The Story Behind the Joy Tags
Have you ever doorbell ditched or left something behind just for the thrill of it?
When I was little, my mom and I would make May Day flower arrangements and quietly drop them on neighbors’ porches. By high school, the tradition had evolved, my friends and I would TP kids we knew in nearby towns, hearts pounding with every toss. Years later, it turned into sticking googly eyes on parking meters with my son.
The joy was always the same, playful, spontaneous, and a little mischievous.
What Joy Tagging Is
It’s like ding-dong ditching but with joy! You quietly set out a piece of yard art, a cheerful sign, and a small gift basket. Then you ring the doorbell and run, heart racing, giggling all the way. It’s a playful way to surprise someone, brighten their day, and share a little appreciation.
Then the tag keeps moving, passed from person to person, spreading joy all over town!
Who It's For
The first Joy Tags went to five incredible people working in the Anchorage public school system. I wanted to send a little surprise their way.
Future tags might go to:
Nonprofit leaders
Someone who’s grieving
A person who just lost a job
Or anyone who’s making the world better
The Joy Crew
I dream of gathering a small crew, seven of us each time, each bringing something special to help fill seven baskets. We hit the road, windows down, slushies in hand, blasting a Joyful Mix Tape as we deliver surprises around town.
It happens monthly, and anyone can sign up to join the fun and spreading the joy.
You've Been Tagged — Now What?
If you've received a Joy Tag:
• Flip it over and sign the back of the smiley face
• Add a quote, a joke, or a sweet little note
• Pass it on to someone you admire
• Don’t forget the pom-poms and toss in a gift if you’d like
Let’s keep the kindness train rolling—one joyful tag at a time!
Want to Support Joy Tagging?
If you love this idea but don’t have time to tag, you can help in other ways.
Donations help cover the cost of baskets, art supplies, gas, and gifts.
If you’re a business, artist, or someone with something beautiful to give, we also welcome donated items or services to include in the baskets. These could be small offerings, a handmade item, a coupon for something local, a thoughtful treat.
Anyone who donates will be recognized with gratitude on both the Nature Song and Authentic Joy webpages.
To contribute or connect, please reach out to me at my email address.
