Fresh flowers are a beautiful way to find some spring. And flowers heal the heart. Kelsie arranged these beauties for my birthday last year. I miss her. And I miss the flowers that were always around the house when she was here.
"Go get yourself some tulips," Mary said to me this morning.
Mary and I became friends when our daughters became playmates in grade school. That was over 15 years ago. She is dear to me, and someone who has been a shining example of cultivating joy. Mary can make any place beautiful, light up the room, warm your heart, and make you smile from the inside out. She inspires me.
But possibly the greatest gift Mary gives to everyone who knows her is the loving and generous spirit of her soul. With her whole selfless heart she serves those around her. And everyone is uplifted when Mary is around.
My children and I have rich and wonderful memories of spending time at her home in Monroe, WA. It was a worn out, beaten down farm when she and her husband Bill bought it. Mary turned it into a a magical wonderland and heaven on earth. Everyone was happy when they were there.
I called Mary after making the post to cultivate your personal joy. When I asked her what she does to cultivate her joy she said, "It's the little things." She went on to share the small wonders and beauties of life that fill her: her children, gardens, birds, doilies, flowers, tea cups, river rock, mucking around in the horse stall and caring for the animals she loves, and silver teaspoons. The list could go on. Essentially, Mary is the extension of spring. And all the hope it brings.
Mary, I love you. :-)
In looking back through earlier posts from a year ago, I saw a pattern for this time of year.
For those of us who believe the key to happiness is to contribute to the happiness of others, we will be better at giving and serving if we are actually happy. So start on the inside--of your hearts and your homes.
Spring is on it's way. In the meantime, "freshen up your nest," as Mary says. Paint. Wash the windows. Open them up and listen to the birds chirp. Toss a few brightly colored throw pillows on the sofa. Sweep. Vacuum in the corners. And find some flowers and bring them in doors.
And take a quick look through some previous thoughts about finding happiness when you're waiting for winter to be OVER. :-)
Happy #22: Trust God.
Happy #5: "You have to know what brings you up."
Happy #9: Exercise.
Happy #28: Find the sun.
Happy #38: Feel the hope of spring.
Find some spring. It's out there. Bring it in.
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