Paleoanthropology and laughter (yes for real)

Hi friends. 

While working the hospital one fine day, one of the cutest old men you've ever seen wanted me to read a story in January's National Geographic. It was about Ella Al-Shamahi- a paleoanthropologist who also does stand-up comedy. Her paleoanthropology gig is nothing to laugh about- she digs fossils in the Middle East to research Neanderthal evolution. Whoa.

She said:

"Some places where I research are quite dark. It's incredible therapy to find the funny in it. The stage is an escape. There's an entertainment component, but it's also very selfish. You're escaping from the formalities of life and data. You can be ridiculous. People let you be ridiculous because the places you take them can be very fun."

Did you read that? Wow. I hadn't previously realized the similarities between paleoanthropology and my life. (Although Waylon is *kind of* a Neanderthal... He prefers to be naked, dirty, and he only eats red meat.)

I think I'd like comedy to be the next stage in the evolution of how we present special needs parenting. I've said it once, and I'll say it again- if you are facing a mountain in life, if you can find a way to laugh, you can surpass it.

For the 3rd year, I am proud to participate in an amazingly hilarious and therapeutic comedy show/fundraiser called Evening with the Rents. It supports a very special summer camp for kids with special needs- Camp Encourage. And, um, well, it's tomorrow. 

I've been rehearsing for months, my lines are (mostly) memorized, my outfit is picked out, and dress rehearsal is tonight. It's go time. I promise you we've put together three hours of hilariously therapeutic comedy- all I need is for you to join me. Also a good BM would be nice so I can feel skinny on stage. 

Are you struggling? (Who isn't, really?) Join me. We'll laugh through it.

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