How to have a pity party...And release those long pent up emotions.

1. Watch Bette Davis's movie dark Victory or any movie where the young beautiful heroine suffers terribly, finds true love and then dies. They usually manage to be beautiful while dying. This I cannot give tips on.

2. Get some candy or a sweet treat to fortify you.

3. A box of kleenex, glass of water or juice are absolutely necessary.

4. Wear comfortable clothes..old sweat suits are de rigouer.

5. Forget you have friends you love you. this may help you release your emotions if you feel you are not disappointing someone by letting everything out.

6. Make sure you are alone or are with only someone who understands that you are letting loose.-- turn off the ringer on the phone. This is not a good time to be disturbed.

7. Remember this is a private event, by invitation only and only to be shared with those who will let you cry your emotions out. You do not want to hear "Don't cry, it will get better." The idea is to give full vent to your feelings and not hold them in.

8. Remove breakables and fragile objects from the immediate area.

9. Have some pillows to punch and throw at the wall.

10. Props such as a drawing pad are a good idea.

11. Do not write letters and mail them while in the middle of a pity party. Do not watch the Home Shopping network or other places where bad decisions can be easily made.

12. Vent! Go full tilt. Let your anger, tears and rage fly. Shock yourself with new words.

13. Take a hot shower.

14. Watch a fun movie like Shrek or whatever will make you laugh. you need some good old fashioned belly laughs.

15. Schedule said event at intervals that are good for your health.

16. Recall that you do have friends who love you.

copyrighted 2003