boomerbuzz magazine
Dine with Mother Nature Common Sense with Sonja Kabell
Sailor's Paradise RETIREMENT: Starting a New Business boomers...living life to the fullest | JUNE 2014
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JUNE: IN THIS ISSUE
PUBLISHER’S LETTER
06
What Do I Do Now?
FEATURE
07
Dine with Mother Nature
HEALTHY BALANCE
13
Reinventing Allergy Season, Re-Thinking Living Healthy
NEWS WORTHY
17
Surgical Nutrition, The Miller School of Medicine Study, Dementia Signals
YOUR STYLE
23
The Invention of Wings, ReOrganize!
BOOM VOYAGE
30
Travel Safety Tips, A Sailor’s
REDEFINING
35
New Retirement Business, Communicating
SENIOR SCENE
41
Driving Home, Geriatric Management
On the Cover: Sonja Kabell shares the bounty of Mother Nature in Creating Healthy Lifestyles. www.sonjakabell.com/ Photography by Misty Hoyt, Photography by Misty. http://photographybymisty.com/#
www.boomerbuzzmagazine.com
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PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Robin Roberson TECHNICAL & WEBSITE DESIGN AdPow, Inc. BoomerBuzz RADIO DIRECTOR Raul Enriquez PUBLIC RELATIONS Isabell Rossignol PHOTOGRAPHY Becca Menig & Katherine Garcia CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Tracey Fieber
Carla McMahon
Suzanna Garrett
Jet Parker
Michele Howe
Peggy Schilling
Sonja Kabell
Cynthia Stock
Beverly Fells Jones
Forrest A. Ward
DeeDee Lowder
Karol Wilson
Claire Maestri
Laura Yoo
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHY Misty Hoyt, Photography by Misty
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.
06
PUBLISHER’S LETTER What do I do now…as I enter RETIREMENT AGE? How do I define myself, redefine myself? Is it possible to change my world to fit my life, live healthier, start a new career that I really want? And how do I figure out care for my parents while planning a vacation? If you plan have similar thoughts rolling around in a brain that luckily is functioning well (be sure and read the Miller School of Medicine Study on enhanced nutritional benefits on page 19), this issue on Redefining will offer lots of power-packed information. You can learn to Dine with Mother Nature, Feng Shui for Slumber and even how to Re-Plan Sunday Chicken Dinner. It is all about being and living healthier. Michele Howe with Dr. Andrew Larson,MD, FACS discuss the Importance of Pre Surgical Nutrition for a healthier outcome and rehab and we share the signals of Dementia/Alzheimer’s which will affect 5.2 million Americans in the boomer age bracket. You will find great Travel Tips and how to enjoy A Sailor’s Paradise in the British Virgin Islands. With boomers spending more on leisure travel than any other segment of the population charters are an excellent choice for summer travel and the BVI offer spectacular views, diving and fishing, seafood and sunsets! Cynthia Stock, one of our original and dedicated contributing writers who recently published her first book, has an excellent review of The Invention of Wings by Sue Monk Kidd and Forrest Allen Ward offers a thought on the word “FOCUS”. Beverly Fells Jones makes you consider how you are Communicating in Relationships and Carla McMahon talks about how to Simplify Your Life with Organization and I can testify that the tips shared work. We just have to do them! And you can learn how Shirley Casavant has changed the quality of her life dramatically after discovering a health product with patented technology that works from the cellular level out, not just relieving and/or masking. And we continue to share exceptional information from Claire Maestri for your aging loved ones in Senior Scene. Lots of great writers offering their take on Re-Inventing ourselves in the June issue of BoomerBuzz Magazine. We hope you will plan your summer travels with wonderful suggestions in BoomerBuzz Travel and listen to our streaming BoomerBuzz Radio while dreaming of foreign shores! Both are easily found on BoomerBuzzMagazine.com. Thanks for reading and Happy Spring,
07/FEATURE
Dine with Mother Nature By Sonja Kabell
Eating seasonal is an exceptional way to get great tasting food, full of flavor at a lower price. Now that summer is here, there are a slew of fabulous produce for you to choose from.
use oxygen, they naturally produce free radicals (by-products) which can cause damage. Antioxidants act as "free radical scavengers" and hence prevent and repair damage done by these free radicals. Raspberries, blueberries and strawberries are at their peak during the summer. Grab a bowl full for your “berry” delicious afternoon snack! Cucumbers are another favorite. They taste great sliced and dipped in a low fat ranch dressing. Can be put in a salad, floating in water to flavor it or used as an eye mask!
Go with the original fast food… fruit and vegetables!
Easy to add into your daily repertoire , the following fruit and vegetables are packed with a nutritious punch! These are some of my favorites! Great for you, your kids and grandkids! Berries are the bomb! They are chock full of great antioxidants and Vitamin C. Antioxidants are nutrients in our foods which can prevent or slow the oxidative damage to our body. When our body cells
Cucumbers are mostly made from water which serves as a great hydrating food for the body. I carry cut cucumbers with me in a small lunchbox. Crisp and tasty treats! Looking for a Probotic, well look no further, cabbage is your vegetable. This green goddess is packed with fiber and Vitamin C. It is a natural probotic and keeps the digestion working!
FEATURE/08 Hear of Resveratrol? This substance is a great antioxidant, very heart friendly and found in one of my personal favorites, grapes.
Fabulous figs are a summer smash. This furry little friend is full of potassium and fiber. Eat it as a stand alone, slices on a cracker or make a chutney with it. Super delicious when ripe!
These little round bundles of joy are very versatile. Pop them in your mouth, put in a salad, or freeze as a dessert. Green, red, black and purple, a rainbow of color and taste! A classic favorite is carrots. Did you know that they are mainly water? Excellent as a hydrating food but also well known for being a big beta carotene supplier.
A powerhouse antioxidant!
Let's not forget the plant that has an identity crisis, the tomato. It is a fruit or is it a vegetable? Technically, the tomato is a fruit from the tomato plant (which would make it a fruit). However, it is vegetable in cooking. This beauty is a fabulous choice for lypopene, which protects the cells from harmful free radicals. You can do so many things with tomatoes – soups, salads, baked, boiled, broiled, in dishes or as toppings and best of all, right off the vine. A fresh ripe tomato tastes like sunshine! Just think, all the wonderful plants we mentioned can help you win the fight of true health; you just need to incorporate them daily. You won't need a pharmacy when you dine with Mother Nature!
Sonja Kabell, Weight Loss and Wellness Consultant, Creating Healthy Lifestyles, Powered by USANA www.sonjakabell.com.
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13| HEALTHY BALANCE
RE-INVENTING ALLERGY SEASON: Fighting Naturally
By Laura Yoo
It's been another very mild winter, here in Dallas, and that means another doozy of an allergy season. For some people, this means Over-The-Counter antihistamines until the next freeze. The less lucky find that even the non-drowsy ones make us feel a bit...off. Steroid nasal sprays can be helpful, unless you are prone to nosebleeds, dryness, or need your immune system at its peak. Is it time for antibiotics for your regular sinus infection? Don’t count on it; 90% of them are viral. (If you do have significant swelling and a high fever along with sinus symptoms, yours might be bacterial.) Here are some pharmaceutical-free tips for a happier nose this spring: DON'T SLEEP ON IT You spend a lot of time in bed; make sure you're not bringing your allergens in for the night. Start with clean bedding and wash it in hot water at least once every two weeks. Who goes to bed with you? Has your dog been outside? Give Rover a rinse. Shower, bathe, or at least rinse off before you go to bed. I know, not great for hairstyle maintenance. Re-doing your hair vs feeding the snot factory. You choose. Speaking of grooming, are your eyes stinging? It might actually be product rather than pollen. Even the most hypoallergenic crème is not meant to contact your eyes themselves. Pat your moisturizer only up to the eye socket, and your body heat will help the product travel to the delicate skin around the eyes without getting it IN your eyes. KEEP IT CLEAN
If you’ve de-pollinated your bed and you still wake up feeling your worst, you may be allergic to dust mites. Zip your pillows into a miteproof casing. As much as I love the idea of going green, think about all the pollen that covers line-dried laundry. What you save in electricity, you’ll make up for in symptoms.
FEATURE/14 When’s the last time you changed your central air filter? Your vacuum bags and filters? When’s the last time your home was vacuumed? Even if your rugs and your filters don’t look dirty, consider that allergens trigger symptoms on a microscopic level. SINUS IRRIGATION So now that your home environment is as clean as can be, what’s inside your head? Pollen is sticky. It’s tenacious. Its job is to hitch a ride and cling until it gets where it’s going. I mean, look at your car. Some of that is stuck on the hairs inside your nose, making it itch and run. Don’t you want it out? Sometimes people mention saline spray when I bring up sinus rinsing. Now, a rinse bottle is a fine idea. These have a one-way valve to eliminate backwash, and the force of the squeeze combines with gravity to get the solution through any congestion. This is different from a spray. A mist is better than nothing, but again, look at your car. If you mist a spot, it’s not going to get as clean as with a stream of running water. If you use boiled or distilled water, at a comfortably warm temperature, with the right amount of salt, sinus rinsing can be very pleasant. Just remember to breathe through your mouth while you clean your nose. WHAT SHOULD I EAT? WHAT SHOULDN'T I EAT? For almost every condition, I would advise increasing the intake of fresh fruits and vegetables. Hay fever requires a caveat to this advice. With pollen allergies, you should be careful about eating related plants. Sometimes raw produce (or even cooked celery and nuts) can set off allergic reactions, in particular, berries, citrus, grapes, mango, figs, peanut, pineapple, pomegranates, and watermelon. If you are allergic to the pollen, it does not mean you are allergic to all the foods, but you may be more susceptible to reactions in that group. The trick to enjoying a pleasant day outdoors is not to treat your allergy symptoms, but to prevent them before they kick in! Laura Yoo is a licensed acupuncturist in the state of Texas. She practices at the Manning Wellness Clinic in Dallas, Texas
15/HEALTHY BALANCE
Re-Thinking Easy Steps to Living Healthy? By Suzanna Garrett
In the world today, how important is healthy living? Unfortunately, we do not see evidence that people are taking it seriously. Healthy living is probably the most important factor to be emphasized, yet unhealthy food, proportions and routines are more predominately seen. What can one do in this fast paced life to still be healthy? The following tips are most important if you wish to achieve the best results for better health. 1. HYDRATE - The first rule is as simple as breathing but still people don't follow it regularly. It is recommended that one drink 8 glasses or roughly 2 liters daily. Even if you can’t manage that much, the water you do consume will show very good effects on your body. 2. EAT HEALTHY - This is a simple key. Cook light, avoiding fat whenever you can and try boiling and broiling instead of frying. Researchers recommend including more fruits into your diet and the best time to eat them is between meals 3. PROTEINS - Your body needs enough proteins which are very vital for correct functioning and eating foods rich in them helps it get what it needs. An adult body requires about 50 – 60 grams of protein per day depending on the body weight. It is important that you do not consider meat as the only source of protein, as many other food sources offer excellent protein options: Eggs, Milk, Soy Milk, Cheese, Yogurt, Peanut Butter, Fish, Poultry, Beans, Lentils, Grains and Nuts. And adding protein to milkshakes helps you provide the required daily amount your body needs.
HEALTHY BALANCE/16 1. WEIGHT - Losing weight will really lead to healthy living! This does not mean you have to go wild, quit eating or implement a strenuous regimen. It can be attained by including a regular exercise regime in your daily routine. Try anything that catches your fancy like dancing, cardio or Yoga. They are all great ways to ensure both a healthy body and mind. 2. OVERSTUFFING – Eat meals that are smaller in portion and do not stuff yourself. Eating smaller portions six times per day will keep you better satisfied and raises the metabolism of the body, helping you burn fat quickly. 3. FIBER - “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” This old saying could hardly ring more true today, as Americans are finally beginning to realize the critical health benefits of a diet rich in fiber. Fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains and nuts are great sources of this essential nutrient and easy to include in your daily food plan. 4. DRIED FRUITS & NUTS - Dried fruits and nuts have an exceptionally high nutritional value which promotes health and fitness. They are those fruits which are devoid of the water and include: apricots, raisins, plums, dates, prunes, cranberries, blueberries, figs and many more. Various kinds of dry fruits and even seeds are known to be very good for health however these are also high in cholesterol and hence should be taken in limited amounts. A handful is said to be more than enough to ensure healthy living. 5. HIGH CALORIES - Avoid foods that you know have a lot of calorific value. High-calorie foods contain much energy (more than 3 calories per gram) but weigh relatively little. These foods often are high in fat or concentrated with sugar, which contributes to the high energy content. Therefore, it is quite easy to eat a lot of such foods without realizing how many calories are consumed because high-calorie foods tend to provide little satiety. Fried foods, processed and packaged items and alcohol are all high in calories and should be moderately included in your diet. 6. WHITE FOODS – Eliminate “white” foods from your meals.These, whether boxed, packaged, canned, refined, baked or processed, are highly calorific and almost useless when compared to food that is healthy. 7. GOOD/BAD – Remember, foods are not good or bad. Select foods based on your total eating patterns, not whether any individual food is "good" or "bad." Don't feel guilty if you love foods such as apple pie, potato chips, candy bars or ice cream. Eat them in moderation, and choose other foods to provide the balance and variety that are vital to good health.
Experts agree the key to healthy eating is the time-tested advice of balance, variety and moderation. In short, that means eating a wide variety of foods without getting too many calories or too much of any one nutrient. These 10 tips can help you follow that advice while still enjoying the foods you eat. In conclusion a healthy living can only be attained when there is a change in lifestyle. Healthy eating leafs to a healthier life!
Suzanna Garrett is a health writer from Tallahassee, FL who enjoys finding unique ways to enjoy eating without the detriments.
17/NEWS WORTHY
The Importance of Surgical Nutrition Q & A with Dr. Andrew Larson By Michele Howe
The outcome for a successful surgery can be influenced by nutritional status, which also affects the healing process that is complex. Malnutrition can cause:
Delayed wound healing Reduced lung/breathing capacity Reduced immunity and increased risk of infection
A proper diet is essential for healing. Before surgery and continuing afterwards, you may require extra calories, protein, vitamins, and minerals, as well as adequate fluids to help maintain hydration to support circulation of nutrients, so you are armed before your surgery. To provide energy and maintain weight and muscle, the right calories, vitamins, minerals, and proteins are necessary. Drinking fluids maintains vital blood volume, strengthening circulation to supply the body's affected areas with nutrients and oxygen. And the right blend of nutrients helps your body create collagen, an important component of skin and other tissue integral to wound healing. Before is as Important, as Afterwards!
Understanding what is going to happen before and after your surgical procedure is as important as the procedure itself.
NEWS WORTHY/18
Below are many questions and answers that will help you to be prepared and informed: 1. Define the phrase "surgical nutrition" to laypeople that may not understand what this terminology means and entails. Surgical nutrition can mean more than one thing. It can mean optimizing nutrition for patients who are in the hospital and cannot eat themselves, such as cancer patients or stroke victims. This type of surgical nutrition involves intravenous nutrition, tube feeding and, if necessary, surgery to place the feeding tubes. However, more relevant to the general public, surgical nutrition means optimizing a person's health and nutritional status prior to and in preparation for major surgery. 2. When we think of preparing for a major surgery (or any type of surgical procedure), how much importance should patients place on getting "prepped" nutritionally? Studies have clearly shown people who are underweight and malnourished, protein deficient or overweight have a more difficult time recovering from surgery. Without a doubt, a healthy, well-nourished person will heal and recover much faster. The stress of surgery and the healing process that follows requires additional nutrients above and beyond what your body normally needs. You should pay close attention to your diet both before and after surgery. It is best to get the nutrients your body needs to heal from unrefined whole foods 3. How far in advance does this preparation go (or should it ideally be lived out day by day)? Ideally, it should be lived out day to day. However, even 2 weeks of optimizing nutrition will put your body in a better position to handle the stress of surgery and also help expedite the healing process. 4. What are the implications for patients who have not taken care of themselves prior to a surgery as far a wound healing and overall ability to regain their strength? Complications increase (and in some cases, dramatically) as one becomes further away from being in optimal health. Also, it is much more difficult for a surgeon to perform surgery on someone who is obese. Simply losing weight will help make the surgeon's job much easier. However, if you can't lose weight before surgery, by adopting an antiinflammatory whole foods diet prior to surgery can reduce post-surgical inflammation reducing the risk of complications. 5. What is the top practical step that all people and potential patients should apply to their daily lives to live strong and healthy? Exercise 3 days per week (combining cardio with resistance training). Specifically, cardio exercise is very important to improve heart and lung function and this helps your body deal better with the stress of surgery and anesthesia Take multi-vitamin containing zinc & B-complex (this helps with wound healing) and a whole-foods based vitaminC rich "green" powdered drink. Eat more fruits and vegetables to increase the antioxidant status of your body (this helps with healing) ---specifically aim to eat 1 huge serving of dark, leafy greens each day, 2-3 fruits and 2 additional vegetables. Aim to drastically reduce the top 4 empty calories; 1) sugar, 2) refined flour, 3) trans fats and 4) processed vegetable oils (soybean, corn, cottonseed oil, etc.). ANDREW LARSON, MD, FACS Dr. Larson is a board certified general, laparoscopic, and bariatric surgeon, one of only a couple hundred physicians in the world currently directing an internationally certified “Center of Excellence� program offering weight loss surgery. He is an Affiliate Clinical Assistant Professor at the Schmidt College of Biomedical Science at Florida Atlantic University and a Voluntary Assistant Professor of Surgery for the Miller School of Medicine at the University of Miami. Dr. Larson presently works in Palm Beach County, Florida where he serves as medical director for JFK Medical Center’s Bariatric Wellness and Surgical Institute. Along with his wife, Ivy Larson, he has authored four national top selling books to date. www.cleancuisineandmore.com Michele Howe is a freelance writer with over 1200 reviews/articles to her credit.
19/NEWS WORTHY
Successful Study: 100% Benefit Restoring Memory & Cognition Using Enhanced Nutrition
Many of you may have family members or individuals who live with the challenge of memory loss and cognition with mental confusion. A recent study gives hope that nutrition could be a major factor in those fighting dementias and Alzheimer’s. Currently, conventional medicine and science offers little encouragement for those with such a problem. The Miller School of Medicine in cooperation with the Miami Jewish Health System has published a clinical study in which enhanced nutrition resulted in a 100% benefit to patients that included those with far advanced symptoms. The study, "The Effect of an Aloe Polymannose Multinutrient Complex on Cognitive and
Immune Functioning in Alzheimer’s Disease," was published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease in January 2013 (J Alzheimers Dis. 2013;33(2):393-406.), led by John E. Lewis, Ph.D., associate professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences, was to test if a dietary supplement, aloe polymannose multinutrient complex (APMC), might improve mental conditions. In an interview with NEWSMAX, Lewis added. “Helping the body to heal itself would be an
important step forward for patients. Improved nutrition is safe, effective, and feasible for patients and the nation.” Read the full interview: http://goo.gl/xeFj3Y Dr. John Lewis states that 100% demonstrated some benefit, with 46% showing clinically and statistically significant memory and cognitive improvement, a first time observation of the seasoned clinical research team, and 23% maintained their cognitive functioning at the end of 12 months. The neuropsychologist who monitored the patients, Mairelys Martinez, stated in a recorded interview, “This is the first study of this type in which advanced patients were included; all prior studies only accepted patients in the early or mild stage of this health problem. In addition, there were improved qualities of life the patients experienced that were not revealed in the published manuscript.” With 10,000 people a day turning 65 and over 5 million suffering from dementias and Alzheimer’s, a small study like this important because it is among the first to provide evidence that improved nutrition may be able to reverse brain deterioration.
NEWS WORTHY/20
What is Dementia? How do I know if it is Alzheimer’s? I do not want to take drugs! What can be done to help?
Dementia is neither an illness nor a single symptom, but rather a complex group of symptoms that impair how people function on an everyday basis and usually hits people in midlife. Alzheimer’s is a common type of dementia which causes problems with memory, thinking, and behavior. It is progressive disease which is why it is important to recognize the symptoms sooner rather than later. While a person with dementia may not have all of the possible signs of the disease, he or she will have at least some of the symptoms with short-term memory loss being among the most common, along with confusion and a diminished ability to stay organized. Patients can become easily agitated or grow paranoid, even to the point they hallucinate. Memory loss may be mild in the early stages and may include getting confused in familiar places, taking longer than usual to complete normal daily tasks and forgetting common tasks people are affected differently and at different rates of progression. As those with dementia and Alzheimer’s progress - or worsen – they will move through different stages of the disease.
Moderate Stage • • •
Increased memory loss and confusion Problems recognizing family and friends Continuously repeating stories, favorite wants, or motions • Difficulty doing things that have multiple steps, like getting dressed • Lack of concern for hygiene and appearance
Severe Stage • • • • •
Inability to recognize oneself or family Inability to communicate Lack of control over bowel and bladder Groaning, moaning, or grunting Needing help with all daily activities
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23/YOUR STYLE
Sterling Remarks: A Perfect Time for The Invention of Wings By Cynthia Stock
Sue Monk Kidd’s The Invention of Wings snatched me from a pleasant existence in my present life and reminded me of the Sisyphean tasks I faced to get there. She forced me to look for the outspoken, rabble-rousing feminist dormant within my complacency. She reminded me of what I had forgotten. I pride myself on having been an active supporter of the ERA, of increasing the participation of women in government, and of equal pay for equal work. Yet somehow in my quest to acquire an education, a career, and some personal sense of accomplishment, I forgot the women who laid the foundation for the new freedom roads I travelled. Or did I? I was over one third of the way through the novel when Lucretia Mott, a name I immediately recognized, appeared. I jumped on my computer and found Sarah Grimke. Her history sounded vaguely familiar, but had I ever really been taught about her in the context of an American history class? To be honest, I can’t remember. But The Invention of Wings rekindled my sensitivity to the issues of gender, class, and racial inequality. Then, Mr. Donald Sterling helped us all re-explore our attitudes. Whether I call it Fate or coincidence, Ms. Kidd’s novel is a timely read today. Ms. Kidd uses two points of view: one that is Hetty “Handful” Grimke, a slave, and that of Sarah Grimke, the slave owner’s daughter who, on her eleventh birthday, receives Handful as a gift. Through their voices, Kidd creates two worlds, two different types of subjugation. It is easy to mistake this novel as one that decries the obscenity of slavery. But through Handful’s eyes, wisdom, and love for her owner, Kidd
allows the reader to see a prison of social mores and expectations. “My body might be a slave, but not my mind. For you, it’s the other way around.” Handful comments to Sarah. As the characters develop, their voices change. Handful becomes more articulate; Sarah becomes more self-aware and empowered. Ms. Monk begins the narrative with Handful listening to her mother, Charlotte, telling tales of Africa. She describes people who grow wings and fly to freedom. Charlotte states “slave people not going anywhere.” She preserves her story through the ritual of cultivating a spirit tree and sewing a story quilt, in which each square represents a pivotal moment in life. As Handful grows, she returns to both these things for strength and peace.
YOUR STYLE/24 While Handful learns about life and survival from her mother, Sarah learns what she doesn’t want to become. She develops a stutter after watching her mother supervise the lashing of a slave. As a young girl, she bows to the weight of her mother’s words: “The truth is that every girl must have the ambition knocked out of her for her own good.” Sarah feels doomed to a life of repression and drudgery. “Oh, to be a son!” A silver fleur-de-lis embossed button becomes a symbol of Sarah’s dreams. When she tosses it in a pile of ashes after a confrontation with her father about her future, it is Handful who retrieves it, saves it, and ultimately returns it to Sarah. The magic of Wings is the details of character development. Characters evolve, power shifts, and relationships unravel or strengthen through the tiniest developments. In one scene, Sarah and her family return early from a sojourn at their summer home. Sarah goes to her bedroom, hears a splash, and opens the door to find Handful wrapped in a towel, dripping wet. The simple act of taking a bath in Sarah’s prized copper tub triggers thoughts of anger, betrayal, and a realization about the depths of her societal indoctrination. In one moment she must choose between her allegiances to a girl she has come to love or to the slave-owner mentality of her family. Sarah offers to help Handful empty the tub before Sarah’s mother discovers what has happened. At the same time, Handful drops the “Miss” when she addresses Sarah. Their relationship is never the same. Although they love each other, their connection becomes guarded. But Sarah holds herself accountable to a promise Charlotte extracted from her years ago. Sarah said she
would help Handful become free. The characters define both what makes us different and alike as human beings. The plot allows the reader to witness the physical brutality and mental abuse engendered by slavery. It also creates the claustrophobic prison of intellectual constraint. The continuum of conscience created by characters who are slave owners, slaves, hapless bystanders, and abolitionists illustrates how people living in the same circumstances arrive at such different perspectives. In the time of slavery, no one can afford to be static and unchanging, but some change more than others. When Sarah and her sister, Angelina, enter adulthood, they advocate the abolition of slavery and link the equal rights of women with that most pressing issue. For me the end of the novel sends a universal message. When it comes to our most basic emotions: love, hate, fear, and grief, we are the same regardless of color. Sarah fulfills her promise and helps Handful escape the South. Sarah colors Handful’s face white with flour dust and has her dun a veil of mourning. An inspector approaches to question Handful, but leaves her to her sorrow. Sarah is leaving her home and family. Handful has lost her mother and is sailing to freedom. Their losses are different, but feel very similar. Both move in the direction of hope. In the context of current events, I appreciate the advances of the past decades. I also know that just like the characters populating The Invention of Wings, we must continue to educate ourselves, embrace diversity, and advance the cause of equality to keep our culture evolving. Cynthia Stock is an RN in Dallas and is a published author. Visit Cynthia-Stock.com.
25/YOUR STYLE
Simplify Your Life with Organization By Carla McMahon
A new season is not only a time to get our lives in order, but also our homes. With everything in its place you can better enjoy a stress free environment that is calm and well mannered. It can be fit and fabulous! Use an upcoming weekend to spruce up your home. To help get you started, here are some home organizing and storage tips from some of our favorite sites and publications. Fling-open all your doors and windows, install the screens, and let the fresh air come in. Even if you're more organized and have things separated somewhat, you can probably improve the neatness of your home with just a few simple steps. Living a simpler life may not solve all your problems, but it does allow you to tackle one or two at a time, in manageable bites. Don't be discouraged. Do what you can, as you can, and remember always to simplify.
15 Ways to Organize Your Home (General) Do one small organizational task daily, no matter how small. Clean out one drawer or the top tier of the spice rack. Just think: After a month, you'll have checked 30 things off your to-do list. (Redbook Magazine) (General) Maintain critical mass. You already own most of what you need, so think of every new item you buy as a replacement, not an addition. When you bring home a fancy new skillet or cute sweater, throw away an old one. (Ladies Home Journal) (Bathroom) Repurpose a standard desktop organizer to hold bathroom essentials, such as makeup, cotton swabs, brushes, and combs. (Real Simple) The same principles that work in the kitchen apply to the bathroom, too. Group like things together, such as all cosmetics, in a plastic bin or washable bag, all skin-care products on the same medicine-cabinet shelf, all shampoos in one spot under the sink. (Martha Stewart) (Bathroom) Keep two rolls of toilet tissue in the bathroom; the rest should go into a bulk storage area somewhere else in the house, such as the laundry room. (Woman's Day)
Happy Organizing!
(Bedroom) If closet space is short, consider a pair of built-in armoires. Painted to match the walls, they seem to recede into the room while providing needed storage. Each is fitted with its
YOUR STYLE/26 own sconce, for bedtime reading. (Country Living) (Bedroom) Rest easy knowing your bedside belongings are free from chaotic clutter. Put blank walls to work with a few shelves within reach of the bed. (Better Homes & Gardens) (Garage) Gas grills often are stored in the garage, complete with their propane tanks. Propane is highly combustible, and when the propane leaks, it's a gas. You can't see it, but it can hover over the garage floor. One spark of static electricity or the flick of a light switch could cause an explosion. Anything with propane should be stored at least 10 feet away from the house. (DIY Network) (Garage) One of the best ways to squeeze more storage out of your garage (or any space, for that matter) is to think vertical. A wall system helps to keep everything from gardening tools to bicycles up off the floor. Horizontal grooves allow for baskets and hooks of different sizes and shapes. (Country Living) (Home Office) For a functional and easily concealable work space, use an armoire. Pick one specifically designed for computer equipment, or customize a regular armoire with shelves and cubbies to suit your needs. When guests come by, simply close the doors to hide the clutter. (Country Living) (Home Office) A small console is a great way to get extra mileage out of a tiny office. The two tables pulled together make a corner desk, and keep oft-used supplies within easy reach yet out of the way. (House Beautiful) (Home Office) Capture your cords with a cord organizer. There are two types: flexible tubes
that keep the cords concealed so you can run a bundle of cords wherever they need to go and rigid cord "channels" that also contain all your cords in one outer shell. Although less flexible, the channels are more easily attached to surfaces such as the underside of your desk or wall baseboards. (Good Housekeeping) (Kitchen) Store things where you use them. Pots and pans are best kept near the range or cooktop; mixing bowls near the countertop you use for food preparation; plates, glasses, and flatware near the dishwasher. (Martha Stewart) (Living Room) Creating a sense of togetherness is effortless when you choose integrated storage. The first step is to be realistic about how everyone uses the room so you can give each activity some space of its own. Such agreed-upon zones keep activities enjoyable and clutter-contained. (Better Homes & Gardens) (Living Room) A storage ottoman or coffee table with a cabinet or drawers is a nobrainer for stashing video game equipment, DVDs, magazines, and the like, but you can make an open-design table functional, too, by placing a row of baskets beneath it. (Ladies Home Journal)
Carla McMahon is a homemaker and freelance writer of interests for women. She lives with her family in North Carolina.
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Feng Shui for Peaceful Slumber By DeeDee Lowder A good night sleep is vital for health and alertness especially when you need to focus and be mentally active the next day at work. However, you may want to look at your bedroom and its surrounding features to make sure that it is conducive for a peaceful slumber. It is important for you to know Feng Shui is an ancient spiritual discipline which makes use of a process that affects your internal landscape just as much as it affects your physical environment be your home, office or your bed room. Before you start practicing or using Feng Shui enhancements to your living environment it is important for you to know that it is for nourishing and healing your soul.
But what is pleasurable may not necessarily be good for you in Feng Shui speak. For example, a water bed may be a novelty for those who seek the finer things in life but it is not what Feng Shui would recommend. This is because water is Yang. The concept of Yin and Yang form the bedrock of Feng Shui and all Chinese metaphysics. Yang is opposite of Yin. It is like day and night, hot and cold, active and passive, loud and quiet, bright and dark, movement and stillness, etc. You can't have one without the other. They co-exist and complement one another. The key is achieving an optimal balance between the two. In Feng Shui one is enriching the soul by directing the energies of universe and natural elements such as wind, water, earth, and metals to it.
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It is so important to stay positive and constantly filled with good, flowing energy. If you do so, your life and all the things you are surrounded by will represent such wonderful qualities as health, happiness, prosperity. Your bedroom is a place where you spend 1/3 of your time, so having proper balance of yin and yang is very essential; some yang energy because it helps you stay motivated but too much yang on the other hand can drive you nuts! It can make you feel chaotic, frenzied and over-stimulated. It can make you feel too passionate, so that you can never just sit back and relax in your bedroom. And it should be more Yin than Yang. It is a place that should be quiet and inactive. Feng Shui equates Yin with health/relationship aspects and Yang with wealth/career aspects. Water is Yang and for a water bed, it makes the bed too Yang. Imagine sleeping on a pool of water that is constantly moving. It is not a good Feng Shui feature. Your sleep is not going to be a restful one. Feng Shui does not recommend having a TV in a bedroom as it is also too Yang. Other negative features that are too Yang for a bedroom:- Too many windows or large windows - Too much sunlight streaming in during the day - A lamppost or electrical pole outside - A bedroom door that is aligned directly to the bed
The best Feng Shui bedroom tip is to have your bed in ‘command position’ which means that you face the door from the diagonal far side of the room but are not directly in front of the door. It is in this position, you are able to benefit from the Chi, Chinese life energy, flow that enters and moves through the space, while being far enough removed from the doorway that you are not exposed to Chi that is too strong and which can contribute to stress, irritability and health problems, but keeping your bed in commanding position prevents you from negative influences and puts you in control of your space and of your life.. You should make sure to drape the windows with thick curtains to block out excessive sunlight. If there is a lamppost immediately outside the bedroom, you should keep the window closed at most times. The bed should be realigned away from the bedroom door and its headboard should rest against a solid flat wall for stability. A hill or mountain is a Yin feature. If it can be seen from the bedroom window, it is even better as it provides stability. Feng Shui favors a bedroom that is more Yin - calm, peaceful and stable. You should feel recharged and rejuvenated after a good night sleep. DeeDee Lowder is a freelance writer, mother and entrepreneur who now lives in Atlanta. GA.
29/YOUR STYLE Re-Planning Chicken Sunday Dinner By Karol Wilson
If you’re like me, Sunday dinner after church consisted of a roast chicken, mashed potatoes, a green salad, and usually beans or spinach. Cake (preferably chocolate) or one of my grandmother’s dreamy meringue pies were dessert. Let’s make this a healthier and lighter meal that doesn’t give up on flavor. Many grocery and specialty stores have wonderful roasted chickens. Pick up two to use for this menu for four, or put one straight in the refrigerator to munch on throughout the week. Makes the work much easier. And you’ll shop for sweet potatoes instead of the usual bakers. You roast them the very same way. Offer a little butter (I like Land O’Lakes reduced fat soft butter) and a small dash of cinnamon. You can add a small green salad if you wish or serve the chicken with blanched asparagus. And there you go…a healthy, quick and easy Sunday afternoon repast. The dip recipe that follows is super used as a sandwich spread instead of mayonnaise. It would be especially be delicious with a classic BLT on a hearty bread. Or mix with small bites of chicken for a different take on chicken salad. Spinach and Yogurt Dip – Serves 4 From Zing! Cookbook Author and Chef Mansu Gorji Sauteed Spinach Ingredients: 16 oz. fresh spinach leaves, roughly chopped or torn 2 Tbsp. minced garlic 2 Tbsp. butter Yogurt Ingredients: 2 cups non-fat Greek yogurt, chilled ½ Tbsp. balsamic vinegar Kosher salt Coarse ground black pepper Preparation: Saute the chopped spinach and garlic in butter on medium-high heat, mixing vigorously for about 2minutes to avoid burning the garlic and butter. (The yield on spinach, once cooked, is about one-third.) Chill the cooked spinach in the refrigerator for a couple of hours. After the spinach is chilled, mix with the yogurt, balsamic vinegar, salt and pepper. Keep refrigerated until serving time. Serve with grilled or toasted pita chips.
YOUR STYLE/30 Tabbouleh Also from Chef Gorgi’s Cookbook, Zing!
Serves 4 Ingredients: ¾ cup brown rice, boiled 1 ½ cups finely diced Persian cucumbers 1 cup finely diced tomatoes, drained ¼ cup finely diced shallots Large handful or one bunch of Italian parsley, chopped 3/8 to ½ cup olive oil Kosher salt Coarse ground pepper 4 Tbsp. lime juice, fresh-squeezed Preparation: Chill the boiled rice, cut cucumbers, tomatoes, shallots and parsley for 2 hours Combine the chilled ingredients in a bowl. Add olive oil, salt, pepper and lime juice immediately before serving mix well. (You can shape before serving the tabbouleh into round “patties” to serve with the chicken. Or place sliced chicken over the tabbouleh.) Enjoy!
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Discover a Sailor’s Paradise By Peggy Schilling
The vacation of a lifetime awaits you in the alluring cluster of islands known as the BVIs. You can discover this calm respite from everyday life approximately 60 miles east of Puerto Rico. Just a 35-minute flight away, you can escape aboard a charter yacht to spend a carefree holiday in the incredible British Virgin Islands.
About 60 tropical islands, cays, islets and rock formations are conveniently scattered over 59 square miles of the bluest seas imaginable. From endless beachfront privacy to unique public attractions, the BVIs have it all. Known as “Natures Little Secrets”, all of the islands are volcanic formations except for the coral and limestone atoll of Anegada. Most of the BVIs have retained the natural beauty as only 16 are inhabited with a total population of less than 18,000. Despite the popularity of this area, you’ll never feel crowed or rushed—even in favorite public places. But if you’re in search for a true tranquil hideaway, just
wander along the white sandy beaches to find any number of hidden coves. The BVIs are rich in history. Spanish settlers exiled the original Indian inhabitants into slavery and then succumbed to disease and strenuous labor. Columbus named the islands for 11,000 beautiful virgins who perished at the hands of overzealous Huns while on an innocent pilgrimage. Originally under Spanish rule, the English, Dutch, French and Danish spent 200 years struggling for control of the area. Now the English-speaking BVIs are an overseas territory of the United Kingdom where upheaval has been replaced by relaxation. This leisure wonderland possesses an understated yet upscale appeal. Most of the green, unspoiled islands are favored by yachtsmen for their pristine beaches and appealing anchorages. With a 78-88 degree Fahrenheit yearround climate and balmy northeast trade winds, the BVIs are a modern-day sailor’s paradise.
33/BOOM VOYAGE These islands are closely situated in a double line along the Sir Francis Drake Channel, named for the daring British adventurer who launched an island attack against the Spanish in 1595. Today boats sail leisurely between the islands set away from heavy seas. Some are less than a miles apart with the furthest one just a pleasant 15-mile sail away so you’re always in view of land. You’ll be captivated by the adventure of island hopping from one dream spot to another.
Next to sailing, the BVIs are famous for their spectacular scuba diving and snorkeling opportunities. With an abundance of marine life, sponges and soft coral, you can take home amazing memories or breathtaking underwater photographs. Windsurfers, anglers and bird watchers flock to the BVIs to enjoy water sports and the many wonders of nature. When you want a break from seclusion, venture onto one of the developed islands. You’ll discover old-world charm in village-like communities with quaint shops, enticing alfresco dining spots and beach bars alive with exotic island music. Indulge in the tremendous variety of cultural influences that make this group of islands such a unique vacation destination.
At the center of the BVIs is the capital of Tortola, the Spanish word for turtledove. The largest and most populated island is bordered by beautiful white sandy beaches fringed with palm trees as well as banana and mango groves. Inland you can experience delightful villages, old sugar mills and even a rum distillery. Spend half a day on foot or horseback at Sage Mountain National Park. Complete with its own rain forest, developed hiking trails guide you through huge elephant ears, hanging vines and white cedars, the BVIs national tree. The fragrant Botanic Gardens tantalize your senses. Meander through an orchid house, miniature rain forest, birdhouse, lush ferns, cactus garden, palm grove or more.
A 15-minute stroll down Road Town’s nostalgic Main Street leads you past enchanting pastel-colored duty-free shops and restaurants noted for local specialties. A few miles southwest of town you can take a horseback ride uphill to extraordinary scenic th views and the ruins of an 18 century plantation. According to native lore, the second largest island was dubbed Virgin Gorda, the Fat Virgin, because of its huge rock formations resemble a voluptuous
BOOM VOYAGE/34 woman reclining. It’s also the home to the Baths, one of Mother Nature’s most intriguing creations. Enjoy the romantic serenity of a quite bay or wind your way through countless caverns, passages and mazes made by the hap-hazard grouping of gigantic granite boulders. After a refreshing splash in the shimmering pools created wherever the seas rushes in, you’ll know how the Baths got its name.
When you dream of your idyllic getaway, chose the yacht charter capital of the Caribbean.
Take a 15-minute hike through boulders and tropical vegetation to Devil’s Bay. This secluded coral beach offers impressive views of Savannah Bay where snorkelers can observe an array of tropical fish flaunting their finery. You’ll be guided through some of the most beautiful sailing waters in the world to visit the BVIs quiet anchorages, secluded bays and inviting beaches. Visitors quickly discover that the splendor of this tropical paradise lies in its delicate natural beauty and astounding display of fantastic marine life. Island scenery becomes more spectacular everywhere you look.
For another snorkeling adventure, test the waters at the Caves on Treasure Point. Natural caves are the playground for fish and coral. If you look carefully, perhaps you’ll find a Barracuda or two lurking in the distance. The same coves and bays that intrigued explorers and pirates in days of old are now beckoning contemporary sailors seeking a calm refuge from the workaday world. An abundance of seas, sun, sand and surf are waiting just for you. So start planning your incredible voyage in the wonderful British Virgin Islands today. Peggy Emerton-Schilling is a co-founder and charter specialist at www.SelectCharters.com. Her goal is to share her extensive knowledge of the charter industry to help you discover and experience the wonderful advantages of taking a charter yacht vacation
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Passport to Travel Safety By Jet Parker
When you travel abroad, the odds are you will have a safe and incident-free trip. Travelers can, however, become victims of crime and violence, or experience unexpected difficulties. Every day of the year, U.S. embassies and consulates receive calls from American citizens in distress. Personal safety is an important factor to consider while traveling. Whether you’re out of town on a business trip, visiting friends and family, or just exploring the beauty of the states or a country abroad, when you’re away from home, you’re out of your element. You don’t know the way around town or the high crime areas to avoid, so you’re more vulnerable than at home. But there are plenty of things you can do to protect yourself on the road.
3. Carry important papers with you; NEVER check anything that you simply cannot afford to lose. Photocopy your passport, driver's license and credit cards. 4. If you will be in the area where crime is high, you may want to hire security escort. 5. If detained for whatever reason by an official, ask for identification. If in doubt, tell them that you want to see his superior. Keep your emotions in check. 6. Never wear anything that projects affluence. No gold chains, expensive watches and rings, luggage, or other paraphernalia should be in easy view. Better yet: leave your jewelry at home. 7. If possible travel with only one or two credit cards.
1. Never list your home address on the luggage tag. If on business, put the company's address on the tag; if visiting friends you can list their address. Use covered luggage tags as well. 2. Stay with your luggage until it is checked. If you must put your bag down, keep one foot on the handle.
8. Never flash your money in public. Exchange funds with reputable and recognized exchangers only. Have tips ready in advance for service personnel. 9. Only stay in a hotel that uses cards to open room doors and make sure your room has a peephole and a deadbolt lock. Secure the chain and secure the door by pushing a rubber stop under it.
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10. Stay in a room near a stairwell. Never take the elevator if a fire or smoke is detected. Always stay in a hotel where the doors enter the hallway and not directly from the outside.
16. If traveling with children, bring along an updated photograph of each child in the event that you become separated from them. Write your child's name and your hotel number on each card; include a close friend or relative's contact information on the card. Give a card to each child which they will carry with them as long as you are away. Destroy once home. 17. Make sure that your prescription medicines are filled properly and labeled accurately. In some countries certain prescription medicines are forbidden. 18. Bring along a basic first aid kit with bandages, iodine, mosquito repellant, sunscreen, alcohol packets, dramamine, pepto bismol, diarrhea medicine, etc.
11. Do not use unmarked taxi cabs. Sit behind the driver so you can see him, but he cannot see you. Pay the driver upon arriving at your destination and while you are still sitting in the vehicle. 12. If you must rent a car, rent only from a reputable company. Any operating problems that occur could signal sabotage. Back into your parking spaces to facilitate a quick exit. Park only in well-lit and well-traveled areas. 13. If your cell phone does not work outside of the country, consider renting one that does for the duration of your trip.
19. Do not flash your passport in public. Discreetly show important documents to officials only. 20. Consider purchasing portable alarms that emit a loud sound. The key to safe traveling in any area is situational awareness. Distractions because of luggage, children, hotel personnel, strangers, etc. can put you at risk. Know your surroundings and stay in control of every situation.
14. Women particularly should never accept a drink from a stranger. Keep an eye on your drink at all times. 15. Bring a small flashlight. You never know when you'll suddenly be "in the dark" and find yourself in unfamiliar surroundings. At night, keep your flashlight by your bed.
Jet Parker is a freelance writer who lives in Plano, TX
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Starting a New Business in Retirement By Tracey Fieber
Whether you planned all along to start a new business in retirement or you decided after leaving the work force that you want to get back in the game, retirement can be an excellent time to start a new business. But starting a business after working a full career is very different from starting a business when you're younger.
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Start with what you know-or take time to fill your knowledge gaps. If you worked in one industry for decades, you're probably familiar with how that industry could be made better, and your new business could aim to fill the holes you saw during your life of full-time work. If you're looking for a complete change of pace, though, it's probably a good idea to prepare by taking classes, reading up, and interviewing people familiar with the industry you're looking to join.
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Focus on what you love to do. A retirement business could simply be a way for you to monetize your favorite hobby. Even if you aren't earning significant income from a hobby-based business, you'll be enjoying yourself along the way!
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Consider franchising. Operating a franchise may be a lower-risk alternative to starting a business
If you're considering launching an encore entrepreneurial career, set yourself up for success by following these tips. •
Be clear about your reasons. Before you make any major decisions about what type of business you want to start and what your goals for it are, be clear about why you're starting a new business in the first place. Do you need money? Do you miss the interaction from your working days? Have you discovered a solution to a problem that you want to share? Knowing what you want to get out of your venture will help you make decisions along the way.
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completely from scratch. Franchise opportunities often provide training and operating templates, which takes some pressure off you (but will also give you less freedom to do things "your way").
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Use your network! You've spent a lifetime building connections, and now you can use them to improve the success of your business. If you start a business in a field related to the one you retired from, those contacts may be especially useful. But even if your associates are only helping to spread the word about• your new business, you'll find their help to be invaluable.
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Invest wisely (i.e. conservatively). In retirement, you may not want to (or be able to) work the grueling hours you did in your 20s. With that in mind, keep investments conservative so you don't find yourself working harder than you want just to keep your head above water.
Keep it fun. Remember: you're choosing to go back to work. Avoid regretting that choice by maintaining the positive, rewarding aspects of whatever work you decide to do!
Start small. Taking on personal debt in retirement can be much riskier than doing so when you've got more time ahead of you to repay it. Choosing a business that allows you to invest only a little money up front is an excellent way to keep your risk to a minimum in this phase of your life.
Tracey Fieber is a freelance writer and business strategist.
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Communication in Relationships and Dating By Beverly Fells Jones
The first morning my ex-husband and I were returning to work after our wedding, the issue of what station to put on the radio for waking up caused me a major problem. I like silence in the morning and he loved blasting music. I worked out a compromise with him. If he would agree to have the all-talk radio station on, I would agree to something other than a buzzer. It worked. In fact, over time he even began listening to the talk/news station in his car instead of the one that played music. This compromise became a win/win for both of us.
not compatible or comfortable with your date or you are not communicating in the right manor.
Other problems may be because you are so different in your likes and dislikes, views on various topics or ideas like how to parent; you are not right for each other. This is not a bad thing. It is a fact of relationships. Communication is one of the most important things you must consider when you are in or beginning a new relationship. Many problems occur because the two of you are having difficulty expressing your feelings or you aren’t being clear about what you truly want. When you communicate with each other properly, it should be a clear communication of what you may or may not want. If you are compatible and have the same values, you will be able to clarify your wants and needs in a manner that is understood by your partner.
Most relationship problems occur when you are
Because, many times, people bend or try to force a relationship, they have problems and do not know the source. It may come from not having the same goals and beliefs. Compatibility
REDEFINING/40 can also be difficult if one person in the relationship is needier than the other. If one of the people wants their space and the other always wants to be together then it can cause issues with both parties.
Deal with problems by finding a middle ground that works to make both parties reasonably happy. You care enough about each other to look for ways to accommodate each of your needs without one giving more than the other does. So take the time to work out your differences in a manner that is acceptable to both of you. As you discover where you agree, work to solidify those areas. These will help as you work toward compromise in others. Major problems arise when the area of disagreement is in the “deal breaker” requirements.
Why do you need your space? Alternatively, why does John want to be around me all of the time? If these are not resolved, you may find yourselves going in separate directions, never to meet in the middle. Try to work on these issues, because if you do not, your relationship is going to have some rough times ahead. It is important to communicate what you need and want from your relationship. A person should not project their wants and desires on someone else simply because they want to be with them or they do not want to be alone. Both of you must agree.
What is a “deal breaker” requirement? It is a need or desire that you are not willing to compromise. If you are Baptist and you will only marry a Baptist, then any potential mate who is not Baptist must be placed in the category of “untouchable.” If you detest smoking, then any smoker gets excluded from your list. Therefore, as you list your requirements, be sure to write each of them down which you will not compromise. It (compromise) is always wrong if it means that you must sacrifice a principle. Don’t do it. Therefore, if you don’t have the ability to communicate with each other in a manner that is acceptable then you might just consider moving on or having a good friendship.
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Ward's Words: FOCUS By Forrest Allen Ward
What a great word! Whatever we focus on is what we manifest. Where you go is where you focus. In addition to where you place your attention, you also place your intention, too. We do not place our attention on something, if we do not first, intend to do it. We do not place our attention by accident; being intentional takes being conscious. When we are unconscious, our fears emerge. When we are conscious, we make our dreams come true. If you want a picture of the greatness of focus, remember, 'FOCUS is where all the sun's ray meet.' Enjoy focusing today!"
“If you really FOCUS on your dreams, you can’t be thinking about your fears… Only one thing can occupy your mind at a time.” Cathrine Hatcher
Forrest Allen Ward is the Founder of & Public Speaker at USSuccessCenter. He enjoys freelance writing, singing and acting.
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Driving the In Home Senior Care Vehicle By Claire Maestri I like to compare in home senior care to owning and operating a car. When you look to purchase a car, the overall goal is easy transportation from one place to another. Senior care also serves as a vehicle, transporting families from one place to another. For example, in home senior care can start by assisting someone with dressing and slowly grow to bathing and grooming assistance. Like a car, senior care allows you, “the owner,” to determine who is in the driver’s seat. Sometimes our clients are the “drivers” and sometimes a family member drives. However this plays out, the driver, or person making decisions can be swapped out when needed. I am currently working with a family who swaps “driving” between siblings to support vacations, illness and needed respite. Just like on a long road trip, no one can drive the whole way.
Gas prices, among many things, fluctuate regularly and we always want to make sure that our car is fuel efficient and we are getting the most “bang for our buck.” This is also true of in home senior care. It is important to find a quality service with educated caregivers where you can receive the most effective care for the best
value. Like gas, caregivers will never “go on sale,” and premium caregivers will always “cost” more than regular.
Now, what do you do when your car breaks down? Most of us call AAA or use a mechanic. The point being, we recognize that the car is broken and we, as the driver, cannot fix the car alone. It is important to recognize this in senior care. When your in home senior care vehicle breaks down, it is important to find the right specialist to assess the situation and give you options. Like a good mechanic, a Geriatric Care Manager can do this. He/she will gather all of the information, fully assess the situation and bring you choices. In this issue and next month’s, I am going to introduce you to some amazing Geriatric Care Managers. All of whom I have worked with and have seen work miracles. Just like you keep an AAA card in your wallet, everyone “driving” a senior care vehicle should keep a Geriatric Care Manager’s card. 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.
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What Can a Geriatric Care Manager Do for Me? By Claire Maestri I am going to introduce you to some amazing Geriatric Care Managers starting with Jennifer Reagan. We have worked together with and have each seen work miracles. Just like you keep an AAA card in your wallet, everyone “driving” a senior care vehicle should keep a Geriatric Care Manager’s card. When we think about the word Critical, we often associate the immediate action that must be taken. However, sometimes Critical means long term attention. When a loved one is hurting, be it physical or neurological, our actions are the very definition of Critical. My Name is Jennifer Reagan and I am a Licensed Master Social Worker. I have spent the last ten years working with the elderly and I am devoted to ensuring that all seniors are knowledgeable regarding their rights to Medical coverage and the right to human decency. My position is that of a Geriatric Care Manager. My job and my passion is to help Seniors in critical trouble. Whereas I specialize in Memory issues, I also help families with much needed assistance in providing daily care operations. When illness strikes, it can cause pain for the whole family. The daily tasks can become overwhelming. This is when a Geriatric Care Manager can offer help and comfort. We have a Geriatric Care Model which means a licensed professional (RN, Professional counselor, or Social Worker) starts with an in home assessment which incorporates your love ones: nursing,
medical, medication, cognitive, mood, and social needs. The initial Geriatric Care Assessment also includes follow up recommendations that are personally designed for each individual.
Our professional Geriatric Care Manager oversees the care with an ongoing plan of care and visits your love one once a month and as needed when you need her services for counseling, referrals, education or for crisis management. Here are some examples of Geriatric Care Management (GCM) services: 1. Educating the family 2. Ongoing clinical assessment as it pertains to our services 3. Counseling individuals and family 4. Referrals as needed by the client 5. Long Term Care insurance assistance 6. Assisting with making decisions about services, care and how that changes over time with the progression of the disease. 7. Managing a plan of care specific to the client’s needs 8. 24 hour access 9. Support LIFE does matter at any age and any stage, Jennifer Reagan, LMSW.
If you're thinking of taking a yacht vacation, no need to look any further than SELECT CHARTERS! – Carlene Robinson Dailey
www.SelectCharters.com Peggy@SelectCharters.com 4020 N. MacArthur Boulevard Suite 122-183 • Irving, TX 75038 (972) 659-8941