Do you know what keeps resonating through my head recently?
Over and over and over again.
This poignant line from one of my favorite Christmas carols
“the weary world rejoices.”
We live a weary world right now friends. It can be overwhelming and scary and full of emotions that feel like a tsunami sometimes. I can see it on people’s faces. In the stores. In the traffic lines. In the park. In the streets.
I want to help.
I want to encourage.
I want to uplift.
I want to rejoice.
So just in case no one else has mentioned it.
I wanted to share this.
Joy.
I wanted to press pause and sprinkle you with joy.
Yep.
You.
Just in case you needed some.
Just in case you had a hard week.
Just in case you were a little sad.
Just in case.
I wanted to share.
Nothing fancy.
Nothing earth-shattering.
But today when I took Buddy outside and the sun was shining and the air was crisp and clean with the smell of winter and the Christmas tree lights twinkled through the window and I hummed a Christmas song to myself (it was Mariah Carey’s “All I Want For Christmas” which is on repeat in my head).
I stopped for just an instant to take it all in.
I felt so grateful and thankful and happy with all of the blessings that are so ordinary and so wonderful all at the same time and my heart was so full of joy at that exact moment that it was about to burst.
Joy that those four chicks of mine are home.
Joy that my hair had the perfect flip at the end.
Joy that my sweet husband grinned at me when I found Chex Mix for a dollar at Kroger today.
Joy that Buddy had a bath.
Joy that I discovered chocolate glazed doughnut coffee has zero calories.
Simple. Sweet. Wonderful. Joy.
I was trying to think of a way to share all this joy.
And then I thought of you.
I was worried you were weary.
I was worried you were overwhelmed or struggling.
I was worried you might need a little encouragement.
So I wanted to take a moment to tell you….
…..yes….you with the coffee or the hot tea or the diet coke with the blueberry muffin.
You.
You. Are. Amazing.
And guess what else?
You. Are. ENOUGH.
You are a rock star.
Truly.
I thought you needed to know.
Just in case no one mentioned it to you today.
I wanted to be the first.
You got this.
Truly.
Now go and take on the day and may it be as amazing as you are.
And let me know if you ever need a little more joy.
I have extra. 🙂
PS If you get a chance today—spread a little joy in your corner of the world, too. There’s probably someone else amazing who needs it.
Love your kitchen runner!!!
That was very sweet
I loved opening this post this morning. It brightened my day. Getting stronger everyday. I'm sad we will miss another family Christmas because of COVID. BUT, I'm getting better and that's most important. Glass half full instead of half empty
Thanks so much for the joy, KariAnne! Just what I needed. Merry Christmas and joy to you and your wonderful family! Nancy
Thanks. Yes we the can rejoice even in this weary world. Have a blessed Merry Christmas.
Thanks, I needed this...and you!!!
Thank you for spreading joy to everyone. It’s something we can all use and spread. Merry Christmas to you and your sweet family!
Thanks, for being thoughtful!
Thanks so much. Your kind words and blessings mean a lot!
What a truly wonderful post and so needed by so many. Thank you for the gift of yourself..... that joy, that you continously give us. Wishing you and your beautiful family a very Merry Christmas.
Thank you for sharing your joy with us all 🥰🥰. I for one needed it!!! These are scary times we live in and the world can definitely use more “JOY TO THE WORLD” “PEACE ON EARTH” and “GOODWILL TO MAN” God Bless and Merry Christmas.
Hi Kerianne, Loved this little message this morning. I'm basically alone so holidays aren't the fun, exciting times they once were, but you know what? I do try to make the best of them. Try to stay upbeat and think of all the reasons to be thankful, etc. I baked three days last week and you know what, I put on some Christmas music, I sang, I danced (alone) and I just tried to make my home joyful and cheerful, even tho few see it. I have four trees up and a lot of decorations up both inside and out. I have so many decorations and change them out somewhat each year, much like you do, so even if people are alone, they can do things to make it cheerful. I bake so I can give some cheer to others, same with shopping. I love to shop for others, wrap and the mailing gets to be a bit much, but maybe some day it won't be so costly??? So with that I'll wish you and your family and all those people who are alone out there a VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS, A joyful 2022 and a HEALTHY one also........catch you in the new year!
Good morning Bertie ... I would like to say thank you for all of the cheerful and lovely things that YOU do to make this season special for others. I would like to wish YOU a beautiful and wonder filled CHRISTmas this year ! May YOU have many magical moments ! Jayne (Canada)
Bertie, absolutely and well said. Even if you are alone during the holiday, there are things to do to make it cheerful. Know that a perfect stranger is wishing you a Merry Christmas and said a special prayer just for you.
Source for the plaid dress you are wearing?
Of course! I got it at Walmart! Here's the link: https://bit.ly/3z5bhW9
Merry Christmas KariAnne!
KARIANNE!!!! THANK YOU😂❤😂❤ God has truly blessed you with the words that I TRULY needed today friend!! I am laughing amd crying at the sametime! Do you ever so that too?? I've been weary! I've LET the negativity of some of the people around me rob me of my joy! So thank you sweet friend! And thank you for your amazing tip for the BEST Loreal red lipstick that I haven't stopped wearing! Love to you!! Have the BEST day!!
This is one of the reasons why I enjoy reading your posts- you are filled with Joy!! I love it! Thank you for sharing your talents and uplifting spirit. Your energy is very uplifting and inspiring. I also love Al of the photography in each of your posts. Have a beautiful Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!!
Thank you for your kind words. We are certainly a weary lot! On top of it all, I had to put my 17 year old kitty down. I miss my little “peanut”
Holly, every pet lover here has a full heart that goes out to you. No matter how long we have with our fur babies, it seems never enough. Hugs and prayers your way, especially in this season where many of us remember happier times. Karianne's blog certainly is comforting, isn't it.
Thank you! I also needed this as I have been down with covid and so so far behind in my holiday activities I have really been down as we took in two foster children from an emergency removal who are absolutely amazing I wanted our home, their gifts, baking -all of it to be perfect for them but that is just not going to happen I have not even been able to get out to finish shopping for them Then I realized THEY are the gift! And the love And the lights And the glitter And my goodness even the sprinkled cookies! Hoping you and the family have a beautiful Christmas!
Kat, those children undoubtedly are feeling safe, secure, and cared for in your home. You have already given them what they need the most. Take care of your own health and know that you have brought joy to the little ones in your care. Anything else is icing on the cake.
Thank you so much for your happy encouragement ...it is needed...Merry Christmas from western KY.
I used to live near South Lake. I miss Texas. Thank you for spreading Joy this morning. I love the way you find that Joy in the simplist of things that we sometimes overlook. Yesterday I gave a mini tour of my decorated house to two of my neighbors. We are all moved into our newly built neighborhood three years ago. We have become good friends during that time. Each of the displays in my house have a history. It gave me Joy beyond belief to share that history with them. We made new, Joy-filled memories together yesterday. Merry Christmas.
You’re a rock star. Thank you for the most amazing posts. Beautiful pics. Inspiring and encouraging words. Fabulous decor. You. Are. A. Rock. Star. Merry Christmas to you and your family
Don't think I knew quite how much I needed this until I was crying at my desk at work reading this. The weary world indeed...this was a reminder this overwhelmed mama needed. Wishing you joy in return!
Karianne the definition of the word JOY IS YOU! You are a bright light on dark days for so many. Your spirit and joy is infectious. Thank you for sharing your beautiful spirit. Merry Christmas.
Yes, the world is certainly weary, but also deeply blessed with people like you who lift up our spirits with their faith, words of encouragement, shared joy and a bright smile. Thank you for all this and more❣️Merry Christmas!
Thank you for all your words of kindness.
Thank you! You're so terrific at spreading joy! Such a gift!
In the same boat as many who posted above..Covid has changed our Christmas plans again this year BUT we have a roof over our heads, 2 wonderful pups and some sweet presents under the tree just for us 2 to open Christmas morning. We are healthy and safe and things will get better. So sweet of you to post such warm words of kindness. Your a joy!!
Yep! I needed this! Thank you KariAnne for a wonderful year of encouragement and love and beautiful things! God bless you and yours and may you have a very Merry Christmas! p.s. I too am wondering about that gorgeous plaid dress.
Thank you so much friend! Here's the link to the plaid dress (affiliate): https://bit.ly/3z5bhW9
Thank you so much, sweet girl, I needed this today. Christmas blessings for you and your family.
can you tell me the source of the runner with scalloped edges in the kitchen picture?
Of course! Here's the link (affiliate): https://bit.ly/3huf0ps
Thank you so much for this post. Joy is always welcome. Your home looks so festive. May God bless you this Christmas. Merry Christmas
The world is weary, but our hope is Christ. YOU my friend do spark Joy and are an encouragement to so many. My hubs and I have been in a transitional time of waiting and so Advent feels very familiar as we anticipate God’s personal plan for us to unfold. It has been tricky as this 2 years + has meant selling our home, moving 3 times and apartment living. I didn’t realize how much of my identity was wrapped up in our home. I am finding joy in following you and others who are gifted and talented in creating beautiful spaces. I look forward to the day that a more permanent plan is in place for us, but until then when I feel weary, I am going to rejoice in all that I have to be thankful for.
I try to do the same thing for people every day. I, too, have extra joy! Thank you for your positive inspiration and funny stories!
You’re amazing too and bring so much joy to me through out my week. With your posts and that beautiful smile. Merriest Christmas to you and your family. Blessings
Oh I was so very glad to read your cheerful words! I am weary, I am tired, I am mourning, I am strugglling... but I try. Each and every day I try. I put on a smile and I try to consider all of the things to be thankful for while still allowing myself to feel all that I feel. Thank you so much for your words of JOY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thank you. I am weary and haven't been rejoicing much.
I so much needed this today. Thank you for always being so uplifting and for spreading joy. My day is now better because of you. I hope you have an amazing Christmas! By the way, your Christmas decorations are beautiful!
Oh KariAnne! You are a true joy! I needed to hear this today. You are a rock star! Tomorrow I will be a widow for 11 years, so your spreading of joy really made me joyous. There is always something to bring in the joy. Have a wonderful time with all your chicks at home! Merry Christmas 🎄 a joyous time for all. Alice
Thank You for sharing how the little things can bring JOY as well as the big ones. Have very Merry Christmas.
We had a joyful evening last night - we went to watch our little granddaughters ice skate in the local park rink. This morning we were treated with pictures of our daughter eating breakfast in bed that the granddaughters made - toaster waffle, yogurt, an orange, a glass of soda pop, and some Trader Joe's puffins. I asked my daughter where would we all be without them - "bored" was the reply. Merry Christmas and don't forget to find joy in the little things everyone.
Thankyou Karianne...seems like a lot of us needed your post today. I promised myself I would go to bed EARLY tonight and get some rest. I fuss over too many little details that are not important I'm sure, and have to stop and remind myself often of the many blessings that are mine. Despite the "weary world" there is still a lot to be thankful for. I have the quote framed in my house "Whether we have less or more, there is always, always something to be thankful for." Merry Christmas to you and yours! Enjoy every happy moment in your lovely home.
In a world full of criticism, rudeness and a general feeling of entitlement, your blog really made my day. My word for 2022 is "gratitude" and your blog positively oozed the word in every way. Thank you for such lovely posts, and the things I learn from you, the way you look at things -- all of it is a blessing! Merry Christmas to you and your family -- and enjoy every moment!
I wish you a Merry Merry Christmas filled with all Gods Blessings.
Thank you Karrie... very nicely put. Yes I can see the worry on People's faces as well. Your place is so nicely decorated. I love your wooden trees in all those different vignettes. Your smile makes me smile and where in the world do you get chocolate glazed doughnut coffee? 😛
Yes indeed, we needed this today! In this weary world we can take heart. For God has overcome and He is in control. And that is reason to rejoice! Merry Christmas to you and your sweet family!❤️
I had a physical yesterday and I told my doctor I've never felt so emotionally drained. I'm fearful for peoples health, our country, I'm just fearful. I thank you for your uplifting words.
Thank you for your words of encouragement and truth! Every time I read your blog i smile. When i see the excitement on your face, I smile. God has blessed you with many gifts and i believe spreading joy to others is one of them. We are all tired and weary and some days it is hard to remember to be thankful. We have so much to be thankful for. My aunt, who is no longer with us, whenever asked how she was doing she would always say i’m ok there are lots of people going through worse than this. And she was very sick and in pain. I feel like it was the spirit of God shining through her. She always thought about somebody else instead of dwelling on what she was going through. I am thankful for the hope we have in Our Savior and I am thankful for all these words shared today! Merry Christmas to all!
Wonderful post. This most wonderful time of the year does leave us weary. For some it’s a loss, or loneliness or the unfulfilled expectations we place on ourselves. But…Joy to the world, the Lord has come. If, in all things, we keep our eyes on our Savior the cares of this world will grow strangely deem in the light of His glory and grace. Merry Christmas sweet lady with the million dollar smile. May 2022 find you and yours blessed.
One more thing… I pray that everyone who left a comment and everyone who sees this will be comforted by God and feel Hir presence and His peace today and everyday. ❤️🙏🏻 I am touched and blessed by your words and the comments of each person.
Such Good News of Great Joy❣️ 😊 Thanks❣️
Oh Kari Anne, I have followed you for forever and you never cease to bring me joy! Thank you and may God bless you and Merry Christmas! Love you friend, Linda
Beautiful, KariAnne! I’m finding joy and many blessings this season in unexpected ways by being sidelined and having the help of so many sweet friends and family. Merry Christmas to you and your amazing family!
Hi KariAnne, I too needed this message today. I wonder in amazement all the things you are able to accomplish in a day, a week and a year. I feel very disappointed in myself, that I can’t do very much, and that my house is small and not grand like yours, but I need to remember how fortunate I am to have what I do have, and celebrate that. You look so beautiful. Your smile could light the world. What a gift you are to your family and they to you. Thank you for sharing yourself so freely with all of us. Merry Christmas to you and your family
Thank you for sharing joy and hope.....I appreciate your post much more than I can tell you. This year has been a difficult one and I know with God's help I will make it that makes me appreciate your joy a little more. Thank you and Blessings to you and yours.
Thank you soooo much Kari Ann I needed that you are awesome and thoughtful and kind! Have A Very Merry Christmas !!
You have been given such a gift of encouragement. What a blessing you are to each of us. What truth you have spoken. This world is weary and I have been feeling it's weight for several months. I occasionally need the reminder that "this world is not my home...I'm just a passin' through". And you have given me that. Through your words, your joy and your God given gifts. Thank you sweet lady. I wish I could hug you tight right now. I think we need more of that, too. Blessings, love & Merry Christmas from the Bluegrass State!!
Thank you! I really needed this today. You're pretty amazing, too!
Thank you for sending bright positive thoughts our way. I too would love info on the scalloped runner. Thanks.
Of course! Here's the link (affiliate): https://bit.ly/3huf0ps
Kerrianne, Just What My Heart Needed Today!!❤️ Thank You So Much!!!!!
KariAnn you are such a breath of fresh air and so full of joy. Thank you for your encouragement always. I get such a kick out of you. It’s been a difficult year for many reasons and your blog today is what I needed to perk me up. Merry Christmas to you and your beautiful family. I can hardly wait until you share the gifts you all make for each other. Enjoy the season and your beautiful home.
Your home looks so Beautiful!!! Merry Christmas !!
This is a beautiful post. We all need Joy. Encouragement. Beauty. Love. Merry Christmas to you and yours.
Love the scalloped rug in kitchen. Where is it from?
Of course! Here's the link (affiliate): https://bit.ly/3huf0ps
Thank you, I needed this!
Thank you. I needed your words today. I’m weary.
Thank you KariAnne...I kind of forgot I am rocking it at 63 years old, over here in NC trying to prepare a delightful Christmas for my grown children, little grand babes and husband. Some of them won't be here...one's in Heaven, and the others are in Maine. But wherever they are in this universe, they will know I love them forever and always. And you, KariAnne? You are rocking it in blogworld, in Texas, and everywhere else you touch lives. A genuine thank you for all you do. Merry Christmas. Now go relax and spend this precious time enjoying that family and rejuvenating yourself!
Beautiful words! Thank you for sharing. Now tell me more about the chocolate glazed doughnut coffee! 😂
Thank you for always giving your readers an extra spoonful of whatever you are giving away. So easy to get weary if we focus on the world and not on the true meaning of Christmas- JESUS! Each day is a blessing and when I feel that weary, it’s time to regroup!!! You are the best to remind us!!!
Hi Karianne, you are such a bright light to all who see your blog. Yes we do have much to be thankful for. I was in a serious accident a month ago and was trapped for over an hour til they cut my car open. I only had a broken sternum and vertabrae in my back. Was told that my vehicle saved my life with all the safety features. God is good, I was so calm through it all and know that it was him. I have been feeling joy and thankfullness for my life and everyone around me. Merry Christmas to you and your lovely family. All the best for 2022. Please continue to spread your love and Joy. We all need it.
KariAnne, Thanks so much for the words of encouragement. They mean so much at this time of the year and how our world has been turned upside down. You are truly caring, loving and genuine. It shows in your blogsite. I wish you and your family a Merry Christmas and prosperous New Year. your friend, jean
dear Holly ... I am so very sad for you're loss. YOU keep well and know that others are thinking of YOU too. Wishing YOU the joy of the season. Jayne (Canada)
KerriAnne ... thank you so very much for such a lovely post today .... may you and your's be richly blessed with love and joy this holiday season. JOY, JOY, JOY .... J-Jesus, O-others, Y-yourself equals putting my heart right daily. Jayne
Very sweet words!! Thank you for spreading joy!! (Especially since we won’t be seeing family for Christmas due to Covid. But we will in January!). Your home is cheerful and beautiful!! Christmas blessings to you ~
Thank you so much for this! You are wonderful!
Hello and thank you for your uplifting words of encouragement and joy. I am weary. Beyond weary if there’s a word for that. This time of year is extremely difficult for me now. Both of my parents have passed away and nothing feels the same. My husband and I are in the process of building a home and it has been so hard. Shortages of supplies and an over abundance of increases. We really wanted to be in by Christmas but that’s not happening. I’m trying to make the best of it. We sold our last home and we’re renting until our house is ready. ALL of my Christmas decorations are in storage. I don’t mean to whine. While I am very thankful and excited for what’s to come, I am depleted and tired and sad. Thank you for your joy. I sure could use a hug❤️ Merry Christmas!
Karrian, I have followed your blog for a very long time. No one can write words as poetic and endearing as you. Thank you you sharing and caring. It is a Weary World, but we have to have faith and take every day, every moment , and everyone we love as a blessing .
Love you and your little happy self!
KA, you are an earth angel. Just saying. A rockin' earth angel lady you are! Thank you. Keep up your awesome elven spirit - cuz it truly is conrageous. Hugs. Many big sisterly hugs. Merry Joyful Christmas to you and your household!
Wow! Perfect timing on this beautiful post! Merry Christmas to you and your family.
You are amazing!! Thanks for all that joy you spread, daily!! Here’s to paying your joy forward!! Merry Christmas!!! 😘🎄
Thank you for the beautiful post! Peace, love, and joy to you and your family. Merry Christmas and happy new year 2022!
Well that just made me break out in tears Karianne. Today is a big day. I'm retiring from the work-a-day world. I'm so happy that I'll be able to spend time with my Grands and was just told today that we are expecting another next year. Overjoyed about this. But yet I'm feeling so apprehensive about the future. I've worked outside the home my whole life. Maybe I'm afraid of losing that independence I don't know but I am a little frightened. Your message today lifted me and made me realize that I won't lose my identity - it will just be a new me. Hopefully new adventures and time with the hubs. And I deserve it dog-gone-it. Sorry to spout off here. I love this community and with you all a very very Merry Christmas and a healthy happy New Year!
KariAnne. YOU bring me much joy. Thanks so much for all you do for All of us. Merry Christmas to you and yours. Be safe over the holidays and every day. We Love You and yours and all your wonderful ideas.I love your all white.
What a perfect way to summarize where we all are now. Joy has been my word for the year…and perhaps to remind myself that more joy is needed. Beautiful post, friend. May joy overflowing continue to be all around you this Christmas!!
Thank you so very much. May God bless you and your beautiful family. Merry Christmas.🎄
Oh. My. You made me cry, but in a good way. I actually didn't realise I WAS weary until I took a moment reading this post. Thank you....from allllll the way across the oceans in Australia. I need to hear this today. Enjoy your chicks, your hubby and all the good stuff coming your way. Much Love & Gratitude, Loulou, Perth, Australia
KariAnne Thank you for such a beautifully written message to all of us. Everyone has a story filled with emotions especially during the holidays. Just think what a difference we can make in each other’s lives to just simply say kind words to each other, to uplift each other with a smile, a word of encouragement! Thank you for your words! They are heartfelt and needed today and everyday! God bless & Merry Christmas
Comments are for others, usually, but I just must tell you that you are the most joyful, uplifting and adorable young woman. I commend your spirit and talent and encouraging words. This weary world certainly needs to remember the reason for rejoicing. Thank you for reminding me. Rebecca
KariAnne, This was a welcome delight! Just what many of us needed to hear. Your instincts are always so good. You truly “throw kindness around like confetti”! You ARE a joy. Enjoy the family and have a very Merry Christmas! Texas hugs, Katy
Happy holidays to you and yours! I love your hair color.
Thank you KariAnne, you are amazing! Thank you for spreading your joy. Merry Christmas to you and your family🎄
I think we all could use some rejoicing and joy in our lives! The house looks beautiful and perfect! You look gorgeous as always! Happy holidays to you and your family!
Many blessings to all that read this!! Love your little trees on blocks and your twig trees..your awesome don’t ever forget it!
Thank you KariAnne, for all the JOY you spread!! Merry Christmas!!! xoxo
You and your blog always bring me so much joy! I need it this week as covid blows through our schools and now the kids are virtual... Thanks for all the reminders! Merry Christmas to you and your sweet family! Cheers! Shelley
Thank you Kari Ann...your joy is infectious. Quick question...where did you get the living room chairs...the pair with the spindle backs...pictured above ? Merry Christmas
Merry Christmas Kari Ann to you and your beautiful family. Thank you for your RockStar blog which I have read from day one. I pray that our world will spread joy throughout 2022. May God continue to bless you and us all.
Thank you, Kari Ann. Honestly, I needed that this morning. You positivity & joy are contagious. Bless you & your family with a Merry Christmas!
KariAnne, Merry Christmas to you and your beautiful family. You spreadsheet joy all the time and just not during the holidays. Your post was beautiful with words to touch each and everyone of our hearts. That's the special gift that you God has given you. To make others feel special and loved. I am so glad to have meet you and can call you a friend. God bless you!
You are amazing. Thanks for the uplifting post. I hope you and your family have a wonderful Holiday.
You spread joy everyday. Thanks for the uplifting message. Our son was just married on the 21st so we feel the let down from working on it so much. Thanks for spreading the joy.
Thank you! We all need some joy! I lost my only daughter last week. What gives me joy is that I know I will see her again one day. Hug those you love while you can!
You are a breath of fresh air . Thanks so much for your beautiful insights!
I'm so Thankful you feel Joy by just a beautiful sunny morning..fresh air...and you want everyone to have Joy. We're so Blessed to have Joy..our cup runneth over❤. Merry Christmas to you and yours...I know how you felt getting Chec Mix for $1...I felt the same when I found Angies Sweet and Salty popcorn at Dollar Tree...they sell larger bags other places...that's a bag of Joy
KariAnne, thanks for such a beautiful post! You are one in a million and I thank God for you and the blessing you are to all of us! You are such a caring soul and always think of wonderful ways to encourage us. You are so precious! May God continue to bless you and make you a blessing to all those you come in contact with! HAPPY NEW YEAR TO YOU ALL!
What a wonderful outlook on life! Your joy is infectious KariAnn. Do you have a source for that tiny white nativity set? Precious. Have a Happy New Year
Hi Karianne: Can you please post the link for that darling scalloped runner in your kitchen and what brand is chocolate glazed donut coffee? Sounds so yummy! Happy, blessed new year to you and yours.