A very different experienc: Dancing with the shower heads

 

This is exactly what took place when I stayed at a hotel in Montreal in late 2025. Yes, everything else in the hotel room was fine, but when it came to adjusting the shower heads? For me, and with very little sight to guide me, it turned into a sort of dance show.

I must have spent about 10 minutes trying to find the correct adjustment, but patience prevailed. I ended up splashing water all over my hair.

I found it a challenge to adjust the height and to obtain the most suitable level of hot water. It was difficult to control the water from the overhead shower head. But at the end of it all, it all worked out.

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 for ever.

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It never gets easier! Saying goodbye to Mom once more

 

It never gets easier each time I have to leave Mom after another visit.

What I have accidentally discovered is that it is easier when she accompanies me to the airport. Not sure why it is easier this way but it sure is.

Could it be that it is more meaningful to have her come with me to the airport? Whatever it is, maybe it is because there are more people around us!

Then neither of us will feel sad when the final minute comes

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 for ever.

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Another sad moment: Preparing to return home

 This is never really easy for me and each time it only becomes a tad more difficult.

My visits to Mom are over so quickly. So much preparation to get there.

So much fun, and then that dreaded day to leave. Mom takes it well but her tears always hurt.

The good thing is that I’ll be back before you know it.

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 at author_jodhan
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Reacquainting with Toronto Airport cabs: Cabs at Toronto's airport

I really do not remember the last time I took a cab from the Toronto Airport but I guess that I was overdue.

It did not matter that it was the day before the Canada Day holiday! I did not have any difficulty with the nice agent finding me a cab.

The driver was pleasant, courteous, and despite the heavy traffic I was home in time for dinner. What a relief.

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 at author_jodhan
And like me on Facebook at
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Yellow is my favourite colour: My new yellow suitcase

 

Oh yes, I will always admit that yellow is my favourite colour! And this is why I asked Jilla to buy me a nice new yellow suitcase on Amazon when I was in the UK.

She is sleek. Her wheels run so very silently and she is ever so easy to maneuver. She will definitely do the trick when I take her on her next journey.

Not sure when but can’t wait to see what others think of her.

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 at author_jodhan
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So very enjoyable! Traveling on the train

 

I have always enjoyed my train trips; the first one being when I traveled with  Mom and the family to visit Aunty June and her family in the countryside.

Those fast moving trains in the UK. From Montreal to Nova Scotia, various trips from Toronto to Ottawa and Toronto to Montreal, and so much more.

My latest trip was one to really treasure. Jilla and I traveled from London to Paris. We also traveled from Paris to Lourdes and despite it being very long it was great. We also traveled from London to Amsterdam and across Europe in 2023 and 2024.

These are train rides to remember forever.

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.

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Thank you Mary and Jesus forever: Lourdes forever

As I say to everyone:  If you truly believe that a visit to Lourdes will change you then you must visit Lourdes. But if you do not believe this then better not to waste time visiting this very treasured and holy shrine.

Jilla and I spent 3 very special days at Lourdes. I visited Saint Bernadette’s Church, some of the other churches on the compound, and drank and refreshed myself from the various fountains.

Jilla and I attended 2 outdoor masses and the highlight for me was when I received confession from one of the resident priests.

What an experience!  What a wonderful time to be treasured forever! Thank you Jilla for having accompanied me!

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 at author_jodhan
And like me on Facebook at
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Can't wait to get there! UK here we come, 2025

Don’t ask me why but each time I prepare to travel to the UK I find myself simply shaking with delight. To me, there is always something so very special each time I cross the pond!

Meeting Jilla and her family again! Seeing Angie, my Liverpool family, and Mary and Yvonne!
Oh, boy!  It is going to be a trip to remember. And with my side trip to Lourdes!  I could not ask for more!

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 at author_jodhan
And like me on Facebook at
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Lingering memories forever: Travel 2024

And for 2024, it sure has been a busy travel time.
First to Montreal in April and such a wonderful trip.
A great first face-to-face meeting with the Air Canada advisory group.
Then the wonderful visit with Cathie and Chris and so many pleasant and memorable times.

Then, looking forward to my trip to the UK and to see Jilla, Angie, and Doug and Rowan, and to meet the newest member, Baby Noala.
And oh yes!  Must not forget Kahlua and Jilla’s neighbours and friends.
Then, blessed SR Bernadette.

It is going to be a wonderful time when Jilla and I travel to Europe to catch our  River Boat cruise on the Rhine. More travel after this when I visit Mom in August.

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 at author_jodhan
And like me on Facebook at
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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
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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
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Can't wait to flap my wings! Getting ready for Portugal

 

It is always crunch time whenever I prepare to travel and this time it was no different when I prepared to travel to Portugal.

I carefully chose what I was going to bring along with me.  I laid out all of my stuff beforehand, then I packed.  All of this is no different for someone with sight but as a vision-impaired person I need to ensure that my clothes are coordinated, that I know where to find what I need at any given time in my suitcase, and that I know how to repack if I need to unpack while there.

Everything in my suitcase has its own little corner or spot and I group things together in a logical order that I understand.  Call me fussy but that’s just me.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly sight-loss coach and 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
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I could hardly wait! Traveling to see Mom at last

It was all worth every moment of it.  From traveling with Sue to take the mandatory PCR test, to getting Shane and Sandra and Ruth to assist with all of those cumbersome mandatory documents as required for travel, then meeting Ruth, Marc, and Faith at the airport to embark on our long journey.

Moments to remember but moments that I dearly hope will not be repeated.  For over a period of four days, as this is how long it took to prepare and fly, the anticipation and expectations were so much to deal with.  

It all started on the Monday and ended on the morning of Thursday and as a blind/vision- impaired person depending almost solely on sighted assistance, it was just so much more stressful for me.

This is probably one of the most challenging circumstances, when I need to depend on sighted assistance to get things done.  Good thing that all of these wonderful folks were trustworthy and so very helpful.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly 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

Looking forward! Preparing for a train trip

 

I have always enjoyed train trips and this upcoming one was no different.  It was going to be to Quebec City at the end of October, with Sue, and I was not disappointed.

From beginning to end, everything went so right despite all of the pandemic requirements that had to be adhered to.

I made sure to pack enough hand sanitizers, masks, and hand wipes for my trip.  I also made sure to pack them in a place that I could quickly and easily access them and I also packed carefully enough so as not to forget anything.

As someone who is blind/vision-impaired, I believe that it is even more important for me to pack all that I need, everything that is required, and most of all to be alert so as not to be a burden to my travel companion.

Sue is a wonderful traveling companion.  She makes suggestions, she helps out so much, and she is always there to oversee my activities.  

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly sight-loss coach and 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
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Time to get ready: Preparing for the holidays

This is probably not going to be any different from 2020.  The pandemic is well and alive so the same restrictions will be in place.

All of this being said, I intend to enjoy my upcoming holidays.  I’ll do my best to stay away from purchasing unnecessary things, just sticking to what is really necessary.  I’ll only attend functions if they fall within the requirements and restrictions of the pandemic, and I’ll find ways to enjoy the holidays from home.

I’ll probably be with Mom and the family for the holidays.  At least I am hoping so.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly sight-loss coach and 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
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Exciting times: Planning for a Hawaiian cruise

I'd like to consider myself as a seasoned traveler who happens to be vision impaired. I also consider myself as one who takes extra time to plan and to do my best to avoid unnecessary obstacles. In short, I go the extra mile to ensure that I am more than prepared and this is going to be my motto for my Hawaiian cruise.

I print all necessary documents and even leave copies on my dining table for anyone who may need to read them while at the same time ensuring that only those who need to know will see them.

I pack meticulously and ensure that I only pack what I need and am able to find things in my suitcase easily and quickly. Each piece of clothing has its particular spot in my suitcase.

Finally, I make sure that for this Hawaiian cruise, I pack the appropriate clothes and things that are necessary. I must not forget to pack my trusted gadgets and I already know that I won't be able to use my iPhone on board

the ship due to imperfect wi-fi connections and exorbitant fees for said connections.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly accessibility advisor, 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.

Follow me on Twitter @accessibleworld and @author_jodhan

And like me on Facebook at

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Who is Santa Claus? By Donna J. Jodhan

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 town houses.  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 Clause goes by so many different names and it can be easily 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 who 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. 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!

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Forever beautiful: England calling

Yes, it's England calling and not just London calling!  Not sure why but this beautiful country shall always have a special place in my heart!

I learned so much when I studied there as a teen.  I met many wonderful young ladies and experienced so much.

I learned to be more independent.  I learned how to fend for myself.  I learned how to cope and I learned that, indeed, I was a very privileged kid.

Not many kids at that age would have had the opportunities that I did and for this I shall be eternally grateful.  The thing is that I did not really realize this until many years later but it is never too late to discover.

I visited England in 2014 to play chess at Windermere and I am planning to go again in January of 2019.  Hold on, England!  I am coming to see you once more!

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

If you would like to learn more about me as an author then I invite you now to visit
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.donnajodhan.com/takeanother5.html.

Follow me on Twitter @accessibleworld and at author_jodhan
And like me on Facebook at
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Forever in my heart: Oh my Sweet Saint Lucia

Since 2011, Mom and I have made it an annual must-do to travel to sweet Saint Lucia for our summer getaway and each year I feel as if it is the first time that I am going there.

This lovely little unspoiled island is probably one of the most accessible for a person with a vision impairment, and why is this?

In my humble opinion, it is the people who make this so.  They are so accommodating, so helpful, and so aware of customer service.  They go way beyond and above the call of duty.  They aim to please and the customer always comes first!

Sweet Saint Lucia is definitely a must-visit for anyone who wants to check out not just the tourist aspects but the accessibility features.  Not just the beautiful beaches and fantastic cuisine but the overall accommodations for persons with special needs.

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
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.donnajodhan.com/takeanother5.html.

Follow me on Twitter @accessibleworld and at author_jodhan
And like me on Facebook at
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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