Pathways to joy

Melanie (Indextrious Reader) posted this link to 50 Ways to Find Joy. Some of my favorites:

Relish a juicy read. When you start a book and know that it's going to be good, take a moment to enjoy the tingling in your toes.

Keep in touch. Write a friend. Use your best pen and beautiful stationery. Realize that you are actually sending love.

Start a tea party. Schedule a regular tea date with your friends and honor it like any other appointment. During stressful weeks you'll have something fun to look forward to.

Learn elementary botany. Buy a book to show you how to differentiate between types of evergreens and deciduous trees. When you recognize all the trees in your neighborhood, you'll feel closer to nature. (The picture I chose is the eglantine, or sweet briar. I learned about it here.)

Remember kindness. Recall a situation in which a friend treated you kindly. Mentally extend the feelings of joy she inspired back to her.

Marry beauty and practicality. Next time you need an everyday object, like a cereal bowl or a coffee mug, choose the most pleasing replacement you can afford. When you use it, notice its simple elegance.

Answer slowly. Take a deep breath before responding to a question from anyone, whether it's your boss, your mother, or your lover. Chances are you'll say something smarter (and kinder).

and now -- pay it forward..........