No pain no gain? Another Covid booster

Like every other Covid booster, this most recent one sent me reeling.

I was very unwell and in my confusion in the kitchen I inadvertently threw out some marinated chicken breasts.  Boy, was I unhappy when I realized this.

Guess I need to be more careful the next time I get one of these boosters!

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly award-winning, sight-loss coach and accessibility advisor wishing you a terrific day.

If you would like to learn more about me as a sight-loss coach and author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as a sight-loss coach and 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.

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


 

New horizons: Welcome to ETSY

Finally!  I am just so excited to welcome you to my Etsy shopping website.

I started the whole process when I began with Joan Spears at her pottery studio. At first I just enjoyed creating, from bird houses to ginger bread houses and tulips.

Now, several years later and I am working with Shaun at Studio on the Hill in Toronto to create and sell many things on Etsy. I am very excited because I am using my pottery creations in so many various ways.

Not just to sell. To create, to encourage others to do the same and to think outside the box. To use sales from my pottery to support my other initiatives. Exciting times for me!

Visit me at www.etsy.com/shop/blindlybrilliant

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly award-winning, sight-loss coach and accessibility advisor wishing you a terrific day.

If you would like to learn more about me as a sight-loss coach and author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as a sight-loss coach and 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.

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

 

Very frustrating: Getting a new charger for my shaver

Oh, boy. I never thought that it would have been so difficult to get a new or replacement charger for my shaver.
I lost the original one when I somehow forgot it in a hotel room in Montreal.
I made several attempts to purchase a replacement, but guess what?
They are only selling the complete unit, and not the charger on its own.

I find this to be quite upsetting and disappointing. Not much that I can do, though.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly award-winning, sight-loss coach and accessibility advisor wishing you a terrific day.

If you would like to learn more about me as a sight-loss coach and author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as a sight-loss coach and 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.

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 silver lining: Dealing with FEDEX

I can only say that thanks to wonderful customer service at FEDEX, I was able to satisfactorily resolve my issue.

Just to summarize:
My monthly box to Mom arrived 2 weeks late.
The box was severely damaged and thoroughly ruined.
Items were opened and some were even stolen!

There was no need for this type of handling of the box. I have been sending boxes to Mom monthly since 2020 and this was the very worst example of a company’s mishandling of my stuff and the shipper’s utter lack of pro action.

He was rude, could care less, and in the end I had to take matters into my own hands.
Thank goodness for Ethel at FEDEX’s customer service department.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly award-winning, sight-loss coach and accessibility advisor wishing you a terrific day.

If you would like to learn more about me as a sight-loss coach and author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as a sight-loss coach and 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.

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

Thank goodness for 2 wonderful Air Canada agents: Luggage delay

This is exactly what it was like when I returned from Montreal in May 2024!

I arrived back at Terminal 1 on an Air Canada flight and I had to wait for quite some time to get my luggage.
Thank goodness for the wonderful Air Canada agents who stood beside me and used their app to let me know that yes! My luggage had arrived but it was a matter of now finding it.

We did find it after all!

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly award-winning, sight-loss coach and accessibility advisor wishing you a terrific day.

If you would like to learn more about me as a sight-loss coach and author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as a sight-loss coach and 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.

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

 

Friends for life! Meeting my earth angels

 

For this is exactly what they are! My Earth Angels!  Cathie and Chris!

It’s so funny how Cathie and I have managed to reconnect after all of these years and this is a friendship for life! Chris is such a wonderful addition to our relationship.

These two Earth Angels really get it when it comes to understanding the world of a vision-impaired person.
They ask.  They inquire.  They adapt so easily. And their 2 dogs, Sheeba and Talia, are just a happy addition to everything.

Thanks so much Cathie and Chris for having come into my life and for having afforded me such a wonderful visit!

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly award-winning, sight-loss coach and accessibility advisor wishing you a terrific day.

If you would like to learn more about me as a sight-loss coach and author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as a sight-loss coach and 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.

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

Memories forever! An enjoyable trip

This is what it was for me in April 2024 when I traveled to Montreal to attend the Air Canada advisory group face-to-face meeting.

All went well at this meeting. I met so many new and wonderful folks.
I learned so much. I enjoyed the new engagements.
Then, the icing on the cake? When I visited Cathie and Chris in Stanstead, Quebec.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly award-winning, sight-loss coach and accessibility advisor wishing you a terrific day.

If you would like to learn more about me as a sight-loss coach and author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as a sight-loss coach and 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.

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 funny experience: Finding the missing scoop

t is always a funny experience whenever I find something lost that has always been right there under my nose! And this was the case for one of my scoops.

Yes!  After having spent precious time looking for the little scoop I found it exactly where it was supposed to have been. A happy ending.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly award-winning, sight-loss coach and accessibility advisor wishing you a terrific day.

If you would like to learn more about me as a sight-loss coach and author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as a sight-loss coach and 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.

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 slap in the face? Touch screens at Wendy's

Just imagine my dismay and total disappointment when I visited the Wendy’s fast food restaurant with Stephie to enjoy a meal. When it came to choosing my drink of choice I could not do it on my own, and why?

Because the touch screen was totally inaccessible and unusable to me as a vision impaired/blind customer.

No! No accessible key pad and Stephie had to do it for me.

Please Wendy's!  Please rectify this asap!

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly award-winning, sight-loss coach and accessibility advisor wishing you a terrific day.

If you would like to learn more about me as a sight-loss coach and author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as a sight-loss coach and 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.

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 new experience: Laughing gas

 My only interaction with laughing gas was when I saw it in a Flintstones episode where the dentist gave poor Barnie too much of it and he simply went off track.

On this day, my dentist gave it to me to help me deal with the pain of a root canal.
No problem.  The laughing gas worked like a charm but I did not go off track like Barnie.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly award-winning, sight-loss coach and accessibility advisor wishing you a terrific day.

If you would like to learn more about me as a sight-loss coach and author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as a sight-loss coach and 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.

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

Avoided some horror: The swollen battery

Thank goodness that I was able to rid myself of this swollen battery before it exploded on me.

I noticed that the rechargeable battery had fallen out of the device in question and when I went to reinsert it, it did not fit.
I felt the battery a bit more carefully and then noticed the problem.
The battery was swollen.
Time for a replacement.

A few years ago the same thing happened with my iphone but this time the home button was the savior for me.
I noticed that the home button could  not be pressed and I took my iphone to the Apple Store.
Problem solved; it was a swollen battery.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly award-winning, sight-loss coach and accessibility advisor wishing you a terrific day.

If you would like to learn more about me as a sight-loss coach and author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as a sight-loss coach and 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.

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 constant headache: Having to ask for electronic instructions

I am becoming a bit impatient with those vendors and sellers that somehow forget to provide electronic instructions for the products that they sell. In fact, call it frustration and my case in point is this.

There is a certain vendor in the US that is selling some of their Zoom recorders without any electronic instructions. I have had to spend months depending on the good will of one of their staff to help me and I am still not able to transfer recordings from my zoom recorder to my computer.

What can I do? If anyone has a solution then write to me at donnajodhan@gmail.com.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly award-winning, sight-loss coach and accessibility advisor wishing you a terrific day.

If you would like to learn more about me as a sight-loss coach and author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as a sight-loss coach and 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.

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

 

Hard to find at times: Those stray softener sheets

Call them my constant challenge.  This is what happens every time I do my laundry.

Whenever I take my laundry out of the dryer, I need to go hunting for the softener sheets.
Most times I can locate them but it takes me quite a few minutes to find them.
Then there are the times when I cannot find them and then I do, some days or even weeks later.

I need to create a strategy to find those elusive softener sheets but as of now I have no answer to their being missing in action.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly award-winning, sight-loss coach and accessibility advisor wishing you a terrific day.

If you would like to learn more about me as a sight-loss coach and author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as a sight-loss coach and 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.

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

 

Friends for life! Getting to visit with Cathie and Chris

 They will be my Earth Angels forever.  I don’t think that in my lifetime I have ever had the pleasure and privilege to have met such kind and wonderful folks.

I am truly blessed when I say that I have had such terrific folks walk right into my life.
There are so many to mention.  Jilla, Susan, Sandra, Gabriella, Stephie, and now Chris and Cathie.  SR B and SR E!  Aaron, Stephen, Shane, and the list goes on.

I reached out to Cathie in 2023 and she answered my call for help. She opened her home to me in the spring of 2024 and it was a visit always to remember.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly award-winning, sight-loss coach and accessibility advisor wishing you a terrific day.

If you would like to learn more about me as a sight-loss coach and author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as a sight-loss coach and 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.

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 refreshing experience! Visiting Terminal 3

 In March 2023 I had the privilege and pleasure to visit Terminal 3 at Pearson Airport to do a session with the good folks at the Canadian Air Transportation Services Agency.

This was a session that I very much enjoyed, as my guide Gabrielle and her fellow worker were very good at pointing out the highlights and asking me for my feedback.

The tour was extremely thorough and very informative and I can only say how I wish that other federal government departments could be as thorough.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly award-winning, sight-loss coach and accessibility advisor wishing you a terrific day.

If you would like to learn more about me as a sight-loss coach and author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as a sight-loss coach and 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.

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 necessary technique: Saving soap

 Just another technique to ensure that Mom saves soap.
Thanks to one of her care givers, whose name I’ll not disclose.
The technique is very simple, when dealing with liquid dish soap and liquid laundry soap.
Here’s what we do.
We fill a small bottle with a half measure of water.
Then we pour soap from the bigger bottle of pure soap.
We fill the smaller bottle completely.
We shake well and voila!
We now have a new bottle of concentrated soap!

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly award-winning, sight-loss coach and accessibility advisor wishing you a terrific day.

If you would like to learn more about me as a sight-loss coach and author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as a sight-loss coach and 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.

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

She guides me with total confidence: Navigating Mom's fridge

The technique is the same as when I do the knocking on doors, with a wee difference.
Mom sends me to her fridge to bring her something.
She tells me which shelf and which part of the shelf I will find it on.

The impressive part of this all is that Mom knows exactly where to find any and everything.

She sits in her chair and directs me with pinpoint precision. That’s my miracle Mom!

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly award-winning, sight-loss coach and accessibility advisor wishing you a terrific day.

If you would like to learn more about me as a sight-loss coach and author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as a sight-loss coach and 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.

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

 

Mom and I working together: Knocking on the cupboard doors

 

This is just one way that Mom and I communicate.
Here is how: She sends me off to fetch something for her.
She tells me which cupboard it is in and then I begin to knock on the doors as I walk around her kitchen.
I knock and she says no if it is not the right door.
She says yes when I knock on the right door.

Next I open the door and she tells me which shelf and which part of the shelf.

This is working like a charm and I really like it. Mom is happy and I am happy.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly award-winning, sight-loss coach and accessibility advisor wishing you a terrific day.

If you would like to learn more about me as a sight-loss coach and author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as a sight-loss coach and 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.

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

Gratifying moments: Mom and her newspapers

 

Every morning Mom looks forward to receiving her newspapers.
They are delivered early almost every morning.  
They are shoved through the open window and when I am visiting she tells me when they have arrived.
I scurry to the window, remove the newspapers, and then take them triumphantly to her.

Mom then proceeds to read them very meticulously.
She comments and tells me what is going on.
We discuss and then it is over for another day.
Mom and her newspapers.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly award-winning, sight-loss coach and accessibility advisor wishing you a terrific day.

If you would like to learn more about me as a sight-loss coach and author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as a sight-loss coach and 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.

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 new learning experience: Developing new ways to communicate with Mom

 

If anything I have been forced to develop new ways to communicate with my mom.

Why?  Because of her hearing challenge.

So now this is how I do it.
I go up to her chair.
I touch her on the arm.
When she responds I either talk directly to her or I point towards the thing that I wish to talk about with her.
She is so very quick to understand.

I have also learned that I need not raise my voice when communicating with her.
I must first lower the television and then speak in an even tone to her.
It is working.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly award-winning, sight-loss coach and accessibility advisor wishing you a terrific day.

If you would like to learn more about me as a sight-loss coach and author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as a sight-loss coach and 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.

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 new experience for me; Getting used to others at Mom's home

 

Since my mom is receiving round the clock home care, it is now up to me to get used to each of her care givers. Unless you have had this experience, it is one that is most interesting and challenging when it sneaks up on you.

For me, as a vision-impaired person, I must get used to the ways and habits of each care giver.  Something that is normal for anyone else.

They also must get used to the way I do things as a vision-impaired person. We need to respect each other’s space. I must adapt to how they engage and communicate with me.

My space is now their space and my privacy is no long sacred. It is what it is and this is how it is going to be from now on.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly award-winning, sight-loss coach and accessibility advisor wishing you a terrific day.

If you would like to learn more about me as a sight-loss coach and author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as a sight-loss coach and 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.

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

Careful as she goes! Counting the medication bottles

 

This is a chore that I really need to be very careful with. Not just ensuring that they are all accounted for.

I need to count them. I need to take note of each and every one. I need to be able to sort them.

In short, counting, sorting, and identifying are the things of the day for me.

Just another challenge for me.
 
I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly award-winning, sight-loss coach and accessibility advisor wishing you a terrific day.

If you would like to learn more about me as a sight-loss coach and author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as a sight-loss coach and 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.

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

The new way:Shopping with Stephie on Amazon

 

It’s a new way of shopping for me. It’s very much like window shopping, if I am looking for some sort of comparison.

I tell Stephie what I would like her to search for. Then she gets online and goes to Amazon. She begins to search for my requested item.

Then, when she finds it she begins to describe it to me. I ask her for her opinion and together we choose. Stephie fills out the required fields and then she submits. Voila!  It is all done.

A new way for me to shop!

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly award-winning, sight-loss coach and accessibility advisor wishing you a terrific day.

If you would like to learn more about me as a sight-loss coach and author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as a sight-loss coach and 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.

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 funny moment: Forgot to insert the earbuds

 

I can assure you that this was indeed a very funny episode. Yes, there I was, going about my business getting ready to do some work. I thought that I had done everything correctly.

I got my earbuds out, placed them on the desk, then I brought up my document.

I began to use my arrow keys to cursor up and down the document but no sound. What to do?

Was my computer in difficulty in that it was not working? Did NVDA cut out on me for no good reason?

Then it dawned on me! I forgot to insert my earbuds. And after I discovered this, all was well.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly award-winning, sight-loss coach and accessibility advisor wishing you a terrific day.

If you would like to learn more about me as a sight-loss coach and author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as a sight-loss coach and 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.

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

Pleasant times: Packing the FEDEX box

 

Since September 2020, I have been sending monthly Fedex boxes to my mom. For the most part, these boxes contain items that cannot be found in her neck of the woods.

At the top of the list are her weekly magazines followed by vitamin pills and other items that she would like to have.

Each month Stephie and I visit the Fedex office to mail the precious box. Stephie packs the box very meticulously and makes sure that everything is included.

For the most part Mom’s boxes have arrived intact except for one very bad time when the agents opened the box, stole some items, opened a tin of popcorn and ate some of it, and practically destroyed a lot of the contents and the box itself.

Thank goodness that Fedex was very proactive and remedied the inaction of one of their shippers.

My joy is to have Mom receive her so-called care package every month because she is excited.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly award-winning, sight-loss coach and accessibility advisor wishing you a terrific day.

If you would like to learn more about me as a sight-loss coach and author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as a sight-loss coach and 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.

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

Long overdue: Time to teach those medical folks

 

Maybe it will never be time to teach those medical folks, and what am I attempting to teach them?

Here goes:
Speak to me and not my friend or family when I enter a medical office.
Do not shout at me when speaking to me.
Talk directly to me by looking at me and not at my escort.
Please take time to provide me with necessary documentation in a readable format; a word document is a good start.
When numbers are being displayed on the monitor in an office to let patients know when they are being called, please announce the number as well.
And when I am told to take a number, please tell me my number verbally.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly award-winning, sight-loss coach and accessibility advisor wishing you a terrific day.

If you would like to learn more about me as a sight-loss coach and author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as a sight-loss coach and 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.

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

Hunting around: Searching for the fallen earbuds

 

Ah yes, and when they do fall, they often do not make any sound.  Especially so when they fall on a carpeted surface. So, this is why I am truly and doubly careful when handling my earbuds.

Sometimes they will make a plopping sound when they fall on the carpet.  That is, when they land on the earbud piece itself. Or, the sound may be like a quick loud pop as the earbud piece hits the carpet or tile or hard wood. But, if they fall on the cord then there is no sound.

So, what does this mean for me?  Just to be careful when handling my precious earbuds.
Especially so when I need to search for them.

I need to use my sense of hearing to help me locate them or then I need to use logic to try and locate where I believe they have fallen.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly award-winning, sight-loss coach and accessibility advisor wishing you a terrific day.

If you would like to learn more about me as a sight-loss coach and author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as a sight-loss coach and 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.

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

Nothing new! Interesting iphone challenges

 

With time, my iPhone challenges continue to decrease and it helps to control my stress levels.

I can manage more of my iPhone processes. I am able to use more accessible apps.
I am able to be more comfortable with my mail app and Facetime and What’s app.

Here’s to a continued stress-less world!

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly award-winning, sight-loss coach and accessibility advisor wishing you a terrific day.

If you would like to learn more about me as a sight-loss coach and author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as a sight-loss coach and 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.

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

Those outdoor spas: At the spa

 

I am not sure if anything can be done about this but after having visited spas in Ontario and Quebec I can only say this.

I love them and enjoy them. Staff are super helpful, welcoming, and friendly.
However, I just am so very intimidated by those stairs.

Will I continue to visit spas? Most definitely.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly award-winning, sight-loss coach and accessibility advisor wishing you a terrific day.

If you would like to learn more about me as a sight-loss coach and author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as a sight-loss coach and 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.

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

Welcoming a new gadget: My new razor

 

Thanks to Stephie I now have a new gadget in my personal arsenal.
Yes, it is the new personal razor that enables and allows me to deal with my personal needs. It is very easy to use.

It fits nicely into my hand, and yes! Most easy to charge and maintain.

It is always a relief and a pleasure whenever I am able to get this all balanced and squared away.

No sighted assistance needed. No having to ask if my razor is fully charged. I can now do it all on my own.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly award-winning, sight-loss coach and accessibility advisor wishing you a terrific day.

If you would like to learn more about me as a sight-loss coach and author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as a sight-loss coach and 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.

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 new one for me! Dealing with new surroundings

 

I think that I have most of this down to a routine. Whenever I travel, I start by familiarizing myself with the room.

Next comes the bathroom, in great detail. I need to know where everything is, from wash basin to shower.

In the room, I look for the outlets to plug in my devices. Then I look for the clothes closet and the desk.

Familiarizing myself with the buffet, the restaurant, and other facilities is not as important if I am traveling with a sighted friend or family member. Nevertheless, I still like to be a bit familiar with my surroundings.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly award-winning, sight-loss coach and accessibility advisor wishing you a terrific day.

If you would like to learn more about me as a sight-loss coach and author then I invite you now to visit
http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as a sight-loss coach and 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.

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 good one! The Sun Wing experience

This was my first time flying with the Sun Wing Airline. On the whole I would say that the experience was a pleasant one. However, it is difficult to tell how accessible this airline really was because Stephie was with me.

The staff was helpful to me when it came to pre boarding. They offered some assistance during the flight. But I do not think that it would be fair of me to do a complete accessibility analysis because I had sighted assistance.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly award-winning, sight-loss coach and accessibility advisor wishing you a terrific day.

If you would like to learn more about me as a sight-loss coach and author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as a sight-loss coach and 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.

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

 

How I missed Mom! Paradise plus

 

I think that it is the only way for me to describe my trip to Saint Martin in October 2023. I was sad that Mom was not with me but Stephie and I sure enjoyed it all. The resort was very easy to navigate but Stephie was the perfect guide.

The buffet was easy to navigate and never too busy. The restaurants were easy to find and oh, yes!  The beach! Simply wonderful!

I would admit, though, that it sure helped to have sighted assistance.  I am not sure how it would have worked out if Stephie was not with me.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly award-winning, sight-loss coach and accessibility advisor wishing you a terrific day.

If you would like to learn more about me as a sight-loss coach and author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as a sight-loss coach and 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.

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

New friends: Welcoming the new devices

 

I can only say that welcoming the new devices has many sides to it.
First, you say goodbye to the old ones.
Next, you go out there and after saying goodbye to the old ones you purchase their replacements.
Then comes the fun time of learning how to use the new ones.
Over the past year I have had to replace some of my devices because they can no longer accommodate new updates.
Just another challenge for me and anyone else to deal with.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly award-winning, sight-loss coach and accessibility advisor wishing you a terrific day.

If you would like to learn more about me as a sight-loss coach and author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as a sight-loss coach and 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.

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

She was my daily companion: Saying so long to my faithful iPhone

 

Ah, yes, and just call me a sop!  That’s very okay.
My favourite iPhone stayed with me for four glorious years and it does not matter that she was not top of the line.
She served me above the call of duty.
She was easy to use and fitted neatly into my purse.

I had no difficulty learning how to use her and when it came time to part company!
It had to happen. Now she is in iPhone Heaven with my other iPhones!

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly award-winning, sight-loss coach and accessibility advisor wishing you a terrific day.

If you would like to learn more about me as a sight-loss coach and author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as a sight-loss coach and 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.

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

I called him Old Faithful! Saying so long to my Victor Stream

 

The best way for me to describe this nifty little device is like this!
You can play music on it by using an SD card.
You can create playlists from the Internet.
You can download books from the Internet.
You can carry out searches.
You can record.

I really loved my previous Victor Stream and he served me very well.
But now it’s time to move to an updated version.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly award-winning, sight-loss coach and accessibility advisor wishing you a terrific day.

If you would like to learn more about me as a sight-loss coach and author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as a sight-loss coach and 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.

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 humorous moment: When the bottle of milk went missing

 I can only explain it to myself by saying that on this day I was really tired after coming home from shopping.

I managed to pack everything away, including my large bottles of grapefruit juice, but then I noticed that my bottle of milk was missing. So, I now had to go to work to remember step by step what I had packed away and where I had put each item.

Thank goodness that my memory was functioning on this day. I quickly found the bottle of milk packed among the bottles of grapefruit juice. No different for anyone.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly award-winning, sight-loss coach and accessibility advisor wishing you a terrific day.

If you would like to learn more about me as a sight-loss coach and author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as a sight-loss coach and 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.

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

Surprise, surprise! When I found the packets of gravy

 

This little lesson has definitely taught me that I need to be really organized when I pack things away in my freezer. And it is no different for anyone, whether or not you are sighted or vision-impaired.

I just need to make sure that I pack my things in an orderly and organized manner. And I need to pack them in a logical way as well.

If I had done so in the first place then I would never have been surprised when I found the packets of gravy.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly award-winning, sight-loss coach and accessibility advisor wishing you a terrific day.

If you would like to learn more about me as a sight-loss coach and author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as a sight-loss coach and 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.

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 new way: My new prescription pill bottles

 

Not sure if 'new prescription pill bottles' is the most accurate way to describe these. All it is for me is that the pharmacy places tags on the bottles that can be read by my “Script Talk” device.

When placed on the label, this device speaks the prescription of the bottle.  This is definitely a  new addition to my toolbox of devices and it sure helps to make things easy for me.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly award-winning, sight-loss coach and accessibility advisor wishing you a terrific day.

If you would like to learn more about me as a sight-loss coach and author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as a sight-loss coach and 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.

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 heart breaker: Please don't cry, Mom!

 

Oh, how I absolutely hate to see anyone cry. But when it comes to my Miracle Mom, it is even more difficult for me to deal with!
And this is what happened when I left her in September 2023.
She sobbed and held on to me.
She begged me to come back soon and I told her that I would and soon.
Then Gayle and I were walking down the stairs and with a final wave I entered Ramlall’s car.

I knew that Mom was standing at the door watching my every move and good thing that Moya was with her. I am just so relieved that Gayle had come to stay with her for a while, too, after I left.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly award-winning, sight-loss coach and accessibility advisor wishing you a terrific day.

If you would like to learn more about me as a sight-loss coach and author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as a sight-loss coach and 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.

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

After searching: When the container was found

 

Whenever I go in search of anything missing, I need to call upon my memory more than anything else. That is, I need to use my memory to help me retrace my steps.

This once more was the case when I went looking for one of my containers.
I painstakingly used my memory to retrace my steps.
I examined each very carefully and presto! I found my missing container.

This strategy most definitely applies to almost everyone.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly award-winning, sight-loss coach and accessibility advisor wishing you a terrific day.

If you would like to learn more about me as a sight-loss coach and author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as a sight-loss coach and 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.

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 surprise and a relief: When the gum pick showed up

 

Thank God that I was not losing my mind. This sort of thing almost always occurs when unpacking or packing. I was about ready to leave Mom’s home on my return trip to Toronto and Gayle was checking around for me.

Sure enough, she found my gum pick on the dresser. I was quite relieved because I knew that I was missing one and it had been missing for quite some time.

As a vision-impaired person I need to ensure that when packing or unpacking, I develop a fool proof system to ensure that all of my things are accounted for.

As a matter of fact, this is definitely the case for anyone; just more important for me!

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly award-winning, sight-loss coach and accessibility advisor wishing you a terrific day.

If you would like to learn more about me as a sight-loss coach and author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as a sight-loss coach and 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.

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 be prepared: Unexpected changes

 

At the best of times, changes and those unexpected ones are almost impossible to adapt to quickly. And this is now the case for me as I rise to adapt to Mom’s new environment.

Yes, these changes were unexpected for both Mom and me, but they are here to stay and as a vision-impaired person I must summon even more strength to engage with them.

Mom will probably never greet me again at the airport nor will she probably ever be able to see me off at the airport.

I now need to adapt to her reduced mobility and to assist in making her more comfortable.

However, there is one thing that has not changed. Our daily interaction and lively conversations. Our regular banter and chatter.

I love waiting for her when we are getting ready to retire for the night. I love hearing her on mornings as she rises and prepares to greet a new day!

Most of all? When she receives her newspapers and proceeds to read the headlines and to comment on the latest news! Then she settles down to watch the daily Mass on TV.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly award-winning, sight-loss coach and accessibility advisor wishing you a terrific day.

If you would like to learn more about me as a sight-loss coach and author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as a sight-loss coach and 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.

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 shock for me: Seeing Mom in her new environment

 

I will openly admit that this was probably the hardest visit for me to make to my mom's. Poor Mom fell on June 28, 2023, and due to business travel commitments I was not able to reach her until a few weeks later.

I was so very nervous and anxious in anticipation of seeing her. I prayed for strength and faith and upon entering her home I was greeted by one of her care givers.

I kept calling to her as I ran towards her but she did not respond. The care giver told me to walk straight and when I finally located her, she did not say a word.

I held her tightly and kissed her. I placed my cheek against hers and told her how sorry I was. It took Mom a minute or so before she responded to me.

What a shock!  One of the saddest moments of my life. But soon Mom and I were moving towards the master bedroom. She was so very composed and this sure made it easier for me to settle down and to gather my thoughts.

It continues to be a very long and winding road ahead but my Miracle Mom will definitely never give up or give in.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly award-winning, sight-loss coach and accessibility advisor wishing you a terrific day.

If you would like to learn more about me as a sight-loss coach and author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as a sight-loss coach and 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.

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

This is a must: Identifying the soap dishes

 

For me, it is really important to be able to identify soap dishes, especially so when I am not in my own bathroom.  Whenever I am in an unfamiliar bathroom, I take time to find where the soap dishes are.

When in a hotel’s bathroom, I spend time locating the soap dish and making sure that the bar of soap is in the dish. If I am in a friend’s bathroom, I make sure to locate either the soap dish or the soap dispenser. Whenever I visit a washroom at a restaurant or at any other public place, I only search for the soap dispenser.

As someone with a vision impairment, and ever since the birth of the Covid era, this has become even more important for me.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly award-winning, sight-loss coach and accessibility advisor wishing you a terrific day.

If you would like to learn more about me as a sight-loss coach and author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as a sight-loss coach and 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.

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

Thank you Jilla: Showing Jilla's travel souvenirs

I  was really proud to show off Jilla’s book of our travels in Europe in July 2023. She did a terrific job with this and in addition to the souvenir book I also had dolls to add to my collection.

Jilla was so very good at helping me out with all of this. The book showed off, or rather reflected, our travels. And the dolls?  More to add to my collection!

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly award-winning, sight-loss coach and accessibility advisor wishing you a terrific day.

If you would like to learn more about me as a sight-loss coach and author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as a sight-loss coach and 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.

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

Got to get used to this: My new door key

 

Now, this is a big change for me!  A door key that is probably 3 times the size of my original door key. Now I only have 1 door key instead of 2 door keys.

It is all part of the grand renovations of our condo complex. I will say that this new door key looks really snazzy with an inscription of a Maple Leaf on it.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly award-winning, sight-loss coach and accessibility advisor wishing you a terrific day.

If you would like to learn more about me as a sight-loss coach and author then I invite you now to visit http://www.donnajodhan.com

There you will not only learn about me as a sight-loss coach and 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.

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