2013 September | October / BoomerBuzz Magazine

b o o m e rm abg auz i zn ez MID-CENTURY

Makeover

Hypnosis Joins the Conversation

FABULOUS Fall Foods

boomerbuzz‌ living life to the fullest

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2013 | boomerbuzzmagazine.com

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04 | CONTENTS

SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER: IN THIS ISSUE

PUBLISHER’S LETTER 07 FEATURE 08

Happy Fall Boomers Recipes You’ll Fall For | What is Mid–Century Modern?

The Brain and Body Are Talking

HEALTHY BALANCE 20 AT HOME 22 THE EPICUREAN 24 STYLE WATCH 26 BOOM VOYAGE 28 REDEFINING 30 WEALTHY & WISE 34

Fun Runs and Running for Fun | Follow the Light of Fall Using Reclaimed Wood Nutrition for Every Stage of Life Top Fall Fashion Trends The Caribbean Islands Five Easy Steps to Staying Inspired The Power of a Private Reserve System | It’s Your Money! Laboring for Social Security Income

BOOMER BUZZ 40

My Alzheimer’s Ode | Fall into a Good Book | Willing to Let Them Go | Labor Day 2013: Americans at Work

BLOG SPEAK 47 MEDICAL MATTERS 50 SENIOR SCENE 52 ON THE COVER Jim Kraus in his Dallas, Mid-Century Modern Makeover.

Photography by Becca Menig

i am well My Secret for Healing and Younger Looking Skin Surviving as a Caregiver | Politely Rewarding Caregivers

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M u o Y r a e N r e t u m p o c m . o s e C v a a o w t t e g n n i s u s a Com g e p . www

06 | MASTHEAD

boomerbuzz magazine.com PUBLISHER Robin Roberson

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Torrey Moseley

ADVERTISING & MARKETING Linda Moncrief

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Jonathan R. Moseley

WEBSITE DESIGN Houston Brown/Split Light Designs

SEO & SOCIAL MEDIA MarketingWorks

PUBLIC RELATIONS Isabell Rossignol

CREATIVE CONTRIBUTORS Becca Menig, Photography

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Eric S. Alexander Tara Anderson Andrea S. Deppe John Ebey Clint Fuqua Valerie Grimes Liz Inskip-Paulk Beverly F. Jones Sonja Kabell Daryl Leeds

DeeDee Lowder Wendy Michaelis Claire Maestri Becca Menig Stephan Sardone Peggy Emerton-Schilling Scott Schilling Cynthia Stock Kara Times Karol Wilson

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. REGISTRATION ON OR USE OF THE MAGAZINE CONSTITUTES ACCEPTANCE OF BOOMERBUZZ MAGAZINE’S USER AGREEMENT AND PRIVACY POLICY. THE MATERIALS ON THIS SITE MAY NOT BE REPRODUCED, DISTRIBUTED, TRANSMITTED, CACHED OR OTHERWISE USED, EXCEPT WITH THE PRIOR WRITTEN PERMISSION FROM BOOMERBUZZ MAGAZINE.

PUBLISHER’S LETTER | 07

PUBLISHER’S LETTER I LOVE fall! Sweater weather, football, warm comfort food; the colors of the season so bright and bold. And that is what you will experience in the September/October issue of BoomerBuzz Magazine…a bright, bold issue that, in all hopes, will inspire you.

Karol Wilson gives us an extraordinary fall dinner from salad to entrée, side and dessert —not your ordinary dinner! And Valerie Grimes, CCHt, discusses how the body and brain talk to each other. Her article helps you understand the conversation. DeeDee Lowder showcases a beautiful mid-century modern makeover in Dallas, Texas by local artist and homeowner, Jim Kraus.

Scott Schilling always inspires with his messages for positive living and growing. Clint Fuqua motivates you to run, run, run!

Recently, I read a poem by a British Alzheimer’s patient, who was also diagnosed with Parkinson’s. I tracked him down, as his simple words would not leave me. I wanted to share them with you. Even though life is dealing him a tough hand, he remains encouraged and retains a sense of humor. We should all be of that mindset! And, Senior Scene talks about surviving as a Sandwich Generation-caregiver and the importance of rewarding in-home caregivers for seniors.

Anyone who has provided care can tell you it is a hard, hard job at times and caregivers need relief.

You will find sunny vacation ideas, secrets for healing quickly and looking younger, and some great books to fall into. And, Cynthia Stock writes about Americans at work in 2013.

Our fall issue is definitely a kaleidoscope of colorful foliage and I hope you enjoy every page!

Happy, happy fall, Boomer Readers!

08 | FEATURE

RECIPES YOU’LL “FALL” FOR

By Karol Wilson Fall brings apples, leafy vegetables, and (perhaps) a pumpkin to the dining table. Here are some great recipes from two chefs I have worked with – David McMillan and Nicolas Pavageaux. The goat cheese salad was created by Chef McMillan’s young son. David also created the fresh take on duck (you can use chicken) and the baked berries for dessert can utilize what you may have frozen from this year’s bumper crops seen in stores everywhere. Nicolas’ spinach recipe is light, a little showy, yet easy to make. And, the spinach-hater in your group will become the “new Popeye”…it’s that good.

RYAN’S PUMPKIN SEED CRUSTED GOAT CHEESE & APPLE SALAD Serves 4 Pumpkin seed-crusted goat cheese: Ingredients: • 8 oz. goat cheese • 1 cup pumpkin seeds, toasted • 1 Tbsp. fresh rosemary, chopped • salt & pepper to taste Preparation: 1. Cut goat cheese into 2 oz. pieces. Shape into discs and chill.

2. Chop up pumpkin seeds. Mix in rosemary and salt & pepper.

3. Coat goat cheese with pumpkin seed mix.

4. Warm in 350-degree oven until just soft. Can be sautéed.

5. Transfer to serving plate and finish with apple salad.

Apple Salad: Ingredients: • 1 cup apple, julienned and kept in about ¼ cup apple or pineapple juice to prevent discoloration.

• 1 Tbsp. parsley, chopped • 1 tsp. fresh thyme, chopped • 1 Tbsp. maple syrup • 1 tsp. red wine vinegar • 2-3 Tbsp. canola oil • salt & pepper to taste Preparation: 1. In a small bowl, toss maple syrup, vinegar, parsley, and thyme together. Whip in oil slowly.

2. Season with salt & pepper.

3. Mix in apples.

4. Re-season, if necessary, and serve with goat cheese.

FEATURE | 09

VANILLA SMOKED DUCK WITH PEACH BBQ SAUCE Serves 6 – 8

Vanilla takes on a new personality when used as a marinade for chicken or duck—especially when smoked to a mahogany glaze over low fire and smoke. When using duck, make one alteration: Cook the breast to medium doneness (still some pink in the middle). Cook legs and thighs until juices run clear.

Ingredients: • 4 legs • 4 thighs • 1 whole breast • ½ cup vegetable oil • 1 Tbsp. pure vanilla extract • 1 tsp. salt • ½ tsp. finely ground pepper • 1 tsp. grated lemon peel • 1 cup peach preserves • 2 Tbsp. cocktail sauce • 1 tsp. cider vinegar to taste • 1 Tbsp. minced fresh min

10 | FEATURE

Preparation: 1. Rinse and dry duck pieces. Then pierce duck all over with a fork and place in a large ziplock plastic bag.

2. Whisk together vegetable oil and vanilla. Pour vanilla oil into plastic bag with duck and turn bag to coat evenly. Refrigerate at least one hour or overnight.

3. Remove duck from marinade and shake off excess oil. Combine salt, pepper, and lemon peel. Use as a rub to season duck evenly on all sides.

Peach BBQ Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine peach preserves, cocktail sauce and vinegar over low heat.

Simmer until bubbly. Remove from heat.

To Grill: • Coals should be medium hot, about 325°-350° F. • Place duck away from direct heat. Check and turn after 20 minutes.

• Turn again and cook about 20 minutes longer.

• Baste duck with peach barbecue sauce.

• Turn and baste other side.

• Continue to cook, turning and basting once more, for about 20 minutes, or until juices run clear when pierced with a fork. Duck breast will cook faster than thighs and legs.

• For a crisp glaze, place duck directly over medium coals for last 5 to 10 minutes of cooking time. Be careful not to burn.

• When duck is done, remove from grill and keep warm. To serve, slice breast thin. Serve legs and thighs whole. Garnish with minced fresh mint.

SAUTEED SPINACH WITH APPLES AND ONIONS Serves 4 – 6 Ingredients: • 1 Tbsp. raspberry balsamic vinegar • 1 Tbsp. balsamic vinegar • 1 Tbsp. clover honey • salt and pepper to taste • 2 Tbsp. olive oil • ½ cup red onion, sliced • ½ cup green apples, sliced • 8 cups baby spinach Preparation: 1. Heat olive oil in a sauté pan then add onions and apples.

2. Once apples and onions begin to turn translucent, start adding the spinach.

3. When all the spinach is added to the pan, deglaze the pan with both of the vinegars.

Then add the honey.

4. Let reduce for about 2 minutes.

FEATURE | 11

ROASTED BERRIES Serves 8

Ingredients: • 1 quart (4 cups) mixed ripe berries • 4 tsp. rosemary, chopped • 3-4 Tbsp. honey • 4 oz. (1 stick) butter • 1 cup dark rum • 1 vanilla bean • 1 tsp. salt • 2 cups whipped cream • 2 cups Amaretti cookies, crushed Preparation: 1. Quickly heat honey, rosemary, butter, scraped vanilla bean, salt, and rum until combined, stirring frequently.

2. In a large bowl, toss berries and honey mix. Pour mixture into a glass baking dish and roast in a 400-degree oven for 10–15 minutes.

3. While still warm, spoon into individual bowls or serving piece. Garnish with whipped cream and sprinkle with crushed Amaretti cookies. Use mint or rosemary as additional garnish.

Karol Wilson is a Dallas-based publicist and food-writer. Currently working on her first cookbook, Karol is a longtime member of the prestigious and worldwide organization, Les Dames d’Escoffier. Members are voted in for their experience in the food, wine, and hospitality industries. The Dallas Chapter raises significant funds for women interested in these fields and supports numerous nutrition-related programs throughout North Texas.

12 | FEATURE

The Brain and Body are Talking: Hypnosis To Join the Conversation.

By Valerie A. Grimes, CCHt

Hypnosis is a great conversation starter.

Just bring it up at your next gathering and witness the response ranging from fear to accolades. Here is another conversation starter: The body is the subconscious mind, as declared

by Candace Pert in her groundbreaking book Molecules of Emotion. Before you agree or disagree there are two schools of thought on how our brains interact with the rest of us: The electric brain and the chemical brain.

The Old Model: Electric Brain Information jumps from one neuron to the next across synaptic cleft with a message of On or Off.

EXAMPLE: Trying to find a flashlight in the dark.

The Body Response: Opening a drawer, feeling around… “No, that’s not it. Go that way, closer, closer. Over here? No, this way, it must be this way…ah, there it is.”

The Thought Response: Why did the lights go out? I need to put my flashlight in a better place. (Actually, there were several emotions of frustration or fear in the above, but that didn’t have anything to do with the brain in the electrical brain theory.)

The theory is that those interactions have little or no effect on our bodies. The old model is basically a view of the brain as mechanical.

The New Model: Chemical Brain

FEATURE | 13

This model has more participants: cells, receptors and ligands.

Ligands are neurotransmitters, steroids, and peptides. The cell is the engine—the receptor is the button to start the engine. Ligands push the start button.

Theory: Body Response and Thoughts are simultaneous.

EXAMPLE: Being exposed to the aroma of coffee.

What’s that I smell? Coffee! (nostrils flair) And there is my favorite red mug. I love that mug. I got that when we were on vacation (heart beats faster). I remember when we had coffee at that little sidewalk café (smile appears). Peptides flowing, (I feel Happy).

This theory views the brain and body more as one unit. And as Pert suggested, the body acts more like a second central nervous system.

Maybe the Brain is Both Electrical and Chemical?

In her book, Pert uses the examples of theories of Walter Cannon (a physiologist at Harvard Medical School in the first part of the 20th century) and William James (a 19th-century psychologist).

These two men had opposing views of the brain, emotions, and the meaning of those emotions. The question was do they originate in the body and then get perceived in the head as

William James thought? Or, do they originate in the head and trickle down to the body as Cannon believed? (Cannon-Bard Theory) Pert said it could be both. Based on her work and observations there is a two-way street of communication always occurring between the body and the brain. However, even in the late 1970s and early 1980s (during her career at NIHN), most scientists didn’t want to hear anything about emotions and the brain, because the brain was still viewed as only electrical/mechanical.

More proof.

Elmer Green of the Menninger Foundation pioneered biofeedback which supported Pert’s theory. Green wrote, “Every change in a physiological state is accompanied by an appropriate change in (the) mental/emotional state and conversely every change in (the) mental/emotional state is accompanied by an appropriate change in physiological state.”

However, many of the scientists and doctors that were exposed to his work (at that time) and the evidence he established refused to accept it.

As she continued her research, Pert believed strongly that the body can be healed with the mind and the mind can be healed through the body and had the research to back this up. She left the scientific world and began to speak at mind/body conferences after she met Depak Chopra and a few other mind/body gurus.

Health or Disease is Always Being Communicated My friend was ill recently. When there would be a pain she would grimace and think she was experiencing a renal cyst again. She would tense up, hold her breath and think about the cyst invading her body. I told her she had a choice. Instead, when she had the pain, she could begin deep breathing, look at the image of the beach (which was hanging on her wall) and think of the sun, water, and sand how they felt and sounded and allow her body to feel that

14 | FEATURE

peace and relaxation. I asked, “Which sounds better?” “The beach”, she said.

Was she communicating to her body? YES. You always are. Whether you are sending thoughts of an invading cyst or the feeling of sand beneath your feet, there is always a response to that thought. The question is, “How do you think your body is responding to the thought that a cyst is growing in your body?” It is the same response you get when you think of a scary movie and your heart quickens.

Thinking about the growing cyst encourages that very thing.

Montgomery, K. DuHamel, W. Redd (Mt. Sinai School of Medicine)

Results: This paper reviewed 18 studies conducted on the use of hypnosis to relieve pain over a two-decade period. It concluded that hypnosis provided an effective way to help people deal with pain because it had a "moderate to large hypno-analgesic effect." It further concluded that hypnosis should be more widely used in the treatment of pain.

HYPNOSIS AND ALLERGIES “Effect of Hypnosis on Allergic Skin Responses in Asthma and Hay-fever.” By L. Fry, A. Mason, R. Pearson

Results: A significant diminution in the size of the weal was obtained in the hypnosis group at the lower two strengths of an introduced allergen. In the second part of the investigation, all participants were hypnotized and experienced a similar decrease.

How Hypnosis Joins the Conversation.

Because hypnosis occurs at a subconscious level, it is an efficient way to get in on the cellular communication between mind/body, body/mind. It creates a state of awareness in order to self-monitor what is happening in the body and to encourage health and well being.

Perhaps, that means we could be intelligent systems able to create our own level of health.

Here are some of the functions of hypnosis on various maladies and the research for each.

HYPNOSIS AND PAIN MANAGEMENT “A Meta-Analysis of Hypnotically Induced Analgesia: How Effective is Hypnosis?” By G.

HYPNOSIS AND IBS (IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME) “Hypnotherapy in Severe Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Further Experience.” By P. Whorwell, A. Prior, S. Colgan Results: This study followed up on 15 patients with intractable IBS who previously reported having been successfully treated with hypnotherapy. At a mean follow-up period of 18 months, all remain free of IBS. (Two experienced a single relapse – both were resolved through an additional session of hypnotherapy).

So what is your body communicating to you today? You could join the conversation and take back your natural ability to be healthy and enjoy emotional well-being.

Valerie Grimes is a certified clinical hypnotist.

16 | FEATURE

What Is Mid-Century Modern?

By DeeDee Lowder Many consider Frank Lloyd Wright's organic architecture combined with Arts and Crafts as the principal American movement for the aesthetic of Mid-Century Modern. It is defined as an architectural, interior, product and graphic design that generally describes mid-20th century developments in modern architecture, design and urban development from roughly 1933 to 1965.

Reaffirmed in 1983 by the title of Cara Greenberg’s book, Mid-Century Modern Furniture of the 1950s (Random House), the term celebrates the style which is accepted worldwide as a significant movement.

The Mid-Century Modern movement in the U.S. was really a reflection of the International and Bauhaus movements – including the works of Gropius, Le Corbusier and Mies Van Der Rohe, although it is more organic in form and less formal. The Brazilian and Scandinavian style was characterized by clean simplicity and integration with nature.

The recent White Rock Lake Home Tour in Dallas, Texas included a two-story, mid-century modern home which had been lovingly-remodeled by its artist homeowner, Jim Kraus, over the last year and a half. Mr. Kraus paints colorful abstracts and landscapes which reflect his interpretation of the profound beauty and simplicity of natural forms, thus his remodel in the mid-century modern of the same design.

FEATURE | 17

Kraus’ landscaping and modern/abstract art, which complement a mid-century aesthetic, can be viewed throughout this gorgeous 2,800 sq. ft., 4-bedroom, 3-bath, split-level home. It boasts an open floor plan that features a floating staircase leading to the master bedroom and studio, which has been opened up by adding French doors overlooking the two-story great room. It sits on a ½-acre creek lot with a cantilever deck and xeriscaping. Attention to every detail is evident in design and décor.

Mid-century modern emphasizes creating structures with ample windows and open floor plans with the intention of bringing nature inside. Function was important with an emphasis placed specifically on targeting the needs of the average American family.

Stephan Sardone, owner of Sardone Construction in Dallas says, “What has been exciting for me in our

18 | FEATURE mid-century remodels is the opportunity to visualize it in the old way (like the woman of the home working in the closed-in kitchen of the 50s) and envisioning it with the fresh philosophy of putting everyone together in a shared experience by making the kitchen the open center of entertainment.” He states incorporating this openness throughout the flow of the home is challenging, but is what makes a remodel so much fun.

David Call, of David Call Interiors in Dallas, shares the same sentiments about midcentury design. He states, “Furniture and accessories from the 1950s mirror the curves and geometric shapes of the home’s architecture with emphasis on casual living, and addressing the needs of modern life.”

He says that this fall’s trend of geometric design is very reminiscent of the midcentury modern era.

DeeDee Lowder is a freelance writer, mother and entrepreneur who now lives in Atlanta. GA. Jim Kraus paints expressive, colorful landscapes and abstractions which explore the profound beauty and simplicity of natural forms. From small photographs to large scale paintings for public and residential spaces, he works collaboratively with designers and clients to create a distinctive, modern aesthetic. jimkrauscreative@att.net, www.jimkrauscreative.com Photography by Becca Meniig

20 | HEALTHY BALANCE

Fun Runs and Running for Fun

By Clint Fuqua

The fall brings with it a crisp chill in the air, the calming smell of warm cider, and charity runs/walks for every organization under the sun. While many are worthy causes, make sure you aren’t running yourself into the ground, earning dollars for miles, all over town. These are fun events for charity and are meant to spread cheer and hope for those we serve through our efforts. Get fitted for the right shoes to get you where you are going, and make sure you are in adequate condition to get there—while enjoying the journey on the way.

“Run Forrest, RUN!!!!!” Remember this iconic line from and even more iconic movie? When was the last time you watched Forrest Gump or thought about the great messages in that movie? Take the middle part of the movie where he just starts running because he felt like running, and then just kept on running. He wasn’t out there to win a race or beat his last time, or to time his miles, or measure his mileage. He was out there to run for the sheer pleasure and joy he got out of running. He ran when he had energy. He rested when he was tired. He ate when he was hungry. He ran with the people that ran with him, never to beat or outlast them, only to live in-the-moment with them. Sports and winning are great things for short periods of time, but life is about more than just a few points in time. Winning in life is being able to do the things you love for the sheer joy of doing them and not because of a goal that you (or others) may have attached to them. Make your plans and goals in life to do what you love but not at the expense of enjoying the life you are living while reaching those goals.

Think about how much more you get accomplished and how much better things turn out when you are having fun versus being stressed in the same situations. The same is true when you are exercising or engaging in a sport. When you are there, in the moment, loving what you are doing, your body is getting healthier due to all the anti-inflammatory hormones being produced—causing you to perform even better without trying. When you are in the game and stressed, or hating what you are doing, your body breaks down due to all the inflammatory hormones being produced—causing your performance to suffer the harder you try. When you find something you love to do, that moves your body, stay in-the-moment and just do it for the joy of doing it. Your health and your performance will both thank you as you get to do it for the rest of your long, active, and healthy life.

Clint Fuqua is a speaker, writer, personal trainer in Dallas, Texas whose goal is to help everyone learn why it is their personal responsibility to live a healthy lifestyle for the benefit of their future, their family, and society as a whole. www.clintfuqua.com

HEALTHY BALANCE | 21

Follow the Light of Fall

By Sonja Kabell It is the summer's great last heat, It is the fall's first chill: They meet. –Sarah Morgan Bryan Piatt

As we move from the hot season of summer into the cooler times of fall, the days get shorter and the temperature drops. We replace our short sleeves for sweaters. The wind picks up and the leaves change. Being a native Texan, our family always welcomes fall. We welcome the cooler temperatures, the light evening breeze, and what the season brings to us from a festivity prospective.

Fall brings more opportunities to enjoy outside activities, which provides us with a sense of well-being. There is nothing like breathing in fresh air and enjoying the sunshine. Sunshine helps with our health, our happiness, and our overall well-being. Unfortunately, a lot of us are scared of a little sunshine. We hear horror stories of the harmful rays of sunlight. This is probably the reason over 40% of the world's population is vitamin-D deficient.

Vitamin D is extremely important to good health. So important, that the lack of proper amounts in our body can lead to issues such as depression, anxiety, fatigue, and body aches.

People that live in the northern hemisphere can be affected so much, that they can get Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) which can last from the fall to spring.

The physical aspects of vitamin-D deficiency are associated with low bone density, osteoporosis, poor muscle strength, and an increased cancer risk.

How do you know if you are vitamin-D deficient? Your healthcare provider can test your vitamin D levels. How can we get the proper amounts of vitamin D? According to My Healthy Home, by Dr. Myron Wentz and Dave Wentz, moderation is the key when it comes to exposing your skin to the sun’s rays. 15-20 minutes of sunlight on your face, without sunscreen, is recommended each day. This may lower your blood pressure, assist in the detoxification of your liver, strengthen your immune system, and (of course) provide your body with the mostconvenient and least-expensive source of vitamin D. You can also take a trustworthy vitamin D supplement. Not all supplements are created equal, so do your homework. Take a supplement along with eating foods fortified with vitamin D. Wild-caught salmon, eggs, low-fat dairy, and mushrooms are a few food sources of vitamin D. This essential nutrient packs a powerful punch towards good health. Protect your most valuable asset, your health, and go enjoy the sun!

Sonja Kabell, Founder of Creating Healthy Lifestyles

22 | AT HOME

Using Reclaimed Wood

By Stephan Sardone

Of the many ways to reduce, reuse, and recycle, reclaiming old wood for new purposes is one of the more-exciting ways. It can be used in any way new lumber can, such as for flooring, siding, paneling, decking, etc. If you are intrigued by the idea of the wood in your home having real history, natural beauty, and enhanced character, then reclaimed wood may be the right choice.

TerraMai has beautiful options of reclaimed wood, including redwood that is reclaimed from wine barrels! Besides the wood’s history and beauty, there are a couple of big advantages that reclaimed wood offers. Since it is reclaimed, it is old, dense wood – meaning it was milled decades ago and offers a stability you won’t find in new lumber from younger trees. In addition to getting beautiful, aged hardwood, you are also not contributing to the clear-cutting of forests.

As Dwell.com states, reclaiming about one million board feet of lumber saves a thousand acres of old-growth forest. Now that is something to feel incredible about!

Check out these 4 images of the amazing work done with TerraMai’s reclaimed wood!

AT HOME | 23

Stephan Sardone, owner of Sardone Construction, has been serving the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex since 2000, with home renovations & commercial remodeling. He has gained a reputation for quality.

He enjoys writing about exciting remodels, unique techniques, and new products. www.sardoneconstruction.com

24 | THE EPICUREAN

Nutrition for Every Stage of Life

By Tara Anderson Seniors: The need for some nutrients increases. Because bone density decreases, it is important to increase your intake of vitamin D when over the age of 70. The sun is the absolute best source of this vitamin. 15-20 minutes of full-face exposure (without sunscreen) per day makes a huge difference.

Adults: Maintain a balanced diet. It is imperative to maintain a balanced diet as responsibilities (and stress) increase. Drinking plenty of water, as well as getting enough sleep are also keys to keeping your body healthy and happy. It is also important to give your body the nutrients it needs: protein, complex carbohydrates, plenty of leafy greens and fresh, seasonal fruit.

Teens: Adequate calcium intake is critical. Calcium is needed to achieve peak bone mass, which is reached in late teens and early twenties. Consider your teen’s activities when meal planning. An athlete and a non-athlete may be eating at the same table. Their plates should not necessarily look the same.

Toddlers: Vitamins and minerals need to increase. To insure that your child is receiving the recommended amounts of vitamins A, C, and E, as well as the minerals calcium, iron, and zinc, make sure they are eating a variety and plenty of fruits and vegetables. These nutrients are essential to health, growth, and development.

Infants: Fat is their friend. Because fatty acids are essential for the rapid brain growth and nervous system development that take place in the first 1 to 2 years of life, make sure your child is getting enough fat in their diet (35-45%). Full-fat yogurt, avocado, fatty fish (such as wild salmon), whole eggs, and nuts (after the age of 1) are all great ways to get healthy fats into your little one’s diet.

Tara Anderson is a mom, a wife, a chef and the owner of Half Pint Palates, that caters to infants, toddlers and aging adults in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. She consults with Breanne Vaughan, a nutritionist and chef and Claire Maestri, an expert on the aging population, who works for Mom’s Best Friend in senior care.

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26 | STYLE WATCH

Top Fall Fashion Trends

By Kara Times Fall season is finally here and it is time to reorganize your wardrobe. I am a firm believer in re-purposing your clothing to get your money’s worth.

Each season, designers and brands produce clothing that is the “top trend” or the “must-have” that they say you should buy at full-retail price. I would recommend choosing trends that fit with your wardrobe and lifestyle, then build from that. For example, if your attire is mostly black, instead, try wearing white to add freshness to your outfit or accessorize with a pop of color.

Another fall trend is sheath dresses with a conservative length. Look for designs that have flounce details around the shoulder. But remember, you should not wear a jacket or cardigan since this will cover the detail of the dress.

Classic patterns are back, so pull out your leopard, plaid, or hounds-tooth print in jackets and knit shirts. Shoes are a big hit this season with oxfords and flats with embellishments. And finally, if you are a spontaneous trend-setter, look for Asian-inspired looks in tops and dresses.

Color is a huge trend this season. So, here are some safe ways to pull off colors. Emerald green is all over the stores now. And the best thing about this color is that it flatters everyone’s skin tone. Great combinations to pair with this color are orange, pinks, and beige.

STYLE WATCH | 27 Also, deep Lichen green (a dark green) will be the staple color in patterns this season. Acai is a dark purple/berry tone paired with the color Vivacious which is a pink berry hue. Samba is a bold, fiery red that provides confidence to your wardrobe. Kai, which is my favorite color right now, is a golden orange that looks best with deep blues and denim. Mykonos Blue is the new teal that looks great with metallic. Carafe is such a universal staple in the beige family. This color looks best with yellows and reds. (Think fall foliage).

Top Trends to look for are: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Contrasting black and white Flounce details in dresses Return of the work suit Asian influences Winter white/black color blocking

6. Classic patterns such as hounds tooth and plaids in blazers 7. Turtlenecks 8. Slouchy pants 9. Oxford shoes 10. Color

So, when you are shopping for your fall wardrobes keep in mind great colors to add to your wardrobe.

Happy Shopping!

Kara Times is a Ready to Wear Manager and Fashion writer that lives in Houston Texas.

28 | BOOM VOYAGE The Caribbean Islands – Blues and Greens You May Have Never Seen

By Peggy Emerton Schilling There are many wonderful and beautiful places to visit in the world. If you are blessed enough to get frequent vacations, then you are wellaware of the fact that it can be hard to choose what kind of vacation to go on and where to spend your days away from work.

Do you want to vacation somewhere warm or somewhere cold? Do you prefer a bit of an isolated vacation or do you like the busyness of being surrounded by many people? As my family and I have been vacationing for the past few years, we have determined our favorite spot, that we just cannot get enough of, is the Caribbean Islands.

I knew the Caribbean Islands were something special the first time we took a chartered tour there. There was a magic and a wonder in our eyes upon seeing water that we’d never experienced before. My husband and I were absolutely hooked on the sheer beauty of the Caribbean Islands. I didn't mind the relaxed pace or the daily agenda of just being by the water and swimming if we felt like it.

One of the great things about the Caribbean Islands is the variety of locations and atmospheres there are to choose from. If you are looking for an island with a lot of activity, you can find it in the Caribbean Islands. If, however, you are looking for a quiet and secluded feel for your vacation, it is not hard to find a Caribbean island that fits your needs. Few places in the world offer such flexibility for any kind of vacation. You can stay on a Caribbean island that offers a lot of tourist attractions or you can stay somewhere that only offers the beach. It's up to you.

Another obvious thing to love about the Caribbean Islands is the sheer beauty that surrounds you. I have never been to a place more beautiful in all my travels. From the moment we stepped off the plane we were struck by just how filled with beauty the Caribbean Islands are. The water holds a variety of shades of blue and green. The sand is nearly angel-hair white, and the sky is bright blue and filled with sunshine every day. The landscaping is immaculate and I have rarely seen grass and plants so vividly green. The Caribbean Islands are simply unmatched for this kind of beauty.

So, if you're looking for a great place to vacation, look no further than to the Caribbean Islands. You can experience any kind of vacation you want to, and all in the midst of the beauty and wonder of the Caribbean Islands. What could be better than that? Your experience by sea?

One of the most popular ports of call for Caribbean cruise ships is St. Thomas, one of the U.S. Virgin Islands. Of the three Caribbean cruises that I’ve taken thus far, two of them included a stopover in St. Thomas. On both occasions, there was a consensus amongst other passengers we met, that St. Thomas was one of the nicer Islands visited. Even though the driving in St. Thomas is on the left-hand side, it is still a U.S. territory. This means that this Caribbean island features many other conveniences of being American soil, including: easy telephone connections for calls back to the mainland, the use of U.S. currency, and English as the main language.

St. Thomas is also one of the cleanest of Caribbean Islands and the locals do not aggressively hustle the tourists like they do on other Islands. Many passengers stated that St. Thomas is a place they would like to come back to in the future.

BOOM VOYAGE | 29 During my first visit to St. Thomas, we decided that we would spend some time snorkeling in the local waters.

My advance research suggested that Coki Bay on the northeast side of St. Thomas was a nice place to snorkel.

When our cruise ship docked at Charlotte Amalie (the capital city of the U.S. Virgin Islands) we hailed one of the many taxi cabs at the port. It was a $15 US fare to Coki Beach where Coki Bay is located. It took only about 15 minutes to get there. The scenery along the way was magnificent as we went up a hill and saw our cruise ship in the distant harbor below.

The island itself is very lush with greenery everywhere.

At Coki Beach, we rented snorkeling gear for $20 US. To my surprise, the rental attendant gave us each a hard biscuit to feed the fish while we were in the water. Once we got into the water, dozens of tropical fish immediately crowded around us. I guess they knew the drill quite well. We ripped off small pieces of the biscuits and the fish went for it, even if the food was just inches away from our face masks.

The yellowtail snappers, sergeant majors, and occasional parrotfish displayed no fear of us at

all. After about an hour in the warm water, it was time to say goodbye to our new aquatic friends. Another $15 US cab ride took us back to the cruise ship port where we spent the rest of the day browsing the many duty-free shops located there.

St. Thomas is definitely not an inexpensive island for either cruise ship passengers or resort tourists staying there. But, extra comfort and quality of the island are quite noticeable compared to many other Caribbean destinations. The other main islands of the U.S. Virgin Islands (St. John and St. Croix) are more laid-back and less-commercialized than St. Thomas.

We’re looking forward to another return trip to St. Thomas in the future for a multi-day scuba diving trip. For those thinking of going on a Caribbean cruise, I would definitely recommend one that has St. Thomas as one of its ports of call. It is one of the better Islands on any Caribbean cruise itinerary.

If I can help you in any way…please feel free to give me a call!

Peggy Schilling is the Co-Founder and Charter Broker for Select Charters. She specializes in understanding her client’s dreams and desires regarding the vacation of a lifetime. To learn more please visit: www.SelectCharters.com or email Peggy at Peggy@SelctCharters.com

30 | REDEFINING

Five Easy Steps to Staying Inspired

By Scott Schilling

Being motivated or staying inspired…which would you choose? Staying inspired of course! Every Boomer knows that, right?!

Or maybe I should set some groundwork…

Motivation is an “outside-in” activity and only happens when someone or something is there to keep you motivated. Inspiration, on the other hand, is an “inside-out” activity. Typically, inspiration comes from your internal desires to “get outside yourself” and focus on something bigger

and better than experiencing.

you

are

currently

Staying inspired, yourself, to excel at your job or to be an example to your employees should not be something you do only when the spirit moves you. It’s an ongoing process that should include every facet of your business life. This means your mental attitude, physical well-being and appearance, work atmosphere, your interaction with others (clients and

REDEFINING | 31 employees alike), and your off-the-job environment.

your problems, and the other 20% are glad you have them…just kidding!

Inspirational experts get paid big money to tell professionals (those striving for success) that they must constantly examine these factors. So how do you do that? Follow the 5 tips that follow, and watch the changes.

It’s not a joke. Problems don’t help anyone, especially you. Turn your attention and energy entirely to your on-the-job tasks.

This will actually be good for you because you’ll get a mental break from your troubles.

Create Positive Affirmations–The reason for writing goals for your business is the same as creating positive affirmations on paper. What your eyes see and ears hear, your mind will believe. Try it! After you’ve written them down, read them aloud to yourself – and do it every morning when you get into work. You’ll be amazed at what happens.

Maintain a Positive Attitude – Let’s realize that life is only 10% of what happens to us and 90% how we react to it. We’re responsible for our own actions and attitudes, and changing them when appropriate. When you’re around people or things that are uplifting and positive, you feel that way. You have more confidence in yourself, and know you can change whatever needs changing. Boomers have been through enough, long enough, to get this!

Understand that whatever seed you sow is the fruit you reap. When you share positivity…it breeds positivity! If you can make your workplace such a place you’ll find happier workers and higher production. You might even find your employees look forward to coming to work!

Leave Personal Troubles Home – Everyone has problems, but they don’t belong at work. You’ve probably heard of the 80/20 rule. Well, it applies with your problems as well. 80% of the people don’t care about

Start each affirmation with the command statement, “I AM…” That locks-in your subconscious immediately and activates your inner receptors. Come up with a set of new ones every month. Statements such as, “I’m an important and valuable person.” or “I know I’ll make good use of my time today.” Repeating them out loud every day at a set time will help reinforce positive actions.

32 | REDEFINING Make Sure Break Times Are Really Break Times – This is an area where most bosses and entrepreneurs fall down. You become so intent on the completion of a project or situation you’re working on that you don’t ease up – thinking that it’ll be solved in the next few seconds, and then you’ll get a cup of coffee – can lead you right up to quitting time.

Regularly adhering to a specified break schedule, even if you’re the boss, releases the tension. If you work on a computer this is even a greater problem because before you realize it – you’ve been working in that same position for hours. The best answer to this is to set yourself a reminder on your appointment calendar for every 2 hours, and let the computer reminder chime send you the alert to move around.

Exercise, Exercise, Exercise - I know that lately it seems that “exercise” is the cure-all to every physical ailment or your love life, but despite that, there is some truth to that ugly word. By “exercise” I don’t mean that you should go out and join a gym and spend your lunchtime 3-days-a-week there working out. What is really beneficial and workable is that at those chiming alerts from your computer, get up and walk

around your desk or room. Maybe go outside and get the mail and enjoy the sunlight (if you’re an entrepreneur that has a home office), or just get up and do a few stretches.

Concentrated, tense thinking – typing, plotting plans (or whatever your work) makes all those muscles tighten and knot up. Then, when we move, we go “ooh” and “ouch” because we’ve knotted up into a ball of tension. Periodic stretching, even at our desk, or just getting up and walking over to the window and getting a different view can help.

One of the greatest disservices modern business décor has done to us, is making our offices pristine, sleek, and unencumbered spaces. There is nothing more relaxing than getting up from your desk and walking over to a peaceful, serene, seascape or pastoral painting and just drinking it in visually. Momentarily transporting your mind out of work and into that place does wonders. A few more good paintings and less shiny chrome in offices would benefit us all.

It only takes a little concentrated effort on our part to keep motivated and productive, which leads to success. I know you’re going to hate hearing this, but it’s true anyway – and that is, “WHEN LIFE GIVES YOU LEMONS – MAKE LEMONADE!” There’s something about us boomers…and I, for one, like it!

Scott Schilling is a Business Growth Expert that speaks, trains, coaches and writes on topics specifically designed to help others make positive improvements in their thoughts, actions and success. To learn more please visit: www.ScottSchilling.com

34 | WEALTHY & WISE

The Power of a Private Reserve System

By Eric S. Alexander

There are two primary rules of business.

Rule #1: Every company exists to make money. We do it by adding value, delighting clients, and providing products that are in demand. However, at the end of the day we do those things in order to make a profit.

Rule #2: Companies that provide products and services with no strategy to earn profit…are not in business very long.

We intuitively understand these rules. Yet, very often, we forget that these rules also apply to our personal money. But, the truth is, our money (our capital) is nothing more than “financial inventory”.

When we send it into the world without a strategy to earn a profit we are essentially giving it away for free.

WEALTHY & WISE | 35 Problem: Every business has expenses: taxes, equipment, payroll, insurance…the list is endless. While managing these expenses is important, it is not enough. The reason? Every dollar of capital that leaves your business is a dollar you will never see again. Moreover, that lost dollar represents future growth you will never see. Therefore, the ultimate goal is not to lower expenses but to change the way we spend our money so the expense is not simply a transfer of capital and growth to someone else.

We have all seen the compound interest chart below. However, many forget that the near vertical slope at the end is almost 30 years out. This means, for the average adult, we only get ONE of these in our lifetime.

$

Time

Let’s look at what happens when we cover our significant expenses the traditional way. The first step is saving money. Whether it is a piece of equipment or taxes, we must first have the capital. As the money is set aside, it begins to earn interest. But, more importantly, your capital starts its path along the curve. When the day comes for the big expense…the moment you write the check; two things happen. One, the capital is no longer earning interest. Two (and this is the most critical) you LOSE your place on the curve. You don’t just stop growing…you start over at year zero.

36 | WEALTHY & WISE

$

Opportunity Costs

Time

The problem with any large expense is that each time you cover the expense; you shift your growth curve out. The opportunity cost is not simply lost growth. The true opportunity cost is time.

While we can always make more money, we can never make more time.

While we like the idea of saving every dime of revenue, reality creeps in. We have expenses! Our employees need to get paid, we need equipment, and taxes come around every year. What if there was a strategy that allowed you to cover your expenses AND maintain your place on the compound interest curve. This is the goal behind this concept.

Solution: We are typically taught to think of our money in “either/or” terms. When faced with a decision on how to purchase equipment or pay a bill, we typically only see two choices. “Either” says buy on credit. This is the post-payment method. You buy and then you set up payments to a financial institution. The upside of debt is leverage. The downside is interest and capital flowing to that institution. “Or” says pay cash. This is the pre-payment method. You save (make payments) into your account and when the account is large enough you make the purchase. The upside of cash is control, liquidity and zero interest payments to a financial institution. The downside is the opportunity cost of what that capital could have earned.

In order to solve the issue we must move beyond “either/or” and into “AND”. How can you combine the components of the pre- and post-payments systems to implement a strategy that allows you to keep your place on the yield curve? This is one of the goals behind this concept.

WEALTHY & WISE | 37 You have the ability to build an account, just like you would with a cash-based system. Yet, instead of draining that account for every major purchase, you have the ability to leave that account growing and simply use it as collateral for the purchases and investments you need in your business. Using the account as collateral allows you to access capital from a financial institution while leaving your reserve intact and growing.

What you can accomplish with this concept is greater control and the ability to achieve multiple uses from every single dollar. But, the true power lies in the ability to use this system as a way to cover your expenses without draining your account. The process is still: save, spend, and replenish‌but without walking away from all the opportunity costs.

Next Steps: This can be an extremely powerful strategy because it solves two critical problems; how do I receive growth on the capital I spend AND how do I take positive control over my financial inventory? While it is powerful, there are obviously a few moving parts to this system, some important financial truths to understand, and the importance of education (which cannot be overstated). It is important to work with a financial professional who understands how this concept works and how to design it for your specific needs to enable you to utilize its many benefits.

Eric S. Alexander is a financial professional with Personal Economics Group in Dallas, Texas. 972-822-7406, EAlexander@PEGPlanning.com Registered Representative of and securities offered through OneAmerica Securities, Inc., Member FINRA, SIPC a Registered Investment Advisor, Insurance Representative of American United Life Insurance CompanyÂŽ (AUL) and other insurance companies. Personal Economics Group is not an affiliate of OneAmerica Securities or AUL and is not a broker dealer or a registered investment advisor.

38 | WEALTHY & WISE

It’s Your Money!

Laboring for Social Security Income

By Angela S. Deppe, CPA Maury and Bob were golf partners for 47 years. Each year, as winter became spring and the frost still lingered, the men began their weekly round of eighteen holes. They always played the same course, a few miles from home, and met just before their one o’clock tee time. One summer Saturday afternoon as they sat in the clubhouse polishing their irons, Bob breaks the silence, “I wonder if there’s golf in heaven?” Maury responds with, “I sure hope so! We’ve been playing together our whole lives. It’d be a shame for that to end.” “Tell you what,” Bob proposes, “let’s make a deal. The first one of us that passes will come back and let the other know whether or not there’s golf in heaven.”

They shake hands to seal their quirky little deal and hit the links, just like they had every Saturday before. As life would have it, Bob passed away six months later. But, Maury kept up their Saturday afternoon golf tradition. He played the same course, a few miles from home, with a one o’clock tee time.

This continued week after week until one Saturday, sure enough, Bob was miraculously sitting in the corner of the clubhouse waiting for Maury to arrive.

“Holy cow! You’re back!” Maury screams.

Bob replies, “We made a deal, didn’t we?”

“Well, I’ve got to know…is there golf in heaven?” asks Maury.

As promised, Bob delivers his report. “I’ve got some good news and some bad news. The good news: There is golf in heaven! The bad news: Your first tee time is next Tuesday.”

Of course this joke takes a light-hearted look at the inevitability of life, but it does illustrate an important retirement consideration. How easy would it be to manage your retirement income if you knew your “tee time”? What if you could spend your very last dollar in your very last hour? Wouldn’t that be the ultimate retirement income plan?

Well, of course, that’s impossible. But there is a “tee time” that you CAN plan for—collecting Social Security benefits. The decision of when to begin collecting your Social Security benefits is a decision that

WEALTHY & WISE | 39

the majority of Americans will make during their transition into retirement. What most people don’t realize is that the right decision can, in and of itself, significantly impact your retirement lifestyle.

The rules of retirement are being rewritten by an aging generation of thinkers, innovators, and trailblazers. Baby boomers—the flower-powered, free-loving, tie-dyed shirt-wearing kids that sparked a cultural revolution in the 1960s—are now turning age 60 at a rate of 10,000 per day! They’re bringing their bold, creative, establishment-bucking thinking into retirement and trading their parents’ retirement rocking chairs to start retirement rock bands. Not content with just sitting around in their golden years, baby boomers are embracing retirement not as an ending, but as a new start. More and more, baby boomers head toward retirement with plans of exotic travel, retirement homes, new cars, spa treatments and 4-star meals—pleasures their parents and grandparents never considered.

For this new generation, retirement doesn’t necessarily mean the end of a paycheck either. While many will retire from their current career or jobs, many will continue on to a new career or role they find more rewarding, fulfilling and passion-driven. This new venture often means less full-time work and a better balance between work and play.

However, retirees are facing new challenges. The good news is (thanks to developments in science and medicine, exercise and diet, occupations and lifestyle) we’re living longer. In fact, for an American couple both, aged 65, there is a 50% chance that one will live to age 92 and a 25% chance that one will live to age 97. The bottom line is, that most of us will have to plan for a three-decade retirement.

Of course, the longer we live, the more money we need for financial dignity and financial independence during retirement.

The sources of retirement income are changing. In generations past, many Americans got a monthly pension check that provided a steady source of retirement income. Today, most of us will have to provide our own retirement check from individual and, possibly, employer-sponsored savings programs. This creates a whole new set of financial risks tied to personal investments, inflation, interest rates, market performance, and inevitably, the real possibility of running out of retirement income.

The one connection between yesterday’s retirement and today’s is Social Security. The spirit of Social Security not only endures, but the role of Social Security has never been more important. For many of us, Social Security may be the only source of guaranteed, inflation-protected, lifetime income. Yet the majority of Americans don’t understand what their Social Security benefits are, when they should collect these, and the strategies on how to maximize their cumulative lifetime monthly Social Security benefits.

Over the last 70 years, the Social Security system has continued to increase in complexity. It has been amended, expanded and reformed to the point where most Americans have no idea whether they are truly maximizing the monthly benefits they’ve earned throughout their working years. As a result, many retirees make wrong decisions costing thousands of dollars in lost, lifetime income when they may need it most.

You’ve paid into Social Security for years. Don’t you owe it to yourself to maximize your benefits when the time comes? IT’S YOUR MONEY! Angela S. Deppe is a CPA and owner of SocialSecurityCentral.com, an online consulting business on Social Security benefits. She lives with her family in Chicago.

40 | BOOMER BUZZ

MY ALZHEIMER'S ODE!

By Daryl Leeds

I have Alzheimer's - what can I do?

I can't turn to my Mam... ...because she has it too!

I struggle each day, to know what is what, To know what is real, and to know what is not!

I manage to live… I do - I get by, But when I'm alone, I do ask myself 'Why'?

I'm in my mid forties… I'm still pretty youthful But I look old and hagged - and thats very truthful!

I'm also disabled, and that's such a bind, To struggle with the physical things as well as my mind!

I have help and support from my social care team... ...and when they pop round, I know this isn't a dream!

So I have dementia, but I'm not yet unable... ...to tell the difference between a chair and a table!

But when the time comes, as I know it will do, I'll go into oblivion - and be someone new!

Daryl Lees lives in Kirkby-in-Ashfield, Nottingham UK. He suffers with both Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s, but keeps his mind busy by writing. Please Like him on Facebook, Daryl Lees, and visit his website: www.daryllees.co.uk. © Daryl Lees 2013

BOOMER BUZZ | 41

Fall into a Good Book (Series) Liz Inskip-Paulk, M.A.

As the trees prepare to drop their leaves, why not “fall” into a good book series that can carry you into the colder months of winter? I’m a new convert to reading books in a series, and have

learned that it’s a fun way to experience the story – more depth to the narrative, more details for the characters. Here are a few suggestions to start you off: The satirical world of Mapp and Lucia (by E. F. Benson) is a fun way to observe the fictional social machinations of a small English village during the mid 1920s. The two main characters

are both indomitable women who want to be the boss of their own small village and consider each other an (un)fair rival. There are local elections. There are budgerigars. There are teas fraught with meaning, and visiting vicars and who should be mayor – the shenanigans sound quite trite, but the books are written with a sharp and withering sense of humor that you can’t help but laugh at.

(Series: five original books.)

The Hunger Games series – Suzanne Collins.

This well-known trilogy is usually categorized as young-adult fiction, but to me, a good story is a good story regardless of who its target audience is. And, if you’re looking for an actionpacked drama with a resilient and admirable female hero, then you’ll like this series. The story is based on a dystopian future and they have a fast-moving narrative arc that pulls in even a reluctant adult reader. (The movies are good as well.)

42 | BOOMER BUZZ

adorable. Set on Prince Edward Island in Canada, this is the story of Anne, a young orphan who is adopted by a brother/sister pair who needs help with their farm. The book series follows Anne as she grows up. And, with each reading, you’ll just love her more and more. This series is not-too saccharine and not-too salty to read – just a lovely book experience all around. (It’s also fun to read this childhood classic as an adult!)

Angela Thirkell wrote a good series (also about the goings-on of a handful of rural British families) called the Barsetshire series. The series is almost endless, it seems, and although they do refer back to one another with regard to characters and story line, each book is also a good stand-alone as well. Not as light-hearted as the Mapp and Lucia books, but definitely with a sharp, satirical edge to them as the reader navigates the small world of these rural families. (A good saga, if you like that sort of thing.)

Anne of Green Gables (L. M. Montgomery) – I read this for the first time a year or so ago, and it charmed my socks off. Anne (with an “E”) is one of the sweetest characters that I have met in ages and I love her because she is flawed in such a human way – she makes mistakes, she fumbles social etiquette rules, and she’s Liz Inskip-Paulk is a freelance writer/editor who is also an avid reader. She was born and raised in England who now lives in Texas.

BOOMER BUZZ | 43

Willing To Let Them Go

By Beverly F. Jones

John loves his wife and children. He describes his wife as kind, loving, extremely intelligent, has a good job and that she is especially beautiful. He is so proud of her that he shows me a picture of her that he took that morning on his cell phone. During our conversation the phone rings and he says it is she and he needs to answer. As I listen to his conversation, I realize that he has called her to ask a question that did not need to be answered. He is attentive in his responses and wishes her a fine time.

As we get back to our conversation he tells me that she is out to lunch with some girls from her office. Today is her day off and she dressed nicely for this lunch date. He had called her earlier to see if she had arrived safely and then about 40 minutes later he called to ask about the issue they had just discussed while I was listening. In the past, John has accused his wife of infidelity and has questioned her extensively.

He is afraid she is meeting someone at lunch and not her officemates. As we continue in our conversation, I get him to admit the issue is not that she is cheating. He believes he doesn’t deserve her and that she could have a man, much better than he.

The problem is his insecurity.

He is so afraid of losing her to someone better that he is driving her away. My advice to John was to let her go. He looked at me as though I were out of my mind. He has to be willing to let her go to keep her. He has to get rid of his fear of loss. When this happens he can look at the real problem and work to make the necessary changes. Fear is an emotional response to a perceived threat. It is a basic survival mechanism against stimuli such as pain or the threat of danger. The majority of the time, fear has no basis in fact and is steeped with

44 | BOOMER BUZZ insecurity. Marie Curie said, “Nothing in life is to be feared. It is only to be understood.”

The opposite of fear is faith. When you are feeling fearful you are lacking faith and should develop it by believing in yourself. Therefore, I say to you, “What do you want instead?” For John it was to feel confident in his ability to keep his family together. We discussed how he could do this and put an appropriate plan together.

Are you so afraid of losing someone close to you that you are driving them away? Step back and ask yourself, “What is the worst that can happen?” When you answer that question, ask it again and again until you get to the root of your fear. When you know the basis of your fear you will be able to make the appropriate decision of what you want, and do the actions necessary to achieve that.

Beverly Jones is a Certified Life Coach, hypnotist, speaker, and published author. You can visit her website at http://commandingyourlife.com. Send your relationship questions to askbev@boomerbuzzmagazine.com. If your question is used you will receive a copy of her book “From Prude to Siren, 3 Stages to Fantastic Sex and a Rewarding Relationship” (available from Authorhouse.com, Barnes and Noble, and Amazon)

BOOMER BUZZ | 45

Labor Day 2013: Americans at Work

By Cynthia Stock Labor Day celebrates the contributions of workers to the economic growth and stability of our country, the sacrifices inherent in commitment to the work ethic, and a way of life that is the cornerstone of America.

The first Labor Day parade took place on Sept. 5th, 1882. Organized by New York’s Central Labor Union, it celebrated the strength of the growing American work force and affirmed a movement to improve working conditions for laborers. Labor Day became a federal holiday in 1894, when President Grover Cleveland signed the law declaring its official recognition. History suggests Cleveland’s action represented an attempt to make amends for lives lost in labor disputes. The Pullman Strike was the first national labor strike. It involved over 150,000 people and paralyzed crosscountry railroad transportation. Against the wishes of the states involved, President Cleveland used federal forces against striking laborers. This resulted in loss of life.

Labor is more than just the physical work done for economic production and compensation. It is “arduous physical or mental exertion.” (Funk & Wagnalls, 1968) By definition, labor covers a vast continuum of behavior and thought. That makes us all laborers. For a generation raised to believe selfworth evolved from accomplishment, our work (our labors) constitutes a major part of adult identity.

When meeting new people, a common opening question is “What do you do for a living?” During my forty years as a critical-care nurse, even the sickest patients managed to ask “When can I go back to work?” “Am I going to have to retire?” “I am finally getting to do what I love. Can I still?” Work provides purpose, direction, satisfaction, and growth.

Labor has changed since the inception of Labor Day. The manufacturing opportunities spawned by the Industrial Revolution suffered from the explosion in computer technology, outsourcing, and the exponential growth of the service industries— especially health care (the new economic giant).

What we do for work changes who we are as people. Like my grandfather, my father worked for the railroad. Education earned him a position at Monsanto. My first job, I worked as a life guard. Now I am a professional nurse and an aspiring novelist. As a boy, my husband milked cows. He owned a construction business, worked as an accountant, and sold cars. He retired from Payless Cashways where he was a manager. My son started his employment history at McDonald’s as did an estimated one in eight Americans. He has sold phones, done credit counseling, and worked with musicians.

46 | BOOMER BUZZ

The meaning of work is dynamic. A sense of accomplishment doesn’t necessarily come from income or title anymore. In addition to what is labeled a job are the daily labors—the rituals of responsibility that fill in the gaps of our composite beings. The boundaries between a job and the demands of our daily lives blur. From the time we get up in the morning until we go to sleep, repetitive, necessary, yet ordinary tasks make up the labors of daily life.

On days I work, I am always up before my alarm. Some inner clock awakens me so I get my daily things done and still beat the traffic. I weigh myself, punch the coffee, and clean the cat box, all before I’ve put on my uniform or set one foot in my job space. On days I don’t work, I exercise and commit to volunteerism once a week. My best friend, who teaches art, packs her lunch and sets out food for a family of feral cats that lives around her house before she goes to bed. She leaves her daily planner open by the door to insure she takes everything she needs for her classes. In addition she gets up fifteen minutes early for “down time” to just think about the day before she even starts getting ready. Like my inner clock, she has a mental list of “to-dos” to guarantee a productive day. In her car she keeps a notebook and pen to jot down things she hears on NPR that might be of interest to her or her students, things she will forget once she is at work. Her quest for new ideas and experiences that will keep her classes interesting never stops.

Although retired, my husband’s first job of the day is to apply his brace. It is a system of joints, O-rings, buckles, and straps. It is work to put the brace on, but without it he couldn’t work —an irony like paying union dues. That first act of the morning symbolizes how ingrained work is in the man. He maintains the yard, plants and tends a garden, facilitates a class at church, and helps our single neighbor with home maintenance. On my work days, he never fails to get up, share some of the coffee he set up, and help me generate my inner strength to face the day.

My mother always worked at something. She taught school, managed our home, went back to school, and helped coach both my sister and me in a sport which afforded us athletic scholarships to college.

She never stopped.

Then, for many, there is the second career—the one you always wanted but were too busy doing your “real” job to pursue. For me it is writing. I write every day, even if it is just one sentence. If an idea hits me, I write. I wrote a scene from my first novel on a Styrofoam cup because I had no paper. I pulled the car over and wrote a scene in spirals encircling the cup. I had to capture the spontaneity of the idea. I don’t know where the work ethic I have as a nurse stops and my passion for writing begins. I believe the two forces complement each other and make me better at each. As a nurse, I judge my performance when a patient asks in a voice of hopeful anticipation, “Are you going to be back tomorrow?” As a writer, starting out at age sixty, I expect to measure success, not by monetary reward, but by the satisfaction of completing a story or a novel that will be read, if only by one serious reader.

A friend suggested to me that a problem with people is that they become human doers rather than nurturing themselves as human beings. To me, work is part of the elemental nature of human beings.

This Labor Day I celebrate the human beings who are the irrepressible human doers.

Cynthia Stock is a registered Nurse and freelance writer working on her second book.

BLOG SPEAK | 47

From 3906 i am well I'm entering a new decade this week, feeling all grown up.

Have you ever had a health scare---the kind that makes you weak and fearful? I had the second of my life last week, giving me long days to think about the possibilities as we waited on pathology.

I was anxious but less so than I expected myself to be, and my faith aside, I wasn't clear why. I know I have more-experienced years to fall back on than I had the first time something came up, and I've love all around me which gives me comfort and support. The odds, too, weighed heavily in my favor . . . yet there was something, more, keeping me steady.

When I let my mind run loose, and it did at times, I calmly and strategically reined it in, planning

48 | BLOG SPEAK the next step if one was necessary. Doing that, gave me strength. Still, I had a different feeling this time.

The night before my doctor called with good news, I found myself not just accepting, but embracing the very real fact that there is nothing special about me, that I am not, healthy as I am, immune from anything that can strike any of us at any time. I believe that subconsciously, because I am so well, I thought myself completely protected. Acknowledging that I am not, was so humbling, and thus, so freeing, I was no longer afraid.

Others suffer every day. Why should I be spared?

I know the question lies in the heart of many veterans, in Spoke's for sure, and not that this should be compared to that, I sense an understanding of the premise that I've never had before. You want to be alive and well. But, if fate says you're not, and you should find yourself among the others, it would be powerfully humanizing and that it is so, would be the source of your strength.

It's been an exhausting week but also one which has made me even more excited to have this birthday, to share this birthday, and I remain hopeful, and unafraid, that it will be one of many, many more.

I believe each day gives us something; a few minutes of afternoon light casting intricate shadows on a dining room wall, or a delicious Pesto because the basil got knee-high. Maybe some things broke my heart....... I write about them all. My name is Becca. I live in Dallas but I left my heart in Florence, Italy. I'd like to thank you for reading.

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50 | MEDICAL MATTERS

My Secret for Healing and Younger-Looking Skin Using All-Natural PrOzone™!

By Wendy Michaelis

I have recently discovered PrOzone™, a simply incredible product that I am compelled to share. PrOzone™ is an all-in-one, all-natural, anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, anti-viral and antiinflammatory skincare solution!

Thanks to the healing qualities of PrOzone™, I have been able to improve my overall skin health and live my life pain-free for the last 9 months after a traumatic injury. Once I understood how it worked on my skin, it opened up my mind to try it all over my body. I was amazed to find that it cleared up skin problems like rashes, cuts, insect bites, and acne. PrOzone™ even made my skin look years younger. What a bonus!

My name is Yolanda. As a retired professional body builder I have always been very health conscious. I have noticed the growing trend in all-natural health remedies and have been a huge advocate of them. There are too many medicines and over-the-counter fixes that have massive side effects and/or are simply unnecessary. My friend, Wendy Michaelis,

turned me on to PrOzone™, and it changed my life!

On a cool clear day in December of 2012, I was severely injured during a long endurance challenge. I heard a snap in my back and, as my legs gave out, I collapsed. The only thing I could hear was my ragged breath and the pounding of my heart inside my chest. I was in shock and couldn’t tell what had just happened.

Upon examination, the doctor told me that I had badly torn some cartilage in my lower back.

It was excruciatingly painful to do anything. The medically-prescribed solution was a series of injections with possible surgery to repair the damage. He estimated 6 weeks or more before any foreseeable relief or recovery. I couldn’t sleep, couldn’t sit, and couldn’t even lie down. I was devastated with the intolerable pain, and felt helpless at the mercy of the drugs that only clouded my mind. It was then, that Wendy introduced me to PrOzone™ and its amazing healing qualities.

MEDICAL MATTERS | 51 I used PrOzone™ and the PrOzone™ patches on my back every day for 2 weeks. I was astounded at the results. After only using the product for 4 consecutive days, to my relief, I was pain-free and able to move freely, regaining my freedom. It was then that I was determined to learn more about how this astounding product worked. I continued using PrOzone™ every day until my 2-week follow-up visit with my doctor. We were shocked to discover that the severely-torn cartilage was already completely healed. Gratitude welled up inside me and I had to know more so that I could share my experience with others.

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PrOzone™ is now bringing it out of obscurity and making it available for everyone to benefit from its healing powers. If you have any pain, bruises, cuts or a skin rash… you could benefit from this product. It is perfectly safe for your babies and pets. I encourage you to take a look at PrOzone’s educational website at www.prozone.com and see what I mean!

Yolanda S., Dallas, TX

I was curious to research how it worked, what it was made of and what else I could use it for. I had no idea that I was in for an education!

PrOzone™ is an all-natural product with no side effects– and has only 2 ingredients: ozone and organic olive oil.

The amount of ozone in the product is what’s amazing. You can smell the clean ozone as soon as you open the jar! I learned that ozone is also known as “medical grade oxygen” and that it will oxidize any harmful bacteria, fungus or virus that it comes in contact with. Once the skin is clean, the remaining fresh oxygen empowers

Wendy Michaelis has answered the cry for an all-natural total solution for skin and healing care. She truly believes in sharing her story and passion of PrOzone™ and its healing qualities through consumer education.

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52 | SENIOR SCENE

Surviving as a Sandwich-Generation Caregiver

By John Ebey

An increasing portion of the population is becoming a part of the Sandwich Generation – a group of people caring for two, different generations. These people are in the difficult position of being responsible for both their aging relatives and their children still living at home. They often have to juggle many tasks at once, determining which problems take priority over others, and dealing with large amounts of stress. Especially now that many seniors refuse to go into an assisted living facility or accept outside caregivers, their children must bear the burden of managing two, different households.

loved one can't perform; and finally, get home to their families and make sure they're fed; help the kids with their homework; and get ready for the next day.

Financial Strain Emotional and physical exhaustion aren't the only drawbacks of caring for both aging parents and kids living at home. The experience can also be financially devastating (something many caregivers fail to consider). Keeping an aging parent at home may seem like a cost-effective alternative to a nursing home, but expenses quickly add up. Sometimes hiring part-time caregivers or even sending loved ones to adult daycare centers is necessary to make sure proper care is provided.

Those in the Sandwich Generation sometimes feel financially strained from the pressure of sending their kids to college, saving for retirement and keeping up with their parents' medical and care-related expenses. Getting a head start and saving early-on can help cover some of these expenses and help a family in times of need.

How to Cope

Hard on Families Taking care of a young family can be hard – doing it while working a full-time job and caring for aging relatives can be much harder. Those in the Sandwich Generation are often required to do countless things in a day – get their kids ready for school; complete tasks at work; head to their aging relative's home to cook dinner, clean, and help with any other duties their

If you find yourself taking care of both your parents and your children, remember you are not alone. Take steps to lessen the stress and financial strain. Write down your thoughts and feelings in a journal and let your emotions flow.

Create a funeral plan for your elderly loved ones to make sure wishes are fulfilled and financial obligations are met.

You cannot predict your final day, but you can prepare for it.

As a licensed funeral director John Ebey has served Restland Funeral Home for over 32 years and presently makes presentations to the Dallas and Tarrant County areas promoting the value of Pre Planning and Hospice.

SENIOR SCENE | 53

Politely Rewarding In-Home, Senior-Care Caregivers

By Claire Maestri I was driving through Taco Bell the other day

they are most rewarded when a client or family

and enquired to the drive-through speaker,

praises them. I have seen, time and time again,

“What is an Enchirito™?” I received a reply and

where this positive feedback inspires the

then ordered one, with nachos and a diet Dr

caregivers to do more. They are empowered to

Pepper. After a moment, I added, “Please.” As I

learn more and really hear the requested

drove around to pay, the manager approached

changes when families make them.

the window and began to tell me how much he and his team appreciated my asking for my meal in a polite manner. He stated that no one EVER says “please”.

As I drove away, I related this experience to how senior-care caregivers must feel. They perform expected, repeated tasks that become part of the fabric of everyday life. Their daily tasks are done out of necessity, yet so many elderly clients and families take what they do for granted. I think this is true whether the elder care is provided in the home, at an assisted living center, or in a skilled nursing

I am always amazed by what showing a little

facility.

kindness can bring out in a person. Although it is difficult to age or care for an elderly parent, it

The amazing thing to me is that the senior-care

is not hard to share a smile, a “please” or a

caregivers that I have worked with over the past

“thank-you”.

10 years are proud of their elder-care work product. They gloat on healthy, recovered, well-fed, clean, and engaged clients. However,

Claire Maestri is a freelance writer of senior topics and an expert in helping families find quality senior care options. She lives with her family in Dallas, TX.

My Lightbulb Moment:

Less for energy.

More for me.

Enjoy this moment. Because when you discover how Ambit Energy can help you save, great things start happening for you! You still get reliable, a ordable energy service — and you’ll be able to keep more of your hard-earned money.

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Dan Spencer danspencer62@gmail.com jolt.joinambit.com