Today, July 29th, is National Talk in the Elevator Day. Most of us exert a lot of energy, every time we ride in the elevator, avoiding eye contact and conversation with our fellow riders. We stare at the ceiling, check our phone for texts, shuffle our packages...anything to avoid having to speak to the person (or frog) standing next to us. National Talk in the Elevator Day is a great opportunity to connect with others and, perhaps, make a new friend...or at the very least, brighten their day. Here are a few funny ice-breakers you can use today to start up an unsolicitated conversation with that "uncomfortable" person sharing the lift with you. 1. When the doors close, announce "Don't worry, they'll open again." 2. Call the Psychic Hotline and ask them if they know what floor you're on. 3. Hold the doors open, as if waiting for a friend, then say "Hiya Wally! How's it going?" 4. Announce to everyone, as they get on that it's National Talk in the Elevator Day and offer them a name tag. You get the idea....
In this day an age when we are all a little more standoffish, this is a great time to reconnect with your fellow species.
Saturday, July 30th is National Dance Day. Moving to music is instrinsic to everyone in every culture. We hear music and we just can't help moving. That's why National Dance Day is so important. It brings awareness to our need to dance. Not only is it a great exercise but it is a form of self-expression that even those of us with little artistic talent can master. You don't need to follow fancy footwork, or even have a partner. All that is required is music that you enjoy and the ability to move...even a little. The movements themselves aren't what's important. What is important is that those movements come from the heart. National Day Day was started in 2010 by Nigel Lythgoe as a grassroots way of getting Americans to embrace dance as "a fun and positive way to maintain good health and fight obesity." So, tomorrow, plan on listening to some of your favorite tunes and do a little dancin'. You'll have some fun and feel great. For me, dance is a most enjoyable way to get a great workout, without feeling like I'm doing work.
Sunday, July 31st, is National Mutt Day. Mutts make the best dogs and are always so grateful to be adopted. This time of year, unfortunately, dogs and puppies abound at all of the animal shelters. And without your love and support, many of them won't live. If you're looking to adopt a new 4-legged friend, please consider adopting from your area animal shelter. Just in case you need a little convincing, here are 10 great reasons to adopt a mutt. #10. They are unique. No two are going to be exactly the same. #9. Mixed-breed dogs are more flexible; they're laid-back and not as high strung as most pure breeds. #8. Mixed-breed dogs can still compete in many competitions, like agility. #7. Mutts can still be trained as service dogs. #6. Housetraining is provided. Many mixed-breed dogs once belonged to someone else and are already housetrained. #5. Most mutts found in rescue shelters are at least a year old. Sure, the puppy stage is cute, and all, but do you really want to mess with chewed up things and potty training? Older, adult dogs are even more awesome because they already know how to behave! #4. Mutts tend to have few health issues. #3. They have a super-cheap start-up. Most shelters charge only $50 to $200 to adopt a dog. Try to find a purebreed for that! And many times, shots, worming, and neutering are included in the price. #2. You're saving a life. As I mentioned earlier, not every shelter is a no-kill shelter. That means many of these wonderful, lovable, and severving dogs will lose their life if you don't adopt them. And the #1 reason for adopting a mutt? They're awesomeness is contangious! Mutts are the adventurer in all of us. They're up for anything and everything. Mixed-breed dogs give the best kisses and you'll never ever find a more loving, happy, tail-wagging, grateful best friend! If you can't adopt a dog, please make a generous donation to a shelter near you. The lives of these animals may depend on it.
With all these reasons to celebrate this weekend. it'll be hard to choose just one. Whatever you decide to do, just enjoy yourself. As for me, I think I'll take my new furry friend and go dancing! Now that'd be something to see, eh?