The Joy of Giving and A Valentine Giveaway

Thanks for all the kind comments on my last post.  I tend to set the bar pretty high for myself, (typical overachiever type here ;-) ) but I hope by setting some goals for the future, it will continue to motivate me to keep challenging myself physically, emotionally and spiritually. 


I have found especially as I have gotten older, that the one thing that brings me true happiness is giving to others.  Of course it is always nice to receive, but for me, having a generous heart and spirit brings me ultimately the most joy.  The Dalai Lama once said, "The more we care for the happiness of others, the greater our own sense of well-being becomes."  I couldn't agree more.


I mentioned volunteering in my last post as it is something very near to my heart.  While I did have a couple years with the Junior League (haven't had the chance to re-join due to our relocations over the past few years), any way I can find a way to practice random acts of kindness brings me equal amounts of joy.  Offering to listen to someone who needs it; giving away the things we don’t use to those who don’t have much; sending a note of thought to a distant friend or relative. I believe in the simple ideas of giving.  Helping a senior citizen neighbor with their groceries, allowing someone in front of you in line (especially if they look like they're having a bad day), sending a care package to my siblings in college, or dropping off flowers to a friend "just because"...little ways to show that you care.  Practicing patience and kindness have been an integral part of my relationships and marriage, and I try daily to be mindful of these virtues.


In the happy spirit of giving, and to express my gratitude for the kind welcome to the blogging community, I am hosting my very first giveaway....just in time for Valentine's Day! 
















































• Prize; Prize Value: Swarovski Heart Charm Bracelet, 8 1/4"; $95


Rhodium-plated charm bracelet with open heart-shaped charm in clear crystal pavé; lobster clasp. Gift Boxed in signature Swarovski packaging. 


• End Date: 1/31/10, Midnight EST





What you need to do to enter:






* Become a follower!


* For one entry, leave a comment with how you like to practice random acts of kindness.


* For a second entry, recommend that a friend become a follower.  Please ask in their comment that they let me know who to thank for sending them here!


* For a third entry, mention this giveaway on your blog or Twitter and leave a separate comment with the link to your blog or Twitter account.



Make sure to leave a separate comment for each entry. Deadline is January 31st Midnight EST.



I'll be using a random number generator to pick the winner, so make sure to check back next Monday!


Thank you all for reading, and have a fabulous week!


XOXO,
Trish




Blessed is the influence of one true, loving human soul on another. - George Eliot