Saturday, December 31, 2011

Is This The End?

Hello Readers,

Can it be? Yes, after six month of absence I am writing again!

It took me a while to get here but it is a very important task to write for you today. It's the last day of 2011 and there are few things I ponder about today that I'd like to share with you.

First of all, I would like to thank you for all of the support in 2011. This was a first year for Current Woman and although she did not quite met all of her goals she did allright.



Secondly, there are few things we need to catch up on for the last six month. I promise to inform you about some of the events that took place and why I was missing for so long. One thing to add is that this is the only promise I'll make.

Thirdly and most importantly, there are few things that I'd like to share with you. I hope you listen to these words of wisdom (yes, I said it). Here we go.

2011 is at the end. How was your year? Have you made resolutions for 2011? Have you met your goals? Are you preparing new goals for 2012?

Look, I am not sure about your year (would love to hear about it thought) and if you met all of your goals (I sure would love to hear about that as well). One thing I'll say either way you are GREAT and you are HERE, at the end of 2011.

I really hope that you had a fantastic year all around and are very pleased with all you've accomplished. You should be proud of yourself! There are too many things that can run us over or derail us. It does not matter. You should remember that you are always in control. You are the master of the outcome that you want.

My year was strange. It started with great enthusiasm and finishes with many realizations. There were many lessons that I've learned this year. Two major lesson are that my family and friends mean life to me and that life is too short and you need to cherish every moment of it.

Now, I do not want this to be a negative message on the last day of the year. This is not the intention here. I simply want to remind all of you that you need to LOVE YOURSELF, you need to RESPECT YOURSELF and most importantly you need to LIVE! LIFE IS BEAUTIFUL and SO ARE YOU!

Here is my wish for you for 2012:

- HEALTH (for you)
- HEALTH (for your family)                             
- HEALTH (for your friends)
- LOVE
- RESPECT

Redundant? Perhaps. But these are the most important things that you need to start with. If you have all of the above you'll have success, fame and fortune. And of course whatever else that you are wishing for.

I am looking forward to 2012 and interacting with you. There are few things that I'd like to accomplish this coming year but would not brag about what they are. Let it be part of a mystery (got to keep things interesting somehow). I'll share one thing with you. This is how I am finishing my 2011





This is not the end but just the beginning!

Have a healthy, loving, successful and safe 2012!

And remember,

Be Active! Be Involved! Be a Current Woman!

Monday, July 25, 2011

How Do We Stop This?

I am very sad, upset and angry. Of course you would like to know what makes me feel this way. I am a very positive, friendly and cheerful person. So, what's up with negativity?

It can be described by one word, SUBSTANCES. Yes, substances. And here is why I feel so negative about them: they take lives away; they destroy families; they rob individuals of childhood, happiness and just normal life, and they rob the world of talent.

As you might have already heard, thanks to substances we lost another talented person, Amy Winehouse. Yes, she was troubled on many levels but she was a huge musical talent. In her short life she amused and entertained us. She reached the top of the musical achievement, Grammy Award. She also paved road to the British artists such as Duffy and Adele.

But let's not forget that she was a daughter, an aunt and a friend. She was a disturbed and vulnerable person. She was an addict. She was addicted to substances. And she succumbed to them at an early age of 27. Another member of Club 27. Who could ever forget the lyrics of "Rehab": "Yes, I've been black but when I come back you'll know, know, know." Yes Amy, you are back on the top but for a wrong reason.

Unfortunately, the faith of many celebrities is similar to Amy's. Here are just a few big names: Michael Jackson, Heath Ledger, Janice Joplin, Jimi Hendrix, Jim Morrison, Kurt Cobain, Brittany Murphy. Ok, some of them were accidental. But we are still talking about abuse.

The names above are the people that are well known. But we should not forget regular people. People that live among us, people that are effected by the substances and people that are effected by the abusers. This could be your family, friends or even just someone you know.

Why should I care? Well, I have been personally effected by this. My family had a share of trouble and few death related to substance abuse. My son lost his father to substance abuse. Everyday when I deal with my son I see more and more of his Dad in him. There are many good things but there is that scary thought at the back of my mind, what if?

This is a very uncomfortable and disturbing feeling and I will not wish it on anyone. I like to be in control and watching people loosing control of their lives is especially difficult for me. But as I've learned over the years you cannot control the addict. Unfortunately, there are only two ways to resolve this, to come to your senses or to die. It is very black and white, there is no grey area.

So, how can we stop this? I do no have an exact answer but I have been educating myself. And from what I've learned many people need to be scared, need to be put in the corner, need to face the consequences and of course need to be shown that they're loved. Not to be enabler, love. We already know that this does not work with everyone but there are those people that still can be saved.

My son is a teenager and it amazes me how many substances kids in high school are exposed to. I was in shock at first but then I did what I always do, I educated myself. I spoke with councilors, I took some courses, I did some reading. Most importantly, I taught my son to be opened with me at all times, tell me the truth no matter what. And it works, some times are more difficult then others ("Mom, I did not want to tell you because you'll freak out") and some times I don't even have to ask, information just pours out.

But I talk, I ask, I watch. I know there is that "bad gene" and it scares me. And yes, my son gets reminders from me about that. I know I cannot control Daniel's life but I know that talking about it will help him. There is no doubt he will try some things, I did when I was younger, but abusing? I hope he knows better.

What about you? Have you dealt with this issue personally? Have you found a solution? Do you have an advise? I'd love to hear from you. We all can learn from each other.

Thank you again Wikipedia. Of yes, don't forget the poll. It is just at the bottom of the page.

Have a safe and wonderful day, and remember....

Be Active! Be Involved! Be a Current Woman!

Tuesday, July 19, 2011

Guilty!

Any guesses of what this post is about? It can be about so many "guilty things" during this troublesome time in the world. But no, it's not about Rupert and James Murdoch and The Newsworld, it's not about Cassey Anthony (I cannot even believe that this actually have taken place), and it's not about the man that I admired, Arnold Schwarzenegger. It is about you and me and any woman out there that is feeling guilty about taking some time off.

I am 100% sure that it happened to you many many times. The GUILT of doing nothing. The feeling of shame and discuss, "HOW DARE YOU!" The time of life wasted on rest and relaxation. "WHAT WAS I THINKING?" Are you with me?

Ok, may be not all of us feel this way. I know that most of the time I do not. But last day and a half I've tormented myself about taking few hours off.

Life has been very hectic for the last few month: school, exams, marketing campaign, clients, Current Woman and of course family. Most of it at the same time. Don't get me wrong, I LOVE my life. It is filled with everything I enjoy and I would not change it for anything (well, may be just a bit more time off). I am also aware that there are many women in the world that deal with exact same scenarios every single day.

That brings me to the question, do they feel guilty for taking time off?

What is time off and why do I need it anyway? Well, as some of you might now I am in real estate. This usually means that I work when everyone else is off. Weekends? Yes, please! Evenings? Count me in! But there is also a lot more work takes place behind the scenes. It all happens during the time when regular people are at work. So, in reality I do not have official time off (unless I book something myself). And working for myself means no work, no pay. And pay is required for those things called bills.

So, do I really need time off? ABSOLUTELY! Time off gives me a chance to relax my body and most importantly to refresh my mind. In both of my businesses my mind is the powerful weapon. I am a creative person and need time to create. I have many ideas that just waiting to be implemented and that requires time. My ideas require marketing that take careful preparation and time.

This is where the time off becomes very handy. It gives me a chance to clear and refresh my mind and implement all I'd like to accomplish (last night I cleaned a big pile of papers that accumulated from my real estate dealings and here I am writing a new post today).

Then, why do I feel guilty for doing something that I need in my life? Why do I stress out about something that actually helps me?

Honestly, I don't know. Could it be that there is still so much to do? Could it be that the perfectionist in me still fighting for the right to survive? Could it be our society that pushes us for bigger and better?

Whatever it is, all of us will have our own answer. The most important thing to remember is to listen to your body and remember that we are only humans. We get busy, we get tired, we get overwhelmed, we get vulnerable. And being vulnerable can lead to the feeling of guilt.

So, take my advise, take that time off and do not feel guilty! Restful you, makes a happier world!

I'd love to know if you have the same feeling and how do you deal with it. Please leave a comment.

In the mean time, have a fantastic day and remember,

Be Active! Be Involved! Be a Current Woman!

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

Has It Been Done Yet?

Here is another beautiful summer day in Ottawa. Thank you planet Earth for making it enjoyable summer so far. My tan is looking fabulous!

Now, to more serious stuff.

Today, I'd like to discuss something that us entrepreneurs, marketers, sellers, professionals and creative people come across almost everyday. There are many inventors and many inventions, there are many ideas that have already been implemented, arts and music seen it all. Thus, comes the question, has it been done yet?

Well, let's see:

First the wheel was invented. Then came all things wheel related: wheelbarrow, steering wheel, Wheel of Fortune, Ferris Wheel, etc., etc., etc.

First came the egg (or was it the chicken?). Then came eggs and bacon, hard boiled eggs, eggs over easy, Egg McMuffin, omelet, even egg whites scrambled eggs.

First came the coffee bean. Then came coffee, espresso, cappuccino, cafe latte, iced coffee, iced cappuccino, etc.

Do you get my drift? It has not been done yet. Actually, let me re-phrase it, there is still so much that can be done.

Everyday there are new inventions, books, music, art. And there is always buzz about any new arrivals. They are shinny and exciting. And if they are successful there is always someone to point that these new arrivals remind them about something that's already exist. Few examples are cell phones, TVs, songs, movies, books, clothing, styles.

Well, let me tell you, I built on something that has been already done. For me to be creative, I need to know what has been done. That way I can do more.

Think about it. Madonna - Lady Gaga, Picasso - Alexandra Nechita (little Picasso), Harry Potter - Twilight series.

Saying that, I recognize the followers as very talented individuals with their own ideas and approach. They were all inspired by the already accomplished musician, artist and writer. Inspiration comes in many ways and from many places. One of those places is the past.

Yes, past gives us memories. But that's not all. Past helps the future, past encourages us to go further and explore, past gives us ambition, past provides support to our imagination. I am sure most of us seen the t-shirt "Been there, done that!". Guess what, go back and you'll find something new. I know I always do. Be it a book, a movie, a place, a country. Everyday world and life is full of surprises.

So, the purpose of this post is to encourage you to go ahead with your ideas. Do not be shy, do not listen to the little voice in your head or other people that might say: "It already has been done." Even if it was, it was not done by you and it did not have your touch. Any idea is a great idea! Make it alive! You just never know what happens next. Oprah anyone?

Go out there and imagine, create, fulfill your dreams, make things happen, live! There are plenty or ideas that are waiting to be discovered and implemented. Why not you?

Let me know how have you overcome the "it's been done" dilemma. I'd love to hear about your lessons from the past that generated ideas for the future.

Have a fantastic day and remember,

Be Active! Be Involved! Be a Current Woman!

Friday, June 17, 2011

I Am Still Here

Hello my dear readers,

I know that it's been almost a month since my last post. And I know that you missed me terribly (did you really?). I am also aware that you are still visiting and spreading the word around (I finally broke into South America!). For that I am GRATEFUL!

Now, remember back at the beginning of the year we discussed goal achievement tactics. Right. So, here I am implementing this tactics once again in my life. Life got in the way once again.

And since I cannot bare to leave you unaware of what's going on, here is just a small update.

There is some re-structuring taking place in my life at this time. Crossroads you say? Not exactly. I am just in the process of "adjustment" that will make my life better and I'll be able to help even more people. Yes, it has to do with my profession in  real estate and Current Woman.

Unfortunately, this transition takes quite a bit of my time right now. But I know that it will help in the long run. So, please be patient and keep the great job of following me. And I promise that there will be couple of new posts in the next few days.

Thank you for your loyalty, trust and belief! This is just the beginning for you and I!

Have a fantastic day and remember,

Be Active! Be Involved! Be a Current Woman!

Wednesday, May 25, 2011

Canadian Real Estate News May 2011

Can you believe it's almost the end of May already? But what's up with this rainy cool weather? I guess spring was not meant to be this year.

Well, with the strange weather patterns Canadian Real Estate still chugging along. Sales are slightly down comparing with April of 2010 but the average price is up. It is tough to compare last year's sales to the spring of this year. Introduction of HST in July 2010 and changes to the downpayment requirements for investment properties created a buying frenzy that started in February 2010 and did not end till June 2010. So, I think it is not a true comparison. But numbers are up from March 2011.

Ottawa market is healthy. There is a good balance between sellers and buyers. One interesting fact, there is an increased interest from the first-time buyers. With increased inventory of re-sale homes this provides many great buying opportunities for this group. So, if you are one of those people, I could help you to find that first home. A big thank you is going to Ottawa Real Estate Board for providing this information.

By the way, if you still not sure if you've done all of your house spring checks just refer to Canadian Real Estate News May 2011.

Don't forget to contact me at olgadewar@rogers.com or (613) 862-1366 if you have any questions relating to real estate.

Have a fantastic day and remember,

Be Active! Be Involved! Be a Current Woman! 

Tuesday, May 24, 2011

Are They Even Listening?

We talk and we talk, and we talk some more. But do they listen?

You are probably wondering who I am taking about. Well, they are in the news again, the "monsters". Yes, this is another post about teenagers.

I simply would like to share another of my observations with all of the parents out there. As a mom of a teenage boy, I know that at times it is frustrating not knowing if your child is just like another teenager or completely different.

Today's subject is "Listening Skills". Do they exist in teenager's brain?

So, let's see. You are a responsible and caring parent who wants the best for your child. And so, you would love to help your child to make better choices in life. And of course in your mind the best approach is communicating with your child. And what is the best way of communication? Conversation of course.

You as an adult mastered this trade. So, you put on your professor's hat and start the conversation. You start with careful approach and step by step come to climax of the story, while all of a sudden you hear something like this: "Mom, are you talking to me?"

WHAT? What do you mean if I am talking to you? Who do you think I've been talking to for the last ten minutes? Have you heard a thing I said?

Or here is another one. You are absolutely sure that your words are heard loud and clear. You are emphasizing every important letter and phrase. You are inspiring! Oh so you think. Your object's of affection ears are occupied by earphones from IPod. " Are you even listening?"

Guess what, they are listening. Look, it might not be "cool" to show you that they are listening, it might not be the "good time" for them ("I am chatting with David about the new Dirt III:) , the "right words" ("Mom I dont' even know what it means") or even the "same language" ("OMG! LOL! Rents r in."). There is no need to go on. If you have one of these "monsters" in your house you know exactly what I am talking about.

The point is, they are listening. They hear every word you say to them. And one day they surprise you with what they actually heard and how they actually applied what they've learned from your one-sided conversations.

Now, approach this matter with caution. You would not want to scare away this extraordinary creature with your knowledge. So, here are few tips for you to follow:

1. Talk to your teenagers. You are the best source of useful information for them (although they do not think so at the time).
2. Do not be afraid to tell them about the mistakes you made ("When I was your age..."). This will bring you down from the pedestal they think you are on.
3. Do not try to be "cool". ("Really Mom? Really?")
4. Do not try to use their lingo. You might use it incorrectly. (LOL means "laugh out loud", not "lots of love").
5. Do not try to bring up important subjects at the dinner table (you might loose your appetite).
6. Do not bring up important subjects before school or before bedtime (I don't think this needs explanation).
7. The best time to talk to them is when you're one-on-one. (In the car to a hockey tournament, in the car to the shopping mall, in the car to visit a friend, etc. They have nowhere to run and all they can do is listen).
8. The last and most important tip. Talk to them, they are listening!

Hope you can use few of my tips. What I'd like to know now, is how do you approach your conversations with teenagers and how do you "make" them listen? Do you have any tips to share? What are your tricks?

Please let me know. There are many parents that will be very grateful for your input.

Have a fantastic day and remember,

Be Active! Be Involved! Be a Current Woman!

Monday, May 9, 2011

In ......... We Trust!

Remember the last weekend of April? It started with an absolutely beautiful couple in love getting married and concluded with the most wanted man in the world being killed. Enough excitement for you?

Today, I'd like to discuss something that has been triggered in me by my son. I'd like to talk about trust. Yes, just that.

It's a small word but with a lot of meaning. The most interesting part of this word is that it can be interpreted as a believe or believing in something. And that's exactly what I'd like to discuss.

There are many things people believe in. They believe in God, karma, power above, energy of the universe. People also believe in what they hear, well most of the time.

So, what got me thinking is my son's comment on the situation with Osama Bin Laden. Daniel and I were watching Celebrity Apprentice when the breaking news informed us about Bin Laden's demise. We switched to the news and with every minute we were discovering more details. There was an announcement that Bin Laden has been killed and buried in the sea. It's at that moment that my son said following: "How do we know it's not US government conspiracy?"

Very good question! How do we know it is true? Well, we don't. We believe that this is true because American government told us so. Because we live in the world that taught us that government and media something to believe in. And we are taught that media is the place to get the most current information from. So....

Another interesting aspect is religion. Is there really a proof of God? Is the Bible, Quran or Torah really the historical facts? Is there one God or is there one for every religion?

Here is something else. We've all been kids. And the word of a parent or of an adult was the word of truth. Now, as adults we realize that some of the things our parents told us were not necessarily true (yes, most of the lies were white lies to protects us).

And what about exrtaterestial life? Is it out there? There are many interesting facts that seem to prove so. There is even a theory that we originated from ETs. How do we know if this is true or not?

Look, I am not trying to cause any controversy or bash any beliefs. I am a believer in many things. As a matter of fact, I think I am pretty gullible, I trust a lot of people (well, I got better with age). Growing up in the Communist regime I believe that anything outside USSR boarders was evil. Because Soviet Union government told me so. Now I laugh about it.

Also, I have a great respect for people's beliefs, whatever they might be. I am very lucky to live in Canada that allows people to follow their beliefs. I think it is absolutely wonderful that there is so much diversity in the world. It will be pretty boring if all believed the same.

In conclusion, I'd like to encourage you to believe. Believe in what you think makes you happy. Believe in what you think makes you healthy. Believe in what you think makes your life wonderful. Believe in what you think is best for you. Most importantly, believe in yourself!

I'd love to hear what your thoughts are on this subject. I love and embrace diversity and would love to hear your opinion.

Have a fantastic day and remember,

Be Active! Be Involved! Be a Current Woman!

BTW, thank you again Wikipedia.

Sunday, May 8, 2011

Happy Mother's Day!

Happy Mother's Day to all the mothers in the world!

Well, not the whole world is celebrating this holiday today. England's, Ireland's and Nigeria's Mother's Day was celebrated on April 3rd. Spain, Hungary and Lithuania continued on May 1st. Russia will be joining the party on November 27th (hey, I just learned that!). And of course, Canada and the United States celebrating Mother's Day today.

Yes, Mother's Day is celebrated around the world and all year round. But do we really need to wait for that special day to celebrate Moms? Do we really need to wait for that special day to give them presents? Do we really need to wait for that special day to thank our Moms?

If you still don't know the answer to these questions, here is a tip for you - if not for your Mom, you will not be here. Is it clear enough for you now? Seriously, it all starts with your birth. Oh wait! It actually starts with your Mom's egg.

Yep! Imagine you as an egg. Hahaha! Now imagine your Mom. Yes, your Mom just realized that she is expecting you. She is ecstatic and scared. She cannot to wait to meet you but also very worried, she wants to be the best mother there is and trying to figure out how to do that.

She has nine month to do some serious sacrificing. No nice relaxing bath, no glasses of wine, no sushi and no coffee. Now, can you imagine going without any of these items just for a couple of weeks?

Next, Mom's clothes is getting smaller. It is getting harder and harder to go up and down the stairs. It's tough to find a comfortable position to sleep in. And don't get her started on those gas issues. Yep! It's all thanks to you.

We are finally at the end of it all. You are on your way. Sure it's not the most comfortable ride for you but what about your Mom? Can you imagine her situation? Displaced internal organs, body stretching to the unimaginable sizes and pain. Ouch!

Ok. I can go on and on, but I think you get the point. This is the beginning of your life and it was given to you by your Mom. This adventure with your Mom started way before your birth. You have a special connection. It's not just physical, it is also emotional and spiritual. You complete each other.

I know, I know! Some of you are going to say: "Oh common!" That means you have not matured yet. It takes time and experience. And guess what, your Mom has it.

So, call your Mom. Thank her for bringing you to this world. Tell her that you love her. And do it more often. Your Mom has done a lot just to bring you to this world. You owe a world to her!

In closing, I'd like to wish all the mothers in the world HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY. No matter when you celebrate it. You are beautiful, sophisticated, courageous, hard working and all around amazing. Thank you for giving me life! I LOVE YOU!

To all the Moms out there, enjoy your day and remember,

Be Active! Ba Involved! Be a Current Woman!

Thursday, May 5, 2011

100 Reasons for 100 Years, Reason Five

Today, I'd like to re-introduce you to one of my favorite Business Woman, Mompreneur, Author, Blogger, Radio Correspondent, Speaker, and Mentor. I was very fortunate to score an interview with this very busy amazing woman. So, without any further delay, re-introducing Erica Diamond.

Olga: Erica, in a short period of time you've accomplished many endeavors. What drives you to be a business woman of your caliber?

Erica: This is a very good question. I've never been asked this. Honestly, I think it's genetic. My parents are very accomplished individuals: my Dad is a successful businessmen and my Mom is a Therapist. So, from the early age I've been exposed to "drive" in the flesh. And I kinda live by the motto "Go hard or go hard".

Olga: It is very important to have a mentor in any endeavour. What is your advice on finding a mentor and what to look for in one?

Erica: Mentors are very important. The best thing to do, is to find someone that is an expert in your field of interest. This should be a person that has accomplished success before you and is a good teacher. Your mentor should also be able to open some doors for you.

Make a wish list of who you would want as a mentor, and start there via telephone or reach out via email.  There are many resources on-line as well.

Olga: Just like a Woman on the Fence, you carry many roles. How do you find the time?

Erica: Hahaha! It is hard! Very, very hard! My keys are focus, discipline and the support of my loved ones. One of the most important thing is to take time for you. Schedule that time! It is very important for your sanity, health and creativity.

My escape comes in the form of the gym 3-4 times a week, or whenever I can schedule in an hour of "me time". Trust me, there are days that I literally have to drag myself to the gym. But, this is my time, no Blackberry, no email, no phone, just me and the gym. A little bit of nightly "me time" comes after my boys go to bed - I have a nightly bath, watch some TV and spend time with my husband. There are a few other things that you can do to keep a healthy mind and body: ask your loved ones to take care of kids once in a while, get together with your friends, take that walk, treat yourself to a manicure. As multitasking women and moms, often the pace is so frenetic, so "you time" becomes extremely important.

99 Things Women Wish They Knew Before Starting Their Own BusinessOlga: I understand that you recently published your first book. What urged you to write the book and was it difficult?

Erica: Funny story. It all started with my husband getting sick and needing to go to the hospital, we suspected that he had    H1N1. In the waiting room I was sitting next to a woman that brought her daughter in for exact the same reason. We started chatting, and Helen Georgaklis, the founder of 99 Book Series reached out to me the very next day to write a business book for women. I loved the whole concept of the Series, I jumped at the opportunity. The hardest part was writing the outline. Once that was done, the words flew out of me at lightning speed.

Olga: As one of the reasons of "100 Reasons for 100 Years", what would be your definition of a current woman?

Erica: A Current Woman is a woman that goes through life with honesty, integrity, hard work, poise and grace. We all have busy lives and many responsibilities. I do not believe in the perfect woman. Instead of striving for perfection, strive for excellence, and do the best you can, with what you've got.

Olga: Erica, you have knowledge, experience and success. How do you give back to the "world"?

Erica: I give back to the universe in a few ways:
Firstly, my time. I’m a serial volunteer in my community, working on many charity efforts, as well as sitting on the board of my sons’ school. I give back through money – charity. I give back through my work- speaking, blog, book, radio... hoping that my words, as well as the words of the experts on my site will help women realize greatness and help them to become the best they can be.

Olga: Last question. I am sure all of your followers will be interested in this question. What is the near future for Women On The Fence?

Erica: The goal is to spread The Women On The Fence message and brand, and continue to help women around the world in all aspects of their lives - career, health, marriage, with kids, friendships, etc... You can already find Erica Diamond and Women On The Fence online, in book format, in speaking format, in radio format. The next area I would love to conquer would be television. Let's wait and see. I have a few things brewing.

Olga: Erica, thank you very much for your time and sharing your experience. I know I am one of the women that will continue following you and your endeavors.

And so, here you have it. Once again Erica Diamond, Current Woman of our time, graciously shared her knowledge and experience with us. Hope you enjoyed the interview, I know I did.

Please let me know about women that you think deserve to be in "100 Reasons for 100 Years" series. You might want to share your story. Let me know. I'll be happy to consider that.

In the mean time, keep up the good work, stay focused and healthy.

Have a fantastic day and remember,

Be Active! Be Involved! Be a Current Women!

Wednesday, April 27, 2011

Is That A "Monster" in Your House?

I am sure that most of you are aware of my interest in Lady Gaga's work. Yes, I am a "little monster". But today, we will be discussing a different type of "monster".

Some of you have them in your house. They are mostly recognized for eating a lot of food, sleeping a lot (careful when waking them up, they might bite), bad memory, disagreeing with everything you say and of course thinking that they know everything better then you. Have you guessed yet? Yes, I am talking about teenagers. And sometimes they seem like "monsters".

I am the lucky "owner" of one of those "things". He is a 16 year old boy. My son Daniel. Don't get me wrong, I love him tremendously. But lately...

One of the biggest issues right now is school. Unfortunately, my son decided that taking less challenging level of courses will be best for him since there is not much work (Homework? What homework?). Now, he is miserable (his own words) at school since this level is not challenging for him and he is bored out of his mind. Thus, come the phone calls from school: "Hello, this is your son's school calling. Your son has been missing from period......". I really hope he's learned the lesson moving forward and will have more enjoyable Grade 12.

Another interesting item is having a job. Daniel has been working since he was 14 years old (none of his friends even had a job at the time). He LOVES downhill mountain biking and plays hockey. So, working at SportMart was the best job: working on bikes, sharpening skates, waxing skies and snowboards. What fun! And don't forget the great discount the whole family gets!

But lately he's barely getting any hours. So, he agreed that he needs another job to "feed" his LOVE of DH (downhill). But here is the dilemma. The weather is getting better and he much rather bike (night and day) then be at some work. Just yesterday we had this interesting conversation. It went like this: "Dan, it's raining, why don't you go and drop off few resumes?" "Well, I want to get a job, but I don't want to go drop off resumes." WHAT??? What does this mean? After several attempts to get an explanation, this is what I got: "You know, I want to get a Ferrari but I can't." WHAT???

Keep it calm and breathe! It will all come together.

Here is another interesting aspect. Trying to have a conversation. It goes something like this:
Question: "How was your day?" (I've read somewhere now that it's the worst question to ask a teenager). Response: "Argh!"
Question: "What are you plans for the weekend?" Response: "Argh!"
Question: "Could I speak with you about....?" Response: "Argh!"
Question: "Who was at the trails (DH)?" Response, you guessed it: "Argh?"

"Monster" anyone?

I don't think there is a point of giving any more examples. Those of us that have these "creatures" in our home know all about them and their behaviour. What I'd like to offer is a solution of how to deal with them. Here are few tips that I use:


- Pick your fights
- Remember yourself as a teenager (now go call your parents and apologies)
- Do not overpower
- Do not nag (repetition only works for small children)
- Try to offer advise starting by "Do you know what I was thinking?"
- Most important, TALK TO THEM (do it when they are in a good mood) and LISTEN TO THEM

They love you, they are just scared to show it. Unless they need something, then lots of love comes your way.

My son is a great kid and I know this is just a phase. We all been there. But he cannot fool me with tough approach. He still loves to cuddle and give hugs and kisses to me for no reason (well, does not happen as often now but still takes place from time to time). He's finally learned that little things matter in life.

Here is the final note. Perhaps you have your own approach and rules. Even if you do, you might want to try one of mine. I also would love to hear from you about your approach and challenges. It says, that it takes a village to raise a child. I hope you are part of my village.

Have a fantastic day and remember,

Be Active! Be Involved! Be a Current Woman! ARGH!

Monday, April 18, 2011

Canadian Real Estate News April 2011

So, it is officially spring and start of a hot time for real estate market. What are the news in Canadian Real Estate this month?

Interestingly enough, the sales in March of 2011 were down 17.6 % comparing to March 2010. But the average single home price (including condominiums) is up to $346,148 (these are Ottawa numbers). This is the picture that is seen across Canada. If you want to find out why you can do that by reading Canadian Real Estate News April 2011. Thank you Ottawa Real Estate Board for the stats.

In the other news, Royal LePage Shelter Foundation is having it's fundraiser throughout Canada on May 14th, 2011 . This organization raises funds for support of shelters for women and ending violence against women and children. Canada, please visit your local Royal LePage office to see where would the fundraiser take place in your city on May 14th, 2011. To find out more about this fantastic organization please read Canadian Real Estate News April 2011. And if you are not in Canada or do not have Royal LePage office in your city, you can still donate here.

Don't miss another important note in this issue. If you are thinking about renovating, see what are the best places in your home to invest in. You might be surprised how a small change can make a big difference.

By the way, if you or anyone you know is interested in finding out about real estate in Ottawa or perhaps looking for a trusted name in real estate in your area, I can help. Would you like to know what your home is really worth? I can provide you with complimentary evaluation. My last listing in Kanata sold in 1 day. It's a great time to sell, there is not much on the market. Contact me at olgadewar@rogers.com or (613) 270-8200 if you'd like more information.

Enjoy the reading!

Have a fantastic day and remember,

Be Active! Be involved! Be a Current Woman!