn't do it on purpose... it just happened!  I ran in for a quick item and then I saw several,"Sale" signs... and, well... I became wrapped up in shopping mania. Now, that's my kind of mania! I did say I wasn't a sports fan. LOL.

My joy moment today was catching the fantastic highlights of Game 7 "after" getting a couple of fantastic summer outfits... on sale!  

I call that a win-win situation. :-)

Check out my other trips to the mall...  
-"Make-up!"

-"Shoe Mania"

Stay tuned :-)

Ms. Girl
http://huntforhappy.blogspot.com/

Laugh it up, Baby

There's nothing like a baby's laughter to put you in a good mood.

Someone sent me this YouTube video of a toddler laughing so much he has to lay down. So funny! It makes me laugh every time I watch it. The baby's name is Ethan, and for some reason, the ripping of paper cracks him up. Check it out! FYI, he bumps his head at first, but he keeps right on laughing.

I couldn't believe how many videos of chuckling babies are posted on YouTube. Although, I do understand the appeal. Too cute!    

Their laughter is infectious... and watching a few of these adorable videos gave me several, laugh-out-loud, joy moments today.

Click on the following link for more giggles.
"Laughing Babies"

Enjoy!
Stay tuned :-)

Ms. Girl
http://huntforhappy.blogspot.com/

Hot, but not quite Ready!

On June 21st, summer will officially be here. Yay!  NOT.

My mind is ready for summer. My body, not so much.

You see, I'd been prepping for a wedding I had to attend in May. So, I thought, I would be "Hot and Ready" (like Caesars pizza) for the summer.  It's June.  I'm hot, but it's from the heat and I'm soo-not-ready for cute, summer outfits or anything resembling beachwear. How did this happen?

I was on a good bread-roll leading up to the wedding. I was watching my calories and exercising regularly. But after the wedding, all of that went out the cookie jar.  It didn't help that I was on vacation at the time. I mean, who diets on vacation? That's just wrong. And Absurd. And did I mention, wrong?

So I fell off the lunch-truck and here I am. Not ready for summer. What's Ms. Girl to do?

Today, I realized, while eating some ice cream... don't judge... that I had to start all over again. Not a good feeling... which led to an extra scoop. "Hi, my name is Ms. Girl and I'm an emotional eater." There I said it. :-)

So after this week (I need some time, people, I'm fragile!), I might, no, I will, start eating healthy and begin...e x e r c i s i n g. It hurts just typing those words. Okay, it's time to woman-up and just do it.

My joy moment today was eating my ice cream with bananas and delicious toppings. Just being honest! Did you think I was going to say it was my decision to start exercising and losing weight? Baby steps, people. Baby back rib, steps. :-)

Yes, I realize I'm using a lot of food references. You have your way of preparing for a diet and I have mine, LOL. I'll keep you posted, so you can keep me honest. :-)

Until then, live long and pass the potatoes.  I mean, prosper!  LOL.

Stay tuned :-)
Ms. Girl
**P.S., CLICK BELOW, FOR MORE ON MY WEIGHT LOSS EFFORTS:
Shame, Pain and Joy
Cardio Madness

Monday, Monday!

Why is Monday the most hated day of the week?

Tuesday is tolerated, basically, because it's not Monday.

Wednesday has it's own nickname.

Thursday is like-able because it's so close to the weekend. Sometimes, it even masquerades like it's a Friday.  It's no fool.

Friday is the day songs are made about and cute little acronyms are used, TGIF! Everyone's happy it's arrived and things are kum ba ya!

Saturday... needs no explanation. It's an A-lister.

Sunday is referred to as fun-day, rest day, family day, etc. It's called many names but they're all good ones.

But Monday gets no love.

I know I'm guilty of it. I woke up today with a bit of Monday blues and dread. I was like, "You again? Weren't you just here?" I even made my FB status entry,"Monday is the root of all evil."

I know, kinda harsh. What did Monday ever do to me?

I decided I needed to change my way of thinking... So I pretended it was Tuesday. Denial was my answer. LOL.

Just kidding!

Monday is a great day. An awesome one.  Just like every other day of the week.  Because every day that I can get up and see another day is a good one. A blessing. Betcha didn't see that one coming? Neither did I. Then it hit me. What was I complaining about?  Ms. Girl gave herself a reality check... and fast. Wasn't that the purpose of my blog?  Wake up and Live!  Every day... Even Mondays.

My joy moment today was my own Monday morning wake up call. Reminding myself that each day is a gift and to make the most of them. They all may not turn out to be great days but I'll do my best to appreciate each one.

BTW, it turned out to be a pretty decent Monday. Next up, coming up with a hip nickname for it. LOL. Whatever works!  :-)

Hope you had a good one!

Stay tuned :-)

Ms. Girl

CHECK OUT OTHER "MONDAY" ENTRIES:
Mid-Day Massage
Cha Cha Cha

Sunday Brunch

Brunch. One of my favorite parts of a Sunday afternoon. I don't do it every Sunday, although, I very well could, LOL.

Fancy restaurant... charming cafe... cute diner... atmosphere is always nice, but it's really all about good food and great company.

Whether socializing with the girls, spending time with the fam or cozying up with that special someone, it's a lovely (and delicious!) way to spend a Sunday afternoon. Mimosa's don't hurt either, LOL.

My joy moment today was having Sunday brunch with a fab friend. Good food. Good company. Good times.

Let's do it again!  Say... Sunday?  Pencil me in.

Stay tuned :-)

Ms. Girl
http://huntforhappy.blogspot.com/

ALSO CHECK OUT:
House Of Blues Gospel Brunch

Miracle Workers

I love old movies. If it's black and white, even better. I caught a great oldie playing on cable.  Somehow, I'd never seen the 1962 multiple, Oscar winning movie, "The Miracle Worker."

It's the true story of Helen Keller, blind and deaf since a small child, and her teacher, Anne Sullivan's struggle to teach her how to communicate. Keller is violent, non-communicative and unruly. Sullivan is unsympathetic and relentless in her quest to help Keller to be better.

The movie stars amazing actresses Anne Bancroft, as Annie Sullivan and Patty Duke as Helen Keller. They each won Oscars for their superb performances.

The movie is riveting. Especially, a fight scene around the table between Keller and her teacher.  It's one of the most physically intense scenes I've seen between an adult and a child, especially for that time. I couldn't help thinking they must have been exhausted by the end of it.

The story is both heartbreaking and amazingly inspiring. I think one of the things I enjoyed the most was Sullivan's unflinching dedication to Keller. She wouldn't give up on her, even when Keller's own parents contemplated it. She was the one person that believed Keller could breakthrough her disabilities, and because of Anne Sullivan, she did. Helen Keller later became an author, activist and lecturer.

As we know, sometimes it's that one special person who gives an individual extra attention, guidance or assistance that can make a dramatic difference in the course of that individual's life.

My joy moment today was enjoying this wonderful film and reflecting on the mentors aka "Miracle Workers" in my own life. Shout-outs to two of mine... Marilyn G. and Matt M.

Who was your Miracle Worker...  or were you a blessing to another?  Ms. Girl would love to hear about it!

Thanks.

Stay tuned :-)

Ms. Girl
http://huntforhappy.blogspot.com/

The Hunt for Happy

Ah, the joy journey. It brings me just that... joy. Yet, I wouldn't be telling the truth if I made it seem like each and every day was filled with nothing but delirious happiness. That would be nice, but let's be real, life isn't like that. That's the stuff movies are made of, LOL.

My purpose is to find a moment of joy in the midst of all of life's craziness. Whether it's a few hours or a few minutes.

Instead of getting up, getting through the day, going to bed and starting all over again... with days, weeks and months flying by... I want to find one moment (ideally, several!) each day that reminds me to be appreciative, content, or joyful.

So what do I do on the days when everything is going wrong, or filled with stress or like today, when I'm under the weather and things are topsy turvy?

That's when the joy journey is all the more important and all the more worthwhile. Because in the midst of a bad day, sickness, craziness, life drama... finding a moment to pause, to breathe, to recharge and regroup is imperative. Taking my mind off whatever the issue is and redirecting it to something hopeful or happy is always a step in the right direction. Usually, it helps in getting through the situation in a better state of mind... and more often than not, with better results! It''s on those occasions, that I've found my joy journey to be all the more rewarding.

My joy moment today was remembering, like anything else, that this too shall pass. It always does. In the meantime, I'm staying on the path of joy, counting my blessings and appreciating each and every day.

The hunt continues. :-)

Stay tuned :-)

Ms. Girl
http://huntforhappy.blogspot.com/

The Big One!

I hit the jackpot!!!

Whoo-hoo! Going to pick up a bunch of friends and family and go on a long, extended vacation... all around the world!  First stop, a private jet to an amazing tropical island!  Effective immediately.

Headed to the airport, packing just my purse and a big 'ol smile.
Some.  Things.  Are.  Going.  To.  Change.  Big Time!!

Then I came back to earth.  My daydream ended.  Reality check!!

I snapped out of my fantasy fog and tuned back into the conversation. My friend has just told me that the convenience store near my old place, sold a 12 million dollar lottery ticket. Something told me not to move! LOL.

We both sat for a moment dreaming of all the things we could do if either of us hit the big one... We'd take care of friends and family... Donate money to charities and worthy causes... Purchase a beautiful house by the water.... Travel to exotic places... Buy a fabulous wardrobe... Nice cars...  Every now and then it's nice to dream.

My joy moment today was having some fun fantasizing with a friend about all the things we could do if we won the million dollar prize.

Coming back to reality wasn't so bad, because I'm still a rich girl. I have things that money can't buy...  the genuine love of friends and family. It may sound corny but it's true. Haven't we all heard those unfortunate stories of the lonely and troubled millionaire?

Someone once said, "The best things in life are not things."  I'd have to agree.

Take that, Mr. Lottery Maker!  LOL.

Stay tuned :-) 

Ms. Girl 

http://huntforhappy.blogspot.com/

"Ain't It Good to Know..."

While channel surfing tonight, I came across a TV concert of two great artists, Carol King and James Taylor. They were singing a duet of their classic oldie... "You've Got A Friend."



That song has such great lyrics...

"When you're down and troubled and need a helping hand... and nothing, oh nothing, is going right. Just close your eyes and think of me and soon I will be there... to brighten up, even your darkest night. 
You just call out my name, and you know wherever I am, I'll come running, to see you again. Winter, spring, summer or fall, all you gotta do is call... And I'll be right there. Yes, I will. You've got a friend."

Hopefully, we're all blessed to have such a person as described above in our lives. That person or persons, that we can count on. No matter the time of day or the reason, they are there for us if we need them.

Those beautiful lyrics made me think of the great friends that I have in my life. The ones I can call when I need to vent, need a laugh, or a pick me up. The ones I can feel free to share good news, bad news, and even embarrassing news. Or those times when I can't find the words and don't have to, because they know just the right thing to say.  

No agendas, no pretense. Just that wonderful person who loves you, just for you... just the way you are.

To have one friend like that is a gift, to have several... you've hit the jackpot. You are rich, indeed.

My joy moment today was my moment of appreciation for all my wonderful and amazing friends. They bring a smile to my face and joy to my spirit, just thinking about how special they are and how blessed I am to have them.

"Aint' it good to know, you've got a friend."   Yes, it is!

Cheers to good friends.

Stay tuned :-)

Ms. Girl
http://huntforhappy.blogspot.com/

Take-out Time!

After taking care of business all day, I was tired. Pooped. Spent. Who isn't these days, right?  Exactly.

So, I decided no cooking for me tonight. I made a pit stop at a local restaurant and ordered one of my fav dishes there.... chicken fettuccine alfredo. Yum.

Ahh, takeout. Gotta love it.  Quick. Simple. And good.

Added bonus, no dishes! Who says take-out isn't good for you? I feel better already!  LOL.

My joy moment today was indulging in a little take-out action.  Not so bad, every now and then... and today, it was oh, so good. :-)  

Back on the healthy track tomorrow.

Stay tuned :-)

Joy Journey... 5 Months In!

I'm just about five months in on my very first blog.  Feels good!

I can't tell you the last time I made a commitment to do something every, single day... and actually did it.  Usually, I can't committ to anything for that long.  Like...

Diets!  I get too darn hungry. Even when I've lasted three months or so, right after I lose the weight, it's back on the Ben and Jerry train or hanging out at the Coldstone's corner for me.  And then, voila! The back fat is back. :-)

Exercise classes...  I hit the wall (literally) pretty quick.  I was on a good schedule for about 2 months, but now... let's just say the only exercise I'm getting lately is when I lift up my fork. I'm not proud of it, people! Just being honest. :-)  I'm headed back, gotta do it.

But with my blog, I've been amazingly consistent since the beginning. My joy journey has truly given me a more positive and upbeat spirit. Taking a moment each day to find contentment, appreciation, fun or just something to make myself or another person smile has brought more joy into my life... as well as the people I have the honor of spending the moments with.

Sharing it on this blog and hopefully, bringing some of that feeling to my readers, is the icing on my joy cake. Ms. Girl, obviously likes her food examples. LOL.

My joy moment today was feeling proud that I've stuck with a goal for a whole 5 months. In the process,  gaining a richer and greater appreciation for each day on this earth.

Thanks for hanging with me!  The joy journey continues.

Stay tuned :-)

Ms. Girl

Simple Sundays

I attended a nice service at church today. Gave thanks for my life and the people I'm blessed to have in it. I'm grateful for His mercy and His grace.

Chatted it up on the phone with my 83-year-old grandmother. I love our conversations. She's a news junkie and always manages to surprise me with some interesting tidbits I haven't heard.

Then I enjoyed watching a few movies and "chill-laxing"on the couch. Got up to eat and snack, then repeated it all over again from the beginning, LOL.

I love low-key Sundays. They help me to get prepped and re-charged for the week ahead. No big plans are needed, easy-going works just fine for me.

My joy moment today was enjoying a simple and quiet Sunday afternoon.

Bring it on, crazy Monday!  I'm ready for ya. :-)

Stay tuned :-)

Surprise Tix

Late this afternoon, I received a phone call from a friend telling me she was able to get two tix to see two of my favorite artists. I was so excited!

My joy moment is happening right now! I'm watching Grammy Award winning artists, Jill Scott and Maxwell, live, in concert. Great seats,too. Such a treat.

Pics to come!

Stay tuned :-)

Happy Friday!

Have you every met a Friday you didn't like?  LOL. I don't think I have and today didn't disappoint.

Off from work. Slept in. Enjoyed hot, 80 degree weather while running errands. Then had a great dinner and a fun gabfest with a good friend. I love you, Friday.  :-)

My joy moment today was relishing a laid back, stress-free Friday. Thankful for it.

Hope you had a good one, as well!

Stay tuned :-)

No Time like the Present

Today I was looking for a document and came across a box of files with several writing projects that I'd started but didn't finish. As I read some of them again, I became re-inspired and wondered why I had let them fall by the wayside.

Time, procrastination, life stuff... take your pick. I've probably got enough excuses to fill another box. All I know is finding that pile full of goodies was both exciting and dismaying.

Dismaying because several of the documents were over 3-4 years old. I can't even pretend they were lost, since they were neatly put away, by yours truly, in a pile full things I was supposed to get back to. Not good. Plus, a few of them were actually pretty funny. But who was laughing?

Action was needed. I took the files out, sorted through the script ideas and selected one that I would complete by years end. No more excuses!  No more putting things off or stuffing it away in boxes. It was time to do it. If not now, when? It's 2010. Time to begin again... and get to the end.  I was excited.

My joy moment today was discovering and dusting off some of my old writing projects and making a commitment to complete one.

You are my witnesses.  No pressure.  Okay, actually, I'm feeling a little pressure... but that's a good thing, LOL. Ms. Girl obviously needs it.  Only 6 months to go!

I'll keep you posted. 

Stay tuned. :-)

Chick Flick Nite

I went out tonight with seven gal pals to see the movie, "Sex and the City 2."

We were all looking forward to seeing our favorite New York divas in action again. This time causing trouble in Abu Dhabi, of all places.

We all enjoyed it. How could we not?  It's the ultimate chick flick. Romance, handsome men, love pains and the bonds of sister friends... all wrapped up in fabulous outfits and gorgeous settings.

We laughed, we sighed and dreamed of finding a way to get some of those amazing outfits... and a few of those cute guys, too. LOL. Can't a girl dream? :-)

My joy moment today was checking out a chick flick with my gal pals. Just the mid-week pick me up I needed.

Stay tuned :-)

You've Got Talent!

I love quotes. Especially, inspiring and motivating quotes. Whenever I come across great phrases, I like to share them with others.  We all can use an uplifting message every now and then.

A dear friend of mine recently gave me a lovely book with wonderful quotes and sayings, by regular folks and famous ones. Such a great gift! It also contains inspirational stories and guides on discovering your true purpose in life and finding a way to share it. Ultimately, bringing joy to your life and to others. Love it! It's totally up Ms. Girl's alley.

The theme and main message is summed up in the following quote from the book..."The purpose of life is to discover your gift. The meaning of life is to give it away." 

I'm a true believer that we all have special talents or gifts that we bring to the world. Yet many times, we may feel we don't have the time or we're not sure where to begin to find them. Maybe that's just my excuse, LOL. Hopefully, this is a great way for me to get started. 

In case you're also interested, the name of the book is, "One: How many people does it take to make a difference?" by Dan Zadra and Kobi Yamada. 

My joy moment today was reading a book, given to me by a fab friend, that inspires me to seek out my individual talent and use it to make a difference for others.

I'm off to discover!  I hope you'll do the same. :-)

Stay tuned :-)