“Before you go to bed, write down three ‘gratefuls’ for the day and three ‘did wells’ (they can even include something as simple as doing the laundry) – the results can be amazing!”

-Carol Burnett

Valentine’s Day is usually associated with a picture of a fat chubby cheeked cupid, roses, candy and jewels.  This year, I feel like we should give Valentine’s Day some better associations. (Don’t get me wrong, I’m a big fan of all listed above.) This year, I want us to give the gift of love AND kindness. Rather than spending all of our time making our loved ones happy,  let’s spread the love and be kind to all.

During my internet travels, I stumbled upon Random Acts of Kindness.org. During the week of Valentine’s Day, they deem it Random Acts of Kindness week, where members are urged to do kind things and post them to their website. By pledging your kind act, you are being accountable for your actions.  It’s easy to say you are going to do something, but its a lot harder NOT to do it when you’ve got people expecting it and counting on you. Now, I understand the fact that pledging defeats the definition of random, but…what are ya gunna do?  That’s just how I roll.

As a blogger, we are constantly showing random acts of kindness every time we leave a comment on another blog.  I know there is nothing more exciting to me then when I receive positive feedback.  As a wife,  there is nothing I love more than compliment from my husband.  As a women, there is nothing I love more than a pair of jeans that fit like a glove (that’s a VERY kind act by manufacturers).  As a human,  I adore etiquette like having the door held open, or when I do it for someone – being thanked.  Let’s give happiness and positivity back.

Kindness Ideas

• Donate used books to your local library
• Write a letter to someone who has inspired you
• Pay the tab for someone behind you (Example:  Starbucks)
• Return a shopping cart
• Pick up groceries for a neighbor
• Pick up trash
• Wash a car
• Leave a generous tip
• Send someone an e-card
• Bring someone a souvenir
• Cook a meal for someone
• Give someone a hug
• Thank your mail carrier
• Plant a tree
• Give compliments
• Share inspirational quotes
• Make someone laugh

If you want to partake and give more than just candy this Valentine’s Day,  post a comment on what you plan on doing. Keep checking back for updates, and motivation!

After you’ve commented:  copy and paste the HTML code below to show off your pledge on your blog!

<div align=”center”><a href=”http://www.vintagemauve.com/2012/01/26/random-acts-of-kindness-day/” title=”Random Acts of Kindness”><img src=”http://www.vintagemauve.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/randomactsofkindess.png” alt=”Random Acts of Kindness” style=”border:none;” /></a></div>

Let’s start a movement!

Love, J and A