Wednesday, July 14, 2010

Secret Lives

I saw an episode last night on Primetime about a guy who seemed like a great husband, friend, church goer, father and then he suddenly disappeared.  His wife, kids, co-workers, friends went on a frantic search to find him fearing the worse.  What they found out several weeks later was he had been building another, and secret life.in which he identified as bisexual,  "swinger" with several internet sites where he solicited "hook ups" with a whole different identity.  In the show, he was eventually found in L.A.and the reporter wanted to talk with him and find out why he didn't just divorce his wife, and leave...why create such a dramatic exit?  The guy, whose name is hard to recall because he had several of them, was not willing to talk and share his reasons.

I remember watching Charles Kuralt who did "On The Road" feature for CBS news for years.  I loved his visits to out-of-the-way places and interviews with people. After he died in 1997 his long time wife found out that Charlie had a secret life--and wife--and children and house where they lived. Evidently,  Charles was doing more than just traveling the back roads of America in his Motor Home!  Since he was dead he never got to be interviewed and explain why he wanted to maintain two separate lives.

My question is how do you find the time to create, much less develop a secret life?  I mean I don't have time for my own life, much less to create a new one that I am actively engaged in.  How do people do it and manage to keep their two lives separate and secret?  I get overwhelmed just thinking about it.  I am obviously not a multi-tasker.

I am going to get a hold of the guy from Primetime--as soon as I can figure out his name--and suggest that he stop doing whatever he is doing to make a living and start writing a book about Time Management.  I mean the guy is a genius and could make a bundle.  I would call his book:  There is Always Time For Another Life...

Saturday, July 10, 2010

Laverne and Shirley

Laverne and Shirley ran from 1976 to 1983 and starred Penny Marshall and Cindy Williams.  They are both gifted comedians whose physical comedy was the center of the show. 

This clip is dedicated to restaurant workers and cooks everywhere:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X7oHvQu-dc4

Friday, July 9, 2010

Reviewing Doctor Offices

I just finished reading a review of a local restaurant and it got me to thinking.  Why don't they write reviews in the paper about doctors' offices?  Wouldn't that improve our health care and make waiting rooms a lot nicer?  Here's an example.

I visited the office of Dr. Squeeze and Smooch in a lovely area north of town.  Parking accommodations were unique as they only offer parallel parking or parking at meters that tended to devour my change.  Once however, I manage to get parked, the office entrance was only a few feet away and the walkway was beautifully decorated with large planters and a fountain that made you feel relaxed and serene before the poking and prodding began.

The front office receptionist was friendly although her eye contact was minimal as she requested my insurance card and asked me to complete the short novel also known as my "medical history form".  She offered me a pen but I declined as I prefer to use pens that have only been touched by my own hands.

The form was hard to read in places and the questions were often worded poorly. I also found several misspelled words and more grammatical errors than I could count.  I felt like I wanted to take a nap halfway through the thing and wondered why they couldn't condense this 10 page albatross into something short and sweet.

The office lighting was not the usual fluorescent but was low and soft and I noticed CFL bulbs under the lampshades.  Although this lighting made one feel cozy and at ease it also made it impossible to read the poor quality medical history form.  I had to resort to pulling a flashlight from my bag to read and decipher most of the print.

When I returned the form the office receptionist I had originally met was replaced by a snarly older man who looked over my form and told me (not asked) to take a seat.  I asked how long might it be before I saw the doctor and was told "he will get with you when he gets with you".

I took a seat near a table lamp and reviewed the selection of magazines which was sparse and not inviting--There were several copies of Hunter's Guide, National Geographic, and only two very old People and Ladies Home Journal Magazines.    I resorted to watching the flat screen television which was showing old Dr. Phil episodes although the volume was so low so I had to make up the dialogue.  It was either a show about hairy men or problems with teens who dress like vampires.  I wasn't sure.

The furniture and waiting room was designed in "Early Office" and to say it was boring is an understatement.  I noticed several tears in the fabric on the chairs and a couple of wads of gum were visible under the table holding the poor selection of magazines.  The color on the walls was off white with pictures that had to have been ripped off the walls of a nearby Motel 6.

Finally, a medical person (who knows if she is a nurse of just graduated from an online medical technician course), called my name....(this review will continue in next week's column).

Tuesday, July 6, 2010

July Horoscopes

Another month and another horoscope 'cause those stars and moons just won't stay still.  If you joined the world in July then you are either a Cancer or a Leo both of which are delightful signs in the Zodiac.

Let's start with those of under the influence of Cancer -- Cancers are loyal, trustworthy, complex and full of surprises.  Cancers make great friends, employers and financial advisers.

Right now, Cancers are experiencing a Juxaposition of their Moon and Jupiter.  This can only mean one thing--it is time to stop thinking and start doing.  Perhaps it is time to build an addition onto your home, or to take a shower, or start drinking or pay your taxes.  Whatever you have been putting off needs to move into the Action Mode.   The Stars say "it is time".

Also, Cancers are needing to start paying attention to how they look....yeah, that is right.  You see your left hand is in opposition to your right hand and Pluto.  This means it is time to start looking fine.  Toss out those dull leisure suits and boring browns, and grays.  It is time to shine, and that means COLOR!  Reds, yellows, oranges, pinks, lime green---all the colors of the fashion rainbow.  Don't be afraid to make yourself look like a taxicab in Thailand!  It is your time to be noticed even if all you get are people looking at you and shaking their heads.  Shine on....

For Leos there are things happening in the moonbeams.  Leos do not like to be alone...no, never.  They love excitement, and attention and like to be in control.  Lions are not docile and passive--they are out there and they are in charge.

Right now, Leos are having some alignments between their 7th and 8th houses and  some kind of asteriod, which means there is a lot going on in Leoville.  Leos are going to feel the pull to work on their relationships with people they don't like.  Yes, that means you Leos are going to play "nice-nice" with people who irritate, annoy, aggravate and just plain make you sick.  The stars say it is time to build peace in the world and Leos have to lead the way...at least until the planets and other astrological things shift a bit.

 Another thing happening for Leos is the Sun Sign has found its way to the forefront of your chart.  This is not easy, but you will find you have no choice but to start watching Infomercials all night long for at least three months.  Yes, and you will tempted to order things that you never wanted -- juicers, hair replacement plugs, laundry additives, music from the Dark Ages...and the list goes on. It will be a time of no sleep and rude remarks from your loved one.  Good luck...

May the Stars Shine Upon You...

Monday, July 5, 2010

America The Beautiful

Yesterday, in celebration of the birth of our nation, Joey "Jaws" Chestnut stuffed 54 Nathan Hot Dogs in his mouth in 10 minutes!!  If that wasn't enough to bring tears to your eyes, the contest was marred by a radical and disgruntled former Hot Dog Face Stuffer, Takeru "The Tsunami" Kobayashi, who crashed the proceedings because he had not followed all the rules to enter this momumental event and salute to our country.  Joey, however, was unwavering even as the police drug "The Tsunami" off the stage swearing in Japanese and demanding his chance to participate in this American Dream.

There is nothing more American than stuffing 54 hot dogs into your mouth in 10 minutes without gagging.  I know that for some Americans, waving the American Flag, watching fireworks and listening to patriotic songs is the way they want to celebrate our Nation's birthday, but for many, watching some guy perform a gluttenous act in public, is America.

God Bless you, Joey....

Sunday, July 4, 2010

Cherry Pit Spitting Contest Winners!

There are many competitions in the world--World Series, World Cup, Tour de France, and the hardy recognized  "Annual Cherry-Pit-Spitting Competition" held in Eau Claire, Michigan.  Once again, Rick "Pellet Gun" Krause won--his 16th win.  He spit his cherry pit 51 feet, 3 inches.  Wow...he is gifted, and his wife, Marlene took first place in the Women's division spitting her pit 34 feet, 6 inches--her 7th win. 
Their  training regime evidently is a year round  event and since cherries are seasonal they have to practice with different kinds of pits--date pits, apple seeds, prune pits and in the winter months, they spit ice cubes. 

This competion started 37 years ago when the founder was undoubtedly under the influence of something, and has managed to continue and attract people whose athletic abilities are questionable.  If interested in competing, please first seek professional help.

Tuesday, June 29, 2010

Becky from Ireland...Don't Mess with Her!

Children are funny, even when they don't mean to be.   This clip was passed along to me from a friend.  It features Becky who is very serious and upset that her school and teachers are giving too much homework--the solution?  Well, let's just say Becky doesn't believe in peaceful negotiations.

You get all the details by clicking here:   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iFLzFkPZ-3Q&feature=related

Saturday, June 26, 2010

A Lazy Boy DUI

It is hard sometimes to find any bits of humor in the news, however despite the tragedies involving people and Mother Nature, there are some funny things.  One of my favorites happened this past year when a guy who had motorized his Lazy Boy chair got a DUI as he was "driving" home.  He evidently modified his Lazy Boy (which obviously he didn't want to move from) by adding a lawn mower motor.  He would "drive" his chair to the local bar and pound down a few.  Don't know if he was speeding, or weaving or popping his leg rest up and down, but he caught the eye (probably for many reasons) of the local police and got the DUI.  I wonder if his Lazy Boy was impounded.

So, despite sad and tragic events there are some tidbits of humor that manage to find their way into the daily news and I am always on the lookout for them.  If you come across any of them, or have a funny story to share, let me know.

There is always a need to laugh....

My email is:  melodyj7@msn.com

Thursday, June 24, 2010

Think About It....

  • Everyone has a laughter mechanism (although it may appear to be broken and damaged in some people)
  • There are thousands of languages; hundreds of thousands of dialects, but everyone understands the language of laughter (a few people may have forgotten how to "speak" or comprehend the language)
  • Laughter is contagious (and there are people who need to catch it)
This information (modified in parts that are obvious) comes from "Experiential Laughter Therapy" as presented by Gulshan Sethi, MD of the University of Arizona @ the Integrative Mental Health Conference, March 2010

Friday, June 18, 2010

The News of the Day- -- SpaghettiOs !

Forget the NBA Finals, forget the Gulf Oil Spill, forget AZ's crazy immigration law, the big news today is about SpaghettiOs recall. What will this country do without SpaghettiOs with artificial bits of meat in them?

I am opposed to the dumping of SpaghettiOs as it seems such a waste.  Instead why doesn't Campbell run a contest to make SpaghettiO sculptures?  I mean, think about it...kids, adults, people with no life, could pick up a few cases of the bad stuff and create works of art that could be displayed in public parks, the homes of politicians or even at the Smithsonian.  Of course, to protect some demented adult or child from eating the sculptures they could be sprayed with oil from the Gulf (that would solve another problem), or polyurethane or vegetable oil--whatever.

SpaghettiOs are not really a food anyway so why not take them and create something that will bring smiles to  people who don't know any better.  It is time to take a bad thing and make it into something beautiful.  SpaghettiOs rock!

Wednesday, June 16, 2010

Jesus does have sense of humor

Today I read that the sculpture known as "Touchdown Jesus" was struck by lighting and burned to the ground.  Now, I know a lot of people feel that God is providing them a sign when they see the face of Jesus in a Peach Pit or Tortilla, so I am wondering what this means?

Touchdown Jesus in case you don't know was named that becuase the way his arms were raised were similiar to a referee signaling a touchdown.  This marvel of steel and foam was located in lovely Monroe, Ohio and had been in existence since 2004...kind of short life for Jesus since he lasted only 6 years.

By the way, some lucky people were nearby as Jesus melted and twisted into oblivion and they wisely picked up pieces and will either sell them on EBay or erect a shrine and hope that it starts to do something newsworthy so they can retire and move to Florida.

I personally believe that this was a sign from God that she is dissociating herself from football, at least in Ohio.  Amen

NEW INFORMATION:  Jesus is being rebuilt in Monroe, Ohio...this time, however his arms will be lower so as not to confuse his blessing with that of signaling a touchdown.  Just a regular 90 ft. Jesus statue...darn.

Tuesday, June 15, 2010

Politics and Humor

Politicians give us many opportunities to laugh, although that is usually not their intent.  George Bush was often funny because he just was a goof--he made one verbal mistake after another.  Some of things he said made you wince; others made you smile and yet others made you want to contribute to a fund to help him get a tutor or something. 

Today's contribution comes from George...a comment he made during a news conference (year unknown) with the prime minister of Japan:

    "It was not always a given that the United States and America would have a close relationship."

I miss that guy...is he doing stand-up somewhere?

Friday, June 11, 2010

Imagination and humor

I love the Muppets and think that Jim Henson was a genius in using his imagination to create characters that were endearing and funny.  I just saw the following clip with Rita Moreno and the muppet, Animal and laughed out loud. 

So, happy Friday...may you use your imagination to bring laughter to your life, and here's to Jim Henson:
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0yvHWyvexZA

Wednesday, June 9, 2010

Humor and Advertising

The Today Show had a clip showing the top commercials for 2009.  Even the PETA commercial (which has a message that isn't humorous) is done well and has a humorous bent to it.  Humor is a great seller of products because we love to laugh.  Check out the winners at:
 http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/26184891/vp/37589628#37589628   (oh, there is an ad before they show the winners so be patient 'cause that ad isn't funny).

Tuesday, June 8, 2010

Don't Miss Opportunities to use your sense of humor

There are chances all the time to use your sense of humor and to lighten and brighten up your day, and hopefully the days of others.  For example, today I had to attend a meeting for all the staff where I work.  Normally our amazing office manager takes the minutes/notes and then writes them up and sends them out for all to see.  Well, today she couldn't do it because she had other responsibilities, so I did it.  Needless to say I made the minutes short, sweet and funny.  Of course, my supervisor had a few editorial changes, but he left in some of the best parts. 

How to make it funny...use acronyms specific to your organization or  comments that people in your organization or group would understand and appreciate (I wrote something about using post-it-notes to write our clinical notes and as it gives us the ability to destroy them by eating them if confidentiality could be compromised--certainly something that therapists/counselors at our office could relate to).  Also instead of boring words like "discussed" use words like chat, or blah, blah, blah for discussions that gone on and on.  Of course, timing and taste are everything when attempting to inject humor, and if you have doubts, let someone with a good sense of timing and taste read it over before you put it out to the masses.

Here is a bit of Visual Humor.  It is a site where there are many interesting and some humorous signs--some intentional and some are just plain "what were you thinking?"  Enjoy:  http://seehere.blogspot.com/2006/08/strange-and-funny-signs.html

Friday, June 4, 2010

Tribute to the Golden Girls

Our sense of humor is often drawn to a particular type of humor...Verbal, Physical or Visual.
Verbal humor is often connected to current issues of the day, although some are timeless.  The Golden Girls show was mostly based on verbal humor and with the passing of Rue McClanahan, it is wonderful time to remember just how well all the women on The Golden Girls worked their magic.

 So here's to verbal humor and laughter as Friday slips into the weekend:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VqAJIvbnkZg&feature=related

Tuesday, June 1, 2010

Horoscope for June

If you have a birthday in June, well good for you.  You are either a Gemini or Gemi or a Cancer or crab.  Tf you are having a birthday in June you will be overjoyed to know that your moon is rising in your house...so put the breakables away.  Also it is possible that your 4th house is considering moving.  Such is the way of the stars.

Right now if you are considering a job change, there are opportunties on your horizon.  Looks like some of the hottest jobs are:  Clown, Cow Bell Ringer, and trying out for the new hit show, Dancing with the Losers (it is really kind of pathetic but it's a job).

Also there are stars jumping all through your sign this month so it is a great time to think about getting some kind of animal.  Looks like a goat or small rodent or a Unicorn would be your best bet.  Animals, you know can be great companions and sometimes can be your best friend, especially if you don't have a best friend.

June birthday folks, this is a month to celebrate the development of the toothpick.   Yes, some guy in the stone age ate a lot of meat (origin unknown) and then spent 5 months making a small tree limb tiny enough to pick his teeth.  What a guy and what an invention.

Happy Juners!

Humor and Animals

Yesterday a four year old and a 1 1/2 year old were at my house and I watched them play and LAUGH.    They ran and jumped and were delighted by the most mundane and everyday things.  Played hide and seek and had a great time.

They are a reminder that there is joy and laughter in many places if you are open to the experience.

Animals do the same thing.  Animals bring us joy and laughter and so today in an effort to promote NFAL I present this YouTube video which is circulating and shows that dogs truly are very patient with humans:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HaAVZ2yXDBo

Wednesday, May 26, 2010

Church Bulletins and Humor

Most churches don't mean to make their weekly bulletins funny, but often they are. Not sure who proofreads them, but whoever does either has a great sense of humor or poor proofing skills.  Here are couple of them for your reading and laughing pleasure:

At the evening service tonight, the sermon topic will be "What is Hell?"  Come early and listen to our choir practice.


The Lutheran men's group will meet at 6pm.  Steak, mashed potatoes, green beans, bread and dessert will be served for a nominal feel.

Humor and relationships

I don't know what is happening in the Universe but lately there have been a rash of relationship break-ups--not just Sandra Bullock and Jesse James, but people I know and love. Can there be laughter among the sadness and tears associated with dissolving relationships? Well I received something today from a friend that is all about relationships and funny.

Check it out:   http://mingle2.com/dating/phases