Let the countdown begin! Feeling overwhelmed? Feeling sad? Feeling down? Feeling, well not feeling at all?
These are common conditions this time of year for many of us. You are not alone. The holidays mean more traffic on the roads, more people in the stores, more family issues that might be brought up at the infamous family gatherings and oftentimes feelings of inadequacy. You might find yourself strapped for cash with too many expectations. Or you are just plain, old tired and don't want to make that big turkey dinner with all the fixin's. We have all been there at one time or another. So how do you get motivated to get out of the slump of the holidays?
First, think about fond holiday memories. You might not be able to recreate them, but make it simple for you. Instead of doing it all by yourself, have a potluck. Yes, I know folks don't cook like you do, so what? Add a little seasonings and it will be just fine.
Second, no money for presents? Give the gift of your time. Make certificates offering to go shopping, clean up the yard, do the laundry, bring a meal, or just sit and chat. We are all so busy, that is why it is important to slow down and think of someone else. Don't have anyone? find a senior to help. You will be appreciated. To give is better than to receive! Believe it.....
Third, get in the car right after dinner and go look at Christmas lights! They are wonderful - from the basic to full out, lit up with music affairs! It'll cost some gas money but it will be well worth it.
Fourth, get to know your neighbors. Make a fruit basket and deliver it with a message of hope. You will have made their day, believe me.
Fifth, (are you getting the idea? take the focus off of you) Write real cards with real handwriting and a real stamp to people in your family or friends you have been out of touch with. Doesn't have to be long - a "we are fine and hope you are to" will do it.
And, finally, (because I could go on and on and on) Do you really need to stress about the holidays? No, keep it simple, keep it sane, keep it sweet. String cranberries and popcorn with the kids for the tree, cut out snowflakes and hang them in the windows, don't get caught up in the marketing media of the holidays and gifts. It could be a joy not a chore! Consider it! And love your family. Even if you don't want too!
I want to hear from you -- what are you doing to add joy into your holidays?
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Friday, October 7, 2011
Internet Fraud -- I'm worth 1/2 BILLION DOLLARS!
The red writing is on purpose! To catch your attention....INTERNET FRAUD is rampant. Are you savvy enough to know the difference? Did you know that no bank, credit card company, credit union, mortgage company and more will EVER ask for your personal information in an email or by phone? And, if the offer is too good to be true, it is most likely a scam directed at your purse strings!
Just this past week, I received 9 emails from various foreign people from various foreign countries offering me money from $1,950,000 to over $58,000,000! So I decided to add up all the money being offered and it came to a little over 1/2 Billion Dollars! Whoa! I could retire! BUT wait, they all wanted something from me - my bank info, my personal info, you name it, they requested it. Of course, YOU would never fall for such a scam, would you? But many elderly (and not so elderly) fall for this scam everyday, losing a lot of their money!
These tips came directly from the FBI website for avoiding the Nigerian Letter or "419" Fraud:
1) Be skeptical of individuals representing themselves as Nigerian or foreign government officials asking for your help in placing large sums of money in overseas bank accounts.
2) Do not believe the promise of large sums of money for your cooperation.
3) Guard your account information carefully.
So be cautious out there on the internet/email/cyberspace! Don't give out personal information. Be sure the website you are buying from has this in the url - https: - showing that it is a secure site.
Just one of many internet safety tips I hope to share with you.
The internet has been a wonderful invention - just be aware!
Dotty Metcalf
Just this past week, I received 9 emails from various foreign people from various foreign countries offering me money from $1,950,000 to over $58,000,000! So I decided to add up all the money being offered and it came to a little over 1/2 Billion Dollars! Whoa! I could retire! BUT wait, they all wanted something from me - my bank info, my personal info, you name it, they requested it. Of course, YOU would never fall for such a scam, would you? But many elderly (and not so elderly) fall for this scam everyday, losing a lot of their money!
These tips came directly from the FBI website for avoiding the Nigerian Letter or "419" Fraud:
1) Be skeptical of individuals representing themselves as Nigerian or foreign government officials asking for your help in placing large sums of money in overseas bank accounts.
2) Do not believe the promise of large sums of money for your cooperation.
3) Guard your account information carefully.
So be cautious out there on the internet/email/cyberspace! Don't give out personal information. Be sure the website you are buying from has this in the url - https: - showing that it is a secure site.
Just one of many internet safety tips I hope to share with you.
The internet has been a wonderful invention - just be aware!
Dotty Metcalf
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