It is the most unlikely of pairings! A social media correspondent expecting to just snap a few photos at an ESPY gift suite and a professional woman’s wrestler. But, somehow we bonded over a few laughs, high fives and realizing that life is good after your 30’s (and for me a bit beyond that.) Lisa Marie Varon is a class act. I instantly thought she was fun, funny and truly engaging.
Not every celebrity who walks the red carpet wants to have a conversation – but Lisa Marie was much more considerate than many. We chatted for a long time! After I returned home from helping at the Celebrity Connected event, I did a little research on Ms. Varon. Or shall I say “Victoria” / “Tara”.
As a woman’s professional wrestler she earned several titles, including twice winning the WWE Woman’s Championship. Her resume includes bodybuilder, fitness competitor and entrepreneur. Make no mistake- the WWE enterprise is BIG BUSINESS – with over 650 million fans on social media alone! Learn more here.
I also discovered that Lisa Marie (who was named after THE Lisa Marie Presley) – continues to put fitness first. Despite having more than her share of bumps and bruises in her lifetime, she keeps healthy – I am sure part of her regimen is laughing daily. AND she is a professional speaker – another thing we have in common!
Enjoy the photos of Lisa Marie and I at the ESPY Celebrity Connected Gift Suite. She also is media savvy and tweets as @RealLisaMarie. She has a few more followers than me – but no biggie!!
Remember just a few short months ago when the news was focused on the Syrian refugee crisis? Many media folks wrote op-ed pieces voicing the pros and cons of Syrian refugees entering various countries, such as the United States, Canada, etc. Even I felt compelled to weigh in as I penned last November a blog about my thoughts of this very difficult situation. Yet, as news cycles demonstrates on a routine basis, the passion for the crisis waned and was replaced in the headlines by crazy political tirades, reports of the all too many acts of terrorism and heinous crimes due to racial tensions. Don’t get me wrong, these are all very important topics – but, the situation concerning the Syrian refugee crisis still remains staggering! Millions of Syrian citizens, who left their homeland without much choice, continue to be displaced and living in conditions that most people would find unfathomable and unacceptable.
The Syrian refugee crisis is complicated, fraught with controversy and tragic. Many of these refugees have been relocated to the Syrian – Jordanian border and living in a way that seems without hope. Every day children are witnessing scenes that are too sad for even most adults. They are being robbed of one thing every child should have – an opportunity to have a carefree childhood. They are trying to survive in a land where “hope” is often lost.
Except “hope” did arrive to the some Syrian refugees at the Zaatari Refugee Camp along with a heavy dose of laughter thanks to theRed Noses Clown Doctors International organization– a clown troupe extraordinaire!
The Red Noses Clown Doctors International are literally life savers. To me they give kids who have forgotten how to dream, play and imagine a tangible reminder. They have offered parents, who only want their children to be happy, a reason to smile themselves. And, the story of how these clowns found their way to a Syrian refugee camp is nothing but amazing, itself.
Thankfully, Reilly Dowd assembled a team of fellow filmmakers with one goal – to chronicle this story in heartwarming documentary – The Language of Laughter. Dowd wrote about the catalyst of this film and the adventure that has been ongoing for more than two years as follows:
I was the most skeptical of all. But I know, that by nature, laughter has no borders. It is the shortest distance between two people. As silly as it might sound, it leads to both understanding and compassion. These are the two things much of the world needs in order to tackle our growing, and global, refugee crisis.
Here is our story: Amidst the collateral damage of Syria’s bloody war, The Language of Laughter documents a transformative friendship between two young women from completely different walks of life. Their story begins in January 2015 inside Jordan’s Zaatari Refugee Camp, a sprawling tent city situated just a few miles from the Syrian border. It’s Ground Zero for what the United Nations now deems the world’s most “dramatic humanitarian crisis.”
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As you can see from this slideshow, that laughter IS the best medicine here in the Zaatari Refugee Camp. Wouldn’t it be nice if we can keep the laughter going in the lives of these children by telling their story through a film which will in turn continue to shine a much needed spotlight on the plight of these refugee families?
Isn’t an act of #SocialGood a great way to help make the world a bit brighter?
If you are compelled to learn more about the film: TheLanguage of Laughter, please see their Seed and Spark page. Here you will find many videos that give you even more insight, including one I snatched and uploaded below. Also, you can get some groovy incentive gifts if you wish to contribute.
Who wouldn’t love to show their support and get a red nose, too!
Most of all, let’s show the world that we are a world of compassion. United by what we have similar than different. You can share this story easily by visiting The Language ofLaughter on FACEBOOK or TWITTER.
I also will be uploading a Part 2 with some Q and A from Reilly Dowd. Stay tuned.
Every year I go on my annual trek to Johns Hopkins Hospital (JHH) to undergo a few assorted tests and visit with one of my Top Docs. As you may know, JHH is known for Top Docs across many specialities, mine happen to focus on “matters of the neck and thyroid”. This annual “date” with Top Doc is important, albeit nerve -wracking. I tend to use this time to reflect, write and educate – about Thyroid cancer and navigating the world as a cancer patient.
What I have learned to get me through the annual ritual “recheck” process? Well, for starters it is good to have a support team who will cheerlead you in to the appointments and then help (hopefully) celebrate afterwards (or pick you up if the news is not so good.). Pick your cheerleaders carefully. You don’t want those that are “armchair quarterbacks” or wanna be docs. You just want people who will bring you coffee and candy upon request.
What I also learned through this ridiculous process is to surround yourself with only positive people. There is no room for negativity when you are dealing with matters of importance – such as kicking cancer’s ass out the door. I prefer to do most of my appointments alone and then pace the corridors of JHH until given the “all clear” to go home. But, others may wish to have their “team” present and waiting. Just make sure they are all helpful vs. hinderers to your wellness.
And, when the Top Doc says you continue to be LWD – living with disease – albeit microscopically – you just shake your head and thank the good Lord that the news isn’t worse. In my case, LWD just means that you get to live a long life with some cancer varmints hanging out somewhere, but not being more than a microscopic pest. Kinda like knowing there is one bug in your house that survived a fumigation, but you just can’t seem to locate it.
Most importantly, when all the tests are done go and conduct retail therapy. In my case, I always purchase something totally weird from the hospital gift shop. This year a very odd looking sweatshirt with Johns Hopkins Hospital emblazoned on the front. I wore it proudly on the plane ride home.
To summarize my recommendations for post-cancer check-ups:
*Go where there is the best of the best. Your health deserves it.
*Bring positive friends and family (if you wish), celebrate good news, and surround yourself with those who will be helpful if the news isn’t so great.
*Eat chocolate and drink … whatever!
*Conduct retail therapy. Remember that tie-dye is never out of style if it makes you happy.
Sign language is popular! Why? Because, this past year, Deaf actor, dancer and model – Nyle DiMarconot only took top honors as America’s Next Top Model, but also won with partner, Peta Murgatroyd, Dancing with the Stars! An amazing feat!
It was exciting to see how Nyle seamlessly weaved his world of ASL with dance. Moreover, his enthusiasm for sign language has had a serious trickle down effect – as many hearing people now are motivated to learn this beautiful visual language.
If you are a person who would love to learn the basics of sign language, but don’t know where to start – let me help! I put together a series of videos now available on my YouTube channel and just added my 5 TIPS to LEARNING SIGN LANGUAGE (also posted below).
Shamelessly, I will add here that you will find resources, free videos and downloadable sign language images on my website – SIGNING FAMILIES.
Before I end this blog with the 5 Tips for Learning Sign Language videos, I want to publicly thank Nyle for all he does to promote ASL in our communities and for advocating for Deaf children and bilingualism. BRAVO!
Sometimes I can write a blog in a blink. Today is not one of those days.
Why?
Because today I feel compelled to write about the Orlando shooting. But, I can’t due to the gnawing realization that I have written this blog before. The topic is all too familiar. And, that bothers me – deeply.
So I am not going to write a blog. Instead I ask that we just take a moment to appreciate what is good in this world. Thank those who are making a difference by helping others.
And, remember those who died due to senseless gun violence. Thank you.
Sandy Hook. Aurora. San Bernardino. Columbine. Orlando …
When many think of Memorial Day their minds automatically wander to thoughts of backyard BBQs, the opening weekend of the local swimming pool or sales in department stores. I think of the Vietnam Memorial in Washington DC that is often adorned with mementos from those who have served and their families.
Every year Washington D.C . welcomes tourists who visit the dozens of famous memorials that are sprinkled though-out this majestic city. The Vietnam Memorial, created by Maya Lin in 1982, is solemn, yet so architecturally fascinating. “The Wall” was veiled in controversy from the start. In fact, much of what was associated with the Vietnam War was controversial. This memorial, in particular, stands as a testimony to the bravery and sacrifice of the thousands who were drafted and served in this war. Many who did not return home to their loved ones or came back to less than a “hero’s welcome”. It was not the “best of times” in United States history.
What really intrigues me about Memorial Day are the thousands, and I mean THOUSANDS, of motorcyclists who come to Washington D.C. to pay their respects. The Rolling Thunder have a long history of motorcycling in to the nation’s capitol in order to show their support for veteran’s, especially their peers, the many “baby boomers” who served so valiantly. It gives a person pause to witness the huge presence of the Rolling Thunder as they bike down I-95 and literally roll through the District of Columbia . I am glad I have observed it – more than once.
So, this Memorial Day – please remember to enjoy your BBQ and family time. But, also remember that there are families who have sacrificed beyond measure so that we may live in the land of the free and the home of the brave.
I recently attended a bridal shower and this question was posed… “What would be the one piece of advice to give to a new couple?” Lots of great pearls of wisdom were generated by the shower attendees. A lot of what was said really resonated with me.
During the drive home I realized that I could extend this question to “wanna be entrepreneurs”. What would have been the “gems of information” I wish I had known before I journeyed in to becoming a “solo-entrepreneur” aka solopreneur?
Before I arrived home I actually had amassed quite the list! So, here in no certain order are the things I learned in the past 10+ years! Feel free to use the comment section to add your sage words, as well! And, if you are looking for some great biz information check out the start-up #entreps column in the Huffington Post by my 411 Voices colleague, Sandy Abrams.
Seek advice from experts in starting a business. Some people find the Small Business Association in their area a huge resource. I owe a debt of gratitude for the help I received in launching SIGNING FAMILIES to Karen Geary, my first mentor, who I met at a special program for start-up entrepreneurs via the Howard Community College in Columbia, Maryland. Mentors can help you learn how to protect your intellectual property, trademark your business name, obtain a business license and set up bank accounts. There is a “ton of stuff” you probably will need to learn including perhaps about research and design, writing a business plans, etc! So… to reiterate… seek advice of EXPERTS!
If you don’t “do numbers” – get an accountant! Know where your money is going and be mindful of your expenses. Remember that there are strict rules for tax purposes regarding what is a business and what is deemed a “hobby”.
Sometimes you have to spend money to make money! What I mean by a saying I have said more than once in front of audiences is that you need to have a marketing / advertising budget. It pains me to see creative people start a company only to have it fall flat as there were no plans for advertising. Sigh. By the way – have an AMAZING website and a strong social media presence.
Be kind as nothing good has come out of being a mean entrepreneur. Competition will happen. Others will have different or even better ideas than yours. Look inside yourself on how to be successful and don’t blame “the other guy” for ruining your business.
Hire competent people. An intern can be a valuable asset to your company or a disaster. Remember they are learning and you are offering them an opportunity. Interns, as a rule, shouldn’t be running your company. Hire people who are able to do the job because they are experts at the job.
Pay fair wages. Period.
Stay educated and give back to your local area. Nearly every profession changes – stay on top of the “learning curve”. There is value to seeking help from those who have walked a similar path. Be proactive and attend networking meetings and join your local chamber of commerce.
Not all good ideas become successful businesses. Not all people can be successful entrepreneurs, even if they have good ideas. Why? EGO! Some people believe that all they need is a great concept and charm to succeed. Sorry – charm isn’t usually associated with ROI.
Give back to your community by supporting local charitable organizations.
Having a great idea doesn’t always guarantee a successful business!
Now your turn to add to the list in the comment section below.
Dog anxiety is no joke. Dogs can exhibit anxious behavior over what humans think are the “silliest” things. When we first adopted Bayla, our Rhodesian Ridgeback / Shepherd/ Lab mix, she would shake uncontrollably whenever she saw a white panel van. Since, we didn’t know any of her “back story”, other than she was rescued as a stray, we could only imagine the reasons why she became so upset when she saw white trucks. Bayla also would be scared of certain noises, other dogs that approached her without warning and so on and so on.
Her fears soon abated with much expertise from various dog trainers and our beloved dog babysitter who takes her to be socialized with her other “charges” in what we refer to as Doggy Camp. But, from time to time their remains residual anxiousness and stress.
Was there something else we could do to help her be calmer during stressful situations?
Not long ago, I had a series of guests to visit for a birthday celebration. Our Bayla can be a bit “over the top” when fun humans arrive and in typical “lab” fashion, wants to be the life of the party. One of our guests was wearing a lavender scent that I later found out was via Young Living Essential Oils. As Bayla cuddled with our friend, DL, who also rubbed this lavender scent on her, we observed that our “party pup”became calmer and calmer. What was happening!?!
Kayla after being subjected to special scents for calming at her Vet appointment
I decided to do some investigation in to the connection between essential oils and pet behavior. Little did I know that there are volumes on the subject. Here are some of the more notable articles about the how scented oils can help calm a dog, alleviate pain or de-stress your furry family members.
Note: I saw several cautions about keeping these oils out of the hands of children for safety reasons!
A common theme among many of the articles was that chamomile, peppermint and lavender seemed to be the most talked about oils for dogs. That didn’t surprise me, especially from what I saw with DL and the lavender effect on Bayla. Even today during a veterinary visit at the Country Hills Animal Clinic, Bayla was subjected to aromatherapy via a program known as Fear Free. Different scents were used to calm her down in a place that she typically would associate with a bit of poking and prodding. Bravo to the vets and staff who used the Fear Freeprotocol that consisted of various pheromones and scents. Bayla was “pudding in their hands” and loved her visit!
What if the human in the family is anxious or stressed? Well, apparently oils are good for us, too! I started to really look around at the places that I frequent for any signs that the “scented oil” business was “trending”.
First and foremost, the Young Living Essential Oil and Aromatherapy company (YL) is selling their bottles of precious therapeutic and fun oils like “hotcakes”. Catchy names for their oils, like THIEVES– makes this writer want to learn more. Ah… cloves, cinnamon, lemon, etc. comprise the chemistry behind Thieves. For me this concoction sounded like the makings of a great Bundt cake … until I read about the addition of eucalyptus. Scratch the cake and chime the bubble bath! Ahhhhh
Also, I found out these interesting facts: YL has no synthetics, no fillers, no toxins it in. The essential oils are 100% therapeutic grade.
Most of the EO on the Market, that can buy at Sprouts , Whole Foods and Others places, are diluted with the synthetics.
Sidetone: In the world of social media this company is doing really well. For selling a niche product they are in the top 5K for online presence in the US according to the ALEXA rankings. Their corporate TWITTER account has reached over 40K, which is very respectable.
Given the popularity of Young Living, I wasn’t surprised to see that their Animal Scents Care Collection was “out of stock” (Bummer!). But, I guarantee you that after seeing the positive impact it has made on our Bayla – I will be a customer!
If you are curious about turning your stressed out pup in to a “happy camper” – click here.Note, I am not a distributor for Young Living Essential Oils – simply a very intrigued blogger who is willing to give them a shout-out!
Disclaimer –
This information shared today is intended for education purposes. It has not been evaluated by the FDA and is provided in order to diagnose, prescribe or treat any disease, illness or injured condition of the pet body. Any Pet suffering from any disease, illness or injury consult with a Vet or medical professional. We also highly encouraged as we have done, to become educated Consumers or research all products.
I think we need to leave Dad. I know that he doesn’t mean to be angry at us – but he is “out of control” with his drinking and abuse. When I heard him hit you last night I was in the corner of my closet – crying. I wanted to stop him, but I was scared. I knew he would hit me, too!
Today, I decided to make a bold move and I told my teacher what happened. She sent me to see our Guidance Counselor who was really nice. The counselor told me that she is going to call you and discuss with you a place called WINGS. This is a special organization that can help by getting us away from Dad and to a place that is safe. I heard that there are a lot of programs to help you feel better and even get training for a job! You always wanted to become a nurse and now maybe you can!
I didn’t know what to get you for Mother’s Day, so I thought that this first step would be the best gift. You deserve love not bruises.
Love you,
J
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The above is a letter from a child to his/her parent that is totally fictionalized. However, as a School Psychologist who has worked with children from abusive homes, I know firsthand that this could have been a real note written from any number of my former clients. Domestic violence is a serious problem in this world and WINGS has taken to trying to help women and children within their reach.
I first learned about WINGS via my colleague Margaret McSweeney and then from Rebecca Darr, who is CEO of this organization. I learned that WINGS is making incredible strides in helping empower women via their mentoring programs, working closely with wrap-around services with families and educating men in order to ‘break the cycle’.
WINGS is now hosting a campaign that is to spread awareness about their services, as well as raise funds for their new facility in Chicago. This campaign is the #WINGS2beBOLD program. Anyone can participate in the various parts of #WINGS2beBOLD campaign.
Option 1:
To show your support towards victims of domestic violence they ask that you upload on your social media platforms a simple message such as in the photograph below:
CELEBRATE THE WOMEN IN YOUR LIFE this MOTHER’S DAY!
Option 2:
#WINGS2beBOLD also is a campaign designed to honor our amazing women for Mother’s Day. Women who are spectacular, courageous, motivated and BOLD! These are the women who we live with, love and want to honor or remember their memory.
Today, I took a step to be BOLD and join this campaign by sending to my Mother a card from WINGS. The Mother’s Day card (pictured below) has seeds embedded in the butterflies and can be planted. (Note to my Mom – wait until the snow melts in Western New York, first!) It felt good to send a gift to my Mom that will help another Mom – someone I will never meet but needs help, all the same.
You can help too! Simply go here to contribute to WINGS and with every $50 donation you will receive a butterfly card, too! (offer good through Mother’s Day 2016).
Also, know that WINGS will continue their programs in Chicago and then soon will expand beyond the state of Illinois. They are seeking to connect with people who would make great partners for their team. Recently, I had the pleasure of introducing them to Linda Benecke from Damsel in Defense. Hopefully, this will be a “match” that sticks!
Option 3:
Want to DONATE a TWEET? Feel free to copy and paste the tweet and image below:
Honoring courageous Mom’s for Mother’s Day via @WINGSprograminc #WINGS2beBOLD
Also, know that WINGS will continue their programs in Chicago and then soon will expand beyond the state of Illinois. They are seeking to connect with people who would make great partners for their team. Recently, I had the pleasure of introducing them to Linda Benecke from 
