Last week, my “Wishes” for “Week #2” were to:
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Smile and Laugh More – During most of my pre-teen and teenage years, I sported a cavity right between my two front teeth. For fear of embarrassment, I would seldom “Smile” or “Laugh.” Finally, when I was about 16-years-old MAMA managed to save enough money to pay for capping both teeth in porcelain. Gold caps were cheaper, then, but this was totally an unacceptable option for “her daughter.”
Old habits are hard to break. But, this past week, I made an effort to “Smile” or “Laugh” when:
– Meeting people face-to-face
– Reading e-mails, Facebook notifications, and blog posts
– Conversing on the telephone with family, friends, telemarketers
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Each Day Give Something Good to Others – I made it a point to say a warm and heart-felt “Thank You” to everyone who provided ME with a service – including, but not limited to the:
Cashiers at the grocery store who always asks, “If I found everything I was looking for.” Understandable, since Hubby and I shop for groceries almost every day of the week.
Physical Therapist even though, on this first visit, he took me through a grueling hour of stretching and balancing exercises.
Nail Tech for a relaxing pedicure and lovely manicure as well as showing patience when I fell asleep in the manicure and pedicure chairs. I always go to sleep; and, with a very light touch she lets me know when I need to do something.
Customer Service Representative at PayPal who was so patient in assisting me with accessing my account to pay the invoice for the redesigning of my blog by Amanda at www.livinginanotherlanguage.com
To one of my BFF (Best Friends Forever), a grandmother, struggling with whether it is feasible to pursue her long-time Wish of going back to college, I Give to BFF words of encouragement by sharing the following quotes:
- The only thing that will stop you from fulfilling your dreams is you. (Tom Bradley)
- If you want to live a happy life, tie it to a goal, not to people or things. (Albert Einstein)
- Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you have imagined. (Henry David Thoreau)
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Express Gratitude Daily – For a short period, I stopped writing down what I was grateful for at the end of the day. This past week, I am back on track and Expressed my Gratitude by writing before I retired for the night in my Gratitude Journal.
Stay in Touch with Extended Family and Friends – Over the years; I have been remiss in staying connected with people who I love and need in my life. I feel proud of my “outreach” efforts this past week. I …
- telephoned and had a long conversation with a former neighbor and friend in Wisconsin.
- reached out, by sending warm messages via greeting cards, to four of my closest friends in Wisconsin.
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Rest and Relax – Did I ever. Every morning, I rose at 5:00 a.m., with the exception of two mornings at 7:00 a.m., to sit for an hour on our rear screened-in-lanai. The serenity and tranquility enhanced by listening to the audio book by Sarah Ban Breathnach, “Simple Abundance: Living by Your Own Lights,” with soft sounds of background piano music played by Kelly Yost.
The music put me in such a relaxing state; I didn’t hesitate to place an order for the CD. Sadly, on backorder, and, I can’t wait to receive it.
Weekly Wishes #3 improved the overall quality of my life and I will strive to continue down the path that these Wishes led me to.
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As I begin Week #4 my Wishes are to:
- Perform small acts of kindness.
- Exercise in the pool swimming pool.
- Learn as much as I can about my newly purchased digital camera.
- Prepare healthy meal from a recipe.
- Read each day a passage from “Simple Abundance: A Daybook of Comfort and Joy,” by Sarah Ban Breathnach.
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Today is Better than Yesterday and Tomorrow the Possibilities are Unlimited!!!
SeasonedSistah 
Yvonne, this is a beautiful post. I love your heart and your passion. And YES your BFF definitely should go back to school! A person is NEVER too old to learn. I’m very excited about your new camera! If you have any questions please message me. 🙂
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Thank you for your comments. The new camera is still in the box, but I have been able to fulfill my other wishes this week.
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I love the idea of having weekly wishes! I’m definitely up for the smiling and laughing more. Sometimes the business weighs me down and I find I’m being more serious than I would like.
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Thank you for commenting on my post. Weekly wishes have been working for me. Perhaps, putting them out there on worldwide web is holding me more accountable. (Really? I can count my followers on the right hand-smile). Actually, as I seek to “authenticate ME,” my wishes are easier to fulfill because “I no longer look to others to seek approval for “my wishes”
I can relate to your “stress. The years of raising children, being a wife, and meeting the demands of a career was the more stressful period in my life. I wish I had taken more time to focus on me in this phase of my life. For, I am certain the children, husband, and career would have reaped the benefits of a “happier ME.” Retired life is allowing time for “ME” and its a beautiful thing.
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You know it is amazing how many people we come into contact with everyday. T smile and a thank you can go a long way.
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Thank you so much for your comment. I am a work-in-progress, but “smiling” has brought more “positivity” than “negativity” into my life as I seek to overcome my “not smiling/laughing phobia.”
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Weekly wishes…how cool. I have kept a gratitude notebook before. It’s hard to remember to look for the good and be thankful even when times are a little rough. I’m checking into Simple Abundance. I’ve heard good things about it and the author.
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How did the gratitude notebook work for you? I find recording everyday about what “I am grateful for..” is easier now that I use an “online journal.” I encourage you to explore all that this author has to offer. Right now, I am focused on reading, “Simple Abundance: A Day Book of Comfort and Joy,” listening to her audio book, “Simple Abundance: Living by Your Own Lights.” I am still a “work in progress” seeking to show gratitude on a daily basis. Thank you for our comments.
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I agree with Megan! This list can definitely help you give yourself a little bit of happiness every week. Sometimes the small things we regard as insignificant are the biggest things ever.
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What a great idea to regroup every week and set some goals! I’ve been trying to set reasonable goals for myself each week instead of having a monumental to-do list that I have no chance of completing in a week. Seeing all those things to do just stresses me out. Maybe by looking at the big picture it will help me manage the stress and my time better!
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Thank you for commenting on my post. My “weekly wishes” generally represent things I have wished for and in the past without success. Embarking down the path of weekly posting my wishes has held me more accountable. I may not find time to work toward fulfilling every wish, but I give priority to those that are most important to me — nutrition, exercise, rest/relaxation, and peace. So far its working and I will continue down the path of posting my wishes.
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What a great idea! “Wishes” sound so much easier to achieve then “goals”. I’m going to put your wishes to good use and get up earlier to enjoy some quiet time and the lovely end of summer weather we’re having. Thanks so much for the idea!
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Wow, Sarah Ban Breathnach brought back some memories. I may need to pull that out. This was such a nice post. And a great way to end my day. Thanks for reminding me of some simple ways to be a better person. The timing couldn’t be more perfect.
xo ~kim
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I, too, read Breatnach’s book back in the day. This time, I ordered the audio version and I am listening and re-listening as a part of my “hour quiet time” at 5:00 a.m. everyday. I am seeking the “authentic me” and I continue on as a work-in-progress. Thank you so much for the comment.
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What a great idea! And your wishes are something we too often forget, caring for ourselves! Xo
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What a great idea! And your wishes are something we often forget to do, self care! Xo
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Self-care is the “best care” I have found. Because when I am at peace and happiness those I love are gifted with a better person. Thank you for your comment.
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I like the gratitude journal. I think I’ll do something like that with my kids. Thanks.
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The gratitude journal is a daily reminder that everyday I have something to be grateful for. I spent far too many years focusing on acquiring “material things” to define who I was; rather than seeing the many blessings which were entering my life daily and I ignored. Now, I find happiness in small ways e.g., getting up at 5:00 a.m., sitting on the rear lanai and just having an “hour of quiet time.”
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I like the idea of a gratitude journal! I need to start one of these and write it the journal before bed each night, recalling even the little things!
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Thank you for commenting on my post. I luv my gratitude journal. It not only keeps me grounded but serves as a reminder to express gratitude and show appreciation daily for those things that I failed to even acknowledge in the past. For me, showing gratitude — makes for a happier life.
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Your weekly wishes or goals are real positive ones and all pretty much attainable. Smiling more, even if you are home alone working on the computer is really a good thing to do. I am sure the good feeling would carry over into the rest of your day.
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Yes, it certainly does make for a happier day. It is still a work in progress, but everyday becoming easier and easier. I am amazed at the response I get from a “smile” and “thank you” not only is it releasing me of a long-time “phobia” but my days are happier and brighter. Thank you for the comment.
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Sometimes we all need to slow down and enjoy life. I really need to do a gratitude journal, I’m so grateful for some many things right now. Weekly wishes wonderful idea!
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Thank you for your comment. For so many years, marriage, children, and a career did not allow for “slow down time.” I so enjoy this Season of My Life for it has freed me to seek that which brings happiness, joy and peace into my life. I regret that I did not take the time to embark on this journey at an earlier age. But, it’s never to late.
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I love keeping a gratitude journal but have gotten out of the practice. Thank you for reminding and encouraging me to get back in the habit.
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I *really* need to try getting up at 5am. Thing is, I’d have no quiet until 5:45 or so when dh leaves for work. He’s an early-morning person, loves to talk and I would not get to quietly sit and read or meditate. (He means well, so I’ll never admit I wrote this! lol) I need to aim for 5:45, I guess? Have a good weekend!
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I selected 5:00 a.m. as my one hour “quiet meditation time” out of necessity. Hubby gets up around 6:00 a.m. and I couldn’t identify any other time that would work for my “quiet time.” Though retired, our days are filled. For example, before I finished writing the second sentence of the reply to your post, youngest daughter telephoned to talk before she woke my grandson up for soccer practice. God gifted me with three beautiful children, all are now middle-aged and live in Wisconsin, but they worry about us since we retired and moved to Florida three years ago. So, they call us throughout the day at random times just to talk. Thank you so much for commenting on my blog.
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What a beautiful post! I felt calmer just reading it! I have 4 children and have found that when I rise much earlier than them- even though it’s hard- my day gets off to a much smoother start. I am going to listen to that music you suggested as well- that always makes my mood better!
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Thank u for your comments. Happy to hear that you plan to allow for “quiet time.” In that season of life when I was the mother of three, wife, and had a full-time career, life would have been far less stressful had I carved out my “quiet time.”
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Sleep is essential for me but recently having my quiet time with God in the morning when baby is still sleeping is more essential then sleep! It sets my mood for the day and everything goes better!
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Though many years ago, I have memories of disruptions in night sleep due to meeting the needs of my babies. So, it is good that you are able to have your quiet time with God in the morning. Thank you for your comment.
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I am not sure what seminar it was I went to but it centered on being grateful. It said to say three things you were grateful for every day. I went further an wrote it down for quite awhile. Thanks to your post, I am going back to it.
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Thank you for you comments. Using the written word to express my “gratitude” daily, keeps me focused on the “positives” in my life as opposed to stressing on the “negatives.” Glad to hear you are picking it back up.
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I really like your idea of the gratitude journal. I remember this from the movie the secret. It’s a really great idea because all too often we’re thinking about the things we can’t stand rather than the things we are thankful for and we are wondering why nothing’s changing in our lives or is getting worse. I think I’m going to start doing a gratitude journal tonight!
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Thank you. My gratitude journal keeps me grounded and focused. For me, its a daily reminder of my “many blessings” ranging from my “one-hour quiet time” to a random telephone call from a friend or relative to just check in. For far to many years, I spent more time “stressing” than counting my “blessings.” Happy to hear you are going to return.
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Such a beautiful post! I love the idea of weekly wishes. Music always makes me feel good, so will incorporate that into my daily routine from now on.
Thanks for sharing 🙂
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Thank you for commenting on my post. While I do not fulfill all of my weekly wishes, even though they are easily achievable, they motivate and inspire me as I meander down the path toward becoming a better person. Those that I fail to fulfill are re-visted the following week; and, thereafter until they come true.
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Sounds lovely–especially Rest and Relax. 🙂 Be sure to keep smiling and laughing.
–Gena
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Rest starts the stay through my early morning one-hour “Quiet Time;” and ends when I write in my Gratitude Journal expressing gratefulness. I am assured of “restful” and “peaceful” night.
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This post reminded me of a saying to tell others when out and about.
“Have a great day, unless you have other plans?”! Yes, a simple smile can do wonders. How quickly we forget? I also love the gratitude journal. Taking time to be thankful to the Lord Jesus always takes our eyes off ourselves. What a great concept. Thank you!
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Thank you for your comments. My early morning “Quiet Hour” and nightly “Gratitude Journal” are times when I express gratefulness to the Lord.
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I like daily goals, but I’d never thought of a Wish goal. Very interesting concept…..I may even discuss with my daughters. They are of the age that this kind of thing could help them!! Thank you! And I wish you lots of fulfilled wishes!
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Weekly Wishes has made a difference in my life. Sometimes I do not fulfill all of the wishes. But, I have a strong commitment to make them come true. I am motivated to live my life to its fullest. Thank you for your comments.
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This post is so inspiring. So often we read things that are encouraging us to be better versions of ourselves, but I love the practical applications of these things. I particularly want to sit outside for an hour each morning listening to a relaxing book. I imagine that would change the whole tone of my day. Thanks for the inpsiration.
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I love my early morning “Quiet Time” it jump start my day. Ready to face the day with a positive attitude that I work hard to maintain throughout the day. Before, going to bed expressing gratefulness for the good things that happen during the day guarantees me a good night’s sleep. Thank you for your comments.
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I love the idea of weekly wishes…all attainable…all that make life just a little sweeter. You’ve motivated me…
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Thank you for your comments. I try hard to fulfill the Wishes, but sometimes things happen that prevent me from doing so. I don’t fret, move it to the next week, confident “I will make it happen.
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This post was truly inspiring. I think that it is great when people make wishes and try to complete them, the completed ones are a great goal builder.
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Thank you for your comments. Weekly Wishes keep me on track as I meander down the path of healthy living — body, mind and spirit.
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What a great idea! We all need to take a few minutes and slow down to enjoy life around. us. The weekly wishes can help take that step back and not let life pass us by so much. I like the idea of reaching out. I feel we tend to get too caught up in the online world and miss out on so much in person interaction or sending a good friend a “thinking of you” card.
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Thank you for your comments. I have been on a journey to improve the quality of my life, “Weekly Wishes,” keeps me going down the right path.
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What a wonderful, inspirational post. I’ve been reading the book “1000 Gifts” by Ann Voskamp. In every moment of every day we can find something to be thankful for, something that brings us happiness and joy, something that motivates us to do something for someone else, and yes, do something that brings happiness to ourselves. Even if we only find/do three things a day, it will change our outlook on life and the way we respond to others around us.
Blessings …
Lani
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Thank you for your comments. I love reading books that inspire me toward improving the quality of my life. I had an opportunity to visit your blog, your post on fall decorating motivated me to spruce up the interior and exterior of my home for the season.
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I love the idea of a gratitude journal! We do something similar with my kids — every night before bed, we talk about our favorite things that happened that day, to end the day on a good note.
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Thank you for the comment. I am convinced when I express my gratefulness for the day in my Gratitude Journal, I am blessed with a “restful and peaceful” night. Life is so much better since I began the journey of focusing on the “positive” rather than the “negative” things in life. It’s working for me.
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I love that you have weekly wishes. It sounds like all of them are in one way or another about doing good and being nice to others. I wish more people (myself included) would practice more of what you are doing!
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Thank you for your comments. I don’t always fulfill the Wishes, but day-to-day things happen which interfere with your planned activities. I tend not to fret, but evaluate and explain why in the next Weekly Wishes post.
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Lovely reminder to be more thoughtful in our daily lives. I love saying nice things to people to see their faces light up – it doesn’t matter who they are, I always try to brighten someone’s day. 🙂
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Thank you for your comments. I had the opportunity to visit your blog. I have taken the liberty to share your post, “Our Good Deeds Chart: Encouraging Positive Behavior in Kids, to my son. I know the Good Deeds Chart will help my son as he journeys down the path of rearing his 4-year-old daughter, as a single father, with full-time custody.
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This a very motivating post! It really put a smile on my face. It made me think of ways I can improve my day and the day of others I interact with. A smile and kind words go a long way.
Jae Mac @ I’m Just Sayin’…(Damn!)
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Thank you for the positive comments. I also had the opportunity to visit your blog. Especially enjoyed the post, “The Skin I’m in a Natural Born Suspect.” As the grandmother of three young African-American (24, 17, and 13), I worry for their safety. I heard the stories from my father, grandfather, and other male relatives on the devaluation of the Black man during the Jim Crow Era — no repercussions or consequences to those who murdered and tortured black males based on the color of their skin. We have come to far to revisit this.
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You are a woman after my own heart. I am always working on making life more lovely and on improving myself.
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Thank you for your comment. Yes, daily I strive toward “making today better than yesterday.” Luved your post on “Stop Learning. Stop Growing.” In November 2013, I turned 70 and felt a strong “need” to “explore and expand” beyond my comfort zone. So, I : (1) created a blog, (2) took a yoga class, (3) joined an aqua zumba class, and (4) started meditating. Just purchased a digital camera and taking some on-line classes in photography. Retired three years ago, my life is happy and full.
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Love you though and reminders attitudes we all should have and actions we should be taking. I know that I really need to live more intentionally and not just let the day
slide” by. Thanks for great food for thought. I will be back to delve into you blog further.
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Thank you for your comments. One of my Weekly Wishes was to cook a “new recipe” healthy meal. This week, I will attempt to prepare your Fried Corn Zucchini Medley. The ingredients were all on-hand. As you suggested, I will omit the bacon and use olive oil. Sounds like a “healthy meal” to me. Do you agree?
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It always amazes me how much the kindness of a stranger can improve my mood. Something to think about when I’m out and about and interacting with people.
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Thank you for your comments. I now that I make the effort to “meet people with a smile, hello, have a great day, etc.” My life is richer. For the return greetings and smiles makes for a brighter day in my life.
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What a great reminder for everyone!
I am always trying to show my thanks for those who provide a service. It’s sad that many of them seemed surprised when I ask how they are doing.
I, too, have also sent cards to family members to just say hi!
There are so many little things we can do to brighten someone else’s day. And you know what, it usually brightens our day, too!
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Thank you for your comments. I visited your blog. As an African-American, really impressed with the activities you created or your children for Black History Month — especially the M&M, Graham Cracker, and Peanut Butter cookie in recognition of Garrett Morgam (Stop Light) and George Washington Carver (many uses of the peanut). I will certainly suggest his as an activity for my 5-year-old granddaughter in February.
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I love the concept of weekly wishes. I sometimes slack with keeping up with old co-workers and friends and your weekly wish reminded me that I need to be better at it. I’ll be back to check on how you continue to do on your weekly wishes.
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Thank you for your comments. Sometimes “things happen” and I fail to fulfill a wish. But, I try the next week. This seems to work. Definitely, Weekly Wishes keeps me on-track.
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Love the weekly wishes concept it’s far better sounding than a bucket list, hope you don’t mind if I borrow the term :-).
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Thank you for comments. Weekly Wishes, I borrowed as well. So, I am certain it’s been around.
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This is great. I love to laugh and I know that the Lord gave us our youngest son to keep us laughing everyday. He is 9 years old and we have 6 children. When I found out I was pregnant with him I had a very difficult time mentally & spiritually. I felt like I couldn’t handle one more. The Lord definitely knows more than we do and He knew exactly what I needed. This boy of mine is a natural comedian and it always doing or saying the silliest things and is always making us laugh. It is so good for our large family.
I love the whole idea behind your “weekly wishes”. Great idea. I think I need to start doing that. Thanks for sharing!
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Thank you for your comments. So true, one of the happiest “spaces for me” is when I am in the presence of my grandchildren. Regrettably, since retiring to Florida more than three years ago, we only see them during the summers, spring breaks, Thanksgiving and Christmas. But, “absence makes the heart grow stronger” and we make the most of the time spent with them.
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What a beautiful and thoughtful post. Truly the mind is a powerful thing when we set out with a purpose we can really achieve! Even if they are small acts of kindness and thanks. I love the great quotes you included for your BFF, they are inspirational! I hope your wishes come to fruition next week. I just might have to incorporate that rest and relaxation into my routine! Krista @ A Handful of Everything
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What a wonderful post! I really needed this reminder to show more gratitude in my daily life & to stop neglecting my gratitude journal!
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