I take life seriously. I really do. Life is filled with challenges, seriousness and while it often feels like there is every reason to cry, complain and surrender, I find laughter is the salve that soothes my weary soul.
I like to laugh. I like to surround myself with people who bring out the lightness in life. As I write these words, I hear the laughter. I think of people whose resting face is joyful, with a twinkle in their eye.
People who can download the stressors within their world in a light hearted fashion are people I look up to, want to be around and want to emulate.
When I think of times when my world felt the most bleak, I remember the laughter that broke through the darkness and reminded me "this too shall pass".
My memories ring with laughter as I think of the people, relationships and conversations I have had. The memory that stands out above the rest is the laughter.
In my humble opinion, laughter is the best medicine. Add a good night's sleep and good nutrition to that equation and that is the recipe for a life well lived.
Showing posts with label laughter. Show all posts
Showing posts with label laughter. Show all posts
Friday, September 13, 2019
Friday, October 12, 2018
Heaven ... Right Here on Earth
I know I have been talking too much when I wake up in the morning and I have nothing left to say. I have no leftover words at the end of my days to catch up with me in the morning. I am blessed.
My old life was one where I was immersed in children, parents and routines with spaces to think generously dispersed throughout the day. Spending my days with a house full of children ages 1 to 4 years old left me quite alone with my adult thoughts as I manoeuvred us through our daily routines.
There were those moments under the sun though. The moments where I sat back and watched over my little people while they played contentedly. On many occasions the phrase: "THIS ... is heaven right here on earth" wafted easily through my thoughts. A small group of children playing in harmony - it is a wonderful thing.
I juggled routines, behaviours and personalities. We played a little, went outside when we could, had lunch, settled into our pre-quiet-time routines and then there was the other heaven-right-here-on-earth moment. Quiet time!
When people marvelled at my ability to run a daycare, I had only two words to respond to my capability as a daycare provider: "Quiet time"
I miss Quiet Time.
My role these days is much more interactive. I am challenged in new and improved ways. My most satisfying days are the days where I hear laughter ringing in my ears after I walk away from a conversation.
Quiet Time has been substituted with Laughter.
It is not a bad trade off. Not bad at all...
I think back on my last "good day" spent with Mom. Interspersed between the mundane, the ordinary, the serious and our routine chatter, there was laughter.
What I remember most of all is the laughter. We laughed in the face of what we both "knew" was on the horizon.
While Mom was in the hospital and the realization that we were near the end of her days dawned upon us, I remember the laughter. I recall thinking how disrespectful we must sound to those who were dealing with life and death issues. Until I realized "those people" were us.
We shared those moments together and the memories I have to hold onto is laughter generously interspersed with some tears. One was as healing as the other. Extreme emotion has to go somewhere. Tears can get the best of me at times but I choose to laugh. If it was me lying in a bed at the end of my days, I would choose to hear laughter over tears.
Laughter is a gift. Savor those moments. When the dust settles at the end of your day, listen quietly. Do you hear laughter? Can you feel joy? Do you hear those little moments that make your heart sing?
Look for your little moments of "Heaven right here on earth". If I could find them in the middle of a challenging daycare day, I'll bet you can find a moment here and there yourself. Perhaps that is why when I feel blue, I tend to look upwards. I feel like one small speck in the universe when I look skyward. It helps to keep "life" in perspective.
Look for what brings you your peace. Even if it is fleeting. Grab it. Remember it. Hold on tight and remember it. It is those "heaven right here on earth" moments that we need to focus on.
My old life was one where I was immersed in children, parents and routines with spaces to think generously dispersed throughout the day. Spending my days with a house full of children ages 1 to 4 years old left me quite alone with my adult thoughts as I manoeuvred us through our daily routines.
There were those moments under the sun though. The moments where I sat back and watched over my little people while they played contentedly. On many occasions the phrase: "THIS ... is heaven right here on earth" wafted easily through my thoughts. A small group of children playing in harmony - it is a wonderful thing.
I juggled routines, behaviours and personalities. We played a little, went outside when we could, had lunch, settled into our pre-quiet-time routines and then there was the other heaven-right-here-on-earth moment. Quiet time!
When people marvelled at my ability to run a daycare, I had only two words to respond to my capability as a daycare provider: "Quiet time"
I miss Quiet Time.
My role these days is much more interactive. I am challenged in new and improved ways. My most satisfying days are the days where I hear laughter ringing in my ears after I walk away from a conversation.
Quiet Time has been substituted with Laughter.
It is not a bad trade off. Not bad at all...
I think back on my last "good day" spent with Mom. Interspersed between the mundane, the ordinary, the serious and our routine chatter, there was laughter.
What I remember most of all is the laughter. We laughed in the face of what we both "knew" was on the horizon.
While Mom was in the hospital and the realization that we were near the end of her days dawned upon us, I remember the laughter. I recall thinking how disrespectful we must sound to those who were dealing with life and death issues. Until I realized "those people" were us.
We shared those moments together and the memories I have to hold onto is laughter generously interspersed with some tears. One was as healing as the other. Extreme emotion has to go somewhere. Tears can get the best of me at times but I choose to laugh. If it was me lying in a bed at the end of my days, I would choose to hear laughter over tears.
Laughter is a gift. Savor those moments. When the dust settles at the end of your day, listen quietly. Do you hear laughter? Can you feel joy? Do you hear those little moments that make your heart sing?
Look for your little moments of "Heaven right here on earth". If I could find them in the middle of a challenging daycare day, I'll bet you can find a moment here and there yourself. Perhaps that is why when I feel blue, I tend to look upwards. I feel like one small speck in the universe when I look skyward. It helps to keep "life" in perspective.
Look for what brings you your peace. Even if it is fleeting. Grab it. Remember it. Hold on tight and remember it. It is those "heaven right here on earth" moments that we need to focus on.
Friday, May 11, 2018
Make Overs All Around!
My new and improved energy and zest for life levels made it easy to say "yes" to a completely last minute and unexpected invitation to enjoy an evening out with my cousin and her daughter last night.
It was an evening of laughter and enjoying my nephew's comedic talent. Now that I write this, it is starting to sound like a bit of a family reunion.
I had a bit of an obstructed view to the stage and when I couldn't watch my nephew, I enjoyed watching his audience just as much. What a gift this man has. The sheer enjoyment and laughter transformed plain and ordinary human beings into pure joy. The smiles and laughter were from the heart and all encompassing.
Earlier the same day, my cousin's daughter transformed her grandma with a facial and mini makeover before she did a little photo shoot of her. My aunt (her grandma) is a joyful being to begin with but her smart remarks and witty comebacks transformed her before the makeup even had a chance.
The pictures turned out amazing and the essence of my aunt were captured very nicely. The makeover was a nice little bonus but the true beauty came from my aunt's spirit and smile.
No makeover was required for my nephew's audience last night. Joy, laughter and smiles lit up the room. The audience seemed ageless and the years vanished as we all appreciated the talent which united us in laughter.
Truly, the only makeover anyone needs is a sense of joy which comes from within and transforms into a smile that lights up one's soul.
To my nephew, who lit up an entire audience ...
To my cousin's daughter, who has an amazing talent of capturing the true essence of her grandma ...
To my cousin, who invited me along as a result of an extra ticket to this event ...
I simply say "thank you". I felt like I was made over from the inside, out.
It was an evening of laughter and enjoying my nephew's comedic talent. Now that I write this, it is starting to sound like a bit of a family reunion.
I had a bit of an obstructed view to the stage and when I couldn't watch my nephew, I enjoyed watching his audience just as much. What a gift this man has. The sheer enjoyment and laughter transformed plain and ordinary human beings into pure joy. The smiles and laughter were from the heart and all encompassing.
Earlier the same day, my cousin's daughter transformed her grandma with a facial and mini makeover before she did a little photo shoot of her. My aunt (her grandma) is a joyful being to begin with but her smart remarks and witty comebacks transformed her before the makeup even had a chance.
The pictures turned out amazing and the essence of my aunt were captured very nicely. The makeover was a nice little bonus but the true beauty came from my aunt's spirit and smile.
No makeover was required for my nephew's audience last night. Joy, laughter and smiles lit up the room. The audience seemed ageless and the years vanished as we all appreciated the talent which united us in laughter.
Truly, the only makeover anyone needs is a sense of joy which comes from within and transforms into a smile that lights up one's soul.
To my nephew, who lit up an entire audience ...
To my cousin's daughter, who has an amazing talent of capturing the true essence of her grandma ...
To my cousin, who invited me along as a result of an extra ticket to this event ...
I simply say "thank you". I felt like I was made over from the inside, out.
Monday, January 15, 2018
Exercise First!
In keeping with yesterday's post and theme, here is a picture of the way my morning has started:
Yes. I did it. I found some Beachbody exercise videos with Debbie Sieber on YouTube. Debbie Sieber's DVD's were my initiation into early morning exercise habit a decade or more ago. So when I found her and tried out one of her core busting routines yesterday [note to self: "Your core is busted!"], I knew she will be part of my way back home.
Yesterday's trial run at exercising in the living room was a good start. I found out where I'm at and know I have a long road ahead. "This" didn't happen overnight. So it won't change quickly or easily. All I can do is start to reinstate some good habits back into my life and be satisfied that I am doing the next right thing. One day at a time.
So the second thing I did, was decide to make some homemade chicken soup with the leftover chicken bones from Christmas.
It was easy to throw the bones into a pot and simmer lightly all afternoon. One quick text to my son who was at work (he works in the produce department of a nearby grocery store) and all I had to do was wait for him to come home and our soup would be a peel, chop and a boil away from completion.
I thought my intention was clear. What do you think? How much celery would you have picked up if you received this message? This is what my son came home with:
Two "bunches" of celery. I moaned with the idea of so much celery in the house. He said, "If you would have said 'two sticks of celery', I would have known what you meant."
He disappeared downstairs momentarily and googled the term "stalk of celery" to find out he was right. I knew I had been calling one "stick" of celery a "stalk" for as long as I have had the need to describe an amount of celery. So I had to double check his facts:
"We were both right!" I gleefully announced. We chuckled at the miscommunication as the soup with all its added vegetables started to simmer and finish cooking on the stove.
I was quite hungry by this time since I had not snacked the afternoon away. So I decided to snack on celery and dip as a first course to our chicken soup supper. It sounded so good that my son decided to go for some peanut butter on his celery.
I ran out of chips three days prior and I have missed the sensation of something crunching between my teeth, so the celery provided some satisfaction as I snacked on my rabbit food before supper.
The excess celery in our home may end up reinforcing a good snacking habit. But honestly? The first thing I thought when I saw so much celery in one eyeful was to send out the message, "Caesar's anyone??"
Since I don't have vodka or clamato juice OR any of the required seasonings to make a Caesar in the house, I think we'll stick with salad dressing and peanut butter to help alleviate our excess celery.
One good habit at a time. It's all a person can do. I'm starting "Day 2" and feeling better already. The universe is helping me along. Two bunches of celery did not walk into this house on their own. It was meant to be.
Exercise first. Write second. And in the writing, I had an opportunity to relay a silly little story to remind me that laughter is a very important ingredient in living a good life. I feel better already...
Yes. I did it. I found some Beachbody exercise videos with Debbie Sieber on YouTube. Debbie Sieber's DVD's were my initiation into early morning exercise habit a decade or more ago. So when I found her and tried out one of her core busting routines yesterday [note to self: "Your core is busted!"], I knew she will be part of my way back home.
Yesterday's trial run at exercising in the living room was a good start. I found out where I'm at and know I have a long road ahead. "This" didn't happen overnight. So it won't change quickly or easily. All I can do is start to reinstate some good habits back into my life and be satisfied that I am doing the next right thing. One day at a time.
So the second thing I did, was decide to make some homemade chicken soup with the leftover chicken bones from Christmas.
It was easy to throw the bones into a pot and simmer lightly all afternoon. One quick text to my son who was at work (he works in the produce department of a nearby grocery store) and all I had to do was wait for him to come home and our soup would be a peel, chop and a boil away from completion.
I thought my intention was clear. What do you think? How much celery would you have picked up if you received this message? This is what my son came home with:
Two "bunches" of celery. I moaned with the idea of so much celery in the house. He said, "If you would have said 'two sticks of celery', I would have known what you meant."
He disappeared downstairs momentarily and googled the term "stalk of celery" to find out he was right. I knew I had been calling one "stick" of celery a "stalk" for as long as I have had the need to describe an amount of celery. So I had to double check his facts:
"We were both right!" I gleefully announced. We chuckled at the miscommunication as the soup with all its added vegetables started to simmer and finish cooking on the stove.
I was quite hungry by this time since I had not snacked the afternoon away. So I decided to snack on celery and dip as a first course to our chicken soup supper. It sounded so good that my son decided to go for some peanut butter on his celery.
I ran out of chips three days prior and I have missed the sensation of something crunching between my teeth, so the celery provided some satisfaction as I snacked on my rabbit food before supper.
The excess celery in our home may end up reinforcing a good snacking habit. But honestly? The first thing I thought when I saw so much celery in one eyeful was to send out the message, "Caesar's anyone??"
Since I don't have vodka or clamato juice OR any of the required seasonings to make a Caesar in the house, I think we'll stick with salad dressing and peanut butter to help alleviate our excess celery.
One good habit at a time. It's all a person can do. I'm starting "Day 2" and feeling better already. The universe is helping me along. Two bunches of celery did not walk into this house on their own. It was meant to be.
Exercise first. Write second. And in the writing, I had an opportunity to relay a silly little story to remind me that laughter is a very important ingredient in living a good life. I feel better already...
Sunday, April 10, 2016
Day of Yes
I have just inhaled this day. When I woke up to a completely blank slate, I wondered how in the world I would fill it. One word quietly came to mind "laughter".
My Second Son dropped by a few nights ago and told me a traumatic little story about "his body calling the shots" these days and he had me clutching my sides. I laughed so long and so hard that it physically hurt me. I knew in that moment that the gift of laughter has been sorely lacking within this quiet little life of mine.
I laughed a lot this Sunday. I wrote a little blog about it over at MyKawartha.com:
http://www.mykawartha.com/blogs/post/6459725-day-of-yes/
My Second Son dropped by a few nights ago and told me a traumatic little story about "his body calling the shots" these days and he had me clutching my sides. I laughed so long and so hard that it physically hurt me. I knew in that moment that the gift of laughter has been sorely lacking within this quiet little life of mine.
I laughed a lot this Sunday. I wrote a little blog about it over at MyKawartha.com:
http://www.mykawartha.com/blogs/post/6459725-day-of-yes/
Monday, May 11, 2015
Aging Disgracefully
My 50th birthday came and went and this whole "aging" thing really wasn't an issue with me.
I didn't feel my age, I was trying new things, going new places, I felt vibrant and my inner 27-year-old self was alive and well.
Little things started alerting me to the fact that others didn't see me the same way I felt about myself.
The police officer who assumed all the toys in our playhouse (some kids had snuck inside and set various items on fire) were my grandchildren's.
Then there was some idle chatter about my age when I was getting to know some fellow-students that same year. Normally the conversation goes something like this, "You sure don't look that [49 years] old!" This time, there was a knowing nod among these strangers in my midst. Like "We were sure wondering how old you were!"
I laughed it off and kept living my merry little life inside my delusional bubble.
I took up Zumba with a passion and started noticing there weren't many people there who were older than me. I made a valiant attempt to become a Zumba instructor and I was definitely the oldest in the room within many of the classes I took.
I would make flip comments about my age to my young Zumba pals and they would acknowledge how great it was to see "someone my age" setting such an example.
Yes, basically you could have knocked me over the head with a big rock and I still didn't see what the rest of the world was seeing. I felt young inside but my age was catching up with my face and body.
I don't deny that when I looked in the mirror or caught a glimpse of areally bad any photo, I knew the truth. I was aging. But I still thought it was just par for the course. I was over 50. I may have been fooling myself as to how young I felt, but my face was giving away all of my secrets.
The reminders of my aging body have been pelting me in the face pretty steadily the past little while.
Young children ask if I have grandchildren. A sales clerk innocently asked me if I had mentioned I was retired. No one questions when I order the senior portions off the menu (I am always very careful to say "I would like to order the senior portion [not the senior meal!]" Please let it be known, I am not an actual senior.
My reality is that I went to my sister's, with the knowledge that I had a chin hair to contend with, but I completely forgot about it. When I remembered about it the next morning and went to pull it out, it was actually long enough that it was starting to curl. I looked like Buzz Lightyear!!
I didn't feel my age, I was trying new things, going new places, I felt vibrant and my inner 27-year-old self was alive and well.
Little things started alerting me to the fact that others didn't see me the same way I felt about myself.
The police officer who assumed all the toys in our playhouse (some kids had snuck inside and set various items on fire) were my grandchildren's.
Then there was some idle chatter about my age when I was getting to know some fellow-students that same year. Normally the conversation goes something like this, "You sure don't look that [49 years] old!" This time, there was a knowing nod among these strangers in my midst. Like "We were sure wondering how old you were!"
I laughed it off and kept living my merry little life inside my delusional bubble.
I took up Zumba with a passion and started noticing there weren't many people there who were older than me. I made a valiant attempt to become a Zumba instructor and I was definitely the oldest in the room within many of the classes I took.
I would make flip comments about my age to my young Zumba pals and they would acknowledge how great it was to see "someone my age" setting such an example.
Yes, basically you could have knocked me over the head with a big rock and I still didn't see what the rest of the world was seeing. I felt young inside but my age was catching up with my face and body.
I don't deny that when I looked in the mirror or caught a glimpse of a
The reminders of my aging body have been pelting me in the face pretty steadily the past little while.
Young children ask if I have grandchildren. A sales clerk innocently asked me if I had mentioned I was retired. No one questions when I order the senior portions off the menu (I am always very careful to say "I would like to order the senior portion [not the senior meal!]" Please let it be known, I am not an actual senior.
My reality is that I went to my sister's, with the knowledge that I had a chin hair to contend with, but I completely forgot about it. When I remembered about it the next morning and went to pull it out, it was actually long enough that it was starting to curl. I looked like Buzz Lightyear!!
I got over that drama and quietly chuckled a self depreciating chortle to myself. And consoled myself that at least my chin hear was gray, so hopefully not too many people noticed.
Last weekend, I went out with a friend, see a musical group perform at a restaurant. I have been there and done that before and my neck always ends up very, very sore because you never get a "head on" view of the performers in a restaurant. I always end up with my head turned to one side for much too long. It is very uncomfortable and detracts from the whole musical experience. So this time, I slathered on a generous supply of Voltaren lotion. I noticed the Voltaren scent and once again, I chuckled to myself the lingering fragrance I was leaving behind was one of a "senior" nature.
I put on my comfy, worn out Dr. Sholl square toed, double wide black shoes with rocks in the heels (because they are so worn out) and I was off. No one would see my feet. We would be sitting in an awkward position at a table.
I wore my most favorite clothes and I am pretty sure I decided to skip the accessories (earrings and lip gloss) in favor of lip balm and bare ear lobes.
Yes. That was me. The plain, old woman, smelling of Voltaren in her worn out old comfy shoes. Hey! At least I had a new haircut!! One clump of my bangs kept falling in my eyes and I felt like the sheepdog on the Bugs Bunny Looney Tunes show, but I thought I was exuding the essence of "someone who tried". Sort of.
I do now see the writing on the wall. This day was so close to coming, that it probably already came and went and I didn't even notice.
Yesterday, my brother and I went out for a Mother's Day breakfast with our mom. Our waitress was explaining the buffet and special deal for seniors. She was making a lot of eye contact with me and I thought this had a lot to do with the fact that I felt very dapper in my new T-shirt and some different earrings I had dug out of my earring box. And I felt happy. I was mentally buffing my nails on my shoulder feeling pretty good about myself.
Then my little disillusional bubble burst all over my face, when the waitress looked me in the eye and asked if I was 65 years old, to qualify for this special.
Yes, my dear sisters, you may laugh long and hard and loud. It is hilarious!
I now officially look not only my age, but eleven years beyond it!!
Perhaps I need another new prescription for my glasses. I knew I was aging but I really didn't grasp how badly it is going for me.
At least no one can call me a grandma ....
Thursday, August 21, 2014
The Wonderful World of Marvel Comic Book Movies
My Youngest Son and I went to see "Guardians of the Galaxy" last night. It was yet another movie from the Marvel comic book series of movies that I have (accidentally) found myself enjoying as my son grew out of Disney animated films and into the super hero faze (that he may never truly grow out of).
My son's love of Spiderman in and around the age of four has gone forth and multiplied as the years went on. As I googled the list of movies based on Marvel Comics, I can honestly say that I have watched twenty five out of a possible thirty four Marvel movies that have been made since the year 2000.
As we walked into the theatre, I noticed a sign asking "Does your job get you free movies?" and I asked my son if he had considered applying for a job there. He kind of shrugged and looked like he may half consider the idea. Seconds later, he noticed a good friend of his working behind the concession stand. I am thinking that the wheels may have turned a little longer as he now knows someone on 'the inside' ...
Soon thereafter we were settled into our seats and the show began.
Each and (almost) every time I have sat down to watch 'The Hulk' or 'X-Men' or 'Thor' or any of the movies I have watched in the past, I expect to be disappointed. Each and every time, I find myself swept up in the plot and enjoying the humor and unexpected little perks (growing up and watching the Incredible Hulk on TV made me appreciate the fact that they gave Bill Bixby a cameo role in the movie version of the series).
Last night was no different.
As the story began I thought I simply couldn't get swept into the plot line. Then they turned on a soundtrack of music that brought something completely happy and carefree to my subconscious mind. Even though the main character was in a foreign land in a galaxy far, far away. The happy music from my past captivated me.
Then the oddball cast started to find each other.
Who would ever think that they could love an alien 'tree thing' character who repeated the same three words. Always in the same order? I will never look at a tree in the same way again. In fact, a tree branch reached out and hugged me as I navigated myself into the car after the show. I honestly had to look back to see it was just a branch. There was a small embrace. Really!
I found myself laughing. Out loud. Alone. In a theatre filled with people, at things that no one else 'got' or considered funny (it must have been the age-thing).
Laughter came easy last night. I must have been in the mood and my funny bone was extremely ticklish. Because it felt so very good to laugh. Out loud. Even alone.
Thank you, Marvel. Once again, you did not disappoint.
As we sat in the dark theatre, waiting for the film clip they always toss in at the very end of the long, long list of the bazillion people it takes to create these amazing films I told my son "If you started working here, you wouldn't need me to come along and watch these movies with you ..."
I felt a little lost and forelorn. As I jokingly complain that the last four movies I have seen have been "Captain America"; "Spiderman 2"; "X-Men" and now "Guardians of the Galaxy" and sigh in exasperation that I really, really want to see a 'chick flick', I know (without a doubt) I will miss these days when they are gone.
Thank you Marvel! You have extended my movie-going-pleasure with my sixteen year old son. For some reason, I can actually picture him inviting me along when he starts introducing his own children to the Wonderful World of Marvel Comic Book movies.
I look forward to the day.
My son's love of Spiderman in and around the age of four has gone forth and multiplied as the years went on. As I googled the list of movies based on Marvel Comics, I can honestly say that I have watched twenty five out of a possible thirty four Marvel movies that have been made since the year 2000.
As we walked into the theatre, I noticed a sign asking "Does your job get you free movies?" and I asked my son if he had considered applying for a job there. He kind of shrugged and looked like he may half consider the idea. Seconds later, he noticed a good friend of his working behind the concession stand. I am thinking that the wheels may have turned a little longer as he now knows someone on 'the inside' ...
Soon thereafter we were settled into our seats and the show began.
Each and (almost) every time I have sat down to watch 'The Hulk' or 'X-Men' or 'Thor' or any of the movies I have watched in the past, I expect to be disappointed. Each and every time, I find myself swept up in the plot and enjoying the humor and unexpected little perks (growing up and watching the Incredible Hulk on TV made me appreciate the fact that they gave Bill Bixby a cameo role in the movie version of the series).
Last night was no different.
As the story began I thought I simply couldn't get swept into the plot line. Then they turned on a soundtrack of music that brought something completely happy and carefree to my subconscious mind. Even though the main character was in a foreign land in a galaxy far, far away. The happy music from my past captivated me.
Then the oddball cast started to find each other.
Who would ever think that they could love an alien 'tree thing' character who repeated the same three words. Always in the same order? I will never look at a tree in the same way again. In fact, a tree branch reached out and hugged me as I navigated myself into the car after the show. I honestly had to look back to see it was just a branch. There was a small embrace. Really!
I found myself laughing. Out loud. Alone. In a theatre filled with people, at things that no one else 'got' or considered funny (it must have been the age-thing).
Laughter came easy last night. I must have been in the mood and my funny bone was extremely ticklish. Because it felt so very good to laugh. Out loud. Even alone.
Thank you, Marvel. Once again, you did not disappoint.
As we sat in the dark theatre, waiting for the film clip they always toss in at the very end of the long, long list of the bazillion people it takes to create these amazing films I told my son "If you started working here, you wouldn't need me to come along and watch these movies with you ..."
I felt a little lost and forelorn. As I jokingly complain that the last four movies I have seen have been "Captain America"; "Spiderman 2"; "X-Men" and now "Guardians of the Galaxy" and sigh in exasperation that I really, really want to see a 'chick flick', I know (without a doubt) I will miss these days when they are gone.
Thank you Marvel! You have extended my movie-going-pleasure with my sixteen year old son. For some reason, I can actually picture him inviting me along when he starts introducing his own children to the Wonderful World of Marvel Comic Book movies.
I look forward to the day.
Tuesday, July 22, 2014
Holidays - Day #4
It is Tuesday. It still feels like a Sunday. The holiday pixie dust is working its magic. I feel ... light.
I like the holiday pace of my world. I am simply succumbing to my body and mind's cues and letting them direct me wherever I need to go.
Yesterday, in and around 1:00, I started to feel waves of exhaustion hit me. It took me a few minutes but I eventually reminded myself "You are on holidays! You can do whatever it is that you want/need to do!"
So, I reclined on the love seat, turned on the TV and the next thing I knew, I was waking up to Dr. Oz telling me the 'Ten Tips to Longevity'. His original question was "Would you like to live to 100, if you were healthy and your brain was still functioning well?" My thought was an instant, "NO!" I cannot afford to live off of my 'retirement savings' (aka: work income) that long. I do not want to work to age 100! Puh-lease!!
But I listened to him anyway because as long as I do exist, I do want to be healthy, hearty and have a brain that runs on all cylinders.
Do you know one of the 'Top Ten'? "Nap! - it lowers your stress levels" Yee-haw!! That one is easy. I do it all of the time!!
Do you know another one? "Go to bed one hour earlier every night"- now, if you keep doing that every single night, I don't know exactly when you would have time to be awake but .... I have that one down pat as well. My bedtime of 8 to 9 p.m. serves me well.
Another? "Laugh (at least 20 times per day)" - I love to laugh. I am drawn to people and situations that are light and easy. Just what I need! Doctor's Orders directing me to find humor within my day. I like this medication!
He also tells you to "Eat purple foods"- it helps keep your brain connections 'connected' and each side of the brain talking to each other. Apparently purple candy does not count, but red wine does. If I add wine to my day I am not certain just how I will manage to stay awake long enough to get what has to be done in a day. But I'm thinking that life could look much more humorous if I had a glass of red wine with breakfast. I could add it to my morning smoothy (do you think my daycare parents would approve?).
He had more but I don't remember them. I need to eat more purple foods so that I can retain this train of thought and wisdom that the good doctor so kindly shared with me as I woke up from my life-affirming snooze.
On that note, I must move forward with this day. I have car keys to drop off and a book to tend. I am not making the progress that I had hoped to make but I am not letting that stop me in my tracks. If one chapter is not working for me, I have been putting it aside and working on another. If that one doesn't work, I have started the editing process. This time, I have started from the end of the book and I am working towards the middle. I am not quite sure how that will work for me but I need to find a strategy that helps me rewire my brain to find that-which-I-have-not-yet-seen before. Maybe I should have a glass of red wine to help me with that...
If you wish to find the remaining six items on Dr. Oz's Longevity check list, you can do so right here: Dr Oz's - longevity checklist. Or you can rip a page out of my book and stick to the 'top four' on that list if you can't afford to live into the turn of your next century. Your choice.
Happy Tuesday! Make it your mission to laugh (at least) twenty times today.
I like the holiday pace of my world. I am simply succumbing to my body and mind's cues and letting them direct me wherever I need to go.
Yesterday, in and around 1:00, I started to feel waves of exhaustion hit me. It took me a few minutes but I eventually reminded myself "You are on holidays! You can do whatever it is that you want/need to do!"
So, I reclined on the love seat, turned on the TV and the next thing I knew, I was waking up to Dr. Oz telling me the 'Ten Tips to Longevity'. His original question was "Would you like to live to 100, if you were healthy and your brain was still functioning well?" My thought was an instant, "NO!" I cannot afford to live off of my 'retirement savings' (aka: work income) that long. I do not want to work to age 100! Puh-lease!!
But I listened to him anyway because as long as I do exist, I do want to be healthy, hearty and have a brain that runs on all cylinders.
Do you know one of the 'Top Ten'? "Nap! - it lowers your stress levels" Yee-haw!! That one is easy. I do it all of the time!!
Do you know another one? "Go to bed one hour earlier every night"- now, if you keep doing that every single night, I don't know exactly when you would have time to be awake but .... I have that one down pat as well. My bedtime of 8 to 9 p.m. serves me well.
Another? "Laugh (at least 20 times per day)" - I love to laugh. I am drawn to people and situations that are light and easy. Just what I need! Doctor's Orders directing me to find humor within my day. I like this medication!
He also tells you to "Eat purple foods"- it helps keep your brain connections 'connected' and each side of the brain talking to each other. Apparently purple candy does not count, but red wine does. If I add wine to my day I am not certain just how I will manage to stay awake long enough to get what has to be done in a day. But I'm thinking that life could look much more humorous if I had a glass of red wine with breakfast. I could add it to my morning smoothy (do you think my daycare parents would approve?).
He had more but I don't remember them. I need to eat more purple foods so that I can retain this train of thought and wisdom that the good doctor so kindly shared with me as I woke up from my life-affirming snooze.
On that note, I must move forward with this day. I have car keys to drop off and a book to tend. I am not making the progress that I had hoped to make but I am not letting that stop me in my tracks. If one chapter is not working for me, I have been putting it aside and working on another. If that one doesn't work, I have started the editing process. This time, I have started from the end of the book and I am working towards the middle. I am not quite sure how that will work for me but I need to find a strategy that helps me rewire my brain to find that-which-I-have-not-yet-seen before. Maybe I should have a glass of red wine to help me with that...
If you wish to find the remaining six items on Dr. Oz's Longevity check list, you can do so right here: Dr Oz's - longevity checklist. Or you can rip a page out of my book and stick to the 'top four' on that list if you can't afford to live into the turn of your next century. Your choice.
Happy Tuesday! Make it your mission to laugh (at least) twenty times today.
Friday, June 20, 2014
Laughter
I took my Daycare Family of four to Story Time at our local library yesterday. My little family is young, but getting older each and every day. My one-year-olds are now (almost) one and a half. My two-year-olds are two to three months away from turning three. My borrowed children are growing up.
None-the-less, I tend to feel like a brave warrior when I take them out on a group outing. Everything we do hinges on the (almost) three year olds willingness to walk and the 1-1/2 year olds ability to adhere to my expectations. Can I tell you just how amazing they are? I am and I will.
My little family-of-four and I go on many little adventures. A lot of them involve the library, all of them involve a fair amount of walking, some of them involve a playground and many times we have impromptu 'picnics' when we find ourselves off-site near lunch time. It keeps all of us happy.
Speaking of happy, let me get back to the reason that I started to write about our day ...
We have been to the library's Story Time several times lately. My 1-year-olds are the wild card. So very much hinges upon their ability to be still and quiet. They are awesome.
The last time we went, I thought that we may have to give Story Time a break. It was a little bit tense because one of my Little People did not want to be still. She is not yet 1-1/2 years old. Maybe I was expecting too much.
Then came yesterday.
Our story-teller was fantastic. She either has a very good reputation and people flock to listen to her read her stories or we were all a little stir crazy from the rain and clouds. She had a full house.
With a room full of kids, comes a great risk of a room full of noise. Yesterday's crowd had the potential to be quite loud. But do you know what happened instead? They laughed ...
It all started with our story-teller's reaction when her book "The Itsy Bitsy Spider" went off track and held many little-known verses and variations from the well known "Itsy Bitsy Spider" song that you are probably hearing in your head as I write.
Our story teller was very animated and humorous. Several children laughed when our story/song took an unexpected turn. With each new verse, came more laughter.
Laughter is contagious. One verse became funnier than the next. Laughter became the primary focus of this particular story. The laughter united our (very large) group.
You could feel the lasting effects of the laughter after the story was over. She segued into another song with "tapping sticks" so that the kids could all tap along. Each and every one of my Little Guys lined up to receive their tapping sticks and it simply made my heart sing, to watch them join in on all of the actions (my 1-1/2 year olds are wonderful observers but they don't follow the actions very often).
It was such an interactive and interesting experience. Our story-teller captivated her audience and we forged an out-of-story-time-experience with the laughter.
I walked out of the Story Room feeling lighter. One little story and one little person's infections, unbridled joy rerouted my day.
Laughter. I don't laugh long enough, loud enough or often enough. It felt wonderful to be in a room filled with laughter.
It does a person good to seek out laughter when life feels too heavy. What tickles your funny bone? I may go and check out some cat videos on YouTube when I feel that my smiling muscles are needing some exercise. Or maybe my most favorite comedian...
Happy Friday!! Let laughter find you and carry you through your day.
None-the-less, I tend to feel like a brave warrior when I take them out on a group outing. Everything we do hinges on the (almost) three year olds willingness to walk and the 1-1/2 year olds ability to adhere to my expectations. Can I tell you just how amazing they are? I am and I will.
My little family-of-four and I go on many little adventures. A lot of them involve the library, all of them involve a fair amount of walking, some of them involve a playground and many times we have impromptu 'picnics' when we find ourselves off-site near lunch time. It keeps all of us happy.
Speaking of happy, let me get back to the reason that I started to write about our day ...
We have been to the library's Story Time several times lately. My 1-year-olds are the wild card. So very much hinges upon their ability to be still and quiet. They are awesome.
The last time we went, I thought that we may have to give Story Time a break. It was a little bit tense because one of my Little People did not want to be still. She is not yet 1-1/2 years old. Maybe I was expecting too much.
Then came yesterday.
Our story-teller was fantastic. She either has a very good reputation and people flock to listen to her read her stories or we were all a little stir crazy from the rain and clouds. She had a full house.
With a room full of kids, comes a great risk of a room full of noise. Yesterday's crowd had the potential to be quite loud. But do you know what happened instead? They laughed ...
It all started with our story-teller's reaction when her book "The Itsy Bitsy Spider" went off track and held many little-known verses and variations from the well known "Itsy Bitsy Spider" song that you are probably hearing in your head as I write.
Our story teller was very animated and humorous. Several children laughed when our story/song took an unexpected turn. With each new verse, came more laughter.
Laughter is contagious. One verse became funnier than the next. Laughter became the primary focus of this particular story. The laughter united our (very large) group.
You could feel the lasting effects of the laughter after the story was over. She segued into another song with "tapping sticks" so that the kids could all tap along. Each and every one of my Little Guys lined up to receive their tapping sticks and it simply made my heart sing, to watch them join in on all of the actions (my 1-1/2 year olds are wonderful observers but they don't follow the actions very often).
It was such an interactive and interesting experience. Our story-teller captivated her audience and we forged an out-of-story-time-experience with the laughter.
I walked out of the Story Room feeling lighter. One little story and one little person's infections, unbridled joy rerouted my day.
Laughter. I don't laugh long enough, loud enough or often enough. It felt wonderful to be in a room filled with laughter.
It does a person good to seek out laughter when life feels too heavy. What tickles your funny bone? I may go and check out some cat videos on YouTube when I feel that my smiling muscles are needing some exercise. Or maybe my most favorite comedian...
Happy Friday!! Let laughter find you and carry you through your day.
Sunday, February 24, 2013
New Experiences
I honestly had no real concept of what I 'signed myself up for' last night. No, it was nothing too frightening or scary. Simply something new-to-me.
I don't often do 'new'. I go to the same restaurants and order the same food. All of the time. When we go away for a vacation, I am thrilled from the inside out when I discover a McDonald's and a Tim Hortons in the neighborhood. Whenever I enter a whole new world, I am looking for all that is familiar to me.
I take the same route wherever I go. Once and a while I decide to 'shake it up' a little and find a more scenic route home. Then that becomes my new norm. The same tried and true route going to my destination. The same scenic route on my way home.
Entertainment for me is dinner and a movie. Or going out for a meal. Or going out for coffee. Or getting together with friends. When a friend suggests we try to add a new dimension to our tried and true recipe, part of me is wanting to just sit still and enjoy the company and forget about the 'doing' part. But every single time we do something, it adds a wonderful new dimension to the same familiar routines.
Last night, I was invited to go to a 'House Concert' with a few friends. I had no idea what that meant other than being told that it was held in the garage in the host's back yard. I knew that the 'garage' had been used for holding training seminars prior to this so I was not expecting to sit in a rustic garage like mine. But that was about all I knew to expect.
I was told that this couple put on these 'house concerts' for artists that played to a smaller venue. I was told who would be performing but I didn't google (nor did I really even know that this performer would be googleable) him in advance.
So I sat down in this meticulously clean, bright, candlelit and finished garage (that someone could easily live in, other than the fact that there wasn't a washroom in the building). There was a nook for our pot luck refreshments and there was seating for at least 51 people (I tried counting - I could be wrong). We arrived early and got to pick the best (most comfortable) seats in the house.
Then the show began.
Our hosts were so very personable. A husband/wife duo that complimented each other and set the tone for the evening ahead. We were laughing from the onset.
Then our performers made their entrance and once again, we were laughing and enjoying the personalities of our entertainers as they segued their way into our evening's entertainment.
The music was absolutely delightful. Watching the songwriter perform to the beat of his own keyboard (while accompanied with a back-up singer that just happened to be his sister), you could feel the pulse of the music in your heart. To watch someone perform their art in such an up close and personal way, in such a small venue ... far exceeded any huge concert experience I have ever seen (not that I have much experience in that - the large concert scene is not for me).
The audience is so personable. I sat next to someone I had never seen before in my life and I could feel their eyes upon me when I laughed and conversation was easy when the intermission arrived. How can it be anything else when you share an experience that you can feel in your bones long after the music has stopped?
The artist was Jeffery Straker. His website is: http://jeffstraker.com/ . Click on some of his music. I don't know if you had to 'be there' to feel what I feel when I listen to his voice. And the keyboard ... oh, the keyboard! I love that not only do I have a face to put to the music, I have the 'intimate experience' of a house concert to enhance the flavor of his songwriting, singing and performing abilities. Plus? He made me laugh. I love to laugh. I love music. I love when I get so wrapped up in a moment that I am in awe of the talent that it takes to take a passion and put it all together in the form of an art. It was a combination of everything that makes my heart sing. Plus! I was sharing the experience with friends ...
Music brings the world together in harmony. Last night, within the confines of a garage (that could have just as easily been a living room), I experienced my first House Concert. The outside world ceased to exist. I was transported to a place where peace, harmony, goodwill and laughter reigned.
If someone invites you to experience something new, go for it! If you are brave (or lazy, like I was), go into it knowing absolutely nothing at all. Let yourself experience it like a newborn baby experiences the world.
We know and have the ability to find out almost anything we want to know about in this world of ours. It is a rare treat to experience something completely fresh and brand new, with little to taint your idea of what it could be.
I don't often do 'new'. I go to the same restaurants and order the same food. All of the time. When we go away for a vacation, I am thrilled from the inside out when I discover a McDonald's and a Tim Hortons in the neighborhood. Whenever I enter a whole new world, I am looking for all that is familiar to me.
I take the same route wherever I go. Once and a while I decide to 'shake it up' a little and find a more scenic route home. Then that becomes my new norm. The same tried and true route going to my destination. The same scenic route on my way home.
Entertainment for me is dinner and a movie. Or going out for a meal. Or going out for coffee. Or getting together with friends. When a friend suggests we try to add a new dimension to our tried and true recipe, part of me is wanting to just sit still and enjoy the company and forget about the 'doing' part. But every single time we do something, it adds a wonderful new dimension to the same familiar routines.
Last night, I was invited to go to a 'House Concert' with a few friends. I had no idea what that meant other than being told that it was held in the garage in the host's back yard. I knew that the 'garage' had been used for holding training seminars prior to this so I was not expecting to sit in a rustic garage like mine. But that was about all I knew to expect.
I was told that this couple put on these 'house concerts' for artists that played to a smaller venue. I was told who would be performing but I didn't google (nor did I really even know that this performer would be googleable) him in advance.
So I sat down in this meticulously clean, bright, candlelit and finished garage (that someone could easily live in, other than the fact that there wasn't a washroom in the building). There was a nook for our pot luck refreshments and there was seating for at least 51 people (I tried counting - I could be wrong). We arrived early and got to pick the best (most comfortable) seats in the house.
Then the show began.
Our hosts were so very personable. A husband/wife duo that complimented each other and set the tone for the evening ahead. We were laughing from the onset.
Then our performers made their entrance and once again, we were laughing and enjoying the personalities of our entertainers as they segued their way into our evening's entertainment.
The music was absolutely delightful. Watching the songwriter perform to the beat of his own keyboard (while accompanied with a back-up singer that just happened to be his sister), you could feel the pulse of the music in your heart. To watch someone perform their art in such an up close and personal way, in such a small venue ... far exceeded any huge concert experience I have ever seen (not that I have much experience in that - the large concert scene is not for me).
The audience is so personable. I sat next to someone I had never seen before in my life and I could feel their eyes upon me when I laughed and conversation was easy when the intermission arrived. How can it be anything else when you share an experience that you can feel in your bones long after the music has stopped?
The artist was Jeffery Straker. His website is: http://jeffstraker.com/ . Click on some of his music. I don't know if you had to 'be there' to feel what I feel when I listen to his voice. And the keyboard ... oh, the keyboard! I love that not only do I have a face to put to the music, I have the 'intimate experience' of a house concert to enhance the flavor of his songwriting, singing and performing abilities. Plus? He made me laugh. I love to laugh. I love music. I love when I get so wrapped up in a moment that I am in awe of the talent that it takes to take a passion and put it all together in the form of an art. It was a combination of everything that makes my heart sing. Plus! I was sharing the experience with friends ...
Music brings the world together in harmony. Last night, within the confines of a garage (that could have just as easily been a living room), I experienced my first House Concert. The outside world ceased to exist. I was transported to a place where peace, harmony, goodwill and laughter reigned.
If someone invites you to experience something new, go for it! If you are brave (or lazy, like I was), go into it knowing absolutely nothing at all. Let yourself experience it like a newborn baby experiences the world.
We know and have the ability to find out almost anything we want to know about in this world of ours. It is a rare treat to experience something completely fresh and brand new, with little to taint your idea of what it could be.
"Blessed are those who expect nothing, for they shall not be disappointed."
~ Unknown
Sunday, February 3, 2013
He Who Laughs ... Lasts
Laughter is an instant vacation.
~ Milton Berle
I laughed like I haven't laughed in years. I laughed long. I laughed hard. I did not laugh alone. I spent yesterday with my cousin (who has always felt like a sister to me) and her family.
My aunt is 86 years old. My uncle is 90. When my aunt heard that my cousin and I were going to drop by for a visit after our coffee date yesterday, my aunt turned around and invited us (and her whole family) for a turkey supper. Her impromptu invitation filled a 'table for twelve'.
My cousin & I laugh together, like I laugh with no one else. Every memory that I have with this family involves laughter. The story telling gets better with age. As far as I know, the tales are not embellished as the years evolve.
The stories have been told so many times and with such great emotion and detail, that there are times (so I heard yesterday) where the 'owner' of the story is up for debate. "That is my story!" says one cousin to another. "She does this all of the time. She has heard me tell the story so many times that she thinks it is her story!" Laughter fills the room as they duke it out (verbally) over the true ownership of the story.
I sat back and watched the dynamics between my cousin and her husband and immediately felt that she must have fallen in love with his sense of humor. They laugh together. He turned the mundane task of buying pop into a humorous anecdote. And that was just the beginning...
This is a family where material possessions and lavish holidays hold no priority. It is all about making a house a home and gathering their family together to make memories and make those memories last.
My aunt and uncle are in good health. There was no talk of illnesses, loss and the despair that so many people are feeling these days. Conversation was uplifting and the company was great. As I looked at my aunt and uncle, I would have never guessed their ages. Laughter is keeping them youthful at heart and as healthy as their bodies allow.
My aunt and uncle are in good health. There was no talk of illnesses, loss and the despair that so many people are feeling these days. Conversation was uplifting and the company was great. As I looked at my aunt and uncle, I would have never guessed their ages. Laughter is keeping them youthful at heart and as healthy as their bodies allow.
It was a day that I will remember forever. A day where I was enveloped in laughter ... spent with a family that means the world to me.
These are days we will never get back. Spend them wisely. Reach out to a friend or a family member and laugh together. You won't regret it.
Seven days without laughter makes one weak.
~ Mort Walker
Monday, November 21, 2011
The Return of Laughter
It was a wonderful weekend. It was filled with everything my heart could hope for.
Sleep when I needed it, friendship in many forms, time to be alone, time to indulge in guilty pleasures, time to read, time for pleasure.
My heart is light and happy these days. The cloud that has been hovering over me has been gradually dissipating. The sky is blue and the sun is shining in my world.
It wasn't so very long ago that I felt broken, weak and weary. The contrast between then and now is like night and day.
Then I heard it. The laughter within our home, within my heart. It never left, but there has been far too much laughter among tears.This weekend, the laughter was pure joy. Unanticipated humor in little things. Unbridled emotions set free in the form of laughter.
It is back. The joy of living life and savoring the little moments has returned. Laughter.
Sleep when I needed it, friendship in many forms, time to be alone, time to indulge in guilty pleasures, time to read, time for pleasure.
My heart is light and happy these days. The cloud that has been hovering over me has been gradually dissipating. The sky is blue and the sun is shining in my world.
It wasn't so very long ago that I felt broken, weak and weary. The contrast between then and now is like night and day.
Then I heard it. The laughter within our home, within my heart. It never left, but there has been far too much laughter among tears.This weekend, the laughter was pure joy. Unanticipated humor in little things. Unbridled emotions set free in the form of laughter.
It is back. The joy of living life and savoring the little moments has returned. Laughter.
"He who laughs ... lasts!" ~ Mary Pettibone Poole
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Laughter
Some friends and I tried out a Lafter Yoga class last night. It was advertised "for stress reduction, shedding inhibitions, increasing your sense of humor, better physical and mental health and energizing your life". Laughter among friends, gentle breathing and stretching sounded like a winning combination. So we gave it a whirl.
The concept is based on the idea that your body doesn't recognize the difference between a fake smile and a real smile; fake laughter or real laughter. "Laughing for no reason" is the name of the game in this club. It does not rely on humor, jokes or comedy. You laugh with people; not at them.
We learned fake laughing techniques for the better part of an hour and there were moments when it became real. We laughed for (almost) two minutes straight. Try it. It's hard work. It was the best core work out that I've had in months.
Maybe it is because I was a novice and very self conscious, but I didn't come out of the session feeling much different than when I walked in. 'Relieved' would possibly be the best description of how I felt at the end of the hour. Relieved that it was over and I could go out for coffee and real laughter with my friends!
As we sat at the table and enjoyed our coffee/tea afterwards, our 21 year old friendship generated true laughter. We laughed with each other. Nothing beats a genuine, from the heart belly laugh among friends. There were serious moments, thoughtfulness and encouragement was volleyed back and forth across the table. But each time we burst into gales of laughter, I realized how blessed I was. To share friendship, laughter, tears, good and bad times with a group of friends that I would trust with my life.
There were many nuggets of positive information that I took home with my from our Lafter Yoga class. I have been craving laughter these past months. I'm glad I tried it.
What I learned, I have known all along. I am blessed to have a life that is generously seasoned with laughter and tears, enough challenges to appreciate what I have and good friends to share it with.
The concept is based on the idea that your body doesn't recognize the difference between a fake smile and a real smile; fake laughter or real laughter. "Laughing for no reason" is the name of the game in this club. It does not rely on humor, jokes or comedy. You laugh with people; not at them.
We learned fake laughing techniques for the better part of an hour and there were moments when it became real. We laughed for (almost) two minutes straight. Try it. It's hard work. It was the best core work out that I've had in months.
Maybe it is because I was a novice and very self conscious, but I didn't come out of the session feeling much different than when I walked in. 'Relieved' would possibly be the best description of how I felt at the end of the hour. Relieved that it was over and I could go out for coffee and real laughter with my friends!
As we sat at the table and enjoyed our coffee/tea afterwards, our 21 year old friendship generated true laughter. We laughed with each other. Nothing beats a genuine, from the heart belly laugh among friends. There were serious moments, thoughtfulness and encouragement was volleyed back and forth across the table. But each time we burst into gales of laughter, I realized how blessed I was. To share friendship, laughter, tears, good and bad times with a group of friends that I would trust with my life.
There were many nuggets of positive information that I took home with my from our Lafter Yoga class. I have been craving laughter these past months. I'm glad I tried it.
What I learned, I have known all along. I am blessed to have a life that is generously seasoned with laughter and tears, enough challenges to appreciate what I have and good friends to share it with.
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Laughter
I spent a delightful evening with friends last night.
Laughter was sprinkled generously throughout the evening and our parting gift was that of one more gust of hearty laughter.
After a day spent trying to 'regain my happy', the timing was impeccable.
Laughter soothes my soul. The company of good friends is CPR for my state of well being.
And now ... I can forge on.
Laughter was sprinkled generously throughout the evening and our parting gift was that of one more gust of hearty laughter.
After a day spent trying to 'regain my happy', the timing was impeccable.
Laughter soothes my soul. The company of good friends is CPR for my state of well being.
And now ... I can forge on.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Laughter
"Laughter is an instant vacation." ~Milton Berle
I love to laugh. I love that my life is full of moments that make my heart sing and that laughter comes easily. I love that when I replay conversations in my mind, I hear laughter.
I love hearing others laugh. The only thing that I truly remember about 'Shrek 2', is my brother's laughter as he sat a few seats away. I can still see, hear and feel my adult children's laughter as my mom has shocked us with some of her revelations.
I think back on most of the moments that linger in my mind. Most of them are interlaced with laughter.
My sisters and I have made the five hour trek to see or meet up with our mom on several occasions. It never seems to fail, we arrive at our destination laughing. I can recall one of the (many) times that my sisters came to me when I was in a time of crisis. And we laughed. One sister commented that it seemed wrong to be laughing ... but if we weren't laughing, we would have been crying. We chose laughter.
Laughter among tears. Deep and thought provoking conversations with friends have been full of moments like that.
In the soundtrack of my life, I hear laughter. Good things are better when they are enhanced with laughter.
I am blessed to have a nephew who is a professional comedian. He tours Canada and the U.S. ... he has starred in two movies ... he's a local celebrity ... and he's related to me. We went to see him perform last night and it was perfection.
It's one thing to humor someone you know well, but my nephew has taken that fine art and honed it so that 'the world' can laugh right along with him.
It's a mighty fine feeling to know that I have comedic genes in my blood.
"Laughter is much more important than applause. Applause is almost a duty. Laughter is a reward." ~ Carol Channing
I love to laugh. I love that my life is full of moments that make my heart sing and that laughter comes easily. I love that when I replay conversations in my mind, I hear laughter.
I love hearing others laugh. The only thing that I truly remember about 'Shrek 2', is my brother's laughter as he sat a few seats away. I can still see, hear and feel my adult children's laughter as my mom has shocked us with some of her revelations.
I think back on most of the moments that linger in my mind. Most of them are interlaced with laughter.
My sisters and I have made the five hour trek to see or meet up with our mom on several occasions. It never seems to fail, we arrive at our destination laughing. I can recall one of the (many) times that my sisters came to me when I was in a time of crisis. And we laughed. One sister commented that it seemed wrong to be laughing ... but if we weren't laughing, we would have been crying. We chose laughter.
Laughter among tears. Deep and thought provoking conversations with friends have been full of moments like that.
In the soundtrack of my life, I hear laughter. Good things are better when they are enhanced with laughter.
I am blessed to have a nephew who is a professional comedian. He tours Canada and the U.S. ... he has starred in two movies ... he's a local celebrity ... and he's related to me. We went to see him perform last night and it was perfection.
It's one thing to humor someone you know well, but my nephew has taken that fine art and honed it so that 'the world' can laugh right along with him.
It's a mighty fine feeling to know that I have comedic genes in my blood.
"Laughter is much more important than applause. Applause is almost a duty. Laughter is a reward." ~ Carol Channing
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Laughter
"Laughter is the best medicine"
As I was leaving the dance studio last night and saying my good-byes to someone who I hadn't seen for a while, I asked if she would be returning next week. To encourage her, I mentioned how much she laughed and appeared to enjoy the evening. Her response was, "We laugh all the time at home" ... Wow. They are living the good life.
I associate fun and laughter with the dance studio. How the instructors continue to smile and laugh throughout their days amazes me. But they do. For the brief half hour or hour that I am there, I am swept up in their joy and forget life at home. Not that there is anything wrong with my life ... but it's nice to have that 'happy place' to go to.
As my new, fall schedule (back to the books and trying to juggle work, school, kids, errands and a life) is on the horizon, I was overjoyed to realize that my private dance lesson now falls on the same evening as the group classes. One night out of the house and it will encompass everything I enjoy at the dance studio. One precious night to call 'my own'.
Last night, I was approached about joining a 'group formation' class. One extra evening at the studio, with a group of people who are there because they want to be a part of a group dance which will be performed at the dance showcase in November. Ten weeks to learn a dance, be surrounded with people that make me laugh and the end result would be to perform our creation in front of an audience.
I cringed at the thought of giving up that evening. I don't know what my pressures are going to be like in the fall and I know that I need to keep a sane balance of work, pleasure, family and down-time. One extra night at the studio??
Then ... I listened to my response to the friend who had told me that they laugh all the time in their home. I said "That's why I dance ... the laughter. I don't laugh at home" ... (well I do, but it's just not quite the same as my night out, at the dance studio).
Ten weeks. At the beginning of my school term where the pressures shouldn't be too taxing. A small financial commitment and one extra hour, surrounded with people who laugh easily and love to dance.
The more I think about it, the more I know that I have to find a way to keep dancing throughout my upcoming school term. Where there is a will, there is a way. I have a solution in mind ... I just have to follow through on it.
I am saying "YES!" to the group formation class. I know that I would be disappointed in myself, if I didn't.
When you see something right in front of you, that brings nothing but joy to your life ... reach out and grab it.
As I was leaving the dance studio last night and saying my good-byes to someone who I hadn't seen for a while, I asked if she would be returning next week. To encourage her, I mentioned how much she laughed and appeared to enjoy the evening. Her response was, "We laugh all the time at home" ... Wow. They are living the good life.
I associate fun and laughter with the dance studio. How the instructors continue to smile and laugh throughout their days amazes me. But they do. For the brief half hour or hour that I am there, I am swept up in their joy and forget life at home. Not that there is anything wrong with my life ... but it's nice to have that 'happy place' to go to.
As my new, fall schedule (back to the books and trying to juggle work, school, kids, errands and a life) is on the horizon, I was overjoyed to realize that my private dance lesson now falls on the same evening as the group classes. One night out of the house and it will encompass everything I enjoy at the dance studio. One precious night to call 'my own'.
Last night, I was approached about joining a 'group formation' class. One extra evening at the studio, with a group of people who are there because they want to be a part of a group dance which will be performed at the dance showcase in November. Ten weeks to learn a dance, be surrounded with people that make me laugh and the end result would be to perform our creation in front of an audience.
I cringed at the thought of giving up that evening. I don't know what my pressures are going to be like in the fall and I know that I need to keep a sane balance of work, pleasure, family and down-time. One extra night at the studio??
Then ... I listened to my response to the friend who had told me that they laugh all the time in their home. I said "That's why I dance ... the laughter. I don't laugh at home" ... (well I do, but it's just not quite the same as my night out, at the dance studio).
Ten weeks. At the beginning of my school term where the pressures shouldn't be too taxing. A small financial commitment and one extra hour, surrounded with people who laugh easily and love to dance.
The more I think about it, the more I know that I have to find a way to keep dancing throughout my upcoming school term. Where there is a will, there is a way. I have a solution in mind ... I just have to follow through on it.
I am saying "YES!" to the group formation class. I know that I would be disappointed in myself, if I didn't.
When you see something right in front of you, that brings nothing but joy to your life ... reach out and grab it.
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