Silent e-Communication: The Epidemic and How to Prevent Disaster

Basic Rules for Polite and Respectful Communication:

1. Actively listen and pay attention to people when they are talking to you.

2. Don't interrupt when someone else is talking to you.

3. If you must, excuse yourself from conversation, deal with your business as quickly as possible, then return to your original conversation.

Then electronic communication came along and challenged all the rules.


It used to be that the most obnoxious behaviour attributed to cell phone users was their loud conversations with people in public places. Now it appears that Silent Electronic Communication (what I have shortened to Silent e-Communication) has taken over. Silent e-Communication can be defined as any kind of communication that can be done electronically, without talking. These include: Texting, Messaging, Emailing, Facebook or other Social Network Notifications, Tweets, Updates, Alerts, or any other kind of message that comes to someone over their hand-held device. Most cell phones nowadays have texting capabilities, and a lot more people are moving over to smartphones. Smartphones are cell phones that have internet capabilities, emails, browsing, cameras, video cameras, applications, etc.

Talking obnoxiously loud in public while using a cell phone is pretty much old school now. We rarely hear someone using a cell phone to talk to people in public. The little "blue tooth" headset is becoming less and less popular. What is taking over is texting, messaging, and emailing from our phones.  This is what I call "Silent e-Communication". What I believe has happened is a surge of Silent e-Communication without any rules. When there are no rules, and people lose their common sense politeness (remember the Golden Rule? Treat others as you would like to be treated), tempers flare, feelings are hurt and sometimes privileges are taken away.

I first experienced this "rudeness" when my son got his first Nintendo Game Boy over a decade ago. He would be playing on his little electronic game, and he would have trouble stopping what he was doing to look up at me and listen to what I was saying. It was hard to get his attention. Children of this generation have been raised in an electronic era, and use of computers and small electronics has now moved into a way for kids to communicate, play and stay connected. Sometimes I wonder if they are losing their skills in how to communicate face-to-face. Playing "online" has become commonplace and sometimes preferred (especially for boys). Increasing rudeness can also be seen in comments and replies to posts on the internet. There are often no rules out there in the real world, and rudeness and lack of respect can be seen again and again in the big cyber world called the World Wide Web, or the Internet. Are we raising a generation of rude people? Are we totally missing the boat here? Are politeness and etiquette becoming a thing of the past? I sure hope not!

Silent e-Communication can be transmitted to and from all kinds of devices, such as iPods, iPhones, Blackberries, Androids, iPads, tablets, etc. It appears that we have traded the embarrassment of overhearing someone talking out loud about a private issue on their cell phone in public for pervasive, persistent and somewhat addictive Silent e-Communication. Fingers are doing the talking now. Thumbs and eyes teamed up with the skillful positioning of handheld devices has become more commonplace and has reached an epidemic. Private communication is so much easier now. People are doing it when they are driving (there are laws in some jurisdictions against this dangerous behaviour), walking (I admit I do that sometimes), even sitting on the toilet (I plead the fifth here!). I even read that there was a guy that was in a men's washroom, using the urinal, while texting with the other hand!

Being "connected" is a very positive feeling, especially when you feel rewarded every time you get a positive response from someone (i.e. ☺, ♥, xoxo) or a "Like" on one of your posts or statuses. Our egos are constantly being fed and we get addicted to the feeling. We feel liked and important.

Very young children are carrying around these devices now, and they often don't have any rules. It's a kind of "learn as we go" mentality. Silent e-Communicators are sometimes oblivious to their rudeness and it's time to lay down the etiquette rules so that no one gets hurt (emotionally and sometimes physically).

It's important to teach young kids the rules of hand-held devices from the start. Sometimes the adults in their lives don't even know what the rules are or should be, but it becomes a bone of contention for the parents who seemingly feel ignored or interrupted while their kids "play on their phones". It can go both ways, while parents, seemingly obsessed with their hand-held devices, are oblivious to what's going on around them. I've seen my own daughter spending "real" time with her friends, and they are all using their cell phones at the same time. They are texting, checking for messages, sending photos, updating statuses, and who knows what else. They could also be silently communicating with one another in the same room. What's acceptable in their peer group, is not necessarily acceptable in other social situations. What's acceptable in one's family, may not be acceptable in the workplace – and vice versa.

Here are what I consider common sense rules of electronic communication device etiquette based on my research and personal experience:

1. Say No to Distracted Driving. Do not use a hand-held device while driving (or riding a bike or any other mobility device). People can be injured or killed.

2. Say No to Distracted Dining. When you are having a meal with someone, put your device away. Unless you are expecting an important call, it can wait. Give them and your food your undivided attention.

3. Avoid Rude Interruptions. Put your phone away when you are visiting or engaged with someone or a group of friends or family. Focus on the people you are with, in-person. On the other hand, if you approach someone and they are on their phone, texting or emailing, imagine it is you that is interrupting them. If you need their attention and it can't wait, let them know you want to talk to them, then wait until there is a break in what they were doing.

4. Avoid Embarrassment. Follow the rules when in large gatherings or in meetings. Movie theatres, meetings, church, etc. are no places to be using your handheld device.  If you must, remove yourself from the room to do your business. Usually those who are officiating the event will remind people to turn off their cell phones or pagers. Most people know how to turn the phone to "Silent".  This rule is particularly even more important at funerals and weddings.

5. Use the Right Kind of Communication. There are three main types of communication when it comes to electronic handheld devices. Here they are in order of importance, with the first being most important: Phone call, text, email. If you have an important, time-sensitive matter to discuss with someone, a phone call is best. Don't get mad if someone doesn't reply to your text or email in a timely fashion. Just because you are a "Text Maniac" doesn’t mean they are.

6. If it's Annoying or Rude to You, Don't Do It. If you find some type of behaviour annoying, it would be a good idea not to do it yourself. For example, if you overhear someone's loud, obnoxious ring (they've selected a ring tone that is really "out there"), it would be a good idea to consider what your ring tone sounds like, and at what volume it's at. Another example, if someone's phone makes a sound when they receive a notification, email, or text, that can also be really annoying. Use your "Volume" and "Silent" options, or put it on "Vibrate" so as not to annoy others.

Hopefully these tips will help prevent hurt feelings and foster a more civilized society. A little etiquette goes a long way.

Excuse me now, as I have to check my phone.

Regards,

Angela G. Gentile


More references on cell phone etiquette:

http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/teen-angst/201011/cellular-etiquette-teens

http://www.emilypost.com/home-and-family-life/133/391-text-messaging

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/03/26/cell-phone-etiquette-15-r_n_514927.html

http://www.informationweek.com/personal-tech/smart-phones/bad-cell-phone-behavior-are-you-being-ru/231002881

http://www.cellphonedigest.net/news/2008/03/americas_top_ten_most_annoying.php

From Good to Great: 21 Tips for a Great Family Life

♥ 21 Simple Ways to be a Great Family ♥

I found this list of things we can do to improve our family connection. I found it on beliefnet.com.  I think it's a great reminder of all the things we can do as a family to improve, cherish and maintain connections between parents and children.  I would recommend sitting down with your family and going through the list and discussing each point.  Families provide the foundation of life for our children, and making that foundation healthy and strong is so important for the sake of our kids.  I love how grandparents and elders are also included in this list. 


What does it take to be a great family, where members love and support each other? Each family has their own unique struggles, but what makes them stronger are the ways in which they overcome burdens and celebrate the joys -- together. Use these 21 tips to bring every member of your family closer.


1. Honor your elders. Our elders have collected a lifetime of experiences, both good and bad. Learn from their mistakes and cherish their wisdom. Show them your gratitude and you will reap the rewards.

2. Engage in constant dialog. Communication is key when it comes to family. Converse often to avoid any mix-ups or family feuds. Talk about topics both big and small. And remember, you don’t always have to agree.

3. Teach young kids early. Establish family dynamics and ground rules while children are young.

4. Have respect for grandparents. Ask them to share their stories and tell your family history to give children a better understanding.

5. Give gifts – both physical and emotional. Surprise a family member with a small gift that makes you think of them, or give the gift of patience or humor.

6. Be honest. When a confrontation is needed, be sure to do it in a respectful, level-headed way.

7. Address bumps in the road. If your family is experiencing tough times, hold a family meeting to clear the air and talk about it.

8. Children have a voice, too. It’s important to remember that grown children are adults with a unique voice, opinion and perspective.

9. Talk about life changes. Big changes ahead? Ask your family for support and the insights they can off¬er from their own experiences.

10. Eat together. Break bread together regularly to foster togetherness and let you catch up on one another’s lives.

11. Appreciate parents. Remember that parents have one of the most difficult jobs out there.

12. Accepting different perspectives. You may never see eye to eye with a member of your family. Accept this and embrace their feedback.

13. Ask one another tough questions. Family members need to rely on one another to probe the hard questions and get down to the important issues in life.

14. Plan activities. Try to schedule events – like family 5K runs, or a coffee shop outing – to ensure that you stay connected.

15. Create something together. Bond by creating something beautiful for your home or yourselves. Try gardening or decorating for a party.

16. Offer supportive words. Even if you don’t agree with a family member, make sure your words are supportive and constructive, never hurtful.

17. Take time for yourself. In order to be a positive, loving member of every family, it’s important that we all take some “me” time.

18. Act as a caregiver. If a parent, child or sibling is in need, offer to care for them.

19. Help out with daily tasks. Even the smallest things, like putting away dishes, show that you are committed to your family’s well-being.

20. Cherish memories. Be sure to keep old photos and home movies on hand so that you can take a walk down memory lane every once in a while.

21. Be a shoulder to lean on. The best thing about families is that they can be a phenomenal support system. Be sure to support, console and encourage family members in good times and bad.

Check out this link for more information: http://responsibility-project.libertymutual.com/infographics/21-simple-ways-to-be-a-great-family#fbid=wzDK1n--aXZ

Have a wonderful day!

~ Angela Gentile

A Hug is a Handshake from the Heart

♥ Hugs

It's wondrous what a hug can do.
A hug can cheer you when you're blue.
A hug can say, "I love you so,"
Or "Gee, I hate to see you go."

A hug is, "Welcome back again,"
And, "Great to see you! Where've you been?"
A hug can smooth a small child's pain,
And bring a rainbow after rain.

The hug! There's just no doubt about it,
We scarcely could survive without it!
A hug delights and warms and charms.
It must be why God gave us arms.

Hugs are great for fathers and mothers,
Sweet for sisters, swell for brothers.
And chances are your favorite aunts
Love them more than potted plants.

Kittens crave them. Puppies love them.
Heads of state are not above them.
A hug can break the language barrier,
And make your travels so much merrier.

No need to fret about your store of 'em;
The more you give the more there's of 'em;
So stretch those arms without delay,
And Give Someone A Hug Today!!!

Origin not known for sure - it's either Author Unknown or Dean Walley, The Messenger


Have a great day!

~ Angela Gentile

Love Me Tender

Did you know that cuddling may be the key to satisfying long-term relationships?

Check out this study that was done and you'll be convinced that cuddling and hugging are very important factors in boosting satisfaction with your lover.  Cuddling May Be Key to Happy Long-Term Relationship: http://health.usnews.com/health-news/family-health/brain-and-behavior/articles/2011/07/06/cuddling-may-be-key-to-long-term-happy-relationship.

Cuddling and caressing are important in every intimate relationship, and especially important for middle-aged and older couples.

Try a little tenderness, a caress, a cuddle.  It's good for your relationship!

Have a great day!

~ Angela Gentile

How to Get the Most Out of a Personal Facebook Account

Social networking on Facebook can be lots of fun.  Heck, it can even be downright addictive!  Recent research shows us that Facebook is good for our self-esteem, too.  Checking your Facebook once daily is probably a good idea, but I know there are others that are using it more often.  Here are some tips on how to make Facebook more fun, and less frustrating.

Review your “Wall”.  Go to your personal Facebook page and review your wall. What do you see?  How are you presented to your friends?  Are your posts interesting?  Have you posted a lot of the same thing or is there a variety of activity? 

“Poke” or “Send Message” to your friends and relatives you don't talk to very often. Let them know you’re thinking of them with a little personal attention every now and then.

“Unfriend” or clean out your Friends list every month or two.  Remove or “Unfriend” people who are inactive, irritate or annoy you or don't ever “Comment” on or “Like” anything you post.  "Unfriend” people who you would most likely not talk to if you bumped into them on the street. “Unfriend” toxic people on Facebook.  Toxic people are always negative, and bring you down.  They usually have negative posts and they are very pessimistic.  They use Facebook to vent and rant.

Ask your friends to “Suggest Friends” for you. They know you best and they know which friends may be enjoyed by you and vice versa. Accept these requests if you feel comfortable enough. Reviewing your friends list every month or two will help you eliminate those who you are not connecting with. 

"Hide" those friends who post too often for your liking but you still enjoy sharing and staying connect with on Facebook.  “Hide” those applications (like Farmville for example) that you don’t participate in.

“Ignore” game or application requests if you truly don't like or have time to play Facebook games. Most people don’t even realize that you ignore this because they most likely expect some friends to ignore the request. I personally rarely accept requests for games. On the other hand,  if you are into playing games on Facebook, challenge your friends to a friendly game of Poker or Scrabulous for example. Just know that they may not have time or be interested.

Facebook Chat is also another way to “instant message” your friends.  If your friends are online at the same time as you, you can type them messages in real time.  These little impromptu visits can be fun.

Join Facebook Groups that may be of interest to you. You may make some new friends with similar interests, too.

“Like” Facebook Pages so you will get the latest posts from topics you are interested in on your News Feed.

Avoid posting inappropriate content.  Imagine your grandmother, employer or younger relative reading your posts and viewing your pictures. Don’t post inappropriate pictures of yourself.  If someone else posts a picture of you that you don’t like, ask them to remove it from Facebook.  Don't use profanity and NEVER say anything bad about anyone.  Don’t bully, harass, spread rumours or challenge others to fights.  You can vent but never make someone else look bad. For example-you may hate your boss, teacher or neighbour but keep those comments to yourself.  You can say you’ve had a bad day, but you don’t need to divulge the details.  You never know when or if this will be held against you. 

Facebook Holiday or Hiatus:  Be aware that Facebook can be addictive.  Take a Facebook Holiday (deactivate your account) every once in a while to explore other things.  It does a person good.  I have done this and it was very good.

What other things can you think of that will help you get the most out of your personal Facebook account?

Have a great day!

~ Angela Gentile

How to Be a Good Friend and Play Nice on Facebook

Interacting on social networks like Facebook can be a whole lot of fun if you know how to make it fun.  It’s a great place to develop, maintain and nurture relationships in this busy world we live in.  There are many ways that you can be nice to people on Facebook, and here are some tips for you so that you can make someone’s day a little brighter and keep connected through Facebook.

The “Like” button:  When you read a post you like, view a photo that is outstanding, or read someone’s comment, click on the “Like” or “Thumbs Up” button.  Facebook will notify that person that someone has “Liked” their post or comment, and it will make them feel good.  Knowing that others are reading and viewing their posts and take the time to show their appreciation makes them feel connected.  Use it instinctively.  If something makes you smile, laugh, or moves you in some way, click on “Like”.  Liking something shows you are interested, like, love or agree with what was posted, be it a photo, video, link, or comment.

Birthdays:  If a notification pops up on the right hand side of your page that it's someone’s birthday, send the person a quick birthday greeting. To make them feel really good post something more personal on their wall.  You can post pictures, videos or comments.  

Tagging:  “Tag” people in pictures that are flattering.  If you post something of someone else, let them know you are posting it so that they can comment or tag themselves if they want. 

Status:  Post witty or funny statuses.  If you can make someone smile or laugh, that’s a good thing. Try to update your status at least once a day.

Photos:  Post beautiful, funny or interesting photos. People like to see something that is quick and easy to enjoy.  

Thank You:  Reply with a comment, “Thank You” when they post on your wall or make nice comments.  Good manners go a long way in keeping connected and encouraging people to engage with you on Facebook.

“Write a comment…”: Favourable comments in reply to statuses and posts are preferred.  Humour goes a long way. If something you read or view makes you laugh out loud, ensure you post a comment that states “LOL” (laugh out loud) or “That made me laugh”.   Let them know what you’re thinking.  This can make the other person know that you are paying attention.

Comment on people’s photos:  That usually gets a good discussion going.  Compliment them if it is flattering, let them know they look nice.  Comment if it’s funny.  Get a conversation going.

Supportive comments: Offer condolences or kind words to those who are posting about difficulties or sad times in their lives.  This support can mean a lot to them and help them through a difficult time.

Comments on your wall or news feed:  If someone comments on your wall, create a dialog  by commenting back to them.  Keep the conversation alive.

Posting videos or news items you come across on the Internet:  News items usually have a "Share" button. You can usually share to your Facebook very easily. Add your own comments to the post. If someone else posts something on their wall that you’d like to share with your friends, click the “Share” button under their post on your News Feed so that the person gets credit for bringing it to your attention.  This is also good manners and it prevents the person from feeling like you are “stealing” their idea.

YouTube videos :  Videos on YouTube.com that you find are very easy to share on your Facebook wall. If you find something you like and it makes you laugh, informs or touches you in some way, share it. Chances are others on your friends list will like it too.

Home videos and photographs:  These are the best way to invite others into your life.  If you keep your Friends list personal, with people you can trust, this is a great way to share your life with others.  Reconsider doing this if your Friends list includes people you don't really know too well.

What other ways can you be a good friend and play nice on Facebook?  Please add your comments below.

Have a great day!

~ Angela Gentile

What Colour is Your Aura?

The other day I met a woman, named Terrie.  We were at a workshop together, and I sat beside her.  She looked familiar to me, and we decided that we had probably met before at another workshop.  The workshop ended at lunch time, and I invited her to have lunch with me.  She accepted.

We talked about our work and our interests and got to know each other a bit. The interesting thing about her is that she said that she could see the "aura" of the workshop facilitator.  She said it was blue.  She also said she sensed the room was full of "angels".  I was intrigued by her observation.  I asked her if she could see my aura.  She took a look at me, and I could see her looking "over" me, almost "through" me.  After a couple of seconds of deep concentration, she said my aura was yellow.  I asked if it was a bright yellow?  She said no, it was more pale, like the colour you would see on a baby. She also said that my aura was very tight and close to me.  She said I was "centered".

I could tell she was a bit hesitant to share this information, and she said that she had never talked to anyone else about this before (except her husband).  I encouraged her by telling her she had a wonderful gift.  She went on to share some personal stories about her intuitive/psychic abilities.  I told her about my interest in this field. 

I thanked Terrie for sharing her gift with me.  We exchanged particulars, and parted ways.  I then looked up on the internet what this pale yellow aura meant.  I went to Aura Color Meanings, and here's what it said about the pale yellow aura:

• The aura is the electromagnetic field that surrounds the human body (Human Energy Field-HEF) and every organism and object in the Universe.
• YELLOW AURA COLOR:  Relates to the spleen and life energy. It is the color of awakening, inspiration, intelligence and action shared, creative, playful, optimistic, easy-going. 
• Light or pale yellow: Emerging psychic and spiritual awareness; optimism and hopefulness; positive excitement about new ideas. 

I felt a very positive feeling after spending some time with Terrie.  She confirmed for me what I was feeling inside, in terms of my outlook on life.  I especially like that for people like Terrie, my optimism and positivity is visible.  Terrie said that she's never looked into what the different colors mean.   I know that many people don't believe in this kind of thing, but I find it fascinating and I am always open to new ideas and new experiences.  It makes life interesting, doesn't it?

Have a great day!

~ Angela Gentile

Friendship doubles your joy and divides your sorrow

Friends are a very important part of our lives.  People with five friends that they can confide in are happier.  Friends are there to celebrate with you, and they are there to comfort you in times when you are down.  Gretchen Rubin, of "The Happiness Project", says there are all kinds of friends, too.

When I look at my life, I can see that I have all different kinds of friends.  I value all the friendships I have as they help me through this journey called life.

Gretchen talks about how to "Make Three New Friends" (2:49) in this video. She tells about her own personal experiences and helps us see how we can go about connecting with others.

If this video is not working for you, try this link:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oLGKHQk2U1M

Have a friendship-filled day!

~ Angela Gentile

Another Door Opens

"In the end, a job is not just a job; it's who you are...

and if you want to change who you are, well first,

you have to change what you do". 

-- From the movie, Repo Men (2010).

Changing jobs is quite difficult in some ways.  My last day of work was very bittersweet.  I had formed great relationships with everyone in the office, and I found myself happy to be moving on, but sad to be leaving the people that I had spent most of my waking hours with over the last 3 and a half years.  I had formed many special bonds with my co-workers, and those mutual feelings became more apparent over those last few days.  In addition to a celebratory luncheon with 15 co-workers, I had three coffee-break parties, and my coworkers brought in baking and goodies.  I received beautiful cards and parting gifts, including a gorgeous pink and silver necklace that I wore on my last day.  I received a bouquet of red and fuchsia flowers that were cheerful and bright, and a beautiful planter filled with lush greenery and yellow petals.  I also received a photo album of pictures of my co-workers.  That's how they will be remembered.  Sitting at their desks, smiling, and taking time out for a photo.  All the hugs on that last day were really special, too.

As I reflect on my last 10 years with the Home Care Program I am proud of all that I've accomplished.  I feel that I have gained a tremendous amount of experience and knowledge.  I am glad to be moving on and ready for new adventures and challenges.  My new career will offer me learning opportunities and a chance to develop my skills even further as a Geriatric Mental Health Clinician. 

I am happy to have had a wonderful team to work with in my last few years and grateful for my next opportunity.  I look forward to keeping in touch with my former coworkers, and meeting new people in my next job.  When one door closes, another one opens.  There are opportunities everywhere.  Change is scary, but sometimes necessary.  An open door awaits.

Take care,

~ Angela Gentile

How to Listen So You Mean It

Did you know that the words Listen and Silent have the same letters?

To be a good listener, means you have to be silent at times when the person you are listening to is speaking.  To reassure your speaker, it is good to nod, or say, "uh huh", or to paraphrase what they are saying when they pause for a break.  The periods of silence are good, as it allows you and the speaker to reflect on what has been said, and to process a response or to formulate words for the next train of thought. 

Enjoy the exchange of ideas, feelings and stories, with silence.  That's what makes you a good listener.

Cheers!

~ Angela Gentile

Teenagers and Electronics = Connecting with Friends

As my children get older, seems like they spend more time on electronics.  Is this concerning?  I don't think so.  I'll tell you why.

My son enjoys PS3 (PlayStation 3) and he can spend a lot of time playing games, with his friends. They are able to connect on-line.  I believe this is an important area of socialization for kids nowadays. There are also other on-line gaming systems, like Xbox Live and Wii. These have become new ways for kids (boys especially) to "play" together. The positive side of this kind of socialization is that you know they are at home, safe. I hear my son talking with, strategizing and laughing with his friends. It's a great way for them to bond. Electronics have come along way since Pong.

My daughter on the other hand, enjoys texting on her cellphone (it has a little keyboard that flips out), and also communicates with her friends via Facebook and MSN Messenger on the computer (or iPod). I aso hear her laughing out loud at times.  Rarely is she on the telephone.

We encourage our children to get out with their friends and be active as well.  Both kids have ways of communicating with their friends in this electronic age. Things are quite different from when I was growing up. I only had a telephone! The telephone is the least used electronic device in our home nowadays.  I think with adequate supervision, and rules, these types of electronics can be helpful in our kids' development.  Responsibility, maturity and safety is key, and you as the parent can decide if these items or social media should be brought into your home.  As they grow up, they will want to spend more time with their peers, and this is a way to keep them safe and happy.

Have a good one.

~Angela

A Woman's Place is in the Mall

"Whoever said money can't buy happiness simply didn't know where to go shopping." ~Bo Derek

When I was younger, my mother and I used to go out shopping together, and this was a time that we bonded doing something that we both loved.  My mother would watch me trying on new clothes, or we would watch each other get excited about finding something that we wanted.  My mom also told me that her mother used to take her to downtown Toronto, and they would go shopping together when she was young.

Now I find myself taking my daughter out shopping.  This is a time when we bond, and we share a common interest.  It is especially fun when the two of us can go on a weekend get-away, and go somewhere that is different.  When you go to stores that aren't found in your local community, it's fun because you get to see different things.

There is a term used for the feeling you get when you go shopping.  It's called, Retail therapy.  I used to go shopping when I felt down, and if I bought something new it would cheer me up.  It's the fun of it, getting out with the public, stimulating your senses with new smells, textures, colours, bright lights, music.  It's especially thrilling when you find that item that you've been looking for, and so desperately "need".  I know for myself, I usually feel uplifted and happier after I have been out shopping, whether I buy something or not (just be careful of the dangers of buyer's remorse -when you spend too much money!). 

I also enjoy reading books by Sophie Kinsella.  She has a Shopaholic Seriers, and the first book is called, Confessions of a Shopaholic.  The storylines are quite funny, and it's entertaining to go on an adventure of shopping with Becky.  The first two books were made into a movie, called, Confessions of a Shopaholic.  See the movie trailer here. 

If you are feeling down, and want a lift, it's always fun to go out shopping, especially to a mall (even if you don't buy something).  It's nice to treat yourself and make yourself feel special.  Buying something for someone else is also rewarding.   Giving is always a good thing!

Happy shopping!

~Angela

Thoughtful Gestures - A Little Goes a Long Way

“The smallest act of kindness is worth more than the grandest intention.”

One morning, I wasn't feeling well, and my son made me a cup of tea and left me a note that said, "Love you Mom, get well soon".  This warmed my heart.  This week I received a really nice Thank You card from a co-worker and good friend.  I had put on a surprise birthday party for her and she expressed her appreciation in a card that I received in the mail.  My husband bought a $3.00 wrap organizer for a good friend who admired the very same thing when she was over visiting the other day.  He surprised her with it - she was delighted!

Small, thoughtful gestures can really brighten someone's day.  These little tokens of affection and appreciation make us feel special and loved.  Little gifts can surprise and delight.  Notes can warm the heart.  A phone call, email or text message can also make us feel connected to those we care about.  A caring, listening ear is sometimes all it takes to make your heart fulfilled.  The gift of time is sometimes the greatest gift of all.  Spending time with loved ones in this busy, hectic life can help keep bonds and foster closeness and connections.  Generosity is also something that can make you feel great.

Make your day a thoughtful one!

~Angela

PS - Thanks hubby for the idea!

Staying connected with friends

"A true friend is someone who thinks that you are a good egg even though she knows that you are slightly cracked." -- Bernard Meltzer.

In this crazy, busy world, we often find that it's hard to stay connected to those we care about. Phone calls usually end up with a message left, and you rarely get to talk to someone for a lengthy enough time because there are so many things going on. Facebook has been a place where I can connect with my family and friends. I'm not one of those people who have hundreds of friends, I just have a small community of those I care about and want to stay connected with. I enjoy sharing my news and pictures, and reading about what's going on in others' lives. When our dog Gypsy died, my daughter posted it on her Facebook status, and she received so much support. Networking sites are places we can go to provide support and friendship in a timely manner.

Email is also a wonderful way that we can stay connected. Even if it's a joke or a warning (aka Urban Myth), every email we receive says that someone has thought of us, even if for just a brief moment.

Going out to a movie, going out for a coffee or tea, or getting together for a meal are great ways to get out and have some great friendship time. Plan something fun! I remember once I went horseback riding with a friend, and we had a great time.

Take time today to connect with someone who you haven't talked to for quite some time. You'll be glad you did!

Cheers,

Angela