Becoming Aware of Challenges

What is MY Challenge?

2013-04-27T16:50:00.001-07:00

The challenges that has been recently revealed. As some of you know, I've recently been taking classes to improve skills necessary to achieve my goal's. I seemed to have zoomed through some specific topics, but have been struggling with a particular class. It had been suggested that I be tested. Since the report has been shared with me, I'd like to share how important it is to address issue's in a appropriate manner.

This report included a low percentile in math. I have to admit, this is hilarious, after all these years. My study included bookkeeping and number's. Now, I know why I wasn't capable of holding on to that job. In those day's I wasn't aware of educational accommodation's and inclusion as we have available now. I understand why balancing check books was such a disaster. Thank goodness for technology.

Perceptional Reasoning: was also on the low side of the percentile.

Perceptual reasoning measures the subject’s ability to find relationships between non verbal stimuli and as well as testing their reasoning skills. It is considered to be a useful indicator of general intelligence and problem solving skills.

Contrastingly, people who demonstrate low perceptual reasoning scores often have problems driving from one location to another, estimating distances, drawing accurate designs and assembling objects.

Now at first, I couldn't understand this part; as I am a visual person due to the imperfections of my auditory sensory. I'm a lip reader as well as familiar with body language. So my understanding is inconclusive with this report as of now. Upon more research for a better understanding and how it has affected my life. All though, I can vouch for not being accelerated in driving from one location to another. Many has pointed this out in the past. I must also review the past objects of assembling; to have a clear understanding of this as well.

Matrix reasoning also falls in this category, along with visual puzzles.

Matrix Reasoning measures visual processing and abstract, spatial perception and may be influenced by concentration, attention, and persistence.

I've been under the assumption that I had been extremely visual. Had I known, about the spatial perception, I could have addressed this through education. In conclusion, the report also stated that I have symptoms of impulsivity and distractibility. My understanding these two go hand in hand. As far as my word reading and spelling I am at college level.

The point is now that I have documentation, I can address these issues and request additional skills to complete my educational goals. With accommodations, this can be applied and will increase my success.

Now for the audiological part; this may have played a role in receiving the necessary assistance to bring scores to an average or above nature. The report among the other results can now be addressed to qualified authorities; accordingly, for a successful achievement. This my friend is self~advocacy.

I share my experience with you because of the obstacle's I've eventually overcome. The lack of support tended to slow me down which limited my intentions. Today, with the knowledge I've retained, I can become the successful being, I always wanted to become.

Shine like a Star

2013-04-08T15:47:00.000-07:00

Able Times Alliance

Everyday is a learning experience for us all. We may not like some of the lesson's that come before us, but the experience will be embedded in our live's for future use. We revert back to this lesson to realize an obstacle has been overcome when we least expected. This my friend is the beauty of life's choices.

Just recently, I encountered some struggling issues that were blocking my progress. At the time, I had no idea the obstacle was going to come to surface leading me to resolving the situation. Before today, had I not encounter such an issue I may have overlooked and not addressed the importance of this specific issue. With this in mind, as we become aware of ourselves; our minds, body and life is changing. Adapting to these changes can sometimes be overwhelming but educating and acceptable. We learn new ways to approach this issue with patience and care to overcome if necessary and continue with life's growth.

I've never imagined to be where I am today in this point of my life. My mind was spellbound into another time and space. My body had gotten accustomed with what was being consumed. My life, as I knew then, I felt was content and possibly all that was achievable. Now experienced to share, this is not true. Opportunities for change are available; if self is comfortable to reach and embrace what's needed to accomplish this goal or dream.

If for any reason, you feel like life has given you a carton of rotten eggs. Go to the store, take them back and pick up another carton of eggs. I am not sure why I used eggs as an example, but it makes sense. Choice's are among us, opportunities are available and the door is right before our eyes.

Open wide, walk in, smile and grasp at what may bring light to your life. The future is at our finger tips. It is up to each one of us to become the person we are. The lesson is right in front. What ever the obstacle that has put a frown on your face. Conquer and destroy like it was a video game.

We are talking about our livelihoods here. Reach for the Stars they are waiting for you to grasp and shine.

The Future of Freedom

2013-03-30T13:32:00.000-07:00

Evolution in Disguise!

Embrace Life with a Grip of the Future

With the last 2 Stories that I've written in the past hour, just show's the improvements that I have made in my life as I know it. What ever it is that comes to mind on this specific blog will be a reflection of me and my Journey of life.

As you are aware, my titles seem to come as I write. This may be a new beginning for my writings. For what ever reason, I must continue in hopes to improve and overcome the challenge's that may lie in my future.

With the instrument's I've acquired along this path, I've come to accept and appreciate the obstacle's that I've conquered and endured. Not by choice, but by persistence must I overcome and become the person I've longed to be.

Self-acceptance is a task one must adhere and overcome with passion and love. Understanding our lives for the future by not repeating the past is a quality each of us possess. Individually, we've endured and overcome. One may not think that it was possible. If you look into the past at how difficult a task was to manage, compared to today. One will notice the change. To overcome, is to challenge the ability by moving into the future of freedom.

Sometimes, one must point out the difference's of challenge's that have been overcome. This allow's room to grow and learn. Managing life with challenge's can be a bit of a struggle to many. Together we must share the experience of becoming barrier free to live equal as another, by educating self as well as other's.

Awareness of one's ability and adapting while learning to become equal in whatever success you desire, is refreshing as well as fruitful for the future.

"With the qualities; one possess's; is the key to life's choice's ~ ©psherwood, 2013"

Challenge's! Are you Aware?

2013-03-09T12:23:00.001-08:00

Great Title if I say so myself. Reason being, I found a few complication's in my own situation that has come to light and gave me insight.

Most of you who read my article's, know that I've enrolled to further my education for my future endeavor. In doing this, I found specific issues that needed to be addressed. The 504 for example:

The "504" in "504 plan" refers to Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act, which specifies that no one with a disability can be excluded from participating in federally funded programs or activities, including elementary, secondary or post-secondary schooling. "Disability" in this context refers to a "physical or mental impairment which substantially limits one or more major life activities." This can include physical impairments; illnesses or injuries; communicable diseases; chronic conditions like asthma, allergies and diabetes; and learning problems.

Myself, staff and general agencies have gathered to address these issue's to accommodate specific needs. It was followed through for the first three classes. Onward to the fourth class was to be held in another area, with another teacher, who was not included in this plan.

I struggled for 3 weeks on a topic that I had already been educated prior to this time frame. The technical assistance was limited due to past issues through an agency, which I find should not have been carried through to everyone.

As I finally; received feedback from staff and agencies for an additional meet for a possible amendment, I feel I've lost time of the goal I selected. With this in mind, we must always be on task if something is not applied appropriately for the goal intended.

I wanted to address this efficiently; the importance of your goal, if accommodations are necessary. Keep in mind they can always be amended fitting appropriately towards your future.

Concerned Community Member

2013-02-17T11:39:00.003-08:00

http://mysti2009.wordpress.com/2013/02/17/enough-is-enough/

I am a Concerned Community Member. The link above has been recently written by me with the intent of being read and in hopes incorporated into resolving the issues at hand.

Together, we must face the dilemma with a positive solution that is acceptable to everyone. Understanding these issue's can remove these past thought's and create idea's for Bill's and change of the the System as we know.

Please read and become aware by researching information from the past to the present, which includes our families.

Save our Mental Health Communities, by starting today. Write letter's, email's, begin petition's, and be BOLD about our friends, families, neighbor's, partner's, and SOCIETY.

TEXT ABLE 28594

2013-01-30T17:05:00.001-08:00

TEXT ABLE 28594

Help raise funds to support Able Times Alliance with their Mission to provide information to those who FACE Challenge's every day.

Uniqueness in All of Us

2013-01-27T12:55:00.000-08:00

I chose this particular Blog, because it talks about the opportunities to challenge. As most of you know, I do write several blogs. I try to write topics to fit the Blog. With my personal uniqueness, sometimes I struggle, but am willing to explore additional talent's.

At times, I may write more for one website than another. It just depends on the topic of choice. This is my ability! Today, I chose to write about our "Uniqueness". We all have this special quality, as it is part of us. It doesn't matter if you have disAbilities. We must explore within ourselves the niche that makes us comfortable, to broaden our way's of life.

Allow me to define niche: : a place, employment, status, or activity for which a person or thing is best fitted

The definition may sound a bit off; especially the fitted part. Remember this is an online definition. It doesn't mean we cannot challenge ourselves to become something great. The choice is your's. I am merely pointing out our inner self. This takes exploring. What is it that makes you tick? Ruffles your feathers! Has the hair on your arm standing, upright! Along with the overwhelming feeling of: Am I ABLE! Personally, I believe we can become anything we want and more.

Overlooking the obstacles before us, is a challenge in it's self. With our uniqueness we can challenge these obstacle's with strength's inside. Now, let's define Unique! : being the only one . My interpretation; is unlike another. Reason being is; we, are each different from another. Our emotion's, action's, behavior's, personalities, etc. This my friend makes us very Special; and by this, I mean in a positive way.

Now we are off to yet another level. Exploring one's uniqueness and creating the person you would like to become. Some of us are shy, bold, boring, exciting, loud, quiet, upbeat, educated, wholesome, materialistic, popular, persistent, optimistic, pessimistic, nice, mean; etc. These qualities are part of us. We can improve, delete, educate, the struggle's that may keep us from becoming the unique individual that we are. It doesn't mean we are a bad person. It's qualities that can be polished, enhanced to become who or what our ideal thought of a community member, we would like to be. It is solely up to each unique individual; to make change's, if need be, to your special uniqueness.

Here is an example of my special uniqueness: I am LOUD, BOLD, sometimes overbearing (working on it), nice, polite, understanding, easily frustrated (working on it) etc. I do not allow the "disAbility to define my special uniqueness; allowing the inner self to withdraw and become challenged in life. I hope this was clearly written for a thorough understanding. For some it may need to be read a few times for a clear meaning. I do NOT allow other's to intimidate me. I find this to be one's quality of self to be a personal issue and not mine. To explain this: I cannot allow someone's own special uniqueness that may or may not need improved to interfere with my "Niche". All I can do, is educate and improve the qualities that may need to be polished for my uniqueness.

Since, I've disclosed some personal details about my self. I am hoping the specialty of other's will entice each unique individual to become something they greatly want. We all have it. It is up to the individual to explore and create.

Able Times Alliance

I also, wanted to write about the importance of respecting each unique person; who choose's to become great. Respect, allows improvement in one's life. Respecting another, does not mean we are less than or to be Bullied. It gives us the tool's to improve self to become whatever we want. Be creative, explore self, become empowered and grow with Greatness. Until next time, do have a terrific day.

The Journey Continue's

2013-01-20T09:38:00.004-08:00

As I begin the New Year of 2013, I have a few short term goals that I added towards my main goal. This includes, improving skills with my writing, computers, marketing, and photography. Well, lo and behold, 2013 has arrived!

One of my goals included an addiction to work on seriously throughout this year. Cancer is in my gene's, so it is important that I personally seek medical attention if I cannot control or rid of this specific addiction. It is one of the Worlds number one killer; although, we do have survivor's today. Research will always require funding to find a cure to save live's with this nasty bug.

Now on to my short list of goals. I've succeeded in enrollment to further my education. With these skills, I can develop my work freely without stress. During this past year, my mission has been set to provide additional information and links of interest to people with disabilities. I've become somewhat of an expert with the information that is available to those who want to enhance their live's equally. With 20 years of education and experience, I find this to be a career choice for me.

These past few year's, I've created pages, blogs, and site's sharing my personal experience and how I have learned to change the situation. I began fundraising
link's to gather funds for a future organization to serve Globally with other advocate's. With these funds, an application for a non profit will allow the organization to serve communities in dire need. These projects, have been personal quotes that I have created. Photo's with quote's have also been my passion. By joining numerous of website's and sharing my creativity; I continue to request donation's about a Movement that began many years ago.

Able Times Alliance will be teaching self-advocacy skills. One of its goal's is to hold agencies, businesses, and/or entities accountable for the services and/or products advertised publicly. With the collaboration of other Global advocate's, we will be able to provide education and increased awareness to those who have specific questions or concerns relating to disabilities.

As I move on with my Journey, I'd like to "Thank" everyone who has followed, reviewed, and shared their experience. The input I receive provides me the motivation to continue my research. I am a "Voice" for those who request additional assistance. I will continue to stand, march, and protest for equal rights and inclusion for all. Breaking the cycle of barriers is a task that only we together can remove.

My passion and experience entices my abilities to make the change's, to become as equal and included in any situation as our fellow community members of society. We must continue, with persistence, perseverance, and knowledge to remove barriers many still face.

I, too face barrier's daily. I will continue to address these issues to my best of my ability. Making changes for another, who may access with ease. I, agree these ages should have been removed years and years ago. Through no fault of our's, we continue to fight with all of our might. My Journey continue's through another year to make a difference in someone's life. Join me and many other's to inspire those who would like change for equality in their live's as well.

“There is always tomorrow, learning to accept self-challenging tasks is a process. Research your choice's and apply them to your abilities!” ~ ©psherwood

About, Penny Sherwood

2012-11-29T12:29:00.001-08:00

During my off time I am a freelance visual photographer. I see things as other's in an unusual, unique way. Stop, focus and click is my motto and then delete and reset for future snapshots.

One of my Vision's is to Make a Difference to those who live a challenging life. By this I mean; a disAbility needing to be enhanced for growth. To become empowered and encouraged to live a quality way of life, barrier free.

I have been in this particular field for 20 years now. I have been employed with Agencies who assist with issues of daily challenge's. I understand the meaning of a disAbility. And, I also experience several; in which are hidden.

My Journey or Mission as you choose began in 2008. I had decided to make a difference in my own life. Through this struggling time, I became more aware ready to educate the public.

My literacy was a deeply challenged in the computer field. I learned to deal with the failures, and determined, not going to give up. It is something I wish to fulfill regardless of pay-scale.

Today, I continue Volunteering for what is now titled: Able Times Alliance, which I single handed; spreading updated information and World wide news. I would like to Caption my Video's to reach even more people. In order to do this, I have to either request donation's or try and sell photo images.

I have 3 sites that I publish on and many social sites that I work from. I will continue my Advocacy and Share Awareness to Free Barriers that seem to stop the growth of a person who faces daily challenge's.

I hope you find it in your Heart to take the time to understand the meaning of a challenge and possibly lend a hand or shoulder to those with questions or concern's. As the Stigma continues, fighting for these rights will continue well into the Future.

Penny Sherwood, Founder/Activist

www.abletimesalliance.org
www.mypennyltd.com
abletimesalliance@gmail.com

Chase Bank! Who is wrong?

2012-11-15T05:56:00.000-08:00

Here is a story that I have been waiting to tell. It is; the RIGHT to change information without notification.

Prior to my recent incident, I have been trying to find out why Chase Bank seems to think they can change your information without notifying the customer.

A few month's ago, I attempted to pay with debit/credit card. Now; "we", know that the card is to be connected with an address zip code. While several attempts were made the merchant claimed that the information on the card is not a match.

I proceeded to contact CHASE bank to inquire the issue. I was again, told that the address didn't match the zip code. I then asked, how could this be? I have been a customer during several merge's for over a decade. I was then connected to resolution specialist who informed me that, by law they can change at will. The representative claimed The Patriots Act allowed action upon my account.

http://www.wired.com/threatlevel/2012/05/nsl-challenges/

A financial institution’s CIP will apply to all customer “accounts,” or formal banking relationships.
This includes all types of on-going relationships: deposit and lending, consumer and commercial.
An institution’s CIP will not apply to infrequent or occasional interactions, such as check cashing,
wire transfers or sale of check or money orders. 31 C.F.R. 103.121(a)(1).
An institution’s CIP will be triggered anytime a new customer, whether an individual or a legal
entity, opens a new account. Existing customers who open a new account need not go through
the CIP process, so long as the financial institution can form a reasonable belief that it knows the
true identity of the customer. 31 C.F.R. 103.121(a)(3). Significantly, financial institutions need
only verify the identity of account owners, not signatories. While institutions need not verify the
identity of every account signatory, a bank’s CIP must address situations where additional
verification will be required for certain (non-individual) customers. See 31 C.F.R.
103.121(b)(2)(ii)(C)

http://rt.com/usa/news/senators-patriot-government-law-749/

My argument is still pending without a reasonable answer, beginning September 2012.

By October, I attempted to cash a extremely small check ($36.00) through a drive up window to find out that my birth date did not match my valid identification. As some of you may know, by now I am pretty angered. The teller insisted that I take a few moments to come in and correct this. "Excuse me"! This is not my mistake.

Pulling into the parking garage. I was hysterical as to why this continue's to be an ongoing issue. I stood awaiting for a representative to assist me. I was then approached and probably looking very angered, began addressing their issue of my account "LOUDLY". I was asked to sit until a representative was available. I demanded an answer and refused to be seated.

It was not long until I was asked to have a seat. As patient as I could be, I began to LOUDLY address the frequent issue's that have occurred on my account.

The representative who insisted that the Patriot's Act give them the right to make changes informed me that we were being recorded. GREAT I SAY. I have plenty to say. ~ psherwood

The representative who looked into my account requested my identification to fix the account error; blaming VISA for the mistake. I than informed them of the issue from the month before. The pending complaint's ect. I then informed them I wanted to file a complaint of both incidence's and the results of these error's; walking out the door informing them to send me an email.

Oh yeah!, I was "HOT". On top of that, they cashed the check with the incorrect birth date. By 4:40 pm that evening, the CHASE representative called telling me it was from a prior merge, years before. Oh boy, here we go again, not taking responsibility for your own error's. As I went on and on about the continuous error's, she informed me that they made an exception for me. "WHAT"? an exception for me. Then she tried to rephrase the words that came from her own mouth. She then stated she would be connecting me with the Executive's of CHASE to note and address the error's.

Again, I pleaded my concern, with the Executive claiming he understands my concern. "WHAT"? He informed me that the error's would be corrected that most people just contact informing the bank of the error. Wait a minute, I am NOT most people. I have taken time out of my schedule to address CHASE'S error's while they blame other business's or use an Act violating the public's identity.

http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/PLAW-107publ56/pdf/PLAW-107publ56.pdf

Until further notice, please address immediate error's if using J.P. Morgan Chase.

Phase #4

2012-09-14T17:00:00.001-07:00

Phase #4 is really the next step towards the greatness of my achievement; through trial and error. I have to admit, during this 4+ years timeline, I've managed to increase my writing skills, computer skills, my favorite NEW FOUND technology; which includes effective communication, and skills I didn't know I actually had. I was scammed, slammed, bullied, belittled, and most of all disrespected along the way. However, I managed to overcome with the help of some FANTASTIC people right here on the WORLD WIDE WEB. Of course, some may feel it's different than having an up close and personal relationship with the touchy feely closeness of another person, but I am good. I've learned more about me, and less about everybody else. I know that didn't sound to great. It's something I needed; for an improvement and acceptable sense of self. If you have been following me these past few years and reading my words of wisdom, and lessons of life you would know exactly what I am talking about. Before I begin to digress, as I often do. I want to Thank everyone who has kept in touch with me through my Journey of Time. I do appreciate all of you very much. You've taught me things, I would have never known if not able to communicate effectively with you.

Abilities vs. DisAbilities

As I reminisce, and remember the tools used to get to Phase #4. The skills needed; required much more than I originally had. I worked extra hard to learn the techniques to acquire the skills necessary to create a blog/website, links to other social sites, increasing traffic to these sites/pages,etc. I requested information a time or two. But with the economy at it's prime, everybody was trying to make a dollar off of something they have created. Some may even say "to get rich", which many have failed. Now failing; is a course needed; to take during the lessons of life. If your mind set is on your past then failing is in your future. I say this because, I've been there and done it. This time around, (hearing, learning,and mental challenge's) was not going to be an excuse for me to see future failure. With this in mind, I decided to research and read every possible thing I could use for my Goal. Read, Read, and Read some more. Even if you have to re-read, re-researched or even narrow your search to a more feasible goal. Remember, your GOAL is your FUTURE!.

Now a bit of what, some may think might limit their newly founded goal. Some disAbilities are a tad more challenging than other's, but it does not mean you cannot be a Success. You have to Challenge the disAbility. By this; I mean, learn how to create new tools to acquire the necessary skills needed to achieve your goal. For me, my most challenging was my hearing; limiting my ability to learn. Since, becoming online and using the necessary tools to accommodate my disAbility, I was able to enhance my ability to learn new skills for my goal. Does this make sense? Well, it does for me, because it works. For instance, my primary communication is no longer by telephone. It is via email, texting, and/or social sites. I get the whole conversation. Learn along the way and increase my ability that disabled my past. This is my greatest achievement; to effectively communicate in any situation.

Becoming Aware of Challenges

Moving on; I wanted to share my future in hopes you will create your own. During this time; I challenged all these hidden disabilities, I conquered the fear of failure due to these challenge's by becoming familiar, sharing experience at hand to get the insight from other's who have grown through my Journey. I know that was a mouth full but, sometimes if I don't write what comes to mind that makes sense, I cannot remember what it was I processed. My success has moved me to Phase #4 which is getting the education required for certification. Certification is something needed for your goal, to present to qualifying applications. I am presently, going towards this process. I'm just thrilled, to have been accepted, accommodated, and respected with my challenge's. That mean my work is working. I will be enrolling into several classes to further educate myself in the business/organizational area of my Journey. Which means the skills I've acquired will be enhanced and improved to increase the production of my goal. What this all means, is I will be busy with limited availability during growth of my Journey. However, I have listed emails for questions and or concerns. Please bear with me during this new program of my Journey, Phase #4

Able Times Alliance

A Productive Monday Morning

2012-08-13T23:36:00.002-07:00

Since I have had something scheduled nearly every Monday this summer, today was the most productive; in quite some time.

Here is how the story goes. As an Activist in my area, experiencing issues as another, I too run into blocks of different sizes. My medical office for instance. Understanding my own challenge, I am always prepared in public. However, public sometimes aren't prepared for me.

After going to several appointments, I began to notice the filling of the room. I am hard of hearing so these are some of my steps I take when in public.
1. Sign in (accommodation card in file)
2. Sit where I can SEE my name (lip reading) to sign papers.
3. Sit where the Doctor's assistant will be calling me from.

Well this one time, the seats were so full I could not face the receptionist to complete the forms. I sit in front of the door where I am to enter for appointment. I noticed people were going ahead of me. I went to the counter to find out why. The receptionist said we have been calling you. I informed her of the accommodation documentation I have in my file. She says your chart is not here in this office. The receptionist handed me a list of Language Interpreter's. I explained to her I was hard of hearing. She said where is the person who talks for you. I said I talk for myself. Long story short, I filed a complaint.

30 days came and went, so I contacted the Office of Operations and left a message. Deborah called me back and we talked about the situation. Another call from her asking if I had a cell phone. I said I do, she said would it be possible for you to leave the receptionist your number so they can call you for your appointment/signature for forms. I was ecstatic. This was a productive accommodation. Working together as a team. I thought it was a fabulous inexpensive accommodation for me and a better way they could assist other's in the same situations. Now don't get me wrong, this may not work for everyone. But staff will be receiving sensitivity training and training on how to best assist people's with disabilities.

My next adventure was the school. I emailed an update request for a 504 in June. Since, I never received a response, I sent a reminder. This is the last week of summer vacation for students. I went with my forms to find out why I hadn't received an appointment or call from the Counselor. Lo and Behold cupid found her; she got engaged and left the city. She was replaced by another person who assisted me right then and there with everything we needed to get us started. I was amazed that I was actually assisted without a problem. We received his schedule and home we came, everything was in place for the following Monday, first day back to school

The moral of today's story is Monday's can be productive; you just have to wait for it. Working as a team; creating a solution to an issue for a better service; can be done. Both parties can be productive, it's just Monday sometimes.

www.abletimesalliance.org

Portable speech generating AAC device (SGD) - Tobii C12

2012-07-23T22:22:00.001-07:00

Portable speech generating AAC device (SGD) - Tobii C12

Take an Assertive Approach to Protect Your Hearing

2012-07-23T18:44:00.003-07:00

Protecting your ability to hear can be accomplished by taking simple steps that can transform your entire lifestyle. Not everyone considers their hearing ability unless they begin having trouble hearing. For some people, hearing problems are brief and are caused by a temporary infection, a minor blow to the ear area, swimmer’s ear, or wax build-up in the ear. However, each of these things, along with other situations, can lead to permanent partial hearing loss, if not complete hearing loss.

Better Living Habits Can Equal Better Hearing Ability

Following a few clear-cut steps can help to protect how people hear. These steps involve minor lifestyle changes and when these changes are combined, they increase the substance and quality of a person’s life. Eating healthy and beginning regular sessions of exercise is not something that a person would normally associate with hearing health. In fact, diseases such as diabetes can sometimes be prevented by leading a healthy lifestyle. Diabetes affects many areas of person’s body and the hearing is one of these areas in many people’s cases.

Engaging in activities that keep your body healthy in general will promote healthy hearing. While there are many factors that can lead to a person losing his or her hearing, one less thing will need to be worried about if a person lives an active lifestyle, gets plenty of rest, hydration, and eats meals that are high in vegetables, lean protein, and fruit.

Excellent hygiene is another form of healthy living that can help to prevent some ear infections. Many times, infections stem from bacteria that make contact with the body. When or if this bacterium spreads in the body, it can have a lasting and damaging affect on how well a person is able to hear. Good hygiene and cleanliness habits will be a great assistance in warding off unnecessary exposure to elements that can lead to infections.

Get Educated About Hearing and Symptoms for Hearing Loss

While a person may not want to spend every day studying about how to protect his or her hearing, it is a good idea to brush up on some basic facts that can help an individual to recognize symptoms that may point to hearing loss or problems within the ear. Many times, if symptoms are caught early enough, they can easily and quickly be treated to protect a person’s hearing and hearing will be fully restored. This is not always the case as every person’s specific situation is different, but it is wise to be aware of possible hearing problem symptoms.

Healthfinder.gov is a government website that provides a reliable checklist for symptoms of hearing loss. In addition to symptoms, the site also lists important information that can help a person to know when to make a doctor’s appointment if hearing problems are suspected. In visiting your doctor, he or she will be able to give you more tips on how to protect your hearing or suggest you wear hearing aids in order to amplify sounds so you can hear better. Educating yourself about hearing symptoms is a great proactive step to take.

Blog post by: John O'Connor

http://bloggingwjohno.blogspot.com/

Forgotten Title

2012-07-15T20:03:00.001-07:00

  Able Times   Able Times Alliance
  Mysti2009

I was going through broken links, per linkaider, which I think may be a total crock. I'm updating and rearranging apps, posts, and gadgets for a more interesting look. I am hoping to draw a few folks to browse through the site and possibly link to other blogs I've created.
I noticed, I began this particular blog in 2008, almost 5 years ago. I have grown since then, creating many more blogs and or sites of interests including fundraisers in hopes to pull together funds needed to apply for a Non Profit.

This month, July of 2012, I finally came up with a goal that seems fitting for the need in our disabled communities. This Goal is to "Hold agencies/businesses accountable for their services per client/consumer request."

In June of 2012, I finally came up with a Logo that I feel very comfortable with and loving the colors. I was able to join a site to sell products with this Logo in hopes to grow Able Times Alliance followers.
  Able Times Alliance Store

I just think the Logo fits Able Times Alliance. An Alliance who Advocates for those who would like their goals met, either in a life situation or within an agency. A time frame; comfortably meeting the individual's needs of assessment. Encouraging and enhancing one's life to live equal as another.

My Journey continue's for many more years as I Advocate, for other's. It is my mission of life. I will continue to Move on in hopes to become totally Barrier Free for ALL. Join me and many other's to assist those with questions and or concerns. We have come a long way from institutions, discrimination and barriers. Let's continue moving and remove the Barriers that limit our success together.
Everyday is an education, that's what makes the World go around ~~ psherwood

“The Next Step” « Mysti2009's Blog

2012-07-11T14:44:00.001-07:00

“The Next Step” « Mysti2009's Blog:

'via Blog this'

The Next Step

2012-07-11T13:51:00.001-07:00

The Next Step: Able Times was Founded in 2008. Our Mission is to support individual's who has a need for Equal Access opportunities. We want to ensure Agencies are held accountable in

My 3 "P" s

2012-06-08T10:35:00.000-07:00

Persistence, Perseverance,and Positiveness; are strength's to live by. While posting for those who continually face daily challenge's, and finding it difficult to overcome. I found these words to be extremely true, from experience. I would like to share my thought. After all, my best writing comes from an instant thought.

Overcoming obstacle's takes persistence. You must find in your mind, that strong atom you have in there; by feeding it with positiveness and perseverance. The endurance, to withstand the worst that could be. With these qualities, you can begin, how do I say; feel emotionally relieved from the pressures of life. I am not sure if that makes sense; but it just came right out of my lips.

I found; prior to writing here in the Green Room; which was introduced to me from an acquaintance here online; (Eileen). I even remembered her name! The power of vitamins, they do "work"! ADD tends to have writer's digress at times. Bear with me as I get back on track.

Since becoming online a few years ago; researching a niche for "Penny", I failed at
pursuing a lifestyle that expresses one's self. OK, so I took that one from the dictionary. I couldn't think of the term I wanted to use. But, it is true. However, with the obstacle's that were before me, I challenged with persistence. My prior failures were just merely lesson's that could be accomplished in a different way.

With this in mind, I have grown with knowledge that I didn't have before. Clearing out the old and bringing in the new. This is about the simplest form of explanation I can come up with. Replenishing your body with healthy food and plenty of liquid. Taking a vitamin or two. Keeping a log of your growth with your physician and continuing educating your brain for a longer lifespan. This is all true. If we could instill this in the younger generations. This ol' World would be a much more loving space. So keep reading my articles, besides they teach awareness and educate those atom's we have up in that brain of ours.

So this my Friend, is the Story of my "3" P's. Remember, persistence means: continued effort. Not all at once! Space is healthy! Perseverance means: steady persistence in a course of action, especially in spite of difficulties, obstacles, or discouragement. "Perfect"! And last but not least, Positiveness: tending towards progress or improvement; moving in a beneficial direction. "Yes", all these with endurance can lead to quality way of life. Endurance means: the ability or strength to continue or last, bearing pain, and/or hardships.

Please; before you decide to jump right in with the "3" P's of living, check with your physician to be sure your health is in great shape towards excellence. It is up to you to make a difference. "Together We Can and Together We Will, Become Barrier Free" ~~ psherwood

Able Times Alliance

Able Times

2012-04-25T14:35:00.001-07:00

Able Times: Able times is a FaceBook page created to inform those who face daily challenges. It is to provide information to enhance lives. Together we can Spread Awareness and Education

All Proceeds go towards Able Times Alliance and it's Services to Provide Information and/or Advocacy upon request. Captionware for Able Times Alliance Video's are required for equal access to All.

Thank you for you support,
Penny Sherwood, Founder/Activist

With your help we can assist those to become empowered and enriched by educating an equal way of living. ~~ psherwood

"The Lost One"

2012-04-17T10:36:00.000-07:00

I wanted to jot this down before I forgot where my mind was during this thought. Yesterday, I was checking on my own personal improvements in life, as I know. This of course meant, many aspects of growth. For example, education, marriage, homelife, children (if you have them), spending habits etc. I know this is not making any sense, but; do any of my articles make any sense?

While I was reminicing on these past few years...hmmm almost 4 since living in this home. I looked back at my own personal growth and where I was and whom I have become. I will have to admit; I was, "The Lost One". My path, I chose may or may have not been educating, perfect, legal, exciting,or too exciting to many, but it is mine. I have grown tremendously from it, as many other "Lost One's".

I want to express that where ever you are in your timeline of life, try to move on with progress. Sometimes we may stop, to sit and rest or simply cry from our Lost Past, but remember it is only for a moment and it is your timeline that you have created. You are the change of your own being!

This was important to me to write this down. Many may not understand because they were not "Lost" along the way. For those who can relate; it may take minutes, hours or even years to notice the progress you've made during your path. But always remember it was your strength and endurance to make the change and to grow with Love of yourself.

As a writer jots down on his notepad. "Be Kind to Yourself". I will add, "Along the Way you will see Light and Joy",, you'll see!

My Colorful Life.

2012-04-13T11:10:00.000-07:00

My Journey of Life could be looked at as a complicated situation leaving your own thoughts in tears. Personally, I have managed quite well at times during this colorful passage. I will begin as an Adult. My life was Peace signs and Happy Faces with not a worry in the World. Lively as can be, bouncing around like a bee in and out of positive and negative situations. I found difficulties with education to follow me through to College as well, along with Employment issues. While floating enduring at that time unnoticeable pain, I continued to flow like the Waters in the Rivers to the Sea.

How I managed to stay a law abiding citizen was beyond me, but I can say I am not a criminal thinking type of person. However, I was with in reach a time or two I won't deny, but lucky for my Colorful World, I was able to fly. If you are wondering if I floated through this mission alone, I have to say I also struggled alone. My life was up and down with a continuous rise, I see with my colorful eyes. I wandered and wondered throughout the Journey of life; was it suppose to be as mine?

With a constant spinning of ideas roaming through life, I found my biggest struggle right there before my eyes. A barrier, obstacle, boulder you say, that stops life in every way. I swayed here and swayed there to get somewhere, but the time grew longer to my despair.

Years go by in an instant they say. As of today, I agree without a doubt if I may. My rhyming continues to be without rhythm but, my life is still colorful with every glisten.

I am not sure as to where this story came from today. But I hope you enjoyed this part of your way. Think of my abilities of a colorful life to which I can fly without a strife. I do become lonely some parts of the day and I cry when I hurt this I can say.

I laugh and I play, while giving my all. My struggles go on each time I fall. I'm not sure what lifts me to Rise and to Shine but whatever it is, is extremely Divine.

I am a "Person First"

2012-03-21T12:28:00.001-07:00

6th Floor View from a Hospital in California

Able Times Alliance

2012-02-24T21:49:00.000-08:00

Able Times was created to provide updated news and information about disabilities. To educate those with questions or concerns regarding their living arrangements, education, employment, may be accessing public entities, service animals, travelling etc. Living life equal is not only a right but humane. If your living in a tossed confused way of life. Link yourself with Able Time's sister pages as well. Disabled Titles posts about Laws, may vary from Country to Country. Able II: a page to express yourself, by writing, painting, photography etc. All of these pages can be found on Facebook. Make a Difference! Join a group in your area to assist other's who face challenge's every day. Write emails to your local Senator when you feel strong about a Bill. Be a Voice for those who cannot. Together We Can and Together We Will. Break down the Barrier's of Access to Living.

Am I Change

2012-01-22T22:42:00.000-08:00

I was going to write about something very important the other day. By the time I was able to get to my writing room, I had forgotten the whole damn story. I realized that I need a note taker: a person who takes notes. Or an iPad 2. I can roughly remember that it was important to me, because my mind was irritated at the thought of not remembering, to put into words on paper. Now when you are that close to your forgotten story it gets upsetting for some writer's, me for one. I decided to write about "CHANGE". I'm not sure why, but for some reason, I feel change. Is it me, the World, people who surround me or as I said me. Keep that thought and let me explain. I was invited to a Movement of Occupying the Courts the other day. I've been following this movement globally. Sure, it has its ups and downs, but for the most part the People "ARE" making a Difference. Take for instance Congress, Electives, Corporations, and Free SPEECH and WILL. As my Son and I attended this event in our hometown, I (being a very visual person) watched the expression's, and movement's of everything. Example: people, buses, traffic, police, attorney's, jury's, reporter's etc. It was amazing how fast paced this Movement was changing people's lives. A switch in protester's, different version's of a speech, thought's of life as it should be, addressed. All this made me wonder about myself, and the story I (SO) wanted to write. I know it was awesome because it came from my brain. It made sense and I wanted to tell it. I looked back at these past 2 years to see what has changed, and this is what I came up with. I decided: I am "Change"! That being said, I will explain what that means, at least to me and my ongoing life. Presently, I'm an Online Advocate assisting those facing Challenge's with news and information and educating those who have questions. I do this voluntarily as part of my Journey. It is part of "Me" that I share as a learning experience to become empowered to live life equal as other's. In order for this to happen "Change" has to happen. Our President, stated years ago about "CHANGE". Well that is all good, but it cannot be done unless a person want's this "Change". As I see it, those who Occupy are the ONES who are CHANGE and that is how I noticed myself. You may not understand just what I have said in the last paragraph and that is to be expected. It is like a "Penny" puzzler, something you have to re-read a few times. I don't do this to be hateful or spiteful, but to rather get the attention of people. Say, I reached one in 1000 with this article today. Would you say I made a difference? Could you see the "Change" in that person's life? Are you curious? Well of course you are. Being one of my viewers of posts, and readers of article's you would be crazy not to try and figure out what I was trying to create or spread throughout the World. I don't boast or brag about my writings. I don't complain about the critic's either. I accept the editor's advice. I can make the choice to fix, delete, or what? Yep, "Change"; if I wanted the writing to be accepted. Or I can write about "Change" that I have came to understand and accept about "me". This is a lesson in life to be learned, sometimes timely. And you know what, that is ok too, because the story's or art, that is created is amazing to another person of "Change". I am hoping one has been able to understand what "Change" actually is. As for me, I am still learning. So far, I can tell you it does feel pretty darn awesome. A feeling of freedom, in a positive, active way if that makes any sense. Something like "Woodstock" feeling without drugs, but technology that could take you to the moon.

Bring Joy for Christmas

2011-12-17T15:42:00.000-08:00

Today's Story is about hmmmm. I am not sure what I would like to write about, except I want to write. So, I will just write whatever pops into my brain. I posted this to a social site with a response to write about Christmas time. At first, I become sad because of the financial status that I am currently in which tends to upset me. But, I realized I am probably not the only one in this predicament.

The New's; shows so much sadness that it's hard to accept that families go without. Although, many agencies, private sectors, churches, and people tend to become generous to those in need. I wouldn't say I am in need by far, not compared to those who are homeless and hungry, but I do have sadness in my Heart that I cannot contribute to Christmas plates this year. Our family Christmas's consists of; not receiving as much as giving, but this year, we're not able to do that. Our Christmas is going to be extremely limited as well. And to think our Government is 99% responsible for this, is very painful for me.

The greediness of these corporations has families so desperate that it makes them ill. While their children are wondering if they will have a home and food let alone Santa paying them a visit. I know personally, I am sad that I'm not able to do as much for my own family this year. Of course, I will not allow it to bother me to much because we have had some amazing Christmas times.

Families have adjusted themselves to coming together regardless of the good or bad, happy or sad times, during the Holiday's. It's funny how that works. Some fight like cat's and dogs. Other's do not go a day without contact with each other. I believe this is what keeps the Holiday's and Families alive year after year. We've gotten so accustomed to what the government, corporations, and people in general have given us that if it wasn't for Christmas and other Holiday's the turmoil would be more than one could endure.

If you are able to provide your neighbor with a plate, maybe wrap a gift for a child, please find it in your heart to do so. These past year's have been very hard on all of us. We cannot afford not to be nice this time of the year. Tear's fall from those you don't even know, saddened by our economic status. I know, that even though, I cannot provide plates there is something that I may be able to do and I will. Even if I have to wrap one of my own personal Movie's as a gift in aluminum foil. It Will bring Joy. Anything you can do will bring Joy to someone's Christmas.