Kathy Johnson, who has a blog, www.pyramidofpotential.com/blog , recently posted a blog on this book: Disconnected Kids: by Robert Melillo. It sounds interesting and I thought my readers might like to explore . Here is what she says:
Ms. Johnson states she hasn’t read the entire book cover to cover, but is impressed with what she has seen so far. Dr. Melillo uses three basic pathways to helping children with various neurological disorders, using his Brain Balance program. He focuses on nutrition, sensory-motor improvements, and hemispheric balance. Part 1 is about his theories, brain development, and general information about identifying the cause of “Functional Disconnection Syndrome” or FDS as he calls it.
Part 2 is where I was impressed. There are descriptions of extensive testing routines followed by exact directions as to how to work at home with your child to correct what was identified. There are exercises taken from vision therapy, listening therapy, as well as vestibular, tactile, and aerobic exercises. There are academic exercises for reading, comprehension, and math. Finally, there is a long chapter on nutrition, something I consider at the heart of brain health. Many suggestions are given, as well as foods that essential to a healthy brain diet. Not surprisingly, he suggests testing for sensitivities, altering the diet as necessary, and supplementing with vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, and digestive enzymes.
I was able to get this book from my local library, so you could “check it out” too if you want, without spending the $15.95. But it’s worth the investment if you want to see other programs that seem to be working well for those with learning disabilities.
Comment on this postRecently I came across a pyramid describing steps the creator, Kathy Johnson took to assist her daughter with her learning disabilities. She claims her child moved into being a successful student as well as enjoying both raised self esteem and and increased IQ.
I found this material, brief as it is, useful. I like the progression and the commitment to looking at different approaches as part of whole to reach results. It is my experience as a dyslexic/hyperlexic that diversity of healing approaches is essential. I just wish there were two more elements, emotional and spiritual on the pyramid.
However, this is a wonderful beginning. To contact Ms. Johnson go to: www.pyramidofpotential.com
The following is a quote from Ms. Johnson’s site.
“As an overview, the base of the Pyramid is Body and Mind Health. In order for the brain to be working at its best, the cells must be healthy. Just above that is Neuro-Development. Between pre-natal and age 3, we go through many stages that develop our brains and bodies, and open up pathways to our higher brains. Next is Sensory-Motor Development. If we cannot see, hear, or feel well, it is difficult to get proper input to our brains. We need to be able to use large and small motor abilities to properly express what we know. Our Cognitive Development of skills (like processing speed, memory, and reasoning) is dependent on the other parts of the Pyramid; neuro-development and the sensory-motor systems must be in proper working order to develop fully in the cognitive area.
Learn more on www.pyramidofpotential.com
Comment on this postFirst of all let me tell you a little bit about PEN. The acronym stands for Parents Education Network, PEN, a coalition of parents collaborating with educators, students and the community to empower and bring academic success to students with learning and attention difficulties. If you live in the San Francisco Bay area and have children with these challenges, this is a lively group, well worth your time and energy. http://www.parentseducationnetwork.org
PEN offered it’s last Speaker event of this season on Friday, May 14, 2010. A panel of high school learning specialists shared their experiences of working with high school students who have learning and attention challenges. The panelists and the institutions they represented were: Susan Coe Adams, Marin Academy; Constance Clark, Immaculate Conception Academy: Karen Houck, Drew School: Denise Olivera, Gateway High School and Charles P. Roth, Bay School of San Francisco. This is a summary of their points of view.
This discussion focused primarily on Grade Nine, though there were references to high school students in general. All of the schools are college preparatory.
Admission: Some schools require documentation on the prospective students learning or attention challenges. One school distills the documentation and develops a learning profile on challenged children. They have the student confirm the information on the learning profile and then the student takes it to his or her teachers as part of a self-advocacy program. Some schools have workshops on study skills, how the brain works and time management at the beginning of Grade Nine to help the students integrate into high school.
Parents when interviewing a school would be best served by first checking the school’s website to see if the profile of the school fits their child. Go to admission open houses and be sure to visit the resource center.
At the interview these are some questions that might be asked. a: what services are offered including information on a resource program. b. what are the qualifications of the resource program staff. c. how do teachers teach: lecture, visual aids etc. d. how is the child assessed: projects, homework, tests. e. How many students have learning issues? f. Can a student have a waiver for a subject? g. how many students leave because of their learning difference. h. Ask for contact information of parents who have kids with similar issues. Be sure to make a list of your questions and give them to the admissions director.
Most of the panelists felt that students with ADD or ADHD would be best served if they were given psychological testing. In similar kind, most of the panelists felt that a dyslexic student and their teachers would benefit from the information gained from an Educational Therapist.
1. Support systems:
Some schools have programs where Grade 12 learning or attention challenged students support the incoming Grade Nine students with like situations. This program seems very supportive especially for those Grade Nine students who more recently learned about their challenge and are embarrassed by it. Peer support seems effective.
Grade 12 students also mentor in chemistry and writing. Learning how to plan and organizing material is often top on the agenda.
Learning specialists help students become advocates for themselves. Some schools run training programs for this purpose.
2. Homework:
All of the panelist’s schools have homework which can vary from 2-3 hours for students with no learning or attention challenges. This can mean almost double the time for the challenged students.
Learning specialists need to re-inforce with the student that they will have to work harder.
Some parents choose to have tutors help with homework. Others look to Books on Tape. Parents and their kids need to plan how homework will be accomplished. Some parents use bench marks.
Most schools post homework on-line.
Computers:
Yes, they are useful tools. Parents need to control their use at home so that homework time is strictly homework. One solution offered was having the student in the kitchen doing homework.
3. Parents access to teachers, supervisors etc
One person in the school needs to become the central connection with parents. Information can be garnered from the Resource Specialist overseeing each grade level, sometimes a care team. Other sources are E-mail,weekly meeting of faculty to discuss students who are facing problems.
One advisor has each of his challenged students send an e-mail once a week to his teachers checking if he is up to date with all his assignments.
4. Most panelists seemed to agree that it is not realistic for a school to provide the following for learning and attention students: modification of the curriculum, tutors, direct services, therapy, daily communication with parents about homework. Remember: these schools are all college preparatory.
5. Parents can support their children by a: helping them become advocates for themselves, b. make sure they understand how they learn, c. provide a safe environment and build confidence finding ways for the child to be successful, d. encourage them to join support groups for themselves eg: SafeVoices for students http://www.parentseducationnetwork.org/safevoices, or Project Eye to Eye: http://www.projecteyetoeye.org
Challenges learning and attention students need to master during high school so they can be successful. a. Executive functions: planning and organizing material, handling effectively a daytimer. highlighting b. making transitions, c. finding ways to deal with dense text books, d. self advocacy, e. how to approach long projects.
Book recommended: Primal Teen, Barbara Strauch
Comment: If I were a parent with a child who has recently discovered he or she is dyslexic I would be both grateful for this panel discussion and perhaps overwhelmed at the task before both the child and the parent.
Comment on this postThis article on Ann Farris was published in March, 2010. It is written by Daniel J. Vance www.danieljvance.com
What she did with a reading disability.
For years, Ann Farris of San Francisco, California, tried keeping a secret hidden: she wasn’t particularly gifted in comprehending what she read.
“You can fool a heck of a lot of people when you’re smart,” said 73-year-old Farris in a telephone interview. “I gravitated towards opera beginning at age 11 because I found out that classical music and opera allowed my brain to rest. My mother took me to the symphony as a child. I could float with the music. By the end the concert I was a happy kid. I really wanted to be around it a lot because afterwards I could read and understand what I was reading. It made my life better.”
Eventually, Farris learned she had a learning disability in reading comprehension.
Yet she has succeeded in her chosen profession. She worked in musical theater from ages 18-24 before entering the world of opera. Her first big break came as the production manager for the 1967 World’s Fair in Montreal, and while there worked with the Bolshoi Opera, Hamburg State Opera, and Royal Swedish Opera, among others. Later, she was on staff with the San Francisco Opera and managed Opera America, the international service organization of professional opera companies. Ultimately, she became program director of the Opera-Musical Theater Program of the National Endowment for the Arts, and produced the Expo 86 Royal Bank World Festival.
At the National Endowment for the Arts, her learning disability became all too apparent. “It was a desk job,” said Farris. “Suddenly, I was sitting there reading applications. It was all paper and reading and writing, and I was plenty unhappy. Yet, I had found my way through the Yale School of Drama with this.”
How? In college, she had “hung out” with people who talked all the time about what they were reading for classes. She listened intently, and listened to class lecturers. And she had learned from an early age to write everything down she heard.
“I was never a brilliant student, but a B student,” she said. “I wasn’t comprehending the big words, but I would get concepts.”
Five years ago, she tested at a grade 3 reading comprehension level, but claims to have improved that to grade 9 using certain imaging techniques. “The reason I couldn’t comprehend was because I wasn’t imaging,” she said. You can learn more about her personal story at dyslexiadiscovery.com.
Contact danieljvance.com
Blue Valley Sod and All American Foods made this column possible.
Mr. Vance asks two things if newpaper editors are planning to publish this article. Please notify him Weekly_Disabilities_Column-owner@yahoogroups.com and that you publish the TAG LINE mentioning the above listed sponsors.
Comment on this postI found this interesting article Taking charge of dyslexia in the workplace through www.btob.co.nz. It originated from the Dyslexia Foundation of New Zealand, www.dyslexiafoundation.org.nz. Enjoy.
Taking charge of dyslexia in the workplace
Shame is a powerful emotion. And so is fear. You may think they are uncommon feelings in the workplace, but right now there is a one in 10 chance that a colleague is experiencing these disabling emotions.
And the reason? Their dyslexia has been misunderstood, particularly at school, resulting in life experiences that have challenged their self-esteem and identity.
To those of us who might take for granted our ability to peruse a report or express our ideas in an email or document, it is hard to imagine how these seemingly simple tasks can produce such an emotive reaction from so many dyslexic people. But for those whose dyslexia has been misunderstood either in school or elsewhere in their life, the feelings are very real, and understandable.
Richard Taylor, co-founder and co-director of the Weta companies, regularly comes into contact with people struggling with the feelings dyslexia evokes. “Only a few weeks ago I met a young man whose parents brought him to the workshop to see what we could do. He had been labelled in degrading ways in terms of his ability, when actually his motor skills, visual and creative skills were amazing.
“It’s tough at that age, but what I tried to make him understand is how important it is to believe in his own unique capabilities. When he leaves school it will become apparent that he is actually in a unique position to make the most of his exceptional creative view of the world,” he says.
The story is just one of many that Taylor offers when talking about dyslexia, a topic he is deeply passionate about, and its sentiments are echoed by other high profile New Zealanders who experience dyslexia.
“I hid the fact that I had issues with writing and spelling for 37 years, out of shame and fear of being judged a dummy, an idiot, lazy or stupid. At high school, to cover up my issues I just pretended I didn’t care and teachers told my parents I was lazy and didn’t try. You get the picture,” says Paul Reid, CEO of the New Zealand MetService.
Fortunately, for young New Zealanders and those already in the workforce who have dyslexia, a global step-change in thinking is underway. Instead of pigeon-holing dyslexia as a disability, the new thinking focuses on increasing understanding which helps employers to notice the difficulties (or preferences) a staff member has and to adjust their actions in response.
This simple “notice and adjust” approach empowers employees to achieve their potential and demonstrates an employer’s willingness to support genuine needs. This leads to increased job fulfillment for dyslexic employees, and for the employer, an enhanced bottom line.
Understanding dyslexia
At its essence, dyslexia is the disparity between thinking skills (which are usually strong) and basic skills such as reading and writing (which can often be weak in comparison). This is a consequence of how the brain is wired, and a strong preference as to where it processes information.
In fact, leading dyslexia researcher Sally Shaywitz, founder of the Yale Center for Dyslexia and Creativity has shown that dyslexics tend to have strengths in higherlevel thinking processes, learning capacity, creative problem-solving, thinking ‘outside the square’ and empathy. She also found that dyslexics excel when focused on highly specialised areas, ranging from medicine and law to science and architecture.
Dyslexics also have great skills in entrepreneurialism. Research from the United Kingdom shows that 35 percent of US entrepreneurs and 20 percent of UK entrepreneurs are dyslexic.
With such strengths to offer, the challenge for New Zealand employers is to find the right way to harness the potential benefits. For Taylor, the emphasis for a good employer needs to be on changing their approach to working with dyslexic employees in order to help them flourish.
“You need to identify exactly what attributes you want in the person you hire. If you expect a more traditional, linear thinking mode you will need to put more support around a dyslexic person to help them achieve that.
“Awareness is critical. You need team leaders who can identify the signs of dyslexia and make simple adjustments so the employee feels valued and empowered. This will involve good peer support and making sure that the challenges you set dyslexic employees are testing, but not outside the realm of their capability,” he says.
These sentiments are echoed by Reid.
“Dyslexia has helped me be a good leader because I’ve learnt to communicate ideas, issues and concepts in different ways. I have had to adapt to succeed but I believe this has actually made me a stronger leader,” he says.
“For example, in moments of crisis, I can take a lot of verbal information, process it, draw conclusions and make decisions on the spot. I deal in concepts rather than in details and I can give a one hour presentation without notes. I spend a lot of time walking around the business talking to people, and I often use the telephone to discuss business matters, rather than email.”
Reid believes that business owners or employers need to rethink traditional principles and rules to help dyslexic employees, and to allow them to help themselves.
“Employees with any form of dyslexia can be of great use to organisations as long asyou don’t put them in the wrong job and expect them to undertake tasks that they cannot perform. It’s about horses for courses and matching skills to strengths.
Reid says many dyslexic adults can work very hard at hiding their weaknesses, instead of using their significant abilities to add value to the business. Employers can lift productivity by helping them identify, and play to their strengths.
“It’s great to see a new model emerging that is based on attitude, where knowing the questions to ask is more important than knowing the answers, and where people areconstructively speaking out. Good communication and understanding strengths and weaknesses is essential for supporting employees, especially those affected by dyslexia,” he says.
Where to learn more
Tips for harnessing the benefits of dyslexia
• Attitude is everything, and it counts from top to bottom. Make an effort to understand the strengths that Dyslexia can offer and do not confuse weakness in basic skills with a lack of intelligence, ability or commitment.
• Accept the challenge to review your company style guides and fine tune them to suit the needs of dyslexic people. It’s not only them who benefit, everyone gains when things are communicated in a way that is clear, concise, well-planned and combines a mixture of words and visuals.
• Focus on communication. Deliver information and instructions orally or visually wherever possible, rather than writing things down. Encourage others to do the same because it is often quicker, more efficient and engages people more effectively in the business at hand
• Value visual information as well as the written, and include diagrams and pictures in presentations and reports.
• Always give an overview and explain the big picture.
• Ask for ideas verbally in meetings instead of always seeking written responses.
• Ensure support structures are in place for dyslexic employees if you expect themto deliver work in a traditional, linear fashion.
Comment on this postFirst of all let me tell you a little bit about PEN. The acronym stands for Parents Education Network, a coalition of parents collaborating with educators, students and the community to empower and bring academic success to students with learning and attention difficulties. If you live in the San Francisco Bay area and have children with these challenges, this is a lively group, well worth your time and energy.
In mid-March PEN Speaker Series welcomed Patricia Oetter talking on Sensory Integration: Do we really need it?
She began her presentation defining the senses. Nerves can best be described through neurobehavioral organization. These sensory neurons work in tandem with our motor neurons. Why? We need to do something with the neuro-sensory part of our selves.
I referred to biologyreference.com for a little more detail.
Sensory neurons bring information about the world within and around the body from sense organs to the brain and spinal cord.
Motor neurons carry messages from the brain and spinal cord out to the muscles and glands.
An example: if a mosquito lands on a person’s arm, sensory neurons in the skin send a message to the spinal cord and then the brain, where the message is understood, and a reaction formulated. The brain’s response may be to use motor neurons to cause muscle contractions resulting in a slap on the skin.
Ms. Oetter expanded the usual definition of the senses: see, hear, taste, touch and smell, to include to:
- Vestibular system. This sense contributes to our balance and our sense of spatial orientation. It’s the sense that is about being in motion and knowing how to handle oneself. She reminded us that children learn balance by falling down purposefully – it’s movement through space.
- Proprioception. This sense indicates where the various parts of the body are located in relation to each other.
Ms. Oetter cautioned us to remember that our senses are continually providing information to the brain which means that in any given moment, a person may react in one way or another, depending on what sense is dominant at that moment. For this reason she seemed to eschew placing too much emphasis on the phrases “hyper” meaning beyond or excessively or “hypo” meaning under or below normal. She re-iterated for the teachers present: A student in a state of hypo-activity is just in a momentary state. Before you know it, the student may become hyper-active.
She talked about the intensity of sensation which is experienced through the duration of its frequency and pattern: novelty vs repetition. She explained that the neuro-chemistry inside our cells when turned up or down are a part of how we perceive something. Our cells are turned up when we are not feeling comfortable or safe.
She had an interesting comment that touch is the key for vision: If you don’t know what is going on with your vision, your body doesn’t know where it is.
She re-iterated several times her concern that boys in our school systems are lacking experiences they need for development. The reason? It seems the schools learning systems are focused on a girl’s point of view. As a result the experience of risk is diminished, an important component for young boy’s growth. She recommended three books that are helpful in raising boys:
Raising Boys by Steve Biddulph and Paul Stanish
Raising Cain: Protecting the Emotional Life of Boys by Dan Kindlon and Michael Thompson,
The Trouble with Boys: A Surprising Report Card on Our Sons, Their Problems at School, and What Parents and Educators Must Do, Peg Tyre
Ms. Oetter made a sobering comment. It takes 25 – 30 years of age before the brain is mature enough to handle the senses. It seems it takes that long for mylenation, the development of an insulation material to form a layer, usually around a neuron. This sheath is essential for the proper functioning of the nervous system. One of the components that ensures mylenation is the condition of feeling safe. She reminded us that boys, girls, young adults, all of us actually, need smiles and touch to find a way to feel safe.
There is so much more information that Ms. Oetter shared. However, now brevity is important.
I would like to comment on the value of these lectures sponsored by PEN. Over this last year I have attended most of them. As a dyslexic and hyperlexic these perspectives have been very useful to me. And, as each dyslexic/hyperlexic has different reasons for their challenge I know it is important to examine a wide variety of solutions. Each speaker gave me another clue into how I function or not. In Ms. Oetter’s case, over the last twenty years I have focused on my senses to understand some of my dyslexic behavior. I found her information most helpful. It gave me another point of view on the topic.
I just wish that parents and teachers challenged with children who have learning issues were in attendance in droves so they, too, could learn. These lectures are one of the best “buys” in the Bay Area.
Comment on this postChildren with Challenges is a Yahoo group of parents, therapists and persons challenge with disabilities such as dyslexia, hyperlexia, aspergers, autism and many others. http://groups.yahoo.com/group/childrenwithchallenges. The group was initiated by a mother in a support group who was learning the Masgutova Method.
Recently this mother took the initiative to begin a list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) relating to the solutions that Svetlana Masgutova has unearthed for different disabilities. I provided some ideas for the FAQ on dyslexia and hyperlexia and then Svetlana added details. The results are below. I highly recommend that you visit the Yahoo site http://groups.yahoo.com/group/childrenwithchallenges for responses on other topics.
1. How does that Masgutova Method help children and adults with dyslexia (challenges with sounding out words, reading and vocabulary) and hyperlexia (challenges with comprehending – both reading and aural).
The Masgutova Method (MM) addresses core issues behind both challenges. If a child or an adult’s reflexes normally developed in utero and during the first three years of life are delayed the technical skills required to read and comprehend can be impacted.
Non-developed or retained reflex patterns cannot serve as a neurophysiological basis for learning skills development, and more over, non-integrated reflex patterns inhibit the learning process. The negative effects of automatism, incorrect reflex pattern functioning (its dysfunctional sensory system, brain processing, and motor response), and lack of development of inner control will not allow a child/adult to deal easily with hands on tasks: to focus, to analyze, to decode information, and to process it appropriately. Integration of these non-developed reflex patterns gives the possibility for the development of inner control and skills.
2. Can reflex corrections be made to improve a dyslexic and hyperlexic’s ability to read and comprehend?
Yes, there have been many hundreds of examples where a marked increased in reading and comprehension has been reached.
3. Do the emotions play a part in dyslexia and hyperlexia?
Yes. We have seen cases where linking an emotional issue with an under-developed reflex and making the appropriate corrections have resulted in a marked increase in reading skills and comprehension.
To learn more about the Masgutova Method go to: http://www.masgutovamethod.com
If you have topics that you would like me to address about my experience in overcoming dyslexia and hyperlexia feel free to send your ideas through the comments below.
Information on this blog is intended to complement, not replace, the advice of your own physician or health care professional
Description on how Masgutova Method improves a dyslexia and hyperlexic condition.
Comment on this postChildren with Challenges is a Yahoo group of parents, therapists and persons challenge with disabilities such as dyslexia, hyperlexia, aspergers, autism and many others. http://groups.yahoo.com/group/childrenwithchallenges. The group was initiated by a mother in a support group who was learning the Masgutova Method.
You can learn more about how this Method helped me overcome my hyperlexia by reading my Article on this website. Hit Article on the top banner above. You can also go to http://www.masgutovamethod.com for more details on the Method
I joined Children with Challenges four years ago and monitor the input on a regular basis. Parents and therapists offer feedback on techniques that are working with both children and adults challenged with a disability. I always am looking for new approaches that might assist me in improving my comprehension – both through the written and spoken word. Not long ago this information was posted.
Please note: I have had no personal experience with these two products but as others seem to have had good results in improving comprehension I am passing this information on.
1. Fast ForWord, a program designed by Scientific Learning. Here’s the link: http://www.scilearn.com/products/fast-forword-language-series/language.
2. Earobics. It is a cd with games. One person reports that Super Duper has the best price for this CD. She also commented Super Duper has free games online called Game Goo.
And, if you want to more information about Children with Challenges here is the link to their Yahoo Group.
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/childrenwithchallenges.
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If you have topics that you would like me to address about my experience in overcoming dyslexia and hyperlexia send your comments through this blog below.
And, I am planning to continue evolving this site. I want to incorporate dyslexic and/or hyperlexic information that others have to share. Yes, I am looking for your ideas. Send them via the Comments. below.
Comment on this postWelcome: You have come upon a blog whose focus is primarily offering tools for dyslexics and hyperlexics. I have both conditions. The material is also germane for parents and therapists. The topic, this time, is financial support. Occasionally I come across names of institutions or individuals who offer financial support. I will update this list as I discovered more information.
Danielle’s Foundation is a comprehensive support and resource center for parents, caregivers, and loved ones of children with cerebral palsy and brain injury. Recently they have annouced a grant program. The first deadline has been extended to April 7th, 2010.
Here is what their press announcement states:
In keeping with our mission to help parents of children with cerebral palsy and brain injury get the care their children desperately need, we have developed a grant program to assist deserving families in getting the necessary therapy/ medical equipment for their children (which insurance has either denied or will not cover).
Our grants are based on need and will be given out on a quarterly basis. Each grant will range from $2,000-$5,000.
To apply your child MUST be under 18 years old, have a diagnosis of cerebral palsy or brain injury, and need assistance in getting therapy or medical equipment. For more information and to receive a grant application please call our toll free hotline 1-800-996-1148 or
For more information and to receive a grant application please call our toll free hotline 1-800-996-1148 or http://www.daniellesfoundation.org .
If you have topics that you would like me to address about my experience in overcoming dyslexia and hyperlexia feel free to send your ideas through the comments below.
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Information on this blog is intended to complement, not replace, the advice of your own physician or health care professional
Comment on this postWelcome: You have come upon a blog whose focus is primarily offering tools for dyslexics and hyperlexics. I have both conditions. The material is also germane for parents and therapists. The topic, this time, is hyperlexia and dyslexia on-line resources. Some of these contacts I have had first hand experience and others not. I indicate the latter.
http://www.masgutovamethod.com
This website provides details on the Masgutova Method – an approach that considers the health of reflexes of a child and an adult. Her techniques to correct under-developed reflexes was a major component in my overcoming the negatives of hyperlexia.
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/childrenwithchallenges.
An excellent support group for parents, therapists interested in or working with the Masgutova Method.
This organization provides excellent dyslexia and hyperlexia assessments and offers effective tools to overcome the mechanics of both conditions.
An organization founded by a dyslexic thirty or more years ago and offers movement exercises that are very effective in dealing with learning issues.
http://www.dyslexia-program.com. This is a British Newsletter that comes out bi-monthly. Written byJohn Bradford the online newsletter has 28,000 subscribers.
http://www.parentseducationnetwork.org
A San Francisco-based organization assembled by parents of dyslexics, ADD etc. They are very active, presenting an ongoing program of resources for parents as well as programs for learning challenged children.
http://www.audiobooksgalore.com/books/hebrew-magazine.
I came across this website. It has an interesting article on dyslexia, hyperlexia and other topics. The author is succinct in her presentation and the information useful.
http://www.interdys.org/ An international organization focussed only on dyslexia. It’s large and has a major annual meeting. I find the information they offer is very limited in scope. They are hesitant to introduce any approaches that have not been through the scientific process. As a result they are not a progressive group.
Mr. Vance writes a newspaper column about people with disabilities. He focusses on writing their personal story from their viewpoint avoiding the trap of making them out to be victims or superheroes. He sees them just as people. He did an article on my story and it was very geniune. This is the link to the story: http://www.danieljvance.com/disabledweek402a.html
I read about this organization from a newspaper report describing the ability of a 12 year-old, Laura Miles, to overcome her dyslexia and coordination problems. The article reported that Dore’s process offers ”a series of simple exercises designed to target an area of the brain called the cerebellum. Dore believes the cerebellum is the root cause of learning difficulties such as dyslexia, dyspraxia (developmental coordination disorder), ADHD and Asperger’s syndrome.
Laura had to do exercises for 10 minutes, twice a day, in the morning and at night. Her exercises included juggling bean bags – for eye-tracking and to help co-ordination; a wobble board – to help stimulate and improve balance; and an eye chart – to give the person different things to focus on.”
These exercises sound very much like the Brain Gym approach which I found very helpful.
http://www.beingdyslexic.co.uk
I came upon the Being Dyslexic website found their material helpful. This site provides a range of dyslexia information for people of all ages and situations who are either dyslexic or interested in dyslexia. Everything on Being Dyslexic is free and accessible for anyone to use and share. Being Dyslexic also hosts one of the largest dyslexia community forums on the internet. They suggest: why not “pop along” (very British phrase) today and discuss dyslexia with other people!
A mother reports on her discovery that her child had excess histamine in the body. She feels this condition is a part of the reason of her child’s hyperlexia.
http://www.resources-teachers.com
I came across this website as they picked my article. It’s valuable for teachers.
http://www.dyslexia-adults.com
This website offers a free newsletter (they have 30,000 subscribers). John Bradford is the editor and has over thirty years experience of working with children, teenagers, college students and dyslexic adults; he has worked as a lecturer in education, as a school principal/head teacher, and has been involved in advising, counseling and teaching dyslexic children and adults from age 4 to age 72! The site covers dyslexia testing and assessment, teaching dyslexic children, advice for parents of a dyslexic child, coping techniques for dyslexic adults, free magazine articles, research, and much, much more.
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If you have topics that you would like me to address about my experience in overcoming dyslexia and hyperlexia feel free to send your ideas through the comments below.
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Information on this blog is intended to complement, not replace, the advice of your own physician or health care professional
Comment on this postWelcome: You have come upon a blog which primarily discusses tools to help dyslexics and hyperlexics. I have both conditions. The topic, this time, are senses: see, hear, taste, touch, smell.
When I began exploring how to help myself with the confusing issues that my dyslexia seemed to bring me I discovered that some of the confusion comes from the fact that I am also synesthesic. This means that I experience two or more senses simultaneously - an advantage and a detraction.
It’s an advantage because it gives me heightened sensual awareness. It’s a disadvantage because the clashing of senses simultaneously can create confusion. To diminish this confusion I spent some time training myself to understand what was happening. These are the steps I took.
For a couple of months I went several times a week to an art museum or gallery to spend a half hour standing in front of paintings asking myself the following questions: if that painting had a smell, what would it be, or how do I taste that painting, or how do hear that painting and so on. This “schooling” made me conscious of the information coming from my senses, rather than from my brain.
Now I know to determine if the information from my brain clashes with that from my senses. Here is an example:
I was attending a concert of new music at Carnegie Hall in New York. My head was trying to tell me that I liked the piece. I decided to check with my senses. I asked: how do I hear this new piece of music? cacophanous sounds: how do I see this new piece of music? four by eight pieces of wood clashing against one another, what is the touch I feel from this new piece of music? like sharp pins sticking up and blooding my finger, what do I smell from this new piece of music? something unpleasant, what do I taste from this new piece of music? shit.
Yes, I get honest answers from my senses.
Let’s not forget there are two other components to this equation.
1. Sometimes two or more of my senses are working simultaneously are causing confusion.
2. Sometimes it is simply the fact that I am not imaging the words – my hyperlexic condition.
One fact I feel. My senses tell me truths.
Do any of you reading this blog have any comments to make about your sensorial experiences?
If you have topics that you would like me to address about my experience in overcoming dyslexia and hyperlexia feel free to send your ideas through the comments below.
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Information on this blog is intended to complement, not replace, the advice of your own physician or health care professional.
Comment on this postUsually this website is about dyslexia and hyperlexia. This is a diversion – report on my 2010 Olympic trip – to Vancouver. Day eight, Feb 17th, last day.
I am sitting at the airport, gone through security – more thorough these days – had to open my computer and turn it on. That hasn’t happened for a cat’s age. And I have gone through customs. No line. Now I have my Starbucks cup of chai tea and a muffin from Mum’s on Denman and am sitting at a long counter with huge windows in front of me giving me a spectacular view of the Coast Range Mountain. Tucked behind them is snow-capped Whistler. It’s a beautiful twilight. Word has it that this coming week there will be sunny weather. I am so glad for all the visitors – they need a break from rain.
Guess what, I lost my umbrella yesterday!
Riding on the subway to the airport I sat next to a woman coming to meet her brother coming for the Olympics. One thing led to another and we ended up on the topic of security. She commented: I worked at Expo 67 in Montreal – we had none of this intense security. Well, said I. So did I work there and we were off and running on many topics. She worked in the office at Ile de Cite – sp? And of course, had a great time. This caused me to share with her an ah ha I had yesterday. One of the reasons these Olympics seem so much fun for me comes in part from the fact that I was never a “tourist” at Expo 67 or 86. I was too busy working and occasionally dashing to see a Pavilion when I could squeeze it in. Now, I have the privilege of seeing the results of so many other people’s hard labor. They have done a fabulous job.
By the way, I meant to tell you about Jap a Dog. The other day on the bus I passed a hot dog stand with a line that was a block long. Four people were feverously selling hot dogs. The bus moved on. A few blocks later I saw the same thing and it was then that I grabbed the name. Jap a Dog. This street side concession is very popular in VCR. And, not all the patrons were Asian. Wonder if this is anywhere else?
I did have one disappointment today. I wanted to buy a pair of the Olympic mittens – they are bright red and adorable. It turns out that Vannoc gave the concession to two large retailers: Zellers and Hudson’s Bay. There’s no Zeller’s downtown so I high tailed it to the Bay. Can you believe there was a line that would take me and hour and half to go through to buy a pair of mittens? You are right, I didn’t do it. Isn’t odd that Vannoc didn’t want their merchandize sold all over the City!!!!
I was on my way to have lunch with Rae Ackerman – a former Expo 67 colleague who now manages all the Civic Theatres. I was early so I jumped into a bar to see what sport was happening and to be viewed on a big screen. Women’s down hill. Oh my God, did you watch? They go at a speed that’s terrifying. But with the sun out and the blue and green mountains in the background juxtaposed again the white snow with those strange watery blue lines to give the skier a sense of where she is and then the skier in her outfit – the sheer beauty of it all took over. I sat with two guys who kept their eye on the stop watch - Hey, one would say – she’s losing time or look at that, she’s under. And, then together the three of us would hoop and holler.
Hey, Mam, won’t you have a beer.
Sorry, no. I am going to a meeting at noon.
Oh, Okay.
And, soon I left them. They were good company.
Rae bought me lunch – delicious ribs and stuffed potato. I cleaned my plate. There is something about the Olympics. I eat and don’t seem to gain. I like that.
I did go back to the Ontario Pavilion – had heard the film was worth seeing. Well, it was okay – would give it a six. It’s 4-D. If you haven’t seen a 4-D film yes, go. Otherwise, it’s a pass. There is a half- hour line. I was glad, however, to go back by GM Place area– for the crowds were energized – half of them were exiting after a hockey game (Finland versus Belarus). You probably know Finland won. And, then half the crowd was just about to enter for the next hockey game. It’s that kind of energy that is fun to be around.
And, then it was time to get back to Katherine’s, grab my luggage and head for the airport.
My plane is now loading. So, let me say, thanks for listening – you’ve been a great audience. It’s enriching to record my experience and share it
PS. Those of you in Vancouver or coming: don’t forget the short train ride from the Athletes Village to Granville Island. It’s fun.
Comment on this postYes, this blog is usually about dyslexia and hyperlexia but occasionally I am adding other topics. This sequence is describing my Olympic 2010 experience. Day Seven, Tuesday, Feb 16th, 2010.
Another full day – now only two things but ……… After a few errands I headed to Northern House (corner of Hastings and Seymour). Peoples of the Northern Territories have transformed an old bank – you know one with high, high ceilings and a few posts to hold the next floor up - into a pavilion. This Pavilion wins my top marks. They organizers gave much thought – so much imagination is oozing out of that space. The entire space has a natural feel.
Northern artists – different ones – were engaged to create poster art for the columns. They are splendid!
Northern Pavilion: Ann's Rock Sculpture
And, the environment brings out the artist in us – the visitor. On a table are stones, stones from their land. We are invited to create sculpture.
Mine actually stood up!!!!
And, athletes are present showing us some of the competitive games they play. They are mostly feats of strength like hanging by your wrists on a pole as you are carried around the stage or the head to head pull – a strap around two person’s heads and they pull. It’s fascinating to watch. No, I didn’t try but many children and adults did.
And, they have beautiful art, simply displayed – including hand made clothes.
Go, you will enjoy. I stayed two hours.
Then I caught a bus to the Coliseum for a late afternoon – into the evening of Men’s Figure Skating: Short Program. Well, it was short for the artists but four and a half hours for us. Now, I am not complaining, I loved it but when I looked at my watch and it was 9 pm, I went wow. Time has flown by.
I am glad to have seen the skating before the elimination. We saw thirty skaters – only 20 move on to the final competition tomorrow. We didn’t see the list of who made it into the finals but there were some very young skaters who did wonderful work. They were just not in the league with the stars. The stars, Russian, American and Japanese were spectacular. Their choreography was complicated, their skill amazing, their music appropriate. They deserved being the top three. What saddened me the most was the tumble. So many of the skaters tumbled. Nerves, I guess.
I do have one complaint – nothing to do with the skaters but with the media. Surely to goodness, in this day of heightened technology, some creative technician can come up with a way to film events like this without disturbing 2,000 people. My seat was terrific – except that the media was a boom with a camera that kept jumping up in front of me and blocking my and so many other’s view. This is not the time to penny wise and pound foolish. I feel sure the technology is there. Producers need to put their foot down, stamp it down, and say to the media: this kind of disturbance is unacceptable! Solve it.
And, programs. They are non existent at the Olympics. I searched the Coliseum yesterday. I was told there was a souvenir program – couldn’t find it but was also told it said nothing about the skating athletes. I, for one, like to know! All there was, was a piece of paper scotch taped to the wall at the entrance that gave the list of when the skaters were performing Same things goes for the Cultural Olympiad. So little information about the work and the artists. I felt sad about that. Yes, I know it is green not to have programs with a decent amount of information but…………..If this is a harbinger for the future I feel sad for future audiences.
By the way – here’s the current solution to the Robson Bus. It is cancelled until March 1st. They have created a downtown bus which goes up Georgia, down Pender to Homer loops around to Richards, up Richards to Davie, down Davie to Denman and then repeat. So, all of you coming and staying in the West End, be prepared. There are lots of buses, the route is just different. And, someone needs to give these bus drivers a huge pat on the back. It is amazing how good their cheer is. Tonight coming back – 10:30 ish – downtown was jumping. An amazing amount of action on Davie. The party continues.
By the way, I see posters all over town for Nixon in China: It’ an opera by John Adams a much respected contemporary composer being produced by the Vancouver Opera. If you still have a few pennies in your pocket – go – it’s in mid-March.
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2010 Olympics: Medals Ceremony
This blog usually focusses on dyslexia and hyperlexia but I thought it would be fun to add my experience at the 2010 Olympics and Culural Olympiad. This is day six, Monday, Feb 15th, 2010.
Today, I joined my nephew, Jason, his wife, Sarah and their energetic and curious kids, Jane (age 11) and Owen (age 9) and off we went exploring. First Stop: Code 1. Another digital location – this time Great Northern Way – a humoungous warehouse that is draped in blacks to create many large spaces for digital installations of all sorts. It began with us wandering through a series of hanging plants which when you touch them make noise. The four of us had quite a cacophony of sounds going. That was a great beginning – it gave the kids the sense of – hey, anything goes here and they were off and exploring. And, so were we. The kid in us had a great time. In one room were “ Condemned Bulbes” yes, that’s how it was spelled!! – large, like a foot tall and 8 inches in diameter incandescent blubs hanging shoulder height. It was quite a beautiful, peaceful sight until we began wandering through them and they began to make sounds back at us. At first we thought movement was important so we began rushing the space – then Jane said: stop!.. We stopped, different sounds happened and so it went. Great fun.
At one point we entered a room where the kids were invited to put on a cloak with many buttons. Then, they ran up and down this forty foot space which caused the huge pictures on three large screens to change – from the Parliament Buildings in Ottawa – to a pyramid – etc. There was one magic button on this cloak. Push it, and the world exploded on three screens – that caused much merriment. Owen’s favorite exhibit was Papparazzi; a camera followed you, just like those insidious paparazzi - and your picture was constantly imaged on a large screen. And, so it went. We were there an hour and half exploring. A wonderful time had by all. And, as I muse on the experience now, I am wondering, are digital artists only interested in the interactive – is that how they measure their satisfaction with their creativity?
2010 Olympics: Jane, Ann, Owen and mascot
On to the Russian Pavilion. We were traveling in Jason and Sarah’s car. The question was: Where to park? Parking is non existent these days. Can you believe, we turned down a side street off Main, turned right again, by the old CNR railroad station and there was one block one with one parking space and no signs that said we couldn’t. NONE. We blessed Mother Kabrini, Katherine’s patron saint of parking, and headed off for Science World, you know that huge dome at the end of False Creek. Currently it has been taken over by the Russians. As we waited a few minutes to enter, we looked across False Creek at the four huge apartment blocks that make up the Olympic Village for the contestants to discover they are draped with the flags of each country participating – a wonderful sight.
The Russians have gone all out. All, and I mean all, of the Science World Exhibits are gone. The place has been painted a warm white and Sochi, a tiny town on the Black Sea is the feature. This city will be the host for the 2014 Winter Olympics. It seems this city has a very warm climate – 60 degrees - in winter. (sorry, I have no idea what that is in centigrade). And, it’s a tiny town, much smaller than Victoria. There are many screens and wall pictures showing this tiny town and the mountains an hour away. It seems it gets colder than Whistler! Must be a fast descent.
At the moment, Sochi is busy building a railroad which will have a solar and electric train running, taking all the visitors up. That is not all they are about to construct. They have to build several huge arenas to handle hockey, ice skating, etc. Vancouver thought they had a lot of construction to undertake. Nothing like Sochi: Nothing exists yet.
Jason, Sarah and I had a chuckle when we discovered who were these young Russians decked out in black suits with white hats. They work for the railroad! It was hard to see what their job was here as they headed for the room with computers, went on-line – we guessed sending an e-mail home. At that point we were being entertained by six women in traditional colorful costumes with lovely voices dancing their way around the temporary stage. I suddenly thought I would love to go to Sochi and said: Hey Jane how about you and I volunteer for Sochi – it could be fun. She’s not to sure. We’ll see when we get closer.
We headed on – to other pavilions – there was a huge line to get into Saskatchewan pavilion – we continued on, went into Quebec – it’s nothing, we continued on to Ontario: They have a six minute film – but at least a half hour wait so we decided to check out their “common” space. Large screens allowing us to see some of the sports activity on Whistler and women’s hockey in Vancouver.
We were close to BC Place. I ran to see if I could get a ticket to the Medals – no go. Sarah kept saying, you are taking my ticket – we have tickets for another medals night and are going again, I will get to see it. So, that’s what I did. But first we had to eat. Not much around so we headed to Tinsletown and a Chinese restaurant. A strange building with a huge movie complex and no people activity at all. The dinner was delicious.
Back to BC Place for the ceremony. I must say I was grateful to Sarah. I loved being in the space, feeling it. To warm us up for the ceremony there was a French Canadian group – good solid entertainment – almost folk like. Then, it was ceremony time. The energy of all 20,000 people was throbbing. They were going to see the first Canadian Gold Medal winner. He got a heroes welcome. And, when it was time to sing O Canada the place rocked. Finally they played the anthem as it was written – not like the opening ceremony. That romantic version drove me nuts!!!!!
I, of course, got caught up in the lighting technology. So many different tools – vertical lights, streaming thin lines of different colors into the audience, the moving lights wafting back and forth in different colors, the “movies” playing behind the action. All this action, in itself, creates an ambiance that says, it’s exciting. I was really surprised that the flags which are raised as the gold medal winner’s anthem is played are not reaching as high into the space as I thought. On TV – which is the only way I have seen it before, it always seemed to me to be stretching way up into space. Not so. Maybe 30 feet. That’s not much. Hmmmm. Then we watched the medal ceremony in Whistler. I had passed that location just a few days ago – now it was jammed with swaying people in colorful outfits and with flags of many countries being waved. It didn’t matter that the sound didn’t work, at first. Yes, it was perplexing but eventually It corrected itself – or rather technicians rushing about probably corrected it.
A rock band took over as the ceremony concluded. Not long after the kids were done – We had been going eight hours and they had been troupers. So we headed off into the night. I bid fond farewell. They headed for buses and home. I am grateful to Sarah. When I go home and see a medal ceremony I will know the truth of how it’s produced. I like that.
I headed for Live City – thought I might be able to get in. I suppose I could of but it would have been an hour and half wait and the rain was starting. So I ventured off to find a bus. By the way, Sue did say yesterday that they now are handling 10,000 a night. There’s no question Live City is a huge success.
Returning to Katherine’s was a giggle. To explain. The crowd around Robson Square keeps getting larger and larger – spilling down Robson toward Stanley Park making bus travel on Robson nearly impossible. Last night I couldn’t find a bus coming down Robson at Burrard. It was almost midnight. I asked a policemen. He said: They are rerooted. Go to Davie. I hopped a bus to Davie. No luck there, so I jumped in a cab.
So, tonight I wondered what will happen. Success, I found a Davie bus and we went down Davie to English Bay. I jumped off, and went to the bus in front which I expected would continue down Denman to Robson and go up Robson.
I said to the driver: Are you going down Denman? Yes.
I got on. Then the bus driver from the one I had just exited got on to talk to my bus driver.
He said to his colleague driving our bus: Okay, I now have three stories on what route I am to drive. The two of them started howling with laughter. And, the rest of us with them. One driver said he was going to go down Robson until he couldn’t – the other said no, I am going down Georgia turning left on Burrard. We all chimed in with ideas. It was time for our bus to leave. Our bus driver turned around to us and said: Anyone expecting I am going down Robson:
Yes, chimed in several.
Okay, that’s what we are going to do.
We left. I exited before the bus turned on Robson. I will see tomorrow what is up.
What is delightful is that somehow it all works and everyone is just going with the flow having a good time. And, these bus drivers don’t seemed hassled at all. In fact, our driver said, it’s fun, adds to the merriment of the experience. (He’s very British with a distinct Brit accent).
Before I forget it each day I am sending these e-mails from a coffee house, MUM’S on the corner of Denman and Haro. If you are in the neighborhood, drop by. They make all the muffins, breads, etc daily in their kitchen and they are DIVINE. Fresh, large – I know, not good for the waist – but what the heck, they are delicious!!!
Time for bed.
Comment on this postWe woke up to sun. Yes, sun. The mountains can be seen. I had a quiet morning – time to work out at a Centre a block away. My body needed that!
Twas a cultural day, and a darn good one. Met Susan Celms Baldwin, a colleague from Expo 67 days, and also from Vancouver and Crofton House, at the SFU’s bran new theatre in the stunning Woodward’s complex in downtown Vancouver. Our purpose? Matinee of Robert LePage’s The Blue Dragon. I saw this production a couple of years ago during the Cal Performances season at UC Berkeley and loved it. This time I found myself standing back from the production, watching it’s many components and the interweaving of them together. Mr. LePage’s is a story teller, a simple story teller who uses technology – simply. I don’t mean that it’s simple to do – cause it’s not – but the show isn’t about technology, its focus is the story with the technology helping to move the tale along. Three brilliant performers made this a wonderful afternoon.
Afterwards we meandered. For those of you in Vancouver or coming, check out Urbanity, a store on Abbott Street. They have stylish clothes in “real” fabrics coming from various parts of Scandinavia. Then we ambled over to the Aboriginal Pavilion which is housed on the Plaza of the Queen Elizabeth Theatre. Both of us were excited to go – the aboriginals are making a major contribution to these Olympics. Well, we all know you win some and then you don’t. Here was an amazing opportunity to tell their stories, stories from their wise ones, stories of their culture. But, this was not their choice. We were offered 360 degree screen of pictures – yes of their art and of their people and their places but none of it seemed to pull into a whole. We went away feeling sad about that.
After a hearty dinner we headed to the Queen Elizabeth Theatre for Dance Canada Dance – bringing together dancers from the Royal Winnipeg Ballet and the National Ballet of Canada. This concept was born twenty five years ago by David Y.H. Lui – a dance impresario – for Expo 86. It worked then, (Les Grands Ballet, from Montreal were also involved), and it worked now – brilliantly.
Susan and I made a very wise choice and bought balcony seats – several weeks ago. We like seeing patterns. Well, there tons to see.
We were offered three ballets beginning with the National Ballet dancing to Chopin with choreography set by Marie Chouinard, an avant garde choreographer. I know, you might ask: did it work? Yes, it did. Ms Chouinard had them moving – not ballet steps (although they did slip in) – mostly it was movement. I was fascinated. The evening continued with As above/So Below combining National Ballet and Royal Winnipeg dancers. The piece was choreographed by Mark Godden. I loved this work. Musically it began with Beethoven’s Moonlight Sonata and then segued into John Adam’s Fearful Symmetries. This mesmerizing music gave a flow that had me wondering where I would be taken next. And each time, I was moved to something new. During this piece I had the flash of how nice it is to see the work of other ballet companies. We have a fabulous company in San Francisco, but I see them often. And, they have their artistic stamp. It felt refreshing to see new dancers, different choreography.
The final piece was my favorite. The Royal Winnipeg Ballet doing Hikarizatto choreographed by Itzik Galilli to percussive music – strong, powerful, percussive sounds. The lighting in this piece added an important ingredient holding each segment – sometimes only ten seconds but mostly longer – together. This was a collaborative effort – it must have been – to reach such heights. At it’s conclusion Susan turned to me and said: That is why the RWB is so great. They are truly innovative.
Before Susan headed home we walked across the street to Live City – Downtown. This location has the large screen which carries the live entertainment that Sue is overseeing at the David Lam Park, a mile away. The Canada Pavilion is in this location and worth visiting. It is a good place for kids into computers, great computer games to be played – about Canada, hockey, skating etc. etc. And, for those tourists who are dying to see a Royal Canadian Mounted Police in their Red Uniform and brown hat – they are there. I don’t know about you but know I have been asked by several foreign visitors: Where can I see a Mountie? Well, now I have the answer.
By the way, I have a correction to make. In my first report from the Olympics, I mentioned that Sue had been my assistant at Expo 67. Wrong! She was with me at Expo ’86. Susan Celms caught this error. Sorry Sue.
And, others have been asking for the name of the bar where I watched the Opening Ceremonies. Here are the details: It’s called Jimmy’s and it’s at the corner of Robson and Homer. If you are planning to watch a game there, I suggest you go into the temporary tent – the one with the peak. It’s right on the corner of Robson and Homer. Entrance is through the bar. And, they do serve food.
Good night. It’s been a lovely day.
Comment on this postI know this website has a dyslexic/hyperlexic theme but thought I just add some other spice. My time at the 2010 Olympics. This is Day Four, Saturday, Feb 13th, 2010
Good morning:
Oh my gosh, there was no way I was writing last night!!!!!!!! Not even for myself. I got back to Katherine’s at 12:30 am. It was POURING RAIN and the streets, even her street in the West End was teaming – well, about ten of us – with Olympics people – all volunteers heading wearily home for a good night’s rest. The guy I chatted with as we walked the block from Denman to K’s apartment is from Montreal – He’s a volunteer – driving artists all over town and loving it every moment. He’s was all decked up in his “blue and green uniform with his identification hanging down in a pouch from his neck, feeling very proud He’s having a blast!!!!
Day Four, yesterday, began with a quick trip to the Vanoc Box Office – looking for a medal’s ceremony ticket. No luck yet!!!!!!!!!!!!! Then my day four really began.
Whistler. Now, can you believe the last time I went to Whistler was 1964. Haig and Mary took me along with Jane and Charlie Kimbrough who were in VCR performing at the Vancouver International Festival and Romilly. It was a beautiful sunny day. All I remember is a colorful meadow with many sorts of wildflowers and a stream, a rushing stream and Mary’s generous picnic including a bottle of red wine. Those were my drinking days!!!!!!!!!!!!!! We had a great time.
Well, ladies and gentlemen, that has all changed. Thank heavens I had pre-arranged my transportation which departed at 9:10 promptly – leaving many behind to wait for the next bus. I had a cup of hot milk from Starbucks to keep me company as we set off. I was lucky to garner a front seat – my seat partner was a pilot with Fedex who had dead- headed from Connecticut via Memphis and then VCR. I learned a lot about FEDEX behind the scenes but mostly we kept questioning our bus driver – what’s that, oh, what’s this. It was one of British Columbia’s typical winter days – overcast. The clouds were hanging every so low as we journeyed into the mountains. The new road is beautiful – does hang a bit on a cliff at times – not unlike Highway 1 going out of San Francisco to Santa Cruz.
We passed through Britannia Beach. Remember how at school we learned about businesses in Canada and how copper came from Britannia Beach. Well, there we were going through Britannia Beach. Kind of a sad town now!
And, then two and half hours later we were in Whistler. The bus driver admonished us. Be sure you take note of where I have dropped you off. Remember Seven-Eleven. Whistler Village will all seem similar and for the Olympics our stop has changed. We leave on time so get back here – find your way in plenty of time. I knew I would get lost, directions are not my best! Seven-Eleven, that I can find, ‘cause I can keep asking until I find it.
The first thing that struck me about Whistler is the architecture. Some of the hotels seem reminiscent of the old CPR and CNR train hotels with their peaked roofs – no not copper – but still. Whistler didn’t feel like a quaint old ski town. Hmmmm
Then I realized, I have no idea what to do here. I asked one of those Vannoc volunteers in their blue and green outfits – you can’t miss them, you know: Where is the Tourist Bureau. You go turn left and then right and then left. Grump. I got lost twice (didn’t care – kind of fun) but then, voila, there it was. I asked: How can I best take advantage of my day in Whistler; I have a ticket in the evening to The Nix but nothing else.
Well, it began with a trip up the gondola – me and six others. They all had skis and those funny boots. Have you watched how people walk in ski boots – it’s like they tip toe – only they are in these clumsy, not flexible boots. I would HATE that experience. They seem unconcerned. Our gondola headed straight up, over snow, mounds of snow. We even watched for a few minutes – from our bird’s eye view – a practice session of the salalom (sp) race – you know, know the one where they have to wind their way around poles. I learned it’s okay to hit them?????? My fellow travelers in my cubicle high above the snow told me: Be sure you get the clear floor when you go peak to peak. They were referring to the next top of the mountain ride I was going to take. Okay, Okay I said. We arrived at the top of whatever, I think it was Whistler and it was darn cold as we exited. There were people, and skis and people and skis everywhere. I looked to my left and was befuddled. What in God’s name is that? It looked like a Jackson Pollock painting– you know the one where all the paint is spattered on the canvas – only this was huge. I approached and laughed and laughed. It was rows and rows of skis waiting their owners to pick them up. Kind of like lost children.
I wandered about a bit and decided – time for peak to peak. Now, it’s an overcast day and fog – yes – fog was about. So, the drama of this trip was minimized somewhat for in the valley between each peak was scattered fog – seemed like SF home. This is an extraordinary ride: It’s a suspension ride. One very tall tower on one mountain whose stable cables are driven deep, deep into the group holds three cables strung across this immense valley to the next mountain and another very tall tower. I decided for my first trip across I would choose a cabin with the solid floor – didn’t want to scare myself to death.
Had great fun chatting with all the skiers from ALL OVER THE WORLD, each with a unique story. We made it across, whew!!!! – took twenty minutes. I wandered this mountain for a while. I would love to come back and hike here!!! Then, my tummy told me – eat Ann. So I headed in. Awful food – but who cared. I chose a hamburger – needed protein and of course chips. It’s so great to be back in Canada – they serve vinegar with chips,, the one redeeming lunch feature. I found myself sitting at a table with four volunteers, in their late 50’s. They are from Thunder Bay in Eastern Canada. Guess what they are doing? Preparing the courses for the skiers. Today the gals – went in tandem sideways down the steep course sideways stamping down the course so it is flat and pristine and their husbands stood on the side of the course and had huge whisks on long handles gently brushing aside the powder snow that their wives have unsettled. They had been up since 5 am and it was now 1:30 pm. Famished, exhausted and hilariously funny. Didn’t matter my lunch was so awful.
Time to return on the gondola back to the original peak. I never did figure out when I was on Whistler and when on Blackcomb. Didn’t really matter. This time I went in a glass bottom gondola. LOVED IT. It was like sitting on top of trees ladened (sp) with snow. It would have been fun to be able to swing from those tree tops. The fog was doing its fog thing, swirling about. We all took each other’s pictures. Lot’s of fun.
Ann in a gondola atop Whistler Mountain
I hung out on the other mountain top for a while, just taking it all in. So beautiful. And, I wasn’t cold at all. Had one of Mum’s hand knitted sweaters – the bright orange one - with its high neck. No cold could get in there! And, then it was time to return down the mountain. This time I got a gondola all to myself. What a treasured time that was. And, guess who called on my cell? Haig and Mary – They are in Hawaii sunning. What a hoot that with all the technology no matter where you are you are connected!
My late afternoon in Whistler Village was figuring out where the Seven Eleven is. You know, the village all looks alike so I need to get my bearings for I was taking another bus up to Lost Lake for a performance at 7:30 pm and knew everything would look different later. I finally felt like I had it figured out, found a Starbucks for my afternoon Chai and then headed to the large screen to watch the first part of the Canada and ? hockey teams play. Canada was well ahead when I meandered on for my theater. Now, I had to take the number 6 six bus to get there. It was jammed with tired skiers and visitors. A man said to me: Lost Lake, theater. I don’t think so. Oh yes, I said. At which point an Asian couple said, yes, she’s right, we’re going too. It took the bus half an hour to get us there. Nearly the last stop. And, suddenly we were left – the three of us in the dark. A lady appeared with a flash light and said welcome to THE NIX. Just walk down this snowy path and you will come across a tent. Now, I could see why the instructions I printed off their site had a BIG warming. DO NOT WEAR HIGH HEELS. This was a snow adventure.
The play took place in snow sculpture. It was a good enough play – you know about being uphappy and finding love. It was the environment that was unique. I had a little blanket that stored into nothing that I brought along. This young New Zealander was sitting by me – he was dressed for the summer, so we shared my blanket. I didn’t want his teeth chattering!!! I told the guy taking tickets that I had a 9:30 bus to catch back to Vancouver. After the half hour trip to get to the “theatre” I was a bit apprehensive about the reality of my making my bus. Oh, he said: I will get you a taxi. Seemed somewhat impossible out in this wilderness – but by gum, it did happen. The return trip was no more than five minutes and he knew where the Seven-Eleven was. Yes, I made my bus.
Predictably, the bus was jammed. We were all tired. The chatter soon stopped. Before we knew it we were back in Vancouver – two and a half hours had flown by disembarking at the Hyatt, next to the subway. It was just past midnight. Vancouver was jumping. Oh my goodness.
A wonderful day.
Comment on this postKla how ya Tillicum. (Indian, for how goes it) With me, just fine, in fact, more than fine. I know this website has a dyslexic/hyperlexic theme but I am departing for a few blogs to share my time at the 2010 Olympics. This is my day three, Feb 12th. Opening day.
I am sure many of you watched the Olympic opening tonight. That show speaks for itself – they did a wonderful job!!!! For me, a highlight was seeing Barbara Ann Scott one of the eight carrying the Olympic Flag. I remember when she won her gold. I was so excited for her!!! (for those of you who have NO IDEA who she is, she was the winning figure skater!) I did talk with my nine year old nephew, Owen and my eleven year old niece, Jane as they sat in BC Place before the show began. Jane said, Ann, if they don’t do anything else I am happy. BC Place is beautiful and they have given each of us a packet of stuff: a white jacket, a drum, a light. We are going to be part of the show. We are going to bang a drum. !!!!!!!!!. I am so excited. Then, Owen came on. Ann, it looks like someone is going to ski here – there is a ski run. Oh, it’s so wonderful. I was just so excited those kids were going to have this special evening.
Choosing where to watch last night’s spectacle was my challenge. I couldn’t make up my mind. I was toying with going back to the Live City – Sue’s venue – for there are two huge screens. In fact I set out to go there when it started to rain. I decided tonight was not the night for rain, I really wanted to see the show, not darting umbrellas – so I headed for a bar. It took me a few trys before I was satisfied with my environment but then I settled in. A restaurant had been very smart and enclosed their veranda at the front of their venue – room for six tables and a huge screen. I joined a table of two Swedish guys here for the entire duration of the Olympics – determined that Sweden will take back the hockey gold. We had a great time. Around us were tables of Canadians who knew the names of the Canadian athletes and singers so we were well informed. There were about twenty of us – we had our own party. All of us were cheerers – and cheer, hoot and holler we did. It was a fun evening marveling at the creativity and talent – both sport and artistic being displayed before us. And, when Wayne Gretsky took to the street with the torch, we were just a block away and could see him start on his journey through the city – down Georgia to Thurlow, turn right and down to the water on the Stanley Park side of the huge Canada Pavilion from Expo 86.
It’s odd, I walked by that site this afternoon and said to myself, what a shame that Vanoc (Vancouver Olympic Committee) has put up a wall along here blocking the beautiful view of the mountains. Well, there was method in their madness. They were hiding the form that created the base for the flame. I have just come in from viewing the flame, there. 
It is truly spectacular. My little phone camera doesn’t do it justice unfortunately – there is so much light emanating from flaming sculpture that the subtle blues get lost in the picture. Oh well. I have it in my mind.
The streets of Vancouver are in a celebratory mode – especially around Robson Square. Everyone is having fun!!
By the way, I did get up early this morning to watch the flame go down Denman. I woke up and thought, well, how silly not to make the effort even though I saw it last night. I wasn’t disappointment. The street was lined with cheering crowd three rows deep. One young couple had just come racing from Stanley Park. They had wanted to see Arnold Schwarzenegger (sp?). It seems many others did. Interesting eh?
And, another woman told me that her brother, who is policeman in Manitoba is here with several of his colleagues. These and many more security types are staying on three cruise ships in the harbor – being treated with great care. Fun eh?
Today I was dealing with basics, like picking up my ice skating ticket for Tuesday. That was easy. It was awaiting me and no line!!!. However, I have been trying to get a ticket to the Awards Ceremony on Monday night with no luck. Finally I discovered why. Vanoc has tickets, they just parcel them out in small doses and one has to be in the right place at the right time to get one. Most frustrating! I will keep trying. Somehow I will win.
I decided to explore pavilions today. Now, the definition of a pavilion here is not like a World Exposition. These are, for the most part, tiny centers with some info – some better than others. Be sure to check out the Bell Pavilion if you are coming. In my journey to find pavilions I was wandering down by the old Train Station – it has another name now????? – to discover that the parking lot has been taken over by the Germans who have created a beer Haus. I was hungry and felt sure they would have sausages. Correct!!!!. The place was a mad house – noisy and crazy. I got my sausage, asked for a non alcoholic beer – they thought I was crazy – so I ended up with water. I found a place to sit – and began chatting with a couple from Beijing. Quite fascinating. He’s thirty seven, made his money in technology in China, has retired and is now searching for his next whatever. He seems to think he ought to go to Harvard for an MBA. His friends tell him he is over qualified. We had quite a conversation.
Time for bed. The days just flew by. I must have walked nearly eight miles today. My body is looking forward to being prone!!!!!
Several of you have responded saying you are enjoying these reflections. I am glad. Writing them is a great way to relax after my day
PS. Walking home I passed a rather proper type couple sitting under an umbrella drinking coffee. They had the tiny drums in tow. I asked: Was it fun playing them? Oh, it was marvelous, and what was even better, we didn’t have to clap – we could just bang, and bang and bang!!!!!!!
Comment on this postI know this blog is about dyslexia and hyperlexia but I thought it would be fun to add some diversity and share my wonderful time at the 2010. This report is my day two, Feb 11th, at the Olympics.
A weary voyager is checking in. We were on a 12 hour marathon today. It was wonderful, fun, entertaining and informative. And, now I am just wondering what it was we did, there was so much.
To set the stage, it was cloudy, at times pouring with rain. Neither mattered, we just soldiered on. My friend Marie had done a lot of reconnoitering so our time was well spent.
To start the day was a visit to London Drugs to get me a backpack and thank goodness we did for throughout the day we picked up SO MUCH STUFF, maps, tour guides, a book. A hint to those of you still coming. Forget purses. Bring a wallet belt for around the waist and a backpack. You have much more freedom, especially if it’s raining. Gives a free arm for the umbrella.
Our first Cultural Olympiad stop was the Vancouver Art Gallery and a show with original and copies of Leonardo Da Vinci’s drawings of the body, detailed drawings, more detailed than most books that exist today. It seems that he and a doctor in the early 1500’s collaborated and the result is some of the most beautiful and factual explanations of how the movement system of how the body works. It’s a sobering show – sobering to think that five hundred or so years ago so much information on the body became available. And, as we were viewing almost simultaneously we said to one another – how brilliant of the Gallery staff to present this show – what are the Olympics but about the body, a healthy body. Leonardo wrote thoughts in the margins by the drawings: most of them encouraging anyone viewing these works, to think about themselves, the way they lived and the importance of treating the body with love and care. And, all of this happened a half a millennium ago! The setting of the show is done with simplicity. There is aesthetic space to breathe, to take in the achievements.
We headed back out into the rain to take in the “wrap” of the Vancouver Art Gallery – the old court house. In this rainy day, the colorful huge flowers covering the immense space added life and lightness. And, then we noticed that many of the high rise office buildings have huge hangings welcoming the visitors and athletes. It was very exciting to see and feel. As we waited for the bus, in the pouring rain, to take us to Granville Island we watched with awe a free ride: Zip ride: two very tall towers, like two hundred feet have been constructed in either end of Robson Square. A cable is strung between – about one very long city block apart. You can climb one tower, don a suit, hooked to the cable and “fly” along the rope to the other side. One guy was very brave and kept turning himself upside down on his journey. Amazing. I think I will pass on that one. I understand the Premier of the Province, a gentleman well into his sixties took the ride when it debuted. Brave man!
We began to realize that we were very lucky to be viewing/sightseeing today. Tomorrow the crowds will burst on the scene. We were able to get with ease into everything we wanted. We spent quite amount of time at Code 2: The digital show at Emily Carr. (Code 1) I have not been very interested in digital art and its many ramifications but today I became intrigued. Artists are using technology and coming up with very satisfying results. We loved the “costume” show. Beautifully constructed “costumes” with digital elements make them alive – one dress whispered, another had lights that twinkled, subtly when you walked by and on an on. We also sat in a theater – miniature – two rows, donned headsets listening as we watched. There were two purposes for the headsets. To tell the tale of the film we were watching and to disturb, interrupt – it was quite disconcerting at first – a voice was whispering in our ear – want popcorn or did you leave the stove on at home. And then we could hear someone chewing on popcorn. I hate popcorn, so I got really annoyed for an instant and then of course realized it was only on the headset. All the while we were watching a very odd film. Marie became very annoyed with the audio and took off the headset. I had no idea she had done that until the end. It was a disconcerting but interesting experience.
In the middle of all of this we had lunch at the Granville Island Market: I inhaled protein. I was starved and then we headed back out into the rain and more digital art. We discovered a train running from Granville Island to the Olympic Village that has been built on old railroad tracks. It seems that 100,000 people have taken this train since Jan 1!!!!. They use it as a commuter getting across the City. We just marveled and then returned to the Market to relax at the Granville Island Tea Company. I had the best cup of tea in years. A special brew – kind of Lapsang Suchong but softer. We had great fun sitting at the counter and chattering with the visitors that passed by asking them where they were from. Everyone seems to wander in groups wearing skiing jackets to identify them. Our challenge was guessing where they were from. The Swedish jackets look not unlike the VANOC jackets – only have yellow. We were very forward, stopping them and asking. Some guys sat down next to us and they were chattering away in what sounded like German – they were Swiss – musicians – here to perform for the President of Switzerland who was about to arrive at the “Swiss Pavilion” – located in Bridges, a large restaurant on Granville Island. And, so it went.
Then it was time to head to the other side of the Creek to LiveCity Yaletown – Sue’s project. We took the tub: an adorable boat which gave us a trip down False Creek by the new Arthur Erickson building: Another legacy that is so distinctive. Disembarking we were right at the Live site – stood in line – for an hour – to get in. The security was major – like the airport. Nobody seemed to care about waiting. Royal Bank and Coke, two sponsors, were busy giving out freebees and everyone, even in the pouring rain, were in good humor. Once in, we had a good time. We saw three pavilions – Aker from Italy with many interesting technologies which we tried. Yes, we did! Samsong – left me rather uninterested and then on to the: Laneway House, an efficient and most attractively designed house using green technology. It’s a product of two designers in North Vancouver. Haig, if you and Mary do decide to build – I suggest you look at this company!!!!
Then it was time to find a place for the show that began at 6:30 pm. We discovered that tonight the feature was the arrival of the Olympic Flame. The rain stopped, thankfully, umbrellas went down which meant we could see the stage. (Yes, there were large screens so you could see but I like also to see people, in their real selves, not blown up.) And, I had great fun watching the “moving lights” that are computer programmed and hang above the stage in full view. As we waited for the Flame there were entertainers and at one point Marie whispered: Ann, did you leave the stove on? The two of us howled with laughter. And, then came the moment for the arrival of the flame through these thousands of people and up onto the stage. It went right by me – two feet away. I got some great photos on my phone camera. 
To cap the event was a fireworks show. Sue had a triumph tonight. It all worked beautifully and thousands of us had a wonderful time.
Marie and I looked at ourselves and said, let’s find a place to sit – we had now been standing for nearly five hours. Several blocks away we came across a Starbucks. That chai latte never tasted so good.
And, now to bed. I am so glad I am here. It’s very special.
Comment on this postI know this blog is about dyslexia and hyperlexia but I thought it would be fun to add some diversity and share my wonderful time at the 2010 Olympics.
Day One: February 10th/2010 – two days before opening of the Olympics.
It’s true, I am certainly meant to be here. Everything worked like clockwork: It began with an easy trip from SF. Yes, our plane left a few minutes late but the time was made up – and it flew by. I couldn’t resist after I had settled into my window seat to turn to the man sitting by me and say: So, why are you going to Vancouver? I wasn’t surprised when he said: The Olympics, But I was surprised as he continued: I’m a volunteer. I looked at him, a volunteer? Yes. I will be working the ice arena at UBC for 21/2 weeks beginning with women’s hockey – as an usher. I get a uniform, you know, it’s worth $1,000. I pick it up tonight. Tomorrow we have training and then we are off and running.
What made you do this?
I grew up in Vancouver. I want to be part of it.
What do you do?
I am executive with Chevron!!!!!!!
And, so it goes, the excitement two days out is just ringing in the air. The new subway from air port to downtown Vancouver operates like a dream. I was a bit confused when I got off. No one took my ticket when I got and there is no place to put your ticket to exit. I stopped someone to ask, where do I exit? Oh, he said, you have. It is the honor system here. Yes, there are people who do spot checking but….
Traffic downtown is almost non existent – so many main streets seem to be closed. Bus routes are changed. Going to the Orpheum Theatre from Katherine’s apartment, I thought the Robson bus would get me there. Nope, it turned down Burrard. It will take continual surveillance to get it, but nobody seems to care. In fact, you don’t hear much English around. So many people, speaking so many different languages. Thank heavens the bus drivers, proudly wearing Olympic vests, are good sorts. They are getting a ton of questions.
I have just come home from the Russian Gala: I was a bit dubious about what this might be. Well, they pulled it off with panache, style, talent and creativity. The first half of the program featured the Moscow Soloists Chamber Orchestra. The key word in those last four words is Soloists. This is an ensemble of soloists who performed Tchaikovsky’s Serenade for Strings. We all know this piece, we hear it, we hear it. Never, I venture to guess like we heard it tonight. The collective sound they created was magical. Each note so clearly played, the pathos deep and sad, the beauty of the humor profound, the attention to detail amazing. The conductor Yuri Bashmet – a tiny man who knows how to bring out the best as he gives the best.
The next and last piece in the first half was Bashmet as viola soloist playing Schubert’s Sonata for Viola and Strings. I don’t think I have ever heard a violist as soloist with an orchestra. The sound is so different: deep, resonant. The audience got into it.
A moment about the audience. Sold out house. The Russians were out in full force. Old, and young. Next to me on one side were three Russian woman, the mother who doesn’t speak English and two gorgeous blonde daughters, on the right hand side of me was a Russian family, mother, father, probably in their mid thirties and their young son – maybe six. The child was totally absorbed. He got it, he even laughed when the music made him laugh. It was wonderful. As the lights came up at intermission the older Russian Mama on my left – with few teeth – said to me in her few words of English and with tears streaming down her face: Russians good??.
Oh yes, oh, yes I said. And we gave each other a hug.
Second half. A rendition of Bizet’s CARMEN. What was fun for me was that on Monday night in San Francisco I saw a wonderful performance of CARMEN from the MET at the movies. I wondered what will this orchestra and a few stars from the Bolshoi do with this. Well, they matched the excellence and creativity of the Monday performance – that chamber orchestra and five Bolshoi dancers. It wasn’t the CARMEN score as we all know it, Yes, the themes were there but it was a percussive and strings Carmen that literally talked us through the opera/ballet. They added two characters: At first I couldn’t figure out what this marionette like figure who was dancing with CARMEN at the outset could represent (Burke Taylor later said Death). Then came the Don Jose – a sensuous man, strong and dramatic. The Toreador was a real bull fighter: elegant, full of himself and ideal. All the while lurking about was fate in black. Well, it was quite a night.
I did see both Sue and Burke. For those of you who don’t know them Sue Harvery was my wonderful assistant when we did Expo 67, since then has done several things, but more recently overseen “culture” for the City of Vancouver. Now she’s responsible for the free entertainment at the Olympics. That’s a responsibility. And, Sue debut’s tomorrow night with her free entertainment – outdoors. Yes, it will probably rain, it’s Vancouver! But, we and thousands of others will be there. And, Burke Taylor is another Expo colleague – Canadian Pavilion and now responsible for the Cultural Olympiad which has been up and running for three weeks. It’s been quite a journey getting to this point. As the Chairman of the Vancouver Olympics said in his opening remarks last night before the concert: these last four years have gone so fast! Now we are here! At this point all they all can think of is one down and more to go. And, all goes well. Finally the press are being supportive.
And, I must away to bed. Full day tomorrow.
Comment on this postWelcome: You have come upon a blog discussing tools to help dyslexics and hyperlexics. I have both conditions. The topic, this time, is holding strong in an emotional situation.
I have noticed that dyslexics and hyperlexics, myself included, can be highly charged when confronted with an emotional situation that seems unfair, uncalled for, or doesn’t reflect the facts as seen by the dyslexic/hyperlexic.
I am always searching for tools to help me master this challenge more effectively. Recently I read a blog which, I feel, provides a good approach. The author, Pam Stuckey, Body/Sense Blog. http://bodysenseblog.typepad.co has given me reprint permission.
Emotional Attacks
Hurtful confrontations often leave us feeling drained and confused. When someone attacks us emotionally, we may wonder what we did to rouse their anger, and we take their actions personally. We may ask ourselves what we could have done to compel them to behave or speak that way toward us.
It’s important to remember that there are no real targets in an emotional attack and that it is usually a way for the attacker to redirect their uncomfortable feelings away from themselves. When people are overcome by strong emotions, like hurt or anguish, they may see themselves as victims and lash out at others as a means of protection or to make themselves feel better.
You may be able to shield yourself from an emotional attack by not taking the behavior personally. First, however, it is good to cultivate a state of detachment that can provide you with some protection from the person who is attacking you. This will allow you to feel compassion for this person and remember that their behavior isn’t as much about you as it is about their need to vent their emotions.
If you have difficulty remaining unaffected by someone’s behavior, take a moment to breathe deeply and remind yourself that you didn’t do anything wrong, and you aren’t responsible for people’s feelings. If you can see that this person is indirectly expressing a need to you—whether they are reaching out for help or wanting to be heard—you may be able to diffuse the attack by getting them to talk about what is really bothering them.
You cannot control other people’s emotions, but you can control your own. If you sense yourself responding to their negativity, try not to let yourself. Keep your heart open to them, and they may let go of their defensiveness and yield to your compassion and openness.
Pam Stuckey, Body/Sense Blog. http://bodysenseblog.typepad.co
If you have topics that you would like me to address about my experience in overcoming dyslexia and hyperlexia feel free to send your ideas through the comments below.
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Information on this blog is intended to complement, not replace, the advice of your own physician or health care professional
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