Unplugged for a day!

I actually don't think of myself as a person who is plugged in to technology in excess.
Today, however, I didnot go on emails, internet, or television.  I did, now upon reflection, use my phone to connect with a doctor, and a friend.

What did I do...

I went to a doctor's appointment.
I had coffee with a friend and we talked face to face (girl time)!
I went on a car ralley with my husband and, our exchange daughter, Ritsuko.

This car ralley was in celebration of a dog's birthday!  Sounds funny as I type it, but this dog- Cooper, turned 12 years old today and in dog years that  is 88 years old (according to the chart at the vet's office).  We, all who gathered in our little British Cars, had a great time following directions and identifying pictures.

Really, the day lifted my spirits! I spent time with people I love and care about!  I rode around our beautiful city and saw new traits on old routes.  I warmed myself next to a small firepit.  I chatted with old friends and listened to young voices. Thanks Alex, I loved teasing you about wearing your Crocs with no socks :)

Yesterday, I said I would try to spend 15 minutes a day learning something new about technology.  Today, I have spent that 15 minutes updating my blog and thinking how great my life is.

I am blessed!  Technology or no technology!

May I never forget how blessed I am!

Today I went to Embracing the Edge, a conference that has allowed me to be me in the big world of technology.  I discovered ...

I have to just try it!
I have to allow myself to be vulnerable
I have to let go of some old conventions - like I have to know the answer before beginning!

Here's the thing...

I tell this to my students all the time.

Time for me to walk my talk

Then I came home and found this TedTalk

Brené Brown: Listening to shame | Video on TED.com