Awkwardness on an Elevator: Don’t Just Bob Your Head to Elevator Music

The next time you’re on an elevator when the door closes and it’s just you and another person, or several people, I dare you to say something. Elevator rides can be the most awkward and uncomfortable environments on the planet, and the music doesn’t help the silence.

You’re in a small confined space where seconds feel like hours, and you can’t wait for the doors to open to inhale what you believe to be fresh air. Instead of fixating on the awkwardness, do something about it. Take time to tell someone you like their shirt, glasses, or shoes.

I’m a believer that opportunities and partnerships can be developed on elevator rides. These partnerships can lead to networking opportunities. You never know who will be in the elevator with you, and it could change your life for the better.

The next time you’re taking the elevator up to the 15th floor in silence, break the ice and say something kind to brighten someone’s day, and possibly further advance your career.

Published Elephant Journal.

Car Thieves Terrorize Southwest Daycare

I was glued to the daycare surveillance video motionless, as I watched the unidentified man open my car door and snatch my purse. “He got you!” a woman yelled, while watching the video over my shoulder. My mouth fell to the floor, along with my tears. Speechless, I looked to the daycare director for help, but her words were no comfort. I sighed and my body slouched in disbelief.

How could someone steal from a daycare? The white car had been parked in the daycare parking lot for awhile, before pulling up along side my car. The criminal had been examining his prey, my son and me. Routinely, I lock my car doors. However, that morning I forgot to lock the doors.

It’s been over a month, since my purse was stolen. I do not want to instill fear or paranoia, but encourage parents to be more aware of their surroundings. Theft is on the rise with the crippling state of the economy. I wasn’t the first victim to have her purse stolen at my child’s daycare, and sadly may not be the last.

5 Daycare Drop Off Safety Tips!
1. Notice your surroundings before taking your child out of the car.
2. Lock your car doors.
3. Never leave valuables in plain view in your car.
4. Keep all valuables in your trunk.
5. Never leave your car running. Always take your keys out of the ignition.

Believe it or not, groups of criminals are stalking daycare facilities. I refer to them as “daycare terrorists.” Next time you are dropping your child off at daycare or school, please consider these safety tips.

Southwest Parenting Magazine