Be Fabulous! April - May 2012

Celebrating Baby Boomer Women

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Sweet Talk 2 • Be Fabulous! I www.fabulousat50.com I April • May • 2012 Issue 9.indd 2

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Sweet Talk

Pencil drawing by Dianna Bowes

Spring Ahead There is something about the coming season that propels us to purge. Where a short time ago we were all about nesting and settling in, now it’s out with the old and in with the new.

After months of viewing the world in black and white, it’s time to usher in some colour!

Nothing quite compares to those first bursts of colour that signify the unofficial conclusion to winter. The vibrant yellow of Forsythia and the first delicate blooms of the Daffodil and Crocus never fail to delight me. My initial reaction upon seeing the latter is to think, “Wow. They came out of nowhere.” That thought is quickly followed by, “No. I just couldn’t really see them until they began to bloom and turned their little heads towards the sun.” It’s no wonder that flowers and Mother’s Day fit so well together. Mother Nature’s tentative nod towards new life brings out the nurturer in all of us. In those first signs of Spring lie the elements we often equate with motherhood: encouragement… inspiration…love. Happy Mother’s Day to moms everywhere!

I’ve recently returned from a phenomenal trip to Honduras, where I was reminded of how little we actually need to survive: food, shelter, safety, and family. Life is so simple there. The focus is based on very elemental needs and reminds me of how much stuff we have. So much stuff! How many times

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have you found yourself in the midst of a major spring cleaning…you’re earnestly committed to simplifying and de-cluttering your environment…(and in turn, your life) only to find yourself facing an eerily familiar case of déjà vu the following year?

I thought so. Been there; done that; got the t-shirt. This time, let it be about making room in your life for the things you really want to do…the things you love to do. I am committed to this process and have set up an art studio in my home, as a way to enrich the art classes I’m now attending.

I’m living the dream! If not now, when??

Be well. z DIANNA BOWES Founder of Fabulous@50 • Graphic Designer/Artist • Editor Dianna is a strong, passionate and creative baby boomer woman with a life full of experiences that she could write a couple books about and maybe will one day. Dianna was awarded the 2011 YWCA Women of Distinction’s Turning Point Award. dianna@fabulousat50.com • fabulousat50.com Celebrating the baby boomer woman • 3 12-03-29 1:40 PM

Fabulous

50

at

EDMONTON

Celebrating the baby boomer women

Publisher Gryphon Publishing www.gryphonpubs1.com Editor Dianna Bowes dianna@fabulousat50.com Designer Creative On The Move www.creativeonthemove.com

The Fabulous at 50

Diamond Membership will

KNOCK YOUR STILETTOS OFF! You are fabulous and you deserve to be rewarded for it! As a Fabulous@50 Diamond Member you will receive thousands of dollars in services and benefits with an opportunity to be part of a vibrant community of women, just like you. On sign up you will receive a menopause survival kit delivered right to your home, with ongoing gifts, and a growing loyalty program.

What you get for $199.50 a year.

• Menopause Survival Kit: $75+ • Loyalty Program: $100 + mos • Coaching: $300+ • VIP Status @ Seminars & Fabulous@50 Tradeshow: priceless • EBook: $25+ • Be Fabulous! Magazine: Delivered right to your home, stuff it in your purse and take it with you to read at your leisure.

For more information and to sign up :

www.fabulousat50.com

Printer PrintWest Sales Zita Dube-Lockhart E sales@fabulousat50.com P 780-221-6636 Editorial Contributors: Dianna Bowes, Shirley Borrelli, Atco Blue Flame Kitchen, Jennifer Parks, Sue Paulson, Cassandra Finkbeiner (AMA Travel), Anne Adair, Anita Beil, Donna Worthington, Sue Perry Are you interested in becoming an expert for Be Fabulous: E: info@fabulousat50.com Be Fabulous! is published six times a year.

Want a copy: www.fabulousat50.com/magazine The articles represent the views and opinions of the individual authors and not necessarily the publisher.

No material should be reprinted in whole or in part without the expressed written permission of the publisher/authors. The contents of Be Fabulous! should not be used as advice of any kind. Please consult the appropriate professionals for any advice. Be Fabulous! does not constitute endorsements of, or assumption for, liability for any claims made in the advertisements and or advertising information.

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Then use the ScanLIFe application to scan the above tag to find out more about Fabulous@50.

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Fatima Khair holds a bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts and a diploma in Fabric painting and Interior Design. She has studied and worked as a travel consultant in Edmonton, Alberta for approximately nine years.

She enjoy painting and intends to paint hopefully....ever after! www.artcy.ca

What’s

INSIDE? 3 SWEET TALK

Spring Ahead.

14 FINANCIAL FINESSE

Choosing the Best Financial Products

6 LOOKING FABULOUS AT 50

Bursts of Colour for Spring 2012.

16 my great escape!

London.

7 CELEBRATING MOTHER’S DAY

17 FITTER AT FIFTY

8 WHAT MAKES ME HAPPY

18 EVERYDAY FOOD

Bring Back the Juicy Feeling.

10 Featured FABULOUS@50 WOMAN

Carrie Kohan: A Women of Vision.

12 IT’S SPRING

Cleaning and Decluttering.

20 FABULOUS EVENTS 22 DEPRESSION IN YOUR FIFTIES

Cover Photo: Nicole Watson is an Edmonton-based freelance photographer who is the creative mind behind Nicole Ashley Photography. Since she was a little girl, Nicole felt as though she viewed the world through a lens. She found herself wanting to freeze time whenever she encountered something truly extraordinary or beautiful; eventually, it was photography that allowed her to capture these moments.

nicole ashley photography • info@nicoleashley.ca • www.nicoleashley.ca Celebrating the baby boomer woman • 5

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Looking Fabulous at 50

Bursts of Colour for Spring 2012

C

Although we’ve had a wonderful winter season this year, we are all happy for the warmer weather and the arrival of Spring.

Spring reminds us that all things eventually evolve; that there’s no season that lasts a lifetime. And thank goodness for that!

We all want to see our green grass, our tulips coming alive and hear the birds singing in our yards.

As your wardrobe consultant, allow me to share some other good news with you.

Colour is HOT again this spring!

You will see bursts of chili pepper as seen by Michelle Williams at the 84th Annual Academy Awards. Tim Gunn of ABC’s The Revolution is promoting it is THE colour this season. Carson Kressley, celebrity stylist says this tangerine hue is everywhere this year. Both Tim and Carson are insisting we all participate in this colour trend for spring if we are looking for a burst of energy!

Not a fan of orange? No worries. Try her cooler neighbor, hot fuchsia pink!

And it has to be HOT pink; not a pale, frosted and timid pink for you this year.

Go for bold, saturated and alive pink.

It is not too young of a look for you. I promise. Try it. You might like it!

Other colour trends are saturated cobalt blue and lemon yellow. Pastels have their place this season but it could leave you looking somewhat washed out and lacking some energy. I’m not crazy about pastels for women who want to be fabulous.

You will see bursts of saturated colours that are blocked on purses and platform sandals. Pops of colour in cute ballet flats will also work magic to freshen up your style.

You will see vibrant patterns of florals and stripes in these exciting colours.

Instead of your classic khaki trench coat, buy one in a vibrant colour. {continued on page 9}

SHIRLEY BORRELLI : Personal Development Mentor/ Author/Speaker • Coach Shirley Borrelli, B.Ed is a fun, energetic and results driven expert who can build your confidence to attract more success in your life. She has become a trusted advisor to hundreds of women looking for personal development coaching, shopping and wardrobing strategies. She has been seen on all the major television networks in Edmonton. She can be reached at: info@shirleyborrelli.com; www.ShirleyBorrelli.com; 780.235.5506.

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Mother's Day

Celebrating

Indulge in a Mother’s Day Brunch or Dinner

Start the day off with a fabulous Mother’s Day brunch or reserve a special table at one of Edmonton’s best restaurants. If Mom has a favourite eatery, make a reservation early. Or try one of Edmonton’s popular brunch spots.

• Café De Ville – 10137- 124 st • Urban Diner - 12427 102 Avenue To make reservations www.opentable.com

Go to the Art Gallery of Alberta

Alberta Mistresses of Modern 1935 – 1975, will be on exhibit. Focusing on the work of ten women artists.

Shopping Maybe what Mom wants more than a surprise gift is a day spent shopping for her own gift. If Mom loves to shop, take her to one of Edmonton’s great shopping districts and top it off with a fabulous dinner out.

Whyte Ave, WEM, 124st. High Street

Have Fun at a Concert or Theatre

Spend a day enjoying the outdoors

BB King – May 14th – Nothern Alberta Jubilee

Does your mom love animals, the outdoors, art, and being pampered? If so, Mother’s Day Magic at the Edmonton Valley Zoo will be the perfect way to celebrate this special day!

T he Sound of Music - Shocter Theatre, Citadel Get Pampered with a Spa Day Moms don’t always treat themselves as well as they treat their families, so why not give Mom the gift of relaxation and indulgence at a local spa?

• Phoenix Renewal Spa • Urban Spa • The Water Garden If spa prices are too hefty but Mom could really use a manicure and pedicure, the student sessions at the Alberta Academy of Aesthetics are reasonable.

Stroll through a Garden Bring Mom to Muttart and Escape to the Pyramids! Experience an array of activities meant to soothe Mom’s soul and make them smile. Sign mom up for a mini-massage or flower arranging experience. You and Mom can enjoy the sounds of live music and a chance to relax and rejuvenate in beautiful surroundings.

Take a drive out to the beautiful Enjoy Centre in St. Albert. and enjoy lunch at the Prairie Bistro, followed by a massage at the Water Garden. A Perfect Mother's Day! z by Dianna Bowes Celebrating the baby boomer woman • 7

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What Makes Me

Happy?

“A happy wife makes for a happy life.” You may have heard this from the lips of men who had first-hand experience of what life was like when their women weren’t happy. Men are wired to provide, support and protect their women – all with the ultimate goal of seeing their women happy. When we suffer, that triggers their fear and sense of helplessness.

The strange thing is that men aren’t responsible for our happiness. They can contribute to it because of what they say and what they do, but ultimately, we women are responsible for our own happiness.

Cancer Diagnosis

Last year was a nightmare of a year for both my sweetie and me because of my cancer diagnosis. It tested each of us and challenged our relationship in ways we had not been tested before. Many fears surfaced – fear of death, fear of the treatments, fear of the aftermath of it all.

Needless to say, it was not a happy time.

But with the unwavering support of family, friends, professionals, and count-

less strangers I will never meet, we got through it. At last report, my cancerous lesion had been eradicated. I’m now free to finish healing as I pick up the pieces of my former life and see if anything still fits.

Depression

Cancer is a huge and scary tool for change in one’s life. My first reaction after treatment was depression. I felt like a burned out shell of a woman who was useless, helpless and very alone.

Fortunately, my quintessential Pollyanna nature wouldn’t allow me to stay depressed. It coaxed me into a deep state of reflection.

I have been re-visiting my history, challenging my beliefs, and examining all my reasons for having done or not done anything in my life.

A wonderful book, “Picking Up the Pieces – Moving Forward after Surviving Cancer” has been a catalyst in my quest to find myself.

One of the biggest questions to surface is, “What serves me now?”

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I’m not the same person I was a year ago.

To grow into the new me will require some changing. Change is never easy for me – I can be very stubborn in the face of change – even if I know it will be good for me!

So what does serve me now? I was brought up to be of service to others.

Selflessness was an act of godliness. If there was a chipped plate amongst the dishes, I was to take that one and give the best ones to everyone else. If someone needed me, I was to drop whatever I was doing and look after them.

Desires and Dreams

Now don’t get me wrong. I came to love and value being of service. It has given me great joy and meaning in my life to watch others blossom because of my efforts on their behalf. But it has also created deep resentment within me because I so often gave at the expense of my own desires and dreams. Over time it created a sense of unworthiness in me to the point where I wasn’t sure I was worthy of being healed of my cancer.

Today, March 8, 2012 – my 62nd birthday, I’m exploring the idea of service in a new way. What would happen if I decided to serve myself first by doing what brings only me great joy? Is it possible that if I focus on what makes me happy, then that will serve others and they will be happy, too? Hmm – a radical notion, but one I intend to explore.

One thing I know for sure. If I’m happy, my man will be happy! z Sue Paulson VP Sales & Marketing Winshades Inc. Whether it’s speaking, writing, or selling, Sue loves to stimulate conversation that helps others learn and grow. 780-934-8444, suetalk@ shaw.ca • www.encounterskills.com

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{Bursts • from page 6}

Old Navy has some great options to look at.

You will even see bright coloured pants as the newest spring trend. The Gap and Jacob have other bright colour wardrobe and accessory options for you to consider. Still too daring for your style? Wear stacks of hot pink or chili pepper bracelets or in a chunky necklace.

Update your silk scarf to a gauzy cotton polka dot scarf. Mix orange and pink in the same accessory story. Accessories are a fun easy and age appropriate way to play with this trend without making a big commitment to it or looking like your 20 something daughter.

If bright coloured denim scares you, then wear your neutral wardrobe basics but add excitement with a bright coral or pink lipstick.

Ditch the dated french manicure. Instead go for a hot pink manicure or pedicure; that would make a lovely mother daughter thing to do together. And no more long nails. Short is where it’s at. There's so much optimism in this year's spring and summer trends there's a ton of ways you can get some on you.

Want professional help? Just give me a call, I’d be glad to point you in the right direction.

780.235.5506. z Celebrating the baby boomer woman • 9

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A Woman

Vision

of

Advocate-mom’s “ gift of sight” changes child safety in Canada

A mother’s intuition is like a Sixth Sense.

Carrie Kohan knew the instant her 16-year-old daughter was being peerpressured to shoplift at the mall. This spontaneous knowledge came in what Kohan calls “a flash,” during which she heard a furtive conversation between the two teen girls.

A phone text later, and Carrie’s daughter, Nakita, confirmed she was, indeed, in a store with a friend who was trying to convince her to steal.

Nakita was hardly surprised. Her mom’s Sixth Sense had a way of tuning into her frequency just when she needed guidance and protection the most. A mother knows ... and, well, sometimes she r-e-a-l-l-y knows.

I See Things

“I see things,” says Carrie, matter-of-factly.

One minute, she’s joking off-handedly that some people think she’s a wing-nut loose; the next, she’s drop-dead serious.

“That’s how I saved Nakita’s life when she was two,” Carrie begins.

They were living in Dawson Creek in 1998, when, unbeknownst to Carrie and others in her community, a three-time convicted pedophile, named Douglas Arthur Freeman, moved into their neighbourhood, following his release from prison.

Carrie with daugter Nakita (winner of Miss Teen Canada International)

One day, a man approached Carrie on the sidewalk, and she had one of her flashes. In a bone-chilling rush of terror that defies all conventional reason, she gained intimate knowledge of this man that would change her life’s course.

Somehow, in an instant, Carrie knew that he had raped children before and that her baby daughter was about to be targeted. “How did I know?” says Carrie, a petite, built woman who speaks directly, without dramatic pause.

“I saw what he did, through his eyes; I heard the children plead for help.”

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The predator’s scheming began with befriending the family dog, feeding it scraps when no one else was around.

Carrie had noticed bones in her backyard.

The next day, following their sidewalk encounter, Freeman entered her home through the back screen door with a burnt roast in his hands.

“I said ‘What the heck do you think you are doing in here?’ and he replied, ‘I brought your dog this roast. Don’t you want it?’ Then I told him ‘I know what you’re up to and you need to get out.

Now.’ Even as he backed away, he was looking around, trying to learn the layout of the house.”

As soon as Carrie locked the door behind her intruder she called police.

Changing laws

Since there was no national sex offender registry in 1998, she was originally told it would take three months to complete a province-by-province outstanding warrant report.

Fortunately, the local dispatcher knew of the pedophile’s history and took action.

Next, Carrie went public, organizing a town-hall meeting to alert her community about their unwanted guest.

Douglas Arthur Freeman ran.

••• “For the next two years, I waited for someone to change the laws,” says the former stay-at-home mom who could wait no longer, and became a national child protection advocate.

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Carrie with daugters Nakita and Ami at the YWCA Women of Distinction Awards in 2010.

Three months later, following horrific news that two young Calgary girls were raped in their home after their babysitter was locked up by an 18-yearold intruder, Carrie led a city-wide rally in Calgary.

••• “At the time, Microsoft didn’t even have the word ‘pedophile’ in spell check,” she recalls.

••• Carrie founded Mad Mothers Against Pedophiles (MAP) and worked with MLA Heather Forsyth to launch the Amber Alert program, a public notification system to help locate missing children. learning disorder

At age 40, Carrie was diagnosed with a learning disability. She couldn’t read or do math very well, so she continued her work with a research assistant.

“The media took to calling me the Erin Brochovich of Canada. How could a stay-at-home mom who lived in a trailer park and didn’t read, change the laws in her country?” says Carrie. {continued on page 19}

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It's Spring!

Time to open the windows and clear out all the musty smells from winter and feel the breeze.

f Treat your Spring clean like

an important house meeting and place it on your calendar or in your blackberry.

f Remember these 3 things while you de-clutter and clean.

Keep only what is beautiful, useful or loved. Once you realize that STUFF is just STUFF-not memories and relationships-it becomes easier to discard or donate unwanted items.

f Let’s start your spring clean/ organizing where you enter your home. Your front and back entrances & closets. Time to switch out all winter boots, coats, hats.. etc. Wash all and place in well labeled tubs. Wash inside and out the closets & entrances. Place all spring sunhats,rain jackets & umbrellas into your spring fresh closets. Add a spring ‘WELCOME’ wreath at both front and back doors.

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f Time to rotate the treasures,decor & nicknacks from the living and family room. Move all the furniture, vacuum dust and clean the lighting.

Let’s bounce into spring and bring out all your Easter and spring candles, flowers and ornaments. Don’t forget to take down the sheers and window valences and wash, then rehang. Use this tip often. ‘Move it else where’ when leaving a room glance around, if there is something in this room that belongs in the room you’re going to, take it & move it!!

f Your kitchen. When the space is well organized, it’s not only the hub of activity, it’s the heart of the home. It’s a place to gather, share, talk and bond.

Start by clearing the counters, remove everything that you don’t need or use.

Find new homes for them by using baskets,organizers & in and out trays.

While de-cluttering and cleaning always have these 3 boxes or bags close by.

Keep, Sell or Give Away. Now open each drawer. Remember what I said ‘Only keep what is beautiful, useful or loved’ take out and clean and only place back what is needed.

f Toss the Toiletries. Just before you brush your teeth or jump into the shower, spend a few minutes getting rid of expired & not used hair, bath and skin products. Now you will have more storage space in your bathroom & easier access to items you use regularly. fAre you the.... I may use it or wear it someday person? With that as your hold, you could be re-organizing the same items yearly!! Let’s get to work in all your bedrooms. Yess!! the closets and drawers.

Take out what cannot be classified as clothing or footwear. Find new homes for things you have taken out. Also take out all the wire hanger and extra hangers, you have just gained 8-10 inches.

Do the same in all the other rooms, ‘switch’ take out all the winter and replace with spring and summer. Remember to wash and vacuum under and around all furniture. Donate or discard things that you have not used in a long time. If you didn’t wear it this winter, you likely won’t wear it next. Remember the hundreds of people that are impacted through your donations of clothes and house old items you no longer need.

f Take magazines & books to a nearby retirement home, hospital or after school children’s center. This will help you clear some space on your book shelves and in your kids rooms.

This will not only de-clutter your shelves but you will be doing a great deed for your community. f Now, take a hot bath with essential oils, light a few candles and RELAX! z Anita Beil - Professional Organizer “Your Senior Relocation Specialist” The Clutter Helper H: 780-460-1684 C: 780-974-6134 a.beil@telus.net, www.theclutterhelper.com Copyright © The Clutter Helper. All rights reserved.

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FINANCIAL FINESSE

Choosing the best financial products for you With so many financial products available, it’s very confusing for the average consumer alone to choose correctly. Do you have a working knowledge of the variety and best application of available financial products, for yourself? Do you know where to go to get it? Let’s look at defining some of the more common financial products.

1. What is a GIC? It is a Guaranteed Investment Certificate that offers a guaranteed rate of return over a fixed period of time, most commonly issued by trust companies or banks. Due to its low risk profile, the return is generally less than other investments such as stocks, bonds, or mutual funds.

2. What is a Bond?

A Bond is a financial loan that you make to a financial institution. In return, over a designated time, you receive interest and your capital investment from that institution.

fund, offered by life insurance companies. The funds’ assets are separated or “segregated” from the insurance company’s other assets to protect the investor in case of the company’s insolvency. When you purchase a segregated fund, you are actually buying an individual variable insurance contract.

Segregated funds offer investors several advantages over regular mutual funds: - most funds guarantee 100% of the principal invested at the end of 10 years, - the guaranteed principal can be reset or “bumped up” during the 10 year period, - fund assets pass directly to beneficiaries, avoiding costly estate and probate fees, - fund assets are generally protected from creditors.

6. What is an Annuity?

A Stock is an investment whereby you purchase shares in a company.

It is a contract between you and a financial institution where you give the institution an amount of money in return for a stream of fixed income payments for a specified period of time.

4. What is a Mutual Fund?

7. What is a GLWB?

A Mutual Fund is a pool of money contributed by many investors that is managed on their behalf by professional fund managers.

It is a Guaranteed Life Withdrawal Benefit designed for those who are nearing or are in retirement and need guaranteed income. It is an insurance product similar to a mutual fund but with a guaranteed withdrawal rate.

3. What is a Stock?

5. What is a Segregated Fund?

A Segregated Fund is similar to a mutual

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GLWB products have the following features: - there is typically a 5% bonus added back to the GLWB for those years you don’t draw income, - you are guaranteed an annual lifetime retirement income beginning at the age 65 equal to a percentage of the amount invested in the GMWB product (the “guaranteed benefit base”), - during the lifetime of the product, the guaranteed benefit base and the level of guaranteed income may be reset upward from time to time at specified reset dates if the market value of the fund or portfolio exceeds the guaranteed benefit base on those dates.

In Summary Get professional help. Your advisor brings knowledge and experience.

You need to bring an open-minded view of your financial situation and the willingness to participate. Let a professional help you define your goals and create a comprehensive financial plan.

This plan will keep your focused regardless of market conditions. z Join us, Saturday October 13, 2012, for LADIES DAY OUT. You’ll enjoy an exciting day of education, empowerment and entertainment. Learn from other professionals about topics that impact your success in life and business.

DONNA WORTHINGTON CFP EPC • Investment Planning Counsel Donna WORTHINGTON is on the National Board of Directors as 1st Vice-Chair of the Canadian Institute of Financial Planners (A Professional Association of nearly 5,000 CFPs across Canada) For upcoming seminars, workshops and ladies events, call Donna @ 780-702-1551

Best Little Lingerie Shop in Central Alberta Personalized Customer Service Just one of the many reasons to shop BUSTED 5020-50 st, Ponoka AB 1-888-214-6563 Celebrating the baby boomer woman • 15

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Photo credit: pbkwee, Flickr, Creative Commons

isbon

MY GREAT ESCAPE

London bridges calling A word of advice: don’t rent a car when visiting London. Most of the city’s must-see attractions are within walking distance or a short ride away via the Tube, London’s subway system.

For those who prefer to travel above ground, hop on one of the city’s iconic red double-decker buses. I stayed at the Mint Westminster Hotel, located near Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament. To start your day of sightseeing, make the obligatory trip to Buckingham Palace, official London residence of Queen Elizabeth II. From the gates, you can watch the changing of the guard, which starts promptly at 11:30 a.m.

Arrive early to get a close-up view.

Big Ben

Then head off to see Big Ben. The famous clock tower is located on the north end of the Palace of Westminster and is the largest four-faced chiming clock in the world. In England, a cup of tea isn’t just a warm beverage. It’s an anticipated afternoon break, complete

with elegant finger sandwiches and decadent desserts. Afternoon tea at the Ritz Hotel has become so popular that there are three afternoon sittings: 1.30, 3.30 and 5.30 p.m. Everywhere in London, history is right around the corner. The Tower of London is a living history lesson dating back to William the Conqueror’s reign in the 11th century.

The tower also houses a working collection of crown jewels.

Discounted Theatre Tickets

London’s theatre scene is also not to be missed. Buy discounted show tickets at TKTS in Leicester Square. If paying homage to one great thespian is on the to-do list, a unique dedication to famed playwright William Shakespeare is near the theatre district. Shakespeare’s Globe theatre hosts many productions of the bard’s greatest works throughout the year.

Elsewhere, nibble at Fifteen restaurant, owned by celebrity chef Jamie Oliver.

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Fitter @Fifty I’ll be turning fifty this year and like most people my age, I’m wondering how did I get to this point? Having a daughter about to turn 21 only makes me feel younger than I am, as I feel closer to her age than my own. Why? I can out-run her and out-lift her during most exercise programs. When I ask my daughter to workout with me she rolls her eyes, and asks if we can keep the intensity down a bit. This might not sound too impressive, except that Julia was a competitive gymnast most of her life.

Fountain of Youth

I also find it hard not to compare myself to other women in the gym. Some of us are definitely healthier than those a few decades below us, and some women closer to my mother’s age are boxing, Zumba-ing, and weight training with incredible power and agility. So, what’s my point? That exercise truly is the fountain of youth, and if women have not discovered this for themselves, it’s time to take a dip in that sweet fountain!

We know exercise has been proven to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, improve blood pressure, and increase “good” cholesterol. It’s been shown to help manage or prevent type 2 diabetes, depression, and some cancers while improving balance, reducing stress, and the list goes on. Many doctors suggest exercise is the best form of preventative medicine. Compared to rising health

care costs, a daily brisk walk seems like a bargain. That said, one should always see their physician before starting a new exercise regimen.

Health Benefits

Did you happen to see the fascinating, recent Canadian study examining exercise and its affect on the aging process in mice? The mice were divided in two groups: half were sedentary and half exercised three times per week. The sedentary mice all died before the end of a year! But, the active mice maintained their muscle mass and brain size, increased mitochondrial activity (thereby improving cellular energy function), had healthy fur and robust amounts of energy. The researchers were amazed at the effect of exercise on the aging process and were dually impressed with its beneficial influence on every tissue and system in the rodents’ bodies. With so many healthful benefits, why do some people find it hard to get off the couch?

Poor Self Esteem

There are many reasons. It could be due to poor self-esteem, a fear of failure, or simply a lack of motivation to take responsibility for one’s health. {continued on page 21}

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Everyday Food

Bring Back that We’ve all been there…You eagerly cut into your serving of meat and astonishingly find it tough, dry and obviously overcooked. You chew through it hoping that the extra sauce poured over the meat will somehow… bring back that juicy feeling.

Bring back that juicy feeling by seeking out a meat thermometer. Cooking with a meat thermometer is like having your own little personal assistant in the kitchen because it measures the internal temperature of food. Knowing the internal temperature can help prevent the overcooking of food. In fact, it can help decipher whether your meat has been cooked rare, medium or well based on the temperature on the thermometer.

At the same time, cooking some foods to a safe temperature ensures that any harmful bacteria are destroyed.

The internal temperature that you need

Juicy Feeling to cook meat to depends on what you are cooking. To take the temperature of meat, insert the probe into the middle of the meat. Be sure the thermometer does not touch bone. Ground meat and poultry have the highest temperature readings since they need to be cooked to well done to be considered safe to eat. Don’t despair, by cooking these meats to the temperature recommended you are still going to end up with a juicy entrée.

Confused about what to buy for a meat thermometer? With an oven safe meat thermometer, the probe may be inserted into the meat at the beginning of the cooking time and not removed until the meat is considered done. If you buy an instant meat thermometer, the probe is inserted into the hot food for a few seconds and is removed after the temperature is recorded.

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For more information on your thermometer, please refer to the manual.

If you are unsure about how to use a meat thermometer, try experimenting with it while preparing Rack of Lamb with Blackberry Pecan Crust.

To test for doneness, insert the meat thermometer into the thickest part of the meat.

The lamb is done when the meat thermometer registers between 140°F (60°C) and 150°F (65°C). Letting the rack of lamb rest before slicing allows the juices to redistribute themselves evenly through the meat. For a wonderful meal idea, pair the Rack of Lamb with Barley Vegetable Pilaf. z For more recipes from ATCO Blue Flame Kitchen, check out the website at atcoblueflamekitchen.com

RACK OF LAMB WITH BLACKBERRY PECAN CRUST 3/4 cup (175 mL) finely chopped pecans 3/4 cup (175 mL) fresh bread crumbs 1/4 cup (50 mL)chopped fresh parsley 1/4 tsp (1 mL) freshly ground pepper 2 tbsp (25 mL) butter, melted 1/3 cup (75 mL) sieved blackberry jam 1/4 cup (50 mL)Dijon mustard 3 racks of lamb (8 ribs each) Combine pecans, bread crumbs, parsley, pepper and melted butter. Whisk together blackberry jam and mustard until blended.

Spread blackberry jam mixture evenly over meaty portion of each rack of lamb. Pat pecan mixture onto blackberry jam mixture.

Place lamb, bone side down, in a large shallow roasting pan. Roast at 425ºF (220ºC) for 40 minutes or until a meat thermometer registers 140 - 150ºF (60 - 65ºC). Let stand for 5 minutes before carving.

Serves 8

{Vision• from page 11}

“I just knew I could and so I went for it.”

Along the way, she became a government witness for the Justice Committee of Canada, an expert in pedophilia and has worked with 4,000 families of child sexual abuse. Carrie has been pivotal in writing, amending or changing 12 laws regarding child protection, including the creation of the National Sex Offender Registry.

YwCa women oF DisTinCTion

In 2010, she was the recipient of the YWCA Women of Distinction Award for her on-going advocacy work, which

began so unexpectedly with a chance brush with a convicted pedophile over a decade ago.

Today, her eldest daughter, Nakita, is a youth role-model and public speaker and travels across the country as Miss Teen Canada International 2012. Her youngest, Amelia, 12, is growing up in a country which now takes child protection much more seriously. z Jennifer Parks is a freelance writer and author, working in Edmonton Check out her blog, 1000 Ways to be Happy, at www.thehappyquest.wordpress.com/ Celebrating the baby boomer woman • 19

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Fabulous@50 experience & martini party - red Deer Fabulous@50 was created to address the needs of women baby boomers. This trade show will expose products and services specifically geared to them and will feature a martini bar, makeover contest, entertainment, motivational speakers, and over 25 exhibitors. www.fabulousat50.com

mother’s Day luncheon Join us on saturday, may 12th at the beautiful Fairmont hotel macdonald (10065 100th Street, Edmonton) from 11:00 am – 2:00 pm as we celebrate the most important women in our lives – our Mothers. The afternoon will include a three-course meal and a special presentation from keynote speaker Charmaine Hammond.

Hammond has also written two other books; Toby The Pet Therapy Dog – and his hospital friends and Bounce Forward; and was published in Chicken Soup for the Soul – What I learned from the dog (Sept. 2009).

Tickets are $55.00 each and can be purchased by calling the Canadian breast Cancer Foundation – Prairies/ NWT Region at 1-866-302-2223.

30th annual women of Distinction awards Thursday, may 31, 2012 expo Centre may 11, 2012

life is sweet

pub nighT Fundraiser for suit Yourself

Slip on your comfy jeans and join us for a sweet evening with the hilarious Zandra Bell. Food, desserts, cash bar, silent auction and a special Mother’s Day gift for all the ladies.

Yellowhead Brewery 6:30 - 9:30 pm Advance Tickets 30.00 http://lifeissweet.eventbrite

Join CTV’s Carrie Doll for one of the most inspiring events our city has to offer.

The YWCA Women of Distinction Awards celebrates the finest female leaders, entrepreneurs, innovators and heroes in Edmonton. The YWCA has made some exciting new changes and additions to the event to mark this 30 year milsteone. The event format has been streamlined to reflect the busy lives of our nominees and supporters, with a condensed presentation format and stronger focus on the nominees in each category.

The evening will include a Cocktail & Appetizer Reception, Award Ceremonies and a Silent Auction with dozens of unique and luxurious items to fit all styles and budgets. http://ywcawod2012.eventbrite.com/ Do you have an event that would benefit our baby boomer demographic? e: info@fabulousat50.com *all requests will be reviewed

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Photo credit: robinvanmourik, Flickr, Creative Commons

FaBUlOUS eVeNtS

april 28, 2012

{Fit • from page 17} Photo credit: robinvanmourik, Flickr, Creative Commons

Regardless, it’s never too late to start.

Studies have shown that starting and maintaining a consistent exercise program at any age, will reverse the aging process and improve one’s quality of life dramatically.

Muscle Strength

{London• from page 16}

The menu offers a decidedly British take on Italian cuisine, with menu items such as risotto with strawberries, basil and Parmesan cheese. In the evening, see the city lights from the London Eye, a giant ferris wheel on the banks of the River Thames.

The glass pods seat 10 people and the ride is around 30 minutes for one rotation. The only problem is, you’ll see more places than you have time to visit. z Cassandra Finkbeiner, International Travel Counsellor at AMA Travel. For more information on this and other vacations destinations, visit AMATravel.ca or call 1-866-6674777.

Capturing your inner beauty at every age... boudoir and stylized photos

nicole ashley photography www.nicoleashley.ca

info@nicoleashley.ca

Consider this: the body loses 40% of its muscle mass by age 70, most prominently in the lower body. Muscle strength diminishes up to 3% per day for bedridden individuals. These are not good statistics if your weekly agenda does not include some form of resistance training and weight bearing exercise. Furthermore, maintaining muscle mass is vital for coordination of movement, maintaining proper posture, and overall appearance.

Exercise is the only reason I am stronger today than I was 20 years ago. I’m amazed that I don’t simply maintain my body but I constantly see improvement! A weight that was too heavy last month is doable today. Isn’t it miraculous, that when so many things seem to decline with age, you can actually improve muscle function? Yes, we are getting older, but that doesn’t mean we can’t get better.

While this article is too brief to discuss fitness programs in any detail, talk to your doctor, and seek the advice of fitness professionals. A proper exercise program, designed specifically for you, will lead you to the fountain of youth, take years off your appearance, and add precious ones to your life! z Anne Adair, was a professional ballerina for nearly twenty years before becoming a certified personal trainer. Anne is certified through the American College of Sports Medicine. She currently lives and works in the Los Angeles area. Anne can be contacted at: anne.adair1@gmail.com.

Celebrating the baby boomer woman • 21

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For years, you took on the role of super mom, super career woman and multi-tasker. As your children move out of the house and retirement is slowly creeping up, how do you define yourself?

It’s a time of transition. Your hormones are changing and it’s the end of your reproductive years. Most women never learned to take care of themselves and put others before their own needs. Well, it’s time to look at your life balance so your mental state remains healthy.

If you have a good support network, get restorative rest, eat a balanced diet, exercise daily and make time for selfcare, you reduce your risk for depression. Major depression is characterized by a decline in mood, loss of interest in activities that usually bring joy, sleep disturbance, feelings of guilt, worthlessness and hopelessness, agitation and fatigue.

These symptoms must be experienced consistently over a two-week period and impair ones social and occupational functioning.

There is a direct relationship between what we think and how we feel. When you notice a change in your mood, you will likely find yourself having thoughts that are critical and judgemental. One way to check this is to think of your best friend having the same situation that you are in and what your advice would be to her.

Thinking that Fifty is Fabulous and a time for Fun would make a good mantra (a phrase that you should repeat to yourself several times per day for

months at a time).

One way to use the Healthy Mind Platter is to map out an average day and see how much time you spend in each essential mental activity.

Healthy Mind Platter

Daily components to balance & health 1) Focus Time which is goal oriented and works on challenges.

2) Play Time that is spontaneous and creative.

3) Connecting Time where we connect with others and nature.

4) Physical Time where we move our bodies as aerobically as is tolerated,.

5) Time In where quiet reflection is focused on sensations, images, feelings and thoughts.

6) Down Time where the mind can wonder and relax.

7) Sleep Time for learning consolidation and recovery.

Dr David Rock, Dr. Daniel Siegel

If you or someone you love suffers from depression, see your family physician and start on the path to recovery. Remember, as we enjoy the Fabulous Fifties, health problems may be inevitable but there are options.

Sue Perry is a mental health coordinator with Edmonton Southside Primary Care Network.

For more information about Edmonton Southside Primary Care Network, visit www.edmontonsouthsidepcn.ca.

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marketplace

Depression in your fabulous fifties

MaRketPlaCe

lIVe lOCal alBeRta Live Local is a non-profit organization designed for supporting and sustaining Alberta’s independent businesses. Live Local strives to promote creativity and uniqueness in local communities by working together to promote social responsibility through education, and encouraging consumers to think local first! www.live-local.ca p: 780.756.3663 e: info@live-local.ca

aRBONNe - Jane Pytel, Independent Consultant Swiss-formulated, botanically based skin care that is pure, safe & beneficial. Formulated without mineral oil, parabens or perfumes.

Hypoallergenic, Dermatologist tested, certified Vegan.

780-963-6088 • www.janepytel.myarbonne.ca

JOMaC tRaVel - Joanne MacDonald Vow Renewal 1st (or 2nd, or 3rd) Wedding LGBT Commitment Ceremony • Destination Wedding Specialist jo@jomac.ca • 587-333-4676 • facebook.com/JomacTravel

FaB Books!

Get Off the Couch Potato!” by Kathy Casey Kathi Casey’s awesome 30-day fitness plan is the perfect solution for over-worked parents, television addicted teens, out of shape Baby Boomers, and more.

Destined to become a classic, this little book will make you laugh and provide you with many tips and tools so you can take charge of your own health care - regardless of what Congress does! Pick up your copy of “Get Off the Couch, Potato!” now! http://www.getoffthecouchpotato.com/ or www.amazon.com

Overwhelmed by Clutter?

Tired of things lying around?

Not sure where to get started.

• Senior Relocation & Legacy Organizing/Sorting/Downsizing • Moving? “Moving Ins & Outs Cleaning” and Packing • Estate Sales • Donation Dropoffs • Spring Cleaning • Organizing • Much, much more.

Call Anita Beil 780-460-1684

www.theclutterhelper.com Celebrating the baby boomer woman • 23

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Sat., April 28, 2012 Holiday Inn, 6500 67 Street, Red Deer, AB 10 am - 5 pm

Now in Red Deer!

GATHER THE GIRLS AND ENJOY A DAY DESIGNED FOR YOU! Fabulous@50 Experience was created to address the needs of women baby boomers. This trade show will expose products and services specifically geared to them and will feature a martini bar, makeover contest, entertainment, fashion show, motivational speakers, free swag bags to the early birds and over 25 exhibitors.

Come early...stay late! Everyone is welcome!

For more information and how to get tickets

www.fabulousat50.com or contact Joanne Ward at (403) 885-2390

Celebrating Baby Boomer Women!

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