A new friend just posted on her blog a post with this same title. I’m totally copying you, Laurel!

Laurel, Jennifer and I went to a Christmas luncheon yesterday put on by Jennifer’s church. It was at the Marriott on Orchard Rd. and it was really nice. I enjoyed it.

Jennifer, Me, Laurel

The theme of the luncheon was ‘Joy’. During the course of the luncheon I, like Laurel, was challenged to think of what brings me joy. I didn’t really think much more about it after we left because I had alot on my mind including an impending morning of dr’s visits for all those “not so wonderful” annual female check up things. Although incredibly important for every female, especially if you’re over 40,  THAT certainly does NOT bring me joy.

Now that THAT is over, I read Laurel’s post and was challenged again to think about what brings me joy. So as I close out my day, here are are few things that bring me joy.

Hugs and ‘I love you’s’ from my husband and kids
When someone else cleans the kitchen
Music
Finishing up a good blog post
People I know who do crazy things in the name of loving God and His creation
Landing safely at our destination airport
A date with my husband
A cup of strong coffee watching the glimmer of Christmas tree lights
Laughing with (or at) my family
The laughter of my kids, especially when they are laughing together
Hearing the praise of my family after serving up a favorite meal
Thinking about the future with my husband
Going on a new adventure
Pedicures
Having friends from all around the world
Skype ringing on my computer when my daughter calls
Iced lemongrass tea with sugar syrup
The smell of a clean house
Watching a chic flick with my daughters
Air conditioning
Chips and homemade salsa on a homesick day
A hug from my son
Going home, wherever that happens to be
My grown up kids needing me
Having friends over to share a meal
A Sonic Vanilla Diet Coke
The hope of being 50 lbs lighter someday
The hope of eternal life with my Savior and the Redeemer of all that is good

I’m sure as soon as I hit “publish” I’ll think of a million more. Some of these are superficial and bring only momentary joy. I could live life without them. But those that have to do with my family are joy eternal. I could not live without them. I cannot imagine living without joy and the hope of eternal joy.

So I will ask you what Laurel asked me, “What brings you joy?” If you’re a blogger, maybe you can write a blog post too. I can just see a joyful blog fest going on. :)

‘Tis the season of joy, afterall.

“Joy to the world, the Lord has come!”