The Smile Award :)

Blogging is an entire sub-culture of which I often feel I'm not really a part. And to tell you the truth, never having been one to be on the cutting edge of pop culture, I don't really aspire to be in the club. As I've mentioned before, I blog to prevent the amazing moments of motherhood from slipping away unremembered by my often foggy mommy brain and because I love to write. I'm honored that anyone is even interested in reading the stories that make up our life. :)

So being chosen by my dear friend, Becky, as a recipient of "The Smile Award" brought a small dilemma into my online universe. In the end I decided I wanted to write a post about The Smile Award to honor Becky because she is such a devoted, genuine, unconditionally loving friend to me. Becky is a living example in my life of the proverb, "Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another." I am grateful for the many ways in which she influences and encourages me. So Becky, I wholeheartedly exit my comfort zone for you, my sister. You daily brighten my life with your surrendered heart. Thank you for your sweet encouragement.

The Smile Award Rules:

1. You must link back to the award's creator. (Not someone I know. This link is not an endorsement of any views expressed by the author of this unknown-to-me blog.)
2. Post these rules.
3. Choose 5 people to pass this award along to.
4. Fit the award recipient characteristics posted by the award's creator.
5. Post the recipient characteristics.
6. Create a post sharing your win with others.
7. Thank your giver.

The Smile Award Recipient Characteristics:

1. Must be known for a cheerful attitude
2. Must "love one another"
3. Must make mistakes
4. Must learn from others
5. Must be a positive contributor to blog world
6. Must love life
7. Must love kids

And Becky, please forgive me if I step back into my own skin and neglect to formally pass on the honor. :) (I don't know why I'm scrupulously following all the other rules, but blatantly disregarding #3!) I will say...

To all the various family and friends with whom I share (or have shared) a piece of life, thank you for the unique ways in which you each make me smile.