Monday, April 23, 2012

Find Your Laughing Place

My parents used to call their dog, Buck, their “laughing place” (a la Uncle Remus).  I admit, there was a time when that made me a bit jealous of my 4-legged brother because I had that moniker when I was a kid.  But having my own pup now that is busting at the seams with personality and funny quirks – I totally get it.

My dog, Mia Hammbone, makes me laugh.  I can’t believe how much personality a dog can have but Mia exudes it.  Every time I walk through the door – whether 2 minutes later because I forgot something or several hours later after being out and about – Mia is waiting by the door.  The greeting is quick: a brief sniffing and licking and half jumping (since jumps aren’t allowed), then off she runs to her toy basket because it is time to play!  Usually returning with an AKC rabbit, duck or quail (or other toy) in mouth, she charges back towards me, pauses half way into downward facing dog and growls – a low rumbling GRRR – that is her “Let’s Play” growl.  I snicker now just describing it!

Then there are mornings. While most everyone does not believe me, she does not sleep with me.  Mia’s preference is her own bed or more often, the couch in the other room.  I love this independence - reminds me of... Anyway, my morning routine is to feed Mia then shower.  Without fail, this sweet, "what, me?" face greets me after my shower… from MY bed, and often on my pillow no less.  Makes me laugh every day!  And when time allows, I run over for a little snuggle/hug and "you're the best dog in the world" affections.  This, I admit, does not discourage Mia from getting on the bed each morning.  But I wouldn’t trade starting each day with a hearty laugh and thankful feeling for such a great dog with so much character.

We are all over-tired, worked, stressed, extended, etc - so #ThisJane Says find your own laughing place.  "Take your frown, turn it upside down, and you’ll find yours I know ho ho."


Tuesday, April 10, 2012

Don’t Judge a Book by its Cover… literally!

Even with that big, challenging (while very common) expression as the headline where I chose to start, I am a little nervous to admit why.  Maybe everyone reading this is more mature than I, but I am worried people will judge me.  But here goes – let’s talk @Rob Lowe.  I mean, truly – has there been another man more pretty?  I really don’t mean that as condescendingly as it may sound but my goodness, he is just beautiful.  And of course like most men, he (irritatingly) has gotten hotter with age – if that were possible. 

I’m a child of the 80s so he was always on the radar but I fully admit – I saw the pretty and the wild child roles (Billy being many girls’ first bad boy crush), and just didn’t think much beyond that.  Then there was the well-known video, the lesser known rehab stint and off the radar.  I thought another Hollywood child star tale – as common as they come – and didn’t think much else about him.  Later, he returned in great comedic roles, on the West Wing and where I fell in love on Brothers & Sisters – all of which truly proved his chops as an actor.

I misjudged this man.  Last year, he road showed his book with his wife (saw them on Oprah).  Hearing him speak was impressive and made me want to learn more. His autobiography is titled Stories I Only Tell My Friends.  #ThisJane was sure that meant gossipy scoop on all the Hollywood shenanigans.  I was wrong again! @Rob Lowe is intelligent, hard working, devoted, driven, self aware, honest and in love with his wife and family.  The last two traits, of course, being so very attractive and awesome. If that weren't enough, he is extremely well written.  And most impressive is that the way he writes gives the reader a sense of friendship, as I imagine he intended.  I would be thrilled with that talent. 

While I was very committed to writing this blog entry (heck I even considered sending a fan letter but that must have been the 80s child in me), I was a bit timid about what someone would think of the recommendation and rave review.  This book was that impressive to me.  We have all felt judged – for age or level of attractiveness, hair color or height, accents or roots.  So I believe it would appeal to any reader that: admires someone with a dream, that recognizes their mistakes, learns from them, intentionally grows into a better person, and is brave enough to share that journey with the world.  #ThisJane Says don’t judge a book by its cover (literally) – you might miss out!