Mature Living (Sample Copy)

PROMOTING A HEALTHY & POSITIVE LIFESTYLE Issue 12 Vol 6

January 2017

FOR THE OLDER, BOLDER INDIVIDUAL 12 Ways to reduce holiday stress

The Royal Family and Sandringham

7 Yoga Styles Explained

Double doctorates in archaeology for Sligo grandparents

ISSN 2009-8936

Ireland’s enduring Country Queen

MARGO

O'DONNELL A 2 NIGHT BREAK FOR TWO PEOPLE IN KENMARE, COUNTY KERRY

CONTENTS January 2017

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NOTHER Christmas is here and another New Year is beckoning. 2016 may yet be remembered as the year when “all things actually changed, and changed utterly”, and uncertainty is born. Brexit, Trump, Syria, a strange Olympics . . . and, in Ireland, a political partnership which doesn’t engender much confidence. Despite the turnaround and good growth predictions income disparities continue to widen and homeless numbers increase.

It is, perhaps, appropriate, at this time of year that we feature a lady who has brought joy to so many with her distinctive voice. Margo O’Donnell has entertained audiences throughout Ireland, and further afield, for more than fifty years . . . since she first appeared on the showband circuit at the tender age of 13 with the Keynotes Showband back in 1964. Sometimes overshadowed in the popularity stakes by her younger brother, Daniel, Margo still reigns as Ireland’s undisputable Queen of Country, as evidenced recently in Galway when she shared the stage with Big Tom (McBride), who she admires greatly and with whom she would love to record a duet. Margo had also endured many ups and downs in her long, distinguished career . . . and she talks about her life and love of country music with Tara King.

If there is anything that demonstrates that age is no barrier to achievement it is the case of Richard and Betty Gray, two grandparents from Sligo, with a combined age of 142 years, who have recently graduated with doctorates in archaeology. They both now hold the title of “Dr.” after third level studies at St. Angela’s College, Sligo and NUI, Galway. We feature their story in this issue.

In the lead-up to Christmas we take a peek at Sandringham House, where Queen Elizabeth and the rest of the Royals gather for Christmas. For the rest of us we examine twelve ways to reduce the stress of the holiday season. In tandem with this we provide some suggestions which might help with your winter driving fears though, hopefully, the weather will be favourable this year. Some yoga might help – so we explain some yoga styles.

For the more energetic we reveal how 30 minutes of moderate cycling each day can have major health benefits and the positives you can achieve from an early morning run at the start of the day.

Learning to swim as an adult can be traumatic for some but a few basic tips can help ease the situation.

Few of us may be aware we have bad breath . . . until some friend is kind enough to tell us, that is! Read some useful tips to a healthier mouth in this issue, in addition to some skin care basics.

The work of caregivers is being highlighted again this Christmas, the group that gets little respite, even at this time. We offer some pieces of advice to ease the burden. Look out, also for some timely fashion tips for women over 50.

Here at Mature Living we wish all our loyal readers and advertisers a wonderful Christmas and a happy and peaceful New Year.

LAST MONTH’S COMPETITION WINNER Congratulations to Kate Armstrong from Dundalk who was this months lucky winner for a breakaway to the falls Hotel in Clare

Editorial: Seamus Casey seamus@matureliving.ie Design: Stephen Finney steve@matureliving.ie Advertising Sales: Lisa Gilmartin lisa@matureliving.ie

www.matureliving.ie

News Margo O’Donnell Ireland’s enduring Country Queen 10 Tips for Tired Caregivers Fashion tips for Women Over 50 Skin Care Basics 30 Minutes of Moderate Bicycling a Day Offers Astounding Health Benefits Dating After Divorce: When Is the Right Time?

Preventing Varicose Veins Bad Breath Prevention in Older Adults Double doctorates in archaeology for Sligo grandparents Make Lasting Memories with Uniworld Family Cruises!

Angelscopes The Bands of our Showband Era How to Get the Most Out of Your Class Reunion 5 Technologies Ideal for Baby Boomers Hotel Breaks & Offers Competition Services Directory

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Published by: IBS Publications Ltd Riverview House, Barrett Street, Ballina, Co. Mayo. F26 K2E0 and Office 3, Unit 7, NW Business Park, Collooney, Co. Sligo. F91 NX0T Tel/Fax: 071-9154538 / 096-77743 Web: www.matureliving.ie • Email: info@matureliving.ie

The information in Mature Living is carefully researched and believed to be accurate, but the publisher cannot accept responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors or omissions. Statements or opinions expressed herein are not necessary those of the editor or publisher. Advertisements within the publication are not endorsed by the publisher. Neither are any claims made within the advertisements. Before consuming any products mentioned in the publication readers are advised to consult with their general practitioner or equivalent professional for opinion or advice.

News

Leading nursing home group expands in the west

FR. PEYTON C.S.C., MEMORIAL CENTRE ATTYMASS, BALLINA, CO. MAYO

A modern attractive building welcomes you to: • Experience the multimedia presentation that tells the fascinating story of Ireland’s most famous priest The “Rosary Priest” !

• View the photographic exhibition of Fr. Peyton’s life • Visit our oratory and contemplation garden • Spiritual direction and counselling • Restaurant, Souvenier and craft shop • Heritage room and archives

Visit our website: www.fatherpeytoncentre.ie Tel: 096-45374 • Fax: 096-45375 Email: ppmc@eircom.net

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OOD news for people seeking top-class residential care in Ballina and North Mayo as 1917 will see the opening of a new nursing home on a scenic site alongside the River Moy, close to the centre of the town.

The new facility will be launched by one of Ireland’s leading Nursing Home groups, Sonas, who recently acquired Moy Ridge Nursing Home, Ballina, on the opposite side of the river to the new development, and Tí Aire Nursing Home, Belmullet.

Both are purpose-built facilities located at the heart of their respective communities, with a combined total of 95 beds and over 100 staff.

Sonas plans to open its new nursing home early in 2017 and are currently recruiting staff. At full occupancy it will employ sixty people.

The award-winning Sonas group is rolling out its residential care service throughout Ireland with centres in Roscommon, Athlone, Enniscrone (Sligo), Carlow,

Tipperary and now Belmullet and Ballina, in Co. Mayo. The story begins in Cloverhill, Co. Roscommon, when two registered nurses, John Mangan and Seamus Crawley, laid out their vision for quality nursing home care for older people. With twenty years’ clinical experience behind each of them, they had a clear view of the service and environment they wanted to provide. Together with current Chairman, Ballina-based Gerry Jordan, they formed Sonas. Gerry was for many years Financial Director and also Chairman of Joseph Murphy Ltd., the wellknown wholesale hardware company based in Ballina.

Their vision was to build facilities around passionate, experienced and motivated staff by reaching out to their surrounding communities.

Sonas would maintain continuity for residents between their new home and their old home.

Since 2001, with the endeavours of its Board of Directors, Sonas has expanded to include 455 beds

Ard na Gréine, Enniscrone, Co. Sligo – one of Sonas’ nursing homes in the North-west.

across its seven locations, with 385 staff, all offering the same philosophy and standard of care, but each with its own unique atmosphere.

Welcoming the recent acquisitions, Mr. Jordan said: “We are delighted that Moy Ridge and Tí Aire Nursing Homes are being brought into the Sonas Group as they represent the types of nursing homes we have been seeking in order to expand our business. Both facilities have an excellent track record in the care of older people and have existing cultural values which align with our own at Sonas.”

Sonas recently emerged victorious in two categories at the 2016 Nursing Home Ireland Care Awards, which are the premier national celebration of the care being delivered in nursing homes in communities across Ireland. The awards honour and recognise the delivery of exceptional care to older people and those in need of continuous care.

Mr. Jordan extended his congratulations to staff, saying: “I wish to wholeheartedly congratulate our winners on their fantastic achievement. Since Sonas was founded our strength has always been our people, and these awards reflect the continued excellence, dedication and commitment of staff within our homes”.

The Nursing Homes within the Sonas group are: Ard na Greine, Enniscrone, Co. Sligo (096) 37840; Cloghanboy, Athlone, Co. Westmeath (090) 6379568; Cloverhill, Co. Roscommon (090) 6628882; Glendale, Tullow, Co. Carlow; Melview, Clonmel, Co. Tipperary (052) 6121716; Moy Ridge, Ballina, Co. Mayo (096) 21886; Riverview, Ballina, Co. Mayo - opening early 2017; Tí Aire, Belmullet, Co. Mayo (097) 81940.

Find out more at www.sonas.ie

McGann Family Home Care Services, is an in-home service provider, which assists individuals to lead dignified and independent lifestyles in the comfort and safety of their own homes. Our business is designed to provide a unique all-in-one service to residents in Mid Leinster (Kildare, Wicklow and surrounding counties).

The services provided are varied and encompass: • Routine housework • Serving as companions • Personal Care • Handy Man Services • Assisting with toileting

McGann Family Home Care Services is a registered homecare provider for the HSE

Telephone:087-2054857 1665 Páire Mhuire, Newbridge, Co. Kildare www.mcgannfamilyhomecare.ie Email:mcgannbridget@eircom.net

Crozon park, Sligo • www.thecrozoninn.com

Open 7 days a week, from 12pm Daily lunch, early bird, evening and traditional Sunday lunch menu.

All live sports showing Large private Function room available Catering to all sizes of Funeral Parties

HEATING, PLUMBING & BATHROOM SUPPLIES

• Radiators • Boilers • Cylinders • Pumps • Stoves

Carrick Road, Drumshanbo, Co. Leitrim Telephone: 071­964­0593 Monday to Friday 8am to 5pm, Saturday 9am to 1pm

News

Rise and rise of older people with disabilities in residential care

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he number of people over the age of 55 with disabilities living in residential services has doubled over the last two decades.

Rehab, one of Ireland’s largest charities for people with disabilities, is calling on the HSE to support older people with intellectual disabilities to live in their communities and stop

channelling people toward residential care.

Despite the HSE revealing that 36% of older people with disabilities are now living in residential services, compared to just 17% in 1996, their service plan launched today does little to address this issue.

Instead of providing adequate supports to older people to live in their own

communities in line with government policy, the HSE’s focus is on providing more of the same. This approach is forcing more people into residential services, often against their will.

Kathleen O’Meara, Rehab’s Director of Communications and Public Affairs, said the HSE should prioritise supporting

people to live in their own communities in line with government policy.

She said: “We don’t need to institutionalise people with disabilities just because they are getting older. As a society, Ireland needs to get to grips with how best to support people to live at home. We can and should do better.

Currently we are failing our most vulnerable members of society.

“People with intellectual disabilities are now living longer. Many will live well into old age. We know of cases where people under the age of 50 with intellectual disability end up in nursing homes just because they don’t have the independent living skills to remain in their homes after their parents pass away. This is entirely inappropriate. It’s all the more damning as we fail to yet again reach our target of ratifying the UN Convention on the Rights of Person with Disabilities.

“Better planning and skills development is not only cheaper than providing a nursing home bed, but leads to a far better quality of life for people as they age,” she added.

Bed & Breakfast Pearse Road, Sligo Town A Warm Welcome Awaits You at Park House B&B

20 Minutes Walking distance to Sligo City Centre - All Major Credit Cards Accepted.

We, Peter & Angela, the proprietors of Park House Bed & Breakfast, look forward to welcoming you to our family run guest house. Sligo Town centre is approximately 20 minutes walk and for a leisurely coffee or entertainment the Sligo Park Hotel is 5 minutes walk.

Our house in unique in that we can accommodate large group bookings with a discount of 10% for bookings for stays over 2 nights for groups of 12 or more.

Our prime location makes Park House a perfect base for our guests to enjoy and pursue their personal choices of cultural, sports, social or business activities but above all, relaxation!!

• 10 Stylish En-Suite Bedrooms • Free Wi-Fi • Flat Screen TV in each room • Free Parking Any special dietary requirements? Please let us know.

Tel: 071-91-70333 • Mob: 085-8821078 Email: kearinsa@gmail.com

Irish consumers charged more in UK online shops The marathon runner who had to pay extra because he had an Irish address - the shopper being charged extra by a UK online trader because she was using an Irish credit card - the holiday-maker who couldn't hire a car because she had an Irish licence these are all traders' tactics which are illegal under EU consumer protection rules.

A new EU report out recently finds that shoppers still face unjustified discrimination due to nationality and place of residence, with Ireland sending the third highest number of complaints in the EU.

The report looks at the implementation of EU consumer law and finds that business practices such as geo-blocking are still preventing consumers from accessing services, particularly when shopping online. Article 20.2 of the EU Services Directive sets out the principle of non-discrimination on the basis of nationality and place of residence but there are now calls for clearer messages to traders and for stronger enforcement.

Produced by the EU-supported European Consumer Centre (ECC) Network, "Do Invisible Borders Still Restrict Consumer Access to Services in the EU?" officially launched at the European Commission Office for Northern Ireland in Belfast. The project was led by the Irish branch of ECC (based in Dublin) and was a joint project with 5 other EU countries, including the UK. Joining them at the launch was the Consumer Council for Northern Ireland, which also has an interest in this hot consumer issue.

A legal adviser for ECC Ireland, Anna Heryan, said: “The Services Directive has been an important step in improving the functioning of the

Single Market for services. However, complaints received by ECC-Net confirmed that the principle of nondiscrimination of Article 20.2 has not been effective in combatting unjustified service differentiation and it has not reduced legal uncertainty. Consumers too often face restrictions with no justification while the reasons invoked by traders are unconvincing and lack objective criteria."

In a statement ECC-Net said: "ECCNet welcomes the European Commission’s acknowledgement that further action is necessary to give effect to the principle of nondiscrimination and develop rules against discrimination based on the nationality or place of residence of consumers. We also welcome the Digital Single Market and the Single Market Strategy initiatives, as well as the Commission’s adoption of the ecommerce package which is a major step forward in tackling geoblocking, making cross-border parcel delivery more affordable and efficient, and promoting consumer trust through better protection and enforcement."

Plexus Approved Bio Energy Therapy Treating: Depression, Back Pain, Arthritis, etc Using Powerful and efficient healing techniques that work by re-balancing the life energy withing the body.

Contact Joseph McGuiness on 086 3051356

American Country Music Tour Tennessee - Mississippi - Arkansas

6th to 16th September 2017 SOME OF THE SHOWS & ATTRACTIONS INCLUDED ARE:

• Graceland (Home of Elvis Presley) • Tupelo (Elvis Presley Birthplace) • General Jackson Showboat (Lunch Cruise & Show) • Guided tour of RCA Studio B (Home of 100 Hits) • Tour the Ryman Auditorium • Entry to Dollywood • Show at the Country Tonite Theatre (No.1 show in the Smokies) • Tour of the Museum of Appalachia

• Sun Studio • Dyess, Arkansas (Johnny Cash Boyhood home) • Grand Ole Opry Show • Nashville Nightlife Dinner Theatre (Dinner & Show) • Tour of the Country Music Hall of Fame • Dixie Stampede (Dinner & Show) • Guided tour of Gatlinburg City (in the Smokies) • Dinner at the Appalachia Museum with ‘Old Time Music’ while dining

Also Experience the world famous Beale Street in downtown Memphis Free time downtown Nashville to explore Broadway and to visit the bars and Honky Tonks Shopping at Opry Mills in Nashville and Tanger Outlets in Sevierville, Tennessee ALSO INCLUDED Return flights from Dublin – 9 Nights Hotel Accommodation on a B & B basis Coach for the Entire tour – Entry to all Shows and Attractions described FOR INFORMATION & BOOKING DETAILS CALL:

094 90 23663 or Mobile 086 803 5558 E-Mail: eugenejmcdermott@eircom.net

Tour organised in association with Joe Walsh Tours, 143 Lower Baggot St., Dublin 2 Licence No. TO 052 – ATOL No. 5136

News

‘Silent night, lonely night, All too calm, all too quiet’

By Anne Dempsey of Third Age

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undreds of older people will experience a sad, cheerless version of our well-loved hymn this Christmas.

Over 140,000 older people in Ireland live alone, according to latest figures from the CSO. Living on your own does not necessarily mean feeling lonely, but when you factor in age, ill-health, frailty, fears or bereavement, it is understandable that the days and nights can seem grey, long and empty.

Add Christmas to the equation, and you can begin to get some sense of how stark and non-festive the festive season can be for some lonely people.

Loneliness has been described as a state of mind, characterised by feelings of sadness, longing, even despair. We are social beings.

There is increased awareness of the damage that loneliness can do to body, mind and spirit, and we are now learning that loneliness can be a silent killer.

As the number of older people as a proportion of the population continues to increase, this quiet revolution brings its own problems.

Many organisations working with older people this Christmas ask friends, neighbours and the

community as a whole to look for older neighbours.

Senior Help Line, a programme of Third Age, reminds us that their phone service will operate every day throughout the Christmas period and the New Year. The confidential listening service for older people provided by trained older volunteers is open daily 10am-10pm, LoCall 1850 440 444, no call costing more than 30 cents.

People phone because they are lonely, or anxious, or dealing with a particular crisis or problem. Others call for contact and company, and the conversation with the Senior Help Line volunteer may be the only human voice they have heard for days.

Alone’s Christmas campaign reports that loneliness is one of the main issues that older people face.

Sean Moynihan is CEO of Alone: ‘Many older people think that by asking for help and support they are bothering people. We want them to know that they deserve more than a little help and support and they shouldn’t be afraid to ask for it’, he says.

Alone suggests we can help by calling by an older person’s house to say hello, ensuring they have enough food, medication and heat, bringing them out for a drive or to a social event and giving them a

hand with their shopping. Aine Brady, CEO of Third Age Aine Brady, CEO of Third Age, echoes this call by asking people in the community to play their part in reducing isolation at Christmas: ‘The Christmas period can be very difficult for those who are without family, and who are isolated within their community Neighbours, friends and family can make a difference. A phone call or a visit to an older neighbour or family member can make their day. Take the few minutes to brighten someone’s life this Christmas,’ she suggests.

She spoke about the importance of befriending services particularly at this time of year: ‘Christmas is a time for family, of peace, joy and goodwill. But it can be very difficult for older people who may live alone or feel alone. This loneliness can be deepened by the perception that everyone else is feeling connected, happy and fulfilled’.

This Christmas we may have the opportunity to reach out to an isolated older person, and turn their Silent Night into Joy to the World.

Alone 01-6791032 Senior Help Line 1840 440 444 10am to 10m ever day over Christmas

Ballina to run for GOAL on Christmas Morning A Christmas tradition in its 13th year will take place again this year as people from Ballina and the sur-

rounding areas will take part in the GOAL Mile on Christmas morning from 11.00am to 12.30pm. The event will take place in Belleek, Ballina.

Once the presents have been opened on Christmas morning toddlers, children, teenagers and adults in Ballina and the surrounding areas will join in the festive fun to raise funds for GOAL the international humanitarian organisation who are helping develop life saving projects in the poorest regions of the world.

This year more than ever, the devastation in Syria and other atrocities in underdeveloped countries, support for GOAL is needed more than ever.

For thousands of families in Ireland, the annual GOAL fundraiser has become as much a part of their Christmas tradition as mince pies and

roast turkey. There’s no better way to deal with the excesses of the Christmas season than throwing on a pair of running shoes and doing a lap for GOAL. You can run, walk, jog or run. You can even just drop down for a chat, enjoy a few chocolates and make a donation. This is a fun event for the whole family and in the process you will be helping those who have very little.

Last year over four hundred, women, boys and girls took part and in the process raised €3,859.32.

Sponsorship cards are also available from Marion on 086 3644073 if you can raise some money in your place of work or from your extended family.

Hope to see you on Christmas morning.

www.tegre.ie

FREE CONSULTATION IN YOUR HOME OR OUR SHOWROOMS Tone Street, Ballina • Tel: 096-24763 • Mobile: 087-7179599 T: 014298771 (Dublin) | T: 0719145810 (Sligo)

Self Catering Holiday Accommodation in the West of Clare on the Wild Atlantic Way

Our Holiday Homes are cosy, comfortable individual properties located in quiet rural settings near the villages of Mullagh and Quilty in the West of County Clare, near the Atlantic Coast.

The central location on the West Coast is ideal for visting all the sights the area has to offer - from the Burren region and the Cliffs of Moher in the North to Loop Head Peninsula in the South.

Call Tim 065-7087179 or 087-2398236 www.clarecountrycottages.com

Support to persons bereaved by suicide Practical support & information concerning: - The Funeral - The Inquest - Entitlements - What to say to Children - How to deal with Neighbours - Help to clarify your personal grief - Connect you to other support services in your area - Provide info on Suicide and attempted Suicide - Be there, as a Friend, for you

A suicide outreach support person is available to help you Contact the Donegal “Living Links” Support Co-Ordinator on 087-9286007

OVER €10K RAISED FOR SLIGO CHARITIES THROUGH BANK OF IRELAND’S GIVE TOGETHER INITIATIVE 20th December 2016: Bank of Ireland staff raised over €10,000 for charitable causes in Sligo in 2016 through the bank’s flagship charity and community initiative, Give Together. The charity programme gives Bank of Ireland staff throughout Ireland the chance to lend support to their chosen charities or causes through fundraising and volunteering.

Four flagship charities; St Vincent de Paul, Barnardos, Irish Cancer Society and Pieta House were supported in 2016 alongside over 880 community groups and local charities. In total, just over €2 million was raised by bank staff across the country and over 1,000 days were volunteered this year.

Coffee mornings, table quizzes, fun run and Christmas graft fair were just some of the charitable initiatives that helped Bank of Ireland staff raise just over €10,000 this year for local charities and

community organisations in Sligo including; North West Hospice Sligo, Diabetes Ireland and Stokane NS Parents Association Enniscrone. Sligo was also one of the counties that featured in the Big Blue Box initiative which saw Bank of Ireland staff and members of the local community travel by bike through 35 towns along the Wild Atlantic Way in May, raising €80,000 in total for the Society of St. Vincent de Paul.

Joann Hosey, Head of Bank of Ireland County Sligo said: “Bank of Ireland is deeply connected across the whole county of Sligo through its customers, branch networks, staff and community engagement programmes. It is significant that through the combined efforts of our colleagues and Give Together support that over €10,000 has been raised for charitable organisations and that many community groups and initiatives in Sligo have been supported.”

Bank of Ireland staff are pictured at the single biggest Give Together Volunteer Day on November 30th where colleagues from across the country came together to volunteer in charity shops and warehouses for the bank’s flagship charity partners.

Monday -Thursday 9.00 - 6.00pm • Friday 9.00 - 5pm Home and hospital visits Garden/Tone St, Ballina Tel: 096-72189 • 087-6389500 email: begley.john2@gmail.com

Feature by Tara King

MARGO

O'DONNELL Twist of fate creates a Country Music Queen

B

efore music became the cloth from which she would weave a lifelong career, a teenage Margo nurtured high hopes of one day becoming a nurse. Marriage and kids were also an integral part of her life plan. Through tragic circumstances however, fate intervened and changed the entire course of Margo’s life.

“I lost my dad when he was 48,” she begins. “I was the second eldest and I was singing with a local band called the Keynotes at the time. I never thought of it as a career. To me, it was just a fun thing to do. I was 13 when I joined them, and at the time I wanted to be a nurse, get married, have children, etc. But then Dad died.

At the time, I was about to release my first record and when it came out, there was this great urgency from people wanting to know who the Margo one was.

After that first single, I was getting a lot of offers, and in 1969, I was offered £100 a week with a car and a driver to take me to the shows. Mum and I sat down and we talked about it. It was a way in which I could look after my mother, take my father’s place and help raise the rest of my siblings, which I did with great pride. That was how I ended up in the serious side of the music business.”

Despite establishing herself as a country music queen, and

earning countless accolades in the process, Margo still regrets missing out on the chance to have pursued nursing as a career, but even more so, the chance to have had children.

“Not alone did I miss out on the nursing, but I missed out on marriage and kids. I love kids, I adore them. If I were the same girl I was back then, but in this era, I would absolutely have kids, but back then it was taboo for a single girl to have children.”

When Margo first became involved in show business, her presence wasn’t as warmly welcomed as it is today.

“Down through the years, it wasn’t a nice business,” she explains. “It was very rough when I went into it. It was a male dominated business.

Women were not supposed to go there. And then I came along! I wasn’t received very well in the beginning, but things started to break, and it all exploded in 1970 with the release of my second record. I was very unaware of my popularity. To this day, all my friends are the people I grew up with. I don’t think I ever attended a showbiz party. I was very much the kind of person who would do her thing on stage and then go home. I love nothing more than singing but I didn’t like show business.

People used to say I was more like a recluse. I wasn’t a recluse!

I just didn’t like show business. I hold things in my memory of how rough I was treated when I embarked on the music scene and I carry that along with me

Margo in the early years:

“It was rough when I went into it. It was a male dominated business. Women were not supposed to go there...and then I came along...” and sometimes it’s not good.”

Recently, Margo fulfilled a personal ambition, not to mention a great dream of country music fans everywhere, when she collaborated with her good friend, Big Tom, on a song for his upcoming album which will be released early next year.

The song, Margo says, is beautiful, and will be titled, The Love That Lasted Through The Years.

Since then however, Margo has been as good as housebound having undergone surgery on her shoulder. The recovery time of 612 months is one that would greatly test the patience of many.

“It’s very painful at the minute so I’m nearly housebound but that’s ok because I stopped touring extensively about twenty years ago when I got a blood problem that gave me very bad fatigue. I curtailed my touring then.”

Two years ago, Margo also suffered a heart attack following the loss of her

beloved mother, Julia.

“The heart attack was just after mam passed away. Those times were difficult,” she recalls. “Some people don’t have their mother long enough, but if we’d had ours for another hundred years, it still wouldn’t have been long enough. She and I were always very in tune with one another. Before she passed away, she confided in me about everything. She didn’t suffer, she wasn’t ill, but she was disillusioned before she died. She wouldn’t understand a lot of things. She was sad that she couldn’t see what was happening all around her. I think she just gave up.”

Margo admits she found it difficult to return to native Kincasslagh after her mother passed away. In her eyes, home wasn’t there anymore. Her Christmas, she says, will be spent quietly and in the company of friends.

“I won’t be going to Donegal for Christmas because home for me ended when Mam passed

away,” she explains. “I have been back to Kincasslagh, and I will always be a Donegal woman no matter how many years I’m away from it. I went back for my mother’s month’s mind and her first anniversary. Her second anniversary I held here in Castleblayney – it was a mass for her and dad. I have been back to visit the graves, but home isn’t there anymore. That’s something I’m sad about.”

As most people will know, Margo has long been involved in the investigation into the disappearance of Mary Boyle.

The case is one she feels very passionate about.

“My mother and Mary’s grandmother were related,” Margo explains. “Her father was also from the same island that my mother was from. I knew Mary and her twin, Ann. They were such beautiful little girls.

After Mary went missing, at the request of her parents back then, I did several things to try and find out what happened to her.

Page 11 Mature Living

still relates to people who are in the position that she herself once occupied over thirty years ago. The story she recalls is about a homeless man she met on the way to a Catholic club in Fullham Broadway many years back.

“I was singing there one Sunday night,” she says. “As I was walking over to the club door, I heard someone saying my name, almost like muffled whisper. I stopped and listened and I heard it again, and in the corner there was a man sitting on the ground. I walked over to him and he said, “I’ve been waiting for you, I’ve been wanting to get in to the club to hear you sing tonight.” I asked him if he was coming to the show but he explained that they wouldn’t let him in as he was homeless. I spoke with the people who were over the club and I told them that I would take responsibility for the man. All he wanted to hear were the Irish songs. They let him in, and after the dance was over, I went across the road and got him some food.

We were talking and he told me he wanted to come home to Ireland, and then he said, “I drink a lot but I don’t want to drink anymore.”

Her father since died tragically at sea some years back. He died with a broken heart. I don’t think it ever healed after Mary went missing.”

Margo goes on to explain that “there are people very close to Mary who know where her body is.”

“They have withheld information for 40 years now,” she says, “but I will never give up the fight for Mary Boyle. I will always be there and hopefully we will get a breakthrough in the case and find her body and lay her to rest. She should get a decent Christian burial. All I have to say to the people who know where that little girl is, it’s time they came forward. It’s a

Page 12 Mature Living

disgrace that they have held back for so long and shame on the people who know.”

Last year, Margo visited Fatima with Sister Consillo, an experience she describes as “very special”. Another much cherished memory of hers is her visit to San Giovanni where Padre Pio is entombed.

“My father was a very spiritual man and we were brought up Catholics. I would like to think I’m a very good Christian. I don’t run to the church every morning, but I try to do no wrong to my fellow man. When I pray, I pray directly to God and Our Lady and I seem to get answers. I have a Saint that I love dearly and that’s Padre Pio. When I got sick first,

around 20 years ago, I couldn’t walk. That’s when I stopped touring. My one dream was to go to San Giovanni where Padre Pio’s body is entombed. When I got that wish and travelled there, I felt very close to him.”

Looking back on her visit to Fatima, Margo describes Sister Clonsillo as “an angel among us.”

“The work she does with people with addiction is incredible. She gives them a feeling of self-worth. It’s so heartening. She never gets tired of helping other people who can’t help themselves.”

Margo has often spoken publicly about her own battle with alcohol. It’s clear from one particular story she tells that she

Margo continues, “I knew his story because I myself battled with drink for a number of years.

Thankfully it’s been a long time, over 30 odd years since I took a drink. I later went back over to see him. He wasn’t well at the time so I brought him to the doctor. He had some tests done and they found out he had cancer. He had six months to live. It was his dream he would die sober, and he did. I was with him as they buried him.”

“I read every day about the homeless people in Dublin and all around Ireland. I just don’t get how it’s happening in this day and age. We were all put into this world equal and we go out of it equal but it’s the journey in between that’s wrong. If everyone helped another human being to have a little bit of comfort, we wouldn’t have the problems we have in this country. I think it’s very sad we have so many homeless people dying on our streets.”

As our interview draws to a close, Margo reflects on the main lesson life has taught her, and it’s lesson she clearly lives by.

“You always treat people with respect. Always treat them the way you would like to be treated. No question.”

10 TIPS FOR TIRED CAREGIVERS surprised herself, and David, by shouting “why don’t you just go pick it up yourself for once?! I am tired too!”

W

hen someone is diagnosed with cancer, everyone in that person’s life is affected by the diagnosis – family members, friends, coworkers and neighbors … the list goes on. All of these people are concerned about the person with cancer, but it’s usually just one person who takes on the critical and demanding job of “caregiver.”

Being a caregiver can be a full time job. Caregivers bring patients to appointments, listen to doctors’ recommendations, fill prescriptions, call insurance companies, and make appointments. And, on top of countless hours at the cancer center, they also keep everything together at home (child care, bills, dishes, groceries, etc.). Given the enormous amount of time and energy that caregivers spend in the fight against cancer, even the most loving and devoted of them get tired of caring, and may experience something called “compassion fatigue.”

According to Merriam-Webster Dictionary, compassion is “a feeling of wanting to help

someone who is sick, hungry, in trouble, etc.” When you have compassion fatigue, you are literally tired of helping someone else. Compassion fatigue may actually be expected under some circumstances.

For instance, Jill is the caregiver for her husband David who has metastatic bladder cancer. Together, Jill and David have been fighting David’s cancer for 8 months with countless doctors’ appointments, hospitalizations and frustrating calls to the insurance company. Because chemotherapy makes David nauseated, Jill must do all the cooking and cleaning for the couple and their two kids.

Through cancer David has had a lot of worry about missing work and his chance of survival, and so Jill has been listening, problem solving and trying to support David’s emotional wellbeing day and night. About 7 months in, Jill found herself taking longer walks in the evening, hoping that David would be asleep when she got back. She also started getting

irritable before driving to appointments, and would purposefully turn on the radio so she did not have to listen to David. The tension built up until one day, when David asked about his prescription, Jill

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Fortunately, David was able to appreciate that the job of caregiving is demanding and difficult, so he did not get mad at Jill. However, as a couple, they knew that in order to beat cancer they would have to find a way to manage Jill’s compassion fatigue. By recognizing the compassion fatigue and treating it, they were able to avoid getting into more arguments or letting too much resentment build up. Here are some of the key strategies Jill used to treat her compassion fatigue: 1. Take breaks daily. This is a must.

2. Get enough sleep (when possible).

3. Make time for healthy meals.

4. Have a list of people that you can call on for help – and let them help. Check out churches, mosques, temples, community centers, library, adult care services, extended family, neighbors, volunteer organizations and agencies you pay for help.

5. Write out specific jobs for people. Do not feel guilty about asking for help. People feel better when they are able to do something nice for someone.

6. Find something to laugh about, and, if possible, something the patient can laugh about, too.

7. Keep a three-ring binder notebook for all the medical details – include a calendar, a to-do list, copies of test results, and any new questions. Bring it to all the appointments.

8. Bring all the medicines in a bag to all the appointments.

9. Take another break.

10. Have a helpful phrases that you tell yourself, such as “I am just going to do the best I can.”

Repeat this often.

Once Jill was feeling better about caregiving, she and David found themselves enjoying each other’s company again. As David said, “cancer may have made me sick, but we are not going to let cancer make us sick of each other!” Cancer challenges even the strongest marriages and relationships, but once compassion fatigue is addressed, the beauty of people taking care of each other shines brightly.

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Fashion tips for Women Over 50 Fashion

hairstylists and try something new.

Update your makeup.

Don’t overdo it though! Go get a makeover at a cosmetics store to try new looks and get feedback from your fashion friends.

Raid your closet.

Go through all of your clothes.

What have you been wearing and why? What haven’t you been wearing and why? Looking at your current habits in detail will keep you from making similar fashion mistakes when you go shopping this time.

How to Dress Fabulous Over 50 Can women’s fashion over fifty be fabulous? Most definitely.

The fashion arena for mature women that once included muumuu dresses and ugly grandma sweaters is fortunately long gone! Today’s mature woman feels, thinks, and looks younger than her age.

They seek out fashion-forward clothes that allow them to portray a confident, youthful, and vibrant image.

I say, hooray, we can finally look as young as we feel. Follow these fashion tips and you can too!

Updating Your Look It can be hard to branch out and wear styles of clothing, hair, or makeup that might not be familiar to you. Here are some ways to bridge the gap: Find a fashion buddy, maybe a friend or a daughter.

Go shopping with a fashionable friend and get their opinion on what you should wear. Though you might think something is too over-the-top, they’ll be able to give you real input on what looks good.

Update your hair.

If you’ve been wearing the same hairstyle for a few decades, it’s time to change. Go through some magazines and find looks that you like. Ask your friends or

Classic Pieces for Your Wardrobe Items to have in your wardrobe are: Classic blazer Tunic top Cardigan Black dress Pair of great fitting jeans Go from frumpy to fabulous with modern pieces that your grandma wouldn’t have ever dared to wear!

Bring attention to your good features when shopping for clothes. If you have bad legs, wear dark leggings and dresses or skirts that are longer.

Heavy at the waistline? New block designs in women’s wear can actually trick the eye into making you look like you have an hourglass figure!

Women that are heavy in the thighs can opt to wear stretch jeans or dark pants with a patterned top to take attention from them.

Sweaters and Cardigans It’s fair to say that I never owned as many cardigans as I do now that I turned 50. Some women prefer layering with blazers or jackets, but I prefer a pretty sweater.

Today’s styles are feminine, modern, cozy, and make a perfect addition to your wardrobe any time of year.

It makes a woman feel good to complemented at any age, but especially when you’re over 50.

This is one more reason to choose beautifully tailored clothes.

If you’re looking to achieve great style and want to be comfortable at the same time, a draped cardi might just be the answer to your fashion woes.

Perfect for layering, stylish cardigans can be worn over a top, blouse, or dress and can give a boost to your entire look.

Jeans Who doesn’t wear jeans? It’s important to have a pair that makes you feel great.

The jeans from NYDJ are an easy

staple that every woman over 50 should have in her closet.

Seriously. Both comfortable and classic, the boot cut jeans offer a cool silhouette and waist control.

They make dressing a breeze, too. Just toss on a cute top and you’re ready to go! I think you’ll agree that being comfortable in your jeans is something that you demand at this age and here, you have the tummy panel that keeps you controlled but comfortable.

You’ll look great in the figure flattering cut and a dark wash that makes you look slimmer.

Features to look for in jeans: Tummy slimming panel Elastic waist Stretch Dark wash Other good brands: Levi’s Not Your Daughter’s Jeans Lee 7 For All Mankind Outerwear and Jackets Choose luxurious, rich fabrics like buttery leather, soft fur, or cashmere and you simply can’t go wrong.

Here are some good styles: Trench coats Pea jackets Car coats Leather jackets Jean jackets These kinds of coats and jackets are eternally youthful in spirit.

Since they’re such an important part of your look, it’s best to think designer brands when it comes to your jacket.

Here’s what to look for in your jacket: Comfort—How do you feel wearing it?

Close fit—It should be fitted but

not tight. Tailored pieces make you look younger.

Versatility—Can you dress it up and dress it down?

Quality—What is it made of? Will it last?

Style—Is it fashion-forward but not too trendy? You want this piece to last for years.

Shapewear: Shapers, Bras, Waistnippers, and Panties Unless you’re a woman that spends countless hours working out in a gym, (and who does that, unless you’re a rich celebrity), your best plan of attack for shaping and sculpting the old body is going to come from wearing shapewear that offers firm control.

I know you’ll like shopping for shapewear online. Shop for shapers, bras, waistnippers, and panties with brand names like: Playtex Glamorise Crown-ette Bali Leading Lady Valmont Body Image Shoes: Chic and Comfortable Heels shouldn’t be too high.

Instead, opt for strapped sandals, wedges, or stylish flats. Highquality brand name shoes makes much more sense now than those spiked shoes from hell we wore in the 70’s!

Now, we demand something with a go-everywhere walkability that looks good, too.

Finding quality mature women’s shoes isn’t difficult at all now thanks to online shopping.

Look for brand name shoes like: Nine West

Clarks Dansko Birkenstock Born Easy Spirit Softspots Aravon Walking Cradles ECCO Reiker Rockport Swimwear Of course, our bikini days are over now, but there are some really high quality one-piece swimsuits and tankinis that can make you feel attractive in a bathing suit again.

The key word to remember when shopping for a swimsuit now is quality. Don’t run out to Pennys and get something that is cheaply made that any 20-year-old would look good in.

Go for quality now—you have to. I mean, it isn’t cute anymore when one of your straps break or the bottoms slide off when you’re swimming.

Choose reputable designer brands that you like.

I have a Miraclesuit swimsuit that has gotten me plenty of compliments this year. They are on the expensive side, but are well worth the extra cash.

Y

our skin reflects your health.

It’s your body’s canvas and one of its most valuable assets. For good skin care, start developing healthy habits that guard your valued possession from outer (and inner) forces. It’s the only skin you’ll ever get, so your daily habits mean everything. Here are some basic skin care tips: Clean and moisturize your skin daily. Wash your face twice daily — once in the morning and once at night before going to bed.

After you cleanse your skin, follow with a toner and moisturizer.

Toners help to remove fine traces of oil, dirt, and make-up that you may have missed when cleansing.

Moisturizing is necessary even for people with oily skin. Buy a moisturizer that is best suited for your skin type (dry, normal, or oily).

Block the sun. Over time, exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun causes many changes in the skin, including wrinkles, discoloration, freckles or age spots, benign (non-cancerous) growths such and pre-cancerous or cancerous growths such as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. In fact, most skin cancers are related to sun exposure. Limit your time in the sun, especially between the hours of 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., and always wear a broad spectrum sunscreen with the physical blocker zinc oxide and a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or greater.

Cover exposed areas with protective clothing, such as a longsleeve shirt, pants, and a wide-brimmed hat.

Seek professional help for skin problems. Your skin will not be perfect. It can be dry or oily; it can develop rashes and acne, among many other issues. Address the problem with a professional skin expert, either a skin aesthetician at your local salon or a dermatologist for more severe skin problems.

Self screening. Over the course of your life, you should pay attention to all parts of your skin. Familiarize yourself with it, so you’ll notice any changes that might occur, such as different moles or

patches that might indicate skin cancer. Whenever you have a question or concern, make sure you see your doctor.

Skinny or plump, you can have cellulite. But extra weight often makes it more visible. If you’re overweight, the best remedy is to shed a few pounds. Try to lose weight slowly, though. Yo-yo dieting can make cellulite look worse.

If you’ve lost a lot of weight, it might show up in areas where your skin is loose. Ask your doctor about treatments.

Kick the Habit

Get moving. It’s one of the best treatments. It won’t make your cellulite disappear, but strong muscles under lumpy areas can make your skin look more even.

Try a three-part plan: a healthy diet, brisk exercise, and moves that tone your muscles.

Every puff affects the blood supply to your skin. It gets thinner and more likely to sag. This makes the cellulite on your arms, thighs, and bottom more visible.

Ask your doctor which stop-smoking method is best for you.

Eat More Raw Foods

Massage the Dimpled Zone

Eat more fiber — in whole grains, fruit, and vegetables — instead of “empty”-calorie foods. The simple or “refined” carbs found in many breads, candy, and soft drinks add calories. This leads to

Take Products on a Test Run

Indulge in a Body Wrap Hit the spa! A body wrap can tighten and smooth your skin for a while. The effects last about a day, and costs vary. A body shaper or an elastic bandage wrapped around your cellulite zones might give you spa results for less cash.

Lose a Few Pounds

Smooth Moves

Exercise Smart

grade. The catch: It could take a year or two!

fat, especially in cellulite-prone areas.

Top Cellulite Fixes and Treatments

Cellulite: Most women have it on their thighs, bottoms, or bellies.

It’s normal, but if yours bothers you, there are ways to make it less noticeable.

dimples less noticeable for a while.

Take a few extra minutes every day to fgive these spots a firm rubdown.Try it in the shower or when you apply lotion. Massage improves blood flow and gets rid of excess fluid, which may make

Creams with plant extracts might make your skin look better for a while. For example, products with caffeine can help quickly tighten your skin. But would a massage or your normal moisturizer work just as well? Run a test.

And before you slather yourself with a new product, try a small dab so you know how your skin reacts.

Add Retinol Cream to Your Routine When you scan ads for firming creams, look for the word retinol.

It won’t cure cellulite — nothing does. But it can improve your skin’s look and texture. A product with 0.3% retinol is best. You need to use it for at least 6 months to see effects. It should thicken your skin’s outer layer to help cover bumpy areas underneath.

Smooth on a “Bottle Tan” If you have fair skin, a self-tanner may help. Dimpled areas are less noticeable on darker skin. Start with a gentle body scrub, then apply a self-tanning lotion to cellulite areas only. Next spritz your entire body with a tanning spray.

Pass on a real tan. It’ll damage your skin and make cellulite look worse.

Massage and Suction Team Up Lipomassage uses a rolling suction device to gather and massage your skin. it may take several sessions to get results. The benefits are likely to go away unless you have it done over and over.

Bring the Heat With Lasers and RF Lasers or radiofrequency (RF) blast your skin with heat, plus added massage and suction. The treatments can give your bumps a smoother look — in some cases, for 6 months or more. They don’t hurt much, but can be expensive, and you may need several visits.

Cellulaze Shows Promise This surgery zaps cellulite at the source. The doctor slips a laser under your skin to shrink fat cells, cut the tough bands that cause bumps, and thicken your skin. Results should last a year or more, but the long-term effects are unknown. Make sure you go to a board-certified plastic surgeon for this procedure. It may not work well if you’re very heavy or have severe cellulite. Ask your doctor for guidance.

Single Treatment Success

Step Out in Support Stockings

Modern support hose don’t look like those thick, saggy things your granny wore. If you wear them often, your skin should look smoother because they help prevent cellulite from storing fluid.

Your doctor or pharmacist can help you choose the right

Cellfina promises to reduce cellulite in a single session. Your doctor will numb the area then make a tiny cut in your leg. He’ll slice through the bands under your skin that cause the lumps and bumps.

The changes should last about 2 years. Cellfina doesn’t work if you have loose skin or so-called “orange peel” cellulite.

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E

ver heard people brag about their early morning runs? Maybe you want to be part of this exclusive club, but you’re not a morning person. Or perhaps you simply want to have more productive mornings and get a jumpstart to your day. Any of this sound familiar?

If doing anything other than sitting on your couch with a large mug of coffee is asking too much of your early morning routine, then read on. The good news is that even if you aren’t a morning person, there are things you can do during the day

that will help boost your morning run habit.

Here are 5 easy tips that will help you rise and run, and give you a super charge before you head into your work day.

to calm your brain and your emotions before bed, begin turning off appliances at 9 pm.

Keep all electronics outside of your bedroom, and snuggle up with a book instead of an iPad.

Go to sleep early the night before.

The battle is won or lost right here. If you go to bed at 12 pm, you won’t want to wake up at 6 am to get in your run before you head to work. The National Sleep Foundation recommends between 7 to 9 hours for adults in the 26 to 65 years old category. And if you need time

Place your workout clothes front and center.

Some people suggest sleeping in your workout clothes to make it easier to head out the door in the morning. But we’ll understand if you aren’t ready for that. There is comfort and hygiene to consider after all.

However, having your workout clothes immediately visible

when your eyes open in the morning will be one less obstacle for you to overcome. It will make your journey from your bed to the road outside one step shorter. Before you go to bed the night before, place your workout clothes at the foot of your bed, or somewhere within arm’s reach.

Drink coffee and get a small bite to eat.

No need to skip coffee just because you’re going for a morning run. In fact, Runner’s World states that studies have shown drinking coffee improves

performance. If you aren’t a coffee drinker, drink your preferred choice of early morning beverage. Chances are you’ll need that boost in the morning, as most people’s blood sugar levels are low when they first wake up. Eat a small portion of something. You don’t want to overload your digestive system. Half a banana, or one slice of toast will do. Eat just enough fuel to get you out the door. You can eat a proper breakfast when you return.

Start off easy.

Warm up your body, by taking those first 5 to 10 minutes very slowly. Start off with a slow walk and gradually increase the pace. Starting off slow does two things for you. First, it warms up your muscles and your body, decreasing your risk of injury.

Second, it makes it mentally easier for you to begin your jog.

As you walk, the brisk morning air will put you in the mood for your run. And soon you’ll actually feel like running, even if you weren’t feeling motivated earlier.

Give your body proper aftercare.

When you return home, take care of your body. Massage your legs for better blood flow, which has been shown to aid in muscle recovery. Take care of your feet and any blisters or other aches that may have formed. Drink lots of water to hydrate after your run. Replenish your electrolytes. Eat a healthy breakfast. Providing your body with soothing care after a run will help your mind and body feel better about embarking on another run the next day. Postrun care helps your body recover from your run. And it also serves as a reward for a job well done, so don’t skip it.

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S

wimming is not just a mere form of exercise, but it’s a survival skill as well. It’s no wonder that many parents teach their kids to swim at a very young age. But what if you go through your adult life without learning how to swim?

How will you survive in times of disasters in the ocean?

If an adult did not learn to swim at an early age, they often develop an irrational fear of swimming that can make learning to swim later in life a challenge. So if you’re an adult who doesn’t know how to swim but want to learn, you have to overcome your fear first. You

water. Remember to keep your mouth closed, then bring your arms forward and slowly raise your legs. Relax in this position until you feel that you need to take more air.

also need to acknowledge the physical and psychological barriers you have now compared when you were younger.

To help you learn, below are tips to help you learn to swim as an adult: Learn the Dead Man’s Float You need to develop some level of comfort in the water to overcome your fear of swimming. Get in the pool, walk around, and learn to maintain your balance. After a while, try to float upright in the pool. Then, take a deep breath and lower your face into the

Practice Breathing Properly Once you’re already comfortable keeping your face in the water, practice your breathing next. Many beginner swimmers tend to hold their breath while they’re under the water. But, the proper way to breathe while swimming is to do it rhythmically. Stand in the pool, breathe in, submerge your head, and then exhale under

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water through your nose or mouth. Repeat the rhythmic breathing until you get comfortable with it.

Learn the Breaststroke As for the swimming strokes, practice the breaststroke first as it’s the easiest to learn. But with learning the arm and leg movements, it is better to take a swimming lesson for adults.

With a professional instruction, you’ll learn the correct techniques, build up your confidence, and gain an understanding of safety in the water.

Learning how to swim as an

adult will give you a new perspective on life. With this skill, you’ll be able to enjoy your beach holidays even more.

You might also want to try wakeboarding, scuba diving, white water rafting and other fun water activities you never think you’ll be able to do. More importantly, you’ll overcome one of your greatest fears – the water.

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I

f you’re divorced, or have ended a long-term relationship, well-meaning relatives and friends may encourage you to start dating again soon. But how will you know when you’re ready for a new relationship?

“This wildly varies from person to person,” says Judith Sills, PhD, a Philadelphiabased psychologist and author of Getting Naked Again: Dating, Romance, Sex, and Love When You’ve Been Divorced, Widowed, Dumped, or Distracted. “Everyone ends a relationship by grieving the emotional investment. For some people, that happens before they move out. Others are still emotionally married after the divorce is final.”

Linda from Clonakilty started dating while waiting for her divorce papers to come through.

“It helped, because I got to see what ‘normal’ looked like,” Linda says. “I also saw that my ex wasn’t the only guy who would want to be with me. It bolstered my confidence for dating.”

Claudia from Limerick needed some alone time to heal before seeking a new relationship.

“Your marriage has died; you need to grieve that loss,” Claudia says. “To move forward, I had to be whole emotionally, financially, mentally, and spiritually. After I accomplished some set goals, I knew it was time.”

Here’s what experts say you should consider before dating: Go by your feelings, not the calendar Some people are ready to date after 2 months; others may need years. Don’t rush. It’s important to experience the emotions associated with divorce.

Give yourself “a little time to think, a little time to grieve, a little opportunity to find someone else,” Sills says.

The ex factor If you’re still thinking about what your ex is doing or whom he’s dating, you’re too distracted to begin a healthy relationship.

“Some people date and even marry to try to prove something to an ex,” says Edward M. Tauber,

PhD, a California-based divorce counselor and co-author of Find the Right One After Divorce.

“You wouldn’t date somebody who’s still tangled up with an ex

emotionally. Why offer that to somebody else?”

Are you open to new experiences?

If you were in a committed relationship for a long time, the idea of beginning a new romance may seem scary. If you’ve recently tried other activities that bring you out of your comfort zone, you could be ready to date.

“Have you done something that’s an affirmation of yourself and your life — made a new friend, taken up a new sport, gotten a haircut?” Sills asks. “You open your heart to new relationships when you’re resilient enough to endure the minuses of dating to get the pluses.”

Accept yourself as an individual Your identity has nothing to do with your dating status. Rather than jumping into a new relationship to avoid being alone, give yourself a chance to explore life on your own terms.

“You can’t heal unless you’re on your own,” Tauber says. “You need to find single friends to have a social life with.”

Things have changed since the

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last time you were dating Not only have you changed since you were last single, but so have your social life, circle of friends, and routines. You might meet a new partner through a friend or by clicking with a mysterious stranger — but you may also want to consider online dating.

“The advantage is you have a pool of people who are looking, like you are,” Sills says. “When you drop off the kids at school, there might be a single person there, but you don’t know them.”

Dating is an adult decision Some single parents don’t date because they’re worried about the effect it may have on their children. You don’t let your children make other decisions for you, so don’t let them keep you from dating if that’s something you want to do.

But be careful.

“Do a very slow introduction of a new partner,” Sills says. “It should be a serious person with the potential of a long-term relationship who comes to dinner or the zoo as mum or dad’s friend.”

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Preventing Varicose Veins and work your way up. This way you’ll build muscle while also burning fat and you’ll be more likely to stick with the routine.

Couch to 5K is a great program if you want to be a runner. You can also choose lower impact exercises like walking, swimming, yoga, etc.

Change Up Your Workspace If you spend all day at a desk, you might not think you have a whole lot of options in terms of how much activity you get during the day. To improve your circulation switch from a sitting desk to an adjustable desk. This way you can stand for at least part of your day. Some people like to stand all day. Others install treadmill desks so they can walk while they work. An adjustable desk lets you switch from one to the other as needed.

M

ost women put off worrying about varicose veins because they believe that varicose veins aren’t a risk until they are quite elderly. The truth is that varicose veins can happen to anybody at any age. They are the product of several factors.

According to the experts at the Intermountain Vein Center: “Varicose veins are estimated to affect up to 60% of the Irish adults and are more prevalent in women. Varicose veins are caused by the failure of valves in veins not apparent on the skin surface. Risk factors include: Family history: Heredity is the number one contributing factor to the formation of varicose veins. Up to 50% of people with family history will develop vein disease.

Sex: Visible varicose veins are found nearly twice as often in women.

Pregnancy: Increased blood volume and hormones during pregnancy contributes to the

weakening of veins and valves.

Age: Gradually the valves in veins weaken from years of use, allowing blood to reflux or travel in the opposite direction.

Trauma: Blood clots and trauma to veins can cause valves to no longer function, leading to the formation of varicose veins.

Occupational: Sitting or standing for extended periods of time can contribute to vein disease. Blood is pumped back to the heart by muscle contractions in the leg. Sitting or standing puts more strain on veins as they return blood to the heart.”

If you have a history of poor circulation or have noticed symptoms commonly associated with venous disease, it’s a good idea to get a thorough workup by your physician. They can help you figure out whether your varicose veins are a simple issue or something that requires professional intervention. If your issues are simple and your doctor allows you to self-treat here are some things you can do

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to heal your varicose veins and prevent them from happening again in the future.

Choose Your Clothing Wisely Nobody really wants to police your fashion choices here. What we do want to suggest, however, is that you wear looser fitting clothing. Clothing that is tight or binding can put your circulation at risk and even cut

off circulation to various parts of your body, increasing your risk of varicose veins. Choose clothing that fits properly or is even a little bit loose to promote blood flow and comfort throughout the day.

Compression Gear Compression clothing is the exception to this rule.

Compression clothing– particularly for feet and legs has proven to be quite useful in the reduction of swelling and pain for people who are prone to clots and can help alleviate varicose veins as well. Talk to your doctor before you incorporate these pieces of clothing into your wardrobe, though. There is such a thing as wearing the clothes for too long.

There are plenty of other home remedies for varicose veins that you can try. Some of these might help improve the aesthetics of these veins. The only real way to get rid of them, though, is with medical intervention.

Thankfully, if you use these tips and adjust your lifestyle accordingly, you can prevent them from happening in the first place.

Eat Properly Most varicose veins are the result of circulation interference with certain areas of your veins.

A healthy and balanced diet will help you maintain a healthy body weight and keep your veins from clogging up with unhealthy cholesterol, fats, etc. If you’re unsure where to start making dietary changes, look for “heart healthy” nutritional plans and meal planning guides.

Working Out A sedentary lifestyle is perhaps the biggest contributing factor– outside of genetics–for varicose veins. When you don’t move very much, your blood tends to pool and your circulation shows down. You don’t necessarily have to go from spending every night lounging in front of the TV to going for hours long runs immediately. In fact, it’s better for you if you don’t. Start slowly

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ccording to the World Health Organization (WHO), lifestyle modifications—enjoying a healthy diet, keeping up with physical activities and saying no to tobacco—could prevent “at least 80 per cent of premature heart disease, stroke and Type 2 diabetes and 40 per cent of cancer.”

And while we don’t know exactly whether these famous faces followed those rules, they certainly did something right.

Although the possibility of living to 100 is a lot more plausible these days than it used to be, it’s still a significant milestone that calls for celebration.

So here are the legends of longevity—and their quips on aging.

Olivia de Havilland Born: July 1, 1916 in Tokyo, Japan Age: 100 On aging “I would prefer to live forever in perfect health, but if I must at some time leave this life, I would like to do so ensconced on a chaise longue, perfumed, wearing a velvet robe and pearl earrings, with a flute of champagne beside me and having just discovered the answer to the last problem in a British cryptic crossword.”

Gloria Stuart Born: July 4, 1910 in Santa

Olivia de Havilland

George Burns

Irving Berlin

Gloria Stuart Monica, California Died: September 26, 2010 Age: 100 On her Oscar nomination for Titanic (1997) “When I graduated from Santa Monica High in 1927, I was voted the girl most likely to succeed. I didn’t realize it would take so long.”

Bob Hope Born: May 29, 1903 in London, England Died: July 27, 2003 Age: 100 On aging “I don’t feel old. In fact, I don’t feel anything until noon. Then it’s time for my nap.”

George Burns Born: January 20, 1896 in New York Died: March 9, 1996

Bob Hope

Elizabeth, the Queen Mother Age: 100 On aging “As long as you’re working, you stay young. When I’m in front of an audience, all that love and vitality sweeps over me and I forget my age.”

Elizabeth, the Queen Mother Born: August 4, 1900 in London, England

Died: March 30, 2002 Age: 101 On living life to the fullest “Wouldn’t it be terrible if you’d spent all your life doing everything you were supposed to do, didn’t drink, didn’t smoke, didn’t eat things, took lots of exercise, and suddenly, one day, you were run over by a big red bus and, as the wheels were crunching into you, you’d say, ‘Oh my God, I could have got so drunk last night.’ That’s the way you should live your life, as if tomorrow you’ll be run over by a big red bus.”

Irving Berlin Born: May 11, 1888 Died: September 22, 1989 Age: 101 On life “Life is 10 percent what you make it, and 90 percent how you take it.”

Kirk Douglas Born: December 9, 1916 Age: almost 100 On aging “Age is in the mind. I’ve survived a helicopter crash and back surgery. I have a pacemaker. I had a stroke that almost made me commit suicide.

But I tell myself, I have to continue growing and functioning. That’s the only antidote for age.”

HOW WE CAN HELP YOU You can’t put your finger on it but you’re not on top form.

You feel tired more often, you’re emotional and the things you used to love doing now don’t hold the same appeal - You can’t really generalise how struggling to cope can make you feel or act, but if you think these symptoms sound like you or someone you know, please get in touch with us now.

FREEPHONE: 116123

Talk to us any time you like, in your own way, and off the record – about whatever’s getting to you. You don’t have to be suicidal. Please don’t suffer alone.

Food and Drink

FOOD&DRINK The flavor combination of chocolate, coffee, and sugar in this cake is simply addicting. I love how you can take something simple like an angel food cake mix and make it spectacular with just a few added ingredients.

Ingredients: • 1 box (1-pound size) one-step angel food cake mix • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa • 1 1/3 cups very strong decaffeinated coffee, cooled • 8 ounces light whipping cream or Light Cool Whip® (optional) Preparation: 1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Move oven rack to lowest position if you're using a tube pan, or the middle position for loaf pans.

2. Mix cake mix with cocoa in large glass or metal bowl at low speed until blended.

3. Pour in coffee and mix at low speed until moistened. Then beat exactly 1 minute at medium speed. Pour batter into an ungreased tube pan (10x4-inch) or two (9x5-inch loaf pans).

Ingredients 1 cup peeled and diced carrot 1 cup peeled and diced parsnip 1 cup diced celery root 1 Delicata squash, seeded and diced (you can leave the skin on) 2 shallots, sliced 3 tbsp olive oil 2 sprigs fresh thyme salt and pepper 1+ 6 tbsp olive oil 1 shallot, minced 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh rosemary salt and pepper 2 tbsp roasted pumpkin seeds Method Preheat oven to 350° F. Toss carrot, parsnip, celery root and squash with shallots, olive oil and thyme and season lightly. Place in an 8-cup baking dish and roast for 30 to 40 minutes, until vegetables are equally tender. Remove thyme sprigs.

Heat 1 tbsp oil and sauté shallot for 1 minute over medium heat. Whisk in mustard, vinegar and rosemary and reduce heat to low. Whisk in remaining 6 tbsp oil in a slow drizzle and season to taste.

When ready to serve, toss vegetables with vinaigrette, garnish with pumpkin seeds. Serves 6 as a side dish.

Page 20 Mature Living

4. Bake 35 to 45 minutes for tube pan, and 33 to 43 minutes for loaf pans.

Cake is done when crust is deep golden brown and cracks on top appear dry.

DO NOT UNDERBAKE. 5. Cool tube cake upside down on a glass bottle or heatproof surface until completely cool. Cool loaves in pans tipped on side on cooling rack until completely cool.

6. Loosen edges with flat knife or metal spatula to remove from pans.

7. Whip up whipped cream if desired, adding powdered sugar to taste toward end of whipping.

Yield: 12 servings Nutritional Information: Per serving (without whipped cream): 159 calories, 4 g protein, 36 g carbohydrate, 0.5 g fat, 0.3 g saturated fat, 0 mg cholesterol, 331 mg sodium, 1 g fiber. Calories from fat: 3%.

Per serving (with light whipping cream): 214 calories, 21 mg cholesterol, 6 g fat. Calories from fat: 25%

Like the best dishes, this soup tastes like way more than the sum of its parts.

I mean, who would guess that brussels sprouts, potatoes, and sausage could be so incredibly crave-able? It's hearty for cold fall or winter nights, and its deep, rich flavor tastes like it's been stewing for hours, but it's actually ready in a snap.

Ingredients • 1 or 2 sausages (fresh or smoked) • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth (if you have homemade broth around, use it!)

• 1 pound potatoes, cut into bite-size pieces • 1 pound brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved or quartered • 1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional) • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper • Prep Time: 10 minutes • Cook Time: 20 minutes • Total Time: 30 minutes • Yield: 4 servings 1. at a medium pot over medium high heat. Brown the sausages and then remove them from pot. Add the broth and potatoes to the pot and bring to a boil.

2. Meanwhile, cut the sausage into bitesize pieces. When the broth is boiling, add the brussels sprouts, sausage, and caraway seeds. Reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.

3. Add salt and pepper to taste.

This beautiful bird will satisfy both the meat lovers and vegetable lovers at your table.

Ingredients 2 tablespoons butter or margarine 2 medium celery stalks, sliced (1 cup) 1 medium onion, chopped (1/2 cup) 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage leaves or 1 teaspoon dried sage leaves 1 1/2 teaspoons chopped fresh marjoram leaves or 1/2 teaspoon dried marjoram leaves 3/4 teaspoon chopped fresh tarragon leaves or 1/4 teaspoon dried tarragon leaves 1/2 teaspoon salt 7 cups soft bread cubes 2 medium carrots, shredded (1 1/2 cups) 1 medium zucchini, shredded (1 cup) 1 cup chopped fresh mushroom (4 ounces) 1 whole turkey, 12 pounds, thawed if frozen Directions •1 Heat oven to 325ºF. Melt butter in 10-inch nonstick skillet over medium heat. Cook celery and onion in butter, stirring frequently,

until onion is tender. Stir in parsley, sage, marjoram, tarragon and salt. Mix bread cubes, carrots, zucchini and mushrooms in large bowl. Add celery mixture; toss.

• 2 Fill wishbone area of turkey with stuffing first. Fasten neck skin to back with skewer. Fold wings across back with tips touching. Fill body cavity lightly with stuffing.

(Place any remaining stuffing in small ungreased baking dish; cover and refrigerate. Place in oven with turkey the last 30 minutes of roasting.) Tuck drumsticks under band of skin at tail, or tie together with heavy string, then tie to tail.

• 3 Place turkey, breast side up, on rack in shallow roasting pan. Insert ovenproof meat thermometer so tip is in thickest part of inside thigh and does not touch bone.

• 4 Roast uncovered 3 1/2 to 4 1/2 hours or until thermometer reads 165°F and drumsticks move easily when lifted or twisted.

Thermometer inserted in center of stuffing should read 165°F.When two-thirds done, cut band of skin or string holding legs. Place a tent of aluminum foil loosely over turkey when it begins to turn golden brown. Let turkey stand 20 minutes before carving. Cover and refrigerate any remaining turkey and stuffing separately.

friends for walks in the park, or for cooking healthy dinners together at home.

Modern society often equates “socializing” with “sitting, drinking and eating high-calorie foods” – but it doesn’t have to be this way. You might find that your friends are interested to share your New Year’s resolutions for healthier living – and you can all help do the dishes.

I

f there’s one characteristic that many women over 60 seem to possess in abundance, it’s our sense of resilience and dynamism. Women over 60 have witnessed massive changes in society and in ourselves during the course of our lives.

As we approach another New Year, it’s time to take stock of what else we might like to change in our lives by setting some New Year’s resolutions.

What Are the Best New Year’s Resolutions for Women Over 60?

New Year’s resolutions can be daunting for some people – it might seem like too much change, too soon. Or other people might feel discouraged by past years’ New Year’s resolution ideas that they fell short of achieving.

But the truth is, if you want to make some changes in your life, it is never too late. The best way to achieve your New Year’s resolutions is to focus on actionable, practical goals and start small – small habits make for big results over the long term.

In this article, I want to focus on offering a few New Year’s resolutions for women in three main areas of focus: health, financial security, and independence for women over 60.

Here are a few ideas for how you can make your New Year happier, healthier and more prosperous: Create an Exercise Plan Many older women want to do more to enjoy our health and physical wellness – not only for the purpose of prolonging our most active years as we get older, but also for the immediate enjoyment of exerting ourselves and feeling a sense of physical fulfillment.

A smart New Year’s resolution idea is to ask yourself, “What do you want to accomplish with your physical health in the New Year?”

You can start by trying a new sport for the first time, or set a goal to participate in a 5K fun runor begin your yoga journey.

Whether you want to join a fitness club, hire a personal trainer, or just go for a walk in

the neighborhood each day, the New Year is an ideal occasion to set goals and begin tracking your progress.

Do Something Active Every Day Even if you don’t want to train to become a world-class athlete, every woman over 60 can benefit from regular physical activity. You can start very small if you like – for example, set a goal of exercising or walking or swimming for 10 minutes each day in January, and add 1 minute of exercise time per day.

By the end of the month, you’ll be up to 40 minutes per day of regular physical activity.

Make Health and Fitness Into Social Events Eating healthier and getting more exercise does not have to be a monastic, solitary pursuit.

Just because you want to eat better and exercise more in the New Year doesn’t mean you have to abandon your friends.

But instead of meeting your friends for restaurant dinners or sedentary sessions of coffee and conversation, start meeting your

Build a Financial Plan Whether you want to make your retirement savings last longer or earn some extra money on the side, the New Year is an ideal occasion to reflect on what kind of financial life you want to have.

Track your spending for a month and figure out where your money is going. Are you spending too much on dinners out, impulse purchases, or frivolous things? There’s a saying: “Selfdiscipline means giving up what you want NOW for what you want MOST.” What do you most want to do with your money in the New Year? Do you want to travel more? Give more gifts to your grandchildren? Donate to a favorite charitable organization?

Do you want to save more money for the future, or even start a “side hustle” to make extra money in your spare time?

Now is the time to create a detailed plan for what you want to do with your money in the year ahead.

Be More Productive Do you ever feel like time just flies by, often without enough to show for it? Whether you’re still working at a career or easing into life in retirement, we all have personal projects and goals that we want to accomplish. How can we do more of the work we value most in the New Year?

Here is a productivity idea from famous American comedian Jerry Seinfeld: it’s called “Don’t Break the Chain.”

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Page 24 Mature Living

The concept is simple: whatever goal you’re working toward, commit to spending some fixed amount of time each day on working toward that goal – even if it’s only 15 minutes per day.

Each day you work on the goal, you can mark an X on the calendar for that day.

Before long, you will have a long “chain” of X’s marked on the calendar, showing the proof of your hard work and discipline. Once you have momentum going, you won’t want to “Break the Chain” and undo the sequence of X’s that you’ve created.

Try it and see – sometimes having visual proof of our hard work is very satisfying and keeps us working harder than we would have done on our own.

Honour Your Independence Women over 60 are often interested in exploring new passions in life, new interests, new hobbies, or just taking time for ourselves. How can you integrate this idea of independence into your New Year’s resolutions?

Perhaps you could try this. For each month of the new year, give yourself a different “independence” related goal – something new that you’ve wanted to try, some new place you want to visit, or some daylong block of time that you want to carve out just for yourself.

This could include travel, crafts, yoga, sports, writing, music, art, and self-expression of any kind, time with family or grandkids – whatever you like.

Would you like to take an art class, or perform music at an open mic night? Would you like to have a day in the city, just for yourself, to explore museums or see a movie or attend a concert? Would you like to have a special day at the zoo with your grandkids, or rent a sailboat or have a picnic in the park? Whatever you want to do, write down a list of 12 “independence goals” and work to fulfill them throughout the year.

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C

ycling is one of the best exercises you can do to get in shape, stay limber, and promote health throughout your life. If you are over 50 years old, you don’t have to give up your dreams of bicycling through your neighborhood, the local park, on nature trails, or any other place that you enjoy.

In fact, cycling at an older age is beneficial in many ways.

According to the National Household Travel Survey, biking for adults over 55 has risen nearly 40%, and those numbers will continue to increase as mature individuals realize the superb advantages of cycling.

Consider some fundamental reasons why cycling at any age is a healthy, smart choice.

Stay in Shape and Control Your

Weight For many people, growing older can make the task of weight management more difficult. Packing on the pounds by simply sitting still indoors, or in front of the television or computer all day can sabotage your health and even speed up the aging process. If you are looking to lose weight, cycling is an excellent way to transform your whole figure.

Not only is cycling fun, but keeping the weight off is a superb advantage.

The act of cycling engages the entire body, and this form of exercise is a prime choice for anyone who wants to incorporate an effective workout into daily life.

Cycling is a low-impact exercise that tones and strengthens your

legs, abdomen and back, and tightens your arms.

A cycling power meter like the PowerPod Power Meter is an excellent way to raise your cycling performance and determine how much energy you are expending at the same time.

Armed with this information, you can burn more calories by monitoring your pace and stay on track with your exercise and weight loss goals.

Improve your Health and Fight Disease Studies indicate if you can exercise at least 30 minutes a day moderately, astounding health benefits will flow into your life. According to the Department of Health and Human Services in Australia, cycling can also help older folks

to avoid strokes, heart disease, osteoarthritis, and even reduce the risk of colon cancer and breast cancer. Those who have already developed a condition can use cycling to manage it better. Stress contributes to aging and disease, but cyclists can relieve stress and alleviate depression by taking a ride.

Sedentary older adults are at a higher risk for all kinds of conditions, so it is important to develop an exercise routine for wellness that gets you up and moving. Noted cosmetic surgeon Dr. David Cheang recommends that aging patients who primarily live a sedentary lifestyle take up some form of regular exercise to strengthen the body, reinforce good health, and age well.

For Strength, Balance, and Better Coordination Many older adults are prone to falling due to a sensory decline in later years. According to the Journal of Physical Therapy Science, cycling can improve strength, sense of balance, and total body coordination so that such accidents are less likely to occur in aging persons.

Individuals note improvements in muscle strength, joint mobility, and overall flexibility.

As you become a seasoned cyclist, even greater benefits will emerge.

Look and Feel Younger Beauty begins from the inside, and cycling can help you unleash your inner spring of youth. Cycling has always been a favorable form of exercise and a cool recreational activity, but the idea that you can look and feel younger is more motivation to start today and keep doing it. Cycling improves circulation all over your body, making your skin look and feel more refreshed. When you sweat, dangerous toxins are flushed from your body that pollutes your system and makes you look older. In addition, regular exercise can give you an energy boost that lasts all day long.

Cycling is one of the best forms of physical activity that you can do to stay in shape, remain limber, and naturally fight the onset of aging, obesity, and disease. Like any other form of exercise, committing to cycling regularly provides major health benefits and lasting results that are worth striving for. Millions of people in every country enjoy the benefits of cycling, and as more aging people start to realize its benefits, the world can expect the interest in cycling to continue to grow.

Join the cycling revolution today, and start changing your life for the better.

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Wellness

Bad Breath Prevention in Older Adults: Tips to a Healthier Mouth may also want to suck on sugarfree candy or throat lozenges.

Dentures, Dental Implants and Bridges As you age, your chances of having more dental work can increase. Whether you have a dental bridge, implants, dentures or partials, the artificial teeth can collect bacteria over time. This is especially true if food or other particles get caught in between the false teeth. To prevent bad breath, you need to regularly clean your dentures with the right cleansing solutions. If you have a bridge, crown or dental implant, floss and clean underneath the tooth.

Illnesses and Diseases Other illnesses and diseases can be at the root of your foul smelling breath, especially if you’ve had a cold, pneumonia or sinus infection. Taking medicine to correct certain

O

ften referred to as halitosis, bad breath is an embarrassing condition.

But for older adults, it can an even greater problem because they are commonly susceptible to dental problems and medical issues. In order to keep your mouth smelling fresh, you want to find the offending source of the problem. The following are causes and tips to prevent bad breath from occurring.

Periodontal Disease There are a number of circumstances that can contribute to a healthy lifestyle such as where you live, what you eat and how much you exercise. If you want to get rid of bad breath as you age, you want to focus on better nutrition and good oral hygiene.

Approximately 50 percent of

adults face chronic halitosis.

While the foul odors emitted may be temporary and caused by specific foods, there may be other serious issues to blame.

Brushing your teeth is a simple task that should be done a minimum of twice per day. You should also get into a regular flossing regimen. These exercises can get rid of plaque that may be causing bacteria to form in your gums and teeth. As you age, periodontal disease is more common, especially in those past 60 years old. As the gum disease worsens, so does the noxious odors. You can reduce your chances of bad breath by brushing and flossing your teeth thoroughly. You also want to schedule regular dentist appointments. A professional cleaning is an excellent way to remove plaque and tartar build

up. Your dentist may also assess your teeth and gums for serious mouth issues that could be causing the bad breath.

Xerostomia (Dry Mouth) Dry mouth is another common problem for older adults.

Without enough saliva to rinse away food particles, bacteria can form and take up residence in your mouth. Medications can also be at the root of xerostomia, so you want to schedule regular exams with your dental practice. Individuals who are undergoing treatment for cancers such as chemotherapy, diabetics and autoimmune diseases may find it challenging to keep their mouths moist. Drinking plenty of water or relying on products that promote artificial saliva can keep bad breath at bay. You

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Page 26 Mature Living

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ailments such as high cholesterol, diabetes, heart disease, acid reflux, depression and antihistamines may all be contributing to your bad breath.

You can speak to your physician to see if there is another prescriptive medication that can help with your medical issues. You may also need to brush more often and use an anti-microbial mouthwash to get rid of your bad breath. Healthy foods such as apples, pears, carrots, celery, broccoli and other produce can also help freshen your breath naturally.

For many older adults, getting rid of bad breath odors is simple to do by following a good oral care program. But if you’re having trouble rectifying the halitosis, you want to consult with your dentist. With a thorough exam and dental cleaning, you could easily reduce the problematic plaque.

DOUBLE DOCTORATES IN ARCHAEOLOGY FOR SLIGO GRANDPARENTS RETIRED COUPLE WITH COMBINED AGE OF 142 YEARS SAY THEY EMBRACED STUDENT LIFE

A

Sligo couple with a combined age of 142 years have both graduated with doctorates in archaeology.

Richard and Betty Gray both now hold the title of “Dr” after embarking on third-level studies at St Angela’s College, Sligo, and NUI Galway (NUIG).

The couple, who have been wed for 48 years and are both parents and grandparents, had retired when they signed up for a parttime diploma course in archaeology at St Angela’s College in Calry.

They both continued with BA degrees at NUIG, achieving first class honours in archaeology and history and archaeology and classics respectively.

They then signed up for a PhD programme under the supervision of Prof Elizabeth FitzPatrick of NUIG. While Dr Betty Gray researched “high-status” drinking rituals in medieval and early modern Gaelic Ireland, her husband focused on settlement clusters at Irish parish churches from 1200 to 1600 AD. The couple have recently been conferred

with their doctorates by the NUIG school of geography and archaeology, along with Dr Eugene Costello and Dr Thor McVeigh. “Very rewarding and satisfying,”was how Dr Betty Gray described the last decade.

“We embraced student life and . . . we made many wonderful friendships through our involvement in the student mentoring programme and college societies,” she was quoted in the media.

Both Grays served as auditor of the NUIG Archaeology society, and

both spent time exploroing medieval and prehistoric landscapes in Ireland, England, Scotland and Wales.

“What began for us as a part-time diploma developed into an incredible shared academic journey,”she went on to say.

“It was not our initial aim to complete a PhD,” said Dr Richard Gray. “The diploma provided a great grounding in archaeology, and an excellent foundation for further third level education.

“The full-time BA was hard work, but we were welcomed and

encouraged by the support for mature students at NUIG,” he said. The couple also availed of the back to education courses and the support of the academic writing centre at the university’s Hardiman library.

The university’s archaeological field officer, Joe Fenwick, described the couple’s conferring as “an outstanding achievement” which would “stand as an inspiration to potential students of all ages – young, mature or ‘retired’ – for many years to come.”

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THE ROYAL FAMILY & SANDRINGHAM H

ere, a peek inside Sandringham House, where Queen Elizabeth gathers her kin for the yearly Christmas celebrations.

The home, built in 1870 by the Prince and Princess of Wales – the Prince was later crowned King Edward VII – as a private getaway for the royals and their family. It has stayed a private home over four generations of monarchs and, as for family, it is still the place where her Majesty

gathers her kin for the yearly Christmas celebrations.

The home itself is open to the public, and many of the ground floor rooms on view are also rooms that the Royal Family use when they are here over the holiday season. Much of the furniture is original to Edwardian times, with a wonderful collection of objet d’art that has been maintained since the days of Queen Alexandra. On the walls, you will find painted

family portraits, but it is the candid snapshots placed in frames around the rooms of the current occupants that reveal a family at play and relaxation. Each room that is open to the public is manned by a guide, who can answer questions about the family and the art and objet collections.

The home is fully accessible by wheelchair users, making this an all-comers welcome home.

The Duke of Edinburgh is in

charge of the care-taking of Sandringham. As part of his management goals, the Duke ensures conservation of the green spaces. He oversees the planting of more than 5,000 trees and miles of hedges each year. The estate also works with local farmers to educate them of better farming practices and more than 200 people are employed by Sandringham estate.

Within the grounds are a tea

shop where you can take afternoon tea as a part of your royal tour, and the royal mews (or garage, to you and me), which houses a unique collection of automobiles and other people movers – the Queen mum’s golf cart, for one, and Prince Andrew’s pint-sized, model Aston Martin (yes, the same model driven by James Bond, 007, bullet-proof shield included), which was propelled by two 12-volt batteries!

A blaze of colour greets visitors on The Woodland Walk, en route to the North Garden.

The estate and its expanse of lawns, including these of the North Garden, is where you might see a corgi or two – or more – taking their morning stroll with Her Majesty.

Not to be outdone, The Queen Mum had her own set of pimped out wheels. A striped golf cart to match her lawn jockey.

The Royal Mews, where the family's collection of automobiles are housed, as well as the stables and a room for a spot of afternoon tea.

Page 28 Mature Living

A sturdy bench along The Woodland Walk's path allows for a rest stop to smell the roses and take in views of the stately manor.

Another view of Sandringham House, from The Dell, over the West Lawns.

The James Bond Aston Marton, which was presented to Her Majesty The Queen while visiting the automobile maker's factory in Buckinghamshire in 1966. It runs on two 12-volt batteries, and was produced for Prince Andrew

Her Majesty arrives at King's Lynn station – yes, Queen Elizabeth II takes the train from King's Cross, just like the rest of us – the nearest station to Sandringham, in time for the holidays, 2014.

And then there's Her Majesty's ride, the Rolls Royce Phantom V. The Queen used the Rolls for official events until 2002.

1969- The Royal Family relaxing in a drawing room at Sandringham House, Norfolk (clockwise) Prince Edward, Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, Queen Elizabeth II, Princess Anne, Charles, Prince of Wales and Prince Andrew.

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Make Lasting Memories that will be shared for Generations with

Uniworld Generations Family Cruises!

Young Ambassadors: Every itinerary features onboard visits from local junior guests (children and teens) who will introduce you to the daily life of local cultures, such as Germany, Austria and Italy.

Uniworld’s “Curious Minds” cultural chats include insight into their lives, such as school, sports and social activities Fresh Perspectives: River cruising with kids allows even well-travelled grown-ups to explore Europe in a fresh new way. Young travellers make great cultural liaisons, opening doors to serendipitous and unforgettable experiences. And they cruise for half price, too!

Young Citizens of the World: We believe that international travel plants the seeds of greater understanding, tolerance and compassion for others, preparing young people to be global citizens and inspiring them to make the world a better place.

Adventures are Measured in Memories: Choose your own Adventure: Uniworld specialises in personalised travel, and that goes for our younger guests as well. Since no two kids are alike, we offer a full range of onshore excursions and onboard activities – some geared for children and others tailored for tweens and teens. So small toes won’t get stepped on.

There are activities onboard for every interests such as excursions for: Arts and Crafts Lovers with

T

ake this year’s holiday beyond the ordinary with a Uniworld Generations specialised family river cruise.

Simply step aboard, unpack once

Page 30 Mature Living

and let Uniworld chart a course for European adventure, history and fun for the entire family. With onboard and onshore experiences specially designed for each

destination, there’s no better way to introduce young people to Europe’s most spectacular cities, where the memories you’ll make will be shared for generations.

You deserve the best. That’s why you’ll want to travel with Uniworld, voted by the readers of Travel + Leisure as #1 in the “World’s Best River Cruising for Families” category for the past four years in a row. On a Uniworld Generations cruise, guests enjoy: • 50% savings off the cruise-only fare for young travellers aged 4 to 18 when travelling with an adult • Convenient departures scheduled during summer and winter school breaks • Exciting onshore excursions tailor-made for families and hosted by local experts • With an average capacity of 130 guests and more staff than any other river cruise line, everyone will be well cared for by the best staff on the river • Services of two dedicated Family Hosts to oversee all activities for young travellers • Complimentary bicycles, helmets as well as Nordic walking sticks, for use onshore • All meals, with child-friendly menus, made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, plus unlimited beverages onboard

• A host of onboard activities, including language lessons, hands-on arts and crafts workshops, dessert making, family talent night and more.

• All scheduled airport transfers • All gratuities onboard and onshore • Complimentary Wi-Fi access What makes Uniworld Generations Cruises Unique?: Dedicated Family Hosts Onboard: Two dedicated Family Hosts for Junior Cruisers (ages 4-11 years) and Young Cruises (ages 12-18 years) will supervise and coordinate engaging onboard activities, giving parents opportunities to enjoy romantic evenings or go to the Serenity River SPA™ for a relaxing treatment while the kids are having fun and making new friends

hands-on activities to inspire creative expression.

Curious Minds designed to cultivate a greater sense of curiosity

Go Active with exhilarating outdoor pursuits geared especially for teenagers Thrill Seekers that will appeal to junior adrenaline junkies Aspiring Foodies for adventurous eaters seeking new flavours Mysterious Stuff for young people who love intriguing tales with a historical twist

you can step right off the ship and immediately start exploring.

Set a Course for Adventure: River cruise ships are very unique and much different than large ocean-going vessels. One of the most intriguing things about them is their small size. River cruise ships can go where larger ships can’t – this is one of the unique features of river cruising.

Our ships are like floating hotels that carry you from town to town, with lots of wonderful things and beautiful scenery to see along the way. Once the ship arrives in port – often docking in the historic heart of grand cities and small towns –

Gems of Northern Italy - 10 Days Milan to Venice onboard the River Countess Available Dates: June 30; Jul 7, 28; Aug 4

Uniworld’s Generations family programme is available on nine European itineraries in 2017: Paris & Normandy – 8 Days Paris to Paris onboard the S.S. Joie de Vivre Available Dates: Jun 25; Jul 2, 9

Danube Discovery & Prague – 10 Days Vienna to Prague onboard the River Ambassador Available Dates: Jul 28*; Aug 6 Rhine-Main Discovery & Munich – 10 Days Munich to Cologne onboard the River Ambassador Available Dates: Jul 14, 23* Classic Christmas Markets – 8 Days Nuremberg to Frankfurt onboard the River Queen Kids Cruise Half-Off**: Dec 15*

Castles Along the Rhine - 8 Days Basel to Amsterdam onboard the S.S. Antoinette, River Empress Available Dates: Jul 12, 19*

Grand European Discovery – 15 Days Cologne to Vienna onboard the River Ambassador Kids Cruise Half-Off**: Jul 23

Delightful Danube & Prague – 10 Days Budapest to Prague onboard the River Beatrice Available Dates: Jun 28; Jul 3*, 26

Splendours of Italy – 15 Days Milan to Rome onboard the River Countess Kids Cruise Half-Off**: Jun 30; Jul 7, 28; Aug 4

Local Guides: Onshore, our select local guides are sensitive to the needs of children and teens and are trained to adjust their guiding styles to young travellers’ attention spans, always making excursions as active, engaging and hands-on as possible

Page 31 Mature Living

Travel

Make Lasting Memories that will be shared for Generations with

Uniworld Generations Family Cruises!

Young Ambassadors: Every itinerary features onboard visits from local junior guests (children and teens) who will introduce you to the daily life of local cultures, such as Germany, Austria and Italy.

Uniworld’s “Curious Minds” cultural chats include insight into their lives, such as school, sports and social activities Fresh Perspectives: River cruising with kids allows even well-travelled grown-ups to explore Europe in a fresh new way. Young travellers make great cultural liaisons, opening doors to serendipitous and unforgettable experiences. And they cruise for half price, too!

Young Citizens of the World: We believe that international travel plants the seeds of greater understanding, tolerance and compassion for others, preparing young people to be global citizens and inspiring them to make the world a better place.

Adventures are Measured in Memories: Choose your own Adventure: Uniworld specialises in personalised travel, and that goes for our younger guests as well. Since no two kids are alike, we offer a full range of onshore excursions and onboard activities – some geared for children and others tailored for tweens and teens. So small toes won’t get stepped on.

There are activities onboard for every interests such as excursions for: Arts and Crafts Lovers with

T

ake this year’s holiday beyond the ordinary with a Uniworld Generations specialised family river cruise.

Simply step aboard, unpack once

Page 30 Mature Living

and let Uniworld chart a course for European adventure, history and fun for the entire family. With onboard and onshore experiences specially designed for each

destination, there’s no better way to introduce young people to Europe’s most spectacular cities, where the memories you’ll make will be shared for generations.

You deserve the best. That’s why you’ll want to travel with Uniworld, voted by the readers of Travel + Leisure as #1 in the “World’s Best River Cruising for Families” category for the past four years in a row. On a Uniworld Generations cruise, guests enjoy: • 50% savings off the cruise-only fare for young travellers aged 4 to 18 when travelling with an adult • Convenient departures scheduled during summer and winter school breaks • Exciting onshore excursions tailor-made for families and hosted by local experts • With an average capacity of 130 guests and more staff than any other river cruise line, everyone will be well cared for by the best staff on the river • Services of two dedicated Family Hosts to oversee all activities for young travellers • Complimentary bicycles, helmets as well as Nordic walking sticks, for use onshore • All meals, with child-friendly menus, made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, plus unlimited beverages onboard

• A host of onboard activities, including language lessons, hands-on arts and crafts workshops, dessert making, family talent night and more.

• All scheduled airport transfers • All gratuities onboard and onshore • Complimentary Wi-Fi access What makes Uniworld Generations Cruises Unique?: Dedicated Family Hosts Onboard: Two dedicated Family Hosts for Junior Cruisers (ages 4-11 years) and Young Cruises (ages 12-18 years) will supervise and coordinate engaging onboard activities, giving parents opportunities to enjoy romantic evenings or go to the Serenity River SPA™ for a relaxing treatment while the kids are having fun and making new friends

hands-on activities to inspire creative expression.

Curious Minds designed to cultivate a greater sense of curiosity

Go Active with exhilarating outdoor pursuits geared especially for teenagers Thrill Seekers that will appeal to junior adrenaline junkies Aspiring Foodies for adventurous eaters seeking new flavours Mysterious Stuff for young people who love intriguing tales with a historical twist

you can step right off the ship and immediately start exploring.

Set a Course for Adventure: River cruise ships are very unique and much different than large ocean-going vessels. One of the most intriguing things about them is their small size. River cruise ships can go where larger ships can’t – this is one of the unique features of river cruising.

Our ships are like floating hotels that carry you from town to town, with lots of wonderful things and beautiful scenery to see along the way. Once the ship arrives in port – often docking in the historic heart of grand cities and small towns –

Gems of Northern Italy - 10 Days Milan to Venice onboard the River Countess Available Dates: June 30; Jul 7, 28; Aug 4

Uniworld’s Generations family programme is available on nine European itineraries in 2017: Paris & Normandy – 8 Days Paris to Paris onboard the S.S. Joie de Vivre Available Dates: Jun 25; Jul 2, 9

Danube Discovery & Prague – 10 Days Vienna to Prague onboard the River Ambassador Available Dates: Jul 28*; Aug 6 Rhine-Main Discovery & Munich – 10 Days Munich to Cologne onboard the River Ambassador Available Dates: Jul 14, 23* Classic Christmas Markets – 8 Days Nuremberg to Frankfurt onboard the River Queen Kids Cruise Half-Off**: Dec 15*

Castles Along the Rhine - 8 Days Basel to Amsterdam onboard the S.S. Antoinette, River Empress Available Dates: Jul 12, 19*

Grand European Discovery – 15 Days Cologne to Vienna onboard the River Ambassador Kids Cruise Half-Off**: Jul 23

Delightful Danube & Prague – 10 Days Budapest to Prague onboard the River Beatrice Available Dates: Jun 28; Jul 3*, 26

Splendours of Italy – 15 Days Milan to Rome onboard the River Countess Kids Cruise Half-Off**: Jun 30; Jul 7, 28; Aug 4

Local Guides: Onshore, our select local guides are sensitive to the needs of children and teens and are trained to adjust their guiding styles to young travellers’ attention spans, always making excursions as active, engaging and hands-on as possible

Page 31 Mature Living

CONQUER YOUR WINTER DRIVING FEARS

H

ere, simple, effective ways to deal with four major winter driving hazards.

Every year, winter driving is a source of many unpleasant surprises.For many, driving on snowy or icy roads is a cause for alarm and even a source of stress. Black ice, loss of control, other drivers, and snow storms are the four major fears identified by the over fiftiesin a recent Michelin survey.

To give you some insights into these problems and allow you to benefit from the experience of a pro, we asked Richard Spénard, professional race car

driver and driving instructor, to share his know-how with you.

He offers some simple, effective ways to deal with these four major driving hazards this winter.

Black ice: slow down That thin layer of transparent ice is almost invisible on the road - that’s why it is indisputably the most dangerous of surfaces. So drive slowly while frequently testing your vehicle’s braking ability by regularly tapping lightly on the brakes to check their reaction and the grip of your tires. That way, you’ll be aware of the

driving surface and won’t be taken by surprise.

Loss of control: focus on your destination When you lose control of your vehicle, it can be difficult to resume your initial direction. If you lose control, always focus on the direction you want to go rather than on the obstacle you’re trying to avoid. Take your foot off the accelerator, avoid wrestling with the steering wheel, and, above all, don’t slam on the brakes. This simple technique will help you avoid many problems.

Other drivers: keep your distance Although some people believe they are past masters at winter driving -beware. Nobody is safe from dangerous weather and road conditions. Be wary of other drivers. Drive defensively, slow down, and keep an even longer distance than usual between yourself and the vehicle ahead of you.

Snow storms: prepare for the worst Nothing beats preparing your vehicle to meet any situation.

Get into the habit of checking weather conditions before

Marian Harkin MEP

If I can be of assistance on any issue, please contact my office to make an appointment.

Constituency Office: 28 Emmet Place, Union Street, Sligo.

Tel: 071-9145888/9145890 / Fax: 071-9141973 Monday to Friday 10am - 5pm Email: marian@marianharkin.com Website: www.marianharkin.com

“MEP of the Year” Award Winner 2011 & 2012

setting off and delaying or moving up your departure time based on the forecast. Also prepare an emergency kit containing a blanket, flashlight, matches, toque and mittens.

Remember that it’s important to prepare carefully for every trip and to remove all the snow from your vehicle to ensure maximum road visibility.

For more details or tips, stop by Michelin’s Winter Driving Academy. This interactive website offers educational content developed to help conquer your winter driving fears.

Angelscope for January

with Fiona Faery

F

iona Faery is an Irish Psychic Medium who unites people regularly with their loved ones in spirit & also offers psychic guidance with her Faery oracle card readings. She is a regular on Irish radio & has monthly columns in various publications. Fiona is known for her optimistic no-nonsense approach to life. She teaches workshops on mediumship and helps 'baby' mediums build their confidence & step into their power. Her spiritual poetry has found a home on her Facebook page; Fiona Faery where she posts a daily poem. Her poetry is aimed to motivate & empower, as Fiona believes in helping people connect with their soul purpose. She reads internationally through her website www.fionafaery.ie

Aries Angel of New Love For my single Arians, this month will see new adventures and new opportunities for love. Get out and about! For coupled Arians watch out for special offers and nights out for 2. As 2017 heralds a year of peace and joy.

Lucky Day: 14th January 2017 Lucky Colour: Gold

Taurus

Gemini

Cancer

Angel of Celebration This is your year Taurus, cease all opportunities with both hands outstretched. Expect the unexpected. Believe you can achieve and success will be yours this year.

Lucky Day: 21st January 2017 Lucky Colour: Purple

Angel of Divine guidance The trick to be successful this year Gemini is to visualise success.

Don’t get caught up with excuses, as all you will find will be blocks to your success. Lift up your head and your thoughts, focus on your dreams and ambition and get out there and make life happen for you.

Lucky Day: 20th January 2017 Lucky Colour: Lilac

Angel of Blessings Cancer, focus on counting your blessings instead of your blocks! In this very moment, list 3 things you are grateful for. The more you focus on the abundance in your life the more you will attract into your life. Surround yourself with positive people who raise your energy not lower it.

Stop crossing oceans for those who wouldn’t cross a puddle for you!

Lucky Day: 24th January 2017 Lucky Colour: White

Leo

Virgo

Libra

Capricorn

Angel of ideas & Inspiration If you feel guided to take a course, take up a new hobby or join a gym, this is the month for you! Trust your gut feeling, you may see repetitive adds, feel guided to go to certain places, this is your higher self urging you to step into your power. Stop looking for conformation from outside, your inner wisdom is waiting for you to listen! Lucky Day: 19th January 2017 Lucky Colour: Silver

Angel of Divine Timing The angels have a saying, all things happen in divine timing and in divine order!

This is where we learn the lesson of patience. It is one of the more difficult lessons to learn! Please know that your angels are working behind the scenes so that your wishes may be fulfilled. It is in divine order for you…

Lucky Day: 15th January 2017 Lucky Colour: Purple

Angel of Answered prayer Have you asked your angels for help lately? For someone who is so quick to help others, you ask for so little for yourself, it is time for you to ask for heavens help. Ask and you shall receive. Feathers, coins and robins let you know that spirit are near and listening.

Lucky Day: 30th January 2017 Lucky Colour: Black

Angel of Forgiveness Forgiveness is a gift to the self … for when you forgive a person, you free yourself from the cage of anger, resentment and loss. By forgiving, you are not saying it was ok but, what you are saying is I will no longer be held captive by another’s actions on my sanity.

Lucky Day: 31st January 2017 Lucky Colour: Moss Green

Aquarius

Pisces

Sagittarius

Scorpio

Angel of Retreat Let go and let God. You are placing too much attachment on a person, situation or event at this current time. You need to step back and allow perspective find you. Sometimes when we distance ourselves from the issue we find another option / alternative that was not available to us. Be open as help comes from an unlikely place.

Lucky Day: 26th January 2017 Lucky Colour: Topaz

Angel of SelfAcceptance It’s time to show your inner critic the door! If you’re sick and tired of feeling dumped on, it’s time to define your personal boundaries. You are the only person who can show the world how you deserve to be treated NO spells NO! Lucky Day: 27th January 2017 Lucky Colour: Rainbow

Angel of Balance This month shows an emphasis on physical wellbeing and health, perhaps after the excesses of Christmas you may have over done things slightly! Be gentle with yourself this month, get out in nature, take long baths and ease yourself back into the new year. Seek the balance within.

Lucky Day: 24th January 2017 Lucky Colour: Pink

Angel of Intention Our intentions shape our reality.

Are your intentions positive or do you foresee failure? Raise your vibration and be aware of any negative thought patterns that you allowed to enter your mind set. Scorpio, this could be your year it is yours to own, set the intention and be aware of any thoughts that spring to mind. You are worth it!

Lucky Day: 20th January 2017 Lucky Colour: Magenta

Fiona Faery gives private 1-to-1 sittings at The Sligo Park Hotel on the last weekend of every month. She is also available for private consultations or One Question readings on her website www.fionafaery.ie You can contact Fiona to Book a Private Reading @ 0863736143

Memories

T

here were hundreds of them. Irish bands of every size, description and musical genre travelling the roads and borheens of Ireland. They travelled the length and breadth of the country from the 1950's through the mid 1980's.

Although "officially" the term showband was coined in the late fifties and was used to describe bands that played a wide variety of music and usually included a "show" during the night, the term was gradually applied to all the bands that played in the 1960's. As the Irish music scene splintered in the late sixties into pop, country

T

he story of the Smokey Mountain Ramblers started when Jerzy Kryzanowski (better known in Ireland as George Kaye) came to Ireland to busk, having spent time around the folk clubs of England. Instead, he found himself doing the pub scene and formed the Mitchell County Ramblers with Clive Collins. It was late 1967 and George had decided it might be time to go home when he was approached by Galway's Des Kelly of the famous Capitol Showband. Des saw the trend of country music coming to the showband scene before anyone else had a chance to react. George went home for a holiday at Christmas and returned to join a new type of band. Naming them the Smokey Mountain Ramblers, Des wanted something totally different, not like Big Tom or Larry Cunningham (both of whom were more "country n' Irish").

Page 34 Mature Living

bands, the term was dropped but we still find it the best overall description of the bands of the "ballroom" era.

In the early days, they travelled in whatever they could find...bread vans, hearses, and even cars (roof racks and all). In later years, many (if not most) of them travelled in converted Ford Transit vans (like the one pictured right) that were normally used for delivery services. After a couple of windows were popped into the centre panels, a row or two of old airplane seats were installed and the band was ready to travel "in style."

Although style was a matter of

The original lineup of the band included: George Kaye on fiddle, Dave Kearney (RIP) on guitar and Martin Johnson (RIP) on bass (both formerly of The Movement), Paul Kenny (RIP-drums, he had played with the System Showband previously), and John Cook (guitar and dobro, touted as the owner of the "only dobro in Ireland" at the time).

The band hit the road in early 1968 and soon released their first single, "Ballad of Amelia Earhart." Although the band garnered a lot of attention, their strong bluegrass influence did not catch on with dancers who were used to hearing the "country and Irish" music of Big Tom and Larry Cunningham. Early on, John Cook, who worked with Aer Lingus (although he had studied hotel management) in his day job, found life on the road too demanding and decided to leave and was replaced by Lennie Power on

opinion...if you're stuck in the back of a van on a cold and rainy winter's night, it may seem like "a long way to Tipperary," but it's even further to Castletownbere, Co. Cork!

It will be impossible to list all the bands that played the dance halls, ballrooms, marquees, parochial halls, community centres, hotels, and town halls across Ireland but each month we are planning to feature a band from the west with the help of Gerry Gallagher and www.irish-showbands.com .

Apart from a few who enjoy near mythical status (such as the Royal Showband and a

(

guitar.

As the band's single, Amelia Earhart was winding down, Des decided the band needed a vocal front man and to fill out the band's sound to more of a traditional showband lineup. In the October 19th, 1968 issue of Spotlight, a small article announced Pat Ely was joining the band as its new lead singer. Pat had previously been with Carrick-OnShannon's Savoy Swing 7 and was being compared to Jim Reeves in publicity promotions for the Swing 7 (this continued with the early Smokeys). In fact, Pat, Tommy Higgins (keyboards) and Bernie Fallon (drums) had all been with the Savoy Swing 7, who had recently dropped the Savoy off the name and had become simply the Swing Seven who were being managed by Eamonn Hughes. Paul Kenny (RIP-drums) went to the Cotton Mills Boys.

Things were not going well for the

handful of others), most bands came together, played for a few years and then either reinvented themselves, changed their name, or just disappeared, their members either returning to civilian life, or scattering to two or three new bands.

For such a small country, it is difficult to comprehend the

sheer number of bands that the country produced. Almost as hard to imagine, is the number of dance halls that once dotted the countryside, many out in the "middle of nowhere." Pick up next months issue for another blast from the blast from the showband era...

All editorial and photographs are kindly supplied by Gerry Gallagher from www.irish-shownbands.com Over the years Gerry has built up what can only be describe as the definitive guide to the showband era.

I would like to thank Gerry for allowing us to reproduce the articles and photos in Mature Living. If you would like to know more about your favourite band or who was number one in a particular year visit www.irish-showbands.com

)

Swing 7 when Des Kelly contacted the boys looking for musicians to round out the Smokeys.

Shortly after the band expended to a seven piece they embarked on a month long tour of the US Military bases across Europe in March, 1969. At the same time, they released a new single which featured Pat entitled, The Little Folk. Pat's addition to the band paid off with immediate success the record made it to number 13 in the Irish charts.

In April, the band appeared alongside American star Hank Locklin at the Danny Pearse Tribute Concert in Dublin. The country boom was in full swing and the Smokeys were one of the first bands to climb to the top of the new genre.

In November 1969, the band had a scare when George Kaye collapsed on stage in Donegal. He was off the road and hospitalized for several weeks in Dublin, but thank-

fully was not seriously ill. During 1970, the band continued to consolidate its position as one of the top five country bands in Ireland, appearing on the cover of Spotlight magazine. The band also released its first album, The Smokeys, the same year.

In August 1970, the Smokeys were hit by its first serious lineup change when founding member George Kaye decided to return to England and left the band after about 2 1/2 years on the road. In a recent email, George reported that his reason for leaving the band was "burnout, we had played 64 gigs in a row and that did it for me." In an article in Spotlight, co-manager Johnny Kelly reported that George

would be replaced with a sax player, giving the band more versatility in their music. A few weeks later, Johnny's brother Des Kelly responded to the crisis by announcing the Smokeys would be featuring two sax players in the future and would be featuring Cajun music in their updated programme. Joe McIntyre (Swingtime Aces and Johnny Flynn Band) and Tony Cannon replaced George and the band was now an eight piece.

When George Kaye left the band and went to England, he formed a bluegrass group there called White Lightning in the Nottingham area with his brother, Thaddeus Krzyzanowski (RIP - guitar). In May, 1971, George was invited to return to Ireland to form an electric band and he returned with several group members including his brother, Thad, and Terry Foster (banjo). They formed a band called Real Country adding to their ranks Bernie Fallon, (who left the Smokeys and was replaced by Alfie Merrigan), Joe Murray (lead vocals and keyboards from the Firehouse), Vinnie Baker (guitar also from the Firehouse) and Shea Cribben (bass from the Riviera Showband which broke up a few months earlier).

An article in Spotlight dated October 7, 1971 reported that Eileen Reid, former lead singer with the Cadets was joining the band, which was

going to drop the name Real Country and become the George Kaye Band featuring Eileen Reid. The move meant George's brother, Thad, would be dropped from the lineup, which did not sit well with George, and he opted not to play with the new outfit. In the end, Eileen formed a band called The 2nd Sound and George formed a fourpiece bluegrass band, which played acoustic music. The band (pictured below) was George Kaye and the Bluegrass Roadshow. It featured George (fiddle), Thad (RIP - guitar), Bernie Fallon (RIP - string bass) and Terry Foster (banjo).

Vinny Baker (RIP) wrote to tell us that 2nd Sound didn't last for more than two years; they released one single and eventually included Jimmy Day and Eileen Reid in its ranks for about a year. In the meantime, George realized Ireland was still not ready for bluegrass and returned to England yet again.

Eventually George would return to Ireland to rejoin Pat Ely in the Rocky Tops. Thaddeus and Terry stayed in England, but sadly Thaddeus was killed in an airplane crash a few years later. Vinny left 2nd Sound in 1971 and Joe Murray joined the Smokeys before ending up with Margo's Country Folk.

Meanwhile back at the Smokey's ranch, the months after George's de-

parture would result in massive changes to the band's lineup. The Capitol, one of the top 60's showbands on the circuit were on their last legs.

They had been struggling for a couple of years and as the summer season ended, the time came for them to fold.

In an article in the November 4, 1971 issue of Spotlight, Des Kelly announced that three members of the Capitol would be joining the Smokeys: Bram McCarthy (RIP trumpet), Tony O'Leary (vocals), and Mike Dalton (bass). They would be joining Pat Ely, Joe McIntyre (sax), Dave Kearney (RIP - guitar) and Alfie Merrigan (drums). Departing would be Tommy Higgins, Martin Johnson (RIP), and Tony Cannon. The revamped lineup of the band was pictured on Pascal Mooney's "London Calling" page in the November 18, 1971 issue of Spotlight. Dave Kearney left the band at this time as well.

Tony O'Leary had first come to national prominence when he sang in the 1970 National Song Contest, which was won by Dana singing Ireland's first Eurovision winner, All Kinds of Everything. From there he had joined the Capitol as they wound down and then was picked to front the Smokeys.

(After the break up of the Smokeys, he would go on to purchase and then front the Gallowglass Ceili Band.)

The Rocky Tops

With the original members of the Smokeys scattered throughout Ireland, Mighty Avons' manager Charlie McBrien saw an opportunity and contacted Tommy Higgins to see if they could reunite the original band that had enjoyed so much success just a couple of years earlier. As Pat Ely was the only member remaining in the "new" Smokeys, and Tony O'Leary had joined (who could handle lead vocals as he had done with the Capitol), it seemed like a great idea and Pat agreed to reunite with his old band mates.

The February 19, 1972 issue of Spotlight announced that the original Smokey Mountain Ramblers lineup had reformed. In one of the era's most unique stories, the band (which had been chopped and changed over the years) decided it was time to get back together, but as the Smokey's name was already in use, they decided to start a "new" band and used the Rocky Tops. Even though an article in the March 4th issue of Spotlight reported that the original lineup was back together with the exception of one mem-

ber - Tony Cannon from Donegal on sax - this was incorrect as the original lineup had included drummer Paul Kenny who had left to join the Cotton Mill Boys and had been replaced by Bernie Fallon. Additionally, Lennie Power had decided not to join the new band. The Rocky Tops played their first date on St. Patrick's Day, 1972.

The departure of Pat Ely left the Smokeys with Tony O'Leary as their lead singer and a band that was more Capitols than Smokeys. In the Spotlight issue of July 6, 1972, an article about the Smokeys reported their new lineup. The lead singer of the band was Tony O'Leary, who would eventually go on to front the Gallowglass.

Also in the band at that time were Jimmy Murray (guitar), Joe Murray (keyboards), Bram McCarthy (RIP trumpet), Alfie Merrigan (drums), Joe McIntyre (sax), and Mike Dalton (bass). There is some question here about Joe Murray's role as Vinny Baker told us Joe was with Real Country, but Spotlight reported he was with the Smokeys. After leaving the Smokeys in late 1971, by March of 1973 Lennie Power (RIP) was with the folk group Thatch, which also included future Miami guitarist, Des Flaherty. Finally, a record attributed to the Smokeys featuring Anne, was released in 1975, although we are not sure of the lineup at that time. We will try to find out more.

In their short time together, the Rocky Tops released quite a few singles and had three Irish top ten hits: All I Have To Offer You Is Me (#9), Shores of Lough Bran (#5) and Any Tipperary Town (#10). As Pat was singing on all the "hits" it wasn't long before he garnered some attention, even though the band never quite achieved the same success as the Smokeys.

In early 1974, Pat Ely was enticed away from the band by Tony Loughman (RIP) of the Top Rank Organization and was asked to front a new band, the Storytellers. Frank O'Neill, who had been with Enniskillen's Skyrockets, was drafted in on lead vocals with the Rocky Tops and he brought in a guitarist he had played with previously as Dave Kearney (RIP) went with Pat to join the Storytellers.

For the Rocky Tops though, the writing was on the wall. By the end of the year, the Rocky Tops were no more, lasting just about two years. However, for the next thirty years, Pat Ely would continued to perform under the Rocky Tops banner using various lineups for gigs around the country and in Eng-

land. This often included ex-Cottons guitarist, Francie Lenehan, who would also play with the Smokeys 2012 reunion lineup (see below).

Although short lived in comparison to other bands of the era, the Smokeys were one of the first hugely successful country bands to break on the showband circuit. Eventually bands like the Cotton Mill Boys, Ray Lynam's Hillbillies and Bill Ryan's Buckshot would carry the country mantel (non Country n' Irish) through the 70's and into the early 80's, but the Smokeys were one of the first.

Burning brightly for a few years, they often played 7 nights weeks, which, according to Tommy Higgins, was one of the major reasons for their eventual downfall. "Even though we were all young men in our 20's, there was no way we could keep up the pace night after night and in the end, it took its toll on the band. In the end, we played 49 nights in a row and were facing a run of 40 more consecutive nights and at that point, something had to give" explained Tommy recently.

The Rocky Tops would continue on for many years, although on a part time basis. Centered on the musical partnership of Pat Ely and Francie Lenehan, the band played a wide variety of local gigs, dances and tours of the UK in the 1970 and into the 1980's, eventually calling it quits in the early 1990's. Many Sligo musicians played with the Rocky Tops during that time.

Smokeys 40th Reunion Tour October 2012

Over 40 years after their successful run on the ballroom circuit, 2012 saw the Smokeys reunite for a tour of the Irish dance circuit. Featuring original members Pat Ely, George Kaye and Tommy Higgins, the band played a series of dates augmented by former country showband musicians. The new lineup included (left to right): Francie Lenehan (guitar - Cotton Mill Boys, Ranchers, among others), Tom Jamieson (not pictured-drums), Pat Ely (vocals), George Kaye (fiddle and vocals), Liam Gilmartin (acoustic guitar and vocals - Jargon, Ray Lynam Band), Tommy Higgins (keyboards) and Gerry Gallagher (bass and vocals - Magic Band and Kim Newport Band).

Although the tour lasted a month, there has been no word about another reunion at this time (2015). It seems that like so many other bands, The Smokeys have finally called it quits.

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Page 35 Mature Living

TOP EXPERT TIPS FOR DOWNSIZING Less really can be more. Here, the experts share their tips and tactics for downsizing without stepping down. ownership of the dining room furniture, including side-board and china cabinet, which continues to be the setting for Christmas dinners, albeit in a different location.

Aging in place is the boomer’s buzz phrase, but aging in the ideal place should really be the goal. When you consider that moving can be as stressful as divorce, you have to know you’ve made the right move. If you’re changing cities or even communities, never feel rushed.

“Rent for the first year,” Jonathan recommends. “You’re changing your life so take your time. Make sure it’s absolutely right for you.”

Living full-time at the cottage may sound ideal when you’re packing to go back to the city after a month on the lake, but check out what the area is like off-season and decide realistically if you will enjoy the slower pace.

According to Jonathan, the biggest mistake is downsizing too far, leaving no room for hobbies or overnight guests. A three-bedroom, two-bathroom home is ideal, but “the minimum is a two-bedroom, allowing space for your hobbies in a room that can be converted for overnight guests.” An ensuite bathroom off the master bedroom allows you a private sanctuary even with guests.

After all, Drew adds, “Retirement is an opportunity to catch up with old friends.”

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he proliferation of home buying and renovating shows on TV proves I’m not alone in my obsession with seeing how other people live, renovate and decorate at different stages of their lives – just married, expecting babies, up- sizing, adding in-law suites, eventually downsizing.

Helping my 80-some- thing parents recently move from their 2,500 square foot home of 30 years to a 500-plus square foot apartment was beyond downsizing – more like miniaturizing. I should have spoken to the Property Brothers first for useful solutions to the challenges we all face when moving, both esthetically and practically. And knowing that 85 per cent of us want to age in place, we need to know what to look for so that dream, too, can become reality.

Some of you have probably seen

identical twin brothers Drew and Jonathan Scott on Property Brotherson, in which they help couples at different times of their lives and with disparate budgets buy fixer-uppers with the help of Drew, the real estate agent, then work with Jonathan as their contractor to make that house their dream home. The success of the series has spawned two more shows – Buying & Selling and Brother vs. Brother.

Who better to help with the challenges faced by those downsizing – especially when they are helping their parents do that very thing right now?

Minimize Without Miniaturizing Editing big furniture down to size is one of the biggest hurdles. Sectional furniture can be pulled apart to provide comfortable seating in a new

configuration.

“Most of your furniture may be dated and too large for the new space,” says Drew. “My mum became the queen of donedeal and collooney buy and sell. She made €7,000 – it was ridiculous.” More than enough to buy that perfect piece to fit your new space. Consider double-duty items – an ottoman that stores winter quilts, a coffee table that opens up to become a desk, a drop-leaf table that serves as a sideboard but opens up to seat eight.

According to Jonathan, the original price tag of a bedroom suite should not be a factor in your decision to keep it or lose it. “Forget thinking ‘But I spent so much money on it, I gotta keep it.’ “ My mother was happy to see her oversized bedroom set go to her grandson and his wife, and my sister was ecstatic to take

Future Visions Plan ahead when buying your new home. “Think about future mobility restrictions,” Jonathan says. “There should be few or no stairs, no high cupboards.

Minimize the chores and maintenance. But remember you’re down- sizing, not stepping down. Get a house with character but don’t make it too nice – the kids will want to come back!”

But maybe you want your new home to retain its role as the hub of the family, the place your grandkids want to visit.

Keep your living space flexible.

The room you usually use for painting and your partner for geneology research can double as a room for overnighters.

And don’t forget technology – “It’s easy to set up wireless surroundings,” says Jonathan.

“Have a gaming station, room for laptops. Even two-year-olds have games and tablets.”

Staying Put If your current home is where you really want to stay, there are some alterations you can

make to help you age in place happily and safely.

According to Beth Hirshfeld, president of Thrive by Design (www. thrivebydesign.ca) and an interior designer who specializes in aging- in-place and universal design strategies, everyone uses their space differently, so while there is no blanket answer, she is emphatic that you be aware of your changing needs as time goes by.

“There is no one-size- fits-all solution,” Hirshfeld says. But we all face the same challenges as we age, so here are her suggestions to make your home a perfect place to age.

Almost all of us will experience a decline in vision.

Normal aging brings subtle changes: our pupils become smaller and less responsive to changes in ambient lighting; cells in theretina that respond to colour are less responsive. As a result, we need three to four times more light than we did in our 20s.

Adding more lamps or increasing the wattage of existing bulbs can make a huge difference.

And don’t forget strategic task lighting for better il-lumination when cooking, reading and for daily routines.

Lighting is so important that recent research by Thomas Pocklington Trust found that lighting levels were much lower than recommended in the homes of people with sight loss and that 70 per cent reported bumping into furniture or tripping on stairs.

Use of colour can enhance sightlines and help reduce falls, which account for 80 per cent of hospital admissions of people over 65 and often lead to more drastic and unwanted measures such as a move to assisted living. A strong contrast between the colour of the rug and the floor makes it easier to see the edges and avoid stumbling. Think of using contrasting stair run- ners to help reduce the risk of falling.

Arrange your furniture to make your home more condusive to entertain-ing. Having guests sit across from one another facilitates hearing and allows guests to see facial expressions.

Putting your hearing-impaired father at the head of the table is not honouring him but making it impossible for him to follow the conversation.

Hirshfeld insists that modifications made to your home now before they are needed can add to its safety and liveablity, while retrofittings quickly made in response to a health crisis can be unsightly and institutional.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Class Reunion favorite school memory. Helpful prep might include perusing some of your classmates social media accounts before the reunion to get a glimpse of what their life looks like now. Take a genuine interest and you’ll be surprised at how quickly a conversation will come to life!

Don’t over indulge in alcohol – Heavy drinking on such occasions is ill-advised and can make your old classmates uncomfortable.

Keep your wits about you so you can engage in positive conversations with old friends.

Who knows, you just might make valuable new connections.

Finding classmates – One of the biggest tasks in organizing a reunion is locating and inviting former classmates. The further away you are from your graduation date, the more challenging it can be. Sites like Facebook or Linkedin are an excellent resource for locating lost classmates., making it simple to locate

Name tags not optional Consider using photos from the senior yearbook on each attendee’s name tag and add maiden names. People’s looks change over time so this can be a great way for people to make a faster reconnection. As they say, a picture is worth a 1000 words.

Create a video presentation with memorable events from your high school years, this might also include news events that

Primary School identities – Don’t show up with preconceived ideas about classmates who will be attending. While reminiscing about high school nick names and personalities can make for fun conversation, keep in mind that everyone has gone on with life since then. Travels, family, careers all drive personal growth and help people become multi dimensional. Get to know the other dimensions that you didn’t know in high school. Be open minded and listen to people’s stories. Break out of your regular click and make the rounds. Say hello to everyone,

Breaking the ice – Of course, there will be some classmates you may still be in touch with, but there will also be many that you have not spoken to in 10 years or more. It can be intimidating to start a conversation with someone who feels like a virtual stranger, but it’s really not that tough. Easy icebreaking topics include talking about family/kids, career, hobbies, sports, where they live, etc. If you don’t want to make assumptions, ask a very general question such as “what have you been up to since the last reunion or since we were last in touch” or talking about a

Stay connected after the reunion– Once everyone returns to the business of their personal lives after the reunion, it could be a challenge to stay in touch with others. Immediately after the reunion, make sure to connect with the classmates you spent time with at the event on social media. Also, post any fun images you took on the group page and tag your classmates so you can stay connected. Make sure to post fun messages and memories on your classmates’ social media pages for their birthdays and other celebrations. Reach out to your old friends to set up Skype and FaceTime chats to keep your friendships kindled. Also try checking the reunion page here and there each year for followup reunions and always plan to attend with your old friends to maintain your ties.

Reunions can rekindle old friendships and open the doors to new ones. You never know who will show up and how their story will have changed since the last time you encountered each other. It’s always good to go back to our roots and keep those connections alive. Websites like PeopleLooker make finding lost friendships possible, so if you don’t make it your next reunion, you can still reconnect with childhood friends.

In recent decades, women have made progress versus their male counterparts across almost every indicator, from education to career to family life. And yet in retirement, women continue to be influenced and disadvantaged by their traditional roles. Think about the following factors: Women still earn only 0.78 cents on the euro compared to men.

Logically, that means women close to retirement age will have significantly less retirement savings than men, despite all other variables being equal.

Women often take leave from

work or end their careers early for family responsibilities. This again leads to lower savings overall and funding gaps in employer-sponsored retirement plans and social security.

Yet, women can expect to live on average 5 years longer than men, which means that they have a longer retirement runway translating to higher retirement and healthcare costs that, as seen above, women are already less likely to achieve No wonder that today, barely 33 percent of all women surveyed feel they are on track or ahead of schedule in planning

or saving for retirement In light of these realities, women need to be smart about preparing for their financial future and take responsibility for their later years. The good news is that planning ahead and making independent choices will go a long way in ensuring a woman’s path to a secure retirement. Below are some key questions to keep in mind: It sounds obvious, but many women fail to think about their own financial goals, independent of their family or partner’s. It’s not selfish, but rather a responsibility to

yourself to consider your own goals in tandem to others.

Understand your current financial reality ¾ this means taking part in family finances but also knowing where your own money is going. Do you have assets and savings already earmarked towards your goals?

What can you do better and more efficiently?

Do you have an emergency fund set aside to address short term unexpected expenses like healthcare costs or a job change? A cash or savings account with three to six months’ worth of income is the

typical recommendation.

What are the potential risks to your plan? Longevity in retirement, inflation, market volatility, and potential healthcare costs can significantly impact your plan.

Therefore, women need to take a disciplined approach to saving more and managing risks.

Continue to invest in your career. Nothing should stop you from earning an advanced degree or certificate and asking for a raise. Fighting the systematic headwinds will help you actively prepare for you retirement.

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lass reunions can be a blast. It’s the perfect time to reconnect with old friends and catch up on what has happened since the last time you saw each other. If you’re the team that is hosting the event, you may feel a bit overwhelmed with where to start. We have gathered some ideas to help get the ball rolling so you have a successful event and if you’re planning on attending, we have some tips on how to make the most of your reunion.

addresses, emails, phone numbers and social media profiles to extend invitations.

Next, create a website for people to register and social media pages to promote the reunion and start creating buzz.

Post pictures to create nostalgia surrounding the time you graduated. Encourage people to reach out and invite other former classmates they are in touch with to attend.

occurred during your high school decade. This will get people talking and reminiscing about old times and the fun they had together. Providing ice breakers will help the group not limit themselves to their high school clicks.

especially classmates you didn’t know well in school. You never know who you will end up having something in common with. Time changes us and people aren’t necessarily who they were in high school.

Technology

5 TECHNOLOGIES IDEAL FOR BABY BOOMERS operate. Online shopping is particularly popular with baby boomers because of decreased mobility. Plus, they love to find good deals, and the Internet makes it possible to compare the prices and rates of several businesses at the same time without all the extra work of making several phone calls.

A

t the end of World War II, families started having babies at a remarkable rate. Babies born between 1946 and 1964 are now lovingly known as the “baby boomers.”

This generation was originally resistant to technology, but now they are embracing it.

Technology advancements can enhance baby boomers’ lives for the better. Take a look at these five technologies that are ideal for the baby boomer generation.

On-the-Go Technology Baby boomers are retiring from the workplace and starting to travel more. Smartphones and other on-the-go technologies are making traveling easier and more enjoyable. For instance,

baby boomers can use GPS devices in cars and on smartphones to find their way around any destination with ease. Plus, wearable devices with GPS connectivity can help families know their parents’ location for safety.

Smartphones also give baby boomers access to apps that can be used on the go. Travel apps are particularly popular because they tell boomers about restaurants and attractions that are nearby, help them find cheap gas, and carry travel itinerary information.

Communication Technology Social media has changed the way that most people communicate, but baby boomers

have been the most affected group. Boomers grew up in an age where phone calls and letters were the most common forms of communication with loved ones, especially those who were not nearby. Now, they can use social media to stay connected and even chat face to face with their friends, grandkids, and more.

Technology has changed communication in more ways than social media. Text messaging is also popular among baby boomers. Texts are a great way to get instant responses from friends and family because the pleasantries expected from phone conversations are eliminated. People don’t talk on the phone as much as they used to because there simply isn’t time. Texts are essentially instant letters.

Entertainment Technology Of all the generations alive, baby boomers have the most free time and money. That makes them a huge target of the entertainment industry. There are all sorts of entertainment technologies for boomers to enjoy. For instance, eReaders help them read novels and the news on the go without the bulk and clutter of books and newspapers. Plus, eReaders have adjustable font sizes to help older people see better.Flat-screen TVs and cable are also enhancing the lives of baby boomers. TVs come in large sizes to make viewing easier on the eyes, and cable TV can now be accessed on smartphones and tablets so

Information Technology The number one technology that is benefiting the baby boomer generation is the Internet because it provides access to nearly limitless information.

Boomers can find local and world news, travel guidance, retail websites, bank accounts, and so much more through the Internet. Plus, people in this older generation can access the Internet with devices like the Google Nexus 6 that have large HD displays and are easy to

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boomers don’t have to miss their shows when away from home.

Home Health Care Technology By 2030 there will a record number of irish over 65. This will put a tremendous strain on the healthcare system. Luckily, home health care technology is advancing rapidly. This will allow baby boomers to stay in their homes longer because of greater independence. Home health care technology offers all sorts of health tracking devices.

Blood sugar monitoring is the most common, but the technology does not end there.

There are pill reminder apps, glow caps on medicine bottles, and medication dispensers that make taking medicine easier.

Doctors and nurses are also able to provide remote health care because of smartphone cameras. These are just a few ways that technology is enhancing the lives of baby boomers. Driverless cars are only one example of future enhancements as technology continues to advance.

Health

suit your needs.

4. Vinyasa Level: Intermediate to Advanced Ideal for: Those who want to master the art of breathing in time with movement What it is: This style focuses on the coordination of movement with breath as you flow from one pose to the next. For example, with each inhalation, there’s a new pose to move into. Vinyasa often uses sequences and techniques found in Hatha and Ashtanga practices.

5. Bikram Level: Intermediate to Advanced Ideal for: Building flexibility and for those who enjoy hot yoga What it is: Named after founder Bikram Choudhury, this type of hot yoga is meant to mimic the temperatures in northern India— which means studios are heated to a whopping 40+ degrees Celsius. Students move through a sequence of poses—around 26 per 90-minute session—that promotes the loosening of muscles. Don’t forget a towel and a big bottle of water!

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heck out this cheat sheet for the lowdown on the most popular classes offered at the majority of yoga studios across the country. So you’re ready to dive into yoga, but you’re not entirely sure where to start. Your local studio lists as many as 16 different types of classes and now you’re left scratching your head. Do you actually need to start with a beginner’s class? What does Bikram mean? What exactly happens during each class?

There’s a wide array of yoga styles out there, so it’s understandable that it’s a little daunting to get started. Check out this cheat sheet (ranked from easiest to most advanced) for the lowdown on the most popular classes offered at the majority of

yoga studios across the country— and see which ones make the most sense for you and your body.

1. Restorative Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced Ideal for: Those new to yoga or dealing with injury What it is: This class is essentially made up of only four or five simple poses per class, each held for as long as 10 minutes. Using strategically placed props (think: bolsters, blocks, blankets and eye pillows), Restorative is the passive release of the entire musculoskeletal system. It also teaches students the art of selfsoothing and psychic cleansing—essential practices for

those who battle anxiety. You’ll leave class feeling refreshed and relaxed. Note: Many yoga teachers recommend new students start with Restorative before trying the faster pace of a beginner’s class.

2. Yin Level: Beginner to Intermediate Ideal for: Those who want to increase their range of motion What it is: This quiet, meditative class promotes the relaxation of muscles by holding poses for an extended period of time. On the surface it looks easy, but as the minutes tick by, the pose will bring about some discomfort—but that’s OK! By letting gravity do the work, each pose will lengthen the body’s connective tissues and increase your range

of motion (so long as you already have healthy joints). In Yin, you will use between 20-30% of your muscle, predominately working the hips and spine.

3. Hatha Level: Beginner to Intermediate Ideal for: Those who still want to practice the basics What it is: While Hatha classes can vary in terms of speed and intensity depending on the teacher, it’s generally a great introduction to poses (asanas) and breathing techniques (pranayamas). The goal is to gain a better understanding of your body’s flexibility, balance and breath integration. And, if some of the poses are too much to handle, you can ask your teacher for a different variation to better

6. Jivamukti Level: Advanced Ideal for: Longtime yoga practitioners What it is: A highly physical amalgamation of Hatha and Vinyasa sequences, Jivamukti will push yogis to their limits. It also includes spiritual elements, including Sanskrit chanting.

7. Ashtanga Level: Advanced Ideal for: Longtime yoga practitioners What it is: Considered one of the most physically demanding practices, Ashtanga consists of a series of strenuous, unvarying sequences that require the yogi to move rapidly in unison with their breath. Classes tend to include multiple sun salutations, backbends and inversions. On average, there are between 50 to 70 poses in a 90-minute session.

It requires a significant amount of strength, endurance and flexibility.

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isn’t sitting in the fat.

Another way to cut the fat: steer clear of butter-basted turkeys.

What about gravy? Experts say you can make it a little healthier by letting the juices sit in a jug for a few minutes and skimming the fat that rises to the surface. (If you have time, refrigerating it works better as the cold will harden the fat.) Alternatively, serve the turkey with a fruit puree or cranberry sauce instead.

I

n theory, the typical holiday feast shouldn’t be a dietary disaster. After all, turkey is a lean source of protein, we’re offered a variety of vegetables and grains, and a glass of wine even has some health benefits.

Besides the fact that portion control goes out the window (seconds and thirds, anyone?), the extras can do us in. We smother everything in gravy, butter and creamy sauces, load up our plates with refined grains and shake on the salt. Dinner isn’t the only culprit — appetizers, drinks and dessert can have as much fat and as many calories as the meal itself. No need, however, to sacrifice taste or cut out your favourite fare. Here, some tasty ways to bring more balance to the table.

Healthier apps Indulging in a few appetizers can heap on 200-300 calories if you’re reaching for pastries, meatballs, party mixes or creamy dips and spreads. Instead, try salsa,

Page 40 Mature Living

legume-based spreads (like hummus or black bean dip) or bruschetta instead of creambased dips and pâté. Use whole grain crackers or vegetables to do the dipping, like hunks of bell pepper or endive leaves. Serve plain shrimp with a tomato-based cocktail sauce instead of meatballs, and use toothpicks to make skewers of fruit to dip in low-fat yoghurt. Cucumber cups, cherry tomatoes and mushroom caps can make a healthy base for layered or stuffed appetizers too.

Turkey lite Luckily, most cooking methods don’t add a lot of fat or calories to the main attraction. However, like chicken, turkey is at its leanest when cooked without the skin, as that’s where you’ll find most of the fat. If sacrificing that golden, crispy exterior doesn’t appeal, try this tip from the UK National Health Service (NHS): prick the skin to allow the fat to drain off during cooking, and set your bird on a trivet or rack so it

Smarter stuffing ideas Of course, what’s in the turkey matters too. Experts recommend cutting the sausage or bacon from the stuffing and opting for recipes that include vegetables, chestnuts or fruit for extra flavour. Try using whole grain, whole wheat or artisan breads instead of white, or look for recipes that use other grains like rice, bulgur wheat or barley.

Better yet, skip the stuffing and fill the turkey cavity with fruits and vegetables — like quartered apples and onions. (You can even serve them as a side dish too.)

Unfortunately, stuffing is often the culprit in food poisoning because it’s slow to cook and slow to cool, plus the moisture is perfect for growing bacteria.

Health Canada recommends preparing stuffing on the stove top or baking it in a separate dish to dodge this threat. If you prefer it cooked in the bird, make sure to not over-stuff and handle with care.

Better on the side You’ve probably noticed holiday feasts tend to be heavy on the starch — with dinner rolls, stuffing and potatoes — and light on the vegetables. To help restore balance, try skipping some of that starch. For example, replace all or part of the mashed potatoes with mashed sweet potatoes or mashed cauliflower — and save the rolls for tomorrow’s turkey sandwiches.

If you have to have rolls, go for whole grain and keep the portion sizes small. Can’t part with potatoes? Try herb-roasted mini

potatoes that don’t rely on butter or cream for flavour, or bake them to skip the fat altogether. If mashed potatoes are must-have, use ingredients like chicken broth, skim milk, garlic or Parmesan cheese to add flavour and moisture instead of butter or mayonnaise.

What about vegetables? Candied yams and green bean casserole may be holiday mainstays, but there are other options that let the flavours shine through without all the extras. Try steaming those beans and roasting root vegetables instead. Roasting also brings out the best in Brussels sprouts, which can easily be overcooked using other methods.

A mixed vegetable medley with carrots, celery and a variety of colourful bell peppers is packed with vitamins and antioxidants and adds colour to the holiday plate.

And whether it’s a starter or a side, try a salad. Greens like spinach and arugula pair well with reds like tomatoes, cranberries and strawberries for a festive salad. Simply toss with a little olive oil and balsamic vinegar and add a dusting of Parmesan cheese for a festive look.

Sweet indulgences There’s no resisting a little something sweet at the end of the meal, but a rich dessert can add as many as 400-600 calories — even if you aren’t indulging in

a cherpumple. Here are some ways to keep things light and sweet: - Serve up a naturally light choice like baked or poached fruit or an apple crisp. (Look for a recipe with more oats and less sugar, and throw in a handful of cranberries for some festive cheer.) Meringuebased desserts and angel food cake are also lower in fat than other choices, but can be high in sugars.

- Make some healthy ingredient substitutions. For instance, substitute apple sauce or prune puree for up to half the amount of fat or oil required in baked goods like cakes and cookies.

Swap some of the white flour for whole wheat, and try three tablespoons of cocoa powder in place of one ounce of bar chocolate. Top a pie or cake with a scoop of frozen yoghurt instead of ice cream, and use low-fat cream cheese for a cheesecake.

To make a lighter whipped cream, try skimmed condensed milk instead of cream.

Reduce the sugar.

In many recipes, you can reduce the sugar by up to a third without a noticeable difference in taste, say experts. Vanilla extract, almond extract or peppermint can enhance the sweetness without the sugar, and cinnamon and cloves can add some spice. Want an alternative to syrup? Try fruit puree instead.

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Happy New Year!

The 5 Resolutions those over 50 should never ever make T

is the season of broken promises. The flip of the calendar page to a new year always holds such promise as we resolve to change this or that behavior -- lose weight, exercise more, wash that man right out of our hair. You get the idea. But most of the time, our resolve melts away faster than the snow on the ground in Ireland. And what we are left with is muddy brown slush and a pantry full of ready made dinners.

We would like to propose a more realistic list of resolutions for 2017. Here is our list of five resolutions no boomer should ever make.

1) I won't wear reading glasses.

Since our arms don't appear to grow longer with age -- clearly an evolutionary oversight -- it just keeps getting harder and harder for most of us to read.

Do you know what percentage of the population eventually succumbs to needing reading glasses? Try 100 percent. And yet, there are hold-outs among us, resisters of the inevitable.

Now nobody is suggesting that anyone should resort to wearing one of those librarian-like reading glass ropes around your neck to stop you from putting your glasses down and forgetting where they are, but surely it's time to go for the glasses. Don't put it off another year.

2) I won't get a hearing test because there is nothing wrong with my hearing.

There is nothing wrong with your hearing but you need the TV volume turned up high and every time someone says "Did you take out the garbage?" you ask "What's wrong in the garage?" There is a strong relationship between age and reported hearing loss: 18 percent of American adults 4564 years old, 30 percent of adults 65-74 years old, and 47 percent of adults 75 years old or older have a hearing loss, according to the National Institute on Deafness. Don't fight the inevitable because when you do, every relationship in your life suffers.

3) I will retire this year.

While you may like to, and while there may be a couple of generations measuring your office for new drapes, the truth is that mid-lifers are likely to stay working longer. The reason why is simple: We can't afford to retire. The recession blew a whole through our retirement funds and while housing values have ticked back up, we are still shoveling out from our debts. On top of that, many of our adult children are still unsettled, which is a euphemism for unemployed and living in their childhood bedrooms. So don't be making any rash promises to the Harley in the carport that the two of you will be hitting the lonesome highway any time soon.

According to a survey by TD Ameritrade, the average Baby Boomer is a half-million dollars short on retirement savings. And 74 percent of Boomers surveyed

say they will need to rely "heavily" on Social Security in retirement; the average Social Security check is a whopping $1,230 a month. Just rent "Easy Rider" a few more times.

4) I will have amazing sex three times a week, just like I did when I was in my 20s.

We actually don't know anyone over 50 who says this, but for the one guy out there who puts lifts in his shoes and faithfully glues on a hair piece each

morning and thinks this thought in his head, we want to say: No, no you won't. Given the technological and pharmaceutical advances of the past few decades, it shouldn't come as a surprise that many older adults are still sexually vigorous, or as one news outlet quipped, sexually viagarous.

The discussion isn't a whether they are or not -- they most certainly are according to a large Indiana University study -but a how often and how good.

Weigh in, readers, you know you want to.

5) I will skip my mammogram/colonoscopy/pap smear/prostate exam because I just don't have time/don't want to pay the co-pay/find those tests to be so unpleasant.

We hear you on all of the above but don't do it.

Top 10 New Years resolutions for 2014 1 Lose Weight 2 Getting Organized 3 Spend Less, Save More 4 Enjoy Life to the Fullest 5 Staying Fit and Healthy 6 Learn Something Exciting 7 Quit Smoking 8 Help Others in Their Dreams 9 Fall in Love 10 Spend More Time with Family News Years Resolution Statistics

45% Percent of us who usually make New Year’s Resolutions.

17% Percent of us who infrequently make New Year’s Resolutions.

Percent of us who absolutlely never make New Year’s Resolutions.

38% Percent of people who are successful in achieving their resolution 8% Percent who have infrequent success.

49% Percent who never succeed and fail on their resolution each year.

24% People who explicitly make resolutions are 10 times more likely to attain their goals than people who don’t explicitly make resolutions Type of Resolutions Self Improvement or education related resolutions 47% Weight related resolutions 38% Money related resolutions 34% Relationship related resolutions 31% Age Success Rates Percent of people in their twenties who achieve their resolution each year 39% Percent of people over 50 who achieve their resolution each year 14% Length of Resolutions Resolution maintained through first week 75% Past two weeks 71% Past one month 64% Past six months 46%

Golden Moments at Mount Falcon - Free Night included!

Three nights of luxurious accommodation and dinner on one evening from our Bistro menu. Brush up on your golf with complimentary access to the driving range or spend an hour in the Elemis spa with a €25 euro credit toward a 60minute facial or massage. Relax in the 17m pool, jacuzzi, steam room and sauna. Visit the famous Foxford Woolen Mills where you will enjoy 10% off in their bountiful gift shop.

3 Nights only €229

• Subject to availability at time booking • All packages in Mount Falcon are subject to a 5% service charge

per pers on sharing !

MOUNT FALCON, FOXFORD ROAD, BALLINA, CO. MAYO • TEL: 096-74472 • FAX: 096-74473 EMAIL: EVENTS@MOUNTFALCON.COM • WEB: WWW.MOUNTFALCON.COM

The

Kilford Arms Hotel

The Kilford Arms Hotel Kilkenny is situated in the heart of Kilkenny City, adjacent to all the tourist attractions and just meters from the main bus and railway station and the new McDonagh shopping centre. A very comfortable family run hotel with 60 rooms, two bars, fabulous Kilkenny restaurant. Complimentary Private Parking Available on Site.Whether its business or pleasure make the Kilford Arms your home away from home!

John Street, Kilkenny • Phone: 056-7761018 Fax: 056-7761128

Over 55’s Special Offer 1 Night Bed & Breakfast (Sun - Thur) Only €59 2 Night Bed & Breakfast (Sun - Thur) Only €99 3 Night Special Bed & Breakfast (Sun - Thur) €139 Subject to Availability.

Email: info@kilfordarms.ie • www.kilfordarms.ie

Hotel Breaks

5 Reasons a “Stay-cation” Might Be For You

Is everyone around you leaving to take holidays and you feel left out? Not quite in your budget this year for a full-blown holiday? Why not try a “stay-cation?” There are plenty of reasons why this is an ideal choice.

Let’s start with 5 of the best reasons.

1. Refreshes your mind It is important that your mind-set is geared toward a vacation. If you view a stay-cation as though you are just home hanging out for a few days, you won’t experience the rewards you can reap from this adventure. Look forward to this time exactly as you would for an extended vacation. Clear your mind and schedule of the things that preoccupy your time during ordinary days.

If your budget allows, it is an added bonus to stay at a local hotel or bed and breakfast. This isn’t necessary to do, however by doing so, you are not in your home and distracted by daily living. The goal is to keep yourself distracted from the daily grind so that your mind and body have a vacation.

Tip: Check out hotels and b & b’s advertised here to see if you can find any exciting offers to events or places in the area.

Make sure you research things before your staycation so you have things of interest to do.

2. Be a tourist in your own town We all live busy lives running here and there, spending countless hours working, and balancing a home and social life. How often do we drive by a place in our own town and think, “hey, that looks like a cool place to check out?” However, weeks and months go by and we never really fit it into our schedule. A stay-cation is the perfect time to be a tourist in your own locality!

Check out all the things that your vicinity offers and pick out a few of them to explore. You might want to try a new restaurant. It’s fun to pretend you are visiting from another place and critique new places of interest. Observe the area you are living in with fresh eyes just like an outsider would do. It’s amazing how different we view our surroundings when we look at them as though we

have never seen them before.

Another benefit of becoming a tourist in your own location, is you learn the history and stories of the area you call home.

It’s so nice to be able to share random facts with others when they come and visit you from another area! Be as creative as you like in your expeditions of your area. Grab your camera and shoot some amazing footage of where you live!

3. Travel time is minimized Are we there yet? Thirty minutes later; are we there yet? We have all experienced those long car rides where we just can’t wait to get to the destination. The miles slowly go by as get closer and closer to the holiday spot. When you take a stay-cation you can avoid being stuck in traffic and endless hours of travel time. All the time that would be consumed travelling, whether by car or another means, can be used actually doing activities locally.

This adds precious time to the limited time that you have. By exchanging the long trip with remaining local, this also allows you to be refreshed without the feeling of exhaustion from hours of travel. Your stay-cation can start right away not hours after a major road trip. Don’t forget that it is the same for the return home. You won’t have to pack up and face another long journey in the car but rather you can squeeze out more hours of enjoyment of your stay-cation.

4. Works great for a weekend I remember one time wanting to go visit a place but I didn’t have any extra days left to take off at work. After counting the amount of time needed to travel to and from the destination, I realized it really wouldn’t be worth it just for a weekend because I wouldn’t have time to actually relax and enjoy the visit there. Feeling a bit discouraged, the idea popped into my head, why not take the weekend and have a stay-cation instead? I wouldn’t need to ask for holidays from work and yet I would be free to enjoy my weekend as though it were a mini-

vacation. I fell in love with the idea of staycations after taking my first one. It is refreshing to take a couple of days off without focusing on work or home. A staycation is a perfect way to do this.

5. Cost It isn’t necessary to spend hundreds or thousands of dollars for a vacation. If you choose a stay-cation you will be curbing the cost. Some of the costs that will be slashed or even eliminated will be the expense of traveling, (especially with the

current prices of gas) the expensive accommodations, and the cost of eating numerous meals out. I know that I have taken trips where before I have even reached my destination, I will have spent extra money for snacks on the way and stops made at rest areas. These are all savings for you when planning a stay-cation.

You can take a stay-cation on any level of budget.There are plenty of events in your local area that are inexpensive that you can look in to. As a matter of fact, I just

received an email last night about a local bowling alley that is offering two weeks of “free” bowling, you only have to pay for the shoes!

If you investigate venues in and around your area you will find opportunities that exist that many never even stumble on. The communities where we live enjoy bringing in people from their area.

This is a way of free marketing for them. If they offer discounts and specials to those that live in the area it will boost their sales in the long run.

Investigate cost-cutting

ways to make your staycation an enjoyable time.

I have shared 5 reasons a stay-cation might be for you but really it is up to you. You need to do the investigative work on the area you live in. Seek out your interests and find venues that cater to it.

More than likely you will find more than enough to fill a one time stay-cation.

I also have discovered that there are different types of activities available at different seasons. As for me, well, I am already planning another staycation. This one will be for Sping!

Hotel Breaks

Active Retirement Breaks 2017 Two Night Packages (Sunday - Thursday)

January/February from only €109pps March/April from only €119pps May to August from only €149pps September/October from only €119pps November/December from only €109pps

Includes Dinner, Bed & Breakfast, Dis count Vouchers for Local Shops, Complimentr yL Facilities, Ente eisure rtainment Nightly, Free Wi-Fi, Free Car Parking, Bingo, Quizes and Cinema.

Two, Three or Four Night Packages Available No Single Room Supplement

Abbey & Central Hotel's Contact Reservations :074-97-21211 • Email: reservations@abbeyhoteldonegal.com Web: www.abbeyhoteldonegal.com, www.centralhoteldonegal.com Subject to Availability, Excludes Certain Dates - T&C Apply

Ennistymon Co. Clare

Three Nights Break

€220 per person

3 nights Dinner, B&B, Tea & Biscuits on arrival 15% Discount in our Spa

Country Music Weekend with Gerry Gutherie, Patrick Feeney, John McNicholl, Declan Nerney & more

€195

per person sharing March 3rd - 5th 2017, 2 Nights B&B, One Dinner, Entry to all shows

Spring Bridge Breaks With Paul Hanratty

€270 per person

February 19th -22nd 2017 March 19th -22nd 2017 4 nights Dinner, B&B, bridge clinics every morning, afternoon activities in Hotel

No Single Supplement!

Whist Breaks

€255 per person

April 2nd - 6th 2017 October 2nd - 6th 2017 4 nights Dinner, B&B, bridge clinics every morning, afternoon activities in Hotel

No Single Supplement!

Contact Reservations at the Falls Hotel & Spa for bookings and more details on 065-7071004 or email reservations@fallshotel.ie • www.fallshotel.ie

Trip Advisor Traveller Choice Top 10 Attractions Nationally 2016

Discover and Experience...

the fascinating life of a coal miner.

Tours are guided by ex-miners.

A Unique Underground Tour of what was Ireland’s last working coal mine at Arigna, Co. Roscommon

The visitor centre and underground tour are fully accessible.

The walking surface of the mine is mostly tarmacadam and is suitable for any footwear

Hotels

5th-9th December

By Popular demand we’ve added a 4th Week!

Dinner, Bed & Breakfast included Christmas Themed Week With Daytime Activites Plus Live Entertainment Every Evening With Highlight Performance By Robert Mizzell.

Price: €229pps

€219pps 4 Nights - when quoting Mature Living on booking

- Older & Wiser Breaks2 Nights Bed & Breakfast and 1 Dinner

From €149 per person sharing Subject to availability/T&Cs • Weekend supplements apply • Valid from October to February 2017

Why Choose the Royal Marine Hotel?

• Just 20 minutes from Dublin City Centre • 5 minutes from Dun Laoghaire Train Station • Direct access to Dun Laoghaire Pier • Stunning views of Dublin Bay • Home to the luxurious sansanaSpa

DUN LAOGHAIRE, CO. DUBLIN

Telephone: +353 (0)1 2300030 • e: reservations@royalmarine.ie • www.royalmarine.ie

CLAYTON HOTEL SLIGO

1 Night Dinner Bed & Breakfast

50

From

€

Per Person

2 Nights B&B and 1 Evening Meal

80

From

€

Simply Call us today on 071-9119000 or email info.sligo@claytonhotels.com

Per Person

3 Nights B&B and 3 Evening Meals

139

From

€

Per Person

Clayton Hotel Sligo, Clarion Road, Ballinode, Sligo • www.claytonhotelsligo.com

VILLA ROSE HOTEL & SPA - 4 STAR, FAMILY OWNED, TOWN CENTRE HOTEL

Winter Active Retirement Breaks

• 2 B&B + 2 Evening Meals €119pps • 3 B&B + 3 Evening Meals €159pps • 4 B&B + 4 Evening Meals €199pps Includes complimentary refreshments

No single supplement • Available Sunday - Thursday, subject to availability.

November Mini Dancing, Dining & Shopping Package DATE: 21st & 22nd November 2016 RATE: €119pps • 2 B&B with 2 Evening Meals • Dancing Nightly • Local Shopping Discounts • Complimentary refreshments & more

Visit Ballybofey for beautiful walks along the River Finn & Forest Walking Trail, Shopping in McElhinney's Department Store, Villa Rose Spa Treatments, Friendly service and the ambience of this beautiful 4 star hotel

FOR BOOKINGS: Call Tracy on 0749132266 • email reservations@villarose.net www.villarose.net • Main St, Ballybofey, Co Donegal

Hotel Breaks

Golden Years Special (Over 50’s)

1 night’s dinner, bed & breakfast for 2

From €49.50 per person sharing

Relax and unwind in one of our spacious superior bedrooms. Enjoy a delicious two-course evening meal on the night of your stay and a full Irish breakfast for both guests the following morning.

Whether it's a romantic escape or an activity break, you will find everything you need at Twin Trees Hotel.

Enjoy fine food in our restaurant, relax in the bar and unwind at the Twin Trees Leisure Club.

Our Tudor-style hotel overlooks River Brosna and its tumbling mini-waterfalls whilst the vibrant centre of Ballina is only a short stroll along the powerful River Moy. Following the Moy in the opposite direction, Enniscrone's famous golden strand is a mere 12 minute's drive.

Twin Trees Hotel is also a perfect touring base for the West of Ireland, nestled in the heart of Mayo's Wild Atlantic Way.

Twin Trees Hotel & Leisure Club, Downhill Road, Ballina, Co.Mayo Tel: 096-21033 Fax: 096-21338 Email:info@twintreeshotel.ie • www.twintreeshotel.ie

Lifestyle

W

e all know the routine.

The gifts need to be purchased and wrapped, cards signed, parties attended, turkey stuffed, travel plans made, family and friends brought together. And if you're entertaining it all needs to be pulled together in perfect Martha Stewart holiday style.

This on top of the usual day-today demands of work, caring for children and/or elderly parents and other chores – not to mention the financial worries of paying for all the gifts, travel arrangements and other holiday extravaganzas.

No wonder we're stressed, exhausted and in some cases, even depressed.

But there are ways to bring more peace and joy into the holiday season. More realistic expectations, planning ahead and asking for support are just a few ways to ward off the holiday blues. In fact, the Mayo Clinic offers these 12 tips: 1. Acknowledge your feelings. If a loved one has recently died or you aren't able to be with your family or friends, let yourself feel sadness or grief. Take time to just cry or express your feelings. Just because it's the holiday season, you can't force yourself to be happy.

2. Seek support. If you're feeling isolated or downhearted, reach out to family members and friends, or community, religious or social services.

Consider volunteering at a community or religious function.

Getting involved and helping others can lift your spirits and broaden your friendships. Also, don't be a martyr -- ask for help for organizing holiday gatherings, as well as meal preparation and cleanup.

3. Be realistic. As families grow and change, traditions and rituals often change as well. Hold on to those you can and want to, but accept that you may have to let go of others.

For example, if your adult

children and grandchildren can't all gather at your house as usual, find new ways to celebrate together from afar, such as sharing pictures, e-mails or videotapes.

4. Set differences aside. With stress, expectations and activity levels high, the holidays can be rife with family conflicts. This is the time to practice both patience and forgiveness. Set aside grievances until a more appropriate time for discussion.

5. Make a budget -- and stick to it. Before you go shopping, decide how much money you can afford to spend on gifts and other items. Then be sure to stick to your budget. If you don't, you could feel stressed for months afterward as you struggle to pay

the bills. Look for creative gifting options, such as donating to a charity in someone's name, giving homemade gifts or instituting a family gift exchange.

6. Plan ahead. Set aside specific days for shopping, baking, visiting friends and other activities.

Plan your menus and, if possible, make one big food-shopping trip instead of numerous smaller ones. Expect travel delays, especially if you're flying.

7. Learn to say no. Believe it or not, people do understand if you can't take on certain projects or activities. If you say yes only to what you really want to do, you'll avoid feeling resentful and overwhelmed. If it's really not possible to say no when your boss asks you to work overtime, try to

remove something else from your agenda to make up for the lost time.

8. Don't abandon healthy habits.

Don't let the holidays become a culinary free-for-all. Some indulgence is OK, but overindulgence only adds to your stress and guilt. Have a healthy snack before holiday parties so that you don't go overboard on sweets, cheese or drinks. Try to get plenty of sleep and schedule time for physical activity.

9. Take a breather. Make some time for yourself. Spending just 15 minutes alone, without distractions, can be enough to refresh you. Restore inner calm by taking an evening walk under the stars or by listening to soothing music.

10. Rethink resolutions. New Year's resolutions can set you up for failure if they're unrealistic.

Don't resolve to change your whole life, but set smaller, more specific goals with a reasonable time frame.

11. Forget about perfection.

Your life is not a holiday TV special. Schedules go awry, the roast may be over-cooked, old arguments dredged up. Accept imperfections in yourself and in others.

12. Seek professional help if you need it. If feelings of sadness, anxiety and/or hopelessness combined with an inability to sleep or face routine activities persist for several weeks, talk to your doctor. You may have depression.

North West Counselling Counselling for people with addictions eg. Drugs, Alcohol, Gambling • ALSO COVERS GENERAL COUNSELLING • Relapse Programme • One-to-one Counselling • Referral system for private clients to White Oaks Rehabilitation Centre • Addiction and General counselling available

Counsellors are professionally trained and are fully accredited or working towards accreditation.

For appointments ring: 087-2879707 OR 074-9723822 Email: tabourhouse2004@eircom.net Tabor House, Drimark, Donegal Town Afternoon, evening and weekend appointments available

Helping people to recover

WIN A TWO NIGHT STAY IN COUNTY KERRY AT THE KENMARE BAY HOTEL & RESORT

Enter to win our prize of t!o nights Bed & Breakfast for t!o at the Kenmare Bay Hotel.

To be in with a chance of winning this fantastic prize simply answer the question below and send your answer along with your name, address, email and contact telephone number to Kenmare Bay Hotel Competition, Mat"re Living Magazine, OďŹƒce 3, Unit 7, NW Business Park, Collooney, Co. Sligo or alter$atively you can email your ent%& to us at : competitions@mat"reliving.ie T&C Apply, Subject to availabilit& - Not Valid for July and Aug"st

Q: In Which Count& is the Kenmare Bay Hotel Located?

Tucked into one of the most pict"resque cor$ers of the Wild Atlantic Way, the multi-award winning Kenmare Bay Hotel & Resor' is the ideal ret%eat for discovering the gems of the Ring of Ker%& and the Beara Peninsula, hosting that fair&'ale wedding in Ker%&, or relaxing with the family.

Of all the hotels in Ker%&, the Kenmare Bay Hotel & Resor' is the one that Ker%& visitors ret"r$ to again and again.

Once you've stayed here, you'll discover why.

Services Directory

F REE PARKING

Suitable for: • People with limited mobility • People who have had hip surgery • People with back aches

For details of your local stockist

Phone Noel: 087-9896948

WE ARE NOW SEEKING AN ENERGETIC, COMPETENT

ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE To service a growing advertising base in and supplement sales activity across our range of publications.

Sales experience, an outgoing personality, good local knowledge and contacts within the community in Sligo and North Mayo an advantage.

If interested in this opportunity contact: Seamus Casey, Director, at 085-2498067 or, preferably, email CV to seamus@sligonow.ie

WESTPORT

Foot Clinic Westport, County Mayo

DON’T SUFFER WITH FOOT PROBLEMS...

Visit our friendly clinic for all your foot care needs we offer a wide range of treatments including:

• Routine Footcare • Problem and Ingrown Nails • Corns, Callous & Verrucae • Nail Surgery • Biomechanical Assessments • Insoles & Orthotics • Footwear advice Too book an appointment please call Chiropodist Martin McNally on 087-2226260 CLINIC EVERY MONTH IN CLIFDEN IN THE WELLBEING HEALTH AND JUICE BAR

Furniture recovering and restoration including covering of chairs, 3 piece suites, headboards, car seats and boat seats.

Hotel and Bar seating, Office furniture and other Contract / Commercial furniture.

Repair of sails, tents and other outdoor gear for sports and leisure.

We provide a service of Colour consultancy and Interior advice.

We retail upholstery fabrics and essentials.

Collection and delivery can be arranged at a small fee, depending on distance.

Boradruma, Snugboro, Castlebar • Tel: 094 9023532 / 086 8350608 Open Monday - Friday: 9am - 5pm Visit us online at www.boradrumaupholstery.ie

Mon-Thu 9.00 - 6.00pm Fri 9.00 - 5pm Home and hospital visits Garden/Tone St, Ballina Tel: 096-72189 087-6389500 email: begley.john2@gmail.com

Services Directory

MULTIPURPOSE GARDEN SHEDS & GARAGES

Hire / Leasing of: • Wheelchair accessible vehicles • Automatic Cars • Dual Contrl Cars

Sheds delivered & Erected Nationwide

“You tell us the size you want and we will price on that exact size” • Domestic & Commercial BER’s • Display Energy Certificates • Part L Compliance Reports • Energy Audits • Insulation Advice Reduce your Electricity / Heating Bills & Reduce your carbon footprint Improve the comfort Level in your home Energy Improvements pay for themselves over time

Abbey Street, Ballinrobe, Co. Mayo Tel: 094-9542652 Oranmore Business Park, Oranmore, Co. Galway Tel: 091-483809 E: info@freedommobility.net • www.freedommobility.net

All the main supports of our garages are constructed of heavy duty box section steel for strength and durability and are hot dipped galvanised for longer Life.

Our Units are built to withstand the harshest weather conditions. The sheeting is hot dipped galvanised and pvc coated to the colour of your choice.

Contact Pierce O’Reilly • 071-9310315 / 085-8222894 • First Floor, Unit 3, Wine Street Car Park, Sligo • www.propertydoc.ie • info@propertydoc.ie

North West Windows

Contact: Ray Lynch Corlis, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon Phone: 086-8943034 or 094-9621938 • AGENTS REQUIRED

INSULATION SPECIALISTS • EXTERNAL • INTERIOR • CAVITY WALL • ATTIC INSULATION

Prop. Kevin Burns - Belcoo, Co. Fermanagh

Suppliers & Installers of uPVC Windows & Doors

www.wmiinsulation.ie • info@wmiinsulation.ie

White, Wood Grain and Light Oak Finish All Windows Internally Glazed

Tel: 087-2443903

N5 Business Park, Castlebar, Co. Mayo Tel: 094-9038681 / Walter 087-6297979

After 6pm Tel: 048-66386525

MCMANUS - LEITRIM STONE

GS CONTRACTS

GORDON SHERLOCK

Timoney Windows

Specialists in tarmac & asphalt driveways

(The Original Leitrim Stone) Glenfarne, Co. Leitrim

Suppliers of Architectural, Commercial, Building, Cladding and Paving Stone.

Supplying: •Lintels •Corner Stones •Large Stone Slabs for Sawing / Scupting • Building, Paving & Cladding Stone • Dressed / Semi-Dressed, Cladding & Slabs Ideal for: • Architectural Facades • Fireplaces • Patios • Cladding • Walls / Piers • Paving • Headstones

Landline: 071-9855189 • Ita: 086-3774642 • Mobile Francis: 087-7927096 Email: info@leitrimstone.com Web: www.leitrimstone.com • Call us today - no job is too big or small

Specialising in laying tarmacadam, asphalt and stone mastick asphalt.

From small household driveways to tennis courts, large industrial areas, farm roads, estates, car parks and more

Telephone: 071-91-30070 • Mob: 087-2969872

www.sligotarmac.com

FOR A FREE QUOTATION TELEPHONE 091-596808 Mob: 086-8436945 • info@timoneywindows.net www.timoneywindowsandconservatories.com

Services Directory WESTERN WINDOWS & GLASS WESTERN WINDOWS & GLASS Aluminimum, PVC-U Windows, Doors & Conservatories

Aluminimum, PVC-U Windows, Doors & Conservatories

Axis Business Park, Clara Road, Tullamore, Co. Offaly

Tel. 05793 – 51277

Steel Garden Sheds, Garages & Tegkon Custom Steel Buildings TEL: 086-240 7844 • www.candssheds.ie info@candssheds.ie

Add Extra Room to your home!

• A cost-effective way to add an extra room to your house.

Suitable for most bungalows

• Doors can be positioned on any of the three sides of the conservatory for maximum choice and flexibiliy.

No.1in the No.2 Business...

• Septic Tank Cleaning

• Emergency Service Call Out • Odours Investigated • High Velocity Water Jetting • CCTV Drain Inspection • Domestic Drain Cleaning • Commercial Drain Cleaning • Man Hole Covers Replaced • Annual Maintenance Contracts

• Two or four opening windows to ensure good air circulation and effective temperature control • Lead-free A1 rated windows

Abbey Business Park, Ardnaree, Ballina, Co. Mayo Tel: 096-25514 / 096-75521 / 086-8171442 • tahennigan@eircom.net

Contact Damien: 087 297 4842 or 071 916 8086

W

illiam ith

R

yan espect

&S

ons ympathy

FUNERAL DIRECTORS est 1914 We are a family run firm in it’s fourth generation offering a complete & professional 24hr funeral service.

Office: Dangan, Summerhill, Co. Meath F/Home: Church Street, Kilcock, Co. Kildare • Re-lining • Re-building • Stove Installation • Twin Wall Flue Specialists • Insurance Claim Assistance

• Draught Testing • Problem Solving • CCTV Chimney Inspections • Fully Insured

Tel: 087-6196013 / 085-1248560 Email: info@ballinachimneys.ie

Heating Trained

Fully Insured and Free Quotes

Stonemasonry Service • Headstone Sales • Inscriptions • Restoration

Contact Robert Duffy - 096-30003 www.creativememorials.ie

Western Mobility Straight & Curved

• Level Access Showers • Walk in baths

DRIVEWAY PAVING, TARMAC & GRAVEL COVERING DUBLIN, KILDARE AND MEATH Our experienced and professional team can offer you free impartial advice on all your tarmac and paving requirements.

From new driveways, patios, porches and canopies to repair, maintenance and rejuvenation, we can handle all aspects of your paving project from start to finish.

Free no obligation survey

LO CALL 1890-253038 Mobile: 087-7783633

IRISH ASSOCIATION OF FUNERAL DIRECTORS

€3600 SEAI grant for external wall insulation

Stairlifts • Platform Lifts

Call in confidence today William: 087-2053129 Mark: 086-9881771 info@williamryanandsons.com

Telephone: 016972087 John: 0873591000 www.bosspaving.ie Pearse St, Dublin 2

Reduce your heating costs by upto 50% Why Externally Insulate?

• Lowers heating cost up to 50% • Reduced CO2 Emissions • Stops condensation • Stops draughts • No cold bridges • Stabilisation of interior environment • No reduction in interior floor space • Helps prevent mould and fungus growth • Wall will act as thermal store (thermal mass) • More thermally efficient than any other wall system • Weather-protecting finishes • European Technical Approval ETA-06/0187

For a quote or for more information please call John on (087) 2500960 or Colm on (087) 7462971 Doocastle, Ballymote, Co. Sligo www.doohanexteriorinsulation.com

Services Directory

East Brothers GARDEN MACHINERY

ALL UPHOLSTERY WORK UNDERTAKEN Bars, Hotels & Private Houses Fabric Books Available Cashel, Carrick on Shannon, Co. Roscommon Tel: 071-9622700 Mob: 086-3486267 Email: txupholstery@yahoo.ie Web: www.txupholsteryservices.town.ie

• Petrol Chainsaws for Property Maintenance • Chainsaws for Agriculture and Horticulture • Electric / Cordless Chainsaws

BOYLE, CO. ROSCOMMON

Tel/Fax: 071-9662710 • Mobile: 086-2427554

Security Building Systems

CCTV • INTRUDER ALARMS • FIRE SYSTEMS

Only

Call Kieran on 087­834­3755

€540+vat

Email: homesinsula"on@yahoo.ie

With our home intercom system installed, you will be able to check house visitors first by just speaking through the intercom and waiting for the visitor to answer. You can even just check who the visitors are by viewing them at the intercom’s screen. Not having to open the door right away for visitors is one way that home intercom systems can give you protection. supplied by

‘Don’t delay, LAST chance to avail of grants’

DEAD AND WORN-OUT ANIMALS Contact: Tom Rogers Strokestown, Co. Roscommon SAME DAY COLLECTION SERVICE SERVICING LEITRIM & SLIGO FARMERS FOR OVER 20 YEARS

071-9634783 / 9633344 Only Licensed Knackers Yard & Service in NorthWest Lowest Prices and Daily Collection Guaranteed

...everlasting

Choosing a memorial for a loved one is a very personal thing.

Quality • Experience • Service

Security & Peace of Mind with our Home Intercom System

• Powerwall External Insula"on Contractor ­ Grants up to €3600.00 • Cavity Wall / A$c Insula"on BER Grants up to €500.00 • Extensions, New Buildings, Roof, A$c Conversions, etc

GIBLIN STONE

Telephone: 086-8317297 Email: darren.carrol1@me.com www.securitybuildingsystems.ie

Buildings, Roofs and Driveways

External House Maintenance • Power Washing.

• Moss and Algae removal from Buildings, Roofs, Patios and Driveways.

• Gutters and Fascia Cleaning.

• Window Cleaning Services.

• Garden Maintenance • Rental Property one-off clearouts.

Contact Pat: 087-6430873

GRANITE COUNTERS & FIREPLACES IN MARBLE, GRANITE ALSO AVAILABLE, CALL US TODAY FOR DETAILS

Church Street, Tubbercurry, Co. Sligo Phone: James 087 9061833 • Brian 086 1957788

www.giblinstone.com