That's my Santa Claus: Who is Santa Claus?

He comes primarily at Christmas time but did you know that he is always with us?  Many of our youngest ones think that he lives in the far North but in reality he lives anywhere and everywhere.

In North America and colder countries, he makes his entry into our homes through our chimneys, and the modern day Santa can also leave his presents outside the doors of our condos and townhouses.  He can travel in so many different ways: on a sleigh, on a motorcycle, on a truck, by bicycle, by ship or boat, by plane or helicopter, and even on foot.  It all depends on where he is and what he needs to do in order to get where he needs to go.

Believe it or not, Santa Claus goes by so many different names and it can easily be said that he has several different aliases.  In the colder countries he is known as either Santa Claus or Father Christmas.  In the Eastern countries he is known as St. Nick and in the warmer tropical countries he is known as Sandy Claus!  Of course, there are other names for him as well.

To the wide-eyed kid he is the one in a red suit and wears a white beard and he has a huge laugh of ho, ho, ho!  He brings toys and goodies down the chimneys of homes and he hands out gifts at malls and at parties.  He shows up at parades. He hands out toys from open-roofed trucks, and he lugs his goodies on bicycles, motorcycles and on his back.  He even drops off his gifts by ship, boat, helicopter, and plane.

This is who he is to those little ones who still believe in Santa.  However, there is more to this fat jolly man than just the one who does these things.

Whenever we smile at a stranger, nod a greeting to someone that we do not know, or take the time to give a gift to someone who is less fortunate than we are, these are all deeds of Santa Claus's generosity and in essence we, too, are Santa Claus in our own way. But we do not have to wait until Christmas to do this. 

The secret of Christmas may be this!  It's not the things you do at Christmas time, but the Christmas things you do all year through!  Taken from a Christmas song.

Merry Christmas from me!

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, wishing you a very merry Christmas! 

Follow me on Twitter @accessibleworld and @author_jodhan
Like me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/authordonnajodhan
Visit my online store to either purchase or subscribe for unlimited access to our library at jodhanmysterybook.club/about-the-author and you can even take advantage of my free downloads!
Or subscribe to my free monthly newsletter at www.donnajodhan.com.

Dear Readers:
This is a personal request from me for you to join my campaign against bullying (CAB). In 2012 I launched my own campaign against bullying in response to appeals from friends and associates.  I decided to try something new and here it is.

You can support my campaign against bullying (CAB) and in return for your valuable contribution I will send you a thank you gift.  Visit www.jodhanmysterybook.club to learn more. I will use all contributions to promote workshops to help others protect themselves from bullying and teach them how to launch their own anti bullying campaigns.

In addition, I will produce blogs and podcasts to help me spread my campaign and to convince others to do the same.
You may also visit my online store at www.donnajodhan.com/store.html and browse through my selections.

Help me to stop the spread of bullying  and to show others how to combat bullies.

About my audio mysteries: Patterned after the "Murder she wrote!" and "Murdoch mysteries!" Where mystery is the order of the day. Meet Detective DJ and the Crime Crushers.  You won’t want to miss out on any of her audio mysteries!  Filled with gripping drama and unbelievable plots, you won’t be able to stop listening until the very end and then you’ll be craving for more – there is mystery behind every mystery!

Detective DJ writes and records her own audio mysteries. She uses the power of words to create and solve her crimes, and then she draws you in and before you know it – you’re all caught up in the plot!  But alas, at the end of it all, when you think you’ve identified the perpetrator, she surprises you once more and you’re left absolutely stunned and amazed!

Feelings forever: The Christmas feeling

Christmas for me is simply a plethora of feelings, emotions, and so much more.  Christmas for me is a season where so many memories race across my mind.  I can tell you that Christmas for me can be viewed in two different ways: as someone who has precious little vision and as one who once upon a time had enough vision to see so much.

When I had enough vision to see many things, I could appreciate the flickering candles in Church, the flashing colored lights as I skated around an outdoor rink, crowded streets with scurrying shoppers, Christmas trees loaded with decorations and presents piled high beneath, tables loaded with dishes of food, and of course!  Santa Claus!  I used to spend so much time in the toy departments admiring the dolls and doll houses.  Drawing sets and coloring books.  I used to help decorate the house and always enjoyed putting up the angels, the lights, and most of all the manger with all of the figures. 

Now that my vision has dwindled to almost nothing, I have all of these memories to bolster my enjoyment of Christmas. In addition, I use my senses of sound and smell to help me continue enjoying.  Fragrances of burning firewood, pine, baking cookies, and turkey and pork all help me to conjure up pictures and images of years gone by.  Sounds of bells, kids laughing, Santa Claus ho ho hoing, and the scraping of blades on ice add to my happy memories.  You see, I have so many ways to recreate, reproduce, and make new memories.

Christmas as a blind person could be really interesting.  So much to enjoy and so much to share with others.  Christmas through the eyes of a blind person could be a very different perspective for many.  You can learn more by visiting www.acb.org.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly accessibility advocate, wishing you a terrific day.  Merry Christmas, everyone!

Follow me on Twitter @accessibleworld and @author_jodhan
Like me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/authordonnajodhan
Visit my online store to either purchase or subscribe for unlimited access to our library at jodhanmysterybook.club/about-the-author and you can even take advantage of my free downloads!
Or subscribe to my free monthly newsletter at www.donnajodhan.com.

Dear Readers:
This is a personal request from me for you to join my campaign against bullying (CAB).
In 2012 I launched my own campaign against bullying in response to appeals from friends and associates.  I decided to try something new and here it is.

You can support my campaign against bullying (CAB) and in return for your valuable contribution I will send you a thank you gift.  Visit www.jodhanmysterybook.club to learn more. I will use all contributions to promote workshops to help others protect themselves from bullying and teach them how to launch their own anti-bullying campaigns.

In addition, I will produce blogs and podcasts to help me spread my campaign and to convince others to do the same.

You may also visit my online store at www.donnajodhan.com/store.html and browse through my selections.

Help me to stop the spread of bullying  and to show others how to combat bullies.

About my audio mysteries: Patterned after the "Murder she wrote!" and "Murdoch mysteries!" Where mystery is the order of the day. Meet Detective DJ and the Crime Crushers.  You won’t want to miss out on any of her audio mysteries!  Filled with gripping drama and unbelievable plots, you won’t be able to stop listening until the very end and then you’ll be craving for more – there is mystery behind every mystery!

Detective DJ writes and records her own audio mysteries. She uses the power of words to create and solve her crimes, and then she draws you in and before you know it – you’re all caught up in the plot!  But alas, at the end of it all, when you think you’ve identified the perpetrator, she surprises you once more and you’re left absolutely stunned and amazed!

They are my dreams: Some day at Christmas

One of my favourite Christmas carols is "Some Day at Christmas," made popular by the late Michael Jackson.  Yes, some day at Christmas when I could wake up on a peaceful morning and welcome yet another special day with my loved ones around me and the Christ Child in my heart. 

When I would be able to say, "Finally!  All is well and now blind kids will have an equal opportunity to be like their mainstream counterparts."  When they can play with mainstream toys and be able to use cell phones and IPods just like sighted kids.  When they would be able to play with games just like their sighted friends and not have to worry about inaccessibility.  When their classrooms and playgrounds would be free of accessibility barriers and they would have an equal opportunity to be just kids!

Some day at Christmas, when I could go to bed just before Santa makes his rounds, knowing that all of my wishes have been granted.  That all websites have been made accessible.  That all supermarkets and stores have  been made fully accessible to blind persons.  That online courses and distance learning have all been made accessible and usable to blind persons.  That blind persons have equal access to all reading materials in the same way that sighted persons do. 

Some day at Christmas, after Santa has come  and gone leaving a huge package for me under my Christmas tree, I could wake up and say, "Finally!  The banks have finally gotten it!  Their ATMs are now fully accessible.  Blind persons can now access all point of sale devices and touch screens without having to ask for sighted assistance. Blind passengers can now access kiosks at airports, they can enjoy movies on board aircraft, and no more problems at airports, train stations, and bus terminals for them."

Some day at Christmas, as I sit quietly in a church along with others waiting for the Christmas Mass to begin, I could say, "Thank you, God, for ensuring that from now on society will treat blind persons as normal persons who can function on their own and the only thing wrong with them is that they are unable to see."

Some day at Christmas!  Ah, yes, it is only my dreams but who says that dreams don't come true?  The smell of cookies baking in my kitchen are real!  Christmas carols being played around me are real!  Children laughing and families decorating are real!  Is it too much for me to ask Santa to help make my dreams come true?

The late Steve Jobs made some of my dreams and those of other blind persons come true!  Dare I dream that there could be another Steve Jobs out there just waiting to bring hope to the blind world?

I'm Donna J. Jodhan wishing you a very merry Christmas! Joyeux noèl!  Feliz Navidad!

Follow me on Twitter @accessibleworld and @author_jodhan
Like me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/authordonnajodhan
Visit my online store to either purchase or subscribe for unlimited access to our library at jodhanmysterybook.club/about-the-author and you can even take advantage of my free downloads!
Or subscribe to my free monthly newsletter at www.donnajodhan.com.

Dear Readers:
This is a personal request from me for you to join my campaign against bullying (CAB).

In 2012 I launched my own campaign against bullying in response to appeals from friends and associates.  I decided to try something new and here it is.

You can support my campaign against bullying (CAB) and in return for your valuable contribution I will send you a thank you gift.  Visit www.jodhanmysterybook.club to learn more. I will use all contributions to promote workshops to help others protect themselves from bullying and teach them how to launch their own anti-bullying campaigns.

In addition, I will produce blogs and podcasts to help me spread my campaign and to convince others to do the same.

You may also visit my online store at www.donnajodhan.com/store.html and browse through my selections.

Help me to stop the spread of bullying  and to show others how to combat bullies.

About my audio mysteries: Patterned after the "Murder she wrote!" and "Murdoch mysteries!" Where mystery is the order of the day. Meet Detective DJ and the Crime Crushers.  You won’t want to miss out on any of her audio mysteries!  Filled with gripping drama and unbelievable plots, you won’t be able to stop listening until the very end and then you’ll be craving for more – there is mystery behind every mystery!

Detective DJ writes and records her own audio mysteries. She uses the power of words to create and solve her crimes, and then she draws you in and before you know it – you’re all caught up in the plot!  But alas, at the end of it all, when you think you’ve identified the perpetrator, she surprises you once more and you’re left absolutely stunned and amazed!

I'm probably one of the biggest ones: The Christmas kids

I really don't think that it matters how old we are when it comes to enjoying Christmas.  We are all kids in our very own way and I am probably one of the biggest kids when it comes to Christmas.  

Yes! It is my favorite time of the year.  Just to hear the kids themselves as they shout with glee!  As they sing with joy!  As they whoop with excitement whenever they see Santa Claus or they find something that they have been looking for!  Ah! Just to be a kid at Christmas! 

For me personally, at Christmas, being a kid in my own way is really not describing it fully!  I guess that I have always been a kid at heart.  I love the toys.  First, the electronic games and gadgets.  Next come the dolls and doll houses with all of the furniture, and tea sets.  Then come the puzzles, the bats and balls, and then finally everything else that makes me smile!  In short, anything that makes a noise, anything that beeps, talks, and anything that enables me to create, imagine, and develop! 

Christmas is for everyone and age is no barrier.  No gift is too big or too small.  There is a kid in each of us and all we need to do is to let it all hang out.  It is not as difficult as you may think.  Just let it happen, then sit back and enjoy! It is what I do every year, and you know what?  I really don't have to wait until Christmas to do it!  I can be a kid anytime I want!  It is just that it is so much more fun being a kid at Christmas time! It is so much easier to be a kid at this time of the year! 

The sounds and smells!  The ambiance and the songs!  The sights and events!  For after all, was it not then when the greatest and most famous kid was born?  Our Lord Jesus Christ? 

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, wishing you a very merry Christmas! 

Follow me on Twitter @accessibleworld and @author_jodhan
Like me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/authordonnajodhan
Visit my online store to either purchase or subscribe for unlimited access to our library at jodhanmysterybook.club/about-the-author and you can even take advantage of my free downloads!
Or subscribe to my free monthly newsletter at www.donnajodhan.com.

Dear Readers:
This is a personal request from me for you to join my campaign against bullying (CAB). In 2012 I launched my own campaign against bullying in response to appeals from friends and associates.  I decided to try something new and here it is.

You can support my campaign against bullying (CAB) and in return for your valuable contribution I will send you a thank you gift.  Visit www.jodhanmysterybook.club to learn more. I will use all contributions to promote workshops to help others protect themselves from bullying and teach them how to launch their own anti bullying campaigns.

In addition, I will produce blogs and podcasts to help me spread my campaign and to convince others to do the same.
You may also visit my online store at www.donnajodhan.com/store.html and browse through my selections.

Help me to stop the spread of bullying  and to show others how to combat bullies.

About my audio mysteries: Patterned after the "Murder she wrote!" and "Murdoch mysteries!" Where mystery is the order of the day. Meet Detective DJ and the Crime Crushers.  You won’t want to miss out on any of her audio mysteries!  Filled with gripping drama and unbelievable plots, you won’t be able to stop listening until the very end and then you’ll be craving for more – there is mystery behind every mystery!

Detective DJ writes and records her own audio mysteries. She uses the power of words to create and solve her crimes, and then she draws you in and before you know it – you’re all caught up in the plot!  But alas, at the end of it all, when you think you’ve identified the perpetrator, she surprises you once more and you’re left absolutely stunned and amazed!

My favorite time of the year: Christmas is for me no matter where I am

Yes!  You got it right!  You heard me correctly!  No matter where I am and no matter what I'm doing!  Christmas is for me! 

I could be spending it in Canada where the winters are icy, the snow is falling, the winds are howling, and I could practically hear Santa chuckling. Christmas is for me!  Or I could be spending it in the sunny Caribbean where Santa could be seen in either a jeep, standing in an open truck, or even on a motorcycle. Christmas is for me!  No matter where I am, this very special time of the year is for me! 

There are some very special things that many parts of the world share in common: the birth of Jesus, gift giving, greeting each other, Christmas goodies, toys, and the singing of Christmas songs and carols!  So many things in common for us to share!  

No matter where I am, all of these things will be with me!  From a snowy winter with skaters skating on an icy rink with Christmas lights winking in the background and bystanders drinking hot chocolate, to a deep blue sea with swimmers swimming lazily under the watch of bright blue skies, Christmas will always be the same!  It is not where I will happen to be!  It is all about the spirit of Christmas!  Remembering what Christmas really means to me!  The giving, the greeting, the joy, the special hopes and wishes for others, but most important of all!  Remembering to let the Child Jesus into my heart and to let him stay with me all year through! 

Quoting from a popular Christmas carol:  "The secret of Christmas is not what you do at Christmas time! But the Christmas things you do all year through."   

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, wishing you a wonderful Christmas and the very best for the new year. 
May all of your dreams come true! 

Follow me on Twitter @accessibleworld and @author_jodhan
Like me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/authordonnajodhan
Visit my online store to either purchase or subscribe for unlimited access to our library at jodhanmysterybook.club/about-the-author and you can even take advantage of my free downloads!
Or subscribe to my free monthly newsletter at www.donnajodhan.com.

Dear Readers:
This is a personal request from me for you to join my campaign against bullying (CAB).
In 2012 I launched my own campaign against bullying in response to appeals from friends and associates.  I decided to try something new and here it is.

You can support my campaign against bullying (CAB) and in return for your valuable contribution I will send you a thank you gift.  Visit www.jodhanmysterybook.club to learn more. I will use all contributions to promote workshops to help others protect themselves from bullying and teach them how to launch their own anti-bullying campaigns.

In addition, I will produce blogs and podcasts to help me spread my campaign and to convince others to do the same.

You may also visit my online store at www.donnajodhan.com/store.html and browse through my selections.

Help me to stop the spread of bullying  and to show others how to combat bullies.

About my audio mysteries: Patterned after the "Murder she wrote!" and "Murdoch mysteries!" Where mystery is the order of the day. Meet Detective DJ and the Crime Crushers.  You won’t want to miss out on any of her audio mysteries!  Filled with gripping drama and unbelievable plots, you won’t be able to stop listening until the very end and then you’ll be craving for more – there is mystery behind every mystery!

Detective DJ writes and records her own audio mysteries. She uses the power of words to create and solve her crimes, and then she draws you in and before you know it – you’re all caught up in the plot!  But alas, at the end of it all, when you think you’ve identified the perpetrator, she surprises you once more and you’re left absolutely stunned and amazed!

Unforgettable! Under the Christmas tree

It may not be yet Christmas but, boy, do I have some wonderful memories to share with you.  Memories of me as a child with very little vision enjoying my experiences under our family’s Christmas tree.  I had enough vision then to see the lights in their different colors.  I could see the other decorations on the tree, as well, but I did not have quite enough vision to help decorate the tree. 

That was okay by me.  I enjoyed smelling the fragrant pine of our live tree.  At night I would crawl under our tree and lie quietly among the presents, taking care not to crush any of them.  My two brothers were always trying to peek into their presents and they would let me have a feel of mine.  I would shake the packages to see if I could tell what mine were, but my brothers would peek and tell.  Oh, how much fun it was then.

I always loved our Christmas tree and everything that went with it.  I loved everything about those wonderful trees.  The smell of them, what lay under them, and what was placed on and around them.  Ah, yes!  Under the Christmas tree!

I’m Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly accessibility advocate, wishing you a terrific day and urging you to go out there and tell others about my memories of being under my Christmas tree. 

Follow me on Twitter @accessibleworld and @author_jodhan
Like me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/authordonnajodhan
Visit my online store to either purchase or subscribe for unlimited access to our library at jodhanmysterybook.club/about-the-author and you can even take advantage of my free downloads!
Or subscribe to my free monthly newsletter at www.donnajodhan.com.

Dear Readers:
This is a personal request from me for you to join my campaign against bullying (CAB).

In 2012 I launched my own campaign against bullying in response to appeals from friends and associates.  I decided to try something new and here it is.

You can support my campaign against bullying (CAB) and in return for your valuable contribution I will send you a thank you gift.  Visit www.jodhanmysterybook.club to learn more. I will use all contributions to promote workshops to help others protect themselves from bullying and teach them how to launch their own anti-bullying campaigns.

In addition, I will produce blogs and podcasts to help me spread my campaign and to convince others to do the same.

You may also visit my online store at www.donnajodhan.com/store.html and browse through my selections.

Help me to stop the spread of bullying  and to show others how to combat bullies.

About my audio mysteries: Patterned after the "Murder she wrote!" and "Murdoch mysteries!" Where mystery is the order of the day. Meet Detective DJ and the Crime Crushers.  You won’t want to miss out on any of her audio mysteries!  Filled with gripping drama and unbelievable plots, you won’t be able to stop listening until the very end and then you’ll be craving for more – there is mystery behind every mystery!

Detective DJ writes and records her own audio mysteries. She uses the power of words to create and solve her crimes, and then she draws you in and before you know it – you’re all caught up in the plot!  But alas, at the end of it all, when you think you’ve identified the perpetrator, she surprises you once more and you’re left absolutely stunned and amazed!

My Christmas perspective: The color of Christmas

As Andy Williams used to sing out each year, "It's the most wonderful time of the year," and this is certainly the case for me.  It is that time of year when the child in me decides to show itself.  I am never too embarrassed to express my joy whenever I hear Santa's rich laughter and whenever I smell the sweet fragrance of pine.  All of those colorful presents, bows, lights, and other goodies dancing before my eyes!

Now that my vision is down to a bare minimum, I use my imagination to help me out.  I imagine all those mysterious colored packages under a huge tree decorated with blinking lights.  I can almost see those colorful lights dancing in my memory and I can practically reach out and grab one of those mysterious packages from under the tree.

Lights intermingled with artificial snowflakes, all kinds of Christmas figures, and at the top of the tree?  The shining star!

I must not forget my angel and my manger with the Baby Jesus lying in Mother Mary's arms.  The animals, shepherds, Joseph, and the three wise men.  All fixed in my mind's eye forever.

The toys all come alive in my mind!  Doll houses filled with little people. Furniture, tea sets, and strollers with baby dolls.  Even the racing cars, train sets, and those ice skates dancing just out of my reach.  The skis waiting for me to put them on and the colorful balls and game sets.

Ah yes!  The color of Christmas and I will forever be a child at this time of the year!

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly accessibility advocate. wishing you a happy, holy, and safe Christmas!

Follow me on Twitter @accessibleworld and @author_jodhan
Like me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/authordonnajodhan
Visit my online store to either purchase or subscribe for unlimited access to our library at jodhanmysterybook.club/about-the-author and you can even take advantage of my free downloads!
Or subscribe to my free monthly newsletter at www.donnajodhan.com.

Dear Readers:
This is a personal request from me for you to join my campaign against bullying (CAB). In 2012 I launched my own campaign against bullying in response to appeals from friends and associates.  I decided to try something new and here it is.

You can support my campaign against bullying (CAB) and in return for your valuable contribution I will send you a thank you gift.  Visit www.jodhanmysterybook.club to learn more. I will use all contributions to promote workshops to help others protect themselves from bullying and teach them how to launch their own anti bullying campaigns.

In addition, I will produce blogs and podcasts to help me spread my campaign and to convince others to do the same. You may also visit my online store at www.donnajodhan.com/store.html and browse through my selections.

Help me to stop the spread of bullying  and to show others how to combat bullies.

About my audio mysteries: Patterned after the "Murder she wrote!" and "Murdoch mysteries!" Where mystery is the order of the day. Meet Detective DJ and the Crime Crushers.  You won’t want to miss out on any of her audio mysteries!  Filled with gripping drama and unbelievable plots, you won’t be able to stop listening until the very end and then you’ll be craving for more – there is mystery behind every mystery!

Detective DJ writes and records her own audio mysteries. She uses the power of words to create and solve her crimes, and then she draws you in and before you know it – you’re all caught up in the plot!  But alas, at the end of it all, when you think you’ve identified the perpetrator, she surprises you once more and you’re left absolutely stunned and amazed!

My precious Christmas friend: Little Christmas tree

It was the night before Christmas and in my dreams I slipped lazily and happily into memory lane.  Another time had come, and as I stood there the little Christmas tree twinkled in front of my eyes.  The tree smelled so wonderful!  It gave off the scent of warm pine.  The colored lights danced in front of my eyes as they took turns blinking on and off.

I moved, oh so carefully, towards my little Christmas tree, being careful not to step on packages neatly piled in front of it.  I had to get as close as I could so as to see everything.  My partial sight only allowed me the luxury of seeing things very close up and at best only a few things at a time. Nevertheless, it was enough for me.

I gingerly reached out and placed my index finger on one of the little lights, a little yellow one.  Then I took my time at identifying other colors.  Red, blue, and green. Then I had to take my time at finding a spot where there were no lights.  I found it after a few moments and I held a tiny portion of a branch between my fingers.

Next I looked upwards and found the star at the very top.  I stood gazing for quite some time, thinking of the story that my parents would tell me every Christmas: the night that Jesus was born.  What a lovely memory for me.  Then I bent down and felt for some of the packages and finally I made my way to where the manger had been set up.  There I spent most of my time, examining each little figure: Baby Jesus in the arms of Mary and Joseph, the three Wise Men, the shepherds, and the animals.

Ah!  That was a memory of when I was a child and had enough vision to see it all then.  Now I can only recall this memory each Christmas and that’s okay for me.  At least I have a memory that I can recall and one that I can cherish forever. Merry Christmas everyone!

I’m Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly accessibility advocate, wishing you happy Christmas dreams!

Follow me on Twitter @accessibleworld and @author_jodhan
Like me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/authordonnajodhan
Visit my online store to either purchase or subscribe for unlimited access to our library at jodhanmysterybook.club/about-the-author and you can even take advantage of my free downloads!
Or subscribe to my free monthly newsletter at www.donnajodhan.com.

Dear Readers:
This is a personal request from me for you to join my campaign against bullying (CAB).
In 2012 I launched my own campaign against bullying in response to appeals from friends and associates.  I decided to try something new and here it is.

You can support my campaign against bullying (CAB) and in return for your valuable contribution I will send you a thank you gift.  Visit www.jodhanmysterybook.club to learn more. I will use all contributions to promote workshops to help others protect themselves from bullying and teach them how to launch their own anti-bullying campaigns.

In addition, I will produce blogs and podcasts to help me spread my campaign and to convince others to do the same.

You may also visit my online store at www.donnajodhan.com/store.html and browse through my selections.

Help me to stop the spread of bullying  and to show others how to combat bullies.

About my audio mysteries: Patterned after the "Murder she wrote!" and "Murdoch mysteries!" Where mystery is the order of the day. Meet Detective DJ and the Crime Crushers.  You won’t want to miss out on any of her audio mysteries!  Filled with gripping drama and unbelievable plots, you won’t be able to stop listening until the very end and then you’ll be craving for more – there is mystery behind every mystery!

Detective DJ writes and records her own audio mysteries. She uses the power of words to create and solve her crimes, and then she draws you in and before you know it – you’re all caught up in the plot!  But alas, at the end of it all, when you think you’ve identified the perpetrator, she surprises you once more and you’re left absolutely stunned and amazed!

A lifetime of precious memories: Christmas is for me

I have had the good fortune to enjoy many wonderful Christmases, with and without vision, and it does not matter!  Christmas is for me.  The smells and the sounds, the laughter and the merry making.

When I had enough sight, I used to enjoy going out to window shop.  To see the bright colorful lights, the flickering candles in the church, Santa's bright red suit, and streets crowded with throngs of folks of all ages.  I also loved to smell the scent of rich pine, cakes and goodies baking in ovens, and taste the various Christmas foods and drinks.  I loved to walk in the snow and watch those big white snowflakes race each other to the ground. But most of all, I loved to ice skate around those huge outdoor rinks decorated with Christmas lights.

That was then and this is now but not much has changed for me.  True it is that I can no longer see the flickering candles, the colorful Christmas lights, and the big fat snowflakes, but this does not prevent me from enjoying this special time of the year.  My sense of smell is still intact along with my sense of taste and I use my memories of years gone by to help me along.  I focus on the times when I could see and intermingle those memories with the now.  I am blessed!  I am lucky!  With or without sight, Christmas is for me!  I am a kid at heart, playing with my talking games, playing my electronic keyboard, and my Christmas CDs.

Merry Christmas, happy holidays, Joyeux Noèl, and Feliz Navidad to you all!
I'm Donna J. Jodhan.  Will see you again in the New Year.

Follow me on Twitter @accessibleworld and @author_jodhan
Like me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/authordonnajodhan
Visit my online store to either purchase or subscribe for unlimited access to our library at jodhanmysterybook.club/about-the-author and you can even take advantage of my free downloads!
Or subscribe to my free monthly newsletter at www.donnajodhan.com.

Dear Readers:
This is a personal request from me for you to join my campaign against bullying (CAB).

In 2012 I launched my own campaign against bullying in response to appeals from friends and associates.  I decided to try something new and here it is.

You can support my campaign against bullying (CAB) and in return for your valuable contribution I will send you a thank you gift.  Visit www.jodhanmysterybook.club to learn more. I will use all contributions to promote workshops to help others protect themselves from bullying and teach them how to launch their own anti-bullying campaigns.

In addition, I will produce blogs and podcasts to help me spread my campaign and to convince others to do the same.

You may also visit my online store at www.donnajodhan.com/store.html and browse through my selections.

Help me to stop the spread of bullying  and to show others how to combat bullies.

About my audio mysteries: Patterned after the "Murder she wrote!" and "Murdoch mysteries!" Where mystery is the order of the day. Meet Detective DJ and the Crime Crushers.  You won’t want to miss out on any of her audio mysteries!  Filled with gripping drama and unbelievable plots, you won’t be able to stop listening until the very end and then you’ll be craving for more – there is mystery behind every mystery!

Detective DJ writes and records her own audio mysteries. She uses the power of words to create and solve her crimes, and then she draws you in and before you know it – you’re all caught up in the plot!  But alas, at the end of it all, when you think you’ve identified the perpetrator, she surprises you once more and you’re left absolutely stunned and amazed!

Forever in my mind: Remembering the Rossi's store

Talk about a variety store that I used to frequent at least once a week and this was the Rossi's store in Montreal.  In fact, there were two of them close enough to where I lived and I frequented both.

Those were the days, as they would say!  When I would simply go in and start to browse.  I would enter empty-handed and by the time I would be ready to leave I would either be carrying an armful of purchases or just something small.

Visually, the Rossi's store held everything for me.  From toys and teddy bears to framed photos.  From clothes to sheets and towels and from stationary to cosmetics and cutlery to kitchen stuff.  Christmas time was always the time when this store went out of its way to sell all kinds of decorations.  From tabletop Christmas trees to ornaments and so much more.

I made my first visit to Rossi's with Char and Chris and many more after this. Then I went with Nella and with Francine.  Then, when I obtained my first cornea transplant, I would make it a habit to go there whenever I could on my own.

Ah, yes!  Memories of Rossi's forever!

If you would like to learn more about me as an author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as an author but you will also gain insights into my campaign against bullying and why I strongly believe that you need to consider joining me in order to insure that the future of our kids with their wide-eyed smiles and infectious laughter is secured forever.

And now my weekly podcast!
From recipes to apps, and 5 minute mysteries to tips for entrepreneurs and scam alerts! www.takeanother5.com

Follow me on Twitter @accessibleworld and at author_jodhan
And like me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/donnajodhan and at www.facebook.com/authordonnajodhan

A favorite haunt: Remembering the Bo Peep Restaurant

Ah, yes!  The Bo Peep Restaurant, with its lingering smells of deliciously cooked food, the warmth of its staff, and everything good about it.

I was a regular visitor there and I went often with others and sometimes on my own.  I used to sit and enjoy it all and with functional vision at my disposal it was so very easy for me to spend time there just hanging out and watching the world go by.

I always enjoyed the cabbage rolls, the Ontario turkey dinner, and the roast beef.  I went with friends and even took clients there.  The Bo Peep was so very accessible to persons with disabilities.

The entrances were wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs.  The booths were the same and the aisles afforded great ease of passage.

The staff really knew how to be of service to seniors and persons with a disability.  They were patient and were always so very willing and ready to explain and assist.  I think that many restaurants of today could easily learn from the Bo Peep which closed in 2004.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly accessibility advocate, wishing you a terrific day. 

If you would like to learn more about me as an author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as an author but you will also gain insights into my campaign against bullying and why I strongly believe that you need to consider joining me in order to insure that the future of our kids with their wide-eyed smiles and infectious laughter is secured forever.

And now my weekly podcast!
From recipes to apps, and 5 minute mysteries to tips for entrepreneurs and scam alerts! www.takeanother5.com

Follow me on Twitter @accessibleworld and at author_jodhan
And like me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/donnajodhan
and at www.facebook.com/authordonnajodhan

Such treasured memories: Remembering the White Rose Nursery

This was one of my favorite haunts, as they say: visits to the White Rose Nursery and I was so very sorry to see it close.  Oh, how much I used to enjoy going with Mom and Gabriella to choose plants and all kinds of decorations.

At the beginning of planting season, which was in May, we would go there to choose our flowers.  I still remember how very colorful they were, from impatiens to begonias and from marigolds to so many other types of plants and flowers.

We would start outside with the outdoor plants.  Mom would lead the charge with Gabriella and me following closely behind.  She would meticulously choose and then allow us to pack them gently in the cart.  Next we would venture indoors to pick up the plant food and other supplies.

In November we would return to choose our Christmas decorations and, oh, how much I cherished these visits.  There were all kinds of decorations, from ornaments of all kinds and sizes to hollies and poinsettias.

As I sit here writing this, the colors are simply dancing around in my head. All of the sights and sounds of that good old White Rose Nursery are very much alive in my mind!  Oh, how much I miss White Rose!  Another memory for me to cherish and I am sure glad that I was able to take all of this in while I had functional vision.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly accessibility advocate, wishing you a terrific day. 

If you would like to learn more about me as an author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as an author but you will also gain insights into my campaign against bullying and why I strongly believe that you need to consider joining me in order to insure that the future of our kids with their wide-eyed smiles and infectious laughter is secured forever.

And now my weekly podcast!
From recipes to apps, and 5 minute mysteries to tips for entrepreneurs and scam alerts! www.takeanother5.com

Follow me on Twitter @accessibleworld and at author_jodhan
And like me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/donnajodhan and at www.facebook.com/authordonnajodhan

A rare and special lady: Saying farewell to Manon

It was so very somber, the day that I had to say farewell to Manon.  I first met her in 2006 when she was introduced to me as my new banking officer. From then until May 2017, she was a constant in my life.

I knew then that I was losing someone very special!  Someone who had so many times gone out of her way to ensure that my needs and requirements were met.

Manon did everything possible to ensure that I was comfortable when carrying out my banking.  She never made me feel inadequate and I sure appreciated her positive attitude whenever it came to ensuring that my documents were properly signed, initialed, and executed.

I would say this: Manon's friendly voice sure matched her personality! There could never have been a more perfect match!  She loved the Canadiens hockey team and so did I.  She loved to laugh and so did I.  She loved to chat and so did I!

Good luck, Manon, now that you are retired.  Stay well now and never lose your happy spirit.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly accessibility advocate, wishing you a terrific day. 

If you would like to learn more about me as an author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as an author but you will also gain insights into my campaign against bullying and why I strongly believe that you need to consider joining me in order to insure that the future of our kids with their wide-eyed smiles and infectious laughter is secured forever.

And now my weekly podcast!
From recipes to apps, and 5 minute mysteries to tips for entrepreneurs and scam alerts! www.takeanother5.com

Follow me on Twitter @accessibleworld and at author_jodhan
And like me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/donnajodhan and at www.facebook.com/authordonnajodhan

A very special person: Saying goodbye to Radhika

When it comes to exceptional persons, the ones who really stand out for some reason or other as you travel along the path of life, Radhika easily falls into this esteemed and illustrious category.

I first met Radhika in 2011, after she had delivered flowers to me through the Sears Canada, Flowers by Sears service.  She simply grew on me and over the years she became one of my very favorite people.

Radhika was always so very willing to accommodate my needs.  She went above and beyond the call of duty.  She always made my floral arrangements extra special, with colors that she knew that I liked and then she would slip in some very special ornaments.

When I visited her floral shop in May 2017, I simply enjoyed the fragrances of her flowers and I could tell how packed her shop was with all kinds of flowers and plants.

Thank you, Radhika, for having come into my life and a special thank you to your wonderful daughter, Ria.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly accessibility advocate, wishing you a terrific day. 

If you would like to learn more about me as an author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as an author but you will also gain insights into my campaign against bullying and why I strongly believe that you need to consider joining me in order to insure that the future of our kids with their wide-eyed smiles and infectious laughter is secured forever.

And now my weekly podcast!
From recipes to apps, and 5 minute mysteries to tips for entrepreneurs and scam alerts! www.takeanother5.com

Follow me on Twitter @accessibleworld and at author_jodhan
And like me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/donnajodhan
and at www.facebook.com/authordonnajodhan

Lots of pain: My poor right shoulder

In late December, 2016, I began to experience great pain with my right shoulder and over the next few months it grew worse.  It was even more difficult for me as my right hand was my so-called cane hand.  In short, the hand that I use to work with my mobility cane.

So, I had to devise ways to help myself.  My right arm still remained the captain of the cane, so to speak, but now I had to call on my left arm to help out.  Any mobility instructor who may have noticed my techniques over these few months would probably have cringed and yelled at me, but sorry: I had no choice.

My left arm took over when it came to moving my cane along but the right arm was still there to ensure that things were okay.  Pain or no pain; I still needed my right shoulder to help me.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly accessibility advocate, wishing you a terrific day. 

If you would like to learn more about me as an author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as an author but you will also gain insights into my campaign against bullying and why I strongly believe that you need to consider joining me in order to insure that the future of our kids with their wide-eyed smiles and infectious laughter is secured forever.

And now my weekly podcast!
From recipes to apps, and 5 minute mysteries to tips for entrepreneurs and scam alerts! www.takeanother5.com

Follow me on Twitter @accessibleworld and at author_jodhan
And like me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/donnajodhan and at www.facebook.com/authordonnajodhan

Such a wonderful person: Hanging out with Sue

Hanging out with Sue is always so very refreshing and enjoyable for me.  Sue is probably one of the best guides that I have ever had.  She knows how to guide a vision-impaired person.  She is careful, thoughtful, and always looking for ways to make things better.

Sue is not afraid to try new things, discover new ways, and find solutions to challenges.

She makes difficult things look so very easy.  She is never afraid to say no but always willing to say yes!

She is funny and helps me to see the humour on difficult days.  She laughs so easily and that's my friend, Sue!

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly accessibility advocate, wishing you a terrific day. 

If you would like to learn more about me as an author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as an author but you will also gain insights into my campaign against bullying and why I strongly believe that you need to consider joining me in order to insure that the future of our kids with their wide-eyed smiles and infectious laughter is secured forever.

And now my weekly podcast!
From recipes to apps, and 5 minute mysteries to tips for entrepreneurs and scam alerts! www.takeanother5.com

Follow me on Twitter @accessibleworld and at author_jodhan
And like me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/donnajodhan and at www.facebook.com/authordonnajodhan

She is so special! Hanging out with Gabriella

I must say that it is always a pleasure whenever I get to hang out with this wonderful person.  A lady who has never shown any indifference to my being vision-impaired and a person who has always shown me that nothing is impossible!

I met Gabriella in 1986 and since then ours has been a plethora of adventures, excitement, discovery, and memories forever.

She has shown me great understanding and I have learned so much from her!  I would say that Gabriella is a person who we can easily learn from: compassion, passion, patience, and a huge propensity for giving and accepting.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly accessibility advocate, wishing you a terrific day. 

If you would like to learn more about me as an author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as an author but you will also gain insights into my campaign against bullying and why I strongly believe that you need to consider joining me in order to insure that the future of our kids with their wide-eyed smiles and infectious laughter is secured forever.

And now my weekly podcast!
From recipes to apps, and 5 minute mysteries to tips for entrepreneurs and scam alerts! www.takeanother5.com

Follow me on Twitter @accessibleworld and at author_jodhan
And like me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/donnajodhan
and at www.facebook.com/authordonnajodhan

He was one in a million: Remembering Mr. Q

The best way to remember this exceptional man is for me to say that he was bigger than life!  I met Richard Quan in late 2008 and the minute I did I knew on the spot that I had met someone who would probably influence my life.  I was so right!

I did not interact with him very often but when I did they were encounters that were so very meaningful to me.  Richard was my mentor and coach while I was president of the Alliance for Equality of Blind Canadians, and boy, what a difference he made!

He advised me on how to deal with certain difficult situations and his encouragement was so surreal.  He gave selflessly of himself and he always had time for me whenever I reached out to him.

Richard had an uncanny ability to fill the room whenever we had meetings. There was standing room only whenever he chaired a meeting and he had the ability to capture and hold the attention of many whenever he spoke and advised.  Richard advised me to continue on with my dinner mystery evenings and for this I am grateful.

I shall always remember one of his quotes after we had secured a victory against the Canadian Government in our charter challenge.  Richard tweeted: "A landmark victory for all Canadians."

God bless you, Richard!  Thank you for having come into my life!  Rest in Peace now!

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly accessibility advocate, wishing you a terrific day. 

If you would like to learn more about me as an author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as an author but you will also gain insights into my campaign against bullying and why I strongly believe that you need to consider joining me in order to insure that the future of our kids with their wide-eyed smiles and infectious laughter is secured forever.

And now my weekly podcast!
From recipes to apps, and 5 minute mysteries to tips for entrepreneurs and scam alerts! www.takeanother5.com

Follow me on Twitter @accessibleworld and at author_jodhan
And like me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/donnajodhan and at www.facebook.com/authordonnajodhan

Always in my heart: The Harbour Front skating rink

Oh, yes!  Another treasured memory from my bulging memory bank.  One that I shall always cherish and one that I often recall whenever I have a yearning to go out there and do some ice skating.

This rink was big and spacious.  A rink that sat on the edge of a lake and one where so many people still go to enjoy a wonderful winter skate.

I can still remember the wind blowing lustily through my hair and across my frozen cheeks as I skated around. The ice was always in almost perfect shape and I can still hear the blades of my skates brushing gently against the ice.

I can still hear the Christmas music and see the Christmas lights winking back at me as I skated around and I can still hear the laughter of kids and adults as they whizzed past me on their own skates.

Those were such happy times for me with my dear friends, Jason and Christine. We would often go skating at the Harbour Front rink and then we would eat dinner at a restaurant that served up sumptuous Chinese cuisine.

I have not been back there in so many years but maybe some day I'll return just for that one last ice skate.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly accessibility advocate, wishing you a terrific day. 

If you would like to learn more about me as an author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as an author but you will also gain insights into my campaign against bullying and why I strongly believe that you need to consider joining me in order to insure that the future of our kids with their wide-eyed smiles and infectious laughter is secured forever.

And now my weekly podcast!
From recipes to apps, and 5 minute mysteries to tips for entrepreneurs and scam alerts! www.takeanother5.com

Follow me on Twitter @accessibleworld and at author_jodhan
And like me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/donnajodhan and at www.facebook.com/authordonnajodhan

A treasured memory: At my first baseball game

I can still remember going with Char and Ray to my very first baseball game. This was so many years ago, when the Montreal Expos existed and played their games at Jarry Park in Montreal.

In those days I had very little vision so Char and I took radios along with us to hear the game as it was being broadcasted on the radio.  We were able to follow it with very little difficulty but what really pleased me was being able to be a part of the large, noisy, cheering crowd.

It was such a treat for me as I sat next to Char, and Ray sat on her other side.  We ate hot dogs and French fries and drank large glasses of Coke and as the sun shone down on us I just soaked it all in.

It did not really matter to Char and me that we could not see what was happening on the field.  As the commentators described the game, the crowd seemed to acknowledge their descriptions and their cheers were enough to confirm what was happening.

No one cared that we could not see what was happening.  They were just too busy enjoying the game themselves and this is how I shall always remember it.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly accessibility advocate, wishing you a terrific day. 

If you would like to learn more about me as an author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as an author but you will also gain insights into my campaign against bullying and why I strongly believe that you need to consider joining me in order to insure that the future of our kids with their wide-eyed smiles and infectious laughter is secured forever.

And now my weekly podcast!
From recipes to apps, and 5 minute mysteries to tips for entrepreneurs and scam alerts! www.takeanother5.com

Follow me on Twitter @accessibleworld and at author_jodhan
And like me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/donnajodhan
and at www.facebook.com/authordonnajodhan

Happy memories: One of the most pleasant kids

Her name was Tobi Nielsen and in my books she was probably one of the most pleasant kids that I ever met.  She was just nine years old when I first met her and from then until she left home to marry and settle down in Austria, I had the privilege and pleasure to know her.

Tobi was a very gentle little girl; always pleasant and always smiling and laughing.  She was filled with warmth and whenever I visited her home she was always there to give me a huge hug and play all kinds of games with me.

I don't think that Tobi really cared that I was vision-impaired.  She did not treat me with kid gloves but on the other hand she was always ever so careful to ensure that I did not stumble and fall or run into objects.  She was helpful but never overdid it.

I always loved giving her Christmas presents, all kinds of girls' toys.  She appreciated each with such delight that it often almost made me cry.

Now Tobi is all grown up with 3 daughters of her own and her youngest is vision-impaired.  She has RP.  I know that this will be a great challenge for Tobi and her little girl but I can only hope that somehow my having known her when she was a kid would help her in some way as she watches her little girl grow up.

You can do it, Tobi, and I am here for you if ever you need to reach out.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly accessibility advocate, wishing you a terrific day. 

If you would like to learn more about me as an author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as an author but you will also gain insights into my campaign against bullying and why I strongly believe that you need to consider joining me in order to insure that the future of our kids with their wide-eyed smiles and infectious laughter is secured forever.

And now my weekly podcast!
From recipes to apps, and 5 minute mysteries to tips for entrepreneurs and scam alerts! www.takeanother5.com

Follow me on Twitter @accessibleworld and at author_jodhan
And like me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/donnajodhan and at www.facebook.com/authordonnajodhan

My perspective: Buses and buses

There are buses and then there are buses and for someone who is vision-impaired, I need to keep this in mind whenever I travel.

The city buses are usually a bit narrow with front and back doors for entering and exiting.  The seats in my city are comfortable enough but there are some that face forward, others that face backward, single seats, bench seats, and then double seats.  Then there are the poles for you to hang on to on those crowded days.  Winter travel on these buses is made comfortable and bearable with adequate heating but in the summer the windows need to be opened to let in the fresh air.  There is no air conditioning.

Then there are those buses that travel between cities: from city to city or even province to province.  These are the more comfortable ones because of the length of their trips.  They are equipped with bathrooms at the back of the bus and very comfortable seats.  In the winter they are well heated and during the summer they are adequately air conditioned.  No worries about not being able to find a seat.

These buses are clean, comfortable, and well maintained, just like the city buses.  What is the difference between the two types of buses. you may be asking?

You never have to fight for a seat on the buses that take you from city to city or from province to province.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly accessibility advocate, wishing you a terrific day. 

If you would like to learn more about me as an author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as an author but you will also gain insights into my campaign against bullying and why I strongly believe that you need to consider joining me in order to insure that the future of our kids with their wide-eyed smiles and infectious laughter is secured forever.

And now my weekly podcast!
From recipes to apps, and 5 minute mysteries to tips for entrepreneurs and scam alerts! www.takeanother5.com

Follow me on Twitter @accessibleworld and at author_jodhan
And like me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/donnajodhan and at www.facebook.com/authordonnajodhan

Enjoyable for the most part: Metro stations in Montreal

Previously I told you about my travels on the Toronto subway and now it is time for me to tell you about my travels on the Montreal metro.  It is not as noisy as the Toronto subway and it is faster.

Stops are announced in both languages, English and French, as the metro arrives at each metro station, which helps greatly.  However, I will say that some of the metro stations are not as accessible for persons with disabilities as others.

I remember that there are very steep stairs leading down to the platforms of some of these stations which make it quite a challenge for persons with disabilities.  I always enjoy traveling on the Montreal metro when I have the chance.

For the most part, metro stations are kept clean and the traffic inside the stations is not as horrific as it is in Toronto.  I consider this to be a big plus for Montreal.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly accessibility advocate, wishing you a terrific day. 

If you would like to learn more about me as an author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as an author but you will also gain insights into my campaign against bullying and why I strongly believe that you need to consider joining me in order to insure that the future of our kids with their wide-eyed smiles and infectious laughter is secured forever.

And now my weekly podcast!
From recipes to apps, and 5 minute mysteries to tips for entrepreneurs and scam alerts! www.takeanother5.com

Follow me on Twitter @accessibleworld and at author_jodhan
And like me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/donnajodhan
and at www.facebook.com/authordonnajodhan

Challenges: Subway stations in Toronto

If you ever have the chance to travel on the subway in Toronto, then you might as well brace yourself for a challenging experience.  Not only will you encounter tons of folks walking and running in every direction but you will also encounter all kinds of other obstacles.

For someone who is vision impaired, I have had the opportunity to travel on this subway in different ways.  That is, I did it when I had functional vision and now I continue to do it as someone with almost no vision.  I use my vision to help me navigate heavy traffic in the subway stations.  I use it to help me cope and I use it to help me pack huge packages of patience as I prepare to travel on the Toronto subway.

I am afraid that it is only going to get more challenging with time.  Of course, you can choose the times when traffic is at its lowest, if you have that option or opportunity to do so.

Let's say between 10 am and 2 pm would be the best times to travel as freely as you can.  Trust me when I tell you that it is a pure luxury when you, as a vision-impaired person, can travel without too much trepidation.

Once you understand how the lines go, from east to west and from north to south, you can find your way around quite easily.  The lines are quite long but that's how it is for a large city like Toronto.  Stops are announced as the subway arrives at each station and this helps a lot.  Seats are quite comfortable and if you are unable to find a seat then you need to hang on to one of the many poles in the subway.

You may or may not find a good Samaritan who would be willing to give up their seat for you as a vision-impaired person.  It all depends on whether or not their heads are either buried in a book or their eyes are glued to an idevice or that airbuds are stuck in their ears.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly accessibility advocate, wishing you a terrific day. 

If you would like to learn more about me as an author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as an author but you will also gain insights into my campaign against bullying and why I strongly believe that you need to consider joining me in order to insure that the future of our kids with their wide-eyed smiles and infectious laughter is secured forever.

And now my weekly podcast!
From recipes to apps, and 5 minute mysteries to tips for entrepreneurs and scam alerts! www.takeanother5.com

Follow me on Twitter @accessibleworld and at author_jodhan
And like me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/donnajodhan and at www.facebook.com/authordonnajodhan

A rare and unique friend: Memories of Coranna

Oh, my dear friend:  It is more than a year now since you left us but I still cannot believe that you are gone.  Little did you know how much I appreciated your friendship and I can only say that you came into my life a bit too late.

You helped to shape my advocacy and you taught me how to stand up for my beliefs and stick to my guns.  You helped me to see things more clearly and you never hesitated to share your opinions with me.

You were always firm in everything that you stood for and I know that, for you, there were many challenges for you to overcome as a vision-impaired lady. But this never stopped you.

Thank you for having shared those special moments and times with me. Rest well now until we meet again and please do not forget to keep a place at your table for me.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly accessibility advocate, wishing you a terrific day. 

If you would like to learn more about me as an author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as an author but you will also gain insights into my campaign against bullying and why I strongly believe that you need to consider joining me in order to insure that the future of our kids with their wide-eyed smiles and infectious laughter is secured forever.

And now my weekly podcast!
From recipes to apps, and 5 minute mysteries to tips for entrepreneurs and scam alerts! www.takeanother5.com

Follow me on Twitter @accessibleworld and @author_jodhan
And like me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/donnajodhan and at www.facebook.com/authordonnajodhan

A wonderful friend forever: Happy times with Helena

Shopping is not just the only memory that I have with my dear friend, Helena.  No, not in any way, and if I had to recount them all it would probably take me years to do so.

You see, Helena and I became friends when I moved to Toronto from Montreal so many years ago and although we do not see each other much anymore, she is always uppermost in my mind.  I know that she will always be close by if ever I need to reach out.

We had happy times at restaurants, enjoying sumptuous meals.  I spent so many wonderful days at her house, swimming in her pool, sitting in her hot tub, and enjoying the hospitality of her family: her husband Wil, and kids, Nick and Tobi.

I still remember the day when friends at her poolside party dared me to jump from the top of the deck into her pool and there was Wil beside me, at the top, and Helena waiting for me in the pool.  What an experience!

Then there was the day when Nick took me for a ride on his motorcycle and Helena and Wil were standing there waiting for me after I had gotten off the motorcycle.

Then the day that we went shopping and one of us squeezed the bottle of body lotion a bit too vigorously and it burst and there was lotion all over us both!  It was Christmas time and we had to go home on the crowded subway smelling sweetly of body lotion.

So many wonderful days with Helena Nielsen and her family for me to remember and cherish forever.  A rare and wonderful lady with a warm and loving family!

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly accessibility advocate, wishing you a terrific day. 

If you would like to learn more about me as an author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as an author but you will also gain insights into my campaign against bullying and why I strongly believe that you need to consider joining me in order to insure that the future of our kids with their wide-eyed smiles and infectious laughter is secured forever.

And now my weekly podcast!
From recipes to apps, and 5 minute mysteries to tips for entrepreneurs and scam alerts! www.takeanother5.com

Follow me on Twitter @accessibleworld and @author_jodhan
And like me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/donnajodhan
and at www.facebook.com/authordonnajodhan

Treasured times: Memories of shopping with Helena

She was special and she was great!  She was delightful and she always managed to fill my shopping days with pure humour, excitement, and at the end of each shopping trip?  I would return home loaded with bags of merchandise.

Helena really knew how to communicate and interact with me as a vision-impaired person.  She went to great lengths to describe everything that I tried on.  She made doubly sure that whatever I chose, it looked good on me and that things matched.  She was always very honest with me and she did it
in style!

I shall always be very grateful for Helena's help, not just as my shopping assistant or a friend but as a Human Being who truly got it!

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly accessibility advocate, wishing you a terrific day. 

If you would like to learn more about me as an author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as an author but you will also gain insights into my campaign against bullying and why I strongly believe that you need to consider joining me in order to insure that the future of our kids with their wide-eyed smiles and infectious laughter is secured forever.

And now my weekly podcast!
From recipes to apps, and 5 minute mysteries to tips for entrepreneurs and scam alerts! www.takeanother5.com

Follow me on Twitter @accessibleworld and @author_jodhan
And like me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/donnajodhan and at www.facebook.com/authordonnajodhan

Always in my heart: The day I left Montreal

This is a day that shall forever remain firmly imprinted on my mind. Because it was the day that a small part of my heart died!  The day that I said a sad and silent farewell to the place that I shall always call home! However, I promised to return as often as I could.

Ah, yes!  Montreal!  And as the Air Canada plane rose slowly into the air, I looked through the window and down at the rapidly disappearing city.  Cars driving along the highway, homes looking like tiny dots, and snow and grass all intermingled as the day before we had had a terrible storm!  My tears rolled swiftly down my cheeks as I looked down and increased as I looked upwards and outwards to see a pale blue fall sky looking back at me.

It was a typical fall day with the sun doing its best to smile and the biting fall air nipping at my clothes as I got into the car and drove with Betty Tate to the airport.  Too late, no!  I had made my decision but I knew that I would be back soon to visit!

So many memories that are forever stored away in my memory bank.  So many things to remember and cherish!  This is the city where I found myself and obtained my vision!  Ah, yes!  Pictures to fill my scrap books for a lifetime and beyond!

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly accessibility advocate, wishing you a terrific day. 

If you would like to learn more about me as an author then I invite you now to visit
http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as an author but you will also gain insights into my campaign against bullying and why I strongly believe that you need to consider joining me in order to insure that the future of our kids with their wide-eyed smiles and infectious laughter is secured forever.

And now my weekly podcast!
From recipes to apps, and 5 minute mysteries to tips for entrepreneurs and scam alerts!
www.takeanother5.com


Follow me on Twitter @accessibleworld and at author_jodhan
And like me on Facebook at
www.facebook.com/donnajodhan and at www.facebook.com/authordonnajodhan

Oh Montreal! My home forever! Remembering Montreal

Oh, my beautiful and beloved Montreal!  Marvelous!  Sweet!  My heart shall forever belong to you and you shall forever remain in my heart!

This is the city where I discovered myself, both with functional and with little sight.  I learned so much through you!  I found myself and my identity!

From ice skating and snow banks to busy streets, stores, and restaurants! From lush green grass and blooming flowers to peaceful lakes and from summer to winter and spring to fall!

How could I ever forget learning how to navigate those metros with very little sight and then just standing there taking in all of those beautiful sights when I acquired my functional vision!  Skiing with very little vision!  Learning to play basketball and broom ball!  Going shopping with my friends, especially Char, my best friend!

How could I ever forget the night when Marion promised me that when I received my new cornea she would take me to see the lights of Montreal and she never disappointed me!  Those lights of the City of Montreal!  How could I ever dare to forget!

The cold winter days walking to classes with my jacket zipped right up to my chin!  The fall days walking among the falling leaves and listening to my feet crunching against them!  The beautiful spring days enjoying the fresh air and fragrances of flowers as I walked and those long lingering days on a tandem bike or listening to baseball games on my radio!

This was my beautiful Montreal and shall forever be my beautiful Montreal!

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly accessibility advocate, wishing you a terrific day. 

If you would like to learn more about me as an author then I invite you now to visit
http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as an author but you will also gain insights into my campaign against bullying and why I strongly believe that you need to consider joining me in order to insure that the future of our kids with their wide-eyed smiles and infectious laughter is secured forever.

And now my weekly podcast!
From recipes to apps, and 5 minute mysteries to tips for entrepreneurs and scam alerts!
www.takeanother5.com
And available for download from iTunes and Google music play

Follow me on Twitter @accessibleworld and at author_jodhan
And like me on Facebook at
www.facebook.com/donnajodhan and at www.facebook.com/authordonnajodhan

Cherished memories forever: Remembering McGill University

I can still remember McGill University as if it were only just yesterday. This is where I can say that I truly enjoyed so many wonderful university days.  I met so many great students from around the world and there was something else!

This was the time when I got my first cornea transplant and accordingly it gave me a delightful opportunity to discover so many new things with my new vision.  I learned to walk the McGill campus.  I discovered the trees and snow banks.  I stared openly at tall buildings and ice sculptures.  I learned how to navigate restaurants on campus, find my way around the book store and most of all, I learned how to find my classrooms all by myself.

I shall forever remember graduation day when Jennifer walked with me across the stage to collect my MBA certificate.  There I was, trying my best not to look out at the audience but remembering in time to bow to them as I walked. Then I remembered seeing everyone standing, my parents and so many from the MAB were also there to watch me graduate.  What a fantastic memory!

Then the delicious dinner afterwards at a fabulous Chinese restaurant. Thanks to my parents, the day could not have ended on a better note!

Just to think that years later our Canadian Governor General was my principal when I graduated from McGill.

I thank all of my professors and student volunteers.  I thank the staff of the MAB!  So many to mention!  I thank the volunteers at the MAB!  But most of all?  I thank God for having enabled me to discover so much, especially so
with my new vision!

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly accessibility advocate, wishing you a terrific day. 

If you would like to learn more about me as an author then I invite you now to visit
http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as an author but you will also gain insights into my campaign against bullying and why I strongly believe that you need to consider joining me in order to insure that the future of our kids with their wide-eyed smiles and infectious laughter is secured forever.

And now my weekly podcast!
From recipes to apps, and 5 minute mysteries to tips for entrepreneurs and scam alerts!
www.takeanother5.com
And available for download from iTunes and Google music play

Follow me on Twitter @accessibleworld and at author_jodhan
And like me on Facebook at
www.facebook.com/donnajodhan and at www.facebook.com/authordonnajodhan

Cherished memories forever: Remembering Concordia University

It may have been so many years ago but memories of Concordia University shall always be with me!

This is where I obtained my Bachelor of Commerce degree.  It is the university that gave me my break in life to go out there and discover the world and it is the university where I met so many wonderful kids and professors.

I still remember graduation day when Donna Patton walked with me onto the stage to receive my diploma.  Boy, was I nervous but when Donna told me that all of my classmates stood as I walked across the stage, I had to do everything in my control not to start crying.

So many people from the MAB came to watch me get my diploma.  From Mr. Williams and Mr. Evans to Dorothy, Marion, Char and Heather, Virginia and Leo and many more!  Mom and Dad came, too, having traveled so far to watch me take my bow! Jeff and his friends also came and Dave took photos of me!

I shall always remember those security guards who used to escort me across campus as I went from class to class!  I think that they wanted to make sure that I did not fall into those tall snowbanks.  Angie, Leo Carroll, and those whose names I am trying so hard to remember.

Then there were those wonderful professors: Bernice Wright, Frank Hayes, Andrew O’Connor, Brian Barbierrie, John Motter, Jim Wyatt, George Koory, Henry Greenspan, and my other accounting professors, Jay Flynn, Russ Mcqewin, Brian Smith, Jack Democco, and so many more!  They went out of their way to make sure that I could follow their lectures!

I thank the accounting, marketing, math, stats, economics, commerce, and English departments for having given me so much support and assistance.  I could not have done it without them! To the late Bernice Wright who remained my friend and mentor until her passing in 2012.  To each and every one who helped me along the way and to all of those young student volunteers !  I could never repay each and every one of you for all that you did for me!

I shall always remember those classrooms, lockers, book stores, security desks, hallways and stairs, and so much more! May God bless Concordia forever!

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly accessibility advocate, wishing you a terrific day. 

If you would like to learn more about me as an author then I invite you now to visit
http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as an author but you will also gain insights into my campaign against bullying and why I strongly believe that you need to consider joining me in order to insure that the future of our kids with their wide-eyed smiles and infectious laughter is secured forever.

And now my weekly podcast!
From recipes to apps, and 5 minute mysteries to tips for entrepreneurs and scam alerts!
www.takeanother5.com
And available for download from iTunes and Google music play

Follow me on Twitter @accessibleworld and at author_jodhan
And like me on Facebook at
www.facebook.com/donnajodhan and at www.facebook.com/authordonnajodhan

A heartfelt thanks: Remembering Penfield

Penfield House at the Montreal Association for the Blind is where I met so many kids that have become my friends for life.  Most of all, it is where I met my best friend, Char. Today, I am still friends with not just Char but Chris, Dar, and others.

This was so many years ago and it is just like yesterday.  My dorm room was so luxurious.  We had all the amenities to keep us in comfort and style and the meals were so very delicious.

We attended college and oh, yes!  We skipped classes every now and then. During the summer Char and I went riding in tandem at the back of Penfield House.  Char taught me how to roller skate and play basketball.  We played broom hockey, various card games, and drank tea and ate cookies at
night.

Karen and I had our two-person band, she on the recorder and me on the piano.  We played mainly at night and on weekends whenever she did not go home.  Noreen and others often came to listen and then Karen and I had this little concert in memory of Noreen after she had passed on.  Susan Russell
was our emcee and so many people from the MAB attended.  I'll never forget that day!

Linda Smoke kept me on track with my studies and there was Ruth Macleod and John and Giselle Hall for mobility, Judy Potts, Kathie Palmer and Jennifer Coppold for occupational therapy and Bill Rudkin and so many others helping me in every way.

I must not forget to mention Jay Wodsworth. He escorted me to class every day during my first days at Penfield as I did not know my way and had to learn my mobility.

The thing that I will be forever grateful for is that so many staff members pitched in to help me, and not just with my daily tasks!  They read to me, recorded books and handouts for me, and did everything that they could to help me complete my studies.

From the late Jeff Tessler to Sandra Dorfman, Ruth Robillard and Donna Woods, Fred Collins and William Rudkin Sr.: they were all my readers.  From Dorothy Allen and Marion Torpy to Joyce Leach and Karen and Jamie Prieur and Linda Smoke and her husband, Jerry, to Tony Russell; these were my greatest supporters.

Then there was Donna-Marie Patton, Maralyn Caners, Ellianne Masson, Nicole Caron, Suzanne Billideau, Maralyn Bridgeman, Lorina Pottier, Dollie Hicks, Judie Fletcher, Harry Morrison, and if I have left out anyone then my sincerest of apologies.

A special thanks must go out to Paul Gareau, Dr. John Simms, and Wilfred Williams and oh, yes!  Joan Stryde.

I had five Montreal moms: Dorothy Allen, Marion Torpy, Joyce Leach, K McCrimmon, and K Smith.  They were all there for me when I had my terrible accident and we have remained friends after all of these years!  Then my dear math teacher, Betty Tate! From Wilfred Williams to Dr. John Simms; I shall never forget!

They were all mentors to me and each in their own way helped to make me a better person!  Thank you, Penfield House!  Thank you, MAB!  Thank you, everyone!

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly accessibility advocate, wishing you a terrific day. 

If you would like to learn more about me as an author then I invite you now to visit
http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as an author but you will also gain insights into my campaign against bullying and why I strongly believe that you need to consider joining me in order to insure that the future of our kids with their wide-eyed smiles and infectious laughter is secured forever.

And now my weekly podcast!
From recipes to apps, and 5 minute mysteries to tips for entrepreneurs and scam alerts!
www.takeanother5.com
And available for download from iTunes and Google music play

Follow me on Twitter @accessibleworld and at author_jodhan
And like me on Facebook at
www.facebook.com/donnajodhan and at www.facebook.com/authordonnajodhan

Precious memories forever: Remembering Broughten Hall High School

Memories of this wonderful high school of so many years ago shall forever linger in my mind.  Today, as I sit writing this blog, I can still remember almost all of my classmates.

There was Ruthie, Winnie, and Marie Lamb.  Johannah J-Dean, Angela Alcock and Angela Sexton. Angela Lightfoot, and Angela Bertill. Michelle Moran, Anne-Marie Doyle, Concietta Corruvia, Helen Murray, Ann Cassady, Kathleen Chambers, Jackeline Cole, and those great teachers: Ms Cropper, Ms Berkhill, and Ms Garino!

Of course, there were so many more to remember; a special memory of Pat Quinn and Celia Chambers and her niece, Celia.  These were all youngsters just like me, simply seeking to finish high school and then go out there and discover the world.

I may not have realized it at that time but I was a truly lucky kid.  I had the luxury of attending one of the finest high schools for girls in England and I stayed at one of the finest accommodations.  There was always someone to help me. If I had to do it all over again, I would be much more
appreciative and I would take this experience and learn so much more from it.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly accessibility advocate, wishing you a terrific day. 

If you would like to learn more about me as an author then I invite you now to visit
http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as an author but you will also gain insights into my campaign against bullying and why I strongly believe that you need to consider joining me in order to insure that the future of our kids with their wide-eyed smiles and infectious laughter is secured forever.

And now my weekly podcast!
From recipes to apps, and 5 minute mysteries to tips for entrepreneurs and scam alerts!
www.takeanother5.com
And available for download from iTunes and Google music play

Follow me on Twitter @accessibleworld and at author_jodhan
And like me on Facebook at
www.facebook.com/donnajodhan and at www.facebook.com/authordonnajodhan

So very frustrating: At the North York General Hospital

Going to a hospital to have tests done or even for surgery is definitely not my favorite thing and I can bet that it is not for most of us.  However, when you are a vision-impaired person there are other things that are more challenging.

If you meet staff who have the additional patience to be of assistance then that is fine. But when they are overworked, or simply do not have the patience, then here is where the challenges occur.

I have met both types and each time I need to go to the hospital then I usually pray very hard before setting out.  If they do not fully explain what they are going to do then this is a challenge.  Or if they do something and do not tell me then this is yet another challenge.

Whenever they think that I cannot get undressed or dressed on my own and ask my friend or Mom to help me, then this is an embarrassment.  Or whenever they shout at me because I cannot hear them then this is yet another embarrassment.

What could be the solution?  More awareness training is needed.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly accessibility advocate, wishing you a terrific day. 

If you would like to learn more about me as an author then I invite you now to visit
http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as an author but you will also gain insights into my campaign against bullying and why I strongly believe that you need to consider joining me in order to insure that the future of our kids with their wide-eyed smiles and infectious laughter is secured forever.

And now my weekly podcast!
From recipes to apps, and 5 minute mysteries to tips for entrepreneurs and scam alerts!
www.takeanother5.com
And available for download from iTunes and Google music play

Follow me on Twitter @accessibleworld and at author_jodhan
And like me on Facebook at
www.facebook.com/donnajodhan and at www.facebook.com/authordonnajodhan

Interesting experiences: Cleaning up the flowers

This is probably one of the more interesting tasks for me on a daily basis. That is, when I need to clean up the flowers.

This usually occurs whenever I receive flowers from Mom or friends. I need to make sure that each day I clean up the fallen flowers or make sure that I find and remove them from my arrangement.

At first it was a chore for me but now I think that I have it down pat and to a science.  Each day I check around where the arrangement is and I clean up the dead flowers that have fallen off.  Then I check the arrangement itself and painstakingly make sure that there are no dried up or dead flowers.

I place the dead flowers in my dust pan and after making sure that I have checked thoroughly I take my dust pan to my garbage and empty it there. This method works for me and it's all in a day's work.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly accessibility advocate, wishing you a terrific day. 

If you would like to learn more about me as an author then I invite you now to visit
http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as an author but you will also gain insights into my campaign against bullying and why I strongly believe that you need to consider joining me in order to insure that the future of our kids with their wide-eyed smiles and infectious laughter is secured forever.

And now my weekly podcast!
From recipes to apps, and 5 minute mysteries to tips for entrepreneurs and scam alerts!
www.takeanother5.com
And available for download from iTunes and Google music play

Follow me on Twitter @accessibleworld and at author_jodhan
And like me on Facebook at
www.facebook.com/donnajodhan and at www.facebook.com/authordonnajodhan

A moment of frustration: When the salad fell

I have to admit that it was quite a mess for me when my salad fell out of the fridge. So much of it fell out of the container and onto the floor and as a vision-impaired person I had to take some extra time to clean it up. And why?

Because I had to make very sure that I retrieved everything and this meant searching my kitchen floor far and wide on my knees. So, off I went, in search of rolling blueberries and walnuts.  It was easier to find the lettuce but those nuts and berries were a problem because they rolled all over the place.

They rolled under my fridge.  They rolled down my kitchen floor and then they rolled onto my hall's carpet.  All together I must have spent about half an hour gathering up everything and even then I stumbled upon some stray berries a few days later.

All in a day's work.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly accessibility advocate, wishing you a terrific day. 

If you would like to learn more about me as an author then I invite you now to visit
http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as an author but you will also gain insights into my campaign against bullying and why I strongly believe that you need to consider joining me in order to insure that the future of our kids with their wide-eyed smiles and infectious laughter is secured forever.

And now my weekly podcast!
From recipes to apps, and 5 minute mysteries to tips for entrepreneurs and scam alerts!
www.takeanother5.com
And available for download from iTunes and Google music play

Follow me on Twitter @accessibleworld and at author_jodhan
And like me on Facebook at
www.facebook.com/donnajodhan and at www.facebook.com/authordonnajodhan

Patience builders: Knitting and pottery

I have to admit that before I started to learn how to knit and do pottery, my patience was not always the best; a few years ago I decided to do something about this.  You see, I wanted to change my approach to life and to the world around me and I felt strongly that part of the solution would be for me to improve my patience.

So, off I went and after a bit of pondering I came up with these two activities.  For the past 3 years I have been knitting and doing pottery and I have seen a big improvement.  These two activities have taught me so much when it comes to not just building patience but also learning how to work better on my own, how to develop alternative approaches, and how to find ways to improve my creativity and innovation.

I truly enjoy my knitting and pottery and I hope to stick with these two hobbies for a very long time to come.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly accessibility advocate, wishing you a terrific day. 

If you would like to learn more about me as an author then I invite you now to visit
http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as an author but you will also gain insights into my campaign against bullying and why I strongly believe that you need to consider joining me in order to insure that the future of our kids with their wide-eyed smiles and infectious laughter is secured forever.

And now my weekly podcast!
From recipes to apps, and 5 minute mysteries to tips for entrepreneurs and scam alerts!
www.takeanother5.com
And available for download from iTunes and Google music play

Follow me on Twitter @accessibleworld and at author_jodhan
And like me on Facebook at
www.facebook.com/donnajodhan and at www.facebook.com/authordonnajodhan

Challenging times: Tax time

I can honestly say that tax time is probably one of the most challenging times for me as a vision-impaired person. It means that I need to make doubly sure that I am giving the correct and appropriate documents to my tax accountant.

So, off I go to gather up my company's invoices, receipts, expense and revenue statements and then all of the other relevant bank statements.

I have to do it for both my personal taxes and for my business taxes.  I put each into separate envelopes.  That is, one envelope for business and one envelope for personal.

I double check everything but it is a good thing that I am constantly on the ball making sure that I keep all documents up to date.  It sure makes things a lot easier and much less complicated.  Then, when I am ready, it is off to my accountant.

It is so important for me, as a vision-impaired person, to have everything in order and that I know at all times where everything is.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly accessibility advocate, wishing you a terrific day. 

If you would like to learn more about me as an author then I invite you now to visit
http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as an author but you will also gain insights into my campaign against bullying and why I strongly believe that you need to consider joining me in order to insure that the future of our kids with their wide-eyed smiles and infectious laughter is secured forever.

And now my weekly podcast!
From recipes to apps, and 5 minute mysteries to tips for entrepreneurs and scam alerts!
www.takeanother5.com
And available for download from iTunes and Google music play

Follow me on Twitter @accessibleworld and at author_jodhan
And like me on Facebook at
www.facebook.com/donnajodhan and at www.facebook.com/authordonnajodhan