Photo credit: danceandbeglad.com
For years I wondered what it was like to be Mother Theresa. To help those living in grim poverty and minister to children who are barefoot and have no water to drink. I knew if I could replicate even the smallest fraction of Mother Theresa, I would be loved.
Pretty impressive? Yeah, right.
The real Anka is a bundle of paradoxes and contradictions. I love and I hate. I feel good about feeling good. I feel guilty for feeling guilty. I’m trusting but I’m suspicious. I’m honest but I like to play games. That’s just part of my story, but it is not the whole story.
Today is a new chapter. It is the first Monday of 2013. A season of fresh starts. As such, I have partnered with My Life is the Best Life and When Crazy Meets Exhaustion to launch a campaign that encapsulates the idea of second chances.
PROJECT OPTIMISM is about having HOPE even when things appear impossible. Ergo monkey trying to catch a two ton elephant.
Going forward, I will dedicate Mondays to a post about OPTIMISM. I figure I could devote at least one day to being positive. After all, no one wants to hang out with Negative Nancy for long. A bad attitude is so unbecoming and can often weigh you down. I personally find kindness attractive. And, let’s face it, everyone could swallow a dose of happy at some point.
As for me, on this day, I choose to see my glass half full. To see the world with potential. To be a lover of JOY! That doesn’t mean life will be reduced to rainbows and butterflies. It just means there is hope for tomorrow.
Do you think it’s time for a dose of HAPPY?
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If you’re interested in spreading A TON OF HOPE, here’s what you need to do:
- Write about something that makes you feel optimistic. It could be a bowl of ice cream that causes you to beam with joy. Ben & Jerry’s Cherry Garcia has done it for me on occasion. Whatever it is, write from your heart.
- Post MONDAYS or whenever you feel inspired.
- Grab a badge by going to your dashboard and clicking the IMAGE widget. Adjust pic size 200h x 200w. The image URL: (http://keepingitrealmom.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/project-optimism.jpg)
- Send me a link to your Optimism post in the comment section. Link over here and invite blogger friends to join in.
- Encourage the person who linked up before you. Kindness is contagious!
YES!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by whencrazymeetsexhaustion | January 7, 2013, 6:40 amIt’s nearing the end of my day and I’m still feeling the same as when I woke up . . . a big YESSSSS to feeling HAPPY indeed!
Posted by Keeping it Real | January 7, 2013, 6:02 pmWhat you say is really important. I’ve been trying to practice optimism for quite some time…probably wouldn’t be here anymore at my “ripe” age without it
Posted by tiny lessons blog | January 7, 2013, 6:59 amPracticing optimism is a CHOICE! So much of the battle is in the mind. And as for your ripeness, I prefer to liken it to wisdom.
Posted by Keeping it Real | January 7, 2013, 6:05 pmWhat a great idea! The whole world needs a dose of happy!
Posted by Gardengirl | January 7, 2013, 7:43 amGlad you think so, Julie! I’ve known your blog to spread lots of HAPPY too. Let’s keep it going!
Posted by Keeping it Real | January 7, 2013, 6:06 pmI’ll try to do my part each Monday and I’m sure you will too!
Posted by Gardengirl | January 7, 2013, 6:08 pmGreat idea, especially for a Monday. Which gets such an unfair rap…
Posted by nothingbythebook | January 7, 2013, 7:49 amAhhhhh, finally! A moment to respond to you, Jane! Hubby just got home. Anyway, yes, I agree Mondays do get a bad rap. We can counter those blues with HOPE even if it’s not natural at 6:00 a.m.
Posted by Keeping it Real | January 7, 2013, 6:09 pmTweeting out as #projectoptimism
Posted by nothingbythebook | January 7, 2013, 7:50 amYay! Thanks for sending HAPPY thoughts out into the twitterverse. I have NO idea how to use this platform. Remember, I don’t even have a FACEBOOK account. Maybe you can be my social media liaison?
Posted by Keeping it Real | January 7, 2013, 6:13 pmThis is so good. I love the idea. What better bloggers to do this than you and your friends Anka. Perhaps I might even give it try. Really nice !
Posted by mistymidnite | January 7, 2013, 7:53 amEllie, you’re part of this too! You’ve been my blogger buddy for some time now. If you’re ever feeling up to it, try writing an ode to something that makes you feel SUPER happy. Your recent post on the color pink would’ve been perfect!
Posted by Keeping it Real | January 7, 2013, 6:16 pmFabulous idea! Being such a downer all the time does nobody any good and it’s just exhausting anyway. I am trying to live and laugh at life when I can and concentrate on the good things.
Posted by She's a Maineiac | January 7, 2013, 7:57 amI find it exhausting to be a downer too. It takes so much ENERGY to be grumpy. I think if I spent an afternoon at your house I’d probably be cured of all sorts of ills.
Posted by Keeping it Real | January 7, 2013, 6:19 pmGreat idea!! Happy New Year to you.
Posted by fatliesandfairytales | January 7, 2013, 9:27 amMy New Year is officially HAPPY! It’s good to hear from you. I tried emailing you several times during the post exchange. But that’s neither here nor there. I’m just happy to see your face again!
Posted by Keeping it Real | January 7, 2013, 6:22 pmthis is a wonderful idea… and i just love the monkey catching the elephant… it’s kind of how i feel some days… but of course you had me at bowl of ice cream. happy happy day to you!!
Posted by icescreammama | January 7, 2013, 10:24 amI figured you’d like to the tribute to ice scream. See that, see what just happened? I misspelled the word “ice cream.” There is only one woman I can thank because of that!
Posted by Keeping it Real | January 7, 2013, 6:26 pmLove the idea and the badge! Did you create that yourself? I’ll be looking forward to your Monday posts for some positive vibes!
Posted by littlemisswordy | January 7, 2013, 11:01 amThe only thing I created was the text. The photo is a stock image. I couldn’t draw a straight line if someone paid me. Can you help me design future badges? I have many ideas but no one to translate them into reality.
Posted by Keeping it Real | January 7, 2013, 6:29 pmWhat a great idea Anka! Definitely a Mother Theresa move! I already checked out the other girl’s posts and I am excited to see what you all have in store for us! I can always use some optimism sent my way! Love it!
Posted by motherhoodisanart | January 7, 2013, 11:25 amOh no! Mother Theresa and I shouldn’t be put in the same sentence. But, for my teeny tiny part, I will try to push through my negativity and set aside one day to be HAPPY. Certainly, that’s the least I can do. Also, if you’re ever feeling up to posting on a Monday, let me know.
Posted by Keeping it Real | January 7, 2013, 6:35 pmYeah, I’ll see if something plops inside my head…I’m really flying by the seat of my pants over here! I usually come up with an idea when I’m in the shower and then take 5 minutes to write it out….I never plan anything! I need to get more organized with my blogging!
Posted by motherhoodisanart | January 7, 2013, 6:40 pmI like it! And I hope today includes a healthy dose of happy for you. I’ve decided 2013 is going to be a year of determination for me. Somewhere in there, it has to include some optimism, right?
Posted by mrs fringe | January 7, 2013, 11:45 amCheers to determination! I could use a dose of that. Definitely includes a twist of optimism. No matter what you write, I always leave your blog feeling better. I’ll never forget the first ‘virtual’ mimosa we shared during your 50th post celebration!
Posted by Keeping it Real | January 7, 2013, 6:37 pmAnd get your glass ready–soon I'll be hitting my 100th!
Posted by mrs fringe | January 8, 2013, 3:02 amThat’s some mighty good stuff right there!
Posted by Seb | January 7, 2013, 12:02 pmThanks, Seb. Glad you think so. HAPPY is better than grumpy I say!
Posted by Keeping it Real | January 9, 2013, 8:37 amOptimism, love it!
I have tagged you in a post for a Coffee Quiz, if you want to play. http://talkaboutcheesecake.wordpress.com/2013/01/07/milk-and-sugar/
Posted by Piper George | January 7, 2013, 1:29 pmGlad to hear, Piper! And perhaps after a strong cup of HOT coffee, you may be feeling inspired to write HAPPY thoughts. Let me know. I’ll be waiting my dear!
Posted by Keeping it Real | January 7, 2013, 6:42 pmJust remembered to come back to this – I will post very soon.
Posted by Piper George | January 15, 2013, 10:47 amGreat idea,!
Posted by Maxima | January 7, 2013, 1:30 pmThanks, Stefan. If you’re interested, grab a badge and join us on Mondays. It could be as simple and lovely as the roses you write about.
Posted by Keeping it Real | January 7, 2013, 6:43 pmI like this idea. Count me in!!
Posted by Ellie at Emerald Pie | January 7, 2013, 2:37 pmYay, Ellie! I haven’t had a chance to stop over yet. But hopefully, you grabbed a badge. I think we could have lots of fun with this. Doesn’t have to be heavy or philosophical post. HAPPY could be found in a box of chocolates!
Posted by Keeping it Real | January 7, 2013, 6:45 pmGuess what?? I posted something optimistic this morning before reading this post
I just added the image widget with link to my site 
Great idea!
Posted by mommy brain | January 7, 2013, 2:52 pmThrilled that you’re on board! I can’t believe that our hearts and minds were in alignment. Kind of cool! Looking forward to reading about your dose of HAPPY!
Posted by Keeping it Real | January 7, 2013, 6:48 pmI’m sending positive walking vibes to my friend’s 3 year old with Down Syndrome, and in their challenge of walking a day for Mirabel. I’m documenting my journey on my series of Letters to Mirabel:
http://ahhsome.wordpress.com/letters-to-mirabel/
Posted by Sandi Ormsby | January 7, 2013, 3:26 pmI think that’s an INCREDIBLE way to spread optimism. I applaud you for your dedication and giving a voice to such a worthy cause. Sounds like you are already ahead of the game.
Posted by Keeping it Real | January 7, 2013, 6:50 pmWe can all use a dose of happy! Loved the positiveness in this post!
Posted by Jiawei | January 7, 2013, 5:45 pmYes, HAPPY is going to be the ‘new black’! I’ve been a negative Nancy for some time. Hoping my excitement spills over into tomorrow and the next day after that. It helps to have such an encouraging and supportive blogging community!
Posted by Keeping it Real | January 7, 2013, 6:53 pmYes! Almost any time is the perfect time for a dose of happy! I’m going to join in next Monday, if I remember. For now I’ll say I’m happy my son shouted, “Mommy! I missed you!” instead of running away after preschool today.
Posted by Deborah the Closet Monster | January 7, 2013, 5:54 pmYay! Happy to have you on board. I know you’re busy with the move. But I would be thrilled to see you spreading the HOPE whenever you’re ready. Thanks for sharing the tender moment you had with your little man. I’m sure it made your heart BEAM!
Posted by Keeping it Real | January 7, 2013, 6:58 pmI think that’s a great idea. A very “3-legged dog” approach to the new year (if I can be forgiven for referencing my own log post). I will happily participate (Here, I mean. I’m not inviting myself to join you)
Posted by The Byronic Man | January 8, 2013, 8:34 amYou’re forgiven. I wouldn’t want you to have lingering guilt. And I happily welcome you to participate here. Mondays are brutal so I may need help.
Posted by Keeping it Real | January 8, 2013, 9:11 amI love it!!!!
Missed you
you are so awesome
Posted by Cynthia Matos-Medina | January 8, 2013, 9:04 amCynthia, Happy New Year my friend! I’ve missed you a bunch. So nice to wake up to your face today!
Posted by Keeping it Real | January 8, 2013, 9:13 amLove this idea! I have to look at it when I’m not on break at work so I can really see what it’s about. *(Quick glances do not get quickly absorbed by my slow functioning brain.)
Looks intriguing and wonderful.
Posted by Chatter Master | January 8, 2013, 11:17 amA quick glance is good enough, Colleen. You’ve already been spreading OPTIMISM on your blog so this is right up your alley. The only thing different is that we’ll be posting our dose of HAPPY on Mondays. Because, well, we need something to shake the morning blues.
Posted by Keeping it Real | January 9, 2013, 8:11 amDon’t we though. This is brilliant. You are brilliant. Wait, maybe I should save that for Monday.
Posted by Chatter Master | January 9, 2013, 2:29 pmYes! Please save it for Monday. Can’t wait to read what you’ve got in store. You are ALWAYS full of clever.
Posted by Keeping it Real | January 9, 2013, 2:37 pmAw shucks…. I don’t know about that but I thank you for thinking so.
Posted by Chatter Master | January 9, 2013, 3:33 pmGreat idea, this post, came out at a great time, for the last 2 weeks, I’ve been trying very hard to stay positive and to see things in a different way!
A dose of Happy on Mondays will be great 
This is so true : Kindness is what’s really attractive!!! 
Posted by now at home mom | January 8, 2013, 2:43 pmIt’s not easy staying positive. Especially when you’re sleep deprived and have got a toddler to chase after. But we can most certainly try to remain optimistic. For me, something as simple as a hot cup of coffee, can give me great pleasure.
Posted by Keeping it Real | January 9, 2013, 8:15 amGreat idea! My New Year’s Resolution is to be in a better mood, more positive, so this will be right up my alley. I hope I’ll be able to contribute at times!
Posted by Kerry's Organized Chaos | January 8, 2013, 8:29 pmAlright, Kerry! Just grab a badge and when you’re feeling up to it, unleash your HAPPY. Maybe it can be about crocheting a new blanket!
Posted by Keeping it Real | January 9, 2013, 8:21 amLove it! I feel good about feeling good too. And I’m a cynical idealist. And I think truth is important but you shouldn’t really feel guilty about lying if the subject matter is nobody’s business. Real life people are confusing.
Posted by Jill Pinnella Corso | January 9, 2013, 7:40 amOoooh, can I steal that term? LOVE the thought of a cynical idealist. And you’re right, Jill, sometimes things are better left unsaid. For EVERYONE’S sake!
Posted by Keeping it Real | January 9, 2013, 8:08 amIt’s all yours!
Posted by Jill Pinnella Corso | January 9, 2013, 8:34 amI hope your happiness carried into the rest of your week!!!!!
Posted by mylifeisthebestlife | January 10, 2013, 5:42 pmThe happiness has ebbed and flowed. We got struck with the plague on Tuesday so it’s been rough! I’m optimistic things will be looking up by Monday. Have a lovely weekend my dear!
Posted by Anka | January 11, 2013, 8:46 amOH NO!!!! I wish I could send you my antibodies…the plague that’s going around now is AWFUL! Feel better, my beautiful friend!
Posted by mylifeisthebestlife | January 12, 2013, 11:13 amthis is a fabulous idea!
Posted by Barbara @ Just Another Manic Mommy | January 11, 2013, 4:35 amThanks, Barbara! Please feel free to participate whenever the mood strikes. Have a fantastic weekend!
Posted by Anka | January 11, 2013, 8:46 amWhat a fabulous idea! And yes, it would be nice to express positive thoughts on a regular basis. My father always says : “PMA : Positive Mental Attitude, is the best way to deal with everything”.
Posted by pretemoiparis | January 11, 2013, 1:54 pmI like your dad. Smart man. I’ll kick off my weekend with PMA in mind!
Posted by Anka | January 11, 2013, 3:17 pmI’ll be posting my first Project Optimism post on Monday!!!!
Posted by pretemoiparis | January 11, 2013, 3:50 pmYay, Melissa! So happy you are joining us. Better to smile than frown I say. Have a lovely weekend!
Posted by Anka | January 11, 2013, 4:11 pmDiscovered you through Melissa, and just blogged about it on my blog. Good luck – the cause is a great one!
Posted by Sab | January 14, 2013, 1:14 amGlad you’re on board. I think the cause is great too. It’s time to switch up the attitude and start seeing the glass half full!
Posted by Anka | January 14, 2013, 10:43 amSab! So glad I inspired you to check it out! Met you could do an “optomistic paris street art” post?!?
Posted by pretemoiparis | January 14, 2013, 3:35 pmHere’s my contribution: http://wp.me/p2dtaU-hZ
Posted by Ellie at Emerald Pie | January 14, 2013, 3:02 pmThanks for the heads up, Ellie! I enjoyed reading your optimism entry. Enjoy the rest of your week!
Posted by Anka | January 14, 2013, 7:52 pmOK – here we go. I love Mondays! Have a dose of happy thoughts
http://talkaboutcheesecake.wordpress.com/2013/01/15/i-love-mondays-project-optimism/
Posted by Piper George | January 15, 2013, 12:51 pmHooray, Piper! I’m on my way over!
Posted by Anka | January 15, 2013, 12:53 pmWe can all use focusing on optimism over negativity. We are what we think
Posted by Jeremy Shane | January 16, 2013, 11:21 amYou’re right, Jeremy. The mind is a battlefield. We have to be especially aware of the thoughts that circulate in our head. Focusing on the positive is a good place to start!
Posted by Anka | January 16, 2013, 7:37 pmGood morning, How are you ? Beautiful post my dear friend!Have nice day
Posted by Maxima | January 22, 2013, 10:57 pmI’m doing well today. Thanks for asking. Enjoy the rest of your day too!
Posted by Anka | January 23, 2013, 9:38 amLoved this one!
Posted by We Are 2Fit2 Quit | January 23, 2013, 9:34 amGlad to hear! I think with all that’s going on the world, it’s a refreshing concept to focus on the good instead of the bad. Thanks for stopping by!
Posted by Anka | January 23, 2013, 9:37 amI think this campaign is a wonderful idea! Spreading positive energies at the start of the week.
Posted by rynnasaryonnah | January 27, 2013, 6:34 amYay! Thrilled to hear that you’ll be spreading more HAPPINESS in the blogosphere! You’re already used to writing positive messages so this should be very easy for you!
Posted by Anka | January 27, 2013, 2:12 pmAww shucks… You’re too kind. Here’s my first post. It’s more about “happy” then “hope” and it’s pretty simple… http://rynnasaryonnah.wordpress.com/2013/01/28/project-optimism/
Posted by rynnasaryonnah | January 28, 2013, 4:40 amLove this idea! I’ll start next Monday!
Posted by prosas25 | February 12, 2013, 1:31 amYay! Glad to hear that you’re going to spread the JOY. I can’t think of a better way to start off the week than a little dose of optimism!
Posted by Anka | February 12, 2013, 9:17 amSo happy to have been introduced to this! Can’t wait!
Posted by prosas25 | February 14, 2013, 7:49 amwhat a great idea! And I like that something as simple as Ben & Jerry’s is er..on the table…;) (that worked out well!) I will have to remember this for next Monday, Anka!!
Posted by Charron's Chatter | April 22, 2013, 11:12 amGlad to hear you’re on board, Charron! I’ve been slacking a bit with my project optimism posts as I’m trying to cope with my morning sickness. But, I look forward to reading your stuff. You are clearly a “dose of HAPPY” for so many!
Posted by Anka | April 22, 2013, 3:18 pm