Seasoned

seasoned

N o v e m b e r 2016

Over 50 & living the good life!

What life is about

Lessons from hospice patients

Finances

How to make tax time go smoothly

Memory

Important things for aging well

Take a trip

Visit parks in the Brazos Valley and around the state this fall

seasoned

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Contents

What life is about - lessons from hospice patients How to make tax time go smoothly Try alternative medicine or therapy for pain first The two most important things for aging well Take a trip: Visit parks in the Brazos Valley, around the state this fall Strategies to get back in a good mood Recipe: Cinnamon Caramel Cheesecake Squares Calendar

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What life is about - important lessons from hospice patients When I was a kid, our family frequently drove through Arizona on vacation. Each time, I couldn’t wait to get to the Grand Canyon.

My dad would warn me when we were within 10 miles. I would climb over the back seat of the family station wagon and take my place in the middle, scanning the horizon for the “big hole,” as my dad dubbed it.

Then all of a sudden, seemingly out of nowhere, it appeared. At first, it was a mere spot in the distance. Soon it was everywhere. It spread as far as the eye could see. Grand. Deep.

Gary Roe Hospice Colorful. Breathtaking.

We would pull into the parking lot, get out and make our way to the edge. I remember looking over and down the first time. My head spun. I swear I couldn’t see the bottom.

“What is this place?” I wondered. My heart beat faster. I felt smaller than usual.

I stood there, riveted. I felt I was on the rim of the world. A kind of fear crept into my heart. I sat down on the ground, mesmerized. Honestly, I was stunned by the grandeur of it all.

As we drove away, I laid in the back of the station wagon, gazing at the “big hole” as it slowly receded into the distance. I asked myself, “What’s it like inside, way down there?” It seemed like another world, a different dimension.

We sure didn’t have anything like that back home in Wichita Falls.

Now, decades later, I visit the rim of another canyon, almost every day. Every time I enter the home, apartment or room of a hospice patient, I’m in the presence of someone on the edge of this life. I’m awed by the gravity of it.

Going through the motions We live in a busy, demanding world.

Surrounded by so much stimulation, we sometimes shut down, without even knowing it. We slip into auto-pilot and go through the motions. We slog T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E

“I had some heavy baggage. I got to unpack and unload it. How many people get that chance?”

“This life was tough. But then again, most good things are.”

“Forgive quickly and often. Don’t go to bed angry. Love, and love now.”

Visiting my patients and their families convinces me of a truth I say often: “Hospice is not about death, but about life.” Hospice is about trust, compassion, love and the best quality of life in the time we have left.

through mental to-do lists, unaware that we’re not “all there.”

We finish the day and lay our heads on the pillow. Another day done. We rarely evaluate how present we were or whether what we did was of any lasting significance. We’re too tired to think about it. It’s enough that we survived.

Tomorrow, we’ll get up and do it all over again.

Most of us live life without a lot of perspective. Our minds are on the next thing on our list, all the while heavily influenced by what lies behind us and concerned about what might be in front of us.

There are times, however, when the fog clears. We have “Aha!” moments and epiphanies along the way. Suddenly we see the world differently, with increased clarity and understanding.

We now “know” something on a deeper, heartfelt level. We love moments like that, don’t we? If only we could hold on to them, make them last longer, or somehow experience them more often.

November – a special month November is National Hospice Month. It’s also the month we celebrate Thanksgiving. For me, the two go together. We celebrate life, love, family and relationships. It’s a sacred mission of physical, emotional, mental and spiritual care. Our task is to enter the lives of those on the rim of the canyon and assist any way we can, hopefully freeing families and friends to connect deeply during what could be a difficult time.

Viewing this process from the inside, it’s no surprise to me that research shows the sooner a person gets on hospice (a patient qualifies with a terminal diagnosis of six months or less), the longer they live and the greater quality of life they experience.

Many go from being frustrated and isolated to feeling seen, heard and cared for, surrounded by a caring team of doctors, nurses, aides, social workers and chaplains.

Now they can just “be” and begin to focus on what’s most important to them. That’s huge.

Almost every day on my way home, I end up thinking something like, “Wow. I can’t believe I get to do this.” I’m continually exposed to profound wisdom flowing from the hearts of those sincerely reflecting on the whole of life. I walk away with perspective I

Wisdom from the edge As a hospice chaplain, I have the privilege of being with and listening to people who see things a little more clearly than most of us. Their lives have narrowed. Whether anticipated or unexpected, they find themselves on the edge of this life, on the rim of a new canyon. They cease to pay much attention to the noise around them.

The important stuff crystallizes and stands out.

Life. Love. Relationships.

Forgiveness. Amends. The end of life can be a powerful time of focused, intentional, heartfelt living.

Here are some examples of the wisdom I have heard recently: “So few things are important.

Frankly, it all comes down to people.”

“My life wasn’t what I hoped, but that’s water under the bridge. It’s what I do today that matters now.”

“The most painful part will be leaving. But I’m glad it’s hard. That means I got to love and be loved.”

would never have otherwise. My life is much richer because of my courageous patients and their families. I’m deeply grateful.

Slow down, and really live So in recognition of National Hospice Month, I share their insights with you. Slow down, take a deep breath, and then read their statements again. Let them sink in. Listen to wisdom from the rim of the canyon, the edge of this life.

Family. Friends. Kindness.

Compassion. Forgiveness. Love. Peace of heart and mind. Life is meant to be lived. Let’s get at it.

Holiday grief event Are you missing someone this year?

Join Hospice Brazos Valley for its free community event, “Handling Holiday Grief” on Dec. 3 at 10 a.m. at the Brew Coffeehouse on Harvey Road in College Station. For more information or to RSVP for this free event, please call 979-821-2266.

Gary Roe is an award-winning author, speaker and chaplain with Hospice Brazos Valley. Visit him at www.garyroe.com, or contact him at 979-821-2266 or groe@ hospicebrazosvalley.org.

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November 1, 2016 | 3

How to make tax time go smoothly

Pop quiz: What is the least favorite time of year for most people? That’s right, tax time!

It brings up memories of digging through stacks of mail in search of forms and nail-biting suspense of not knowing whether you owe taxes or worse yet, penalties. What many people don’t realize is that there are things they can do today to make the tax preparation process smoother. I may not have a recipe for removing taxes from your life, but I can offer tips that will TracY Stewart take away some of Financial Literacy the dread and stress.

1. Get yourself organized. An effective system does not have to be elaborate. If you have a method for keeping all tax-related paperwork in one place, you are ahead of the game.

Folders, binders and boxes can work.

Technology can help you, but is not required. In fact, as long as you are diligent about using your system, virtually any system for staying organized will work well.

2. Keep in mind that certain life changes can cause you to have tax consequences. Here are some examples: • Marriage or divorce • Relocating for work

• Death of spouse • Receiving a lump sum settlement, distribution or inheritance • Medical expenses not covered by insurance • Collecting Social Security benefits, and • Taking care of grandchildren or other dependents.

If you have had any of these happen in your life, of if there have been any other big changes in your financial situation, it is a good idea to discuss them with your tax preparer early.

3. It’s not all doom and gloom getting older can have tax benefits!

If you are over 50, you are eligible for catch-up contributions to 401(k) and IRA accounts. In 2016, that can mean up to $1,000 extra that you can put into your retirement savings. Be sure to check with your CPA on the timing of the contribution to get credit on your 2016 tax return.

If you are over 65, you get a larger standard deduction (an extra $1,250 if you are married, and $1,550 if you are single).

Those over 65 also get a lower threshold for deducting medical expenses. That means that if you are over 65, you get to deduct any unreimbursed medical expenses that exceed 7.5 percent of your adjusted gross income (as opposed to having to overcome the 10 percent threshold).

In order to take advantage of this, you must choose to itemize your expenses instead of taking the standard deduction.

Keep in mind that there are tax preparation assistance programs available to you. Look for a local Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, especially if your tax return is relatively straightforward and your annual income is lower than $54,000. VITA sites are typically found at community centers, malls, libraries and schools. They are staffed by trained and certified volunteers. You can find the nearest VITA site by doing an Internet search or calling 1-800-9069887.

4. If you are under 59 ½, be careful with early withdrawals from IRA accounts as they typically trigger a 10 percent penalty. For example, if you take $10,000 out of your IRA to pay for everyday expenses, expect to pay a $1,000 penalty in addition to the income taxes on the withdrawal.

There are a few exceptions that allow you to withdraw funds early and not get penalized. They include but are not limited to having to cover medical expenses in excess of 10 percent of your adjusted gross income, having to pay for health insurance after a job loss and paying for college.

5. If you have a small business, keep careful records. Your record keeping does not need to be complex

or elaborate. What’s most important is that you track your receipts, as well as business expenses. Diligent recordkeeping will also help you validate that you are running a business, which allows you to deduct certain expenses.

I know one business woman who gets a thrill out of neatly taping her receipts to copy paper and filing it all in a binder.

6. Remember about identity fraud.

Request and review your free credit report from a major reporting agency every year. I recommend using www.

AnnualCreditReport.com to get your credit report – it’s one of the few outlets that is truly free (no credit card required). Also, consider filing early to eliminate the risk of a criminal filing the tax return on your behalf.

Part of what makes tax season so difficult is that tax rules can be complex. If you are using the services of a tax preparer, speak with him or her about any questions you have.

Bring up any changes in your expenses and income during the year. If you are anxious about the bill, ask for an estimate up front. Getting your paperwork assembled and organized will make the preparation go smoother, which can help eliminate last-minute surprises.

Contact Tracy B. Stewart, CPA, PFS, CFF, CDFA, CFP® at www.

TexasDivorceCPA.com.

Try alternative medicine or therapy for pain first

Alternative medicine or therapy for pain management is the right choice for the first level of care. Research is unfolding new and shocking discoveries about pain and how our mind and body nervous systems communicate differently than what we originally thought.

For example, in the past we thought pain was strictly hard-wired to only the brain. But those ideas have changed now because new information tells us that pain Leon Bradway that is felt on our Physical Therapy skin, in muscles, joints and other

body parts is derived from a complex communication network involving internal pain chemicals and nerve tissue. Communicating pain chemicals are now found separately in the brain, spinal cord and extremities. Evidence now shows that some of the densest communicating pain chemicals, within the brain and spinal cord, work along sensory pathways involving emotions.

If you happen to injure yourself from trauma, an accident or bump yourself on a piece of furniture, the nerves at that injury site send pain information to areas in the brain. Your brain determines what is giving you pain and if the pain is a threat. If it is a threat, then what needs to be done?

For example, if you place your hand over a flame on the stove, you remove

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your hand or if you step on something sharp, you remove your foot quickly.

The brain will do what it can to prevent harm. But what if your pain doesn’t go away? What if a traumatic incident, a motor vehicle accident, a sports injury, headache or a post-surgical pain site never stops hurting?

One reason your pain has not stopped is because the information received in the brain and in between the site of your pain has changed.

Communicating pain cells in our body that conduct sensation for pain have increased in sensitivity. Due to this increase in change, the pain cells have become more sensitive to things such as touch, movement, putting on a clothing article and performing daily activities. Everything you do

hurts. Your brain is being bombarded with an increase in pain sensitivity and interprets it all as a threat. The increased threat of “why do I keep having pain” drives your feelings for fear, anxiety and emotions that will eventually work against you.

The negative impact is your brain perceives more pain. Your entire mindset and body changes because of your continued threat of pain. You become less active, you’re afraid to do anything or go out with friends, your body tissue tightens, you have difficulty concentrating, you’re sleep deprived, your muscles become weak, you walk or hold yourself differently, you gain

See Help with continued pain page 5 T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E

The two most important things for aging well

Most readers of this column are familiar with assorted advice on how to age well. But if I asked you to name the two most important lifestyle influences on aging, in two words, could you do it?

The answer is (drum roll, please): diet and exercise. Both animal and human research confirm the major role of diet and exercise.

Fortunately, we have control over both of these factors, yet sadly Dr. Bill Klemm neglect to eat and The Memory Medic exercise as properly as we should.

A prime example is the popularity of fast-food meals. They are typically loaded with calories, saturated fat, preservatives and salt. Mice fed on a fast-food diet developed nearly triple their amount of body fat in just four months. Other mice that were given access to an exercise wheel benefitted from the exercise. Those that were on a fast-food diet gained more weight and fat mass than their counterparts that could exercise. The exercise also reduced the development of senescent cells, which are cells that lose their ability divide and replace themselves.

As impaired ability to divide happens

Help with continued pain from page 4

weight, and you rely on pain medicine to fix your current state. How do you change the threat of continued pain?

Alternative medicine or therapy for pain management can help you manage or end your threat of pain.

What I just said is true because 80 to 90 percent of most body aches and pain is musculoskeletal. Alternative medicine for pain management that is right for you includes a health care provider who specializes in alternative natural pain management and will give you an opportunity to tell your story and listen; will give you a thorough comprehensive hands-on clinical examination; tell you where your pain is at and why you are having pain; and explain how to heal and recover from the threat of pain that includes coping and relaxation strategies. In addition, alternative medicine for pain management will give the pain victim complete one-on-one time with a natural pain specialist who: T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E

beans, coffee and tea. Vitamin D supplements in moderate dose are probably a good idea, too because this vitamin confers many health benefits even though it is not a primary antioxidant.

As for exercise, you don’t have to be a marathon runner. In fact, some research shows that marathon-level exercise is actually harmful. Various recommendations have been made, but the consensus advice seems to be combined aerobic and strength building exercises at least three times a week, lasting 30 minutes to an hour.

Why exercise improves health is not entirely clear, but the evidence is consistently clear. Exercise certainly reduces emotional stress, which in itself is a major source of poor health.

The effects on circulation and heart function are readily demonstrated. In my own case when I was 35, during the first weeks after I stopped smoking and started jogging, it would take a full 15 minutes to get my breath back to normal after a jog. Within a few months, I could recover in less than a minute. I no longer recommend jogging

in organs like the liver, lungs, immune cells and gut, it promotes development of disease. Normally, the cell turnover time needs to occur: • every 10 days for immune cells in the blood and cells in the lungs and gut.

• every month for pancreas cells, skin, and certain bone cells.

• every year for liver cells.

You might think that turnover could yield new replacement cells that are healthier, assuming that a person improved their diet and exercised more. It is certain that precursor cells, once damaged, have been tagged with epigenetic changes that transfer the damage to new replacements.

So what makes a good diet? Eat more foods containing omega-3 fat (a special kind of unsaturated fat found in fish (especially sardines and salmon), shrimp, canola and soybean oil, walnuts and to a lesser extent, green leafy vegetables. Pill-form supplements are widely available.

Eat a wide variety of foods high in antioxidants (most foods have different chemical varieties of antioxidants).

This includes citrus fruits (vitamin C), brightly colored berries (especially blueberries), dark grapes, red wine (resveratrol), nuts, dark green veggies,

because for some people it will damage joints. But plenty of aerobic forms of exercise can be substituted, such as biking, rowing, using of ellipticals, swimming, singles tennis or handball and even vigorous walking. Most commercial gyms have stationary bikes, treadmills and elliptical and rowing machines.

So you only have to remember two words to know how to age well. The problem is mustering the will power to eat right and exercise.

Sources: www.medicalnewstoday.com/ articles/308046.php www.nature.com/nrm/journal/v8/ n9/full/nrm2233.html book.bionumbers.org/how-quicklydo-different-cells-in-the-body-replacethemselves/ Documentation and further explanation on aging well is found in Dr. Bill’s inexpensive e-book, “Improve Your Memory for a Healthy Brain.

Memory Is the Canary in Your Brain’s Coal Mine.” The book is available in all formats from Smashwords.com.

The Most Important Thing in any Relationship

includes solutions to improve your quality of life by educating you about strategies to help manage or fix your threat of pain; begins hands-on care to decrease pain site areas, given a light but progressive physical activity program to improve flexibility and strength; and gives problem-solving pain strategies for home or work.

Positive pain management success is a process that takes time and requires a team approach that includes your family physician and may require other health team members, depending on psychological, physical and medical problems that have to be addressed to ensure your pain program is a success.

The Sports, Back and Pain Management clinic, at 2705 Osler Blvd. in Bryan, will hold an open house 6:30– 8 p.m. Nov. 10. We will have cookies, refreshments and handouts about pain management and pain coping strategies. After a brief presentation, everyone can tour the clinic.

2016

Robert Herring, Au.D. Doctor of Audiology

3091 University Drive East, #410 Bryan, TX 77802 www.listenhearaudiology.com

Leon Bradway is a doctor of physical therapy and director of the Sports, Back and Pain Management Clinic. See www. bvphysicaltherapy.com.

November 1, 2016 | 5

Take a

Visit parks in the Brazos Valley and aroun

By STACY CANTU Special to The Eagle

With autumn comes cooler weather and leaves changing colors, making it a great chance to adventure out to parks.

Locals can take advantage of the weather by visiting Brazos Valley area parks or venturing out to other parks around the state.

One park in College Station popular in the fall is Lick Creek Park because of its numerous trails, said College Station Parks and Recreation Marketing Coordinator Kelli Nesbitt.

“People are always welcome to explore nature at Lick Creek Park in College Station,” Nesbitt said. “The park currently offers several miles of trails and provides an excellent opportunity for hiking, cycling, bird watching, equestrian activities and nature study. We do ask that any visitors follow the directional signs and rules due to construction of the Nature Center.”

The Brazos Valley area has not seen many leaves changing color this fall.

“The College Station Parks and Recreation Department has not seen a lot of fall foliage in the parks this year,” Nesbitt said. “This is due to the warm climate and abundance of Post Oak trees.”

Although fall foliage may not be in abundance in the Brazos Valley area, the fall is still a perfect time to get outside and enjoy the cool weather.

According to the College Station Parks and Recreation website, College Station’s 55 public parks cover 1,377 acres, with many providing amenities such as tennis and basketball courts, swimming pools, hiking trails, dog parks, playgrounds, picnic pavilions, walking/jogging and nature trails, along with a competition-quality skate park and more than 60 miles of bike trails.

In addition to Lick Creek Park, there are several other parks in College Station for locals to enjoy, such as Stephen C. Beachy Central Park and John Crompton Park, which features ponds, bike/walking trails and a fishing pier; John Crompton Park, which features concrete trails and picnic areas; and Emerald Forest Park, which also features trails and picnic areas. For a complete list of parks in the College Station area visit www.cstx.gov.

Bryan also has several parks for locals to enjoy. Bob Holmes, Bryan Parks and Recreation Parks manager, recommends three parks in Bryan to visit during the fall: Tanglewood Park, Austin’s Colony Park and Park Hudson Trail.

Tanglewood Park offers two separate walking paths, a large picnic pavilion and several picnic tables; Austin’s Colony Park offers a walking/jogging trail, picnic tables, and barbecue grills; and Park Hudson Trail offers walking/biking trails in a heavily wooded area with abundant wildlife. For more information on these parks, or to see a list of all parks in Bryan, visit www. bryantx.gov/parks-and-recreation.

Brazos Valley parks For those who would like to go to state parks in the Brazos Valley, Lake Somerville, Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site and Fanthorp Inn State Historic Site offer a variety of activites.

Lake Somerville State Park on Somerville offers camping, picnicking, boating, fishing, hiking, biking, volleyball, horseshoes, basketball, backpacking and equestrian use.

Visitors must bring their own horses. The park has more than 20 miles of trails that are open to hikers, mountain bikers and equestrians. For more information on Lake Somerville State Park, visit tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/lake-somerville.

Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site is located

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on the Brazos River in Washington. The e grounds along the Brazos River provide a picnicking, sightseeing and bird watching enjoy The Star of the Republic Museum, Barrington Living History Farm. For mo historic site, visit tpwd.texas.gov/state-pa the-brazos.

Visitors at Fanthorp Inn State Histori take tours of the historic Fanthorp Inn an replica of an 1850 Concord stagecoach. Fo this site, visit tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks

Worth the trip

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Enjoy a frugal fall road trip

Metro Creative Connection Road trips are a staple of autumn for many motorists. Fall foliage and moderate temperatures make the months of September, October and November ideal months to hit the open road for weekend getaways.

Fall road trips rarely take drivers too far away from home, but traveling can still be costly. Fortunately, there are many ways to make road trips more affordable without sacrificing fun.

• Explore alternatives to more traditional lodging. If your road trip includes an overnight stay, consider alternatives to traditional lodging.

Hotels might stretch your budget, but depending on where you plan to go, you might have some less traditional alternatives. Airbnb.com allows homeowners and even some apartment dwellers to rent their homes and apartments to travelers, and these listings may pale in comparison to rates offered by nearby hotels. If weather permits, look for local campsites and spend your nights sleeping outdoors under the autumn stars. If you prefer hotels, look for deals on sites like Priceline.com or Hotwire.com, which may offer heavy discounts on rooms.

• Take steps to conserve fuel. Lodging might prove your biggest expense on a fall road trip, but fuel likely won’t be too far behind. Drivers can cut fuel costs in several ways. Before beginning your trip, take your car in for a tuneup so any issues that might affect fuel efficiency are addressed before you hit the open road. Poorly inflated tires force the engine to work harder and burn more fuel, so make sure tire pressure matches the levels recommended in your owner’s manual before embarking on your trip and even along the way if you feel your car is not running as smoothly as it could be. Another way to conserve fuel is to remove excess items from the trunk. If you don’t plan to hit the links on your trip, leave your golf clubs at home.

• Plot your route. Spontaneity may make fall road trips more fun, but drivers looking to save money should plot their routes in advance so they can avoid potentially costly problems like detours or road work that can waste fuel and lead to hours sitting in traffic. Use a GPS device during your trip so you can be alerted to any unexpected developments that might cost you time and money. Plotting your route in advance also allows you to find affordable dining and lodging options and choose roads that don’t require drivers to pay tolls.

• Invite some friends and family along. Inviting friends and family on a weekend getaway can make the trip more fun and more affordable. If you have room in the car, inviting friends along allows you to split fuel costs, and you may even save on lodging if you find a hotel that won’t charge for extra guests in the room. Friends and family also can help split the cost of supplies.

• Bring your own food. Food is another big expense road trippers must account for. But you can save money on food by bringing your own meals along on the trip. Prepare some sandwiches the morning that you leave and keep them fresh in a cooler so you don’t have to pay for lunch. In addition, pack some snacks so you and your passengers can quickly and affordably quell any hunger pangs that arise while you’re on the road. If you plan to stay in a place with its own kitchen, cook your own dinners so you don’t have to spend money dining out.

Road trips are a staple of autumn, when drivers can still enjoy the open road without breaking the bank.

the Brazos Valley area that are worth the drive during the fall.

Some parks to visit include Bastrop State Park, Lost Maples State Natural Area, Palo Duro Canyon, Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Enchanted Rock, Big Bend National Park and Monahans Sandhills State Park.

Not far from College Station, Bastrop State Park offers visitors a chance to camp, picnic, swim, ride bikes, hike, fish, geocache, take in a nature program and look for wildlife. The park offers more than seven miles of trails for visitors to enjoy.

Visitors are also welcome to bike or drive scenic Park Road 1C between Bastrop and Buescher state parks. The hilly 12-mile road takes visitors through recovering and forested areas of the Lost Pines. For more information, visit tpwd.texas.gov/ state-parks/bastrop.

Vanderpool features Lost Maples State Natural Area, known for an abundance of fall foliage. Visitors to this park can also see the scenic Sabinal River. For more information on this park, visit tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/lost-maples.

Palo Duro Canyon in Canyon offers guided horseback riding through the trails with Old West Stables and also hosts an outdoor musical drama, “Texas.” The show is familyfriendly and details the stories and struggles of early settlers.

The show includes singing, dancing and fireworks. For more information on this park, visit palodurocanyon.com.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park, a U.S. national park in Salt Flat, is best known for its bright white Salt Basin Dunes and its colorful fall foliage. Visitors can hike Guadalupe Peak Trail up through the forest to see views of El Capitan peak.

For more information, visit www.nationalparks.org.

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area in Fredericksburg offers beautiful fall colors along its scenic paths. This area is also well-known for its view of the stars, but is most popular for rock climbers. The giant granite dome leads people to amazing views and has drawn people for many years. For more information on this park visit tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/ enchanted-rock.

One of the more well-known parks in Texas, Big Bend National Park is located in the Southwest region, and is known for its view of the night sky. Big Bend is one of the most popular vacation destinations in Texas due to its scenic hiking trails and historic sites. For more information, visit www.nps. gov/bibe/index.htm.

Monahans Sandhills State Park does not have beautiful fall foliage; however, the fall temperatures make this the perfect location. The best thing about this park is that it will never be the same as the last time you went. Wind and rain are constantly changing and shaping the dunes. For more information on this park, visit http://tpwd.texas.gov/stateparks/monahans-sandhills.

With such an abundance of parks throughout Texas, Brazos Valley locals can easily enjoy the outdoors this fall and take in what all nature has to offer.

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November 1, 2016 | 7

Strategies to get back in a good mood Metro Creative Connection Adults know that life has its ups and downs. While it’s important not to get too down when things don’t go as planned, no one is immune to bad moods. But just because bad moods are a fact of life, that does not mean they cannot be combatted.

While bad moods are nothing to get too worried about, if such moods overstay their welcome, speak with a physician. According to the World Health Organization, depression is one of the most common mental disorders in the world, affecting an estimated 350 million people across the globe.

There are various types of depression, and no two people are affected in the same way. That’s an important distinction, as those who know someone with a history of depression may not recognize signs of depression in themselves if those symptoms don’t mimic the signs they’re familiar with.

But bad moods are not always indicative of depression. In those instances when a bad mood is simply a bad mood, you can try a handful of strategies to get back in a good mood.

Exercise. Numerous studies have shown that exercises enhances mood.

Anxiety about a life event or stress at work are two common contributors to bad moods. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, studies have shown that exercise can elevate mood and do so quickly, with some researchers suggesting that a 10-minute walk can be just as effective at relieving anxiety as a 45-minute workout. Studies have also shown that exercise can help combat stress by reducing fatigue, improving alertness and concentration and enhancing overall cognitive function.

Ignore alcohol or limit your consumption. Many people feel an alcoholic beverage relaxes them, and feeling relaxed can help improve mood. That initial feeling of relaxation is the result of alcohol affecting the chemical balance of the brain by depressing the part of the brain that governs inhibition. That’s why alcohol is categorized as a depressant. While that initial drink may feel like you’re on the way to a better mood, as alcohol begins circulating in the body, your

Exercise can alleviate anxiety and stress, two common culprits behind bad moods. stress levels may actually increase and your bad mood may even intensify. If you find yourself in a bad mood, resist turning to alcohol to improve mood,

and limit your alcohol intake to a single drink during those times when you’re in a bad mood.

Volunteer to help others. While more research is necessary before a definitive connection between volunteering and improved mental health can be established, researchers in England analyzed data from 40 published papers and found a link between volunteering and lower levels of depression.

The review also found that volunteers reported increased life satisfaction and enhanced well-being.

Periodic bad moods are a part of life, but there are ways to limit their lifespan and get back to feeling good as quickly as possible.

8 | November 1, 2016

T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E

Create a delicious dessert for holiday celebrations

Metro Creative Connection Lavish meals are a large part of holiday celebrations, with many people indulging in dinners and desserts throughout the holiday season.

This is a time when many families display their best recipes, and these may include certain desserts that can be labor-intensive to make or something more fitting for a special occasion.

Cheesecake is an example of a dessert that, due to the time it takes to create and the richness of the dessert itself, is not something many people eat on a regular basis.

However, with a time-saving recipe, cheesecake can become a dessert prepared in little time for holiday festivities.

Try “Cinnamon Caramel Cheesecake Squares” from “Pampered Chef Season’s Best, Fast, Fun & Fabulous” by Pampered Chef¨ Test Kitchens.

Cinnamon Caramel Cheesecake Squares Makes 24 squares.

2 8-ounce packages seamless crescent dough 2 8-ounce packages cream cheese 1 egg 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 3/4 cup sugar, divided Flour for dusting 1 tablespoon cinnamon 1/2 cup caramel topping 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Unroll one package of crescent dough into a shallow baking pan. Roll out the dough to edges.

2. Heat the cream cheese in a microwavesafe bowl, uncovered, on high for 30 to 40 seconds, or until softened. Whisk until almost smooth.

3. Add the egg, vanilla

and 1/2 cup of the sugar to the bowl.

Whisk until smooth.

Spread over the crescent dough.

4. Lightly sprinkle the flat side of a cutting board with flour.

Unroll the second package of crescent dough and roll it into a 13- by 12-inch rectangle.

5. Fold the dough in half from the short end; gently lift and place in the pan. Unfold and gently stretch the dough over the cream cheese layer; press the edges to seal. Cut off corners of dough hanging over and discard.

Cinnamon Caramel Cheesecake Squares 6. Bake 22 to 24 minutes, until golden the oven. Immediately pour brown. the caramel topping over the cheesecake and spread 7. Combine the remaining to the edges 1/4 cup sugar and cinnamon of the crust. in a small bowl. Place the Sprinkle with caramel topping in a 1-cup the cinnamonmeasuring cup. sugar mixture; 8. Remove the pan from

let stand for 10 minutes.

9. Using a utility knife,

cut into 4 x 6 rows to make 24 squares.

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November 1, 2016 | 9

CALENDAR

Ongoing Sit and Fit Chair Exercises Adults 55 and up meet at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station, every Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, from noon to 1 p.m. Gentle workout while sitting in a chair. Features fatburning aerobics and weight lifting.

For more details, contact 979-7646351 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

Line dance workshop for beginners – Adults 55 and older are invited to a free line dance workshop for beginners, held from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. on the first, second and third Monday of each month, at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station.

Learn the steps and terminology. No registration necessary. Contact 7646351 or mrodgers@cstx.gov for more information.

Line Dancing - Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station, holds line dancing for seniors on Tuesdays from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. and on Fridays from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Low impact workout, to the hottest tunes. For more information, contact 979-7646351, 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@ cstx.gov.

Classic Country and Bluegrass Jam Session – Bluegrass Jam Session is from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. on Tuesdays at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. All levels welcome.

Bring string instruments and a friend.

Open to all who like to listen to or play this kind of music. For more details, contact 979-764-6351 or mrodgers@ cstx.gov.

Friday Bridge - Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station, offers bridge for seniors on Fridays from 9 to 11:30 a.m. For more, contact 979-764-6351 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

Learn how to play 42 dominoes - Learn the game of 42 every Wednesday from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. Contact Southwood Community Center at 979-764-6351 or mrodgers@cstx.gov for more

information.

42 dominoes - Adults 55 and up meet every Thursday to play 42 at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. New players welcome. For more details, contact 979-764-6351 or mrodgers@cstx. gov.

Bible study – Bible study is held for seniors 9:15-10:30 a.m. every Thursday at Lincoln Center, 1000 Eleanor St. in College Station.

Contact 979-764-3779 or awilliams@ cstx.gov for more information.

Maj Jongg - Adults 55 and older interested in learning the game will meet at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station on Thursdays from 9 to 11:30 a.m. For more information, contact 764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx. gov.

Game Night - Seniors are invited to Game Night from 7 to 9 p.m.

Tuesdays at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. Table games and dominoes provided or bring your own favorite game. Meet friends and enjoy a fun game night. For more information contact 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

Forevercise - Forevercise is a free exercise class for ages 55 and up, offered on Monday, Wednesday and Fridays from 1:30–3 p.m. at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station.

Class offers individuals healthy lifestyle practices with helpful tips on nutrition and exercise. Exercises may be done while standing or sitting in a chair. For more information contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 979764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

Dominoes - Brazos County Senior Citizens Association, 1402 Bristol St. in Bryan, plays dominoes all day on Tuesdays and Fridays and from noon to closing Wednesdays. Sack lunch for those playing dominoes from 11:30 a.m. to noon Wednesdays. For more details: 979-822-6873/www. brazoscountyseniorcitizens.weebly. com.

Bridge – Brazos County Senior

1 0 | November 1, 2016

Citizens Association, 1402 Bristol St. in Bryan, plays Bridge from 12:30 p.m. until closing on Tuesdays; noon to closing on Thursdays; and 12:20 p.m. to closing Fridays. Partner needed Tuesdays and Thursdays.

For more details: 979-822-6873 or www.brazoscountyseniorcitizens. weebly.com.

Games - Brazos County Senior Citizens Association, 1402 Bristol St. in Bryan, plays board games, Scrabble and other card games on Tuesdays.

For more details: 979-822-6873/www. brazoscountyseniorcitizens.weebly. com.

Bible study - Brazos County Senior Citizens Association, 1402 Bristol St. in Bryan, holds Bible study 9:15 to 9:45 a.m. on Wednesdays. For more information, call 979-822-6873 or visit www.brazoscountyseniorcitizens. weebly.com.

Exercise class - Brazos County Senior Citizens Association, 1402 Bristol St. in Bryan, holds exercise class 9:45 to 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays.

For more details, call 979-822-6873 or visit www.brazoscountyseniorcitizens. weebly.com.

Bingo - Brazos County Senior Citizens Association, 1402 Bristol St. in Bryan, plays Bingo 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Wednesdays. For more details: 979-822-6873 or www. brazoscountyseniorcitizens.weebly. com.

Canasta - Brazos County Senior Citizens Association, 1402 Bristol St. in Bryan, plays Canasta from 11:30 a.m. to closing on Thursdays. For more details, call 979-822-6873 or visit www.brazoscountyseniorcitizens. weebly.com.

Potluck luncheon - Brazos County Senior Citizens Association, 1402 Bristol St. in Bryan, has a potluck luncheon 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Fridays. For more, call 979-822-6873 or visit www. brazoscountyseniorcitizens.weebly. com.

One-on-one computer help - 6 to 8 p.m. Mondays and Saturdays at Larry J. Ringer Library, 1818 Harvey Mitchell Pkwy. S. in College Station. Contact the Reference Desk to schedule a 30-minute session, at

979-764-3416. For more information, visit www.bcslibrary.org.

Nov. 2 Computer Club for Seniors: “What’s new in Technology” - The Computer Club is open to all adults 55 and up interested in learning more about the computer world. Meetings are held at Carter’s Creek Training Room at 2200 North Forest Parkway in College Station at 9:30 a.m. No pre-registration needed. For more information contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov or visit cstx.gov/ seniors.

Nov. 9 “Strictly Business” – Learn About Local businesses: C.C. Creations - Seniors are invited to learn about C.C. Creations, one of the largest custom screen printing and embroidery companies in Texas.

The presentation will be at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station, from 11 a.m.–noon. No pre-registration required. For more information contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov or visit cstx.gov/ seniors.

Nov. 15 Nutrition Education - Texas A&M AgriLife Extension offers monthly cooking demos with new recipes and food choices for healthy living. Join other seniors 60 and up at Lincoln Center, at 1000 Eleanor in College Station, from 10-11 a.m. For more information, contact Annie Williams at 979-764-3779.

Nov. 16 Family History Computer Group: “Google Drive for Genealogists and Family History Buffs” - The group shares an interest in researching family history and storing it on their

See Calendar page 11 T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E

Brass players invited to perform in annual Tuba Christmas event Baritone, euphonium and tuba players are being invited to participate in the annual Tuba Christmas concert in Bryan on Dec. 2.

The Clara B. Mounce Public Library is sponsoring the annual Tuba Christmas

Calendar

from page 10 computers. Meetings are held on the third Wednesday of the month at Carter’s Creek Training Room at 2200 N. Forest Parkway in College Station from 9:30-11 a.m. No registration is required. Open to adults 55 and up. For more information contact College Station Parks and Recreation

that will be held at 7 p.m., in conjunction with First Friday, in front of the Carnegie History Center in Downtown Bryan.

Registration will be held at 5:30 p.m., followed by rehearsal at 6 p.m.

Participating musicians need

to bring a music stand, and are encouraged to decorate their instruments with tinsel and lights. Chairs and music will be provided.

The registration fee is $10.

Music may be purchased for $23 per book or $28 for enlarged

Luncheons are held at Aldersgate Church, at 2201 Earl Rudder Fwy S. in College Station. RSVP for lunch -- the cost is $7. Lunch is served at 11:30 a.m. Speaker will begin at noon.

RSVP on Nov. 11 at 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

Department, Senior Services at 979764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov or visit cstx.gov/seniors.

Exploring History Luncheon: Celebrating the College of Veterinary Medicine – 100 Years - The College Station Historic Preservation Committee and the College Station Parks and Recreation Department present monthly lectures on the history of the community.

Nov. 28 Senior Advisory Committee meeting - The Senior Advisory

print.

For more information contact Larry Koeninger at lkoeninger@bryantx.gov or 979-204-5411 or Peggy Noynaert at pnoynaert@bryantx.gov or 979-209-5622, or visit www. bcslibrary.org.

Committee meets monthly to discuss programs and activities for adults 55 and up. The meeting is held at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station at 10 a.m. Visitors welcome. For more information contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov or cstx.gov/ seniors.

Services Include Nursing:

www.healthquesthomehealth.com

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Locally Owned and Family Operated “At HealthQuest, we understand that quality home health care begins with respect, compassion, and understanding.”

• Medication Administration • Diabetic Management • Blood Pressure Monitoring • Wound Care/Wound V.A.C. • Catheter Care • Colostomy Care • Enteral Feeding • PEG Care • PICC Central Line Care • IV Therapy

Medical Social Work:

- Trini Perez, Owner

HealthQuest Home Health

Certified Nurse Aide:

• Bathing • Toileting • Dressing • Linen Changes

Therapy:

• Physical Therapy • Ultrasound Therapy • Occupational Therapy • Speech Therapy

MSW helps with social and emotional concerns related to the patient’s illness. That includes, but is not limited to, the education of community resources.

Phone: 979-846-7870

Payment Options: Medicare (covers 100% in most cases) •Medicaid • Limited Private Insurance • Self-Pay • Worker’s Comp T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E

(but are not limited to)

November 1, 2016 | 11

Say

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More than 40 of our physicians are proud graduates of Texas A&M University, and they’re proud to practice here in the heart of Aggieland.

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To make an appointment online, go to SJApptASAP.org, or call 979.774.2121 to find a physician near you.

T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E