I thought it would be easy enough; I was going to grudgingly roll over, get out of bed and then meander through the quiet house on my quest for caffeine. (Scratch that. I was looking for something without caffeine. Really.) Swinging my legs over the bed, I was startled when my feet landed not on the floor, but on fur. Startled awake, the boxer yawned sleepily and wagged his tail a moment before stretching and extending his claws and finishing up with a good shake before trotting out of the room on his quest for caffeine. (Ok, he was looking for water.) He left behind some joy as he left the room; he could've bitten the feet that landed on his back, but instead he kissed the toes of the owner. I sat there for a moment, perplexed at his mercy. A dog, awakened suddenly and probably a bit painfully, didn't bite its owner, he kissed the toes instead. Dogs. What do they know? Standing in front of the mirror a little while later, I noticed my husband's purposeful approach in the reflection. He strode right by me with a curt, "Good morning, sweetheart" and disappeared into the bedroom. Moments later, the door burst open and suddenly, I felt strong arms wrap around my waist and gather me into a warm hug. He left a bit of joy on his way out; looking into my eyes, he asked if I slept well. When I answered in the affirmative, he kissed my nose and then walked away. Everyday, there is evidence of joy all around us, scattered about. Whether it's in the laughter of our children, the noisy playfulness of dogs as they chase planes that pass overhead or the secure embrace of a loved one as they make time to remind you that you are loved. Joy is best left scattered all over the place for others to find and be reminded that each drop of happiness comes from our Father in heaven. Psalm 35:26-27: May those who delight in my vindication shout for joy and gladness; may they always say, "The LORD be exalted, who delights in the well-being of His servant."