Your True Colours April 2015 by Carolyn Bendall

Karen Couture Wardrobes You in Silk

Your True Colours

April 2015

National Humor Month

Jest Do It! by Maia Aziz

Nothing to Wear by Barb Best

Finding the Funny by Julie Ostrow

Meet Beth Usher, Turning Seizures into Therapeutic Laughter

Rockin’ Role Model: Wy Woods Harris Vaughn Jereaux Men’s Edgy Clothing

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Some of our guest writers for this issue: Maia Aziz P.S.W., C.L.Y.L Maia Aziz, social worker and certified laughter yoga leader, writes and speaks on living a life of love and laughter. A clinical manager at the MAB‐Mackay Rehabilitation Centre in Montreal, Canada and Marketing Chair of the Board of Directors of The Association of Applied and Therapeutic Humor, Maia founded With Love and Laughter to share her everyday wisdoms to joyful gigglers everywhere. Read more at www.withloveandlaughter.ca Barb Best feels your pain. The 2010 Erma Bombeck Global Humor Winner and a Top 10 in The Robert Benchley Humor Competition, her comedy material has been performed on stage and TV and published in various magazines and newspapers. Her popular humor blog appears at BarbBest.com and Alltop. She has two new books coming out in 2015: Find Your Funny: The LOL Survival Guide for Teens with Dr. Joanne Jackal and How To Be Miserable: The Missing Manual (a spoof on The Happiness Project). If sitting is the new smoking, her pants are on fire Best is a proud member of AATH, The Association of Applied and Therapeutic Humor.

About Gina Davis Everything I do is with the belief that you must show your clients you care. This continues to resonate with me. I believe that it is the cornerstone of business growth today. My mission is to work with people in business on their growth strategy, by helping them build customer recognition, foster loyalty and increase customer retention and referrals. www.customgrowthgroup.com

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Born and raised in Kentucky, Karen Mathis is a direct descendant of Daniel Boone. It’s only fitting that she has been considered a “trail blazer” in every phase of her fashion career. In the small Americana town of Richmond, Kentucky, Mathis began her career at 15 years old with a work permit, at the Elizabeth’s Shop. Soon after Mathis was piecing together bell‐bottom jeans, to meet a new market demand that had not yet been met by manufacturers. She tested and perfected her “8 Easy Pieces” system with years of personal career dress and travel needs. She now goes to the Los Angeles International Fabric Show and designs clothing items in silks and knits. Mathis’ newly published E‐book, 8 Easy Pieces is now available on Amazon.com. She is expanding her private customer base from a small select group of ladies in La Jolla and San Diego, to a greater online presence, where she offers her fashion collection at KarenCouture.com Julie Ostrow, The Humor, Laughter, and Improv Coach and First‐Ever American Laughing Champion shares her insights for living a happier life through her presentations and workshops. She coaches groups and corporations how to use humor, laughter, and improv techniques to improve communication, connection, and creativity in our personal and professional lives. Visit her website and book her for your next event or workshop. www.GoFindTheFunny.com Trista Porter is dual majoring in Journalism/Mass Communication and Business Marketing. She cares a great deal about our planet. She says, “I feel like we all have an obligation to care for it. God gave us our home, so we need to respect it. I’m on a mission to spread awareness of the earth and the stress the human race is putting on it. With that, I sell nature products. The majority of what I sell is candles. In short, they’re made with clean burning, natural soy wax and essential oils for scent.” Porter co‐owns a photography business with her fiancé. Join her on her journey to make the earth a better place! http://theearthlyones.com/

Beth Usher’s aim in life is to overcome the adverities that have come her way, and show the world how to be happy!

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In this Issue:

All contents of this magazine are the opinions of the individual authors.

April 2015 Fashion Academy©

April is National Humor Month. Certified Laughter Leaders share tips on putting humor back in your life.

No part of this magazine may be reprinted without written permission from the editor. cbendall@fashionacademy.biz TABLE OF CONTENTS Monthly Columns: Spotlight Artist: Jay Etkin 7 Contest of the Month: Albertini International 9 Great Finds: Exhibit Showsl 11 YTC Life Image – Humor 17 Laughter Lawyer USA Salutes Steve Wilson by Debra Norwood 21 Wellness: Playtime & Hobbies by Kally Efros ‐ 67

Cool Skin Tones/Warm Skin Tones ‐ Jeffrey Leung Eyewear Design 85

Sophisticated Curves shows off Plus Size Prom Dresses

Articles Using Humor to Overcome by Beth Usher 25 Jest Do It by Maia Aziz 29

Blogger Trista Porter brings lavender into your home.

Finding the Funny & Embracing Your Gifts by Julie Ostrow 33 Nothing to Wear by Barb Best 37 LAUGH Poster by The World Laughter Tour 39 LAUGTHER Poster by The World Laughter Tour 40

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Your True Colours Table of Contents (Continued) Classroom Activities by The World Laughter Tour 42 Teacher Lessons on Humor by The World Laughter Tour 45 iSHARE: Jo Garner by Sherri Henley 48 Creating a Wardrobe by Karen Mathis 51 What is Your DRAMA? By Gina Davis 63 Wearable Art: Fun Figurals Pinning for Puns by Melinda Lewis 71 Men’s Fashions by Vaughn Jereaux Noir 79 Choosing the Right Flat Iron by Kadori Hair 87 Sophisticated Curves’ Featured Picks for Plus Size Prom Dresses 2015 93 Rockin’ Role Model: Wy Woods Harris by Marva Ballard 97 Credits for Cover Photos: Karen Couture, Photographer: Elizabeth Ecklund www.LizzieFaye.com Model: Barbara Sperling

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Your True Colours From the Editor’s Desk Hi Everyone, This has been a hectic month, we did the Southern Women’s Show in Memphis and we had so much fun. The Memphis Police Department’s Fashion Show featuring clothes from Jos. A. Bank was so much fun, as usual.

Spotlight Artist: Jay Etkin Representing Local, Regional, International Contemporary Artists. Secondary Art Market Sales. Corporate Art Consulting. Important African Collections. 942 S Cooper St Memphis, Tennessee USA (901) 550‐0064 http://www.jayetkingallery.com/

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Artist and Gallery Owner, Jay Etkin

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Contest of the Month: Albertini International This month’s contest is this duo of skin care from Albertini International, the Divine Skin Hydrator and Rough Love Body Scrub. These products are so awesome! I love both of them. A combined value of $42, you will get for free! This is a great product that can be found in many salons, in Memphis TN, they can be found at Gould’s Spas. You can also purchase off of the website. http://albertiniinternational.com/ To enter the contest just go to http://yourtruecolours.biz/contest‐of‐the‐ month.html and fill out the form. Or ‘Like’ our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/yourtruecolours magazine

Last month’s contest winner was Gina D. of Arlington TN. Congratulations Gina!!

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Moisturize & Shine Pura d’or hair care products help repair damaged and dry hair. The essential moisturizers soften hair and repair split ends. https://www.purador.com/

Skin Care No Chemicals Hair Care

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Great Finds: Exhibitor Shows! WE JUST HAD THE SOUTHERN WOMEN’S SHOW IN MEMPHIS. YOU KNOW THE TYPE, IT’S THE PLACE YOU GO TO GET THE THINGS YOU CAN’T GET ANYWHERE ELSE! HERE ARE OUR FAVORITES! http://www.akitchenmust.com/ We have bought something from this company every year. This year my daughter said, “Dad said we have to get these this year, he regrets not getting them last year.” As soon as he got there, the two of them left, and came back with these silicone lids! We have bought the tongs, some of the pans, a spoon, and some more!! http://albertiniinternational.com/ This is a new skin care line, and they were directly across from us so we got to ‘use’ their product each day. The skin care is amazing! The scrub is wonderful! The Pumpkin Mask is very different, you massage it in for a couple of mintues then wash it off. I liked it! They also have tinted moisturizer, and they actually had a shade for me (that is hard to find, I’m warm skin toned and very fair and make up companies just don’t think I exist.) Fun things we find at shows!! Oh the fudge! Oh. The. Fudge. We always get fudge at shows or at the fair. http://www.fudgery.com/ And, this year, he had Brownie Batter Fudge! Oh. The. Fudge. It is the stop we all make, taste some of the different flavors we haven’t had before and then we choose which ones we want. And, of course, we never agree , so we purchase much more than we need. Oh. The. Fudge!!

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Cutco Knives, they have been there for the last several years. There are many other Direct Sale companies there and they usually have some very good deals for the show attendees. We have finished out our knives through purchases at the Southern Women’s Shows. http://www.cutco.com/ I would not have purchase the cheese slicer if the folks at the Southern Women’s Show booth for Cutco had not offered me a deal I couldn’t refuse!

I can’t take credit for this one, my husband found this one while walking around on his own. http://www.gripstic.com/ We LOVE these things! They are amazing!! They are in my freezer and in our pantry and on the counter. We live in the humid South, so until you have had potato chips go bad in ONE DAY, you don’t understand why we LOVE these things! I have tried the really cool nail wraps,and my daughter loves them. But, I am not coordinated enough to make them work. So, when my friend and I wandered into this booth we were sold almost immediately. I later found out that a friend of mine and her friend also purchased this nail stencil kit! I can do it!! http://www.moyouart.com/

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Lavender: A Must-Have in the Home. By Trista Porter I’VE BEEN PLAYING AROUND WITH ESSENTIAL OILS FOR A WHILE NOW, AND I HAVE TO SAY, I NOW HAVE QUITE A FEW FAVORITES. My main goals of this article is to let others know a little bit about the oils that they may not have known before. The first, and probably most important oil that I want to talk about is Lavender. We all know that several big name companies, like “Bath and Body Works”, use Lavender in their products. I don’t know where their lavender comes from, or what other chemicals are added so I am definitely not promoting. I’m simply stating that lavender scent is surely not an alien to the community. Most people know about how great it smells, how it seems to comfort you, etc. but I’m going to just throw out a list of some great benefits of lavender essential oil. -

Calming, eases frustration, relaxing, aids in sleeping! **

Natural but repellant for several types of bugs. ++**

Anti‐inflammatory ++

Great treatment for headaches and migraines **

Pain reliever. ++

Anti‐bacterial **++

Helps with cold symptoms **

The ** means for vapor use and the ++ means topical use I always dilute the oils and I never ingest. Although oils are better than chemicals, essential oils have not yet been regulated and extensive research has yet to be done. So now I’ll let you know the many ways that I use this lovely oil 1. I always put a few drops in my bath. It smells up the whole room, and the therapeutic values are outrageous!! Not to mention that the oil also helps relieve sore muscles. It’s just common sense that putting it in a bath is awesome! You can find a link to a simple, yet useful detox bath with lavender here.

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2. I put a few drops in my hair after I shower. GASP. Direct contact* with the scalp?!?!?! Well, it’s never hurt me or anyone else. Every time I put it in my hair after showering, I get compliments all day. Who doesn’t want to smell like a flower? 3. I use it in my carpet deodorizer. Yeah. I want my floors to smell like a flower too! Not just me. Carpet deodorizer is cheap, efficient, effective, and really easy to make. (Here is a DIY recipe: http://momsmorningcoffee.com/make‐your‐own‐carpet‐deodorizer/ ) 4. I boil it. If I’m having sinus issues, I’ll put a few drops in a pot and turn the heat on medium‐high. This allows steam to rise and the scent of the lavender aids as an antibacterial a headache reliever. (I’m sure you could do the same with a vaporizer.) 5. I spray it on my pillows. Talk about a good night’s sleep? Spray some of this perfect oil on a pillow and boom! You’re out for the night and relaxed. Just put a few drops in a small spray bottle, fill it mostly with water, and a bit of witch hazel! Lavender is awesome to say the least. I honestly cannot verbalize how much I really love it. It’s perfect for me. We actually have a very steady and happy relationship. It calms me down and it helps me relax. So enjoy lavender oil! There are countless ways to use it! Let me know you use lavender oil in the comments section! I’d appreciate hearing from you! Pssssst. I heard some people use essential oils in DIY laundry detergent, and I bet Lavender oil would make clothes smell great! (Here is a DIY recipe: http://momsmorningcoffee.com/make‐your‐own‐ laundry‐detergent/ ) Also, need to know where to buy Lavender oil?! Click on the Amazon logo. I do get a percent of the sales from that link, but it doesn’t cost you any extra than the normal item!! If you don’t wish to make online orders, visit your local health foods store or even GNC!

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"Women are not to blame for clothing that does not work. Finding the key pieces that enhance your body shape, is an easy skill that is not taught." ~ Karen Mathis Now available on

http://www.amazon.com/8‐EASY‐Pieces‐Karen‐Mathis‐ ebook/dp/B00UYIGOBM

http://www.priskila.com

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CATA Consumers Against Toxic Apparel Organic Clothing Protects Our Health and Environment

VOTE # 21882 onespark.com/festival/2015/ projects/cata-consumers-against-toxic-apparel

Join Us in the One Spark Crowd funding Event April 8-12. We need your support. Vote. Donate. Share our project.

We Are the Change, We Are Organic.

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Life Image – Humor! By Carolyn Bendall WE ALL NEED TO LAUGH. WE ALL NEED TO BE HAPPY. Smiling takes less muscles than frowning. Let’s be happy. Ronald Reagan had ‘Smurf’ cups on Marine One, with the silly jokes that were on each them one of the Marines assigned to the Presidential helicopter noted, “You have seen it all when you see Mikhail Gorbachev and Ronald Reagan exchange jokes off of Smurf cups.” The World Laughter Tour initiated the Decorate a Smiley Project as an ongoing event starting in October 2009. So, bring the family together and decorate your Smiley! There are no real rules, just express your personality and help your children as they express theirs.

For more information on the project you can go to the World Laughter Tour’s website, http://www.humormonth.com/smiley.html . While decorating your Smiley faces you can exchange the corniest jokes you can each create or that you know. Our granddaughter had to Skype with us just to tell us a joke, it is now her favorite. Why did the hero flush the toilet?... Say why. Why? Because it was his... doodie! Granted, we think she stole it from Wreck It Ralph, but her 4‐year old mind thought it was the greatest thing ever! We then spent the next five minutes exchanging ‘Knock Knock’ jokes and Elephant jokes, and just silly jokes. We need a few more ‘Knock Knock’ jokes in today’s stress ridden world. We have created a Smiley for you to use, just print it off and have fun. If you don’t have access to a printer, it’s a Smiley, it’s easy, make your own!!

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Smiley Face by Enokson

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LAUGHTER LAWYER USA SALUTES STEVE WILSON By Debra Norwood HELLO! WELCOME TO THE WONDERFUL MONTH OF APRIL, NATIONAL HUMOR MONTH! April holds a

very special meaning for me as Laughter Lawyer USA because it was in April 2011 that I met my wonderful mentor in humor and laughter, the Chief “Joyologist”, and “Cheerman of the Board” himself, psychologist, Steve Wilson! Steve is the chief reason why I have been able to lower my inhibitions and challenge myself daily to see the world through the eyes of a Certified Laughter Leader, Expert Level with the World Laughter Tour. It has been through the foundation of Good Hearted Living Principles (GHL) that I have learned how to exercise “mindful living practices” and teach others to improve the quality of their lives though these daily practices as well!

Steve Wilson with the author.

Steve Wilson has had a long career—since 1964, working with therapeutic activity concepts and “adjunctive therapies” in the 70’s and 80’s , which were absolutely revolutionary for their time. By the late eighties, Steve found himself immersed in the burgeoning field of therapeutic humor and

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laughter, speaking, writing, and teaching about it. He was invited to lecture in India and met Dr.K and added another piece to his over 30 years of application and theory which culminated in the creation of The World Laughter Tour with co-founder, Karyn Buxman, MA, RN. The World Laughter Tour became a brilliant training forum so that “the methods of the East could be combined with ideas for the West for the benefit of the whole world”. The marvelous blend of theory and practice Steve Wilson has combined has impacted me, as an attorney, and is immensely important in all I do now, not only personally, but professionally as well. As Steve, correctly predicted, I am one of those many people in the Western world who were interested in getting advice and guidance from a psychologist who had a solid background in the role of activities, attitudes, emotions, humor and laughter. I appreciate that he is a Steve and Pam Wilson premier mental health educator and practitioner of therapeutic humor and laughter activities. All of us who have taken Steve’s certification and advanced workshops have been able to draw from and integrate the best schools of thought, conventional and alternative, and benefit from his seasoned years of practice to create group and self-care strategies, to show people how to get the most out of themselves and life, and enjoy every minute of it! Thank you Steve Wilson! To mention Steve without bringing up his amazingly brilliant and engaging wife would

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Steve Wilson (Continued) be impossible. Steve not only leads his certified laughter leaders in theory, he also leads by example, teaching us how to love and laugh by loving and laughing with his own dear wife, Pam Stiles Wilson, “The Empress of Everything”. Steve and Pam are a power pair and a beacon of hope to me, not only because of their longevity as a couple, but by their exuberant and united examples and efforts at mentoring us in every aspect of our careers. Counting Steve and Pam as friends, and mentors allows me to testify to others that true love does and can exist in real life, and that Steve Wilson’s advice for everything from relationships to self-esteem which are set forth in his prolific authorship of numerous books are based on his modeling through life experience! The Certified Laughter Leader training program was created and designed by Steve Wilson to be a substantive curriculum and the most fun you can have while getting credit and learning how to make a huge positive difference in your own life and in the lives of others. The World Laughter Tour mission, vision, curriculum, content, and structure for training others, just like its support mechanisms, advisory committee, code of ethics, and strategies to give the method credibility and gain widespread acceptance, are the natural outflow of all that preceded it in Steve Wilson’s life. This April, consider looking into what the World Laughter Tour can do to enhance your career, whatever it may be! I am so thankful I checked out www.worldlaughtertour.com and changed my life for the better as a result!

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Using Humor to Overcome By Beth Usher I WAS FIVE YEARS OLD WHEN I HAD MY FIRST SEIZURE. I WAS AWARE THAT SOMETHING STRANGE WAS HAPPENING TO ME. My classmates were staring at me and my

teacher was yelling for the nurse. Even then, I tried to make them laugh. My parents say that I was born laughing. I realized at such a young age that laughter and humor would improve any situation. During the next two years, as my seizures grew in numbers and my parents searched for a diagnoses and help, I used humor to make our lives better. I used humor to lighten the mood in the doctor’s office. I saw that a joke would make the MRI technician like me a little more. That the person who drew my blood for tests would look forward to seeing me because of my smile. I also saw that by being happy put my parents at ease. Laughter and humor came in handy when after two years of searching for an answer to my seizures, I was diagnosed with Rasmussen’s Encephalitis, a rare and progressive brain disease which would eventually end my life. My only chance of survival was a hemispherectomy – the removal of the affected side of my brain – my entire left hemisphere! On February, 3, 1987 at the age of seven, I became Dr. Ben Carson’s sixth patient to undergo a radical hemispherectomy. Although the surgery went as planned, I fell into a two‐month coma. My parents were heart broken. Their happy little girl may never wake up. And, if she did, would she still be the same laughing little girl? I am happy to report that I did wake up! Despite losing my right visual field in both eyes and the practical use of my entire right side, I am as happy as anyone could ever be! It was my good fortune that I found the Association for Applied and Therapeutic Humor. It was introduced to me by a good friend and laughter colleague, Barbara Grapstein. Within AATH, I found like‐ minded soul mates who also live their best lives through laughter and good humor. AATH has taught me so much about myself and why I

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Dr. Ben Carson

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use humor and laughter to help me cope with a devastating illness, challenges and heartbreak. I’ve learned that there are many like me in AATH who just want to make the world a kinder place. AATH has provided me with research based facts that allow me to show people that a life of humor and laughter can bring happiness and good health to them and to those around them. At this year’s AATH Conference in Philly, I will become a HAG (Humor Academy Graduate)! I have studied and collaborated with other Humor Academy students on how we can use humor in our personal and professional lives. I will also be a keynote speaker. I will speak about the effect that Laughter and Humor have had on my life. It will be one of the top ten highlights of my life.

Image courtesy of imagerymajestic at FreeDigitalPhotos.net

AATH has provided me with an enormous amount of confidence and has taught me to embrace laughter and humor as a gift to myself and to the world. My AATH colleagues have helped me grow in every aspect of my journey. Even though, we are only a phone call away, I am excited to see them all in person at our Philly conference in May 28 to 31. I would love to see you there!!! After all, strangers are friends we have yet to meet!

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What is Sophisticated Curves? Sophisticated Curves is a virtual mall, connecting you to merchants from all over the web who carry stylish, high quality products for plus size women. We have combined their product catalogs to display at Sophisticated Curves. Our products include a wide range of beautiful plus size apparel. Enjoy our diverse selection. We have something for everyone. Each one of our “finds” links to a tried and true merchant, and will link you to that merchant’s site. We are constantly discovering new merchants, products and product categories, so check back often to see what’s new! www.sophisticatedcurves.com

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JEST DO IT By Maia Aziz

“Jest do it. Determination and resolution are all you need to start your humor workout. The actual decision to pump up your humor practice can be similar in scope to the decision to include more physical fitness in your life.”

JUST. DO. IT. I NEVER COULD RELATE TO NIKE’S SHORT AND SASSY SLOGAN. The words

slide across the screen as a lithe glistening model crosses the finish line. Just. Do. It. Mary Kay Morrison Who is this woman with her neon sports bra and sweat proof makeup? How does she just do it? Does she slip in a streamlined workout between dropping the kids off at school and realizing the documents she needs for her meeting are still on the kitchen table? Does she just do it after putting in a 12 hour work day but before baking 48 pink and yellow cupcakes for her daughter's class party? My relationship with exercise is a little less like a glossy TV ad, and more like an unsuccessful round of speed dating. I start with the best of intentions and the most positive of attitudes, knowing that if I can just get this relationship to work, it will be so good for me and I’ll feel energized like never before. I try something out, a new fitness trend, a new class but realize pretty quickly it’s not for me, so I say we are not a good match and I move on to the next table. Periodically I am grateful to hear the bell ring twice so that I can go to the bar for a time out and a couple of drinks. But a humor workout. Now that I can jest do. After all I have the best of coaches. My son and I are addicted to laughter. I know few people who naturally radiate love and laughter like my handsome 27 year old. His sense of humor is sharp and contagious. He sees the opportunities for fun in everything. Our “humor relationship” grows daily as we are forever sharing goofy movie recommendations or links to websites with hilarious photos and translation fails. Throughout the day I carry my cellphone with me, ostensibly to be able to respond to colleagues’ urgent emails or to schedule follow ups with partner organizations. But nothing brings a smile faster to my face than the familiar soft buzz of a new message vibrating for my attention. I look around the boardroom and sheepishly sneak a glance at the screen under the table. My son has texted me. What do you call a fake noodle?

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I smile and look up, verifying that no one has noticed my lack of focus. My colleagues appear to be hypnotized by this month’s financial report. My phone quietly buzzes. An impasta! I snort loudly, and then try to cover it with a fake cough. A couple faces turn accusingly in my direction but I look away chuckling. Later I am preparing supper while the kids are upstairs cleaning their rooms. Our weekly ritual of tidying up the house inevitably ends in fits of giggles over some ridiculousness or another. My husband has decided to grab a quick shower before dinner. I hear my son’s conspiring whispers over the girls’ laughter coming from his room. They are allegedly helping him fold his laundry but all I hear is the periodic plunk of objects falling and rolling across the ceiling above me. Moments later my husband opens the bathroom door to find the girls poised out in the hallway. Our youngest thrusts a Tupperware dish at him. “I found your marbles!” The container is full of marbles they have gathered from the bottom of their toy boxes.

Image courtesy of Maggie Smith at FreeDigitalPhotos.net

“We heard you lost them!” Her sister pipes in. I laugh as I look over at my son, the instigator, who can barely contain himself. My husband smiles and shakes his head. The girls are rolling on the floor. A year ago he bought himself a sports car. It is his dream car and slowly he has outfitted it with every manly automotive upgrade imaginable including an over‐the‐top sound system. I confess I sometimes wonder about his choice as I think about the attention he brings to himself, this handsome, strapping young black man, driving around town blasting the latest rap tunes out of his soon to be tinted windows. I await the evening he will find himself unfairly stopped by the police who may not believe him when he explains that he is heading home from his full‐time job that he uses to put himself through school, or that he is on his way to pick up his younger sisters, a task he readily takes on out of adoration not obligation. Only I cannot help but smile at his bright grin every time I see him unfold himself from the front seat. Combining his love of music, flashy vehicles and a darn good laugh, he has recently downloaded an mp3 version of Survivor’s hit, “Eye of The Tiger”. When he spots a neighborhood jogger on the street, he rolls

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down his window, turns up the classic Rocky theme and slows to a crawl beside the confused runner. Almost all inevitably laugh and give him an appreciative nod. Take that, Nike. A couple years ago, he met a wonderful young woman who shares his love of laughter. Their Facebook pages are equally full of romantic pictures of young love and ridiculous selfies making cartoon expressions. I have asked them often how such a beautiful couple can manage to look so completely ridiculous.

Image courtesy of Sura Nualpradid at FreeDigitalPhotos.net

They have plans, my son and his new love. Plans for the future. Plans for their futures together. My son is slowly putting himself through flight school, realizing his lifelong dream of being a pilot. His girlfriend recently got a long awaited promotion. They talk of moving in together, of travelling, of starting a life.

I know they will carry out these plans. Realize their optimistic dreams. Accomplish all sorts of fantastic things. With such a zest for life and laughter how could they not. But in the meantime, I relish listening to their more immediate plans of spending an afternoon riding the bus, eating vanilla pudding out of a mayonnaise jar with a big spoon…just…for…fun. This week I decided to just do it and start exercising again. I have been rolling out my yoga mat and proudly completing a daily workout. This morning I woke up to my stomach muscles feeling contentedly sore. After an uber‐ healthy breakfast I decided to exercise while checking out Kevin Hart’s, Real Husbands of Hollywood, a faux reality show my son has been telling me to watch for months. 4 episodes and 2 hours of spinning and stretching later and my stomach is KILLING me …from laughing so hard. Best. Workout. Ever. If I can just stop laughing long enough, I’ll text my son to tell him all about it.

Image courtesy of stockimages at FreeDigitalPhotos.net

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Finding the Funny & Embracing Your Gifts By Julie Ostrow Humor, Laughter, and Improv Coach and First‐Ever American Laughing Champion

I DIDN’T ALWAYS THINK I WAS FUNNY. I KNEW I LIKED TO LAUGH AND BE SILLY. Looking back on my life I can see the consistencies of finding the funny, which would later become my life’s motto and the name of my business. It is funny how the random experiences and interactions in my life weren’t so random after all. They have all led me to this moment and to who I am today. Growing up in a large family it was easy to get lost and not be noticed. And, growing up in a dysfunctional family, finding my own ways of coping was a necessity. Finding the funny and laughing at challenging times got me through even way back when. This makes me believe that humor and laughter are innate. They are a part of the human spirit. Sometimes that happy part of ourselves is not so easy to see or feel. But, I believe it is there. So, when I won the first‐ever American Laughing Championship in 2013, I could very well have been telling the world, “I am here!” Throughout my life, I seemed to gravitate toward people with whom I could connect on a humorous level. When I toss a humor bug/idea and it bounces back wrapped in intelligence and wit, I know I have found my people. And, I stay. On the other hand, when I try out my humor and it falls flat, I move on. The other day when I was in a strength training class, I put a BOSU ball up to my belly and asked the woman next to me, “Does this BOSU ball make my stomach look big?” Poor thing didn’t know what hit her (It was my wit but she had no idea). She responded with a sneer, “I. don’t. know.” I didn’t give up. I then tried my newly created joke on the class instructor. She laughed out loud and said, “Oh my gosh. That’s awesome!” I found my people.

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Why am I sharing this story? Throughout my life—from high school to now—I had many people tell me, “You’re so funny. You should be on Saturday Night Live!” And, depending on the era, I was told I resemble certain female comedians. In the 90’s I was told I look like Tracy Ulman. What a funny and talented comedienne. More recently I’ve been told I look like Amy Poehler. Sorry, Amy. I know you’re a lot thinner than I am. So, I hope you’re not offended. The key is: I didn’t always think I was that funny. I didn’t believe there was a value in my humor. I thought that everyone can make anyone laugh and feel good. But, that is not true. That is not true at all. As I share in my keynote presentations, I believe we all have special gifts to share with the world. We all have a unique set of skills that no two people have. Some people are born to be astrophysicists. Not me. Some people are born to conquer the world with their mathematic prowess. Not me. I have math anxiety. It brings me pure joy to share my stories with large and small audiences of how I find the funny, the humor, and the laughter in challenging times. I know people connect with my stories because of their laughter and how they feel compelled to open up to me and share their stories. And I feel grateful for that. While waiting to get my annual mammogram and wearing the lovely gown the hospital provides, I noticed all of us women were sitting solemnly as we waited for our name to be called. Some of us were simply waiting to get our annual mammogram screening done. Others were waiting for their doctor’s news on the results of their findings. One was waiting to hear the news that there was no more cancer in her breast. As I sensed the quiet tension of the unknown, I blurted out, “Hey…we’re all wearing the

“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”

Marianne Williamson

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Your True Colours Finding Your Funny (Continued)

same outfit.” Most women looked up at me with a look close to shaming a child for speaking out of turn. One woman looked over her magazine and added, “Yeah…and we all have really horrible taste.” After that release of tension, a few of us started a conversation about why we were there. Subsequently, we shared our stories and connected. We all have unique talents and gifts. I realize my gift is breaking tension with my humor and creating connection. I am happy to share my gift with the world.

Want more happiness in 2015? Order my NEW BOOK... Happiness Recipe Whippin’ up happiness with wit, wisdom and wonderful food!

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You Can Become a C.L.L.â&#x20AC;&#x201D; a Certified Laughter Leader, in a 2Day Workshop. Free Video Brochure on CD Now Available. Lead The Way to Faster Learning, Better Understanding & Retention of Materials, and Fewer Classroom Management Problems. Organize a Laughter Club to Improve Cooperation, Communication & Leadership Skills, and Pro-Social Values. www.worldlaughtertour.com 1-800-NOW-LAFF

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NOTHING TO WEAR By Barb Best HELP! I'M GOING TO A HUMOR CONFERENCE* AND I HAVE NOTHING TO WEAR ! What to do? I'm fresh out of ruby red clown shoes, polka dot pants, and neon plaid underwear. Geez, I have zero stripes. FYI I've banned horizontal stripes from my hips and cleavage for the rest of my life. You will not catch me donning horizontal stripes unless I'm incarcerated in a federal prison or appearing in an Avril Lavigne video. Of course, I'm expecting a bad hair week, so I can always resort to my trusty fallback ‐ the rainbow wig. It sports split ends and hairballs, but is frazzled in a wildly manic way that will amuse some, horrify others. Perhaps I should consult a personal stylist for advice. When it comes to fashion, I could use a coach ‐ and an entire team. I confess I've been seriously due for a wardrobe intervention for decades. It's the circus elephant in the room nobody wants to acknowledge. I have no excuse for dressing like a Bohemian sock puppet. I am not homeless or a dyed‐in‐the‐wool nudist. My closet is not empty; it actually appears to be brimming with clothing of some sort, but I swear I have almost nothing to wear. I mostly wear black or navy. My wardrobe could be described as "50 Shades of Black and Blue." It screams "Put me out of my pain!" I wear so much black that concerned neighbors inquire, “Are you in mourning? Who died now?” For me, black summons the Muse. It beckons to my guiding light of laughter, Thalia. My style is cosmopolitan in an obnoxious New York City‐L.A. way. It doesn't suck up all the air in the room like Orgasm Orange or Perky Paisley. Black is the Zen of colors. It speaks in silence. It inspires. It is what it is. Ha, I know what you’re thinking. Black camouflages belly fat, muffin tops, and thunder thighs. All the more reason to embrace it! Become one with the black, I say. Come. Come to the dark side.

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A jet‐black jumpsuit with rainbow suspenders? Now that's Fashionista Fun! Serious and playful. Clown couture? Works for me. * You can join lots of caring, cool humor professionals at the AATH Annual Conference in Philadelphia, May 28‐31, 2015.

Books by Barb Best! http://www.barbbest.com/books/

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Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s All Unite and Get Happy!

Compliments of Steve Wilson, Director, National Humor Month (April) - 1-800-NOW-LAFF

APRIL IS NATIONAL HUMOR MONTH, SO “UP YOUR LAUGHTER QUOTIENT.”

LAUGH LONG AND LOUD. A

tension. Let it be your secret weapon when you’re

robust rib- rattler improves not only your mood, but also your up to your eyeballs in alligators. It’s fast, it’s health. The physical act of fun, it’s free. No other stress buster can laughing helps you stay alert, makes it easier make this claim! to cope and lets you maintain your sanity when TAKE YOUR FUNNY BONE TO WORK (or to the world gets a little crazy. ADMIT YOU’RE HUMAN...laugh at yourself. the Senior Center). Instigate laughter on the job. Treating co-workers with respect and a People who have mastered Living-101 take sense of mirth does miracles for teamwork their work seriously but not themselves. and trust. Knowing the difference gives you the keys to EMBRACE THE NOTION that the kingdom. UP YOUR LAUGHTER QUOTIENT. Nothing humor is NOT incompatible with dignity and stature. Humor is the may be more important to your health and hole that lets the hot air out of happiness. It has been said the average a stuffed shirt. Follow the lead American laughs 15 times daily. SO eat your of Lincoln, Reagan and JFK who broccoli and get a megadose of Vitamin L knew that humor is vital in overcoming adverevery day. sity. GENERATE MIRTH wherever you go. Good REMEMBER THAT LAUGHTER and longevity humor is the best social lubricant. It go hand in hand. Grumps don’t live longer—it smoothes understanding, communication and just seems like it. A buoyant outlook may be cooperation. Make it your mission to elicit as more important than oat bran and pushups, many smiles as you can each and it’s a lot easier to take. So get in the day. zone: Love life, laugh a lot, last longer. HELP YOURSELF SUCCEED without stressing out. Humor is nature’s antidote for

Compliments of Steve Wilson, Director, National Humor Month (April) - 1-800-NOW-LAFF

Your True Colours

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http://www.theknowledgetree.com

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48 Classroom Action Projects About Humor & Laughter PLUS Teacher’s Guide to National Humor Month Compliments of Steve Wilson Founder of World Laughter Tour & Director of National Humor Month

1. READ ALOUD SOMETHING HUMOROUS EACH DAY ‐ S HEL SILVERSTEIN, JACK PRELUTSKY, AND WILLIAM COLES HAVE DELIGHTFUL POETRY BOOKS. Robert Newton Peck’s Soup books are great read‐alouds for intermediate students. Nothing can beat Beverly Cleary for grades 2 to 4. 2. Start a humorous quotations collection to which students can add. They could be on a bulletin board or in a file box. Bartlett's Quotations and other collections can be found in most libraries; many are organized by subject areas. 3. Organize a joke festival or marathon as a culmination of a language arts unit. Build up to it with a joke‐of‐the‐week on the board or have a joke drop‐ box that students can read from when other work is complete. 4. Hold a best‐joke contest. Have students rate submitted jokes or read them aloud to determine funniness rating. 5. Collect spoonerisms (for example, It's kisstumary to cuss the bride) and other humorous language forms: puns, pleonasms, conundrums, mixed idioms, palindromes, epitaphs, tall tales, tangle‐talk, chants, limericks, riddles, etc. 6. Do an art project with pictures of animal or body parts combined to create incongruous images. Have students name their creations. 7. Collect and then alphabetize into a class book all the words students can think of that describe ways to laugh and smile. 8. Do group creative writing using the word "laugh" as many times as possible. Student teams can compete, but their stories must make sense. 9. Share personal humorous anecdotes and allow students to do the same.

1‐800‐669‐5233 WORLD LAUGHTER TOUR, INC. www.worldlaughtertour.com

10. Compile a school "humor directory" that includes people's names and something humorous they can do or tell about to a class. 11. Analyze humorous literature for types of humor (for example, Amelia Bedelia taking things too literally). 12. For vocabulary development, ask half the class to pantomime different smiles, while the other half guesses (for example, polite smile, grimace, grin, beam). 13. Put different laughs on cards, distribute them, and have students demonstrate (for example, guffaw, snicker, giggle, chortle, snort, cackle, chuckle). 14. Draw or pantomime nonliteral expressions (for example, shoplifting, cooking up a storm). 15. Parody television program titles or product names (for example, Crappy Days, Crust Toothpaste, Axwell House Coffee). 16. Make a chart of what makes people laugh: words, people, objects, events. 17. Create a funny "word wall" where students can tape up words such as zoot suit, bubble, burp. 18. Build a humorous learning center. See "Joke Center" in Teacher (March 1979) and "Limerick Center" in Language Arts (September 1976). 19. Have students keep a log of when and why they laugh. 20. Play tickle tag. Elementary students will enjoy tickling instead of tagging. 21. Do humor collages, for example, words, smiles, faces. 22. Collect humorous songs or songs that have something to do with humor and sing one a day, for example, "I Love to Laugh," "The Shadow of Your Smile," "When Irish Eyes Are Smiling," Include camp songs like "The Ole Gray Mare," "On Top of Old Smokey," and "Mares Eat Oats." 23. Give each student a humor‐related word to look up in a large dictionary to determine its etymology (for example, laugh, chortle, giggle, smirk). 24. Study the history and science of humor. Every encyclopedia has a section on humor. 25. Investigate the possibility of having a physician speak on the physical changes laughter produces. (More and more doctors are becoming interested in humor's healing powers.) 26. Put a humorous item on each test. 27. Find humorous art (for example, Mona Lisa parodies). Explain/discuss parody. 28. Collect laughs on a tape recorder. Label and try to match to owners. 29. Collect humorous quotations and photos from newspapers.

1‐800‐669‐5233 WORLD LAUGHTER TOUR, INC. www.worldlaughtertour.com

30. Listen to humorous CDs or DVDs (for example, Bill Cosby). 31. Set up a tongue‐twister station for students to use when work is complete. Have students practice and record times on a graph. See Alvin Schwartz in bibliography. 32. Start every Monday with something fun so students will look forward to coming to school, that is, BGIM (Be Glad It's Monday) instead of TGIF. 33. Use humorous sentences during spelling tests. 34. Practice punctuation by using unpunctuated jokes and limericks. 35. Have a backwards day. Run your schedule backwards, put some clothes on backwards, do last items on worksheets first, etc. 36. Have students research and then write biographies of comedian's and authors of humorous works. 37. Take candid school shots with a camera and let students caption them. 38. Re‐write fairy tales, myths, etc., in updated form. 39. Find humorous (safe) stunts that students can learn to do (for example, push potato across room with nose, roll eyes, wiggle ears, hambone rhythms). 40. Do creative writing or original riddles, jokes, tall tales, etc. (See Journal of Reading, Reading Teacher, and search the Internet for bibliographies.) 41. Learn signing of humor words as used by deaf people (for ex ample, smile, laugh, etc.). 42. Study humor of different cultures, and collect jokes and humorous stories from different countries. 43. Do a unit on humor using art, music, creative writing, speaking, listening, humorous literature. 44. Play a trick on the class each day by making something incongruous in the classroom that they must find. 45. Set up a display on humorous literature and authors in the library. 46. Have students collect and write "books" of Funny Family Folklore. Begin by having them ask parents, grandparents, and siblings to tell stories of funny things that happened to them. 47. Watch sit‐coms and other television programs and list types and examples of humor used. 48. Invite a comedian to speak to the class about how he or she prepares material. Perhaps this could be coordinated with a career day.

1‐800‐669‐5233 WORLD LAUGHTER TOUR, INC. www.worldlaughtertour.com

TEACHER’S GUIDE FOR CELEBRATING NATIONAL HUMOR MONTH –APRIL Adapted from material by Larry Wilde, who founded National Humor Month in 1976.

1. Prepare a special April Activity Calendar. You can call it “HUMOR: 30 Ways In 30 Day” (or download one from www.humormonth.com) 2. Have students report on National Humor Month. How did it start? What are the goals? 3. Have students search the internet for lists of humorous books for children. 4. Get students to create a list of books they recommend as being funny or humorous, based on books they have read. 5. All through the month, generate a list of adjectives that de‐ scribe senses of humor. See if they can find 100. Some examples are: droll, witty, punster, weird, nonsensical. 6. Have students report on the origins of Aprils Fool’s Day. How many different theories can they find? 7. Ask students to create an April Fool’s Day joke/prank for April 1. Discuss the difference between harmless pranks and harmful pranks. This stimulates creativity and starts them thinking funny as well as thinking about social values. 8. Have students come to school in crazy costumes. 9. Get students to read aloud from a joke book to classmates. This induce students to read out loud and to have fun doing it. 10. Have students bring in comic strips they think are funny. Display them in anonymously in a “comic gallery”. Have a contest to guess which student brought which comic strip or cartoon. 11. Invite a local cartoonist or caricaturist to talk about and demonstrate their work. Have students create their own cartoons. 12. Hold a riddle and joke‐telling festival. Encourage participation & performance. Eliminate competition. 13. Get students to create posters that depict the sense/idea of National Humor Month. Post them around the school. 14. Establish an essay writing contest. Possible topics: Why Laughter is the Best Medicine. They can point out all the healthful benefits derived from the physical act of laughing; Why It Is Different Joke for Different Folks. They should explain that humor is personal, subjective, and a matter of taste; give examples; make a case for ‘humor diversity’; Laughing At vs. Laughing with Others. They can point out the harm that can be done by insults, zingers and put‐downs; sensitize classmates to

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the importance of good humor. 15. Invite a guest speaker who is a member of the Association for Applied and Therapeutic Humor to teach a class about humor, laughter and mirth. (www.aath.org) 16. Assign students to write and/or tell about one of the funniest things that ever happened to them. Reinforces pleasant memories, speaking & writing skills; gets them thinking in terms of what’s funny. 17. Have students look for and create a display of things that can add humor to your life. Have students collect various funny bumper stickers, buttons, T‐shirts, cartoons, etc. 18. Get students to remember some of the cute, clever, funny things they or their brothers or their sisters might have said when they were little kids. Have them interview the parents, grandparents, neighbors, teachers, etc. 19. Hold a “Limerick Laugh‐In.” Begin by reading from A Rocket in My Pocket: The Rhymes and Chants of Young Americans, complied by Carl Withers (Henry Holt 1988). Then invite students to put their own feelings/observations in rhyme and share with the class. 20. Ask students WHO makes them laugh and WHY? 21. Find out WHAT tickles their funny bone. Have students keep a “Funny Bone Journal” through the month to record funny things that happened to them, or someone they know, this month. A joke they just heard. Something funny that got laughter going at home. 22. Take an object (piece of chalk, eraser, or a comb) and try to make up something funny about it. Example: Chalk=a white caterpillar; Eraser=a square squirrel; Comb=a baby rake. 23. Invite a local Certified Laughter Leader to come to class a teach laughter exercises and lead a laughter club. Find them at www.worldlaughtertour.com or call 1‐ 800‐NOW‐ LAFF. 24. Initiate a riddle guessing challenge; first, make a large tag‐board cutout of a funny looking character (a clown, jester, or goofy guy) and mount it on the bulletin board. Draw a speech bubble from the figure’s mouth and, every morning, write a different riddle inside. Have students guess the answer to the riddle. 25. Cherish every chuckle. By making students aware of the value of laughter they begin a lifelong habit of humor appreciation. Have them keep a running list of all the humorous happenings in school and at home throughout the year. Have students work in groups to illustrate incidents and compile drawings for a class project. 26. On April 30, or the last class day of the month, produce an Awards Ceremony Event. Select students to serve as Masters of Ceremonies. Give some ‘serious’ awards (Best Essay, Best Poster, Best costume, and Give some ‘goofy’ awards, too (longest left thumb, best socks, most contagious smile, most infectious laugh) 27. HAVE FUN!

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iSHARE Agency Spotlight: Jo Garner By Sherri Henley AT ISHARE AGENCY, MY FOUNDING PARTNER, CHERYL MALIK AND I TAKE GREAT PLEASURE IN SPOTLIGHTING OUR EXPERTS, AS WE EACH MAINTAIN AUTONOMY WHILE CREATING A WHOLE . B Y BRINGING EXPERTS TOGETHER WE ARE ABLE TO DELIVER TO OUR CLIENTS FAR AND ABOVE WHAT WE COULD POSSIBLY MANAGE ALONE BECAUSE, “TOGETHER WE ARE

STRONGER.” Join me as I interview iSHARE featured expert, Jo Garner; Global Radio Personality and Mortgage Expert. Sherri: Jo…Tell us a little about yourself and your business. Jo: After graduating college and selling a successful business in my early 20’s, I decided to dive into life by taking a sabbatical far away from home by going to Maine. ADVENTURE can take you anywhere, but ROMANCE will keep you there. What was supposed to be a 3 month sabbatical, turned into a 3 year stay. It was in Maine that I became enamored with real estate and methods of financing it. (The romance part of the story was not connected with real estate though.) In the late 1980’s I moved back to West Tennessee and got into the real estate financing business, continuing to go back and forth to Maine as often as possible. The most exciting part of the mortgage financing business is the thrill of helping my clients get “bragging rights” on the financing package we put together for them—great terms and a structure that serves them well today and even five years from now. I am a mortgage officer specializing in FHA, Veterans Administration programs, Conventional Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac programs. 100% Rural Housing Loans, Jumbo loans, combination bank‐mortgage loans and down payment assistance products. I tailor the loan to my client’s specific needs.

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I tell my clients and my radio listeners, “MAKE YOUR PLAN, WORK YOUR PLAN. IF THE DEAL WORKS FOR YOU TODAY, DO IT TODAY.” Sherri: Why would someone choose your bank and services over another? Jo: Two things my clients say they like most about doing business with me is that I have a great deal of experience and study the mortgage industry—its products and its trends and regularly share with my clients and also my radio show listeners on the Real Estate Mortgage Shoppe program on WREC, iHeart Radio and BOCI Radio every week on air. I help my clients invest their dollars in a mortgage that makes sense for THEM. The second thing my clients say they like is that I spend the extra time to help them determine the mortgage product that will work best for them today and years from now. My clients like the fact that I attend their closings to make sure they understand the documents they are signing. I also stay in touch with them for years after they have closed their loan with me, notifying them of any changes in their loan program that may give them an early advantage, or a method of paying the mortgage off sooner. Sherri: Tell us your experience as an iSHARE client; becoming an iSHARE Expert. Jo: My first experience with iSHARE was as an iSHARE client. The more I learned about the strategy of bringing experts together to quickly and efficiently help me achieve my goals, the more I wanted to contribute MY skills to help someone else achieve THEIR goals. Sherri: Tell us about your networking platform. Jo: My motto for several years has been “you’ve got to circulate to percolate.” The best results for me come from being actively engaged in at least 3 sizable networking groups and meet with the members or participants every week: 

Talk Shoppe: A networking group that was founded by me in 2003 and built by many others over the years to offer free education and networking to anyone interested in business or networking.

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Your True Colours iSHARE: Jo Garner (Continued) 

Business Networking International (BNI): A dedicated group of professionals who meet every week to help refer business to our members.



Memphis Investors Group: A non‐profit educational group of real estate investors who offer educational speaker events and also small groups to help real estate investors do it right and become profitable.



Church: I have been fellowshipping with some of the people in my church for over 20 years. I play drums on the worship team in order to stay connected.

Sherri: How did you come to collaborate with Business Over Coffee International? Jo: Business Over Coffee International (BOCI) was established long after Talk Shoppe was in full swing. BOCI’s main focus was the online platform more so that Talk Shoppe at that time. But we shared a common passion—to help others build their businesses and themselves. Talk Shoppe gradually began to collaborate with BOCI, offering our strengths and resources in exchange for BOCI’s strong points. Sherri: Describe the first time we met. Jo: The first time we met was while what we love the most and what we do best— NETWORKING. Sherri: Jo, you are correct. You were, and still are a pillar in the community of networking and resources. I count it an honor to have been connected with you for over 4 years and celebrating Business Over Coffee International’s 4th Anniversary in collaboration with Talk Shoppe in April, 2015! This event will be local to the midsouth and global due to the power of collaboration in business that we have obtained…together…as collaborative groups and colleagues. Thank you Jo, for agreeing to become an iSHARE Expert as you add credibility and stability to the mix among other experts, while delivering experience with results to our clients.

iShare Agency is bringing experts together for project management, brand development and speakers bureau. Founding partners, Sherri Henley and Cheryl Malik established this global agency in 2014 growing to over 20 experts. iSHARE Agency is the pinnacle of expertise for your project, brand, speaking career or speaker selection, start to finish. Contact iSHARE Agency at 5865 Ridgeway Center Pkwy, Ste 300, Memphis, Tennessee, 38120 – 901.820.4469 – info@ishareagency.com

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8 EASY PIECES OF SILK

Creating a Wardrobe By Karen Mathis

“FASHION IS OUR GREATEST TOOL FOR PERSONAL EXPRESSION” ~ KAREN MATHIS The Challenge This process was learned early in my fashion career. As a fashion executive, I traveled to NYC monthly. This often consisted of spending two weeks in NYC, and two weeks at home. Each trip required daytime business attire for 8 to 10 business days and evenings out.

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What I Learned Checking luggage was just NOT an option when traveling to LaGuardia Airport. Getting into the city didn’t leave time to waste at baggage claim. My entire two weeks of clothing had to fit into one small carryon! This situation gave rise to the 8 Easy Pieces. Whether I was traveling, or planning my wardrobe needs for a new job, this is a guide I developed on what to wear. Where to start? Start with what you own. Most of us already have at least 80% of what we need. Learn to recognize your valuable pieces. This will help you discover the 20% that needs to be added. In my blog post, “Top 6 Ways to Have Style” there are tips of how to make each piece meet your personal standards. Think of your best top and bottom pieces, and which colors look amazing on you. Once you have your best eight it’s time to do the math! Let’s Do the Math With only 4 tops and one bottom piece, you now have 4 different outfits. Add a second bottom piece and you now have 8 amazing and different outfits! Add a third and fourth bottom piece, and you now have 16 different outfits that show off your best features! With the RIGHT pieces, you can extend your wardrobe options, and make travel easy. Several of my clients, before learning this technique, spent thousands of dollars on outfits that limited their options. With this concept, they now look forward to packing for travel. You may even find that your partners, and family envy your new jet‐setter prowess.

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What is Your DRAMA? Manifest the Dynamic Person you are by being Receptive. By Gina Davis

Dr Mae Jemison, 1st Afrincan American women to become an astronaut. “Rosie the Riveter” after the iconic figure of a strong female war production worker. Lynda Carter as Wonder Woman from the 1970s series

WOMEN HAVE ASTONISHING STRENGTHS. MANIFESTING THAT STRENGTH IS TRULY AMAZING TO SEE. YET THE ONE AREA THAT WOMEN TYPICAL AVOID, IS BEING RECEPTIVE. RECEPTIVENESS IN THE FORM OF THE WILLINGNESS OR READINESS TO RECEIVE. Often they go as far as to undermine their own power. As much as we struggle with being receptive, the opposite is easy for us. We easily give to others. When we see someone hurting or in trouble, we are the first to lend a helping hand. We empathize and sympathize with their situation. Offering that proverbial shoulder to cry on. And often we are the placater, not only at home but in the work arena. As women we often put everyone else before ourselves, often to the determinant of our own health. Otherwise we would be selfish, right? That would be a resound NO! At times it feels like it is program into us, we have to help others first. Almost like a mantra. And when we think about doing something that is for ourselves; we feel ungenerous. We feel we are not fulfilling a predetermined image of what we should be, of how we should look and of what we should do.

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I say, ‘Throw It Out’, embrace that self‐indulgence. It is time that we are receptive to our own comfort, want, needs and desires. Embrace It! Rejuvenate yourself; give yourself a luxury; energize yourself. Bring forth that Dynamic woman that you are. There is positivity in being receptive. Opening yourself to a willingness or readiness to receive will help you develop a more Dynamic Rejuvenated women. Not because your self‐absorbed, but from the knowledge that helping yourself first, gives you more control and energy to help others. Think about what the airline steward tells you, ‘If you are traveling with a child or someone who requires assistance, secure your mask on first, and then assist the other person’. Otherwise you would pass out when the cabin lost pressure. Assuring that you were unable to help yourself, much less anyone around you. Sometimes it is smart to be a little selfish. Humankind has always struggled with change, it is necessary but never a snap to do. When it comes to breaking out of a constant helping mode for women it is extremely hard. That mantra I mentioned, it has been there for women since the dawn of man. We don’t only have to deal with our past experiences that turned us into the women we are today, but we have to deal with history. I am a firm believer that people can change. There is really nothing or no one that can make that decision for us. Once you make the decision to change, to being open to receive. Then you are on the road to change. OK! I’ve made the decision I want to change. What do I do now? Today we can get started on fixing your DRAMA. Define your problem – look at what you have been doing? Define in detail what is happening. Reveal– delve into why you are doing this, reveal this source. Approach – scrutinize what change is needed to bring about the resolution you wish Momentum – it is time to recharge, relearn & energize yourself, with the momentum to move you towards your new goal.

clipart.com

Action – what is your first step to making that change. Lastly, review and repeat this process often, until the change is complete.

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What is Your Drama? (Continued) This is a simple start. Contact me for more on the No More Drama Workshop – be the change you want to be. Also there are some really great resources out there to help you with being receptive. Make change one of your goals. What resources you ask? Check out my email newsletter that comes out the first of each month. I will be including some of my favorite resources. First, let’s brainstorm ideas of what and how you can receive. Receptiveness is defined as the willingness: a. Receiving new ideas as in knowledge. This seems so simple, but I am astounding at the number of clipart.com people, not just women that do not take advantage of this. I asked this the other day, ‘What do you do when you don’t know how to do something?’ Their response was, ‘I ask someone or I get a book.’ Both are good answers, but they overlooked one of the best resources we have now days. Your computer and the Internet, a web search is one of the most powerful resources now of days. b. Receiving help from others. Letting others help and guide you is a powerful resource. Here it is sometimes a simple case of ask. Ask the universe, ask friends, ask your trusted advisers. People are not adverse at giving advice. It’s not always free, but you have to determine your need. Can I find enough free help or is my question more involved. Do be in the mode to pay people for their services, especially if it service type industry. c. Receiving what you deserve. Do you hold back? Do you let things pass you by? Are you asking for what you deserve? Women are hard on themselves. Especially when it comes to our careers, our passions and or our personal life. Women find it hard to ask for themselves. Especially when money is involved. You are worth it. You have the smarts, the knowledge, the skill, the passion to be a Dynamic woman and a Dynamic women ask for what she deserves. She doesn’t question that she deserves it. So know.. I mean KNOW YOU DESERVE IT. Challenge It is amazing to me, I did not realize how passionate I was about this topic. Not until I started writing it. I know all these things, but I still have to remind myself. Need others to remind me. You might know these things. And I hope today, I gave you a kick in the butt, a surge of energy, a renewed goal to work for. I hope that this topic gave you, whatever you needed. I would love to hear what you needed from it? What did it remind you that you positively, absolutely needed to do as a Dynamic woman? Until next time, Take Time to Live a Life that Inspires You.

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www.kally.transform30.com

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Wellness: Playtime and Hobbies By Kally Efros , PLAY HAS FREQUENTLY BEEN DESCRIBED AS 'WHAT CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE DO WHEN THEY ARE NOT BEING TOLD WHAT TO DO BY ADULTS'. HAVING TIME AND SPACE TO PLAY GIVES CHILDREN THE OPPORTUNITY TO MEET AND SOCIALIZE WITH THEIR FRIENDS, KEEPS THEM PHYSICALLY ACTIVE, AND GIVES THE FREEDOM TO CHOOSE WHAT THEY WANT TO DO . Children are not the only ones who need such activity. The Oxford Dictionary defines ‘hobby’ as a favorite activity that a person does for pleasure and not as his or her regular business. In short, hobby is one's favorite pastime. "When people do things that make them feel good, like a hobby, it activates an area of the brain called the nucleus accumbens that controls how we feel about life", said Dr. S. Ausim Azizi, chairman of the department of neurology at Temple University’s School of Medicine in Philadelphia who studies brain activity and cell signaling. "Activities you enjoy also stimulate the brain’s septal zone — its “feel good” area — and that makes you feel happy", said Dr. Azizi. Research shows that play has many benefits for children, families and the wider community, as well as improving health and quality of life. Children's access to good play provision can increase their self‐awareness, self‐esteem, and self‐respect. Appropriate play will improve and maintain their physical and mental health, not to mention giving them the opportunity to mix with other children. Play allows children to increase their confidence through developing new skills. The same occurs with adults developing hobbies. Play promotes imagination, independence and creativity. Any observer will quickly be amazed at the mind of a child. Play also offers opportunities for children of all abilities and backgrounds to play together, which allows for healthy social skills and learning. Playtime builds resilience through risk taking and challenge, problem solving, and dealing with new situations. Imagine how a child grows from the opportunities to learn about their environment and the larger community. Evidence is also available that outlines wider benefits of play for families and communities, suggesting that parents can feel more secure knowing that their children are happy, safe and enjoying themselves. Families benefit from healthier, happier children. Children benefit from happier adults who pursue their

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favorite pastimes. Communities benefit from the social interaction, development of a greater sense of community spirit, and social cohesion. A hobby provides an opportunity to acquire a number of special skills and knowledge. By learning a hobby, you will be acquiring an ability to display your talent or skill by performing a series of activities that are special to that particular hobby. Hobbies can act as facilitators of life time passion and engagement. Hobbies offer a number of advantages like developing increased levels of confidence. Hobbies can provide something productive to do when you are idle. Hobbies can also provide an opportunity to accomplish something other than academics. Hobbies can help develop self esteem, self image, will power and strength. Hobbies form the main gateway to learning and understanding. Reading and writing hobbies can help bring individuals, who spend too much time watching TV or play games, to engage themselves in reading good books. Reading is a good hobby that develops the noble qualities of patience and tolerance. With good hobbies, you can learn how to set goals and achieve them. Goal setting is very important life skills that can help anyone to realize his or her dreams. In our hectic, modern lives, many of us focus so heavily on work and family commitments that we never seem to have time for pure fun. Somewhere between childhood and adulthood, we’ve stopped playing. When we do carve out some leisure time, we're more likely to zone out in front of the TV or computer than engage in fun, rejuvenating play like we did as children. Just because we’re adults, doesn't mean we have to take ourselves so seriously and make life all about work. We all need to play. Play is just as pivotal for adults as it is for kids. We don’t lose the need for novelty and pleasure as we grow up. Give yourself permission to play every day. Play is one of the most effective tools for keeping relationships fresh and exciting. Playing together for the fun of it brings joy, vitality, and resilience to relationships. Play can also heal resentments, disagreements, and hurts. Through regular play, we learn to trust one another and feel safe. Trust enables us to work together, open ourselves to intimacy, and try new things. By making a conscious effort to incorporate more humor and play into your daily interactions, you can improve the quality of your love relationships—as well as your connections with co‐workers, family members, and friends.

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Wellness: Playtime and Hobbies (Continued) Play and laughter perform an essential role in building strong, healthy relationships by bringing people closer together, creating a positive bond, and resolving conflict and disagreements. In new relationships, play and humor can be an effective tool not just for attracting the other person but also for overcoming any awkwardness or embarrassment that arises during the dating and getting‐to‐know‐you process. In longer‐term relationships, play can keep things exciting, fresh, and vibrant, and deepen intimacy. It can also help you overcome differences and the tiny aggravations than can build up over time. Many companies have long recognized the link between productivity and a fun work environment. Some encourage play and creativity by offering art or yoga classes, throwing regular parties, providing games such as Foosball or ping pong, or encouraging recess‐like breaks during the workday for employees to play and let off steam. These companies know that more play at work results in more productivity, higher job satisfaction, greater workplace morale, and a decrease in staff turnover and absenteeism. One of the 7 basics that we focus on at Indigo Mountain is play. We consider it to be that important. Mark is a human resources consultant and uses play as an important step in training and helping companies foster a better work environment. It’s never too late to develop your playful side. If you find yourself limiting your playfulness, it's important to point out that as a child, you were naturally playful. You can reclaim your inner child by setting aside regular, quality play and hobby time. The more you play, joke, and laugh—the easier it becomes. Try to clear your schedule for an afternoon or evening, for example, and then turn off your phone, TV, computer, and other devices. Give yourself permission to do whatever you want for the time you’ve allotted. Be spontaneous, set aside your inhibitions and try something fun, something you haven’t done since you were a kid, perhaps. And enjoy the change of pace. If you need help implementing some ideas into your work, family or relationships; give us a call. We can help. It is one of the 7 Basics we help people with.

Photo credits by Stuart Mile, stockimages. Gualberto107, Ambr, and photostock at FreeDigitalPhotos.net

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Get Real With Mark and Kally On Your True Colors Image Radio Wednesdays at 1:00 pm Central Time Zone http://www.blogtalkradio.com/bendall April Shows 2015 Get Real! with Mark and Kally

April 1st ‐ April Fool's Day History Take a humorous journey with us as we explore the history behind April Fool's day and some of the world's funniest hoaxes. April 8th ‐ National Parks of the United States What to see? What to do? And Why you might want to include a National Park in your travel plans. April 15th ‐ Anxiety Many people deal with short term or chronic anxiety. Get some easy tips to help you manage anxiety and information on tools that can help you get to the root of anxiety. April 22nd ‐ Sleep and Rest Getting plenty of rest is one of the 7 Basics of health. Are you one of the many that struggle just to get a good night's sleep? Do you rely on sleeping pills and still not feel rested? Tune in for tips on getting a good night's rest. April 29th ‐ Book Review 'Feelings Buried Alive Never Die' by Karol Truman Karol Truman provides a comprehensive and enlightening resource for getting in touch with unresolved feelings which, she explains, can distort not only happiness but also health and well‐being.

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Vintage Wendy Gell figural "Scarecrow" enameled pin, c. 1980s.

Wearable Art: Fun Figurals Pinning for Puns By Melinda Lewis

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Your True Colours HUMOR IS FOUND IN MYRIAD OF WAYS, BUT FEW THINK OF JEWELRY AS FUN, SILLY, AND DOWNRIGHT HUMOROUS . Too often, we get caught up in the seriousness of life, especially when it comes to fashion. But as a vintage jewelry lover, I’ve found a way to brighten not only my day, but bring enjoyment to those I encounter: conversation pieces! Jewelry designers, especially those of the 20th century, have not only left us an imprint of the historical past, but also a humorous one. By capturing the trends and characters of the times in jewelry, the creations they left for us to adore are a great way to have a little fun

Vintage Elzac figural "Victum of Fashion" woman pin. c. 1940s.

with our wardrobe. Conversation pieces, or figurals as many in the trade call them, can be found in all shapes, sizes and materials. Jewelry manufacturers incorporated figural shapes into almost any form of jewelry including bracelets, necklaces, and earrings, but the pin is often the most sort‐ after form in this genre.

Vintage Napier figural apple man pin c. 1970s from the "Happy Face" series.

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From the 1930s through the 1960s, the collectors find the greatest variety of figural pins, depicting all types of situations and symbols. Figurals were a way of bringing levity

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Fun Figurals Pinning for Puns (Continued) to challenging times or making statements about serious matters,and yes, simply to bring laughter into our daily lives. Almost all of the old giants in jewelry manufacturing had figurals in their lines: Monet, Trifari, Coro and Napier to name a few. And today, figurals are some of the most sought‐after pieces to collect—ranging from a few dollars to thousands of dollars for the rare exceptional pieces. Yes, that’s correct, a few thousand dollars for a piece highly coveted by collectors.

Vintage Hattie Carnegie figural Straw man pin, c. 1950s.

But you don’t need several thousand dollars to find this wearable art. Online in vintage stores, antique malls and antique fairs offer so many opportunities to find that reasonably priced silly piece of joyous craftsmanship with which to

adorn yourself and spread a little joy. Anthropomorphic designs were commonplace, as were human‐shaped figurals in compromising situations. Some jewelry can be found very politically incorrect while still admired for the workmanship or the unabashed reminder of where we have come from as a society. Conversational pins are effective; they do what they were designed to do—to spark conversation, to break the ice, to bring a smile to a stranger’s face. They are our little walking billboards of fun! What will you wear today? Melinda L. Lewis is the author of The Napier Co.: Defining 20th Century American Costume Jewelry, Life By Design Publishing, 2013. As a jewelry historian, she has been involved with the online vintage costume jewelry community for the last 14 years, with a focus on The Napier Co. over the past 11 years. http://www.vintagejewelrycollect.com

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Vintage Napier figural circus elephant pin from the Starlight collection, c. within the 1980’s

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Invisible Lip Liner •Prevents lip gloss and lipstick from bleeding or feathering •Creates a defined shape to the lips •Enhances any shade of lip gloss or lipstick •Waterproof •Long-lasting •Free of mineral oil, paraffin, preservatives, and animal-derived ingredient Available at Nordstroms.com, Walgreens.com, and, Beauty.com. http://www.lashem.com

Vita Sciences http://www.vitasciences.com

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http://www.gopurenaturals.com

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Summer Scarves http://shop.vrittidesigns.com/

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Cool Skin Tones

Glasses that blend with your skin tone are very important. They are the focal point on your face, and if they are creating redness or accenting wrinkles, they are not a good focal point.

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Warm Skin Tones

Warm skin tones especially need to make sure that they colors of the frames blend beautifully with their skin tone. Wearing a pair of glasses that has cool colors for frames will detract from your best qualities. jeffreyleungdesign.com

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Choosing the Right Flat Iron

IF YOU ARE IN THE MARKET FOR A FLAT IRON, THERE ARE MANY DIFFERENT FACTORS YOU WANT TO CONSIDER . FIRST OF ALL, WHAT EXACTLY IS A FLAT IRON? It is important to

realize that a flat iron is different from a curling iron, and works very differently from the Hot air brushes. Though it is called a “flat” iron, and is normally associated with making the hair flatter, they can also wave it and curl it, depending on how you use it. Also important is to realize that different kinds of flat irons can make different sorts of effects on your hair.

Hair Type With all of the different choices on the market, it can be tough to know which iron will work for your hair. In general, most women’s hair falls into one of four categories. Find yours to discover the right flat iron for you. Fine, mostly straight hair. If you have fine hair that gets frizzy from time to time, you will need a straightener with digital (or analog) heat settings so you can adjust the temperature to the low setting the reduce damage to your hair , a ceramic or tourmaline plates can help increase protection. Fine, curly hair. If your hair is fine, but very curly, you will want to find a flat iron that has a wide range of temperatures to choose from, so you can pick the one that works for your particular mixture of texture and density. Look for a model with tourmaline or titanium plates. Thick, mostly straight hair. Even if you have only a little wave or curl that needs to be tamed, thick hair demands more heat than fine hair. Look for a model with high (370F‐420F) temperature settings and a larger plate (1”‐1.5”) that allows you to spread your thick hair out, so that ever strand gets equal attention from the heat.

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Thick, curly or coarse hair. If your hair falls into this category, you will want to look for a model that offers you both high heat and hair protection. Though you might have unruly hair, you will need to look for model the combine tourmaline with ceramic and far infrared heating system to protect your hair from becoming fried. Look for one with at least a 420F to 450F degree temperature setting.

Plate materials Basic Flat Irons – These are the most common flat irons, made with metal plates and no heat settings, usually confined to just On/Off. While some people, especially those who only occasionally flat iron their hair, or only flat iron a small portion of their hair may find a model like this helpful, in general, most people opt for the next level of iron. Ceramic – Ceramic models come in a variety of function, with many different heat settings. You may be able to find a ceramic model for fairly cheap, depending on its other functionalities. In general, however, the more functions it has, the more expensive it is going to be. There are also different qualities of ceramic. The reason these are more popular than the basic models is because they are far less likely to burn the shaft of the hair as they straighten it. Tourmaline – Tourmaline is by far the most durable materials, and is well‐loved in the beauty industry because it heats up quickly, holds its heat well, and leaves hair looking healthy and shiny, rather than crispy and fried like some other materials. Ionic – Ionic is by far the most advanced technology used in straightening irons, and is therefore also the most expensive. This defiantly does the best job for the widest variety of hair types. If you have dry hair, it is the most recommended option for your hair, which actually traps moisture into the hair, rather than sapping it away like other materials do. In general, the thicker and curlier your hair is, the higher heat you will need in order to straighten it. That means that the thicker and curlier your hair is, the more advanced flat iron you should buy. Better quality materials not only allow the flat iron to last longer, they also do less damage to hair that needs hotter and more vigorous straightening in order to get the job done. Courtesy of kadorihair.com

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When the latest fashion plunges more than you want to plunge, layer with a cami. http://downeastbasics.com/

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Sophisticated Curves’ Featured Picks for Plus Size Prom Dresses 2015 BE THE BABE THAT MESMERIZES EVERYONE WHEN YOU WEAR THIS GORGEOUS BODY‐HUGGING FORMAL GOWN. This is one of our favorite

prom dresses for this year. Stripes of sequins strategically placed on the sheath silhouette draw the eye to your fabulous curves. Sexy slit shows off your legs. Look glamorous coming and going with gorgeous dress. This is just one of the fabulous frocks that rock from Sydney’s Closets Collection of 2015 plus size prom dresses.

Next on our list is the glamorous Starburst. Look gorgeous on prom night in this flattering evening gown. Butterfly bodice features soft pleats and spaghetti straps. Burst of rhinestones adds sparkle and glam on your special night. Lightly gathered A‐line skirt flows in a smooth circle when you walk or dance. Matching chiffon shawl is also included. This dress comes in nine stunning colors including: Raspberry, Royal Blue and Coral. Starburst is style SC7071 and available in plus sizes 14 to 40. Experience the sexy side of glamor wearing this sexy plus size formal.

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The Game Changer features sequin lace appliques embellish net illusion and chiffon bodice. Sheer net back adds to the allure coming and going. So does the V‐neckline on the front of the bodice. Breezy chiffon skirt falls to the floor gracefully. You will love the way you look in this dress. Lavish styling and the gorgeous color Aquamarine makes this dress one of our featured picks from Sydney’s Closet’s Collection of 2015 plus size Prom dresses. Sydney’s closet has a wide range of gorgeous prom dresses for 2015. http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=710546&u=661867&m=9425&urllink=&afftrack. For more plus size

options visit http://www.sophisticatedcurves.com .

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Rockin’ Role Models 2015 Our Essential Elements Collection is designed for “Prime Time Women”. Who are they? They’re the women who have reached a point in their lives (not necessary related to age) where they know what they want, and expect to get it. They have paid their dues through dedication to their careers and their families. They are leaders in their field and leaders in their community. We are highlighting several of these women each year for their sense of style and, more importantly, for their sensitivity to the welfare of others. In recognition of Memphis, Tennessee’s designation as the Birthplace of the Blues and the Home of Rock and Roll, we are naming these our Rockin’ Role Models. We’re going to let you peek into their daily lives so you can see how they roll. These dynamic women pack more into their days than most, still take the time to look fabulous, and take steps to stay at the top of their game. Then we’re going to tell why they ROCK! Our April 2015 Rockin’ Role Model is Wyvonia Woods Harris. Meet Wyvonia on the next few pages.

Wyvonia Woods Harris Our April 2015 Rockin’ Role Model Wyvonia Woods Harris is a nurse, author, speaker, CEO of WysJoyful Company, and advocate for The American Cancer Society. She has a long list of accomplishments; and has served in many roles. However, her role as wife, mother, grandmother AND great grandmother are at the top in terms of importance. Married to Silas Harris for 39 years, they have a blended family that includes 9 children, 12 plus grandchildren, and several great grandchildren. Wy’s title of Reverend Dr. Wyvonia Woods Harris, gives you only a glimpse of her educational background. She has both Masters and Doctorate degrees in Divinity and Ministry from the Memphis Theological Seminary and Jacksonville Theological Seminary respectively. Her other degrees, BSN and Masters of Community Health - both from The University of Memphis, speak to her profession. However, her life story is about how she combines the two to carry out her personal ministry, which focuses on health and wellness.

Previous Page: Yvonia wears the Essential Elements basic dress in purple with cap sleeves and matching wrap, worn around her hips and secured with a broach. She accessorizes it with a colorful scarf.

This Page: Photos 1 and 2 - Wy’s photo shoot was held at the M.G. Ballard Designs studio in downtown Memphis, TN. On this page she wears the Essential Elements basic dress with cap sleeves and matching wrap. Photo 3 - Carolyn Bendall, President of the Fashion Academy and Editor of Your True Colors magazIne, makes a few adjustments in Wy’s hair.

In her career as a nurse she served at Baptist Hospitals in Memphis in roles in nursing management, case management, and clinical research management. Although she retired 11 years ago from Baptist, but says she still serves as a a nurse. She went back to school to become a Faith Community Nurse and continues to work as a volunteer with the Church Health Center.

How She

Rolls If you sit and listen to Wy talk about her career and her life, you are sure to get a questioning look on her face. The numbers just don’t seem to add up. Did she start working as an infant? The truth is that Wy will turn 70 on May 29th, but looks to be in her late 40’s to early 50’s at best. “My 69 plus years are a blessing,” she says, “so I don’t mind telling my age.” How does she stay looking so youthful? Her day typically begins with 59 minutes on her treadmill while meditating - it keeps her fit. As for her beauty routine, she makes sure to take her makeup off at night and cleanse her face. A willing student, she says she still follows the beauty routine Carolyn Bendall taught her two years ago. Both of Wy’s daughters are cosmetologists; and one takes care of Wy’s hair. Because she lost some of her hair years ago when diagnosed with Lupus, she is very particular about getting her hair done as often as she can. Having her hair done all the time is something she feels is important. Her signature look, a pageboy with youthful bangs, is what she settled on after experimenting with a few other looks. Wy’s beauty is enhanced by her calm and serene demeaner. A person who loves to read, she says that, at any given time, she has five to seven devotional books open. It is how she stays relaxed and in a peaceful state of mind.

Why She Rocks Wyvonia is passionate about advocating for health and wellness. Through her nonprofit, WysJoyful Company, she conducts workshops related to wellness, grief and cancer care. Her work as an Oncology Clinical Research Nurse undergirded her current focus on cancer care; however, it was losing her father to lung cancer in 2007 that sparked a fire in her. In addition to the work she does through WysJoyful Company, she also hosts Wy’s Ways of Wellness, a radio show sponsored by Kayla Padget’s Finding My Way.com blogtalk radio network. On the show, she interviews individuals with stories, business, etc., that exemplify and support the Church Health Center’s Wellness Wheel model. The model promotes the idea of creating balance in seven areas of your life for optimum health. Wy is a member of the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network ACT volunteer for Tennessee Congressional District 9, a member of the National Patient Advocate Foundation, and member of the Tennessee Cancer Coalition (TC2). Wy has served on the Boards for the Wings Cancer Foundation, the Mid-South Comfort Care Coalition, the Oncology Nursing Society, the Community Action Team of Shelby County Tennessee (CATS), the Christ Community Medical Clinic, and the Sigma Theta Tau Nursing Honor Society. She has also received numerous awards and commendations, including being selected as one of the “City Wide Celebrate Nursing Excellent Eleven” City of Memphis Tennessee 1990, and being awarded a “Lifetime Red Cross Nursing Pin” in 1985.

Previous Page Wy is wearing a leather, wearable art coat from the M.G. Ballard Designs Signature Collection. The coat, titled “Awakening,” features a button front and inset side pockets. The floor length coat is satin lined.

Find out more: facebook.com/wysjoyfulcompany Wyvonia Woods Harris (LinkedIn) @wysjoyful (Twitter) Wy7Well (Instagram)

This Page Photo 1: Wy is wearing the Essential Elements cowl neck dress with three-quarter sleeves in black. Over the dress she wears an Essential Elements coat with soft lapel and wide sleeves. Photo 2: Wy and photographer Lenora Bendall, a student at The University of Memphis, have a bit of fun during the shoot. Photo 3: Stylist Sarah McConnico adjusts Wy’s scarf. Sarah, a student at The University of Memphis, is majoring in Fashion Merchandising with minors in Marketing Management and Social Media Marketing.

CREDITS Photography: Lenora Bendall • 901.258.4716 Stylist: Sarah McConnico Makup: Carolyn Bendall using the Your True Colors Make-Up line developed by her company. www.fashionacademy.biz Clothing: Essential Elements and Signature Collections by M.G. Ballard Designs www.mgballarddesigns.com • 901.290.2296 Accessories from Wy’s personal collection.

it’s not for sissies A MEMOIR BY MARIE PIZANO According to Marie Pizano, the word “no” is not in her vocabulary. She simply says, “I Can” and “I Will”. Her memoir, From Barefoot to Stilettos tells the story of her life thus far, from her childhood days of living on food stamps, gangs and double-dutching on the streets of south-side Chicago to surviving a life changing accident, moving to Memphis and living a trophy-wife life, dealing with the mean girls, the monster-in-law, panic attacks, becoming a mother, to her postdivorce years and defeating the odds of building an entertainment powerhouse, all while rediscovering herself, her life, and her power. Through explorations of her own past and present tense, Marie reflects on how the sum of her trials and triumphs shaped her into the empowered woman she became during her incessant quest to find her “yes.” ... http://frombarefoottostilettos.com/