Wednesday, September 27, 2006

May I See Your Licence

Online Computer Courses

Computers are a mandatory part of our world these days. Companies, corporations, homes, schools, you name it; they all take advantage of the almighty computer. These super machines aid all of us in our everyday lives. At this point we would be in turmoil without them. It's become too routine. We're too reliant on our laptops and notebooks. The mere thought of a week without our PCs or Macs can send us to over the edge. With all of the constant computing and upgrading, it is certainly essential to acquire some computer skills. While not all of us are in-depth computer savvy, we do all need a basic understanding of how to work with computers. Fortunately, if you know how to use the Internet, you can attain these skills by taking online computer courses today.
Can you believe that we live in a world where you can take online computer courses? It almost seems absurd. You're learning how to use a computer from a computer. Okay, that may be a tad confusing, but the convenience of it all is golden. Are you one of those parents who have to stay at home? Are you too busy with your current job to attend classes at the local community college or University? Well, this is no big deal. So many college level courses are available online these days. No more hassles with making it to class on time. The heck with fighting the traffic and searching for a parking space. Stay at home on your laptop and learn from the comfort of your couch. Wow, that sounds ideal!
There are a number of online computer courses available to everyone. It's time to jump into cyberspace and sort through your options. If you are not computer savvy, and in fact need online computer courses for future job possibilities, worry no more. The Internet has made it simple. Take simple online computer courses in your spare time and gain a richer understanding of PCs and Macs. You'll learn about essential hardware, and how to use the most common software found in job positions today. No longer will you squint with confusion when someone mentions the word gigabyte or RAM. Learn the necessary skills that are commonly put to use in the job force today. It's time to hop on the Internet and find online computer courses that suit your schedule. That much-desired education is attainable these days without having to head back to campus.

Sunday, September 24, 2006

Career Change

About ten years ago, there was an Oprah Winfrey guest who was discussing the courage one needed to make a career change after working in one career for many years. She mentioned how many evolving individuals make a career change every seven years. She also said something that licensed me to later make a bold move. She said that if you are in a job or discipline you do not like, that is bad for your health, that you were forced into by someone else (parents, for example), that you need only decide you have every right to change jobs…and go for what you REALLY want. I was convinced that having “something to fall back on” after the English major stint was over was imperative, so I studied to teach college composition. It was one of the best gigs in the world, save that the politics suck. At the same time, I had groomed myself as a writer since I was old enough to hold a pencil in my teeth and write on the walls of our modest duplex halls. After ten years of bureaucratic b.s, such as telling staff there was such a budget deficit that they would have to do some massive layoffs—then six months later were adding buildings and hiring into high-end administrative positions, I took the offer (a kind of golden handshake for those too young to retire) to give up my job(s) at the college. I did so not only that older colleagues with homes and mortgages and kids and whatnot needed to keep their positions, but because I never had, after a twelve- to fifteen-hour day, time for my deepest passion, writing. It took guts, also called intestinal fortitude by my high school English instructor, to make such a dramatic career change. It also is supposed to take capital, of which I had none (and I am NOT exaggerating—had about twelve bucks all tolled). But I had internalized the career change advice of the Oprah guest that many years back (a guest whom I cannot recall a name for, so I apologize). And I had made the career change as an adjustment, but more, as a reclamation of what my soul pointed toward doing to begin with. I wish the same desire to eclipse should/would/could voices in you and give you the impetus to make that career change for the better! Granted, there were at first many times—that first transition year, especially--whereby I felt anxious, terrified, where I felt guilty, where I got overwhelmed, or where I got depressed. These times get fewer and farther between, and they come with less impact as time passes and I get further from the career change date(s). These emotions are normal, actually. According to Eileen McDargh, author of HOW to WORK for a LIVING and STILL BE FREE to LIVE (a book I just found a month or so ago, which I hope is still in print for you to find as well), these emotions are natural for individuals making a career change or making the decision to be “faithful to our giftedness, our ‘work’.” McDargh also follows up the discussion of the negative manifestations as a result of career change with empowering details on our 1)faith; 2)self-esteem and confidence; and 3) willingness to risk. For that, dear soldier of commerce or creativity, is what career change rests most soundly upon.

Friday, September 22, 2006

Las Vegas Entertainment

Ever been to Vegas? If the answer is no, than you'd better take the plunge. It may be called Sin City, but believe me it's worth the corruption. For decades, travelers and gamblers alike have ventured down to the desert city loaded with possibilities. No matter what you're looking for, you'll find it in Vegas. From shows to casinos, you can experience a variety of entertainment. Las Vegas entertainment is practically incomparable. This city of lights will keep you up all night.
Okay, I've been to Manhattan to take in the theater, and I've been down to Cali to surf the waves, but neither compared to the time I had in Vegas. There's just something about its allure. It's like all bets are off when it comes to having a good time. Not to sound cliche, but I love the show girls. How can you not love this classic form of Las Vegas entertainment? The lights, the dancing, the skimpy clothes, it's a memory that sticks with you. The true appeal of this bright city is not necessarily the Blackjack. Las Vegas entertainment certainly branches beyond the Craps and cards. I found the sites the most appealing. My buddies and I explored this city until we couldn't walk no more. Now granted, you can bump into some shady areas, which I do recommend steering clear of for your own safety, but the city overall is fascinating.
Another form of Las Vegas entertainment is the nightlife. If you're young and love those club scenes, check out what Vegas has to offer. I don't care if you're from New York City, you'll encounter something new. This is where I certainly had a blast. It's hard to compete with those crazy club goers and alcohol.
Many of us head to Vegas in search of some form of entertainment. Whether you wish to gamble or not is really irrelevant. You don't have to go to Vegas to gamble. There are endless possibilities when it comes to being entertained and having a great time. A sweet yearly attraction for me is the Las Vegas Classic knife show. We're talking the biggest knife makers in the business. The tables of custom steel are endless. I would head back simply for that. My wife of course is hardly entertained by this artistic display, but she can always hit up the infinite local shops in search of highly unneeded clothing.

Monday, September 18, 2006

Ideia