A MAGICAL MOMENT IN TIME AND LIFE….

This past Saturday morning I organized and hosted the 2nd Annual Boatload of Clowns Cruise.  The 1st week of August is International Clown Week and a great excuse to gather regional clowns together for a celebration of smiles.  This year we reached out to the Starlight Children’s Foundation to share all of our smiles with about 60  folks that certainly could use a opportunity to escape and relax.  We dedicated the Cruise and all profits to www.RedNoseResponse.org What happened next can only be described as a Magical Moment in Time and Life of all of us onboard the Dutch Apple!  As Captain Lou pulled away from the dock, we left the rest of the world behind.  No cares, no worries, just a rare opportunity to enjoy the moment and life itself!   

As the cruise began, I immediately realized that a wonderful positive energy developed between the Clowns and our guest families. On one hand we had assembled a group of 75+ individuals dedicated to helping make people smile. On the other hand, we had a group of wonderful families facing great personal life challenges and, truly ready to smile. On the other hand, yes…”I” am writing this so ’3′ hands are ok! We have me and Team SmileMonster. We’re all about helping make people SMILE MORE and it doesn’t get better than this. I am still deeply touched and humbled by my experience this weekend.

 We spent 2 &1/2 hours laughing, dancing, hugging and loving life!  Everyone smiled for the entire time we were onboard and, for most of us, on into that day and night.  As I looked into the faces of moms, dads, brothers, sisters, grandparents, clowns and everyone onboard, I realized something about myself that will continue to fuel my future emotions. When I become focused on all of my problems, concerns, challenges and stress….all I need to do is reflect for a moment on this past Saturday.  My problems are insignificant.  How dare I ever hide in self pitty or self centered distress.  Learn from those with real life and death concerns, learn to live and love today.  Enjoy all you have!  Every moment you focus on the negative is a moment lost to enjoy and cherish.

SM

The story is best told through the eyes and faces of everyone onboard.

One of Albany’s GREATEST assets!  We love you Captain Lou!

A PET PROJECT!

I love animals!  After all, we certainly share some obvious similarities. I am covered with soft hair.  I can’t speak, but constantly communicate with everyone around me. I have big caring eyes, a big heart and I definitely enjoy making people SMILE!  Our pets are one of the most wonderful sources of happiness, piece of mind and love. 

No matter what distractions, stress or life challenges we face on a day to day basis, a devoted pet, close by our side,  makes all the positive difference. It enhances the quality of life we lead and enjoy.  A pet provides unconditional love, commitment and dedication second to none!  

I recently traveled to Rotterdam Junction to add a little energy and support to the WAGS AND WHISKERS EVENT, with  the SPCA of Schenectady, Schoharie and Saratoga Counties.  What a wonderful gathering of the community and their pets! 

As I traveled through out grounds, I was struck with the aura of positive attitudes, words, thoughts, empathy, happiness and smiles that filled the air everywhere I turned.  Pets naturally focus on what is good, fun and positive.  They set the tone and the mood for a better life.  We should all be sure to return the precious moments and service they provide with loving care, protection and affection. 

If you don’t have a pet, perhaps you should consider the benefits to you and your family of getting one.  If you do have a pet, be sure to always return the love and happiness.  And…please be vigilant of the care and treatment of all of the pets you may encounter.  If you see a problem or suspect a problem…PLEASE contact your local SPCA.  HELP US, HELP THEM, HELP YOU!

Have a great day and hug your cat or dog or whatever!!!!

SM

One Picture is worth a 1000 Words-and more!

Life is grand - I appreciate EVERY moment!

Ode to My Best Friend….

I haven’t been able to write about it for several months.  I lost my best friend and buddy back in March.  She was a truly significant source of my happiness, piece of mind and a perpetual reason to smile.  I found “Layla Bear” in an ad on the internet, fell in love with her the moment we met,  never realizing that making her a part of my family and my life would have such a profound and lasting positive impact on my wellbeing. 

   Layla was my fantastic Black Lab.  Now, almost all Black labs do tend to have wonderful natures and are intelligent, loving pets.  Layla took these characteristics to a whole different level.  Everyone who met Layla during her short 8 years of life, at full throttle immediately noticed that she was truly special.. Even people scared of dogs, were instantly put at ease by this totally loving and docile, passionate and gleeful creature.  When her tail wagged, her entire body wagged. Her love and enthusiasm produced smiles and happiness wherever she went.  We were together from before sunrise and walking every, “every” morning no matter what the weather.  We were together every, “every” evening for our second walk. Layla was my shadow everyday for 8 years.  She brought brightness and love to everyone lucky enough to have met her.  In February of 2010 I awoke on a Saturday morning and with one look, noticed her throat was swollen.  Because she was alway healthy and happy, I immediately decided to run her over to the emergency vet.  One look and a quick blood test and the concern was the worst it could possibly have been.  Lymphoma.  After rushing the lab testing, that Monday came with a confirmation that layla indeed had Lymphoma.  Faced with no good options. there is no cure, I elected to do all I could to secure the best treatment possible and continue as long she was healthy and happy during the process. Layla immediately went into remission and  thrived with no negative reactions for one year and one month.  On a Sunday this past March, she went from full throttle to very ill, weak and complications resulted in her passing that rainy evening.  It was the saddest day of my life!  But…I realized I had been blessed with 8 fantastic years of the best friend a person could ever have.  More fun, smiles. laughs and emotional warmth than I could possibly calculate or replace.  Layla Bear “pulled me” along into her wonderful world of fun, enthusiasm and a beaming positive outlook on all things at all times. 

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Layla loved boating!

My life and all of those around me have been enriched because of Layla’s positive energy and impact.  I will miss and appreciate her forever and ever!

SM

SmileMonster GOES INTERNATIONAL!

Well…at least I stuck my oversized toe in the International arena.  I was invited to appear at the Humor Project’s 54 International Convention this past weekend at  spectacular Silver Bay in lake Geroge, NY.  The convention focuses on the wonderful world of humor and it’s ciritcal place in business, society and our everyday lives.  When I arrived at the conference I immediately felt at home.  I was surrounded by positive people, uplifting attitudes and a deep love and appreciation of  humor, smiles and all that enriches life.

THE WONDERFUL WORLD OF HUMOR! Live and Laugh a lot!

I was invited on stage at the closing performance of the “MOP AND BUCKET” IMPROV GROUP…As I made my way on stage from behind the curtain, I could literally hear and feel the audience’s thrilled surprise as we closed a fantastic weekend event, sending everyone off with a BIG SMILE!

  Ya know what…I can feel attitudes changing as Team SmileMonster continues to reach out into the community and beyond.  I believe we are truly having a positive impact , one SMILE at a time.  Life is good!  Think happy reach out and help someone else today  and just plain smile more……..

SM

Summer FUN HAS BEGUN!

A wonderful day for Smiles and Flowers!

I am getting a lot of calls and feedback every day from folks all around the Capital Region looking for SMILES  and Team SmileMonster is doing our very best to respond to everyone.  The last couple of weeks, my travels have been fantastic.  I started with a trip to Washington Park for Albany’s Own Tulip Festival.

And then came the RAINS but it had no effect on the positive enthusiasm and dedication the huge turnout for the MARCH OF DIMES-MARCH FOR BABIES at the Crossings in Colonie!  It is the first time that I got SOAKED but my spirits and those of everyone around me were never dampened( and NEVER will be!)

And then we were off to Albany’s Palace theater to help celebrate the International Family Series featuring the MAGIC OF BILL BLAGG!

SMILING is ALWAYS MAGICAL and Bill Blagg thrilled us all with wonder magic and plenty of SMILES to enrich the day!

Thank you Palace Theater and Bill Blagg for providing great fun and entertainment the WHOLE FAMILY CAN ENJOY!

REAL FAMILY FUN!

A positive outlook makes us ALL YOUNGER!

Then, to round out the past few weeks, I was off to Gloversville!

This was my second opportunity to join TEAM HOPE and the wonderful folks from the Gloversville area to help support the RELAY FOR LIFE!  It doesn’t get better than this when we can be a part of events and peoples’ lives for such a great cause.  I love this event and all the folks involved.

 

Everbody wins at this event!

This weekend, I am honored to have been invited to appear at THE HUMOR PROJECT’S 54TH ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL  CONFERENCE in Lake George, NY.  Folks gather from around the world to experience, learn and enjoy HUMOR at it’s very best!  Wow…very cool to be a small part of this distinquished event….PICTURES AND COMMENTS TO FOLLOW NEXT WEEK!

SM

Local Businesses, Media Noticing the Positive Effort!

It was only a dream last year as we began puting the pieces of the SmileMonster Project together.  After designing the SmileMonster character, we were convinced we had something truly special, that would immediately fascinate and appeal to people of all ages. No question, SmileMonster would produce smiles wherever it appeared.  Thanks to the world class professionals at the Costumer in Schenectady, SmileMonster came to life and surpassed even our wildest expectations.  The website, www.SmileMonster.com has proven to be a labor of love and a significant learning experience for all of us!  What we have realized over the past year is that SmileMonster has many moving pieces.  It is the physical Mascot and the frequent direct interaction of that Mascot, within the community, that provides the driving visibility and energy for the project.  Every day now, as community awareness of SmileMonster grows, we are  overwhelemed with the ground swell of support and interest.   Over the past several weeks, score of emails and calls have come into SmileMonster headquarters requesting information, offering assistance and interested in sponsorship.

We are extremely proud to announce new partnerships with CDTA’s (Capital District Transit Authority) the innovative new BusPlus Service and a strategic marketing alliance with Mr. Subb’s 20 regional locations. Local media is beginning to notice as well.  SmileMonster will be apprearing LIVE at 8:45am on WNYT TV 13 with Dan Bazile on Sunday, April 10th.  Should be interesting to what a 4 minute interview with a SILENT SmileMonster.  I’m sure we’ll be there to help out!   At this point, I would like to personally thank everyone who has SMILED along with SmileMonster, everyone and every business that has believed and supported our mission to help make people smile more, our SUNY ALBANY INTERNS, our webmaster Nancy McKiernan, web support Kierstin, our friends and the local community.

SMILEMONSTER Please tell a friend, an associate, everyone you know, about SmileMonster and let’s all catch this wave of positive energy and appreciation of what wonderful people, places and things we have right here in our own backyard.  Look for LOCAL BUSINESSES that support LOCAL COMMUNITY needs and causes.   Before you shop….Please look for the SMILEMONSTER LOGO on all participating businesses and organizations.  SmileMonster, local business and consumers, working together for a happier, healthier local community!

Being me is fun to be!

Over the weekend my team of Smile Ambassadors and I made an appearance at the
Empire State Plaza as a part of the Hannaford Kidz Expo, and boy what a turn out! I
don’t think I could ever count the number of kids, parents and visitors we got to grin, ear to ear.
We traveled around the entire Expo touring a whole bunch of wonderful booths and
meeting a lot of interesting people, most of them, doing good work and positive things for our local
community.. I was joined by Jeff, John, Nick, Ross, and Nicholas, fellow SUNY Albany Interns,
volunteering their personal time to serve as Smile Ambassadors, on our mission to help
make people smile more. When one child smiles, so do the parents, friends and fellow siblings.
Every smile produces an ongoing stream of additional smiles, that’s what SmileMonster is all about!
Best of all, smiling is FREE, FUN and GOOD FOR YOU!  There really are no words to properly
describe and express the sense of value, purpose and satisfaction I feel at the end of the day, as I reflect on the
thousands of fresh smiles generated and the positive moments shared at each appearance.
There is really nothing quite like it. Hours and hours silently spent inside the SmileMonster, hearing children laugh,
ask questions, poke, pet and hug me. I feel the genuine love and joy, and it just makes me feel wonderful as well.
I’m not sure who’s smiling more.  Me or all of the folks I meet. I love being a part of an amazing  team of positive people out to make a small but significant quality of life impact on everyone we encounter. Every little smirk or genuine grin, that brightens up someone’s face, can’t help but spread to another. We will continue to do our very best to reach out to everyone we can to focus on what is RIGHT and GOOD all around us everyday. I hope everyone we touched this past Saturday, left the event with at least one more smile to share with someone else.
Please stop and say hello next time you see me out and join me on FACEBOOK at Happy SmileMonster and SmileMonster.
 
TSM

New Jingle Inspires New Video!

SmileMonster Intern Video by Jeff Cortland

Gotta love our dedicated interns!  I received this last night via email and I have been smiling since then.  Check out this special effort by ace intern Jeff Cortland, utilizing our brand new SmileMonster Jingle, courtesy of WGNA’S RICHIE PHILLIPS and a few photos and video clips  from past SmileMonster appearances.  Hope you enjoy the video. I sure did!   Expect lots more reasons to SMILE and FUN right around the corner.  Hope to see you at this weekend’s KIDZ EXPO at the Empire State Plaza, Saturday 10am-5pm.  Please stop by the SmileMonster booth,  we’ll catch your smile and post it on the SmileMonster Galleries.  Enjoy what’s RIGHT in our community.

SM

Energy, enthusiasm and passion make me SMILE!

I met up with John and Nick, 2 of Team SmileMonster’s newest interns. near SUNY Albany’s campus this past Friday evening, piled into the SmileMobile and headed to RPI as the snow flew.  These fellas just joined the Team last week and immediately stepped forward to help out with a last minute appearance at Puckman’s(RPI Hockey Mascot) birthday celebration.  We plowed through the snow, got caught in crazy traffic on 787, turned off to travel through downtown Troy and finally arrived at RPI and hour later.  Nether John or Nick had ever experienced one of my apprearances and the only time for preparation was during  the ride through the snow.  I handed Nick the camera, told John what to expect, handed him our flyers and information and off we went.  Within minutes of entering the Field House, Team SmileMonster was in perfect Smile Sync!  I could feel the energy and confidence rise as fans greeted us and jumped in for pictures with SmileMonster.  The response from everyone around us was fantastic!  As I looked out at Nick and John, I was thrilled by their huge smiles, high energy and natural passion. They were fully engaged in the moment,  lovin the interaction with everyone and truly enjoying the experience.    We are fully dedicated to making our community a more positive place to live, to help make people smile more, to amplify what is RIGHT all around us.  With great new team members like John and Nick, we gain energy, enthusiasm and passion.  Life is Good and getting better every day.  Join us and make someone else smile today

CHECK OUT MORE PICTURES in our Galleries on www.SmileMonster.com!

SM