(Here’s to Tess Marshall for opening my world to LOVE! this month. Tess, you are amazing and I thank you from the bottom of my heart. I appreciate you!)
How sweet that our RAOKA (random acts of kick arse) posting for August landed on September 1st. September also happens to be my birth month (Sept 8th is the big day). Woot! My good buddy Tess emailed me out of the blue in late July to ask me if she could celebrate my birthday with me by doing something extra special. It is my big FOUR OH after all.
Tess sent me this link to a post which features Robyn celebrating her 38th birthday by doing 38 things for others. I LOVE! the idea, too! So, I joined Tess to celebrate by performing forty random acts of kick arse love for others (wander over to Tess’ blog to check out her forty things, too!).
Kazaw! Shazam! What a LOVE! trip it’s been!
You are invited to my virtual raoka-love-forty-things birthday party, with a challenge!
My gift to you:
At noon your time today, give yourself a big hug from me—I’m so grateful for your wonderful presence in my life!
Your gift to me:
Perform a random act of love today and come back here to tell me about it in the comments. It can be anything from the smallest smile to changing someone’s life. I can’t wait to hear what you did! Happy Birthday LOVE! to me.
In the mean time, here’s how I spent the month of raoka-birthday LOVE!
READY????
ONE: Purchased a book of stamps and taped them to a local mailbox with a note saying, “Please take: use to send your love to friends or family.”
TWO: I brought breakfast to my elderly neighbor and made sure she knew she can ask me if she needs anything. A few days later she knocked on my door to express the gratitude in my actions. I felt love and think she did, too.
THREE: When I’m out on a walk, I often see a young girl hanging out in front of a particular store front. I’ve always wondered about her (why is she there?). I stopped one morning to say hello and speak with her, she seemed lonely. Her name’s Fiona and her mom works in the store. She is ten years old and on summer break. She seemed really glad to meet someone so we chatted and laughed for about twenty minutes. Now when I see her, I take the time to stop and say hello and it warms my heart to hear her say, “Hi Lori! How are you today?!” I think she needed a friend (and so did I). 
FOUR: Tell my mail carrier thank you by putting a love note and Starbucks gift card in my mailbox.
FIVE: While I am not super active on Twitter, I’m there briefly a couple times a day. I’ve warmed up to Twitter and have met a lot of good friends there. I aimed to base 90% of my Tweets around #love. Here are four examples:
SIX: I saw a police officer walking to his car. I stopped him to tell him thank you for his service to our community. He smiled, shook my hand, and asked my name. He was incredibly gracious and I could tell he really appreciated hearing thank you for a rather thankless job. (This made my heart smile.)
SEVEN: While I understand the purpose for spiders as a natural part of the environmental milieu, they still creep me out. I rescued a spider one afternoon by scooting her on a piece of paper and taking her outside. Eep! I think this was the hardest LOVE! act I carried out all month (pun intended). Remember my last attempt to rescue an arachnid? Yipe!
EIGHT: Spelled LOVE! using quarters on one of my favorite sculptures in the park, then walked away with a huge smile on my face. (The next morning, they were gone.)
NINE: I wrote a letter to a long-time friend from high school just to say hello and that I was thinking about her. Then, I wrote one to her parents, too. I spent a lot of time at their home as a kid and want them to know I love them.
TEN: When I’m able to swim, I LOVE! it. As I enter the pool area, I’m required to check in at the front desk and there is always this groovy chicka there—she’s very pleasant. I introduced myself (instead of whisking by) and told her how much I appreciated her working there so that I can swim. Her name is Hilary. I then told her I know another woman named Hilary who is the kindest, sweetest person ever. She smiled and now I’m delighted to know her a little better.
ELEVEN: I am loving the organic produce brought to a local drop-off station by a committed, caring, loving community group. I’ve become much more healthy and I own them deep gratitude and love. I wrote a testimonial for their website and furnished them with a few photos I often shoot—the produce is too beautiful not to keep a record! Here’s to you, the garden of eden!
TWELVE: I live in a complex of units with a fountain at the center in a common area. I noticed the fountain basin and water was getting really dirty so I decided to chip in and clean it myself. I love water, and now the sparkling fountain is much prettier! As the residents walked by, they all had huge smiles and many expressed their gratitude. Check. Mate.
THIRTEEN: While walking up a rather steep hill, I saw a cyclist climbing the hill. I gave him a lot of encouragement and he had a huge smile on his face because of it. Woot!
FOURTEEN: I noticed a a couple moving into our complex this month and happened to be walking by, so I introduced myself and welcomed them. I also told them to knock on my door if they ever needed anything. It was great to get to know them a little better—great people!
FIFTEEN: I mailed a hand-written letter to my aunt, with whom I haven’t communicated in many years. I love her very much and wanted to make sure she knew how much she means to me had how positively she’s impacted my life. I love her and she means the world to me.
SIXTEEN: While I was out on a walk, I saw a construction worker taking a break. So I stopped and told him hello and to have a nice day. He returned the sentiments and we both turned away smiling.
SEVENTEEN: While picking up coffee one morning at a local coffee shop, I decided to pay for the person behind me in line. I paid the cashier and then gave her a $10 bill and asked her to use it for the next person and give him any of the remaining change. She seemed confused and didn’t speak English well. She said, “You want change for the bill?” I said, no, I want you to use this for the next person. She said, “What? I don’t understand.” I said, I want to do something nice for a random stranger. Can you give him this? She nodded, seeming confused, but I think everything turned out as I had planned. It was kind of funny, actually. I didn’t stay to see what happened.
EIGHTEEN: I am in constant awe and feel deep loving gratitude for those who serve others. I took a moment to send love to our President, Barack Obama (via a contact form @ whitehouse.gov). This must be one of the most stressful, thankless jobs out there, and I appreciate his service to our country. Love to you, Mr. President.
NINETEEN: I stopped by the ocean life guard tower to ask one of the lifeguards what I can do for them. I said I appreciate their service to others and wanted to thank them somehow. He directed me to the head lifeguard and he said while they couldn’t accept money, they always love food! So, I walked to my favorite taco shop (vegetarian! yummy!) and got them some bean burritos. When I walked back, I think they were really surprised and couldn’t believe it. One lifeguard actually said this, “You’d be surprised, a lot of people never say thank you. We make 30–40 rescues a day, and of course they’re often stunned, but they often just run away embarrassed.” His eyes were misty. “Thank you so much, ma’am, this really means a lot to us. We really appreciate it!” They then introduced themselves, asked my name, and all gave me a huge salty hug. I think this had to be one of my favorite days this month. I had no idea they rarely hear a, “thank you.”
TWENTY: While I was at the taco shop, I told the cashier what I was up to, and she was excited about the idea and introduced herself. I asked her (Natalie) if she wanted to sign a note with me for the lifeguards. So, she did! (The lifeguards liked that, too.) I then asked if there was anything I could do for her as one of my forty things. She said she didn’t want anything, but if I could she’d love it if I tried to avoid using plastic bags and switch to canvas or at least paper, since the paper can be recycled. I LOVE! this girl!
TWENTY-ONE: I made a point to use zero plastic bags this month. I rarely ever use them, but occasionally I use one at the store if I forget my canvas bag at home. Not this month. If I forgot my bag, I had to walk back home to get canvas. I did it for Natalie and I think it definitely got me into the habit of never using plastic. How awesome is that? Big LOVE!
TWENTY-TWO: I went to a local veterans’ memorial site to pay my respects and send my love to the fallen and their loved ones. I had never been here specifically to take time to read the inscriptions and be with those who have gone before me. I was deeply moved. I spoke to a man who was mounting more “new” plaques on the wall and we had a very special moment. Two strangers, to people’s hearts sending love far and wide. I shed many tears this day, but they were tears of love and gratitude. Here are just a few photos from that day.
Soul sister and code breaker Julia Keelin, WWII {LOVE YOU!}
Soul Brother Virgil Hoffman, Vietnam, {LOVE YOU!}
Soul sister Tanya Blane, SW Asia, {LOVE YOU!}
Tracy Greenamyer, Gulf War, can't stop thinking about her. {LOVE YOU!}
TWENTY-THREE: When I’m out for walks, I usually walk by this one hotel with a doorman out front. I’ve lived here for over five years and I think I’ve always seen this particular doorman occasionally all these years. I decided it was time we met. I walked up to him early this month, introduced myself, asked his name and told him his smiles and candor have always brightened my days. His name is Benny. Then, I said, The next time I walk by, I’m going to say, “Hi Benny! How’s your day?” And, I’m going to be sincerely asking. I want to know. He smiled a mile wide. Sure enough, a few days later, I walked by and said, Hi Benny! How’s your day? And he said, “Hi Lori, it’s great! Keep smiling!” Holy Smiling Doorman Friend, Batgirl, this is fun!
TWENTY-FOUR: People were sitting around a table outside the grocery store with people taking donations for the local music society. When I had purchased my groceries, I also picked up five SuperLotto tickets for the California Lottery. When I exited the store, I gave the five tickets to one of the people behind the table and said that I wanted to give them the five lottery tickets as my donation and if they win they can certainly keep the money for the music society. I have no idea if they actually won, but it was a fun time for all of us.
TWENTY-FIVE: I love my local art museum across the street. I bought two tickets to the museum and approached two people outside who looked enamored by the museum, offered them the tickets, and briefly explained my love-birthday-forty-things mission. They turned out to be architects and college buddies (one local, one from Boston) who hadn’t seen each other in decades. We ended up talking for quite awhile, hugged goodbye, and the local guy gave me his business card and told me if I ever needed anything, to please contact him. Awesome day!
(I electronically smudged the information for his privacy.) 
TWENTY-SIX: My neighbor gave me a key to her home to water and watch over her plants on her balcony while she was away on vacay. My hubs helped me make sure all was going okay and also to clean the area prior to her return (thanks sweetheart! I love you!). I also left a little giftie surprise for her. (She’s delightful and I love giving her LOVE!)
TWENTY-SEVEN: I sent a couple of little surprises to a few of my friends in Australia. Just ‘cuz. Because I love them. Plus, how cool is it that I can physically send something half-way across the world for the cost of a couple cups of coffee? Amazing…
TWENTY-EIGHT: I focused on picking up rubbish on the beach instead of looking for more additions to my shell/sea glass/random treasures/sand dollar collection. While I usually try to spot and throw away things during my walks, this time I made it my focus. I love the beach and loved making her more beautiful.
TWENTY-NINE: On days I go for walks, I almost always, purposefully, walk by a certain lovely home with gorgeous roses. I often pause to take in their wonderful aroma—amazing! I once told “The Rose Lady” hello while she was pruning and she struck me as a very kind soul. A couple of weeks ago, I wrote a note thanking her for her gorgeous flowers and stuck it on the landing by her door. (The next day, the note was gone. )
THIRTY: I bought a gift card at the grocery store, turned around after paying for my goods, and gave it to the woman behind me. She was, maybe, in her 70s and I thought she was going to start crying. She said it was one of the nicest things anyone has ever done for her and thanked me profusely. I haven’t been able to stop thinking about her—I find it disturbing that this beautiful woman, in all these years, hasn’t experienced more kind acts shown to her than a goofy gift card. Really? (Please do something for someone today!)
THIRTY-ONE: I called both my mom and mother-in-law one day, with the sole purpose of telling them I love them. I am a lucky woman to have them in my life.
THIRTY-TWO: I don’t fuss over my hair much, but when I get a trim, I look forward to spending time with my favorite lock-cutter. Tony is awesome, has brought me much joy and healing energy this year, and I love him. I brought pastries one morning, on a pretty plate I had painted, to his shop for him and his clients. (I kind of feel bad about this one, actually. I don’t eat pastries and I found out neither does Tony [good for him and our healthy habits]. We agreed he’d display them because they are so pretty, but not eat them. Yay!)
THIRTY-THREE: While standing in line with some produce, I saw a woman behind me who looked agitated, angry, and upset for being stuck in line. I looked her in the eye and asked if she’d like to take my place in line—I was next to be helped. Her expression softened and gratefully accepted my offer. (This happened on several occasions, and I think I’ll do this a lot more in the future, too. Five extra minutes in line is not a big deal to me.) Life is good.
THIRTY-FOUR: I told a dear friend, who I love very much, how much I appreciate her. (See the top of this post…)
THIRTY-FIVE: I’m pretty sure the readers of this blog know by now I have MS. I emailed my neurologist to express my gratitude for her time, wisdom, and attention. I think it’s amazing she interacts with me via email when I need her input, and I appreciate her candor. She’s really great and I’m happy to know her.
THIRTY-SIX: I mailed a hand-written, heart-felt letter of encouragement to my three twenty-something step daughters. I love them very much. I want nothing more than for their lives to be filled with love.
THIRTY-SEVEN: During my check up at the hospital this month, I was not feeling so great. I had to give blood for analysis and was none too happy about it. Since the hospital where I’m treated only treats veterans, my phlebotomist asked me about my military service. She was funny, kind, and we ended up laughing a lot. I thanked her warmly for her service to others working at the hospital and she was immensely grateful. By the time my blood draw was over (including placing an IV port), we were both laughing so hard and hugged each other goodbye. Now, that’s my kind of day! LOVE! it!
THIRTY-EIGHT: I spent the month helping Lauren Lankford drop love bombs on unsuspecting recipients. I love what Lauren is doing: once a week she rallies hundreds of people to meet at a site/blog to encourage someone having a rough go of it with a comment. (To get involved, join the team or follow @dropalovebomb on Twitter.) P.S. My love bombing is not stopping!
THIRTY-NINE: I love libraries. I checked out four children’s books, including a personal favorite (and sometimes my nickname!) The Lorax, by T.S. Geisel, and inserted a crisp, new one dollar bill along with a note encouraging the finder of the bill, then returned the books to the library drop box. The notes were all different, but here’s text from one, “This is only the beginning of the treasures you’ll find in books. Keep reading! Love You, ~xo”
FORTY: A BIG HUG TO YOU AT NOON TODAY, FOR AS LONG AS YOU WANT, FOR YOUR PRESENCE IN MY LIFE! THANK YOU! (In the photo below, I’m hugging my favorite tree, it’s getting a hug today, too!)
Hugs to you! (See, I told you I am a tree hugger!)
Head to the comments and please describe any love mission you’ve performed (big or small) this month for RAOKA: LOVE!, or to help me celebrate my birthday! You are awesome!
Stay tuned for next month’s theme: Grace (chosen by M at The Exception).
♦ July’s theme post: Trust
♦ June’s theme post: Wisdom
♦ May’s theme post: Serenity
♦ April’s theme post: Family
♦ March’s theme post: Laughter
♦ February’s theme post: Passion
♦ January’s theme post: Gratitude
♦ December’s theme post: Wacky!
♦ November’s theme post: Beauty
♦ October’s theme post: Kindness
The RAOKA mission seeks to remind us that Random Acts of Kick Arse happen all around us—and also to spread the spirit. Each month, us RAOKA team mateys vote on a new theme based on your submissions.
On the first Wednesday of each month (US time zone) we invite everyone to post about what we’ve observed, passed along, or created. During the first ten days of the month, contact me with your theme ideas for the next month.
I’m at the helm of the RAOKA Crusade with my team mateys Lance, Gayze, and Zeenat. Check out their LOVE posts along with other crusader posts linked at the bottom of this post.
Be Involved in RAOKA!
If you’d like to become a Random Acts of Kick Arse Crusader—here’s your chance:
- Propose a theme by contacting me the first ten days of the month or simply follow along with our monthly themes and spread the Random Acts of Kick Arse!
- Write a post about what you have been up to and publish it on the first Wednesday of each month if you are in the US (for other parts of the world, check out your corresponding day here). If you would like a reminder emailed to you each month or would like more information, please contact me. If you don’t have a blog, you’re welcome to play along in the comments.
- When you see my RAOKA post published, add your details in the form below including the URL address of your own RAOKA post and the title of your blog in the “Link Title” field. This will then automatically create a link to your post for others to see what kind of arse kicking you’ve been up to. See the following link as an example (link 1).
Like this post at Jane Be Nimble? More are on the way! Get them emailed to your inbox or via RSS. I promise not to spam you or to sell your information. Ever.
Lori,
This post is just so, so wonderful! You are such an amazing and beautiful soul…I’ve known that for a long time. Today, though, I just feel that even deeper. What you have done here, this is truly LOVE IN ACTION!! And that is what real LOVE is all about.
Lori, I love just reading through this (twice, I have!) and letting these beautiful actions of yours touch deeply into my soul. For some reason (and maybe it’s the image, too), the LOVE quarters in the shape of a smile is just really very precious. (just as you are, sweet friend…)
LOVE.
You have touched my life deeply, Lori. And know that I love you for that…and for all the beauty you shine.
Namaste,
Lance
Lance´s last [type] ..You’re Beautiful!…Yes- YOU!
Hi Lance,
You have done so much for me, Lance, adding love to my life, helping me to see who I really am.
Kudos for reading this twice! It’s sooo looonng but I didn’t care. I wanted to describe all of these events and not leave anything out. Thank you for just being you!
Love to you, too, Lance.
~xo
So cool, Lori – love this kind of stuff! And how happy I was to see Lance right up at the top, too. Thanks for including us as part of your acts. You rock.
Nate
Nate St. Pierre´s last [type] ..Our First Open-Source Project
Hi Nate!
I first learned of you from Lance, so it’s only fitting that you’d be here right next to him.
Right back at ya Nate. I really love what you all are doing, making *real* actionable efforts to effect change. I’m behind you 100%!
Thanks for popping by to say hi, it means a lot to me.
Wishing you and your family much love,
~xo
Lorax oh I mean Lori! Happy BIG 40! I love, love, love your 40 Acts of Kindness and enjoyed reading them. I love the love bomb drop,the spider, the joy, the spontaneity, just everything. You’re the best:) I want to hug the other side of that tree.
So many examples of simple methods we can add love to the world. Some of these will stick in my mind forever and I’ll think of you when I repeat them. Now can you please pass the pastries nobody else is eating. I’m hungry! Much love to you my beautiful friend on your birthday. It’s a love fest!
Tess, Tess, Tess,
I’m so glad we’re friends. Lookie what you did! The Lorax thinks you are awesome.
I agree, I’ll keep adding to the list and have made a commitment to myself to do so. This has changed my perceptions and given me a different way to see things. The smallest smile can really make the world a better place.
No pastries for you, either, Tess. I want you around for a very, very long time! Thank you!
~xo
Hello Lori
And first off – Happy Birthday – may you celebrate all month long with lots and lots of love!
And second off, you are an angel! My goodness your acts of kindness were amazing – I mean I loved Tess’ list too and both of you had me in complete awe of how beautifully creative you got!
I love your #7!!! Good for you Lori. I was never a fan of spiders either, but today know that they have a right to life just as any other species. I may not love them yet, and call them cute, but I sure as heck escort every one of them should they be caught in an undesirable inside location in our house… well either that, or if they are too big or fast, I get my husband to do it!
Lori, continue to shine brightly and spread your love with the world. You have so much to offer and I wish you infinite health and happiness, today and always!
Evita Ochel´s last [type] ..Embrace Fear to Transform Your Life
Hi Evita,
It means so much to have you here today. I admire what you are doing to lead people on a path of health and peaceful spirituality. You are my favorite mermaid.
Yeah about the spiders. Sheesch! What is up with them loving my living space lately??? I had to do some really deep breathing for that rescue mission. Good your hubs can help you out!
Thanks again for your kindness, Evita. You are a bright shining example for all of us and your wishes mean so much to me.
~xo
Lori,
Tess Marshall sent me to wish you a very happy birthday – so Happy Birthday.
I love all the RAOKs you did.
I do all sorts of little things like asking people to go in front of me on the supermarket line, and bringing in my neighbors garbage cans while they’re at work, picking up litter when I go for walks, smiling and waiving at people I don’t know. I know there are other things, but I my brain is a bit fuzzy due to the late hour here.
I’ll make a point of doing a special RAOK and coming back here to tell you all about it!
By the way what kind of tree is that you’re hugging? I’ve never seen one like it!
Angela Artemis´s last [type] ..The Indescribable Feeling of Love from A Non-Physical Being
Hi Angela,
How wonderful it is to meet you. Thanks for being here today.
Thank you for your birthday wish, but even more for your acts of kindness. I like your style!
So, yes, if you can manage, I’d love it if you came back to tell me about yet another act of kindness or love. Thank you in advance!
The tree: that lovely living beauty is a Banyan tree. Isn’t it gorgeous? Thanks for asking.
~xo
Happy birthday Lori! Are you sure you’re forty? Feel like twenty to me, and you know you have to trust those out of body visits. I’m in the love fest camp with Tess. Beautiful examples of kindness here.
Hi Simon,
Thanks for the birthday wishes, thank you thank you!
Yes, I do trust the visits it took me awhile, but I’m there. And, I suppose I have to trust you when you say I’m more like twenty then forty. I’ll take it!
Thanks for camping out with Tess for the love fest. You two are fun campers and co-love-fest-throwers. Best ever! I’ll bring the s’mores!
Thank you! Thank you! ~xo
Hi Lori! WOW I am THRILLED that my birthday post is still inspiring others to “pay it forward”. Honestly, this year’s birthday has been the gift that keeps on giving (literally!).
I LOVED reading all 80 RAOKs (yours and Tess’s). SO COOL! I am going to copy some of them, if you don’t mind! I had to smile thru my tears about the lady in line at the grocery store whom you gave the gift card too…your experience was nearly identical to mine in that situation! Amazing, isn’t it?
Well, happiest of birthdays to you my new virtual friend. I will be doing something kind in your honor tomorrow and I pray God blesses your socks off in the days, weeks and year to come.
P.S. Hey, I’m a die hard “Love Bomber” too…is it really any surprise? Clearly we are kindred spirits!
Warmly,
Robyn
Hi Robyn!! The Queen is here! Yay!!
Lookie what you made? It’s quite a refrigerator magnet, yes, 80+ things because of your inspiration, indeed. Kudos! Excellent!
This is kind of funny, but I remember reading your post, then a few days later making my list trying not to do the same things you did, to mix it up a bit. Then, after I was almost done with my forty things, going back to read your post again and I was surprised how many things I did that I thought I had “invented”! Too funny. So, I’m honored that I may have paid my thoughts right back to you.
It’s like a love boomerang! So fun!
Thanks for the lovely happy birthday sentiments, I appreciate them. That’s amazing, too, that you’re also a love bomber. I’ll see you there for the next mission! I’m honored to think we’re kindred spirits. That’s a blessing.
Love to you and yours.
~xo
[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by Lance Ekum, Simon Hay. Simon Hay said: Lori's recent post @JaneBeNimble LOVE! LOVE! LOVE! http://bit.ly/9wc647 #kindheart [...]
Today was my first day of class. I was late! When I got it, most of the seats were full. I asked if there was a door on the other side. People said no. It was very embarrassing for me. So I had to squeeze in to the other side. A girl stood up, left her seat, and let me have her seat. The lecture was about two hours and I wanted to approach her after class to show my appreciation, but I was scared to do so. Maybe I won’t bump in to her? What will I sound like? After class, I left before her and got to the hallway. I slowly took a sip of the water from the drinking fountain. That girl walked passed me. I was nervous. I walked up to her and said, “Hey, thank you for letting me have your seat today. That was really nice of you”. I believe I mumbled the second part. I don’t know why. She replied, “Oh no problem.” Then she walked away. That was my random act of kindess. But she started it first. Happy 40th birthday Lori!
Hulbert, Hulbert,
I am honored you are here today. And, your story, just left me with the warmest smile. I can’t tell you how awesome it is that you shared this with me. And, what a simple act of grace and love, that all she said was, “Oh no problem.” Seriously? How cool is that?
Good for you for hanging around and thanking her. It could have been so easy to just walk away, Hulbert. That says a lot about your warmth and candor. I really believe giving love is like a boomerang. You’ll always get what you give — maybe not from the same person or situation, but in some way it will come back. It already has for me in so many ways.
Thumbs up, Hulbert! Thanks for being here and for the birthday wishes. Woot!
~xo
Happy birthday to you, Lorster! You’re not forty, just a new shade of year.
Reading your list exhausted me! I think I could only manage one random act of kick arse a century! Good thing too, ‘cos we’re ten years into the new one and I still haven’t figured out which is more fun… acts of kindness or anarchy.
But in the spirit of the occasion, I can list one act that wasn’t at all random… me and Cass mailed off a little something to a certain someone… well, just because. Gosh! I wonder who that someone could possibly be?
Hey Mr. T,
How’s my favorite illustrator? I’m so happy to see you here with bells on.
No way, I don’t believe it, you and Cassy are chock full of kindness. It’s in your genetic material. You are so full of smiles and laughter, I’m sure you incite smiles everywhere you go.
(In fact, I was just reading a comment you left over at one of my favorite blogger’s sites, Sara Healy, and I was laughing so hard! Outloud! And, there wasn’t even anyone here but me! I felt like such a goofball. Of course, I feel that way probably too often.)
Oh my, oh my, I can’t wait to get the goodie you sent. This is so fun. I hope the giftie I sent your way gets there someday. All I know is that, “It’s on a boat with no projected arrival date.” I’ll keep my fingers crossed.
Thank you so much, Tony S. You and Cassy are such a bright light in my life and I can’t thank you enough.
~xo
Happy 40th Birthday Lori! You and Tess really know how to have fun. What an awesome idea! I love all your random acts of love.
Mine is helping a friend tell the world about her awesome book – in my small way. That’s Robin Easton and Naken in Eden, of course.
Sandra Lee´s last [type] ..Timeless blogging advice- 12 great links
Hi Sandra,
I’ve loved your internet presence (#love ur Tweets). I’m glad we met!
Thank you so much for the birthday wishes. I still have a few days to go until the actual day, but my birthday has already been the best ever. Thanks so much.
Yes, I’ve heard from a few people now rave reviews of Robin’s book. I went online recently to pre-order a copy. So, this is good timing to see you recommend it, too.
Be well and keep up the great work over at Always Well Within. Love to you!
~xo
I hope it is a very happy Birthday and what a celebration – I can not write down 40 acts of kindness at this very moment, but will share today’s blessing with you:
#1 Listened to a sales rep. through her whole second presentation on the phone and was kind to her and helped her decide whether or not she had done a good presentation.
#2 Wrote a note to my Senator, reminding her of all her good works in our community and how helpful she was to us over the years, while she is in the midst of negative campaign experience
#3 Wrote to my Aunt who has moved into a care center and lost her husband and is feeling lonely and old.
#4 Took my medicine, that worked over to a young mother so that she might try it for her child or at least request it from the pediatrician.
#5 Sent my youngest daughter a book of stamps
#6 Let the postal worker in to use the bathroom, even though this person is supposed to drive back to the PO – it was too urgent a call
#7 Shared an award I received with some new bloggers to get them some new contacts
#8 Carried 2 garden spiders back to the garden and out of the living room
#9 Gave myself an extra half hour in bed, just because it felt so cozy on very rainy morning.
#10 Check in with all the homeless folks around the lake – if they knew where the day shelter was and where they could get dry? Said good morning as I went by and checked in.
and posted Tess’ words on dealing with the financial crisis and all the folks who read it today thought it was very positive and a good reminder.
Hi Patricia,
This is great! Ten things in your comment box! Woot! Woot! I’m so excited!
I loved them all, Patricia. What a kind heart you are to do these things — and some really take an act of love (your sales rep. story really highlights your loving candor — I love that!)
And you’re a spider rescuer, too? Good for you. I love that you did that.
Patricia, your heart is overflowing and I really appreciate you adding to this post. There are so many ways we can be kind, and I’m going to borrow of few of your suggestions, too. If you don’t mind.
(That Tess is a peach!!)
Thanks again for being here. Love to you!
~xo
Happy Birthday and yes celebrate with love and in love all month long. I have come here via that wonderful Blog friend Tess, love your 40 things and I will cook with love a banana cake to take to a friend who has husband has just passed and I will now carry a post-it pad so I can leave love messages around my neighborhood, thanks to Lance for his post. and I will write a post on love
namaste
Suzie
Suzie Cheel´s last [type] ..12 Things I Wish I Had Known Earlier In My Life…
Hi Suzie,
Yes, that Tess is something else, isn’t she? Thanks for taking her guidance to be here today. It means a lot to me, thank you!
Thank you for doing all you do (cake? mmm!).
I’m a bit behind the curve today — but am looking forward to reading your post on love.
Thanks for being you, and have a great day!
Love to you.
~xo
[...] all my other ideas aside. And then, per Tess’ suggestion, I clicked over to Lori’s LOVE post and that was it for me. Both posts blew me away. I was filled with unexpected inspiration that [...]
Lori, I LOVE this!!! Tess’ and your posts inspired me to write my own LOVE post. You are two of the most beautiful souls I’ve ever encountered on the blogosphere!!
I’m not a RAOKA regular so to speak so I wasn’t keeping track of my acts of love but some of the things on my list are from experience.
My LOVE mission? I guess it’ll have to be my participation in this month’s RAOKA! xo
Hi Belinda,
Thanks so much for writing your LOVE post — it’s great! I really enjoyed soaking it in.
About raoka, you don’t have to be a regular and can contribute anytime you feel moved to do so. That’s the fun of it — very chillax. When you feel moved to contribute, just follow along and link your post the first Wednesday of the month. Easy peasy. For LOVE month, it’s great to have your presence. Yay!
I love your mission, Belinda, and I have a lot more ideas to continue my random acts now, too. Thank you!
Much love to you!
~xo
Hi Lori,
Happy birthday to you, happy birthday to you, happy birthday dear Lori, happy birthday to you!
Today I bought my dear friend lunch because she didn’t have any money. It felt wonderful to be able to do something small, but kind. We sat in the sun and enjoyed our food, had a great conversation, and watched the world go by. Wish you were there!
Topi
Topi´s last [type] ..For the love of life
Hi Topi,
La de da, thanks for the birthday song and wishes. I’m loving the spirit here and am so happy that others are creating love in their lives, too.
How lovely it is that you bought your friend lunch. Conversation with friends can’t be beat, and I’m sure she really appreciate what you did for her/him. I wish I were there, too! But, I was in spirit. We’re all connected, you know, and that’s why all this random love making is changing the world.
Love to you!
~xo
P.S. Thank you, also, for your raoka contribution, Topi! I’ll be over there lickety split — sorry for my delay.
Ok Lori, here’s the deal, I’m a tough guy. I’ve got cauliflower ear, and a few scars on my face. That means blog posts should not make me get misty eyed, nor should I admit when they do.
This one did, and I admit it. Wow…
Joshua Noerr´s last [type] ..RAOKA- 2 Points About Love
Oh my, Josh, this comment really got me. Deep down.
It’s amazing that four sentences can really mean so much. I’m kind of speechless right now — sorry, but you tend to do that to me.
Thanks for your kindness and support of me and this blog (and raoka, too!). It means a lot to me and I believe you’re helping me heal, Josh. Seriously.
Thank you.
Love to you and your wife.
~xo
P.S. I am looking forward to reading your raoka post, Josh, thanks again!! Will be there shortly.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY LORI!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Lori, I am so blown away by this list of loving acts! You are definitely an Activist for Love!
Reading through these wonderful acts, I was moved to tears. To be such a loving influence on the world and the people in it, is my goal for myself. You’ve given me so many ideas with this list and I’ll be doing them! One of my favorites is #30 where you purchased the gift card for the elderly lady. WOW! I also loved your reaction to her reaction. You were blown away that she hadn’t experienced more loving acts in all her years. You then encouraged us to get out there and DO something for somebody…
Lori, I’m going to do just that!
I cannot thank you enough for this post.
Keith´s last [type] ..LOVE
Hi Keith — my long time friend,
Thank you. Thank you. Thank you!
How wonderful to see you!
Keith, your outpouring of support of me and all I do is so incredibly touching and I truly believe you are a healing influence in my life. I am grateful to know you. I’m touched that you were moved to tears. Believe me, I was, too! There were several times I had to skeedadle outta there so the recipient wouldn’t see my eyes welling up (e.g., the elderly woman in the store/gift card incident, who you mentioned, too). I wept by the time I arrived home, that’s for sure. I want love for people, we should all feel loved. It’s the universal language. These acts were very “small” and took almost no effort on my behalf. It’s so easy, I truly wish more people would try this sometime.
Thank you for being you, and I have a feeling you were already doing these things for people WAY BEFORE you read my post, lovely soul.
Lots of love to you and your family, Keith.
~xo
Dearest and most loving Lori Luv,
) But its more from my heart to yours 
Happy birthday to you…happy birthday to you….happy birthday happy birthday…happy birthday to you…May god bless you….happy birthday happy birthday…to yyouooooouuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu!!!! (That was me singing happy birthday in text
I hope you sore to new heights. Happiness becomes you in this post Lori. I have tears of joy just reading how much life you have. God its enough to light a hundred worlds a hundred times over.
You are just awesome! Isn’t this why I call thee Lori Luv??
So much love…and I think I will join you in hugging that gorgeous tree…its so beautiful..tell it a big hi …
Much Love~
Z~
p.s. I love this months topic so so much….and with your birthday..such a perfect fit! psst u know its my bday at the end of this month …shh shh…secret
Zeenat{Positive Provocations}´s last [type] ..The Love Series- How I Embraced LOVE
To my sweet Zeenat (and raoka compadre),
You are all that is love, Zeenat. I love your comment, too. And, yes, I have always loved that you nicknamed me Lori Luv. I think that’s incredible and I want to fit the nickname, too. Maybe I’m getting a little closer every day.
Thanks so much for the birthday wishes, this has been such a fun celebration, I love it that it’s spreading love far and wide. I couldn’t ask for anything better!
Yes, I will hug the Banyan tree, just for you, Zeenat! I LOVE that tree, and you know what, when I hug it, I literally feel it give me a hug back. Zany, but true.
Thanks for loving this topic with me, it really spoke to my heart and I’m so glad to have the whole month of August to ponder what love means to me. Cheers to you, Zeenat!
Lots of LOVE coming your way!
~xo
Lori, these acts of love are totally super! This is what RAOKA is all about, and I love it!
I teared up a little on the grocery store gift card one. Doggone soft side of me and your doggone big heart and loving nature!
I can’t wait to get home and read through all the posts in this month’s RAOKA.
Eric | Eden Journal´s last [type] ..More Subjective Reality Fun and some Questions and Answers
Hi Eric,
Thanks for your gracious compliments — I love them. Yes, that’s what it’s all about, big time!
I’m moved that you and others have mentioned the grocery store gift card gift to the woman behind me. It really said so much to me why I want to make this a regular thing in my life. I just couldn’t believe the look on her face and will never, ever forget it. It was of utter and total disbelief, then awe and absolute love. It really moved me, too. I had a good cry when I came back home. (You’re not alone!)
Thanks for your lovely post, too, Eric. I couldn’t believe of all songs you picked the one you have posted. I think that’s one of my all-time favorite movies and movie songs, too.
Thank you for making my day(s) and for being such a support for me and raoka, too. I appreciate you, Eric.
Keep up the good work!
Love!
~xo
I loved that you took the time to wash the sculpture in your complex. I never would have thought to do that. I probably would have complained about it every few months on top of that. You set a great example.
I decided to buy drinks for all my co-workers. Their faces lite up. They loved the surprise. I also offered to take my son to day care so my wife could spend a little more time at home. This was before I read your post, but I think it still counts. And on my last break I thanked the trees for helping filter the air and give us oxygen.
Thanks for this wonderful post. You are an inspiration of love.
Hi Karl,
It’s my honor and pleasure to see you here, I’ve admired your comments (and enjoyed!) around the blogosphere. Hello Karl.
Thank you for your gracious comments and words of wisdom.
And, hey, good for you! That’s awesome you bought drinks for you co-workers and helped give your wife time at home. I can tell you have a wonderful heart and are a giving person. I’m sure you’re already living a life of abundance and giving! Good for you and I’ll be looking forward to seeing you around real soon.
Thanks again for the wishes, this has been one heck of a celebration!
Love to you and your family.
~xo
P.S. Thanks so very much for your link love over at your site, too. You’re too kind! Isn’t that Tess a hoot! I love her to bits.
Thanks, Karl! x
Oh my gosh, Lori, I am IN-LOVE with you and this awesome “Act of 40.” I feel inspired, uplifted, and motivated to do more loving things each day. So easy – so creative. And Tess!!! That Tess is something else, isn’t she? Between the two of you, we all have a handbook of ways we can make the world a brighter place.
Happy early birthday, and thank you for being ALIVE, vibrant, and open to the goodness our hearts can and want to share with one another!
xoxoxoxoox,
Megan
Megan “JoyGirl!” Bord´s last [type] ..August Message from Barbara
Megan, Megan, Lovely Megan,
A year or two ago, I would have thought someone I had ever met in person, saying they love me, was pretty wacko. Seriously. But now, I feel so much love and am so very touched by you and your words. I am IN-LOVE with you, too!
It warms my heart that Tess and I could inspire, uplift, and motivate you in any way (Tess is amazing!). But, knowing you, you already had it in you! I’ve seen what you’re doing and have read much about your approach to life, and I am inspired by YOU, lovely. (Geez, I so much wish I could attend the New Moon conference, too, so I can meet you and Evita, Tess, and Simon, too. You’ll have FUN! and have transformative experiences, too. Tell me all about it! I can’t travel quite yet or I’d be there, too.)
You are too kind, too kind, and I’m loving your comment, Megan. I’m so thankful we’ve met. Thank you for being in my life. I hope to meet you in person soon.
Love to you!
~xo
Happy Happy Birthday!!
I have opened my home to my youngest stepdaughter and grand daughter. Both my husband (ysd’s dad) and her husband are deploying with the NH National Guard for a year in the Middle East. Both Katie and Olivia will be calling my home their home…and it all started with a random question and a spontaneous answer. Because Love is so much thicker than blood…
Peggy Nolan´s last [type] ..Breathing With Intent – Part I – Shallow Breath Meditation
Hi Peggy,
Thank you deeply for the warm wishes. Thank you!
That says a lot about you to have opened your home, Peggy. I think that’s wonderful. My heart goes out to you and your family as your loved one go off to the Middle East. I will be sending lots of love and warm wishes to all of you.
And, yes, spontaneity really spoke to me this month of giving love. Many moments occurred where I had planned on doing a certain thing and then two or three other events piggy-backed on that one act. It was really quite fun, amazing, and surprising just leaving myself open to the moment.
Love is thicker than blood, indeed. Love is everything. Thanks for taking the time to be here, Peggy, and I appreciate you.
~xo
I didn’t think I could ever hold you in higher esteem than I already do. Boy was I wrong. Lori, stopping to talk to the little lonely girl just brought tears to my eyes. Imagine the impact your kind gesture has made on that little soul.
I’m pretty much speechless here.
George
George Angus´s last [type] ..Meeting an Online Friend
Hi George (My Favorite AK-okay man!),
Your comment made me speechless, too. You have a way with words, gentle soul. I can’t wait for the day we finally get to meet and exchange a few stories (or 100). I need to make this happen somehow.
And, yes, that sweet, sweet Fiona — she was so bored and lonely. My heart really went out to her. I hung out with her quite a bit this summer. Now that school has begun, I miss seeing her around now. Good memories.
Thanks for being here, George, you made my day and my little celebration wouldn’t be the same without you.
Love to you and Maddy!
~xo
Happy Birthday, Lori!
Wow, the big 4-0. It happens to the best of us
Your 40 RAOKA are truly inspiring. What a wonderful gift that you have given others during your birthday month. Just wonderful to read.
You know that you and Tess have now started a trend. You’ll have to keep it up next year for sure.
Karen´s last [type] ..How To Motivate Yourself In Times Of Stress
Hi Karen,
Much appreciation for your warm sentiments — and super great to meet you! (namaste)
Yes, it was truly so much fun to make my birthday about other people — even Tess says that I have a hard time accepting gifts (she’s so awesome!) so I’m working harder in that area. We all should, based on many of the reactions when I was on my love mission this month.
It is my wish that others will be inspired, absolutely. I definitely didn’t want this to seem self serving, I only wanted to show how easy it is to do something for someone else, and most of the time, my acts didn’t even require any monetary exchange. How fun!
That’s another good point, I’ve also realized that I’m looking forward to growing older more than ever as that means I want to do forty-one things next year! (In addition to all the things I’ll be doing in between.)
Truly a pleasure to meet you, Karen. Be well and please let me know if there is anything I can do for you.
Love to you,
~xo
Spectacular, Lori!!! My personal favorite is #39… I’m totally going to borrow that idea!!
Oh, and stop telling people you’re 40, when you’re not even old enough to drink yet. We’re not buying it, kiddo!!
Happy Birthday, Bella!!!!!!
Hi Lisis Love!
Thanks for being here today! I love that you’re here. I totally miss your internet presence, but still understand that you need to take care of your needs and desires. That’s so beautiful! I love you.
Yeah, I think that was one of my favorites, too, the book smuggling act. The hardest thing about that one is that I really wanted to see the expressions on those lovely little faces. Awww, I bet they were CUTE!!!
Ha ha, thanks for helping me to believe I’m such a youngster. One thing I’ve learned in my four decades is that we’re only as young as we think we are. Shaka that!
Thanks, Lisis. You are one wonderful woman and I’m so lucky to know you, bella!
Love to you,
~xo
I hope what you wanted for your birthday was to answer a whole lotta comments, ’cause it looks like you’ve been busy up in here. Wowzers!
Wowzers is right, I had no idea so many lovely folks would stop by to say hi and do something for someone else. I figure a day or two of my time to reply to comments was not a big deal to thank everyone for doing something for someone else. That’s what I wanted, to be honest, for people to start doing *more* for others, ya’ know?
And, if it landed you here for a spell, all the better (I’m glad my favorite honey bee liked this flower).
Again, thanks for popping by — I love ya’, girl!
~xo
Happy Birthday Lori. You and Tess will now have to find something else to be laughing about at all hours of the day and night! (from Tess’ other half)
Hi Roger,
Oh my, this is so great — a comment from THE ROGER! THE HUBS! THE AWESOME MAN! I’m so glad to see you here, Roger. This absolutely warms my day!
Okay, here’s the thing…your wife has given me such hope, love, and support with all my health issues this year, and has been such a great friend. I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for sharing her with me. She’s one in a million, and by that account, you must be as well. Hat’s off to you, Roger, and thanks for your warm sentiments.
Love to you!
~xo
Happy Birthday to you, Lori, and what a great way to celebrate! With a great attitude and generous heart like yours, you’ll never grow old but simply get more awesome with each passing year.
My act of kindness is picking raspberries and tomatoes from the garden and delivering them to my elderly relatives.
Jean Sarauer´s last [type] ..Making Your Personality Shine Through Your Blog
Hi Jean,
Shaka that! This has been the best celebration, ever, and with such warmth and love. I’m loving it! Your encouraging words have made my day. I want to frame them to remind me that life is good. Even on the darkest days, there is always love. I need to remember that. Growing older has now become an opportunity to see it as a way to give even more as the time passes. I’m in a good place.
And, wow, I love home-grown tomatoes. Bringing them to your relatives is such an act of rosy-red love if I’ve ever hear of one. Blessings to you, Jean, you’ve made my day (and year!).
Love to you,
~xo
Lori (Surfer Girl) — This post is amazing, as are you. I am so pleased that you are part of my life, even if it is long distance.
You set such a wonderful example to the rest of us about showing love:~)
Reading through the comments to this post just proves that someone with a heart like yours gets the love back in triples and quadruples…it just coming as you keep giving.
Happy Birthday Special Lady and Surfer Girl…keep finding those waves of love:~)
Sara´s last [type] ..Story Photo- Next Frame
Hi Sara,
First, I have to say that when you call me Surfer Girl, and I know the meaning behind it, I get a warm rush and healing vibes. Seriously, I am not exaggerating. You are helping me heal. I am so thankful for you.
I don’t want to get to “out there” but I really do feel a connection to you. You are absolutely wonderful and I want to meet you one day. I will.
Yes, I agree about love coming back. I was just telling my hubs (who is working along side me right now — oh my — I love him so much) that love is like a big wheel, it just keeps turning and cycling the loving energy to everyone it touches.
That’s why I think these “acts” are so important, it’s shifting consciousness, it’s shifting people perceptions, it’s moving the LOVE WHEEL!
I profusely thank you for your warm sentiments. This has been the most wonderful of birthdays — maybe as good as the year I got my first bike! (he he) Kind of joking there, it’s much better.
Have a lovely day ~ as lovely as you.
Love to you, Sara.
~xo
Lori,
The light is shining so bright over here I’ve got my sun glasses on! Thank you everyone for sharing in our joy! xo
Tess Bold Life´s last [type] ..Feeling Jealous Shine Your Light On It…
Tess,
You are one amazing woman. WOW — lookie what you did! I want to throw you a party, invite all your friends all over the world, and make you all the best, finest dinner in town with all the added extravagance I can muster. I’ll figure out a way!
Love to you!
~xo
I’m still catching my breath. Yow.
This month of love, added to your beautiful faces and sentiments, are making me feel like I’m on a raft floating in an ocean of love.
I highly recommend this activity to anyone as a way to celebrate a birthday, anniversary, or just any and everyday.
I am committed to replying to everyone individually, too, so thanks for your understanding of my slow pace. I love you all very much ~ that’s all there is, really, love. Let it flow.
Thank you!
~xo
To the Lori from the past (yesterday) — you need to stop pinching yourself. Yes. This really happened and, yes, you already have experienced many acts of love returned to you.
Believe it!
~xo
P.S. Yes, you love you, too.
Wow! Lori, I read every word and was deeply touched. Your love offerings were so creative.
I love to spread love and can’t wait to develop more creative ways after reading your post – yours are inspiring!!!
I found you through Belinda Munoz – she’s an uplifter as well.
Thank you and happy happy 40th!
Hi Lauren,
Wow, that’s pretty intense to read every word. This post contains 3,758 words! I knew at the time it was wwaaaaayyy over my usual post lenth, but I decided I did not care this time. It was the least I could do to honor all the acts of love this month, especially those which directly affected someone else. So, big thank you (and congrats!) for reading the entire post!
That Belinda, wow, what a fire cracker! Isn’t she great? I’m honored you found me via her. We’re buddies via Twitter as we both tend to enjoy and tweet micropoetry (poetry in <140 characters).
She’s very creative.
That’s something I also found with this celebration, it really sparked my creative engine. Something about being creative explicitly for someone else really opened my mind.
Thanks again for being here, your warm wishes, and for just being you. I wish much love in your life and let me know if there is anything I can do for you.
Love to you!
~xo
Thanks for your sharing your birthday with us.
I honored your birthday wish by offering to get an iced tea for a co-worker. The cafeteria is seven floors down and she didn’t have the time to grab it herself.
A little thing, for sure, but it made her day a litter easier.
Happy birthday and be sure to treat yourself with kindness, too.
Alex
Hi Alex,
Thank you for allowing me to share my celebration with you ~ it felt sort of self-serving at first, but I really wanted to show others by example how easy it is to do something for someone, even just the smallest thing meant so much.
(I know you know this…)
Like you said, your iced tea foray may have seemed like a little thing, but I am SURE that the co-worker to whom you gifted the tea was pleased as punch (er, rather, pleased as tea? he he). Thank you for sharing your act of love. I agree that I think the smallest things in my missions had some of the hugest affects on people. It’s really quite amazing.
Thanks for ending on a suggestion to treat myself with kindness, too. That’s really good advice. I will do that — and think it’s important as I tend to have a bit of trouble giving to myself sometimes. I’m working on it!
Thanks again for your visit. It means the world to me.
Love to you and yours!
~xo
Lori:
Wow, all I can say is that I’m blown away by your creativity, love and generosity!! This is an amazingly inspiring post!! But this does not surprise me because you have done some amazing things for me — for that, I am incredibly grateful and honored to call you my friend and sister. Seriously, I will never forget what you did for me. All I can say is that I feel inspired to really reach out to others and be more generous, if not with my money than with my time. You’ve convinced me, all of us really, that we don’t need permission and we’re not going to ever get a formal invitation to spread love and joy to others. Bravo to you, sister! Oh, and happy birthday! You rock!
Tim´s last [type] ..Learning About Love From Rock and Roll
Hi Tim,
As I often say, and mean it from my heart, what you see in me is also in you. I could say the same thing, you have done things for me as well that I’ll never forget. It’s like we keep passing back and forth the caring/loving boomerang! How fun!
Bro, you phrased it very well, we don’t need permission or an invitation, we just need action. Or as my dad used to say, “Git ‘er done!”
Thanks for the warm wishes, this has been one groovy way to celebrate. Thanks for being you and for all the good you do, too, Tim.
You rock!
Love to you,
~xo
This post blows me away about your beautiful soul, and Tess’ 40 things blew me away!!! I continue to not believe I have you all in my life.
Act of kindness today? I returned someones’ umbrella who had forgotten it.
So I better get cracking on some more “tout de suite!” It’s already 5:22 p.m.!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!
xoxo
Jannie Funster´s last [type] ..A Tale Of Two Park Benches
Hi Jannie,
I just took a sneak peek at your Tale of Two Park Benches post — so sorry I haven’t been by to say hello. You are one of a kind, that’s for sure! You are so funny.
Isn’t Tess and amazing soul? I tell her to stop hiding her angel wings and let me at least see them once. I know they are there!
I feel the same way about you, it’s really great to know you and to have you around to make me laugh. It’s the best medicine and I want an extra dose.
Thanks for your warm wishes. It’s only up from here!
Love to you,
~xo
Happy Birthday month!!
You have been quite the love bug this past month. It is wonderful! I lvoe the library book – and so many of the others. I have bought a gift card at Starbucks and then told the cashier to use it as long as it lasts… it is a wonderful feeling to do something like that. Today we had my daughter’s bestfriend over to swim as a last “hurrah” before school starts. Her grandmother died last fall – the one who made her feel special. This girl is a delight so I do something now and again… just because. They are little things like sending her a card or a special little treat now again. The child touched my heart and now, I want to give to her a little love. I suppose she is “family!”
What a love filled month you have had Lori… I love it. Reading this leaves me feeling that much more excited about turning 40 – I am joining a great group of women turning 40 this year!
Exception´s last [type] ..Love and Connectedness- Raoka
Hi M,
Well, hello, to an awesome chicka. Thanks for stopping by and for your involvement in raoka. I can’t wait to read your post — sorry for my delay.
Yes, calling me a love bug is pretty close to the truth. I think I’m spouting antennae. I feel more like a love faucet, I can’t shut it off. (“Jane, help me with this crazy thing!” a la Jetson’s speak…)
Doing extra things for you daughter’s best friend is so sweet. I think that’s soo you. And the Starbucks card is a great idea. Good one! I think I’ll borrow that one next time if you don’t mind.
This love-filled month is only the beginning, me thinks. I’m now on a love mission for as long as I’m on this side of the dirt. Oh, and being forty is no big deal. Seriously, I’m just now learning to have fun!
Thanks for being here and for the warm wishes, M.
Lots of love to you and your daugher & her best friend, too!
~xo
Hi Lori.
I looked at all the nice things you did and know that good things came right back to you. Many will talk of doing such things, but maybe 1 in 10 or less will do them.
You have brought in your new age in an innovative way that is memorable.
That tree at the end is huge.
Armen Shirvanian´s last [type] ..All Becomes Chess At An Advanced Level
Hi Armen,
If my memory serves me correctly, you are my biochemist matey, yes (by training)? If so, shaka that, brother. If my mind is not as reliable as I thought, shaka that anyway!
I hope all is well your way and I definitely appreciate your time and comment here. I hear what you are saying, and I’m hoping to help shift that number upward. It was really not hard at all to add a little thing here and there, hardly any inconvenience at all.
And, yes, agreed, Armen. This will be a celebration I will never forget and has made me feel like I spouted a new emotion. It’s amazing.
Thanks for the comment about the tree, too, isn’t it amazing??!! It’s a Banyan tree and it’s a part of a true love-at-first-sight story.
Be well and thanks again for saying hello.
Love to you,
~xo
Lori,
I am new to your site! Thanks to Tess and Eric, I am here! Wishing you very happy birthday (Sept 8th)! My husband is also in Sept!
I do random act of kindness often as I can so I really love this. I may participate in one of these soon. Great to know you and happy birthday!
Preeti @ Heart and Mind´s last [type] ..Wisdom gained from our camping trip
Hi Preeti,
Welcome here and warm hugs for taking the time to say hello. {hug}
I’m sure it’s partly because Sept is my birth month, but I LOVE September with all it’s changing breezes, cool evenings, and warm days. Lovely that your husband’s day is coming soon! Give him a hug from me.
Great to know another random-acts-of-niceness person. I can tell by your smile you have an enormous heart.
Love to you and your hubs!
~xo
Happy Birthday Lori – Tess is such an inspiration and light. My random act of kindness was about a week ago. We had relocated our office to a new suite in the same building. The art and posters that we moved were sitting in a stack in the conference room for the past 3 months. With the help of a co-worker, we
cleaned the glass, hung them and finished the room. No one had asked us to do this and it changed the energy in the room. After I finish writing this, I will be more aware of continuing this idea of finding random acts of kindness to do because I enjoy the way it feels.
Hi Karen,
I’m honored to meet so many of Tess’ friends. She such a ray of love and light, so any friend of hers is a friend of mine, too. Hello! {hug coming!]
I love the acts you shared here with me. Yay! It’s so amazing how good it feels to roll up your sleeves and chip in to make something better. You may agree that it’s never as bad as you think it might be, and (for me, anyway) putting if off only makes it worse.
Good for you, Karen, keep up the great work! And, please don’t hesitate to ask ME to help you in any way I’m able to do so. It’s a pleasure to know you.
Love to you!
~xo
How fearless and brave of you to do all these things. Sounds like you gave so little of yourself, but got so much more in return. It really is all about spreading the love with a mere gesture, a comment or a smile to someone else to make yourself happier and in a better world. You have inspired me to do at least one similar act a day. Let you know how it goes. What a great bday gift to yourself! At four oh, you are just blooming! Welcome to the forties!
Debbie, Debbie, Debbie — so good to see you here.
Thank you!
You’re spot on, sister, it was really not a big deal at all to complete most of these things. Some took some planning or maybe just a bit of extra time, but in the grand scheme of life, it was nothing.
Ooooh, ooooh, I can’t wait to hear about your things! Knowing you, you’ll knock off the socks of so many people with your kind, gorgeous Phoenix heart. Thanks for playing along and for helping me to blossom.
Love to you, Debbie,
~xo
Wow…just wow and wow and how freakin’ cool is this??? I am just inspired and tickled by all the wonderful ways you extended love. Speaking from the ripe old age of 42…welcome to the most exciting times to come.
Clearly Composed´s last [type] .. Tuesday’s Thought
Hi Emma,
I like your candor and approach to life, and as you said, you fit right in here as I can get pretty goofy, too. (he he) Thanks for taking the time to comment and send your warm wishes.
Also, I savor your words about exciting times to come. I believe it! I was just reading the other day the happiest people (when surveyed) are over the age of 50. So, I’m really looking forward to see what’s on the horizon. Whoo hoo!
Much love to you, Emma.
~xo
Lovely post and glad I found it (through Tess)
I love act of kindness of kindness. I do a weekly kindness club with an act of kindness of tuesdays. Would be great to have more people joining in.
http://www.newdaynewlesson.com/
I also found this site today which is also fab:
http://kindnessgirl.com/guerrilla-goodness/
Happy Birthday!
Susie @newdaynewlesson´s last [type] ..Try To Live In The Moment
Hi Susie,
That Tess is such a go getter and love giver! I love her to pieces. Thanks for following her lead and stopping by, I really appreciate it!
Hey, I love what I’m seeing here — a kindness club? How cool is that?? Thanks for leaving your link. I’ll be stopping by soon! Also, thanks for the second link, I’m loving the link love.
Thanks for your warm wishes. Sending warmth and love your way!
~xo
Hi Lori .. great to see you over at my blog at which you found your new name: **/
I can’t make it any bigger I don’t think here ..but it should be .. and Tess too .. great challenge – & Happy Birthday for yesterday ..
& thank you for mentioning me above – great! Delighted to be linked over.
I’ll be doing the 40 .. but need a day or two to gather my wits .. can I count to 40? – I passed that milestone many years ago!
Gosh – what a way to enter the 40s .. wonderful .. and I love the pictures along the way, and the interesting acts of love you found .. and … and …
Happy Days .. enjoy the cakes?! The hugs – that tree is going to get many of them .. while you work your way round its girth ..
And definitely say hi to Hilary .. when you next go swimming and wish her happy days ahead …
With love to all .. each and everyone .. and here’s to the best CHEERLEADER OF HEARTS as found on my blog ever …. LORI of LBJ …. */*
Happy Thursday and Friday … and .. and .. Hilary
Hilary´s last [type] ..Emoticons- Book Packaging- ebooks what was the future- is now the past
Hi Hilary,
OMG, this is too funny, but I showed my hubs the emoticon for the cheerleader and he started laughing so hard. He’s sooo in agreement! It was funny and I told him all about you. He thinks you rock.
You’re so funny, “Can I count to forty?” ha ha I am laughing.
Taking the photos was probably the hardest part since I usually have an aversion to taking photos in this way. I had to work on not letting it ruin the moment for me. I could not bring myself to take a photo of someone receiving my act of kindness — just couldn’t do it. Hmmm, that’s interesting. I don’t think others doing this is a big deal at all, but I just couldn’t.
I will say hi to Hilary for you. She’ll know who you are!
I love that you called me the Cheerleader of Hearts, Hilary. That’s the best thing anyone could ever say to me. (As a side note, I was bummed to see that my comment box won’t take the symbols needed to make the cheerleader emoticon. I’ll get to work on that because YOU KNOW I want to start using it! LOL
*\o/*
Love to you and your Mum!
~xo
P.S. Hilary! I figured it out! You need to use a lower-case letter “O” instead of a zero to make the symbol of the cheerleader. For some reason, the “zero” switches off the letter and it disappears with the backslash. For what it’s worth…
*\o/*
[...] of Kindness is sweeping the nation and Tess of The Bold Life has a great post inspired by Lori of Jane Be Nimble. They both performed 40 acts of kindness for Lori’s [...]
Happy Birthday Lori!!!!
I know I am a couple of days late but the party still going on right?
Let’s make the party last for many weeks:-)
I was invited to this knees-up by Tess – and I am so glad to have met you and to learn of your work.
So what have I done to bring more love into the world? Well I have just launched http://www.LoveIsAllthatMatters.com – the site is with the designers right now but the idea is to daily spread messages of love around the world:-)
And I promise to do something nice and loving tomorrow for at least two people (I usually do it for one person everyday anyway).
Wishing you all the best for the future, Lori!
Arvind Devalia´s last [type] ..Become Human- Take a Bus Journey
Hi Arvind,
Are you kidding? This party is still going strong and I’m only just getting to answering all the comments, so it’s my pleasure to see you here with another gift of love in the form of a comment and an awesome link to a lovely idea for a website. I cant’ wait to check it out!
You’re already doing something everyday for someone? That’s incredible. I’m so pleased to read this. Good for you! You’re creating more love by giving love. Yay! *\o/* (<~~cheerleader!)
Thank you again, Arvind, for the warm wishes.
Love to you!
~xo
PS Lori, I also love what you are doing with random acts of kindness.
Here’s a key guest post I wrote on LifeHack a while ago about 29 ways to carry out random actos of kindness every day:-
http://www.lifehack.org/articles/lifestyle/29-ways-to-carry-out-random-acts-of-kindness-every-day.html
Arvind Devalia´s last [type] ..Become Human- Take a Bus Journey
Thanks, again, Arvind, I appreciate it! Yes, raoka is super fun and so easy to do. It really makes my months enjoyable and helps me to focus on all the wonderful things in this world. You’re welcome to join in any time.
Thanks for the link — looking forward to reading about more ideas! Thanks so much.
~xo
Hi Lori,
I’m loving this energy..gonna let it soak in and carry it with me..
Your list is beautiful..shows what a caring and generous heart you have..May all of the love and joy you shared also be received into your life in the places that delight you most..
I wish for you all that you wish for others..
And as Alex said, may you be as gentle and kind with yourself as you are with everyone else..
Very inspirational post, very inspirational friendships that you share..Thank you for the time, energy, and creativity that you share through this site and through all that you do..
Joy´s last [type] ..Wednesday Wisdom- The Power and Magic of Words
Hi Joy,
You’re too kind, wow. Thank you so much, so much.
I’m touched by your (and Alex’s) words about being kind to myself, too. I’m sure we all have a touch of this, but it’s hard for me to accept and really reflect back on me — to be kind. Another friend of mine told me this celebration would be good for me to learn to be more accepting of love. She’s right.
Joy, thank YOU for the time you spend throughout the ‘interwebs’. When I read your comments, I can see such unconditional love in them, they always affect me deeply. I very much appreciate your presence and all you do for others.
In short, thanks for being a fellow feline do-gooder!
Love to you and your family, Joy.
~xo
Wow, what a great list. I could have read it all day! I love the lifeguard act of kindness. You are very creative and people are so honored when you love them in unique ways.
Audra Krell´s last [type] ..Condos Gone Tiled
Hi Aurda,
You’re very kind, I appreciate you. I hope you can use some of these ideas to spread love around you, too.
I know what you mean about the lifeguards. Wow, to see a strong, grown man get misty over an act of kindness, and then to hear how rare they actually get thanked really shook me up. I had to hold back tears that day, for sure. And, for the record, he fully realizes he doesn’t do his job for a, “thank you,” but, geez, really? I was a bit shocked by the lack of gratitude for such a tough job.
Again, your comment touched me. Please let me know if there is anything I can do for you. OK?
Love to you and your family/friends.
~xo
Just made it to your blog for the first time. Love it! have linked to it!! We are really excited about accomplishing our own love list! Will link to your post once we’ve finished. Thanks for the inspiration!
HappinessandWisdom´s last [type] ..Create your Happiness Schedule
Hello H&W,
Welcome aboard (the water’s warm…).
Thanks so much for your visit. In the millions of blogs out there, I find it amazing and fortunate to meet you and as such I want to give you lots of love while I have the chance. What are the chances of finding me or me finding you? Yay! xo!
Much appreciation for the link love and I’ll definitely stop by to say hello. I can’t wait to see your love list! I’m excited!! Please let me know when your list is ready for viewing.
Much love to you and yours!
~xo
Just look at all these lovely comments Lori. I want to join in and add my own grateful thanks for the seed you are sowing in your life and in your blog, it would be the seed we call love.
What I especially admire is that you are always ready to share a bit of your love at any time, including for example when you are in line at the grocery store.
It really is an all-or-nothing proposition. You set such a fine example in this. Love and thanks to you Lori. I’m so happy to have met up with you.
Hi Christopher,
Hello, my new wonderful friend! I have much gratitude that I met you and found your lovely blog. You are wonderful!
I’m blown away by the response of this post. It has been highly enlightening and has given me much hope in humanity. I love how you term this an “all-or-nothing proposition” because that is so true. The grocery store story is a perfect example — so spontaneous, so easy for me, and the action had such a positive effect. I was blown away. (I think she was, too.)
Enjoy your weekend in Colorado, Christopher, and I look forward to reading more about you over at The Happy Seeker.
Much love to you, Christopher!
~xo
Hey Lori, how are you doing? Late congratulations for your birthday!
This was the most beautiful thing I’ve read for a long long time. Just the beauty of life put into 40 random kind acts. Just amazing.
Seeing awesome people like you spreading the love moves me a lot and changes my view of the world like a great book or a perfect deep movie. So just by writing about these things you’ve done you actually made my day (again).
Now I’m just thinking about what I could do to make other people feel good. I think I’ll come up with some ideas soon.
Petteri´s last [type] ..How Beautiful Mostar in Bosnia & Herzegovina Made Me Question Humanity
Hey Petteri — how’s my favorite travel photographer?
I’m doing great, thanks for asking — even better now to see you here. And, can I just say, Wow? Your comment was so incredibly kind and sincere, it really floored me. Really? I’m blushing — cheeks red, feeling warm, goosebumps. Seriously.
I felt a little odd writing such a long post, it’s way longer that what I’d normally post. But what the heck, right? I wanted to document all the amazing and touching moments I felt this month and was hoping they would inspire others, too. I’m so happy to hear that some of what I’ve shared has motivated you to start thinking of your own ideas for spreading love & kindness.
And lookie right here, you’ve already touched my heart, act #1 is already complete. Shaka that!
Great to see you, Petteri. I’m loving my Mac wallpaper and your presence in my life. Please let me know if I can do anything for you, okay?
Love to you and your friends/family!
~xo
Hey Lori, happy belated birthday and may the world celebrate your loving presence for a long time to come. For me love is loving myself so I always run on a full love tank. The next thing is to love always what and who is in front of me. I aim to love what I am doing, I aim to love who is showing up in each present moment.
At this moment I love you and Tess for so abundantly celebrating your life.
Lori, much love to you and a huge birthday bear hug, xox Wilma
Wilma Ham´s last [type] ..I quit blogging
Hi Wilma!
I’m so happy to see you here ~ I’m glad that you’re still ’round even though you’ve decided to hang up your blogging gloves. Yippee yay!
Thanks for your warm wishes. It happens to be my last day as 39, and I’m ready to make the plunge tomorrow. You’ve all made me feel so good, thank you! I love your remark about loving yourself. Just yesterday I emailed a friend and remarked almost exactly the same thing — how awesome is that?!
Tess is such a force for good and positivity in this world, thanks loving us and sharing your love force with the world, Wilma. Glad to hear things are going well for you. You are in love with life and your example is infectious.
Love to you and your family.
~xo!
This is fantastic! I laughed so much at the quarters spelling love and how they’d vanished the next day. I need to do what you did for your neighbour to the old lady next door to me. I always smile and wave and chat with her asI know most people avoid her because she’s gone a bit deaf and senile.
Live can be sad if we let it and your random acts of kindness are a great way to fight that and really spread happiness. I’ll have a go at noting things I do. Most of all I send love back to you and hugs from me and all the koalas, kangaroos and other tree huggers in Australia xoxo
Annabel Candy, Get In the Hot Spot´s last [type] ..Blog Writing Magic Series- How to Write Hypnotic Headlines That Drive People to Your Blog
Hi Annabel,
Your support and comment means a lot to me — l love your avatar and smiling face.
I have to admit that a lot of these acts were kind of embarrassing while I was getting started. There were a lot people watching me (er, staring!) when I was placing the quarters, for example, and I’m sure they were thinking, “What the hell is what woman doing?” not to mention taking the photos after I laid all of ‘em down. But after a few instances of risking extra attention and goofy looks, everything faded away.
If for no other reason (spreading love, hope, fun, making new friends, etc.) it’s a good way to try something new and stretch the mind a bit.
Much love to you and the tree huggers, koalas, & kangaroos in Australia!
~xo
Hi Lori, what a wonderful post, it really made me think about what I can do today to pass the love around. I feel I should share with you an amazing course I did that got my life back on track and helped me love again, both myself and others around me. I’d been lacking in confidence and dealing with negativity around areas of my life, but the strategies that Sarah Merron of Fire Dragon Coaching teaches really helped me focus on getting the best out of myself. She runs courses in Cairo and the Maldives, so it’s a fantastic way to see the world at the same time. Here’s the link if you should ever head that way, I found it had a very powerful effect on my life: http://www.nlp.firedragoncoaching.com/destination-egypt.html
Hi Donna,
Thanks for your kindness and warmth. This post is an excellent reminder to me, too, how easy it is to add just one small thing to every day. I hope you’ve been able to pass more love around in your life, too.
Thanks for the recommendation for Fire Dragon Coaching. I appreciate it!
[...] This blog post is inspired by and dedicated to Jane Be Nimble. Lori came up with 40 acts of kindness for her 40th birthday – and they were fun and creative. http://www.janebenimble/love-love-love. [...]
I know this is a little bit late, but I went through my e-mail again and saw one from Tess.
My Random Act of Kindness was e-mailing the President of the college I work for and telling her thank you for all her hard work. I told her how proud I was to work for the school and that it is a great place to work.
I’ve made a copy of RAOK so that I can have fresh new ideas to throw out there. Thanks for all the inspiration!
Kristie
Thank you, Kristie,
You made my day! I love that you did this. Now way, you are not too late at all. It’s never too late to do something kind and loving for someone else.
I’ll bet you anything that the president of your college appreciated your message a lot. You never know, maybe she was having a horrible day and you turned her day around? Or maybe she was ready to throw her hands up, wondering if all this was still worth it? We may never know, but what you’ve done, she may never forget.
Awesome!
Much love to you and yours, Kristie.
~xo
[...] posts about your Body Electric, Writing, and LOVE are coming soon, stay tuned. If you liked this or other posts, let you friends know. I’d love [...]
[...] walked up to a sculpture in a park and spelt out “love” at the base of it with a bunch of coins. Someone else wrote “love” on her [...]
Hi Lori!
So, I am going to carry it forward into my birthday month of November – I am turning 31 on the 27th! So I will aim for 31 RAOKA before my birthday. I love you Lori, and I am thankful everyday for having you in my life.
This was an incredible post. Love Love Love it! It literally made me happier with every word I read. It doesn’t seem to be stopping at 40 acts though based on all these amazing comments
AnnaBanana
AnnaBanana!
OMG, I’m so excited to see you here and that you’re going to take the plunge yourself. Wow, that’s so great! I’ve got goosebumps!
Will you please tell me about what you decide to do, if you’re so inclined? Happy happy early birthday, Anna. I can also tell you, you’ll feel so good and I’m sure you’ll boost the love and happiness in this world by just being you and sharing your love with others. You’re chock full of energy and good vibes.
Yee haw! It will be a wild ride! Ride the love cowgirl — hang on tight!
Much Love to you, my geeky chicka buddy. Thanks so much for popping over to say hello. I miss you!
~xo
[...] a refresher, check out my Love!Love!Love! post, and Tess’ 40-things post right now. Then, come [...]