I'd like to thank the Academy...

Characteristics for the Smile Award:
1. Must display a cheerful attitude. (not necessarily at all times–we are all human)
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

These are the rules:
1. The recipient must link back to the award’s creator.
2. You must post these rules if you receive the award.
3. You must chose 5 people to receive the award after receiving it yourself
4. You must fit the characteristics of the recipient of the award, as posted by Mere.
5. You must post the characteristics of a recipient.
6. You must create a post sharing your win with others.
7. You must thank your giver.

So, I'd like to thank the Academy for this tremendous recognition of my...smile? :) No, Seriously, how cool is it to see your name on someone else's blog!?! Thanks Joy...you have truly delivered on the promise of your name--given me Joy!
http://www.oywiththepoodlesalready.com/

Now, on to those I'd like to pass this award to:
http://djcannon.blogspot.com/ Joelle--your posts are such a wonderful mix of topics! I look forward to reading each one because it's like a visit with you! I especially value how you love your husband...it's an encouragement to me to be daring and courageous in my own marriage!
http://thefelts.blogspot.com/ Dina--your blog has been a blessing to me! Your courage to share what God is REALLY doing in your heart makes you a true woman of Faith...I see each word as precious and hold you tenderly before God in prayer each time I read your blog! My recent favorite thing: the way your assessed your outfit for the hot date night---I think the EXACT same stuff about myself/modesty issues/puffy materials. :)
http://paulandjennilee.blogspot.com/ Jennilee--I have gained SO much wisdom from your blogs! I've learned about good books, gardening, hospitality and how to be refreshingly honest with a liberal dose of humor! You are a charming reflection of your father in heaven--both of them!
http://kandjmantoothfamily.blogspot.com/ Katie--I don't believe I've ever met Katie face to face but she's the SIL of my best college buddy, Lori Jean. When LJ first met Katie, there were many comments about how Katie and I are similar...after reading Katie's blog, I see it too! I have loved the honesty and sincerity in Katie's writing...it's validating to me to know I'm not the only one who feels 'this' way! I especially value how Katie shares the things in her character that are in "progress"...reminds me that NONE of us has arrived! :)
http://amazingamandasadventures.blogspot.com/ Monica--I've only recently found your blog but have loved every post so far! I love how you write about your feelings...how you thought about reacting in a less-than-Christlike-manner, but then also how you finally chose to respond in a way that gives God glory. I also love reading your words because it helps me feel connected to you even though our face-to-face visits are crowded with the girls' chatter and activity!