I’ve heard plenty of jokes in my life, as we all have. Some were so funny I couldn’t stop laughing, while others made me scrunch up my nose as I tried to figure out if I missed something.
I’ve also had the opportunity to see some amazing comedians in person- Bill Cosby, Jerry Seinfeld, Jay Leno, Howie Mandel, and seriously one of the most naturally funny people ever, Jon Stewart . . . funny, funny, funny.
I’m sure there is somewhat of a formula for jokes, but it still doesn’t mean it will work on everyone. I probably wouldn’t find a joke about vegetarians very funny and my husband gives me a look every time I laugh at Canadian jokes. Which, by the way, I’m allowed to do since I’m married to a Canadian.
But over the last few years, I’ve heard some of the best jokes from some new comedians- my kids. My son’s nonsense jokes make him throw his head back and snort, which only makes me laugh even more. And his cleverness shines as he makes up brand new ones. My daughter recently ventured into the land of telling jokes with this one, “Knock, knock. Pooh nah?” To which she and her brother laugh and laugh and laugh. And one of my favorites? When she kisses my head, says “ear,” and then falls back laughing as I shout, “That’s not my ear!”
So what makes a joke funny? It simply has to make you laugh. 
