4th of July and just enough money to eat on 'til payday. I was on my way to see a friend in a prison half way house. His favorite holiday is Independence Day, and prison or not, he has the greatest respect and love for his country. I didn't want him to celebrate it alone. I had $15 on me, enough to stop and get us both a milkshake to celebrate in the summer heat. When I got off the exit ramp, I saw a deeply tanned woman at the light. Dark blond hair pulled back in a ponytail, clean, pressed black shirt and blue jeans ended in black boots. She was holding a sign-
"crane operator out of work please help"
Not, "I'm homeless" not "I'm hungry" but "please help"
It was incredibly hot and muggy, I had just driven through a downpour that had ended a few exits back. I'm sitting in an air conditioned car, trying to figure out what kind of ice cream to get, she's standing in rain puddles in the heat.
I know poverty. When I was a teenager, my parents split up and my mom and sisters and I were forced to go on welfare. Food stamps, church donated Thanksgiving turkey, Christmas ornaments made out of toilet paper rolls and Reynolds Wrap aluminum tree topping stars. I know what it's like to worry about being homeless, about food, about your future.
I know what it's like being ignored.
I had a $10 and $5 bill along with change, so when the light turned green, I had the window down to give her the $10.
She was so used to no one paying any attention to her, that she almost didn't see me reaching over to hand her the money.
We looked at each other and said 'God Bless You" at the same time.
I managed to make it a few feet down the road before I started sobbing. When I was waiting for the light, I realized she was singing. Softly, to herself. And that is exactly what I would have done. Being ignored by the whole world, I would have created my own and filled it with a comforting song.
I wished I could have given her more. I wish I could have done more.
She sang to herself and I said to myself, "I won't forget you. And I will say a prayer for you before I sleep.'
How do you cure poverty? Poverty of Life, Poverty of Spirit, Poverty of the Heart?
You look her in her eyes and say,
"I see you. You aren't invisible. You aren't alone."
Don't these people mean nothing to ya
Don't these people still belong to ya
Ain't there anything left inside us?
How far will we go
To send them all to heaven
Don't you know we could live together
Don't you know we could give together
Ain't there anything left inside your heart?
Don't these people still belong to ya
How far will we go
Ain't there anything left inside my heart?
YouTube - How Far Will We Go - Kip Winger
Showing posts with label Jane. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Jane. Show all posts
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Steve O'Connor-Manager of Music Dreams...
Visiting 'Guitar Center' on Okeechobee Blvd in West Palm Beach, Florida, is like touring 'Willie Wonka's Chocolate Factory' for Music enthusiasts....
Instead of the blue Oompla Loompas workers running the factory, the stores helpful, friendly and most importantly, knowledgeable employees are found throughout in black shirts with the Guitar Center logo. The store is divided into different flavors, oops! I mean sections; guitars, drums, amps, keyboards and recording equipment. The outside of the store appears deceptively small, once inside, you can only stand there with your mouth open as your eyes glaze over while viewing the rows upon rows of brightly colored guitars found in all shapes, sizes and price.
Guitar Center is the leading United States retailer of guitars, amplifiers, percussion instruments, keyboards and pro-audio and recording equipment. There are more than 200 Guitar Center stores across the U.S. (check out their website at www.guitarcenter.com.)
And the 'Willie Wonka' of the guitar center? Master Manager, Keeper of the Keys of young hopeful rock star dreams? Deal Maker or Breaker and underneath it all, unpaid psychologist?
Please meet Steve O- Steve O'Connor-
Steve was born and raised in Miami by a very determined Irish Catholic mother, Peggy, who was a single parent. Often while his mom was working, a Cuban couple became second parents to Steve. His 'Cuban father' was an amazing influence in Steve’s life. As Steve puts it, he couldn't have custom made a better father. Steve’s dad passed away in 1987. His Cuban mom is also one of the most loving people in Steve’s life to this very day.
I learned all this as my eyes were popping out of my head when Steve, my blond haired, blue eyed friend, started rattling off our food choices in fluent Spanish at the local Cuban restaurant!
Steve’s also got a great family! His wife Diane of 20 years, his kids, Frank, his wife Jenny and Shawn. Three grandchildren too! Ages 11, 5, and 3!
It is this street wise nature along with not only the ability to roll with the punches, but to come out on top, which has made Steve the successful man he is today.
Being a manager is the second half of Steve's career however, the first was being a rocker in the 80’s & 90's.
20 Questions:
1. Everyone remembers their first kiss, first date, first...guitar What was yours?
Wow, first kiss that I can remember was a neighbor’s niece who was visiting one summer around 1977. / First date was homecoming with my high school sweetheart Denise. / First guitar was a $39.99 Japanese no name, single pickup, electric.
2. Self taught or lessons?
Self Taught, started at 10 years old… finally figured out a lot by age 12. Some lessons in high school later on.
3. What were the circumstances that caused you to decide to form a band?
KISS !! I used to see this older kid in the neighborhood playing guitar through his bedroom window, finally asked if I could go watch him and he invited me in. He had Frampton Comes Alive on and he was jamming to it… I looked through his record collection and there it was, KISS ALIVE! The cover alone made me want to be in a band and the music was awesome too! I love KISS!
4. Was the band for fun and to meet chicks? Or were you also aiming for a recording contract?
All of the above! Lol! I wanted to be cool but ultimately as I really got into the guitar I wanted to do it for a living. I had several locally successful bands and had a lot of fun! I think a couple of those bands would have gotten signed had we been in LA at the time and not Miami.
5. What bands do you feel passionate about?
KISS, Thin Lizzy, Aerosmith, Led Zeppelin, UFO, Guns n’ Roses, Iron Maiden, Black Sabbath, Foreigner, REO Speedwagon, Styx, Journey, Foghat, Blackfoot, Molly Hatchet, Lynryd Skynyrd, 80’s metal bands galore. I love soulful, guitar rock and hard rocking metal too!
6. What song best describes your life?
Wow, tough question… I can relate to so many different songs now… Years ago I would have said “The Rocker” by Thin Lizzy.
7. I've seen the '57 Les Paul you had for sale at the center, what's the most valuable guitar you've owned?
Probably my 1959 re-issue Gibson Les Paul or my Paul Reed Smith Modern Eagle.
8. I was there the night that kid bought that guitar for $20,000. Being in the area where the center is located, is selling guitars worth that much the norm?
It really doesn't have to do with location. It’s more random when it comes to high end instruments as for the collectors. Collectors shop around and because we have used and vintage gear they frequent our store often. When they see the piece they need for their collection price usually won't matter. We sell high dollar packages all the time. Especially to pro recording studios, churches, schools and nightclubs. It’s not uncommon for big sales out of our store. The strongest reason why is the way our staff treats our customers with pro advice, honesty and great after sales support!
9. You should have been an air traffic controller, people are coming at you every 5 minutes from all directions. Employees asking what deal they should strike when customers want to 'trade up' or sell their old equipment, phone calls, meetings; how do you keep it all straight and handle it so calmly?
Lol! Calmly? Me? No, realistically, I try to just run this store with the patience I would have if it were family owned. I try to be as helpful to my crew as possible and I love the open door policy where they don't have to feel hesitant to come see me no matter what they need. Most of these people I do consider very close to me. We see each other here more than we do our families at home!
10. There are many famous musicians, rockers especially, that live in South Florida. Who are some of them that frequent the store?
You'd be amazed how many famous artists live in this area! Jason Bonham, (Led Zeppelin) Nicko McBrain, (Iron Maiden) Joey Krammer, (Aerosmith) Tico Torres, (Bon Jovi) James Taylor, Danny Spitz, (Anthrax) Beast Spitz, (Black Sabbath) Yngwie Malmsteen, Patrick Dahlheimer, (Live) Dave Hlubeck, (Molly Hatchet) Greg T. Walker (Blackfoot) Stet Howland, (WASP) This list could go on and on!
11. With all that knowledge and talent for organization combined with pro sales, have you ever thought about being the manager of a rock band?
Yes I have. I actually started working as a guitar tech for a band out of Broward called CREASE. They were awesome and signed to Roadrunner… They ended up with a great CD and not enough publicity to do it justice in my opinion and I always wondered what I may have been able to do to manage that situation.
Now days I'm dedicated to Guitar Center so I don't foresee myself managing outside of here any time soon but you never know.
12. Let's pretend that I'm the leader of your favorite band and I'm in need of a new manager. Tell me why you are the man for the job and what you can do for me!
Well if I indulge my imagination… The fantasy would be Guns N’ Roses. I'd be the man for the job because I feel that that band is the only band to come out of the 80’s with the talent to be as legendary as Zeppelin! With that said, my belief is that they accomplished more with 5 records and 1 ep than any other band in the world could have done.
As for what I could do for them… I can be very attentive and understanding of people. I have a great ability to incorporate all the needs of everyone on a team into the business equation. I am also confident that no one else would back them with the passion that I have for that band. My interest would be in Guns, not my pocket. That’s a guarantee.
Most of all the fans deserve it and furthermore, all the people that never got a chance to see them have no idea… Sorry but a DVD is cool and live CD’s are cool but you had to be a part of a GNR audience to feel the energy go right through you! It was hair raising. Just totally cool!
13. What groups or musician deserved more recognition than what they had?
Thin Lizzy… Huge in Europe… the US didn't give them the airplay or support they deserved. Also UFO! One of the most amazing bands ever… ditto above…
14. Who's the most 'down to earth' famous musician you've met?
A) It’s a tie! All they people that I've met have been very nice to me. I've built lasting friendships with many of them and many of them have thanked me in so many ways including putting my name and Guitar Center’s name on the liner notes of their albums and DVD’s. That’s a very cool feeling when you see that!
15. How involved is Guitar Center with music in the schools?
Guitar Center is very involved. One of our founders, Mr. Larry Thomas semi retired but was so passionate about having music in schools that he started the Music Foundation which is dedicated to keeping music in schools! We sell Music Foundation bracelets here in the store and all the proceeds go to that charity.
16. Favorite place to vacation? Favorite way to relax?
The Islander resort in Islamorada, in the Florida Keys! I was just there in September! I love it there. Someday I'd like to live in the keys!
17. How do you feel about the direction music has gone in today?
It’s cool to see how music has evolved… Rap & Hip Hop mixed with rock is really cool! The metal scene, although still underground is alive and well. Classic bands reuniting and touring is awesome too! I think the best true rock band to come out within this decade is without a doubt, Velvet Revolver.
18. Does anyone stand a chance to 'make it' by purely blood, sweat and tears, or only through corporate sponsorship?
The harder you work at something the better your chances of achieving your goals. You'll only get out of your band what you put into your band. Corporate connections are key to maximizing a bands potential for worldwide success but look at Metallica, Motley Crue, Nirvana just to name a few that started life on independent labels!
19. I was just thinking about Iron Maiden the other day and 'Eddie' their 10 foot tall mascot. Then I read this-
"Today, Iron Maiden made 'Hard Rock' more than just a catch phrase by laying their hands on Hollywood’s Rock Walk of Fame, just outside of Guitar Center on the famous Sunset Strip.
Dave Weiderman, from Guitar Center, was the host of the event, which was surrounded by Maiden's devoted fans and plenty of press.
KNAC.COM’s Charlie Steffens aka Gnarly Charlie joined the other “John Doe” media machine members after Maiden’s induction ceremony to ask bassist Steve Harris and drummer Nikko McBrain a few questions regarding the event.
John Doe:When was it first brought up about this Rock Walk induction?
McBrain: Well, Bruce has been speaking with David [Weiderman] for like, 10 years about it, so it’s gone back a while. But, I had a phone call from a mate of mine called Steve O’Connor, who manages the Guitar Center in West Palm Beach –and he said “I just got back from this meeting in L.A. with the guys –all the main people, and we were talking about you.” [Iron Maiden] And he said. “I brought you forward, as a suggestion, to be inaugurated this year.” So, I think … really, Steve O’Connor was the instigator of getting this thing rolling, and then it just went from there."
Does Iron Maiden need a new manager?
Maiden has a wonderful management team! What other TRUE metal band can boast the success that they've had for as long as they've had it? Additionally, try playing their music, it’s very complex and melodic. The bands marketing is amazing too! Maiden fans world wide collect all of the Maiden stuff they can get their hands on! Kudos to Maiden and their management!
20. What are your plans for the next 5 years?
I want to find some “me” time. I also want to spend time with my kids and my grandkids! I'm blessed with a truly wonderful family and since we’ve moved here to West Palm Beach, Diane and I have not seen our family enough!
I want to get a band going again and continue to strive forward on my career path with Guitar Center. I think that I'll be spending a lot more of my “me” time fishing for snook and other inland fish. That’s where I feel free and appreciate all this amazing planet has to offer.
BONUS QUESTION !
What would you name your band if you started a new band now?
Well, it would definitely be a cover band mostly classic, hard rocking stuff with some of today’s stuff mixed in too. I learned over the years that really happening bar bands that have a great following play tight, great songs and have a great name so… I thought of a hilarious but yet applicable name years ago and that’s what I'd use…
“The frunken ducks”
Instead of the bad word… invert the d & the f… Lol!
SleepCompass's Favorite Five Questions-
1. Gilligan had his hammock, Dracula his coffin and SpongeBob Square Pants his 'pineapple under the sea' Where is your favorite place to sleep?
Home in the king size bed
2. Do you-
a - sleep alone?
b - sleep with a significant/insignificant other?
c - with critters?
with a significant other-My wife Diane!
3. Jack Nicklaus dreamt a new golf swing.
Robert Louis Stevenson had a dream that became the basis of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. Paul McCartney heard the melody for 'Yesterday' in a dream.
Have you ever gotten inspiration from a dream?
Yes actually, I often dream of places that seem so familiar, yet I know I've never been there… Even when I was younger I still have these reoccurring dreams and continue to visit new places and revisit places I haven't dreamt of in years! Anyhow, I did write a song about it when I was in a band called Sweet Revenge!
4. They say you are most vulnerable during sex, I say it's during sleep. Sex is often when we pretend, prepare, and promote who we want to be, not always who we actually are. Sleep is when all pretensions, prejudices and poses are washed away and left in it's wake, is our true essence, born from the ocean of our subconscious.
Or I could be wrong
What do you think?
Lol! That's a pretty interesting explanation of sex! I guess to some extent we are vulnerable during both sex and sleep, but I think vulnerable is a term I wouldn't use to describe sleep. I think it is nature's meditation. A way for your body to just shut down all the stresses of any given day and allow you to roam wherever your mind takes you whether you remember your dreams or not.
5. What’s your favorite sound to sleep to?
I love this rainforest CD I have. The natural sounds of the rainforest really put me at ease. The harder the rainfall, the better!
Sweet Dreams Steve, Sweet Dreams- Jane SleepCompass
Continue Reading
Instead of the blue Oompla Loompas workers running the factory, the stores helpful, friendly and most importantly, knowledgeable employees are found throughout in black shirts with the Guitar Center logo. The store is divided into different flavors, oops! I mean sections; guitars, drums, amps, keyboards and recording equipment. The outside of the store appears deceptively small, once inside, you can only stand there with your mouth open as your eyes glaze over while viewing the rows upon rows of brightly colored guitars found in all shapes, sizes and price.
Guitar Center is the leading United States retailer of guitars, amplifiers, percussion instruments, keyboards and pro-audio and recording equipment. There are more than 200 Guitar Center stores across the U.S. (check out their website at www.guitarcenter.com.)
And the 'Willie Wonka' of the guitar center? Master Manager, Keeper of the Keys of young hopeful rock star dreams? Deal Maker or Breaker and underneath it all, unpaid psychologist?
Please meet Steve O- Steve O'Connor-
Steve was born and raised in Miami by a very determined Irish Catholic mother, Peggy, who was a single parent. Often while his mom was working, a Cuban couple became second parents to Steve. His 'Cuban father' was an amazing influence in Steve’s life. As Steve puts it, he couldn't have custom made a better father. Steve’s dad passed away in 1987. His Cuban mom is also one of the most loving people in Steve’s life to this very day.
I learned all this as my eyes were popping out of my head when Steve, my blond haired, blue eyed friend, started rattling off our food choices in fluent Spanish at the local Cuban restaurant!
Steve’s also got a great family! His wife Diane of 20 years, his kids, Frank, his wife Jenny and Shawn. Three grandchildren too! Ages 11, 5, and 3!
It is this street wise nature along with not only the ability to roll with the punches, but to come out on top, which has made Steve the successful man he is today.
Being a manager is the second half of Steve's career however, the first was being a rocker in the 80’s & 90's.
20 Questions:
1. Everyone remembers their first kiss, first date, first...guitar What was yours?
Wow, first kiss that I can remember was a neighbor’s niece who was visiting one summer around 1977. / First date was homecoming with my high school sweetheart Denise. / First guitar was a $39.99 Japanese no name, single pickup, electric.
2. Self taught or lessons?
Self Taught, started at 10 years old… finally figured out a lot by age 12. Some lessons in high school later on.
3. What were the circumstances that caused you to decide to form a band?
KISS !! I used to see this older kid in the neighborhood playing guitar through his bedroom window, finally asked if I could go watch him and he invited me in. He had Frampton Comes Alive on and he was jamming to it… I looked through his record collection and there it was, KISS ALIVE! The cover alone made me want to be in a band and the music was awesome too! I love KISS!
4. Was the band for fun and to meet chicks? Or were you also aiming for a recording contract?
All of the above! Lol! I wanted to be cool but ultimately as I really got into the guitar I wanted to do it for a living. I had several locally successful bands and had a lot of fun! I think a couple of those bands would have gotten signed had we been in LA at the time and not Miami.
5. What bands do you feel passionate about?
KISS, Thin Lizzy, Aerosmith, Led Zeppelin, UFO, Guns n’ Roses, Iron Maiden, Black Sabbath, Foreigner, REO Speedwagon, Styx, Journey, Foghat, Blackfoot, Molly Hatchet, Lynryd Skynyrd, 80’s metal bands galore. I love soulful, guitar rock and hard rocking metal too!
6. What song best describes your life?
Wow, tough question… I can relate to so many different songs now… Years ago I would have said “The Rocker” by Thin Lizzy.
7. I've seen the '57 Les Paul you had for sale at the center, what's the most valuable guitar you've owned?
Probably my 1959 re-issue Gibson Les Paul or my Paul Reed Smith Modern Eagle.
8. I was there the night that kid bought that guitar for $20,000. Being in the area where the center is located, is selling guitars worth that much the norm?
It really doesn't have to do with location. It’s more random when it comes to high end instruments as for the collectors. Collectors shop around and because we have used and vintage gear they frequent our store often. When they see the piece they need for their collection price usually won't matter. We sell high dollar packages all the time. Especially to pro recording studios, churches, schools and nightclubs. It’s not uncommon for big sales out of our store. The strongest reason why is the way our staff treats our customers with pro advice, honesty and great after sales support!
9. You should have been an air traffic controller, people are coming at you every 5 minutes from all directions. Employees asking what deal they should strike when customers want to 'trade up' or sell their old equipment, phone calls, meetings; how do you keep it all straight and handle it so calmly?
Lol! Calmly? Me? No, realistically, I try to just run this store with the patience I would have if it were family owned. I try to be as helpful to my crew as possible and I love the open door policy where they don't have to feel hesitant to come see me no matter what they need. Most of these people I do consider very close to me. We see each other here more than we do our families at home!
10. There are many famous musicians, rockers especially, that live in South Florida. Who are some of them that frequent the store?
You'd be amazed how many famous artists live in this area! Jason Bonham, (Led Zeppelin) Nicko McBrain, (Iron Maiden) Joey Krammer, (Aerosmith) Tico Torres, (Bon Jovi) James Taylor, Danny Spitz, (Anthrax) Beast Spitz, (Black Sabbath) Yngwie Malmsteen, Patrick Dahlheimer, (Live) Dave Hlubeck, (Molly Hatchet) Greg T. Walker (Blackfoot) Stet Howland, (WASP) This list could go on and on!
11. With all that knowledge and talent for organization combined with pro sales, have you ever thought about being the manager of a rock band?
Yes I have. I actually started working as a guitar tech for a band out of Broward called CREASE. They were awesome and signed to Roadrunner… They ended up with a great CD and not enough publicity to do it justice in my opinion and I always wondered what I may have been able to do to manage that situation.
Now days I'm dedicated to Guitar Center so I don't foresee myself managing outside of here any time soon but you never know.
12. Let's pretend that I'm the leader of your favorite band and I'm in need of a new manager. Tell me why you are the man for the job and what you can do for me!
Well if I indulge my imagination… The fantasy would be Guns N’ Roses. I'd be the man for the job because I feel that that band is the only band to come out of the 80’s with the talent to be as legendary as Zeppelin! With that said, my belief is that they accomplished more with 5 records and 1 ep than any other band in the world could have done.
As for what I could do for them… I can be very attentive and understanding of people. I have a great ability to incorporate all the needs of everyone on a team into the business equation. I am also confident that no one else would back them with the passion that I have for that band. My interest would be in Guns, not my pocket. That’s a guarantee.
Most of all the fans deserve it and furthermore, all the people that never got a chance to see them have no idea… Sorry but a DVD is cool and live CD’s are cool but you had to be a part of a GNR audience to feel the energy go right through you! It was hair raising. Just totally cool!
13. What groups or musician deserved more recognition than what they had?
Thin Lizzy… Huge in Europe… the US didn't give them the airplay or support they deserved. Also UFO! One of the most amazing bands ever… ditto above…
14. Who's the most 'down to earth' famous musician you've met?
A) It’s a tie! All they people that I've met have been very nice to me. I've built lasting friendships with many of them and many of them have thanked me in so many ways including putting my name and Guitar Center’s name on the liner notes of their albums and DVD’s. That’s a very cool feeling when you see that!
15. How involved is Guitar Center with music in the schools?
Guitar Center is very involved. One of our founders, Mr. Larry Thomas semi retired but was so passionate about having music in schools that he started the Music Foundation which is dedicated to keeping music in schools! We sell Music Foundation bracelets here in the store and all the proceeds go to that charity.
16. Favorite place to vacation? Favorite way to relax?
The Islander resort in Islamorada, in the Florida Keys! I was just there in September! I love it there. Someday I'd like to live in the keys!
17. How do you feel about the direction music has gone in today?
It’s cool to see how music has evolved… Rap & Hip Hop mixed with rock is really cool! The metal scene, although still underground is alive and well. Classic bands reuniting and touring is awesome too! I think the best true rock band to come out within this decade is without a doubt, Velvet Revolver.
18. Does anyone stand a chance to 'make it' by purely blood, sweat and tears, or only through corporate sponsorship?
The harder you work at something the better your chances of achieving your goals. You'll only get out of your band what you put into your band. Corporate connections are key to maximizing a bands potential for worldwide success but look at Metallica, Motley Crue, Nirvana just to name a few that started life on independent labels!
19. I was just thinking about Iron Maiden the other day and 'Eddie' their 10 foot tall mascot. Then I read this-
"Today, Iron Maiden made 'Hard Rock' more than just a catch phrase by laying their hands on Hollywood’s Rock Walk of Fame, just outside of Guitar Center on the famous Sunset Strip.
Dave Weiderman, from Guitar Center, was the host of the event, which was surrounded by Maiden's devoted fans and plenty of press.
KNAC.COM’s Charlie Steffens aka Gnarly Charlie joined the other “John Doe” media machine members after Maiden’s induction ceremony to ask bassist Steve Harris and drummer Nikko McBrain a few questions regarding the event.
John Doe:When was it first brought up about this Rock Walk induction?
McBrain: Well, Bruce has been speaking with David [Weiderman] for like, 10 years about it, so it’s gone back a while. But, I had a phone call from a mate of mine called Steve O’Connor, who manages the Guitar Center in West Palm Beach –and he said “I just got back from this meeting in L.A. with the guys –all the main people, and we were talking about you.” [Iron Maiden] And he said. “I brought you forward, as a suggestion, to be inaugurated this year.” So, I think … really, Steve O’Connor was the instigator of getting this thing rolling, and then it just went from there."
Does Iron Maiden need a new manager?
Maiden has a wonderful management team! What other TRUE metal band can boast the success that they've had for as long as they've had it? Additionally, try playing their music, it’s very complex and melodic. The bands marketing is amazing too! Maiden fans world wide collect all of the Maiden stuff they can get their hands on! Kudos to Maiden and their management!
20. What are your plans for the next 5 years?
I want to find some “me” time. I also want to spend time with my kids and my grandkids! I'm blessed with a truly wonderful family and since we’ve moved here to West Palm Beach, Diane and I have not seen our family enough!
I want to get a band going again and continue to strive forward on my career path with Guitar Center. I think that I'll be spending a lot more of my “me” time fishing for snook and other inland fish. That’s where I feel free and appreciate all this amazing planet has to offer.
BONUS QUESTION !
What would you name your band if you started a new band now?
Well, it would definitely be a cover band mostly classic, hard rocking stuff with some of today’s stuff mixed in too. I learned over the years that really happening bar bands that have a great following play tight, great songs and have a great name so… I thought of a hilarious but yet applicable name years ago and that’s what I'd use…
“The frunken ducks”
Instead of the bad word… invert the d & the f… Lol!
SleepCompass's Favorite Five Questions-
1. Gilligan had his hammock, Dracula his coffin and SpongeBob Square Pants his 'pineapple under the sea' Where is your favorite place to sleep?
Home in the king size bed
2. Do you-
a - sleep alone?
b - sleep with a significant/insignificant other?
c - with critters?
with a significant other-My wife Diane!
3. Jack Nicklaus dreamt a new golf swing.
Robert Louis Stevenson had a dream that became the basis of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. Paul McCartney heard the melody for 'Yesterday' in a dream.
Have you ever gotten inspiration from a dream?
Yes actually, I often dream of places that seem so familiar, yet I know I've never been there… Even when I was younger I still have these reoccurring dreams and continue to visit new places and revisit places I haven't dreamt of in years! Anyhow, I did write a song about it when I was in a band called Sweet Revenge!
4. They say you are most vulnerable during sex, I say it's during sleep. Sex is often when we pretend, prepare, and promote who we want to be, not always who we actually are. Sleep is when all pretensions, prejudices and poses are washed away and left in it's wake, is our true essence, born from the ocean of our subconscious.
Or I could be wrong
What do you think?
Lol! That's a pretty interesting explanation of sex! I guess to some extent we are vulnerable during both sex and sleep, but I think vulnerable is a term I wouldn't use to describe sleep. I think it is nature's meditation. A way for your body to just shut down all the stresses of any given day and allow you to roam wherever your mind takes you whether you remember your dreams or not.
5. What’s your favorite sound to sleep to?
I love this rainforest CD I have. The natural sounds of the rainforest really put me at ease. The harder the rainfall, the better!
Sweet Dreams Steve, Sweet Dreams- Jane SleepCompass
Friday, October 3, 2008
Would you serve on the Lunch Line in Heaven?
Would you serve on the Lunch Line in Heaven?
and
Stand in back of the counter as the souls go by in line, picking their main course; bread, wheat, chafe
and
Green leafy vegetables?
Dessert or no dessert, Jello, Jello, doing the Hula in bright Red or Green?
or
Maybe a Brownie, Hot and Black topped with the White and Cold ice cream?
Would you stand there helpfully, replenishing what runs out, offering suggestions, listening to complaints?
Shuffle from foot to foot when your legs get tired and be endlessly fascinated with the choices and combos people make?
or
Maybe you'd want to be the cook in the kitchen who makes the stuff
or
Maybe you'd like to be the chef who actually thinks it up in the first place!
or
Maybe you've had enough and want someone to serve You, in the Executive Dining Room.
Is it right to help someone with their choices?
or
Is it 'fair', 'justified' and/or 'neutral' to only
Stand there, silently and keep the soup tureen and Blue Cheese container full?
Screw that.
I'd want someone to let me know if the lettuce was wilted, the tomatoes rotten and the Jello was sugar free.
I'd want somebody on my side, on the Other Side of the Lunch Line...
Sweet Dreams Jane SleepCompass
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Nappuccino please, extra foam!
One Nappuccino please. An afternoon one, no longer than 20-30 minutes.
I come from a long line of nappers. My mother is from the deep South and when I was little, we used to go there to visit my grandmother. EVERYONE there would take a nap from noon to 2. Businesses closed down, traffic was non existence and no one came to visit because without air conditioning, everyone tried to wait out the afternoon heat. My grandmother and great aunt would carefully take off their cotton summer dresses, and wearing their white dress slips, stretch out on their beds trying to catch a breeze from the table top metal fans. It was a quiet, soothing time to unwind and de-stress, at least for anyone over the age of 20; it was pure torture for anyone younger. 2 hours, an eternity, a lifetime, to wander around the house and wait for the world to start up again.
There are 2 types of optimum naps. The first one is 20-30 minutes long, which is just enough time, for a 'pick me up' to get you through the rest of the day, Any longer than that and you fall into deep sleep and then into a 'REM' cycle , where you start dreaming. A REM cycle occurs every 90-120 minutes of sleep and can last from 5 to 45 minutes. Either nap short enough not to go into REM, or nap long enough to go through a complete cycle. Waking up in the middle will cause you to feel 'groggy' almost like a sleep hangover.
Think napping is a waste of time? That nothing productive can come from it? Tell that to some of the most famous nappers, Leonardo da Vinci, Albert Einstein and Thomas Edison. And in our own time, Ronald Reagan and Bill Clinton, slackers both!
There has been debate of which comes first, getting sleepy around midday and your body temperature drops or maybe it's the other way around, your body temperature drops and that causes you to seek sleep. The best way to remember the optimum length is ' 40 winks.' Just long enough to give you a power nap. 40 winks to remind yourself that the world can carry on without you and for you to retreat into the bliss of your unconsciousness, and give your mind and thoughts a rest, a break from it all, to come back to awareness with a clearer vision and refreshed enough to handle whatever else comes your way.
So flip the fan on, feel the cool breeze on your face and take a nap, cat!
SleepCompass.com Jane
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Chestnuts roasting on an open fire...
Ah, you can PRETEND! Work with me here-This is a GREAT DVD, I brought it to 2 different friends homes, hit 'play' and asked them what they thought. Well... I had to wake them up first!
I'm chattering away, trying out the 'mood music' or just using the fireplace sounds and when I turned to look, they were asleep! There IS something that is so comforting about fire, I think it is in our DNA.
Fire equals-
- Safety from predators-
- Hot dogs and S'mores anyone?
- Warmth when you're cold-
One thing I miss in south Florida is having a fireplace, although even when I lived up north, I was lousy at getting a fire started. This saves me all the hassle. (hint -place a space heater next to you!) Try keeping your eyes open or even focused when watching the flames dance around the screen. Buying this at Christmas, I got the demo the store was using, they were all sold out!
Have a glass of wine or hot chocolate, listen to either just the fire crackling or Nat Cole and treat yourself to the bliss of feeling peaceful, safe and warm.
Sweet Dreams! Jane SleepCompass.com
Monday, August 18, 2008
Stormy Weather-
Being in the middle of hurricane season and having a tropical storm headed my way, made me think- are there any advantages to sleeping now?
Team Advantage:
- It's dark outside at the crack of noon. That's a big change from the bright Florida sun!
- It's cooler outside at the crack of noon. (See above )
- You never sleep alone because all of your cats and dogs and birds and hermit crabs are somewhere in the bedroom with you. (helpful hint, keep the crab in the cage!)
- You CAN sleep in because so many businesses and schools are closed. Although being in the medical field all my life means either being at the hospital for hours on end or on call.
- Ever wonder why they call rainy weather 'good sleeping' weather? Decreased pressure = decreased oxygen in the blood. Our bodies make us sleepy to keep us from expending energy. Traveling from Florida to the higher altitude of Santa Fe, New Mexico made me incredible sleepy along with giving me a headache that lasted for days. Beautiful state, but half awake until my body adjusted to the change.
Team Disadvantage:
- Charlie!
- Frances!
- Jean!
- Wilma!
- ANDREW!!! No electricity, means no air conditioning, no ice, no cooked food, no TV, no computer, and for me, no roof!
Right now, it's Team Advantage, with it being cooler outside and surrounded by a wagon train of cats, but check on me in a couple of days after Fay passes through!
- Sleep tight! SleepCompass.com Jane
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Does drinking coffee do this to you?
I Have Friends (Hello Nancy!) that keeps Starbucks in the black and Juan Valdez with his rich Columbian beans in a 401 K. And they NEVER look like this! This is an actual photo of me at noon after working my night shift in the Sleep Lab. That 12 o'clock sun can be murder on the eyes, to a night owl like me! It is light that sets our circadian rhythm and lets us know when it is appropriate to go to the bank or post office (10pm is a no-no, the alarm system frowns on you pressing your face against the glass) and it's the absence of light that produces melatonin that signals us to sleep, hence my candid photo. Decreases in melatonin production has non funny side effects, such as increasing the risk of breast cancer, by % 50 in women who are late shift workers. Article after article tells us to get 8 hours of sleep AT NIGHT, but what if you can't? Here are some suggestions if you have to sleep during the day-
- Keep the room as dark as possible. Obvious, but sometimes overlooked.
- Keep it as cool as possible. Remember, temperature and light are the 2 things that induce sleep
- Remind everyone to only call if it's an emergency! I turn the house phone off in the bedroom and keep my cell next to the bed. I have family and friends who are very considerate of this, so I am lucky.
- Have a little something in your stomach. You'd be surprised how often hunger can wake you up. And I'm NOT talking platters of Taco Bell here, no matter how much I love the stuff! Half a peanut butter sandwich, some eggs, turkey...a little protein goes a long way although a lot of people recommend complex carbs.
- White noise is a must. I have 2 fans going and that seems to block out any street or neighborhood noise. I have a lot of patients who bring in white noise machines to the sleep lab.
Unfortunately, I am now so conditioned to fall asleep when I hear a box fan running, I am a danger to myself in the fan aisle of Wal-Mart!
No matter what time of day OR night is your usual sleep routine, keep these tips in mind to get the best sleep that you can.
Sweet Dreams- Jane SleepCompass.Com
Monday, August 11, 2008
Secret to becoming Happier? Only $6.95!
Want to learn how to make your life simpler, become more happy, get more productive? Sure you do! Leo Babauta's new E-book is here, 'Zen habits-Handbook for Life'
Starting in early 2007, with no readers and no idea how to blog, Leo Babauta's 'Zen Habits' website has been named 'Best overall Blog' in 2007 Performancing Blog Awards and now has a readership of over 64,000! Zen Habits covers: achieving goals, productivity, being organized, motivation,
simplifying, living frugal, parenting, happiness, and successfully implementing good habits among other things.
Composed of essential Zen Habits articles gathered in an e-book format, (and easily printable) 'Zen habits- Handbook for Life' allows you the joy of having the best of Leo's advice, view points and life experiences.
The book is divided into 3 sections:
Section 1: Simplicity
Decluttering
Single-tasking
Edit Your Commitments
Eiminate All But the Essentials
Don’t Do Everything on Your To-do List
The Art of Doing Nothing
Declutter Your Mind
72 Simplicity Tips
Eat Slower
Section 2: Productivity
Purpose Your Day: Most Important Tasks
Focus on the Big Rocks
Clear Out Your Inbox
Clear Your Desk
Become an Early Riser
Become Motivated When You’re in a Slump
Make the Most of Your Laziest Days
Decompress After High Stress
Section 3: Happiness
Cultivate Compassion in Your Life
Escape Materialism
Practical Tips for Living the Golden Rule
Accept Criticism With Grace and Appreciation
Have Faith in Humanity, and Restore Kindness
Boost Your Self-Confidence
Live Your Life Consciously
Leo's book takes you through all of these sections, step by step, in an easy to read layout that shows you how to achieve these goals. Not just 'great ideas', these are Leo's own steps he used to transform his life.
I LOVE 'how-to' books on transforming your life and one with a money back guarantee? Can't get any better than that!
'Zen habits-Handbook for Life' is a present to give not only to yourself, but anyone else on your gift giving list!
Pleasant Dreams- Jane SleepCompass.com
Saturday, August 2, 2008
Jane Says...
Traveling in different time zones disrupts the production of Melatonin. Lack of light is what causes the pineal gland to secrete this hormone. (this is why it is important for your bedroom to be as dark as possible) Basically, when it's dark, the pineal gland makes melatonin and our bodies think 'Time for bed!'
It's because of this fact, so many people advocate the use of Melatonin supplements. These supplements are over the counter here in the U.S. but It’s a bit more difficult to get hold of in the UK because the Medicine and Healthcare Regulatory Agency (MHRA) takes the view that it is a medicine.
It is irresponsible and unethical to blindly and without reservations recommend ANY drug for sleep without consulting a physician first. Sleep aides react differently with the elderly as with interacting with any other prescription drugs you may be taking. Talking to your doctor first is the smartest thing to do as is looking into alternative means of dealing with the problem. Remember, exposing yourself to light, suppresses the melatonin production and keeps you awake and darkness, or lack of light is your bodies cue to 'Sleep, perhaps to Dream...'
Improving your golf swing, buddy, YOU'RE ON YOUR OWN!!!
SleepCompass.com Jane
Continue Reading
It's because of this fact, so many people advocate the use of Melatonin supplements. These supplements are over the counter here in the U.S. but It’s a bit more difficult to get hold of in the UK because the Medicine and Healthcare Regulatory Agency (MHRA) takes the view that it is a medicine.
It is irresponsible and unethical to blindly and without reservations recommend ANY drug for sleep without consulting a physician first. Sleep aides react differently with the elderly as with interacting with any other prescription drugs you may be taking. Talking to your doctor first is the smartest thing to do as is looking into alternative means of dealing with the problem. Remember, exposing yourself to light, suppresses the melatonin production and keeps you awake and darkness, or lack of light is your bodies cue to 'Sleep, perhaps to Dream...'
Improving your golf swing, buddy, YOU'RE ON YOUR OWN!!!
SleepCompass.com Jane
Leaving on a Jet Plane....
I had an interesting phone conversation with a very successful business executive. We were trying to set up another phone conference and I asked him if Sunday night after 7 pm was too late to call.
'Are you kidding? he said 'I answer my phone 24/7! My secretary is flying back from China the night before and I live on both coasts of the country. I'm always up!'
Wrong thing to say to someone who's life calling is teaching good sleep habits to people.
'That's NOT healthy', I told him, 'Everyone needs uninterrupted sleep.'
'I know, I know, I take 2 weeks off consecutively a year for vacation. That's when I sleep.'
Sigh. I know with being in different time zones, it's not easy to know night from day. Here are some traveling tips most experts agree on-
1. Stay well rested, BEFORE you travel. Wearing yourself down and trying to 'catch-up' on the trip doesn't work.
2. Stay hydrated. Rule of thumb- 8 oz of water per hour of traveling time. This is especially true on long or overseas flights. All that water drinking (NOT caffeinated beverages, they dehydrate you)has another benefit. Those multiple trips to the bathroom help with the circulation in your legs! This helps cut down on the risk of blood clots forming from sitting so long.
3. Set your schedule to your new time zone. Even if your body says it's ready for dinner and it's breakfast time where you are, eat those eggs and waffles.
4. Sunlight is the best way to reset your circadian rhythm, which is basically your body's clock. Take a walk outside, sit in the sun, or eat outside if possible. If you HAVE to take a nap, don't make it any longer than 20-30 minutes. Otherwise, you will go into REM or dreaming sleep and will wake -up with a 'sleep hangover.'
Combine jet lag with sleep debt and you are really setting yourself up for misery. Sleep debt is defined as our specific daily sleep requirement. It varies per individual, but in general is between 7-8 hours. The amount of sleep our body needs minus the actual amount it is receiving equals = sleep debt.
Sleep debt does not 'go away' or spontaneously decrease on it's own. The only way to decrease it is to get the extra sleep you need. Sleep IS essential, 'putting it off' is a dangerous habit modern society has embraced. Normal drowsiness and the intense desire to sleep is enough to cause most people to got to bed early or sleep late to erase this debt. Not listening to your bodies need for sleep can create a dangerous situation. Excessive daytime sleepiness and sleep deprivation causes us to make mistakes both on the job and in judgement. Increased chance of auto accidents is the most obvious, along with some that aren't as apparent at first. This debt creates a tremulous strain on our bodies in it's ability to regenerate, refresh and restore itself .
Think that you really are more productive on less sleep? Sleep on this-
William C. Dement MD PhD the founder of the Sleep Research Center, the world's first sleep laboratory, at Stanford University, states-
'A recent survey of Stanford undergraduates revealed that their number one complaint was not getting enough sleep! A validation of this complaint was heard from the lips of a well known alumnus, Tiger Woods, who said that one of the best things about his choice to leave Stanford for the professional golf circuit was that he could now get enough sleep!'
And we all know how well HE'S done on a good night's sleep!
Continue Reading
'Are you kidding? he said 'I answer my phone 24/7! My secretary is flying back from China the night before and I live on both coasts of the country. I'm always up!'
Wrong thing to say to someone who's life calling is teaching good sleep habits to people.
'That's NOT healthy', I told him, 'Everyone needs uninterrupted sleep.'
'I know, I know, I take 2 weeks off consecutively a year for vacation. That's when I sleep.'
Sigh. I know with being in different time zones, it's not easy to know night from day. Here are some traveling tips most experts agree on-
1. Stay well rested, BEFORE you travel. Wearing yourself down and trying to 'catch-up' on the trip doesn't work.
2. Stay hydrated. Rule of thumb- 8 oz of water per hour of traveling time. This is especially true on long or overseas flights. All that water drinking (NOT caffeinated beverages, they dehydrate you)has another benefit. Those multiple trips to the bathroom help with the circulation in your legs! This helps cut down on the risk of blood clots forming from sitting so long.
3. Set your schedule to your new time zone. Even if your body says it's ready for dinner and it's breakfast time where you are, eat those eggs and waffles.
4. Sunlight is the best way to reset your circadian rhythm, which is basically your body's clock. Take a walk outside, sit in the sun, or eat outside if possible. If you HAVE to take a nap, don't make it any longer than 20-30 minutes. Otherwise, you will go into REM or dreaming sleep and will wake -up with a 'sleep hangover.'
Combine jet lag with sleep debt and you are really setting yourself up for misery. Sleep debt is defined as our specific daily sleep requirement. It varies per individual, but in general is between 7-8 hours. The amount of sleep our body needs minus the actual amount it is receiving equals = sleep debt.
Sleep debt does not 'go away' or spontaneously decrease on it's own. The only way to decrease it is to get the extra sleep you need. Sleep IS essential, 'putting it off' is a dangerous habit modern society has embraced. Normal drowsiness and the intense desire to sleep is enough to cause most people to got to bed early or sleep late to erase this debt. Not listening to your bodies need for sleep can create a dangerous situation. Excessive daytime sleepiness and sleep deprivation causes us to make mistakes both on the job and in judgement. Increased chance of auto accidents is the most obvious, along with some that aren't as apparent at first. This debt creates a tremulous strain on our bodies in it's ability to regenerate, refresh and restore itself .
Think that you really are more productive on less sleep? Sleep on this-
William C. Dement MD PhD the founder of the Sleep Research Center, the world's first sleep laboratory, at Stanford University, states-
'A recent survey of Stanford undergraduates revealed that their number one complaint was not getting enough sleep! A validation of this complaint was heard from the lips of a well known alumnus, Tiger Woods, who said that one of the best things about his choice to leave Stanford for the professional golf circuit was that he could now get enough sleep!'
And we all know how well HE'S done on a good night's sleep!
NightWave Sleep Assistant helps people fall asleep more easily.
For people who experience common insomnia due to stress, restless thoughts, feelings of agitation, or jet lab.
Silent, completely natural, non-invasive, and requires no headphones, wires or masks.
Less expensive, less risky, and more supportive of overall health than prescription medications.
Safe and effective for all ages.
Monday, July 28, 2008
Practical Tips For Great Sleep
Practical Tips For Great Sleep-
1. The bedroom should be used for 2 things- Sleep and Sex. Not for paying your bills, using it as your office, or despairing over the exercise equiptment you aren't using. If you can't sleep, have sex- at least you will be enjoying yourself.
2. The 2 things that induce sleep are- temperature and light. The cooler the room, the darker the room, the better. Most experts say the ideal room temperature is between 65 and 70 F. It's your body temperature dropping, that signals you to sleep. Use rooming darkening shades or eye masks to keep the light out.
3. Establish a nighttime routine- it is the rituals we have before we go to bed, that cue our bodies response to ready itself for sleep. Examples are checking the locks, brushing our teeth, washing our face, saying our prayers, meditation or quietly reading.
4. Avoid Caffeine, (including chocolate!) Nicotine and Alcohol 4-6 hours before bedtime. Alcohol may initially relax you, but causes fragmented sleep as it wears off. It can also worsen sleep apnea and snoring.
5. Don't go to bed hungry- eat a light snack a few hours before betime. An empty stomach can interfer with sleep as much as a full one. Try a glass of milk (yes, it works!) a small banana or some turkey an hour before sleep. Turkey contains tryptophan, an amino acid that converts to serotonin, which promotes sleep. Milk also contains tryptophan as well as magnesium, which is a muscle relaxant.
6. Exercise Regularly- even 20 minutes a day, 3 times a week can help. Traditonal advise is not to exercise 6-8 hours before bedtime because of the rise in body temperature (remember, it's the drop in our body temperature that induces sleep) but this advice is not always practical. Realistically, try to make it at least 3 hours before bed.
7. Keep a good Sleep Environment- Is the room quiet? Use a white noise machine, earplugs, or play a cd of your favorite music. Is the bed comfortable? Sometimes it's the obvious that escapes us. Does the mattress support you and is comfortable? How old are your pillows?
8. Do your animals sleep with you? Whereas telling someone not to have their critters sleep with them, is good advice, it often causes them to shoot daggers at you. Solutions? Make sure the bed is large enough to accommodate all of you. Or, get them separate bed. Make sure the room temperature cool enough to handle the additional body heat. Wash the bed linen frequently on hot, to kill dust mites and get rid of the dander.
9. Can't sleep WITHOUT the TV? (sure you can, you just trained yourself not to) Then use a sleep timer. Set it for no longer than 30 minutes. During dreaming, your sleep is lighter. It is easier to awaken from noise and the commercials are purposely louder to get your attention.
10. Turn off the computer. Even if you aren't using it, the blue power light can keep you up. Turn off your cell phone. Too often there is someone who will call you or text message you at 3am. IF you have to leave it on for emergencies, MAKE SURE everyone understands NOT to call you after your bedtime unless absolutely necessary.
11. Keep a nightlight on the the bathroom. Turning on the bedroom light or even the bathroom light, can cause you not to be able to fall back asleep.
12. Gone are the days of carrying your own pillows on the plane. Bring your PILLOWCASE as a comforting reminder of home.
Your turn! Send us your favorite sleeps tips!
Discover The Gift Of Sleep-SleepCompass.com Jane
Continue Reading
1. The bedroom should be used for 2 things- Sleep and Sex. Not for paying your bills, using it as your office, or despairing over the exercise equiptment you aren't using. If you can't sleep, have sex- at least you will be enjoying yourself.
2. The 2 things that induce sleep are- temperature and light. The cooler the room, the darker the room, the better. Most experts say the ideal room temperature is between 65 and 70 F. It's your body temperature dropping, that signals you to sleep. Use rooming darkening shades or eye masks to keep the light out.
3. Establish a nighttime routine- it is the rituals we have before we go to bed, that cue our bodies response to ready itself for sleep. Examples are checking the locks, brushing our teeth, washing our face, saying our prayers, meditation or quietly reading.
4. Avoid Caffeine, (including chocolate!) Nicotine and Alcohol 4-6 hours before bedtime. Alcohol may initially relax you, but causes fragmented sleep as it wears off. It can also worsen sleep apnea and snoring.
5. Don't go to bed hungry- eat a light snack a few hours before betime. An empty stomach can interfer with sleep as much as a full one. Try a glass of milk (yes, it works!) a small banana or some turkey an hour before sleep. Turkey contains tryptophan, an amino acid that converts to serotonin, which promotes sleep. Milk also contains tryptophan as well as magnesium, which is a muscle relaxant.
6. Exercise Regularly- even 20 minutes a day, 3 times a week can help. Traditonal advise is not to exercise 6-8 hours before bedtime because of the rise in body temperature (remember, it's the drop in our body temperature that induces sleep) but this advice is not always practical. Realistically, try to make it at least 3 hours before bed.
7. Keep a good Sleep Environment- Is the room quiet? Use a white noise machine, earplugs, or play a cd of your favorite music. Is the bed comfortable? Sometimes it's the obvious that escapes us. Does the mattress support you and is comfortable? How old are your pillows?
8. Do your animals sleep with you? Whereas telling someone not to have their critters sleep with them, is good advice, it often causes them to shoot daggers at you. Solutions? Make sure the bed is large enough to accommodate all of you. Or, get them separate bed. Make sure the room temperature cool enough to handle the additional body heat. Wash the bed linen frequently on hot, to kill dust mites and get rid of the dander.
9. Can't sleep WITHOUT the TV? (sure you can, you just trained yourself not to) Then use a sleep timer. Set it for no longer than 30 minutes. During dreaming, your sleep is lighter. It is easier to awaken from noise and the commercials are purposely louder to get your attention.
10. Turn off the computer. Even if you aren't using it, the blue power light can keep you up. Turn off your cell phone. Too often there is someone who will call you or text message you at 3am. IF you have to leave it on for emergencies, MAKE SURE everyone understands NOT to call you after your bedtime unless absolutely necessary.
11. Keep a nightlight on the the bathroom. Turning on the bedroom light or even the bathroom light, can cause you not to be able to fall back asleep.
12. Gone are the days of carrying your own pillows on the plane. Bring your PILLOWCASE as a comforting reminder of home.
Your turn! Send us your favorite sleeps tips!
Discover The Gift Of Sleep-SleepCompass.com Jane
Saturday, July 26, 2008
Courage to Sleep like a Dog...
And he does, bless his heart. He's a happy boy, he's a happy boy. Cheerily dragging one of my nieces Beanie Babies down the hallway, through the kitchen off into the netherlands of the laundry room. Checking out the cat's food and ignoring his own. Pouncing on Spike, the only 20 lb cat with claws in the house, eager to play. When he wants to play, he does, when he wants to eat, he does and when he wants to sleep, down goes the eyelids on those huge Chihuahua eyes. Wherever there's a bed, he lays his head. 180 count sheets or 500, Ralph Lauren bedding or Doria the Explora, 11o'clock in the morning or 11 o'clock at night, down he goes. He never has 'one more thing to do,' one more email to check, one more deadline to meet.Courage trusts. Courage believes. Courage has no fear. That when he shuts his eyes, he'll sleep, opens his eyes, he wakes.
All this is nice and poetic and politically correct. But in my heart of hearts, I know there is another reason why sleep comes so easily to him. He has a clean soul. (Spike sleeps well too, but clean slate? That's another story.) Little furry piece of Paradise dropped down from heaven in the form of a very, very small dog. Yes, I know dog=God spelled backwards. And so must he. I look at him wonderingly as he sleeps, paws pointed heavenward and know, just know, he's never lived with regret. What ifs and should haves. Have a day where he hates himself or life or has to convince himself the purpose of it all. He shuts his eyes and sleeps and as I rub his ears or stroke his fur when he snuggles up against me, he shares with me his Peace.
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Zen and The Art of Towel Folding
We do our own laundry in the sleep lab. Green and blue sheets and blankets and...towels. There is something so soothing about taking a warm, clean towel out of the dryer and burying your face in it. The smell of fabric softener, (ah, Snuggle!) and the softness of the cloth against your face is very comforting.
People suggest that when you can't sleep, try counting sheep. Never worked for me, I get lost after 47...48...49... and by the 50's I'm confused and start using my fingers. I'm bored and my mind starts to wander and I'm in the dark holding my fingers up, basically looking like an idiot to myself. If the purpose of counting sheep is to get your mind off of things, it doesn't work for me. I've found that doing something repetitive does. Raking the red and orange fall leaves, painting fingernails Flamingo Pink and folding fresh towels out of the dryer.
Zen Gardens , although gardening purists say that is a misnomer, there is no such thing, work on the idea that the repetition of movement stops the chaos of your thoughts and aids in relaxation and tranquility.
I always worried one of my 3 cats would look at the sand and get the wrong idea!
Skip the visual.
Check out ,Zen Gardens for use at work or as gifts for non-psycho cat people, it's a wonderful gift idea.
But in the meantime, remember the laundry. Try it. When you can't calm yourself down and feel entirely too wound up, throw a load of towels in the wash and do your usual routine for bed. If you still can't sleep, drink some milk, wait for the dryer to cycle to end and start folding towels. Smell, fold, stack, smell, fold, stack, smell, fold, stack-
No counting allowed, just soothing repetition-
That Snuggle bear's got it made.
'Discover the Gift of Sleep'-SleepCompass.com Jane
Continue Reading
People suggest that when you can't sleep, try counting sheep. Never worked for me, I get lost after 47...48...49... and by the 50's I'm confused and start using my fingers. I'm bored and my mind starts to wander and I'm in the dark holding my fingers up, basically looking like an idiot to myself. If the purpose of counting sheep is to get your mind off of things, it doesn't work for me. I've found that doing something repetitive does. Raking the red and orange fall leaves, painting fingernails Flamingo Pink and folding fresh towels out of the dryer.
Zen Gardens , although gardening purists say that is a misnomer, there is no such thing, work on the idea that the repetition of movement stops the chaos of your thoughts and aids in relaxation and tranquility.
I always worried one of my 3 cats would look at the sand and get the wrong idea!
Skip the visual.
Check out ,Zen Gardens for use at work or as gifts for non-psycho cat people, it's a wonderful gift idea.
But in the meantime, remember the laundry. Try it. When you can't calm yourself down and feel entirely too wound up, throw a load of towels in the wash and do your usual routine for bed. If you still can't sleep, drink some milk, wait for the dryer to cycle to end and start folding towels. Smell, fold, stack, smell, fold, stack, smell, fold, stack-
No counting allowed, just soothing repetition-
That Snuggle bear's got it made.
'Discover the Gift of Sleep'-SleepCompass.com Jane
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Fear No Darkness, Promised Child Lyrics
by Timo Raisanen-
Hold my hand; rest assured, I won't fail you.
Calm your heart; I am here right behind you.
So wipe your tears oh chosen one.
Don't be scared, no need to run.
You will see though it's dark, your heart will blind the night.
The two of us, we shall relent when you shine your light.
I shall comfort you so fear no evil, as you know:
I shall guide you. I will lead you.
Fear no darkness, promised child.
Fear no evil, promised child.
Don't be scared, sweet promised child.
Fear no darkness.
Like a candle in the night, that's how I found you.
That's how I know I will relent; shine our way through.
So hold my hand, I rest assured you won't fail me.
Calm my heart, be my guide right behind me.
I shall comfort you so fear no evil, as you know:
I shall guide you. I will lead you.
Fear no darkness, promised child.
Fear no evil, promised child.
Don't be scared, sweet promised child.
Fear no darkness.
Fear no darkness, promised child.
Fear no evil, promised child.
Don't be scared, sweet promised child.
Fear no darkness.
'Discover The Gift of Sleep'-SleepCompass.com
Continue Reading
Hold my hand; rest assured, I won't fail you.
Calm your heart; I am here right behind you.
So wipe your tears oh chosen one.
Don't be scared, no need to run.
You will see though it's dark, your heart will blind the night.
The two of us, we shall relent when you shine your light.
I shall comfort you so fear no evil, as you know:
I shall guide you. I will lead you.
Fear no darkness, promised child.
Fear no evil, promised child.
Don't be scared, sweet promised child.
Fear no darkness.
Like a candle in the night, that's how I found you.
That's how I know I will relent; shine our way through.
So hold my hand, I rest assured you won't fail me.
Calm my heart, be my guide right behind me.
I shall comfort you so fear no evil, as you know:
I shall guide you. I will lead you.
Fear no darkness, promised child.
Fear no evil, promised child.
Don't be scared, sweet promised child.
Fear no darkness.
Fear no darkness, promised child.
Fear no evil, promised child.
Don't be scared, sweet promised child.
Fear no darkness.
'Discover The Gift of Sleep'-SleepCompass.com
Afraid Of The Dark
"When it is dark enough, you can see the stars." Charles Austin Beard
My patient was a middle aged successful financier. World traveler, well educated, articulate. I asked him what brought him into the sleep lab and he said 'I have insomnia.'
I talked to him about good sleep hygiene, including the fact that the 2 things that induce sleep, are temperature and light. The cooler the room, the darker the room, the easier it is to sleep.
'I'm afraid of the dark.' Naked confession.
'Do you sleep with the light on?'
'No, I can have the bedroom light off, but I can't handle it if I look out into the living room and I can't see. I have to have a light on out there. I'm not afraid of anything, ANYTHING! I've been in bar fights and always won. I figure anyone who breaks in to my house, is already on the losing side. I'm not afraid of anyone! But this, I've always been this way, ever since I was a child.'
'Seems reasonably to me, one of the first fears we have, is the fear of the dark.'
'Not everyone is as understanding as you. I've had girlfriends make fun of me.' He said this quietly and with no small amount of embarrassment.
'Are they STILL your girlfriends?' I was incredulous someone who was supposed to care about him, could mock him for this.
'No, not anymore.'
'Well, pooh to them. I can leave the nightlight on in the bathroom if it will help.'
'No, I'm fine when I'm not alone like when my girlfriend stays over. I'll be OK since I know you'll be down the hall.'
'You'd be surprised how many people sleep better knowing we are watching over them. And warm bodies do help. Have you thought about a dog?' ( I was thinking longingly about my white chihuahua, Courage, fast asleep at home. Mister Snuggle Bunny himself!)
'I travel too much, it wouldn't be fair. I always wanted to get another one, though. I had one when I was growing up.' he added wistfully.
'Do you have an alarm system?'
'No.'
'Then that's your number 1 priority. You can even get one that is portable and hangs on the door so you can take it with you when you travel. Some of them are motion sensitive, all it takes is touching the doorknob. They emit a PIERCING alarm.'
'Anything else causing problems?'
'I have nightmares. Someone is always trying to get me. Like in all those bar fights!' he laughed.
Ah, now we are getting somewhere. Often when people have sleep apnea and are struggling to breathe, their body does anything to get them to wake up and take a breath. Nightmares included.
'We'll figure out what's going on tonight. And you ARE safe', I reassured him. 'I'm in the control room monitoring you. The other tech and I are reg. respiratory therapists, have our BLS card ( basic life support) and we have an AED ( automatic electrical defibrillator) and resusitation bag with oxygen in the hallway.'
He did have sleep apnea. During REM (rapid eye movement), while he was dreaming. He woke up in he middle of it and I went into the room.
'Funny, I was just dreaming I was in that bar fight again!'
Afraid of the Dark? Perfectly good fear to me and the child in all of us.
'Discover The Gift of Sleep'-SleepCompass.com Jane
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Marketing Sleep For Babies
Do you know what is the best time to shop at Wal-Mart? Yup, you guessed it, it's those magical hours anywhere between 10 pm and 6 am. Usually other night owls are there along with the diligent clerks busily stocking the shelves. It's a good time to wander through the baby section to find just the right present for a baby shower. Being in Sleep, the word itself always catches my eye and I saw a 'onesie' in bright yellow with the phrase 'Sleep is for the Weak' printed on the front.
What a poor message to be sending out! Having the baby wearing clothing with the warning 'this is what you have to look forward to for the next couple of months' or at least until they grow out of it! I walked away and came back to it 20 minutes later to see if I had over reacted and nope, it was just as much a bad jolt to the senses the second time around as it was the first.
Shaking my head in disgust as I headed for the bath supplies, I was again immediately drawn to the word sleep and this time it was used in a MUCH more positive way.
Johnson's bedtime moisture wash. Clinically proven to HELP BABY SLEEP BETTER.
Johnson's bedtime touch massage gel. Help baby SLEEP BETTER.
I felt like I hit the Mother Lode! Not only was it packaged in a soothing Lavender color, but they also had a basket premade with all the lotions, gels and moisture wash along with a blanket of the same color and the quintessential bedtime book, 'Goodnight Moon!'
Which message would YOU choose to send to new parents?
1. take stock in the coffee market now or
2. buy this stuff and make sure EVERYONE gets a good night's sleep!
I read the instructions on the back of the bottle along with the ingredients-
'JOHNSON'S has created a nightly routine that is clinically proven to help your baby fall asleep easier and sleep through the night better. treat your baby to a warm bath using JOHNSON'S BEDTIME MOISTURE WASH, then gently massage skin with JOHNSON'S BEDTIME LOTION. Each product releases NATURALCALM essences, a patent-pending blend of gentle and soothing aromas. Your baby will drift off to a better night's sleep.'
I read the ingredients to find out what was in 'naturalcalm' essence and couldn't see any key ingredient different from their other baby wash.
Doesn't matter, JOHNSONS (their caps, not mine) did what they set out to do.
1. I bought the product(s).
2. They had eye catching packaging
3. They told the new parents that THEY have created a nightly routine that is clinically proven to help their baby sleep.
One thing sleep techs always teach their patients, is to have a nightly routine. This signals the brain that the body is preparing for sleep. I tell my patients all the time, that the rituals at bedtime we have for our children, we often lose for ourselves. These need to be reestablished for exactly the same reason. As adults, we need to nurture ourselves as well as we do our children.
'Discover The Gift of Sleep'-SleepCompass.com Jane
Continue Reading
What a poor message to be sending out! Having the baby wearing clothing with the warning 'this is what you have to look forward to for the next couple of months' or at least until they grow out of it! I walked away and came back to it 20 minutes later to see if I had over reacted and nope, it was just as much a bad jolt to the senses the second time around as it was the first.
Shaking my head in disgust as I headed for the bath supplies, I was again immediately drawn to the word sleep and this time it was used in a MUCH more positive way.
Johnson's bedtime moisture wash. Clinically proven to HELP BABY SLEEP BETTER.
Johnson's bedtime touch massage gel. Help baby SLEEP BETTER.
I felt like I hit the Mother Lode! Not only was it packaged in a soothing Lavender color, but they also had a basket premade with all the lotions, gels and moisture wash along with a blanket of the same color and the quintessential bedtime book, 'Goodnight Moon!'
Which message would YOU choose to send to new parents?
1. take stock in the coffee market now or
2. buy this stuff and make sure EVERYONE gets a good night's sleep!
I read the instructions on the back of the bottle along with the ingredients-
'JOHNSON'S has created a nightly routine that is clinically proven to help your baby fall asleep easier and sleep through the night better. treat your baby to a warm bath using JOHNSON'S BEDTIME MOISTURE WASH, then gently massage skin with JOHNSON'S BEDTIME LOTION. Each product releases NATURALCALM essences, a patent-pending blend of gentle and soothing aromas. Your baby will drift off to a better night's sleep.'
I read the ingredients to find out what was in 'naturalcalm' essence and couldn't see any key ingredient different from their other baby wash.
Doesn't matter, JOHNSONS (their caps, not mine) did what they set out to do.
1. I bought the product(s).
2. They had eye catching packaging
3. They told the new parents that THEY have created a nightly routine that is clinically proven to help their baby sleep.
One thing sleep techs always teach their patients, is to have a nightly routine. This signals the brain that the body is preparing for sleep. I tell my patients all the time, that the rituals at bedtime we have for our children, we often lose for ourselves. These need to be reestablished for exactly the same reason. As adults, we need to nurture ourselves as well as we do our children.
'Discover The Gift of Sleep'-SleepCompass.com Jane
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Discover The Gift Of Sleep
How well did you sleep last night? We believe in the essential need for sleep. After all, sleep makes up 1/3 of our lives. In today's world, sleep is often taken for granted and downplayed in its importance.
This blog features Gus, a neurologist, board-certified in sleep medicine, along with Jane and Nancy, two registered sleep technologists! What makes our team unique is our combined 50 years experience in sleep medicine. This blog is a place to explore the spiritual, emotional and practical aspects of sleep.
'Discover The Gift of Sleep'-SleepCompass.com
Continue Reading
This blog features Gus, a neurologist, board-certified in sleep medicine, along with Jane and Nancy, two registered sleep technologists! What makes our team unique is our combined 50 years experience in sleep medicine. This blog is a place to explore the spiritual, emotional and practical aspects of sleep.
'Discover The Gift of Sleep'-SleepCompass.com
Things That Go Bump In The Night...
If you’re worried about-
Things that go bump in the night and that is what is keeping you up, then Bump Back!
Seriously. Become friends with a ghost. Not an angel. Angel means messenger-
Western Union of the Heavenly Host?
Candy-gram?
Singing- gram?
Telegraph with Telepathy?
Nah, I want someone who used to worry about things in life like I do. Not a ’spirit’. But a ghost. Not a Pooka, like Harvey, the 6-foot spirit Harvey of the movie with the same name, starring Jimmy Stewart. Not an ‘entity’, someone who hasn’t ‘moved on’ because of a traumatic death. No, I’m talking about someone who sticks around because…well, because they kinda like it here. Someone who has actually LIVED this life and know what a bitch it can be. Nods a sympathetic if not a spectral head when you mutter under your breath about tax sheltered annuities, general elections and finding enough toilet paper, plastic cups and bottled water during hurricane season. Familiarity. Life itself.
What if this time on Earth is like a bus stop? A way station? A rest stop on the interstate of soul progression? Instead of hauling ass in their journey of soul development, they stop here. For awhile. Load up on snacks. Get souvenirs and maps and freshen up in concrete bathroom stalls. And in the meantime, they help out. Hang out in the corner of your bedroom, eating ‘Cinnabons’ and ‘Popeye’s’ chicken and make sure nothing bad haunts you at night. No Freddy Krugers, Chuckies, clowns named ‘It’ and bogey mans of the past disrupt your sleep.
For me, knowing the good ghosts are watching over me is worth waking up and finding the occasional Taco Bell wrappers and sporks on the floor.
Hot sauce anyone?
'Discover The Gift Of Sleep'-SleepCompass.com Jane
Continue Reading
Things that go bump in the night and that is what is keeping you up, then Bump Back!
Seriously. Become friends with a ghost. Not an angel. Angel means messenger-
Western Union of the Heavenly Host?
Candy-gram?
Singing- gram?
Telegraph with Telepathy?
Nah, I want someone who used to worry about things in life like I do. Not a ’spirit’. But a ghost. Not a Pooka, like Harvey, the 6-foot spirit Harvey of the movie with the same name, starring Jimmy Stewart. Not an ‘entity’, someone who hasn’t ‘moved on’ because of a traumatic death. No, I’m talking about someone who sticks around because…well, because they kinda like it here. Someone who has actually LIVED this life and know what a bitch it can be. Nods a sympathetic if not a spectral head when you mutter under your breath about tax sheltered annuities, general elections and finding enough toilet paper, plastic cups and bottled water during hurricane season. Familiarity. Life itself.
What if this time on Earth is like a bus stop? A way station? A rest stop on the interstate of soul progression? Instead of hauling ass in their journey of soul development, they stop here. For awhile. Load up on snacks. Get souvenirs and maps and freshen up in concrete bathroom stalls. And in the meantime, they help out. Hang out in the corner of your bedroom, eating ‘Cinnabons’ and ‘Popeye’s’ chicken and make sure nothing bad haunts you at night. No Freddy Krugers, Chuckies, clowns named ‘It’ and bogey mans of the past disrupt your sleep.
For me, knowing the good ghosts are watching over me is worth waking up and finding the occasional Taco Bell wrappers and sporks on the floor.
Hot sauce anyone?
'Discover The Gift Of Sleep'-SleepCompass.com Jane
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