I do some of my best thinking on my hour drive to work in the morning.  Most of the time I don't even have the radio on-  the noise in my head is enough.  Mostly I think about work--  lately I've been enveloped by class preparation.  I am overly obsessed with Microsoft Office Products.   I never thought I'd hear myself say that.....

But I am in my element.  I've always been one of those weird people that loves to read manuals.  "How tos" and technical books have always been my favorite.  So, I'm reading, making notes, making lists and making plans.  Methodically making progress.  Reflecting, processing and figuring out the best way to present.

So far, there is a common theme running for all of these Office Programs, whether you are preparing a presentation or a paper-

1. Define your mission
2. Select & prioritize your goals
3. Unearth & organize your story

Oh wait a minute!  That's my plan for life as well!! 

OK, maybe I'm on the brink of falling over the proverbial edge.  It is Friday, though, 10:25 am, and I do think I can make it back to reality by about 5:30 pm.  Fifteen minutes with my 2 year old will clear my head and hopefully help me leave the "Office" behind until I get behind the wheel on Monday morning.

Presentation is so critical in everything we do.  How come so many well-dressed, manicured people get up in front of a group with all the best intentions and then have a train wreck with PowerPoint?  It's so easy to let this program take control of you.  Fight Back!   Think consistency, simplicity and less is best.  It's like storytelling.   Your audience should not be reading a book (your slides) during your presentation, but listening intently to you tell them a story.  No matter what the subject, there's a story in there somewhere.

Other things I'm excited about today:  del.icio.us, NetLibrary's e-content, Lynda.com,  and planning our first PODcast from the POD.   It's only noon, so I better start pacing myself!  Life is good and I love my job (even if it is Wed.)  Ok, so usually Wed. aren't my very best days..... Today is great, though, and I'm finding inspiration in everything!