Big Hips. Big Thanks.

Every Thanksgiving we go around the table and say what we're grateful for, and every year I go with my standby of "friends and family." This answer is entirely true, but in deep thought on my commute I decided I should find a reason to give thanks for the things I typically view as negative, such as my hips. 

Last week I came across a homeless man digging through some dumpsters. My first reaction was to keep walking, but then I remembered I had a Special K bar in my bag. I turned around and asked if he was hungry. He shook his head yes, and I handed him my bar. I don't bring this up for praise. On the contrary I actually felt pretty horrible.

Here was a man, practically starving, and all I had to offer him was a 90-calorie bar. 90 calories! That wasn't enough to last him through the morning, let alone all day. I wish I could have given him something more substantial. 

This encounter made me realize that my constant struggle to keep my weight in check is a problem that some people in this world wished they had. I'm not saying it's bad to be healthy, it's just important to give thanks for our living, breathing, beautiful bodies no matter the size. For those who go hungry on a daily basis my hips are a sign that I am blessed. I think I'll start viewing them that way, too. 

Today's Musical Selection >

Happy Thanksgiving 

Tribute #17: Cooper Smith

Having no clue where I was headed after The Creative Circus, I'm fortunate that I ended up in NYC as a decent amount of Circus grads settled there, too. On a daily basis I found myself surrounded by millions of strangers, but was comforted to know there were friends nearby. Among this wonderful Circus crew was the one and only Cooper Smith.

As unique as his name, Cooper adds a positive spin to any situation. He always seems genuinely happy and when he's around the mood is lighter, the jokes funnier and the hugs are free flowing. I think it's safe to say Cooper holds the distinction as best hug giver ever.

Cooper, thanks for always making me laugh and for your stellar hugs. I'm glad I got the opportunity to get to know you better these past few years. Keep holding Brooklyn down. I hope to visit sometime soon.

Today's Musical Selection >

Copywriting Even Off The Clock

Tribute #16: Josh Clark

My 10-year high school reunion is just around the corner and that means I'm getting old. It also means that it's been a decade since I've seen many of the faces that I used to pass in the halls on a daily basis. I'm looking forward to catching up with everyone, and I hope that Josh Clark changes his mind and shows up.

I got to know Josh through my friend Adrienne, and it quickly became apparent that he shared our sarcastic sense of humor. I've always appreciated Josh's quiet wit. He may not be the loudest in the room, but he's most likely the funniest. Another thing I appreciate about Josh is his love of music. I pride myself on the number of shows I've been to, but Josh has probably gone to that many this year alone. He lives and breaths music. 

Josh, thanks for being such a good person. You may not realize it, but you truly inspire us all. I hope that life in a new city is treating you well, and I'm serious about the reunion. At the very least you should come to make us laugh. 

Today's Musical Selection >

 

A Heart of Gold

Tribute #15: Monica Toth

I spent most of my childhood in the Lansing area, but I made my debut in a suburb outside of Detroit. Bulman Elementary, St. Valentine's Church, and 14801 Woodworth all seem like distant memories. Though over the years I've forgotten some of the details of my life in Redford, I will never forget one of my closest childhood friends, Monica Toth.

Monica lived directly across the street from us, and I still remember how excited I was to learn that there was a girl my age moving in. We quickly became friends and bonded over important things like Disney movies, and deciding who was the cutest of the New Kids on the Block. Monica's older sisters had first pick, so we were left with the rejects, but somehow we made do. 

Being one of five kids (at the time) wasn't the easiest, and I would often escape from the craziness of my home and run off to the Toth's. Swimming and sleepovers helped me get through many a summer, and I was blessed to have such a good, positive friend nearby. 

Monica, thanks for being my Redford buddy. I can't think back to Woodworth without thinking of your wonderful family. It's hard to believe it's been nearly 20 years since we've seen each other in person. Now that we're in the same city we really should try to meet up. Just think, this time we'll have first pick of the NKOTB boys. 

Today's Musical Selection > 

My Little Friend Monica