OUR WINNER is CHRISTINE of The Belletrist!
“you seem like someone who makes ordinary things seem extra ordinary”.
Happy Friday, my friends!
It’s August and I’ve never been so hot. I think my brain might be boiling. Is that normal for New Orleans? Today we’re backing away from our stovetop and shunning the oven. It’s time for an August Getaway… GIVEAWAY style!!
Here are a few of my recent favorites for you to pack up, snack on, primp up, doodle down, and read through. I want you to have them!
GIVEAWAY! Booyakah!
1. I’m the first person to tell you that you don’t need a dang blanket in the middle of August! It is not chilly! I can’t even remember the last time I was cold! But I can remember the last time I needed a blanket to sit out for a Summer picnic! This West Elm Perfect Throw makes for a lovely picnic situation and transitions very well into the more cozy winter months.
2. Meet the Everlane Weekender Bag! It’s the perfect carry-on bag. It’s the perfect bag to toss in the back seat of the car for a weekend road trip. Classic stylings. No frills. Just right. I love this bag!
3. I want you to have my very favorite nail polish! Super easy to apply, long wear, modern colors, lots of gloss and extra sass. These Revlon Colorstay Gels are Summer weekend colors!
4. Beach reading. Mountain cabin reading. Air-conditioned hotel reading. I hope you get away, put down the Instagram, and read a good book on this Kindle Reader. I’m reading The Invention of Wings.
5. I’m an avid doodler. Swirls, blocks, faces, flowers, and eyes are my go-to doodles. Doodling helps us pay attention! Doodle in style in this classic Moleskine.
6. Lips to match our nails. I mean… why not get-away with a little flair? Revlon Colorstay Moisture Stain.
7. Pens for our doodle! I love these colorful felt tip pens! They’re like grown-up markers. Totally acceptable for scribbles, doodles, notes, and writing boss-lady checks.
8. Snacks! Forever with the snacks! These barkTHINS satisfy all cravings. They’re thin chocolate bites packed with almond, coconut, pretzels, or little bits of peppermint. Chocolate, sweet, crunch, and salt! I’m sooooo into these! Of course you’ll have to eat them fast enough so they don’t melt, but that shouldn’t be a problem.
9. ALOHA!!! These super supreme green juice powder packs are an amazing way to jumpstart a drowsy morning. I mix mine into a glass of orange juice and I’ve got some pep in my step!
10. There’s nothing wrong with being prepared just in case getaways go awry. These UrgentRx medicine packs are incredible because they’re flat packs of fruit flavored powder medicine. No water required. I have a few of these in my purse for emergencies. Super helpful!
11. Always be ready for wine. Always! This Bottle Stock painted corkscrew and leather pouch is perfect to throw in your new weekend bag. Open your wine in style! If you can’t wait for your pretty corkscrew and pouch, snag it now for 15% off! Discount code: WINEJOY. Offer good until Sunday August 10th.
To Enter:
This is an old-school blog giveaway. I’m not trying to trick you into following me on Twitter or liking me on Facebook. You can if you’d like… but it’s no biggie. I simply want you to have these rad things because it’s August and if I melt before September, I want you to think of me fondly.
Leave a comment on this post sharing the best compliment you have ever received. Then… think about how great that compliment made you feel and go out into the world and compliment a stranger! “I like your hair today!” “You have a really pretty smile!” “I feel like you really went the extra mile for me and I appreciate it!” Pass the good onward and outward. It feels great!
>> One comment per person. Be cool.
>> Contest open to one and all, wherever you may live.
>> Comments close Sunday August 10, 2014 at 8pm cst.
>> Winner will be chosen randomly and announced above on Monday August 11th.
I love you, byeeeee!
Jordan M
Not sure about the best compliment that I have ever received, but the oddest and most out of the blue that was appreciated was a caricature artist who was drawing me and randomly said, “Your brows are amazing. Has anyone ever said that?” It was pretty funny and made me blush, because who compliments eyebrows?
Becca
The best compliment I ever received was from my husband when I was 9 months pregnant. He said, ‘you’re so beautiful,’ even though I felt like ‘school bus’ would’ve described me better. The look in his eyes told me he really meant it.
This has made me think gratefully of the kind and wonderful people in my life. Thank you
Kayti Clayton
I get a lot of compliments on my eyebrows whenever I go into a Sephora or Ulta
Melissa k
One time someone told me I had “good situational awareness” which is my favorite compliment that I’ve received! :)
reireireins
My friend wrote this to me recently when I was having a bad day, and it helped me so much: “I know you’ll always be a beautiful, generous, smart, hard-working woman. You’re the real deal.” (She’s the real real deal btw)
lil
“you surprise me.”
azncarp
Awesome pretzel dog necklace! (I made a mini version of your pretzel dogs, strung em up, and wore them to a festival).
Andrea Rust
I was told that I’m a wonderful mother by a stranger and that my son was lucky to have me as a mom by a lactation consultant. It meant a lot to me, being that I am a young mom..
Sonja
Best compliment ever was “You have a way with people,” which sounds really creepy, but was meant in a “You get along with people and make them feel at ease” sense. On a more superficial level: “You look like a Bond girl.”
Jenna O
I heard that I´m the cutest girl HE has ever seen ;) This meant so much to me :P
jennifer
on our wedding day someone said that me and my husband were not traditionally beautiful- i took it as we were fabulously weird
madeleine
The best compliment I’ve ever received: “You, my dear, are surrounded by beautiful question marks.”
elisha ;)
In the non-profit social worker/case manager world, there are always more needs and requests than resources to meet them. My coworker is the nurse manager in charge of scheduling appointments and often has to say ‘no’ to client in lesser need than others. She recently shared with me that, “Elisha, when you come to me with a need, I don’t hesitate to give you an appointment for your client, because I know you’ve done your job and weeded through (the lesser needs) for me.” Made me feel like a rock star social worker, and I appreciated it so much :).
Hannah
The other day my mother told me “You are a great mom.”
ewg
I had a gross cold and was doing my laundry. On my way back from the laundromat, I heard a girl shout, “I love your coat!” I looked over and there was a car full of teenaged girls. They repeated, “your coat is cool!!” Maybe it wasn’t the best compliment ever, but considering the attitude teenage girls are liable to throw, it felt like a major coup!
Leah
I was once told I have a very soothing voice and should go in to radio :)
meg
I had a friend tell me that I was a really good listener. It meant a lot because it made feel like I was truly being a good friend and letting her say how she was feeling.
Fe
best compliment? “you are brave” :)
Nicole
Congrats to Christine! Way to be less ordinary!
ali
best compliment??? i can taste the love in your food :)
Emily K.
Compliments from my colleagues and supervisors always mean a lot to me! I’m a veterinarian, so I love knowing I’m taking the best care of people’s pets.
Jen @ Fresh from the...
I would have to go with the time one of my professors asked me who was writing a particular script and I raised my hand, terrified, only to hear her say, “Wow, I thought a professional writer had snuck into my class.” Pretty awesome compliment.
r
My most favorite compliment recently was a friend of my cousins asking her if she’d hook me up with him after seeing me drive by him in the parking lot. I had absolutely no makeup on, exhausted, and my hair was a mess. It’s the little things…!!!
Anna S.
That I made the best cookies they’d ever tasted!!
Alex K
I missed the giveaway on this, but I still want to share :) I was once complimented on a carnie who was hitting on my sister and said that we must be sisters b/c we have the same eyes. Let me just say that we don’t-at all, and while he was a total creeper, I never not laugh when I think about that story. I will go forth and make compliments.
Lauren
That I’m a wonderful mother. Every mom needs to hear that some days ;)
Donna
when my son says I’m a pretty good mom or a good cooker.
niki
I guess it depends on what I do with my hair but I’ve been getting a lot of compliments just on how nice I look, considering that I almost always feel like I’m melting that’s good. But the nicest ever was that my lips looked like a good sip of wine aka lips of wine… Gotta love older men
Laura
“I never laugh with anybody else the way I do when I’m with you”
Jaimini
The one I received this morning, that the materials I produced for a meeting were so great and clear. Made my day
Michele aka Goat Girl
The best compliment I ever received was from a new woman friend that I had only known for a few months at the time. She told me that I was a really naturally funny person. My perception of myself at the time was that I was a very serious person so I honestly never knew I was funny. Her compliment really made me see myself differently.
Tania
My husband told me that my superpower was making croissants from scratch. Everyone should have a superpower!
Courtney B.
There was a woman in my church that always greeted me by saying, “hello there, beautiful!.” I was going through some very awkward pre-teen conditions (think: zits and terribly big bangs), but she made me feel so special every time she spoke those words to me. I hope I do that for others.
julianne
when my patient last week told me that she loves coming into the office to see me and only asks to speak with me when she calls because i am a “love and a half.”
Karen Vestergaard
Biggest compliment? Thank you, your questions made me think about my problems in a whole new way.
Becca
I’m realize I’m totally too late, but the best compliment I ever got was from a lady on the bus who had a prison tattoo of a tear on her face. She told me I looked like Belle from Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. Not only did she think I looked like a Disney princess, but she thought I looked like the brainiest Disney princess! It. Was. Awesome.
emily t
i love it when people find out that i haven’t had braces and they say, “but your teeth are so straight!” it makes me feel like i did something right without even trying…
Julia
“my adventurous spirit, fearlessness, and persistence.” thanks!
Julie
The best compliment: “You’re so positive.” It has taken a lot of work.
Becka
A great compliment I’ve received is when someone tells me I have a beautiful laugh. Thanks, Joy!
Susan
Thanks for the giveaway! The best compliment I ever got came recently. I was grocery shopping and asked a clerk to show me the panko. As we were walking back, he said, “you have a really cute nose.” Nose? Yep, nose. I found it very endearing that he paid that much attention to my features to point out something as insignificant as my nose. Or maybe nose was code for butt. I’ll never know. :)
Heather and Melissa
What a really awesome giveawway! thanks!
madmatch
That I look like my mom. :)
JessieJ412
I think the best compliment I’ve ever received was when someone told me that I was “my own person.” That’s always a good thing, I think.
Lindsay
“you have the BEST eyelashes!”
KitS
What a great giveaway! Thank you!
Judy Fox
My husband told me that “I make him want to get up and face another day” in an email he sent me the night before he had thyroid surgery. I cried. I printed the email and have it hidden in a secret spot at work so I can read it now and again when I am having a bad day. I still cry.
Karissa
I’ve loved reading these! My favorite compliment was from a classmate that said I brighten every room with my smile. It made me feel like a true beauty! Thank you, Joy, for inspiring me to pass that on today!
Natália Valente
This is the best promo I’ve seen!!! Keep spreading the love!!!
Natália Valente
The best compliment I’ve ever received was from my boyfriend. I am Brazilian and his mama is Mexican so I told him it would take me awhile to cook in a way that tasted like his childhood, he said “it is okay, because your food taste like my future”. It was one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever heard.
Melissa King
Compliments used to make me super uncomfortable (they still kind’ve do) and this year I made it a resolution to take compliments with grace and confidence. I think any compliment changes my day, so I think making more compliments of others is a fabulous personal challenge.
Courtney
The best comment I’ve ever received was a fellow employee telling me how much I am appreciated in the work place. It meant the world to me to hear that people even noticed the effort and time I put into my job, and everyone needs to be reminded that they are useful every once in a while.
Avi D
On the last day of 8th grade, one of my late favorite teachers signed my shirt, “You are a gem of a girl!” (Rest in peace, Mrs. Collins. You were a gem of a woman.)
Jamie
One of my colleagues told me that I have a kind, calm presence and bring warmth to our office. What a wonderful thing to hear!
AJ
A friend told me I was a constant ray of sunshine in her world. That made me feel awesome!
globalite76
It has been a long time since I’ve gotten a compliment; I’m struggling to think of the “best” one.
Jennyroo
My new boyfriend (first relationship after I was left by my husband of thirteen years) told me that I was everything he had been looking for his whole life, and he couldn’t believe anyone would be foolish enough to give me up. My heart pretty much melted on the spot.
Leonor Boavida
A teacher of mine once told me she saw in me an ability to excell in everything I put my mind into no matter how hard it was or how uncomfortable it made me feel. It made believe I was capable of going after things completely out of my comfort zone!
SLG
I once told a mentor about a job I was applying to and she said I would be wonderful a the position because I was “unflappable.” At a moment when I felt like everything in my life was a stressful mess it was so nice to hear that–I was so glad I didn’t come off as chaotic as I felt!
alison b
You’re a good Mom was the best compliment I have recently received. I know, stereo typical but it’s so easy to judge myself constantly.
This prize is the much needed pick me up-we are in the middle of renovating our newly purchased home with two small children while living there! Talk about chaos!
Summer
When someone I like a lot but with whom I’m not very close friends told me, she thinks that she finds it impressive how I always stay true to myself and that she thinks I’m cool. It was so good to hear that, since I recently had quite a hard time finding friends and became very selfconscious.
ashley
I have been told that I’m a great friend, which is the best thing I think someone can be!
Cassie
I can’t help but smile when someone compliments my blue eyes. It makes me feel beautiful!
JustBec
A friend told me I sang well. I don’t normally sing much b/c I am always feeling self-concious, so this kind of unlocked something for me and let me sing out loud more often. :)
Demitria Raynor
The other day one of my friends said that my husband and I are the best parent’s they have known. It made me feel so great to know that all our hard work does not go unnoticed. All I can do is do my best and hope it pays off in the end!
Heather @ Sugar Dish Me
The best compliment I ever received? Probably every time a reader tells me they looove a recipe that they tried. Totally makes my whole day.
Meg
When my fiance tells me how lucky he is to have me
Diane
You are so organized!
Donna K
Best compliment was that all the younger people in my life are so giving and caring and it is becuase they learned it from me.
Bianca
when someone told me that i would be a great doctor (i’m in med school)
Lilybett
“Oh, Mummy, that’s very beautiful eyes today” – not sure what I did differently that morning (I don’t wear makeup), but my two-year old melts my heart every day. Love seeing the world anew through his eyes – I should share that love with others more often.
Kris
Fantastic giveaway! My dad telling me he was proud of me!
Hilary
I probably missed the cutoff. Sadface.
BUT.. some girl I just met the other day told me my haircut made her happy. Which made me happy! Especially since it’s been being a major pain in the butt to control these days. :)
Lindsay
the best compliment i ever received was when my stoic, sometimes jerky, definitely not sentimental oldest brother told me that if his little girls turned out like me, that’d be alright with him.
Neehar
The best compliment ever came from my teacher in school, who said I was very sincere and had a good heart.
jessica
“I love the way your mind works.”
Nancy
“You’re a good teacher” – now I strive to work hard so I can hear that from students, great feeling!
Cori
I love being told I am a good cook/baker. I still have lots to learn, but it’s something I enjoy doing so I always appreciate that compliment.
mkbrod2
that i’m a good person.
stephanie
Best compliment I’ve received: “you have saved my life… several times, in fact.”
Valerie
“You have are glowing, inside and out”
Jordan
“You’re a great mother”!
Crystal
A friend once told me that I have a rare way of looking at the world, and that I see it “so differently and nicely.” This was in a thank you for some advice I offered her when she was feeling down, so it made me feel great to know that I was able to help her. :)
Corisa Jubinsky
being told that i always have a positive attitude!
Chrik
Hmm, best compliment… I’d have to say it was my daughter telling me I’m the best Mommy :)
Julie
An elderly neighbor left today for her first vacation since her husband passed away. She was bouncing with glee when I said I would take care of her cats 2x a day, about 1 hour each visit. I could see her happiness, gratitude and more, in the biggest smile ever. I am doing nothing really special. It is simply “treat people how you want to be treated”.
Lena
What a great giveaway! The best compliment I have ever received is from my little girls (and my husband) that I’m the best mommy ever. That means the world to me!
Bonnie H.
Best compliment…whenever my husband calls me his beautiful sweetheart.
Elana
someone once said to me: “how is it that you are so glowing and attract everyone around you?”
Erin
What a great giveaway. The best compliment I ever received was when someone told me they appreciated my passion. Love it.
Renee
When I was a teen, one of the popular girls said I had pretty eyes. That compliment has stayed with me through my life and I think my eyes are one of my best features.
Cristy de la Portilla
My best compliment is when people tell me they forget I’m only 24. Sometimes I’m too hard on myself so to have someone step back and say, “Hey, you’re actually doing quite well for yourself,” is a nice reminder that I am only 24.
PS Loved the idea behind this contest. :)
Elyse G.
It’s always a wonderful thing when someone (a friend or stranger) tells you that you’ve made their day by doing something small like opening a door or letting them go ahead of you in line. *fingers crossed*
Allison
A co-worker once told me that I was the person they looked to for guidance when learning new skills because I was patient and supportive. I think I will always remember how surprised I was and how good it made me feel :)
Rae
Someone once told me that my artwork made them want to go buy a set of colored pencils and start drawing again…I was blown away. That was hands down one of the best things anyone has ever said to me.
janelle
The best compliment I received was from another women telling me that I had a great smile.I have heard that compliment from many guys but for some reason that compliment stuck with me. She was very nice and it was so genuine.
Julia Carlson
in college, i anonymously nominated a friend for a contest to become our class speaker at graduation. part of the contest was to give a speech. he chose to discuss big dreams and having the courage to share those with other people. in it, he described me and my dream to become a neurosurgeon. he described me as “I have a friend who, since the day I met her my first week at Tufts, has wanted to be a neurosurgeon. Neurosurgery is a hyper-competitive specialty and moreover, a field dominated almost completely by men. My friend knows she’s going to be a neurosurgeon, but the world says well…probably not. There’s the gap. But you know what, I dare you to get in her way…I dare you. I have no doubt that she will become one of the top neurosurgeons in the country because her will to close that gap, her will to make a dream a reality, is unstoppable.”
he won. that was the best compliment i’ve ever been given.
Sydney
It always makes my day when someone tells me I look nice :)
Wong Yeen Yee
You are getting fitter! =D
EM
My dad telling me he’s proud of me.
Bethany
I was wearing a vintage black party dress and ended up having to go to Home Depot to buy some Masonite. I’m walking with a 4’x4′ sheet of the stuff, and as a guy passes me, without even really making eye contact, just said “right on.” It felt awesome :)
Laura
A man at the bus stop told me I had a beautiful laugh. It made me realize the importance of a kind word, a meaningful comment.
Natalie Kendrick
“I think you are one of those people who just really wants others to be able to be who they are.” Hands down the best. Thanks for the giveaway, Joy!
heather
You have really pretty eyes is a great compliment that I got.
Alison M.
People tell me they appreciate my honesty!
Molly c.
A teacher told me I was a great writer. It was my first week in college, so it meant a lot to me and still gives me conference.
Adele
I recently had someone compliment my eyebrows. It made me feel so confident!
Jess T
Best complement is being told that I’m a good friend.
missredsage
Nicest ever was “you are the most awesome person ever – will you marry me?”
Christi
Great giveaway! I was told by a total stranger that I have beautiful eyes and then he said everyone probably tells you that, right? Little things are nice to hear.
Kelby Herzog
One of the best compliments I’ve ever received was “You’re a really great listener.” I always try to actively listen to other people’s stories and remember their names because I always appreciate when others do that with me!
Martha
I like it when propel comment on my white hair. I always thank them and let them know how much it means to me.
Jessica Taylor
I’ve been told how well my kids behaved in church. It made me feel awesome.
Elizabeth A.
I absolutely adore your blog! This giveaway makes me want all the nice things. Best compliment I’ve ever received: After an extremely difficult cycling class, a total stranger came up to me and breathlessly said, “You ride like an Olympian.” It wasn’t even a little true, but I was flattered that someone noticed how hard my sweaty self was working. :)
brittany
One of my friends once told me that I always look put-together. It still makes me feel good!
Lea
Yes, I read this with an hour to spare :).
Dana
Best compliment: you have a great work ethic!
Laura
I am a very low maintenance type of girl so whenever anyone compliments my hair or look I really appreciate it. It’s natural, it’s me and it is what it is, so when someone likes it, they like me. I really take it to heart.
Patty (Mom)
It may not be the best compliment I ever received but just today someone said they liked my handwriting. Oh, shucks ,thank you very much!
Gretchen
“you inspire me” – stays in my mind during the good and bad times!
amymcalpine
My best compliment ever is being told I’m a good listener — listening is so important to me!
Amanda Knochel
One of the best compliments I’ve ever received was in nursing school. I always strive as a nurse to give the patient a positive hospital experience by showing them that the staff actually cares about how they feel. I felt a little closer to that goal when my instructor told me that I am really good at making people feel like they are important to me by showing them I care. It’s made me consciously live like that.
Chloe
Best compliment I ever received was that I “brought life into a room”. Was actually the perfect thing I needed to hear at the time.
Aku A.
A new friend once told his mother that I was “the kind of person you feel like you’ve known your whole life.” It made me feel like I was doing my job as a friend. That’s the best kind of compliment!
Rebecca Cooper
On a recent mission trip to Mexico I was told that the pulled pork I made for everyone at the orphanage was the best meat they had ever eaten in their lives!
Thiru
My boyfriend is from a big city, but is studying here in my hometown, which he barely tolerate. Last summer I decided to take him around the city for a tour to show him my beautiful town. He is really hard to impress and he kept shrugging his shoulders and found everything to be too small, just like the town, and kept reminding me that it wasn`t really that much to experience in town. I got really annoyed and said something like; well it`s not my fault you hate everything about my town. He said back, really casually with no intention of complimenting me really; the only thing that I like about this town is you.
So yeah, that`s it. But it meant a lot to me, made by day actually and is one of the best compliments I`ve gotten from him=)
Stef
A couple of years ago I was wearing a light blue dress and a friend told me: “There’s too little blue in that dress for so much sky in you!” She made my day and my year! =)
Jillian
Over the past year, I worked with a group of college students, and my role was part mentor, part RA, part parent! I got to know each of the students really well; I heard their struggles and joys and everything in between. One girl in particular opened up to me and told me that I was her “good voice”, that I was her cheerleader and someone who encouraged her to be her best self! I was so thankful my actions and words had made an impression on her!
Emily Anne
Someone recently told me I had amazing eyebrows. I think it was a pretty good compliment
Erica
This is a tough one…probably being told that I’m a very caring person
Christina
A few years ago, we made a wall with the names and pictures of the employes at my job. Next to our name were adjective describing us written by our colleagues. The one given to me was : passionate. That made me feel so proud, because that is totally how I feel about my work.
Malisa
Best Complement I received was “you’re a great wife” simple but moving to me.
Leah
Someone told me once “you are such a spitfire!” and its probably my favorite compliment! I like to think of myself as a strong, vibrant woman!
marymccorkle
My best compliment was from a 4-year-old who wrote a story about me… I was a princess who saved him from a dragon by kicking it “straight dead.” My ability to kill a dragon swiftly is high on the list of things I want to be known for!
Suhani
My coworker once told me that I stand up for what I believe quite gracefully!
Lauren H
Someone on an escalator told me my eyes looked like the ocean. Such a random nice compliment! I loved it :)
Kimberly
The best compliment I’ve received was at the end of a summer of volunteering and I was told that my hard work had stood out and that I’d made an impact on a lot of people.
Anette
My friend just wrote to me that her young and pretty neighbour had told her I had a beautiful face. That after a shared ride in her car during which we just introduced ourselves and didn’t really speak much at all :) He, in turn, has amazing eyes…
Lisa
someone once described me as “nothing but positive vibes” when introducing me to a new friend. it made me feel like i was on cloud nine!
Meg
The best compliment I’ve received was very recent. I got engaged one month ago and the “you’re going to be a beautiful bride,” never gets old. I love it and can’t wait for the big day! Now I’ll go pass on a compliment to a stranger :) . Thanks for the giveaway!
Brooke
Love every single ONE of these items. Joy, you’re stellar!!!
Jessica
You are amazing!
Zoe Elizabeth
The best compliment I ever received is when I was told by my culinary school instructor that he would gladly eat my dish in a restaurant.
Monique
Given my confidence issues, having someone say ‘you’re beautiful’ is amazing
Caroline Turnbull-hall
“You are the best Mummy ever”
Mendi B
You’re so nice!
Emma B.
The best compliment I’ve ever received is when people tell me
I look like my mom :)
Nicole
My husband telling me I’m his favorite person.
Caroline Leigh
“You are the perfect height” (I’m 6 ft tall)
Wendy
Best compliment I ever received is “you are so kind”. My first thought was that my mother would be proud, as she raised me to be that way.
liz
I love this! Recently while having breakfast at a local bakery, I overheard the patrons discussing the pies I had make at another bakery I was working at and how they were the best they had eaten. It was the nicest complement and they had no idea that they had given it to me!
maria yarcho
Amazinggg ! I am an argentinean reader.
Nadia R.
Best compliment I ever overheard was while on my way back from the restroom! My sister-in-law had just introduced me to her two best friends before I’d stepped away, and I was returning I heard them say that they absolutely loved me <3. They're lovely, fabulous ladies, and it just made me feel special and sparkly :-), especially knowing that they said it in my absence!
Joycie K
My son said I’m a good mom and he loves me.
Veronica C.
Having your niece tell you that she wants to be just like you when she grows up is a pretty nice feeling, I have to say.
Liz
My favorite hairstylist when I lived in LA told me I had princess hair, like Princess Aurora. I was 31 and it’s still the best compliment I’ve ever gotten!
Karen
I used to be a lot heavier. I started going to the gym. One day at the gym after I had lost the extra weight a beautiful woman came up to me and said, “I can tell you work out. You look really good.” I had never had a compliment about my body before, and it made me feel so good. That was about ten years ago, and I still remember that woman!
Rachel Jackson
I’m a young breast cancer survivor and instead of wigs and scarves I wore my bald head proudly during treatment! Many strangers have commented that I look beautiful bald or that I have a nice round head! I’ve also received many shout outs from my fellow survivors. It’s been so nice to receive compliments, smiles, and words of encouragement during such a rough few months-always nice to be reminded of all of the good in the world!
E.Lee
I bake my elderly neighbor, but cannot do it often due to my hectic schedule. My mom thinks that it is nice of me to bake for him, but he has diabetes and is recently widowed. Mom worries that he’ll eat too much and make himself sick, so she discourages me from baking for him. My neighbor knows this, and said to my mom, “don’t stop your daughter from baking; she has talent.” That compliment meant a lot to me.
Jen
When my future husband told me forever would not be long enough to spend with me! Swoon.
JenN
It’s not an overt compliment, but I always turn into a ball of mush when someone tells me “I’ve missed you!” Who doesn’t like knowing they’re important to someone?
Linda
Someone once said that I moved like a martial artist. That was cool.
kirsten
“you look like you’d be high-maintenance but you’re really just the opposite”
Pam
Best compliment: kids saying I want to be just like you when I grow up… gives you a lot to be proud of and a lot to live up to.
Kari
I work as a receptionist at a doctor’s clinic. Weeks after helping a patient figure out a complicated insurance issue, the patient showed up randomly at the office with a huge bag of snacks and thanked me for helping. I rarely get thanked & this just blew me away.
artemis
Love the blanket! And the kindle! And love you!
Liz Rogers
One of the best compliments I ever received was by a friend sharing a personal struggle. He said, “I feel like I can tell you this and you won’t judge me.”
Elizabeth
Said at the OB, “awww – your uterus is so small and cute!” This has happened twice. No joke.
P.S. Thanks for hosting this giveaway. These gifts look awesome!
Kimberly C.
I have red hair so my eyelashes are really light. A friend of mine told me they looked gold and were the prettiest that he’s ever seen, I’ve never forgotten that!!
Mila
the best compliment i ever received was that i bring people together. ^____^
steph
That I had a warm and calming presence in the workplace. With all the craziness that often happens, I was glad to hear that! It is always inspiring to hear things about yourself that you might not have considered. It definitely makes me want to do the same for others! A few kinds words go a long way :)
Anna Rentmeesters
“You are a gud teachr” in a note written by a first grade student.
Kate
Someone told me she liked who I was as a person.
Sarah Jeske
That I am honest in my feedback and direct in my communication with others.
Tine
I’m a teacher and most often work as a substitute teacher; It is a good feeling when my students don’t want me to leave their classes but one class even gave me a ‘thank you card’ and a huge bouquet of flowers as a good bye present. This made me smile the whole day.
And now say something nice to someone else: Joy, this is one of my favourite blogs and I visit it every day, because you make great things!!
puneet
Love the giveaway :).
Best compliment I have received is from my parents when they tell me how proud they are of me :)
Brittany
The best compliment I have ever received was from a person I would have expected it the least. She said I was very strong willed and brave. She admires my courage and attitude to not care what other people think and appreciates that I can just be myself. I rarely receive compliments about my character. I think it made my whole year knowing that people can appreciate and recognize qualities and aspects of a person besides beauty and fashion.
Becky
I was told I was a great communicator. Thought that was a great compliment!
Avery Joshua
i’m most encouraged when people compliment my creative side =)
Devorah
My grandad asked me today where I’d been hiding my voice when I sang Defying Gravity in the living room. It made me feel so much more secure and proud of my talents.
Brittani R.
I love it when I become friends with people who used to just be acquaintances, and they tell me they have always wanted to get to know me better because I always seem happy.
Love this giveaway!
Judith
I live in Zimbabwe and once had a young safari guide tell me that a certain HIV & AIDS youth programme changed his life. He didn’t know that I had designed and implemented the programme. It was the best compliment I could have received!
Kristin
Love it when my hubby tells me I’m a great mom. And on a more superficial note, a stranger at Costco once told me I have perfect skin ;)
Audrey
From a coworker – You are a firecracker!
michelle
I was recently told my a table I was waiting on that I could be another local lady’s twin and that we were both beautiful woman. it was nice to just hear that from a stranger.
Philadelphie
i love it when people say “ÿou speak french really well”
Maggie
I recently started writing again and my friends have been so supportive and really encouraging me to continue. Their feedback and excitement has been the best compliment and motivator ever!
Gaelen
First of all, I will start out by giving a compliment to you, Joy. I know the intention of your post was not to receive, but I would like to say that your blog is the only blog I follow. Your writing is down-to-earth and full of humor, your pictures are wonderful, and your recipes are inspiring. I always get excited when I receive an email from “Joy the Baker” and I click to find out if you have a new recipe for me to try out, or a new story that I might relate to.
Now for a compliment I have received. One day after work I was walking through downtown DC and a biker passes me on the street. A second later he shouts “nice legs” at which point I turn around to see him shrug and ride on. The manner in which he said it was non-threatening with no expectation or chance for me to reply. He was merely making a comment, leaving me with a pep in my step. This is not the best compliment I have ever received, but it certainly is one of the most memorable!
Heather
Brilliant giveaway Joy! The best compliment I’ve ever received is my wonderful sister-in-law writing me a letter for my 40th birthday and telling me she’s proud of me for the life transformation I’ve made in the last few years. It means the world to me xxx
A Nasmyth
I have been a hobby photographer for years now but was recently told by a coworker/friend how talented they think I am. It made my day,
Shannon
While I was first dating my now husband, my roommate at the time said to me “you’re so easy to fall in love with.” Best compliment I’ve ever received and that was 15 years ago!
Maggie
Best complement I’ve received: “you should open a bakery!”
allison
i love this giveaway!! and i love thinking back to compliments received which is so unusual.
i work for an organization with grassroots volunteers and one of our older volunteers once told me that he would be proud to have me as his granddaughter. it just felt so personal and heartwarming.
Molly
Recently I was told I was “a safe friend, and kind.” Made my year!
Leslie J
Getting compliments on how well behaved, and sweet my daughters are.
Allison E.
On New Years Eve many years ago, someone told me that I had been the best part of their year. That was pretty awesome!
Donna Schultz
Best compliment? When my 21-yr.-old son began seeing a new young woman while away at college, before meeting her I asked him what she was like. His answer: “Well, she really reminds me a whole lot of you, Mom.” I was delighted to know my son wanted to spend so much time with someone who reminded him of me, and then even more so when we met her and saw how truly lovely she was. (p.s.–That lovely young woman is now our beloved daughter-in-law :)
Love, love, love your blog!
Heather Carr
It’s hard to choose just one compliment that’s “the best.” But any comment about being a good mother, or teacher or receiving a compliment from one of my students (because you know kids are so honest) are best compliments I love to receive. Thanks for hosting the giveaway, looks amazing!
Sarah Widger
Best compliment I’ve received? “Let me have the honor of being the first to tell you today that you are beautiful, caring, creative, thoughtful, funny, and very cuddly”
How I’ve paid it forward? Trying to find little things to comment on for everyone I’ve come into contact with (even those I don’t necessarily like very much). It’s helped me have a better outlook on life in general by accepting and noticing good little things.
Kristina N.
My husband told me he couldn’t have made up a more perfect wife than me and that I make his life better every single day. Made me swoon.
Tabitha
My favorite compliment so far has come my way a few times, but it never fails to rock my world and make me smile: “You’re my favorite teacher”–an incredibly sweet, genuine compliment from disgruntled fifteen-year-olds. :D
Delaney
A little girl stopped me yesterday on the street and said, “Hi, you’re really pretty.” Such a little thing (that has never happened to me before) that brightened my day.
Nikki
The best compliment I ever received came from my husband on our wedding day. He looked at me and said I make him a better person and that he admires all of the love and open arms that I have for my family and friends. He’s a keeper. :) Thanks for the giveaway, Joy!
Isela G.
The best compliment I ever received was being told I was a naturally great teacher and that I imagine learning fun.
Samantha G
Just wrapped my internship today and the people that I worked with were so kind to say that I went above and beyond and was a huge help to them this summer. It made me feel like less of an intern and more like a real person!
Jules
One I remember the most is when I worked at a bank walk-up window, the man I started to help just stared at me blankly for a few seconds and then said, in all seriousness, “Sorry. I just got lost in your eyes.” And after I helped him he left me a note saying “You’re beautiful. Have a beautiful day.”
Jessica
This last week my 3 year old son was talking to daddy and told him I was the most beautiful mommy ever, I overheard them from the kitchen, it melted my heart. Oh that boy.
Jodie
The best compliment I’ve received is when one of my team members said I was her mentor.
Jarrah
An ex used to ask me at the end of the day: “How did you kick ass today?” It was a compliment because it showed faith in me, and it was also a great self-esteem booster because it made me reframe my day to look past the little frustrations and see how I might have overcome a difficult situation or excelled at a task or done something to help someone else.
Julia
best compliment i’ve ever received: my friend telling me my singing voice is as pretty as julie andrews’s. will of course pass on a compliment to a stranger, but I’ll leave one for you, too, joy–your blog is a delight to read and your recipes are delicious. have a great day!
Amanda
“You always know how to make me feel better”
Kristi
The best compliment I’ve received was many years ago, and was that I’m honest and true to myself. That one still makes me feel good whenever I think of it.
Leigh
You have great taste! I was so flattered when several co-workers told me they always read my entire email. Seems silly, but for people who receive a hundred ish emails every day and typically only skim them, I appreciated knowing that they take the time to read mine through because I try to inject some humor into the helpful.
Clara
My sister-in-law, who usually thinks I am totally clueless when in comes to fashion, hairstyles, makeup, etc.; said my hair looked nice.
Danielle
Best compliment I ever received was when someone told me that I make them want to be a better person…powerful and touching!
Meagan
My best friend called me “Super-Mags” in high school, because no matter how big my workload was, or how much I had going on, I got things done. Now, 14 years later, my boss told me in my review recently that everyone knows to “go to Meagan when they need something done quick and done right.”
Kelsey
i came back to work after a few days off, and the first thing my manager said was ‘saturday was a disaster without you around’. it was a huge compliment to know that i make such a difference at my job!
Toni
“Thank you so much for providing my daughter with some healthy recipes. You are just a really nice, good person”
Susan C.
My grown son told us he hoped to be as good a parent to his kids as we had been to him. No better compliment ever!
Melissa
This week someone told me I had the most infectious laugh. Love it!
Lisa
When random strangers tell me i have pretty blue eyes. Thanks for the chance to win cool stuff!
Joan
Love this! My best compliment lately was when I was told I was sincerely missed while I was away on maternity leave. It wasn’t easy coming back to work, but it felt good to know that I had an awesome work family to return to! Of course maybe the better compliment that day was the HUGE smile my boy gave me when I picked him up from daycare :-)
Scherry
Best compliment ever was being told from significant other that I was genuinely the most caring kind hearted person they had ever met and had more patience than they could ever imagine. Said they wished they could learn to be more like me.
Jenna
Had to give a presentation at my new job that I was frrreaking out about before hand… I felt unprepared and nervous and even though I poured a lot of hours into it I had a minor meltdown before it. After presenting, pretty embarrassed and sure I blew it, I asked if there were any questions. The main colleague I was presenting to who I don’t know well spoke up saying, “Yeah. One. How are you so awesome?” then thanked me for putting it all together.
I just looked at another coworker who was in the know of my mental health state leading up to the presentation (my eyes wide and eyebrows raised) and told the compliment giver, “No sweat… it was my pleasure.” Whhhhhhat a relief!
Lesson learned: Stop doubting yourself all the time. Shoulders back, push through, you are much more competent than you give yourself credit for… chill out about perfection because fake-it-till-you-make-it is a complete and utter thing.
PS JTB, you are my favorite of all time. Lovelovelove.
Shenise
My friends have all told me I give them inspiration to do better in life.
Lauren s
Someone asks if I make jewelry professionally after seeing me wear one of my pieces. It’s definitely just a hobby but it felt great for the design to be appreciated!
Joslyn
Best Comment Ever: Someone called me statuesque once. It was awesome.
Madeline
One of the best compliments I’ve received was when I was telling a friend that I didn’t know what I was doing with my daughter, 6 mos. old now, and felt so clueless all the time and was just trying to figure it out day by day. My friend told me that my perspective was exactly what was making me a good mom: knowing I wasn’t an expert and to just try my best in the most loving way possible. It made me feel so much better! I hope to let other people know how much of a good job they’re doing in their lives, with all the day to day struggles everyone faces.
Julie Kate
The best compliment I’ve received in a long time has to be when my, now, bosses told me that I blew them away in my job interview. Like whoa!!
Amber
The best compliment was that I’m passionate about the things I set out to do and it shows that I care. Working for a major corporation, it’s nice to know I’m not just part of the rat race and it comes across how I’m invested in my work.
Andrea
Best compliment ever . . . “do you wear makeup?” No, not really. “Well you don’t need to, you have beautiful skin.” said to me by a complete stranger. Totally made my day because I had just found out that I have a mild form of rosacea and was feeling blue about my always rosy cheeks.
Suze Sharman
A friend told me once that I tell good stories. I am a bit shy sometimes and feel like my stories can be boring (feelings I haven’t shared with this friend) so to hear that made me feel pretty great! Thanks for the giveaway, hope you don’t melt!
Lela
My four year old nephew saying “You can come on my camping trip too – it’ll be much more fun with you!”
Great giveaways, though 3000:1 aren’t great odds :-)
Happy Summer, everyone!
Mar
best compliment? my niece telling me that i’m so cool!
Jodie
I was part time reception at a car dealership (while going to school – job I met my husband at) and the GM (who hired me) told me that I “was attractive for someone so efficient”. Then he gave me a raise – but blew my mind! What a backhanded compliment, but it really changed the way I looked at myself. I had never thought of myself as attractive (smart, glasses, and as a teenager, braces) so efficient, I could do.
Thanks for doing the giveaway – hope I win!
Emilie WO
I find it difficult to pick a favorite compliment, because I really appreciate every compliment I get. But I become really flattered when my Mum tells me how much my little sister looks up to me :)
Allison
A coworker once told me that she wished her daughter would be like me when she grows up. That made me feel great!
Micah
“You have a beautiful smile” – i guess this was said to me because i rarely smiled.. So as to encourage me to smile more. Hahaha which i actually considered. And i smile as often as i could now..without looking crazy.
Shamima
My best compliment was that everyone thought my son was my husband.I do not look my age
Denise in Austin
My hair is curly, wavy, messy; so when anyone tells me it ‘looks nice today’, it makes me feel really good all day long (even after it frizzes up). I had dinner last night with my cousin who just finished her chemo/radiation treatments last week. She shaved her head when her long beautiful strawberry blond hair started coming out in clumps. When she walked into the restaurant I told her how great it was that her hair grew back so quickly and how pretty her long brown hair looked. She has another wig that is shorter and has blond highlights, I can’t wait to see it. She looked beautiful and felt more normal than she had in months. Her battle with cancer may not be over, but she is a beautiful warrior and I tell her so every time I see her.
Gabija
One guy told me that I have the prettiest smile :) I think I got even cuter ones but that’s the first one I remembered!
Sophie F
He that I have a beautiful mind. It stuck with me because that’s something that will get better with age (if all goes well).
Sara Redd
I was going to pick up doughnuts one morning and, when my name was called, I went to the counter to pick up my box. I said to the woman behind the counter, “thank you so much!” She replied, “thank YOU so much for having such a lovely demeanor.” Who knew that doughnuts could make you feel so good in places other than your tummy?
Hollis
The best compliment I have ever received was ‘You are the most delightfully animated person that I have ever met’. Made me smile for days. :)
Abbi
best compliment I ever received? That one of my friends admired me for always being able to find the good in people no matter what and that she wished she could do the same. I try hard to be positive and this made me feel like people notice and that maybe I could inspire people to think the same way!
Lbell
When a friend says, “you’re a great person to talk to,” after a hard day.
Nastaren
“You have raised such a remarkable daughter”
Summer
My husband telling me I was the strongest person he knows, after I gave birth to our son.
Andrea Ochab
Best compliment ever? That my friends routinely tell me I’m loyal and trustworthy, and they tell me things they don’t share with others because they know they can rely on me.
Kirsten Spear
“you smell like sunshine” was a pretty good one from middle school. A simple, eye to eye, and genuine “you are nice” from my then 5 year old daughter made my heart sing.
kelly
Oh, beautiful giveaway! The best compliment I’ve received is hearing that I am”good at playing” from my children!
Lindsay
I teach middle school and always appreciate any compliment from a student. I recently had a student tell me I had nice eyebrows – not the best compliment ever, but it struck me as so funny and sweet and still sticks with me!
Jena Rose
Wow, Joy, I really appreciate you doing the old school blog giveaway–so tired of having to like every social media to have even a slightest chance!
The best compliment I’ve ever received was at a market, where I was selling my mom’s homemade goat’s milk soap. This young lady came up to me, listened, and, as she turned to walk away, told me that I was absolutely gorgeous. Completely made my day and left this goofy smile on my face :)
emily
At a training a couple of weeks ago I got a note from one of the other trainees saying I was inspiring. I keep the note in my bag for when I feel like I’m not making a difference.
Jeanie
Recently someone told me I was pensive, that I listened so well and seemed to synthesize everything into poetic little bites. No one had ever called me pensive before- it made my whole body shiver with delight!
Carmela
These prizes look amazing! Thanks for running this, Joy. In terms of compliments, the best one I’ve received lately came from the guy from TaskRabbit who helped me move. It was just the two of us and after lifting a lot of the stuff myself, he told me, “You are pretty strong for your size! Really!” I’m about 5 feet tall so almost as small as they go. :)
Jeanette
My BFF told me that she admired my strength and resilience when I was at a particularly low point. It was meaningful to have someone who knows me so well remind me of what I have overcome. It really helped me persevere.
Allie
a client of mine, a much older man who i don’t know very well, clipped a magazine article about a woman ceo and gave it to me. he told me it made him think of me. i was blown away!
Sally
Probably the best compliments are the unexpected ones… Someone at band practice said my hair looked really nice; on that particular day I was having an ‘omg my hair is so bad’ day so it made me happy. Also the same day someone else said my clarinet playing was “lovely” so :)
Kelsey
I’m in college and work at a shoe store part time. Sometimes the stress of day to day happenings can take a toll. So when a costumer takes the time out of their day to thank me for my time, It makes me feel like my job is worthwhile. It always puts a smile on my face to know that I’ve helped someone!
Melissa
One of the best compliments I’ve received is when a yoga teacher told me that they could tell how much my practice has grown – felt good after lots of practicing !
Brianna
A few years ago while I was at work, I was helping a customer with a routine problem and she became so grateful and thankful for my help. She gave me a hug and told me that I was amazing and that I really helped her. I was shocked, but it felt so good to have made someone else happy.
Kelly
I get complimented by people for always smiling. It’s a surefire way to make a good impression: keep smiling. Even when I feeling grumpy, plastering on a smile can brighten my day!
Kaianne
This is such a nice giveaway! In the last few months, I’ve met a few people who have told my boyfriend, “Oh you are so lucky to have her!”. This really struck me, because it really caught me by surprise, but also because I often feel as though my boyfriend is really great, and that I am lucky that he keeps me around – so it was nice to hear someone else commenting on how lucky he is that I’m so great ;)
Laurie
Last new years eve someone told me I had luscious, awesome hair. Or this past week at work when a co-worked said I was very good at what I did (as an IT consultant).
pamela
awesome giveaway! i’ve always loved your blog.
best compliment was i was told my outfit was really cute.
Christina
“You have a truly kind heart.” To have someone sincerely tell you that–! I was (and still am) bowled over. Kindness is so hard but so worth doing. Thank you for being someone who reminds me of this on a regular basis!
Kylah
I met someone recently who told me that I was not like anyone they had ever met before. It seems so simple but it made me feel pretty great.
Maggie
The best comment I can remember getting may not seem all that special, but it was so heartfelt that it has stayed with me. One my friends from college recently wrote me a letter thanking me for being a friend even when we weren’t physically close. “You have always inspired me…I thank you for being a light to my life over the years.”
Those words have made my days brighter many times over. :)
Lindsay
Best compliment and the only one I need to hear? That I’m a good mom! It makes everything else worth it :)
Jamie Gingerelli
I love when my boyfriend tells me I’m the most beautiful girl in the entire place- wherever we may be!
Rebecca
I love it when people can’t stop eating the food I’ve made — it’s like the best silent compliment! This happened yesterday when I made the snacks for my brother’s recital reception. Everyone was devouring the homemade cookies and crackers :)
Rebecca elmore
Best compliment ever: being told I am an artist by my best friend.
Me
The best compliment is when he tells me how happy I make him.
Nicole Rees
Probably the best compliment I’ve received is a kid telling me that I am their favorite nurse! It is the best feeling!
Jinny
An ex boyfriend said he was first interested in me bc I had a great handshake for a woman. ;)
Kelley Maddox
I was recently told I make other people better. I was so happy to hear it since I’ve been working to recognize the best in everyone and zone in on it to help pull it out even more. Love you Joy. Thanks for making me a better baker.
Jessie CT
Everything here looks amazing! I’m a huge fan of the podcast
Natasha McGarry
I love it when people comment on how friendly my kids are. :)
Danielle
I’m pretty self-conscious about my frizzy-mess of hair, so whenever I get complimented on a good hair day, it makes me smile my biggest smile! (ps: you’re the best, JTB!)
Christina
My favorite compliment recently came from my 2-year old nephew when I was trying on wedding dresses for the first time. I came out in a big white dress and he said “Where’s Didi?” My mom said “That’s Didi right there!” and he replied “That’s Princess Didi!” It absolutely melted my heart and was the best part of the day.
Katie
A good friend once told me “you are loyal, and loyal friends are hard to come by”
I will never forget it, and it made my quiet, introvert heart happy for weeks.
Lisa
Joy, I look forward to your blog for creative idea’s! Waiting patiently for your second cookbook to be released!!!!
Kimmie
I’m not a “girly” girl – I’ve always been overweight, a very casual dresser, a nature lover. I’m all good with that – I’m happy with who I am. I play sax with a guy who is very smart, talented and good looking to boot. One day he told me I was looking sexy – that really made my day!!
I try to give at least a small truthful compliment to everyone I meet – it’s an easy kindness – and everyone can use a bit of kindness in their life.
Sarah Rachel
I was once told that a dress I and how I was wearing it was “what every woman dreams of.” Woah!
Ella
Best compliment is a hard one! Mabye my dad telling me that I am super brave girl and that I never give my self enough credit when we were sailing on one hull almost tipping over and I was freaking out.
Ashley
“You know how to hold a conversation.” My dad would be so proud of that and my handshake!
Meg
I’ve been going down a bad spiral of self-doubt with increasingly negative feelings about myself as I am trying to finish my dissertation this summer. I wasn’t able to go to a conference to present my work because I’m behind in my chapter drafts, so my graduate advisor agreed to present on my behalf. He sent me an email afterwards to say that the presentation went really well, people were interested in my work, and that he hoped he was able to convey how creative and intelligent my research is. I can’t express how much his support means to me and it truly has helped motivate me to see my project through to the end.
Stephanie
You are the hardest worker I’ve ever met. :)
Rebecca S.
Back when I was in high school, my favorite English teacher said that he thought that my passion for the subject and positive attitude in the classroom would make me a great teacher someday (my dream career at the time). Even though I ended up pursuing something different, it still felt so lovely to be recognized in that way by someone I truly respected and looked up to.
Nichole
Someone I barely knew had eaten a meal I made and told me I was extremely talented and should start a business with my cooking and baking. Made my year!
Riley
Best compliment? When someone really liked a super gross soup that I made. I’ve had my eye on that weekender bag AND the nail polish for a while!
Myfanwy James
A friend told me I was selfless after helping her through a hard time – that really made me feel good about myself :)
Jennifer @ recipe for random
I love your nails! Which makes me happy since I am crazy obsessed with nail polish. ;)
Erin F
I was told by a stranger that I was a good mom after she had been observing us for some time.
Rosie
Last week I had a work colleague tell me how much he enjoyed working with me. My industry can be a little cut throat/machismo at times so it was nice to hear something good for a change.
JJ Blandford
I was shopping with my toddler and trying to explain why I could touch glassware and she couldn’t. I was stopped by a stranger in a store and she just wanted to tell me that I was doing a great job as a mom. As a mom with littles, I am used to unkind glances full of judgement and unsolicited parenting advice. Made my day to be told that I was doing something well.
Cali
About half way through this summer an intern told me I explained concepts we’ll–iut was so nice!!
Pamela
My daughter told me she was so happy to have me as a mother. Best compliment ever.
Colleen
Best compliment I ever received was probably how polite and well behaved my kids are. Hopefully that means I’m doing something right and not screwing them up entirely!!
Stephanie
My three year old told me I looked like a princess when he saw me dressed for a wedding I was in. I melted.
Laurie
I am a medical resident and we work long hours in a stressful environment so when one of my coworkers told me that seeing me makes his day, it felt really good!
Christy t.
You have changed my life.
Liz
As a brand new intern learning the ropes of how to be a good doctor, I spent 2 weeks working closely with a patient after she had been taken to the OR twice, once after a complication from surgery.
On her last day as she was wheeled out of her room, she stopped, gave me a hug and said,
“You’re the best doctor I’ve ever had and I’ll never forget you.”
24 years of education and 80 hour work weeks are worth it.
Anioni
I love this giveaway, and I can enter, even from Finland. My teenage son told me a while ago that he’s glad I’m his mom and I’m the best mom that he could ever have had. My heart melted…
Susan Gold
After thirty years, an old employee found me on Facebook and wanted to tell me how I had mentored her into a successful business woman. I am still smiling!
Judith
My boyfriend called me a short haired hottie the other day. That was pretty awesome!
Claire
My sister once told me I’m the friend of everyone in our family–and that makes me smile still! :)
My
A surprising compliment I received was that I had very nice elegant hands (whilst shopping for engagement rings!). Thanks for the contest and have a great day!
Rai
Ummmm can’t wait to win this one!!!! Everything is my favorite thing ever ……
Joyce Nutzmann
best compliment ~ last week when my brother told me I was looking younger, and I am 64.
Wendy Holm
The best compliment I ever received was from toddler in a checkout line ahead of me at the grocery store. He must have been just learning to speak because he kept pointing to things and saying what they were (candy,mom, etc). He pointed at me and said ‘pretty’ and it melted my heart!!
Bev
My best compliment was when a usually quiet good friend told me I was fun to be around. (We were in the middle of doing a crossword puzzle in a pub.) The funny thing is he was the cool one and much more fun to hang out with by far.
Kelly
I was told I had well mannered kids!
Vandisa
“You are so original and beautiful because you are different.”
It is incredible how a few words can fill your heart and put a huge smile on your face, isn’t it? :-)
I love your blog, Joy.
Keep on enjoying life the way you do!
Vanessa
Awesome giveaway! The best compliment I’ve received… Hrmm… Probably from my husband saying “you cook such nice food. Our family is so lucky to have you.” Giving the gift of a meal made at home with love is something I am happy I can do.
Susan
My husband and I were in the Museum of Science in Chicago last week and a little girl, maybe 10, told me she liked my dress. I was so taken aback – we were there without kids (and ours are in college) and she was not the least bit shy about it. It totally made my day!
Mimi
Last Sunday, someone told me ‘so much beauty in you’ idk why it made me blush. Not like I’ve never been told I’m pretty, just the beauty in me means inward and out!
Kay Gedminas
“You make me feel like I’m the most important person in the world!”
Lisa
This summer during the closing of a conference, my co-workers told me they found me wise and mature in my insights. This was particularly sweet since I am often told how young I look! They also didn’t know this, but wisdom is a character trait I have desired for years.
Bec
One of the best compliments I have received was from my pop, who grew up poor, and worked so many hours per day when he was young that he only managed about 4 hours sleep per night. He was always doing physically laborious jobs, and didn’t have the chance to learn to read or write. I was completing my Honours year at uni while working and living in a city a few hours away from my family. He told me that I was a hard worker. It seems silly that that is the compliment that comes to mind, but was the hardest worker I’ve known, so it really stuck with me.
Farrah
Nice giveaway, Joy! Thanks for doing it!
Yesterday I went to the salon and got my hair cut & colored for the first time in forever. I stopped by the mall on the way home, and as soon as I got there a woman stopped to tell me how beautiful my hair was. It definitely took some of the sting out of spending $130 on my hair. Bonus points to my husband for noticing that shiz right away too!
Sincere compliments, given & received, are the actual best!
Veena
When my son was not quite two, he got into a cuddly mood and told me I was beautiful. Best compliment to date :)
breakfastwithivory
best comment I received this year was that i am very forgiving
(i hope I haven’t commented more than I should I just can’t seem to see my comments popping up)
Angela
A random stranger in downtown once told me that my smile will take me far in life. It made my smile even bigger.
Elisha Watson
Once someone told me I was one of the funniest people they knew. That made me so happy because laughter is so important and laughing with friends just makes the world seem so much better.
Maureen
A friend told me I was the best person for a good book recommendation… as an avid reader this was a great compliment!
Jo Taban
Awesome giveaway! Thanks for sharing your favorite things Joy!
The best compliment I ever received went something like this; “How are you always so calm? How do you do it? You have so much going on and you are just so calm and on top of things.”
=)
Alexandra
Someone told me recently that I’m very open. That made me feel good because it’s something I strive to be.
erinmaynie
So many goodies Joy! I think the best compliment I’ve ever received was while sitting on thr couch on a lazy Sunday afternoon (read: yoga pants, no make up, hair a shambles) and my boyfriend turning to me and saying… “You’re really pretty.” :)
Ellen
The best compliment I ever got was after someone saw my taiko group perform. She came up and said “You just make me want to DO more”. I loved that we made her inspired.
Amy
I love it when strangers compliment my nail polish color out of the blue. Somehow these compliments always seem to come at times when I’m stuck in my head and stressed out. These simple, kind words get me to de-stress and notice the beautiful world around me. So now I try to compliment strangers’ nail polish, just in case they could use a little reminder to stop and smell the roses….or at least admire how the roses match their nail polish.
Stella
Best compliment I received was from a VP at work that I really respected: “The way you carry yourself instills confidence in others.” Considering I practice the “fake it ’til you make it” brand of confidence, it meant so much to me to hear that, especially coming from someone I looked up to. I remind myself of that compliment whenever I’m feeling insecure and need a pick-me-up.
Lori
I was 28 when I decided to go back to school and finish my undergraduate degree. I was all sorts of emotions.. Nervous, scared, excited and anxious. More so, could I do it? I was surrounded by kids who were faster thinkers than me, smarter than me, and much more willing and able. I remember I had to take a public speaking class which terrified the heck of me. I was always that shy girl in the back that knew all the answers but so scared to raise her hand. I prayed so much on the first day to please let me make it out of this class alive..without passing out. I practiced religiously for my presentations. I had family and friends as my audience. I would record my presentations over and over and review them. I looked through YouTube and read books on becoming a better speaker. I did everything. I did get an A in that class. But I walked away with something even better. Our professor asked each student to stand up and share what they’ve learned or anything they would like to say. A girl who I never spoke to, stood up, and thanked me. She said I showed her what confidence looks like, how I truly looked comfortable, and found ways to engage the audience. She shared that she took notes during my presentations for things she could work on for her own presentations. I was speechless. Never in my wildest dreams I thought someone would compliment me on my public speaking abilities. I hope my story touches someone to face your fears and conquer them. Rawr. :)
Grace Ann
A friend once told me I was the sweetest person they knew. It made me smile all over. :-)
Heather M
I’m tied between the vain and the not so vain…I’m flattered by a kind compliment from a stranger, one night when I was at a bar celebrating a friend’s bachelorette party. (Going out is a very rare occurrence for me, and I appreciate him saying it to me. It made me feel good for days.) The not so vain was from a friend and co-worker, who expressed confidence in me and said “people listen to you”. Now I don’t think this is true, but I very much appreciate his sentiments and him expressing this to me, and come Monday, I am going to try to carry the confidence he has in me into work. Thanks for the chance to win! You have fantastic style and I’d love to curl up with any/all of your giveaway items, most especially that beautiful weekender bag!
Rachel Peters
The best compliment I’ve ever received was that I was “a fascinating and interesting person”. This was from someone I greatly respect so for them to actually see ME was so encouraging.
Crystal F
I was recently told that I missed my decade….that I could’ve been a pinup. Oh, & I have a gorgeous smile!
Irum
“I like your outlook on life”
Gretta
I’m totally into giveaways – I hope you give away a free trip to New Orleans so we can experience it too!
Sarah Todd
One time my boss (a chef) screamed on my behalf… “SHE DOESN’T MAKE MISTAKES!!!” That was the best compliment I have ever received.
Alexis
This may not be the best compliment I’ve ever received but it was the most memorable. It was a really hot day and I had a long day ahead of me and as I was walking to work I hear coming from inside a parked car “good morning, Ms. Pretty”. I didn’t even turn around to see who it came from but it made me smile and lightened the rest I my day. It was a welcome (and surprising) change from the typical sidewalk commentary and catcalls.
Uschi
Thanks for your wonderful Blog. I got a lot of compliment after baking from your recipes…..
And my best compliment was that my daughter told me that it is so good that she have a mum like me…..
Kind regards and a lot of compliments from Nürnberg , Germany
Uschi
Bekah M.
When my husband tells me I am a blessing to him. <3
ohshineon
best compliment? how about the weirdest? someone once told me i have really nice arm hair….
Linda
Someone once told me that I moved like a martial artist. I thought that was cool.
Dana
Fun giveaway! Best compliment for me is “You’re just like your mom!” (She’s the absolute best)
Katie
The other day, someone said I have good posture. What! No, I don’t but I like to think maybe I do (I am tall so I tend to slump over).
Marisa
The best compliment I have received thus far is to be told that a small thing I’ve done has had a great impact. Tiny gestures of kindness/thoughtfulness can go far.
Victoria
I think the best thing someone has told me was that I cared about them as a person and wasn’t just working for a paycheck. It really felt nice to hear it from someone without an agenda! Great giveaway!
Prathi
The best compliment is when I woke up one day feeling crappy about my hair, my dark circles .. Etc and just then my 3 year old daughter looks at me and says ‘mommy you look really pretty’ :))
Jennifer
One time this girl I was tutoring told me that it was incredibly sexy that a young woman like me was so good at math. Made me feel great — I love showing other girls that you can be badass at math and science! Let’s rule the world, ladies!
Amy Pellicer
The best compliment I have received was this year from my 4 year old son who told me that I was Beautiful! Out of the blue, he walked up to me & said “Mom, you are Beautiful!” This mama melted right there on the spot! It still brings a smile to my face when I think of it! :)
Mor
I once helped out my brother-in-law study for a test, and my niece asked my sister why I was helping him, so she told her I was one of the smartest people she knew. My niece then proceeded to go about shouting “My aunt is smart, my aunt is smart!”. So it’s kind of a double compliment, from both my sister and my niece :-)
Erin
What a great combo of stuff! The best compliment I’ve ever received was a friend telling me she loves my laugh.
Kathryn Metz
I teach English abroad. I had a student who was terribly shy and petrified to speak English aloud, even though his written English was at a native speaker’s level. I took his reluctance to speak as a sign that he didn’t like me or my lessons. One day he skipped class and sent this note to make up for it https://www.facebook.com/csajszi6/activity/492800110830266 Totally brightened my day and gave me a big laugh!
Sarah
Love your blog Joy! Its a wonderful topic for a giveaway, too… I happen to love giving compliments to people and am always looking for ways to make people smile. The smiles on my students’ faces when I point out their beautiful handwriting or their cool new shoes is priceless – it makes my day too!! Best compliment I’ve gotten: “You are perfect just the way you are.” I was recently told this by someone I truly look up to and respect was reminded that I need to learn to believe in myself as much as others do : -)
Katie L
After teaching my first ever yoga class one student came up to me and complimented my teaching style, she said i explained things in a way that meant she finally understood how to do a couple of postures for the first time ever – and she had been coming to yoga for 5 years by that point – this absolutely made my day as i had stuttered, stammered and fumbled my way through the hour damn near having a panic attack the whole time (so much for yogic calm!) and was convinced everyone thought i was a gibbering idiot!!
Carolyn Ayton
I’m constantly being told that I seem older than I am. Most of the time I take it as an insult, but recently I went through the whole, “Actually, I’m 23.” routine with a lady I work with, and got the usual, “But you seem so much older than that!” response, except this time she said it’s because I carry myself so well. I’m going to pretend that’s what everyone says from now on.
Brenda
That I’m beautiful, from my daughter… Great giveaway!!
Asha
The best compliment I ever received: a friend of my mothers had a son who had a crush on me in high school. When he realized I didn’t like him he was devastated and his mom told him “don’t worry Mike, you just have to be the kind a of guy that a girl like her would fall in love with, and one day you’ll meet someone.” I’ll never forget that even though it was years ago. That someone thought so highly of me still makes me blush!
Angela
I’m cheating and leaving two I’ve gotten recently. 1) I’ve been in a new position in my job lately, which puts me in a supervisory (is that a word) position, which is not my comfort zone. A co-worker I don’t know very well told me out of the blue I was doing a great job. 2) I cut my hair into a pixie cut a few months ago and randomly at a basketball tournament a man (in a non-creepy way) told me my haircut was great.
kris betcher
Love you, Joy. My favorite compliment is from my daughter, “mommy, you’re the best mommy and the best cook in the world.””
Ana F
Best compliment I have ever received is from my 30 yr old daughter who told me I am an amazing mom… hey it doesn’t get any better than that :)
Roxanne Russell
A random stranger stopped me as I was walking past and said, “you are the most beautiful woman.” No subtext, no expectations. I was embarrassed, but felt beautiful and empowered. 10 years later I still remember the situation and how it made me feel so vividly.
diniblini
The best compliment I ever received was from a business communications professor of mine, on th last day of class who told me that I would do well because I was a “smart cookie.” For some reason it made me feel super elated and I when I told my flatmate about it later she was like, “I mean, of all the cookies you could be, that’s not a bad one!” And that made me feel doubly complimented :P
Cara
One of the best compliments I have received is that my identity is not intrinsically wrapped up in my children. I love them dearly but I also think it is important to remember who you are as an individual and what your passions are apart from motherhood. So when someone meets me and says, “Wow, you’re a mom!!?”, I take it as a compliment!
Kristin P
I teach Special Ed and had a pair of brothers for many years each in my Resource program. Never a single gift or thank you from mom over the years despite our team putting a lot of time and effort into the boys. When the older one finished fifth grade, he brought me a single carnation as a thank you on the last day of school. I know it was all him going to the effort and it totally made me cry without him saying a single word. Moments like that make all the other crap worthwhile!
Victoria
What good stuff that you’ve put together to giveaway!
My most “cherished” compliment was at a summer camp when I was 12. There were all these girls who kept talking after lights out. So the counselors decided enough was enough and we would ALL have to get out of bed and go outside and run until they decided we could go back to bed. Every night it was the same chatty cathies and every night we all had to run. One night, we ran, went back to bed, and then had to get up and run again because they started their talking again. So…The next night, I heard them across the gym where we were all sleeping snd I absolutely did NOT want to run again. I sat up and hollered across the gym that we had dobe enough running and that enough was enough and they just needed to be quiet and sleep. I had no idea, but at that exact moment, one of the male leaders had just come into the gym to let is know it was time to run. They were quiet after that. The next day, he to,d me that he came in. I thought I was going to be in trouble for being loud and “mean”, but he said he was surprised to hear me taking care of it and that that boldness was a good thing.
I haven’t told anyone to put a cork in it since…but, I protected my sleep and stood up to those girls and it was just nice to know that I am capable of standing up and leading even a group of chatty girls!
Hollis
Tonight we were at dinner for my fiance’s birthday. We’re getting married in four weeks and just picked out our wedding bands today. A stranger who mistook my fiance for someone else sent over a note with a birthday dessert that said “Happy birthday! You two make a very beautiful couple!” It was so random but the perfect thing for someone to say today.
Christina C
I was told by an elderly patient that I look like Linda Carter, every time I see him he calls me his wonder women.
Erin
Once about 15 years ago when I was walking down the street a woman yelled “Oh my Gaw, it’s Jooolia!” and then when she got a better look, explained that she’d thought I was Julia Roberts. She may have been mentally ill, but it put a little spring in my step the rest of the day!
MMM
The best compliment I’ve received was when my best friend said I was a very comforting person who makes her feel special
JennyK
this is an awesome giveaway! love your blog! best compliment was when a beloved mentor told me how proud he was of me.
Melanie C
Love your blog….seriously….I want to make all of your recipes.
My favorite compliment is when someone told me that I’m a great Mom. I love my kiddos.
Alanna
Someone once told me I was a great listener.
Katherine
Back when I was in high school, my principal stopped me in the hall one day and told me that my smile always brightened her day. It was the first time I realized what a simple smile can do for others.
Karen
“You are the best mom.”
Candice
When I was about seven I was talk-talking and my step aunt told me I was very observant. I was all yeah I Am observant! And since then I’ve always thought of myself as an observant person. ;)
Brooke
My daughter told me I was her favorite mamma ever…she’s 4 and I’m the only one she’s got but it still made my heart swell…love your blog, keep up the great work and keep being funny I love it!
Susan C
best compliment? Hard to say but being guessed for 10-15 years younger by much younger co-workers always makes me happy.
Thioni
Best compliment I can remember was someone telling me I was really brave and adventurous, two words I would have never used to describe myself. It made me happy, and reevaluate how I saw myself.
Dahlia
My mom always tells me I have a great tush. She’s a good Jewish mother.
Christina
My neighbor told me I was just like my daughter after I told her how my neurotic self needed to be able to hear if a burglar broke into her home while I was watching her kiddos. Best compliment ever! My 4 year old is hilarious, slightly neurotic, and sets me straight whenever I do and don’t need it!
LaLa
I have a colleague who often tells me I have the best sneezes. I assume for entertainment value, though I’m wise enough not to ask. It’s a funny compliment – it makes me smile. Achoo!
gizella
someone told me I had a lot of “paprika” which i rather liked.
Dara
Being told “you’re beautiful” with absolute love and sincerity.
Lindsey
the best compliment I ever received was recently when a friend told me I made mothering look effortless.. I hardly feel that way so it was very well received ;)
Shauna
Any time someone enjoys something I bake :)
Thanks for the giveaway!
Michelle
Love your good. Love your blog. Love the giveaways. Love that you want us to make someone else feel good by a compliment.
One of my favorite compliments is “your eyes are beautiful and exotic”-no matter how my body changes from pregnancy and age I can always rely on my eyes at their best :)
I’ll make sure to pass this compliment along
:)
Kallah
I would say for Christmas last year, I received canning jars from a coworker. It was a huge compliment since I give jams/jellies out for Christmas, and they recognized me for my canning talent :)
Elin
I bake like someone’s farm grandma!
Jessica
A coworker told me recently I was the “nicest sarcastic person” she knows!
Laura
That I looked really nice in a picture that was taken recently
ccpickett18
A friend texted me not too long ago asking for advice. Her reasoning for asking me was because she looked up to me as a “strong willed woman, who doesnt take shit or get down on herself and keeps a brave face even in rough situations.” I was so taken back by this and overwhelmed with emotion that someone thought of me in such a strong positive manner. Will never forget it, forever grateful for her kind words.
Natasha S
Great giveway! Thanks!
Laura
One of the most memorable compliments I received, just after I split from my ex, my best friend said that “he was always punching way above his weight with [me]”.
I feel I can now offer the same compliment to my little sister who’s going through a pretty tough break up to help her focus on herself and what’s ahead for her (and her ex was most certainly punching above his weight….though I didn’t say it whilst they were together).
Crystal Conway
I have gotten several compliments of people calling me a china doll because I have fair and clear skin, I always love that one!
Maureen
I was at a farmers market and order a funnel cake with my 15 year old son and the lady said, tell your sister her funnel cake is ready. That made my day!
andrea
Best compliment? How well pregnancy and motherhood suits me!
Erica
Someone once told me that I had a nose that a rockstar would be jealous of. I don’t even know what that means, but I loved it and have adored my nose ever since :)
Pam
Please be careful, I want you to come back, I need you!
Hazel Escott
A guy in my music class told me that I looked cute when I played the piano. On the outside I was like ‘aw thanks ?’ and on the inside I was like ‘asdfghjkl!’
Altair D
A friend told me recently that she could tell I was a good mom. My son is just 8 months old and I still feel like an amateur, so this was really encouraging.
Nicki
I just came from my very best friend’s bridal shower, which is perhaps why this memory came to mind. When applying to college (ten years ago), one university gave students the option to submit a personal letter of recommendation. My best friend wrote that letter on my behalf. The last line ended with, “you will benefit greatly from her presence; I know I certainly do.” I still have the stained, worn paper copy.
Meggie
Someone once told me that I have two types of smiles: a genuine one and a truly genuine one. Not only did it make my day, but it kind of astounded me that some people took the time and was thoughtful enough to make such observations about me and the world around them.
Leslie
A sweet employee at my fav snowball stand (Pandora’s) said that I have a pretty smile! I reciprocated, stating that she, too, has a pretty smile! I think she gives me extra syrup now!! Lol. Even though it is blazing hot – hope you are lovin New Orleans Joy! I’m a NOLA girl though and through!!
Indie
I have a spinal cord tumour and had very aggressive surgery to remove it that was unsuccessful, leaving me physically unable to walk. My neurosurgeon had never had the best bedside manner and had told my parents that the tumour would kill me. After 12 months of rehab to be able to walk alone (alongside chemo, radiation and an experimental treatment that I still do) I was finally able to walk unaided. Last year (almost 3 years on), I found out that the dr tells everyone that I am his ‘miracle patient’ which just made me feel so amazing and proud of what I had done, especially as I didn’t think he’d liked or cared about me that much!
Carrie
I recently got certified to teach yoga and an old friend came to one of my first classes. At the end, she told me if she didn’t know I was new, she would have never guessed it. It made me feel really great!
MIss @ Miss in the Kitchen
The best compliment I’ve ever received was that I have the best kids. Great giveaway and I love complimenting complete strangers!
Danica Schaefer
Someone once told me I was the funniest person they had ever met and they wished they could just spend one day being me. Awwwww! That felt great!
Carri Smith
My best compliment that I ever get is positive words about my 4 children – ages 26 to 11. Nothing makes a Mom feel better!
Vanilla Bean
best comment…probably when i had been in a rush to get out the door and was trying to be hopeful that i looked okay. Then my friend told me i looked better like that.
Jenn H
A friend who was going through some tough times told me I was a great listener – I was helpless to improve her situation, but was glad I was able to provide some support to her in some way.
linda boardman
best compliment I ever received was in a course evaluation from a student: “THIS is a learning environment”. Hope I can keep that up every semester!
Jess
Since I am 14, (middle school is thankfully over) people do not recieve many compliments. Middle School years are, to say the least, not your best time. One compliment I remember getting was from a friend saying that she loved my smile and every time i smiled it made her smile too.
btw I love your blog!
LeeH
My favorite type of compliment is ‘thank you, that was so nice of you’
I love acknowledgement that they noticed I’ve done something, makes me want to do it again.
Thank YOU for a good, old fashioned blog giveaway. I never enter the ones requiring following or, worse yet, Facebook.
Michelle
The best compliment I received was from my student this past year. I was working with her for months trying to help her with math and her confidence in herself (both go hand in hand). We finally had a breakthrough and she was able to do her math without becoming upset or burst out crying. Before school ended in June I began a math course to complete my university degree. I shared with the class that I was very nervous. Without a beat this student said, “Miss A… you tell me all the time that if you work hard and try your best, you’ll get it. You will do your best! I believe in you, you can do it!” That was the best compliment ever and it helped me get through this course. Joy comes in many packages.
Kimberly
I was once having a mini meltdown about my weight and my husband put a post-it on my mirror that said, “You’re the perfect size for me!” Totally made my day.
Sandi Soderstrom
My favorite compliment was that I give great advice because I really listen and understand people. Love your blog!
Stephanie
I was once told that I am one of the most trustworthy people said person knows…which felt like EVERYTHING to me that day.
Karen B.
Best compliment, “you’re so smart” which I’m not but it was fun to hear and it made me feel like I might be a little smart some of the time.
xo,
Karen
BMG
The best compliment that I have ever received was being told that I always send someone the perfect word or encouragement every time that they need it.
Christine
My husband tells me I’m beautiful, even when I have crazy hair (which is most of the time!).
Steph N
I received an incredibly sweet note from a former RA that I keep on my wall. She ended her lovely note by saying that I was a wonderful role model :]
(Great contest, by the way! Very touching.)
Rebecca W
So I totally love this!
I work at a medical clinic at the front desk, I recently had a patient tell me she wished she could call when she was having a bad day, just to hear me answer the phone, she said she could hear me smiling on the other end, and it always cheered her up! I was overwhelmed by this, I really try hard to be happy and cheerful even when my day is not going as planned, or when my body doesn’t like me. I was nice to be recognized for something I have been doing forever, and that it really matters to some one else! I told her to call anytime she needed a little pick me up, and she has!
summer
The best compliment I have ever received is pretty simple. Just having someone like my art and wanting to hang it on their wall.
sherrylynnek
My husband and I walk/run before work quite often. I throw on workout clothes, tie back my hair, and off we go. One morning a woman was walking in the opposite direction as us and told me that she loved my long hair. It seems silly, but when I’m dressed in workout clothes and manage to get a compliment, it feels great! :)
Alese Madenwald
HI JOY! Your ’21 pieces of advice’ is taped on my fridge and I look at every morning and its still my absolute favorite thing you’ve written. (I’m 23 now but I discovered that post when I was 21)
Abigail
A coworker told me this week that if he were ever in prison in a developing country, seeing my smiling face during a consular visit would cheer him right up. I don’t expect him to ever be in prison, but it was really a special compliment that made me feel great.
Abigail
I SO appreciate your blog. It’s really a blessing to me to hear your life. Thanks for being so open with us!! :)
My best compliment was hearing that I was fitting in with my boyfriend’s family very easily. We are dating long distance and he is Indian and I’m not. :) It has been challenging but hearing him and his friends compliments about fitting in well with the family and culture is so encouraging!
Kim P
about 6 months after moving from NJ to SoCal, back in the 70’s and fresh outta high school, a guy leaned out of a speeding sports car to christen me with what I guess was his highest praise: “California Woman!!!”…it boosted my confidence, made my day, and (obviously) has never been forgotten by this gal who desperately wanted to erase her past from her present!
Jennie
A friend once told me I was unbelievably strong (emotionally speaking). It caught me by surprise (in a good way) and I often remember her earnest comment during moments of insecurity.
Kristin
Long after I gave up singing “seriously”, being told by a musician that I have a beautiful singing voice
kristin moulton
You mentioned my favorite compliment- when someone says I have a nice smile. It never gets old!
Annika Martin
My mother in law raves about my cooking and it’s the best feeling!
Diane
I don’t know if this was the *best* compliment I ever received, but when I went to get my belly button pierced, the guy who did it said, “You have a perfect belly button for piercing!” Certainly an original one.
barbara
At my mother’s funeral, a friend of hers said to me ” you treated your mother the way all daughters should treat their mothers”. I don’t think I will ever forget that.
Jackie Dodd
Carlos Santana told me I was beautiful. It’s hard to beat that moment.
Crystal
The best complaint I have ever received is that I am a good listener and I am trustworthy enough to keep someone’s deepest, darkest secrets.
Heidi
One of the best compliments I’ve ever gotten was when my brother told me that I was his best friend. Thanks for the giveaway, Joy!
Emily
My boss wrote a bio for me on our business website and said my best quality was my integrity. It meant so much to me.
Melissa Cunningham
Best compliment was that I look like my mother, who I have always thought was beautiful.
Sarah
Oh wow. Maybe I’ll be lucky one.
Erin
The best compliment … that I am the community that I seek to create, and to never change :)
Callie / Flour and Fancy
The best compliment: “I want to be like you – brave and so untouchable and unphased by adversity.” That really touched me. Thanks for the great giveaway, Joy!
Kelly
people telling me that I’m truly a trustworthy friend
Katie
my parents telling me that I’m the best daughter :)
Jen
That’s a tough one, but I get I have beautiful eyes a lot, even though the most impt one was when my husband told me it!
Hermione
Wow, this is hard! I tend to disbelieve compliments or assume there is an ulterior motive. I was told that my Facebook posts are incredibly insightful and entertaining.
justinemb
Hmm best compliment? Maybe when someone told me I was extremely competent and wise beyond my years. With my age being only a teenager, it felt great.
Lourdes
When I was about 19 or 20 I had a girlfriend who everyone thought was gorgeous. I felt like the ugly duckling next to her! So one day at a party this lady comes up to us and tells me, “Sorry, I just had to tell you, you are so beautiful! I had to walk across the room to tell you that!” I was shocked! At first I thought she was talking to my friend but it was me she was talking to. It was so nice to hear, to be reminded that I too was beautiful. That was a nice compliment.
Allison
From a new neighbor, “You have such a nice, familiar voice. You must be a great singer!” I’ve always wished to have a beautiful voice, but I’m completely tone-deaf. It was nice that someone had some confidence in me though.
aakukb
I’ve been told a lot I have a beautiful smile :)
Melinda
Joy, this giveaway looks amazing! As for the compliment: I was told by a colleague once that I come across as really genuine. It meant a lot to me because sometimes I feel like I really have no idea what I’m doing and I’m just pretending (fake it ’til you make it, right?) and it’s hard to just be myself at work!
Emily S.
The best compliment I’ve gotten was definitely when my cooperating teacher told me that his choir program was better from me being there and working and growing with them.
Jen
I never forgot when Ben b. said I had nice feet over 30 years ago. Thinking someone needs to compliment me.
Beth
Great giveaway! The best compliment–I ran into my son’s second grade teacher and she told me she was trying to be as good a mother to her new baby as I was to my son.
gretta
Best compliment ever….”you look just like your Mom”. Great giveaway, thanks!
Laura
Why are compliments so hard to receive!? But, if someone thinks I’m funny, that feels like a huge compliment!
Arabelle H
Best compliments….i am told that i am honest, which was interesting because i never thought of myself that way haha. Great giveaway!
Shannon
“You’ve got that Midwestern charm!” :)
Anna
A coworker recently told me that we need more people who smile as much as I do. “You’re a little ray of sunshine”…
Emily
After a long night in the emergency waiting room, a stranger who had been there as long as I had got up to leave after they were called back. “You, young lady, have the most infectious laugh. You should come here more often.”
Kristen D
I was told I was “kind and genuine”
Michelle
A friend told me recently that I was glowing. This was a great compliment since physically I’ve been feeling pretty gross! Thanks for the great giveaway:)
Kandecia
A coworker once told me that I was the glue that kept us all together and that it was boring when I wasn’t there. He was so sincere when he said it and other coworkers starting agreeing with him. I had no idea. It’s nice to feel liked. :)
Katie Contest
My doctor said that I was a good person who puts a lot of effort into her recovery, and that I didn’t deserve all the bad stuff that has happened to me. I just about cried!
Liz
I read to young children as part of my job. Last week, a little girl came up to me and said “I love you. Would you come to my house to play?” Awesome compliment!
Alyssa N.
The best compliment I ever received: I asked one of my best friends one day what he thought of me the first time we met. He said he found me “a bit mysterious, gorgeous, and very interesting.” It put the biggest smile on my face.
This is an amazing giveaway! And you are a phenomenally amazing person :)
Teresa Bergan
When my 20 year old son told me that he is so happy that he can talk to me about anything. When today I hear so much about kids and parents not communicating, this made my week and I reflect on it when I am trying to communicate with my 10 and 6 year old sons.
Jen
Best compliment ever was a simple yet powerful one…”you are smart and radiant and can do anything you set your mind to”
Andrea
At a time when I don’t feel that I am at my best, my boyfriend told me that he loves me just they way I am…hard to take in and also such a beautiful gift.
Amy
Hmmm. I am a librarian. When I had an internship I was on the reference desk with an older librarian. After watching an interaction I had he told me I was approachable, kind, and going to be a great librarian.
Dorothea Spears
A good friend of mine once told me that she envied me because I possessed so much confidence – I had never thought that about myself, so it was really lovely to realize that someone whom I admired, actually thought that about me. It certainly made my day!
Amy
Those are some lovely things.
Margaret
“Can I have your recipe?”
That was the best thing I have ever heard. I am a terrible cook and come from a line of bad cookers. When I winged a pesto pasta recipe for a new mom, I was nervous. But she liked it! I could have floated away after that!
Lauren
When I started a veggie garden, my Dad would brag up and down the neighborhood about my green thumb. I loved when he and my Mom had the very first tomato with jalapenos (also homegrown) in a taco salad. The silence as they devoured every last scrap was the best compliment.
mnh4f
“you ask all the questions i’m afraid to ask”
Sara
I once had a little girl, maybe 5 or 6, tell me I looked like a princess. It was adorable.
Sarah
The best compliment I’ve ever received was being told I am a great friend, and that few things compare to the warmth of my heart. So encouraging, and made me feel so full to know I can bring happiness to others the same way they do for me.
Thanks for the giveaway, Joy!
Kathe
Best compliment I ever received was when I was dancing at a bar and a CIRCLE of girls actually started copying my dance moves. In a positive way.
And whenever my baby sister says I am pretty.
Marinda S
How kind of you to share that, just a simple sincere comment to someone often gets that comment back, kindness begets kindness.
My dear, it’s your first dog days of August in New Orleans, find a pool, seek a breeze or hydrate and move slowly. Seersucker or less for clothing and get yourself to discount matinees at movie theaters. Go to bed later, sleep in, it’s not lazy, makes sense. Hang in there October is coming.
Andrea H.
One of my favorite compliments was when someone simply said I have a great smile. Personally I don’t like my smile, but I was having a good day and I think I had some big, goofy smile on my face. Ever since, I’ve thought that maybe it can be someone’s joy that you see in their smile and that’s what matters, more than how it looks.
Staci
Best comment ever, eh? I suppose that would have to be the time one of my professors told me I was the best writer he had ever had the pleasure of marking. Very gratifying moment, that.
Kimiko
When I first saw the picture of the BarkThins I thought they were dog treats! Haha. The best compliment I’ve gotten, that I can think of, was when my instructor in nursing school (and our assistant Dean!) pulled me aside in clinicals and said, “I just wanted to let you know, I’m very glad to have you in my group, because I never have to worry about you because I know you are safe and know what you’re doing, and I know you will make a great nurse.” This coming from the instructor with the reputation of chewing people out. She was scary! Was. Until that day! :)
Kelsey
Best compliment ever, it isn’t about the outside. That I had a gentle heart & a giving spirit. The ability to nurture & tend to those in my world.
Simply be kind.
Jennifer
A little old lady once told me in a library that she had been watching me for weeks and liked my personality. We had never spoken before this. Made my day week year decade.
Bryanna K.
The best compliment that I have ever received was that I am just like my parents!!
Jen E
Best compliment….I was out to dinner at a restaurant with only my son and daughter (5 and 1 at the time). We had a great time – lots of snuggling involved – and as we were leaving a young woman – probably about 25 – stopped me and said – you are an amazing mom – I hope some day I have that kind of relationship with my kids. It felt so amazing and still makes me tear up.
Kathryn
Best compliment I’ve received is a friend saying I’m a good listener!
Tessa
My favourite compliment: “you are the smartest person I know!”
Madeline
During my last year of high school, quite a few of the girls in my year were studying for the test to determine whether they could study medicine in university or not. And while they were testing each other one of them who I thought didn’t particularly like me very much, said “I think Maddie would make a good doctor, she has the type of face I could tell anything to”. Although I don’t study medicine it still makes me feel all warm and fuzzy when I think about it.
Rebecca
One of my students told me, “I hope I grow up like you.” Pretty good, coming from a teenager to a 50 year old me!
Emma
I am a photography student and a woman once told me that in my photographs I captured her son (who has down syndrome) as the gorgeous, playful little boy he his with his personality shining through, rather than photos she had previously had taken where you could not see past the down syndrome. This was a huge compliment for me as my passion is to capture peoples personalities and see past the front they often put up in front of the camera.
Sabrina
I don’t get compliments. No… don’t know… that my hair looks more voluminous? Or that I make nice presents? O and when I was in scool a classmate told me that she never thought I could be so funny, because I was always very calm. That was nice :)
makehastenotwaste
This past holiday season, one of my coworkers, whose general lack of warmth can be off-putting, gave me a gift she said was picked out especially for me. I opened it and saw it was a set of spices (since I like to cook) with a box, magnet, and towel that said “you are kind.”
Cindy Clogston
It wasn’t really a verbal compliment. My husband (bf at the time) going to the sink and scraping out the last bit of hollandaise from the bowl when I made him Eggs Benedict for the first time.
caitlin
was told i had “pinterest perfect” hair last week when i was rocking a crown braid :)
Beth
Best compliment ever, being told I was a graceful swimmer! I have never considered myself to be a good swimmer and it pretty much made my summer!
Alissa
A mother of a piano student, whom her 5 kids have taken a variety of music lessons from a variety of teachers, telling me I was one of the best teachers they’ve had.
Megan
The best compliment I’ve ever received was when a friend said she would always come to me for advice or to talk something out because she appreciated that I really listened. :)
Thanks for the giveaway opportunity, and I’m very sorry no one told you about August in New Orleans!! July tricks you into thinking that’s as hot as it gets. It’s not. August is. Just keep reminding yourself that you have beautiful October to look forward to!
Linda
Someone told me that they felt like they were really being listened to when we talk. It was awesome to be seen as such a source of comfort!
Kate's Bookshelf
What a sweet giveaway to your readers. So nice of you! I think the nicest compliment I’ve received was a woman I know just recently told me “I was a really nice girl who is more mature than my age.” It was incredibly sweet of her and surprised me because it came out of nowhere when I went into her shop for some postcards the other day.
Amber
As a teacher anytime a patent tells me I made a difference in their child’s view of school I consider it the ultimate compliment. It helps me push though the hard days of teaching.
Dani H
The best compliment I’ve received is when someone told me it looks like motherhood came naturally to me and I was doing a great job taking care of my 3month old.
Mabel
hmm best compliment would be when my dad tells me he’s proud of me as an adult :)
Daniela S.
I like when I get compliments on clothes that I’ve sewn myself.
Meg B.
I’m a teacher–so any compliment I receive from a student is truly a blessing; however, I was once told by a former student that “without my help, [he] wouldn’t have graduated.” Best. Compliment. Ever.
Alison
best compliment ever: “You made me think about this book in a way I never thought of before!” – I am an English tutor
precious innes
the biggest compliment was being recognised at my work. it’s only a student job but out of the 60 people that worked there they choose me as the hardest worker. In a group of young people it’s very easy to feel very self conscious, but they really made my day.
Alana
Love the posts and the give away!! Best compliment ever- I have been told that my smile lights up a room. :)
Katie
Wow! Amazing giveaway! A little girl I used to babysit irks me I made the best grilled cheese ever. Just cheese toast but a nice reminder how simple, unexpected compliments can turn your day around and make you feel loved.
Zakiyya
Just discovered your blog and I absolutely adore it! Best compliment I’ve receieved is a friend telling me I light up the room with my smile and laughter.. And because I read it in writing it made me blush and smile bashedly in my room :) But yeah that made my heart swell and gave me all sorts of self confidence!
Emmy D.
Someone told me I looked fantastic…a week after having my baby, when I definitely did not feel like I looked good at all!
cecile
a student telling me they learned a lot in my class
Mrs. J
A co-worker told me I was awesome because I respond to her emails so fast and help her solve her issues.
Joy, your blog is the first one I started following! I’m moving to Louisiana early next year and can’t wait to try some of the places you have mentioned in New Orleans.
Stacy P.
At an old office job I was told that I make every one of my customers feel like they’re my only customer. So simple, but very flattering!
Nicole T
First, I love this challenge because I’m now trying to think back to all the compliments I’ve gotten that have moved me in some way! It would be good practice to do this every morning before starting the day…
The one that’s sticking with me most now is a compliment I got from my thesis advisor last summer. This requires a bit of explanation: I’m a PhD student, and I am a major achievement junkie – straight A’s my whole life, star student, that whole thing. My advisor is the most beloved professor at my school for good reason. He is super approachable, genuinely wants to help students, but soooo smart and accomplished it’s outrageous. Bottom line: he’s a rockstar, and he’s the best mentor I’ve ever had.
So, last year, when I epically messed up the first part of my comprehensive exam (which you have to pass to be able to your PhD research…or else they kick you out) he said to me: “You know, you remind me a lot of myself. I’ve been in your shoes before, believe me, and you are going to be just fine. You can do this, and you will do this.” And then I passed the rest of my exam two weeks later.
amiechristo
This is a back to school pack I can get behind! And oh boy, best compliment. I was trying to figure out what to do when I was in France last fall and my plans had gone down the drain super fast. I was panicking over Skype with my best friend and she finally just cut in and went, “Just shut up. You’re going to figure it out because you always do. You make things work.” Which might not sound like a compliment but idk, I like the sentiment. :)
Chloe
My boyfriend told me our relationship was “low stress.” Music to my type-A ears!
RebeccaUtah
My boss told me that I am doing a great job. He said I’m successful because people like to be around me, I have an inviting personality, I can be trusted and they know that I will follow through. The end. Made me feel so valued. (My last boss referred to me as a “cheerleader” for the company -thumbs down.)
Aysegul at foolproofliving.com
Best compliment that I ever received was from my husband when I was away from home for work for a month: He told me that in my absence he was reminded of all the reasons why he married me and why he wouldn’t want a day without me in his life. :)
Elizabeth
“You were not an attractive child… that makes me feel better about how pretty you turned out”
Alex
Someone once told me on a date that I was the “best female drinker” he had ever met. Thanks man! I bet I am. Hence that corkscrew would come in especially handy. :) thanks for the giveaway opportunity!
Liz
I once told my husband-in-one week that I was glad that he didn’t mind that I didn’t shave. He replied “I’m glad you don’t mind that I don’t shave.” He has a huge beard. I don’t shave my legs. It was love.
Kate
I was recently running around a park and got a high five from a complete stranger. A silent compliment, an internal “you go girl”, if you will (at least that’s how I took it). It was awesome. I’m working up the guts to pass it on. :)
jujubee777
I always like compliments in the form of people devouring what I bake but a more “direct” compliment would be when I was told by my mother that my pecan pie beat her grandmother’s. Her grandmother’s pie is the golden pie of my family and for my mom to say that mine was better really made me a proud baker!
Becky
Im unsure if my comment got posted. So please ignore this if it already did :)
The best compliment I ever recieved was from a teacher telling me that she hoped that her daughter grew up to be like me, which was amazing to hear, since my parents didn’t have the capacity to pay me or my siblings any compliments
Thank you, Joy for such a lovely give away :)
Tracie M
The BEST compliment I received was yesterday when my friend Bob told me my daughter was my twin. Everyone else thinks she looks like her dad!
Laura
One time someone told me my eyes looked like the eyes of Nala from the Lion King. I have always remembered that one.
marijke
Everything on here so lovely and I know even without winning I may have to snag up something, joy! The best compliment I have received is my mentor telling me that my hard work was paying off and if I continued at the rate I am musically I would go far. It meant the world after years of struggling!
acogpresident
An older lady once told me I had “moxie”, which was such a nice compliment!
Rae
A dear, dear friend told me once that I was beautiful inside and out :) I was going through a pretty tough time, so that definitely made my day!
Mish
“You’re the most detail-oriented person I know.”
Danielle
Hi Joy! Thanks for the awesome giveaway!
One of the best compliment that I’ve received is “we couldn’t have done this without you.” It’s nice to feel that your efforts are appreciated and necessary!
Sashiko
Was once talking to someone about gender roles/ norms in terms of history and fashion. Like in victorian times where, obviously, women wore dresses and men wore suits. That i’d rather be dressed like a dandy with the frilly ascot, and i was told, “You’d look really great in a 3-piece suit”.
I’ve gone from tomboy-ish to nothing but dresses in the past two years. So this person had never seen me dress boyish. And i’ve never been in a suit… yet.
Betsy Parker
Best compliment: recovering an award for the volunteer work I do for environmental education
Katheryn
I was told I have beautiful curly hair. Love the hair compliments. It always makes me feel like a million bucks.
Helena
Best compliment? – ‘I trust you implicitly.’
This is a lovely way to run a giveaway!
G B
I’m embarrassed to admit this- but I love getting compliments on my engagement ring. I’ve always loved it and I think it is perfect. I can’t help but smile when another woman admires it as well :) When I first got engaged, my very stern male boss made me show him the ring- and he said it was beautiful too!
Margaretha S.
Love your website…..never miss one week without visiting …
Paola
A guy once said that I did not need to go to the gym, because I was perfect already. Definitely motivation to go in
Sarah
Best compliment was my almost three year old telling me I’m the best Mommy ever :)
Melissa B
That my dog is a pleasure to have around (even in the middle of a crazy reno) bc he has been well behaved and easy going. Its a huge compliment bc his actions reflect on me as an owner, and believe me, he is spoiled to death!
Betsy
What a great giveaway from an amazing blog…Best compliment that I’ve received was from someone who knew my mom, who died when I was a teenage,”You have your mother’s heart and spirit.”
Danielle
Someone recently wrote that I was like a “bat outta hell.” I’m not sure he meant it as a compliment but that’s definitely how I took it!
Amy C.
The best compliment I’ve gotten is anonymous course evaluations where students compliment my fashion sense, lol.
Terra
My best friend told me I was her favorite success story!!
Holly
Someone told me that they wish I could be their Mom. What a sweet wish!
Kristin
When I was teaching high school a few years ago, I was having a bad day, with slightly dirty hair and wearing a shirt I didn’t like. That day, separate students complimented me on my hair and my shirt, totally changing my feeling about myself and brightening my day. I used that as an example a few months later, at a class retreat, when I organized an activity for the girls that required them to write notes complimenting one another anonymously. A random compliment can really make a difference for someone!
Jenny
A little girl told me she liked my hair. I told her I liked her dress. It was hot pink with zebras all over it. Rad, right? I told her I would like one in my size. Also, kid compliments are the best. (I work at a science museum so I regularly get hilarious and heartwarming interactions with kids.) (I also get interactions with exceptionally bratty kids too, but the good outweighs the bad.)
Amy
You have really strong legs. Are you a soccer player? Best part – I’m not. :)
Marie S
That I raised three wonderful children! Thanks Joy xx
morgan
the compliment that has really stuck with me over the years was from a co-worker. he told my boyfriend at the time (now my husband) that he had found a real “platinum catch”. my husband told me about it some time later. I like to remind him about it every once in a while ;)
Robyn
Best compliment ever came from my daughter-in-law thanking me for raising such a wonderful man
Jaime
“Mam, your children are all so thoughtful. And you seems so calm”.
Ashley Henderson
A friend once told me I was too weird to live and too rare to die. It was perfect for the awkward goth teenager that I was at the time????
Jorie
I feel sheepish about sharing a compliment I received but I dig your old-school give-away so I’m doing it. My husband, who is the opposite of sappy and emotional, told me that a piece I wrote made him teary-eyed. Now I’m going to go throw compliments around big time. Seems like an awesome thing to do on a sunny Saturday. While I’m at it…I seriously love the way you write and I’m amped when there’s a new post of yours to read.
Nandhini Narasimhan
My manager told me how sweet i came across in the interview! That was good feedback and I never used to think am sweet before that!
Great give away!! Good job!
Mikell
I really appreciate it when I’m told I’ve inspired my art students. They make me feel valued and loved.
Alli
Best compliment I’ve ever received? A teacher who I really admired told me I was a leader in my class. Her words were a great encouragement to me.
Lauren
A random stranger at the store said that my daughter was so sweet and well behaved. This was after a rather challenging day with her at home so it was wonderful to her that. :-)
Jennifer Gillespie
The best compliment I EVER received… was from a philosophy professor. He was asking me to take his class because of the way I contribute to a group and facilitate learning. I don’t think of how I occupy social space much. That was an incredible compliment, it changed me.
Felicitas
Best compliment ever was how beautiful my eyes even if it is standard it was from the love of my life, before we started dating 11 years ago.
Alison D.
How Fun! thanks for the chance to win.
Sarah
During my first semester of college I was in a meeting with a professor I really admired to discuss an essay I was writing for her class. She asked me if I had considered becoming a writing major (I was undeclared at the time). I don’t remember my reply, but it was something like “that’s probably not a good idea because I clearly suck at this.” Her reply: “You have potential.”
That may not sound like much of a compliment, but for a girl who had never imagined she had the potential to much of anything, much less write, it was unbelievable. Those three simple words made me feel like a champion, and helped me find my calling in life. Always let people know the good you see in them! They may have never heard it from anyone before.
Sofia
the best compliment I ever got was from my elementary school teacher, she used to say to me that I was smart, talented and creative, and I would go places. Not many people besides her said that to me…
Nicole
I was at the grocery store walking through the produce section when a woman stopped me to say the shade of the green shirt I was wearing looked really good on me. Nice!
My ten year-old niece loves to walk up and compliment strangers on their shoes, jewelry, hair, whatever. She’s pretty awesome.
What a generous giveaway. Stay cool yourself.
Danielle
The best compliment I’ve ever received is “You are always full of kindness.” Definitely something I strive for & to hear that from someone very special to me brought me so much happiness :)
Anouk
Thank you for this giveaway ! My favorite compliment was when a funny guy told me that I was funny. I am known to be the smart and serious one but I have always tried to be funny (like my grandfather who didn’t speak much but everyone would laugh when he did). So this compliment was the one that really pleased me ! Good luck everyone !
Ally
I’m a grad student, and compliments can be hard to come by at school. After a long semester with multiple research projects, my advisor sent me an email and concluded it with “I’m lucky to have you,” which was wonderful to hear!
hereingeorgia
The best compliment I have been given to me is that I remind people of my mother. I hear it quite often, and will never tire of hearing it! She is the most amazing woman.
Beny
My absolute favorite compliment is when people tell me I have a beautiful smile. It just makes me feel super special!
Devynn Barnes
I was told once that I was “cool in the sense that I seemed like I had it all figured out,” which was a huge and undeserved compliment, seeming as I feel the opposite about 60% of the time. I appreciated it and never forgot it, though!
Stacey
I am a probation agent and one of my former clients told my sister I saved his life. He totally did it himself but the fact he shared his success with me ROCKED! And was very humbling.
Lorraine
Over the past few months I’ve been really trying to work hard on being more active and eating healthier but the past couple weeks I’ve felt like I’ve slid back into old habits. This week an old colleague saw me and complimented me on how good I look with how much weight I’ve lost. It gave me the boost I needed =]
alyssa
someone once said “i have it.” she said nothing else, winked and me, and just said “you know, you’ve got it.” i still think about that, especially on my bad days.
Nikki
One of my kindergarteners said to me on the first day of school, “You are a special, fun teacher. You should have a big star on your shirt.”
Jean
my husband told me, “you’re beautiful!” which made me giggle and wonder what he wanted ;)
Janelle F
Just hearing my littles (ages 2 & 4) say loudly, “thank you for lunch mommy! it’s nummy!” :)
Kalen
After telling a story to a friend at an outdoor organic beer fest in portland (so cool, right?) a stranger came up to me and said, “I just want to let you know, you have the best facial expressions. I feel like I was listening to you talk from 20 feet away.” And then he left. It was such an uncommon compliment that it is still my favorite!
Chynna Dulac
Two of my classmates told me one morning in class that they discussed how I would make a wonderful mom one day! : )
Natasha
great giveaway! missing you here over in LA, joy! please come visit again soon!
best compliment i’ve ever gotten? probably someone telling me that my mom and i are so much alike, both physically and personality-wise. as cliche as it sounds, she’s my hero and always will be. everyday i aspire to be as strong, generous and kind as she is and hopefully someday i’ll get there :)
Elizabeth
I ran into a friend at the grocery and she told me that I looked very accomplished! I’d never received that compliment before but I loved it!
Michelle
In 3rd grade, my teacher wrote on my report card “michelle is always looking out for other kids, and is always quick to defend those who she feels are having trouble defending themselves”… I didn’t know this until I was 21 and requested my permanent record but it made my heart sing because I’ve lived my life that way, and my teacher could see my spirit, even then. Have a lovely day! :)
Beth
Loot! What a haul!
Best compliment, hmmm… Well, since I have a toddler and am trying to finish my dissertation, I don’t get nearly as much sleep as I need. So any time someone says I look well slept I give myself a silent high five, thank whatever trick of the light happened to be around at that point, then offer to help the person find their glasses.
Cassie Sue
After my Dad passed recently my boss text me “I’m very sorry, he sounded like an incredible person, much like his daughter” It really meant a lot to me at the time
Kristen M.
The best compliment I ever received was the first time I met my then-boyfriend/now-husband’s great grandma and she told me that she loved my eyebrows. That may sound weird but, at the time, they were one of the things I was most self-conscious about. They are big and dark and I was wondering if I should be shaping them down to something more “stylish” to fit in more (I was 21 at the time). Her small compliment totally changed the way I looked at myself and helped me to embrace the things that make me unique. :)
Ashlin Horne
My favorite/best compliment in the world was someone that I didn’t know very well, but greatly adored telling others and then finally saying to me, “You have the greatest laugh in the entire world.” I think about it every single time I laugh and it makes me incredibly happy, even years later. :)
Simone
That’s a tough one.. I don’t know about “best” but ones that took me off guard that were different (1) that if my handwriting was a computer font, they’d use it all the time and (2) that I look like a dancer!
Adrienne
My mother told me at my wedding in her speech that she had never dreamed of the day her daughter would get married. Though she was proud I had chosen a kind and loving partner, she knew I was a capable woman who was complete on her own. Having a partner was a choice, not something I required. Best compliment ever. Thanks Joy for prompting me to remember that!
Leigh D
I love when people compliment my cooking!
Riki Shore
Best compliment? My daughter saying “I hope I can cook as well as you when I’m a mom!”
Anna C
I was told the other day I was a complete package -funny, kind, beautiful, (it completely took me by surprise)!
Beth
Near last Christmas, when my boyfriend and I had been dating a few months, we were out in the snow when he trails off midsentence, looks in my eyes and says, “You have the most beautiful eyes. They’re almost amber.” My eyes are the brown color of mud. So. It’s been an ongoing thing that he still comments on and every time I think of standing in the snow. Best compliment ever.
Heather B
Not to sound cheesy, but in Bridget Jone’s style from my husband that he loves me…just the way I am even my imperfections. :)
Divya
My little girl started carrying home-made lunch from this school yr on. She came back home one day to tell me her friends ask for her food and even like the ‘curd rice’ that i send her. curd rice is just yoghurt mixed with rice and salt and is just 1 of 3 different dishes she takes each day. how can this not be the greatest compliment and motivation for a working mum trying to get healthy tasty meals for her family :)
Brenda
It’s hard to narrow down a best, but it was sure meaningful to hear my mom describe me as her best friend the other day.
jessicaisbaking
The best compliment is when my husband is soooooo happy about food I make him.
Brittany
One of my favorite college professors had one of her essays published in a book. When I asked her to sign my copy, she wrote, “I can’t wait until you are signing a book for me.” Not only was she one of my favorite professors, but she is also a journalist I highly admire. To have her say that meant the world to me.
Sarah
Best compliment ever? Hmmm… in the middle of a difficult personal struggle being told that I am strong and will overcome.
Stacie
“You are a sweet lady, just like your mama”
Christine
best compliment i’ve ever received was from my husband telling me that i’m beautiful without all the makeup and extra stuff.
Amanda
Oops, too busy thinking about chocolate and pretzels to remember the compliment. I’m growing my hair out to its natural color (which is gray/white these days) and I keep getting complimented on how nice my hair looks. This gives me the patience to stick with it because going from brown to gray seems like it is taking forever!!
zena
You have amazing hair!
Andrea
I just gave birth to my son 16 days ago, and since then, the best compliment I’ve ever received is “good job, mama” — from my OB, from the L&D nurses who assisted my birth, from my mom, from friends, from strangers, from my husband… Being a first time mama is such an emotional roller coaster, so this compliment really helps me!
Laura Samuel
Every morning, either in person or in a text if we aren’t with each other, my amazing boyfriend always says “good morning beautiful”. Means that everyday I start the day with a smile on my face :)
Amanda
Sooo, all of these things look neat but what really want are the bark thins. Pretzels and chocolate are a match made in heaven. Also, I love back to school time, I get excited at the prospect of new pens :)
Kelly S
A few friends and I were getting henna tattoos and I couldn’t decide where to get mine. One of my friends suggest the back of my shoulder because “I have great shoulders and a super strong back.” It was awesome!
taraschaubert
Love this!
I just accepted a new position + my former and future bosses both said incredibly kind things about my work.
EMILEE ANN KELLY
The best compliment I received was when someone at my new job said they would trust me to get the job done because I picked up on it so quickly! Made going to work that much better!
Laurie L
The best compliment i ever received was that I have beautiful hair.
Shatha
5 years ago, I received my first compliment in a hospital. i was waiting for my turn and there was an old man who was waiting with his daughter for her appointment, we got introduced and he looked at me and said *beautiful*
now whenever i see strangers looking sad, I make sure to say something nice to brighten their day, just a little effort to make them feel seen.
thank you Joy
Boise Runner (@RunInBoise)
A few summers ago, I was walking with the BF & I was talking about how nice my legs looked & he never complemented me on them. A few blocks later a guy walks past & said I had nice legs. If some stranger can complement my legs, the BF can too!
Terri
Best compliment I’ve received: “You look great! It looks like you’re doing really well.” I especially needed that since I felt like everything was chaos.
Great giveaway and I love all refreshing drink posts! Cheers!
PS
I also love listening to you and Tracey on the podcasts!
Lexie
um — probably being told that I’m the glue that has held friendships together?
Wyoming Girl
I was having a rough week and I’m not the one to share my problems with people. So I went to college just like nothing was wrong. No one knew a thing. I was busy taking notes and also trying to take my mind off for a while. Suddenly, a classmate of mine tapped my shoulder. I thought she must have some thing she needs help with because usually that’s the case. I turned around with a ‘what now?’ face. But she surprised me by saying ‘You are a very nice person’. I was so flattered especially because it was unexpexted but right on time when I needed it the most. The way she said it with a genuinely huge grin cheered me the most. And hence, it became a unforgettable moments.
Brian Vary
Whenever my husband gets dessert when we’re out at dinner, after the first bite, he says, “this is good, but not as good as your flourless chocolate cake!” and it gets me every time.
ae
my father, who spent his entire life in new york city, was the biggest foodie i’ve ever known. he had us gnawing on ethiopian sponge bread before we’d figured out how to smear our mashed peas across the kitchen walls!
so you can imagine my shock and awe when, during a meal at a small place downtown supposedly famous for its guacamole — which he’d crowed over several times before — he took one bite and shrugged. “yours is better,” he pronounced matter-of-factly. just like that. i will never forget that!
marylou
My dad once said he’s most proud that i am a peaceful person. i tend not to get angry or spiteful, even in moments of stress. this compliment came about on a father-daughter trip to spain, after we were pick-pocketed and left stranded without cash or credit cards. i think i was just too shocked to panic :)
Kate
One of the nicest compliments that I’ve gotten is from a former client telling my supervisor how nice and helpful she thought I was. Social work can be thankless, so the compliments you do get mean a lot!
Tessa
The best compliment I ever received is sort of a hidden one. One of my friends has been having a rough time and I’ve been listening to them (and they to me). The other day, after a long skype conversation, he said “thank you.” I asked what for since I felt like I hadn’t done anything worth being thanked for. Listening to your friends and giving them advice where possibly, is a perfectly normal thing to do in my eyes. And he replied “Just for being you.” I don’t think there is a better compliment than that. and I have spread the warmth and love since then because it does make you feel so much better to just be appreciated.
Samantha
The best compliment I’ve ever received was from a student in tutoring program I coordinated. She told me that I was filled with rainbows.
Hannah M.
One of the best compliments I ever got was when the rest of my section in choir was trying to figure out a complicated bit of a piece, and they all turned to me and asked me to sing it to them because I was ‘most likely to sight read it right the first time’ :)
Gina Guthrie
AWESOME! thanks for the opportunity to win! Have a great weekend!
Alexa
Does a compliment about me count? One of my favorite volunteers at my old job told my grandparents that they were lucky to have such a wonderful granddaughter. The volunteer was the most incredible man (ran track with Jackie Robinson, incarcerated during WWII, served as a translator in the Pacific, volunteering for decades etc.) and it meant so much to me coming from him.
Erica
Not that teachers *ever* have favorites, but when one of my all-star students told me that I was the best teacher he’d ever had.
Erica Frances
When my brother (to whom I look up!) told me he looks up to me.
Erica S
Yesterday, my boss, who has extremely high expectations for all his employees, told me that he was so impressed with my work, he wanted to turn my unpaid internship into a paying job!
Kara Hill
One of my customers at a restaurant told me I look like Rachel McAdams. I was shocked and I’ll never forget it!
Natalie f
I think mine would be someone telling me how good of a friend I was to them!
Emily
It’s always nice when someone compliments me when I bring baked goods to a friend’s house. Such a nice idea to pass on the good compliment vibes :)
Lisa
As a teacher one of the best affirmations is when students understand what they are working on. This summer I heard a lot of “Oh, I get this now!” from students re-taking a class, and it was a very good feeling. The compliments went both ways all summer, as students worked hard to achieve their goals and I let them know that I was proud of them, and students expressed their appreciation of me also.
Jan
I work has a nurse and yesterday @ work a patient’s family told me what a compassionate nurse I was and how happy they were with the care I was giving to their family member.
Jaclyn
Great giveaway! The best compliment I’ve received was from a friend that my smile really helped brighten up her day. :)
Cara
“You make the best salads of anyone I know!” From my husband.
Betsy
My favorite compliment I have ever gotten is when my mom said that I seem to have it all together. That was a nice feeling.
Jessi Sumner
“Girl, did you know there’s a Lord, because he did your body good!” This was not said to me sadly but to my very beautiful older sister. Is it a complient or the worst pick up line EVER? Doesn’t matter. I hope she holds on to the fact everyday that she does look good!
My gosh, I love a giveaway!!!
Jess
Keyana Poteate
Someone random woman passing by said I had a wonderful smile!
Noble G.
A cashier at a bookstore telling me that I was a great mom. (I was in the shop with my two littles.) Totally made my day!
emp
The best complement I have ever received is from my brothers saying that I was the best.
Margaret
I received a Christmas card thanking me for my enduring will.
Nasim
My classmate told me she loves my laugh and can recognize it from miles away! Loved hearing that!
SJ
Best compliment I’ve ever gotten was that I made that person’s day. When I heard that it made my day!
Kelsey
The best compliment I have received was a couple of days ago while I was at LUSH. One of the employees had said I was looking very fine and that it looked like I was about to go on a fancy boat. I couldn’t help but smile for the rest of the evening :)
Gro
This happened a couple of years ago, and I was really shy and insecure at the time, and often felt forgotten and overlooked. A group of my friends was meeting but I couldn’t come, one of them sent me a text saying “you are missing”, totally made my day. And still makes me smile when I think about it.
Patti M
You have a beautiful smile. Made my want to smile all the more. : )
BusyCBee
My 4yo daughter said, “Mommy, I like your mashed potatoes better than Grandma’s, ’cause yours have lumps of real taties in them!” LOL. My mom makes the most silky-smooth mashed potatoes ever.
Lydia
On our third date, my boyfriend told me I was the best girl he’d ever met. He’s the sweetest man!
Amelia
A much older friend told me that she admired how thoughtful I am and hoped to be more like me. It meant a lot that someone I looked up to thought so highly of me.
Alex
After having braces for some time, hearing someone say that I have a nice smile always makes me, well, smile!
Stefanie Paulson
The best compliment I ever received was from a patient where I work who told me every day how my husband must be the luckiest guy in the world because I was such a nice doctor. I loved how affirming my patient was and it made my hubby smile.
Holli H.
What a wonderful giveaway – thank you for the opportunity! The best compliment I’ve ever received was when I was told that my actions show how much I genuinely care about other people. I’ve never forgotten that and always try to keep it up.
Amanda U.
I often get asked if my eyes are “real”, or naturally as blue as they look. That always makes me happy!
Stephanie
I am a 5th grade teacher at a very low income school and my best compliments come from my students or their parents. I must say though, I am a firm believer in compliments as I have my students write compliments to people every week. One week it is to anther student (chosen randomly), another it is to an adult on campus. As the year moves on, then they will have 3 compliments to write at a time. When they give their compliments to others, they must look them in the eye when they hand it to them. It is very uncomfortable for some, but they really start to enjoy it and then I see compliments floating around everywhere. Learning how to compliment others and spread happiness is a GOOD thing : )
Lisa
My husband told me once when we were just dating that I had perfect teeth. He just blurted it out and it stuck with me.
rachel porter
Wow. the statistical chances of me winning are next to nill…but, the best compliment i ever received was somone telling me I’m a good mom :)
Sophie
I really wan’t to win these awsome prices, but I actually never received a compliment. Sad story I know. But I complimented a stranger yesterday. I was going to the supermarket with my friend and I was asking a man who worked there for help (because me being a great human couldnt find something) and he told me where It was and I said ‘Thank you so much, you are doing a great job, bye and have a nice day’. His smile after I said It was so big (I don’t really know if It was because of me) that It made me smile too and I just kinda felt.. Good? If that make sense haha. So yeah:) (oh and please excuse my Englisch I’m from Germany:))
Sarah
A neighbor stopped me the other day when I got home from work and told me that I had great legs. And then she said that she didn’t think women complimented each other enough and to have a great day. It was a nice random moment, and she’s right!
Kelsey S.
I am 34 weeks pregnant with my first, and as I start to feel more like a waddling little duck every day, it makes me feel so special that my husband makes a point to tell me daily how beautiful he thinks my pregnant body is and how wonderful of a mama he knows I’ll be.
Nicole-Lynn
I received a compliment that I was a good parent by my childs Pediatrician and that I didn’t seem like I was a new first time mom.
Seasidesmitten@aol.com
Natalie
“your skin is so beautiful” after struggling for years with pimples and blemishes!
Kayne Nguyen
A man once told me I was breathtaking. I was all happy until I watched that Seinfeld episode about a man who told Elaine she was breathtaking and she was all flattered until she heard him call an unattractive baby breathtaking… Haha. It was a good bubble bursting moment.
Laura
You always have the best shoes.
Kate
I have an autoimmune disease that really impacts my life, but I try to live it as normally as possible. It’s an awesome compliment when someone finds out I have this disease and says they never could have guessed. Each day is a struggle so this is a wonderful compliment – it means I’m not overly complaining, I seem energetic (when I rarely am), and I have a positive outlook on each day.
Em
Love this idea!! The best complement I received was a friend saying she felt comfortable sitting in silence with me :)
Allison
“I want my legs to look EXACTLY like yours.” This was huge for me, given that I have big, muscular legs and growing up was self conscious of them and would have killed for “chicken legs.” I’ve finally embraced my muscles and even added to them.
Alison
One of my grade one students told me that our classroom felt like home to her. Mission accomplished!
Jess
A student of mine once told me that she could tell I really cared about her and helping her learn. It warmed my heart!
Marissa
I was recently exchanging emails with an entrepeneur/blogger I admire. She wrote that I had a lot of skills and know how to benefit her group. It was wonderful to know that people are watching and can appreciate my efforts. I’m an introvert and the words networking and schmooozing put my stomach in knots. I’ve made an effort in the last 2 years to get myself out there. Baby steps. It’s working! I was tickled pink!
thefoodieteen
joy, you’re the best! someone once told me i inspired them every day, and to this day, it gives me a reason to push through those bad days and keep going!
Julie Jones
I was asked for ID not too long ago, despite being more than 10 years older than someone who might expect to be asked for ID… It wasn’t an intentional compliment, but it still made me feel pretty great!
Julie Haduong
Brb currently covering all of these beautiful things
“You make me feel good about myself” was one of those offhand comments that really stick with ya :)
Malyssa Gabrielson
I am a curvier girl and try to do my part to dress to my strengths while still having fun with color and pattern and novelty prints, including a dress with pies printed on it. I had a little girl approach me at the sink in an airport bathroom and tell me she wanted to wear pies like me when she was a “pretty old lady.” Despite being only 25, I was incredibly flattered. :)
Kathy
My husband took the Bar Exam a few weeks ago, and he’s spent the whole summer prepping. It has not been easy on either of us-lots of late nights and stress. Last weekend though, after he finished, he told me I had been the perfect partner throughout the whole process. It was something I had been praying a lot about and trying very hard to do, and it meant so much to me that I had been able to love him well throughout such a rough time.
Jackie
someone once told me I have a kind heart, and it made happier than when I was complimented about something physical.
Stephanie K
Growing up people would always marvel at how different my mom and I are in appearance. One of the best compliments I’ve ever gotten was when someone randomly told me I have her smile. It made me feel doubly happy that day.
Joymama
My favorite compliment of all time is when a student says I am a good teacher. Yes.
Momo
Best compliment is someone telling me I’m good at my job!
Rachel
I’m really tall and proud of it! The other day someone told me I was like an Amazon princess and I loved it :)
Natalie HAtfield
A coworker once told me that he hoped his little girl grew up to be just like me.
Whoa! Talk about a compliment. It made me feel great :) I’ve learned that complimenting other people also makes me happy. I’m going to go compliment some people today. Thanks for the reminder, Joy!
Daniella Rose
best compliment – “this is my sister. she’s pretty cool.”
Dayna@kaleidoscopebrain
One of the best compliments I’ve ever received was when a friend whose about 5 years older than I said to me, “I know I’m older but I really look up to you. You just know so many things about so many different areas, and you always question stuff and try to challenge yourself or do something different.” I just about died when she said that, and try to think about it when I am in a rut. p.s. Thanks so much for the giveaway Joy! I love that its old-school style – its why you are such a giving blogger ! ;)
Kanishka
Our wedding was 5 years ago and people still tell us it was the best one they’ve ever been to. It makes me really happy because we worked really hard to make it a fun party and it makes me feel like we have the best friends and family because they were able to cut loose and have a great time.
Jennie
From a young student of mine, that I helped her to love playing the piano again! Great blog and great giveaway -thanks!
Nikki
When my older daughter was one we were in a cab together and the cab driver told me that he could tell that I was a really great mom. He said he could tell that I was a natural and that he had a lot of moms in the cab but never felt compelled to say this to anyone.
Angelina
I’ll just go with the compliment that I got the other day. My unrequited love fella told me I was really thoughtful for bringing him a cookie when he was having a hard day. It made me feel like a million bucks, though it sounds kinda silly to write it as my best compliment. Well if I can’t get the guy, maybe I’ll get the giveaway!!!
Alicia
When someone told me that my eyes were pools into my soul.
piszke
Generous giwaway :) !Best compliment arrived from my teenager son when he said I looked awesome.
Courtney S.
Best compliment? “You are the strongest woman I have ever known.” At the time, I had been battling symptoms of a then unknown illness and was at my wits end. Hearing that right then was so special and so appreciated. I’m all diagnosed (fibromyalgia and celiac) and managing it super well now but when things get rough, remembering this makes life that much easier to handle.
Margaret
A friend once said of me “she’s the smartest person I know”. That was 15 years ago and it still makes me feel loved.
Heather
At an evening photography class, one of my fellow classmates came up to me and genuinely said “you have a beautiful smile, never smiling” His kind words put a smile on my face :)
Ruth Anne
We love so many of the same things! What a terrific give-away.
This week my former boss sent me a note saying he had read an article that I had wrote and that he thought it was a critical contribution and that I had made him proud. Made me smile all week! (still smiling!)
Tara OBrien
Best compliment: you inspire me!
Kim Poper
Once someone recommended me for two different jobs and both people said they were told to snap me up! That was nice!
Amber
Hmmm, best compliment I’ve received lately is that I always have a positive attitude! Such a great reminder to compliment people, I sometimes forget until someone compliments me. It’s wonderful when something as simple as some kind words can really turn your day/attitude/perspective around. Best giveaway I’ve seen in a while, nice work!
vrinda
Just today this totally awe-inspiring, funny and absolutely wonderful woman I know told me how much I remind her of herself when she was in her twenties. (and she’s not my mum and I’m pretty certain she meant it in a good compliment-ey fashion) woot!
Maddy
I’ve been told that I give good advice, which means a lot to me because when I’m giving the advice I don’t feel all that sure of it myself. So to be told that I am good at helping… It’s great :)
Karin
The best compliment I ever received was that I have a beautiful radiant face. It made me feel young and beautiful!
Alyssa
awesome giveaway!
Ally
I made chocolate chip cookies for my cousins last night and upon eating one, one of them said “we’ll never be able to have another cookie again, these are sooo good!” Definitely a very nice feeling.
Flo
Lovely giveaway! Not sure if this counts as a compliment but it just stuck with me. It was when my ex told me how she liked the fact that I decided to drop out Uni because it felt the right thing for me to do and that not many people do that. And that I’ve no idea what I’m doing with my life but not afraid to admit it. May not sound like a compliment but it meant a lot to me so there you go. Thumbs up for this old-school blog giveaway and also for it being open internationally! Good luck everyone!
Kelly W.
I recently was told that my laugh is infectious, to never stop laughing because it makes me even more beautiful. Made my day!
rachel
My daughter gives me compliments every day – telling me she loves me and that, “[I am] the best mom [she] got”. She made me realize there are many simple compliments we receive in a day – just don’t be too busy to miss and acknowledge them!
Heather
On my last birthday my best friend wrote me a card about how she thinks I am wonderful, capable and basically a bunch of positive things that made me cry. :) It was so nice and motivating that I’ve kept it posted on my wall for when i’m having a horrible day.
Katie
What a great giveaway! The best compliment I’ve received was someone saying “Julie Andrews eat your heart out” after seeing me play Maria in the sound of music. Weeeeeeee!
Tricia
You have been there for me through everything this past year.
Mariann
Yesterday, my nurse told me I had beautiful blues eyes. She really loves my eyes.
That makes one feel really good.
Brooke
A simple compliment like your a good person is the best I’ve received.
Edie
“You’re a good person”, one of the most meaningful compliments I ever received.
Sue
“you are the best mom in the whole world!” From my son. How could it get any better than that?
Jill H.
I’m a public librarian, and do storytime for the local Headstart every month. One day I was in the library break room heating up my lunch and another staff member came to get me. Out in the children’s room was a little boy from Headstart and his mom. She said, “it’s his birthday so I took the day off work and told him we could go anywhere he wanted. He wanted to come to the library and see Miss Jill the Story Lady.” Best. Compliment. Ever.
Laura
“you have such a bright smile!” c:
Kim
Someone told me in a professional setting that it was remarkable how I could control a room without needing to raise my voice. I think about that all the time when I feel a little less in control. Like, wait a minute, I CAN do this!
Katie
It was recently, I had long hair and cut it short to a bob. I have been sort of regretting the decision, but one co-worker keeps complementing me and telling me it how great it looks! Really boosts my confidence!
Suze from OR
You’re the best mom ever!
Kristin t
That I have a nice smile :)
cravesadventure
Great Shares :) Checking out UrgentRX since I am a traveler, hiker and biker. Those Bark Thins sound delicious for snacking too. Happy Weekend!
Robyn
The best compliment I ever received was after I had been over-worked for days and was hit completely exhausted to the world…. as I was leaving work, one of the other laborers turned to me and said “your smile is infectious” … I completely melted. Any sort of exhaustion slipped away!
Rachel Brown
Certainly the best compliment I ever received was when my boyfriend commented that I made his favourite meal (breaded lamb chops) as well – if not better – than his mother! Culinary win!
Kelli
That’s a tough one, but I recently had someone who was ringing me up at a register look at me really sweetly and tell me I had a beautiful smile!
Amber Brenna
“I admire your confidence in teaching us new things.” Said to me by a student I taught outdoor education to in Yosemite national park. I struggle with feeling confident so this really made me feel good!
christina
For me the best comment I received was when my cousin said she wanted to be like me when she grew up. We’ve always been close and I’ve always felt like she was so talented. She’s a cross country runner and that’s way out my comfort zone, but she is killing it in her field. Hearing her say she looked up to me is something I’ll hold onto forever.
Melina
One of the best compliments I’ve ever gotten happened when I was having lunch with an old friend. We’d been talking and laughing a lot (I have a LOUD laugh) and as we were walking out, an elderly woman started shouting “Excuse me!” from a nearby table to get my attention. I thought she needed something but she proceeded to tell me that I have the most wonderful laugh she’s ever heard and such a bright smile. She told me that my happiness made her day, and to never stop laughing like I did in the restaurant. It was SO sweet I nearly cried.
Thanks for doing this giveaway, and for carving out such a wonderful little corner of the Internet for us to enjoy! :)
xo
Sarah L
I complimented a friend’s nice curly hair up-do and she said she did it thinking it was a style I would do! It was pretty high praise :)
Lizzie
While waiting to pick up pizza, a man turned to me, said, “you’re stunning, by the way,” and then left with his pizza.
Ellie
When a co-worker told me I was their favorite person with whom to work.
Kiera
great giveaway!
best compliment: someone once told me that I’m very good at accepting and appreciating people just as they are. It’s made me try even harder to do that everyday.
Stephanie in Corralitos
I was told I have grace. And no it wasn’t a joke about a Seinfeld episode.;)
And thank you for the old-fashioned giveaway. I don’t FB or Tweet or IG. . . . .
Darcy
What a great giveaway!! The best compliment I ever received was my husband telling me what a great mom I am to our wonderful (and WILD) toddler in a moment when I was feeling totally overwhelmed.
Lori
I was at the grocery store, stockpiling something boring like canned beans, and had to do the awkward “sorry just need to shuffle past you” exchange with another girl in the aisle. As we brushed by, baskets and all, she very suddenly complimented my hair. I probably just stuttered an “oh uhh thank you” out of surprise, but it really made my afternoon! and boosted my confidence in dishing hit-and-run compliments to complete strangers.
nettiemoore11
Being a yoga teacher for kids, the best compliment I have ever received was from a parent who said their daughter had no fear when she went to the dentist because she kept chanting the mantra that I taught her in class, the parent said I saved her life, wow! Nettie from Moore or Less Cooking great giveaway Joy!
Robin
My husband told me his favorite thing about me was my sense of humor. It made me feel so secure that he likes to spend time with me. Is that super dumb?
Zoe Ryan
My now-husband asked me to marry him, definitely the best compliment I have ever gotten!
Alex
I was told I made someone’s day without even realizing it. In turn, it made my day and felt like a total complement!
Amy
my husband told me once. “You are my anchor in the storm” I don’t think he even knows how important it was but I carry that with me evryday
Christie
A friend once said I would make the best mother.
Thanks for the giveaway!
thelovelynumber
I just started a job managing a new team and came into work Friday to a birthday present of a framed team photo and the nicest card calling me the best boss ever. I got a little choked up!
Sharon
My son once said I was the strongest person he knew. I never thought of myself that way, but it meant a lot then, and it still does.
starshy926
Someone told me that my smile just makes everything around it light up…made me so happy!
Lorrie Roth
I am a new attorney, and my grandma was one as well, but she died in 2001. She graduated Northwestern Law School in the 1930s, so was ahead of her time. When I got my first job out of law school, my mom said that grandma would be proud of me. That still means a lot to me.
debbie
“You have a beautiful smile!” from perfect strangers passing by! It reminds me to smile at the world and treat others with kindness.
Jesse Faris
What a fun giveaway! My favorite compliment I’ve ever received was after taking my 2-year-old daughter to a fancy lunch place on my birthday a few years back, a woman stopped by my table and said, “What a lovely pair you two make. I admire how conversational you are with her!” Made my year. Life with a 2-yr-old was rarely peach tea and roses, & and I constantly remembered that one lovely lunch date and the woman who noticed.
breakfastwithivory
I was told I am very kind and forgiving :)
breakfastwithivory
Wow the prizes look absolutely amazing!!!
The best compliment i’ve received was that I was told that I treat everyone equally and kindly even to those who aren’t kind to me.
Rachel K.
What a nice idea for a “giveaway challenge.” Best compliment I have received in recent memory was my daughter saying, “You’re always in a good mood, and that makes me feel happy, too.”
Catherine
Thinking about receiving compliments gives me the hebegeebees because I have such issues with being told I am doing something well– or that I look well…always feels like my shame voice kicks I. Right as someone says something kind to dispute the comment…so I need some practice on this one…but the best one I’ve ever received…is prob when my husband noticed the hard work I’ve done to combat shame and complimented me on my hard work as progress :-)
Bee
Yay! Best compliment was when someone told me I was a great cook.
Jenny
Best compliment I ever received was that I am a good friend. A friend told me that recently after her sister passed away. All I wanted was for her to feel loved by everyone around her during a tough time. Mission accomplished :) This giveaway looks AWESOME!
Carley Grorud
The best compliment I ever received was being carded for a rated R movie! And I was 25 at the time :)
Barb Halm
The best compliment I have received was both verbal and physical. I had just started a new job as a physical therapist and one of my first new patients was an overweight gentlemen with back pain. He walked into the clinic with a cane and 7/10 pain, and I was concerned he would be a hard person to help. Within 4 weeks, his pain was well controlled. He continued to come to the clinic with his cane, but was always carrying it in his hand to show me he could finally walk without it – he was so proud that he could return to “normal” and told me every session how much I helped him. It really appreciated his sincere gratitude and I always think about it on stressful days at work :-)
Chelsea
Ah, an old school blog giveaway. I love that blogs can be old school now. Besides the obvious and selfish reasons for commenting here (this giveaway looks fantastic!), I actually do want to say that I’m a little bit in love with this blog, the way you cook, and the way you write. Thanks for sharing.
Jen
The nicest compliment I’ve ever recieved (that I can call to mind) was probably when one of my good friends told me I was a good listener. That really meant, and still means, a lot.
I love your blog, Joy! Keep up the awesomeness. Greetings from Autstralia :)
Allie
My boyfriend’s aunt said that I had the kind of beauty that an elegant woman in the medieval times would have. It was strange but I appreciated it.
WenHsin
The patient asking me if I would be at his next appointment! It reaffirmed my career choice as a pharmacist and why I love what I do!
Baily hollen
I am a musician. I had a girl come up to me once and tell me that I sound like Sheryl Crow and that it’s people like me that open doors for women in a male-driven arena and I am the reason she wants to keep going. (Lots of musicians are male, which is great, but we need some more ladies that have mastered their craft.) Also….great, great giveaway! Thank you!
Cait
before I left my teaching job, one of my students drew me a picture. one one side: school with me. everything was smiling, even the books. on the other side: school without me. a bunny rabbit, a cactus, and a book were all crying. it made me smile!
Teresa P
A close friend told me that my children were the sweetest, most loving kids she knew. It made me take a step back as a frazzled mom of 3 wild boys and appreciate my guys from someone else’s perspective. I think winning a Kindle would make my month.
Leslie Crowell
I was told recently that i am a cherished friend– because i listen and don’t judge.
nikkipolani
I like the theme of your giveaway, Joy. Just summer fun. Thanks!
My favorite compliment is, “You have great insight.”
Fiona
Our interns in the office are leaving us this week and this was my first ever supervisory position. During the term wrap up, the intern told me I was the type of supervisor she wants to learn to be…! Amazing complement!
Marisa
that I am modestly confident – loved that – will there be a book tour soon and will you visit in Huntington LI – love to meet you :)
Tanya R
best comment after a piano recital when I was younger- “I love the way you make the music come to life”
love the blog!:)
-T
Jeannette
I’m relatively new at work, and a couple of the other women (who I didn’t even think new my name) complimented me on my new haircut. It was kind of a two fer – the hair compliment made me feel pretty, but the fact that the ladies at work new and acknowledged me was awesome!
Alicia
One day I was feeling quite sad, when a guy told me “You have pretty eyes”. It actually made my day!
Sarah G.
When I was finishing my PhD research and felt like a discombobulated mess everyday, one morning one of the staff in my department told me I looked fantastic. Sometimes it’s the little things that keep you going!
Katy
There was one time I made a Joy the Baker cake, posted a picture on Instagram, tagged her and she gave me a ????. Made me ??.
Jane
When my niece was little she said “Auntie Jane is unconventional”. I took that as a compliment. : )
Beth Gallagher
It’s been quite a ginormously stressful year (just had to use my pre-teen’s word as it truly fit), and I’ve not taken very good care of myself. I was out grocery shopping and feeling mighty large and frumpy. An acquaintance from a few years ago stopped me and said how wonderful I look, and proceeded to say that I was obviously a wonderful mom because my girls are so “lovely” too! Made my year!!!! Thanks for the chance at such a fab giveaway!
Dani
My coworker told me I would be an amazing CEO – without me asking. It’s something I want to do so that meant a lot!
Carrie Westman
The best compliment I’ve ever heard was that I have a very unique yet calming and soothing voice :)
syd
Thanks for this opportunity. The best compliment that comes to mind is a few months ago I was getting ready for a “fancy” dinner (as my daughter calls the meals at restaurants where her father wears a tie) and my 4 year old walks into the bathroom as I was finishing getting ready. In the most sincere way she said “you look so beautiful Mama.” Made my heart melt.
Megan Saara B.
Great smile and fun personality!
Jessica L
I thanked my friend for inviting me to his party and remarked how cool all of his friends were. To which he replied, “You’re cool too, that’s why I invited you!”
Janet T
Nicest compliments are about my pretty blue eyes! And, I love to express genuine compliments to people every day…you can see the instant lift in spirit!
Tiffany
I was told my creativity helped that person think more creatively and find a solution at work.
Julia
The best compliment I’ve ever received was when someone told me I had the “heart of a lion”!
Janet T
My best compliment was my Son telling me I am a nice Mom!
Christi P
On my last evaluation at work my boss added a comment that said “I was the heart of the school”! I have thought of that often and try to live up to that statement. It is always nice to hear a kind word!
katy
When I went to the doctor’s a few days ago they said I had the pulse of an athlete! I’m not sure if it was intended as a compliment or just factual but it made my day; I’ve been working so hard to get in shape and have certainly never been compared to an athlete before so I was thrilled! Other than that, I would say my mentor giving me a batch of homemade cookies after she said cookies are her way of showing love (what’s more loving than cookies?!), amen. Hope you’re having a great August!
Jennifer
After our second was born, being told by my husband that I was doing a great job with our girls! At the time, it felt far from the truth :)
Ulrike
my best friend told me today that I’m the only person ‘I can talk to seriously about coloured eggs’.. (as a reference to your recently posted deviled eggs recipe). which is the best compliment one ever made!
T Jeanne Ashford
Best compliment I ever received would be when one of my favourite lecturers took a moment to talk to me about what I’m doing and my life, and then assured me that I’m a good writer. Not ‘good for a student’ or good in the millions things that uni students do that don’t really translate to the real work. But a good writer. *sigh* I don’t miss university, but I sure miss that lecturer.
Sarah
My cousin told me that he and his brother thought I would be the best mom because I always made them feel special and know they were loved.
Ella
Best compliment ever: “You’re in my class. You’re the smart one.”
Betsy
“I knew God loved me because of [your kindness].”
Chantal Cadieux-romano
Hi! I love your posts. And – great giveaway!
The best compliment I’ve ever recieved was recently from my partner. I was trying to figure out a quick week night dinner with not a whole lot of fresh ingredients in the fridge. I remembered that the week before we had bought some scallops and a lobster tail and tossed them in the freezer, so I decided to make a lobster risotto with pan seared scallops for him. (I dont eat seafood).
When I served him, his eyes bugged out a bit with excitement and he tucked in. He told me that “This is, by far, the best thing you’ve ever cooked me and quite possibly the best meal I’ve ever eaten in my life. If you served THIS on Masterchef (the show) you’d definitley advance to the next round and could even WIN!” He proceeded to gobble up his dinner and keeps asking when I’ll make it again. ?
Heather Hicks
The best comment I’ve ever received was when my mom told me that I am a great mom!
Sujin Stone
My sorority sisters told me “I ‘m the best sister they ever had”.
Michaela
the best compliment I have ever received is from my boyfriends mother. She told me my meatballs were “way better” than her husbands moms recipe!
Carolyn
A friend once told me I had a “gentle but powerful soul.” That was pretty cool ;)
Bronwyn
Yay! How exciting! Everything is amazing :)
Christa L Sagmoe
When I was having a really rough day, someone I didn’t know told me I had really beautiful eyes. It really made my day.
Olivia
Now I’ve had the standard you’re pretty you’re nice etc compliments before and while they make me feel good, the best compliment I ever got was from a couple I was babysitting for. I didn’t know them that well and they were struggling in every way possible except faith and love. One day as I was leaving they told me that they’ve seen my heart and hope that they’re children could grow up to be like me. Coming from that couple who are probably the sweetest people on the earth…it made me tear up for sure and I continue to make a conscious effort to be aware of my actions (bec most of the time I feel so frazzled I can’t match my socks…haha) but you never know who’s life you could be impacting
Bianca
Beautiful and amazing giveaway!
Best compliments I ever received…
A gentleman once said to me, your eyes sparkle like the actress Julia Ormond.
And at school, a student with autism once said to me, “you smile all the time and always say hello, why are you always so happy?”
Nuraan
A girl friend of mine once told told me I am beautiful :) no-one has ever said that to me before . best compliment ever!
Melissa Galindo
Best compliment you have a beautiful, your children are so reapectful, and OMG this dinner you made is FANTASTIC! ????
Deanna
I am in graduate school to become a teacher and can be overly critical of myself, it always helps to hear that others think I’ll be a great teacher someday :)
Stephanie
Great giveaway! The best compliment I ever received (that stuck with me, at least) was from my thesis supervisor, who told me that I write really clearly and reflectively and that she was really excited about my work; it was so wonderful to hear such high praise from someone I respect so much! :)
Victoria
I’ve been really shy my whole life, almost, like, cripplingly shy. To the point where I would practice making small talk at home in the mirror. I missed out on a lot because of it and, for a long time, felt like I was invisible because I couldn’t assert myself to make an impression. One day some of my coworkers were talking and one the senior people looked at me and said “You remind me of the saying “Silent waters run deep’ ” and smiled at me.
That was the first time I felt like it was alright that I was quiet, weird, and thoughtful, that maybe it was actually a good thing. It actually helped me to become more confident, and I’m grateful to him to this day.
Becky
Having my 3 yr old daughter tell me I am WonderWoman is the best compliment I have received. To be her favorite super hero is an honor.
rosie
I was once told “You give really good hugs!” which I have to say just made me want to hug even more people :-P
Nina
“You are one of these rare people who are pretty when they’re 20 but are becoming more beautiful as they get older. By the time you are 30, you will be gorgeous” – it was so strange to hear it but it also turns out to be true.
Right up there with that one is “You have a voice like velvety chocolate!”
I have some wonderful people in my life :)
Jeni
Your giveaway rules made me smile big time!! I have a tie…. one of the best compliments I ever received was when I was in Chicago going for an interview in the morning and was really nervous, and a man came up to me before he got off the train and said, “I don’t know where you’re going this morning, but you look lovely. Whatever it is, you’ll be great!” The other was when one of my patients (I’m a Physical Therapist) told me I’d help her change her life!
Kiri
I bumped into an old friend from theatre school last night who said to me ‘ any girl who looks like you should have loads of numbers by the end if the evening’ having just given me his number so we could try to keep in touch. It was very sweet, and totally unexpected, and made my not-so-great day so much better.
Alison Chu
The best compliment is that I raised kind, polite children!!
Eva
I’m sure that this says something about me although I’m not sure exactly what. I can’t think of one that didn’t make me squirm and uncomfortable.
Stefanie
You are so pretty, Mommy from my sons…
maggie
Best compliment: that I’m a good listener – meant a lot that I can be there for people :)
Aya
I just love your blog!! The best complaint I received was from my husband “you’re pure hearted” and tell now I just smile everytime I remember.
Merrit
Man, Joy. Your style is impeccable… everything in this giveaway is just so cute!
The best compliment I’ve ever received was from an old hippie poetry teacher who told me I reminded him of “a celtic warrior goddess windsurfing towards nirvana.” I don’t think anyone is ever going to top that…
Jane
The best compliment was my boyfriend asking me to marry him, the most special moment of my life. Compliment to me that he wants to spend the rest of his life with me! <3
Linda Beus
My girls telling me I’m not old and I look better than any of their friends moms.
ramoncita
When someone said to me “thank you, you’re very kind”.
Jess
thanks joy! I always find the best compliments are from random strangers. I was walking down the street one day and a guy stopped me to tell me he liked my socks (purple with neon pink polka dots)
Erin Mollie
when at church a lady was talking about being a virtuous woman, after she was done her husband said when she was talking about being a virtuous woman he thought of me!
Carla S
The best compliment I received was that I workout harder than anyone they had seen before.
Sarahhh
I was relief teaching a class for three weeks and this girl told me I was the best teacher ever :’)
Hannah
You remind me of Cat from 10 things I hate about you. At least I took it as a compliment!
elise
Wow, Joy… you’ll have your work cut out reading through all these comments. Crazy! Kudos!
A good friend once told me “you make me live”…that is the most beautiful thing I have ever heard.
I sometimes get the urge to tell random people – on the train, in the streets – that they are pretty, or that I love their shoes… I don’t think I’ve ever seen it through – because that would be weird, right? – but I do end up regretting not saying something. Next time…
karen wu
what a great giveaway! i think the best compliment i ever received was from a kid who told me i was her best friend
Robin
Lovely stuff!! My best (most needed) compliment was when I was grocery shopping with my grumpy 4 year old and my extremely unhappy newborn. The checkout line was terribly long and I was literally at my wits end by the time we reached the cashier, and both children were out of patience. I mumbled an apology to the cashier for my screaming kids and she said “hey you’re a GREAT mom. Don’t you be sorry about a thing darlin’!” Made my day.
Catherine
I have to say the best compliment ever was from my dad telling me he is proud of what I’ve accomplished so far. He’s never been an overly sentimental person, so I knew it meant a lot :)
orangemush
I am often told I have beautiful skin, which may seem a bit random but I really like it as a compliment
Jennie
“I feel peaceful when I’m around you.”
Marie
The nicest compliment? Oh gosh…
i really like the ones when you feel like crap but someone honestly tells you that you look nice
also i once babysat for a few years and one of the kids told me that she wants me to live with them because it is so much fun to have me around.
Lauren
My husband telling me that I’m an amazing wife and mother. Two of the roles that mean so much to me. :) Glad to know that someone appreciates how hard I work for them.
Sarah
A friend told me that I have a way of making others feel comfortable in their own skin when they are around me. As a friend, sister, and high school teacher, that really made my day. Thanks for keeping the love going, Joy!
Trine
Hi Joy! The best compliment I ever received was from my five year old nephew. My sister asked him what he wanted to be when he grew up, and he said he wanted to start a bakeshop with auntie “cause she make the best cakes”.
Julie
My son’s friend said, “I hear you’re the cool kind of mom” :)
Ellen @ indigo scones
A reader commented on my blog that my grandma would be proud of my little internet space and of me, that made my world.
Cari
The compliments I always appreciate the most are when people tell me they trust me and tell me things they don’t feel comfortable telling others and then seeking my advice, repeatedly. Makes me feel great that they trust me and that I can help them.
Thanks for all you do, Joy, it’s always such a pleasure to read your blog. And even though New Orleans is ridiculously hot for you right now, I have been quite enjoying reading and seeing your adventures down there. It is also motivating me to plan a trip to New Orleans with friends.
Jordan
The best compliment I ever received was from my husband and he said that my love of Jesus was an inspiration.
Lauren Marshman
“I don’t know how you do it!” said a friend when she saw the berry bread (your recipe!) that I made while simultaneously working, raising a 3 yo and a 1 yo, and maintaining my sanity.
Jackie H
One of best compliments I have received was from one of my grade school teachers who complimented my singing voice. I had problems hitting high notes in my audition for a school musical, but managed to make the cut. It was a vindication of sorts to hear that compliment from someone after a rehearsal.
Tara Francis
Best compliment? After completing a contract teaching English in South Korea, my students told me I was the best teacher they ever had! I couldn’t have asked for more and it was so special for me to know that I was able to influence them in a positive way, just as they influenced me.
Christine
“You bring joy into the room!”
jane n
I co-worker once told me I the kindness I showed everyone around me have, inspired her to be kind to others (inside/outside of work). It made me happy (thanks dad for teaching me how to treat others kindly).
Abby
I have a legit curly natural fro that never behaves so when someone unexpectedly comments that my hair is awesome it always makes me happy. And I shall make someone’s hair day today! Or compliment their brows. Man does that do wonders.
Beth C.
I think the best compliment I’ve ever gotten is when I was told that my two children are absolutely amazing, kind, funny kids.
Mindy
Amazing giveaway! Best compliment: your smile always makes me smile.
Krista
I always get that I have a lovely smile, makes me feel good.
Toyia H.
You know, a few years ago I was visiting with an Aunt I hadn’t seen since I was a teenager. After a day together she told me that I was just the same girl as I’d been when I was a little thing. That’s about the nicest thing anyone could ever tell me!
Chloe
A week before my graduation, I found out that I have cysts in my thyroid that may be cancerous. It means so much when friends and family tell me that I am brave. Their compliments give me more confidence and motivation!
*** Also, those pens look so beautiful! They would be perfect for the new Moleskin recipe book I got to write down all of my favorite recipes from my mom and grandma (and Joy too)!!!
KK
My son took a picture of his food on his dinner plate and snapped chat it ;)…thanking me for the “gourmet” food…Thank you Joy for all the great recipes!!
Dani
Love the giveaway items!!!
Gaby
One of my ex-coworkers would always complement me on my walk, my face, eyebrows, and how I always looked confident. I never felt that I looked confident or even felt confident, especially when walking, but this really helped to build my confidence. It meant a lot bc he is gay and had a tendency to be a c—-, so his daily compliments toward me where a great mood booster. We don’t talk anymore, but I can say that he had a hand in me being 100% confident and just an overall better version of myself. Every time I leave my house I hear his voice in my head and immediately feel confident and great. Even though, I never got a chance to tell him: thanks JP, for being such a special and true friend, I miss you!
Jessica D.
My 9 year old son telling me I’m awesome even when I force him to finish his summer math!
bella
what a kind thing to do for your readers! Just thinking about all the compliments I received already put many smiles in my day. Thank you!!
Here’s the best one so far and it was paid indirectly to me when my old boss whom I haven’t seen for at least 3 years thought I was going to at the off-site event, and I wasn’t able to make it. He said to my colleagues that he was really looking forward to the bella-hug, and that I give the most genuine and sincere hugs. Isn’t that awesome?
Lyn
Awesome giveaway, the best compliment I ever received was when two strangers at a restaurant told me I had a very well behaved baby and that I was a great mom, made my day, being a parent can be hard at times.
Teresa
my most memorable compliment was when my husband told me he is really proud of me. It was during one of those moments whenI could tell he really meant it.
Ria
you are a beautiful person :) still makes my day!
Sheer
the greatest compliment I have ever gotten is from a teenager who was going through a rehab in Bolivia where I was volunteering, she said “you are such an inspiration to me, thanks for encouraging me to keep going”.
Alyssa
I remember when I was little my aunt’s friend told me every time he saw me I got prettier. I was at a very young and awkward stage and didn’t ever receive any male attention. It made me feel good about myself, even if it was superficial, it was a kind gesture.
thelittlecookbook
The best compliment I ever received was “You are one of the funniest people I know, like seriously” It meant so so much to me, it was about 2 years ago and I replay that compliment all. The. Damn. Time!
Oh man I desperately wanna try those bark thins. *Drool*
Amy L
The best compliment I’ve ever gotten is when my daughter remarked about how great it was that I read to her and her siblings so much when they were children. She said that I gave them a love of books, unlocking their imaginations, and that is why they love to travel the world. She and her husband are now living in Switzerland, and have visited several other European cities in the past year. Our son is working on his doctorate, and has been back-and-forth between the US and India many times.They amaze me!
Grace park
When my parents said that I was raising my kids well.
Amanda
I had a student (a sixth grade boy) tell me that I was “completely unexpected.” Coming from a student, it felt like the best compliment ever. Also, props to you for an old school blog giveaway.
Hilliary
I really love when people compliment my penmanship, so weird, but it makes me feel so satisfied
Erianne
When my husband was in Afghanistan and I was alone with three kids, someone told me I was the strongest person they knew….on a day I was near tears and felt so down. It meant the world to me.
Christie
Probably a compliment from my husband telling me I’m a great wife.
Maddie
The best compliment I received recently was that I act much more mature than my age. And I heard it from at least 3 different people in the last week!
Annie
My husband was diagnosed with cancer and sent me flowers with a card that said, “If you and my illness are a dream I’ll keep the dream.” The card is framed and on my bedside table, that’s what I’m grabbing if the house is on fire!
Helen
“I like your face.” Just such an honest, simple thing.
Ella
I’ll be 40 in less than 2 weeks. When I told the maintenance guys at school, one did a doubletake and said, “No Way. I would have never have guessed.” Loved it.
April Mae
After donating eggs to a couple trying to have a baby, the female recipient left a thank you card to me at the clinic. In it she said, “A lot of people reach the end of their lives wondering if they have done anything of positive impact for anyone, but you will never have to wonder that.” That will always stick with me.
ai4a
My father, who spent his entire life in New York City, was the biggest foodie I’ve ever known. He had us gnawing on Ethiopian sponge bread before we’d figured out how to smear our mashed peas across the kitchen walls!
So you can imagine my shock and awe when, during a meal at a small place downtown supposedly famous for its guacamole — which he’d crowed over several times before — he took one bite and shrugged. “Yours is better,” he pronounced matter-of-factly. Just like that. I will never forget that!
Courtney V.
I frequently get the compliment that I will be a great mom one day. Which may sound odd, but I hope they are right! =)
Shannon
Someone once told me I had a smile that could sell milk. I will never forget that.
christina
I think the best compliment I received was about the first time I made a holiday dinner for my family. Some my aunts had their doubts about my cooking abilities, but I had them floored when the meal was served. Now I’m in charge of all holiday dinners!
MicheleB
Best compliment ever? Your hugs are like free therapy. Awesome right?
Katie
What a great giveaway! (And I totally appreciate not having to jump through hoops for it!) The best compliment I ever received was when a student thanked me for contributing more to his thesis than his own thesis adviser. My heart swelled!
separdee
Cute giveaway! I love the neat picks! I have been told a couple of times that I am a “kindred spirit.” I love kindred spirits– best compliment ever!
Marla
Oh Joy, THANK YOU for allowing us non social media peeps to enter a wonderful giveaway:-) Love your blog, love your fearless use of butter! Best compliment received? From my reserved boss, today, for a job well done- “you are AMAZING!”
Danielle
My favorite compliment of all was a few weeks ago when a complete stranger told me that I had such a kind smile that she could tell that I was genuinely happy. That totally made my day.
allyhallam
It is horrendously UNsummery here in Australia; so this would be a nice midwinter boost!
The best compliment I ever received was told to me by the mother of some children I used to babysit, who said that they had been talking about me coming over soon, one night over dinner, and the three year old piped up and said, “I love Ally, she makes my heart breathe.”
Good luck to everyone!
Kim Ausk
My daughter told me I am the very best mommy. Best compliment ever.
Awesome giveaway- try and stay cool!!
Christina
My little brother told me I was ” kind, patient, and someone to look up to”. Probably the sweetest compliment I’ve ever received!
Mimi
The best compliment I ever recieved was that I’m 3/4 legs and 1/4 body….love my long legs!
Isabel
Oh my goodness, what an awesome giveaway! The best compliment I remember receiving is when a friend in middle school told me I just wasn’t the type of person that people talked badly about behind my back. For some reason that has really stuck with me!
Amy S.
My mom once told me I was the funniest person she knew. It was a surprise because she was always so funny! I now make it a point to say something nice when I think of it. Just going up to someone in a store and telling her she has cute shoes can make a person’s day.
Emily
Hearing my brother say “You’re salt” is a memory I will treasure for the rest of my life. As someone who’s seeking to follow Christ with everything I am, it means more than I can say.
Mackenzie
That I have the most sparkly eyes when I’m truly happy! Thanks Joy, you’re wonderful!!!
Jennifer W
The best, sweetest, most wonderful complement ever came from my five year old son: “You’re the best mommy ever, and I will love you forever, for all my days and all my nights!” Heart. Melted.
daydreamkate
The best compliment that I ever got was that I have a beautiful brain. Love it. :)
Brittany
I work in the service industry for a dine-in movie theater concept where we regularly have to spiel guests about how the theater dining service works. It can be tough because we work movie theater hours (long, always open, ALWAYS) and as with any service job you can sometimes be treated really poorly. On the other hand, having really nice guests or catching up with regulars makes you feel really good. I always get compliments on my voice when “giving the spiel” which always makes me feel awesome because it’s something I’ve never heard before this job. One family in particular stopped me once when I was a having a bit of a rough night but trying to put my best energy/attitude forward (12 hour shift :/ ) and asked me what my career goals were. They explained that they wanted to know because they thought I had such a wonderful, positive presence and because I was so poised and intelligent. They also reassured me that I would do marvelously on my upcoming LSAT. That was by far the most unexpected compliment. I’ll never forget it.
Maggie
I was working behind the counter at a bakery and I took a baguette from the back of the shelf instead of the front, thinking it would be the warmest as it was protected from the air coming through the continuously opening entrance door. The customer was confused and asked why I did that and when I explained, he SOOO appreciated my weird thought process and that I was really trying my best for him. He said, “You are going to be the president of a company one day, or something like that.” I SOOOO appreciated that he appreciated my efforts!
Jennifer L.
Always love your blogs! Hmm… one of my college professors apologized to me for not being able to see the beauty in my writing… sounds like a weird compliment, I realize, but it really meant a lot to me (as a creative writer!).
Megan M
Someone told me that I’m pretty laid back – I certainly feel like a nutcase on a daily basis, so this was good for me to hear.
Leslie
I got a great compliment just last night — a woman I hadn’t seen in probably 15 years said I still looked the same! Pretty good given that I’m almost 56 now. Then a couple of nights ago I was out with my Dad for dinner. The woman in the booth behind us was dining along and received birthday dessert. Though it wasn’t technically a compliment, we told her happy birthday and she just lit up. She told us she and her husband used to go to that restaurant and it was her way of celebrating.
Caitlin Thompson
A colleague of mine recently mentioned my work to a reporter because she wanted me to be acknowledged for all of my hard work. That made me feel awesome.
Janet T.
My husband tells me I’m the best cook ever. And sometimes I think he really means it!
Linn
I love giving other people compliments, but one of the best I’ve ever received was that I have a ‘crazy gift’ for drawing. It caught me completely off guard and truly warmed my heart.
Jasmine K.
I’ve been working on changing my career from accounting to physician assistant. Ive been fortunate to find a job in a derm office. I brought a patient in, heard his reason for coming in, assisted the Dr. as he was getting checked up, and before leaving, Mr. Patient said to me that I had a great demeanor and a beautiful smile and to never lose it as I pursue my future endeavors. I remember that everyday now to remember who and how I want to be for myself and others. Thanks for the giveaway!
dru
my son telling me I was the best mom
Valerie
As a new Mom to a six month old baby girl, the best compliment I’ve gotten is that I’m doing OK at this Mom thing.
Elly B.
At a recent staff meeting we played a game where we went around the room and described each other using an adjective that started with the first letter of each person’s name. I got lots of “elegant,” along with “enthusiastic, energetic, etc.” It’s nice to get positive feedback from coworkers!
Martha
Was told from a customer, ” you really are a nice person!”
Ellie
I received a very nice compliment today that I have really pretty eyes. I’ll take it! :)
Hannah
The best compliment I ever received was “you are a great listener”
Thuy
At the gym in group excercise kindly shared her step box with me because it was a crazy packed class.. Even offered to give up her weights for me.. Such a simple but genuinely kind gesture for a complete stranger.
thegrowinggrimms
Best compliment as a former teacher- “Mrs. W..you remember all those chants you made us act out to learn roots…I totally remembered one today.”–said a student three years later!!
JamieH
An acquaintance once told me that I reminded her of a superhero and that I am “beautiful like rain.”
Amy
You have beautiful eyes
Kimberly Marie
The best compliment I ever received was my grandma calling one night to tell me she was proud of me and everything I was doing. It brought tears to my eyes.
Marnely Rodriguez-Murray
The best compliment I’ve ever received….just happened right now. It’s not even crazy awesome, just awesome enough! A friend just said “you look thinner, what are you doing new?” and I was like “nothing, just working 14 hour days at the restaurant!” I guess hard work does pay off? :)
Lee R.
Someone once told me I looked like the Mona Lisa. At first I thought it was weird, then I decided, no, it’s not weird, it’s awesome!
Kaleigh
My dad recently told me it was a joy to him watching me with my new son, and that he thinks I am such a natural at being a mother. So heartwarming.
Lauren
The most meaningful compliment I have received was when everyone at the place I was interning begged me to stay on and not to go back to school, because I was the best intern they had ever had and they really needed me.
Amy
Thank you for this post it made my day. I will go forth and compliment others! Best compliment? Someone telling me out of the blue that I looked like Sissy Spacek. I didn’t know who she was and it terrified me! Then I looked her up and loved her smile.
Kelly
Cool giveaway! One of my friends gave me a ring with the word inspire etched inside. She told me I was an inspiration to her. So unexpected, I had no idea.
Teresa
Wow! Amazing giveaway. Best compliment: “You have changed my life by being my friend.” :)
kmizzell
I was told I have a beautiful smile.
Roni
The best compliments I receive are the the “yums” from my family, both immediate and extended, when I bake or cook them homemade meals or treats. Which I do daily. It is a way for me to express my love for them. Their compliments let me know they get my love and enjoy their meals! Life is too short to not enjoy homemade meals and treats with fresh ingredients!
sara
My mother in law told me I was doing a great job as a mom. That was the greatest compliment she could have paid me.
stephanieloo8489
best compliment is being told that i’ve made a difference in someone’s life!
Jeanine
I have been told I am a great listener. It is nice to know people know you care!
Dorothy
The most heartwarming compliment I have ever recieved came from an older women in her late 70’s. She said “Your smile is so genuine and beautiful just how this world should be”. I think about that sweet lady and how amazing people are. You have a magnificent blog Joy!! I love to uncover new fun things here every week!
Melissa
I remember walking to a themed party and feeling nervous about wearing clothes that are normally not my style, and a guy on the street said I looked great in such a genuine way that definitely boosted my confidence!
Alexa
It is normal to boil in New Orleans, but it is so lovely otherwise I think it works out.
Vanessa
The best comment I received was from one of my students, who told me I was a great teacher and had a gift for explaining things.
Melanie
love this list! best compliment I have received is when one of my patients told me I brighten each day for him.
Kara Chin
The best compliment was given by a peer whose design work I greatly admired. Having him genuinely praise my work elated my insides and helped me to keep pushing myself.
Tina
The best compliment I ever got came via my mom. She has had friends tell her that she and my dad have the nicest kids. I’m no longer a “kid”, but I’m their “kid”. It made me feel humble and touched my heart. When we were young and gave my mom gifts for special days, she would always say, “I don’t need or want gifts from you kids, all I want is for you to be good and kind to others”. I guess it worked mom – thanks to you! Thanks for the give-away Joy! I have a feeling your parents think you’re a good kid too. Good weekend to you.
Patricia
The last best compliment was Wednesday’s dinner when I had made my Husband’s Aunt and Uncle, Chicken Parmigiana with Eggplant and they both absolutely loved it! Sometimes they, being in their mid and late eighties, are a bit touchy with their food. They both ate their fair share plus and were both very happy. And full!
Beth
I have been told that I am extremely positive and comfortable to be around.
Nadia
Cool giveaway! i feel very good when people say me that my hands are gold… :)
Bonnie
Fabulous giveaway! Best compliment I ever received (in recent times) was from a friend I helped pack up her stuff to move. I spent many, many hours there having a great time and the next day she told me, quite seriously, that she probably wouldn’t have gotten everything packed without me. It was so wonderful to know that even while I was having fun, I was making a big difference to someone else!
Vix
The best compliment I’ve ever received was, “Your grandmother would be so proud.”
Jennifer
When my boyfriend’s 2.5 year old nephew recognized me and remembered my name!! Their family moved close to us just recently so I’ve been seeing him more often. He let me play with his train sets and gave me the biggest sweetest hug and kiss before I left!!
Lucy
Hmmm most recently? “That was a great idea”–my boss.
Sara
Whoa. There are already a lot of comments.
Um, anywho … I think I got the best comment I’ve ever received when I was student teaching in 2006. I live in a medium-sized city and asked to be placed in the city district. I grew up in a small, mostly white, college town, but I wanted to see if I was actually up to the task of making connections in a community where I was an outsider. At the end of my student teaching placement, I walked through one of my classes, informally asking students for feedback. One group of teenage boys basically told me (I’m paraphrasing slightly, it’s been several years): “We like you because you act like yourself. You’re kind of nerdy. Most of the teachers who come in here act like they’re tougher than they really are.” Eight years later, guess where I still work.
Sidra
Love this list and the throwback giveaway with such a fun topic! Best compliment ever, hmm the first time I publicly posted some artwork and a friend said, “woah, did you make that? It’s amazing!”
Anna S.
When my friends told me that I make the best cookies they’ve ever had.
ALLISON K.
An older lady in my condo complex passed me after I had just finished washing the car and just said “hi, pretty girl!”
Jennifer May
Someone complimented me on my smile…which wouldn’t be as meaningful if I wasn’t a 31 year old with a mouth full of braces. Some days I don’t think I’ll make it to October 2015.
Rebecca