Mature Living Connacht

PROMOTING A HEALTHY & POSITIVE LIFESTYLE August 2014

The Gift of Active Retirement

Colour and the Garden

New rules for dating over 50

Ease your pain at the pump

Faith, Family and Herbs

www.matureliving.ie

August 2014

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T’S August already but the warm weather, thankfully, remains with us. For those of us who are active and enjoy travelling in Ireland, there is a plethora of Summer festivals and musical events around the country and if you choose to come West (or live in the West for that matter) the muchsignposted Wild Atlantic Way provides a coastline map for any tourist/visitor to experience the beauty of our western coastline and soak up the social hospitality along the way. If you are in the West this week a visit to Sligo is a must to experience the All-Ireland Fleadh. The local community have left no stone unturned to provide visitors from all parts with a week to remember. With Sligo’s cultural and musical tradition, in addition to the county’s natural beauty, it is certainly the place to be this week.

Our one-and-one personality this week, Sean Boylan, the legendary former Meath GAA football manager and herbalist, also speaks in praise of the west of Ireland, particularly Achill Island, which he visited for many years when his children attended Scoil Acla. Sean, now 70, fully fit and in fine health, speaks to Gerry Walsh about his sporting, business and family life and the positives of having a strong simple faith to bolster him through good times and bad. Married at 47 and father of six, his attitude to life and love makes for interesting reading.

In this issue, also we offer some practical advice on how to enjoy and active retirement and if you are into dieting to lose weight or achieve better health we point out some of the reasons why many diets don’t work . . . though in reality, we it may be down to simple indiscipline.

There may be a misconception that older people are not attuned to computing technology; however, more are more seniors are embracing online opportunities and gadgetry to enhance their lives. Online dating allows lonely people chat with potential companions from the comfort of their homes; there is also the facility for online shopping and the benefits of social media and audio books. Read about the many innovations on page 45. We also deal with the many benefits of hypnotherapy.

In our holiday section this issue we move down under and explore the many wonders of Australia, where many Irish people have travelled in recent years seeking employment opportunities and many of their relatives are combining social visits with opportunities to experience the sights of the vast continent.

We present some culinary ideas from Spain and herald Westport’s Food Festival in September. We include the usual array of features and competitions in your August edition and look forward to introducing another feast of articles in our September issue. Look out for details, also, on our next Mature Living Expo coming your way.

In the meantime, enjoy the rest of the Summer.

Seamus Casey - Editor

LAST MONTH’S COMPETITION WINNER The winner of last months breakaway to the Breaffy House Hotel in Castlebar was Diarmuid O’Hoare from Boyle.

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

News Forks at the ready for September’s Westport Food Festival 2014 One to One with Sean Boylan Older Celebrity Brides How to pick the Best Bathing suit Five reasons most diets fail Give Yourself the Gift of Active Retirement Colour and the Garden Angelscopes A taste of Spain The Bands of our Showband era Travel: Fancy heading down under?

Visitor Centres Discover fun and exciting hobbies From Empty Nest to Full House: Preparing for Eldercare Competition The New Rules for Dating After 50 Ease your pain at the pump this summer Services Directory Dating

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Published by: IBS Publications Limited Riverview House, Barrett Street, Ballina, Co. Mayo and Office 3, Unit 7, NW Business Park, Collooney, Co. Sligo.

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.

Cover Photo: Tina and Sean Boylan on the way to the game. GAA Football All-Ireland Senior Championship Quarter-Final, Dublin v Kerry, Croke Park, Dublin. Picture credit: Ray McManus / SPORTSFILE

News

Improving your Game Article written by Deirdre Cooke of Deirdre Cooke Opticians

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here is a wealth of scientific evidence to prove that physical exercise contributes enormously to both our physical and mental health.

Regular exercise increases cardiovascular health, and reduces the risk of conditions like diabetes, hypertension, asthma and cancer. It improves our bone density and has been proven to be associated with better self-esteem and psychological wellbeing. Sports like squash, tennis, badminton and football involve a ball or shuttlecock travelling at high speeds. In sports like badminton, where doubles are played, there is also risk of impact from a partner’s racket. Impact in these sports can cause eye injuries.

According to Deirdre Cooke, these can range from a less serious corneal abrasion to potential loss of sight caused by a retinal detachment. In any sport where there is a risk of impact, she advises that specific sports eyewear should be worn.

Eyewear which is suitable for sports like football and racquetball contain lenses made from a high density polycarbonate

material. Polycarbonate lenses are toughened to minimise any potential risk of breakage from high impact, she explains. The frame is also made from a tougher material than a normal spectacle frame.

Golfers will benefit enormously from using sports eyewear with an amber contrast filter which enhances the colour of the fairways and green. They also provide full UV400 protection and block out the harmful blue light. As Deirdre Cooke explains, this blue light is associated with cumulative damage to the retina, which may lead to Macular Degeneration (AMD). Along with protecting the eyes from harmful UV light, outdoor sports like cycling and clay pigeon shooting will require sports eyewear with a range of clear and tinted lenses. Deirdre explains these lenses can easily be interchanged according to weather conditions, improving visibility and contrast.

Whether you enjoy a bit of fun in the swimming pool and sea with your children, or are competing at a more serious level, prescription swimming goggles will give you comfort and confidence by allowing you to see clearly in the water. With living so close

to our beautiful coastline; sailing, fishing and surfing are all very popular sports. At Deirdre Cooke Opticians we carry a specific Aqua frame which contains a polarised lens and can be glazed to suit most visual needs. This offers UV400 protection along with reducing unwanted glare from the water. Polarised lenses selectively block out glare instead of dimming the entire field of vision. Traditional sunglasses may reduce glare, but they may also block out subtle details about the surroundings because of the dye used in tinting the lenses. Whether you are a deep sea diver or simply enjoy a quiet game of snooker, the range of prescription sports eyewear currently available is extensive. Each sport will require different features to be included to maximise the benefits you can achieve in your chosen sport and ensure you have the best protection your eyes deserve. The good news is that there is a wide range of prescription sports eyewear available so there is no reason for your sport to suffer! For further details on the range of sports eyewear available, pop into Deirdre Cooke Opticians or contact us as below.

Where to now for savers?

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ll of us have abiding memories of our school days.

It can be an event, an achievement or, in my case, a phrase.

The phrase that has long lived in my memory came from my physics teacher – an astute and measured individual - who regularly declared “that for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction”.

Those words of wisdom are particularly apt in the context of the European Central Banks decision to cut their lending rates on Tracker Mortgages.

It’s natural that those who have these mortgages rejoice at seeing monthly instalments decrease but as my former physics teacher pointed out there is an equal and opposite reaction.

The reaction in this instance is the fall in rates currently being offered by the banks. If you have money on deposit the fact is that saving rates have more than halved from a high of over 5% AER two years ago. The knock on effect is that banks here are trying to shore up their balance sheets and so the ECB rate cuts has a negative reaction on deposit rates.

DIRT Rate Increase With decreased interest rates the Government in their wisdom have decided to increase DIRT to a punitive 41% or even 45% for some people who have unearned income from rent, deposits and dividends of over €3174 each year. Subsequently, up to half of the miniscule interest you receive from

the banks is taken in tax - bearing in mind that this money (in most cases) has already been taxed as income tax!

DIRT free deposits accounts for those aged 65 and over These accounts allow you to receive any interest earned on money on deposit, paid to you without the deduction of DIRT, where you satisfy certain conditions: • Are aged 65 or over?

• If married or in a civil partnership the total annual income for you and your spouse/partner will be below the relevant annual exemption limit.

• Exemption limit for a single person is €18,000p.a. and for married/civil partnership is €36,000p.a.

So what are the best options out there for savers who don’t want to take any risk?

Currently the best fixed term annual deposit rates on offer are between 2% and 2.25%. Depending on how long you want to tie up your money for PTSB offer 2.25% AER (annual equivalent rate which should always be used when comparing different rates.) They offer this rate over 16, 18 and 24 month periods and I believe it’s a rate that won’t be around for long so well worth looking into if if you are DIRT exempt.

What about An Post DIRT Free Accounts?

An Post is traditionally the home of the saver who wants their money safe and exempt from DIRT but they too has been forced to reduced their rates.

They do become an attractive home for your money if you’re looking to investment over a medium to long term of between 4 to 10 years but

Page 4 Mature Living August 2014

short term you’re better looking to the bank rate of 2.25% AER if you are DIRT exempt. For those who are willing to take a risk with their money there are some very good protected equity funds in the markets place that would protect 70%, 80% or even 90% of the highest point your investment reaches.

At the same time these funds allow you a certain ‘safety blanket’ if markets turn but I would recommend you speak to a Qualified Financial Advisor in relation to your options here before making any decisions.

Finally, be aware that banks are now starting to offer Tracker Bond products that guarantee your capital and allow you access to the markets. The reality here is that this ties your money up for 5 years (or more) and in most cases you don’t make any money - you just get your original capital back! You should make a point of fully familiarising yourself with the terms and conditions of tying your money up for a short term period. Remember, if you need access to it, the bank will penalise you – so read the small print.

For every action there is an equal and opposite reaction We live in strange economic times and one man’s meat is another man’s poison. When I hear good news in the media I immediately think of my old physics teacher and wonder what is the equal and opposite reaction to this good news story?

Mark Gilmore QFA BBS 087-6788975 mark@moneytreefinancial.ie www.moneytreefinancial.ie Mark Gilmore T/A Money Tree Financial Services is a Qualified Financial Adviser who is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

Is sport an important part of your life? Does your vision allow you to maximise your sporting potential?

At Deirdre Cooke Opticians, we carry a wide range of sports eyewear, the majority of which can be fitted with your prescription so no excuses for not improving your game!

We carry frames and eyewear suitable for: •Cycling •Swimming • Skiing • Diving • Football • Fishing • Shooting • Golfing • Contact Lenses • Just to name a few...

We also carry Maui Jim Sunglasses which are polarised for UV protection, and where suitable, you can be fitted with contact lenses for unhindered movement and freedom, without glasses getting in the way.

• Free 24/7 Call out service • Free Surveys • Discreet soloutions • Regular Inspections • Senior Citizen Discounts West Pest is an expert pest control company based in the West of Ireland but covering all areas. We cater for domestic, commercial and agricultural customers. We deal with all pests including: Rats, Mice, Wasps, Bees, Flies, Ants, Cockroaches, Fleas, Bedbugs, Pigeons and other Wild Birds.

We will respond to any emergency within an hour.

Tel: 089-461-2664 info@westpest.ie • www.westpest.ie

WE PROVIDE A NATIONWIDE SERVICE - GIVE US A CALL

News

Grandfather Clocks

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n instrument of time, that brings time to life with elegance and become a family heirloom. Why is it that no other time-piece evokes the same passion, nostalgia & sense of charm as a grandfather clock.

Maybe its because these beautiful instruments are reminders of a bygone era, marking the passing of time with grace and style.

The swing of the pendulum to and fro, the famous 'tick tock' sound and the ring of the chimes every quarter hour plus the bang of thegongs on the hour proclaiming the time by sight and sound. Or maybe its their solid imposing presence, standing tall in

their ornate cabinates built to last and become family heirlooms to that will outlive us all.

Or maybe its because in todays modern world time is regarded as just another statistic . The digital clock, watch and screen instruments of time passing are seen with just a quick glance,Its lacking the spirit and importance of what it means, there's no sound, no announcementno marking the event. With digital versions of time, figures change, (2 figures dot 2 figures )we note the time and move on. We never stop to think what this passing of time really means. Does that mean

that time from a digital clock is different from the time exhibited by a grandfather clock?. No, each instrument in their own way inform us of the passing of time.

But with a grandfather clock, it announces the passing of time in a manner that conveys to us the priceless, precious commodity that time is.

Have you ever wished that you had more time to do what at the time you had not enough time to do.

We all have had those events, moments and precious episodes in our lives where there was just not enough time . With hindsight and on reflection we would have wished that someone at the time would have shouted out to us, hey ! value this moment, its never to be repeated, note its importance, its precious.

While time itself is infinite, our time is finite.

Note the old true Chinese proverb" Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, today is a gift, that’s why we call it the present ".Time is a gift, we have it, we are alive to enjoy and use it, It’s a scarce gift that one day will be no more,

meanwhile, we should respect, value and use it wisely.

Noting the passing of this finite gift should be marked with importance.

Grandfather clocks with their Tick Tock sound, note the seconds passing, their chimes signifys another quarter hour has gone and their gongs on the top of the hour tells us what the hour is and signals that another hour has just passed. The movement of the moon dial once a day notes another day, soon a half or full moon and then weeks become months, and the years become decades and then we realise, sometimes too late, that this precious gift is finite and now very scarce.

Plato the great philosopher said of time.

"Time is the moving image of perfect eternity". If this be so, when we compare the digital image of four figures in silence to the grandfather's grace and style of conveying the same message we see that a grandfather's clock version brings time to life and life to the lucky place that has such an elegant and graceful heirloom.

Belinda Callinan.

Beekeeping – a fascinating healthy hobby, fresh air and honey..... and it’s good for the environment!

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ccording to Albert Einstein, 'If the bee disappeared off the surface of the globe, then man would have only four years of life left.’ Well, knowledge of pollination and pollinators has moved on a bit. A more recent UN report states: “The fact is that of the 100 crop species that

provide 90% of the world’s food, over 70 are pollinated by bees”. Either way, it’s a sobering thought to consider how human existence on Earth would be effected by the loss of bees.

Take a constructive approach to it.....Consider a Bee legacy for your grandchildren. Many people take up

Beekeeping after retiring. If you’d like to know more contact us at Mill Lane Beekeeping: see ad. Or check out www.irishbeekeeping.ie for info on local associations all around the country.

There’s a little video made by Age & Opportunity. Search for You Tube then search for Mary McNutt The Bee Movie for a flavour of what beekeeping has meant to me! The best place to start your investigations is the Federation of Irish Beekeeping Associations (FIBKA). They have a great website: www.irishbeekeeping.ie that names all 57 Beekeeping Associations around the country with contact information for them all. If you don’t ‘do’ the internet, they have an excellent magazine: “An Beachaire”. Contact Dermot O’Flaherty, Hon. Manager at Rosbeg, Westport, Co Mayo Ph: 098-26585.

It’s simple to join your local association. They usually meet once a month, often run beginner’s courses, and run apiary practicals and you can ask all the questions you like before you commit to getting bees yourself.

For more information contact us at Mill Lane Beekeeping (see ad).

Ballina Clocks Classic Grandfather Clock Brand New Hardwood Cabinets and German Brass Workings Whatever the occasion: Anniversary, Birthday, Retirement, Wedding Price includes: Two Year guarantee plus delivery and installation

www.ballinaclocks.com Tel: 087-9111334

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News

Forks at the ready for September’s Westport Food Festival 2014

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he forks were out at the official launch of the third annual Westport Food Festival, which will take place over the weekend of September 5 to 7, 2014. Minister of State for Tourism and Sport, Michael Ring TD, was in attendance at Hotel Westport to officially launch the celebration of all-things-culinary in the town and its surrounding areas, and he quickly got into the festival spirit, donning a chef’s hat and

creating a stir!

This year’s itinerary is actionpacked, with the popular Food Village and Fringe Festival taking place on September 6 around the Octagon. Other events over the weekend include live demonstrations from a host of top chefs, bakers and mixologists, the Food Fest Forum, Foody Tours, Bike Buffet, kids’ pizzamaking, mushroom foraging, as well as an exciting new headline event for

the Sunday night, entitled ‘Secret Supper’!

Secret Supper is like ‘Come Dine with Me’ with a twist… Diners buy tickets for a five-course Westport Food Festival ‘taste experience’ meal but nobody knows where they will eat until the night itself, Sunday September 7, when dining venues will be unveiled at a pre-dinner restaurant lottery, held in a town centre location. Guests will then go to their mystery restaurant for dinner at 7.30pm sharp. After dinner, they will return to the town centre reception venue for the Westport Food Festival Wrap Party, where all diners will score their meal and the winner of the Best Taste Experience in Westport will be crowned. There will be an MC, prizes and music on the night and tickets are priced at €35.

More information on the Secret Supper, as well as the full ‘menu’ of events for this year’s Westport Food Festival, can be found at www.westportfoodfestival.ie. Keep up with all the latest news and ticket information on Facebook at www.facebook.com/westportfoodfes tival or Twitter @WestportFood, or get in touch by emailinginfo@westportfoodfestival.ie

Mayo Carers Give 161,000 Unpaid Hours Weekly

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arers in county Mayo give more than 161,000 hours unpaid care to the county’s sick, elderly and vulnerable each week. Of Mayo’s 6558 carers, 40.5% regularly work a minimum of one to 14 hours a week, whilst a further 50% work between 15 and 43 hours a week.

Leitrim has 1459 carers • They give more than 32,800 hours unpaid care each week • 41.5% regularly work a minimum of one to 14 hours a week • 45% work between 15 and 43 hours a week Sligo has 3140 carers • They give more than 74,000 hours unpaid care each week • 41% regularly work a minimum of one to 14 hours a week

• 48% work between 15 and 43 hours a week Roscommon has 3033 carers • They give more than 73,500 hours unpaid care each week • 39% regularly work a minimum of one to 14 hours a week • 49% work between 15 and 43 hours a week To highlight the work of carers in Mayo, the Irish Red Cross is calling for nominations for the 2014 Carer of the Year awards. The award is open to any member of the public currently providing voluntary care. Four regional winners will be selected before the announcement of the national winner, in October. The 2014 national winner will receive a relaxing hotel break for two and a

North West Counselling

Counselling for people with addictions eg. Drugs, Alcohol, Gambling • ALSO COVERS GENERAL COUNSELLING Counsellors are professionally trained • Relapse Programme and are fully accredited or working • One-to-one Counselling towards accreditation.

• Referral system for private clients to White Oaks Rehabilitation Centre For appointments ring: 087-2879707 OR 074-9723822 • Addiction and General counselling available Afternoon, evening and weekend Email: tabourhouse2004@eircom.net Tabor House, Drimark, Donegal Town appointments available

Helping people to recover

cash prize.

Donal Forde, Irish Red Cross Secretary General, praised Mayo’s carers, “Any one of us could find ourselves in need of care assistance, either for ourselves or for a loved one. We must continue to support our Carers in their roles and enable them to create a safe and comfortable environment for themselves and the care recipient.”

As part of its Health and Social Care programme, the Irish Red Cross offers a range of resources and services for Carer’s in Ireland.

Services include a Carers Handbook, ‘Helping You to Care’ course and therapeutic hand care services.

Nomination forms for the Irish Red Cross 2014 Carer of the Year award are available from www.redcross.ie/carer2014 and should be returned no later than Friday 5th September.

Voiceless in hospital following a stroke

By Patricia Conboy

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ou are aged 82, living alone and your mobility is limited.

Out of the blue, you suffer a stroke.

You wake up in hospital. You are unable to move, your speech is impaired and your mind is clouded. These are chilling circumstances. What is going to happen to you?

The hope is that you will receive the care and rehabilitation you need to maximise your chances of recovery. However, if you do not, who will tell your story and seek redress on your behalf ? If your family are caring and present, the likelihood is that they will advocate for you. If, on the other hand, you are already isolated and you do not have family, your situation is more precarious.

Recently, Ireland’s Ombudsman, Peter Tyndall made a speech to his European counterparts on the theme “Listening to the Voiceless”. He highlighted the need for proactive outreach by Ombudsmen to groups who find it difficult to access their services.

Target groups identified by the Ombudsman included people with disabilities and those who have difficulty expressing themselves due to illness or medical condition. This is an important message.

Even as I agreed with the message, I found myself wondering how to make it practical for people such as the 82 year old stroke patient above. What is the best way to safeguard the interests of people in hospitals who have experienced rapid onset of disability accompanied by loss of capacity to self-advocate and, ultimately, to seek redress – should this be warranted.

When family are present and caring, they advocate on behalf of their relatives. Praveeen Halappanavar, for example, advocated on behalf of his wife, Savita, following her death in a Galway hospital in 2012. Thanks to his persistence, we the citizens learned about the circumstances of Savita Halappanavar’s death. Left to their own devices, our intertwined political and health systems would not have yielded this information to the public.

There are patients in hospital today with newly acquired disability who are ‘old old’, isolated and, literally, voiceless following stroke or other health event. Within the system as it functions now, we cannot be confident that their interests will be safeguarded. Widespread deficiencies in stroke care, for example, have already been documented in a national audit published by the Irish Heart Foundation in 2008.

Beyond the anecdotal, we know very little about the direct experience of isolated, voiceless patients within the health system. This is a process that could be assisted by the Ombudsman’s focus on strategic engagement with hard to reach groups; and his current investigation of the experience of making complaints in public hospitals. I hope so. Anyone of us may end up voiceless and immobile in a hospital bed following a major health event. In the face of that degree of dis-empowerment, the knowledge that patients like us are named, visible and tracked within the health system would offer some level of comfort and protection. As of now, we would be at risk of invisibility.

Twitter : @PatriciaConboy1 https://www.facebook.com/AgePolicyAnalysis

Kellys Hair Salon, Castlebar

Donate your Hair here…

Kellys of Castlebar - “We are a Rapunzel Supporting Salon” often have a social stigma attached to it due to a lack of understanding and information.

The Rapunzel Foundation is financially assisting children

and adults with alopecia who wish to wear a secure, comfortable, natural-looking human hair wig: a wig which will allow the child to engage in

all aspects of their childhood, from swimming, horse-riding, gymnastics to the everyday rough and tumble of being a kid with every day living. Kellys

Hair and Beauty Salon can be contacted on 094-9022973. They are located at Castle street, Castlebar Co. Mayo.

Open 7 days 10am to 6pm • Inc Sundays 12-6pm EST 1932

HAIR & BEAUTY SALON

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he Rapunzel Foundation is a charitable organization that works to improve the lives of those living with hair loss through fund raising as well as through hair raising.

Its aim is to help people with hair loss through providing information, sharing stories and through the collection of pony tails for the manufacture of natural hair wigs.

Hair is raised through the Rapunzel Foundation’s Ponytail campaign, where people commit to growing their hair with the view to their hair being sent to help make much needed wigs to improve the lives of those living with the hair loss.

Collecting ponytails from donors helps to address the current global wig-hair shortage issue and allows us to alleviate the cost of wig purchase for those who need help most.

For many ‘alopecians’ one of the best ways of dealing with alopecia is to wear a naturallooking wig made with the highest quality untreated human hair.

This means not having to worry whether or not your colleagues or the people you meet as part of your daily life can tell if you are wearing a wig. Wearing a natural-looking wig can help give back some of the self confidence often lost after developing alopecia.

It allows people to enjoy their lives without worrying about their alopecia or their wig.

The Rapunzel Foundation is working to boost the level of hair donation in Ireland.

We are doing this in order to increase the supply of the high quality untreated human hair which is used in the manufacture of wigs for people with alopecia and long term hair loss.

Across Ireland the Foundation is creating an awareness of alopecia, condition which can ChefaJames Devers

Gift Set Gift Vo s & uc h availab ers le

OPEN:Mon to Wed: 9.00-6.00 Thur 8.30-6.30, Fri: 8.30-7.30 Saturday: 8.00-6.00

QOD is a completely Organic Luxury Hair Treatment that Eliminates Frizz & Reduces Curls leaving hair Revitalized & Rejuvenated for up to 16 Weeks.

Kelly’s Hair & Beauty Salon, Castle Street, Castlebar is one of a select few hair salons in the country that offers a completely organic luxury hair treatment.

The Benefits of what QOD Treatments Offer: •De-Frizzes Hair •Reduces Curls •Smooths Hair •Makes Hair Easier to Manage •Gives Hair a Protein Injection •Repairs Damaged Hair •Makes Hair Feel and Look Healthy •Leaves Hair Revitalized & Rejuvenated •Gives Hair a Natural Silky Shine •Helps Hair Growth •Strengthens Hairs •Can be applied to ALL Hair Types •Made up of Natural Ingredients such as Keratin & 15 Amino Acids • Independently Tested, Approved and Certified 100% Formaldehyde Free • Fully Compliant with the HSE whom have Tested and Analysed our products safe and in line with EU Strict guidelines • Does Not Damage or Alter Hairs Structure • No Fumes • Lasts up to 16 Weeks

Let the team at Kelly’s help take the effort and time out of maintaining your hair.

Castle Street, Castlebar, Co. Mayo

Tel: 094-9022973

Feature by Gerry Walsh

Sean Boylan

Faith, Family and Herbs MENTION of Meath man Sean Boylan evokes images of Gaelic football management, spirituality and herbal remedies.

But these only go a small way towards painting a picture of an enigmatic personality, who is full of the joys of simple, positive living. was overwhelmed by the nonjudgemental nature of the Australians – their capacity to accept people as they are. The Australians have tremendous respect for each other. “There was no tolerance of intolerance” he said.

You could walk the streets of Perth at any time and feel completely safe. This could be contrasted with so many other large cities, some even closer to home.

Séan, Tina and children pictured a few years ago. Photo: John Quirke Photography

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ow aged 70, and living with his wife (of 24 years) Tina and their six children, ranging from 22 to 10, in Dunboyne, Co. Meath, Sean is the fifth generation of his family to carry on the herbal business there, extending back to 1798. “We were in Tara before that, until the house was burned”, he said. Sean’s eldest son, Sean Og, a noted pianist, has just completed his performance degree course in the Royal Irish Academy.

“Strong faith and the herbal business – that is part of what we are”. After a short period in agricultural college Sean left and learned the business from his father as did his five sisters and a number of other people who worked with them on the farm. Dunboyne Herbs has grown and expanded over the years.

Sean’s other passion was sport of all genres. He was manager of the Meath football team from 1982 to 2005, during which time they won four All-Irelands

(1987, 1988, 1996, 1999) though he is quick to point out that they lost a few as well. He also guided the team to three National Football League titles and eight Leinster Senior Football Championships. In recognition of his services to Meath GAA Sean was conferred as Freeman of the County of Meath – the first and only person ever to be bestowed with the title – on 23rd April, 2006.

He loves all sport and, ironically, in the early days hurling was his greatest passion.

He played for 20 years with Meath and has two National League Division 2 titles to his credit. He often wondered what he would do when he finished playing GAA games, so he was delighted to be appointed a stand-in manager of the football team initially. The rest is history.

Though Sean is immersed in family life and the varied activities of his six children he seemed so relaxed and enthusiastic to speak forthrightly on many issues, but in a non-judgemental fashion.

He was appointed coach of the Irish International Rules side in

Page 10 Mature Living August 2014

2006. Though the period is noted for some of the violent incidents during matches, and on one occasion he threatened to remove his players from the field at half time, he is full of praise for the character of the Australian people. During his trip there with the team in 2008 he

LOVE AND MARRIAGE Sean was 47 when he married Tina (Yeats), who was 18 years younger than him. “I didn’t rush into it”, he said jokingly. Yet, if circumstances had been different the union might never have happened.

As they both grew up in Dunboyne their families were always intertwined. Tina’s family would come to the Boylans’ home as kids picking fruit and herbs. He was always happy and relaxed in Tina’s company, but never felt there was anything between them.

Perhaps the age gap had much to do with the delay in developing their relationship; however, another factor was Sean’s yearning to be a Cistercian monk and the fact that Tina, a former nurse, became a Daughters of Charity

nun at the age of 23 when she worked with handicapped and marginalised people.

Though her work was fulfilling, Tina eventually found the life of a nun to be a lonely one but when she left the plan was after a summer re-adjusting in Dunboyne she would travel to Australia to continue working as a nurse.

However, the romance with Sean developed and everything seemed just right. They had known each other so well . . . and Tina also was a close friend to Sean’s mother, Gertie.

They got married in late December 1990 – December 22nd in fact – because there was no Gaelic football on that day.

Tina had never set foot in Croke Park before she married Sean, but all that soon changed. They had their six children quickly (four boys and two girs) and Sean speaks of parenthood as “an amazing joy, a miracle really”. Sean and Tina are extremely happy. Though Sean was in the throes of management with the Meath team and away quite a lot when the kids were young, they were always so delighted to see him come home. They work as a team and are alike in so many ways, with strong simple faith which helps to shape everything.

TWO GREATS - a handshake from Mick O’Dwyer after a Meath / Kildare match in the 90’s.

Photo: John Quirke Photography

At a training session

Sharing the joy of victory. Photo: John Quirke Photography It’s not that they are prescriptive about their faith or beliefs either. In a previous interview Sean said: “We wouldn’t be craw-thumpers but I can’t pass an oratory without going in, even if it’s only for a minute”.

CANCER SCARE All of this was put to the test in 2009 when Sean was diagnosed with prostate cancer. While many people said they were surprised that he (such a healthy man) should contact cancer he reassured them that none of us are immune from it. But he and his family coped with the disease, as they did with many of the other vicissitudes of life . . . with positivity, love and laughter.

“To overcome a setback like cancer you attack it mentally, clinically and spiritually”, he said.

Thankfully, Sean received the”all-clear”. “There’s an energy I get from my faith that helped my recovery”, he said.

But he admitted that the experience changed him. From a position where he had always helped others he was now the vulnerable one. Before that he never walked, he always ran. It was a humbling experience, but all part of life’s journey.

Sean is now fit and healthy (even after two knee replacements) and, yes . . . he still works with his clinics. He rides a bike and swims a few times each week. With five kids involved in sporting and leisure activities he and Tina (who is a full-time housewife) have an extremely busy home life. But he recommends it. Even during the interview his flow was interrupted on some occasions to deal with domestic matters. To relax he loves the radio or

watching sport; he sometimes reads a bit but the busy home life constrains him a bit.

Holidaying abroad was never easy, either in his sporting management days or now. The easiest time to get away was always after Christmas.

When I asked him about his musical tastes he laughed, saying “you’re going to ask me about the Garth Brooks concerts, aren’t you?” While I assured him that was not the intention he gave his personal views on the whole debacle openly and candidly. “There were too many references to precedent in the debate. We have come to love the Rule, while sometimes forgetting the Rule of Love”.

Even in the north during the height of the troubles people were coming together and having fun. It was hard to see where problems would arise with the concerts. A large percentage of residents from the Croke Park area had no say in the matter. He recalls Meath and Dublin playing four matches in succession to a packed stadium in 1991 and there were no riots. People just had a good night out.

“The last time Garth Brooks was here people organised barbecues and had parties in their houses. After all the doom and gloom of recent years we should be thinking more in terms of partying than rules and precedents. ” Here he quoted an old colleague, Jack Fitzgerald, who had been a Meath representative on the Central Council of the GAA for 37 years (also a Senator in the Oireachtas): “It’s the Spirit of the Rule that’s important”. It is obvious Mr. Fitzgerald was referring to some GAA refereeing decisions, but if the cap fits . . .

Getting back to the question of

musical tastes he loves traditional, classical and trad jazz. In fact he loves everything from Pavarotti to Brush Shiels and is a Paul Brady fan. He has always marvelled at the universal bond and language of music.

Sean feels Ireland, for all its faults, is such a wonderful country. Through his travels abroad he was proud to learn about the missionary zeal of the Irish – those who work with poverty-stricken people in particular. The teachers, incredible nurses and others who went abroad with Goal, Concern and other organisations are unsung heroes. The Irish have left their sporting, cultural,

spiritual and business imprint everywhere. 15% of Mexicans are of Irish extraction. There are members in the cricket club of Buenes Aires who actually play hurling. Whole counties left Ireland for the US and so many never came back. But The Gathering has proved they want to retain links with home. “We have enormous pride in ourselves, something that shouldn’t be stifled by too much structure or rigidity. We are also a resilient race; at the turn of the century only four people in Ireland could write in Irish and one hundred could read the language. Yet it survived and flourished.”

His advice to young people is to watch out for each other, to be ambitious and never be afraid to make a mistake. He recalls playing for Meath against Kilkenny back in the ‘seventies and losing by thirty-three points.

Yet he loved it and was proud to have the opportunity to play the game. Continuing with sporting analogies he instanced an old colleague, Michael Regan, a Carrick-on-Shannon native, who

was picked as a sub on a Connacht hurling team to face Munster. Though scheduled to line-out at corner-forward when called onto the pitch he immediately ran to the opposite end to mark no less a star than Christy Ring . . . an experience that could never be taken from him!

Retirement is not in Sean’s vocabulary. “It is important to have something to do . . . even if it’s a computer course or something. People can be lost not knowing what to do.

In the Ireland of the future Sean feels it is important for us to keep the good things we have – our faith and family traditions.

If we follow our true nature facing a crisis will not be such a burden.

When I spoke with Sean it was literally hours before Meath’s showdown with Dublin in the Leinster championship. He was optimistic, as usual, predicting there was always a 50/50 chance when fifteen men met fifteen.

Knowing Sean Boylan as I do now he will still see positives in the result.

Sean pictured with son, Sean Og, a talented musician.

Page 11 Mature Living August 2014

Fashion

Older Celebrity Brides I

t’s summer wedding season, and brides everywhere are putting the finishing touches to their Big Day outfits. But what if you’re an older bride walking down the aisle for the second or third time, are you going with a big full-blown all-white gown or marching to your own beat in something unique? It looks like there might be no fashion rules – thankfully – when it comes to mature matrimony. Some like, Katie Couric, 57, who recently tied the knot this summer took a traditional route in a white lace gown. While others, like Tina Turner who married last summer, opted for a green gown with fishnet leggings. But then again, Turner is a rock star of legendary status, known to shimmy in skimpy leather dresses, so a white beaded gown would hardly seem to be her image. We round up a few memorable wedding dresses that mature women wore to walk down the aisle.

For her fifth wedding in 2002, fashion plate Joan Collins was a vision in lovely lavender when she tied the knot with Percy Gibson

ed actress, Julianne When the flamed-hair Freundilich in 2003, Bart Moore wed director ing non-traditional wedd ry ve a for ted she op . wn by Prada dress- a lavender go

Lisa Niemi, 57, the actress, dancer and author, who was married to the late Patrick Swayze, remarried this summer to jeweler Albert Deprisco. Niemi wore a stream-lined formfitting white gown.

Rock legend Tina Tu rn Erwin Bach in 2013 er, 73, for her nuptials to , wore a black and green silk tulle gown designe d by Giorgio Arma ni.

The embodiment of over-the-top excess, Ivana Trump, for her wedding to Rossano Rubicondi in 2008, opted for an ivory lace gown

ole Kidman went for For her second marriage, Nic gown by te a very traditional look – whi – for her wedding l vei h wit te ple Balenciaga, com 5.

200 in to Keith Urban in Australia

Page 12 Mature Living August 2014

For their intimate backyard wedding in 2008, both Ellen DeGeneres, 50, and Portia de Rossi, 35, opted for creamy white outfits designed

by Zac Posen.

For her marriage to Prince Charles in 2009, Camilla Parker Bowles donned a pale blue silk chiffon dress

by London label, Robinson Valentine, and topped it off with feathered hat by Philip Treacy.

How to pick the Swimming Costume

C

ongratulations! You are finally taking a relaxing holiday to a sunny tropical

spot.

All you need to pack are a few shorts or pants a couple of tops and a Swimming costume.

Cue the music for “Jaws” when the young woman is

and suck. Repeat this mantra each time you put on your suit.

Tuck in your breasts, lift up your rear so it is in the swimming costume versus hanging out around the edges, and suck in your stomach when you walk to or get up from your lounge chair.

Never underestimate or abuse the power of the cover-up. A simple lightweight tank dress or oversized shirt is far more flattering than shorts and a tshirt and fits so well with pool or beach surroundings.

swimming in the ocean, as the thought of finding and wearing a swimming costume may cause equal amounts of dread and fear, as well as some blood curdling screams.

Relax a while and let us give you a few tips on how to pick the best swimming costume for you and get you back in the water, or at least be able to lie down on a lounge chair. We want you to enjoy your time in the sun in style and comfort.

Seven Tips on How To Pick The Swimming Costume Suit: Do not try on suits that are the same size as your clothes.

Don’t ask me why, but swimwear sizes do not correspond with clothing sizes.

Women need to try one to two sizes up for a flattering and comfortable fit.

Choose a suit in a color that compliments you. And FYI: Avoid white, especially if you plan on getting wet. White suits will always become see-through.

Highlight your smaller parts with lighter colours and camouflage your somewhat larger parts with darker colors. I use this trick to minimize what I

consume at the all you can eat at buffet tables and the few too many Pina Coladas.

Watch your back. No, really take a look and see if the shape of your back is pushing over the edge of your swimming costume. If it is, then go for a style that has a higher back so more of you is held in.

Of course you wish you had a smaller waistline, so look for suits that have shirring at the middle. The fabric gathering is a great way to disguise muffin tops and tummy poufs.

Tuck, lift and suck. Tuck, lift

10 Everyday Tips to Achieving Great Skin

By Andrea Ryan We all know that exercise and proper nutrition are huge factors in getting and maintaining great skin, but there are some other “must dos” to get your skin as healthy and youthful-looking as you can! Here are 10 simple, everyday tips on how to achieve great skin: 1. Keep your skin clean by using a gentle cleanser in the morning and at night.

Always go in an upward motion when cleansing your face. It’s important that you always start off with clean, moisturized skin before you apply any make-up and before you go to bed.

Ladies, do this no matter how tired you are. Cleanse your face in the morning with a gentle cleanser and cool water.

Unlike warm water, cool water constricts blood vessels and can help diminish redness and puffiness around the eyes.

2. Apply toner to freshen up your skin.

I like to use large cotton rounds as my applicator.

3. Apply a serum to your face,

neck and chest to begin keeping your skin hydrated.

Serum is the best way to bring proper nourishment to your skin. After your serum, apply a daytime moisturizer that contains at least a 15 SPF to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Once again, apply to your face, neck and chest. I even suggest applying your SPF moisturizer to the back of your hands. They need protection, too!

4. Try to get a facial once a month.

If you can’t get a professional facial, treat yourself to an athome facial at least once a week. Use your mild cleanser, then exfoliate with a gentle scrub that contains exfoliants that are round and nonabrasive. Larger exfoliant shapes can injure the skin and cause irritation.

5. Apply a facial mask after exfoliating.

Try using simple egg whites as your mask. Apply the egg white and wait until it hardens, then rinse it off and see how shiny and smooth your face looks and feels!

6) Shorten your shower.

A long, hot shower may feel fabulous but it’s drying out your skin. Take lukewarm, short showers. Moisturize within 3 minutes of stepping out of the shower. By doing that, you will lock moisture into you skin.

7) Sleeping on your face can cause “sleep line” wrinkles over time. Avoid sleeping on your stomach if you can; try sleeping on your back or side, which is best. Definitely use a silk pillows to insure no wrinkles and keep your hair looking better, as well.

8) Get a good night’s sleep!

There’s a reason looking wellrested goes hand in hand with brighter, healthier skin.

A good night’s sleep allows your skin to rejuvenate itself, repair free-radical damage, and build new collagen.

9) Put your eye cream and moisturizers in the fridge to keep them cool, which makes these products even more beneficial.

When you wake up in the morning, your eyes can be puffy and dark; but once you massage the cool, soothing lotions and creams onto your face, your puffy eyes will disappear.

The coldness of the fridge will not only help your eyes and face but also give your product a longer shelf life.

10) Even when you’re steering clear of the sun, or it appears to be a cloudy day, always be sure your makeup foundation or moisturizer contains at least a SPF 15 or higher…I go higher!

Feature with Sonya Hamill of Blue Apple Dental - Irish Dentistry’s Dental Practice of the Year 2013

Three Simple Things You Can do to Overcome Your Dental Fears their mouths and fearing it is terrible, ii) the fear of being judged when they show the dentist their teeth. In response to the first of these, once you know what is actually going on you will be in a position of power.

Often what we imagine is infinitely worse than the reality, and that is certainly the case in dentistry. So, go ahead and find out; nothing will have changed for anything but the better. For the second, a dentist’s place is not to judge you or make you feel bad about your teeth.

Their job is to help you and fix teeth.

So, to summarise, just do it – you have everything to gain!

3. Get Excited!

It may not be realistic to imagine you will ever get excited about being in the dental chair, but we can help you feel comfortable, confident

1.Find the right dental practice for you: A dentist is a dentist is a dentist, right? Wrong. Dentistry is a lot about the experience and the relationship. If you have spent quite a bit of time avoiding dentistry due to your anxiety, or you know you have significant problems going on, you may be going to spend a bit of time in close proximity with these people. You need to decide what qualities are important to you in your dental practice, so you can enjoy it as much as is possible. What sort of environment would you like to be treated in? Is the ability to offer you a wide variety of treatments, including advanced ones, important to you or not?

What type of dentist would you like to see? Think about your options and gather some information. Remember, this actually is all about you, and so it is your time to make a choice. Dental fear and embarrassment can be a very lonely place, as most of us don’t really want to talk about it, even with those closest to us. Matching yourself to the right practice will help you a huge amount in banishing your anxieties, so you will have people who understand and who are able to support you through the process.

2.Take The Plunge: If you are anxious or embarrassed about your teeth,

and content during treatment, and you can get very excited about what it will feel like to have a healthy, functioning, fresh mouth with a great smile.

Keep your eyes on the prize, because it will be worth it.

Blueapple Dental & Implant Team is a highly acclaimed, multi-award winning dental practice nestled into the pretty village of Belcoo, Co. Fermanagh.

Although it is in its 10th year of business, it is still one of Fermanagh’s best kept secrets, known for its dedication to offering its clients the highest standards in all types of dental care – from the simple to the complex, in particular its popularity throughout Ireland for dental implant treatment.

Blueapple is also known for its established service in assisting those who experience dental anxiety.

and have been putting off taking action, you have probably been building up to this point for quite a while.

Sometimes something prompts us into action, an event coming up, an experience we had, something we see, or just getting completely fed up and deciding there is no choice but action. Whatever has brought you to this point of considering moving forward, don’t let it slip away, make the appointment and carry it through.

We see a lot of anxious patients, and we find that frequently a lot of the fear which could put them off at this point is tied up with i) the not knowing what is happening in

‘Blueapple Dental & Implant Team’ is an award-winning dental practice in the village of Belcoo in Co. Fermanagh, run by husband and wife team, James and Sonya Hamill.

Blueapple carries out all forms of dentistry under one roof, and focuses on helping people overcome their dental challenges, to re-establish their dental health, comfort and beauty. They believe that there is no-one they can’t help regain their dental confidence.

‘Blueapple Dental & Implant Team’ has won multiple awards, including ‘Best New Practice’, ‘Best Young Dentist in the UK & Ireland’, and most recently ‘Best Patient Care in Ireland 2012’.

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Blueapple welcomes new patients.

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‘Such encouragement and support I have never experienced before and empowered me to complete the procedure without sedation….My trust in Blueapple across all aspects of my dental experience is always upheld each time I visit the practice. I cannot emphasise enough the transformation that has occurred in my life in terms of panic and anxiety. ‘ An anxious patient, Sligo.

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Health

Five reasons most diets fail W

e’ve all been there. Desperately wanting to lose those few extra pounds, or in some cases a lot of extra pounds, but no matter which diet we try we always seem to end up where we started from. It’s frustrating and demoralizing and it tastes like failure. But it doesn’t have to be this way, says Dr. Yoni Freedhoff, an American based obesity expert and the author of The Diet Fix: Why Diets Fail and How to Make Yours Work.

“If there was a quick fix we’d all be skinny,” he points out. “The more permanent the weight loss needs to be the more permanent the lifestyle changes need to be.” So what’s preventing us from getting there?

1. We think dieting has to be painful

2.We under-eat

“The past 60 to 80 years of modern day dieting has been predicated upon the notion that dieting success is about suffering,” says Dr. Freedhoff. “It suggests that people struggling with their weight don’t deserve to eat like normal people or use food for comfort and celebration. Instead they’re only supposed to use food for fuel and shut off the other normal uses. This doesn’t work.”

Trying to starve yourself into thinness doesn’t work either. “Hunger is a very powerful physiological force,” says the diet doctor. “It’s second only to breathing for survival. To think we can fight 100 million years of evolution which has made our bodies really good at securing calories simply because we want to get into a particular clothing size is folly.”

3. We over-exercise “People undertake exercise regimes that are truly ‘regimes’,” he says. “People see these shows on TV where they suggest that exercise to the point of throwing up is desirable. Again, that is not a lifestyle – it’s a life sentence.”

People also tend to overestimate the number of calories they’re burning, which can lead to frustration. “As a consequence, exercised-based approaches to weight management tend to get disappointing quite quickly,” he says. “That’s why gyms are busy in January and empty in March.”

5. We don’t think about the calories we’re drinking

“People are usually aware that sugar-sweetened beverages can be problematic but they don’t always think about the cream and sugar in their coffee,” he says.

“And people really don’t like to think about alcohol because they enjoy it so much, but red wine has double the calories of Coca Cola and that’s something you can’t ignore if you’re trying to lose weight.”Best advice he can offer?

“Weight management, in general, needs to be about people striving to live the healthiest lives they can enjoy — and not the healthiest lives they can tolerate.

They need to make lifestyle changes, that are significant and enjoyable, but not severe. And that can be challenging when you’ve got a society telling you they need to be severe to work.”

Page 16 Mature Living August 2014

4.We eat out too often and consume too much processed food “We’ve been duped by the food industry and our own willingness to believe you can find health and weight loss in restaurants or boxes, but it doesn’t work that way,” he says. “We, as a society, seem to be using restaurants and processed foods like our grandparents used refrigerators and the produce drawers.” Dr. Freedhoff says he sees far more people who eat out three to four times a week than he does people who eat out three to four times a month. That equates to weight loss woes. “The calories we consume in restaurants are non-intuitive and astronomical in many cases.

That salad you order might have more calories than a person burns in an entire day.”

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Health

Give Yourself the Gift of Active Retirement

R

etirement holds the promise to be a much earned time to enjoy life at a slower pace and renew your focus on activities you enjoy that you didn’t have time to do before. If you’re like many, it also holds a hope to get in better shape and lose a little weight.

However, more often than not, retirees actually become less active, and gain weight!

A study called “The Effect of Retirement on Weight” followed almost 38,000 retirees and concluded that retirement contributed to weight gain. Some of this weight gain was from less activity after retiring, not more – even though most had more available time to be active. Unstructured meal times and eating out more often were also to blame.

Researchers also found that being overweight can shorten your life; for every 2.2 pounds gained after age eighteen, women’s odds of surviving past seventy dropped 5 percent. Diseases to blame are cancer, heart disease, complications related to smoking and diabetes.

It is a fact that as we get older we need fewer calories to maintain our weight – about 5% less for every decade after 40. To maintain weight we need at least one hour of moderate activity each day to keep the weight from sneaking on. And even though physical decline is typically 36 percent between the ages of 60 and 90, if you exercise regularly you can cut the drop by 50 percent or more.

The positive news is that weight gain and physical deterioration don’t have to be a part of

your retirement future. Recognizing the potential to become less active and gain weight with retirement can be used to prod us into action, and create a plan.

What’s a retired girl to do? Follow these eight tips and to fight the statistics: Walk and talk. If you are a multitasker extraordinaire like me, walking can be a great opportunity to catch up with friends or listen to a sermon on the ipod.

It can also be a great time to pray. Wear a pedometer if you want to see how many steps you’ve taken and miles you’ve walked – it’s a great motivator!

Aim for 10,000 steps a day to keep off the pounds. Start slowly and work your way up, if you haven’t been active recently.

Walking videos work! There are many videos available, but Leslie Sansone has great free videos ranging from 15 minutes to 50 minutes on You Tube. They are worth watching sometime Get out of the chair regularly. Standing for at least 10 minutes every hour, whether you’re watching television or on the computer, will keep your metabolism burning, and is better for your back, too.

Eat the good stuff. Make your food choices mainly fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Stay away from junk food, and order wisely when eating out.

Eat earlier. If you can eat before 7pm, all the better for your body to digest the food before you go to bed.

Eat less calories. Click here to calculate how many calories you need to maintain or lose weight.

To watch your portion sizes, try

gain and physical ailments than eating off of an eight inch plate, to lose weight and treat health and forgo seconds. conditions. Use retirement as a Find someone to hold you accountable. With a support buddy you’re less likely to slip up or miss a workout.

Find an activity that you like. Try new things, keep your mind open. Create an arsenal of ideas handy to turn to when you’re not sure what kind of exercise to do.

Although retirement is a time to enjoy some free time, don’t lose site on how important it is to take care of your spiritual and MEDICAL SKINCARE physical self. It takes effort to make a plan, then follow it, but it’s much easier to prevent weight

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Page 31 17 Mature Living August 2014

Solicitors

An overview of Captital Acquisition Tax (Gift/ Inheritance Tax)

C

AT is a tax on gifts and inheritances (benefits) received by individuals (beneficiaries) from other individuals (known as donors) The calculation of CAT is based on the following: 1. The value of the benefit.

2. The relationship between the beneficiary and the donor.

3. Any previous benefits received by the beneficiary from that donor or any other donor of a similar relationship. E.g. a gift received by a sister from a sister.

The emphasis is on what the beneficiary ( the person receiving the benefit) receives.

Inheritance- is taken on death.

Gift- is not so taken.

Once the taxable value of a benefit is established the CAT payable on that value must be calculated.

CAT payable depends on the relationship between the disponer and the beneficiary. It also depends on any prior benefits taken from any disponer of the same relationship.

The classes of relationship are known as groups: GROUP A: If the beneficiary is a child, a minor child of a deceased

child or where a parent inherits an absolute interest from a child.

The definition of a child is very wide and includes; natural, adopted, step child and can extend to foster children.

GROUP B: If the beneficiary is a lineal ancestor ( ie parent, grandparent) a lineal descendant other than child, brother or sister. It is important to note the definitions contained in the legislation.

GROUP C: This applies to any other category of beneficiary that does not come within the definition of group a or group b. This relates to aunts, uncles, cousins and strangers in blood. e.g. A benefit received by a nephew from an uncle comes under Group B. A benefit received by an uncle from a nephew comes under Group C. Each group has a threshold amount. The threshold amount is the amount below which no tax is payable. Any amount over the threshold is referred to as the “ taxable excess”.

The current thresholds are as follows: Group Thresholds Applicable for

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Capital Acquisitions Tax YEAR Group A (Son/Daughter) (after indexation) Group B (Parent*/Brother/Sister/Niece/ Nephew/Grandchild) (after indexation) Group C (Relationship other that at A/B) (after indexation) On or after 06/12/2012 €225,000 /€30,150 / €15,075 There are certain reliefs which can be applied to the taxable value of the benefit.

There is an exemption applicable to gifts and this is referred to as the Small Gifts Exemption ( SGE).

The current value of the SGE is €3,000.00.

The main reliefs claimed are Agricultural and Business Relief.; AGRICULTURAL RELIEF Agricultural Relief: This is a very important relief affecting most farms in the country.

The relief operates by reducing the market value of 'agricultural property' by 90%, so that gift or inheritance tax is calculated on an amount - known as the 'agricultural value' - which is substantially less than the market value. In general, the relief applies pro-

vided the beneficiary qualifies as a 'farmer' .

Gifts and Inheritances taken on or after 20th November, 2008 'Agricultural property' means: • agricultural land, pasture and woodland situated in a Member State of the European Union; • crops, trees and underwood growing thereon; • houses and other farm buildings appropriate to the property; and • livestock, bloodstock and farm machinery thereon.

• A payment entitlement (within the meaning of Council Regulation (EU) No. 1782/2003 of 29 September 2003) To qualify for the relief the gift or inheritance must consist of agricultural property both at the date of the gift or inheritance and at the Valuation Date.

The Valuation Date is the date at which the property is valued for gift/ inheritance tax purposes.

For the purposes of the relief, a 'farmer' means: an individual in respect of whom at least 80% of his or her assets, after taking a gift or inheritance, consist of agricultural property on the valuation date of the gift or the inheritance.

BUSINESS RELIEF: Business Relief: The purpose of this relief has been stated to prevent the sale or break ip of family run businesses.

To qualify for the relief the relevant business property must have been owned for a continuous period of 5 years prior to the date of the gift or inheritance. However, if the inheritance is taken on the death of the disponer the relevant period is 2 years prior to the date of the inheritance.

Ownership by the disponer's spouse, civil partner or by a trustee will count for the purposes of satisfying this requirement.

At present the relief is 90 per cent. Certain types of businesses are excluded from being relevant business property and are thus excluded from the relief. **The materials contained in this article are provided for general information purposes only and do not constitute or comprise legal advice on any particular matter.

You should not act or refrain from acting on the basis of any material contained on in this article without seeking appropriate legal or other professional advice**

CONOR A. MAGUIRE

SOLICITORS Conor A. Maguire BA (ES)

T: 071-9855983 • M: 087-6739454 E: mail@camsolicitors.com skype: conor.maguire31 Lower Main Street, Manorhamilton, Co. Leitrim (Sub Office) High Street, Drumshanbo, Co. Leitrim (Tuesdays 4-7pm)

Tel: 071-9144479

Elphin Street, Boyle | 19 Chapel Street, Sligo

At Murphy Ballantyne, Solicitors, our service combines the personal touch of the family solicitor with a range of specialist advice relevant to clients. We provide a strictly confidential, courteous service, all at the highest professional standards.

Please contact John or Carol on the above number to arrange an appointment or email john@murphyballantyne.ie or carol@murphyballantyne.ie

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Gardening

Classic style Is Timeless Written by Rodney Munn.

T

here are many brand names that captured the imagination of people from around the world and have become icons in their own right like, COCA COLA, ROLLS ROYCE, NIKE, APPLE, MANCHESTER UNITED, etc. these are names from different areas of life, all of which have endured and are associated with success. People have even become brands in themselves, David Beckam, Tom Cruise, Beyoncé Jennifer Lopez, Lady Gaga, Robbie Williams; successful names have spawned other businesses that can be marketed worldwide.

As in these examples the same can be said of the clothing industry, whole style and fashion empires have been built around a name, Hugo Boss, Paul Smith,

Tommy Hilfiger, Vivienne Westwood, John Rocha, and probably the best known of them all is Ralph Lauren who has enveloped the complete package from men’s wear, ladie’s wear and childrens wear, accessories, sportswear, home wear; you name, he has it for the person or your home.

Ralph Lauren as we now know him was born Ralph Lipshitz, on October 14 1939, in the Bronx New York. Ralph became interested in clothes from an early age and while at Dewitt Clinton high school in new york he worked part-time in department stores, and saved his money to buy, yes you guessed it.... clothes. He then in the mid 50s changed his name to Lauren, as he had to suffer some abuse about his name as you could imagine. After graduating from high School he worked as a salesman and began studying business at night.

Then in 1967 Lauren was hired

by Beau Brummel to design ties, his colorful ties were wider than the common narrow dark ties then available, but they sold well and started a new trend.

He then started by himself introducing ties into department stores and replenishing these as

needed. After this small success he added more men’s lines and women’s tailored suits under the trade name of Polo, thus Polo Ralph Lauren was born. All these had an English and American influence, which has now become synonymous with Ralph Lauren. Then in 1971 Lauren opened his first retail store, followed by many more including small shops within big department stores. Customers continued to fall in love with the brand and by 1997 he was the best selling designer in the world. Ralph Lauren has been quoted as saying "Classic to me is something that’s timeless, enduring the things that never go out of style. Polo, the kinds of clothes I design are the kinds of things that I believe in, the kinds of things that last forever. I love things that stay." This is a very accurate statement because as fashions come and go in our trade there are certain styles of Ralph Lauren clothing that remain timeless as in the patterns of shirts, the ever present navy V-neck sweater, the perennial polo shirts with that unmistakable logo. This season’s spring/summer range is no exception, the classic candy stripe shirts with the contrasting

logo in navy, light blue, pink and that lovely Oxford cloth in blue, a nice soft green and pink also.

Shirts come with extra buttons, extra stiffeners for the collars and are truly an elegant addition to any man’s wardrobe. The knitwear is luxuriant soft cotton in standard and also new colours.

Those classic Polo shirts we mentioned earlier have come in a number of new colors that have added life to the range. You can,

Eyecare: What are Flashes?

What are flashes?

Some people may see flashes of light in front of one of their eyes, like small sparkles, lightning or fireworks. These tend to be in the extreme corners of your vision, come and

go, and don’t obscure any part of your vision. The flashes don’t last for a defined length of time, and you may notice them more if you go from a light to dark environment. These may continue for several months.

These are different to shimmering or zig-zag lines that may be part of a migraine.

Migraine shimmers are a flickering of light, often on one side of your vision, which then expands to the outside of your

vision with a sort of jagged pattern. This will often obscure at least part of the vision (the left or right side). The shimmers usually go away after 10-20 minutes any may be followed by a headache, although some people may get migraine shimmers even if they do not have a headache afterwards.

Flashes occur when there is a pull on your retina. This might happen as the vitreous gel inside your eye becomes more liquid and collapses. You may experience flashes occasionally, on and off over weeks or months. Flashes can also occur if you are hit in the eye.

Flashes related to a collapse of the gel inside the eye are more likely to happen as you get older.

What might happen if I have flashes?

Sometimes flashes just indicate a tug on the retina and nothing more. However constant flashes may be a sign of a retinal detachment.

A retinal tear or retinal detachment may lead to a sudden increase in floaters as well as flashes. You might notice a shadow at the edge of your vision too. This needs immediate attention. If you

of course, visit our Facebook and website to check out our new range. Each season he tells a story, and generally he is enticing us into his world, which is one of tradition, elegance and style, pieces of clothing that will not date but look good every time we take it from the wardrobe. Ralph Lauren takes up a prominent place in our store and we at EJ MENSWEAR are proud to stock the brand!

notice these symptoms you should contact your optometrist straight away. If you cannot do this you should seek urgent attention from an eye casualty department at the hospital.

Who is at risk of a retinal detachment?

Some people are more at risk of a retinal detachment. These are people who: - Have had eye surgery, such as a cataract operation or laser surgery after a cataract operation - Are moderately short sighted (over -3.00D) - Have had a previous eye injury - Have a family history of retinal detachment - Have had a previous retinal detachment in that eye or the other eye - Are over the age of 50 - Have certain retinal diseases such as lattice or other retinal degeneration - Have certain systemic diseases such as Marfan syndrome.

Remember, eyesight is one of the most precious gifts we have, so look after it. To have your eyes tested, contact Rachel Murray Eyecare on 071-9142860 or www.rachelmurrayeyecare.ie to make an appointment, or simply call in.

COLOUR

INSPIRED PLANTING

WORDS by Leonie Cornelius PHOTOGRAPHY by Suzy McCanny and Leonie Cornelius

AND THE GARDEN

Garden Designer and TV presenter Leonie Cornelius looks at the amazing effects of using colour in planting design.

W

no right or wrong, only what makes you feel happy right now.

Combining colour in gardens is much like creating a careful artistic composition. What I would like to explore a little here is a few colour combinations which have fascinated me in gardens and why I would choose them to create a certain scheme.

hen I was studying garden design at KLC School of Design in London one of the main things that we looked at was the use of colour in gardens. Colour can have a profound effect on our psychological experience of a space as well as making a space feel larger, smaller, longer or narrower. As a designer, much

like an artist, one goes through phases of colours that one is drawn to. For example, when I started designing I loved neutrals of peach and whites. Then on the next project I would find myself drawn to strong explosions of all colours and tones. After trying out most combinations I can finally embrace the fact that there is

Hot or warm Colours There are rules in garden design, or what I like to think of as guidelines in garden design.

For example, we tend to not have more than 10-15% of hot colours such as reds, oranges and yellows -those at the top of the colour wheel. The reason for this is that schemes can start feeling disjointed and stressful with too much warmth.

left) my main colour palette was varying shades and textures of green. I had the feathery lime greens of the Acers, the deep earthy struc- tural greens of the Carpinus hedging and the soft fluffy green of the grasses.

What finished that scheme however were the dots of colour in between. Spikes of Salvia in deep, calm lilac, dots of Aquilegia in maroon pink and swathes of light pink Saxifraga from my own garden. The amazing purple foliage of the Sedum ‘Purple Emperor’ gave it a little depth.The main colour palette of cool colours was also represented in the hard landscaping of structure and walls with deep purple and light lilac being complementary hues to the planting

and fun take on a summer meadow. The colours chosen repre- sent the fun free feeling of childhood and aim to give a little feeling of happiness to the staff and teachers every day.

Fun The garden I recently completed for Carbury School in Sligo (left hand page top left and right) has a wholly different colour scheme. The warm orange of the external walls of the building acted as a starting point for the colour scheme and the mix of yellow Primulas, purple Nepeta and many other pinks and lilacs were a playful

A Psychadelic Meadow Another recently completed project was an installation for the Dubarry of Ireland brand for their UK flagship store for the duration of Chelsea in Bloom.

The brief was all about modern colour and yet not losing the Irish Identity of the brand.

Here I went all out with the colours which were a mad mix of yellows, blues, greens,

Cool Colours Green is one of the main cool colours in gardens but we have a big range of blues, purples, and lilacs. These colours have a soothing effect on a person experiencing this space.

Elegance For me it gets really exciting once we start mixing up the colours. For my Bloom in the Park Garden in 2012 (bottom

Page 20 Mature Living August 2014

Starting off in a planting scheme you have your greens, your base colours which can vary from deep, dark greens to limes and yellows. Green will always be the main colour in your garden no matter what. I love green with its infinite textures and move- ment and it’s amazing what you can do with a simple mix of greens with the

odd dot of colour. Green is also associated as a colour with the feeling of safety, fertility and relaxation-no wonder gardens make us feel good! The plants you add after this tell your story.

What is it you want to say in the scheme that you are creating?

Do you want to invigorate, soothe the senses or create a playful and fun composition.

purples, pinks, magenta. After choosing the plants at the amazing Hortus Loci nursery in the UK and driving down to London I panicked. I had broken all the rules! What if it did not work?

But even though I chose all the colours on the colour wheel they somehow worked out perfectly proving that

everything is possible, if combined carefully and of course as long as it makes you smile.

Leonie Cornelius is an award winning garden designer and TV presenter who runs her own business-BLUME design house. contact: www.blume.ie corneliusleonie@me.com

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Angelscope for August

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

Taur!s

Gemini

Dreams coming true : This is a wish card, your asked to close your eyes and make a wish. Focus on what you desire and in visualise it as if it's already happened. How would you see? Feel? Act? As if your dreams came true. Too often we focus on the blocks and the things that stop us from focusing or realising our dreams instead of allowing the universe to help us achieve them. Very lucky coincidences and synchronicities follow this card. Your asked to make one small change daily to push you towards your dreams. Never stop believing!

Lucky Day: 19th August Lucky colour: Brown

Faery of beauty This beautiful Faery aids with communication. Have you been feeling blocked in speaking your truth? Self esteem is at the root of dis-empowerment.

It's time to take a step back and see those who you feel comfortable expressing your authentic self with & those you don't.....

Too often we act as mirrors to those around us ..who project their insecurities on to us.

It's your choice Taurus if you choose to accept this. August is a month for truth for you.

Lucky Day: 20th August Lucky colour: Blue

Happily ever after : One of my favourite cards. It's going to be a great month for you Gemini as you have the Midas touch about you. It's a great time to apply for a job, sell your house, take up a new hobby, as any venture you embark upon this month will be destined for success!

Balance here is the key, pace yourself as mid August a "helpful" person may try to take the wind out of your sails.

Stay true to your beliefs - move onwards & upwards!

Lucky Day: 29th Lucky colour: purple

Leo

Virgo

Libra

Environmental Awareness: It's time to get out & about in Nature. Do you hear the call of the wild. The song of the birds carries a promise to your heart - freedom. The modern world us full of distractions that dull the mind and keep us in a heightened state of fear. You are being guided to slow down, connect with nature, go for a walk, run, swim etc. feel yourself becoming grounded once more.

It's time to clear the cobwebs and clear the deadwood from your life! Lucky Day: 16 Lucky colour: green

Faery of laughter The best tonic in life is a good laugh! Laughter cures all matter of ills. Stress affects our ability to go with the flow as we become rigid with routine.

It's time to allow yourself to let go. Call a friend who makes you smile, watch a funny film or go for a night out with someone who brings you joy.

When was the last time you laughed so hard you could hardly breathe? Close your eyes and recall the memory. Can you feel the joy spreading through you? Never forget your happiness lies in your hands.

Lucky Day: 21 Lucky colour: purple

Sagi#arious

Capricor$

Faery of family harmony: Tensions can run high in family's. There may be sibling rivalry or buried resentments. bubbling to the surface.

There is a Polish expression "not my circus not my monkeys!" It refers to you being pulled into arguments and disagreements which have nothing to do with you! You may be fed up being the peace - keeper, dogsbody, negotiator in your family . Remember you are choosing to stay in this role . Only you have the power to step back and not have your energy drained . You need to place a value on your time and energy, for if you don't .....who will? Lucky Day: 26 Lucky colour: brown

Faery of new friends: This is a gorgeous card of friendship . Friendship itself is a precious gift . People come into our lives for a reason, a season or a lifetime. You may have one or two friends step away lately, let them go. For new friends arrive with new lessons to teach hoy on your path to your true self. You may also discover the truth behind a lie that you were told!

Truth is stranger than fiction at times! Time to show the frenemies the door !

Lucky Day: 30 Lucky colour: pinke

Cancer

Peace of mind: This card brings peace of mind & a sense of calm. You have a decision coming up soon. You will know what to do when the time is right. Jump & the net will appear! This card urges you to trust your own gut instinct. Pay no heed to those who would try and talk you out of your decisions / choices as they are not you.

Loved ones sometimes feel they know best but tis can come from a fearful/controlling place.

Listen to your gut. If it "sits" with you , you won't go far wrong!

Lucky Day: 19 Lucky colour: orange

Scor"io

Body Movement: Libra you are being guided to get out and about. Our bodies need exercise . Without it our health starts to deteriorate and our joints seize up. Libra is the embodiment of balance. If your karmic scales feels out of kilter at present , try and be present in the moment. In a coffee shop, savour the taste of the coffee , listen to the sounds that surround you. Stop those rushing thoughts that hurry you in to the next task urgently. You are being guided to connect with your body and that starts with your breathing. Notice how relaxed you are after 3 deep breaths?

Notice how heavy your shoulders are? It's time to release the tension! Ready set go!

Lucky Day: 25 Lucky colour:lilac

Faery of feeling safe: Someone has rattled your cage Scorpio and your shields are up!

This person is known to you and you grow weary of their selfishness. You are facilitating this behaviour by being compliant to their actions in hope the will "come around" themselves. They won't! It's time you defined your boundaries so when someone crosses the line you will know and importantly they will also when they've overstepped the mark! Trying to keep the piece or saying nothing for a quiet life has it's own karmic backlash. Speak now or forever hold your peace .....? Lucky Day: 14 Lucky colour: white

Faery of Problems: This Faery is here to help you clear out any problems that squat like pesky pixies in your head as you try and find a solution to the quagmire of indecision facing you. Sometimes life can overwhelm you. Acting like the proverbial ostrich with her head stuck in the sand is not a long term solution ! When you face your problems they are never as bad as you originally thought .

The more energy we pour into a negative situation the worse it gets. Step back and gain perspective . Share your fears with a close friend/ family member . A problem shared is a problem aired . After all you are the one in the control seat if your life - don't let your fears control you. Lucky Day: 28 Lucky colour: yellow

Faery of kick up your heels: It's time to put your favorite music on, kick up your heels and dance! When was the last time you actually danced? (Chair-dancing doesn't count!) You're well overdue good company , good food & good wine!!!

Faeries love to party , it's what they do best !

You are being encouraged to take a leaf out of their book and make plans to enjoy yourself. What may feel like a luxury is actually a nessessity. Give yourself something to look forward to. For that's when life gets less difficult when we know there are better things in store!

Lucky Day: 22nd August Lucky colour: blue

Aquarius

Pisces

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

Plumbing & Heating

Budgeting for winter with Direct Debit

M&K Oils Lecarrow, Strandhill, Co. Sligo

When you are living on a fixed income, large seasonal bills are much more of a worry.

Help take the stress out of winter with our budgeting guide

Spreading the cost of winter fuel Speak to your utility providers now – many of them offer a budget scheme or payment plan where payment is made by regular fixed sum Direct Debits which even out payments over the year to save you finding extra funds in winter If your income varies, you may be able to put money towards your next bill when you can with a flexible payments scheme. Payments can usually be made at a bank or Post Office, or by post A pre-payment meter is charged up by tokens, cards or special keys. Paying as you go like this stops big surprise bills but can be more expensive.

(Not all companies offer all options. Check with your supplier – you’ll find their

phone number on the bill or in the local phone book.)

Switching fuel suppliers It sometimes pays to switch suppliers as you could save money on your energy bills.

What if you are struggling to pay?

Tell the gas or electricity company at once. Never just ignore the bill. If you let the company know you are having problems, they should be able to help you.

Claiming Winter Fuel Allowance The Winter Fuel Allowance payments are worth €520 a year to any houshold that qualifies for it . It is paid at a rate of €20 a week for 26 weeks. (It used to be 32 weeks). The scheme operates for 26 weeks from

the start of October 2013 to the first week in April 2014.

About 410,000 people get this payment – so the total paid out is around €213 Million a year. This payment is on top of any payment from the “Household Benefit Package” – under which about 400,00 people get €35 a month towards electricty and €35 a month towards gas all year round.

That works out at €840 a year for someone with both gas and electricty. Someone getting both the Winter fuel allowance and the household benefit package could be getting €156 a month towards fuel costs during Oct to April.

The Fuel Allowance is a payment under the National Fuel Scheme to help with the cost of heating your home. It is paid to people who are dependant on long-term social welfare or Health Service Executive (HSE) payments and who are unable to provide for their own heating needs.

You may qualify for the fuel allowance if you are in receipt of any of these : • Invalidity Pension * PreRetirement Pension * Disability Allowance • Incapacity Supplement Widow’s or Widower’s (Contributory) Pension

• Widow’s (NonContributory) Pension • Deserted Wife’s Benefit or Allowance • State Pension (Contributory or NonContributory) • State Pension (Transition) • Blind Pension • Prisoners Wife’s Allowance • One-Parent Family Payment You will not qualify for a Fuel Allowance if: You live with someone who is not getting one of the qualifying payments for the Fuel Allowance. Or You are on a contributory payment and have weekly income above the means test limits (see below) The assessable income limit for a single person under 80 is €330.30 The assessable income limit for a couple (where the qualified adult is under 66) is €483.80 The assessable income limit for a couple (where the qualified adult is 66 or over) is €536.60 Only one payment is paid to a household if there is more than one person that qualifies.

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Therapies

Hypnotherapy Explained M

uch modern day mental and emotional distress and even some physical illness can be traced to underlying anxiety, tension and stress arising out of an imbalance between our cognitive or conscious beliefs and desires, and the beliefs and desires we hold below conscious awareness in the sub-conscious mind.

Modern Clinical Hypnotherapy is a powerful form of Psychotherapy combing cognitive therapeutic counselling techniques with subconscious healing techniques.

What does a Hypnotherapist do?

The old image of a man with a beard dangling a watch or a crystal in front of your eyes and taking control of your mind is just a myth made up for comic books, movies and TV.Being hypnotised feels just like being very relaxed. Modern hypnotherapists will simply assist you to become so deeply relaxed that, with a little guidance, you can begin to make the changes you want to make to your automatic behaviors and/or emotional reactions so they become positive for you instead of negative. Clinical Hypnotherapy can assist you to come into conscious awareness of your sub-conscious beliefs and desires and thus enables you to begin to understand and redress any imbalance between the two, resulting in reduced feelings of stress and anxiety and increased feelings of calmness and positive energy. Clinical Hypnotherapy has been used widely and successfully for many years in Australia and overseas for the relief of a number of problems and conditions.

Benefits of Hypnotherapy Well known in the community as being effective for giving up smoking and for weight management, Clinical Hypnotherapy is also powerful in many areas of life in which people experience symptoms of pain, stress, anxiety and tension – some examples are listed below: Pain management, Stop smoking, Fears and phobias, Stress management, Improved memory, Gambling addiction, Sporting performance, Academic performance, Exam nerves, Sexual problems, Performance anxiety, Gaining selfconfidence, Improving motivation Overcoming grief, Overcoming insomnia Pre-menstrual tension, Nail biting, Bed wetting. Gaining permanent, positive outcomes from Clinical Hypnotherapy can take anywhere from one or two sessions to many weeks of therapy depending upon the complexity of the problem and the nature of the underlying subconscious beliefs that are causing or contributing to the problem. Clinical Hypnotherapists may belong to one of many hypnotherapy associations so It's worth asking the hypnotherapist about their qualifications and checking with the association for clarification.

What is a Wellness Coach?

Are you feeling a little out of sorts? Feel that you’re not achieving your goals? Or do you just need to be steered in the right direction? If so, a wellness coach might be just what the natural therapist ordered!

We all want to live well and enjoy a healthy and long life. Sometimes, however, we get off track or aren’t sure how to move forward with our lives. A wellness coach is a mentor who can partner with you in reaching your goals and making the most out of your life.

What to Expect in a Wellness Coaching Session A wellness coach can help you identify the roadblocks that are holding you back. In this way, your coach becomes a mentor who can put a fresh perspective on things and offer suggestions on which steps to take next. Your coach is likely to use a

broad range of tools and techniques in your session. They may tap into counselling, goal setting and a range of other therapies to coach you and help you set life goals.

Finding a Wellness Coach Many life coaches can be considered wellness coaches. The easiest way to find a life coach is to use the free ntpages directory. You can search for life coaches in your area and compare their services and coaching styles.

Once you’ve found a wellness coach, you can look forward to renewed vigour and ambition.

Holistic Therapies Sligo - Carmel Clarke

Aromatherapy • Massage • Womens’ Health Carmel is a qualified nurse and has Diplomas in Reflexology, Therapeutic Massage & Aromatherapy coupled with Post-Graduate training in reflexology in pregnancy , working with people undergoing cancer treatment including their Carers.

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Stéfan de Guylian As seen on Irish and International TV

Travel on a Mystical Journey...

From the moment a client starts to engage with me, my intuitive and spiritual radar is open and at work.

This enables my purest self to initiate an authentic and effective facilitation for your healing process.

To make an appointment or for a brief informal discussion with myself directly. You can reach me on 087-8093783 or email cathy@cathycavanagh.net or visit my website www.cathycavanagh.net

7th SON FAITH HEALER MICHAEL O’CONNOR

www.handsonfaithhealing.com ALL CONSULTATIONS ARE IN PRIVATE

Michael regularly travels all over Ireland and Northern Ireland helping to heal people from all sorts of ailments. From eczema and asthma to stress and back pain; he has seen it all.

Clinic times & venues available at www.handsonfaithhealing.com or contact Michael on 087 2301359 for an appointment

International Clairvoyant, Medium & Psychic Tarotologist Native American Energies Platform Work Shamanism

Available for House Parties & Corporate Events

Contact Stefan: 087-6108105 • stefandeguylian@gmail.com Learn to understand and accept your self

Henry Schwab Healing

"tapping with EFT and using modern meridian and energy therapies is the way to go in therapy today.

I am again and again amazed how effective these therapies are compared with the typical psychotherapy/counselling . tapping seems to be so much faster and effective without going into the past in clearing all forms of anxiety, stress, anger, fears and phobias and seems even to work in eliminating allergies like hey fever( it did just that for myself!). to book an appointment or for any questions , please contact Henry at 071 96 62114 or send an e-mail to schwabhenry@gmail.com".

www.henryschwabhealing.com

Evikeens, Boyle, County Roscommon • Tel: 071 96 62114 Page 25 Mature Living August 2014

Food and Drink

P

erfect for dinners, lunches and snacks, this spiced tortilla is a great in-the-fridge standby for many occasions

Ingredients 1 tbsp sunflower oil 1 onion, sliced 1 red chilli, deseeded and shredded 2 tsp curry spices (we used coriander, cumin and turmeric) 300g cherry tomatoes 500g cooked potatoes, sliced bunch coriander, stalks finely chopped, leaves roughly chopped 8 eggs, beaten

E

4 slices brown bread half small bunch parsley, chopped

Ingredients 1 tbsp olive oil 1 garlic clove, chopped 1 red chilli, deseeded and chopped 1 lemon, zest and juice 2 x 120g cans sardines in sunflower oil, drained

Method Heat the olive oil in a frying pan, then sizzle the garlic clove and red chilli.

Add the lemon zest.

Add the sardines and heat through for a few mins until warm.

Toast the brown bread. Stir the parsley into the sardines, add a squeeze of lemon juice, then divide between the toast and serve.

njoy the taste of the Med with this fresh, wholesome supper using an oily fish that's packed with omega-3 and a good, cheap storecupboard staple

Page 26 Mature Living August 2014

Method Heat the oil in a large frying pan. Fry the onion and half the chilli for 5 mins until softened. Tip in the spices, fry for 1 min more, then add the cherry tomatoes, potatoes and coriander stalks to the pan. Season the eggs well, pour over the top of the veg and leave to cook gently for 8-10 mins until almost set.

Heat the grill and flash the tortilla underneath for 1-2 mins until the top is set. Scatter the coriander leaves and remaining chilli over the top, slice into wedges and serve with a green salad.

Food and Drink

T

ry a fresh spin on doughnuts by piping them Spanish-style and serving with a thick and indulgent dark chocolate sauce Ingredients 50g butter, melted ½ tsp vanilla extract 250g plain flour 1 tsp baking powder about 1 litre sunflower oil few chunks of bread For the sauce 200g bar dark chocolate, not too bitter, broken into chunks 100ml double cream 100ml whole milk 3 tbsp golden syrup ½ tsp vanilla extract, if you have some For the cinnamon sugar 100g caster sugar 2 tsp cinnamon Method Boil the kettle, then measure 350ml boiling water into a jug and add the melted butter and vanilla extract. Sift the flour and baking powder into a big

mixing bowl with a big pinch of salt. Make a well in the centre, then pour in the contents of the jug and very quickly beat into the flour with a wooden spoon until lump-free. Rest for 10-15 mins while you make the sauce.

remove with a slotted spoon and drain on the kitchen paper-lined tray. Carry on cooking the rest of the dough

in batches, sprinkling the cooked churros with some cinnamon sugar as you go.

Once you’ve cooked all the

churros, toss with any remaining cinnamon sugar and serve with the chocolate sauce, for dipping.

Put all the sauce ingredients into a pan and gently melt together, stirring occasionally until you have a smooth shiny sauce. Keep warm on a low heat.

Fill a large deep saucepan onethird full of oil. Heat until a cube of bread browns in 45 seconds – 1 min. Cover a tray with kitchen paper and mix the caster sugar and cinnamon together.

Fit a star nozzle to a piping bag, 1.5-2cm wide is a good size. Fill with the rested dough, then pipe 2-3 strips directly into the pan, snipping off each dough strip with a pair of kitchen scissors. Fry until golden brown and crisp, then

T

his anytime summer salad will be on the table in just 30 minutes

Ingredients 500g bag baby new potatoes, halved 4 eggs 225g green beans, trimmed 225g chorizo ring, sliced 1 garlic clove, sliced 2 tbsp sherry vinegar 2 tbsp chopped parsley Method Cook the potatoes in a large pan of boiling salted water for 12 mins, adding the eggs after 6 mins, and the beans for

the final 2 mins.

Drain everything and cool the eggs under cold running water.

Meanwhile fry chorizo slices for 1-2 mins, until beginning to crisp. Remove from the pan with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the oil from the chorizo in the pan. Add the garlic to the pan and cook gently for 1 min.

Remove the pan from the heat, stir in the vinegar and parsley, then toss with the potatoes, beans, chorizo and seasoning. Shell the eggs, cut into quarters and add to the salad.

Page 27 Mature Living August 2014

Memories

T

The Bands of our S

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 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

Hoedowners Story (1962-1973) A lthough Earl Gill got his start in the 50's playing with other bands around Dublin, the Hoedowners started life as the resident band in the Shelbourne Hotel in Dublin. In fact, as were many bands of the day, they were actually more of an orchestra. During the winter the band played in the hotel ballroom, but during the summer they hit the road. In a 1969 Spotlight article Oliver Barry said that Earl was originally a piano player, but had an accident that severely injured some of his fingers and he turned his talents to the trumpet. However, his early training made him one of Ireland's most talented arrangers in the country.

Around the same time in the early sixties, Sean Dunphy was a carpenter by trade and sang part time with a group called the Keymen. He went to England after serving in the Irish Army where he continued to work by day as a carpenter and by night sang in the Hibernian Ballroom in Fulham.

When he heard Earl Gill was looking for a vocalist, he sent a tape and was signed

immediately.

The original "road band" included Mel Dean (guitar), Steve Pickering (guitar), Gerry Ryan (bass), Vinnie Keane (drums), Earl Gill (trumpet), Claude Phibbs (sax), Frank Mangan (trombone), Sean Dunphy and Amy Hayden (vocals). At the time, the band was known as the Earl Gill Band. In the mid sixties, RTE (then known as Telefis Eireann =TE) started a television show called the Hoedown and Earl and the band were hired to provide backing for the singers. They took on the name The Hoedowners for the show and it stuck.

Around the same time, they teamed up with manager Oliver Barry, and set their sights on conquering the ballroom circuit. At that time the band was known as Earl Gill and his Hoedowners.

The band's next big break came in early 1966, after changing to their new name, they released Wonderful World of My Dreams and it went to number five in the Irish Charts, starting a string of hit records which would become legendary as there

row or two of old airplane sea ready to travel "in style." Alth opinion...if you're stuck in the winter's night, it may seem lik even further to Castletownber It will be impossible to list halls, ballrooms, marquees, p hotels, and town halls across

were very few weeks in the mid to late 60's that there wasn't a Hoedowners record somewhere in the charts. In the 1960's and early seventies, the Hoedowners were one of the most successful Irish recording artists with 14 singles hitting the Irish charts between 1966 and 1973. In 1967, Sean was selected to represent Ireland in the Eurovision Song Contest. This was Ireland's third attempt - Butch Moore and Dickie Rock had preceded Sean. The song was If I Could Choose. Sean came in second behind England's entry, Sandie Shaw's Puppet on A String. In Ireland, the record reached number two in the Irish Charts and provided the band's fourth hit single. The same year the band released "Sunset" one of very few instrumental songs to be released during the showband era.

In early 1968, Sean was hospitalized in

Birmingham with tonsi several dates in March. and the Hoedowners be to release a single on th Records, started by thei Oliver Barry and Jim H Capitol. Sean and the b first album on the new Sean Dunphy. In Decem underwent a shuffle wh members joined includi Dave Carlisle from New In early 1969, Sean a their first number one h Woods of Upton. In Jul this up with the song, W Were White With Daisi arranged by Noel Keleh them with yet another n they became one of the ever to have a single in

Earl Gill and "his" Hoedowners: Left to right: Frank Mangan (trombone) (guitar), Mel Dean (guitar), Claude Phipps (sax), Sean Dunphy (vocals), (drums), Earl Gill (trumpet), Amy Hayden (vocals) and Gerry Ryan (bas Mel Dean for lineup info.

Page 28 Mature Living June 2012

Memories

T

The Bands of our Showband Era

Article and Photos courtesy of Gerry Gallagher www.irish-showbands.com

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 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

Hoedowners Story (1962-1973) A lthough Earl Gill got his start in the 50's playing with other bands around Dublin, the Hoedowners started life as the resident band in the Shelbourne Hotel in Dublin. In fact, as were many bands of the day, they were actually more of an orchestra. During the winter the band played in the hotel ballroom, but during the summer they hit the road. In a 1969 Spotlight article Oliver Barry said that Earl was originally a piano player, but had an accident that severely injured some of his fingers and he turned his talents to the trumpet. However, his early training made him one of Ireland's most talented arrangers in the country.

Around the same time in the early sixties, Sean Dunphy was a carpenter by trade and sang part time with a group called the Keymen. He went to England after serving in the Irish Army where he continued to work by day as a carpenter and by night sang in the Hibernian Ballroom in Fulham.

When he heard Earl Gill was looking for a vocalist, he sent a tape and was signed

immediately.

The original "road band" included Mel Dean (guitar), Steve Pickering (guitar), Gerry Ryan (bass), Vinnie Keane (drums), Earl Gill (trumpet), Claude Phibbs (sax), Frank Mangan (trombone), Sean Dunphy and Amy Hayden (vocals). At the time, the band was known as the Earl Gill Band. In the mid sixties, RTE (then known as Telefis Eireann =TE) started a television show called the Hoedown and Earl and the band were hired to provide backing for the singers. They took on the name The Hoedowners for the show and it stuck.

Around the same time, they teamed up with manager Oliver Barry, and set their sights on conquering the ballroom circuit. At that time the band was known as Earl Gill and his Hoedowners.

The band's next big break came in early 1966, after changing to their new name, they released Wonderful World of My Dreams and it went to number five in the Irish Charts, starting a string of hit records which would become legendary as there

row or two of old airplane seats were installed and the band was ready to travel "in style." Although style was a matter of 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

were very few weeks in the mid to late 60's that there wasn't a Hoedowners record somewhere in the charts. In the 1960's and early seventies, the Hoedowners were one of the most successful Irish recording artists with 14 singles hitting the Irish charts between 1966 and 1973. In 1967, Sean was selected to represent Ireland in the Eurovision Song Contest. This was Ireland's third attempt - Butch Moore and Dickie Rock had preceded Sean. The song was If I Could Choose. Sean came in second behind England's entry, Sandie Shaw's Puppet on A String. In Ireland, the record reached number two in the Irish Charts and provided the band's fourth hit single. The same year the band released "Sunset" one of very few instrumental songs to be released during the showband era.

In early 1968, Sean was hospitalized in

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 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

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 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...

Top singles - 1968 Birmingham with tonsillitis and missed several dates in March. In mid-1968, Sean and the Hoedowners became the first artists to release a single on the new Dolphin Records, started by their then manager, Oliver Barry and Jim Hand, manager of the Capitol. Sean and the boys also released the first album on the new label, Ireland's Own Sean Dunphy. In December, 1968, the band underwent a shuffle when several new members joined including guitarist/vocalist Dave Carlisle from Newtownards.

In early 1969, Sean and the boys had their first number one hit with The Lonely Woods of Upton. In July, the band followed this up with the song, When The Fields Were White With Daisies which was arranged by Noel Kelehan and provided them with yet another number one hit and they became one of the few Irish artists ever to have a single in the top twenty for

Sean Dunphy and the Hoedowners in 1966 Left to right- Claude Phipps (sax), Frank Mangan (trombone), Amy Hayden (vocals), Sean Dunphy (vocals), Unknown (guitar), Vinnie Keane (drums), Pat Keohane (bass) and Earl Gill (trumpet).

Earl Gill and "his" Hoedowners: Left to right: Frank Mangan (trombone), Steve Pickering (guitar), Mel Dean (guitar), Claude Phipps (sax), Sean Dunphy (vocals), Vinnie Keane (drums), Earl Gill (trumpet), Amy Hayden (vocals) and Gerry Ryan (bass). Our thanks to Mel Dean for lineup info.

Page 28 Mature Living June 2012

12 months straight. A chart survey published in Spotlight in January, 1970 showed that Sean Dunphy was far and away the top recording artist in Ireland based on the number of weeks and position in the charts for all of 1969, ahead of Joe Dolan and in third place, The Beatles. The only other Irish acts in the top ten of the survey were the Real McCoy and Dixies.

In 1971, the band went the "gimmick" route when they released Poor Poor Farmer as Darby O'Gill (Tim Pat), who was actually Earl Gill. The single got to Number 3 in the Irish Charts and the band got plenty of press. The trend would continue in 1972, when the band donned costumes as circus performers and changed their name to the Ho-Down Circus. Joining the band around this time (late 1972) was

fiddler, Tony Kirby and former Gentry drummer, Shay Murphy. Each member of the band dressed as a different character from a typical circus lineup. However, the writing was on the wall for the Hoedowners.

An article in Spotlight dated December 20th, 1973 described Sean as the former lead singer with the Hoedowners, so we are assuming the band split up in mid to late 1973. He went off to do a residency in Canada (which seems to have been all the rage at the time), but was due back in Ireland in early 1974 for cabaret dates around the country. Also, around this time Earl Gill took over the management of Hugo Duncan and the Tallmen.

Our thanks to Mel Dean, former member of the band for help compiling this story.

1. Brendan O'Brien & Dixies - Little Arrows (Pye) 2. Johnny McEvoy - Nora (target) 3. Dickie Rock & Miami - Simon Says (Pye) 4. Sean Dunphy & Hoedowners - Two Loves (Dolphin) 5. Emmet Spiceland - Mary From Dungloe (Inset) 6. Pat McGeegan - Chance of A Lifetime (Emerald) 7. Brendan O'Brien & Dixies - Katie's Kisses (Pye) 8. Pattersons - I Don't Want To Be A Memory (CBS) 9. Irish Rovers - The Unicorn (MCA) 10. Sweeney's Men - Waxie's Dargle (Pye) 11. Emmet Spiceland - Baidin Fheidhlimi (Gael-linn) 12. Sean Dunphy & Howdowners - Christmas Polka 13. Patricia Cahill - One and One Are Two (Rex) 14. Freshmen - Papa Oom Oom Mow (target) 15. Granny's Intentions - Never An Everyday Thing (Deram) 16. Sands - Yummy Yummy Yummy (Tribune) 17. Sands - Dance Dance Dance (Tribune) 18. Johnstons - I Never Will Marry (Pye) 19. Joe Dolan & Drifters - Love of the Common People 20. Real McCoy - I Get So Excited (Target) 21. Brendan Bowyer & Royal Showband - Lady Will-power/ Woman Woman (King) 22. Dickie Rock & Miami - Christmas Time and You (Pye) 23. Sands - Help Me Rhonda (Tribune) 24. Memories - Oh No (Rex) 25. Dubliners - Dirty Old Town (Major Minor) 26. Emmet Spiceland - Bunclody (Page One) 27. Fairways - Flippiddy Flop (Release) 28. Larry Cunningham & Mighty Avons - The Emigrant 29. Kathleen & Deirdre - The Bridal Path (Pye) 30. Johnstons - Both Sides Now (Transatlantic) 31. Brendan O'Brien & Dixies - In Person (Pye) 32. Brendan Bowyer & Royal Showband - Same Old Song 33. Dreams - I Will See You There (Dolphin) 34. Dolly McMahon - Sweet Rathcoole (Major Minor) 35. Dubliners - Never Wed An Old Man (Major Minor) 36. Freshmen - Go Granny Go (Target) 37. Pat Lynch & Airchords - Piccolo Man (Pye) Page 29 Mature Living June 2012

Feature

MAYO v KERRY ALL IRELAND SENIOR CHAMPIONSHIP SEMI FINAL

Pictured above:The Mayo Squad. GAA Football All-Ireland Senior Championship, Quarter-Final, Mayo v Cork, Croke Park, Dublin. Picture credit: Ray McManus / SPORTSFILE

Best wishes to the Mayo Seniors & Minors from all at

TREACY COACHES BALLINA

Best wishes to the Mayo Seniors and Minors from all at

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Best of luck to Mayo Seniors and Minors from James McGrath

Service Agents for: Aga, Rangemaster, Electrolux, Zanussi, Beko, Cata, Speed Queen & Maytag laundry Equipment

TEL: 086-816-9023

James (Snr) Tel: 098-35266 •James (Jnr) Tel: 086-027-4118 Email: westportgas@eircom.net

Page 30 Mature Living August 2014

MAYO v KERRY ALL IRELAND MINOR CHAMPIONSHIP SEMI FINAL

Pictured above: The Mayo squad. Electric Ireland GAA Football All Ireland Minor Championship, Quarter-Final, Mayo v Armagh, Croke Park, Dublin.

Best of luck to Mayo Seniors & Minors from all at

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A

ustralia, being such a large country (it’s an Island, a continent as well as a country, to be exact), it’s natural to be intimidated by all the many sights and things to do.

And with friendly citizens and a land rich in diverse cultural backgrounds and indigenous traditions from thousands of years ago still recognized today, it’s no wonder why the Australian culture is often seen to be very similar to the Irish culture. But with a bit more of a laid back attitude. And with more beaches, of course!

We’ve compiled the top three reasons why you as a Irish traveler should finally add a checkmark next to ‘visit Australia’ on your bucket list.

And, of course, why you need to specifically book a tour when you visit Australia.

Convenience and Time Saving: The Outback or the beach? Tour the Sydney Harbour Bridge or Blue Mountains? And this is just Sydney – then you must think about Melbourne and Cairns and so on. You wouldn’t want to travel all the way to Australia just to see one city. Plus, it would be quite hard to jam several activities into one holiday, and plan them each out in a timely manner on your own when unexpected delays could crop up.

There are many organized cross-city tours that take you from Sydney to Melbourne, Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef and so on within one vacation package. Often these tours include return flights, accommodations, most meals, hiking trails and various

The Great Ocean Road

activities like snorkeling, and of course, plenty of photosnapping opportunities.

Safe and Never Boring: From dining on a luxury boat cruise overlooking the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge to dinner on a first class train from Sydney to Melbourne, no two nights are the same when you travel with an organized tour.

Organized tours are known as being a safe way to travel as you’re with a group and activity levels are appropriate for all ages no matter who is on the tour. These tours ensure that each day will be vastly different from the next as there are many pre-planned and well-organized activities – saving you a lot of time in the preparation process of having to research each place individually. Each site visit is seamless, safe and easy – one day you could be visiting Blue Mountains just west of Sydney and the next day you’d be heading on a train to visit Michaelmas Cay (The Great Barrier Reef).

Get Your Fill on The Popular and The “Hidden Gems”: Booking a tour that takes you to many cities throughout the country ensures you don’t miss a beat, treat or feat! Did you know about The Colonial Tramcar Restaurant in Melbourne? While bustling through the hip streets of Melbourne on a tram, The Colonial Tramcar Restaurant allows you to enjoy a four course meal including Kangaroo Loin, Tasmanian Ocean Trout, Victoria Fillet as well as a selection of Australian cheeses.

Did you also know that

Freycinet National Park / Wineglass Bay throughout the country, you don’t ever have to tip any waiters when dining in restaurants? It’s not customary to tip waiters in Australia, saving you money to enjoy your travels (or grab a few extra souvenirs from each city on your tour!).

Another reason why Australia is a great place to visit?

It’s affordable – internal roundtrip flights within Australia are roughly €150. Australia is affordable, it’s safe, and it’s got a lot of fascinating places to visit.

Let your travel agent help you add a checkmark to your bucket list today and assist you in incorporating several Australian destinations in an easy 14-day, 19-day, 22-day or 27-day allinclusive voyage along the east-coast of Australia! Most travel agents will guide you through your trip planning process from end-to-end seamlessly. On everything from

baggage limits, ideal climates for particular locations, offbeaten path delights, insights on the best of restaurants, cafes and shopping, and all the best airfare deals.

The Great Ocean Road The Great Ocean Road, located in Victoria, is arguably one of the best scenic drives of the world. Its official length is 243 kms (approximately 150 miles), but it will take you a full day to enjoy it due to the narrow and windy traffic lanes (only one in each direction). It hugs the coast line with panoramic views of the ocean and cliffs, and it winds its way through cool climate rain forests.

There are many beaches that you can stop and swim at along the drive, and also numerous townships, hikes, and other attractions for you to partake in.

The Grampians National Park Located in Victoria, 175 kms

north of Warrnambool (the official end of the Great Ocean Road) is the Grampians National Park and the township of Halls Gap. The park is 1,672 km² in size and is host to amazing hikes, series of low-angled sandstone ridges, and is one of the richest Indigenous rock art sites in south-eastern Australia.

Its beauty and grandeur are well known to locals, and stuns all who come to visit. You can almost feel the magic of the Indigenous dream time legends in the land around you.

Fraser Island Located just off the coast near Hervey Bay in Queensland, Fraser Island is the largest sand island in the world. With over 120 kilometres of pristine beaches it's easy to understand why thousands of people visit each month. The most popular way to get around the island is by hiring a 4wd for 2-3 days and explore where ever your fancy takes you.

Great Barrier Reef Halong Bay

hard to put into words the feeling that overcome me. You could feel the history, the magic, the splendour that is Uluru".

So if you are thinking about not making the journey, rethink your plans and make it happen somehow.

Something that we'd recommend is taking a guided tour from Adelaide.

These normally span 3 days minimum (and can go for 7+), but well worth it.

You'll get to see much more than just the rock that is Uluru!

Grampian National Park Victoria With inland fresh water lakes, rainforests with rare flora and fauna, the Dingo, wrecks for snorkelling and scuba diving, gorgeous beaches, and much more, it's no wonder this paradise is such a sought after tourist destination.

Great Barrier Reef Located in Queensland, this attraction, along with Uluru and the Sydney Opera House, is one of those attractions that is known by virtually everyone, and is synonymous with Australia. Stretching for approximately 2,300 kms, it is home to a vast wealth or rare, endangered, and unique animal and plant species.

It's hard to recommend one particular area of the reef to visit, but most people agree that the Whitsunday Islands are absolutely stunning, and we recommend taking a 2-3 day sailing trip/tour around the area. With snorkelling and scuba diving areas literally everywhere you are bound to experience wonders that will stay with you for the rest of your life!

Kakadu National Park

Daintree Rainforest Located in northern Queensland, approximately 110 kms north of Cairns (and don't forget to stop at Port Douglas on your way, it's stunning), the rainforest is a nature wonderland. It is Australia's largest rainforest, about 30% of Australia's reptile, marsupial and frog species, 65% of the country's bat and butterfly species, and 20% of Australia's native bird species can be found within the Daintree. And let's not forget it's also home to a prehistoric bird, the Cassowary! With so many things to see and do, including: crocodile boat tours, visiting one of several animal sanctuaries, going on a mangrove adventure tour, hikes, local Indigenous tours/history, it's easy to see why it's such a popular destination for tourists and nature lovers alike.

Kakadu National Park Located approximately 200 kms south east of Darwin in the Northern Territory, Kakadu national park covers nearly 20,000 km² (3.2 million acres), and includes the traditional lands of several Indigenous tribes. With over 5,000 rock painting sites, it's easy to see that this area was particularly sacred to the traditional landowners.

It is a natural wonder that holds both a World Heritage Area listing and as a UNESCO site (there are only two other sites in the world that hold both awards).

With stunning gorgeous, rare and endangered animals and plants, the notorious salt water crocodile, and many other natural attractions, this park will leave you breathless and in awe of both its history, it's remoteness, and it's power.

Ayers Rock Enough said. If you come to Australia you must see Uluru (in the Northern Territory).

So many times we have heard people say

something like, "I was not going to bother, you know, it's just a rock.

But once I started to get closer, and it got bigger, and bigger, and bigger, it's

Freycinet National Park / Wineglass Bay Down in pristine Tasmania, sticking out into the sea on Tasmania's mild east coast is the rugged and beautiful Freycinet Peninsula, home to Wineglass Bay. The peninsula is home to numerous other bays which provide beautiful secluded swimming beach, snorkelling and scuba areas, rock pools, and many other attractions.

With many hikes (one goes along the entire peninsula and takes 3 days), guided ranger activities, camping areas, an outdoor theatre, scenic drives, there are enough activities to keep you busy for many days.

Local Travel Counsellor Rachael Higgins is a specialist when it comes to travel

H

er areas of expertise are cruises, honeymoons, bespoke cultural itineraries, and worldwide trips. She would love the opportunity to organise your perfect holiday experience.

Customers want to book with an agent who is very knowledgeable and who they can trust, with over 18 years’ experience in the travel business that is what Rachael offers.

Says Rachael: “I find that people are suffering from “information overload” when trying to seek out holidays or travel arrangements for themselves online. That’s why I take the time to build relationships with my customers, getting to know them and tailormaking holidays to suit their needs”.

Because she works from home Rachael is more than happy to speak to customers at a time that suits them and because she has many years travel trade experience, she can provide expert advice ensuring the perfect holiday for all her clients, both leisure and business

travel.

For more information or to discuss your forthcoming travel plans contact Rachael Higgins on 094

9376765 or 086 6699635 or rachael.higgins@travelcounsellors.com or log on to www.travelcounsellors.ie/rachael.higgins

Visitor Centres

Make it a memorable summer in Fermanagh Lakelands

W

ith fresh air and green fields in abundance, teamed with quality accommodation and plenty to see and do, Fermanagh is the perfect choice for a break this summer.

Scenic routes through lake shore countryside and rugged mountain terrains offer walking and cycling enthusiasts the perfect way to see the natural, unspoilt countryside at its best. From castles to pre-historic monuments and mountain tombs this magical county is just waiting to be discovered.

One of the best ways to explore the Lakelands is definitely by water. Fermanagh Lakelands is the perfect environment for a boating holiday.

With several on shore boat hire companies no specialist knowledge is required, just a good sense of adventure - the perfect way to explore the waters of Lough Erne and the surrounding Fermanagh countryside!

For the golf fanatic among you, look no further than the Lough Erne Resort with its world-class 18 hole course designed by

Nick Faldo and it’s luxurious 5* Hotel, or if you’re in the mood for some pampering the luxury Thai Spa is a must for that well-earned massage or facial.

Fermanagh is also home to the world famous Belleek Pottery so take time to enjoy a guided tour of Ireland’s oldest working pottery and meet the talented craftspeople as they create each handmade piece.

Not to be missed is a visit to The Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark. Guided tours within the chilly caverns of the marvellous show caves offer an unforgettable experience amid stalagmites and stalactites. Explore the mysterious underground world or walk through Lough Navar Forest to the top of the Magho Cliffs were you will be greeted with the most spectacular views over Lower Lough Erne.

Discover historic Fermanagh with a visit to Enniskillen Castle Museums, a treasure trove of history and heritage, or one of our exquisite National Trust properties.

Fancy brushing up on your culinary skills? At the Belle Isle

School of Cookery you can discover the delights of cooking with top quality seasonal Irish produce in a breath-taking setting.

The Athenry Heritage Centre

T

he Athenry Heritage Centre provides a complete interactive experience which includes demonstrations of Norman armour, weapons, the medieval dungeon and market square. Become part of history our medieval costumes or test your skills with Have-A-Go Archery. The Athenry Heritage Centre is the ideal place to discover the best preserved

medieval town in Ireland which is also the home of the towns original 14th century Mace & Seal. This historic town has a fine selection of architectural buildings which includes a Norman Castle, the 13th century Dominican Priory, the Market Cross and the towns defensive walls, which make Athenry the most complete walled town in Ireland.

Treasure Your Family Time

A

ward-winning Westport House is the perfect destination for family fun, heritage and adventure activity. The beautiful historic house and its stunning interiors are complimented by equally stunning

woods, lake and parkland grounds. Visitors love the story of the survival of the house - and the family who still own it - going back as far as Grace O'Malley, the 16th century Pirate Queen. The aptlynamed Pirate Adventure Park is perfectly suited to children under 12 years. It will leave them screaming for more with rides, slides, boats, trains, pitch & putt, go karting as well as playgrounds and an indoor soft-play.

Adventurers from 8 years upwards will enjoy zorbing, zip wires, high ropes, archery and laser combat games. Create magical family memories at Westport House! Visit www.WestportHouse.ie to plan your trip and to book discounted tickets!

Page 34 Mature Living August 2014

Check out our website fermanaghlakelands.com for more information on attractions, upcoming events, eating out and accommodation. Avail of one of

the many excellent summer break special offers and start planning your trip today…it’s definitely one not to be missed.

Visitor Centres

Mayo North Heritage Centre Enniscoe, Castlehill, Ballina, County Mayo Enniscoe Tea Room is located in The Mayo North Family Heritage Centre which is situated 4km from Crossmolina on the R315, on the grounds of Enniscoe Estate. The tea room overlooks the Victorian walled garden and provides light lunches; home-made soup; sandwiches; home-made apple tart; scones; desserts; tea/coffee.

Attractions at Mayo North Heritage Centre: • Family History Unit. Research compiled for people with roots in North Mayo.

• The Ornamental Garden. • Forest Walks and Nature Trails.

• Agricultural Museum • Organic Garden.

• Pleasure Grounds and Mausoleum. • Heritage Shop.

• Reduced rates for retirement groups; O.A.P’s and School groups.

Tea Room; Museum; Gardens & Shop: Open 11.00 to 17.00 daily; 13.30 to 17.30 at weekends, April to October.

Genealogy: Open all year 09.30 – 16.00 Monday - Friday.

Enniscoe Organic Garden: • Producing Organic Vegetables and Fruit for sale.

• Family Allotments.

• Friends of the Garden. Volunteers welcome.

• FETAC Approved Level III and IV minor courses.

• Space available for adults with learning difficulties

Enniscoe, Castlehill, Ballina, County Mayo, Ireland • Tel: 096-31809 northmayo@gmail.com • www.northmayogenealogy.com

The Jackie Clarke Collection

T

he Jackie Clarke Collection Ireland's Memory - is an iconic cultural destination in Mayo. Found here in abundance are unique treasures - 100,000 items - uncensored, rare and priceless artefacts. It is a collection that focuses on the Irish people, their struggles and their triumphs.

It is the most important private collection of Irish history, now in public hands. The material in the collection covers over 400 years of Ireland’s history. It includes material belonging to Theobald Wolfe Tone, the father of Republicanism; editions of the first newspaper, dating to 1665; personal items from the 1916 Rising's Leaders; autographed letters from Michael Collins and other activists in the War of Independence and Civil War; the papers of the first Irish President Douglas Hyde including a rare early Bible in Irish; letters from Fenians in America - John Devoy, and Jeremiah O'Donovan Rossa - and poignantly, primary material relating to the Famines of the nineteenth century and the subsequent evictions that send the Irish to the four corners of the earth.

It also contains rare books, cine films, manuscripts, posters, proclamations (several versions of the Irish Proclamation, including the 1916 Proclamation), legal pa-

pers, badges, handbills, works by Sir John Lavery, rare printed maps (some dating from 1600 onwards) hunger strike material, prisoners’ art, graphics, political cartoons, ground plans, architects plans, engineering plans, newspapers, photographs and woodcarvings.

Jackie Clarke (1927 – 2000) was a Ballina business man and a genius collector. In 2007 his widow, Mrs Anne Clarke gifted her late husband's collection to the people of Ballina, Mayo and Ireland, in perpetuity, on condition that it remained in Ballina. This donation to Ireland is in the guardianship of Mayo County Council.

The collection is housed in the unique setting of the former Provincial Bank building and walled garden, ideally located on the main shopping street in Ballina town centre. The building was designed by noted Irish architect Thomas Manly Deane who worked on of many of Ireland's finest public buildings including the Government buildings, the National Library and the National Museum.

The Walled Garden will be a green oasis in the busy town of Ballina. Over the past five years, the listing of this collection has been carried out by historian Sinéad McCoole, now employed as Manager/Curator of the Jackie Clarke Collection by Mayo County Council.

“Best Visitor Experience of the Year”, NI Tourism Awards 2014

Page 37 Mature Living August 2014

DISCOVER FUN AND

Bed and Breakfast with a difference"

Marjorie’s Kitchen offers premium specialised cooking courses to everyone, and we mean everyone. This is not a master class for nouvelle cuisine, but rather a professional friendly environment in which to learn and have fun doing so.

Looking for Bed & Breakfast with a difference?

Why not enjoy a break Brigown B&B with Mouthwatering homemade treats on arrival

The Quay, Ballina, Co. Mayo Tel: 096-22609 / Mob: 087 2304986 Email: marjorieskitchen@hotmail.com

Have you ever wanted to paint in oils?

Would you like to create your own piece of art?

Have you ever looked at a pain#ng and thought "I wish I could do that"?

Have you not tried it yet because you think you have to be ar#s#c or have some experience?

If you have answered YES to any of the above ques#ons then our classes could be for you.

Telephone 086-0884972

or email edowdican@hotmail.com

NO PARTNERS NEEDED!

So you want to write? ... and get paid

W

riting is a great hobby for men and women over 50. It can pay and there's an enormous market out

there.

Thousands of book publishers, newspaper and magazine editors are in need of continuous supplies of material, not only in Ireland but, in this digital age, all around the world. If you fancy getting ‘into print’ and be paid, here are some basic, useful tips to improve your chances.

One of the best ways of getting practical help at the start is by joining your local writers' group, where the membership is likely to range from raw beginners, to published authors. Many local colleges run evening classes on writing improvement, others offer long distance courses. The ‘Writer and Artists’ Year Book’ and ‘The Writers’ Handbook’ are essential reading for all writers. Useful magazines such as ‘Writers’ News’ and Writers’ Forum’ are available either from newsagents, online or by subscription. Book shops offer many ‘how to’ titles for aspiring scribes.

come reader’s letters, and usually pay.

A great hobby for men & women over 50 A reasonably easy start to get into print is by writing letters to your local paper. Mention something local that you feel strongly about; make it controversial and the editor will love it! There’s little chance here of any payment but, hey, your name is in the press. First rung up the writing ladder.

A huge range of women’s magazines wel-

What do readers want to read?

In the short story market, standards are high, competition fierce, the outlets restricted. You need to research publications thoroughly to stand any chance of acceptance. It is not just a matter of writing a story and submitting it to any magazine that takes your fancy; you need to assess what editors are looking for.

Some publications offer writers useful guidelines; ignore them at your peril! Intensely study your chosen magazine. Count the number of words of the published short stories. If most are the popular length of around 1,000 words, it is no good hoping for an acceptance for your 2,000 word submission. Approach by e-mail, (letters are now out of favour) with a brief, business-like, query, asking if they might be interested; if they say ‘no’ try another suitable publication.

Limitless material The market for feature articles is far, far greater and easier to break into. The advice is the same as for short stories. Do your research. What to write about? Subject matter is limitless. Play to your strengths. Do you have an unusual hobby that readers would find fascinating?

Be persistent. Keep checking out any available markets where you can sell your work. Develop a radar system where incidents in everyday life can be turned into a good story or an interesting article.

Annes Social Dancing Presents “Fun for fitness, Dancing” Sligo Road, Tubbercurry, Co. Sligo Every Wednesday Night @ 8.30pm For More information Contact Anne on 087-6674561

Want to write a book?

Well, that’s another story!

Aidan Moran Golf Academy Classes: Sewing, Dressmaking, Patchwork, Quil!ng: Private classes in my studio or larger groups at a loca!on near you: registered tutor with the Galway Roscommon Educa!on Training Board.

Also Cra" and Baking ac!vi!es for the elderly or mentally disabled in Homes / Residences

Glann, Charlestown, Co. Mayo.

Phone: 086­8330264 Email: thecra"sfairy@hotmail.com www.fairyhillcra"s.com

Page 38 Mature Living August 2014

Malo Duconte is a Yoga Teacher and a Therapist. Her teaching is adapted to the need of the individual or to the specificity of the group.

Groups & 1-to-1 classes on demands.

Be present, be now, this moment is your life!

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Open: 11-9 Mon to Fri / 10-6 Sat & Sun Individual / Group Lessons Aidan Moran PGA Golf Professional

Contact: 086 33 08 999 maloyoga@gmail.com

Springfield, Castlebar Co.Mayo Phone: 086-8652172 Email: aidanmoranpga@gmail.com

EXCITING HOBBIES

CREATIVE WRITING WORKSHOPS

Series of 10 Creative Writing Workshops (weekly) in Strandhill

Pigeon Racing - Fancy that!

Wednesday October 1st Wednesday December 3rd 2014 7pm - 10pm

P

igeon racing grew up in the industrial areas of Britain where it was known as ‘poor man’s horse racing’, and was enjoyed by the working class man. Today, the sport is enjoyed by people from varied social backgrounds including professors, doctors, vets, school teachers and business owners as well as tradesmen, lorry drivers and gravediggers! Even her Majesty the Queen, patron of the Royal Pigeon Racing Association, has a loft at Sandringham where she continues a long line of Royal participation going back to her great grandfather. Fanciers across Ireland keep their pigeons in specially designed lofts.

These vary from small structures housing perhaps a dozen birds to larger premises where hundreds of pigeons are kept for both racing and breeding purposes. Members compete against each other racing in clubs. Apart from his pigeons a fancier will require a special timing clock. The secret of the race is traditionally a small rubber band that is placed around the pigeon’s leg. Club members will enter their pigeons into a race and after being ‘race rubbered’ the pigeons go into a basket on a special air-conditioned transporter constructed to carry racing panniers. The transporters travel to a fixed starting point for the race (the liberation site).

And Then They Race Home When the fancier has taken his pigeons to the club he will also have taken his timing clock and all the members’ clocks are synchronised. Because the club

Plenty of upcoming workshops, contact Órfhlaith on: 087 279 9108 or email writersinksligo@gmail.com www.orfhlaithnichonaill.com/summerfest

Social Dancing Every Thursday and Sunday The Welcome Inn, Castlebar 10pm­12.30 with Live Bands members may live anywhere in a town the finishing point is varied depending on where the fancier lives so each pigeon is racing a different distance. At an agreed time the pigeons are released a transport official at the liberation site and the pigeons race home. When the pigeon arrives back at the loft the fancier has to take the rubber band from the pigeon’s leg and place the band in the timing clock. As he does, so he ‘strikes’ the clock thus recording the arrival time of the pigeon.

The winner of a race is calculated by dividing the distance from the liberation

site to the loft divided by time it has taken for the pigeon to fly home. This gives the pigeon its velocity and the bird with the fastest speed is declared the winner. Pigeons can cover astonishing distances at speeds in excess of sixty miles per hour; top racers can therefore achieve more than five hundred miles in one day. Traditionally the sport covers two main routes; north road racers fly their birds south from places such as Thurso and Lerwick, whereas south road liberation points can be as far away as Pau in Southern France and Barcelona in Spain

From A to Bee

B

www.seatrails.ie

For more details call: 086 638 8529

GB

Gerard Butler Do you wanna dance?

Learn to dance with Gerard Butler

Tel: 086-8986004

Email: info@gerardbutlerdance.com

www.gerardbutlerdance.com

Fitness

Contact Auriel on info@seatrails.ie, phone 087 2405071 or consult the website

Admission €8

• Jive Classes • Set Dancing • Dance Workshops • Sean Nos Dancing

Niamh Moffatt

Welcome to Seatrails! Try a guided walking tour or outdoor adventure and discovery tour with a qualified maritime archaeologist guide.

Visit fascinating ancient monuments, stunning land and seascapes and learn about the unique wilderness that surrounds you.

Seatrails guided walks and tours are for everyone-children, families, school and special interest groups and retired persons.

Every Tuesday The Park Hotel, Kil"magh 10pm­12.30 with Live Bands

Group and Individual Classes starting in September

eekeeping is a great hobby for over 50s as, contrary to popular belief, it requires minimal hands-on time and results in a whole variety of useful byproducts that can be used in the home or to make items for sale, including (of course) delicious local honey and beeswax. It is also an excellent way to support your local honeybee population, learn about local ecosystems and get involved in your community.

Looking for things to do in Sligo?

Discover the genius within you Write with inspirational facilitators Safe, supportive environment Find your unique writing voice Share and celebrate your writing with others all at a beautiful seaside location

Fitness Instructor and Personal Trainer Are you bored with you exercise rou!ne? Do you want to lose weight, feel healthier, boost your energy or have you a special occasion that you want to shape up for?

Contact Niamh on: 087-6269999 niamhmoffa#itness@hotmail.com www.niamhmoffa#itness.com

Glencross Home and Garden Workshop Get the most out of your garden Develop or learn new skills to help you around your home Learn something completely new!

Workshops covering vegetable and flower growing, general gardening skills, sewing and needle craft, cookery and baking. Whether you are a complete beginner or would like to further develop your skills, we can create the right workshop for you.

For further details please call Alis Glencross on 087-3819162

or visit our website www.glencrosshomeandgardenworkshop.com

Giggles Drama School We provide Adult drama classes and workshops for individuals and groups. We aim to provide a full range of courses to cover all interests and abilities. Drama is very popular in Mayo and Sligo and we provide regular classes in Kiltimagh, Swinford, Meelick and Curry Tel: 094-9384262 / Mob: 087 7929138 Email: info@giggles.ie

www.giggles.ie

Page 39 Mature Living August 2014

DISCOVER FUN AND EXCITING HOBBIES Bridge - A Beautiful Game

D

Classes consist of Qigong and Tai Chi which is a short form of Wu style Tai Chi, it consists of 35 moves. As part of it's health benefits and lineage this so! moving form of Tai Chi cul"vates the mind & body with it's medita"ve quali"es.

7 Mail Coach Road, Sligo,

uplicate bridge is one of the most enduring and popular games in the world; for over 100 years, people of all types and from all walks of life have been fascinated by the game. It is one of the most popular leisure activities in Britain, with around 300,000 people playing on a regular basis. Ian Fleming’s Bond played bridge, as did Christie’s Poirot and in the real world - bridge is played by a good mix of politicians and celebrities. Mahatma Ghandi not only played bridge, but used the game to illustrate the relationship between kharma (fate) and dharma (the action of man)!But what is it that makes the game so intriguing and so popular?

Primarily, bridge is an excellent social game and can be played by everyone – players can meet new people, make new friends and learn the game through the many bridge clubs. Secondly, bridge has been proven to be a very good mind sport and each game played will offer a unique challenge of problems and solutions. Each morning many commuters will play challenging mind games like sudoku and the appeal is evident on a dreary weekday morning. Bridge is very much the same – every single deal is different, every deal poses a new problem and taunts the players to find the solution!

It’s frustrating when a player doesn’t rise to the challenge, but tremendous when they are successful – whether through finding a great technical play, by outwitting their opponents, or by cooperating really well to achieve success

with their partner. Players can also play nationally; there are open, women’s, seniors, mixed and junior events throughout the year. There are also international games in the European and World Championships.

The Sheer Satisfaction of Growing Your Own

G

Commons Clay Café

ardening doesn't just exercise your body, it exercises your mind as well.

Planning what to grow and when to sow is more complex than you might think.

Now before you think I've lost it completely, growing a cauliflower is not that easy. The correct variety has to be chosen for the time of year, sown in the right mix and transplanted at the right point into a specially prepared bed. Then it has to be fertilised, defended from weeds, marauding pigeons and hungry caterpillars until, with luck, you end up the proud owner of a wonderful white cauliflower surrounded by dark green leaves and

Paint Your Own Pottery Studio & Restaurant

tasting better than any cauliflower you have eaten before.

It might not look any better than those sitting on the grocer's shelf and it might even have a bug or two hiding amongst the curds but you know exactly what has gone into growing it. No nasty pesticide residues to be absorbed or 'food miles' accumulated transporting it halfway around the world.

Extra Fresh Beans By now you might begin to grasp the sheer satisfaction you can get from growing your own, but it doesn't stop there. You will suddenly discover how popular growing your own makes you. The first time you have a glut

and donate some extra fresh beans or lettuce to a friend your fate is sealed.

They'll be back round to see you in short order.

Unlike most hobbies that cost you, growing your own is profitable. Your own vegetables cost very little in comparison to the cost of buying vegetables.

I'd encourage anyone to grow their own but, even if you have a large garden, an allotment provides a change of scenery, an interesting bunch of people that you probably would never meet elsewhere and advice on tap. All joking aside, it is one of the most rewarding hobbies you can have.

CHANGE A LIFE: YOUR OWN So many people have it in them to be a Samaritans volunteer.

To touch another person’s life when it really matters, by helping them directly, or by keeping our branches running, is a rare gift.

From the satisfaction of helping someone through a tough time, to learning new skills or meeting like-minded colleagues, you get a lot back.

Different opportunities on offer A wide range of roles are all vital to keeping our service running.

Express your creative side, spend quality time with friends and family, and create a unique item for themselves or for gifts. Pottery Painting is available 7 days a week on a drop-in basis.

www.claycafe.ie • Phone: 094 937 3370 E-mail: mary@claycafe.ie Lakeside Retail Park, Unit 22, Old Ballindine Road, Claremorris Co. Mayo

Page 40 Mature Living August 2014

Apart from listening to people, we're always looking for people with skills in finance, fundraising or IT, for example.

Samaritans Sligo, 3 The Mall, Sligo • Tel: 07191-42011 (Lo-call )1850 609090

Feature

From Empty Nest to Full House: Preparing for Eldercare who does not live with her, according to research and surveys. She is married and employed and more than a third have children or grandchildren under the age of 18 living with them. So what can you do to be better prepared to handle eldercare responsibilities? Here are four tips to get you and your family prepared for longer lives.

Tip 1. Talk to your parents now about what they want as they age.

Don’t wait. It’s not an easy conversation, but you will be so glad you did if a health crisis hits. Where do they want to live when they can’t get around as easily? Do they have resources earmarked for care, like long term health insurance, that could help pay for care if they need it? Government help are available to those who are impoverished but waiting lists can be long. Is moving into your home a solution and if so what steps would you need to take to make it “senior friendly?”

Are there big do’s on their list or mandatory don’ts? Do you have the names of their doctors and where their legal documents are located? Has a power of attorney been designated? A popular document used by many planners is “Five Wishes” which helps guide a person through the financial, emotional and spiritual aspects of aging. One of the toughest aspects of caregiving is the emotional strain or guilt of

T

here’s a silent evolution going on for many baby boomer women. The days of the carefree empty nester are disappearing.

In its place: the full house (figuratively or literally). More women in their 50s are finding their responsibilities expand rather than contract: elder care responsibilities, continuing responsibility for adult children; help raising grandchildren; and, worry about your own financial future. No wonder we’re feeling tired and more than a bit overwhelmed.

Why? Because the roles we spent a lifetime perfecting suddenly get turned upside down. Let’s take a look at eldercare. Going to visit Mum and Dad is no longer about fitting into the familiar role of being the child.

Suddenly you’re thrust into the role of parenting your parents with no road map for how this

should work and quite often parents who are no better prepared for the role reversal. I joke that for years I had no idea where my parents were as they traveled, holidayed and visited friends. But after my father’s debilitating stroke almost overnight I knew not only exactly where they were, but struggled with them to make decisions about life changes ahead. None of us was prepared for this change in relationship.

We could have been.

Preparing for Eldercare There are thousands of caregivers in the country caring for people over the age of 50.

With baby boomers aging and continued advancement in medical care that number is expected to continue to climb.

Approximately 66% of family caregivers are women. The typical family caregiver is a 49year-old woman caring for her widowed 69-year-old mother

wondering if you are doing what they wanted. Get their perspective while their able and healthy.

Tip 2. Don’t make promises.

Know their preferences, express your commitment to that direction but don’t make promises you can’t keep. You just don’t know what lies ahead. Their health condition may be such that you can’t keep them in their own home or yours. Make sure you feel you have permission to do what’s best for all involved if they can no longer make decisions on their own. (This advice applies to spouses and siblings, too.)

Tip 3. Get your siblings onboard.

Nothing rekindles sibling rivalry like talking about who knows what’s best for Mum or Dad. So try to broach the subject with your brothers or sister before a crisis hits. Get a sense of what resources each bring and the role each might play when the time comes. Ask anyone who has been through an eldercare crisis and they can tell you that the worst time to start planning and organising is at the hospital discharge meeting.

Tip 4. Plan for Yourself.

The statistics tell us that there is very good likelihood that many of us will live into our 80s and 90s. And that more than 70% of us will need some type of long term care assistance over the age of 65. Planning for long term care should be part of your financial and retirement planning. Some people have enough money to self-finance long term care which can cost upwards of €60,000 per year.

Long term care insurance is another way to pay for care in the future and, the best time to buy it is when you are in your 50s and healthy. The key is to have both a long term care plan and a way to finance the care you want. That’s a great gift to give your children.

If you are considering quitting your job to care for your family member make sure you understand the financial impact on your own retirement plans (income, social security benefits, health insurance costs to name a few). Eldercare can be an emotional roller coaster of ups and downs with loving memorable moments and unbridled frustration. Ask anyone who has been there.

The good news is that by planning ahead some of the decisions will be easier and the stress less.

Page 41 Mature Living August 2014

The 4 Star Royal Marine Hotel in Dun Laoghaire is an historic and much-loved lux!r" landmark hotel, dating back to 1828, located in a prime South Dublin position overlooking Dublin Bay. Its unique location, close to Dublin Cit" Cent#e & Dun Laoghaire fer#" por$ & the DART line, but also within easy reach of Count" Wicklow, The Garden of Ireland, makes The Royal Marine Hotel in South Dublin an ideal accommodation choice for leisure and business t#avellers alike.

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 address and telephone number to us at the address below.. .

Q: The Royal Marine is sit!ated on the South Coast of Dublin, overlooking which Bay?

Send your ent#ies into us at: Royal Marine Hotel Competition, Mat!re Living Magazine, Office 3, Unit 7, NW Business Park, Collooney, Co. Sligo Ter&s and Conditions apply, Closing Date for enties is 5th September 2014 Prize is Valid Sunday to Thursday

Aut!mn/winter Special Offer

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Mature Dating

The New Rules for Dating After 50

Raise your hand if any of the following apply to you: You’re a worried 50-something trying to traverse the dating scene. Divorce or widowhood has thrown a wrench in your plan of growing old with your spouse and now it’s time to jump back into the dating game. Or maybe you never found that special someone and the new dating culture is slightly (ok, very) intimidating.

Don’t worry! You’re not a fish out of water. Even though it always seems like you’re surrounded by blissful, married couples, there are many other 50-somethings having the same dating frustration. Yes, the dating game has changed in the digital age. And no, learning to navigate these new advancements doesn’t require sophisticated technical skills. The challenge comes in determining which method is best for you— because there’s no rules in digital dating!

So, where should you start?

Email + Telephone Does a mutual friend want to match you up with someone fabulous? Consider exchanging emails. Just don’t let the backand-forth continue for too long.

Once you’ve established mutual interests, exchange phone numbers so you can be your authentic self! Or, instead of just a regular phone call, try using an iPhone or iPad to FaceTime to

develop a personal connection at a time when digital dating can seem impersonal.

Online Dating Whether you’re curious about online dating or a seasoned expert, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. But don’t dismiss it just yet!

First, ask for some help setting up your profile. Ask your techsavvy kids or a close friend to take a few photos for your profile—you know they’re always honest and will help you choose the best one. Many of the larger online dating sites also offer technical support via email, phone or have a comprehensive FAQ section.

Expand your idea of your ideal match or the perfect date. Online dating gives you the opportunity to meet different types of people. You can find that person who loves to play music or who’s a vegan or even someone younger than you! It’s important to not get too caught up in your list (you know, the one that gives a detailed account of the traits your perfect mate has) because you might be missing out on some fantastic potential matches!

Other Tips It might seem impolite to ignore potential matches that email you, but only pick three or four people that you’re interested in getting to know better. Focus on

them so you can avoid feeling overwhelmed.

In the new digital realm there are many opportunities to meet new people. People should avoid assuming something is serious too soon. Let’s say you hit it off via email, had some side-

splitting conversations on the phone and even had a perfect first date. But hold it! It might be a mistake to only focus on one person at a time. I’m not saying that two people can’t click immediately and begin an exclusive relationship, but just

be aware of your dating situation, and don’t take other opportunities for granted! Initiate contact with anyone you deem interesting, and see what you can catch! You can still find Mr. Right after 50—and online dating apps are the new “It” space.

3 Common Online Dating Mistakes Women Over 50 Make

T

he reason I'm such a strong advocate for online dating is because I know it's the easiest place to meet single men over 50. The problem is, no one gives you the rules for being successful with it.

In fact, I've found three common mistakes women over 50 consistently make that end up totally frustrating them in their search for Mr. Right. It's time to change that. That's why I'd like to share these 3 mistakes with you, along with what you can do to successfully find a great guy online.

Mistake #1 - Not Displaying Your Unique You! Having success finding quality men to date online starts with posting a great profile and picture that makes you stand out from everyone else. Most women usually list their qualities in their profile as a way of getting a man's

attention. An example is...

I am a kind hearted, professional woman who likes to travel, be around water, shop, and go to movies.

Although a sentence like this gives a lot of information about you... it reads like a dating resume. It's dry and does nothing to make you stand out.

And there's nothing in it that would get a man excited about meeting you. Here is an example of a sentence I've seen when it comes to describing the men women want to meet.

I'm seeking a man who is truly interested in working on a relationship and willing to give at least 50 percent to a relationship.

The first sentence is heavy and a man reads it as this woman is still bitter from a past relationship where a man didn't bring enough of himself to the table. The second sentence is very general and subjective.

What 'comfortable in your own skin' means to you could be totally different than what it means to a man. It's a broad sentence that, again, won't engage a man to contact you.

Instead, write the list of qualities you want in a man.

Then create a story using a couple of those qualities along with one or two of the activities you love to do. This type of profile will engage a man, helping him identify that he's the one you are looking for.

Mistake #2 - Forgetting To Play Dating feels like a chore when you don't know how to play and flirt with men either online or in the real world. I used to recommend not writing men first because most women would write something like this...

I like your profile. It sounds like we have so much in common. I hope you'll write me back.

BORING! BORING! STILL BORING! Go ahead and write a man but be playful. As an example, if a man is wearing a suit in his picture, write him and say something like...

I love when a man wears a suit.

He looks really sexy.

It's flirty, fun and engaging and a man feels good hearing this.

I'll share a secret about men...

They love compliments just like you do and this is the type of flirting that allows you to choose the men you want to go out with, versus always being chosen by men you don't want.

You are still a beautiful, sensual woman and flirting brings this back out in you. It's unbelievably appealing to men!

Mistake #3 - Not Knowing How To Relate To Over 50s Alpha Men I've found most women want an Alpha Man in their life. Why?

Because he makes her feel safe and protected. Life has changed since then and so have women who are now capable of doing this for themselves.

And this has created a huge problem for men.

Why? Men don't feel needed by women our age anymore. And when a man doesn't feel needed, guess who he turns to?

That's right...a younger women who can make an Alpha Man feel his strongest and best because he's needed.

Women don't realize that the way they talk sounds like, "Wah wah wah," to a man. He tunes you out and as you know, this only frustrates you more.

But if you really get who men are and you know how to talk with them so they hear you...well, they'll jump through hoops and climb over mountains to be there for you. And that feels pretty good!

Motoring

Ease your pain at the pump this summer In fact, sensible drivers can lower fuel consumption by about 33 per cent at motorway speeds and by 5 per cent in the city. Such reckless driving is not only unsafe, but also puts unnecessary wear and tear on your tires.

Be sure to buy the right grade of gasoline Consult your owner’s manual: if your vehicle is designed to run on regular, filling the tank with more expensive mid-grade or premium fuel will not make your car run any better.

R

oad trip! It’s a time-honoured summer tradition, but fluctuating fuel prices have many travellers feeling the pain at the pump. But don’t lose heart. If you’re planning to hit the open road, taking a few small steps could add up to surprisingly big savings.

And according to some experts, if you keep your vehicle speed at, or below 100 kilometres an hour on the road, you could lower your fuel costs by up to 20 per cent. Engaging your cruise control on the motorway will help you to maintain constant speed.

Here are some practical ways to put the brakes on gas guzzling:

Go in high gear Use high gear or overdrive when driving at motorway speeds.

Switching to high gear will reduce engine speed thereby saving gas and cutting wear to the engine.

Ease up on the gas pedal While each vehicle reaches its optimal fuel economy at a different speed (or range of speeds), fuel mileage usually decreases rapidly at speeds above 60 mph (96 km). In fact, according to the reports every five mph that you drive in excess of 60 mph is about the same as paying an additional 24 cents for every gallon of fuel.

Avoid aggressive driving Jackrabbit starts following by abrupt, screeching stops can cut both motorway and town mileage.

Page 44 Mature Living August 2014

Buy on price and convenience Fuel is a commodity product and one brand is as good as another. Looking for a convenient way to comparison shop? Check out online tools or smart phone apps that provides a listing of the cheapest fuel prices by area.

Keep in shape (your car, that is) It pays to keep up with your car’s maintenance. Change oil, engine coolant, filters and spark plugs at intervals recommended in the owner’s manual.

Keeping your engine tuned will reduce fuel consumption by as much as 10 per cent.

And fixing a serious maintenance problem, such as a faulty oxygen sensor, can improve your mileage by as much as 40 per cent.

For greater fuel efficiency, tyres should be maintained and properly inflated.

Lighten the load.

For holiday driving, try to avoid the roof rack and pack as much luggage as possible in the car. A loaded roof rack can cut fuel economy by as much as 5 per cent. And an extra 100 pounds of ‘junk in the trunk’ can cost you up to 2 per cent in fuel usage. (Note: The reduction of fuel consumption is based on the percentage of extra weight relative to the vehicle’s weight.

This usually affects smaller vehicles more than larger ones.)

Roll down the window.

Heavy use of your air conditioner can increase fuel consumption by as much as 10 – 20 per cent.

Don’t let your tank get too low.

It may be tempting to procrastinate when it comes to filling up, but letting your tank get too low can cost you in other ways, according to Consumer Reports.

The reason? The fuel acts like a

coolant for the electric fuelpump motor, so when you run very low, this allows the pump to suck in air. This in turn creates heat and can cause the fuel pump to wear prematurely and potentially fail. The repair could end up costing several hundred euros to fix. Besides, who wants to take a chance on a faulty fuel gauge or some other mishap and run out of diesel or petrol on the road?

Travel Technology

How the older generation are becoming more tech savvy I

t seems that technology is no longer something that the older generation aren’t interested in.

In fact, more and more elderly people are embracing new innovations and realising the extensive benefits that technological advances afford in their day-to-day lives.

It wasn’t that long ago that elderly people hadn’t even heard of the internet, let alone understood what it did or how they could start using it. Fast forward to today and internet connections are standard features in the homes of many elderly people around the world.

However, there are of course those less tech savvy grandparents that haven’t yet got the internet in their homes.

If you want to fill them in on the benefits, a great starting point is to compare broadband packages to see which ones offer the best in terms of service and price.

Having an internet connection is no longer the apogee of an elderly person’s technological

remit. To prove our point, here are five ways in which older people are embracing technology: Online dating Believe it or not, online dating is one way that grandparents are taking advantage of their internet connections. After all, many elderly people can find themselves lonely in the later years due to bereavement.

Online dating provides them with a new lease of life and the chance to find love once again.

Internet dating also allows elderly people to chat with potential companions from the comfort of their own homes.

Audio books The older generation will remember audio cassettes that allowed them to listen to their favourite books being read aloud by a narrator. Nowadays those old cassettes have been replaced by audio books which can be enjoyed on a variety of devices such as laptops, smartphones and MP3 players. Audio books are particularly appealing to elderly people as they don’t require young eyes!

Online shopping With mobility often being an issue for elderly people, online shopping has introduced a way for them to make purchases from their armchair and then take delivery at their front door a few days later. This eliminates any travelling and can also be conducted with total peace of mind. Buying gifts for grandchildren has never been so easy! They can even be delivered direct to the child’s house, which adds extra excitement to the occasion.

Social media With more and more teenagers using social media, sites such as Facebook have become a great way for grandparents to interact with their grandchildren. No longer do grandparents need to wait to hear from their families.

They can simply log on and get themselves up to date with everything that’s going on.

Social media is also a great way to view recent photos and new additions to the family, especially when grandchildren live overseas or in a different part of the country.

VOIP services With services like Skype so readily available, more and more elderly people have found a quick and easy way to stay in contact with their families.

High quality webcams also make for a more personal

chat and are a great way to see how grandchildren are growing.

Gone are the days of letter writing, which means that online chat services are fast becoming the primary communication method for many older people.

Colour portable The standalone camera market is making its comeback, as people finally realise smartphones are great for snaps on social media but top quality images require dedicated devices. Here are our top three

It’s going fast

Sony Alpha a7 CSC + 28-70mm Lens – €1,799 This new breed of CSC or Compact System Cameras offer all the functionality of larger cameras but have removed the mirror so they’re smaller and lighter. This unit is Sony’s flagship snapper right now, offering a 24.3 megapixel sensor into a sturdy magnesium unit weighing in at just 416g. Clever internal workings mean it has superfast autofocus tracking for quick-moving targets (be that sports’ day, or a trip to the Grand Prix).

Starters orders

Canon EOS 1200D with 18-55 mm lens – €699.99 To coincide with the launch of this new model, the folk at Canon have released an EOS companion app to help get beginners through their first DSLR experience. But though it may be aimed at newbies to the big camera market, with an 18 megapixel sensor and a decent ISO light sensitivity level that enables almost see-in-the dark performances, this Canon definitely has a serious side too.

Nikon 1 S2 Compact System Camera 11-27.5mm Lens – €529.99 We were initially drawn to this one for its summer inspired casing, but on further inspection the internal workings and image delivery are just as impressive. There isn’t a viewfinder but you’ll soon get over that when you see what the 14.2 megapixel sensor does offer; shooting at speed and delivering 20 frames per second in autofocus and up to 60 in fixed focus.

These are specs to make bigger and more expensive cameras weep – and a built-in flash just adds to their woes.

Page 45 Mature Living August 2014

Fitness

Stretch, strength, balance – the power of pilates The century-old exercise system of Pilates gets an age-friendly makeover with aworkout for all fitness levels

G

erman-born inventor and gymnast Joseph Pilates developed the eponymous system of exercises in the 1910s. And today, it still works several muscle groups simultaneously through smooth, continuous movements with a particular emphasis on strengthening and stabilizing the abdomen, back and pelvic girdle region known as the core.

Performing the movements correctly involves finding the right rhythm and learning the correct breathing. Visualizing your core helps you breathe more fully, expanding your ribcage instead of just lifting your chest up and down. People often say they feel lighter, taller and more graceful after a Pilates workout. Pilates himself said that after 30 workouts, you would have a new body.

Pilates is a safe and effective workout for older people because it has minimal to no impact, and movements can be adapted for the individual to accommodate specific injuries and physical limitations. The aging process affects our bodies in ways that Pilates can help address. As we age, we tend to “shrink” and experience back problems; Pilates will help improve posture as it works to lengthen all the connections of the spine and enhance flexibility of back muscles. It helps maintain flexibility in joints that tend to stiffen, improves balance and coordination to help avoid injury from falls, and keeps muscles and movements flexible and fluid.

Pilates can also help women suffering from poor bladder control and incontinence.

Women suffer needlessly when they are led to believe that incontinence cannot be corrected or they’re advised to do Kegel exercises, which focus on strengthening only the pelvic floor. This alone will not prevent urinary incontinence.

Pilates strengthens the entire core, not just the pelvic floor.

A Pilates workout takes about an hour and can be done on floor mats or using specifically designed equipment. The instructor coaches you on breathing, then helps you isolate muscle groups. Once you are familiar with the Pilates style of co-ordinated flowing movement combined with long

stretches, you move on to the Universal Reformer, one of Pilates’ first inventions. This high-tech machine is equipped with straps, springs, pulleys and a sliding seat, which all help muscles to lengthen and strengthen.

Many gyms and community centres now offer some type of Pilates program. It’s also possible to learn Pilates from books, online instruction and videos.

Pilates pioneer Moira Merrithew (www.merrithew. com), who is celebrating the 25th anniversary of Stott Pilates, a contemporary approach to the original exercise, has created more than 155 titles for all levels that can be seen on the Stott Pilates YouTube channel.

And read on for three new approaches to the fitness system.

Page 46 Mature Living August 2014

Gravity training The Workout Gravity training is a resistance workout performed on a machine called the Gravity Training System (GTS) that looks similar to the original Pilates Reformer but replaces springs with pulleys and uses gravity for part of the resistance. There’s an adjustable incline glide board – the steeper the incline (there are eight settings), the more challenging the workout.

A squat stand works the lower body, LAT (Lateral Adjustable Training) bars focus on the back and shoulders and cables target the arms.

Fitness Strategy “You’re pulling and pushing your own body weight instead of iron weights for resistance.There’s no impact or jarring on the spine and joints, so it’s perfect for anyone with fibromyalgia, arthritis, knee, hip or shoulder replacement

and osteoporosis.”

Barre-based workouts The Workout Ballet dancers do barre classes where they practise basic moves like pliés and relevés (leg raises) while standing at a stationary wooden handrail called a barre.

Dance-inspired workouts borrow the form, alignment and high-repetition exercises of classical barre classes to sculpt long, strong dancer’s muscles.

“Barre Beautiful takes classical dance training moves and fuses them with Pilates’ moves and principles to create a workout that focuses on building muscular strength, control and endurance while increasing flexibility.

Exercises are focused on lengthening and extending as you work. Targeted muscle work – micro-contractions and isometric contractions that

strengthen and tone muscles not typically used in exercise. In a typical barre class, you’re doing several repetitions of small, pulsing contractions that tone deep into the muscle.

Fitness Strategy It’s great for an older audience because it’s a full body workout that strengthens all of the muscles in the body using body weight or light hand weights, thus increasing muscle mass and improving bone density. This workout places emphasis on the postural muscles in the back and abdominals assisting in our bodies’ ability to stand taller.

Plus, it’s low impact making it easy on the joints.

What to expect The classic barre class at Barre Beautiful takes you through many traditional ballet exercises:

Feature

It’s Never too Late to Become Fit and Healthy

By Nancy Burnham

leg raises, pulses and pliés.

Extending your leg outward to do leg raises or pulses requires you to also lift up from the crown of the head, contract your abdominals and squeeze your legs.

Basically your entire body is engaged even if it seems that all you’re doing is going up on your toes. There are arm circles using light hand weights, followed by abdominal work on the mat. With every stretch and extension, there’s a feeling of my body being realigned and posture improved, which feels wonderful after a day sitting at a desk.

There are also various balletinfluenced arm movements using light hand weights followed by abdominal work on the mat.

Power Pilates The Workout Described as Pilates on crack, Lagree Fitness

(www.studiolagree.com) was created in 2001 by Sebastien Lagree, a Los Angeles-based celebrity Pilates trainer. Lagree redesigned the original Pilates Reformer equipment, creating his own apparatus called the Megaformer on which the workout is performed. The hourlong circuit workout incorporates familiar Pilates exercises, like the hundreds and side bends, with new movements designed

by Lagree.

Fitness Strategy Lagree emphasizes doing each exercise as slowly and controlled as possible, which targets the deep stabilizing muscles of the core, glutes and pelvis, says Pino Gagliardi, Lagree Studio coowner. “The intense circuit workout has minimal breaks between each exercise, which creates a cardiovascular effect.

The human body is a marvelous and mysterious thing. At 67, looking back at what I learned so late in life, my appreciation for body chemistry grows more and more every day.

When I retired at age 60 my health was typical of those who care for others, not themselves, carry stress with them all the time (and in my case) have a fondness for bread and sweets.

At 49 my hands required treatment for osteoarthritis.

At 56 my right knee locked up necessitating 6 months of physical therapy.

At 58 I needed foot surgery for bunions.

At 60 my diagnoses were asthma/low level COPD with high blood pressure, pro-lapsing heart valves, high cholesterol, depression and anxiety.

Instead of looking forward to a carefree retirement, I was spending time in doctors’ offices and taking prescription medications.

Honestly wanting to feel better but not knowing where to turn, life seemed short.

With tendonitis in my left shoulder, constant pain in my lower back, a “widow’s hump” developing, and 30 pounds overweight, I knew that I must take control of my health care.

When I walked into the new gym I requested a personal trainer because I knew I needed professional help to exercise correctly. As I sat across from the trainer, a total stranger, explaining my many issues, I felt vulnerable, inadequate, stupid, overwhelmed and frightened. He was asking all the right questions. “I can help you,” he said.

That was the beginning of my marvelous journey to recovery; a journey fraught with tears, fears, joys, pain, anger, and frustration that culminated in my own desire to help others who were out there looking for answers. Total strangers who observed me during training (sometimes at my worst) would come up to me and tell me I inspired them. What an uplifting surprise!

When we eat right and exercise the body makes wonderful chemical adjustments that we do not see at the time. As my body transitioned my blood pressure dropped, my cardiovascular systems improved and the weight fell off as fat transformed into muscle. After 12 months I was off of all but one medication – cholesterol. That, too, came under control. Each person must start their journey at their level.

Keep a goal in mind and move forward

with determination to meet that goal.

My aging process has given me challenges with two broken ankles, torn muscles and ligaments, and knee surgery. Instead of looking at these and other bumps on life’s road as obstacles leading to a sedentary state, they instead are opportunities to learn more about how to train muscles that support the injured areas. Do not accept the status of ‘aging’ as one of ‘slowing down’ but instead as a new adventure.

Try weightlifting to improve muscles tone, overall strength and bone density. Proper form when using dumbbells, Kettlebells and/or barbells might be a new exercise adventure, it will certainly pay off so don’t be afraid to try them. Find a certified personal trainer that you are comfortable with, explain your challenges and goals to them. You, too, may inspire someone else.

Nancy Burnham’s journey to health began at age 61, when she stepped into a gym for the first time in her life. After years working at a desk, Nancy was spending her retirement drowning in ailments – from two pro-lapsing heart valves to arthritis and low-level cardiopulmonary disease. After deciding one day she simply wouldn’t accept the status quo, Nancy went from not even being able to operate a treadmill to completing a Warrior Dash. At 65, she earned her ACE Personal Trainer Certification and at 66, she hit a personal best by completing a 200-pound dead lift. She now owns Simple Fitness for Seniors in Lisburn, where she specializes in working with older adults with special conditions including rotator cuff injuries, diabetes, heart disease and respiratory disease.

Page 47 Mature Living August 2014

Breakaways

Active Breaks at The Villa Rose Boutique Hotel and V-Spa

T

he Villa Rose Hotel is a 4 Star, family owned, boutique spa hotel located in the town centre of Ballybofey, Co Donegal.

Situated between Letterkenny & Donegal Town it is an ideal base from which to experience all that Donegal and the North West of Ireland have to offer.

The hotel comprises 57 beautifully appointed bedrooms, contemporary in design with the emphasis on absolute comfort acting as a home away from home. All bedrooms are ensuite and include safe, tea/coffee making facilities, complimentary bottled water, plasma screen tv & complimentary wi-fi.

Avail of free parking and complimentary newspapers each morning. Facilities include Fara’s Restaurant & Wine Bar for a delicious meal in modern and elegant surroundings, The Forge Bar with live light entertainment, The ‘Wee’ Bar serving lunch, bar food & specialty coffees overlooking Ballybofey’s bustling main street & The V Spa for pampering & relaxation.

The Villa Rose offer a wide range of holidays for the 50+ market including Ballroom & Sequence Dancing and 50+ Active Breaks including a range of

Donegal Summer Golden Breaks 3 B&B + 2 Dinners - €139pps/€159 single 2B&B + 2 Dinners - €109pps/€139 single

Offers valid Sunday - Thursday, Dinner consists of 2-courses, Complimentary tea/coffee on arrival, Complimentary spa thermal session 20% Discount Vouchers for McElhinney’s Department Store Variety of walking trails nearby Contact us for a 50+ Active Breaks Brochure Competitive Group Rates Available Ballroom Dancing for Pleasure Week September 21st – 24th, Oct 27th – 30th

4 Star, Family Owned, Town Centre hotel

Reservations: 074-9132266

Ballybofey, Co Donegal Email: reservations@villarose.net • www.villarose.ie

optional entertainment & activities to partake in during your stay. Whether you are looking for a relaxing break away or for an exciting trip with the possibility of meeting like minded friends then the Villa Rose is the destination for you. Contact Leona McGee – dedicated 50+ Events Marketing Coordinator at the Villa Rose for full details

Active Retirement breaks in the beautiful costal town of Donegal

T

he Abbey Hotel is located on the main square of the beautiful coastal town of Donegal. The small harbour town lies at the heart of Co. Donegal making it the ideal place to explorer the north west. The superior 3-star Hotel is right next to Donegal Castle, Donegal Bay Waterbus, Craft village, Donegal railway and heritage centre, and a short distance from Salthill gardens, 2 blue flag beaches and some of Donegal’s top walking and hiking trails.

Comfortable bedrooms each feature a flat-screen TV, telephone and individual private bathroom. Most rooms also overlook Donegal Bay and the

River Eske.

The award winning Market House restaurant has a menu of excellent international cuisine.

Guests can dine in a room full of character, and drink from the wide selection of wines.

The Eas Dun Bar, with its unique 2-tier interior design, offers regular live entertainment and music almost every night of the year.

Guests have complimentary use of the leisure centre facilities next door, including a pool, spa bath, steam room and gym.

During your visit hotel offers complementary parking, free Wi-Fi in all rooms throughout the hotel and a voucher of Tea/Coffee and scone. No

single room supplement Thursday to Sunday. For weekend rates please contact reception.

Other entertainment packages available September 5-7th Country Music Weekend: Johnny Brady, Jimmy Buckley, Stephen Smyth, Michael English and Mike Denver.

August 3rd Nathan Carter live in concert August 4th John McNicholl live in concert August 22-24th Taste Of Donegal Food Festival NB: For prices ,information on facilities and attractions visit www.Abbeyhoteldonegal.com

Active Retirement Breaks 2014 July & Aug!st

2 Nights B&B & 2 Dinners - €149 3 Nights B&B & 3 Dinners - €209 4 Nights B&B & 4 Dinners - €259

We are happy to assist in the planning of your trip and can plan an itinerary to suit your needs showcasing all that our wonderful area has to offer.

Prices are Midweek Sunday to Thursday Subject to availability / Selected Dates

Abbey Hotel, Donegal Town, Co. Donegal • Tel: 074-9721014 Email: oisin@abbeyhoteldonegal.com

www.abbeyhoteldonegal.com

...With so much to choose from, what better way to spend a day or so than at the beautiful Royal Marine Hotel…

A

short drive along the South East coast will bring you to Dun Laoghaire, where overlooking the bay you will find the Royal Marine Hotel. Steeped in history, and a favorite with the locals, this landmark hotel is an impressive sight on the Dun Laoghaire skyline. A hotel has stood here since 1828. Many celebrities, and even royalty have passed through its doors over the decades. In 2004 this magnificent old building closed for restoration, a painstaking labour of love by the present owners.

Situated in an elevated site on 4 acres overlooking Dublin Bay, the hotel has stunning views that on a clear day stretch as far away as Howth; and yet is still only a short journey from down-town Dublin. The original hotel has been extensively but sympathetically renovated with precise attention to detail.

And it is just this same attention to detail, we extend to you as our guest – whether overnight or simply joining us for a drink in our bar or dining in our restaurant.

The large bay windows and high ceilings of the Bay Lounge highlight the grandeur and historic feel that is central to the hotel style. Lavishly furnished it is a comfortable and ideal venue to meet friends and family for coffee, lunch or perhaps to enjoy the age-old tradition of afternoon tea whilst overlooking the gardens, with spectacular views of the harbour. Our resident pianist completes the ambience every Saturday afternoon.

Or perhaps dine in relaxed style in our Dún Bistro where the delights of the Restaurant are matched only by the professional friendly service and stunning views over the harbour. Serving an Early Bird Menu, Table d’hote

and a la Carte Menus.

Try out lively Hardy’s Bar for a local drink (named after the famous actors and world famous partners Laurel & Hardy who stayed in the original Royal Marine Hotel). Food served every day until 10pm. Live music every Saturday night.

The Pier Health Club offers state-of-the-art cardio and resistance equipment, free weight area and a luxury 18 metre swimming pool. We are proud to offer our members a spacious, relaxed and welcoming environment in which to exercise. Or simply retreat into the hushed tranquillity of the sansanaSpa (the only Failté Ireland ‘comprehensive’ spa in Dublin) and choose pampering delights from our extensive treatment menu.

With so much to choose from, what better way to spend a day or so than at the beautifully restored Royal Marine Hotel…

Breakaways

Put Spring in your Step with Randles & Dromhall Hotels, Killarney award winning Kayne’s Bistro. All our guests enjoy complimentary access to our Leisure Club and for pure indulgence a visit to our Zen Day Spa is an absolute must. This location provides for superb mountain views and easy access to all the main tourist attractions. We are happy to arrange transfers, day trips or activities such as golf, jaunting car rides or boat trips. We also offer Wheelchair and Interconnecting Rooms as well as being pet friendly. We are happy to tailor make special package for longer stays or quote for groups wishing to travel together.

3 nights Dinner/Bed & Breakfast

May/June & September - €199pps July & August - €219pps Free parking, Wi-Fi and daily newspaper We look forward to welcoming you to stay with us

C

elebrating 50 years in business at the Dromhall Hotel this year the Randles Family hope we will have the opportunity to welcome you to stay. Choose from the 4* Dromhall Hotel or enjoy the atmosphere which a Manor House can offer with a stay at the Randles Hotel. Within easy walking distance of the Town Centre, with private on-site parking these hotels offer 1st class facilities complimented by the genuine welcome of family run hotels. Enjoy a variety of restaurants and bars including the

Visit the stunning Leitrim countryside be rounded off with a lavish evening meal It is an ideal wedding venue or conference centre.

The central location of the hotel in Leitrim facilitates tours and visits to the surrounding unspoiled countryside. The location facilitates visits to the many nearby lakes that comprise the Leitrim countryside and shopping in nearby Sligo or Enniskillen A visit to Lough Allen hotel & Spa in Drumshanbo is a must and there are packages to suit any budget.

Drumshanbo • Co Leitrim www.loughallenhotel.com

Mid Week 2 Nights B&B Offer 2 Nights B&B for 2 people Only €99 Available Sun-Thur Only...€49.50pps

O

Please mention Mature Living Leinster when booking

ne of the best places to base a home holiday or a week-end break is, undoubtedly, the Lough Allen Hotel in County Leitrim. Situated on the shores of Lough Allen, only 14 km from the bustling town of Carrick on Shannon, it is only a short walk to the town of Drumshanbo.

The hotel has offerings to compare with the top hotels in Ireland and also has the stunning Leitrim countryside. Spa treatments, leisure centre and a sumptuous candlelight dinner are all part of what’s on offer for an unforgettable break. A family re-union can

To Book Call 071-9640100 or email reservations@loughallenhotel.com

Why choose a Hotel when you can have the Luxury of a Resort

P

4 nights Dinner, Bed & Breakfast

€199 pp

5th Night B&B FREE

Offer Available Selected Dates Only – Call for Details

INCLUDES: Full complimentary daily and nightly entertainment program Transfers local Bus & Train Station Use of the leisure centre facilities

Escape to Breaffy House Resort to Relax, Unwind and Revive To Book: Call us now on 094 90 22033 or email to reservations@breaffyhouseresort.ie Bookings on line www.breaffyhouseresort.com Page 42 Mature Living February 2014

lanning a relaxing break away, the ideal location is Breaffy House Resort which is located in the heart of Co. Mayo. Set on 90 acres of gardens and rolling woodland. The House dates back to 1890, retaining some of its original Country House atmosphere whilst offering all of the luxury of a modern day hotel. The Resort is renowned for its warm welcoming staff with an excellent range of facilities. The Resort includes Spa, Leisure Centre with 20 metre pool, Sauna and Jacuzzi. The Resort offers deluxe rooms which include a range of suites, superior, standard rooms with all the facilities that your guests would require – direct dial telephone, multichannel colour T.V., radio, hairdryer, trouser press and tea/coffee making facilities.

This year we have put together an amazing offer of 4 nights Dinner B&B and 5th night B&B FREE when you book our Golden Breaks package. This offer includes 3 course dinner each night in the Mulberry Restaurant and breakfast each morning, along with 5th Night Bed & Breakfast free. Transfers can be

arranged from local bus and train stations based on minimum numbers. Complimentary on site parking should you wish to drive. We have chosen a selection of arrival dates each month which means we can provide in-house activities such as wine tasting, table tennis, bowling, grow your own garden and pottery painting. This is the ideal location to explore Mayo.

The Hotel is just 20 mins away from the scenic town of Westport. All guests have complimentary use of the swimming pool, sauna, seam room, Jacuzzi, and gym. You may also take part in one of our many classes, which include Aqua Aerobics, Over 55’s workout and the increasing popular Zumba. If you fancy some pampering, enjoy some time out in Breaffy Spa. Which offers a range of facial, body and massage treatments to leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at leisure between 7:30am –10:30am each morning and Dinner each between 6:30pm – 8:45pm. The Mulberry Bar serves food for 12-9pm each day for snacks, light bites and main courses.

Services Directory

MARTIN DOWD GARDEN SERVICES

• Patio Slabs • Landscaping • Steel and Timber Garden Sheds • Garden Fencing • General Garden Maintenance

Call Martin on 086-0316833

K&C MULVANEY Ltd.

Dead & Worn out Animals Collection Service Daily Collection in all Areas Telephone: MULVANEYS at: Tel: 049-4338331 or 086-8551932 086-3827008

G ARE YOU GOIN? ON HOLIDAY

FREE CONSULTATION IN YOUR HOME OR OUR SHOWROOMS. Harmony Hill, Sligo Tel: 071-91-45810 Tolan Street, Ballina Tel: 096-24763 www.tegre.ie

East Brothers GARDEN MACHINERY

RIED ARE YOU WOR E OR OM ABOUT YOUR H URITY? C PROPERTY’S SE ION

wedding ned for the If you have a and are concer ORRY, nd te at to t W even home, DON”T safety of your protect your property. to I am available ials Available. eant, Credent rg Se da ar G Retired a problem Travelling not included so • Pet care al 1-9641535 7-7741073 / 07 08 at e lli O ct Conta

Tel/Fax: 071-9662710 • Mobile: 086-2427554

Tractors 2/4WD in any condition for resale-export & breaking Wanted Massey Ferguson's; MF165-168-175-178-185-188565-575-590-675-690-699-265-275-290.

Fords-Fiats-John Deere-Zetor-Belarus-Universal Ect. All tractors considered in any condition, non runners also. Wanted all Plant Machinery; Hitachi-Komatsu-Jcb/ JS-Kobelco-Sumitomo-Cat-Mitsubishi Ect. Engines /gearboxs ,also wanted in any condition.

Tel: 087-680-6540 e: buyplant10@gmail.com

Shane McDonagh Tree Surgery and Agri Contractor

• Tree Pruning / Reduction • Tree Removal & Hedge Maintenance • Stump Grinding and Log Splitting Fully Insured

Tel: 087-2116836

Matt McGowan

Tel: 071-91 46858 Mobile: 087-206 9031

Also: Leylandii trees topped and trimmed, Gutter Cleaning, Power Washing & Removal of all Green Waste (Grass, Hedging, Trees etc)

BOYLE, CO. ROSCOMMON

ALL TYPES OF TRACTORS & TRACK MACHINES

P R O T E CT OLLIE’S HOME , funeral or another

Maintenance, Landscaping, Hedge Trimming, Decorating

• Petrol Chainsaws for Property Maintenance • Chainsaws for Agriculture and Horticulture • Electric / Cordless Chainsaws

WANTED

Specs. for Planning Permission for trees & landscaping Roof Cleaning, Supplier of Trees and Hedges, Decorative Pea Gravel, also supplied Hedges and Trees

WHEELIE BIN SERVICE SKIP HIRE (All Sizes)

096-32500 www.loftusrecycling.com

Services Directory

McGowan's O R O H M T A B MAKEOVERS FUNERAL DIRECTORS

Emmet St, Ballina, Co. Mayo Tel: 096-70669 Anytime

Email: info@ballinafuneralhome.ie Website: www.ballinafuneralhome.ie

Plumbing, Tiling, Electrical and Special Needs Work Carried Out Also Bath resurfacing Call Liam Beirne 087-7783633 We offer you a unique and friendly approach to campervan hire, with us you get to join a community of camper nuts and share your adventure with all your friends.

With Facebug you get to hire a chilled out VW T4 camper with all the usual comforts plus Wifi to check your email, catch up on work or connect to your social networks and a streaming webcam to share your journey with your friends.

WESTERN WINDOWS & GLASS

Aluminimum, PVC-U Windows, Doors & Conservatories

Call us on 085­850­5555 Email: info@facebugcampers.com www.facebugcampers.com

All Services Provided Authorised representative of Horizon Funeral Planning Talk to us today for help and advice in your Pre-Need arangements

GS CONTRACTS

GORDON SHERLOCK

Specialists in tarmac & asphalt driveways Telephone: 071-91-30070 • Mob: 087-2969872

Suitable for most bungalows

Add Extra Room to your home!

We like to keep it simple so campers cost.... €110.00 per day or €700.00 per week which includes insurance

Phone: 071-9162140 Market House, Market Yard, Sligo www.sligofuneralhome.ie info@sligofuneralhome.ie

• A cost-effective way to add an extra room to your house.

• Doors can be positioned on any of the three sides of the conservatory for maximum choice and flexibiliy.

• 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

www.sligotarmac.com

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

• 25 years of experience in the Tarmacadam business • Free Advice and quotations • Fully insured

We are confident that our workmanship wil impress anyone, we can count on our past customers to verify our professionalism and attention to the finest detail.

Family Run Camper Van Hire Discover the magic that is the West of Ireland

Be it a short 3 day stay by the shores Of Achill Island or a two week exploration of swimming with dolphins in Kerry to climbing Irelands Holiest Mountain, Croagh Patrick. From Donegal to Dingle, Connemara to Cork or Galway to Giants Causeway, Ireland West Motorhomes allows you have the holiday you crave and deserve.

Our easy to drive, self contained Motorhomes are available from 4-7 berths, so whatever size your party, our motorhomes will provide you with exceptional comfort and value for money.

T: 094-9060300 • M: 087-6385757 E: info@iwmotorhomes.ie

www.iwmotorhomes.ie

Covering the Connacht area Sit Happenz will travel outside of Connacht www.sithappenz.wix.com/sithappez Expert representatives based all over Ireland operating from our Cork & Dublin offices.

Client assessment and joint surveys with occupational therapists.

• ACCESS LIFTS • STAIR LIFTS • BATHING SOLUTIONS • MOVING & HANDLING Acorn Business Campus, Mahon Ind. Park, Blackrock, Cork

Tel: 021-4614221 Mob: 086 - 8343533

Visit us online @ www.abbeymobility.com

In home dog training service. Teaching puppies & old dogs new tricks.

Sit Happenz is a professional in home dog training provided by Cer!fied Animal Behavior Consultant Ashlee Dolan, CABC. Call or e-mail today: Ashlee Dolan

Phone: 085 194 6653

sithappenz@thedoghousemail.com

Services Directory

PADRAIG BURKE Funeral Directors Rosebank, Attyrory, Carrick-On-Shannon, Co. Leitrim

www.westlok.ie

WE ARE THERE FOR YOU TO PROVIDE EXCELLENCE IN FUNERAL CARE WHEN YOU AND YOUR FAMILY NEED IT MOST.

westlokireland@gmail.com

HOW SECURE IS YOUR HOME? THE NORTHWEST’S LEADING BURGLARY PREVENTION EXPERTS

• BURGLARY PREVENTION • SAFES • SAFE ROOMS • LOCK UPGRADES • LIGHTING • OIL TANK SECURITY • FREE HOME SECURITY INSPECTION

All Services Provided

FREE

Authorised Representative of Horizon Funeral Planning

TEL: 096-72652 BOB: 087-9852827 • GERRY: 086-8581961

email: padraigburkefuneraldirectors@gmail.com

Sell Your Clutter!

Doni Feeney Painting & Decorating

BOOK NOW TO ARRANGE YOUR , NO OBLIGATION, HOME SECURITY INSPECTION

Tel: 087-9385571 / 071-9621343

Take the Hassle out of selling your unwanted furniture bric-a-brac, White goods or just about anything

www.ap-motors.eu

Unit 2, Ardnaree, Ballina, Co. Mayo

No constant phone calls or strangers calling to your home just call us at

YE OLD CURIOSITY SHOP

where we will sell them for you on a commission basis (we only charge 18%)

Call us on 086 0203631 for details or call into our shop In Ballaghaderreen (Opposite The Post Office )

• • • • • •

Servicing 5% Discoun Panel Beating t Tracking • Parts Light Setting NCT Preperation Valeting • Recovery

GET A FREE QUOTE CALL 086 2461115

with th is Advert

Ariel Dym 086-376-1953 • 086-8978395

From single rooms to complete house or commercial refurbishments we have it covered so if you require Professional and Efficient pain"ng and decora"ng come to Doni Feeney Pain"ng and Decora"ng today!

Keane’s Garage TEL: 086-0563130 Roll-R-Doors, Derryhillagh, Castlehill, Ballina, Co. Mayo

Tel: 096-51382 • Mob: 086-1650132 info@rollrdoors.ie • www.rollrdoors.ie

Roll-R-Doors offer a full range of Domestic and Industrial Garage Doors and Accessories. Specialising in both replacement and removal of old doors with new garage doors and installation of new garage doors, Give Roll-RDoors a call on 086 165 0132 to see what we can do for your projects needs.

MERCEDES SERVICE • Full dealer service facilities • Full Mechanical Repairs • Star Diagnostic Service

Get the same service as your main dealer at a fraction of the price!

Quality, Affordable Homecare In Your Community Providing dedicated homecare across the West, Northwest and Midlands since 1996

• Home Help • Light Housekeeping • Care of the Elderly • Overnight Care • Meal Prepara"on• Personal Care • Companionship • Respite Care Why se#le for a franchise when you can choose a local, proven homecare service?

Choose RHS Home Services - World Class, Quality Homecare in Your Community For Your Free No Obliga"on Consulta"on Call Us Now:

Urlaur, Killkelly, Co, Mayo Tel: 094-9649006 - www.keanesgarage.com

Roscommon: 09066-25988 Galway: 091 388785 Mayo: 09493 82156 www.rhshomeservices.ie

Services Directory

HEADSTONES

SLIGO OIL SERVICES

M. Carney, Frenchpark

Headstones manufactured to your specifica!on Headstones cleaned and names added

085-1459-300

Professional Relationship Counselling Couples & Individuals Fees Based on Personal circumstances

Did you know that your boiler could be costing you extra money?

accordballina@eircom.net

Did you know that even having 3mm deposit of soot on the inside of your boiler will increase oil (ref: OFTEC) costs by over 8%

Ballina 096-21478

ALL KINDS OF STONEWORK AVAILABLE

Castlebar 094-9022214 accordcbar@eircom.net

Contact Michael on 086-8090641 094-9870409

Charlestown 094-9254944

WARNING!!!

GIBLIN STONE

Upto 80% of Heat Generated by an Open Fire and almost 20% of Heat from your Central Hea!ng System escapes up an open Chimney!

Prevent this wastage!

TERRYS STOVES SLIGO Buying a Stove???

Talk to Terry first • Free Survey Available • Solid Fuel Stoves • Gas Fires

PHONE: 087-2066910 / 071-9197925

www.terrysstoves.com terrysstoves@gmail.com

ADDICTION TREATMENT CENTRE "Our mission is to provide a dedicated centre of excellence delivering a quality client centred approach with compassion and dignity while respecting the values and beliefs of all our clients" Who can come to the Centre?

Anyone who is concerned about their own or someone else's alcohol, gambling or substance use. A doctor's referral is not necessary.

What does treatment envolve?

We offer a 4 week programme. Addiction is a life threatening condition which can be effectively treated through timely intervention. We know that although recovery is a difficult and complex process - change is achievable with the help of highly trained professional staff and with feedback from other recovering addicts, and those concerned about recovery.

Gulladoo Centre, Cornafest, Co. Leitrim

Tel: 049-4339605 Mob: 086-8638842 Email: info@gulladoocentre.com

accordcharlestown@eircom.net

...everlasting

Choosing a memorial for a loved one is a very personal thing.

Quality • Experience • Service

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

Sligo Oil Services Professional OFTEC Boiler Service Can Save You Money We will optomise your Boiler for Maximum efficiency with reduced fuel costs, Carry out a full Carbon Monoxide audit to ensure Family Safety is a priority.

A New Oil Nozzle fitted and we supply you with a Full detailed printout (from the latest Anton Flue Gas Analysis equipment)

SEAMUS GALLAGHER MEMORIAL CARDS We provide a service which we hope can be of benefit to you when choosing a Memorial card, Bookmark, Wallet Card which reflects the life of a loved one. At a time when it is so difficult to choose a card, prayer, photograph etc, we will call with you personally, if you so wish, to advise & help you make the right decision.

We can be contacted at any time by calling 0872448642

SEAMUS GALLAGHER HEADSTONES Large selection of headstones Cleaning & restoration Inscriptions & Chippings Tel: 0872448642

CHIMNEY Michael REPAIRS Langan Pipe & Petroleum Installations IRELAND • 20 year guarantee • 25 years experience • Relining and rebuilding • Smoke and soot problems solved • Free estimates • Free assistance with insurance claims Tel : Office 1800 283067 / 087-7997671

www.chimneyrepairs.ie

Ardagh, Ballina, Co. Mayo Mobile: 086-2647271 • Tel: 096-70528

info@pipeandpump.ie • www.pipeandpump.ie

• Pipe & Pump Installations • Pump Maintenance • Pipe Work • Tanks and tank gauges • Control systems • New and Refurbished Pumps • Civil Works • Refurbish canopies • Fabricate & install bottom loaders

Feature Article Services Directory

PADRAIC CRYAN STONE WORK

CAMPERVAN CONVERTERS

Profesionaly converted campervans done with all light weight ply wood and full insula!on and top of the range appliances.

Can be converted to any style or any van.

Based in Roscommon, Padraic Cryan Stone & Blockwork Services is an Irish company with over 16 years experience in the Irish Construc!on Industry that prides itself on exceeding customer expecta!ons and delivering all work on budget and within the agreed !meframe.

We provide General Building work from Restora!ons to New Builds, and Stoneworks and are happy to meet you at your convenience and provide you with a quota!on.

Call Padraic on (086) 2867950 today for a FREE no hassle quota!on

Aistear Furniture

Makers of Bespoke Furniture & Quality Kitchens Mullagh, Killsallagh, Westport, Co. Mayo Tel: 098-23886 • Mobile: 087-6708306

info@aistearfurniture.com • www.aistearfurniture.com

• Water Analysis • Water Filtration • Water Softening • Well Drilling • Pump Supplied and Fitted • Rain Water Collection & Purification • Sewage Treatment Systems IN THE BUSINESS FOR OVER 25 YEARS

Email: waterteck@eircom.net Website: www.waterteck.com Phone: 086-8072249 071-9658976

Addic!on Treatment Centre

Foxford, Co. Mayo

Call in confidence: 094"9256888 Email: hopehouse#eircom.net www.hopehouse.ie

Rehabilitation Cent!e specialising in the t!eat"ent of alcohol, dr#gs, gambling and other dependencies.

Hope House... “where recover$ begins”

MICHAEL KEAVNEY Tarcmacadam & Tarspraying Specialists

ALL TYPES OF PLANT HIRE

QUALITY GRAVEL STONE

ALL AT VERY COMPETITIVE PRICES! 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

Pavior Machine Hire Tipper Lorry Hire 8 and 6 Wheel

Turlough, Castlebar, Co. Mayo 094-902-3853 / 086-250-3230

2014

HEAR Ltd.

HEARING CLINIC Gerard Feeney BSC, MSHAA, MISHAA, MIHS Hearing Aid Consulta!on will a"end:

Matt O’Flaherty Chemists, William Street, Galway. Tel: 091- 556664 Mc Sharry's Pharmacy, Golden Island, Athlone, Co. Westmeath Tel: 090-6474799 Hayes & Hayes Pharmacy, St. Brendans Street, Portumna. Tel: 090-9741025 Stauntons Pharmacy, Main Street, Castlebar Tel: 094-9024045 Appointment Necessary FREE HEARING TEST, CONSULTATION AND ADVICE Latest Digital Technology Available.

PRSI Grants of up to 50% per aid may apply.

Repairs to all makes of hearing aids.

Services Directory

Aluminium & PVC Repairs TANK CLEAN To windows, doors and patio doors

Boyle, Co. Roscommon • Septic Tanks Emptied

Expert patio door repairs!

Pre-Cast Sewage Treatment Units Septic Tanks & Rainwater Tanks Supplied & Fitted New Percolation Areas & Polishing Filters Installed All Work to EPA Standard Permit No. 13-11160-01

• Rollers • Tracks • Hinges • Door Realignment • Locks • Multilocking systems etc Over 20 years experience servicing Irish windows and doors. Fully insured GLASS PARTS ETC REPLACED

Call today for a site visit - David Regan: 087-9125128 • Boyle, Co. Roscommon

Brendan Gormley: 071-9183860 / 087-2562669

AQUA WINDOW CLEANING Pure Filtered Water No Ladders Used Windows, Doors Front & Back All Frames from €20 Gutters, Downpipes, Fascias, Windows & Doors from €60 Also: Power Washing, Moss Removal and Fungus Removal

Call John: 087-6124715

Resistant Stove Glass WEST OF IRELAND Heat We can Cut Robax Stove Glass to required WINDOWS & Size & Shape While U Wait....

SCHOTT ROBAX is a DOORS SERVICING heat resistant Ceramic

Repairs to all makes of Windows & Doors, Fogged Units, Hinges & Handles Replaced.

Tel: 087-3542249

DATING CLASSIFIEDS MALE 50’S North Mayo (Newport) kind, caring, sincere, likes cooking, walking, swimming, people, conversation, seeks a femaile for friendship and companionship Replies in a stamped envelope to box number 1050 at the usual address.

IRISH LADY 50’S would like to hear from artist single, any age, anywhere, for firendship and companionship.

Replies in a stamped envelope to box number 1040 at the usual address.

SINGLE SINCERE LADY Late 40’s - Interested in meeting a kind and loving male for friendship / relationship. No seperated or divorced.

Replies in a stamped envelope to box number 1044 at the usual address.

FREE DATING* CLASSIFIED

Glass, suitable For 99% of Woodburning Stoves & Fireplaces Robax has an extremely low thermal expansion which allows it not to be effected by extremely high temperatures or sudden temperature changes.

We Always have Stove Glass in Stock & can cut it while you wait.

Far Finisklin Road, Sligo

Tel: 071­91 61924

sales@sligoglass.com • www.sligoglass.com

our lives to enjoy ala. Leinster.

Replies in a stamped envelope to box number 1080 at the usual address.

SLIGO LADY 50 BUT LOOKS 10 YEARS YOUNGER Would like to meet nice, respectable, loving, genuine, honest man for fun and dancing and see what happens.

Replies in a stamped envelope to box number 1023 at the usual address.

SLIGO LADY SEEKING MALE Late 50’s, likes music, dancing, walking and travel. N/S, S/D, profrssional l;ady, loving, caring, and honest. Interested in friendship maybe leading to a relationship. Replies in a stamped envelope to box number at the usual address.

PRETTY TALL SLIM 60’S Retired nurse many interests, wltm gentleman over 6ft tall to have and to hold for yhe rest of

GENTLEMAN WIDOWER 54 yrs. Landscape gardener W.L.T.M. female professional, not married. In the northwest for friendship and craic. 6ft 1', blue

WRITE YOUR ADVERT HERE:

"pride in our work"

eyes, hair salt & pepper. Looking for lady 40 -47yrs. Longtime relationship. Replies in a stamped envelope to box number 975 at the usual address.

All applicants are individually matched by me - Call Jane on 087-3345116

THE FOLLOWING DETAILS ARE FOR OFFICE USE ONLY AND WILL NOT BE PUBLISHED. These details MUST be completed for all adverts

Email hello@firstclassdating.ie

NAME: ADDRESS:

(MAX 30 WORDS) - *Phone numbers will not be included in these adverts.

Post the completed form to Mature Living Magazine, NW Business Park, Collooney, Co. Sligo

TELEPHONE NUMBER:

STRICTLY PRIVATE ADVERTISERS ONLY - BUSINESSES CAN CALL 071-9154538 AND SPEAK TO ONE OF OUR FRIENDLY SALES REPRESENTATIVES ABOUT OUR EXCELLENT RATES.

Irish owned & operated.

Page 55 Mature Living August 2014

Over 50s Sale Week

New for 2014!

Foodie Break

31st Aug#st - 5th September 5 Nights Dinner, Bed & Breakfast for the Price of 4!

10th - 13th September - 3 Nights Dinner Bed & Breakfast PLUS a Full Prog"amme of Foodie Treats, Talks and Demos

ONLY €299pps

€299pps

Over 50s 5 Night Holiday 5 Night's Dinner Bed and Breakfast for the Price of 4 Star%ing on a Sunday!

October €289pps • November €279pps December €249pps

Call for Details on our Over 50s Christ!as Prog"amme

Call us on 098 25122 • Email reservations@hotelwestport.ie Visit our NEW WEBSITE - www.hotelwestport.ie

AA Courtesy & Care Winner 2013 / 2014