Adding Sparkle to an Event

Miles of Smiles came about as an idea to spread joy and create smiles.

As we look to find ways to cope with the effects of COVID-19, our desire is to help families and a world that is largely self-sheltering to find something joyful, something positive, something to bring a smile in the midst of an uncertainty. So here are some ideas:

We know that this too shall pass, but while we are still in this new normal, let's look at some ways to share a smile:

1. Family campout - put up a tent in the yard, at the farm or in the family room indoors; have a bonfire with pudgy pie smorgasbord or roast hot dogs over the fire. Take family selfies and make memories you may never have the opportunity to make again as you do it. Staycations.

2. Outdoor movie night - use an outdoor screen, side of a building, hang a sheet between trees and project a movie outside. Pop some popcorn, lay some blankets, set up some lawn chairs and watch something funny and uplifting. There is nothing as wonderful as a belly laugh. Don't forget to make shadow animals with your hands/body if you have a projector (prices have come down tremendously and worth a family investment).

3. Neighborhood food frenzy - invite your neighbors to mask up and bring a dish to pass; have a table decorated with a fun theme and one by one, with social distancing - pick up different foods and put on your plate as you make your way to your patio or deck to enjoy something different with a lot less work. We are all in this together. Use good hygiene and hand washing.

4. Silly signage - send a neighbor who is sheltered a message with yard cards to cheer them up; send yard cards that tell your local police, fire or EMS that Heroes Work Here; Put a funny saying in your lawn so passers-by will get a smile or giggle. Send a teacher an appreciation sign as they struggle with loving your kids, yet needing to do what is safe as they try their best to teach. Add a theme to a campout or family gathering.

5. Mail mysteries - make special funny cards and send to shut-ins or elderly people that need to smile - sign it from "anonymous" or "a neighbor that cares." Maybe just drop it by their front door. And don't forget that picking up postcards is an inexpensive way to send a special note.

Want to spread joy and bring smiles to those that find this time hard to find anything to smile about? We do. If you have more ideas to spread joy, we would like to hear about them.