Do you like challenges? Sometimes I do. Hopefully this one will be fun.

Smile at a service person and ask a question. For example, ask if he or she has seen a good movie lately. Then listen.

Maybe you could engage the checkout person at the grocery store or gas station. What about the plumber that comes to fix your garbage disposal? Maybe converse with the waiter at your favorite restaurant. I encourage you to choose a moment when no one is behind you in line, or when the eatery is not busy. Remember the goal is to be a blessing😊.

Five more ways to be a blessing:

1. Forgive. Recently I forgot a piano lesson. My student came to the house, but I wasn’t there. When her mom texted me, I apologized profusely. She forgave me immediately. Her response felt like a cool drink on a hot day.
2. Watch someone’s pet or offer to walk a neighbor’s dog. A friend is having knee surgery next month. She has two dogs. I’m feeling the need to ask her if I can walk her dogs while she recovers.
3. Take a glass of ice water (or a favorite beverage) to someone who lives in your home. Anticipate the need. Why is this concept easier to remember with a stranger or guest?
4. Do someone else’s chore. You could incorporate this at home or at work. In our house, my husband takes out the trash. This week I’ll try to beat him to it. 😊
5. Don’t multitask while talking to someone on the phone. The dishes, internet, and remote control can wait. People can tell when you are not focused on them. I stink at this.

Household tip from Sandy Lipsky: Easy way to clean scuff marks off a floor.

Do you enjoy lists! I do. The following is a short list of blessings I’ve tried or received.

It is often the little acts of kindness that transform my day. I’d love to hear what blesses you.

1. Smile and look someone in the eye.
2. Wave at a passing car while on a walk in your neighborhood.
3. Hold the door open for the person behind you.
4. Tell a stranger something you like about him/her. Don’t just think it—say it!
5. Pay for the coffee or meal of the person in line behind or ahead of you.
6. If someone drops something, pick it up and return it.
7. Listen.
8. Offer a worker at your home a cool drink.
9. Names are important. I jot a note in my smart phone, so I remember.
10. Write a letter or mail a card to a friend or family member.

What blesses you? If you try one of the above actions, I’d love to hear the result.

You are fearfully and wonderfully made,

Sandy Lipsky

Household tip of the week

My mother-in-law knew how to fold a fitted sheet. She amazed me with the crispness of her corners.

This video would make her proud to see her legacy of excellence lives on.