>is there any way to make the text flash WITHOUT using the timer
>
>alternatively is there any way to make the title bar flash OR change colours without using the TIMER
>
>my problem in using the timer is that it slows down the program.

NO, and with a good reason! Flashing text is extremely annoying and absolutely NOT recommended in modern applications! Take a good advise, and forget about it! Use different colors in stead.