Reason to Smile #20

Dogs

So, I know that not everybody is a dog person, but I absolutely love dogs. To quote VeggieTales (Queen Ester Episode), "Puppies are cuddly, puppies are cute; they're never nasty or mean. I'd give a home to all the lost puppies - if ever one day I were queen!" They do the silliest things for no apparent reason, not only making me smile, but also laugh. They love you unconditionally and with ever fiber of their being; they just want to love and be loved . There is a type of dog out there for everyone: small dogs, big dogs, hairy dogs (for those who are allergic), furry pups, working dogs, and show dogs. I could include at least 10 more types of dogs, but I think my list will suffice. While I prefer dog in real life, mere pictures of them can make me smile. Try it, go google dogs and let me know if when you come back you aren't smiling (doggo memes are hilarious). Sometimes dogs will even smile. When I go new places or visit peoples homes I am always on the look out for dogs and their wagging tails (or rumps). Dogs don't just make me smile for a moment, but they bring joy to my whole life. They can teach us many valuable life lessons like the responsibility of caring for something else, to play everyday, get excited to see the people you love, and just like I hope this blog is doing they can teach us how to find joy in little, everyday things.
Dogs = wagging tails, unable to contain their joy smiles

Reason to Smile #19

Skipping Stones

I must admit that I was terrible at skipping stones when I was a kid. I had a record of zero skips, which really means I was just good at throwing rocks - plunk! My dad was the one to teach me how to skip stones, but it took quite some time and practice to master the skill. I can now say that the most skips I have gotten is around 10. What I love is that skipping stones is something you can do as a break from an adventure or it can be the whole purpose of an outing. Best part yet is it doesn't require any bought or brought item, just find some water that has stones and wallah! Perfectly flat stones are the best and easiest, but how often is it that you find a completely smooth and flat rock? I have skipped rocks on the ocean, on lakes, in streams, and even in a pasture's pond. When skipping rocks with friends it becomes a competition of who can get more skips. Always be safe and make sure that no person or animal will be in the path of the thrown stone. Here are some simple instructions:
1. Select a rock. Best if flat and about the size of your palm (I have skipped rocks the size of my face, but that is a lot of work to perfect)
2. Make a C shape with your hang while holding the rock.
3. Face the water sideways, bend your wrist back, and flick the rock over the water's surface.
4. Follow threw.
5. Repeat and enjoy!
Skipping Stones = a ripple effect of smiles