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I whole-heartedly support the woman who had her Year of Yes. It seems to me that she might have been hesitant to say yes before that. I, on the other hand, am thinking that cynicism might be reduced for some from having a Year of No. Maybe people should say “no” to more invitations if they don’t really want to go or “no” to favors that eat up their time and have little benefit. I know people like this….these are the people who give until they have nothing left and risk burn out. They could use some downtime, to be selfish and do whatever it is that they want.

I guess in some way its a Year of Yes. I encourage these people to say yes to nourishing their own souls, to getting sleep when they are tired, and grabbing some alone time when they need it. Say no to the time suckers and doing things because “its the right thing to do!” Say “yes” to you!

I’m happy to report a match made in heaven. Bravo for the creative genius behind pairing Kermit the Frog as a supporter for the environmentally concsious Ford Escape Hybrid. As a huge Muppet fan and someone with an avid interest in owning a hybrid, it doesn’t get any better than this clever commerical for me. Finally, it does get a little easier to be green! Check out the 30 second spot!

On a less cynical note, I am happy to report that last night I did something good for the heart and society, in general. I was certified in CPR. There was no real inspiration, but I decided it was good to learn about something that could potentially save someone’s life one day. A planner at heart, I always like to be prepared.

I encourage you to be CPR certified. You never know when someone’s heart might depend on you! The American Red Cross certified me and has all the details on classes, etc. I also plan to do the First Aid class next month so stay tuned for all the fun ways I can now save you from disaster. That is, if you trust me!

Last night I was out at a club in NY and, sober in a sea of Long Island Iced Tea drinkers and with our month of consciousness on my mind, I decided to make some mental notes about the root of love cynicism: The Mating Process. The following are my observations about the people who are out to have a good time and find meaningful relationships all in one evening. I would like to add a caveat first, however. For those people who were out “just to have a good time” and actually mean that, then this list does not apply to you. From the looks of the crowd, though, there were a lot of people with high hopes.

1- The dance floor was packed with men that all looked alike and women that all looked alike. Same clothes, same hair styles, some general expressions…and in a badly lit location. This is not really your best arena for getting a good enough look at someone to even be able to summarize their features. Plus, I’m not even sure how you’d know if you were attracted to someone, unless you sense the pheramones from sheer proximity.

2- By the sheer nature of the location, its loud. Its supposed to be. You’re not going to be able to talk to people, you can barely hear yourself think. To the best of my knowledge, solid relationships are built on shared goals, values and interests. Unless you value your shoes, share a goal of not getting stepped on and are interested in dancing without moving your feet, this may not be the forum to find that person. People attempting to engage in conversation should have realized that this venue made that futile.

3- Desperation is palpable. Is it easy for others (men and women) to sense that you are searching. Your demeanor eminates the crowd and they know that’s not just a little laugh and a coy smile, but a quick calculation of whether or not you are boyfriend/girlfriend material. You’re not fooling anyone and the rest of the crowd can see it a mile away.

Overall, don’t get me wrong. Stranger things have happened than finding true love on a crowded dance floor, but in general, I don’t think this is the best way to go about achieving your goal. Go out and have a good time! Leave relationship seeking for daylight hours when you can differentiate yourself. I think it might just be worth it.

Just a fast note to alert all of our loyal readers that Erin and I have something new to celebrate. February will officially be Cynical about Love Month. This declaration does not make us bitter about our current states of affairs, nor does it mean that we take anything away from those of you out there who are all sorts of in love. We salute you for keeping the dream alive! But, Erin and I, we have some doubts…

Check back soon for upcoming thoughts on this month!