Why?
Why is it that words of positive affirmation sprinkled with a little more positive affirmation sometimes are forgotten and swept aside….
…..for the sake of one negative comment.
Why does a single negative statement override hundreds of positives?
Seriously.
Who even gave the negative permission to take up residence and start ordering rent-to-own furniture?
I’m the first one to say “brush it off” and “who cares” and “remember how amazing you are” and “they probably still have maroon shag carpeting in their home.”
But when it happens to me?
Yikes.
It hurts.
Sometimes when you write a blog or post on Facebook or other social media the going can get a little rocky.
Especially lately.
No one really has a filter any more.
You’re sitting at home about to watch another episode of Gilmore Girls and the crickets are chirping and the sun is shining and the laughter is all around you and you pull up your phone and glance for a moment….
…..and your heart stops.
Negativity and ugliness just knocked at your door.
This week that happened to me.
Normally, I try to brush it off…..as in I think about it for days and mull it over and get kind of mad and then the crickets keep chirping and the sun continues to shine….
….and eventually the negative fades away.
But this week I decided to try something different.
I took all that energy that I spend on stewing and mulling and thinking and worrying….
….and flipped the script.
For an afternoon I tried with every last little bit of everything I had inside of me…..
….to leave a joy trail.
I pushed my cart through WalMart and smiled at everyone and if they didn’t smile back, I grinned even more.
I commented on blogs with dozens of exclamation points.
I told a random lady in aisle four of the dollar store that her nail polish was pretty.
I extra tipped and then ran away before they noticed.
I called my mom and told her she was amazing.
I smiled so much that I made myself laugh.
And guess what happened?
It was amazing.
You are brilliant so you know where this is going.
I was so busy being positive that I forgot all about the negative.
It couldn’t compete.
Especially with that amazing nail polish at the dollar store. 🙂
PS Just in case you wanted to leave your own joy trail….
….here’s a few extra exclamation points to get you started. (!!!!!!!!)
Rock on Rock Star!!!
I never comment on blogs, but I loved this one!! What a great idea!!!!! (I'm throwing a few exclamation points in there for good measure)
What a wonderful post. Your bright light cannot be dulled! Thanks for inspiring all of us to be the best that we can be. p.s. You Behind The Blog feature is live on the blog today. Hugs! Shelly
Thanks for the extra !!!!!!! points! You've made my day! I'm so sorry you took a negative hit. Errrrr.....some peeps out there are evil-ly unbelievable! You're the most awesome joy maker and blogger I've ever gotten to read.....and so grateful to the Lord for you! Keep on keeping on! You're an angel on the internet!!!
You're amazing Karianne! When I first started reading this...I was going to reply with how not to let it get to you because others' negativity is just their stuff etc., etc., etc....but you totally turned it around and inspired me...once again! You totally got this! <3 You are my positivity guru!
I always look forward to your post. You are so inspiring and uplifting!!!!!!!!!!!!! Also love the table in this picture!!!@!!!! Have a great day!!!
I personally feel that exclamation points are not used enough!!!!!! You are the captain of the joy cheerleading squad!!! :)
Yes!!! Encouragement is a wonderful thing!
Good for you! I always love it when someone compliments my nail polish! By the way, I love your new windows. I am so excited for you! Have a great day! P.S. Your hair looks great!!!!!
You are precious! And, we do need a filter a lot of the time. Sorry you were hurt.
The Joy Trail works!!! You can say it 100 different ways........Life is hard. Hurting people hurt people. It's better to spread the love. You never know the other persons story. You might be the only smile they get all day and what girl doesn't love to told something positive about her appearance...even as small as her nail polish. P.S. I love that table
!!!!!!!Thank you for your smiles and positive twist to right a negative!!! A smile is a gift you can give and don't mind when it's returned!! ☺
Miss Karianne, Norwegian Princess of Thistlewood Farm...you ALWAYS leave a joy trail!!!!!!!!!!!! Love you. : )
God bless. I need this today.
You make me laugh so often that I automatically smile when I see Thislewood in my inbox. Keep brining your positivity everywhere you go - in person or over the Internet. It's contagious.
So sorry that someone tried to hurt you, but thankfully they were unsuccessful. The best "revenge" is a joy filled life. It really ticks some people off. I have to watch my attitude around people who lash out. Counting my blessing is a great place to start, but thank you for the reminder that sharing joy with others should be the next step. Thank you for being a blessing and leaving your own special joy trail.
This really hit home. Well said.
I used to work in a high school. My office partner and I made it our goal to compliment kids or say something nice to everyone who came into our office. We figured sometimes that may be the only nice thing one of those kids would hear that day. From then on, after I retired, I still try to do that. My kids get a little upset because I'm always approaching strangers to tell them I love their shirt, or hair, or shoes or whatever. But so what? We all know that a compliment from someone makes us feel good, and really good if it's given by a stranger. And the best thing is - I feel good doing it!!! It takes so little but means a lot to people. Keep it up, Dear.
Jo, what a great post. Why do our children seem so embarrassed when we say something nice to a stranger? I worked in retail for many years, it's not an easy job. I found that if I inquired about the person I was serving.......how was their day.......beautiful piece of jewelry etc I could help change their demeanor. It doesn't always work but 8 out of ten times is better than nothing.
Is Jo short for Joy? Because you truly are!
Oh KariAnne, I'm so sorry about what happened to you this week...silly people...they don't realize "who" you are or they never would have hurt you!!!! I'm glad you took the high road and "karied" on!!! You will be blessed for that. I couldn't help notice you posted your all time favorite picture today! That is so pretty...no matter what angle you see it from! Have a wonderful, joyfilled, super rest of your week! Blessings, Jeanne
I know I'm a little late to this party, but you inspired me with your comment. We need to make a new sign : Keep Smiling and Kari on. My goal is to stay in touch with my "better angel. " MariAnne is that Better Angel for all of us.
You are awesome!!!!!!! Keep on spreading that positivity!!!!!
I hope the person who left the negative comment reads this post. I'm sure their comment was born from their own sadness and you've just offered them another option that is so much more gratifying! You're such a positive inspiration!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I needed this today too Karianne!!!!! Your posts always always make me smile. Don't let Mr. Negative get you. I think we all struggle with him, so this was a grand post!!! Let the Joy be your armor.
"Scatter Joy" was my tweet this very morning...it is easy to get bogged down by the negative, but smiling and being positive are way more fun!!!!!!! Hoping that negative comments are forgotten quickly, and complements on random amazing nail polish are remembered forever! :)
Little acts of kindness are so uplifting, and so much more appreciated than we will ever know. They can be life changing for the person receiving the kindness. When I see that certain look they get in their eyes of gratefulness or the words of humility a homeless person will say when they thank you for the bit of cash you have given them, I literally go to my car and cry that I didn't do this sooner, or say something sooner. It's not always like that, but I will never stop, ever! We all need to feel special, and Kari, you make ME feel special every day! I am so grateful you are part of my life sweetie!!!!!!!
Hi Karianne You are amazing......in that you outwitted the crabby people with kindness! Good for you! Your a better woman than I! I would probably sulk for a week! Hence the reason I do not start my own blog and I just help others in their decorative journeys for my own fun! But I do acquire great inspiration from you many talented bloggers! Thanks for all the time and effort you put forth! Blessings to you in abundance!! Becky
I am sorry for the negative comment. I never will understand why people think it is okay to say hurtful things. I still go back to the saying "If you have nothing nice to say, shut up!" Just know there are lots of people who look forward to your blog each day. I know because I am just one of those many, many people.
I love it! Kudos. I bet the person who left the negative comment is on your site EVERY DAY and royally upset that you flipped the switch the way that you did! Touche' (altho I know you didn't want that to be the point) I think Bette Midler once said to someone who criticized her, "Get some talent, then you can mouth off".
I love this post! Beautiful! I have done the same things in the same ways and a few different ones...Rock on!
First of all, we all would be much better off if there were more Kariannes in the world. Jealousy is a really ugly thing. It is down there with the devil. Keep on smiling and entertaining us because you are the BEST!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
!!!!!!!!! The way I try to live everyday.
We are children of God. Nobody can dull our enthusiasm for His blessings. Not one person -- or one insult--can dampen our spirits when we know His grace and mercy abounds. As you did (and do), we simply turn around and spread joy where bitterness and toxicity wants to take root. Good for you, rock star!!!!!!
You are amazing and an inspiration to me every day! In our current climate of mean spiritedness, I too have made a point of reaching out to strangers in my everyday encounters......we all need more kindness in our days. A smile, a compliment, holding a door.......so simple, such impact. When my children were small, I told them that I could forgive anything, except bullying, and being unkind to other human beings. I had experienced this as a child with my beloved, perfectly imperfect little brother. I think as a Mother, teaching our children to be kind is our greatest legacy. You are just the best and I can't wait for your book!
My sweet hard-working father in law always said, "You do your best but you can't please everybody.". He never let it get the best of him, just kept plugging along. He is definitely my inspiration when things are tough. Glad you are such a positive person...with a wonderful blog. Great job!!!!
Sometimes I have the attention span of a gnat, but I always read your blog . You are a ray of sunshine . Don't change a thing.
❤️ This is why you are so loved and appreciated!
So sorry about any negativity sent your way! Your response was classic Thistlewood style. Each morning I read your blog with my morning coffee, and, yes, it brings me joy! Sending a warm hug and a big smile...
I LOVE exclamation points! It's the way I talk, we're a lot alike in that! We get excited about what (and who) we love. I had a very negative email in ALL CAPS last week that shook me up. I took a little different position by writing back and letting the person know this "I'm human, I could be your friend, your sister, your cousin. Would you treat them this way when a mistake happens. I gain no pleasure or money from the email landing in your inbox. There is no reason I would continue to send you an email if you don't want it. In fact, I pay for people to get my emails. Therfore I wouldn't pay Feedblitz to send you an email." She wrote me back in a much kinder tone. I felt better, but you are so right ONE statement can "try" to wipe away all the positive. Whether it be on a blog, facebook, or in REAL LIFE. keep smiling my friend! gail
Our youth pastor used to say "hurting people hurt people." And I believe it is true. People's lives are hurting, and they want to hurt others. I don't understand it. I too believe in leaving a little "sparkle" wherever you go and I try to find SOMETHING nice to say to everyone. I find little things to brag on, happy things to notice, something to brighten the day. You never know what battles people are facing that we know nothing about. So just keep spreading the love sista!! Blessings to you from hot, humid Missouri!!! And by the way, I think you're beautiful, and smart and funny and your blog is way cool . . . and your house is purty too!!!!
Remember people who nitpick others are not happy with their own self. Continue to get up each day and be your best self, that's all any of us can do! You are an inspiration to others or else we wouldn't bother to read your blog!
I love what Jeanne@I Dream of Jeanne Marie said: "Kari On!!" I'm going to adopt that as my new mantra when things bring me down. You are amazing and bring such joy to us all with your funny stories, beautiful family, and lovely home!!!!!!!!! Extra exclamation points all around!
Bam!!! You are an amazing joy giver and professional fun haver.
Sparkle on!
I read your blog today and immediately felt defensive for you. Who would say such a nasty thing to our sweet Karianne!?! Ugh...PEOPLE! Hang in there sweetie...you took the right course and I love your idea of a joy trail. You inspired me to leave my own today. Thanks. Always remember, you are amazing...God thinks so (so do I).
My Mother used to tell me that it was impossible to be sad with a smile on your face. The muscles in your face lead directly to your heart. Very wise lady
If you didn't have such a huge following, because of your amazingness, this wouldn't be a problem! It's a numbers game...when you have as many followers as you do, there's bound to be a sad-ass or two, that isn't too happy with her own life and sees the need to bring others down. Smile on!
Oh honey, I am so sorry! People can be so unkind. You handled it perfectly! Going out and spreading joy...we need so much more of that these days! I look forward to your blog and enjoy it so much! You have made me smile even on my worst days! Thank you for being you and for taking time to brighten our days with your stories! I consider you a dear friend!!!!!
Flips can be, well, not so easy but the rewards....!!!!! Have a rock star kind of day Karianne!!!!!!!
Love this! laura
Karianne, you are my daily dose of joy.
Love this. My husband just underwent emergency open heart surgery this past weekend and it took that episode to force me not to scream at the stupid drivers on the road or complain about the multitude of cars parked in the street in our neighborhood or the high parking rates at the hospital (what's with that?? Doesn't insurance cover parking??) Each time I felt myself getting ready to utter something under my breath I reminded myself that it does not pay to sweat the small stuff. I am glad you discovered that before something awful happened. One can only hope that whoever left you that message also reads this post, learned something and takes your advice. Thanks for sharing this...I need a daily reminder right now to focus on the positive!
You are a flipping Star! Thank you for the positive feeling you just sent my way! Right back at ya sister!!!
Oh Karianne, I love, love, love this!!!!! (Not the negative comment part, but the spreading joy everywhere part). It's so easy to get caught up in the negative that you sometimes forget to even notice the positive ... what a perfect way to bring that focus back where it belongs! AND, share it with the world around you! xo
Thank you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Why it seems so much easier to be mean spirited is a mystery, especially when being kind and considerate actually takes less energy than being cruel. Watching someone's face light up in response to a compliment is as rewarding for the person giving it as it can be for the recipient. It's such a win/win. Thank you, Karianne, for always taking the high road, for the grace you exhibit on a daily basis. Cheers, Ardith
And that right there KariAnne is why you are so amazing!!!! I popped on over here feeling a bit pinched after reading a thread where someone was being annihilated by someone else, and you just made me smile!!! Now I'm going to go squish my toddler and kiss his chubby cheek and sing as I vacuum!! Thank you sweet lady! Hugs, Gee
Ok, I'm going with timeless cliches! "Somethings are better left unsaid". "Chose your words wisely they can come back on you ten fold". And my very favorite, " sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me! So, nah nah nah to the critical negative people of the word! Positive people " stay strong and rock on"!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Karianne you are so AWESOME!
Yes!!!!! Wait, not enough explanation points. Yes!!!!!!!!!! I am grinning a big silly grin because I'm going to leave a joy trail today all over the place. Attitude is everything baby!!!!!! Today my attitude is joy. Thank you for this blog. I love reading it.
I absolutely cannot imagine anyone being unkind to you, so I will assume it was life being ugly. Sadly, we've seen our fair share of that lately. Whatever the source, I just LOVE your response; I shall endeavour to remember it the next time negativity finds its way to my door. You rock, lady!
You are THE most posituve person I wish I knew in person. You brighten so many days for a lot of people. Anyone who could possibly think up anything negative about you is very sad inside and I hope they get better. Think Positive!!! xo
Thanks for that encouraging example! That will help us when we go through it!
Time for book #2 on Spreading Joy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Loved this. !!!!!!! Always always enjoy your blog !!!!!!
At one point, my in-box was overloaded with different blog posts; so, I unfollowed a lot of them. But yours is one of the few I continue to follow. You always inspire and are happy, happy, happy. I can almost see your smile through my computer/phone screen. Since February, life has thrown me some major curveballs, but when I read your blogposts, or Pioneer Woman's or Miss Mustard Seed's...life seems a little better. Thank you for that...and for your honesty...for letting us know that you are really just like one of us...maybe just with a little more awesomeness!!!!!!!!!! =)
My name is Joy. It's a hard name to live up to, even though I'm been told at least a million times "you have the Perfect name!!!!!" This morning I had to do something Very Hurtful; but I did it and grinned through the phone. It was HARD, but I left my "Joy Trail" Sure you understand. TKS! Joy
Oh, Sweetie! I am so happy to be in your trail of joy...there is no time or justification for anything negative. Everything you do or touch is beyond fabulous and everyone knows it! I am forever your #1 cheerleader! Much love ;-)
Kariann, everytime I recall meeting you last week and helping you set up shop in the The Cherry Pit, I get a big ol grin on my face remembering one of your stories. Don't let anyone take your amazing away.
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!<3
My Mom used to say "Kill em with kindness", so rock on you amazing joy giver!!!!!!!!!!!! My bestie from college became a life coach and lived the joy life everyday. She was a sunny, compliment filled person. She approached near strangers and made them feel better just by a simple compliment. Did it ALL the time. We lost this amazing sunshine a year ago but she keeps sending people my way! A few weeks ago I was walking out of Target in my cutest summer outfit and a car stopped in its tracks and the driver yelled out to me how fabulous the color was on me! A random act of kindness and joy!! It's so easy to downward spiral. But we can overcome! Spreading joy is the best. It brightens both the giver and receiver. WIN, WIN !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
YOU are amazing!!! I love your decorating, but even more I love how uplifting your writing and posts are!!! Please keep doing what you're doing, and don't let anyone rain on your parade!
I needed this today!!!!!!!!! Thanks for your wisdom. Don't you just get tired of the "debbie downers" out there? I don't know the history on that phrase but my mom use to always say, "oh she's just a debbie downer". My comment is only referencing an old phrase... it is not meant to criticize anyone's name. I have many friends with the name Debbie:)
The Joy Trail is amazing!!!!!!!!!!! I shared on my FB page this morning a Joel O devotional with Philippians 4:8 - Think on the good:))))
By the number of comments I'm reading, I'd say the negative became a positive. Sort of backfired in their face. The very idea somebody would hurt Karianne is fighting words to her fans.
You go, rockstar! Loving the positive trail. Negative Nellies obviously have NO IDEA how hard you work to bring your peeps awesome posts 6 days a week, write a book AND have a fabric line, etc, etc. WOW. I'm always in awe. Never forget how inspiring you are!!!!
You make reading this blog a happy time Thanks!
I can't imagine you not being sad. But then you are human. Your blog is perfect. I am in bed with so much pain. Real pain plus a broke. Heart. I will try to do better. Thank you
You are so AMAZING!!! I just love you. you brighten everyday for me.
It really saddens me that people think it is ok to tear others down. Where have our filters gone? Why is it threatening to give compliments? Does it make me any less? Bravo to you! Continue to pass along JOY!!!!!! Your heart will be the better for it and definitely all those who are the recipients of your joy spreading will be happier too!!!!!!! We need more of people to have a joyful spirit like you wearing the biggest smile and top it off with bright Red Lipstick!!!!!!!!!!!
Karianne, How could anyone possibly be negative to you? Of all the bloggers in bloggerville, you are the one who consistently puts a smile on my face. I love your way with words and your sense of humor. If we weren't so far away, I'd invite myself over for coffee and all the day to sweet tea to talk about chippy furniture, pillow fluffing, twinkly-eyed husbands, extra-special kids, and driving behind a big ole tractor while late for an appointment. As I've told my kids a million times (until they finally knew it in their own hearts) people's negative comments are more a reflection of who they are than who you are. I know a negative comment stings, but joy lasts a lifetime.
Ah Kari Anne, you've been on the Joy Train as long as I've known you!!!!!!!!!!!! Kari On!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Let's hear it for exclamation points!!! And I can't imagine anyone being negative toward you... they must be out of their MIND!!!! What a great way to combat the 'uglies' - keep being your awesome sweet self! <3
To make us all smile even more.... Gilmore Girls on November 25!!!!! That's going to keep me smiling till then! My daughter said we can't travel for Thanksgiving to Grandma's this year because of Gilmore Girls! Another reason to smile??!!!
I love you, Karianne. That's all I need to say; but wait there's more! You bring so much joy and help me shoulder so much pain.... Thank you for being you.
Good for you! I really believe we can create virtuous circles by doing these things. (Sometimes, comments are hard, whether on blogs or in emails. A neutral statement ending with a simple period can sound harsh without intending to. But exclamation points all the time can sound fake. It seems to require reading with a positive mind. On the other hand, sometimes the words are nasty and should just be deleted or ignored.)
I love this table looks awesome!!!!
Keep rockin' the positive attitude, Friend!!!!
Girl, good for you! I am sure you made somebody's day spreading all that joy...all the while fixing your own. It's like a double treat!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :)
Who is being mean to *YOU* of all people, KariAnne? You let me know and I'll beat 'em up! Seriously...*YOU* are no less than amazing and you show it in everything you say and do...you are miles high above that negative little imp and don't you ever forget it! Some people live very sad and lonely lives...they think they get some sort of power out of striking out at people, when in reality, all they get is more and more bitter. You did the right thing by fighting the negativity with heaps of positivity...you are a force for good in this world and you bring light wherever you go! Trust me on this because you bring light into my world everyday! :)
You are like my new motivator -I loved this and you know all that negativity out there is just a whole lot of folks who don't have any goals or dreams. They've given up!!! So here's to positive living and Great people and those who make us smile. Cheers!!! A while back I did a post on my tool box - "Live a Great Life" and when I'm not using this box it sits near my desk as a reminder... Because even with all the chaos in the world life can be great - I really believe that.. Keep setting that positive example - it's a reminder of God's blessings he wants for each and every one of us. Oh and this is what I do with negative nellies - I say a little prayer and move on. - they're not worth the time or energy they try to consume from others. Bless their hearts.....
Finally brethren (and sistern?) ....and with some creative license, "Whatsoever things are lovely and of good report, think on these things. (and torpedo the rest.) Phillippians 4:8
You are such a positive inspiration! Thank you for being YOU and being SO good at it!!!!!!!
I couldn't agree more KariAnne! I guess that's why I love you and admire you. It's not always easy being optimistic, caring, cup half full thinking, and just plain nice. For some people it is easier to be negative. It must make them feel "special". NOT ME! Didn't their mothers love them and tell them "if you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all"? You are my ROCK STAR and don't ever forget it! Hugging you from South Carolina.
I love it! Joy Trails!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ;)
You are the second person today that had such an incident. If you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all... is my motto. So sometimes I'm just silent, LOL. Love your take on this...and yes...random acts of kindness go a long way, Sandi
YOU ABSOLUTELY, POSITIVELY NAILED IT. THANKS. (Whoa - missing those exclamation marks.)
You are my hero. And you are right, it works!
Thanks for the reminder. I needed it. I am sorry for whoever upset you and what they said, but I am so proud of you for the way you handled it. And how you used it for the good to remind us all. :) gwingal !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I'm sorry you have to deal with negativity at all because you seem pretty darned amazing. I love your blog and your down-to-earth voice. I feel like we could sit down for a cup of coffee (or wine!!!) and have a great chat. If you ever want to come to Wyoming, that's a standing offer. I love that you made an effort to be even more positive and that it made you feel so good. It's too easy to get sucked into the negative and the drama, but so much more satisfying to spread joy. Thank you.
You are awesome!
You're amazing!!!! Keep spreading the joy, this world needs it more than ever!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Have a GREAT day!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I can't tell you how much this post resonated with me. And I'm so sorry you had to deal with an unkind comment when you are so successful at bringing sunshine to others. We can leave a positive mark in a world that seems to be filled with negativity with the simplest acts of kindness, like a smile or a genuine compliment. This 'Leaving a Joy Trail' should become a movement, as strong and powerful a movement as Paying it Forward. Never stop writing and smile on, Rock Star!!!!!
You are so right! (As always.) Lately it does seem like it's gotten harder but I'm going to take your inspiration, throw on some red lipstick, and SMILE. xoxo
Well done! brings to mind the quote by Eleanor Roosevelt "Nobody can make you feel inferior without your permission". Unfortunate when you put yourself out there, people feel entitled to judge you. Always remember you are amazing!!!! Thanks for sharing your beautiful life story with us.
Loved it! Loved the honest, straightforward appraisal of human nature. It must be so easy to join the crowd jumping off the cliff....so God bless you for making a decision and determination to climb above the rubble. Sometimes it's a fight, isn't it? But, it's always worth it. Thanks for the reminder and encouragement! You probably deserve gas station pizza for supper. XOXO
Love you!!!!!!
Leave a Joy Trail!! Scatter Joy!!!! Love it! On a positive note, that table is fabulous!!!
Thanks so much for your honestly. I enjoy your blog so much. It is easy for me to reassure someone else how awesome they are when they are hurting after they have received a hurtful remark BUT it's very hard for me to be gentle on myself. It usually takes me several days to get over a hurtful or callous remark. Thank you for those tips. I'm going to try and do much, much more of those so I can recover a little quicker.
Thank you for the reminder how little it costs, a smile, a compliment, etc, to make the world better for all of us. You not only made lemonade from those lemons, you shared a glass with lots of strangers! I will try harder to leave joy trails......what a great way of life!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I can not imagine anyone leaving you a negative comment. Your post are always so funny and full of great pictures! I always smile while reading your post so to you thanks for all the happiness you bring us each and everyday. Donna
Thank you, Kari Anne, for sharing your Joy with the world!!! You truly make a difference and I appreciate your wit, your heart and your skill!! SHARE ON!
Sending you a hug from Tulsa! You are amazing and your blog brings me joy every day!!!!
!!!!!!! I hope all these comments let you know you knocked it out of the park on the post!!!!! Here's a few more exclamations for good measure!!!!! Love you blog and to make sure the haters keep on hating.... You are cute as a bug, an excellent writer and your home is gorge!! Keep inspiring. Btw... I follow confettistyle and loved reading her post today about Karianne( spelled correctly right? :)
So sorry you received a Nellie No Fun message! I had a very dear friend many years ago who wrote this for me after I had a really bad Nellie from a co-worker (because I got them often) : " Say NO to negativity". I put flowers around that sign, put it on my desk so I could see it every day. That way I could continue to spread joy evey time I encountered any one I came in contact with. So you did the best thing ever .... I love your Joy Trail! Keep on rock'en Rock Star!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
You are an inspiration!!! There is far too much negativity in the world these days. Filters are off and it makes for an ugly world. I don't think people should lie, but speaking your mind openly is not always necessary or wanted. Glad you were able to change your mind set by making yourself and other's happy.
You sure added lots of joy to my week with your emails!! Honestly, whenever I'm feeling down or overwhelmed or tired or annoyed I read (and re-read) your blog. Your perkiness and cheer is (and has always been) contagious.
Don't let those thieves of joy get you down! They're just jealous because they're driving on the negativity highway and can't find an exit! Here's a HUG :)
KariAnne, I was just thinking about you as I was listening to an interview you did at Haven last year, and then I saw your post from today. Thanks so much for the inspiration, both to be a better human being as well as being a better blogger. I love it when you decide to leave a joy trail anywhere where I happen to be. You rock!! Consider this to be a virtual hug anytime a negative comment comes your way!
Good for you!!!!!!!!
I wish someone would come up with a negativity permanent eraser. If we let their more than mean words impact us they have succeeded in what they purposely set out to do. It amazes me how cruel people can be. . .can you imagine how sad for their children to absorb all those mean vibes every day. . . I love and appreciate you!!!!
Aaawwww......❤️ Right back 'atcha! Xoxo
How could someone say anything negative about you or your blog? It is one of the best out there!!!!! And you, my friend are amazing!!!!! I am so going to do what you did the next time negativity knocks on my door. You go, Rock Star!!!!!!!!!!!!! :-) and hugs Cecilia
YOU ARE AMAZING and WONDERFUL and BEAUTIFUL INSIDE AND OUT and F-U-N and a ROCK STAR and so so so so so so much more!!!!!!!!! I know those filterless comments hurt, especially when we try our best. But you, my wonderful and dear friend, are the most fun, adorable person I know. And have such a generous spirit! Thanks for creating joy in so many people's lives and leaving a joy super highway! xo!!!!!!!!!
I know!!!!!! PERFECT RESPONSE and who knows how many people felt better just by your smiles and kind words. No one ever knows what someone else has on their plate or is hurting, so opting for kindness is always the right choice. I have no idea what happened "If you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all." Or trying to put yourself in their place before criticizing ANYTHING. I think yours and my first interaction came about because I read a negative and biting comment on your blog from a reader, and I could not believe someone could be that miserable. All I can say is that they must have something REALLY bad going on in their life to be that hurtful to someone else, so I do feel sorry for them. Keep up your beautiful work, encouraging stories, lovely smiles, making our, and all that have the blessing of running into you at the store, days and know how much we all love and support you, KariAnne!
You truly are a joy to behold!!!!!!! Thanks for the pick-me-up and bringing smiles to my days. I think you are a pleaser, as am I. So, when we give our all, how can someone be negative? Stay strong and positive, you do a lot of good.
You KNOW I love this and all the exclamation points included!!! You are the perfect example of a grace-extender and I feel that trail of joy each time I visit here.
Your timely thoughts hit my nail on its head. Thank you. !!!!!!!!!
I read your blog because you are such a POSITIVE person. I truly admire you for that. As one who tends to see the glass as half empty instead of half full I need to be around all the positive people I can! Thanks.
YOU ARE KIND!!!!! YOU ARE THOUGHTFUL!!! YOU ARE TALENTED!!!! YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL!!!!!! YOU ARE PERFECT!!!!! The person who hurt you with their words was probably never told how special they were-so they never learned kindness. So to that person who was un-kind to you, I say to them, YOU ARE SPECIAL!!! YOU ARE LOVED!!!! YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL!!! YOU ARE VALUED!!! YOU ARE FORGIVEN!!!!
Ditto to all the positive comments above! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Like you, I am always stunned by the vile and mean-spirited comments spewed forth on social media. It's as if no one has a filter on hatred and anger, and then I read your blogs, look at your wonderful photos and my mind eases. I relax and forget about all the nastiness out there. I love your sense of humor, your taste, your colors, your creativity, and quite honestly, I wish I could move into your home. It's beautiful and fresh and lovely. If I could start all over, it's what I'd want my home to look like. Above all, I love your personality and positive outlook. You never fail to make me smile and that is an amazing skill. Thank you!!!!!!!!!!
I love this! It IS so hard to brush it off and I love this approach so much better than stewing :)
Rock On Girl!!!!!!!!! I had the pleasure of meeting you and one of your sweet sons in person at the Chapel Market a couple of years ago and let me tell ya... You (an he) radiate nothing but warmth and sunshine!!!!!!!! You're beautiful inside and out! :)
KariAnne, I could use all of the platitudes out there...you know the ones about how those people are unhappy with themselves, or what goes around comes around, etc. And you're right, it does hurt when aimed in our direction. But right now I'm going to "borrow" some words from my current personal idol, Michelle Obama. "When they go low, we go high." You've got this, Girl!! xoxo
When I see all the negativity on social media I know that your posts will bring a smile to my heart! You are such a joy Karianne!!!!!
This is the very way we all should handle negativity. You are a great example for all the world. God's word tells us to love one another regardless of anything. Thanks for reminding me that in the messed up world we can still be positive and joyful. God bless you. I just love your blog.
LOVE it! Great!!!!!!!
For the 0.01% that pass along negativity, remember the 99.99% (Is my math correct?) that are supporting you, inspired by you, smiling and lifting, and loving you. I see today's Comment section as a warm blanket of encouragement to keep on being you. Yeah for Karianne!!!!!!!
It's hard for me to get past negative personal comments--I'll have to learn from your example and drown out the negative with joy. I try to remind myself that mean comments come from an unhappy heart, but that doesn't always keep me from dwelling on it. Good for you for finding a better way. :)
Thank you for your wonderful post!!! If you were in the drive-thru behind me, I'd pay for your order, sweet tea and all :)
If you are a good person, it hurts, but don't let negative people get you down!!!!!!!!!!!
Years ago, when I was a brand new blogger, you and I had a talk about negativity and I remember you telling me not to buy into it and to continue to be sweet and kind and positive. I still remember those words from you, my friend. Even on days when it's not easy to do and the "delete" button is my best friend, I continue to live those words and to spread a whole bunch of "glitter" where ever I go. P.S. Pretty soon, I'm gonna use the bricks that get thrown at me to build an outdoor pizza oven...wanna help!? Thanks for being a source of joy in my life!!!!! xo
Karianne, I'm so sorry you were the target of a hurtful message. Obviously, the person who sent that message needs more love in their life. Comments always reflect what's going on in the sender's life. If people would only realize that they are surrounded with love and goodness, they would see it more often and be thankful for all the blessings given them. No matter how bad things might be, if you look for the good you can find it. Your trail of goodness and joy is contributing to the emotional environment!!!! Thank you, Rockstar!!!!!!!!!!!!
This is an amazing way to turn something hurtful into your own rewrite of positivity. I'll remember this. Thanks
Well said. I'm a happy follower of the joy trail!!!!!!!!!!!
Karianne, Never let anyone dull your SPARKLE ~ YOU are my happiness HERO!
Thank you for sharing this. What a wonderful way to face negativity. Shine your light brightly on others!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
You are number 1, and never forget it, Sweet Lady. You always know how to smile, and you sure know how to make us smile with you. Amazing!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (thanks for sending the extras !!) Isn't it something, that when you give another person a complement, it makes you feel so good...
Your so right!!!! I needed to hear this today!!! Keep it coming, nail polish n all!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:)
Just spent the day spreading a "JOY TRAIL" in your honor, in McKinney, Texas. Hope to spend everyday doing the same somewhere. Thanks for the inspiration!!!!!
God bless! You are a smart woman:). Throw kindness wherever you go and it will come back to you!!!!!!!!!
You nailed it: people don't have filters anymore. And way too many people have an inflated sense of value about their opinions (which are often as uneducated as they are loud). Your postings bring me doses of happiness and inspiration time and again. I can't tell you how many times I have wondered how I stumbled across the site...it was such a lucky find. PLEASE don't let your feelings be hurt. You've sent us all down a joy trail -- how can we thank you??
You make me smile everyday!!!!
I have never understood the need to make negative comments...it never makes anything better. So proud of you for turning a negative into so much positivity, Karianne...the world needs it! xoxox
You are such a super fantastic person, you fill our days with joy!!!!!!!!!!!
Whatever happened to "if you can't say something nice don't say anything"? I will never understand saying something hurtful and/or cruel to anyone!! It seems that people feel entitled to say whatever they are thinking. When my children were growing up I used to tell them to think before speaking, to use your brain as a filter for your mouth and never to speak in anger! I know that often someone will regret saying something and be genuinely sorry- but that doesn't take away the hurt that was caused and that could have been avoided by "saying nothing"! I am probably the "Exclamation Point Queen" if there is one!!!!! I just LOVE them!!!!! Most of all I want to add that your "Joy Trail" is the best plan!! I subscribe to it daily!! Soldier on- changing negatives into positive one red lipstick smile at a time!!!!! Thank-you for a wonderful post!!
P.S. Judging by the amount and content of the comments- YOU ARE LOVED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I've worked for a newspaper for 30 years, and we are used to get hate mail, believe me. First it was snail mail. But online comments blew us away. The hate was/is incredible. Things got a little better when we required people to use their Facebook logon to post comments... it held them slightly more accountable. Most nastiness I hardly notice anymore. But your solution sounds like it works! I may try it sometime.
I lo-o-ove this. A couple of years ago an older gentleman touched me on the arm at the grocery store where I was so totally concentrating on whether to buy puffed or crunchy Cheetos... and told me I was too pretty not to smile... oh.... my... goodness.... I'm about 20 years past pretty.. but... I felt that feeling again...that someone saw me. That I wasn't invisible. That a kind word and a smile are like... ummm.... like crunchy Cheetos! You made my day, Karianne! And you should copyright the 'Joy Trail Club'... for real...I see a Joy Trail Club book, Joy Trail Club mugs, Joy Trail Club t-shirts, Joy Trailmix...okay... maybe not the trailmix...
Wow!!!!! So many sweet comments!!!!! I agree with all of them because you bring joy to your followers everyday!!!!! Thank you & God Bless You!!!!!
You ALWAYS leave a joy trail Kari Anne. I don't think I've ever read a negative word from you. On the mornings when I'm not going to work, I get up, feed the animals, put the washing on, make the bed, make a coffee and then sit in front of the computer to read the few blogs I subscribe to. Your blog is always like a ray of sunshine. So full of positive energy and fun. I think people who are hurtful to others often haven't been taught how to be happy and positive. You come from a loving, happy family and now you have your own loving, happy family, as do I. My children are 37, 34 and 31 and I still tell them often how special and loved they are. Now their children are in an environment that is loving and positive, so this is the way they are learning to be, but if someone comes from a negative environment and has never experienced much joy or happiness then they may focus on negative things and look for things to pick at in others. Thats my take on nasty people anyway!
You are THE SUNSHINE IN MY DAY!!!!!!! I SMILE EVERYTIME I READ YOUR POST!!!!!! LOVE and A BIG TEXAS HUG!!!!!!!!!!!!
From the time she could talk, my daughter loved fashion, make-up, and style. Wherever we went, my little toddler was complimenting people on their nails, jewelry, shoes, etc.. The reaction was astonishing! Even the grumpiest looking person was thrilled and a smile would light up their face. It was a big lesson for me. Sometimes, life can be hard and a little kindness is something we ALL need. Thank you for passing some kindess around. Best & Bisous, Michelle from Simply Santa Barbara P.S. Even though I was an English major, I am over-the-moon about exclamation points and try to use them whenever possible! !!!
I'm so sorry that someone was so unhappy that they had to take it out on you. As you know sweet friend it happened to me early on when I first started my blog. When it first happened I was shocked, and hurt. It took awhile to get over. Since then, it's happened a few more times. I guess the first time is shocking and after that I was like...whatever. I'm not going to let someone that I don't know personally and they don't know me personally bring me down. Maybe they are going through a painful time, and they needed to take it out on someone, which is no excuse for being rude. But it happens. Thank you for sharing, and I just wanted to tell you that I think your are the kindest, sweetest, and most beautiful person, inside and out that I know <3
Of all the people in the blogosphere to pick on why in the world did they pick you? Apparently they are not very smart either. You are wayyyy too sweet to spread negativity and they should have known that you would turn this into something bright, happy and cheerful because you may be the most cheerful blogger out there and I for one appreciate every post that you publish making this old world a better place for all of us!!!
In addition to encouraging me to find beauty in the simple, your outlook on life, your heart and humor, always make me smile! Thank you
Remember.....not everyone can wear RED lipstick, be HAPPY !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Karianne, I am so glad you posted this today. Someone was really nasty on facebook yesterday on a local facebook page. She has done this before. Everyone knows I am a good person. It was not easy to hold my tongue knowing her history as a trouble maker. I posted back to her that she was always such a blessing. Later I deleted the entire post which I had started to let the community know something new. It hurts especially when we know we do our best and have many who love us. I will do your trail of joy next time. Thanks. I love you and your writing!!!!!!!
"It's not what you gather, but what you scatter, that shows what kind of life you lived" And you do surely scatter joy everywhere you go. :o)
Boo to the bully that said something negative to you. You are a bright bright light out there in blogland. Your trail of joy is a perfect example. Can't wait to go out tomorrow and start a trail of my own. !!!!!!!!!!!!!
Just another keyboard warrior...you handled it with grace.
Why, of course, dear friend, you swam through that swamp of yuck, climbed your own mountain and firmly planted your joy banner at the highest peak! Because that's what you do for everyone. You cheer us on, remind us that our shortcomings have humor and sprinkle joy and laughter amidst the tears. And that's why we all hit the "click here" button on every email from you! P. S. And yes!!! You know my complete obsession with exclamation points!!!
You ARE amazing and your blogs are rays of sunshine that begin each day for me! I love your positivity and I will remember when that negativity tries to take up space in my life......I will go on the offense and smother it with kindess and positivity!!!
You are awesome!!! But you knew that. You always spread joy and smiles. Don't ever change. And if the naysayers and nasty negativers (I don't think that is a word since spellcheck tried to fix it) get you down, call me. I will tell you what amazing beauty you create in this part of the world. Shine on!
YOU TURNED A POSITIVE INTO A NEGATIVE !!!!! IT DEFINITELY IS A CHANGED WORLD FROM THE ONE WHERE MY GRANDMOTHER TAUGHT ME, "IF YOU CAN'T SAY SOMETHING NICE, DON'T SAY ANYTHING AT ALL." HOWEVER, SOME THINGS NEVER GET OLD OR GO OUT OF STYLE......LIKE GOOD MANNERS AND COMMON COURTESIES.........NEVER !!!!!! GREATER IS HE IN ME, THAN WHO IS IN THE WORLD !!!!! OUR WORTH IS NOT IN OUR GIRTH.......OR LOOKS......OR MONEY.....OR IN WHAT KIND OF HOUSE WE LIVE.....OR THE CAR WE DRIVE......
Love this!!! It's like "paying it forward" except that you're transforming negativity into something beautiful. (Your posts are always joy trails ... they ALWAYS make me smile.) :)
There will always be haters ! You just keep on shining !!!!!!
!!!!! :)
That is why you are the rock star that you are!!!! I love this! Lately I see so many people walking around looking so miserable that sometimes I find myself being the someway but life is to short and I refuse to be one of those miserable people. I'm always smiling at people and saying hello. Keep on being who you are and rock on!!!!!
It always breaks my heart when I hear people being so negative, I am sad mostly for them. One thing I love most about your blog is how positive and kind and uplifting you are! Hope this inspires you a little.... I have a dear friend that lives in another state, I haven't heard from her in awhile. Well, I just found out she has ALS, is wheelchair bound and has lost her ability to speak. How can I help her, what can I do, how can I lift her up from 2000 miles away? We have been texting back and forth and I just told her earlier this week to check out your blog, most beautiful home!! Best stories!!!!! And always the kindest words!!!!!!!! So thank YOU for that. And Sue if you're out there, Love you my friend!!!!!!!!!!!
You Are The Best ! ! ! I really needed this. Make it a wonderful weekend!
Your sparkle has not been dimmed and God still knows your name and where you are in this great big world. You are ALWAYS loved! Vicki from Pimson, AL
Thanks! It's so true that Love never fails, and we overcome evil with good! And I happen to think you are amazing!! If you are ever in my neck of the woods, let me know, and you're invited to sip sweet tea with lime on my front porch!!!
I can't imagine why anyone would be negative and mean to you?!! Don't they know the rule, if you can't say something nice, then don't say it. You just "kari" on, girl!!
I do the same thing when someone says something negative to or about me, but you did the absolutely best thing ever by turning things around. Thank you for the reminder. And for the record - I don't know how anyone could have anything negative to say about you!!!!
Having two teenage daughters this subject comes up a lot. I tell them that it is unrealistic to think that 100% of people will like you or your ideas. But how you react when they make their dislike known shows a lot about you. I also tell them that when criticism is pointed their way 'it's not your fault, it's just your turn'. It looks like you have used 'your turn' wisely!
Hi Kari- I am having a really really bad day!!!!!!!!!!!! :) Since I know that trying to turn off the negative and Turn on the positive can totally make a shift in my vibration, I decided to take a break from it all and go to my favorite Blog--- and BOOM- I read your story- You are AWESOME and bring joy to others and that's what counts. Those people who judge others are really judging themselves and are just downright miserable people. I try to cut them some slack knowing they haven't yet found the key to happiness. It is only coming from a place of Love that you can find true happiness. Thank you for the JOY you spread- you just fixed my day!
You are amazing!!! How did you know that I needed to read this tonight while I was feeling down?! It made me smile and I'm off to spread some joy! Thank you for your transparency AND good advice.
It's amazing how one negative comment (or review!) can stop my world spinning on its axis in the beat of a heart (so true!!!) I suppose it comes with the landscape sweetie, but your readers, like mine are such AMAZING PEOPLE!!! An occasional unhappy soul will show up to rain on your parade but in true Kari fashion, you have turned it into fuel to bring brightness to the day. Bless your little cotton socks and go forward sweetie with all your might!!!! (as a dear reader once told me, sound advice still!) Warmest Wags, terry
Bless you, Karianne, for turning something so negative into something so positive! Life would be so much better if we all started to leave a "Joy Trail"! Great advice -- as usual! Really enjoy reading your posts! May you be blessed with many wonderful days!
!!!! : ) !!!!
Good for you, Karianne. I've noticed a general lack of civility on almost every front. It's pervasive and permeates so much online behavior as well as public behavior these days. It's distasteful, counter-productive, rude and definitely suggests very poor home training. Later for the haters. Stay you and stay positive. Have a lovely weekend.
Love your idea of sharing the joy. It has been difficult watching the news, social networking with so much negativity, finger pointing, name calling so your post was a ray of sunshine this morning. Thanks so much for pure inspiration and rock on!!!!
How the heck did I miss this post!!!!!!!! I haven't looked in a mirror for a while but I don't think I've turned into an ostrich :-( Awww! I'm glad you decided not to let negativity cloud your sunny self. Pooh! on all those negative Nellies that only want to bring you raindrops. Leeeet . . . . the. . . . suuuunshiiiiiine -- yes I'm singing it a cappella and the dog next door just joined in and he is helping me get the high notes just right. I think we are harmonizing beautifully. I think I heard several doors and windows slam shut, but that's okay, we are letting our joy out!! Sending you a big hug even though I'm a day late.
I don't know how I missed this post because I read your EVERY word!!!! But I was on vacation so maybe I skipped a day at the computer...:) You are so RIGHT (again, as usual) that we put so much energy into responding to the negative. I bet you made several people happy during your trail of joy. A good lesson for all of us. Many exclamation points back to you !!!!!!!
Yoi do know that positivity inspires?!! And that is what you do by being your sweet, positive self! It inspired me to say a kind word of appreciation to the TSA worker as I was checking into a flight this morning!!! See....the ripples go out far and wide!!!!!! Blessings to you!
Good for you !!!!!!!!!!
Say Karianne! So glad you didn't allow 'the man behind the curtain' to steal your joy! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! I look forward to your gift of joy in every post! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! Thank you! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !
Thank you!! You made me smile as I read your post.
Thanks for the pep talk, perky! I love your optimism!
KariAnne, I am appalled that anyone could have a negative thought about you, much less express it!!! But you handled it in your usual style ~ with grace and generosity!!! And, you have now spread your Joy Trail immeasurably by sharing this wonderful response!!! Each of *us* can pass it along: I'm sure that's not at all what your detractor hoped for/had in mind! Sending you a bright, bright smile!!!!!!!!! kj
Such wise advice, Karianne! It is a shame that some people have to be such trolls. I am glad you have found a way to counter them :)
What??? I am a little (okay, a lot) behind in reading blogs and I come across one that says someone was mean to my all time favorite rock star of a blogger???? I can't even begin to imagine something nasty to say about or to you. Other than your house is way to clean to suit my taste. People are idiots. The haters are gonna hate. No matter what you do. Then there are the people who love...(see all the comments above mine!). We have sold Mom's house, now the search begins in earnest. To find my own tiny Thistlewood Farm!! Because I know any house I buy will want to be your house when it grows up!!!!! love and hugs, Linda
Love you and your wonderful blog. Thank you for this post. Linda
Simply put, you are an inspiration and have been for years to me. Here's a long overdue THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
and THAT, KariAnne, is why we follow YOU so faithfully and not "the one-who-spit-negativity-and-ugliness." Keep up the kindness!!!!!!!
Gimme their name and I'll have the Godfather put a contract on them!!!!! So glad you didn't take it to heart. You are joy and sunshine, all wrapped up in a bundle of talent! Some peeps are jealous of that!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Dear Karianne, Once again you made me smile; what a perfect response to a negative comment! I keep picturing all the many people whose day you brightened! Thank you once again for the inspiration!
Thanks for the reminder that words can be hurtful. I admit sometimes for the sake of a laugh, or maybe just being misunderstood I may of hurt someone's feelings. Which is something I would never want to intentionally do. Let this be another reminder to read and reread a post before hitting send. Have a beautiful blessed day!!!!! Your sweetness and good additude is what we need more of in this world.....
Well done!!!! Let those naysayers flit over and pass by. Keep the sun shining for yourself and those around you.
THANKS!!!!!!!!!!! I needed this post. First off I can not believe that someone made a mean comment about you---I mean really YOU. You are the most inspiring person out there. In such an ugly world I can count on you to make me smile when I read one of your posts. Second they said that because they were feeling so bad about themselves that they needed to knock you down to feel better. I feel sad for them and hope they get better. Keep on being you; that wonderful, inspiring, happy, creative you. You rock!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Oh Karianne you have made my day!! I too have had people react with a "what is up with her" look because of being positive, pretty sad state of affair in the world. I will push the "Joy Trail" onward in the Canada, and maybe someday the trails can connect!!!!! You have a wonderful day sweet lady !!!!!!! Take Care.
Hi Love your post and the photo. Your post was so encouraging...Thank You!!! Just Keep on being you!! Be Blessed
I try to do this whenever I am out. For years I was the brunt of peoples jokes. I have lupus and a few other autoimmine diseases that I had to take prednisone for about 6 years. I gained 120 lbs. and was also left with oteoporosis at age 41. If that wasn't bad enough people felt that they could make comments and jokes about my weight. They would totally ruin my day, week, month etc. So then I decided that if they are saying things like that to a total stranger they must be horrible people. That is when I decided to try to counter the bullys and treat other people with a smile or a compliment and make their day feel better. 'BTW, I have recently gone through a wonderful wellness program and have lost 90 lbs. and feel so much better. I love your blog! You style of writting is so refreshing and usually leaves me laughing. Thanks for the laughs!
Love it! What a lovely image. Thank you for sharing! :)
Wow! What an awesome post! If more people would spend their time leaving joy trails, it would be a great place. I think sitting hidden behind computer screens and social media has made it far too easy for people to spread their trails of negativity. It's easy to hurt people when you can't see the repercussions of your actions. So happy to hear that you turned the negative into light!
Good for you!!!! A great reminder to look for the good and what blessings come from that!
It's happened to me before, too, so I know how you feel. Manners are somehow out-of-fashion in our media-frenzied world. The days of "don't say anything unless you have something nice to say" are over. But, here's the good news: you have a great attitude and sought out ways to reclaim your joy and share it with others AND you have a community of followers and fellow bloggers who love you and support you!
Thank you so much for sharing this! I know it really stinks to get those mean comments but it sounds like you've found the best way to handle those internet trolls!!! I'm so glad your day turned around. Take that, Troll!!
Shame on the negative comment giver-like Bambi's mom said loosely paraphrasing -if u don't have anything nice to say don't say nothin at all. Sherry
You are a ray of sunshine in our lives!
Oh my goodness!!!!!! You just made my morning!!!!!!!!!!!! Thank you so much for your words of encouragement and joy... I truly have found that it doesn't take a whole lot of effort to spread a little joy .. happiness around!!!! Just a simple smile goes a long way !!!!!! You truly are a "Rock Star" in my minds eye!!!!!!! You have no idea how much your blog posts encourage me... how many times I have busted out laughing ..and ....yes possibly I may have spewed out a little coffee on occasion .... But hey... I just keep on laughing!!!!! :) !! ( note the exclamation points ??? lololol ) Have a blessed weekend!!!!
I so look forward to your blog…always a bright spot in my day. My grown children live with us because of many health issues so it is always a blessing to read your stories and transport me to a better place. May God continue to bless you and your blog. Thank you…you are amazing.
A merry heart is good medicine...way to go changing the directions of your mind with action. I have no doubt you were sprinkling joy all day! Good post!
I don't know how but I missed this. You are soooo spot on! It's been proven by brain specialists that positive input removes the spreading entanglements of negativity. See! You proved it! I am sooo looking forward to your book, dear one! <3
I am so proud of you! Way to go-flipping the script! Rock on Rock star and continue to spread kindness like confetti! You are a fine example for us all and I am very grateful.
Thank you for this!! I was in the same boat this week. I am going to try to do just what you did. Kindness ❤️