Mirth Foundations

2011-02-27T12:15:00.000-06:00

Debra Joy February 27, 2011 at 1:11 pm

Day 27 of my journey… and an interesting turn of events. And the purpose of any journey is to travel and discover, for better or worse and to become wiser for it.

Today,my dear friend (and companion to Africa,) spoke his truth. And.. in turn I had to ask ” What is my truth… as best I know it … for now?” Even in this last question, “What is my truth?” had me imagining eating a giant bag of flavored Doritos that I saw in the Sunday ad section!

The anxiety of ” seeking my truth,” let alone, stating it… grips my body and wants to “stuff’ my emotions.”

And, since I am having a colonoscopy tomorrow, liquids are my only choice today.
No chips, no grease, no cookies, NO CRUNCH!!! What do I do with the anxiety? what do I do with the anger? What do I do with the fear? What do I do with the disappointment? What do I do with pivotal decision making?

Well, the good news is….thru my 7 month dark time, I took the risk to be present… and feel my feelings. I took the risk, to’come apart’ for awhile. Recently, I took the risk to stand/speak of my own eating /health truth… and make peace with “their way(eating habits) may work for them…but not for me…now now.”

Currently in Uganda, it is a ‘hotbed’ of political and religious fanatics, whose message is” If you are gay.. you should be dead.” They are not even at the point of ‘ Hate the sin, love the sinner.” This is like the Holocaust to me. And, excuse my pun… but all of this may be fueled by more recent discoveries of a gadzillion barrells of oil , just found under their country.

I was one of the first home nurses in Champaign County, that did not refuse going to see AIDS patients. I upset many other nurses, doctors( at that time) and co workers and friends by my seemingly careless attitude. On the contrary… I was so concerned about my patients that I removed as many emotional, physical, spiritual and ( what I deemed unnecessary) medical barriers to give them some quality of life in the face of others’ fears and fallacies.

I think about my journey of eating and how often I must have eaten according to others ideas of what is good for me… and’ for everybody.” I think how I ate to please people. They are long gone from this world… and I still have those inclinations. I was taught by example and word.

Each of us, whether we have labeled this a 100 Day Journey or not, are on a path to seek balance and truth in our lives. Some people go out of balance with food, drink, work or money… still seeking that internal and eternal balance of acceptance of ourselves and others.

I tried lying to myself that I am only going there to help and work in HIV/AIDS clinics and not to be politically involved. I would teach humor and lead laughter. I find nothing humorous about turning away people from healthcare based on their race,gender, religious or political beliefs. I didnt turn anyone away from their due health care in the 80′s, and early 90′s…and I will not do it now.

So, in good conscience I cannot go to my originally planned destination of Uganda.
After processing this morning all my information, I said,” This God or something better. ” I have faith, that standing in my truth and changing direction is healthier than ( tho not without disappointment) standing in another’s darkness and ignorance.

My friend and I are working on another destination to serve HIV/AIDS patients and hopefully still in Africa.

I am still on my 100 day of health and wholeness… and this is part of the process.

2011-02-16T10:00:00.002-06:00

My daughter and I had some serious financial discussions yesterday. I've been in her shoes before...many times.

If my "reactionary meltdown" wasnt about money( which it has), it was about relationships. My melt-downs( or eruptions) were about husbands( both ex and present), family members or... as in the past,romantic interests. I've had health scares ( think: cancer, stroke and the 2 things growing in my brain) and volcanic eruptions about employment. Religious affiliations (not spiritual) have helped to grind my teeth at nite.

I confess: I have thrown my scale out a second story window( with the window open),eaten my weight in potato chips and spent my weight in frivolous gifts. I have drunk my weight in alcohol ounces( waaaaaay in the past)and expressed my body weight in anger and rage.

Corollary#539: When my weight went up, my self esteem went down. Simple Geometry.

Corollary #3: When eruptions, explosions,falling in a holes,hitting bottom, overeating and feeling the weight gain pain, blackout drinking, arguments with 'whomever', over extended hospitalizations," I-Hate-My- Job" noises, and " I -have-no- money- again", makes way for opportunity to change.

Again: Simple Geometry: Crisis= Opportunity

My daughter thanked me for acknowledging her growth.... My daughter acknowledged her part( i.e. did not defend or deflect her actions. And, on the spot... took immediate action. She did not put it off for another day, week or month.

She is my hero for today.

2011-02-14T14:27:00.000-06:00

Day 14 on my 100 day journey… and I confess I do not like Valentines day…

Valentines Day was always( even as a young child) a major source of anxiety. I loved decorating the boxes in preparation to receive a valentine…but my angst about giving and receiving, disappointing others and being disappointed was horrendous. I was scared that I didnt give the “right’ homemade or store bought valentine to my favorite friend and like wise, would I get one from my secret crush? And, after eating a lot of those heart shaped sugar cookies( think back to grades 1-3) with the pink , red and white frosting.. . to stuff my nervousness …I was the one who threw up in class. Pitiful, wasnt it!?

One year, ( ok, I admit , when I was in my 40′s) I spent $86.52 on valentines… what was I thinking???? And the angst was still present and I was eating chocolates to ” stuff” my nervousness.

Finally when I got to my 50′s… I admitted to myself and others..I dont like Valentines Day. Dagnabbit.. and my last name is HART!
BLESSING # 253: My best friend /neighbor doesnt like it either! We celebrate not celebrating! And Blessing# 254: Both our husbands understand.

And Heart /Hart Healthy activity the past 2 days: I cleaned out ALL outdated/unused/scrappy jars, bottles and frozen foods from my refrigerator and freezer. My refrigerator looks slimmer and feels better. Like me.

May your day be HART/HEART healthy!

2011-02-12T11:12:00.003-06:00

This week I took a courageous step on my 100 day health and wholeness journey.

I told the truth. Not just any truth, but one that involved me being vulnerable, gentle and protective of my own needs.

The truth: As much as I wanted to be( travel) with my husband, kids and grandbaby, I feared that it would take me off course of my diet. Their eating habits( at this point) are different than mine. And, I suppose as a mother, woman and person who says often" oh dont worry about me", I had more than an inkling that I would succumb to veering off course.

First, I told my husband. He knew something was up and serious when I turned the volume down on the TV. Then I told the truth to my step daughter. Both were supportive and understanding. I am so used to " serving others" that I feared that I would upset the proverbial "apple cart" by doing something different. I humorously reflect," Thank God I am not the center of their universe." Then I realize,' Who ever said you were????" ( sometimes the truth hurts , dont it Deb????)

I have often said to others , as well as myself," When needing to make a difficult choice between 2 things... always go with the one that gives you more peace of mind. Even if it is scary." I did and I am at peace. Another step on my journey of health and wholeness.

2011-02-05T11:03:00.003-06:00

Day 5...95 days more to discover, uncover and explore health and wholeness.

Report for you bottom-up dieters...
I got on the scale today and I weighed 180.8. This is a 2.4lb loss in the last 4 days...A loss of 2.4 lbs. Calorie range from 1268-1730..

Report for the top-down crowd...
I have been very mindful of portion,plating and peace.

I have been letting myself" feel" supported. And asking myself, what does " support' mean? What are the different kinds of support I get?

Yes, my wise cracking self says," A bra gives me support." I dont really pay much attention accept in the morning as I put it on or take off at nite. Occasionally itching in between.

Last nite, best friend X asked, ( about my upcoming trip to Africa and needing certain medical supplies) "What about your friends that are not on facebook.. Will you send us something via email?"

I suppose asking for support is all in the communication of intensity,poignancy and timing. I told best friend X, that her emotional support for me is more than enough. Letting me vent about issues as they come up is what I need most from her. Yet, I suspect, she would like to contribute in a physical way too. She would also like to tell others. It is an opportunity for people to" pay it forward" all the goodness that has come to their life.

Using my best diet analogy," I will being asking for support from a bottom -up' approach. Translation: Looking into ways people can sponsor" medical supplies." and money for transporting those medical supplies.

For those that are supporting me from the " top-down".. aka emotional, spiritual and intellectual... I am grateful for your love, presence and ideas.

I promise to have a " list" of sponsor ideas and costs very soon...

2011-02-03T08:32:00.002-06:00

I have been experimenting with my eating these last couple of " snow days."
Can I eat 1/2 as much as I had been? Will I be wanting more? Will I feel full? Will I go crazy from hunger? (Ok.. maybe crazy is an exageration...yet...)

Up to this point I had already started taking most of my meals on a smaller plate ( 1/2 the size of a dinner plate). Special treats I eat with a tiny spoon.( 1/2 the size of a teaspoon..its gold colored and 'makes me feel special.') About a year ago I wanted to cut my caffeine consumption and stated making my morning coffee 1/2 caf, 1/2 decaf. I even do this when i am out..one cup caf, one cup decaf.Believe me, the waitresses are glad someone is drinking it and using up the pot. I cut my shoe collection in half, ( ok, I confess..). For the most part, when I buy a piece clothing, I look in my closet, take something out and donate it.

I go out to eat and go out for coffee 1/2 as much as I used to, to save money.

Eating these past few days has been an adventure. 1/2 of sprouted grain muffin, 1/2 cup yogurt, 1/2 tbl.spoon butter. 1/2 the amount of oil and ... yes even 1/2 as much popcorn.

I havent felt the urge to eat more and I felt comfortably full. YAY ME!

Perhaps all my 1/2 off practice has paid off... (and who doesnt like a sale????)

2011-02-02T12:48:00.003-06:00

Day 2 of my inside out journey. A friend from my diet support group wrote me. Both of us agree: its the journey, not the outcome. Sure, I lost 20 lbs before... and then packed it back on...yet now I am more about the process than the goal. I have learned many tools since 1992 when I shed those lbs. I trust my knowledge and , I have learned its ok to lean on others when they offer. I can ask for help. I am not alone emotionally. I think that is the worst.. feeling discarded in friendship and love.

These snow days have been wonderful for me. I have spent the quiet time asking myself," Are you hungry?" " What do you REEEEEEEEEEEEAALLLLLLY want?" I have been satisfied with all my choices. I measured out 1 glass of red wine last nite. I took out the ole' George Foreman grill and had a small swordfish steak. I measure out real butter on my toast. Had a blueberry smoothie, yesterday and today...

When I travel( which I love) everyday I ask," How can it get any better than this?".. and it always does... So today( and just for today) I have stayed focus, enjoyed the ride, had a diet buddy email me and I have on my flowered spring socks on my feet... How can it get any better than this..???

2011-02-01T11:08:00.002-06:00

A new journey starts with a single step.....

I am on day 1 of my 100 days of Wholeness and Health.

This came about by listening to another diet group member talk about her 100 days to change her levels of blood glucose in her system. She read somewhere it takes 100 days to regenerate cell, certain cells in her system.

I admit yesterday I had a moment of," What did I get myself into?????"

I said to myself... this will pass... breathe.

I made a special book/journal to write down everyday what I have eaten.
I decorated it with stickers and inspiring words.
I told myself," Im worth it," since I usually only make things like this for others...

I made sure my food scale was working and my " go to" book of calories was in place...

I have been drinking between 32-64 ounces of water daily this past week week and have bottles that I fill to remind me what needs to be done.

I have experimented with my diet over the past year.. and realized i have a bit of a gluten intolerance and do much better with sprouted whole grain or rice noodles.

I have not had ( but 1 time) in the past 3 years cheese. Looks warm and cuddly... dont need it. I can have a little milk and my body does tolerate greek yogurt.

I will be honest as I write .. and I will tell my weight...( pretty gutsy of me heh?)
Today I weighed 183.2 lbs...( 4 years ago I was up to 192...)
I will count my calories( 1700/day for now) " religiously" and will weigh and measure.
That is my goal for the week.

However, this isnt all about weight... its about WHOLENESS... so the other assignment for myself..
Be compassionate to myself...

2011-01-29T08:53:00.002-06:00

What tickles you?

I dont mean in the way your Uncle Hershey ( well, I had one of those) would tickle you on your ribs 'till you cried out " uncle" or whatever...I usually was in so much pain and embarrassed by... well, those of you reading this know exactly what I mean!

I mean: What tickles you emotionally , and helps make you laugh during the day?

And, do you wake up saying," I want to find the 'funny' today."

Do you look for the"tickle" in the day? Even when you feel emotionally awful?

To tell the truth, I dont either. And I write about this stuff.

During times of depression, that is not the first thing on my mind.

Since I am starting a 100 days of health, I want to be like my best friend X. She's going thru a rough time and my heart goes out to her. She listens to NPR " Car Talk." and " Wait, Wait dont tell me." That is her Vitamin " h' for the day. Its not always the laughter or " humor". She listens to the emotionality of what is going on. And because the emotion or Mirth is what she is listening to... it lifts her emotions and is comforting.

What is your Vit H for the day? Is it watching determined squirrels slide down the birdfeeder pole, coninuously? Perhaps its your grandchild giggling for the first time? I know these are 2 of mine. I listen to Tom Lehrer a lot too.. and kids songs... they make tickle me. more than that, its the sound of genuine happiness that does my body good.

I hope everyone reading this takes a dose of Vit H today... and you can " get your giggle on!'

2011-01-27T10:50:00.002-06:00

WOW again!
And to have 2 WOW mornings in a row...well, I wish that for all of you!

Thank you again Sandra( www.reasonablediet.com) and Joanne and all my peeps on the Tuesday call.
Donating $2 to my Uganda Hiv/Clinic trip via your business, Sandra?.. WOW! I think I need a T shirt or sports car with supportive sponsor business stickers...( ok..just dreaming)

Yesterday, I spoke to a fantastic group of Health Career student and staff at Parkland Community college. I put the challenge to them. No worries about raising $1000 dollars... how about raising 1000 BANDAIDS? I think they are going to do it!

Many of you dont know this: I am a Humor Advisor for the Humor Academy via Association for Applied and Therapeutic Humor ( www.aath.org)

Last nite was my first meeting with my group. I raised the question," How many of you were class clowns? Not all of them were. The discussion continued about when you are, " the funny one", you are expected to " be on" all the time. Several of us spoke about people asking" whats wrong?" if our" funny bone' is not in high gear. I have been in that position many times.

Bluntly put, sometimes it sucks to be an extrovert. Especially when( as in the past 7 months) I had to take time to go within and uncover, discover and rediscover parts of me that I gave all sorts of labels to( some not fit to print!).

I know of several of my funny buddies that are going thru tough times and their " recharge" takes longer. The expectations we place on ourselves "to be something we are not" at that time" is a heavy burden to bear.

Doing " funny" on demand is not easy. It's like expecting a Geo Metro ( 16.2 sec going 0-60) to perform like a Porche GTS (4.4 sec for the same). And Yes, I asked my husband about these car references.

I know as a funny person, spontaneously or.. writing material and testing it out... some days I am a Geo Metro, some days I am a Porsche GTS.

I appreciate all the people in my life that have taken a risk to step outside of their perceived selves, all those that have had to take a dose of their own humor medicine, all those that have had hardship foist upon them and ask themselves some very hard questions...you are the people that I take into my heart today.. you are the people that inspire me, you are the people that educate me and you are the people that I take on my journey...whatever I am driving...

2011-01-26T09:35:00.003-06:00

I am filled with gratitude....
WOW.. sums it up. My diet support group WOW'd me yesterday.
The image of them supporting my butt, pushing it over the 20lb wall WOW'd me. Then I thought" ewww, they are touching my butt." Yet, the fact that they are willing to help me with my struggle... touch what I admittedly think of as 'ugly', possibly 'smelly'... fills my heart with gratitude....and refilled it today.

And, I ask myself this," How many other times have people, both seen and unseen, thru their prayers and well wishes...helped my proverbial ' smelly butt' over a wall of shame and self loathing.

Many years ago, Alli Ponder told this story of when she was in coma after a car accident.This is the part that has always stayed with me:
Peoples prayers were little stars and they filled and refilled a pitcher. When I needed strength, the pitcher would pour over me and all the prayers would fill me."

Please know that any of you reading these blogs... your well wishes and prayers, your gentle smiles, sly winks or hearty laughs... are all stars in my pitcher.

2011-01-25T15:52:00.002-06:00

Hello All Humor Filled, Laughter Lovers and Mirth Medicine People!

Its been awhile since I " blogged" , " posted" or just stopped in to say hello.

Starting Feb 1 I am going to take and start a 100 day health challenge. I will be recording it right here, with humor and grace and a smile on my face!

And what prompted all of this. Well, for the past 7 months I have been on an inner quest for peace from my inner voices of blame and shame. I took a risk to " come apart" for awhile. As an extrovert, this means I was risking the possibility of abandonment. As a human bean, who purports humor, laughter and mirth for healing, I was having to swallow many doses of my own medicine.

As a humorist and " funny lady", exploring shame and blame( which give rise to a lot of great funny material) is not easy. Frustrating my therapist was a weekly occurrence.
I am a story teller... and the therapist would often say, "You are story telling.. How do you FEEEEEEEEl?" I was grateful that she never asked " Would you just get to the point!?!"

Back to my 100 day health challenge. Last week, I mended fences with a family member. I felt like I dropped 20 lbs of emotional weight. I want my body to catch up. And, I want to be in shape ( round is a shape, right?) for my volunteer trek to Kampala, Uganda, Africa ( more on that later)

I have a whole bunch of really awesome women friends via Sandra Ahten's Reasonable Diet (www.reasonablediet.com)Group that want to 100 day journey with me. They are supporting me emotionally, spiritually, financially ( for my volunteer experience) and any way they can.

I am asking any that read this, hold me in the light as I start this healthy journey Feb 1-May 11, a 100 day journey toward health. I would love it if you would walk with me even 1 day(metaphorically speaking... or thru exercise)
Stay tuned for more and thanks..
blessings of laughter and love, deb

2010-01-04T14:02:00.000-06:00

Ridiculous and Funny New Year’s resolutions (from the Internet)
• Just for today, I will not sit in my living room all day in my pajamas. Instead, I will move my computer into the bedroom.
• I will no longer waste my time reliving the past. Instead, I will spend it worrying about the future.
• I will do less laundry and use more deodorant.
• I will spend less than 1 hour a day on the internet. This of course will be hard to estimate since I’m not a clock watcher.
• I will read the manual…just as soon as I can find it.
• I want to gain weight. I plan to put on 30 pounds.
• I will procrastinate more.
• I will be more superstitious.

An optimist stays up until midnite to see the New Year in. A pessimist stays up to make sure the old one leaves.
Bill Vaughn

The New Year is upon us. Several of my friends are saying “Good riddance 2009!” Loss of jobs, health, friends and family were one too many losses for anyone. As I write this, one friend told me she had been to 3 funerals in 10 days. These are the losses that require gentle and mindful grieving.

On the other hand, when my brand new LG cell phone, slipped out of my pocket and into the toilet ( No, it was not clean water!), this loss took me by surprise. I was grateful there is a lot written on the Internet about “what to do if your cell phone falls in the toilet.”
Deb’s 2010 resolution #1: Be mindful of cell phone placement in restrooms.

In January, my mood occasionally turns like the weather. Dark and chilly. I want to hibernate like a bear in Montana (Are there bears in Montana?). I like to hunker down at nite, under a crochet blanket and not get sweaty from exercise. Perspiration should be reserved for warmer months only.
Deb’s 2010 resolution #2: Exercise only during daylight hours. Do not crawl under a blanket, unless I have 8 hours to stay there.

Post holiday sales is something else January is noted for. You can go to the mall and outlet centers for a glorious shopping spree. This year, I think I will do most of my browsing and spending at Compassion Outlet, Gratitude Mall and Smile Store.
The prices cannot be beat, no one ever gets fired and there are plenty of new hires everyday. These are stores of renewable and reusable energy. I feel inspired and laugh when I go there. Best of all, I can re-gift guilt free.
Deb’s 2010 resolution #3: Go shopping more often. Spend a lot smiling, laughing, and feeling grateful. Don’t comparison shop for Compassion. Only buy high quality.

What I like best about resolution#3 is: I never get sweaty, I think its great exercise, I can do it after dark and I can do it while I am under my blanket. One more thing: My cell phone stays dry.

Blessings of Laughter, Humor and Mirth for 2010,
Debra Joy Hart RN CLL

2010-01-04T14:00:00.000-06:00

Better late than Never ( December Holiday humor )

A family is a unit composed not only of children but of men, women, an occasional animal, and the common cold…….. Ogden Nash

I love my family, but I hate family reunions, Family reunions are that time when you come face to face with your family tree and realize some of the branches need to be cut.
…………. Rene` Hicks

We never talked, my family. We communicated by putting Ann Landers articles on the refrigerator………………………………… Judy Gold

Growing up Jewish and marrying into a Christian family has afforded me the opportunity to have the best of both worlds at holiday time: Carbohydrates and family arguments. The great debate in our family is: potato pancakes and applesauce vs homemade noodles on mash potatoes. Carbs on Carbs?…. No Way! Combining family traditions is no easy feat. Combining family styles of “ sense of humor” can be even harder.

While “ humor” may help individuals cope with stress, it may mask deeper feelings of resentment, anger and sorrow. Unfortunately, many times this “stress’ is unleashed at someone or a group of people. Verbalizing an ‘ ouch’ when this happens may result in, “What’s the matter, can’t you take a joke?” or “ “ I was only kidding.” I must confess, my least favorite sentence is, “Why are YOU so negative?”

It’s really hard to remember, especially when you are the brunt of the joke or teasing, that the person who made the comment, is also hurting. Retaliation in either word or deed is really incongruous with family get- togethers. So what can you or I do when Uncle Arnold says, “ Hey sexy, you’ve put on weight!” or Aunt Mildred says,” I think your cousin Steve is really happy and GAY( wink wink).” More common is the joke teller, that thinks ALL of the jokes are funny to everyone.

Although my first choice may be to “ hurt” Uncle Arnold or Aunt Mildred, I remember causing bodily harm to another individual is illegal in all 50 states. Secondly, while I may have the perfect comeback at the tip of my tongue, it’s counter productive, especially at a family gathering. Walking away and or simply stating’ I don’t think that’s funny’ along with a disapproving look, usually does the trick. When their comeback is one of the 3 mentioned above, I no longer respond. Their ignorance doesn’t deserve my precious holiday energy. To diffuse a joke teller’s rude joke, I simply state, “ I don’t get it.” Analyzing it ruins the moment for the joke teller and lets them know that type of humor is not wanted.

After 16 years, our blended family has gained insight as to what makes each other laugh and what does not. Respect and an heart felt apology takes care of the times we don’t tickle the other’s funny bone. The one area I make no apology: latkes( potato pancakes) and apple sauce are much better than noodles on mash potatoes.

Blessings of Laughter, Humor and Mirth at all your family gatherings,
Debra Joy Hart RN BFA CLL
Age Wise Care Management
debrajoyhart@gmail.com

2009-11-02T15:27:00.002-06:00

Lefovers and Laughter

You know that just before that first Thanksgiving dinner, there was one wise old Native American woman saying, “Don’t feed them. If you feed them they’ll never leave.”
Dylan Brody

Thanksgiving is an emotional time. People travel thousands of miles to be with people they only see once a year. And then discover once a year is way too often.”
Johnny Carson

Last Thanksgiving I shot my own turkey. It was fun. That shot gun going “Blam Blam!” Everybody at the supermarket was just staring. Why track them when I know where they are?
Kenny Rogerson

My brother and his family no longer live with a refrigerator. Oh, they have 2 ice chests with frozen jugs of water that they have to replace about every other day. They make the kids do that. And what prompted them to go back to this 17th century way of living?
Leftovers! Leftovers? Yes, leftovers were one of the reasons they gave up their refrigerator. It wasn’t the only reason, but it’s the one that stuck out in my mind.

November is filled with national ‘food “days. There is Candy Day, Deviled Egg Day, and Cashew Day (which goes with the fact that it is National Peanut Butter Lover‘s Month.). November includes “Cookie Monster’s” birthday and the day that William Tell took a bow and arrow and shot an apple off his kid’s head. (NOTE: Parents, this is not legal.) Halloween candy that was hidden under the bed has now been found by a younger sibling. Aunties and Grandmas are making fruitcakes and cupcakes, oodles of noodles, cookies and tortes, candy wreathes and three story gingerbread houses and last but not least…..there is Thanksgiving.

People from the good ol’ U.S. of A. gobble up 690 million pounds of turkey each Thanksgiving. I have no idea how many pounds of stuffing, mash potatoes, yams or cranberry sauce/relish are made. I do know there will be leftovers.

Food is not the only leftover. There are left over people lying on your sofa, left over rude cousins that don’t know when to go home and there are leftover dishes and arguments as to whom or what will do the dishwashing. There is leftover trash outside created by city wildlife. Leftovers can be so overwhelming. What’s a person to do?

Humor, once again, may be the best defense you have to any kind of leftover. Think of it as an emotional antacid. When tensions arise from the holiday planning or holiday crowding, (in your living room), try reaching for some quiet time with the Sunday funnies. How about one of those silly holiday movies that make you laugh and groan and laugh again? You can also say to Aunt Mildred’ “Let’s listen to Bill Cosby (or some other comedienne), while you both do the dishes. Either she will love it or she will leave the room. Either way you win. Most important, learning to forgive yourself and chuckle at your humanity helps deal with the leftover blues.

November 14th is National Clean Out Your Refrigerator Day. You can then prepare the space for leftovers without over crowding. Clean out and make room in your emotional refrigerator (where you get nurtured) for more humor, laughter, and joy, especially around this time of year. Take a daily dose of mirth as a re-laxative. It can prevent hardening of the attitudes.

My brother may not have many food leftovers and he certainly doesn’t have a refrigerator to clean out. However, he and his family have plenty of leftover mirth, mayhem, silliness and laughter. Perhaps he can send you home with some.

Thanksgiving blessings of Gratitude, Humor, Laughter, Mirth and Joy,
Debra Joy Hart RN BFA CLL
Age Wise Care Management
debrajoyhart@gmail.com

2009-10-02T22:56:00.001-05:00

The only way to get rid of my fears is to make films about them.
Alfred Hitchcock

"All of us are born with a set of instinctive fears--of falling, of the dark, of lobsters, of falling on lobsters in the dark, or speaking before a Rotary Club, and of the words "Some Assembly Required."
Dave Barry

A man has been visiting a therapist because he has had a fear of monsters living under his bed. The man has been seeing this doctor for months. Every time he would come in the doctor would ask "have you made any progress?". Every time the man would say "no." The man decided to go and see another doctor. When he went back to his other doctor and he asked "have you made any progress?" he said "yes, I am feeling all better now" The doctor asked "what happened". The man said "I went to another doctor and he cured me in one session". The doctor asked "What did he tell you?" The man said "he just told me to cut the legs off of my bed".

Internet Joke

Say “October” and you automatically put a smile on my face. I love this time of year. Visually, I love the colors of our beloved Midwest. The smell of bonfires and burning oak with a slight chill in the air excites me. Shuffle walking and crunching leaves on the side walk, (except when the occasional snake crawls out) is a favorite activity. The old horror flicks that appear on TV stir up special childhood memories. And most of all, I love the playfulness of Halloween. I love the risks kids take dressing up and “ parading around”. I can appreciate the loved adult in their life who designs and puts together a costume. Of course there are some that don’t like Halloween. Reasons range from “bad memories” to “fear of what it represents.”

Fear is an interesting phenomena. It’s funny how we teach babies the game of ‘peek-a-boo’, which is really based on the element of fear and surprise. Some of us go to horror movies which is a controlled dose of fear. After all, it’s only a movie, right?

I have faced many types of fears in my life. Fear of loss of health, fear of loss of friendships, fear for a loved one’s safety, fear of losing a job and my list goes on. Maybe you too have faced these same ones and can add a few more. I remember walking thru an alley, 4 police cars pull up, and then I had 4 guns pointed at my head. When they screamed, “ get down” I realized they were yelling at the “ suspect” behind me. I immediately ducked walked along side parked cars and the theme from “ Hawaii 5-0” started playing in my head! As I laughed about the incident, my breathing returned to normal!

So why am I writing about fear in a humor column? Humor is one of the main antidotes to relieving symptoms of fear and anxiety. It helps us disengage from the fear-filled moment, in order to gain a hopeful perspective. The act of laughing reduces the tension that fear induces in our body. Mirth connects our emotional hearts to each other, powerfully reducing isolation and loneliness. Over the past year, as I gained my strength back from physical ailments, I craved the humor, laughter and support that dear friends and family gave me. Humor, Laughter and Mirth can illuminate the darkness that fear lives in. I recognize that not all want to laugh in fearful situations. Sometimes it takes a crack in the fear to let the light in. And everyone cracks up in their own time.

This time of year, you may experience many fears. Fear of the cold, fear of relatives coming over to your house, fear of lack of money, fear of swine flu and lastly, fear of weight gain. I’m sure you can add to the list. However, while you have your list of fears, don’t forget to have the antidote. Keep Laughter, Humor and Mirth close to your body, mind and spirit.

Blessings of gratitude for all who have made laugh along the way,
Debra Joy Hart RN BFA CLL
Age Wise Care Management
debrajoyhart@gmail.com

2009-09-10T12:07:00.000-05:00

You know there is a problem with the education system when you realize that about the three Rs, only one begins with an R.
Dennis Miller

I will never forget my first day of school. My mom woke me up, got me dressed, made my bed and fed me. Man, did the guys in the dorm tease me.
Michael Aronin

Nothing I learned in school prepared me for life on any level. My first book should have read, ”See Dick balance his checkbook. See Jane leave an unhealthy relationship. Run, Jane, run!”
Kate Mason

September 2009 is host to a lot of bizarre and unique holidays. International Square Dancing Month, National Blueberry Popsicle Month and last but not least….Chicken Month (I really have no idea what this is about).September 6th is “Fight Procrastination Day.” The 14th is “National Cream Filled Donut Day and the 28th of September is “Ask A Stupid Question Day.” September 2nd may be the most bizarre. It’s “National Beheading Day.” People have special days for all this stuff?

A long time ago, school actually started in September, right around Labor Day. To this day, I have the urge to get a new pair of shoes, buy a new notebook and get a pencil box.
I can stop myself from buying new school supplies (well, maybe not the shoes) but I cannot stop that feeling of butterflies in my stomach. That fluttering around always meant, ”I’m on to a new adventure.” I was scared, nervous, happy and excited all at once. School was great!

Of course the teachers that had me didn’t always think so. I confess I was the class clown. I discovered the power of being funny and warding off the bullies in 6th grade. If I could keep them laughing, they wouldn’t pick on me. My report cards often stated, “Dear Mrs. Epstein (my maiden name), Debbie could be a really serious student if she would just settle down and quit giggling.” Yes I would get kicked out of class often, but everyone waved to me while I was in the hall!

Perhaps you remember the class clowns. They were the ones who ran to the rescue of all students when a substitute came. You could laugh most of the day away and not do much work. Maybe you were the serious student that didn’t like when people goofed off. I know when there was tension in the room between students or teacher and students… I could flip the tension around and make people giggle or laugh.

According to Martin Seligman (Authentic Happiness ) class clowns have 4 strengths:
INVESTING: Class clowns are willing to jump in and take a risk.
ASSERTING: Class clowns are constantly involved in the process of affirmation to claim their own integrity.
RELATING: Class clowns have a talent for identifying with others and sensing their feelings.
COPING: Class clowns find ways to successfully cope with life’s challenges.

Being playful and joyous, taking on challenges, risking a smile to make another smile are all strengths. Look at children playing in a park. They take a risk to play on some unknown playground equipment. They skip and run after butterflies or pigeons. They smile back at you, just to get a nod of approval. If you seem sad, the child may make a silly face or imitate you, just to get a response.

I’ve put my ‘class clowning’ to good use over the years. Occasionally I make some serious person upset. I apologize to them and go on my merry way. I can be ‘professionally serious’ but only when I have to.

Today, I hope you get a chance to remember the “class clowns” in your life. Silently thank them for encouraging you to take the risk to laugh. It could lead you to 2 more September holidays: “Positive Thinking Day ( 9/13) and “ World Gratitude Day”
( 9/21).

Blessings of Laughter, Humor, Mirth and Joy,
Debra Joy Hart RN, BFA, CLL (your long time class clown)
Age Wise Care Management
debrajoyhart@gmail.com

2009-09-10T12:00:00.003-05:00

http://www.news-gazette.com/search/?q=debrajoyhart&submit.x=24&submit.y=6

Well, I got quite the write up last month. I admit I was extremely nervous " coming out' about my bouts of depression and aura readings. The nite before , I woke up feeling like I had "an elephant sitting on my chest ( butt side to my face).' I figured I was either having a heart attack ( classic sign) or anxiety attack( also classic sign). I decided if I woke up in the morning, it was only an anxiety attack. My self dx was correct. Enjoy the article!

2009-08-02T16:26:00.000-05:00

“I never forget a face, but in your case, I’ll make an exception.”
Groucho Marx, target unknown

“He’s a nice guy, but he played too much football with his helmet off.”
Lyndon B. Johnson on Gerald Ford

‘”Good taste would likely have the same effect on Howard Stern that daylight has on Dracula.”
Ted Koppel

For the past 8 months I have been writing about how humor, laughter, mirth and joy, increases our immune power, improves heart health, increases your sense of well being, improves relationships and ….the list goes on.

Today, right before I started to write this article I didn’t feel like taking my own medicine. I slipped and fell on the 4th of July, hurt my leg, can’t do my usual yoga, cant ride my bike and the last straw came today. We had our windows cleaned professionally this past week and they were so clean that I didn’t see that the sliding glass door was closed. I ran smack into it. My nose hurt for an hour and I left a big grease mark. As I got the glass cleaner, my concerned husband heard my yelp (translation: several ‘blue’ words) and asked what happened. I was so angry I almost answered him with direct aim of the Windex bottle to his groin. Any other time I may have considered this funny slapstick, a mere slip on a banana peel. Not today… I had enough of feeling physical pain, clumsiness and helplessness...

I sat down at my computer to write M.I.R.T.H. Notes… and there in my email box, was a seemingly sweet story, with a surprise , sarcastic, superior, caustic, rude ending. I laughed a hearty,”HA.” In fact, I hated to admit it, I felt better.

C.W. Metcalf writes,” Although comedy can be used to injure and separate, it can also be used to transform anxiety to pleasure.’

I think of the gallows humor that nurses (me included) use to cope daily with Cancer, AIDS, Alzheimer’s and Hospice patients. Nurse humor is only for other nurses.

I remember the time I was a hospital clown and there was a woman in a full body cast. She was totally dependent on everyone for her personal daily habits. She was also mad at one of her doctors. She had seemingly no control over anything. I got that ‘brat like twinkle’ in my eye, and wrote the MD’s phone number on her cast... “For a good time call 555-5555.” She crinkled her nose and laughed. She regained control and composure with safely expressed hostile humor.

Consider the story (usually attributed to Norman Cousins, a pioneer in laughter therapy) about the man with constant pain, in the hospital. He was fed up with tests and the constant disregard of his current nurse. Once again she said ‘WE need another urine sample” and placed the cup in front of him... When she left the room, he filled it up with apple juice. The nurse came in, stating, “My aren’t WE looking a little cloudy?” Norman put the cup to his lips, and sarcastically stated, “Well, WE will just send it thru again.”
Yes, this is sarcastic humor at one nurse’s expense. And yet, it’s also a relief of tension for the patient.

Many have lost their income, homes and healthcare. Making fun of the politicians, bankers and employers may give people some semblance of control over the indignity of it all.

Viktor Frankl, a Holocaust Survivor (Man’s Search for Meaning) says it best:
Humor was another of the soul’s weapons in the fight for self preservation. It is well known that humor more than anything else in the human make-up, can afford an aloofness and ability to rise above any situation, even if only for a few seconds.

I feel better; perhaps it was looking up famous insults for this article. Maybe it was listening to Tom Lehrer songs. I think I can kiss my husband now. And, more importantly, avoid the sliding glass doors.

Blessings of Humor, Laughter and Mirth (and a little bit of sarcasm),
Debra Joy Hart RN, BFA, CLL
Age Wise Care Management
debrajoyhart@gmail.com

2009-07-05T14:11:00.000-05:00

The constitution only guarantees the American people the right to pursue happiness. You have to catch it yourself. Benjamin Franklin

What would you get if you crossed the first signer of the Declaration of Independence with a rooster?
John Hancock-a-doodle-doo!

America is one place where people have complete control over how they pay their taxes—cash, check or money order. Nathan Hale

I just got back from a 10 day tour of Ireland. I fell in love with the colors of the land (more shades of green than I can count) stately Cana lilies, with a poke of yellow, and 5 colors of untamed rhododendron bushes. I loved scones, rashers of ham, and I discovered the joy of Jameson Irish whiskey, poured into an evening cup of coffee.

Pubs shared Irish music with a country ‘twang.” With Guinness™, Smithwick™ and Jameson™ flowing, we clapped and sang along to Irish ballads. I kareoke’d with new Australian friends and cherished the friendly competition of Paddy Wagon™ Bus 1 vs. Bus 2. Our bus won for number of times singing, Bus 2 won for quality.

A new respect for’ sense” of humor was gained as I traveled with 11 of our own family (2 whom are British), and 4 newly made Australian and Germans friends.

Humor (according to Webster’s definition 5) is the ability to perceive, appreciate or express what is funny, amusing or ludicrous.

While my own sense of humor waned while climbing 3 flights of narrow stairs, sleeping with 8 others in bunk bed quarters, rented towels and one sheet per person, I relied on my husband’s steadfast silliness.

I watched with respect as I saw how others made the best of some uncomfortable situations. The Australians laughed off the rude competitive remarks of our Irish tour guide. While recounting Irish history, this tour guide also made many negative comments directed toward the British. John and Mark, both from England, were able to vent the tension with good humor at mealtimes.

Humor is relative to a situation. Being from the Midwest, seeing a sign that demonstrates’ no cliff Jumping”, is funny to me. Seeing sheep with different colors painted on their back makes me smile.
Hearing our tour guide cuss gently in an Irish brogue made me laugh. I had no idea if it was even directed at me.

I’m happy to be home. I’m glad to celebrate our country’s freedom. I appreciate this country’s emotional growth, from British rule, civil war,
Racism, terrorism, homophobia and the sexual revolution. Most of all, I appreciate and honor the freedom of laughter. Laughter has no accent.

Special blessing of gratitude, humor, mirth and joy go to: Darrell, Kate, Geri, Steph/Dan, Chuck/Sandy, John/Sharon, Mark/Betsi, Aza/Kat, Spence, Ulrike and Stephanie,

Debra Joy Hart RN BFA CLL
Age Wise Care Management
debrajoyhart@gmail.com

2009-05-27T22:31:00.002-05:00

"The arrival of a good clown exercises more beneficial influence upon the health of a town than 20 donkeys laden with drugs."
Thomas Sydenham, seventeenth century English physician

I hate the saying’ always a bridesmaid, never a bride” I like to put it into perspective thinking; “Always a pallbearer, never a corpse” Laura Knightlinger

A graduation ceremony is an event where the commencement speaker tells thousands of students dressed in identical caps and gowns that 'individuality' is the key to success. Robert Orben

June is a month to celebrate many things. We celebrate weddings, graduations, vacations, reunions, children are out of school and “Thank- God- there- is –summer school.”

With all these celebrations are family get-togethers. And with family usually comes ‘differences of opinion’ aka “arguments”. Sometimes it’s the off handed comment, meant for no one but hurts someone. Occasionally it’s a crash of personalities, both going the same way on a one lane road. For myself, sometimes I just run out of ‘nice minutes’ (on my internal party meter) and I know its time to leave, before the fireworks begin. I had an uncle that “was just joking” when actually, his words were hurtful. Perhaps meaningful siblings make a joke to relieve tension, and the awkwardness just causes more. How many of us have met the relative that says or does something so ridiculous that the rest of the family bonds over our collective groans of embarrassment? (Imagine Aunt Janie whistling “Here Comes the Bride” thru her bottom dentures… at your wedding)

All of the above are examples of “good humor’ gone bad. When someone makes a joke that implies “superiority”, well, someone has to be “inferior’ in order for the joke to work. We participate in jokes like that all the time. Male vs. Female, Blondes vs. Brunettes, or Americans vs. Terrorist are all examples of jokes that come to my emails daily. Sometimes I laugh, sometimes I share and most I delete.

Some people insist on putting those quirky “emoticons (think weird smiley face made from colon, dash and back parenthesis) after they write something teasing or sarcastic in an email. If we have to relieve tension this way, maybe we just should'nt send it!

Lastly, in the peak of tension, some people think they need to entertain and distract from the moment. Sometimes I’m grateful for the distraction... and sometimes I’m not. My husband is particularly fond of this type of humor. And why not? He learned it from me.

June is also Firework Safety Month. Stay a safe distance from firecrackers, sparklers and spiteful jokes. Forgive yourself and others for the occasional “misstep’ of humor. Most important, seek out and celebrate the healing power of humor.

Blessings of Gratitude, Humor, Laughter and Mirth,
Debra Joy Hart RN, BFA, CLL

2009-05-27T22:27:00.001-05:00

A woman marries hoping that he will change and he doesn’t. A man marries hoping she wont change and she does. Joey Bishop

Never go to bed mad. Stay up and fight.
Phyllis Diller

I love being married. Its so great to find that special person you want to annoy the rest of your life. Rita Rudner

That married couples can live together day after day is a miracle that the Vatican overlooked. Bill Cosby

May 1st is my wedding anniversary. Not just mine but “ ours.” Darrell (the husband part of the marriage) and I have worked together with a lot of determination to stay together. It was a second marriage/blended family for both of us . It certainly was not a “Brady Bunch” picnic. It could have been a sit com called,“ Dysfunction Junction.”

Humor held our hands when things seemingly fell apart. When prayers didn’t seem answered, God whispered a gentle “Ha Ha-He He’ into our married ears. God’s breath tickles anyone’s heart. Darrell and I could appreciate each other’s wide range of humor styles. Silly or sarcastic, dark or dirty, Darrell and I could use any style to reframe our troubles. Humor couldn’t cure anything, but it gave us a single moment of a ‘haha’ and turned it into an ‘ aha.” As a couple, we learned compassion for ourselves and others as we slipped on the banana peels that life put in our path. Individually, our sense of humor directed how to share difficult conversations between us. An argument’s healing occurred the moment the first punch line was thrown. I have an abundance of gratitude for all the mirthful moments I have shared with my partner of 15 years.

May 3rd is World Laughter Day( www.worldlaughtertour.com) an international day of remembering to take a moment and “ laugh.” I encourage everyone to take a moment and count all the moments of laughter, humor and mirth. I bet if you connected those dots….it would be one huge heart.

Blessings of gratitude, laughter, humor, mirth and joy,
Debra J. Hart RN BFA CLL

2009-03-26T13:25:00.002-05:00

That is the saving grace of humor: If you fail no one is laughing at you.
A.Whitney Brown

Men always say the most important thing in a woman is a sense of humor. You know what that means? He’s looking for someone to laugh at his jokes.
Sheila Wentz

I like the laughter that opens the lips and the heart, that shows at the same time pearls and the soul.
Charles E. Jones

April is National Humor Month. And if that doesn’t put a smile on your face, how about acknowledging that April is Fresh Florida Tomato Month, Holy Humor Month, International Twit Award Month,, National Knuckles Down Month, National Pecan Month, Straw Hat Month and last but not least, and maybe my favorite; National Soft Pretzel Month.

Schmeckfest happens during April. Darrell and Jim both have birthdays this month. They always make me giggle, guffaw and occasionally make me squirt coffee out my nose. I also feel the need to mention Tax Day. This may or may not put a smile on your face, depending if you get money back or not.

Humor etiquette is important to know any time of the year. I know this first hand since one time I said’ what-I-thought-was funny” and it almost landed me in court. Another friend recently confessed his “ethnic’ joke” did not bring the laughter he anticipated.

Healing Humor connects us emotionally and spiritually. It can alleviate suffering in us and others. It reframes a potentially “negative” situation. It has the ability to build confidence, decrease tension and quite possibly give you hope.

Hurtful/ Harmful Humor divides and excludes people, shames and blames, laughs only at others, increases tension, and destroy someone’s self worth.

Know your audience. Certain jokes or loud laughs may not be for that particular person or crowd. It may be culturally offensive. Some things that you might say in front of your friends, you would never say in front of your Great Aunt Beulah.

Timing. Your timing of a’ funny’ can be perfect or disastrous. Sensitivity is the key. Depending on the person (audience) and where they are in their cancer chemo cycle (timing), bald jokes might not be appropriate. Maybe later on, or maybe never.

So whether you love puns, jokes or silly songs, enjoy National Humor Month. I’m also hoping you get money back from the IRS. That would put a smile on my face!

Blessing of Gratitude of Laughter, Humor, Mirth and Joy,
Debra Joy Hart RN CLL

2009-03-25T12:33:00.010-05:00

Debra Joy Hart on the air with January Jones

Debra Joy Hart, RN BFA CLL has been in health care for 113 years. Currently she employed at a home ... Listen Now »

January Jones is the host of Whine Time and the author of " Thou Shalt Not Whine... The Eleventh Commandment'

You can go to her blog http://whinetester.blogspot.com/

or shop at The Whine Time Shop.com

Enjoy the interview with a cup of tea or coffee. January is a M.I.R.T.H. Blessing!Many thanks to all who have blessed me with laughter, humor, mirth and joy!

Especially Aunt Jackie and Uncle Irwin!

http://www.modavox.com/voiceamerica/vepisode.aspx?aid=36963

2009-03-12T21:50:00.004-05:00

Dorothy Wilhelm: March Mirth Maker

March is officially designated as International Mirth Month - and not a minute too soon. We need a little mirth. That’s the opinion of Allen Klein, the nation’s leading Jollytologist (actually he’s the nation’s only Jollytologist.) He believes everyone can - and should - use humor to get through tough times. Allen and fellow members of the Association for Applied and Therapeutic Humor (www.AATH.org) have compiled a list of “Ten Tips For Finding Humor in Turbulent Times.” http://www.allenklein...com/articles/tips.htm . Suggestions include: “ Let A Smile Be Your Umbrella.” (luckily March is National Umbrella Month). March 2 is also National Banana Cream Pie Day in case you need something to throw at these unremittingly mirthful people.>>

To read the entire wonderful article by author/speaker, Dorothy Wilhelm( copyright 2009)

Paste the url below in your browser. You will not be disappointed. This excerpt and the info below is used with permission from the author. You can contact Dorothy Wilhelm at dorothy@itsnevertoolate.com

http://www.thenewstribune.com/soundlife/story/642790.html

Here's the list of Holidays:DAYS TO CELEBRATE DURING MARCH!!
March 1
• Yellowstone National Park - 1st US National Park established
• Ohio Admission Day - March 1, 1803
• Nebraska Admission Day - March 1, 1867
March 2
• Theodor Seuss Geisel's Birthday - March 2, 1904
• National Banana Cream Pie Day
March 3
• Iditarod Begins• National Anthem Day
• Alexander Graham Bell's Birthday- March 3, 1847
• Florida Admission Day
March 4
• National Poundcake Day
• US Constitution in Effect - March 4, 1789
• Pro Tennis Players Allowed to Play at Wimbledon
• Vermont Admission Day
March 5
• Parachute Invented• Stop the Clocks Day
• The Boston Massacre
March 6
• National Chocolate Cheesecake Day
• Oreo Cookies First for Sale
• 1st Electric Power Plant Opened
March 7
• Coca-Cola Bottler's Association Formed - March 7, 1914
• Telephone Patented
March 8
• National Peanut Cluster Day
• Farmer's Day
March 9
• Barbie's Birthday
• National Crabmeat Day
• V-8 Engine Built
March 10
• National Blueberry Popover Day
• Harriet Tubman Day
• First Paper Money Issued
March 11
• Daylight Saving Time
• Johnny Appleseed Day; Johnny Appleseed Printables
March 12
• National Baked Scallops Day
March 13
• Uncle Sam's Birthday
• Uranus Discovered, 1781
March 14
• St Patrick's Day Red and Green Chili Contest to benefit Tacoma food banks, chili service starts at noon.
• Albert Einstein's Birthday - March 14, 1879
• National Potato Chips Day
March 15
• Beware the Ides of March
• Julius Caesar Assassinated- March 15, 44 BC
• National Pears Helene Day
• Maine Admission Day - March 15, 1820
March 16
• Buzzard Day
• National Artichoke Hearts Day
March 17
• Submarine Day
• St Patrick's Day
March 18
• Pillsbury Doughboy's Birthday
• National Lacy Oatmeal Cookie Day
March 19
• Sparky The Fire Dog's Birthday
• National Agriculture Day
• Wyatt Earp's Birthday
• National Chocolate Caramel Day
March 20
• Spring is Here!
• Big Bird's Birthday
March 21
• 1st US Zoo Opened
• California Strawberry Day
• Johann Sebastian Bach's Birthday, 1685
• Children's Poetry Day
• National French Bread Day
March 22
• Hale-Bopp Comet Closest to Earth - March 22, 1997
• National Bavarian Crepes Day
March 23
• National Energy Education Day
• Cable Car Patented
• Toast Day
March 24
• Harry Houdini's Birthday - 1874
• National Chocolate Covered Raisin Day
March 25
• National Lobster Newburg Day
March 26
• Cape Cod Named - 1602
• Duncan Hines' Birthday - 1880
March 27
• National Spanish Paella Day
• 1st Fire Engine Tested
March 28
• Barnum & Bailey Formed a Circus Partnership
• National Black Forest Cake Day
March 29
• Coca-Cola Invented• Oscar Mayer's Birthday
• National Lemon Chiffon Cake Day
March 30
• Doctor's Day
• National Hot Dog Day
• Eraser-topped Pencil Patented - 1858March 31
• National Clams on the Half Shell Day• Oranges and Lemon Day• Tater Day
. . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . .Calendar compiled by Homechooling at About.com http://homeschooling.about.com/cs/unitssubjhol/a/fun
Also information from Chases Calendar of Events.

2009-03-12T21:42:00.005-05:00

Healing Humor Distractions

Laughter is the best medicine, but only because it’s cheaper than an HMO.
Buzz Nutely

I take geranium, dandelion, passionflower and hibiscus. I feel great and when I pee, I experience the fresh scent of potpourri.
Sheila Wenz

Frame your mind to mirth and merriment, which bars a thousand harms and lengthens life.
William Shakespeare

When you are a nurse… you are “everybody’s’ nurse. You’re the “block” nurse, the “church nurse, and the “distant relative” nurse.

I went with Darrell’s cousin Sharon, to have a relatively minor procedure. She is one of the most actively supportive people I’ve ever met. If you are infirm, ailing, lonely, need a ride or need head covering for ‘The Red Hat Society, Sharon can either do it, or has it. She will lead you through a process, advocate for you, hold your hand or teach you how to make a new purse. I really admire her for that.

On the other hand, if she cuts her finger or stubs her toe, she will tell you that she has to go to the emergency room…and then she faints.

Knowing the above information, I held her hand during her 2 minute procedure. I purposely wore hand made earrings (by my daughter) so that I could distract her. I kept her visually focused and verbally engaged for 120 seconds. I also made sure she had a topical anesthetic. Her doctor complimented me, “You are a great distracter.”

Humor in the right dosage is the perfect antidote for fear. It engages the brain and distracts from the anxiety of the moment.

Humor appropriately placed and timed, leads the mind away from unpleasantness and creates a space for courage to take root.

Humor in nursing is a lot like gardening in wild prairie. I plant a few seeds of silliness and I never know what will sprout up. Sometimes my tears are the water and my sarcasm is the fertilizer. Words like, “we need to be serious” or people that seem to be afraid to laugh and condemn those that do, trample the tender seedlings of hope and faith that grow from humor.

Plant Blessings of Humor, Laughter, Mirth and Joy,
Debra Joy Hart RN CLL
Age Wise Care Management
debrajoyhart@gmail.com

2009-02-12T21:37:00.011-06:00

Digging for Treasures

If love is the answer, could you please rephrase the question?
Lily Tomlin

I don't understand why Cupid was chosen to represent Valentine's Day. When I think about romance, the last thing on my mind is a short, chubby toddler coming at me with a weapon. Author Unknown

My husband, Darrell had a web based ordering flop. Desperately seeking dark chocolate chai tea, he accidentally ordered a $10.00 candy bar (plus s&h charges).

Not wanting to waste his “mistake”, each of us had a taste. “Blech” was my reluctant review. He nodded the same sentiment as he left the room. C’mon, who really wants to admit that an expensive piece of culinary anything…was awful? He mumbled something about cheap chocolate being the best.

I knew how to remedy my taste bud situation. I went to his chocolate hiding place ( like I didn’t sniff it out 2 months ago) and got myself 3 small pieces of reasonably priced chocolate. This brand (unlike the $10.00 kind) has sweet sentiments printed on the inside of its red foil cover. I love being blessed with pearls of wisdom written in wrapping.

I left the room for a moment, and by the time I got back, my husband had thrown my “ hidden treasures” in the garbage. I dug my red foil fortunes out of the trash, so I could read them again. “A smile is the perfect gift.” “The best Holiday decoration is a smile.” My favorite,” Joy is contagious.”

Sometimes we just have to dig thru the trash…to regain our treasures.

2009-01-06T21:17:00.001-06:00

My Favorite Power Tools

He who laughs last didn’t get it in the first place.
Rodney Dangerfield

Laughter is the best medicine, but only because it’s cheaper than an HMO.
Buzz Nutely

A new study says that one of the advantages of the treadmill is that it’s the highest calorie burner of the exercises. And another advantage is that hamsters can now laugh at us.
Johnny Robish

Happy Mirthful New Year!

As I look around our home I marvel at what my husband has done in the past year. He took out our bathtub, put in an extra wide shower, hooked up a shower head that resembles a rain fall, fixed the plumbing, dry-walled a new ceiling and wall, and installed an exhaust system over the stove so the fire alarm doesn’t go off every time I cook. In the coming months, he and I will decorate the bathroom with tile and new lighting. Our closets will have new doors, the carpet will be torn up and this wonderful husband will lay down new laminate flooring. An amazing man….with amazing tools.

What tools do you have in your tool box? How do you rebuild your inner house? What are your tools for change?

Humor, Mirth and Laughter are three tools I use everyday. The implement of humor lets me see a different perspective. Humor reframes any given situation. It is a can opener, releasing the contents of mirth and laughter. Mirth is more like a wheel. It drives my emotions of joy and pleasure. Laughter whittles away negativity and creates a moment of feeling positive. The act of laughing, even when I don’t feel like it, is sort of like duct tape. It holds me together for awhile, until I can replace or fix the part that is hurting.

It doesn’t matter if you are installing dry wall, or looking at your inner walls, you just need the right tool for the job. I bet you have it.

Blessings of Humor, Mirth and Laughter for your inner and outer home repair!

2008-12-04T21:25:00.006-06:00

Wanna Go Cheap for the Holidays?

Holiday Traditions mean a lot to people, particularly people in retail--Michael Feldman

I love Christmas. I receive a lot of presents I can’t wait to exchange.--Henny Youngman

I bent over to show my Alzheimer’s patient my rainbow beaded heart pin with white beaded wings. “It was a present,” I cheerfully noted. After a few seconds, she asked, “Do you get many presents?”

I lingered on that question, smiled and joyfully answered, “Yes I do. I get presents everyday. I get smiles from you, and jokes in my email box. My husbands kiss me good night and my friends hug me. I get a lot of presents.”
She smiled and said, “Very Good.”

The season is upon us for giving, receiving, saving, overspending, returning, exchanging, re-gifting, mailing and recycling presents. Instead of doing brain exercises like, Suduko or crosswords, we use our brain waves to figure the costs of gift exchange rate for co-workers, postal services and baking items. ”Paper or plastic?” does not refer to how we want our groceries bagged. How are we going to pay for all this “stuff?”

The gifts of hearty laughter or sharing a smile are 2 of the greatest gifts you can give and receive. Both are great for re-gifting, and cost effective for any budget. Worried about connecting long distance? To quote Victor Borge, “Laughter is the shortest distance between 2 people.”

I hope you get and give a lot of presents this holiday season. Recycle your smiles and re-gift the laughter.

Debra Joy Hart RN,
Certified Laughter Leader
Age Wise Care Management

2008-11-06T21:08:00.002-06:00

Joy Sundae: Using Humor and Laughter to Nurture Your Soul

How many of you remember celebrating with ice cream? Was it Chocolate, Vanilla or Strawberry? Perhaps it was multi colored sherbet? Did you make your own, turning the crank on a hot summer day? Whipped cream? Nuts? And oh, what a special treat if you got a special cookie or cherry on top.

If I got your taste buds going down memory lane, let’s take a little detour. Who were you with when you were eating that sweet treat? And what were you doing?

I’m guessing you were smiling and laughing. Most probably with family or friends. Our bodies don’t only need sweet treats and green vegetable to function properly. Laughter, the universal language, is great for our mind, body and spirit.

The act of laughing, with or without a joke helps our bodies breathe better, get a little bit of exercise, and improve our immune system. Humor and laughter can give our brain a boost of “feel good’ hormones and can improve memory.

How many of you have “doubled over’ with laughter? It is extremely difficult to feel sad, angry or depressed in the moment of serious laughter!

Take a moment today to create a low fat, no carbs, all natural sweet, and heart healthy treat … Joy Sundae!

2 scoops of laughter

Drench with warm memories

Whipped topping of mirth

Sprinkle with all the nuts in your life… and don’t forget the cherry.

Debra Joy Hart RN

Certified Laughter Leader

AgeWise Care Management

2008-11-05T20:59:00.000-06:00

Creativity injects you with a boost of energy to be fully engaged in living! Playing with your food engages all the senses, and is fun. Look at all the new cooking shows! In his book, Mindless Eating, Brian Wasink, PH.D. talks about making 200 food decisions a day. Well, if that is true, why not make part of the decision making process... the creative process. I have been creating "food sculptures' for family and friends for at least 10 years. One of my finest moments was being asked, by my son-in-law', "Can you make a fruit basket, in the shape of a pirate ship, have penguins in the crow's nest and EXPLODING canons?" Mission Accomplished!!!!
Note: Flash paper and gun powder make really fun " KABOOMS"

OOHY, GOOHY, Marshmallow Sculpture Treats
You will need:
2 - 10 oz. bags of marshmallows
12 Tlbs. of butter/margarine (stick kind only)
27 oz. of Rice Krispies (or similar)
17.5"X12"X2" pan
Melt butter over very low flame. Then add marshmallows. Be sure to lower the flame to the lowest setting. Now you can stir in Krispies. When mixed well, transfer and flatten into pan.I use a canning pot to mix the butter, marshmallows, and krispies in. For really low heat I use a heat diffuser.
Note: This recipe is for Marshmallow Sculptures. It is less sweet and dryer.

Enjoy the sweet video... with music by Lisa Lauren (original by Carol King)
if you want to hear more of Lisa Lauren go to www.lisalauren.com