Ever been out on a walk, looked down, and noticed a colorful rock? I am always excited when I spot one! I have found some really cool ones throughout the years. My all-time favorite is one that I picked up in New Hampshire that reads “You matter”. It is tagged as part of an inspirational movement and with the “OK to take.” I have this rock right on my kitchen windowsill and see it every day: “You matter.”
This mantra has gotten me through a lot of dark days and has buoyed me along on my really great days. The person who made this rock has no idea what it has meant to me. They made this rock with faith that the right person would find it. I think that’s the part that’s the coolest. Blind faith.
Recently, I have seen these rocks popping up in my neighborhood, some part of local movements such as @rockonplainville. Some are elaborate, some simple and cute, some just a solid color. Every single one makes me smile and inspires me. I look forward to seeing them on our regular walks through the neighborhood.
There is a huge debate on this. Do you leave the rocks for others to enjoy, or do you take one that speaks to you? I personally never pick one up that does not specifically read “OK to take.” General rule of thumb is that if the back of the rock does not read OK to take, or the sign for the designated rock garden doesn’t not read “OK to take,” you should leave the rock where you found it! In that case, the best way to take it with you is to snap a picture of it and share!
Over the summer, I was visiting the WW1 Park & Zoo (directory listing) and noticed that the designated rock garden was empty. Totally empty. Not one inspirational rock in sight! My kids and I felt compelled to fill it up. We promptly went home, found some rocks and paint, and went at it. We were so excited that we brought them to the garden the following day! A little less then a week later, we went back, and every single rock was gone! We were all honored that our rocks had been appreciated and enjoyed by other park visitors.
We went back a few times after that, and the garden remained empty. We were hoping that others would also start adding their own rocks to the garden as well. What if we all took some time to paint some rocks with the kids, with friends, or on our own? Every rock would continue to spread cheer! This is easy and fun for total beginners! A friend of mine was trialing rock painting and found herself totally relaxed and loving it. I kid you not when I say she painted rocks for the entire evening. And they came out fantastic!
There is not a single painted rock that we haven’t been super excited to find. Yes, even the totally random ones a toddler definitely painted! You don’t have to bring them to a garden, you can leave them in your yard, or around the neighborhood. If you are interested in helping fill up or restore a rock garden, I have found some at: WW1 Park- bottom of the big slide, Telford Park – below fountain & Capron Park Zoo- Rose Garden Entrance, & at The Plainville Public Library.
Here is what you need:
- Rocks (we used ones in our back yard, but you can purchase smooth ready to paint rocks at any craft store)
- Paint: Acrylic (hello Dollar Tree!) acrylic paint pens (optional, however, great for writing inspirational messages)
- Paint Brush
- Clear Spray Gloss (think spray paint can- clear & glossy)
- Creativity! (or google image ideas!)
Make those awesome rocks and spread some cheer! If you’ve ever walked by one and smiled, its time for you to make one! If you’ve ever picked one up and kept it, think of this as your opportunity to pay it forward! Your small act of kindness will absolutely brighten someone else’s day! Don’t worry if its not perfect. There is no wrong way to be creative! You might even find yourself loving it!
Peace, Love, & Macaroni Wishes,
Jenn
