I do my best to remain professional, on this blog and in my work. Much of the time, I can at least say that I maintain some modicum of professionalism. In fact, having just been sent feedback from my seminars in Daytona Beach(with the International Association of Counselors and Therapists), I had a momentary burst of pride in this area. However, life is meant to keep me humble. What is more, I have sons and a husband who help me remain humble (for lack of a better term.)
As I was showing off my rave reviews, I was reminded of a time, not all that long ago where I taught one of the classes to another group, The Hypnosis Education Association, at their convention in Orlando. It started out so very well, too.
I had prepared all the handouts for my little class, bought the chocolates that I give out as bribes and even purchased the surprise gift for one lucky participant. Normally, when traveling, my darling husband (ever so aware of my capabilities and lack there of) will check the oil and tires for me, check to make sure I have driving directions and even double check reservations. When we travel as a family, those are all his domain. When I travel alone, he acts as my back up. On this particular trip, he was otherwise directed. However, I was so proud of myself. I checked oil and tires, I had packed all my clothes, arranged reservations (even printed them out) and printed directions to the convention. There was to be a social function the first night I was there that included a gift exchange. I had bought and wrapped my gift.
I arrived at my destination, without problem. I checked in, freshened up and attended the evening function. My gift was wildly popular. I was feeling hot. I knew I was prepared for teaching the next morning, life is sweet.
So as to be fresh and ready in the morning, I went back to my room early to retire. I read over my notes and fell asleep. I must have been asleep for an hour when suddenly, I sat bolt up right in bed and I was wide awake. it couldn’t be true, no I had not done this. I checked my bags. What I was looking for was not in them. I went down to my car, what I wanted was not there. So, with trembling hands, I dialed my husband’s cell phone. It rang twice and he answered, “hi honey, what’s up?”.
I asked him if he was able to check something out for me in our bedroom. He agreed, so I said, “Did I leave clothes hanging together on the bedpost?” He answered, “I wondered if those were meant to go with you!” My heart sunk, my clothes for the weekend were still back at my home. I had nothing but what I wore up and jammies to wear for the next several days! However was I going to present?
My husband kindly offered to drive up with my clothes. A 2 1/2 to 3 hour trip, late at night! I said no, I will figure something out. Then the two of us laughed at my silly predicament. Leave it to me. He had a neighbor over, who was worried that I was upset, he was ready to leave with hubby to bring me my clothes. He thought I was crying and upset. My husband explained to him that not only was I not crying, I was laughing my fool head off.
The next morning, I put my old clothes on and drove down the road. Thank heavens for
Wal-Mart. It is open 24 hours in Orlando. I found clothes that would carry me through the weekend (although I did find a mall later in the afternoon to get proper dress for a more formal function I was to attend.) There was still time for me to go back, shower and dress properly and even eat breakfast! I was able to incorporate my adventure into my class. All things happen for a reason, even if it is just to give people a chance to laugh.
Ironically, I was awarded the Hypnosis Achievement Award by this group at the convention. Good thing the plaque had already been made, they might have changed their mind’s otherwise.
Perhaps, you no longer see me as the ultimate professional, but then again, if you have been reading this blog for any length of time you realize I am very human and live to laugh. I hope you are able to make your mishaps into adventures as well.
p.s. I did manage to pack and bring all the shoes I needed for the weekend.
After all, it is all about the shoes, right ladies?
