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inspire • EDUCATE • empower Are you a woman over 40 and looking for a place that you can make like-minded friends in your age bracket, while having an opportunity to grow personally? Here we are! Fabulous@50 offers several levels of membership, whatever your need is, we want you to feel comfortable and enjoy what we offer you. Join us today...fill your own cup.
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$250.00 a year GET STARTED TODAY! I just want to thank you for the lovely silk scarf that you sent me for Christmas. To everyone out there who is considering Diamond Membership, it’s worth every penny & more. Sherri Johnson
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I am enjoying the Fab 50 experience because of the ladies I am meeting and the activities I’ve been part of. Also getting into some of the coaching now which looks like a makeover in itself. Jayne
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Celebrating baby boomer women • 3
Editor’s note • July 2015
View from hill at Edmonton Folk Festival.
After being on almost back-to-back trips to the U.S and given the recent bomb threats against Westjet flights I am going to be happy to do a staycation summer. I personally plan to begin with Taste of Edmonton and will wrap my summer up with The Fringe. Fun this summer can be had in our own city. This month’s feature is about all of the festivals in the city this summer. Enjoy your summer and I hope to see you at a festival! b Enjoy! Laurie Laurie Slipchuk Young Editor 4 • Be Fabulous! e_Magazine I www.fabulousat50.com I July • 2015
SUMMER
According to National Geographic Edmonton has been named as one of the top ten summer destinations in the world. The magazine names Edmonton’s decadent dining scene, our beautiful river valley and of course, all of Edmonton’s summer festivals. Not to mention Edmonton is one of the sunniest cities in Canada with 2300 hours of sunlight per year.
in The City
When you are planning a summer vacation, what destinations come to mind? Paris? The California coast? Maybe camping in the Rocky Mountains?
Creative Director • Dianna Bowes Celebrating the baby boomer women
Editor, Creative Director Dianna Bowes ads@fabulousat50.com www.fabulousat50.com Feature Editor Laurie Slipchuk Young Laurie@fabulousat50.com
our story Mission: To INSPIRE, EDUCATE and EMPOWER the baby boomer woman! Be Fabulous! was designed specifically to be an event magazine to be presented to our guests at the Annual Fabulous@50 Experience and Martini Party. But something magical happened! Dianna Bowes took a look around and realized there was nothing in our community that was discussing the needs of the seasoned woman. Be Fabulous!, much like the Fabulous@50 tradeshows, seminars, the meetup group and the Fabulous@50 on-line membership, filled a gap. Since 2010, Be Fabulous! has spotlighted inspirational women on it’s cover and covered topics that mid-age women want to read about. The vision of creative director, Dianna Bowes, was to publish a magazine that would be written by baby boomer women for baby boomer women. Fabulous@50 and Be Fabulous! is more than a magazine, more than a tradeshow, more than a membership, it is a community! Find out more by joing to our website.
Thank you to our Contributors: Dianna Bowes, Laurel Vespi, Sue Paulson, Jacqueline Whitemore, Loretta Friedrich, Barbara Lee, Bonita Lehman, Shirley Borrelli, Laurie Young Slipchuk, Debra Kasowski...and to all who made this issue possible Photography: Ealanta Photography www.IStock.com On the Cover: Sherri Johnson Be Fabulous! is published by Creative On The Move.
Be 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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www.fabulousat50.com Celebrating baby boomer women • 5
{LIFE IS JUST A PHASE}
The Festival of
YOU
Summer is festival season. That means it’s time to celebrate. No matter your interests or tastes, there is something for everyone: from visual to performing arts, bacon wrapped chicken to Thai watermelon soup, pinot noir to craft beer, street performers to Shakespeare, vintage cars to dragon boats, classical to rock music and everything in between. Festivals allow and encourage us to embrace uniqueness and diversity. The world would be a pretty boring place if vanilla was the only flavor of ice cream. While we are all happy to participate in the celebration of just about anything, there’s one festival we often skip. The Festival of You. When was the last time you took a minute to stop and appreciate yourself? Probably it wasn’t any time recently. And if it was, it was likely a passing thought. There are a few reasons that most of us don’t take the opportunity to celebrate ourselves. First, as soon as we start thinking about singing our praises, even just to ourselves, our inner committee calls an emergency meeting to shut it down. We label it as ego, or selfish, or boastful. We were taught that it’s not nice to brag on ourselves. We minimize our efforts and accomplishments. Secondly, we are more likely to focus our failures, rather than our successes. We think about what’s not working in our
lives instead of what is. By focusing on the negative we highlight in our heads all the things we don’t like about ourselves. Lastly, when we are successful, we tend to move from one accomplishment or goal to the next without a pause. We don’t stop to consider what contributed to our success or what our role was in achieving our goal. We just head off in pursuit of the next thing. Why is it important to celebrate yourself? When we stop long enough to celebrate our successes, we begin to understand what actually makes us successful as individuals. It’s not the same for everyone. When you know what works for you, you can replicate it in other areas.
6 • Be Fabulous! e_Magazine I www.fabulousat50.com I July • 2015
That in turn builds confidence which lets us stretch our comfort zone a bit further. Most importantly we begin to shift from celebrating not just our accomplishments, but also who we are. Yes goals and accomplishments are wonderful. But they are not as wonderful as the unique set of qualities, skills and talents that make you who you are. When we acknowledge our uniqueness, we can more fully share it with the world. That’s the key. So this summer, have a festival of you. Here are some suggestions to get you started: • Make a list of 50 things you do well. Go back in time as far as you need. The focus is not only on big successes but to remind yourself of your ability to succeed. • Pause at the end of the day and ask yourself: What was my success today? Remember successes come in all shapes and sizes. It’s not just what you did, but also the qualities you brought to the task.
• Start a “Festival of Me” journal. Collect photos, thoughts, mementos that celebrate who you are. • Treat your body well. Your physical being is the container that holds the essence of your spirit. Show it respect. • Embrace failure. Instead of thinking that it is a negative thing, consider it as a personal growth opportunity. Mistakes invite us learn more about ourselves. Remember that we are all in the habit of defining ourselves mostly by what we do. Begin to appreciate not only your accomplishments, but also who you are. How you show up along life’s journey outweighs any destination you might reach. That’s worth celebrating. b Laurel Vespi is a certified life coach, author and motivational speaker who helps women live more mindfully no matter what phase of life they are in. Get resources and inspiration when you join her free Inside the Circle community at stonecirclecoaching.com
Be a Fabulous@50 Community Director! We’re expanding and we are looking for enthusiastic, energetic and well-connected women 40 plus to run Fabulous@50 events in their communities. This is an once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to run your own business and create your legacy! We know how to do it and want to share it with you! Fabulous provides educational and social connections for the women 40 plus. The ideal candidate is someone who wants to create a business for themselves in a fun and social environment and be part of a global vision. We provide training, a vibrant website, guidance and an opportunity to fulfill your dreams and purpose while creating an income and making a difference. Fabulous@50 was created to Inspire, Educate and Empower the baby boomer woman.
www.fabulousat50.com • info@fabulousat50.com • Celebrating baby boomer women • 7
How to wear
wide leg jumpsuits 70s style: trendy AND comfortable! Jumpsuits are a one piece outfit. The pants and the top are either sewn together and gathered at the waist or they are cut from the same piece of fabric seamlessly. Some jumpsuits have zippers or buttons to make it easier to pull on and off but most are “wiggle your way in and out” of them especially for your potty breaks! Some women love jumpsuits for their trendy style while others think they can’t wear this look. I think every woman can wear a wide leg jumpsuit regardless of your body type and proportions with the following considerations. FIT When clothes fit us properly, they look good regardless of our body shape or proportion and therefore they are comfortable. If there’s a waist seam, be sure it hits at your natural waistline. Otherwise, look for jumpsuits that don’t have a waist seam so it is more forgiving how it fits on your torso. Or, just a thin belt to rusch up the jumpsuit in a billow so it sits on your natural waist. Wear platform heels. NO flats with this look. With the width of the jumpsuit pant, it can make your legs look stumpy and therefore you may look shorter. That’s not what you want. Wearing a platform shoe will give you extra height and will make your legs look longer. Hem the jumpsuit pants to the floor. I’ve seen some hemmed too short and in my opinion it looks goofy. I prefer it when the pants are long to the floor essentially covering your shoes. NO delicate shoes; no conservative pumps and definitely no flip flops. You need a chunkier shoe to pull off this look. Wear your jumpsuit with gold accessories like a lariat necklace that will create a V-neckline to continue the verticality of this style. Instead of a delicate bracelet, wear chunkier bangles in sets of two or three. Top it off with aviator sunglasses and you will be rocking this vintage style in a modern way. b Shirley Borrelli, B.Ed. is a fun, energetic and results driven image consultant and confidence coach who has become a trusted adviser to hundreds of women looking for personal development strategies and a boost in their self-esteem. For more information on her Confidence program visit: www. ShirleyBorrelli.com/nbc or call her for a FREE Confidence Boost consultation. 780.235.5506. Join her newsletter www.ShirleyBorrelli.com Twitter @ShirleyBorrelli Facebook: /ShirleyBorrelli 8 • Be Fabulous! e_Magazine I www.fabulousat50.com I July • 2015
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9
Fabulous • Fun • Festivals
Edmonton Folk Fest
Fabulous
in The City! Edmonton 2015 Summer Festival Guide
Whether you are a foodie, someone who loves music or a kid at heart who loves the midway, Edmonton has a summer festival for all! Not only that, admission prices can be as inexpensive as a donation to the food bank. Put on your sunscreen and enjoy summer in our fabulous city!
10 • Be Fabulous! e_Magazine I www.fabulousat50.com I July • 2015
Edmonton Street Performers
CALGARY Calgary Folk Fest July 23-26 International Blues Fest July 27- Aug 2 Fringe Festival July 31-Aug 3 Mardi Gras Street Fest August 9 GlobalFest Aug 20-29
EDMONTON Taste of Edmonton July 16-25 K-Days July 17-26 K-Days Parade July 17 @ 10am Interstellar Rodeo July 24-26 Servus Heritage Festival August 1-3 Big Valley Jamboree -Camrose July 31- Aug 3 Rock’n August August 4-8
Edmonton Folk Music Festival August 6-9
Edmonton Dragon Boat Festival August 14-16
Animethon August 7-9
Edmonton Latin Festival August 15-16
Cariwest August 7-9
Edmonton Blues Festival August 21-23
Cariwest Parade August 8 @ 12pm Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival August 13-23 Edmonton Rock Music Festival August 14-15
Edmonton Airshow August 22-23 Symphony Under the Sky August 27-30 Symphony in the City September 4-5
FOR MORE ON EVENTS IN ALBERTA CHECK OUT THE HOT SUMMER GUIDE - click here.
VICTORIA
Edmonton K-Days
Shakespeare by the Sea July 2-Aug 2 Rock the Shores July 17- July 19 Buskers Fest July 17-July 26 32 Islands Folk Fest July 24-26 Celebrating baby boomer women • 11
Et iq ue tt e
It’s one of the greatest inventions of our time, but as the cell phone has evolved into the smartphone, it’s also one of the greatest distractions, too. July is National Cell Phone Courtesy Month, an event founded by author and etiquette expert Jacqueline Whitmore in 2002 with the intent of making cell phone users more respectful of their surroundings.
To avoid offending others, Whitmore offers this advice in honor of National Cell Phone Courtesy Month:
People tend to speak more loudly than normal and often don’t recognize how distracting they can be to others.
• Be all there: When you’re in a meeting, performance, courtroom or other busy area, let calls go to voicemail to avoid a disruption. In some instances, turning your phone off may be the best solution.
• Follow the rules: Some places, such as hospitals or airplanes, restrict or prohibit the use of mobile phones, so adhere to posted signs and instructions. Some jurisdictions may also restrict mobile phone use in public places.
• Keep it private: Be aware of your surroundings and avoid discussing private or confidential information in public. You never know who may be in hearing range. • Keep your cool: Don’t display anger during a public call. Conversations that are likely to be emotional should be held where they will not embarrass or intrude on others. • Learn to vibe: Always use your wireless phone’s silent or vibration settings in public places such as business meetings, religious services, schools, restaurants, theaters or sporting events so that you do not disrupt your surroundings. • Avoid “cell yell: ” Remember to use your regular conversational tone when speaking on your wireless phone.
• Excuse yourself: If you are expecting a call that can’t be postponed, alert your companions ahead of time and excuse yourself when the call comes in; the people you are with should take precedence over calls you want to make or receive. • Focus on driving: Always practice wireless responsibility while driving. Don’t make or answer calls while in heavy traffic or in hazardous driving conditions. Place calls when your vehicle is not moving, and use a hands-free device to help focus attention on safety. Always make safety your most important call. And always check the laws of your particular state. b Author and etiquette expert Jacqueline Whitmore • www.etiquetteexpert.com/ http://jacquelinewhitmore.com/
12 • Be Fabulous! e_Magazine I www.fabulousat50.com I July • 2015
Relieve stress with a retirement reality check Some women dream of a retirement filled with travel, recreational activities and cottage time. Is that you, or is building enough wealth for all of this making you anxious? If it is, chances are your age is somewhere between 45 and 54 years old. That age group indicated the highest level of stress when it comes to retirement discussions, according to a survey entitled Franklin Templeton Investments 2014 Retirement Income Strategies and Expectations (RISE). In fact, 78 per cent indicated some level of stress about retirement, with ‘running out of money’ and ‘health’ being the top concerns for two-thirds (66 per cent) of those surveyed.
FAN FEEDBACK Question? What book are your reading this summer? Paper of Reader? Pam: Unlikely Event - Judy Blume - Reader Joanne: The Secret Scripture Sebastian Barry - Print Alison: Cuckoos Calling - KIndle Bonita: We are Water - Print Carla - Kundalini Experience
“While this age group is a decade or two away from retiring, it highlights the anxiety surrounding retirement as people are living longer, resulting in redefined expectations versus their parents’ generation,” says Philip Bensen, senior vice president at Franklin Templeton Investments Corp. “An investment advisor can help you develop a tangible retirement plan that reflects where your savings are currently, plus the appropriate investments to assist in getting you where you want to be.” More information on long-term investing is available on websites such as franklintempleton.ca.
Kim - Change of Heart - Jody Piccoult
-News Canada
Wody - Chocolate for a Woman’s Blessings - Kay Allenbaugh Print
Be Fabulously Grateful ! with this beautiful gratitude journal. Click here to order
Terri - And the Birds Rained Down - Jocelyne Saucier - Reader Sarah - Brain on Fire - Print Sylvia - Whisky Beach - Nora Roberts Jenny - Margarita Gakis Covencraft series - Reader/Print Gaylene - A Secret Life of Marilyn Monroe -Randy Taraborrelli
Loretta - The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lack - Rebecca SklootPrint Celebrating baby boomer women • 13
Emotions Can Get the Best of Us…..
If You Let Them
We have all seen emotions totally out of control. Take a busy airport on a Friday afternoon. Everyone is tired and anxious to get home. Suddenly your flight, #471 to Edmonton, has been cancelled due to mechanical issues. You too, have been working out of town all week and looking forward to getting home. All of the passengers are now lined up to speak with the ticket agent to make other arrangements. Difficult Situations Suddenly, you hear a loud, angry voice. An irate passenger is yelling at the ticket agent, his only way home. He is blaming her for the mechanical issues and insisting she give him the very next flight to Edmonton, blaming and insulting her along the way. The ticket agent is so overwhelmed that now she looks close to crying but is bravely keeping calm in this difficult situation that is obviously not her fault but is being treated as if she herself caused the mechanical issue. Stay Calm As you move slowly up to the agent, you are thinking about the situation and your emotions. Identifying your emotions and those emotions around you, you calmly try to come up with a solution. Yes, you are feeling the same stress and anger as everyone else, however you realize that venting on the poor ticket agent will not get you home any faster. It will probably put you at the bottom of her list of people she wants to help, so you push the anxious thoughts out of your head. Up next, you breathe deeply and smile at her. “Sorry, this must be hard for you” you
say in a calm, understanding voice. “You have no idea” she replies. But now, with a bit of a smile she asks you if Edmonton is your final destination. She works fervently on her screen, until suddenly there is another flight with one seat available, an hour later via Calgary. You thank her profusely, write down her name and tell her that you will make sure to let the airline know about her helpfulness. Knowing that all to often it is easier to complain than take the time to acknowledge someone for being helpful. On your way to your new gate, you see the irate passenger sitting at an empty gate and can’t help but notice his flight is the red eye home. Regulate Emotions The ability to identify and manage emotions effectively is a key part of emotional intelligence. Regulating emotions, responding appropriately and responding to the emotions of others are all important aspects of emotional management. In this situation, there were many emotions experienced. There was self-awareness, which is the ability to recognize your feelings and differentiate between them. To know why you are feeling these feelings and recognize the impact your feelings have on those around you. Next was empathy, the ability to be aware of, understand and appreciate the feelings and thoughts of others. It is being able to “tune-in and to read” others. To understand what, how and why people feel and think the way they do and show an interest and concern for them.
14 • Be Fabulous! e_Magazine I www.fabulousat50.com I July • 2015
••• The ability to identify and manage emotions effectively is a key part of emotional intelligence. ••• Impulse control was demonstrated poorly by the irate passenger. He wasn’t able to resist or delay his angry response. Then you expertly demonstrated it! Calmly, you identified your emotions, realizing that taking your stress and anger out on the ticket agent wasn’t in your best interest. You also demonstrated empathy to the ticket agent and remained optimistic. Note that neither person in this situation had greater IQ, rank or position, it was simply emotional intelligence at work. The overall result of well-developed emotional intelligence is healthy emotional and social functioning, which is also strongly linked to your well-being and happiness. There are several aspects that work harmoniously together to produce
an effective level of emotional and social functioning and well-being. b Bonita Lehmann is a Fabulous @ 50 diamond member coach. She is also an inspirational speaker, EQi 2.0 Coach and accountability partner with GSD Accountability Partners. Bonita published her memoir Saving Her. Saving Me. and describes her journey dealing with a child a chronic illness and how she transformed from a “worrier to a warrior”. Free Stuff! Email Bonita for a free copy of the prologue and first chapter of Saving Her. Saving Me. bonita@dreambig-liveamazing.com www.dreambig-liveamazing.com https://www.facebook.com/DreamBig. LiveAmazing.ca, https://twitter.com/Bonita_ Lehmann
Celebrating baby boomer women • 15
10 Myths about Sex and Baby Boomers The world has changed a lot since we were in school. Many of us grew up in an era where sex was a taboo topic. Others lived through the free love movement and an era of sexual liberation. Either way, we have largely been the products of our culture and we have absorbed lessons that haven’t always been true. Now is the time to set the record straight. 1) People stop having sex as they age In our society sex is paired with idealized and airbrushed images of “perfect” bodies and bright, agile minds. We worry about sex between teenagers. We celebrate sex between young couples. And we expect that sexual activity will go away as we age. But as we baby boomers grow older, we are not inclined to let society dictate our sexual lives and we are staying active well into our golden years. Which means we also have to remember to protect ourselves from sexually transmitted illnesses (STIs) in assisted living facilities where condoms are not required to prevent pregnancy. 2) Women reach their sexual peak in their late 20s Men and women reach their sexual peak at different ages. It is true women reach their highest estrogen level in their late 20s, but hormonal level and fertility are
very different from one’s sexual peak. The age of one’s sexual peak is different for everybody. We are in our sexual prime when we feel the most comfortable having sex. For many women this happens later in life, when we have learned to feel good about ourselves, our bodies and our relationship. Ultimately confidence is what brings us to our personal sexual prime. 3) After menopause I no longer have to worry about birth control Well, yes and no. After menopause we can’t get pregnant, but we can still contract and pass along sexually transmitted illnesses (STIs). In fact, STIs are growing most rapidly in long term care facilities. It’s always important to protect yourself and your partner from disease, no matter your age or ability to become pregnant. 4) You must orgasm to be satisfied Sometimes sexual interaction simply does not produce an orgasm and that is perfectly fine. It is not a sign of failure if you don’t have an orgasm. It is not a sign of failure if your partner doesn’t have an orgasm. Stress, health issues, sleepiness, an unexpected leg cramp, all these and more can act as deterrents to a sexual climax, but that doesn’t mean that sex isn’t enjoyable, fulfilling and intimate.
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5) Masturbation is for men One of the ways we experience the gift of sex is through the act of self touch. Masturbation is a perfectly normal and natural way of learning about our bodies and giving ourselves pleasure. Almost everyone masturbates, even when they have a sexual partner. Often it is in that sense of confidence that the golden years bring that we women start embracing masturbation as an activity that not only feels good, but can also improve our other sexual encounters. 6) Needing a vibrator is a sign of sexual problems
An Affair to Remember: Cary Grant and Deborah Kerr
A vibrator is the most common sex toy and many of us women orgasm. If you need a vibrator to climax, that doesn’t mean anything is wrong with you or your partner. Some of us can orgasm without a vibrator but it takes a longer time and we prefer to reach our climax without feeling we need to put in so much effort into it. A vibrator can be an important tool for discovering one’s own pleasure centers (see masturbating above) and can be a playful toy for a couple to enjoy.
When an affair takes place it is painful and wounding, but the affair itself does not create the problems within a marriage. Affairs are what people do when they are unable, for whatever reason, to deal directly with the problems they are having with their partner. When two people are having difficulties, an affair allows them to “blame” the cheating partner or even the third party. And it keeps them from having to deal with their own issues while working on the relationship itself.
7) Men are always ready for sex
9) No one who cheats wants to be caught
This myth is perpetuated everywhere we look. Even research is more focused on male performance than on male desire. Of course men are always ready to go. Except they aren’t. Men are not sex machines in perpetual motion just waiting for their next opportunity to engage and explode. Men are sometimes not in the mood. A man’s sexual desire has a lot to do with his own sense of self-worth, his emotional state, and his comfort with his partner. If your man isn’t in the mood for sex, don’t take it personally. It is not a reflection on you.
There are two primary reasons that people have affairs. One is to have an affair. These people have secret affairs in which they continue to live their “normal” life as though nothing has changed, while seeking affirmation or excitement or some other unmet need.
8) Affairs break up marriages Many divorces are the result of affairs.
But many people (particularly women) have affairs because they want to be caught. They want the affair to call attention to the problems in the marriage or they want the affair to be the catalyst that ends the marriage so that they can move on. Sometimes they need the assurance of a new relationship before they feel they can leave an unhappy one. Celebrating baby boomer women • 17
••• But as we baby boomers grow older, we are not inclined to let society dictate our sexual lives and we are staying active well into our golden years. ••• 10) You are obligated to have sex when you are in a relationship No matter what the nature of your relationship, you never give up agency over your own body. Both men and women in committed relations, including marriage, always have the right to say “no.” Consent is never the same as acquiescing, giving in or going along with. Authentic consent requires agreement that “yes” means “yes,”“no” means “no” and “maybe” means “maybe.”“No” is not punished by withdrawal or coercive tactics. And “maybe” means waiting for “yes” without manipulation or pushing.
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The most important thing we can all learn regarding the truth about sex is that it is an individual experience. There is no one size fits all path to sexual satisfaction. Our sexuality is as individual as we are. Regardless of our age, our sexual orientation, our physical and developmental abilities, or our marital status, sex is meant to be a joyous experience, not a performance. Unfortunately, so many of the myths about sex persist because we have so few forums for talking openly and honestly about our own experiences and attitudes about sex. The myth that sex is too personal to be talked about may be the hardest to overcome. It’s time. b Barbara Lee is the author of Sacred Sex: Replacing the Marriage Ethic with a Sexual Ethic and Tension in the Tank: Embracing Interfaith Mysticism Without Leaving the Church. An ordained interfaith minister, Barbara has crafted the tools that lead to higher self-esteem, healthier relationships and a deeper respect for the many facets of sexuality. You can read more about Barbara at www.dontdoesntwork.com. 18 • Be Fabulous! e_Magazine I www.fabulousat50.com I July • 2015
WHAT A GREAT IDEA! It’s called Flipstick Just arrived in Canada. Its intuitive design lets the user sit, stand and perch anywhere making it perfect for sporting, walking and leisure activities. Designed and engineered in the UK to address the demand for a lightweight, portable seat in the leisure and lifestyle market. Its revolutionary concept appeals the the active and travelling boomer generation. Available in a range of 7 seat colours with black shafts, Flipstick comes complete with a shoulder bag in matching colours; its classic and vivid colour design blend with all styles. 3 sizes : Short (under 5 foot 3 inches) Regular (5 foot 3 inches to 6 feet) Ajustable (5 foot 3 inches to over 6 feet) Lightweight : 1.1lb yet strong and capable of safely supporting 250lbs. For more information:
www.flipstick.ca
“A few years ago, I stopped visiting museums. Standing for a long time had just become to hard on my back. The pleasure I once had to visit such places sadly came to an end. Today, with my Flipstick I am back and smiling at the new exhibitions in town.” Andree
Find us on Facebook: Flipstick Canada Find us on Twitter: Flipstickseat
Celebrating baby boomer women • 19
Summer Bounty The birds are singing, the flowers are blooming, and wowee the produce is a plenty!
2. Green peas – hold impressive amounts of vitamins, and anti-inflammatory properties
It is the time of year to enjoy all things nutritious, just outside your doorstep. And it all certainly seems to taste even better eaten outdoors!
3. Green beans – provide bone health minerals, anti-oxidant (eye) properties, and good fiber
If you aren’t playing in your own dirt, I’m hoping you regularly head to a farmer’s market to take advantage of the season’s best. What’s in season this time of year? EVERYTHING that is gloriously good for you. No packages, no preservatives, just raw and honest food that supports every body system. So what do I suggest you include with your meals? How about five of my favorite produce you can find in any home vegetable patch or at the local market. If they’re not ready yet, they so will be ready for you to sink your teeth into soon! Just a note, I’ll feature other perfectly pleasing produce in upcoming Fabulous@50 issues, once they are more in season. So stay tuned! Five Favorites Here is what is currently in my vegetable garden and available at any local market. I’ve also noted what strong nutrients they have that are especially good, for you to know why they are stars (in my eyes): 1. Lettuce – has natural digestive enzymes, lots of fiber, and contains stressbusting minerals
4. Tomatoes – contain heaps of antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties, and vitamins 5. Cucumbers – are a fresh-flavored antiinflammatory, mineral-strong vegetable with anti-oxidant properties What about our local berries? We can’t forget these shiny good-for-you treats: strawberries, raspberries, saskatoons, Nanking cherries, and wild blueberries all offer outstanding vitamins to support your entire body as well as natural energy needed to keep you moving this summer. They are best eaten raw! While I do love fruit pies myself, ahem, those desserts are really considered sugary treats reserved for once in a while so get the natural goodness in their naked state -- that would mean with nothing else on it – for your health’s sake. I could be giving you all kinds of recipes for each of the beauties featured here but, I had to make a decision on what to feature this month. So I chose a N.E.A.T. recipe – were you paying attention to last month’s article on what it stands for?! – that anybody can create!
20 • Be Fabulous! e_Magazine I www.fabulousat50.com I July • 2015
Up the Anti Salad
Come Play This Month
Are you looking for an “eye candy” salad that’s easy to make and offers loads of nutrition? Up the anti-oxidants and antiinflammatory properties with this light meal or side salad. The balsamic vinegar adds spark that marries up the flavor and nutrition in every bite. Serves 1 or 2 as a side.
Join us in the garden, on the farm, at the market, or in the berry patch this summer! On FB, you need to join Brainy Babes YEG so you’ll know when we’re headed to local Alberta country and while there like Sprout Natural Nutritional Consulting. As well go to my website SproutNaturalNutrition.com to see nutrition tips, recipes on the blog, and services listed. Let’s play in the dirt together, eat nutritious food and get healthy too! b
• 1 large organic English cucumber with peel, or 1 ½ cups any variety of cucumber • 1 cup, assorted colorful variety of – heirloom and organic preferable – small tomatoes, halved • ½ avocado, peeled, diced • 1 tbsp. great quality (Evoolution for example) dark balsamic vinegar Prepare, chop, and place all in bowl. Drizzle the vinegar over the salad. Mix lightly. Enjoy!
About Loretta Friedrich, C.H.N, NNCP Loretta is a Nutritional Consultant, Sprout Natural cConsulting – Clinical Practitioner, educator, speaker, food lover, community supporter, health advocate, and owner of Sprout Natural Nutritional Consulting. Visit www. SproutNaturalNutrition.com for information.
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click here for more info www.fabulousat50.com/Membership Celebrating baby boomer women • 21
{TEA WITH SUE}
Still Fishing
©
Three More Pointers to Encourage Dating Success!© A recent Ted Talk spoke of the dilemma of too much choice – on our store shelves, on TV channels, and yes, even with online dating. Who was it said, “Too many men, so little time!” (Well I know I’ve said it, but there was likely someone famous who said it before me!) Dating is such a big topic that I decided to carry on from the three tips in the last Be Fabulous issue. By the way, all the tips apply to young women as well, so feel free to forward the information to them. We’re all in this together! Tip #4: Be Choosey. The sorting process I mentioned in the last article helps you deal with the “kid in the candy shop” mentality that affects us when we first start reading profiles. To do an effective sort, get as clear as possible about what you’re looking for in a date and/or a potential mate.
For me, height is a factor – I’m 5’ 2”, so if the guy towers over me, he’s too tall. Not a smoker is really important to me. Also, when I look at the picture that accompanies the profile, he doesn’t need to be drop-dead gorgeous, but I do look for kind eyes and a pleasant expression. (Too many guys look like they’re posing for the local jail poster!) Now what about lifestyle – the next most important factor. If in the first paragraph he talks about his love of hunting, fishing, and camping – next! That won’t work for me. Now I like a guy who works out and looks after his health and his fitness, because I do as well, but an athlete may get frustrated when I can’t keep up with him. I’m more likely to look for mental horsepower in the conversation department, with a good dose of old-fashioned romance in the mix. Long walks – yes – marathons – no.
22 • Be Fabulous! e_Magazine I www.fabulousat50.com I July • 2015
••• Whether you’re e-mailing, texting, talking on the phone, or chatting in person; make sure to give the other person an equal opportunity to share. ••• At first, it will be trial and error until you have a clear picture of your must-haves and your deal-breakers. One final word on this – never settle for less than what you want and deserve. Trust me – Mr. Trainable is not that trainable! Tip #5: Write a Positive Profile Women (and men) who rant about what they don’t want in a partner or detail their disasters with the opposite sex will not hook anyone with that poison bait. I was particularly amused by the guy who didn’t want a woman with any baggage. Please – at our age?! (Mine is neatly stacked, but I still have it!) Instead, decide what’s fun, playful, delightful, and/or interesting about you that will create some attention. Writing about oneself is always difficult, so ask a trusted friend for help. For example, I wrote about having ridden a camel to the pyramids in Egypt. Be sure to include some of your must-haves as a screening device. Tip #6: Keep that Conversation Ball Rolling Let’s face it – many people have trouble carrying on a conversation – they either monopolize or say very little. Whether you’re e-mailing, texting, talking on the phone, or chatting in person; make sure to give the other person an equal opportunity to share. One coffee date kept telling me that he knew that he talked too much, but he never stopped himself and asked about me – sigh! When he asks about you, keep your stories brief; then bounce the conversational ball back with an open-ended question to him. Instead of “How was your day?” try “What was the most fun/amusing/crazy
thing that happened to you today?”“What was your biggest dream growing up?” Some final thoughts about the sorting process – when it comes to rejecting someone, be an Angel fish and do so gently and politely. Rudeness and bad manners hurt everyone. Just because he’s not right for you doesn’t mean there’s anything wrong with him! There’s one other topic that deserves a whole page next time – What about Sex? Stay tuned – and if you have dating questions or comments, you can find me: sue@suepaulson.com b As a speaker and a writer, Sue believes in the magnificence of everyone. For Tea with Sue, e-mail her at sue@suepaulson.com or visit her website: www.suepaulson.com.
FAB Books! Ugly Baby: How To Get Over Fear And Give Birth To Your Odd Idea, Start A Business, Or Invent Something Cool. by Kim Duke
International sales expert for women, Kim Duke, wants you to smarten the hell up. (Because she thinks you have an IDEA the world needs to see!) To purchase your copy, click here. Celebrating baby boomer women • 23
Sherri Johnson
How has hardship, tragedy, or trauma shaped who you are – what gifts have come of it? For me, trauma could be defined as the car accident my husband & I had 3 weeks after our wedding when we were 19 years old. I spent 6 weeks in the hospital, required surgery & had to learn to walk again. I was blessed to have a husband & family who were patient with me while I recovered my strength & mobility. Tragedy & Hardship, for me, are combined in two events separated by 25 years. The first was the birth & passing of our second child, Chad. He was born on Valentine’s Day 1979 & passed away one week later from a birth defect. My husband, Barry, & I were both 22 years old with a 17 month old little girl named Janelle. Barry had just changed jobs & we were severely financially strapped. Are there any more stressful issues than death of a child or finances, & we had them both at the same time. But God carried us through & in 1981 He blessed us with a healthy son, Anthony. The second event occurred in 2004 when I came home from work to find my husband had passed away. This was totally unexpected & terrifying for me as I had never been alone before. We had moved to Edmonton from Saskatchewan 2 years earlier, so all our close connections were 5-8 hours away. But distance didn’t stop them from being there for me. My parents, who worked for a funeral home, helped me get Barry back to Saskatchewan so he could be buried beside our son. Friends & former neighbours were there to let me know they shared my grief.
{Fabulous@50 Featured Member} Sherri at the Badaling Section of the Great Wall, about 1 hour’s drive outside of Beijing during a trip to her son’s wedding.
The gifts that have come from these experiences are a deeper faith in Christ - my faith tells me that I will see Chad & Barry again someday. I have a better understanding of loss. Grief is like a scar. It heals over & we forget about it until something disturbs the scar tissue – then it might bleed a bit or hurt. But it never goes away. And we don’t want it to – not because it’s morbid but because the lost ones were precious to us & we don’t ever want to forget them. What would you consider to be your top three talents/skills? I have been told that I have the gift of compassion, the gift of giving & a talent in amateur photography. I know that I always pull for the underdog & care about people when things are not going well for them. If I can help in any way, I feel good doing so. Giving gifts is something I enjoy tremendously. I prefer the individual not know who it’s from but I enjoy seeing them get it. It just makes me feel really good if I can help someone out by giving them something they need.
24 • Be Fabulous! e_Magazine I www.fabulousat50.com I July • 2015
I love to grab my camera & start photographing, whether in my backyard or beyond. I use these photos to make cards I sell or give to friends & family. My photos may not be professional but they are beautiful to me & to those who love my notecards. What is it in nature that feeds your soul? The mountains with any water source. When I drive down from Edmonton to the Canmore area, I can feel myself getting lighter & the excitement building. I love, love, love the mountains. With my camera packed & my Jeep in gear, I revel in travelling little known trails & exploring. There is no such thing as a bad photo if it has mountains & water in it, so I always come home with a ton of pictures & a feeling of happiness & contentment. What is your vision of great leadership? A great leader is someone who doesn’t ask anyone to do work they are not willing to do themselves. With this leader I would always feel like I was working WITH them & not FOR them. This leader would have key people chosen for their skills/talent & they would allow them the autonomy to do their job without being micro managed. This leader would give praise often, when due, & strive to encourage those who may not be living up to their full potential. When life knocks you down, what lifts you up? Firstly, a good sleep. If I am tired, I do not cope well. Secondly, prayer. I have found that just talking to God about what’s happening in my life gives me a calmness & peace that assures me that everything is going to work out. And last but definitely not least, talking things over with my family &/or friends. Just spending time catching up with their lives & maybe sharing a bit of mine helps me gain a better perspective of everything & reminds me of what’s REALLY important. What makes you laugh? Spending time with my family. On Boxing Day, my siblings & I do our best to meet at our parents’ home & spend the day visiting & sharing tales from our past. There is ALWAYS tons of laughter as we remember the “good old days”. Now, with my grandchildren, I love when they & their parents come to visit because I can regale them with tales from their parents past, which always leads to giggles & laughter. b
SHERRY’S FAVORITES:
Color: Royal Blue Flats or Stilettos: Flats Martini/Wine: I prefer coffee Sweet Treat: Ice Cream Vacation Destination: Scotland/Ireland Book: The Gift of Death Three Cups of Tea Movie: Lords of the Rings Trilogy, Conspiracy Theory or Mom’s Night Out Charitable Cause: My church, MADD Canada, Compassion Canada
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Celebrating baby boomer women • 25
Photo taken by our Featured Diamond Member - Sherri Johnson at the Banff National Park in May 2008. Showing her love of nature and photography in this amazing photograph. This is the perfect picture to run with our Canada Day Celebration in July.
26 • Be Fabulous! e_Magazine I www.fabulousat50.com I July • 2015
On September 13th, join more than 45 communities nationwide for the largest, most powerful event of its kind in the country. Every day four Canadian women die from ovarian cancer. All woman are at risk. Walk for HER at the only nationwide event focused on the most fatal women’s cancer in Canada. Register today at ovariancancerwalkof hope.ca Celebrating baby boomer women • 27
UPCOMING EVENTS
Panororamic Patio Party at the Courtyard Marriott on July 25th. Entertaining you with music, appetizers, and cocktails. In support of the Humane Society.
Panoramic Patio Party Saturday, July 25, 2015 Enjoy a night with friends and family at the best Patio Party this summer at the Courtyard Marriott on July 25th from 7:30 - 10:30 pm. In support the Humane Society. Click here to buy tickets
Be a Fabulous@50 Community Leader
Fabulous@50 Experience & Martini Party Saturday, Nov 7, 2015 Mark your calendar’s right now! This is the best women’s event in Edmonton and has won the International Stevie Award for “ Best Event and “Women Helping Women” Click here for more information or to become a vendor.
Fabulous@50 is expanding and we are looking for enthusiastic, energetic and well-connected women 40 plus to run Fabulous@50 events in their communities. This is an once-in-a lifetime opportunity to run your own heart centered business! Click here for more info
Read my Blogs on www.fabulousat50.com How old do you feel?..: What seemed old to me at 20 has definitely changed. I was old at 30, I dressed old, I acted old, and I thought old. It was a couple of big kicks in the butt (actually it was the back) a divorce and financial ruin that took me to my turning point. Dianna B.
Meet - Dianna Bowes Edmonton Director & Founder
dianna@fabulousat50.com For more information click here.
28 • Be Fabulous! e_Magazine I www.fabulousat50.com I July • 2015
UPCOMING EVENTS Calgary, AB Nepal Earthquake Benefit Concert - Calgary Monday, August 10 An Incredible evening of Music while supporting the Earthquake Relief effort in Nepal by Medical Mercy Canada. For more information The Lion The Bear and The Fox - Calgary Saturday, August 15 Share an Evening of Music with your Fab@50 Community. For more information
Fabulous@50 Calgary goes Canoeing near Banff on June 11. “I am so grateful for the wonderful day we had in Banff ladies! So nice to connect with such positive women in a beautiful setting! Can’t wait to see you all again” (Sandra) Calum Graham will once again be performing and raising funds for Medical Mercy Canada’s work in Nepal and specifically for Earthquake Relief. Buy your tickets early, this concert sells out fast. For tickets, click here.
Meet - Joanne Neweduk Calgary Director
joanne@fabulousat50.com For more information click here. Read my blogs on www.fabulousat50.com
Sun. Nov. 1, 2015
10 am - 5 pm Coast Plaza Hotel and Conference Centre. 1316-33 st, NE, Calgary Gather the girls and spend a day shopping, laughing and listening to inspirational speakers at this high-energy trade show. For more information or to become a vendor. www.fabulousat50.com Celebrating baby boomer women • 29
Meet - Annie Pool Victoria Director
annie@fabulousat50.com For more information click here. Read my blogs on www.fabulousat50.com
Above: The beautiful Victoria Harbor and The Fairmont Empress. Photo by Josh Pool.
What are you grateful for? Practice a life of gratitude with this purse-sized gratitude journal designed by Fabulous@50 founder Dianna Bowes and photos by Bonnie Jean McAllister of Ealanta Photos. A thoughtful gift for a special friend, your mother, graduation or even for a bridal party. Available online at www.fabulousat50.com You can also find us at the Crystal Ranch in Stettler • The Painted Door in Beaumont • Downtown Tixonthesquare Local Artists Shop in Edmonton 30 • Be Fabulous! e_Magazine I www.fabulousat50.com I July • 2015
FEELING DISCONNECTED?? Get connected with Fabulous@50’s On-Line Community and receive a gift from us: “12 Tips to Being Fabulous” poster, a copy of Be Fabulous! Magazine delivered to your home. No strings, just love...
Click here to go to www.fabulousat50.com/Membership/JoinNow! Celebrating baby boomer women • 31