On Joy

There's a giveaway going on over at Barking Mad. And the theme is Joy. She wants all of us to post about what brings us Joy in order to enter the giveaway.
I'm all about winning stuff-in fact I've won two awesome blog prizes recently-but I love the idea of posting about Joy so much that I'd post about it without the possibility of reward.

On Joy

I find joy in many things. Simple little things, and big things.

I feel joy from being at the beach, and looking out at the vast ocean. The waves crashing in front of me. It's overwhelming and makes me feel so small, and makes me know in my heart that there is a Creator and he made all of these wonderful things for us.

Being married to my best friend brings me joy. Meeting new friends brings me joy.
A text from a friend brings me joy.

Giving birth to three children has brought me much joy. Gaining another son by marriage has brought me additional joy. Watching them all grow has given me many joyful moments. Having alone time with each of them brings me much joy. Looking at drawings that say "Mommy rocks" brings joy.

Spending time with family - even the crazy, extended family - brings me joy. Downtime with the immediate family brings me joy. Alone time with John brings me joy. A whole day spent in my pajamas brings me MUCHO joy.

Cinnamon Bun coffee brings me joy. Diet Dr Pepper brings me joy. A good book brings me joy. Cuddles with the dogs, snuggles with the kids, hugs from friends.
Fuzzy socks. My Snuggie. Scarfs. Gloves. Hats. A steaming hot shower. Warmth.
Helping others. Giving to those in need. Helping those who are sick or their families.
Church and our church family.

All of these things, and so much more, represent Joy to me. I have so much joy in my life, and I am so thankful for the opportunity to write about it, people to share it with, and for the holiday which reminds us to find the joy in our lives, and to celebrate it.