DO YOU DO APRIL FOOLS' JOKES?

April 1 known for April Fools' practical jokes and pranks throughout the world and throughout history. As you know I love history so I decided to some research only to have my head swimming in facts and no real definitive answer about the day. Chaucer's Canterbury Tales-1892 has some reference to the day. The Persian Nowruz is credited for being the 13th day after their New Year's. Even changing the calendar from the Julian to the Gregorian has taken some credit. The French attach paper fish to the backs of people-poisson l'avril or even the Italians-pesce d'aprile are supposedly attached. A day to perform those pranks but only until noon. Why in Canada? Apparently whatever customs existed in France, Britain and the Netherlands were brought to the colonies in North America. So no jokes from me! Why not? I never liked practical jokes. I always have found them to be too passive-aggressive! Even when teasing or joking, there can always be an undercurrent of harm or resentment! I like funny jokes and humour and nice surprises! I can even laugh at myself! I laugh at my husband, my cute klutz! But today everyone is allowed to play those practical jokes! So are you an April Fool? Did someone play a joke on you? Or are you the prankster?

DIETS DIETS DIETS EVERYWHERE

Everywhere we turn someone is giving us advice about a diet, a diet plan or how to lose weight. A movie star, a sports figure and even annoying work colleagues are in our face about weight. People apologize for eating a chocolate or cookie. Why? Healthy eating and exercise will work. Watch your snacks and time of day you eat. Smaller meals throughout the day. But  chocolate is a food group and actually can help your mood. For me it is the exercise piece that I want to maintain. Not for weight loss but it just makes me feel good to work my body and muscles. No big trips to the gym or a private trainer- it would be fun to have one- but making sure in my day to walk, go up stairs, do a few weights- which could include picking up the grandchildren- and some stretching. It begs the question. What is our North American obsession with our bodies and having to look young? I think Europeans have a similar obsession too! What is more important looking good or feeling good? Of course, we can try to have both! For me feeling good is the priority. It means not just a physical appearance but inside- mentally and spiritually! No matter what I do I will not look 25 or 35 or even 45 again. Do I have to look younger or can I honestly be proud and happy to reach my age and well feel good about me? To enjoy a big meal with friends  in the holiday season is a must. Watching the calories- yes is important! But honestly- life is too short not to indulge occassionally! How do you feel about you? Are you becoming too obsessed with your weight? Do you want to be a little slimmer? Moderation is the key. Healthy living! But happy living is more important! Let us eat cake!