THIS MONTH IS

It's August... when we should all take the time to stop and say aloud those three special words: "Back to school."

Back To School Month -- Soon the kids will be heading back to school and God bless those teachers who have to put up with them all day. Still, while it's tough being a teacher in 2016, it's still better than it was in 1915! The following is a list of rules that American teachers in 1915, were told to obey.

• You will not marry during the term of your contract.
• You are not to keep company with men.
• You must be home between the hours of 8pm and 6am, unless attending a school function.
• You may not loiter downtown in ice cream stores.
• You may not travel beyond city limits, unless you have the permission" of the chairman of the board.
• You may not ride in a carriage or automobile with any man, unless he is your father or brother.
• You may not smoke cigarettes.
• You must wear bright colors to school.
• You may under no circumstances, dye your hair.
• You must wear at least 2 petticoats.
• Your dresses must not be any shorter than 2 inches above the ankle.

Of course this all really sucked if you were a guy!

Happiness Happens Month -- a celebration to encourage people to recognize their happy moments, in addition to their unhappy ones. If you want to be happier and healthier, keep a positive attitude. Here is a sure fire technique for maintaining a positive attitude and a sure fire way to a happier day! The secret is thinking pleasant thoughts. The power of thinking of positive images really works I will prove it. Close your eyes (unless you are driving) and picture in your minds eye the following images. Think about them one at a time before going on to the next one... (pick 4-5)

• Falling in love.
• Taking a drive on a pretty road.
• Hearing your favorite song on the radio.
• Lying in bed listening to the rain outside.
• Finding the sweater you want is on sale for half price.
• Running through sprinklers.
• Having someone tell you that you're beautiful.

Now honestly, don't you feel better? It works!

Question: These are only a few images, what image or event would you suggest as your happy thought? 

Here are some more thoughts:

• Accidentally overhearing someone say something nice about you.
• Waking up and realizing you still have a few hours left to sleep.
• Your first kiss (either the very first or with a new partner).
• Making new friends or spending time with old ones.
• Playing with a new puppy.
• Wrapping presents under the Christmas tree while eating cookies and drinking your favorite drink.
• Song lyrics printed inside your new CD so you can sing along without feeling stupid.
• Making eye contact with a cute stranger.
• Holding hands with someone you care about.
• Watching the expression on someone's face as they open a much desired present from you.
• Watching the sunrise.
• Getting out of bed every morning and being grateful for another beautiful day.