2013 July | August / BoomerBuzz Texas Magazine

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Texas

The Saturday Lifestyle; Retirement Axiom

Destin-ation Vacation

Underground Art boomerbuzz‌ living life to the fullest

JULY / AUGUST 2013 | boomerbuzzmagazine.com

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04 | CONTENTS

JULY | AUGUST: IN THIS ISSUE

PUBLISHER’S LETTER 07 FEATURE 08 IN THE NEWS 10 HEALTHY LIFE 14

Splashing into Spring Texas Style!

Destin – ation Vacation Red, White & Social Security | The Saturday Lifestyle Time to Change for Healthier Living | Honey, What’s for Dinner?

Feng Shui for Peaceful Slumber

THE ARTS 21 TEXAS STYLE 25

Underground Addictive Obsession: Overdose On This Summer’s Hottest Fashion Accessories | Let’s Stay Cool

BOOM VOYAGE 32 BOOMER BUZZ 35 SENIOR SENSE 40

Boy Scout Inspired Travel Tips Glorious Moments | The Blind Date Four Signs You Need a Caregiver - Part III - Guilt Four Signs You Need a Caregiver - Part IV - Commitments

ON THE COVER Jason & Katrina Bawcom of Frisco, Texas frolicking on Henderson Beach in Destin, Florida.

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06 | MASTHEAD

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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Christina Castle Lyn E. Cathey Julese Crenshaw Angela S. Duppe Leah Frazier Suzanna Garrett Beverly F. Jones DeeDee Lowder

Claire Maestri Becca Menig Torrey Moseley Jet Parker Fred Shlesinger Kara Times Elena Webb

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PUBLISHER’S LETTER | 07

PUBLISHER’S LETTER Welcome to summer in Texas and Happy 4th of July to all of you, our loyal BoomerBuzz readers. We hope you stay cool and healthy throughout the upcoming searing months and maybe you can grab a long cold drink, find a spot in the shade or under the fan and enjoy the July August issue.

During the month of July, we will see the American flag blowing proudly in the bright, summer sky. It is our sincere wish that all Americans honor what “Old Glory” stands for, and be sure and thank any military and first‐responders for their contributions toward the freedoms we will be celebrating.

Summer in Texas means cool fashions and we have those covered in this issue with great looks and suggestions for cool fabrics. There is a fabulous destination vacation location where you can dip your feet in the ocean or dive right in, enjoy fresh seafood for every meal, stroll the boardwalk, visit a museum or go deep sea fishing. And it’s not even out of the country. Plus we have Boy Scout inspired travel tips that are simple and easy cures when on the road. And you can learn how to eat healthier, thus be healthier and prepare a delicious healthy honey glazed salmon recipe that is sure to please!

In the News serves up Fred Shlesinger of the Principal Financial Group talking about the retirement axiom and the “Saturday” lifestyle of retirees and Angela Duppe discusses Social Security. Claire Maestri’s series on aging parents continues and offers up signs that signal you may need a caregiver.

In May I had a fabulous evening at Underground, the art experience where my new headshot was created and of which we share many photos of outstanding new and unique artists who participated.

With summer ‘heating’ up our world, we hope you find a topic that interests you in the July/August issue of BoomerBuzz Texas Magazine. Please read BoomerBuzz Magazine as well.

Thanks for reading,

08 | FEATURE

Destin–ation Vacation

By Christina Castle fishing industry, which is a mainstay today.

Destin has grown from a small fishing village into a major tourist destination in northeast Florida. Known as the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village”, Destin is home to the largest and most elaborately‐outfitted fishing fleet in the state.

The 100‐fathom curve is closer to Destin than any other spot. This provides the speediest deep water access in the Gulf of Mexico. The city also houses opportunities for outstanding golf, tennis and water sports that include diving and snorkeling.

When you think of Destin, Florida, you immediately think of a family‐friendly vacation on crystal‐white sand beaches. Destin hosts a multitude of water activities, shopping, local restaurants, the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village”, and over 30 championship‐quality golf courses.

The City of Destin is located in the state’s panhandle and owes its rich history to the Native Americans that once inhabited the area, and to the Spanish who explored the Destin area as early as the 1530s.

Don Francisco Tapia was commissioned to survey the Florida coast. And, in 1693, drew the first known map of East Pass and its shores.

More recent history is tied to Captain Leonard Destin, who settled in the area in 1845 from New London, Connecticut. He pioneered the

There are twelve public beach access points within the city limits. Harbor Boardwalk stretches nearly a quarter of a mile along beautiful Destin Harbor; providing increased access to the waterfront and preserving the harbor’s unique character.

FEATURE | 09

Destin, Florida appeals to a wide range of vacationers with a large selection of vacation beach homes, condominiums, and resorts to choose from in all price ranges. With museums, parks, waterparks, amusement centers, fine dining and wonderful fresh seafood, nightlife,

pristine beaches, world‐class fishing, water sports, and outdoor activities, Destin is a fantastic Destin‐ation Vacation!

Christina Castle is a freelance writer who lives in Dallas, TX.

10 | IN THE NEWS

Red, White & Social Security?

How It Began & Keeps Going By: Angela S. Deppe

The Social Security Act was written into law during the backdrop of the Great Depression. It was signed by President Franklin D. Roosevelt on August 14, 1935 as part of FDR’s “New Deal”.

It was created to protect what were seen as dangers in the “modern American” life: old age, poverty, unemployment, and the burdens of widows and fatherless children. Think of it as a financial safety net. It promised the American people “some measure of protection against the loss of a job and against poverty‐ridden old age.”

Social Security is a social insurance program that is primarily funded through dedicated payroll taxes called Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA). It is the largest government program of its type in the world (as measured in dollars) and is one of the single‐ greatest expenditures in the federal budget.

Even though it was written into law in 1935, payroll taxes weren’t collected to pay for the system until 1937. Originally, you had the

choice of taking a lump sum or monthly payout.

In the first 3 years, everyone took the lump sum, with Ernest Ackerman being the first American to receive a lump sum payment in 1937. He received a total of 17 cents and had paid 5 cents into the program. The first monthly check was issued in January of 1940 to Ida May Fuller of Ludlow, VT. She is also the first American who truly maximized the value of her Social Security benefit. She paid a total of $24.75 into the system for 3 years, 1937, 1938 and 1939. The first monthly payment she received was for $22.54, and by her second check she had already received more out of Social Security than she had paid into the system. Any guess on how long Ida May lived for? Let me give you a hint. In the 1930s, if you lived until 60 you were doing pretty well. In fact, life expectancy in 1930 was only 58 for men and 62 for women. Miss Fuller actually lived to be 100 years old and maximized her benefits by choosing the monthly payout. Over her lifetime, she collected just under $23,000 in

IN THE NEWS | 11 total Social Security benefits having contributed only $24.75 ‐ a return of over 92,000%! It’s a wonderful story (posted on www.ssa.gov), but also highlights the importance of understanding how you can maximize your Social Security benefits. Just think, what if Ida May had taken the lump‐sum payout?

Many American’s believe that for a myriad of reasons, Social Security is going bust very quickly. Much of the information that you have read or heard about (regarding the lack of solvency in the near term) is simply bad information. The current long‐term financial condition of the Social Security program remains challenging and will require legislative modifications due to substantial cost growth in the upcoming decades. This is the result of an aging population (we are living longer) and fewer workers per retiree paying into the system. However, the 2012 report on the status of Social Security and Medicare Programs by the board of trustees who oversee the fund found that if left alone, the Social Security Trust Fund will be able to pay all benefits though 2021 simply from the interest earned on the fund itself. After 2021, tapping both principal and interest from the fund will support and pay all scheduled benefits, as‐is, through 2033.

Thereafter, collected receipts from income tax (FICA) would be able to pay 75% of current benefits through 2086. The Social Security system will need legislative change to avoid its long‐term financial challenges and potential to disrupt payments for today’s young workforce.

The summary by the fund’s trustees found that it currently satisfies the conditions for short‐ term financial adequacy.

By law, the trustees are required to publish a current status summary of the Social Security and Medicare programs and make a 75‐year, long‐term forecast of the program. The need to reform the system is nothing new. In fact, there have been many modifications to the system over the years to ensure its solvency. The first changes to Social Security were made back in 1939, four years after it was signed into law.

Back then, one reason cited for the changes was the growing concern over the impact that

payroll taxes were having on the economy. The payroll taxes were even partially blamed for the Recession of 1937. Sound familiar? During the early 1980s, the Reagan administration along with Congress made several controversial changes, including: raising the amount that employers and workers contributed, gradually increasing the Full Retirement Age (FRA) from 65 to age 67, and creating the idea of “means testing” by making Social Security benefits taxable for higher‐income individuals. As a result, the Social Security system began to generate surplus funds designed to cover the added costs of the baby boomers. President Reagan summarized these needed changes by stating, “Social Security assures the elderly that America will always keep the promises made in troubled times a half century ago.” To ensure the long‐term promise of Social Security, we join others in acknowledging a need to make changes to the current system including, raising the FRA, raising payroll taxes, and diversifying the Social Security Trust Fund. However, none of these changes would have a material affect for Americans 55 and older according to the experts1.

Bottom line, claiming your Social Security benefits early because you think the system is going broke and you won’t get your money is a poor decision. Furthermore, it is an uninformed and uneducated decision, yet has remained a mindset since the early days of the program.

Claiming early can cost you and your family thousands of needed retirement dollars and will not allow you to maximize the benefits you worked hard for so many years to earn. Think if in 1940 Ida May Fuller took a lump sum based out of fear instead of the monthly lifetime check she continued to receive until she passed away in 1975 at age 100!

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.

1

Boston College’s Center for Retirement Research

12 | IN THE NEWS

The Saturday Lifestyle

By Fred Shlesinger, S.M.D.

As of 2008, our Baby Boomer Generation began to take Social Security and Medicare benefits as the 80,000,000 of us boomers begin to retire. It is estimated that over 15,000 boomers are retiring each day! That’s right, EACH DAY! I find this statistic staggering, as should you.

As of now, the American government owes us, as a generation, over $21‐trillion in Social Security and Medicare benefits which will be paid out over the next 30 plus years (not to mention the next generation behind that is also 80‐million strong as well).

Where is our government going to get the $12 trillion to pay us the benefits that we so richly deserve?

One concept is raising taxes. As many of you know, the 2012 personal income tax rate for the highest bracket WAS 35%. In 2013 it is 39.6%, not to mention the new Obama health tax. What if we are headed in the direction of income tax rate under Jimmy Carter, back in 1980, which was a whopping 71%!

The point is that, many/most of us have a great deal of our retirement funds in qualified plans (401K, IRA, SEP, 403b, 457, etc.). The question that we should be asking ourselves is, “What will my tax rate be at the point of distribution of my qualified plan?” What if I want to retire in 5 years, and that year the tax rate is 48%?

The truth is no one really knows what their tax rate will be at the point they want to take withdrawals.

But, the long‐held beliefs that, “My tax rate will be much lower in retirement.”, or, “My monthly expenses will be lower in retirement.” just may not be true.

IN THE NEWS | 13 How do we know this? What day do you think you spend the most amount of money on in your present 7‐day week? The answer is…SATURDAY! Why? Well, because you are not working. And, when you retire, every day, for the rest of your life, is SATURDAY. Everything you do in retirement costs money.

That is why many boomers are looking into a tax‐diversified plan (TDP) which will grow your money three ways: taxed, tax‐deferred, and tax‐free. TDP is a contemporary way of looking at our fourth quarter of life. And, it’s a way to be sure that our money outlives us. Proper tax‐diversified planning will help you in your golden and twilight years ‐‐ long after you lose the ability to generate new, fresh income. You want to be sure that you have several reliable income streams such as: Social Security, 401K, and pensions. The problem is most income streams are tax‐inevitable. Therein lays the X‐factor of your tax rate. BTW, did you know that the Social Security that you have been paying into the system for the past 35 years or mores is double taxed? You pay taxes going in, and taxes coming out!!! Whereby, if you had significant growth in a non‐qualified plan, it would help offset the taxes that you will pay to take distributions on your qualified plan.

There is so much more to talk about when planning for your retirement life. Make sure that you are proactively asking your advisor these and so many more questions. You do not want to get caught on the short side of the RETIREMENT AXIOM.

Fred E. Shlesinger is a Senior Financial Registered Representative of Principal Financial Group, 5080 Spectrum Dr. # 700 EAST, Addison, TX 75001

14 | HEALTHY LIFE

Time to Change for Healthier Living

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, portions 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 (roughly 2 liters) of water daily. Even if you can’t manage that much, the water you do consume will have very positive effects on your body.

2. EAT HEALTHY ‐ This is a simple key. Cook light by avoiding fat whenever you can. Try baking, boiling, grilling, or broiling instead of frying. Researchers recommend including more fruits into your diet and the best time to eat them is between meals 3. PROTEIN‐ Your body needs enough protein. It is vital to keep it functioning correctly. Eating foods rich in protein helps your body get what it needs. An adult body requires about 50 – 60 grams of protein per day depending on body weight. It is important that you do not consider meat as the only source of protein. Many other food sources offer excellent protein options: eggs, milk, soy milk, cheese, yogurt, peanut butter, fish, poultry, beans and lentils (when mixed with grains), and nuts. Adding protein powder to smoothies or milkshakes also helps provide the required daily amount your body needs.

4. WEIGHT ‐ Losing weight will really lead to healthy living! This does not mean you have to go wild, quit eating, or implement a strenuous exercise and diet regimen. It can be attained by

HEALTHY LIFE | 15

including a regular exercise regime in your daily routine. Try anything that catches your fancy like: dancing, cardio (walking is terrific), or Yoga. They are all great ways to ensure both a healthy body and mind.

5. 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.

6. FIBER ‐ “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” This old saying rings even 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. Women should aim for at least 25 grams of fiber per day. Men need to get 35‐40 grams of fiber daily (according to the American Dietetic Association).

7. 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 their water and include: apricots, raisins, dates, prunes (plums), cranberries, blueberries, figs and many more. Various kinds of dry fruits and even seeds are known to be very good for health. However, nuts are also high in fat and hence should be eaten in limited amounts. A handful is said to be more than enough to ensure healthy living.

8. HIGH CALORIES ‐ Avoid foods that you know have a high caloric value. High‐calorie foods contain much energy (more than 4 calories per gram) but weigh relatively little. These foods are often high in fat or contain concentrated sugars (which contributes to the high energy content).

It is quite easy to eat a lot of such calorie‐dense foods without realizing how many calories you are consuming 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 included in your diet in moderation.

9. WHITE FOODS – Eliminate ‘white’ foods from your meals. These (whether boxed, packaged, canned, refined, baked, or processed) are calorie‐dense and almost devoid of nutritional benefit when compared to whole foods that are healthy.

10. GOOD/BAD – Remember, foods are not inherently good or bad. Select your foods based on your total eating patterns, not whether you think 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 healthful foods to provide the balance that is 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, healthy living can only be attained when there is a change in lifestyle. Healthy eating leads to a healthier life!

Suzanna Garrett is a health writer from Tallahassee, FL who enjoys finding unique ways to enjoy eating without the detriments.

16 | HEALTHY LIFE

From 3906

Honey, what's for dinner?

Salmon with a Honey Mustard Glaze

HEALTHY LIFE | 17 For 2 six-ounce salmon fillets: 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 1 teaspoon Creole mustard 1 teaspoon brown sugar 1 teaspoon honey 2 tablespoons olive oil a big pinch of salt a few grinds of black pepper several dashes of cayenne pepper

Make the glaze by whisking the ingredients together until emulsified. You may be tempted to add more oil but don't; you'll be sautéing the fillets in olive oil.

Rinse the salmon and pat dry. Season with salt and pepper and set aside.

Spread a small amount of glaze in a shallow dish. Set the fillets in it, skin side down. Cover the flesh with the rest of the glaze, allowing it to flow down the sides of the fish. Marinate for several minutes.

Preheat a skillet until it is very hot. Add enough olive oil to generously cover the bottom of the pan and to coat the sides if you swirl it. Lay the fillets in the skillet, skin side down. They will splatter!

Watch the color of the fish change to opaque as it cooks from the bottom up. When the fillets appear one-third to one-half cooked, about five minutes, gently turn them over. (The skin may have separated from the flesh already. If so, just remove it before turning them.) Cook for another minute or two. Serve flesh side up.

Great with a Caesar salad.

My name is Becca. I live in Dallas but I left my heart in Florence, Italy. I'd like to thank you for reading.www.from3906.blogspot.com

18 | HEALTHY LIFE

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

HEALTHY LIFE | 19 it. 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.

THE ARTS | 21

Underground is an annual event that enjoys a tradition of being the largest, loudest, and most unconventional art show around. It’s hosted by ArtLoveMagic every year at South Side On Lamar in Dallas, Texas.

The diverse gathering of talent engages audiences from the moment they enter the event. Its purpose is to showcase uniquely‐talented, new artists of various genres and performances, as well as established artists –all under the same roof –as they create live and (sometimes) collaborative art.

This outstanding show is produced by an amazing team of artists and volunteers. It’s designed and produced by Dallas artist, David Rodriguez, who is best known for his dynamic paintings that are filled with thought‐provoking messages and ethos. He has made a mark by creating live, interpretive performance paintings that communicate succinct themes and spiritual matters through the visual arts.

22 | THE ARTS A founder of ArtLoveMagic, Rodriguez and others have been able to reach new audiences and help re‐ define the arts in Dallas, Texas. Underground brings together artists from different disciplines, including: painting, graphic novels (comics), jewelry, poetry, music, photography, and more ‐ all of which offer the viewer diversity, interaction and live art. It is truly inspirational!

THE ARTS | 23

Underground… a site to behold!

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TEXAS STYLE | 25

Addictive Obsession: Overdose on This Summer’s Hottest Fashion Accessories

by Leah Frazier

An overdose is widely associated with indulging in something to dangerous excess. But, in the world of fashion, the negative connotation rarely applies. For the fashionably‐obsessed, you can never have too many (fill in the blank) shoes, handbags, sunglasses, etc. A fashion overdose is uniquely different, as a variety of styles and colors can be utilized to accentuate one’s personality for that given day. Or, if modesty is desired, the reliance on the perfect accessory is the key to complementing a much more conservative style.

As those in the fashion industry will relate, one can never have enough accessories. Selecting the perfect handbag can instantly transition an outfit from casual to casual chic. A casually‐draped infinity scarf can transform a plain white t‐shirt into a Parisian‐inspired look. An obsession with layering multiple necklaces can immediately scream luxury if done tactfully and elegantly.

This summer, the hottest in fashion accessories can be found with exclusive Dallas jewelry concierge retailer, Nine‐Eighteen, shawl‐extraordinaire company, Shawl Dawls, and global, handbag designer Lily Vasaelini. Be forewarned and proceed with caution because these fashion accessories are highly addictive but can readily cure any fashion fix. Obsessing over any of these noted accessories is anything but dangerous—it’s just fashionably smart.

Nine‐Eighteen Exclusive, luxury jewelry retailer, Nine‐Eighteen, is a rare gem in the Dallas area, and is the epitome of all things high‐class. Located in the upscale district of Uptown Dallas, Nine‐Eighteen carries hand‐selected, first‐rate designers that are unique in design and only offered in select parts of the world. Not only does Nine‐Eighteen service many of Dallas’ elite, the jewelry concierge boutique also offers personalized jewelry services to those who wish to purchase customized pieces.

Most notably, Nine‐Eighteen is currently offering a limited selection of the Jane Basch and KC Designs monogram collections. Heavy on trend and popular in demand, these monogram necklaces are being adorned by television celebrities and reality stars such as Kourtney Kardashian, Tamar Braxton and maybe a real housewife or two. The monogram necklace trend is the hottest in layering accessories and Nine‐Eighteen offers the fashionable necklaces at an affordable price.

The monogram necklaces at Nine‐Eighteen are customized per the customer’s specifications and can include detailing from: the type of metal used, to whether a diamond or two will be needed for an embellishment. While some may purchase the necklace with their personal initials, this particular accessory has proven to be the perfect layering piece for mothers or grandmothers who want to sport the initials of her children or grandchildren. Offered in high‐quality gold and silver, Nine‐Eighteen allows its clientele to create one‐of‐a‐kind pieces with both the Jane Basch and KC Designs collections which range affordably from $140 to $645. (Visits to the Nine‐Eighteen showroom is by appointment only. See the company website, www.nine‐eighteen.com for more information.)

26 | TEXAS STYLE Shawl Dawls Just as Dallas‐based fashion designer, Abi Ferrin, has successfully created and marketed the five‐way dress, Los Angeles‐based company Shawl Dawls has now introduced a convertible shawl that can be worn in 15 different styles. These fashionable and chic shawls are sold in a variety of colors and patterns and are becoming the perfect accessory for any outfit.

From sheer prints to animal prints to slit‐backed patterns, Shawl Dawls creatively developed a fashion accessory that spans across all ages and for women who have distinct styles. Whether you decide to wear these chic shawls as a hooded vest or as a short‐sleeved tunic, you will definitely be a step ahead of everyone in the fashion game. Maximize the look by adding an embellished brooch or belt and this one‐size‐fits‐all creation will instantly become one of the essential statement pieces of your wardrobe.

Shawl Dawls owners, Julie Cruz and Roshena Chadha, were extremely fashion‐forward and well attuned to the difficulties women have in achieving comfort and style with the extra addition of sass. And, with the creation of these multi‐faceted shawls, it is without a doubt that they have developed one of the hottest fashion accessories for this summer. Shawls can range anywhere from $42 to $158, however, knowing that you are potentially getting an item that can be worn in 15 different looks makes the price quite a steal. (ShawlDawls.com) Lily Vasaelini Handbags “Leaving the house without the perfect handbag is just as daunting as walking outside the house naked”, according to the Sex and the City character, Carrie Bradshaw. Almost as devastating, are the moments when an outfit is created to ultimate perfection; only to be accentuated by a not‐so‐worthy handbag.

Dallas‐based designer, Lily Vasaelini, and her collection of designer handbags make a bold statement and are sure to effortlessly embody luxury and high quality. The Lily Vasaelini brand is all‐things‐ glamorous, high fashion and couture all in one—this priceless gem is worthy of total recognition. Sold in online and retail boutiques all over the world, these sensational handbags are comparatively as great as some of the most notorious of household brands.

While some designers willingly sacrifice quality for overall aesthetics, the Vasaelini handbag collections are not only crafted out of the finest in leather but also elegantly in style and on‐trend. Pair any of the Vasaelini handbags for a formal affair or for a casual walk in the park and your outfit has miraculously been upgraded to the utmost of perfection.

Although Vasaelini has some of the hottest handbags out for this summer, this statement accessory is a timeless investment piece that all women should display year‐round. Stop leaving your house “fashionably naked” and join the ranks of fashion‐forward women who garnish their arms in the finest of handbags—the Lily Vasaelini collection.

Leah Frazier is an image consultant, fashion blogger and fashion and style writer in Dallas, Texas. More of her work can be found on Examiner.com, CBS Local and her blog, Beautyforeashes.blogspot.com.

TEXAS STYLE | 27

Nine Eighteen Designs

by Jane Basch and KC Designs.

Shawl Dawls One Shawl – 15+ Looks

Lily Vaeslini Collection

28 | TEXAS STYLE

Let’s Stay Cool!

Kara Times Temperatures are rising in Texas. Dressing for the summer is not about being under‐dressed but being protected from the sun. With the right balance of colors, fabrics, and accessories you can be comfortable (and cooler) in the summer’s rising heat.

Wearing lightweight fabrics is the right option when dressing for summer. Avoid anything form‐ fitting such as leggings. Wearing loose‐fitting dresses and skirts always make you feel cooler than pants. Another option is wearing the new wide‐leg pant silhouettes which is very warm‐weather friendly. They do not cling.

Linen is a lightweight fabric and helps the skin breathe easily. For women, choose clothes made from linen ‐‐ it drapes very well. Also, the fiber is quite strong. You can expect the garment to last until next summer as well.

Choose lightweight fabrics in denim for capris or shorts. This protects your legs, providing a barrier between you and the sun’s rays. Wearing long tank tops can protect your torso as well.

Keep in mind, cotton is a fiber not a fabric. A fiber is spun into yarns that are knitted or woven together to make a fabric. Fabrics made from natural fibers are much cooler than synthetic fibers like polyester or nylon.

When shopping for sheer fabrics, look for tops and cardigans. This looks great when paired with tunics and tops that camouflage the midriff area. Wearing sheer fabrics can be casual or dressy depending on the occasion.

Great colors that help you keep cool are: white, yellow, orange, light green, and pink (to name a few). These are considered light colors. Light colors reflect the sun and heat. Avoid black and other dark colors because they absorb sunlight and therefore heat.

When the air conditioning is blasting indoors, learn to layer. Try wearing a brightly‐colored, cotton cardigan, or a lightweight denim blazer when indoors. A summer scarf in cotton jersey or a silk/cashmere blend is another easy way to stay warm indoors. Once, you are back outside in the heat, this is easy to shed.

There are also accessories that can help with keeping you cooler during the summer months as well. I would suggest an umbrella. If you are outdoors for a great length of time, choose a wide‐ brimmed hat. Using sunscreen is a must in Texas to protect your skin against the sun’s rays.

This guide provides a blueprint to create a cool, summer wardrobe. Make sure what you create is comfortable and cool for the season’s hottest months.

Let’s Stay Cool!

Kara Times is a freelance writer who lives in Texas.

TEXAS STYLE | 29

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32 | BOOM VOYAGE

Boy‐Scout‐Inspired Travel Tips

by Torrey Moseley

Okay, so it’s obvious I was never a Boy Scout. I did, however, grow up around scouting. My dad was a scoutmaster for years. Besides learning how to build like six different types of fires, scouting also taught me the importance of being prepared—for everything. Now, couple that with the fact that I’m a nurse, and you get someone who is ALWAYS prepared when traveling.

When I travel, I am ready for almost ANY type of emergency, injury, illness or other unplanned or accidental event. I’m here to share with you some valuable hints and tips to ensure you, too, are PREPARED to deal with or PREVENT all sorts of potential traveling mishaps! Here is a list of things I keep in my carry‐on (so it’s available at a moment’s notice). Most of these suggestions are natural too!

BOOM VOYAGE | 33 1. Tummy Calmers – Turbulent air, new foods and unfamiliar water sources can wreak havoc with your poor tummy causing nausea, indigestion, and the dreaded “traveler’s diarrhea” (aka Montezuma’s Revenge). But, there are things you can do to help! 







Ginger – candied, chews, or capsules…ginger is one of the best natural cures for tummy ailments. It has anti‐bacterial, anti‐fungal, and anti‐ inflammatory qualities. It can calm a queasy stomach quickly.

Activated Charcoal – this is a must‐have item if you’re concerned about coming down with food poisoning, food allergies, gas, diarrhea, or other stomach “bugs”. It works by absorbing toxins and transporting the offending stuff out of your GI tract. Yes, it looks nasty (black and inky) but it doesn’t really have a taste and it WORKS. Plug your nose and drink it down…and follow with bottled water (not tap water).

Acidophilus – also known as “Probiotics”. Buy it at a health food store in capsule form. These “friendly” bacteria will help keep your gut happy.

Start taking them, daily, before you leave and continue every day of your trip and for several days after your return. Your gut will thank you for it.

(OR…you can eat yogurt. Just make certain your yogurt has “live” cultures).

Pepto Bismol tablets – In the family practice office I used to work in, we recommended people traveling to destinations with “questionable” water sources to start taking a Pepto Bismol tablet 3 times a day starting 2 days





before you leave, and continuing every day and for 2 days after you return from your trip. Pepto Bismol can actually help prevent a case of traveler’s diarrhea as well as treat your symptoms if you contract it. (Pepto Bismol contains a form of aspirin, so be advised. It will also turn your stool black—don’t be alarmed.)

DON’T DRINK THE WATER – This may be an old adage…but it’s one that still rings true. Unfamiliar water sources are the #1 offender when it comes to things that can upset your delicate system.

Although the majority of resort destinations have adequate water treatment equipment, you still need to be careful. Drink bottled water, if possible. And remember the ‘hidden’ sources of water‐ avoid ice in drinks, keep your mouth closed during the shower, and brush your teeth with bottled water, if possible.

Acupressure Bands – simple devices (like Sea‐Band) can stave off nausea from motion sickness by applying constant, gentle pressure to key acupressure points on your wrists.

2. Tension Tamers – Let’s face it, traveling can be…well…exasperating and extremely tense. There are some things you can do to smooth those frazzled nerves and help you enjoy your trip. 

Herbal Remedies* – One in particular is called “Rescue Remedy”. Taken orally, these herbal drops can help keep you calm and relaxed even when everything around you is going crazy. Chamomile is another herb known for its calming properties. I always carry chamomile

34 | BOOM VOYAGE tea bags with me. Valerian root is another herb known for its powerful sedative qualities. *NOTE: check with your doctor before taking ANY herbal supplement. Many can have bad side effects when mixed with medications.



3. Aches, Pains, and Ouchies – We all have overdone it while traveling. We feel compelled to do it all and see it all in a limited amount of time. This can lead to overworked joints, muscles, and tendons. 

Arnica salve, Tiger Balm, or Traumeel – Available at health food stores, these soothing, topical salves are great for treating sore muscles, achy joints, or bruises.

4. Everything Else – Other useful and beneficial items to have on hand: 

Airborne – There you are, stuck on an airplane ‐‐ for hours on end, breathing recirculated air ‐‐ surrounded by coughing and sneezing people.

Airborne™ is an herbal/vitamin supplement that boosts your immune system, thus preventing you from catching THEIR bugs while traveling.

Who wants to be sick on vacation? You



may also want to consider wearing a protective mask while flying. I do. I don’t mind looking odd for a couple of hours if it means I can dodge a respiratory‐ illness bullet.

Coconut Oil ‐ This is, perhaps, one of the most versatile things you can bring with you. Coconut oil is not only a great moisturizer and skin/hair conditioner, it has many, MANY healing properties as well. It has anti‐bacterial, anti‐ microbial, anti‐fungal and even anti‐ viral properties. Used on skin, it helps soothe sunburns and minor scrapes and cuts. You can even use it as toothpaste.

Who knew?

Vitamin B1 (thiamine) tablets – these really do work as a ‘natural’ mosquito repellent. If you know you’re going to be outdoors where mosquitos will be a problem, start taking these tablets daily about a week before you leave ‐‐ and continue every day you’re on your trip.

You may notice a ‘yeasty’ smell to your skin ‐‐ so do the mosquitos, and they don’t like it at all! I don’t mind smelling like a bakery if it means I don’t get devoured by those nasty skeeters.

I also pack a variety of bandages and other first‐aid paraphernalia (I am a nurse, after all). Oh…and I always pack chocolate because in my book, chocolate cures ALL sorts of things.

May all your journeys be happy ones!

Torrey Moseley is the Editor‐In‐Chief of BoomerBuzz Magazines. She is an avid blogger, designer, photographer and writer. Visit her blog at www.left‐field‐studio.blogspot.com. (Oh, and she is also a ‘retired’ nurse practitioner).

BOOMER BUZZ | 35

Glorious Moments

By Elena Webb

As a child, nightly story hour was one of my

story weaver of unbelievable fables filed with

favorite things and it was Dad’s turn to spin a

mystery and adventure–sometimes spooky and

tale for me. I hurried into my pajamas and got in

fearful, others sweet and touching, and some

bed ready for the bewitching time! After a few

great escapes to foreign shores filled with

moments, the door to my room opened slightly

exciting escapades.

and a sliver of light spread across the darkened

into another, always captivating to me as I found

space. The minute he sat down on my bed,

myself in the middle of a talking forest hiding

comforting warmth rushed over me, and my

from imaginary creatures or saving myself from

breath paused for a moment in anticipation of

scary monsters with glowing eyes, and fingers

the mystical journey to come.

that would stretch out from twisting hands.

One event would evolve

Sometimes, I would be on a tropical island Dad was so much fun, and he had a wondrous swimming with singing flowers and colorful child-like imagination that made him a gifted

36 | BOOMER BUZZ birds whose wings became magic floats for me

it deep in my heart. And to this day, I still know

to sun on. With glee and trepidation I waited for

and feel it. The time a parent spends with a child

these storied minutes shared with my father.

(or anyone for that matter) is the greatest gift of all. You always remember the delight that was

These bedtime narrations were a way for us both shared, unrushed and unpressured - those to escape into a fantasy world, and be able to incidents that happen in the spur of the moment. capture special memories that were only ours, These occasions of joy cannot be recaptured or before I had to go to sleep for real. But most relived. As you rapidly move through life, you importantly it was treasured time I got to spend must take time to smell the flowers, face the

with Dad. As a child, it was important to know I

unexpected, and travel to exotic lands (capturing

was loved. And, during those few minutes (when

glorious memories with a loved one) as you spin

the world and time stopped) I felt cherished. We

your own bedtime stories to last forever.

both knew this was just for the two of us. I was his little girl and he was my knight in shining armor!

I did not need my father to verbally reassure me Elena Webb is a college professor who speaks multiple languages

of how much he loved me. Somehow I just knew

while enjoying being a freelance fiction writer.

BOOMER BUZZ | 37

The Blind Date

By Beverly Fells Jones

Do you have friends and family who are so concerned about you that they are always finding someone to introduce to you? You get frustrated because it makes you feel like you can't make your own connections. Or, you have been on so many that you are just tired, or you feel they just don't get it.

They tell you: "You have to meet Jane. She is so much fun. I know you and she would get along so well.

Why don't you come over on Saturday? I want to introduce you to her." Your friends may suggest a double‐date or they may just ask to share your phone number with the other party. You are not too sure, again, but you agree. You ask, "Now what?"

38 | BOOMER BUZZ That fact is blind dating is a relatively safe way of meeting people because a family member, a friend, co‐ worker or even a neutral third party, sets up the date. The person making the connection usually knows both parties and believes they would make a great couple.

Why would you want to say yes to this fairly simple method of meeting someone? The reason you want to say yes is (in all hopes) your friend knows the other person as well as they know you. They might even be right about the two of you connecting and getting along well together. Make sure it isn't someone they just met because they may not know enough about them to make a judgment on the compatibility factor between the two of you. This may have been the case, if they had ‘fixed’ you up before and the connection didn't work. If so, give your ‘matchmaker’ some criteria to assess before they make the next suggestion.

Sometimes your ‘matchmaker’ will give you an idea of what the other person looks like via description or they may have shown you a picture or you may get the "They are a nice person" speech. Your ‘matchmaker’ may tell you about the person's personality or they may give you many reasons why you should consider dating their choice. Try to get as much information as possible about the person before you make the date and be sure your ‘matchmaker’ knows the other person well before you say yes.

Because the person you are going to meet will be someone you have never met or spoken to before, you will want enough information to be able to carry on a decent conversation. The information you gather can help you decide where you are going to meet or how you are going to spend your time together. All of this can help ensure the date will not be a total disaster.

We are all apprehensive when we meet someone on any date. However, in this instance, you are feeling an extra amount of concern because you don't want to offend your friend or family member if this person is not a match. You will be on your super best behavior because you are not sure if the person will like you and you don’t know if you will like the other person. Even if the two of you decide you are not a compatible couple, you might meet someone who becomes a very good friend in the end.

I have found that some people really enjoy being set up on a blind date and blind dates can turn into successful relationships if the right people create the best connection. I highly recommend that you consider a blind date as another avenue in your quest to find a partner.

Beverly Fells Jones, Author, Speaker, Hypnotist. To receive a copy of Beverly’s book “From Prude to Siren, 3 Stages to Fantastic Sex and a Rewarding Relationship” (available from Authorhouse.com, Barnes and Noble and Amazon) send your relationship questions to info@boomerbuzzmagazine.com

40 | SENIOR SENSE

Four Signs You Need a Caregiver Part III - Guilt

By Claire Maestri

Overwhelmed with Guilt?

she want now?” Then you feel badly for not just answering the phone.

How often have you felt badly about not being able to reach your mom or dad

I remember when my grandmother’s

when they wanted you to be there? It is

dementia advanced and she could not

amazing how soon guilt can lead to

remember how many times a day she

depression and anxiety. Every time your

called. She lived in an Assisted Living,

loved one calls, you think, “What does

but was not receptive to the social obligations of the activities department.

She would sit by her phone and dial all of the family numbers repeatedly. My sister

even

left

a

greeting

that

specifically addressed my grandmother stating that she would be by to get her for dinner.

My

grandmother

was

not

high-

maintenance. She was lonely. Despite our idea of socialization in the assistedliving milieu, my grandmother was not familiar

with

many

of

the

other

residents and thought she was “too old” to make new friends. However, she greatly enjoyed the company of a housekeeper she had employed for 50 some-odd years. She understood my grandmother and knew her past.

SENIOR SENSE | 41 Eventually, this companion came 5 days

grandmother would have her read the

per week to assist my grandmother in

paper, put the toilet paper roll on the

dressing and getting to the dining room.

holder, and put her dishes in the

She would bake her a pound cake and

dishwasher. Higher quality of life does

ensure that she received the newspaper

not mean 24-hour care, it just means

each

having someone who can tune in to the

morning.

The

assisted-living

facility provided wonderful care to my

details when your loved one is absent.

grandmother, but she needed one-onone special attention from an old friend.

Yes, my mother felt very guilty that she could not be there, herself, to do these things for my grandmother. But, she also knew that their time away from each other was healthy. She felt great comfort in knowing that the time my grandmother had with her companion was time that she did not sit alone, by the phone, repeatedly dialing phone numbers.

Bringing in an additional person can make a huge difference in the way your loved one lives. This person can help provide assistance to your loved one so that they can get back to doing the things that they used to do before the activity became too cumbersome or overwhelming. The companion is not there to take away independence, but to boost the person back to independence.

When

the

companion

came,

my

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.Â

42 | SENIOR SENSE

Four Signs You Need a CaregiverPart IV- Forfeiting Commitments

By Claire Maestri

Forfeiting Commitments.

How many times have you looked for a good reason not to attend an obligatory social gathering – something not too offensive, with a reason people won’t be too inquisitive or worried about? It is awful, but we all do it. Then comes the time where the illness of a loved one really does prevent you from going. When it first begins, the thoughts of leaving the loved one to participate in social outings seem trivial. You find yourself completely enamored with their care and not engaged in anything else.

SENIOR SENSE | 43 Not long ago, a family friend’s wife broke her leg. This friend had been devoted to his wife 24-hours a day for weeks. He called his daughter to get her opinion on attending a one-hour, 105th anniversary celebration for their church. Both the husband and wife had served on the celebration committee prior to her injury. The daughter gave the dad every reason not to go, so he stayed at home.

On one hand, when looking at this scenario from the outside, yes, there are good reasons to stay home. However, the injured wife was completely capable of staying alone for short periods of time. The reality is that the wife watched an episode of a beloved television show and dozed off. On the other hand, the husband felt resentment and anger for missing the event.

When his kids were little, he would not have hesitated to hire someone to watch them for an event such as this. Why do we expect any different of our spouses or parents? You and your family should not have to miss out on regular or special events due to the continuous illness of a loved one. As a matter of fact, you need to find supplemental care so that you don’t miss out on these things.

If you find that you repeatedly experience the following, due to care for a loved one, you need to find additional help for your loved one:        

Miss work Miss work trips and after-hours obligations Cancel a special trip or cruise Your children complain about your absence Miss your children’s school obligations Miss your children’s sporting events (soccer games, basketball games, football games, etc.)

Neglect or give up your hobbies (golf, hiking, scrapbooking, bridge game, Bible Study, etc.)

Find you become isolated from friends

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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