Laugh out loud life lessons

I love facilitating workshops with adult learners, particularly with those who are eager to learn and ready to put in some hard work!  This week on Long Island, I am completely spoiled by the level of participation by the administrators with whom I am working. So, it is no small wonder that I have smiled a lot today.  A lot.

But there have been three things that have made me laugh out loud just in the few hours since I finished teaching today. 

First of all, I went to the front desk of my absolutely beautiful hotel and conference center in Glen Cove, New York and told the front desk agent I appreciated all of her help in securing a room for me while a television series was being filmed here this week.  She smiled and said, "Your name is Dr. Arneson, right?"  Wow!  I was impressed.  I had checked in a few hours before and she remembered me! "That is impressive that you remember that" I complimented.  She sheepishly looked at me and admitted, "I have to be honest.  You are wearing your nametag still"  Handslap to forehead and I laughed outloud.  My life lesson for the day?  Be aware at all times.  Having said that, I still stand by complimenting her.  She did a good job and everyone deserves an "attaboy" for a job well done.

Next, I went out for a walk on the grounds of this absolutely stunning hotel.  I walked down by the water's edge, enjoying being outside after a long but rewarding day of training.  Always on the lookout for dog-lovers (especially when missing my sweet three Lab girls at home), I noticed a Golden Retriever and a lady walking.  As I got closer, I had to laugh outloud.  The lady was walking independent of the dog.  The dog had its own leash in its mouth.  Love it!! Life lesson #2?  Let's teach our youth (and pets, if we can) to do the right thing even when we aren't holding on tightly to the reins.  

As I returned from town to get some dinner, I noticed even more action around the front of the hotel.  They are filming the CBS series "Madame Secretary" here and there are caterers, actors, equipment operators, sound guys, directors, and more Hollywood folks than you can shake a stick at.  As I walked to the front entrance, I heard a hush following someone calling out "Quiet on the set."  And that is when I noticed all the signs that had been put up since I left saying "Quiet--filming in progress".  I almost laughed out loud as I realized I was seeing lights and actors actually filming a scene for this series, and I almost walked into it.  Life lesson #3?  Be on your best behavior at all times, because you never know when someone (or the American television viewing audience) may be watching.  

I hope you have found something today that makes you laugh outloud. 

Happy Communicating!!

Shelly