On Wednesday I had a speaking booking at the Faygate, Colgate and Rusper Women’s Institute which is a local WI branch in West Sussex. I speak about motoring matters that concern women drivers such as tyres, MOTs, car servicing, car insurance and buying new cars. I always come away with more knowledge than I impart and know that there is much room for more female friendly services in all these areas. Very enjoyable evenings and much female chat.
This time my husband had looked at the map, spotted there was a good pub across the road and offered to drive me there, set up my projector and the like. I have a stock set of slides, personal ones including how women drivers are portrayed in the media, mostly unfavourably.
As my husband set up the projector I was able to chat to the early arrivers – instead of doing everything myself, I was able to relax for a change.
Until he asked me where my presentation was, that is. I replied by giving him a file address which was on our network at home, not on the PC I had brought with me. Our eyes locked as we both realised my big mistake.
Of course it was my mistake – I know what is required and am used to looking after myself. This time I relaxed one stage too far and imagined that my husband wpould check things for me (as he so often does). I did not check everything as I should have.
What happened, by the way, was that Paul leaped into the car, returned to home and brought the slide presentation to me in time for my wrap up, so my introduction became my finale.
Not ideal but what a learning curve for someone who uses technology all day long. I forgot that it isn’t always on tap as is. The main lesson however is always do the dry run first and NEVER assume it’ll be alright on the night without this.
I won’t forget again, that’s for sure.
FOXY Steph
