Be fab spring 2014 by Dianna Bowes

Spring is in the air!

Sun. May 4, 2014 10:00 am-5:00 pm Chateau Nova Yellowhead 13920-Yellowhead Trail, Edm. Presented by

Join Fabulous@50 and Princess Florence for a fabulous day, SHOP! shopping, delicious treats, SIP! refreshments, all while supporting a great charity, Suit Yourself. SHARE! We will have snacks, exhibitors plus swag bags with a special gift from one of the generous vendors for the first 100 ladies. Make sure to give yourself lots of time, as there will be a scarf tying class and short presentations on menopause and nutrition plus a mini dance class with Bedouin Beats. Bring your gently used purses and scarves for donation to Suit Yourself. Buy tickets in advance $10 www.fabulousat50.com/events or at door $15

Clip out and bring on May 4th.

$5.00

Off

Bring this coupon to the door on May 4th and receive your ticket for only $10.00.

Sunday, May 4th, 10-5

2 â&#x20AC;˘ Be Fabulous! I www.fabulousat50.com I Spring â&#x20AC;˘ 2014

Calling all Boomers! Singers • Dancers • Comedy • Juggle • Acrobats • Magicians

Males & Females, 40 +

Auditions will be held on Sunday May 25 from 1:00-4:00pm at Bedouin Beats 11805-94 street, Edmonton These auditions are for the Boomer Choice Awards Show which will place on Sept 21st at the Arden Theater, St. Albert

Brought to you by:

and

Celebrating the baby boomer woman • 3 Please RSVP to marie@bedouinbeats.com

EDMONTON

Celebrating the baby boomer women

You are

fabulous and you deserve to be rewarded for it!

Publisher Creative On The Move www.creativeonthemove.com Editor Dianna Bowes dianna@fabulousat50.com Designer Creative On The Move www.creativeonthemove.com Sales E: sales@fabulousat50.com P 780-470-0749

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clu clusive x s, e n a is , service s s t if g u gives yo d opportunitie an t benefits rt of the vibran . to be pa 50 community s@ Fabulou

Only $199.5 0 a year. DIAMOND BENEFITS: (Over $1,000.00 value) FREE Membership to Fabulous@50 meetup Menopause Survival Kit: FREE Coaching: FREE Webinars Zoomer Subscription VIP Status @ Seminars & Fabulous@50 Tradeshow: priceless EBook: $25+ Be Fabulous! Magazine: Twice a year. Plus gifts sent to your home.

For more information and to sign up :

www.fabulousat50.com 4 â&#x20AC;˘ Be Fabulous! I www.fabulousat50.com I Spring â&#x20AC;˘ 2014

Thank you to our Contributors: Dianna Bowes, Shirley Borrelli, Jennifer Parks, Laurel Vespi, Sue Paulson, Pam Robertson, Dr. Kulaga, Diana Herrington, August Bailey, Laurie Young, Dr. Ron Brown, Michelle Bateman, Sandra DiPietro. Are you interested in becoming an expert for Be Fabulous? E: info@fabulousat50.com Be Fabulous! is an event magazine, published in collaboration with Fabulous@50 events. 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.

Download Scanlife on your SmartPhone. Scan the QR Code to find out more about Fabulous@50.

Photo by Ealanta Photography

The Fabulous@50 ladies are gearing up for the 2nd Annual “Sip, Shop and Share” event on May 4th at the Chateau Nova Yellowhead - 10-5 pm. www.fabulousat50.com

WHAT’S

Inside

6 Editorial:The Marriage of Health and Happiness 7 Restaurant Review:L’Azia 8 Looking Fabulous at 50:Top 10 Pantone Spring Colors

10 Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy 12 Life is a Phase: What is Happiness Anyway? 14 7 Tips to Reduce Sugar Cravings 16 Feature Woman: Laurie Young 18 Not just for the Rich and Famous 22 Top 5 Reasons U Deserve a Spa Day 24 Have you De-Fragged Your Heart Drive? 26 The Skinny on Fat

28 8 Ways to be Healthy and Happy, Today 30 10 Tips for Successful and Safe Online Dating 32 Mothers Day Brunch 34 Health Screening for Women 40-60 36 Live and Work - Inspired! 39 Health Resources Cover Photo: Ealanta Photography

A love for photography, life & having fun is what Bonnie-Jean McAllister, owner of Ealanta Photography is all about! She has been blessed with much fun & success in a diverse range of work including, TV, music, commercial, events, portraits, weddings, travel and fine art photography and is always ready for the next challenge! www.EalantaPhotography.com • 780-619-3582 EalantaPhotography@gmail.com

Celebrating the baby boomer woman • 5

editor’s note • spring 2014

The Marriage of Health and Happiness I was reminded of this when, right after It’s an age-old expression we don’t tend to give much thought… Christmas, I caught the flu. The flu, formally referred to as influenza, until it affects us: (for any of you lucky enough to have escaped it’s icy grip) can best be described this way: Imagine the worst cold you’ve ever had, combine it with a monstrous case of salmonella and add just a pinch of pneumonia thrown in for good measure. Dianna, my friends…had temporarily left the building.

“Nothing’s more

important than your health.”

And that had me thinking…(once I got past wondering who’d inherit my extensive martini glass collection) about the vital importance of our health and how easy it is to take it for granted. We stroll past the handicapped parking signs and don’t give a second thought to the people lacking the mobility or strength to park in the back of the lot. Who hasn’t zoned out when that annoying drug commercial airs for COPD…and it barely registers that the image on the screen shows an elephant sitting on someone’s chest as an example of what COPD feels like! Yikes. I vowed at that moment that I wouldn’t take my good health for granted again. And I’d like you fabulous readers to take this vow with me. Do something every day to respect and preserve your health and the physical well being of your bodies…. keeping both body and mind strong. Whether it’s choosing the stairs over the elevator, remembering your daily intake of essential vitamins or tackling that daily crossword puzzle, your body will thank you when it’s strong enough to ward off the next viral infection and you’ll be grateful your mind is sharp enough to remember where you parked your car. As I felt my strength returning, so did my determination to choose to be not only a healthier me but also a happier me. Happiness can only come from one person…and that person is YOU. Happiness and optimism are contagious…they’re like smiles… when you flash a grin at someone, they can’t help but to smile back. And being happy and healthy? It’s the ultimate state of being. So, think of ways to bring happiness into your life today…and move toward making it happen. Do it now! If not now, when? Wishing you stellar health and as much happiness as your heart can hold~ a Dianna 6 • Be Fabulous! I www.fabulousat50.com I Spring • 2014

{RESTAURANT REVIEW} L’Azia Downtown Offers Cool Surroundings and a Perfect Balance of Menu Offerings L’Azia Edmonton City Centre West 10200-102 Avenue, Suite A113, Edmonton Ph: (780) 990-0188

There are some Sundays that I want breakfast and my husband wants lunch. Thankfully there are more options than Denny's in Edmonton! It was a chilly Sunday when my husband and devout diner, Tim ventured out to L'Azia downtown. An added bonus to going to Edmonton City Centre on Sundays is the free heated underground parking in Manulife Place. On this particularity frigid Sunday, we were extremely grateful. The atmosphere in L’Azia is colorful and modern. A unique lighting fixture resembling a fiery octopus adorns the ceiling of

Mushroom and Cheese Omelet with side of potatoes.

the tastefully designed dining room. Upon our arrival we were promptly shown to our table. No sooner did we sit down than we were offered beverages by our server. My husband opted for coffee while I settled on cappuccino. Whenever we go to L'Azia for brunch, I always have the cappuccino; Starbucks has nothing on these guys! {continued on page 33}

Celebrating the baby boomer woman • 7

TOP 10 WOMEN'S PANTONE COLORS SPRING 2014

After a long cold winter, we are all ready for warmer weather! And with warmer weather, comes a shift in our wardrobes. Out with the heavy dark clothing and fabrics and in with softer colours and lighter weight material. It’s good to keep your work basics like neutral dress pants, suit jacket and cardigans. But this season, wear some of these spring 2014 colours to wake them up and create a fresh new style for yourself. Before you head to the mall, I advise you to declutter your closet and take inventory of what you already have to work with. This is the time of year to clear out all the clothes you didn’t wear this past winter. 8 • Be Fabulous! I www.fabulousat50.com I Spring • 2014

If you haven’t worn it in the past 6 months, you are unlikely to wear it this coming fall or winter. Don’t procrastinate. Make a decision to eliminate the clothing you didn’t wear before you store it. I encourage you to purge what isn’t flattering or inspiring you. Declutter your winter wardrobe before you store it. Then, before you replace your closet with your spring and summer clothing, try them on to ensure they fit and are interesting to you. If not, then give them away. Only put clothing back in your closet that fits, is in a flattering colour and coordinates with at least 3 other items in your wardrobe.

My spring must haves:

1 2 3 4

A pastel coloured jacket to wear with pants, skirts or dresses.

This spring there are many new exciting vibrant colours and pastels to wake up your neutrals. Pantone.com publishes the new colours of the season. You will find them at your local mall, boutiques and online.These spring colours are available in clothing but also accessories like scarves, nail colour and cosmetics.

A print blouse with at least 2 of the colours of the season. This teams well with neutral bottoms.

This colourful spring palette expresses happiness, joyfulness and a light-heartedness in your style. Wear them in solids or prints with neutrals like sand, white or Paloma. You just need a few of these trendy pieces to wake up your existing wardrobe to feel new and fresh. a

A new lipstick in orange or cayenne boutique.

For help, I am gifting you my Closet Edit Made Easy program, a $47 value available here with no strings attached. Just type this link in your web browser for instant access to the program. www.ShirleyBorrelli.com/gift

A colourful eyeliner in dazzling blue or radiant orchid.

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 can be reached at: info@shirleyborrelli.com; www.ShirleyBorrelli.com; 780.235.5506.

Volunteer your skills with CESO CESO volunteer Victoria assisted a Philippine womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cooperative in improving their business skills. As a result, the women have improved product quality and range, and know how to promote their products, negotiate with prospective buyers and close sales. Volunteer with CESO today and make a difference in the lives of others in Canada and in developing countries. Call us at 1-800-268-9052 or visit us at ceso-saco.com.

CESO acknowledges financial support from Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada.

Celebrating the baby boomer woman â&#x20AC;˘ 9

l a c i t n e Bio-Id

y p a r e Th As we age our sex hormones decline from the age of 20 through the rest of our life. In women the decline is seen with testosterone and progesterone before the menopause. After the menopause, estrogen also decreases very quickly. These changing hormone balances create symptoms that alert us to our changes in physiology.

In premenopausal women these symptoms take the form of: Anxiety • Severe PMS Weight gain • Insomnia. Once the menopause appears we can add hot flushes and flashes to the symptom list. These symptoms should be seen as a benefit, as they are able to alert us to hormonal imbalances, like the engine warning light in our car. Very few would put a piece of duct tape over the warning light so we don’t have to look at it. We know that lack of attention can have severe consequences. Sadly we neglect this warning system in our bodies. Anti-anxiety, anti-depressant and sleeping pills can often be compared to the use of duct tape in our cars. The prescription medications improve our symptoms but do nothing to address the hormone imbalance of deficiency. Without correction, these hormone problems will more often than not lead to the development of more serious diseases. In the past, hormone replacement involved the use of hormones that had been chemically altered to allow the granting of a patent.

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A secure patent protected the company that developed the altered hormone, and allowed the cost of drug development to be recovered. Unfortunately, the change of a sex hormone’s structure sometimes changes the action of that hormone and creates unintended adverse consequences for the user. This led to the findings of the Women’s Health Initiative that rocked the hormone replacement world. Synthetic, modified hormones were shown to increase the risk of blood clots, heart disease and breast cancer. Bio-identical hormones are identical to human hormones on a molecular basis. They are still synthetic as they are derived from the Mexican yam and undergo a laboratory process before the bioidentical end product is obtained, but produce the same physiologic responses as our natural hormones. Their structure seems to prevent many of the problems seen with hormone therapy in the past. Blood Work Evaluation

A robust bio-identical hormone program involves a detailed blood evaluation of a woman’s hormonal status along with detailed patient questionnaires that tell us the true hormone balance. This process allows us to individualize a program that is specific to their needs. In follow up, hormone blood levels are tested to ensure proper replacement because bio-identical hormones can be measured in the lab. Significant and persistent reductions in symptom scores and improvement in well-being is the desired outcome. This is an exciting time to be involved in women’s health care, as new ways to treat women are rapidly developing. The era of a personalized, preventative health care program is here, which is important to ensure a ‘Fabulous Fifty” for all women. At True Balance we are excited and honored to be part of this exciting field and look forward to speaking with each of you regarding the potential benefits. a Dr. Ron Brown M.D. FRCS(C): Dr. Ron Brown, Executive Medical Director leading the team at True Balance, graduated with a fellowship in family Practice from the University of Alberta and worked 8 years in his rural family practice. He then specialized in Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Alberta.He also holds an appointment as an Associate Clinical Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology in the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Alberta. Dr. Brown has also been named as a member of the Fellowship of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. He is board certified in Functional and Regenerative Medicine by the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine and his primary research interests lay in Bio-Identical hormones and Longevity Medicine. Dr. Brown has published a book on (BHRT) titled “Discovering Your True Balance with Bioidentical Hormones” in Spring 2011.

Celebrating the baby boomer woman • 11

{LIFE IS JUST A PHASE}

What is happiness anyway? Everybody wants to be happy. Everybody wants everybody else to be happy. With all that desire for happiness why are more people not happier? It might have to do with trying to define happiness in the first place. Ask a hundred people what happiness means and you could get a hundred different answers. We all know what happiness feels like but we all define it differently. What makes you happy might not make me happy. I'm not sure that our rather vague definition of happiness is actually a bad thing. When we try to define happiness we begin to narrow the range of experiences that count as happy. Sometimes we think only of the things that put a giant smile on our faces rather than also paying attention to more subtle things that give us a little warm and fuzzy feeling. Perhaps happiness needs to be a more inclusive idea - everything is fair game. However you describe happiness, the biggest obstacle to having it is not really in how you define it. The bigger problem is that for most people happiness depends on two little words - if and when. They say things like, "I'll be happy when this happens" or "I'll be happy if that happens." Happiness resides at some point in the future when things will be slightly or perhaps greatly different than they are now. It's hard to be happy today when you think happiness is somewhere down the road.

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Ask yourself this question: Do you make happiness dependent on a particular set of circumstances? Sometimes we hold back on our happiness, thinking "I am happy now but I would be happier if...." Perhaps that is the most dangerous thinking of all. We let a little happiness in and then cap it until some future event occurs. What is happiness anyway?

It's simply a choice. No matter how you define happiness, whether you are fully experiencing it is entirely up to you. You have to be open to it, be willing to receive it and actually be present in the moment to experience it. You have to embrace the idea that happiness is a here-and-now experience. You have to be willing to let go of "if and when" thinking. That doesn't mean that everything has to make you happy. Getting stuck in traffic or having a disagreement or losing your wallet are not events that typically ooze happiness. It does mean that within every circumstance there is an opportunity for happiness. It just depends on where you look. Nathaniel Hawthorne had the right idea. He said that "Happiness is like a butterfly: the more you chase it, the more it will elude you, but if you turn your attention to other things, it will come and sit softly on your shoulder."

I suggest that turning to your attention to other things means being mindful of what is happening here and now. That's where happiness is. No need to chase after it. So how do you begin to do that? First pause and be present. So often we are not paying attention to what is happening right now. We are busy thinking about what just happened or thinking about what is going to happen next. Simply breathe and allow yourself to be mindful of what is happening in the moment.

Then practice gratitude. Happiness and gratitude go hand-in-hand. Ask yourself, â&#x20AC;&#x153;What am I grateful for in this moment?â&#x20AC;? As you connect with your gratitude, notice what about that makes you happy. In the end, if you are not happy then you need to make a different choice. It's entirely within your control. That's a good newsbad news situation. The bad news is you can't blame your lack of happiness on the particular circumstances you find yourself in. The good news is you get to decide. Let the butterfly sit softly on your shoulder and enjoy. a Laurel Vespi is a certified life coach, author and motivational speaker who helps women find more balance, fun and satisfaction no matter what phase of life they are in. Her new book, To Be Awake provides readers with simple principles for mindful & intentional living. Learn more at www.stonecirclecoaching.com Celebrating the baby boomer woman â&#x20AC;˘ 13

to Reduce Sugar Cravings Let's admit, we all love sweets. I was a sugar addict which contributed significantly to many of my life-long health problems. It took me decades to overcome these cravings! Here are 7 key reasons you would want to cut down on sugar, and 7 easy strategies to help avoid sugar and cravings for good. 7 Reasons to Give up Sugar:

1. It’s not food. Sugar has no nutritional value other than calories. In fact, in order to process it, your body steals vitamins from vital organs, leaving you depleted. 2. Makes you fat. Its empty calories cause insulin spikes and insulin resistance, so all calories, empty or not, get stored as fat. 3. Can make you feel nervous. Sugar’s impairment of insulin and adrenalin is linked to disorders like anxiety, depression, and schizophrenia. 4. May cause diabetes, kidney and heart problems. It can damage the pancreas's ability to function properly. 5. Kills your teeth. Sugar increases bacteria in your mouth that damages enamel and causes tooth decay.

6. Suppresses the immune system. Sugar overtaxes your body’s defences. 7. Causes wrinkles. Damages collagen. Added sugar is sugar not naturally found in fruit, vegetables, grains and milk. Tips to Avoid Sugar Cravings:

1. Replace sweets with fresh and dried fruits. They have natural sugar, which is a healthier choice as fruits are filled with vitamins, minerals and fibres. 2. Follow a slow-down-desserts strategy: Week 1: Maximum once a day, Week 2: twice a week, Week 3: once a week. Make it a rule to have raw fruit at least half the time. 3. Use Stevia. It's a natural sugar alternative that nourishes the pancreas and has no calories. It's a herbal extract from Stevia Rebaudiana leaf that has been shown to regulate blood sugar and blood pressure. 4. Avoid skipping meals. This makes you starve and usually results in unhealthy choices just to bring your blood sugar level back to normal. 5. Find alternatives for sugary drinks. Make lemonade or herb tea with stevia.

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If you need carbonated zing, add sparkling mineral water. When you're at a party, drink soda water with lime or lemon. 6. Do not stock sweets in your fridge or cupboards. It's too tempting.

Creamy Peach Vegan Ice Cream This homemade ice cream recipe is easy to make without an ice cream maker. It is healthy with no white sugar, just a little honey and stevia so you can enjoy your summer ice cream.

7. When craving strikes, go for a walk. Ingredients: Athlete's cravings for sweet foods decline after 1 cup peaches, chopped exercise. 1 cup coconut milk from a can How to get off sugar quickly?

I am passionate about helping others create new healthy habits so I created ‘The 2 - 5 - 30 Healthy Diet’ . For 1 month, you get focused online support eating perfectly balanced healthy meals. All my classes are 100% sugar free and gluten free. Knowing what to do is not enough, a person has to feel confident enough to do it easily. Sugar-Free Dessert Recipes Many yummy recipes that I have worked with for years that are 100 percent refined sugarfree, gluten-free and vegan. http://realfoodforlife.com/category/recipes/sugar-free-deserts a Diana J Herrington is the founder and author of www. RealFoodforLife.com. She is the author of GREEN means LEAN and Balance Your Body e-books and is also a Greenliving Author for Care2′s almost 25 million members.Out with the Junk Food and in with the Real Food! ~ Diana Herrington

10 drops Light liquid stevia 1 Tbsp honey 2 Tbsp coconut oil Directions: Put peaches, coconut milk, coconut oil, stevia and honey in your blender. Blend till smooth; use the liquefy button on the blender. Pour into a container you can put in the freezer.Put peach mixture in the freezer. Every 20 minutes stir it around till it is frozen about 2 – 3 hours. Then put into serving size bowls, this is the best time to eat your ice cream.What is left over place in the freezer till ready to eat. It will get very hard. So when it comes to eating the ice cream you need to take it out of the freezer 20 – 30 minutes before you eat. OR Cut it into chunks and blend.

Celebrating the baby boomer woman • 15

Severe health issues led Laurie Young to explore her true passions

Change Choose Your

Many people move through life paralyzed by fear and self-doubt.

Laurie Young has never walked a day in her life, due to a rare neuro-muscular disease of the spine that paralyzed her back, hip and shoulder muscles. Yet the 44-year-old Millwoods resident, writer and animal rights activist, is a model of courage and self-assurance. Her sense of humor’s not bad either. “They say you should look in the mirror and take off one piece of jewelry. I add one,” jokes Young, as she shows off her wrist bangles and the Hindu bling stuck to her forehead. A big smile also bejewels her face.

Nothing about this woman suggests shrinking violet. Life dealt her a spine with a bundle of faulty motor neurons. She’ll never dance the Macerena, do a Downward Dog or swim a lap in a pool, but her spirit survived unscathed. She blossomed anyway. “I use a wheelchair. People are going to stare. Let’s give them something to really stare at.”

“I’m the only Ukrainian I know who never leaves the house without a Bindi,” she says energetically, noting that it’s not her faith just her fashion. “I’ve always been drawn to wearing one. Perhaps from another life. Who knows!” 16 • Be Fabulous! I www.fabulousat50.com I Spring • 2014

And with that, Laurie spins around in her chair, all sparkles and jingle, and heads toward the living room of her sunlit condo, her two dogs at her wheels.

for an online blog and assists with press releases and media inquiries. She’s even had the chance to do some on-camera and radio work.

One’s an 11-year-old Lhasa Apso named Kailey. The other’s a feisty Bichon Pomeranian cross in his “terrible twos,” named after CNN host Anderson Cooper.

“It was so exciting to share the stories of the incredible things people did following Typhoon Haiyan ... and that the Red Cross allowed me to represent them in media interviews,” Laurie says proudly.

“We put Anderson Cooper in obedience school last year and my boy graduated ... at the bottom of his class. But he graduated!” That moment, Laurie’s hired personal assistant, Ela, shows up, mail in one hand, duster in the other, and seduces the dogs into the kitchen with some treats. Due to health issues, last spring Laurie left her job of 14 years as a case manager with the Worker’s Compensation Board, after gentle prodding from her husband, Tim, who noticed she was getting run down. “It was a hard decision, because I’m not one to sit still or stay at home. But in the last three years my Spinal-Muscular Atrophy (SMA) has kicked my ass, and I just didn’t have the endurance to work 10 hours a day any more,” explains Laurie. So she came up with an exit plan. Like so many others, she’d fallen into a job she was not passionate about and stayed for the steady pay cheque. Laurie realized this unwanted need for change in her life was a golden opportunity. “My passions have always been media, writing and animal rights. Now I have this time; it’s a gift. What am I going to do with it?” Laurie’s clarity about her situation and focussed efforts landed her two volunteer positions. One with the Red Cross as a volunteer writer; the other with Edmonton’s Humane Animal Rescue Team (HART). For a few hours a week she writes stories

As a member of HART, Laurie helps foster out abandoned dogs to loving homes. “It’s such a special gift, giving animals a second chance at life,” she says. “It makes me feel really good to help out where I can.” At night, Laurie now sleeps with a noninvasive bi-pap machine to assist her breathing. During the day, as a result, she finds she has more energy for living each day fully. “At first, I’d cry and cry and cry. I have to wear this very unattractive Star Wars mask. Then I realized, ‘I could go outside tomorrow and get hit by a bus.’ You just don’t know. There’s just too much to be happy about right now. Time is precious; I don’t want to waste it.” Laurie is currently working on a book about her life and growing up with SpinalMuscular Atrophy. She hopes to one day earn some income as a freelance writer. “I’d say the least interesting thing about me is my SMA. It doesn’t define me; it never has. We all have crappy days. But I choose to keep my focus on what’s good. To create my own opportunities. The universe rarely hands you anything. You have to ask for what you want.” Whether or not you can walk, or run or fly, an attitude like that will always set you free. a Jennifer Parks is a freelance writer based in Edmonton. Celebrating the baby boomer woman • 17

Not just for the

Rich and Famous I was always under the impression that Anti-aging treatments were for the rich and famous. Since I am neither rich, nor famous, I was naïve to the options available to people like me. I thought I would grow old gracefully, gray hair and smile lines, that I would feel proud of. I was never interested in altering my appearance - until recently. The days of hearing me say, “I would never do that” were about to be a phrase of the past. I began to research anti-aging treatments and found popular medical treatments were mostly used to minimize forehead lines, crows feet and frown lines. I discovered this non-invasive treatment usually only took about 15 minutes and the results would last up to six months. To my surprise, I found out that anti-aging treatments would NOT change my appearance, but instead preserve what I already had. The harsh lines on my forehead and around my eyes would not be frozen from movement but would be softened and allow for the return of my youthful glow. My eyes were finally opened to the vast options available to me and I was excited to see the results. I decided to go forward with a treatment and met with the highly skilled team at True Balance. Through a scheduled complimentary consultation I was able to ask questions, relieve concerns and decide on a treatment plan that would fit my budget. Following my treatment I was so happy

with the natural changes, nothing looked fake or “too much.” I was so pleased I started sharing my experience with friends and family. To my surprise many people were very aware of the treatments – and many had already experienced the same results. I guess who wouldn’t want to live without noticeable wrinkles! The most important thing I found, was to find someone I trusted and whose goal was the same as mine – to maintain a natural enhanced appearance. At True Balance, the team of highly experienced injectors are experts in their field. They really listen to what results you are looking for. Being that they are open on weekends and evenings I can quickly go on my lunch or on my way home from work. This is so convenient with my busy lifestyle. If you are feeling the same as I was, where you just need a little pick me up, I would recommend True Balance and their team. You will look happier, fresher and more youthful! Remember, the frozen look you see in Hollywood is not the reality of these treatments. You can still look natural and beautiful, just a better U. a Michelle Bateman is a new member to the True Balance team. True Balance has three locations in Sherwood Park, Spruce Grove and St. Albert. Michelle is new to the Medical Aesthetics industry and has been pleasantly surprised by the natural options available to preserve youth and boost self-confidence.

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www.realjourneys.co.nz

New Zealand

A Country Full of Unexpected Treasures As a vacation destination, New Zealand is known for its breathtaking landscapes and incredible outdoor activities – such as kayaking with wild dolphins in Nelson, sailing on an America’s Cup yacht in Auckland and scuba diving in the Poor Knights Islands. And you can’t forget the exceptional wine experiences available – from staying at vineyards to the Classic Wine Trail that runs through both the North Island and South Island. (Thankfully, Kiwis share their wine with the world and we can enjoy it at home too.) However, New Zealand is also full of unexpected treasures known only to locals (or very lucky visitors who happen upon them by accident). We’ve lifted the lid on some of these amazing places and things to do. Shh… keep them to yourself. The Sound of Silence in Doubtful Sound

While Milford Sound is definitely majestic, the South Island’s Doubtful Sound is actually three times longer and ten times larger – and equally awe-inspiring. You can only access it via boat and then by bus over the Wilmot Pass, which makes it less populated and makes it feel more magical. Real Journeys offers an overnight trip into Doubtful Sound on the Fiordland

Navigator. When the captain turns off the engines in the middle of the trip, and everyone on board stands still and quiet, the sound of silence is incredible. In this busy, wired, noise-filled world in which we live, the peacefulness of Doubtful Sound is something special. Ohau Winter Waterfall Walk and Seal Pups

About 27 kilometres north of Kaikoura on the South Island, the Ohau Stream provides a rare chance to check out a waterfall pool, teaming with fur seal pups. During New Zealand’s fall and winter months, the mama seals leave their babies at the stream while they head to the ocean to fish. The walk itself, beside the stream, is a beautiful hike on any day of the year, but when the seal pups are frolicking in the water, it’s quite an experience. And if you are in the area and are hungry, there are seafood trucks parked along the side of the road, selling crayfish (we would call them lobster) and other delish dishes that you can eat while you watch the waves of the Pacific Ocean. One that locals know and love is Nin’s Bin, which is about a 20-minute drive north of Kaikorua on Route 1. {continued on page 31}

Celebrating the baby boomer woman • 19

fabulous @ any age Aging is a natural part of life which we all want to do gracefully but as time goes by, we start to notice changes. Our cells aren’t renewing themselves as quick as they used to and the fine lines begin to appear. That means you have less collagen and hyaluronic acid to support and fill out the layers of your skin. Our environment, pollution, sun exposure, stress and smoking can increase this effect. Over time, this combination of factors contributes to the three D’s of aging: Deterioration – fine lines, wrinkles, texture change Descent – droopiness or sagging skin Deflation – loss of fullness or volume

30’s

• • •

40’s

• • •

50’s / 60’s

• • • •

Beginning of crow’s feet around the eyes Fine lines appear on forehead Smile lines appear Wrinkles and lines deepen Corners of mouth turn down Lip volume starts to decrease Pronounced lines and wrinkles Thinner skin on cheeks, midface Skin along jawline sags Lip volume decreases

THE GOOD NEWS IS - You don’t have to accept these changes. True Balance has various ways to lessen the effects of aging. As you can see from our photos there are natural improvements we can make with virtually no down time. You will look refreshed and rejuvenated, but not overdone. Before

After

Before

After

20 • Be Fabulous! I www.fabulousat50.com I Spring • 2014

Our qualified and experienced team of experts will discuss your concerns and create a customized treatment plan just for you in a FREE consultation.

everyone will notice, but no one will know! Decreased volume and lines True Balance offers a number of injectable treatments to increase volume and lessen wrinkles for a natural looking approach to a better U.

Skin Texture Many different procedures can rid your skin of the dull surface layers, to brighten your skin.

Imperfections We all want clear skin, but nature has a way of sabotaging that. We are able to treat redness, sun damage, rosacea, veins, spots and scars by stimulating collagen regeneration with Intense Pulse Light (IPL) or other laser options. When you combine treatments you will achieve increased results with the synergy of it all working together.

Before Before

After

Before After

After Before

After

Celebrating the baby boomer woman â&#x20AC;˘ 21

spa day

Top 5 Reasons U deserve a

Taking time out to relax is an integral part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and a healthy U. Here are the top 5 reasons U deserve a spa day. 1. Stress Management & Relaxation

The increasing demands on our lives increase our stress levels to the point of compromising health and longevity. Dr. Ron Brown, Medical Director at True Balance Institute, says it is important to manage stress by taking time for you. A simple spa treatment can lead to decreased anxiety, a refreshed outlook and overall well-being. Any one of our many True Balance Spa Packages will let you escape into tranquility. According to the World Health Organization, by 2020 the top five diseases will list stress as an underlying contributing factor. 2. Increase Self-Esteem & Confidence

When you FEEL good, you DO good. As women, our self-image can affect the way we go about our day. Feeling good about yourself will improve your outlook on life. You stand taller, smile bigger and function better. Self-love is the biggest gift we can give ourselves. It’s great to have regular pick-me-ups. Norrie-Shan, a registered nurse, believes there’s a wide range of services that can help you feel better about your appearance. From getting your nails done to injectable anti-aging treatments, finding what makes U feel good is the key.

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Benefits that Balance

3. Anti-aging & Healthy Skin

We all want to hold onto the healthy glow of our youth. By incorporating a regular skin care regime along with Spa treatments such as Facials, Microdermabrasion, IPL and more, you can hold onto your youthful appearance. Spa therapist Melissa M stresses the importance of revitalizing, renewing and deeply hydrating the skin, “Stimulate a cellular awakening and the microcirculation of the skin.” 4. Health Benefits

As we age, we want to enjoy a “Fabulous 50.” To do so, we must focus on our health and create time for the things that will help us live longer, healthier lives. You may not realize that your trip to the spa can have significant health benefits but many treatments can aid in detoxification, decrease muscle tension, improve circulation, blood pressure, sleep and concentration. A body wrap is one of the many treatments that will deliver results. Dr. Brown, Medical Director of True Balance Institute says that those benefits, over time, can add to your life. Living with greater health, energy, happiness and well-being is the greatest reward. 5. Psychological Benefits

Taking a break to recharge will increase your ability to thrive in day to day activities. Physical touch is proven to increase your sense of well-being.

••• A Spruce Grove client, Margaret A. 70-years-old said she really enjoys the hot stone massage because as you get older you get stiffer and the heat from the stones increases her flexibility. “I really like the way it gets deep into your muscles and lets your joints open,” she said recently following one of her several treatments. “It’s like your body wakes up.” ••• With the wide variety of spa services available at True Balance, clients can feel pampered and cared for in the way that suits them best. Remember, when you invest in your health and well-being now, you are helping to prevent stress-related illnesses in the future. When you are able to take time for U, you will find your True Balance. a Sandra DiPietro is the manager of the True Balance locations in Spruce Grove and St. Albert.s Sandra has many years experience in the spa industry.

Celebrating the baby boomer woman • 23

Have You De-Fragged Your Heart Drive? © Has your life seemed a bit like the movie, Ground Hog Day, where you’re revisiting old experiences, former employers, lovers, and previous career paths? It‘s a bit weird, because along with the familiarity of that road previously traveled, the question arises “why in the world am I going down this path again?” Maybe we hoped we’d grown beyond that old stuff and left it behind. Personal development facilitators liken growth to layers of an onion – you just keep peeling the layers back until you find the nut (or heart) of the onion and you grow. Guaranteed you’ll shed tears along the way as you attempt to shed old stuff!

Well I have to tell you, after four decades of continuous peeling, I either have the biggest onion in the world - no nut in sight -or maybe I’m the nut! I was convinced I should be done. So maybe there’s a better analogy to describe this re-cycling of what has already gone before. In the high-tech world, there’s a process that’s used to speed up computers called de-fragging the hard drive. This program seeks out holes in the data trail and compresses or fills those holes with rearranged data. Voilà! You have a more efficient processor and your fast computer is back. In the human body, our heart (our processor) is a repository of experiences.

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Over time, the baggage of under-processed hurts, traumas, and dramas slow down our ability to live life to the fullest. When we get bogged down, overwhelmed, or have holes where wholeness should be, it knows we need help. Then life will offer us new opportunities to visit old stuff in effect - de-fragging our heart drive. Let me give two examples. My first fulltime job at 18 was as a clerk for a large oil company. With my goal to become an executive secretary, the pinnacle of achievement for women in those days, I struggled mightily to learn more and rise up the corporate ladder. Competent though I was, my skills werenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t strong enough for further advancement. Determined to succeed at something, I ventured way out of my comfort zone and took a commission sales job selling cosmetics door-to-door. Interesting choice for a girl terrified of selling! Despite the fear, I achieved many of my targets. That fear evaporated as I gained experience and confidence. But in the back of my mind I never believed that I was ever that successful until recently

when current achievements proved once and for all that I have a talent for persuasion. My heart can now compress all that old, irrelevant data about sales fears, inadequacy etc. and leave some space to enjoy that skill whenever I choose to. Family Dynamics

Family dynamics is another arena for heart holes. As the only girl, I always felt like an odd duck amongst my brothers. Also, because I chose a different career and life path growing up my family worried about me. Rarely did I feel at ease when the family gathered-until this year. My age, a previous personal health trauma, and a bit of wisdom helped me to see my family differently. I realized that my place in my family as a beloved sister and daughter has always been secure. They love me - odd duck or not! Yet another batch of old stories to be deleted or compressed and stored in the archives of memory. All this de-fragging has enabled me to feel a new wholeness with a bigger, happier heart. So when was the last time you defragged your heart drive? Give it a try-youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be glad you did! a Sue Paulson is a speaker and author who love being a catalyst for change and growth. She can be reached through her website: suepaulson.com or by e-email: suetalk@telus.net

Celebrating the baby boomer woman â&#x20AC;˘ 25

The SKINNY on

FAT

You’ve heard the terms….. saturated fats, polyunsaturated, monounsaturated. What do they mean, why is it important, and what changes might you want to make in your diet when it comes to oils? It is generally accepted that the worst type of fats for you are the solid fats, also known as saturated fats. They are lard, shortening, tallow, butter, palm oil, palm kernel oil, and coconut oil. That being said, there are known health benefits to some of these plant fats, particularly coconut, so some in your diet may be beneficial. That is, considering it is in its natural form. Margarine is a ‘fat product” and generally contains modified fats, also known as trans-fats. It is not recommended to fry with the solid fats, with the exception of butter. Butter has a high smoking point, which means it can heated to a very high temperature without breaking down its molecular structure. Why are oils an important part of the diet? Because they contain Omega fatty acids, which are essential for metabolism and for healthy hair and skin. Certain oils can actually help reduce belly fat, the most noted being olive oil and avocado oil, which do contain Omega 3. Too much Omega 6 without a balance of Omega 3 is ill-advised, and an excess of Omega 6 should especially be avoided by post-menopausal women. Walnut oil is one example of an oil high in Omega 6. However, walnut oil is one of the best sources of polyunsaturated fats, followed closely by canola oil and sunflower seed oil. Fish oils also contain Omega 3, and may result in reducing inflammation in the body. Fish oils are probably your best source of Omega 3 and consumption over a lifespan may reduce incidences of stroke. Monounsaturation (MUFA) is what prevents oils from breaking down under heat. The oil with the highest smoking point is avocado. Other high smoking point oils include olive oil, rice bran oil, grapeseed, and coconut. When considering the various pressings of olive oil, consider that while extra virgin may be the healthiest, extra light has the highest smoking point and is therefore recommend for cooking. Use extra virgin in salad, but cook with the light. Rice bran oil has a high concentration of Vitamin E and may bring relief from hot flashes. Safflower oil also has a high smoking point, however, high consumption of safflower oil can affect adiponectin, a protein that affects glucose regulation.

••• Why did the parrot put on a raincoat? So she could be Polly unsaturated! Author unknown. ••• 26 • Be Fabulous! I www.fabulousat50.com I Spring • 2014

I would avoid safflower oil if you have any conditions wherein glucose monitoring is a factor. Consult your pharmacist or physician if you have concerns. Grapeseed oil contains virtually no Omega 3, and may react with anti-inflammatory medication and blood thinners so may be contraindicated for persons on these types of medications.

(modified) excepted). I would avoid oils in the ‘top sensitivity’ categories, namely corn, peanut, and soybean. Corn oil, while it has a high smoking point, has a very high level of Omega 6. Peanut oil can contain undetectable amounts of mould and especially should not be consumed by anyone with a liver condition for that reason.

Canola oil was renamed from rapeseed oil for obvious reasons. It is economical, is high in polyunsaturates, and boasts the ability to lower ‘bad’ cholesterol. Canola, however, is made with a chemical process using hexane, a solvent used to extract the oil from the seeds, and as such, is not my favourite choice. Canola does have one trait that seems to be unique – it is recommended by the American Society of Reproductive Medicine as a vaginal lubricant.

With the vast selection of oils on the market, please consider your choices wisely, consume a wide variety of fats, and try not to worry about the cost. What price is health? a

It is generally considered that one should attempt to have a selection of oil types in the diet for optimum health (trans fat

August J. Bailey-Castel, Dip. Herb. August lives in Ardrossan, and is a Health Care Aide, herbalist, soap maker, and freelance writer. Her particular area of interest is anti-aging. This information is in no way intended to diagnose or treat disease conditions nor is it intended to replace information or advice given to you by your physician or health practitioner. Please consult your health care provider or dietician before making any major changes to your diet or caloric intake. Celebrating the baby boomer woman • 27

8 Ways to be Healthy and Happy, Today 1. Think Positive

4. Reward Yourself

The more positive thoughts that ruminate in your head on a daily basis, the more grateful you will be for what you have and the more effective you will be in handling the stressors in your life.

Reward yourself several times per day. If you take the stairs instead of the elevator, you get that Hershey kiss sitting on your desk. After you pay the bills, make yourself some green tea. Rewards reinforce our behaviors and demonstrate value and respect for oneself. Balance is all about doing Work, but rewarding with small and frequent bits of Life.

Start your day off with a positive inspiration. Whether you have a small motivational book next to the coffee pot, or you have a phone app that alerts you at 7am with a daily inspiration, start your mind off on the right foot. 2. Forgive Want to make your mind and body happy? Then get rid of any toxic anger. If you find yourself holding onto anger from the past, now is the time to forgive. Don’t spend your hard earned energy on someone else.

5. Drink water My rule of thumb is at least 2 full size water bottles per day. Work to cut out the sodas and introduce more water to your body. Water lubricates joints and moistens body tissues. It gives the body a better overall feeling. If cutting back on sodas is a challenge for you, after drinking water, let a small can be your reward. 6. Sleep

The great thing about forgiveness is you don’t have to feel it, you just do it. And, you are doing it for yourself, no one else.

Melatonin levels in our bodies decrease as we get older, but this doesn’t mean you should have sleepless nights. You have probably done a great job at becoming more aware of your body’s needs and desires over the years. Don’t get discouraged if your sleep is off pattern nowadays. This is just a new chapter and we need to find the best type of rest for you. Track when your body gets tired. If you find that you are getting tired at 8pm, don’t fight it. Get that rest. If your body gets you up earlier because you snoozed off early, that’s ok, too.

3. Do Not Make Impulsive Decisions Menopause causes a lot of differing emotions for women, not to mention hot flashes and night sweats. Both of which can lead to stress, frustration and lack of sleep. All three of these factors play a role in our decision making. Whether your decisions are personal or professional, take time to step away to think. Even when people approach you and want an on the spot answer, get in the habit of telling them you will get back with them. Have pre-made answers to the people who always want your time and energy. The best method in decision making is actually quite simplistic: Retreat, Rethink, React- in that order.

7. Exercise Exercise plays a role in our physical, mental and overall heath. Exercise can minimize pain, boost energy, and increase strength.

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When it comes to exercise, remember, it is not an all or nothing approach. Sometimes we compare our exercise to that of others, or even ourselves at a younger age. Exercise does not mean a 1 hour intense session of Siberian Stomach Crunchers. Yikes! Exercise can be a walk around your community, lifting small weights as you watch your favorite TV show, or stretching your body. The point is you need movement to maintain a healthy body and mind. 8. Make Your Flower Pot Okay, some people call this a “Bucket List,” but I can’t get that name to grow on me. I think now is the time of life that we need to hunt down all those seeds of life we planted, and go back to water them. Write down all those things “you missed out on” as you were raising your family, and start doing them.

Challenge yourself to knock out at least 4 activities per year. Start that book you always wanted to write, save for that dream vacation to Hawaii, or go to that art class. You might not be able to create your flower pot of “To-Do’s” off the top of your head, but I promise you, as you engage in your day, out of nowhere, something will pop into that beautiful head of yours. As soon as that thought crosses your mind, text it to yourself, write it down, just put it somewhere outside of your head. Then, do it! a Dr. Jaime Kulaga is a Certified Life Coach, Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Motivational Speaker. She is the author of Type “S”uperwoman: Finding the LIFE in Work-Life Balance- A Self-Searching Book for Women. She serves as a go-to resource for Bay News 9, the 24hour news channel, and as an individual, couples and business coach. Dr. Kulaga has a passion to help people live their best life. She focuses on accountability and the power of positive thinking to propel you forward!

FACTS, FICTION AND FUN!

Go to: www.menomission.com Or contact: Anita Dyrbye anita@fromtheearthnaturally.com Phone: 780 418-‐0958

Celebrating the baby boomer woman • 29

10 tips for successful and

SAFE

online dating

Online dating is standard practice for most singles these days. But finding love online can be dangerous to your identity with cyber thieves. 1. Make sure the site is legitimate. Look for seals we trust on the website such as TRUSTe, BBB, and VeriSign. When entering your credit card information, ensure that the website protects your personal data with a secure url address (https instead of http). 2. Check the site’s privacy settings. Before registering, make sure your privacy will be well protected. Does the company share your information with third parties? Can you opt-out of solicitation emails and advertisements that might track your personal data? 3. Protect your identity. Choose a nonidentifiable screen name. Avoid sharing your real full name, address, social security number, employer, workplace address, birth date, etc. Resist giving out your telephone number until you feel completely comfortable, and when you’re ready, only divulge your cell phone number so that your address cannot be traced with an

easy Internet search. Set up a separate email address for online dating correspondence and make sure it has no identifiable information within the address. Keep other personally identifying information off-limits during all communications. 4. Stay anonymous until you feel safe. Take advantage of cyber dating’s anonymity factor. Some sites offer anonymous communication technology that protects your identity (including your name and email) until you feel comfortable. 5. Trust your gut. If the person you are communicating with says something inappropriate, odd, or simply sets off your internal alarm system, pay attention and respond accordingly. Report suspicious members to the site’s administrator and block any unwanted communication. 6. Never send money. Be wary of anybody who requests money from you. No matter how believable their sob story may be, these people are always scammers. They may ask you to send money via PayPal, Western Union, or a bank account. Stay alert and steer clear.

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www.puretrailsnewzealand.co.nz

7. Avoid getting too personal too early. When you engage in cyber flirting, things can escalate quickly. Try to take things slow for as long as possible. Consider speaking over the telephone before agreeing to meet in person. 8. Do your research. Google your potential date prior to meeting them face to face. Similarly, Google yourself to see what information your date may find about you. Take the proper steps to take any unwanted information offline. 9. Report threats to law enforcement. If you receive emails that are harassing or threatening in nature, stop all contact with the individual, print out or save digital copies of the communication, and contact your local authorities. Remember, cyberstalking is a crime in many states and you should never feel embarrassed to ask for help. 10. Consider using only the safest online dating sites that have strong reputations and good user privacy and safety features.. Some online dating services like True.com and True North Matchmaking Services require members submit to criminal background checks. a **myID.com protects personal information and shields you from identity theft with real-time alerts. www.myID.com

{New Zealand • from page 19}

The HUHU Café in Waitomo

This little café, near the Waitomo Caves on New Zealand’s North Island, always gets rave reviews for its food and views. With a range of fresh ingredient entrees that include lamb, beef and pork, as well as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options, the HUHU Café has something tasty for everyone. Nga Haerenga – The New Zealand Cycle Trail

Cyclists are always thrilled when they first hear about the 23 Great Rides on The New Zealand Cycle Trail, a nationwide cycling network. From the subtropical fern forests, along historic military and old coach roads, to breathtaking lake and mountain vistas, past beautiful beaches, and through rainforests and lush wetlands, no matter what your ability level, it appeals to every cyclist – from the novice to the dedicated rider. a Air New Zealand (www.airnewzealand.ca) has direct nonstop flights from Vancouver to Auckland and offers flights from many other North American cities. For more information about New Zealand, please visit: www.NewZealand.com. Real Journeys – https://www.realjourneys.co.nz/en/experiences/cruises/doubtful-sound-overnight-cruises/ Ohau Stream Walk – http://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-andrecreation/tracks-and-walks/marlborough/south-marlborough/ ohau-stream-walk/ Huhu Café – http://www.huhucafe.co.nz/

Nga Haerenga – http://www.nzcycletrail.com/ Ruth Atherley of AHA Creative Strategies Celebrating the baby boomer woman • 31

Ham and Egg Crepe Squares

Breakfast never looked so elegant. These crepes are lined with Black Forest ham, with an egg cracked into each. Add a green side salad to turn this dish into a light lunch or dinner. 4 Simple Crepes 8 slices black forest ham 4 large eggs Coarse salt and ground pepper Chopped fresh chives DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Place 4 crepes on a rimmed baking sheet. Place 2 slices ham on each crepe. Crack 1 egg into center of each; fold edges toward center. Season with salt and pepper. Bake until egg white is set and yolk is still runny, 12 minutes. Top with chives. Recipes courtesy of Marthastewart.com YIELD: Makes 4

Mother’s

BRUNCH Day Strawberry, Mango and Yogourt Smoothie

You can use fresh or frozen fruit in this smoothie and substitute orange juice for the apple. INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIONS

1 1/4 cups apple juice

In a blender, combine all ingredients and puree until smooth.

1 cup low-fat plain yogurt 1 cup fresh or frozen strawberries 2 cups fresh or frozen mango chunks 32 • Be Fabulous! I www.fabulousat50.com I Spring • 2014

{Restaurant • from page 7}

Today I was in search of a hearty breakfast that would be fitting to such a chilly day. I chose a mushroom and cheese omelet with a side of baby potatoes. Tim was going all out on lunch. He opted to start with the Vietnamese spring rolls followed by a bacon cheeseburger with fries.

Good Things about Being a Mother With Mother’s Day around the corner, I think about what my life would have been like without my children. Time passes so quickly, I wish I could take back the years. Being a mom has made me a better person in so many ways.

My List of Positive Benefits of Being a MOM

Y I am much more empathetic, kind and patient than before I had children (this is a work in progress of course). Y I am much less self-absorbed (I realize that before I had children I was not particularly aware of other people's problems). Y I understand sacrifice better. Y I relate to children better. Y I am stronger emotionally, physically and spiritually. Y I realize that I am capable of doing a lot more than I thought I could (i.e. give birth, deal with stressful situations, etc). Y I know that if I can deal with what I have dealt with, I can deal with just about anything. a Dianna Bowes

His spring rolls promptly arrived at our table. They were filled with pork and the usual cabbage. Thankfully we were joined by three others, as there was plenty of time for conversation while we waited for our mains. Although the restaurant was not even half full, it took over 30 minutes for them to arrive to our table. Well worth the wait

My breakfast was well worth the wait! I had a full brunch on one plate. My omelet was cooked to perfection and was brimming with flavourful mushrooms and cheddar. The baby potatoes were tender but had the perfect crispness on the outside. Fresh fruit cocktail and a fresh baked cornbread muffin rounded out my bountiful breakfast. The fruit was not your typical melon that you get this time of year; it contained exotic delights like lychee fruit. Tim’s burger was garlicky goodness in a bun. His patty was moist and well seasoned. It was topped with bacon cooked to perfection and cheddar cheese. His only criticism was that the tomato and lettuce that is the usual garnish were definitely not at the height of freshness. With full stomachs we ventured back into our warm vehicle compliments of the free underground parking. All in all it was a satisfying way to spend a wintery Sunday morning and we will be back again! a Laurie Young Celebrating the baby boomer woman • 33

Health screening for women - age 40 - 64 All adults should visit their health care provider from time to time, even if they are healthy. The purpose of these visits is to: • Screen for diseases • Assess risk of future medical problems • Encourage a healthy lifestyle • Update vaccinations • Maintain a relationship with a health care provider in case of an illness Information Even if you feel fine, it is still important to see your health care provider regularly to check for potential problems. Most people who have high blood pressure don’t even know it. The only way to find out is to have your blood pressure checked regularly. Likewise, high blood sugar and high cholesterol levels often do not produce any symptoms until the disease becomes advanced. There are specific times when you should see your health care provider. Age-specific guidelines are as follows:

grocery stores and pharmacies. If the top number (systolic number) is greater than 130 or the bottom number (diastolic number) is greater than 85, call your doctor's office. If you have diabetes, heart disease, kidney problems, or certain other conditions, you may need to be monitored more closely. Cholesterol screening: Women over age 44 should be checked every 5 years. If you have diabetes, heart disease, kidney problems, or certain other conditions, you may need to be monitored more closely. Diabetes screening: If your blood pressure is above 135/80, your health care provider will test your blood sugar levels for diabetes. Colon cancer screening: People between the ages of 50 and 75 should be screened for colorectal cancer. This may involve: A stool test done every year. Flexible sigmoidoscopy every 5 years along with a stool guaiac test. Colonoscopy every 10 years.

Blood pressure screening: Have your blood pressure checked every 2 years unless it is 120-139/80-89 Hg or higher. Then have it checked every year. Watch for blood pressure screenings in your area. Ask your health care provider if you can stop in to have your blood pressure checked. Check your blood pressure using the automated machines at local

Double-contrast barium enema every 5 years. Computed tomographic colonography (virtual colonoscopy) every 5 years. People with risk factors for colon cancer such as ulcerative colitis, a personal or family history of colorectal cancer, or a history of large colorectal adenomas may need a colonoscopy more often.

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Dental exam:

Osteoporosis screening:

Go to the dentist every year for an exam and cleaning.

All postmenopausal women with fractures should have a bone density test (DEXA scan).

Eye exam: Have an eye exam every 2 years. Once you turn 45, make sure that your health care provider checks for glaucoma. Immunizations: You should receive a flu vaccine every year. Ask your doctor if you should get a vaccine to reduce your risk of pneumonia. You should have a tetanus-diphtheria and acellular pertussis (TdAP) vaccine once as part of your tetanus-diphtheria vaccines. You should have a tetanus-diphtheria booster every 10 years. You may get a shingles or herpes booster vaccination once after age 60. Physical exam: Have a physical exam every 1-5 years. Your height, weight, and body mass index (BMI) should be checked at each exam. Routine diagnostic tests are not ecommended. Breast exams: Women may do a monthly breast self-exam. Women should contact their doctor immediately if they notice a change in their breasts, whether or not they do self exams.

Women under age 65 who have risk factors for osteoporosis should be screened. Pelvic exam and Pap smear: Pap smears should be done once every 2 - 3 years. Pelvic exams may be done more often to check for other disorders. If your Pap smears have been normal three times in a row, your doctor may tell you that you only need a Pap smear once every 3 years. Women who have had a total hysterectomy (uterus and cervix removed) may choose not to have Pap smears. Women who are sexually active should be screened for chlamydia infection. This can be done during a pelvic exam. Your health care provider will discuss how to prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) with you if you are sexually active. Your health care provider will ask you questions about alcohol and tobacco, and may ask you about depression. a The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

A health care provider should do a complete breast exam every year. Mammograms: Women over age 40 should have a mammogram done every 1-2 years, depending on their risk factors, to check for breast cancer. Celebrating the baby boomer woman â&#x20AC;˘ 35

Live – and Work –

Inspired!

People often talk about their work life very differently than a career counsellor or coach does. Typically, people describe a different job or occupation they work in as a separate career, but by definition we actually have just one career, and it covers our lifetime. Something most people don’t typically think of is that your career includes things you do for work and pay (vocational activities), as well as things you don’t typically get paid for, like caring for families, volunteering, and hobbies. This whole life approach to defining careers can take some pressure off the work-life balance issue, because we really are one person moving throughout our lives, and paid work often crosses with unpaid activities, and the blending that takes place is perfectly okay. Most career counsellors and well meaning teachers tell us that living a healthy, fulfilling life includes choosing work that we are absolutely passionate about. The reality, however, is that sometimes we have to do work that doesn’t feel that

great and doesn’t satisfy us. Or, we start out with passion in a job that over time wears us out, tires us, or bores us. If your job is not juicing you up, don’t give up! It’s important to realize that you can position the rest of the things in your life to be more fulfilling and then look for a job opportunity that excites you and rejuvenates at the same time. Often the thought of looking for a new job can be hair raising. “I haven’t looked for a job or done an interview in twenty (or more) years!” people tell me, or “At my age no one will want to hire me.” My reply is, “Don’t despair! Together, we’re going to get you through this!” The idea is to leverage any fear, anxiety, or doubt about where you are at today and turn it into positive energy, curiosity, and openness for the future. Your career transition plan includes deliberately doing things that feel good as you move ahead, whether you ultimately decide to change jobs or not. That’s right – having a night out with your girlfriends, going for a massage, or writing your memoir during a job search are all encouraged.

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Don’t regret how you got where you are today, and instead focus on doing good things, contributing to your families and communities, looking after yourself, and being proud of the life you are living. •••

I have a friend who puts a post on social media every Monday that shares how disgusted she is that she has to go to work. She celebrates Friday with equal energy. Can you relate to the pattern? The funny things about her is that although her work is a frustrating mix, she has also filled her life with family and friends, has hobbies that she loves, and she is a force behind a stich ‘n’ bitch group that has been meeting once a week for more than 20 years! So, although she sometimes grumps about work, she is able to balance out the negatives with the positives in her life, and that’s essential in living an inspired life. I’ve seen people get very upset when they look back at their career and think about what they’ve done. Some of them thought things would be easier, or that

they would have made more money, or spent more time with a special someone, or taken more holidays. Living in regret can make us feel terrible, and resilience and health is the result of structuring life to be positive. Don’t regret how you got where you are today, and instead focus on doing good things, contributing to your families and communities, looking after yourself, and being proud of the life you are living. a Pam Robertson, PhD helps people whether they want a new job, or are ready to start a business. She’s worked with people from A-Z, literally accountants to zoo-keepers, and has recently published Live Inspired: The Manual that Helps People Design the Life They Want & Want the Life They Design and Entrepreneurial Success Kit. Email pam@ladybirdfiles.com • http://www. ladybirdfiles.com • Phone 780.232.0083.

The Old Stone House Meeting, Special Events Facility & Tea House (located in Lac Ste, Anne County near Onoway) A unique, historic, country experience tea house and meeting place where our past is preserved and our present is treasured. • Corporate/Business Meetings • Day Retreats • Tea Parties • Special Celebrations • Small Weddings (Anniversaries, Birthdays) “Seating by reservation or by chance reservations highly recommended” Open (most) Saturdays for lunch, 11am - 3 pm

For information: 780-967-3324 www.TheOldStoneHouse.ca

Celebrating the baby boomer woman • 37

Fabulous Events

May 25, 2014

AUDITIONS FOR BABY BOOMER TALENT SHOW From the shower to the stage, audition on May 25th and get an opportunity to perform at the Arden Theatre on September 21st. For more information email: marie@bedouinbeats.com or visit www. fabulousat50. com/events

A group of Fabulous@50 ladies warmed up hearts one bowl at a time at the January Soup Sisters fundraiser. www.meetup.com/fabulousat50

Fabulous@50 ladies get a new perspective on Retirement with Laurel Vespi “What’s Next? Tips for effective retirement planning held on February 19th.

May 4, 2014

SIP, SHOP, SHARE Join Fabulous@50 and Princess Florence Handbags as well as 20 other exhibitors for a fun day of shopping and sharing. First 100 ladies will receive a swag bag with a gift, plus refreshments and a grand prize draw. For the speakers agenda and to purchase advance tickets go to www.fabulousat50.com

Fabulous@50 newest members have a great evening of conversation at Sommervilles Wine Bar on March 18th.

38 • Be Fabulous! I www.fabulousat50.com I Spring • 2014

HealthResources Alberta Blue Cross 780-498-8000 www.ab.bluecross.ca

Heart & Stroke Foundation www.heartandstroke.ca

Al-Anon 780-433-1818 www.al-anon-edmonton.org

Huntington's Disease Resouce Centre 519-749-7063 www.huntingtonsociety.ca

Alberta Mental Health Board 1-866-408-5465 www.albertahealthservices.ca

Kidney Foundation of Canada 514-369-4806 www.kidney.ca

Alzheimer Society of Edmonton 780-488-2266 www.alzheimer.ab.ca American Childhood Cancer Society www.acco.org Breast Centre Lendrum 780-434-9179 www.x-ray.ca Breast Friends Society of Edmonton www.breastfriendsedmonton.org Canadian Cancer Society 1-888-939-3333 www.cancer.ca Canadian Celiac Association 780-485-2949 www.celiacedmonton.ca Canadian Cystic Fibrosis Fdn 780-466-2265 www.cfedmonton.ca Canadian Diabetes Association 416-363-3373 www.diabetes.ca Canadian Liver Foundation 1-800-563-5483 www.liver.ca Canadian Mental Health www.cmha.ca Canadian National Institute for the Blind 1-800-563-2642www.cnib.ca Capital Health Link 780-403-5465 www.albertahealthservices.ca/223.asp Capital Health Community Sector General 780-735-3000 Travel 780-735-0100 www.albertahealthservices.ca/223.asp Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of Alberta 1-800-387-149 www.ccfc.ca Edmonton Family Violence Centre 780-439-4635 www.edmontonfamilyviolence.ca Greater Edmonton Resources Housing for Seniors 780-482-6561 www.gef.org Cut out and save

Lung Association 780-488-6819 www.ab.lung.ca Menopause Canada 416-222-5880 www.menopausecanada.com Menopause Clinic - Grey Nuns Hospital 780-735-7625 www.caritas.ab.ca/Home/ Hospitals/GreyNuns/FeaturedPrograms_ GreyNuns/Menopause+Clinic.htm Mesothelioma Group 1-888-629-0613 www.mesotheliomagroup.com Osteoporosis Canada 416-696-2663 www.osteoporosis.ca Ovarian Cancer Canada 416-962-2700 www.ovariancanada.org Parkinsons Society of Alberta 780-425-6400 www.parkinsonalberta.ca Schizophrenia Society of Canada 1-800-263-5545 www.schizophrenia.ca Spinal Cord Injury Canada www.sci-can.ca The Society of Obstetrics and Gynaecology of Canada 1-800-561-2416 www.sogc.org The Support Network - 780-482-0198 or (211) www.thesupportnetwork.com Women's Health Program Royal Alexandra Hospital - 780-477-4804 www.royalalex.org/loisholehospital/womenshealth Women's Wellness Program - Grey Nuns Community Hospital - 780-7357604 www.caritas.ab.ca/Home/Hospitals/ GreyNuns/FeaturedPrograms_GreyNuns/ Women%27s+Wellness+Program.htm

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spa . medical aesthetics. laser

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