If a quick list of possessions or accomplishments just crossed your mind, consider this. True joy is an internal sense of satisfaction that isn't created or controlled by external factors. Inventor Frederick Koenig put it this way: "We tend to forget that happiness doesn't come as a result of getting something we don't have, but rather of recognizing and appreciating what we do have." What gifts are you surrounded...

"How was your day?" "Fine." "What did you do at school today?" "Nothing." Sound familiar? We expect them to share their thoughts and feelings on our schedule, but it doesn't happen that way. We have to be patient and we have to be available when they are ready to open up. You never know when it is coming. When it does, you'd better stop whatever you're doing and listen, because the opportunity may not come...

If you look at how many of us live our lives, you would think the answer is clear… image is key. Your image is how you're viewed by others. We spend a lot of time creating our image… with our house, our car, our clothes, our friends . . . just so people will see us a certain way. Sometimes it's real, sometimes it's not. But your identity is who you are. It's real…it never changes. When you're clear about your...

The stairs are piled high with dirty laundry and crumbled up homework.  The toy room is a sea of puzzle pieces and too many action figures to count.  And forget finding any pair of shoes in the hall closet that actually go together.  Sound like your home?  If so, it may be time for your family to get organized with these tips.  First, clean up the kids’ rooms and toy room.  Try storing toys in bins on low shelves...