by Shirley M. Carolan, ATM-G
It’s not always possible to spend our birthday with our family. So, the next best thing is to spend it with supportive friends. I feel so blessed to have the friends I do both within and outside Toastmasters International.
Thursday was my birthday and it started with a bang! I opened my front door to walk my little Shih-Tzu and there was this beautiful card from a neighbor wishing me well. As I returned home, another neighbor dropped by with a lovely gift with writing on the outside of the bag “Fabulous You!” Besides the lovely gift was the smallest birthday cake I’d ever seen with a beautiful gold bow flowing from it!
Later, a Toastmaster friend dropped by with a Happy Birthday balloon and a super card. Since Thursday night is my regular Toastmaster Club meeting night, in Carlsbad, CA and I was the Table Topics Master for the evening, I knew I would be with great company to celebrate this birthday.
At the intermission they wheeled out this magnificent, iced, birthday cake! They presented it to me with a birthday card signed by everyone! Who could ask for more? Well, would you believe they insisted I take home the small piece that was left. I didn’t have to be asked twice.
Throughout the evening, various dignitaries mentioned some tidbits they’d found out about me to share with the audience, through my blogs and website! I was tickled. It felt like a jolly good roasting!
Yes, this was one undeniably special birthday shared with some very special people and friends. Here’s to many more!
Shirley M. Carolan, ATMG
Writer ● Speaker ● Artist
artistwithaflair@att.net
Phone/Fax: 760-732-0663
http://www.shirleycarolan.com
http://www.angelscross.blogspot.com
http://www.smcarolan.blogspot.com
Copyright© 2010 by Shirley M. Carolan. All rights reserved. To reprint any part of this article simply contact Shirley Carolan at artistwithaflair@att.net. Thank you.
Friday, May 21, 2010
Friday, April 30, 2010
THE TOASTMASTER MAGAZINE
By Shirley M. Carolan, ATM-G
This may sound like a pitch for Toastmasters International and that’s OK with me. I’ve been a member of this prestigious organization since 1981, having joined in the San Francisco Bay Area. Folks, that’s 29 years of wonderful association and it has been one of two constants in my life since that time. It has been both a lifesaver and a catalyst for personal and professional growth!
Today, instead of just promoting this organization I’d like to express my deep gratitude for its wonderful, glossy, informative magazine. I believe this magazine is the unsung hero of our membership even today! I think Forbes, Smithsonian, Entrepreneur would envy its world-wide distribution and readership.
But don’t just take my word for it. Please visit the Toastmaster’s International HQ in Rancho Santa Margarita. Guided tours are available daily from 9-4 PM. More information is available at: www.toastmaster.org. or (949-858-8255). When I took my family for a visit they were amazed at the plethora of information and help there. I was both overjoyed and overcome when I saw our beautiful glossy magazine neatly stacked for shipment to countries all over the world, (106 countries to be exact) in Spanish, French, English, German, Italian, Japanese! It was an awesome sight and I felt proud to be associated not only with a wonderful organization, but also this wonderful magazine.
Whether you aspire to become a professional speaker, or are a manager, supervising others, in sales or marketing, “The Toastmaster” magazine has worthy information in each issue that will benefit your professional and personal life! It keeps up with the latest in technology, trends, and language.
Members seem to take this magazine for granted but if you can get your hands on a copy of one you will appreciate and understand why I feel so strongly and positively about it. In fact, you will be glad you did!
Shirley M. Carolan, ATMG
Writer ● Speaker ● Artist
artistwithaflair@att.net
Phone/Fax: 760-732-0663
http://www.shirleycarolan.com
http://www.angelscross.blogspot.com
http://www.smcarolan.blogspot.com
Copyright© 2010 by Shirley M. Carolan. All rights reserved. To reprint any part of this article simply contact Shirley Carolan at artistwithaflair@att.net. Thank you
This may sound like a pitch for Toastmasters International and that’s OK with me. I’ve been a member of this prestigious organization since 1981, having joined in the San Francisco Bay Area. Folks, that’s 29 years of wonderful association and it has been one of two constants in my life since that time. It has been both a lifesaver and a catalyst for personal and professional growth!
Today, instead of just promoting this organization I’d like to express my deep gratitude for its wonderful, glossy, informative magazine. I believe this magazine is the unsung hero of our membership even today! I think Forbes, Smithsonian, Entrepreneur would envy its world-wide distribution and readership.
But don’t just take my word for it. Please visit the Toastmaster’s International HQ in Rancho Santa Margarita. Guided tours are available daily from 9-4 PM. More information is available at: www.toastmaster.org. or (949-858-8255). When I took my family for a visit they were amazed at the plethora of information and help there. I was both overjoyed and overcome when I saw our beautiful glossy magazine neatly stacked for shipment to countries all over the world, (106 countries to be exact) in Spanish, French, English, German, Italian, Japanese! It was an awesome sight and I felt proud to be associated not only with a wonderful organization, but also this wonderful magazine.
Whether you aspire to become a professional speaker, or are a manager, supervising others, in sales or marketing, “The Toastmaster” magazine has worthy information in each issue that will benefit your professional and personal life! It keeps up with the latest in technology, trends, and language.
Members seem to take this magazine for granted but if you can get your hands on a copy of one you will appreciate and understand why I feel so strongly and positively about it. In fact, you will be glad you did!
Shirley M. Carolan, ATMG
Writer ● Speaker ● Artist
artistwithaflair@att.net
Phone/Fax: 760-732-0663
http://www.shirleycarolan.com
http://www.angelscross.blogspot.com
http://www.smcarolan.blogspot.com
Copyright© 2010 by Shirley M. Carolan. All rights reserved. To reprint any part of this article simply contact Shirley Carolan at artistwithaflair@att.net. Thank you
Thursday, March 25, 2010
LIONS CLUB SPEECH CONTEST
By Shirley M. Carolan, ATM-G
It’s that time of year when Toastmasters International and various civic organizations are having their annual spring speech contests. It’s a great opportunity to hear some of the finest speakers around.
I particularly enjoy being asked to participate in the civic organizations as a judge for the young men and women competing at the various levels for scholarships and recognition. I feel a great sense of pride when I hear these teenagers meticulo sly explain their position on matters of vital interest to the public.
March 14, 2010 was no exception as I participated as a judge at the Lions Zone Level of competition. The subject was "Healthcare, How Will it Affect Us?" It was so apropos in view of the recent healthcare package just signed by President Obama. Each candidate did a thorough job of researching and reviewing voluminous material, pro and con, and presented that information to the audience with grace and aplomb! It was hard to believe they were teenagers and not seasoned politicians in their delivery and content!
There were three competitors: Emily Gilden, Vista, Gavin Curtis, Carlsbad and Yujia Pan, Carlsbad. It was a very tough and tight competition. Yujia Pan was declared the winner and was presented with a $100.00 check for her efforts.
Yujia will now compete at the Lions Regional Contest on April 11, 2010 at the Ed Brown Senior Center in Rancho Bernardo (18402 W. Bernardo Drive)starting at 1:30 PM. If you qualify as a judge, or, want more information regarding the Contests, please contact: Sandy Mangini at (760) 436-7338, or sandysseabluff@cox.net, or Victor Gonzalez, Region Chair at (858)673-1974..
Shirley M. Carolan, ATMG
Writer ● Speaker ● Artist
artistwithaflair@att.net
Phone/Fax: 760-732-0663
http://www.shirleycarolan.com
http://www.angelscross.blogspot.com
http://www.smcarolan.blogspot.com
Copyright© 2010 by Shirley M. Carolan. All rights reserved. To reprint any part of this article simply contact Shirley Carolan at artistwithaflair@att.net. Thank you
It’s that time of year when Toastmasters International and various civic organizations are having their annual spring speech contests. It’s a great opportunity to hear some of the finest speakers around.
I particularly enjoy being asked to participate in the civic organizations as a judge for the young men and women competing at the various levels for scholarships and recognition. I feel a great sense of pride when I hear these teenagers meticulo sly explain their position on matters of vital interest to the public.
March 14, 2010 was no exception as I participated as a judge at the Lions Zone Level of competition. The subject was "Healthcare, How Will it Affect Us?" It was so apropos in view of the recent healthcare package just signed by President Obama. Each candidate did a thorough job of researching and reviewing voluminous material, pro and con, and presented that information to the audience with grace and aplomb! It was hard to believe they were teenagers and not seasoned politicians in their delivery and content!
There were three competitors: Emily Gilden, Vista, Gavin Curtis, Carlsbad and Yujia Pan, Carlsbad. It was a very tough and tight competition. Yujia Pan was declared the winner and was presented with a $100.00 check for her efforts.
Yujia will now compete at the Lions Regional Contest on April 11, 2010 at the Ed Brown Senior Center in Rancho Bernardo (18402 W. Bernardo Drive)starting at 1:30 PM. If you qualify as a judge, or, want more information regarding the Contests, please contact: Sandy Mangini at (760) 436-7338, or sandysseabluff@cox.net, or Victor Gonzalez, Region Chair at (858)673-1974..
Shirley M. Carolan, ATMG
Writer ● Speaker ● Artist
artistwithaflair@att.net
Phone/Fax: 760-732-0663
http://www.shirleycarolan.com
http://www.angelscross.blogspot.com
http://www.smcarolan.blogspot.com
Copyright© 2010 by Shirley M. Carolan. All rights reserved. To reprint any part of this article simply contact Shirley Carolan at artistwithaflair@att.net. Thank you
Sunday, March 07, 2010
THE ELEPHANT IN THE ROOM!
By Shirley M. Carolan, ATM-G
How many times have you been told by a well meaning friend, spouse, neighbor, teacher, doctor, minister, etc. to remember that there’s an elephant in the room? What never? For example, maybe you have said to someone “I feel tired all the time,” or, “I’m going to go on a diet and lose some weight,” or, “I’m going to start walking 2 miles a day,” only to have that person tell you something negative that you’re forgetting about, or reminding you of some limitation that makes it impossible for you to achieve that dream?
Personally, I am sick and tired of doctors reminding me of my AGE! Or, being told that my AGE is to blame for such and such. In other words, AGE is the “elephant in the room!” What rubbish! I may be a senior citizen but if I truly believed that I might as well order my coffin now!
Recently, I told two medical specialists that I’m tired of living at only two speeds: no energy, and low energy. I want to get back physically to walking 2 miles a day without oxygen and without a walker, where I was a year ago before coming down with complications from pneumonia.. One doctor said “Well, that ain’t going to happen!” The other said “Well, you’ve got to remember the elephant in the room!” When I asked him what that was he said “Your AGE!” What a cop out! What rubbish!
I have friends my age and older who play tennis, go sailing, hike, etc. enjoying life and without giving a thought to their age. .You’re as old or as young as you feel! AGE is not the problem when you constantly fall down, lose your balance and break bones, as I have done. The elephant in the room for me has been leading a sedentary life style and not by choice! It’s hard to exercise or run around the block when you feel tired all the time.. It’s obvious that weak muscles are the culprit, not AGE! When you sit all day, whether reading, at your computer, or watching television, your muscles are not being used! Hence, they can atrophy! When you walk, get out of a car, go upstairs, etc. you are using muscles!
I’m doing a lot of research about balance and weak muscles and how to improve both. The world wide web is loaded with information on these subjects. I’m also taking a FREE 6 day Ecourse, with exercises to improve my balance and use my muscles. The course is designed by Mike Ross, along with videos and exercises you can do immediately. Check it out at: www.thebalancemanual.com/ecourse.html. Mike is an exercise physiologist who specializes in senior health and fitness. He has a degree in Fitness Management and is certified by the National Academy of Sports Medicine.
Also, I’m thinking of starting a support group for folks who have trouble with their balance and constantly fall down. While older folks are more likely to respond, it is not limited to them because some younger folks also have balance problems. More on this later.
Lastly, I urge you not to give your power away to AGE, or well meaning folks, or doctors who tell you to “remember the elephant in the room!” That’s their opinion. Thank you very much. What’s yours?
Shirley M. Carolan, ATMG
Writer●Speaker●Artist
artistwithaflair@att.net
Phone/Fax: 760-732-0663
http://www.shirleycarolan.com
http://www.angelscross.blogspot.com
http://www.smcarolan.blogspot.com
Copyright© 2010 by Shirley M. Carolan. All rights reserved. To reprint any part of this article simply contact Shirley Carolan at artistwithaflair@att.net. Thank you
How many times have you been told by a well meaning friend, spouse, neighbor, teacher, doctor, minister, etc. to remember that there’s an elephant in the room? What never? For example, maybe you have said to someone “I feel tired all the time,” or, “I’m going to go on a diet and lose some weight,” or, “I’m going to start walking 2 miles a day,” only to have that person tell you something negative that you’re forgetting about, or reminding you of some limitation that makes it impossible for you to achieve that dream?
Personally, I am sick and tired of doctors reminding me of my AGE! Or, being told that my AGE is to blame for such and such. In other words, AGE is the “elephant in the room!” What rubbish! I may be a senior citizen but if I truly believed that I might as well order my coffin now!
Recently, I told two medical specialists that I’m tired of living at only two speeds: no energy, and low energy. I want to get back physically to walking 2 miles a day without oxygen and without a walker, where I was a year ago before coming down with complications from pneumonia.. One doctor said “Well, that ain’t going to happen!” The other said “Well, you’ve got to remember the elephant in the room!” When I asked him what that was he said “Your AGE!” What a cop out! What rubbish!
I have friends my age and older who play tennis, go sailing, hike, etc. enjoying life and without giving a thought to their age. .You’re as old or as young as you feel! AGE is not the problem when you constantly fall down, lose your balance and break bones, as I have done. The elephant in the room for me has been leading a sedentary life style and not by choice! It’s hard to exercise or run around the block when you feel tired all the time.. It’s obvious that weak muscles are the culprit, not AGE! When you sit all day, whether reading, at your computer, or watching television, your muscles are not being used! Hence, they can atrophy! When you walk, get out of a car, go upstairs, etc. you are using muscles!
I’m doing a lot of research about balance and weak muscles and how to improve both. The world wide web is loaded with information on these subjects. I’m also taking a FREE 6 day Ecourse, with exercises to improve my balance and use my muscles. The course is designed by Mike Ross, along with videos and exercises you can do immediately. Check it out at: www.thebalancemanual.com/ecourse.html. Mike is an exercise physiologist who specializes in senior health and fitness. He has a degree in Fitness Management and is certified by the National Academy of Sports Medicine.
Also, I’m thinking of starting a support group for folks who have trouble with their balance and constantly fall down. While older folks are more likely to respond, it is not limited to them because some younger folks also have balance problems. More on this later.
Lastly, I urge you not to give your power away to AGE, or well meaning folks, or doctors who tell you to “remember the elephant in the room!” That’s their opinion. Thank you very much. What’s yours?
Shirley M. Carolan, ATMG
Writer●Speaker●Artist
artistwithaflair@att.net
Phone/Fax: 760-732-0663
http://www.shirleycarolan.com
http://www.angelscross.blogspot.com
http://www.smcarolan.blogspot.com
Copyright© 2010 by Shirley M. Carolan. All rights reserved. To reprint any part of this article simply contact Shirley Carolan at artistwithaflair@att.net. Thank you
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
NEW MANTRAS TO LIVE BY
by Shirley M. Carolan, ATM-G
Don’t know if I’m waxing philosophical as I age but through some unlikely and unsolicited sources I came across some sentences whose meanings literally resonated with me. Words are so powerful; they conjure up a variety of emotions and moods. Hence, it’s wonderful when bon mots cause you to stop and think about how you are living your life and if that’s in accord with your master plan.
I want to share these wonderful words with you now because they may spur you on to do a quick analysis of your life today and see if It is in sync with your vision.
The first came from Maria Mar’s newsletter, see www.catchthedreamexpress.com/newsletter/february2010.htm and was part of some promo material for Ted Karam’s new book “Jumping on Water:” ‘Do not give your power away to your circumstances.’ It stopped me dead in my tracks as I reflected on how disappointed and angry I’ve been at myself for not being able to recover my health quicker. However, I had no idea how debilitating shingles can be. My doctor told me it had to do with the “elephant in the room!” When I asked him what that was he said “Well, you’ve got to remember you’re not 24 any more. It takes longer for older folks to recover.” H’m, that surely didn’t apply to me did it?
I never think of my age as a detriment to anything! But, I had wasted an inordinate amount of time and energy bemoaning my poor health. And, sometimes I was aware of that and other times not. I had to admit finally that I had “given my power away (many times) to my circumstances” and that had to stop. I’m not an invalid after all!
On the bright side, however, I congratulated myself for buying a 4-wheel walker, with folding seat, lightweight and extremely serviceable, on January 29, 2010. This may not seem like a big deal to some, but for me it’s better than buying a new car! I was shopping at my favorite Thrift Shop and spotted it. I decided to take a stroll with it around the store. I was amazed at how much more territory I covered without the usual huffing and puffing when I used the cane. H’m. Next, I thought about shopping in the supermarket and how I get around so well with the shopping cart to help me keep my balance and keep moving. I also purchased a nice basket that attaches to the walker and holds my oxygen tank.
Then I knew, I had to buy the walker! I said to myself this could mean more freedom for me. Right now I can’t even walk my dog a block with my cane without huffing and puffing and having to return home. Even Krissy, my little Shih-Tzu, enjoys a ride on the seat the last block before arriving home. As of today, I’m excited to be walking all around my neighborhood. I am up to walking a mile a day with my walker and without the oxygen tank! My short term goal is to walk 2 miles a day with the walker, and, without any oxygen. My long term goal is to walk 2 miles daily, as I did before, eventually without the walker or oxygen!
The beauty is that I bought this walker for a song and it’s given me a new lease on life and new found freedom! I can’t help wondering though if the doctors had advised me last year, when I first got out of the hospital to buy a walker would I have done so? Methinks not. Regardless, I am now a master of my destiny instead of a victim of my history!
The other bon mots I feel worth sharing with you came in an email from a friend with a cartoon. Unfortunately, I am unable to upload the cartoon. Here it is: “Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass. It’s about learning to dance in the rain!” Isn’t that beautiful! I was absolutely tickled by it. It conjured up memories of Gene Kelley in the movie “Dancing in the Rain.” Regardless of what’s going on in life at any moment, if we can learn to “dance in the rain,” I think we stand a good chance of surviving the worst case scenario. It’s truly worth thinking about.
As you’ve probably guessed, I’ve blown up both these wonderful sayings and have posted them near my computer, in my bathroom, bedroom, kitchen, etc. I feel they are great new mantras to live by. Do let me know what you think!
Shirley M. Carolan, ATMG
Writer ● Speaker ● Artist
artistwithaflair@att.net
Phone/Fax: 760-732-0663
http://www.shirleycarolan.com
http://www.angelscross.blogspot.com
http://www.smcarolan.blogspot.com
Copyright© 2010 by Shirley M. Carolan. All rights reserved. To reprint any part of this article simply contact Shirley Carolan at artistwithaflair@att.net. Thank you
Don’t know if I’m waxing philosophical as I age but through some unlikely and unsolicited sources I came across some sentences whose meanings literally resonated with me. Words are so powerful; they conjure up a variety of emotions and moods. Hence, it’s wonderful when bon mots cause you to stop and think about how you are living your life and if that’s in accord with your master plan.
I want to share these wonderful words with you now because they may spur you on to do a quick analysis of your life today and see if It is in sync with your vision.
The first came from Maria Mar’s newsletter, see www.catchthedreamexpress.com/newsletter/february2010.htm and was part of some promo material for Ted Karam’s new book “Jumping on Water:” ‘Do not give your power away to your circumstances.’ It stopped me dead in my tracks as I reflected on how disappointed and angry I’ve been at myself for not being able to recover my health quicker. However, I had no idea how debilitating shingles can be. My doctor told me it had to do with the “elephant in the room!” When I asked him what that was he said “Well, you’ve got to remember you’re not 24 any more. It takes longer for older folks to recover.” H’m, that surely didn’t apply to me did it?
I never think of my age as a detriment to anything! But, I had wasted an inordinate amount of time and energy bemoaning my poor health. And, sometimes I was aware of that and other times not. I had to admit finally that I had “given my power away (many times) to my circumstances” and that had to stop. I’m not an invalid after all!
On the bright side, however, I congratulated myself for buying a 4-wheel walker, with folding seat, lightweight and extremely serviceable, on January 29, 2010. This may not seem like a big deal to some, but for me it’s better than buying a new car! I was shopping at my favorite Thrift Shop and spotted it. I decided to take a stroll with it around the store. I was amazed at how much more territory I covered without the usual huffing and puffing when I used the cane. H’m. Next, I thought about shopping in the supermarket and how I get around so well with the shopping cart to help me keep my balance and keep moving. I also purchased a nice basket that attaches to the walker and holds my oxygen tank.
Then I knew, I had to buy the walker! I said to myself this could mean more freedom for me. Right now I can’t even walk my dog a block with my cane without huffing and puffing and having to return home. Even Krissy, my little Shih-Tzu, enjoys a ride on the seat the last block before arriving home. As of today, I’m excited to be walking all around my neighborhood. I am up to walking a mile a day with my walker and without the oxygen tank! My short term goal is to walk 2 miles a day with the walker, and, without any oxygen. My long term goal is to walk 2 miles daily, as I did before, eventually without the walker or oxygen!
The beauty is that I bought this walker for a song and it’s given me a new lease on life and new found freedom! I can’t help wondering though if the doctors had advised me last year, when I first got out of the hospital to buy a walker would I have done so? Methinks not. Regardless, I am now a master of my destiny instead of a victim of my history!
The other bon mots I feel worth sharing with you came in an email from a friend with a cartoon. Unfortunately, I am unable to upload the cartoon. Here it is: “Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass. It’s about learning to dance in the rain!” Isn’t that beautiful! I was absolutely tickled by it. It conjured up memories of Gene Kelley in the movie “Dancing in the Rain.” Regardless of what’s going on in life at any moment, if we can learn to “dance in the rain,” I think we stand a good chance of surviving the worst case scenario. It’s truly worth thinking about.
As you’ve probably guessed, I’ve blown up both these wonderful sayings and have posted them near my computer, in my bathroom, bedroom, kitchen, etc. I feel they are great new mantras to live by. Do let me know what you think!
Shirley M. Carolan, ATMG
Writer ● Speaker ● Artist
artistwithaflair@att.net
Phone/Fax: 760-732-0663
http://www.shirleycarolan.com
http://www.angelscross.blogspot.com
http://www.smcarolan.blogspot.com
Copyright© 2010 by Shirley M. Carolan. All rights reserved. To reprint any part of this article simply contact Shirley Carolan at artistwithaflair@att.net. Thank you
Saturday, February 20, 2010
ANNIVERSARY REFLECTIONS
by Shirley M. Carolan, ATM-G
I’m fast coming up on the anniversary of my bout with pneumonia which escalated into complications and an emergency trip to Scripps Memorial Hospital in Encinitas, where I remained for 10 days.
Hard to believe a year has almost passed and my life has changed so much. Prior to this my health was never a problem. I thought I was invincible! After all I’d done four (4) Firewalks with Tony Robbins in the late ‘80’s and early ‘90’s and had a lot of tools to work with. Still taking risks in my mid ‘60s and moving from my beloved San Francisco to North San Diego county, sight unseen, no job, and no friends yet.
But, I knew I had a multitude of skills to fall back on. The only problem was I hated marketing myself and I took to using my office/administrative skills, landing me back in the “secretarial ghetto” which I’d struggled most my life to escape! When folks asked me what I could do, I’d proudly announce that I could and have done everything but dig ditches! Yes, I could paper the wall with all the State licenses, certificates, diplomas and education I’d worked so hard to achieve. But, something was always missing… I think I’ve got a handle on that now.
I’ve reinforced some positive beliefs about what my life is about today and I’ve let go of the anger, resentments and disappointments of bygone days replacing them with gratitude and forgiveness, particularly of myself! My mother used to tell me as a child growing up in England “how much she and Dad had sacrificed to give me the finest education money can buy.” I no longer have to feel or prove that I am worthy of something I could never repay, no matter how hard I tried...
This past year has been quite a learning curve since I am still somewhat limited in my physical activities. And, coming down with Shingles last August which still affects me, was the icing on the cake. Patience was never my strong suit but I’ve had multiple lessons this past year to get on top of that, including another emergency visit to Scripps Memorial Hospital last month.
Today, I don’t take myself, or any of my possessions, so seriously that I can’t enjoy what’s going on in my life on a daily basis! Now, that’s progress, at least for me! Now I can work on some other bad habits that only I can change. Even if I have to wait awhile for some lesson to surface, I’m ready for the challenge!
Bon jour!
Shirley M. Carolan, ATMG
Writer●Speaker●Artist
artistwithaflair@att.net
Phone/Fax: 760-732-0663
http://www.shirleycarolan.com
http://www.angelscross.blogspot.com
http://www.smcarolan.blogspot.com
Copyright© 2010 by Shirley M. Carolan. All rights reserved. To reprint any part of this article simply contact Shirley Carolan at artistwithaflair@att.net. Thank you
I’m fast coming up on the anniversary of my bout with pneumonia which escalated into complications and an emergency trip to Scripps Memorial Hospital in Encinitas, where I remained for 10 days.
Hard to believe a year has almost passed and my life has changed so much. Prior to this my health was never a problem. I thought I was invincible! After all I’d done four (4) Firewalks with Tony Robbins in the late ‘80’s and early ‘90’s and had a lot of tools to work with. Still taking risks in my mid ‘60s and moving from my beloved San Francisco to North San Diego county, sight unseen, no job, and no friends yet.
But, I knew I had a multitude of skills to fall back on. The only problem was I hated marketing myself and I took to using my office/administrative skills, landing me back in the “secretarial ghetto” which I’d struggled most my life to escape! When folks asked me what I could do, I’d proudly announce that I could and have done everything but dig ditches! Yes, I could paper the wall with all the State licenses, certificates, diplomas and education I’d worked so hard to achieve. But, something was always missing… I think I’ve got a handle on that now.
I’ve reinforced some positive beliefs about what my life is about today and I’ve let go of the anger, resentments and disappointments of bygone days replacing them with gratitude and forgiveness, particularly of myself! My mother used to tell me as a child growing up in England “how much she and Dad had sacrificed to give me the finest education money can buy.” I no longer have to feel or prove that I am worthy of something I could never repay, no matter how hard I tried...
This past year has been quite a learning curve since I am still somewhat limited in my physical activities. And, coming down with Shingles last August which still affects me, was the icing on the cake. Patience was never my strong suit but I’ve had multiple lessons this past year to get on top of that, including another emergency visit to Scripps Memorial Hospital last month.
Today, I don’t take myself, or any of my possessions, so seriously that I can’t enjoy what’s going on in my life on a daily basis! Now, that’s progress, at least for me! Now I can work on some other bad habits that only I can change. Even if I have to wait awhile for some lesson to surface, I’m ready for the challenge!
Bon jour!
Shirley M. Carolan, ATMG
Writer●Speaker●Artist
artistwithaflair@att.net
Phone/Fax: 760-732-0663
http://www.shirleycarolan.com
http://www.angelscross.blogspot.com
http://www.smcarolan.blogspot.com
Copyright© 2010 by Shirley M. Carolan. All rights reserved. To reprint any part of this article simply contact Shirley Carolan at artistwithaflair@att.net. Thank you
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
STRESS/COMPUTERS & TECHNOLOGY
By Shirley M. Carolan
Recently, I discovered how much a slave I’ve been to the Internet, emails, and on-going newsletters and classes covering a variety of subjects. I also pay all my bills on line, and totally forgot how I used to pay my bills before on-line banking became available.
That’s the technology side of it. I’ve also been a slave to my computer as well. It seems my whole life was wrapped around my computer and the latest technology although I doubt I would ever admit that.
Two weeks ago I experienced a warning sign on the computer screen telling me I had been infected with a Trojan horse by a computer company called “Personal Security.” Since I was on-line at the time I chose to call my ISP to see if they could help me… Maybe not the smartest move but I’d just found out that my 2-year extended warranty with HP had expired when I thought it was good until November 2010! But that’s another stressful story.
Meanwhile, it was the beginning of a two week ordeal whereby I spent hundreds of dollars, wasted hours, daily waiting for various technical support people to help me. Every time I thought I had the problem solved something else would go wrong necessitating more expense, time, and waiting. MY ISP finally recommended I get a “recovery disk” from Microsoft, since I had not backed up my new laptop when I received it as my Christmas gift to myself December 07. I opted to have them send it Fed Ex wracking up still more expense.
Then the modem broke down and AT&T informed me they would replace it but I would incur fees, plus shipping and handling. It would take another 4-5 days before I would have the new modem…
On the 5th day of this saga, I found I had trouble breathing. I called my doctor and was told to immediately go to Scripps Memorial Hospital Emergency Room, in Encinitas, CA where I spent the rest of the day, until late evening, hooked up to oxygen and IV tubes. After x-rays, EKGs and blood work I got to meet Dr. Pheifer. Bottom line: he thought the shallow breathing was a result of stress, gave me a prescription for steroids, and told me to see a pulmonary specialist immediately. Mercifully, this time I was not admitted to the hospital and couldn’t wait to get home to my little Shih-Tzu who was now at home in the dark...
It would take another week before all the problems were fixed. I decided to take my laptop to Computer Geeks to have them assess the problem. Four days later I had my computer back. There was no Trojan horse, virus, etc. just a defective boot up to Windows. I was now ready to hook up the new modem to it.
I finally did hear back from the technical support people I had contacted and paid upfront to have them fix the problem. One of them even offered to refund the $139.99 they had charged me because I was never able to get through to them. Also, I had decided to remove Norton software from my computer and go with McAfee and start afresh. It took some doing and I was apprehensive about using a different software, having been with Norton for over 25 years! But, I knew I couldn’t handle more complications and delays.
AT&T did stay in touch with me, even though there were many times I could not get through to their Tech Support. I explained that the stress had caused me a health problem necessitating a visit to a hospital emergency room. They were most understanding and sympathetic. They even waived the $100 fee for the new modem, charging only shipping and handling, and told me to call them immediately I received it and they would walk me through the installation. I was grateful for their follow up and quick action because I was seriously considering a new ISP too.
The moral of this saga is: I finally admitted to myself that I am a survivor! I had survived the “Battle of Britain” having been bombed out of London during 1940. Now my mantra is “Unless something is a life threatening event, I am not going to let it put me in the hospital! Particularly if it’s a piece of equipment!” Nothing, but nothing is worth losing my health over.
Funnily, I don’t rush to the computer several times a day to check my emails any more. If I check them just once a day and that’s enough! I’ve also dropped several on-line newsletters and websites. It’s amazing the peace of mind I’m discovering by taking my life and my power back! I am no longer a slave to a piece of equipment that used to run my life!
Shirley M. Carolan, ATMG
Writer● Speaker ● Artist
artistwithaflair@att.net
Phone/Fax: 760-732-0663
http://www.shirleycarolan.com
http://www.smcarolan.blogspot.com
Copyright© 2010 by Shirley M. Carolan. All rights reserved. To reprint any part of this article simply contact Shirley Carolan at artistwithaflair@att.net. Thank you.
.
Recently, I discovered how much a slave I’ve been to the Internet, emails, and on-going newsletters and classes covering a variety of subjects. I also pay all my bills on line, and totally forgot how I used to pay my bills before on-line banking became available.
That’s the technology side of it. I’ve also been a slave to my computer as well. It seems my whole life was wrapped around my computer and the latest technology although I doubt I would ever admit that.
Two weeks ago I experienced a warning sign on the computer screen telling me I had been infected with a Trojan horse by a computer company called “Personal Security.” Since I was on-line at the time I chose to call my ISP to see if they could help me… Maybe not the smartest move but I’d just found out that my 2-year extended warranty with HP had expired when I thought it was good until November 2010! But that’s another stressful story.
Meanwhile, it was the beginning of a two week ordeal whereby I spent hundreds of dollars, wasted hours, daily waiting for various technical support people to help me. Every time I thought I had the problem solved something else would go wrong necessitating more expense, time, and waiting. MY ISP finally recommended I get a “recovery disk” from Microsoft, since I had not backed up my new laptop when I received it as my Christmas gift to myself December 07. I opted to have them send it Fed Ex wracking up still more expense.
Then the modem broke down and AT&T informed me they would replace it but I would incur fees, plus shipping and handling. It would take another 4-5 days before I would have the new modem…
On the 5th day of this saga, I found I had trouble breathing. I called my doctor and was told to immediately go to Scripps Memorial Hospital Emergency Room, in Encinitas, CA where I spent the rest of the day, until late evening, hooked up to oxygen and IV tubes. After x-rays, EKGs and blood work I got to meet Dr. Pheifer. Bottom line: he thought the shallow breathing was a result of stress, gave me a prescription for steroids, and told me to see a pulmonary specialist immediately. Mercifully, this time I was not admitted to the hospital and couldn’t wait to get home to my little Shih-Tzu who was now at home in the dark...
It would take another week before all the problems were fixed. I decided to take my laptop to Computer Geeks to have them assess the problem. Four days later I had my computer back. There was no Trojan horse, virus, etc. just a defective boot up to Windows. I was now ready to hook up the new modem to it.
I finally did hear back from the technical support people I had contacted and paid upfront to have them fix the problem. One of them even offered to refund the $139.99 they had charged me because I was never able to get through to them. Also, I had decided to remove Norton software from my computer and go with McAfee and start afresh. It took some doing and I was apprehensive about using a different software, having been with Norton for over 25 years! But, I knew I couldn’t handle more complications and delays.
AT&T did stay in touch with me, even though there were many times I could not get through to their Tech Support. I explained that the stress had caused me a health problem necessitating a visit to a hospital emergency room. They were most understanding and sympathetic. They even waived the $100 fee for the new modem, charging only shipping and handling, and told me to call them immediately I received it and they would walk me through the installation. I was grateful for their follow up and quick action because I was seriously considering a new ISP too.
The moral of this saga is: I finally admitted to myself that I am a survivor! I had survived the “Battle of Britain” having been bombed out of London during 1940. Now my mantra is “Unless something is a life threatening event, I am not going to let it put me in the hospital! Particularly if it’s a piece of equipment!” Nothing, but nothing is worth losing my health over.
Funnily, I don’t rush to the computer several times a day to check my emails any more. If I check them just once a day and that’s enough! I’ve also dropped several on-line newsletters and websites. It’s amazing the peace of mind I’m discovering by taking my life and my power back! I am no longer a slave to a piece of equipment that used to run my life!
Shirley M. Carolan, ATMG
Writer● Speaker ● Artist
artistwithaflair@att.net
Phone/Fax: 760-732-0663
http://www.shirleycarolan.com
http://www.smcarolan.blogspot.com
Copyright© 2010 by Shirley M. Carolan. All rights reserved. To reprint any part of this article simply contact Shirley Carolan at artistwithaflair@att.net. Thank you.
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