HealthNEWS March 2013
for Boomers and Beyond
Varicose Veins
How to Make them Vanish You may have inherited your mom’s lovely legs—and unfortunately, maybe her varicose veins too. These swollen, often bluish blood vessels are more common in women than men, and the tendency to develop them often runs in families. Not all varicose veins cause problems. They might only trigger problems that are remedied by making lifestyle changes or by wearing compression stockings. But if that’s not the case for you—for example if your veins are causing severe pain or blood clots— then your doctor might recommend a procedure to treat them. Various methods are used to close off or sometimes remove problem veins. Many are done in a doctor’s office or outpatient center and the recovery is usually quick. “The cosmetic procedure for varicose veins is performed to enhance a person’s appearance, and in this case the look of the legs, similar to why women, and some men, have other types of cosmetic surgery,” says Vladimir Zahradnik, MD, a vascular surgeon with the Jackson Clinic. “However, larger varicosities can lead to bleeding, development of clots, and skin discoloration. Procedures used to treat these conditions are not considered cosmetic and are generally covered by insurance.” Options may include: Sclerotherapy. A solution is injected into the vein, causing it to close off and fade from view. Sclerotherapy may be used to treat small varicose veins and spider veins, which can be a cosmetic concern.
Endovenous ablation therapy. Varicose veins deep in the legs can be treated with radiofrequency or laser heat. These procedures are minimally invasive in nature. After the area is numbed, a catheter— guided by ultrasound images—is inserted through a small nick in the skin. Then, a laser fiber or radiofrequency electrode is inserted into the catheter, and heat is used to close off the vein. No stitches are needed, and scarring is nearly impossible to see. Most people go home the same day. Ambulatory phlebectomy. In this procedure, special instruments are used to remove varicose veins in small sections through tiny cuts in the skin. Veins can be removed with very little scarring, and you can return to your usual activities the next day. Only a local anesthetic is needed. Vein stripping and ligation. This is a type of surgery—often done on an outpatient basis—that is typically used for very large veins that cause severe problems. The vein is tied off and removed through small incisions. General anesthesia is given, so you won’t be awake during the surgery. Recovery time ranges from one to four weeks— longer than for other varicose vein treatments and whenever possible radiofrequency or laser ablation is preferable. Your doctor can tell you more about the risks and benefits of treatments for varicose veins and which one may be appropriate for you.
To learn more about treatment options for varicose veins, attend our FREE SCREENING March 7. Call 334-293-8805
Sources: National Institutes of Health; Radiological Society of North America
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EASTER SUNDAY Sunrise Worship at Blount Cultural Park Amphitheater 6 a.m. Sanctuary and Contemporary Worship at Frazer 8, 9:30 & 11 a.m.
O t h e r Ho l y We e k Eve n t s Eggstravaganza Family Fun Day Saturday, March 23 Stations of the Cross Prayer Journey Wednesday - Friday, March 27-29 Good Friday Worship Service Friday, March 29 at 7 p.m.
6000 Atlanta Highway | 334.272.8622
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Contents
March 2013
“Though no one can go back and make a brand new start, anyone can start from now and make a brand new ending.”
Volume 3 Issue 8
Carl Bard
Thought Relationships Taste Inspiration
Humor Advice Health Community
“You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.” C.S. Lewis
3 Jackson Hospital’s Health News 8 Publisher’s Letter 12 BOOM! Cover Profile 15 Pointers for a Younger Look 18 NEW, Fitness over Fifty
page 11
19 Dating Coach
Features 16 Paradise found on Panama’s ‘Lost Coast’
18 Day Trippin’ in Alabama
Bucket List
Departments 10 This and That Have you heard...?
Eufaula Pilgrimage
28 {12} Things
Solutions for bored Boomers
20 “People help you, you help them” Grandfather can’t retire
20 Decorating Trends for 2013 21 Behind the Scene with Wallene 22 Is Your Hearing Loss Temporary or Permanent?
30 Greg Budell That Girl!
23 Day Trippin’ in Alabama
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25 Boomer Humor
COVER PROFILE page12
27 Art & Soul
page 18 page 10
page 15
BOOM! The River Regions 50+ Lifestage Magazine is published monthly by River Region Publications, 6398 Eastwood Glen Pl., Montgomery, AL 36117. The phone number for voice and fax is 334.523.9510. Copyright 2013 by River Region Publications. No part of this publication can be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Opinions expressed in BOOM! The River Regions 50+ Lifestage Magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.
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publisher’s letter
You Talk Too Much? The mission of BOOM! is to serve the folks of the River Region age 50 plus with information and ideas to inspire new experiences, better quality of life and new beginnings.
I’m glad you do, you make it easier for me to listen. Most women know they talk more than men. Some women wish the men in their lives would talk more. But we won’t. We can’t, according to the latest scientific studies on why women talk more than men. Apparently there’s a biological explanation for the reason why women are chattier than men. Scientists have discovered that women possess higher levels of a “language protein” in their brains, which could explain why you all are so talkative. Research shows women talk 3 times as much as men. In fact, an average woman speaks up to 20,000 words in a day, which is about 13,000 more than the average man! The column you’re reading has about 500 words in it and they’re hard to come by most of the time and you girls do it naturally!
Publisher/Editor Jim Watson, 334.523.9510 jim@riverregionboom.com
Associate Editor Kelly Watson kelly@riverregionboom.com
Contributing Writers Sandi Aplin Cindy Barganier Dr. Bettie Borton Greg Budell Lisa Copeland Peggy Perdue Wallene Prudames Leigh Anne Richards Gracie Bonds Staples Lucile Waller Kathy Witt
Cover Photography Lola Fine Art Photography twololas@lolafineartphotography.com
www.lolafineartphotography.com 334.551.2700
Advertising Jim Watson, 334.523.9510 jim@riverregionboom.com
Monette Mottenon, 334.523.9510 monette@riverregionboom.com
Design & Layout Lake House Graphics
Distribution Network Delivery
Printing Publications Press, Montgomery, AL
I grew up with three sisters, all older and all wonderful. I didn’t know it at the time but they taught me how to listen because they were going to talk and talk and talk and talk. So I listened and listened and listened. I learned what Agatha Christi wrote in one of her novels “An appreciative listener is always stimulating.” Not only that, a good listener will learn more along the way. Thanks to my sisters Jim Watson, Publisher for indirectly nurturing my listening skills. You have helped me understand some of those 20,000 words you produce each day!
This issue of BOOM! is for you! I’m pumped to offer as our Cover Profile, Lucile Waller, the Executive Director of the Cancer Wellness Foundation. Like all of our Cover profiles, Lucile is a one-of-a-kind person making a difference in our community. She engages and gets results that matter. I hope you’ll enjoy getting to know Lucile and the journey she shares with us this month.
Fitness over Fifty is a new ongoing column we’re launching this month. Leigh Anne Richardson, the General Manager of Metro Fitness, will begin a conversation about fitness with all of you who care. She’s a professional and a leader in the fitness area, especially for us folks over 50. If you’re looking for a change in your fitness aptitude or attitude, follow Leigh Anne in her new column, Fitness over Fifty. There are many more good reads in this month’s issue of BOOM! There’s the lost coast of Panama, a little Day Trippin to Eufaula, a few tips to look younger from Peggy Perdue of Merle Norman, a QuickLift experience from Wallene and a resurrection story from Greg Budell. Of course, there’s a whole lot more to enjoy, and I hope you’ll share the best reading experience in the River Region with your friends. Thank you for sharing your comments and ideas. I appreciate each of you. We have new advertisers and they want you to be their customers. Please consider what they offer and if you need their services, spend some money with them. Mention BOOM! and we’ll all get happy.
Easter is the last day of the month. As a Christian, I value the celebration of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ because He Lives. I encourage everyone to stop and seek the meaning of this Resurrection in their lives. I believe it is everything. Happy Easter!
334.244.0436
jim@riverregionboom.com 334.324.3472 cell/text 334.523.9510 office
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This & tHAT The Betty White Boost
Yes, we’re getting older, but there are definitely some great benefits. ore Magazine surveyed 1200 women age sixty and up, asking them to rate their lives. What were they happy about? What did they regret? What have they learned about finding their true paths? Here are some results: ● The Betty White Boost: A distinct spike in confidence occurred at the uppermost end of the respondents’ age group. Quite simply, the older the women were, the more likely they were to give themselves high marks for life decisions. Women age 80-plus were the most likely to feel satisfied with their life choices. (Although More only surveyed women, this phenomenon has been documented in men, too.) ● Know Your True Path: A majority of respondents said they found their true path in life after age forty. ● Cool with Not Being Superwoman: a majority said having it all is a crock. Do what you can and pat yourself on the back, and that it’s okay to ask for help or to say NO.
The New Shamrock Shuffle The Junior League is presenting the Shamrock Shuffle 2K and 10K Run, their newest spring fundraiser! The race will begin on Saturday morning, March 16, at Edward Thompson Park on Ray Thorington Road. The run will continue on the new connector for the New Park subdivision between Ray Thorington and Taylor Road. The Shamrock Shuffle Run will be the only 10K run in the City with racing chairs, and a wheelchair division. 10K starts at 7:30 a.m. , 10K Wheelchair Division starts at 7:30 a.m., 10K Runners & Walkers start at 7:35 a.m., 2K starts at 8:45 a.m. All runners registered for the Shamrock Shuffle 10K on or before March 7, shall receive a technical running shirt. Race day registrants will receive a technical running shirt on a first come/first served basis. The Tot Trot will begin immediately after the 2K. The Tot Trot is FREE for ages 4 and under! Register by mail at 3570 Carter Hill Road, Montgomery, Alabama 36111. Make checks payable to Junior League of Montgomery. Please direct questions to the Junior League office at Phone: 334-288-8816. or visit www.jlmontgomery.org
What’s New at the Crump Senior Center! The Crump Senior Center has some new activities for you this year. Some of these include: Jewelry Making on Wednesdays at 12:30 pm. Create beautiful jewelry for yourself or gifts. Supplies can be purchased from the instructor. Knitting & Crochet class on Wednesdays at 10:00 am. Acrylic Painting on Thursday from 1-3 pm. Bring your own supplies. Contact Betty Pinkson to register. 420-2091. Pinochle lessons are taught on Mondays at 10 am. Bridge Group meets Tuesdays at 12:30pm. Call Martha Simmons to reserve a place. 244-5699. Wisdom Walkers Group meets every day at 3 pm. Walk safely inside in air conditioning. AARP Tax Service hours are from 8am-4pm Monday thru Friday. Call to schedule an appointment 625-4672. Walk-ins are also welcome. Special events: Craft Class on March 5 at 10 am. Create roses using card stock. All supplies furnished. Advance sign-up is needed. Call 625-4547 to sign up. Luck of the Irish Bingo Party on Friday March 15th at 1 pm. Bring a can or non-perishable food to receive your Bingo Card. (One per person) Wear green for luck! Lunch is served daily at 11:30am for $5.00. Call the day before by 3pm to sign up. 625-4547. Crump Senior Center is located at 1751 Congressman Dickinson Drive. Montgomery, AL 36110
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Let’s Do Some Zip Lines! Take your love of nature to new heights on this dizzying course of zip-lines and other high-flying challenges deftly woven into the natural forest. Callaway’s TreeTop Adventure traverses more than 3,000 feet horizontally, soars up to 70 feet above the forest floor and features 11 zip-lines ranging from 44 to 700 feet long. The base Discovery Course features include five zip lines and 20 more sections comprised of ladders, wires, logs, discs, netting and other suspended surfaces, each requiring a high-level balancing act that must be carefully executed in order to reach the next challenge or zip-line. The new Lake Course includes five zip lines, now over water, and four obstacles. This would be a great new experience for anyone over 50...or anyone any age. Take the grandkids and swing through the trees! Opens March 1st. For more info visit www.callawaygardens.com/treetop
Irish Voices @ The Cloverdale Playhouse Back by popular demand, an evening of readings from some of the glorious writing of Ireland. From Friel to Heaney to McCourt to O’Casey to Yeats, the wit and wisdom, poetry and power of this grand isle will make for an enchanted night well-spent. Who knows- you may even hear a tune or two. 7:30-9 pm, Tickets:$15. CloverdalePlayhouse.Org or 334.262.1530
“MAKE A DIFFERENCE…ONE STEP AT A TIME” The Alabama Kidney Foundation will host its annual “Make a Difference…One Step at a Time” Walk-a-Thon on Saturday, April 13, 2013 at Baptist Health’s DeBoer Building, in Montgomery. The Foundation’s programs are provided free to Alabama’s kidney patients in need. One of the ways AKF is able to provide these services is through the money raised from their annual Walk-a-Thons. This family friendly event offers something for everyone; food, fun and fabulous prizes! If you are interested in leading a team at this year’s Walk-a-Thon and helping thousands of Alabamians suffering from kidney disease, please contact Amy at (334)241-0003 or amy@alkidney.org to register a team today.
“An Evening with Eli Manning” The Cancer Wellness Foundation of Central is hosting “An Evening with Eli Manning” on Friday, March 15, 2013, at the Renaissance Montgomery Convention Center (201 Tallapoosa Street, downtown Montgomery, Alabama). Two-time Super Bowl MVP, will be the featured speaker for An Evening with Eli Manning, Presenting Sponsor Baptist Health. WSFA Sports Anchor Jeff Shearer and WAKA Sports Anchor Dee Jackson will lead the “chat” with Mr. Manning during a Q&A session. In addition, there will be a live auction during the event. This event will be a sell-out and seating will be limited. It is encouraged that anyone wanting to attend “An Evening With Eli Manning” purchase early. General admission tickets are $100 for dinner, auction and program. Tables of eight are $1,200. Tickets can be purchased at www. cancerwellnessfoundation.org or by calling the MPAC Box Office 334-481-5100.
Calling all Gardeners If you enjoy gardening, please consider joining with other gardeners at Frazer Church. This new ministry will start seedlings to be planted at the community gardens, dedicate a section of home gardens to local homeless shelters, and much more. Anyone interested in this ministry should contact Curt and Bonnie Brown at godsgardeners@ earthlink.net or 318-7219.
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BOOM! COVER PROFILE
Lucile Waller, Faithful Servant This month’s BOOM! profile is Lucile Waller. Lucile is the Executive Director of the Cancer Wellness Foundation in Montgomery and has had many unique experiences in her life. She has worked with Patsy Riley in the Governor’s Mansion, been a single parent of three children and a LuLu to two others! We visited with Lucile recently at her office in the Montgomery Cancer Center and she shared some of her life’s journey with us. Hope you enjoy getting to know her as much as we did.
the state’s money to do it.” He was referring to refurbishing the mansion and grounds. We partnered with Friends of the Mansion and did lots of fundraising. Since I had previous experience with a gift shop, we opened The Alabama Market, now known as The Governor’s Mansion Gift Shop. Mrs. Riley was very generous with her time and support and helped raise awareness about BOOM!: Please give many different us a brief biography, children’s issues, Pictured L-R: Diane Teague, Virginia Whitfield, Patsy Riley and Lucile at a Development Lucheon i.e. where you’re as well as, various from, education, what other issues close brought you to the Montgomery area, to her heart and the heart of Alabamians. much prayer and in obedience to God, did you raise your family here, schools, They are faith and family oriented and I our paths were directed to County Club married, family, etc? greatly admire both of them. Drive and to the Church of the Ascension in Montgomery. The children were eight, Lucile: I was born and raised in Greenville, BOOM!: The Cancer Wellness Foundation fifteen and seventeen at that time. It Alabama. My twin sister and I, along is an important part of the River Region’s was not an easy time, but a time of great with a big brother and a younger set of battle with cancer. As the Executive blessings. Oh, the plans God has for us! twins had a very secure loving Christian Director, please tell us more about this “upbringing”. I married my high school foundation and the exciting event you BOOM!: You worked in the Governor’s sweetheart, Chris Waller, in 1972. We have planned for March 15th. office for many years and closely with have three children Chris, Cile, and Patsy Riley. Would you share your Griffith. For several years, I was blessed Lucile: We are a 501(c)3 nonprofit experiences with Patsy and Governor to be a stay at home mom. In the mid organization giving help to cancer Riley? 80’s, I was able to make use of my Auburn patients in the Montgomery community University at Montgomery educational and surrounding communities. The Lucile: I was administrator of the degree teaching third grade at Fort Dale Foundation provides assistance to governor’s mansion for “Miss Patsy” and Academy. After another brief tenure as patients in 33 Central Alabama counties Governor Riley. That was an extremely a stay at home mom when Griffith was with transportation to and from their busy time in my life. I was “on call” 24 born, I began teaching at the Greenville chemotherapy and radiation treatments. hours a day and 7 days a week. “Miss Middle School. Greenville was the perfect Amazingly, we provide 6,000 to 7,000 trips Patsy” and I are sisters in Christ. Our community to raise a family and we annually. More than half our patients must minds, hands and hearts were always have beautiful memories. Our move to travel more than 50 miles from home. busy. There was never a dull moment! I Montgomery was prompted by the loss of We help patients obtain medications for remember when they first came, Governor my mother to cancer in 1994 and the loss free or at low cost. Oral chemotherapy Riley said, “Patsy, you can do whatever of my children’s father in early 1996. After medicines can cost as much as $12,000 you want, but you can’t use a penny of
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almost five years there, I began my career to dinner with friends. When I watch TV, a month and could require a 10-50 % at the Alabama Governor’s Mansion I watch a strange combination of shows, co-pay. Surprisingly, fifty percent of those with the Siegelman administration and such as NCIS, Downton Abbey, and the we help are insured and fifty percent are continued through the Riley administration. Hallmark Channel. I uninsured. Nutritional Now, at the Cancer Wellness Foundation, do not like the reality counseling is provided I am continuing to help people, those shows. I grew up for patients with feeding suffering with cancer. It has been extremely watching Billy Graham tubes or side affects rewarding to be part of an organization with my grandmother, due to treatment. Since that gives much needed assistance to so sometimes I watch 2007, the Foundation people within its own community. his old Crusades. has provided services and products valued at BOOM!: What is it about living in the BOOM!: Favorite approximately $22.2 Montgomery/River Region area that you vacation spot? Any million. No other like? travel dreams planned organization provides Daughter Cile and husband Robert Rey for the future? these services. Annually, Lucile: When we first moved to we help over 1,000 Montgomery, I was so excited about Lucile: The beach! No travel plans. I am a patients. grocery stores that workaholic! stayed open past Our largest annual fundraiser is March 15, eight o’clock and the BOOM!: As a busy 2013, An Evening with Eli Manning. All variety of foods! I professional, do you have funds raised will help local cancer patients love the hustle and time to be involved in in Central Alabama. Tickets are $100 and bustle of activities that community, civic or other can be purchased from our website www. Montgomery has to activities? cancerwellnessfoundation.org. Tables offer. of eight for $1,200 and Sponsorships can Lucile: I am involved be purchased by calling 334-273-2279. BOOM!: As you’ve with several community This should be a wonderful family event, aged, how have your organizations. I am on the especially for football lovers! flower guild at my church, Son, Griff, who works is Washington D.C. ambitions changed? Christchurch XP, and attend BOOM!: Many Boomers are experiencing Lucile: I think we strive too hard for success weekly Bible studies. I enjoy attending a renewed sense of purpose, new in anything and everything we do, but that plays at Shakespeare Festival and other goals, new careers, especially if they’ve is not important. If we just take the “we” activities in the experienced the empty nest out of the equation and honestly do what Montgomery area. syndrome of their kids moving God wants us to do, we can cease striving. on. How would you describe Then we will be satisfied and peaceful with BOOM!: If you weren’t this sense of renewal in your whatever God allows to happen, even in running the Cancer life? Any advice for the rest of suffering. This is hard to do. Wellness Foundation, us seeking renewal? what kind of work BOOM!: Give us three words that describe would you be doing? Lucile: I don’t think I have ever you? Any dream jobs? experienced the empty nest syndrome. My life seems to Lucile: Four words: Enthusiastic, Passionate Lucile: I have been always be in a whirlwind! I and Driven, and Wholehearted. blessed to have am trying to learn to take life worked in all of my a little less seriously and take BOOM!: Do you have any hobbies or other dream jobs, including more time for myself and my activities that grab your attention? the Cancer Wellness family. Oldest son, Chris and his family: wife, Jackie, daughter, Caroline, and son, Will. Foundation! In my Lucile: I love to arrange younger BOOM!: What are you most flowers. I have had a side years, I couldn’t wait to passionate about? business for 40 years or teach school children and more arranging English I taught third, fifth, sixth Lucile: I am most passionate about my style floral arrangements and seventh grades. When Christian faith, my family and friends, and for weddings and parties. I moved to Montgomery, my conservative values. As I was growing up, my I began a business, Lilies parents and grandmother of the Field, an interior BOOM!: How do you like to relax and Lucile and Volunteer, Miyoshi Elliot entertained friends at teas, decorating/ gift shop, with wind down from a hard day’s work? two precious friends. After I am not a big TV watcher. I read or go out Continued to page 14
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day. I have a heart coffees and dinner parties. for single parents. It was my duty I am blessed to help arrange to have three fresh greenery wonderful children, my precious and flowers for daughter-in-law the parties. I and son-in-law grew to love and two beautiful it! When time grandchildren! My permits, I like to grandchildren call bake some of my Granddaughter, Caroline and grandson, Will me LuLu. grandmother’s old southern recipes. I enjoy romantic comedy movies BOOM!: How important is technology in and any kind of music. I love to dance and your work? occasionally attend the 301 Club at Dexter Memorial Methodist Church. I adore Lucile: I don’t know what we would do without it and how did we do without it! spending an afternoon antiquing! BOOM!: You mentioned being a single parent, how did you manage the many responsibilities of parenting? What do your grandkids call you? Lucile: Chris was the best dad any three children could have had, but after his death, all the responsibility fell on me. I am very sincere when I say only by the grace of God did we get through each
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BOOM!: The people of the River Region have always had a “giving heart” when it comes to supporting our non-profit organizations. Why do you think that’s true? Lucile: People in this community are very generous to support many nonprofit organizations including the Cancer Wellness Foundation of Central Alabama.
Their support for the CWFCA is the difference in someone receiving cancer treatment or not receiving treatment. This support can extend a person’s life and help reduce a great deal of stress as they are going through a critical time in their life. The CWFCA and our patients are so very grateful for the LuLu and Caroline at the outpouring of Maskers Ball in Montgomery local generosity. If you have any questions for Lucile, you can reach her at 334.273.2279 or lwaller@ montgomerycancer.com. If you want to support the Cancer Wellness Foundation please visit www.cancerwellnessfoundation.org/ We want to thank Lucile for participating in this month’s BOOM! Cover Profile. If you have questions, comments or suggestions, please send them to jim@riverregionboom.com
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Pointers for a POLISH your face and lips daily with a gentle exfoliant to improve uneven skin texture caused by dead skin cells collecting on the skin�s surface. Your skin will look more refined, smoother and brighter. Your cell turnover has decreased by 50% by the time you reach 50. PREP your skin with a moisturizer packed with multiple peptides to firm your skin and minimize expression lines around the eyes and mouth. It is botox in a jar. PRIME your skin after moisturizing with a foundation primer containing polymers and silicone. They fill in lines, wrinkles and pores. Skin instantly looks smoother and your makeup glides on effortlessly. PAINT on your foundation with a brush for a lighter, more even application. Choose the newer makeup formulas with high definition pigments that reflect
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
Younger Look light and optically diffuse fine lines. The right color and texture of foundation can make you look 5 years younger.! PUNCTUATE your eye brows with proper shaping then fill them in with short, upward strokes in a hair matching shade of brow powder or pencil. A finished brow opens and lifts the eye area while framing it. POP your eyes with a thin line of neutral eye shadow or pencil applied with a angled brush along the root of the upper
By Peggy Perdue
eye lashes lifting it slightly at the outer corner. Lining makes a thinning lash line look thicker and brings out a receding eye. Dabbing a light (even shimmery) eye shadow onto the brow bone can act as an eyelift. PLUMP up your lips wiht rosy pink or coral lip colors, dark colors only thin lips. Enhance a fading lip contour by applying your lip liner after your lip color. This will leave a more natural outline and will keep your lip color from feathering. Peggy Perdue, Studio owner Merle Norman, Shoppes at EastChase
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BUCKET LIST ADVENTURE:
By Kathy Witt
Paradise found on Panama’s ‘Lost Coast’ It may take a full day and a half to reach it, but, oh, at the end of three plane rides, two shuttles and a ferry your pay-off awaits. Islas Secas. Unknown to all but the local fisherman, it is an eco-minded island sanctuary that took its shape organically, inspired by the naturescape of a 16-island chain about 25 miles off Boca Chica, Panama, in the Gulf of Chiriqui. The largest island in this Pacific Ocean archipelago, Isla Cavada, is where your journey’s reward awaits – an idyll with pristine waters, breezy casitas (or yurts), walking trails following Mother Nature’s imprint of reef, coastline, mangroves and coconut trees, and a laid-back vibe as languid as the ebb and flow of the tide. Along the way are memories-in-waiting to delight all the senses. The ferry ride aboard a SeaVee from Boca Chica to these uninhabited volcanic islands feels more like an amusement park ride without the safety bar – no lines, shrieking kids or sticky seats, either, just oceanic surround sound and the waters of the bay, whose hues change from navy to blue-gray to aquamarine. The million dollar views. The bracing sea-salt air. The immutable peace and calm. Although it is a first class resort with an international staff, there is nothing fussy about Islas Secas. In fact, the island atmosphere feels more like friends gathering to play Swiss Family Robinson,
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albeit with soft beds, gourmet cuisine and state-of-the-art fishing boats. Guests are at their leisure. Curious about the surrounding islands? Resort manager and underwater nature guide Kieron Baudains will arrange for boat and guide. Need a deep tissue or Thai massage? Resident massage therapist Brianne Spans will appear at your bohio (cabana). Want to channel your inner downward dog? Spans, also the yogi, will materialize, mat in hand. The solar-powered casitas charm with their simplicity while offering all the comforts of home; actually, better than home because someone else is doing the cooking and cleaning – laundry, too. Clothes are whisked away; returned freshly washed and dried and folded. Champagne and cooling cloths chill in the fridge. Crisp white linens enrobe the bed, whose mosquito netting adds a romantic touch. A shower round the corner within the yurt captures the island breeze. “Air conditioning” comes via the breezes whooshed in from the ocean,
an oscillating floor fan and two tiny fans above the bed. Swaddled in your cocoon, the view is of Nature’s best handiwork: the blues of the ocean with the shifting sun playing along the waves; the greens of overlapping flora; the whites of the clouds puffing lazily along the horizon. With only seven casitas on the island, guests typically max out at a delightfully sparse 14, adding to the sense that you and your travel companion are the only inhabitants romping about paradise. The casitas are arranged so that each commands its own private views and beach area. Walk out your screen door, round the bohio and slip into the clear, cool waters. If you want to swim or sunbathe in the buff, only the passing iguanas will be the wiser. With their comfy chaises, irresistible hammock and shading thatched roof, the bohios coax guests into quiet reflection and untroubled dozing – certainly a no more energetic pursuit than noting the passing wildlife. There is no television to rattle your senses, no phones to jar you out of a lazy daydream – only nature’s soundtrack of chirping birds and windrustled palm fronds. Adventures are plentiful: hiking, spearfishing, diving amidst underwater sea mountains, Hobie Cat sailing, kayaking, wakeboarding, snorkeling. The view underwater is as breathtaking as
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above, with humpback whales, dolphins and sea turtles abounding in these waters. There are private beach excursions to Islas Pargo, where you can be “marooned” for the day with picnic lunch and plenty of privacy; jaunts to Isla Coco to marvel at the frigatebirds with their hook-tipped bills; snorkel and diving excursions to Coiba National Park; surfing at Morro Negrito; collecting beach glass on Isla Cavada; zoning out in a natural Jacuzzi while reef fish dart about. Then there’s the big game fishing, exhilarating to all, including newbies to the sport. “Panama is arguably one of the top five big game fishing destinations of the world,” says Capt. Carter Andrews, director of fishing at Islas Secas. “Hannibal Bank is legendary among fisherman. Blue and black marlin, yellow fin tuna to 300 pounds, sailfish, dorado and wahoo are all swimming in these offshore, nutrient-filled waters. A day on the water with one of our boats and crew is a treat – from the fishing to the scenery to the animal viewing.”
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And the food? Chef Alex Rojas works his culinary magic, tailoring meals individually to seafood lovers, carnivores, vegetarians – everyone from the gastronomically adventurous foodie to the downright picky eater. Photo-worthy dishes show off the chef’s Panamanian background and French and Asian influences: Mahi-Mahi Passionfruit Ceviche, Tuna Tatake in Wasabi Vinaigrette, Organic Chicken, Yucca Salad. “And you can bring your fresh catch back to Chef Alex to prepare the best fish dish you have ever had,” Andrews says. Meals are served on the terrazzo on the main beach against a backdrop of lapping water and setting sun. Cocktails and tapas precede dinner, with staff greeting guests and asking about their day’s adventures. Optionally, cocktails are served at the Sunset Deck, located cliff side high in a thick canopy of vegetation and looking out over the crashing surf as the sun melts into the bay. Desserts are petite bites layered with flavor (and dessert chef J. Paola Fernandez can be
persuaded to share a coveted recipe). Islas Secas is a resort that leaves no shell unturned in tending to your comfort to enhance your stay. And your hosts are free with smiles and stories and always ready to show off their jungle-clad corner of paradise and nudge guests toward a new adventure – or leave them to relax into the lazy rhythm of island life. INFO Book your Islas Secas casita from mid-December through the end of May. Rainy season commences June through early December. To bring on your adventure: Crocs, they are the preferred footwear on the island; tablet or e-Reader (casitas have Wi-Fi). To leave home: Sunscreen and bug spray, there are bottles in the yurts, on the fishing boats, all over the island – for liberal (and necessary) use. To take home: BPA-free biodegradable water bottle and roomy canvas beach bag, gifts from Islas Secas. Details: www.IslasSecas.com Kathy Witt is a freelance writer and the author of “Atlanta, Georgia: A Photographic Portrait” (Twin Lights Publishers, $26.95) and “The Secret of the Belles” (Dog Ear Publishing, $12.95). Visit Kathy’s blog at www.TravelinTales.com or email at WittK@ fuse.net. Distributed by MCT Information Services
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Fitness over Fifty
By Leigh Anne Richards
Would You Take This Prescription? If you could take a prescription that decreased your chance of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, all kinds of cancers, reduced your risk of obesity, lowered blood pressure, improved your sex life, and made you feel better would you take that prescription? I bet the answer for all of us would be YES!! What is that prescription and where do I get it? The prescription is called EXERCISE and it can be found in a variety of forms. The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) and the American Heart Association (AHA) have updated physical activity guidelines for people over 50. The idea of starting an exercise program can seem like a daunting task, but just remember, the main goal is to boost your health by meeting basic physical activity recommendations. Thanks to these organizations we are now given simple guidelines. It does not even take a gym membership to get the daily recommended amount of physical activity. The first component is cardiorespiratory exercise, which includes walking, swimming, aerobic dance, cycling, etc... Choose an activity that you enjoy doing so you will stay motivated. Even choose a couple of activities and combine them so boredom will not set in. These aerobic activities need to be done for 30 minutes at a moderate intensity (breaking a sweat) five days a week. The 30 minute recommendation is for the average healthy adult to maintain health and reduce the risk for chronic diseases. If 30 minutes seems too long at one time, break them into 10 minute bouts. Even choose a friend, or spouse to exercise with you to make it more fun, plus you hold each other accountable.
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Resistance training is the second component in the fitness paradigm. It is the only type of exercise that can substantially slow, and even reverse, the declines in muscle mass, bone density, and strength that were once considered inevitable consequences of aging. Unlike aerobic exercise that requires moving large muscle groups hundreds of times against gravity, weights provide so much resistance that muscles gain strength from only a few movements. Resistance is usually provided by free weights, machines, or exercise tubing. Individuals can also get stronger by exercising in the water. The recommendation for strength training set by the ACSM are exercises performed two times a week, 8-12 repetitions with a weight heavy enough to challenge the muscle. The major muscle groups of both the upper and lower body should be targeted. However, very sedentary individuals just starting resistance training should start out with very light weights. Recent research has indicated that inactivity is responsible for the majority of age associated muscle loss. Fortunately, resistance exercise can reverse much of this decline by increasing the size of shrunken muscle fibers. Flexibility training is the third part of the equation. Flexibility is defined as the ability of a joint to go through a range of motion. As we lose our flexibility when we age, we become more prone to injuries. Adults should do flexibility exercises (stretching) at least 2-3 days a week to improve range of motion. Each stretch should be held for 10-30 seconds. It is most effective to do stretching sessions when your muscles are nice and warm such as after an aerobic activity
or after a hot bath. Stretching “cold” muscles can lead to injury. Yoga is a great way to incorporate flexibility into your exercise routine. One of the newest components added to the guidelines for people over 50 is neuromotor exercise. It is sometimes referred to as functional training. Neuromotor exercise involves motor skills (balance and proprioceptive exercise training). These types of exercises improve physical function and prevent falls. As we age, we begin to lose our balance, thus leading to more falls. Balance is like anything else— if it is not practiced, we lose it. As the old saying goes, “Use it or Lose It.” Balance exercises have no guidelines on time and sets as the other fitness components do. Incorporating them into your daily routine of about 10 minutes each time would make a real difference in daily life activities. By the year 2030, the number of individuals 65 years and over will reach 70 million in the United States alone. Those 85 and older will be the fastest growing segment of our population. Current evidence clearly indicates that participation in a regular exercise program is an effective way to reduce and/or prevent a number of functional declines associated with aging; therefore, improving the quality of life and extending independent living.
Leigh Anne Richards is General Manager of MetroFitness in Montgomery. She is the General Manager and holds a MEd. in Health and Physical Education with a concentration in adult fitness. You can contact Leigh Anne at LAMetrofit@ aol.com for any questions.
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
By Lisa Copeland
THE DATING COACH
Differing Lifestyles, A Problem? Question: I met this really nice man who is so different from me. He dresses terribly and at times I’m embarrassed to be seen in public with him. We also have different lifestyles, which may become a future problem. We both love to travel but he travels “Super 8 Motel”-style and I’m more of a Ritz kind of girl. I know you must be thinking, “What is the deal here?” What pulls me in is the way he worships me and just loves and adores me. He’d do anything for me. I’ve never had this happen before and it feels so good. I find I’m developing feelings for him yet my friends think I’m nuts, telling me he’s beneath me. He’s super smart, kind and funny and I enjoy being with him. What should I do? Answer: This man sounds like he has “external issues” working against him, with his not so great clothes and lifestyle choices. Yet, what he’s got going for him are these wonderful “internal qualities and values,” like kindness, intelligence and his ability to make you laugh. External qualities are always changeable and many men are open to having a woman change their style when it’s not up to date. As for the traveling situation, it sounds like spending a lot of money on a hotel is not a priority for this man. It’s also possible he may not have the money needed for the lifestyle you desire, and that is why his lifestyle is at a different level. Are you OK with this? If you really liked him, would you be willing to foot the whole bill for the hotel you desire, or let him pay toward this hotel, the same amount he’d have paid for a Super 8? These are workable qualities that can be figured out with good communication skills. What’s not fixable or changeable in a man are the “internal qualities” of a man’s personality and his values. Fortunately, it sounds like he’s a good man and you enjoy being with him, so he is probably worth getting to know. Try not to let your friends influence your decision about this man based on his clothes or his car. Your friends hopefully will see you are happy and will become more supportive of your decision to explore this relationship. They say
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people come into our lives for a season, a time or a reason, and that we learn about ourselves from every relationship we are a part of, so just enjoy this man while you are with him. And remember, you don’t have to marry him. As a woman over 50, you can just appreciate his companionship and have fun while you’re together! Question: My 31-year marriage ended about 3 months ago. I’m not divorced yet but I’m thinking about dating. I figure it will be so much easier to get over my ex if someone else is in the picture. I’d love the support, too, from a guy. I already miss having a man around, so I want to get a head start finding my next guy. How do I go about doing this? Answer: I urge you to consider not dating, since you’re only separated from the man you’ve been with for 31 years. It takes time to get over a relationship and sometimes the anger and grief doesn’t begin to appear until after the divorce itself. Instead of dating right now, consider taking some time getting to know yourself again. Then you’ll know what you’re bringing that is all your own to the next relationship. Often in a long marriage, what we love doing becomes so entwined with our ex, we don’t know who we really are when we’re without him. I remember after my first divorce being in a restaurant and hearing that a famous baseball player was dining in the next room. I got so excited. Then I realized something: I hated baseball! That excitement was about something my ex had always liked that he would share with me. I realized in that moment it was time to discover what really excited me that had nothing to do with him. Think about using this time to discover what excites you. Figure out a way to nourish YOU right now. Find fun classes to take. Go to dinner with friends. Take walks in a sunny park. And give yourself permission to take the time to heal from this long relationship that has ended. Chances are, if you don’t, you’ll end up attracting the same type of man, with similar issues, that you didn’t finish working out before. Lisa Copeland, “The Dating Coach Who Makes Dating Fun and Easier after 50!” Find out more at http://www.findaqualityman.com (c) 2012, Lisa Copeland, Distributed by MCT Information Services
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Decorating Trends for 2013 I have been compiling a list of trends that appeared at each of the winter markets in Atlanta, High Point and New York this January for a seminar series I am presenting and thought you might find it interesting. 1. By now everyone knows that Pantone’s Color of the Year is Emerald Green but following close on its heels will be Lemon Zest, Poppy Red and Nectarine as hot colors for spring 2013. Peachy Keen and Lemon Sorbet are among Benjamin Moore’s color choices. So many of you will be thrilled to know that true blue is back leaning more toward navy or royal with no green undertones. 2. Wallpaper, wallpaper, wallpaper! Both traditional and removable papers, great for dorm/apartment living, are being spotted everywhere! Look for it not only on walls but ceilings, stair risers and furniture. I am even getting requests for grasscloth again. It has been a long time since we last used that. 3. Wrapped furniture in linen, grasscloth, burlap all with nailhead trim and many
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with nails forming intricate decorative designs. 4. Faux Shagreen: not real shark or seal but gorgeous new hides that work best in neutral colors. Highpoint was filled with showrooms featuring tables and desks covered in it. We even saw faux-painted shagreen tables at Scott’s Antique Show in Atlanta this month. 5. Lux bedding: When you have to cut back on travel you want a “Ritz” bedroom at home. 6. Verre eglomise or “gilded glass”: This is a technique where glass is painted on the reverse side leaving open space that is then gilded in silver or gold leaf to give the effect of a painted mirror. Kelly Werstler kicked this off with her amazing show house ceiling several years back. Look for a lot of this in hospitality design. 7. Bleached floors and furniture: whether through liming, whitewash or paint it, is here to stay. 8. Gold or antique brass fixtures 9. Weathered kitchen countertops especially on islands. “What can I use besides granite?” seems to be the question on everyone’s lips.
10. Downsizing: as boomers crave more time and money to travel or spend with family and as millennial’s move more to loft living with less drive time, there is a huge interest in professionally planned small spaces that utilize every inch and serve multi-purposes. I find myself thinking more and more about how to design furniture, and homes that are more in keeping with a European mindset for this reason. In summary, there is a move to a more relaxed life-style where every space in the home is meaningful and used; where the personality of the owner is allowed to shine through and where entertaining is a group activity that works best in open spaces. Work hard to find your individual style and then stick with it and you will be less likely to be dissatisfied with your home. Leonardo de Vinci said, “Simplicity is the ultimate form of sophistication.”
By Cindy Barganier
Cindy Barganier is professional designer in the Montgomery area. Her work can be seen at www.cindybarganier.com and she can be reached at cindybarg@knology.net.
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
Behind the Scene with Wallene
and her experience with QuickLift
Wallene Prudames is a 68 year old grandmother who is fondly called Gammy by her three grandchildren. Although she was reluctant to move to Atlanta with her late husband years ago, she is now very fond of her life in Montgomery. Wallene is also a former makeup rep and artist; she also sold real estate with Alfa Realty. Then one day a former make up customer of hers from 15 years ago suggested she look into a position at River Region Facial Plastics. She did and now works 3 days a week working with clients, helping them with their cosmetic needs. Wallene confided that she liked her job so much she would do it for free! Oops, don’t tell Dr. Cawthon or Dr. Bowman. Wallene is especially helpful to clients of RRFP because she has experienced the QuickLift first hand and we asked her to share her experience with BOOM! readers. My personal experience with Quick Lift: I am sure many people feel exactly as I do. I have always exercised religiously, watched my weight, ate in as healthy a manner as possible and been interested in the best skin care I could afford. After my husband passed away following a 9-month battle with cancer, I looked at myself once again, and there were the jowls, saggy face and all around tired look accompanying old age. I certainly didn’t look the way I felt inside, which was healthy and vibrant. Because spending 10’s of thousands of dollars was not an option, the prospect of taking those sagging jowls and horrible neck away from my face (which is the first thing people see) for the price of the Quick Lift was incredibly attractive to me. My neck and jowls were the worst things on my face, and now there was the ability correct them! Upon researching the Quick Lift I realized that it had drawn on the lessons learned from other minimally invasive surgeries and improved upon them, not only in overall procedure, but in scientifically computing the best angle and suture placement for optimal, natural-looking results. It took into consideration the particular face of the patient and their needs. Concerns are always around when cosmetic surgery is considered, and that is why the credentials of your surgeon are so important. Another incredibly important aspect of your choice is the manner in which the surgeon and his staff approach your upcoming surgery. Support and information are all important to the confidence level you have going into this important event. The Bowman/Cawthon team pride themselves in the fact they choose carefully people who truly care about others, and it showed then, and now! When the results shine through after a recovery time, (which by the way is relatively brief), the confidence level, the reflection of the inner you is noticeable. When you can go to the mirror and look rested, happy and the best you can be, the results are fantastic! There truly is a mind, body and spirit connection, and having experienced it myself and seeing it in others has been incredibly gratifying. People seem to take on a happier demeanor with energy and confidence returning to them. When you are feeling good about yourself, you can give to others far more readily. Concerns about yourself go away, and concerns for others become paramount. As you see - I am a believer in being all you can be! It works
THE
DIFFERENCE
DisCover the
top 5 reasons Photos courtesy of Dominic A. Brandy, MD
for Choosing the QuiCkLift® • TIgHTens LOOse, saggIng jOwLs anD neCK • LOCaL anesTHeTIC • PeRsOnaLIzeD TReaTMenT • LasTIng ResULTs • HIgHLY RaTeD anD ReVIeweD
Before
after
Performed here in Montgomery In our nationally accredited surgical facility
Call for a free consultation
(334) 270-2003
Questions? Email: Doctors@RiverRegionFacialPlastics.com 11253 Chantilly Parkway Court, Montgomery, AL 36117 The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
Unlike some national facelift chains, the QuickLift® is performed at River Region Facial Plastics by Thomas H. Cawthon, MD, and Michael K. Bowman, MD, with over 45 combined years of cosmetic surgery experience. Division of Montgomery Otolaryngology r i ve r reg i o n b o o m . co m
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Healthy Hearing
By Dr. Bettie Borton Au.D.
Is Your Hearing Loss Temporary or Permanent? If you are noticing a change in your hearing health, you may be experiencing temporary hearing loss that, once detected, can be corrected before permanent damage occurs. Temporary hearing loss may Dr. Bettie Borton Au. D. be the result of an obstruction in your ear canal, fluid or disease in the middle ear, or other heathrelated conditions. Causes may include: Ear infection: Sometimes congestion due to allergies or a bad cold can develop into an ear infection. Although this condition is most common in children, it can occur at any age. While ear infections may clear up by themselves, it’s always a good idea to see your doctor in case medical intervention is required. For adults and older children, the most obvious sign that the ear may be infected is pain. Anytime ear pain is a symptom, medical evaluation is a must. Possible symptoms of an ear infection include: • Drainage from the ear • Problems with balance or hearing • Unexplained fever
Excessive ear wax: Glands in your external ear canal produce cerumen, a substance also known as ear wax. This protective wax usually works its way out of your ear canals naturally or with a gentle washing. However, the aging process causes oil glands in the external ear canal to become less productive, increasing the likelihood that debris will build up and block the ear canal. It is worth mentioning that placing any object (cotton swabs, hair pins, or finger nails) in the ear to try to remove
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hardened wax can lead to serious injury to the ear canal or ear drum, which can result in permanent hearing loss. So, if you or someone you love has problem with wax buildup, consult your audiologist. Never resort to “ear candling”, a technique often used by spa personnel. Such techniques can cause serious injury to the ear and eardrum, and are not safe. Symptoms of an earwax impaction may include: • Decreased hearing • Dizziness • Ear pain • Plugged or fullness sensation • Ringing in the ear • Itching or drainage from the ear canal
High blood pressure: If you’ve been hearing a ringing or buzzing in your ears that won’t go away (tinnitus), it’s wise to see your physician immediately. Tinnitus is sometimes a symptom of another medical condition such as high blood pressure or cardiovascular disease.
Noise induced hearing loss: It’s also common to experience temporary loss of hearing or experience tinnitus after you’ve been exposed to loud noise, such as at a rock concert, using firearms, or while operating noisy lawn equipment. While your hearing will most likely return to normal after these common temporary threshold shifts, protect yourself by wearing foam ear plugs or ear muffs the next time you’re in a noisy situation. Wearing hearing protection is important when using loud lawn equipment, power tools, or firearms. These protective devices will lower the volume of the sound that reaches the inner ear, which, in turn, reduces the chance that damaging exposure will take place. Also, when possible, consider lowering the volume on radios and other music listening
devices, especially those using earbuds. Prolonged exposure to excessive noise is the most common cause of sensorineural hearing loss, and is often the culprit for permanent hearing loss. Of course, noise exposure isn’t the only way to permanently damage your hearing. If we’re lucky to live long enough , it is likely that we will lose some hearing simply due to the aging process. Some of us are born with hearing loss or have developed it later in life because of genetic or hereditary factors. Still others suffer trauma to the head, contract diseases or take drugs and medications that can permanently damage hearing.
Have you seen magazine or newspapers claiming to “cure” hearing loss or tinnitus?
A word of caution - seek an evaluation by a licensed, board certified audiologist to determine the cause of your hearing problem before trying any home remedies or “mail order” medications. Take time to protect your ears from loud, damaging noise, and see your audiologist regularly to safely remove ear wax debris. Regardless of your age, any noticeable change in hearing health should be investigated by your audiologist.
Content adapted from HealthyHearing. com
Dr. Bettie B. Borton is a licensed audiologist in Alabama, was the first board certified audiologist in Montgomery, served as National Chair of the American Board of Audiology, and was recently elected as President Elect of the American Academy of Audiology. Visit Doctors Hearing Clinic for your FREE set of hearing protection/ear plugs or call 334-3961635. For more information, you can also visit our website atwww.doctorshearingclinic.com
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
Day Trippin’ in Alabama WHEN: April 5th, 6th, and 7th 2013 WHAT: 48th Annual Eufaula Pilgrimage WHERE: Eufaula, Alabama Plan a visit to the 48th Annual Eufaula Pilgrimage, Alabama’s Oldest Tour of Homes, on April 5, 6, and 7. These beautiful, historic homes are open for daylight and candlelight visits. You and your family can also enjoy music by Three on a String, Afternoon Teas, the Art Show, Tales from the Tomb, Confederate Battle Camp, and a Historic Cemetery Tour. Nestled on the banks of the Chattahoochee River at the junction of U.S. Highway 431 and 82, Eufaula is a picturesque town noted for its Southern hospitality and its beautiful Greek Revival and Italianate mansions that bear witness to its settlers’ early prosperity. Lovely Queen Anne cottages and Victorian homes beckon visitors to savor the delights of small town life. You will be able to customize your visit to many private residences open to the public only during this annual event. Choose among daytime and evening homes and gardens to tour, and enjoy an afternoon tea. The band Three on a String will perform all kinds of music - classic old standards, country, bluegrass, and folk music on Thursday night at the city auditorium. Visit historic Fairview Cemetery where both famous and notorious residents “come to life” at sunset to tell their stories in the popular dramatization of Tales of the Tomb. Explore quaint shops downtown, visit historic churches, or just enjoy a stroll down shady streets lined with dogwoods, magnolias, and live oaks. You will find some of the South’s most treasured artists exhibiting their works in the heart of the Seth Lore Historic district. Daytime tour hours are from 9 am to 5 pm Central time on Friday and Saturday. Candlelight tour hours are from 6 pm to 9 pm Central time on Friday and Saturday. Sunday hours are 1 pm to 4 pm Central time. Group rates are available and Active and Retired Military are free with a valid military ID. Enjoy a beautiful spring weekend at one of the prettiest little towns in the South! 1-888-383-2852 or www.eufaulapilgrimage.com
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
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“People help you, you help them”
By Gracie Bonds Staples
At least twice a week, as he’s exiting the parking lot of Johnson Ferry Baptist Church in Marietta, Ga., Ingvald Larsen drives past a sign announcing his entry into the mission field. It is a reminder, the 82-year-old grandfather said, that life wasn’t always so kind to him, that he was once dependent on the kindnesses of others to help see his family through tough times. And so for most of his life, Inky Larsen, as he is known, has tried to live the message of those signs, mindful that the real work of the church is beyond its walls.
lung cancer, leaving Inky alone to carry out their mission to feed and clothe the needy. He had to because that’s what life had always demanded of him. Inky grew up in Brooklyn, the oldest of four children. At age 8 he started selling magazines to buy candy. When he learned he could make more money shining shoes, he found a spot in front of a local bar and became one of the best shoe shine boys in Brooklyn. His childhood, he said, wasn’t much different from the children he helps at the enrichment. “We were poor,” Inky said. So poor, he said, camp would’ve been out of the question except someone donated the money to his mother. “It was a good experience,” Inky said. He learned to make a bed, which he said gave him a head start when the Air Force came calling in 1951.
“People help you, you help them,” Larsen said recently. “That’s the Norwegian way.” Sometimes that plays out on foreign soil where he joins his church on mission trips and other times at the Albert T. Mills Enrichment Center, a ministry serving preschoolers from Atlanta’s toughest neighborhoods.
He served four years, then got math degrees from Bemidji State College in Minnesota and the University of Tennessee and taught for five years in Gary, Ind. On Valentine’s Day 1964, he met Sandra, an Atlanta girl. Three months and two days later, on May 16, he married her.
At first, he and his wife, Sandra, simply gave money to the center, but in 2005 they began adding food, clothing and shoes that Inky found on department store clearance racks.
The couple moved to Marietta in 1965 and Inky landed a job teaching math with the DeKalb County (Ga.) school system. Sandra worked for the Centers for Disease Control.
Once or twice a week, he picks up donated food from Fresh Market and Bagelicious and delivers it to the center. “The thing I appreciate so much is they thank me for picking the food up so they won’t have to throw it away,” Inky said. Besides the mission trips with fellow members of Johnson Ferry Baptist, helping the children and the community that surround the enrichment center was one of the couple’s greatest pleasures. And, perhaps, the center’s greatest blessing. “Whenever we have a need, if I mention it to him he tries to help meet the need,” said Rosa Arnold-Colbert, founder of the center. “Even though his wife passed, he’s carrying on the tradition.” The couple was on a cruise in December 2007 when suddenly Sandra couldn’t breathe. Weeks later she lost her battle with
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He retired in 1991 and Sandra followed in 1996. But Larsen says helping others isn’t something you start and stop at will. It’s what God calls us to do. Besides, “every time I think I’m getting too old,” he said, “the sign is a reminder to keep going.” Distributed by MCT Information Services The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
Boomer Humor share a laugh today!
Written by a third grader on what his grandparents do. After Christmas, a teacher asked her young pupils how they spent their holiday away from school. One child wrote the following: We always used to spend the holidays with Grandma and Grandpa. They used to live in a big brick house, but Grandpa got retarded and they moved to Florida. Now they live in a tin box that has wheels, but it’s strapped to the ground. They ride around on their bicycles, and wear name tags, because they don’t know who they are anymore. They go to a building called a wreck center, but they must have got it fixed, because it is all okay now, they do exercises there, but they don’t do them very well. There is a swimming pool too, but they all just jump up and down in it with hats on.
Shopping Alert
Two New Stores in The Shoppes at Eastchase White House Black Market will be opening in the old Cache location on Main Street, and Cupcakes by Tish will be opening in the space formerly New Image. This will be Cupcakes by Tish’s second location, reaching her business to the East Montgomery consumers. White House
Black Market offers classic styles, pieces and colors that would be appropriate for women in the 50+ age group.
At their gate, there is a doll house with a little old man sitting in it. He watches all day so nobody can escape. Sometimes they sneak out, and go cruising in their golf carts. Nobody there cooks, they just eat out. And, they eat the same thing every night - early birds. Some of the people can’t get out past the man in the doll house. The ones who do get out bring food back to the wrecked center for pot luck. My Grandma says that Grandpa worked all his life to earn his retardment and says I should work hard so I can be retarded someday too. When I earn my retardment, I want to be the man in the doll house. Then I will let people out, so they can visit their grandchildren.
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
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Fe at u re d A r t i st This Month, John Wagnon John Wagnon, aka, Jake, to his many friends, is one of Montgomery’s most celebrated artists. There have been so many wonderful articles written about Jake in our local paper, in Mugwhot (self portrait) The Birmingham news, The Crimson White in Tuscaloosa, The New York Times and many more over the years. I want to share, with permission from Jake, the following bio he sent me that he wrote for Michael Panhorst, Curator of Art for our Museum of Fine Art. The museum is having an exhibition of Jake’s work in conjunction with the Montgomery Art Guild Show in April of this year. Jake writes, “My art biography began early during long summer visits to Sarasota, where my grandparents lived within walking distance of the Ringling Museum. It was free and I often went there. On the walls were big pictures full of action and drama. As a boy of ten, I liked blood and guts. I spent many hours in the galleries all by myself, never caring what Rubens or El Greco was all about artistically but curious why so many of those people forgot to put on any clothes. In college, at Auburn and later at Alabama, I drew cartoons for student publications. The 1950’s were turbulent politically and I was threatened (more than once) with expulsion.. It was then that I met Judy Means of Gadsden. Judy edited The Crimson White newspaper, the arch rival of my humor magazine. We were married in 1957 and hightailed it to New York City. At that time, Greenwich Village was the center of the art world. Around the corner from us was “The Cedar Tavern,” famous for being the watering hole for Abstract Expressionists. Judy and I, however,
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preferred “The White Horse,” the favorite of Dylan Thomas and other writers. It was in New York that I found Cezanne, who remains a firm rock from which I depart occasionally, but never for too long. Once I tried drip and dribble painting like Jackson Pollack but soon came home to Cezanne. At MOMA, Matisse became a constant joy and he gets bigger and bigger in my estimation every day.
I addition to painting and drawing, Phil Scarsbrook has introduced Jake to a new medium, the giclee’. Jake explains, “Only a giclee’ printer makes my original intent visible. I use it to get a unique look that is unobtainable in any other way. Giclee’ is just another artist’s medium like silk screen or etching press.”
Jake has a wide range of interests from Opera and Chamber Music to gardening and he is an amazing cook, baking bread and always fresh ingredients when Returning to Montgomery, I joined the possible. He loves to travel and the entire Montgomery Art Guild, and Guild members family all go to New York together to soon became the teachers I never had. I celebrate the holidays. I was fortunate to will always be in their debt. Years later, receive this e-mail along with many other I had the opportunity to return to New friends discussing York City and Opera. The e-mail study at the was discussing a DVD Art Students titled Jessye Norman League. Christmas. Jake shared this memory, Our children, “Several years ago Day and Judy (Jake’s wife) and John, are my I were in a restaurant inspiration. near Lincoln Center They, like when Jessye Norman Judy, have came into the dining served as room. She entered models and as with great flair unpaid labor carrying a calla lily. at countless All eyes fixed on her. sidewalk She joined a table of shows. Above friends where there all, they are was much cheek the best The Middle Sister 24x24 giclee’ to cheek kissing all of critics, around. A waiter brought a tall vase for her generous but always honest. Our lily. She did not stay long and left before granddaughters, Julia and Allison, amplify food was served. As she was leaving, she the tradition. turned to the room and said, Ciao. The surface of my wine crinkled at the sound. Recently I have been exploring the role Now, isn’t that why you go to New York?” that scale plays in art. I realized that size matters. Scale has a transforming effect equal to color. Scale changes the meaning, the mood and gravity of everything…a trick that Picasso, Alexander Calder and Jeff Koons exploited repeatedly. Visit Gallery One Fine Art I want to thank the Art Guild for my education and the Museum staff for their patience and support.”
423 Cloverdale Road, Montgomery, AL Gallery Director Sandi Aplin sandiaplin@aol.com 334.269.1114 www.galleryonefineart.com
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
By Sandi Aplin
Art & Soul
Ar t in the Spring
Gallery One Members are a group of Busy Bees The Kelly Fitzpatrick Memorial GalleryApril 5th is the date of the opening of Julia Wallace and Anne Hugghins also Wetumpka, Alabama will feature The The Montgomery Art Guild Exhibition had work accepted. The winners Elmore County held at The Museum will be announced on April 20th in Art Guild’s Annual of Fine Art of the 400+ Nashville, Tennessee. Winter Exhibition, entries 100+ were accepted Transformations. and the winners will be In keeping with our community The exhibitions announced the day of outreach, Carol Barksdale, Shirley features the work the opening. Gallery One Esco and Julia Wallace and 25+ artists of more than 40 has four artists are painting chairs artists and will accepted into for Child Protect, a be on display the competition children’s advocacy through March Dawn by Kay organization. There 29, 2013 at the Urry DeMarsche, will be a silent and Wetumpka City Beyond Words the chairs will be Administration by Cecily Hulett, part of the live building located Violet Dancer and auction which Almost Famous 30x24 mixed media at 408 South A Very Long Day will take place at Main Street, Wetumpka, Alabama by Julia Wallace and Equus V ServisFirst Bank 36092. Regular gallery hours are by Carol Barksdale. located at One Monday through Friday 8:30 am until commerce Street 4:30pm Gallery One Fine Art has five on April 25th 5:30 See Gallery One artist works by Carol members that were juried to 7:30. Tickets are Just Passing Through oil on canvas 16x12 Barksdale Best of Show and Shirley into the Women Painters $40.per person and Esco Honorable Mention. For a list of the Southeast. They are $75. per couple. of winners in this competition and info Shirley Esco, Lydia Benefield, Carol Sandi Aplin, Director of Gallery One Fine Art on this year’s juror Barksdale, Julia Wallace and Anne A free lance writer living in Montgomery, Alabama Connie Deal go to Hugghins. Just Passing Through by www.galleryonefineart.com www.KFMGonline.org The Energen Exhibition show has been selected and the opening is March 24th Early spring 48x48 mixed media diptych where they will announce the winners. Ran Into An Old Flame by Julia Wallace and Atrani and Early Spring by Cecily Hulett were accepted into the competition.
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
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March 2013
{12 Things} for active boomers and beyond
PRATTVILLE
“Cookin’ with Gus” Way Off Broadway Theatre, located in historic downtown Prattville March 1, 2, 3, 8, 9, 10
The City of Prattville and the Way Off Broadway Theatre, located in historic downtown Prattville, announce their upcoming play, “Cookin’ with Gus”, running through March 10th. Gussie Richardson is a famous food columnist and cookbook author. Her agent comes to tell her she’s been offered her own daily network television show. She wants to do it, but her husband Walter is dead set against it and Gussie discovers she has stage fright and can’t open her mouth in front of a camera. “This comedy-farce is a really good way to indulge in some serious laughter,” says Matthew Givens, director of the play. Tickets can be purchased at the Prattville Cultural Arts Center, or by phone at 334.358.0297. Tickets are $8 in advance or $10 at the door. To learn more about “Cookin’ with Gus”, visit www.wobt.prattvilleal.gov
MONTGOMERY
Bazaar d’Art The Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, Blount Cultural Park Thursday, March 7th, 7-10pm The Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts is gearing up for a unique silent auction at the 2013 Bazaar d’Art on Thursday, March 7. Make your plans now to attend this one-of-a-kind event and enjoy the opportunity to purchase original artwork and other great items formerly displayed in some of the finest homes in Montgomery. The auction items will open for bidding at no charge in the Museum Galleries for those who
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are unable to attend the March 7 event or who want to get a jump start on the action. The opening bids will be buyer-friendly and the selection will be large enough to enhance a single wall or an entire house. There is something for every room of your home. Cost is $50 per person and includes cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. For more information or to make your reservation, call the Museum at 334.240.4333 or visit the website at www. mmfa.org
All-Star Band. The show has received over 20 awards in the last four years and features timeless classics from rock ‘n roll, country, folk and gospel. Come re-live the authentic sounds of the original artists with this award-winning production. www.rankinbrothers.com for tickets call 334.241.9567
MONTGOMERY DOWNTOWN
The play that Alabama is most proud to call its own comes to inspired life on ASF’s stage. Set in Depression-era Monroeville, and told through the voice of the beloved tomboy Scout, this Pulitzer Prize-winning tale embodies the life-long lessons of childhood, fairness and the courage to stand up for what is right, no matter the cost. Recommended for ages 8+. Appropriate for most audiences. Ticket information 1.800.841.4273 or visit www.asf.net or in person at the ASF box office located at 1 Festival Drive in the heart of Montgomery’s beautiful Blount Cultural Park.
Against the Odds: The Story of the Tuskegee Airmen and Mildred Carter Rosa Parks Museum March 7-April 30th, 9-5pm
Against the Odds: The Story of the Tuskegee Airmen and Mildred Carter. Free. Rosa Parks Museum and Children’s Wing Exhibit Hall--The exhibit of photographs from the personal albums of Mildred and Col. Herbert Carter provides a never published glimpse of the Tuskegee Airmen. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 334.241.8701. www.troy.edu.
MONTGOMERY DOWNTOWN The Rankin Brothers Classic Music Revue Davis Theatre for the Performing Arts Friday, March 8th, 7pm
Voted “Branson’s Best Show” the last three years and “Best Tribute Show 2011,” The Rankin Brothers Classic Music Revue has something for everyone. From Elvis to The Beatles, George Strait to John Denver, Roy Orbison to Neil Diamond, Elton John to Sonny and Cher, The Rankin Brothers Classic Music Revue will keep you captivated from beginning to end with impersonations, tributes, and comedy. Backing the Rankin Brothers is an all-star cast featuring three beautiful award-winning female vocalists, “The Rankinettes,” and their multi-talented
MONTGOMERY
To Kill a Mockingbird Alabama Shakespeare Festival March 8-24, various times
MOBILE
12th Annual BBQ Championship and Hog Wild Festival Gulf State Fairgrounds Friday/Saturday, March 8th and 9th United Cerebral Palsy’s 12th Annual BBQ Championship & Hog Wild Festival is set for Friday, March 8 and Saturday, March 9 at the Greater Gulf State Fairgrounds. More than 120 cooking teams are expected to compete for a chance to take home cash, prizes, and the honor of being named the top BBQ team of the contest! On Saturday, between 11am to The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
2pm, festival-goers can taste free barbecue samples from up to 50 backyard teams. Cast a vote for your favorite and help United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) crown the 2013 People’s Choice Champion. There will be plenty of activities for kids, and everyone can enjoy live music on the BW Music Stage. This year we are also featuring our 1st Annual UCP Bike Show and the 1st Annual Hog Wild Festival Car Show. For more information visit www. bbqmobile.net or call 251.479.4900
MONTGOMERY
56th annual SLE Rodeo Garrett Coliseum Friday/Saturday, March 8 & 9 Garrett Coliseum--The SLE Rodeo focuses not only on drawing the nations top rodeo athletes by hosting the IPRA but also on reaching out to serve the livestock industry and the River Region community as well. 334.265.1867. www.slerodeo.com
MONTGOMERY
2012 Montgomery Area Empty Bowls Holy Spirit Catholic Church 8570 Vaughn Road Thursday, March 14th, 11-1pm Empty Bowls is a community-wide event to raise funds for the Montgomery Area Food Bank. Potters in our community have donated beautifully handcrafted bowls. Your tax deductible donation includes your choice of a handcrafted bowl, soup, & bread. Donation: $25. 100% of ticket price goes to the Montgomery Area Food Bank. Order Your Tickets Now! Order Your Tickets Now! Call Arleen Alexander 334.396.1691. Order tickets by mail: 7652 Preservation Park Dr., Montgomery, AL 36117
FAIRHOPE
61st Annual Arts & Crafts Festival in Fairhope March 15-17, 10-5 pm Spring is nearing and it is always the most favorite season of the year. It couldn’t be nicer than in Fairhope, Alabama, where thousands of beautiful flowers, including azaleas, are in full bloom. Come to Fairhope and celebrate the beginning of Spring! Festival hours are 10 am - 5 pm daily and there is no
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
admission charge. Over 230 exhibitors from throughout the nation will bring their best works to show and sell at this prestigious juried show. Live entertainment will be going on throughout the three-day event and unique cuisine will be served up in the food court. It all takes place on the streets of beautiful downtown Fairhope, Alabama. Last year the event attracted more than 250,000 visitors to the area. The festival was chosen as one of the top 20 events in the southeast for March! www.eschamber.com/artscrafts
JACKSON
Mal’s St. Paddy’s Parade Jackson, MS Saturday, March 16th, Central Mississippi’s annual celebration of Spring has been described as a “green Mardi Gras” and as a “lighthearted homecoming where everyone is king-and-queenfor a-day.” It is also a celebration of the rebirth of Mississippi’s capital city, a joyous celebration of what is “good and encouraging” about the heart of our state. It is a day where sense of humor and sense of place rule the day. It is a rambling, outrageous, hilarious ride down Capitol Street, starting and ending at Jackson’s favorite gathering place, Hal & Mal’s. For more information visit http:// malsstpaddysparade.com/
McCALLA
Tannehill Trade Days Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park Sarturday, March 16 & 17 The third weekend of each month, from March through November, shoppers and swappers come from far and near to Tannehill Trade Days in search of tools, clothing, jewelry, knives, furniture and other treasures. Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park has more than 1,500 acres in three counties set aside for hiking, camping and outdoor recreation. A miniature railroad chugs through the pines. From spring through fall, the blacksmith, miller and craftsmen demonstrate their trades. Craft shops occupy restored pioneer cabins and artisans chat with
visitors from their front porches. Steeped in history, Tannehill feels timeless. The cotton gin, pioneer farm and working gristmill preserve a long-gone way of life. Hiking trails retrace historic roadways. Artifacts of Alabama’s 19th century iron industry displayed in the Iron and Steel Museum put in perspective the massive stone furnaces, Tannehill’s awe-inspiring centerpiece. For more info visit www.tannehill.org
MONTGOMERY
Elton John Concert Garrett Coliseum Friday, March 23rd, 8pm Elton John is set to perform at Garrett Coliseum on Friday, March 22nd at 8pm. Ticket prices will range between $29 and $139 and can be bought at ticketmaster or the Garrett Coliseum box office. “The Garrett Coliseum is very excited to host Elton John in Montgomery for the first time since 2000,” said Randy Stephenson, General Manager, “Elton John is one of the world’s premiere artists, and his is the first, in what we hope will be many, legendary concerts in the newly renovated facility.”
MONTGOMERY DOWNTOWN “Duck Dynasty” Cast Members Montgomery Renaissance Saturday, March 23rd, 7pm
Faulkner University will be bringing cast members of “Duck Dynasty” to the Montgomery Renaissance Convention Center on March 23. Si and Willie Robertson, from the hit show on the A&E Network, will be speaking at the event. Fans also have the chance to get up close and personal by purchasing additional tickets for a photo opportunity and dinner. Tickets on sale through Ticketmaster and range from $25 to $100. All proceeds benefit Faulkner University. It ’s a Great Time to Be Booming! Please submit any events/pictures to jim@riverregionboom.com r i ve r reg i o n b o o m . co m
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By Greg Budell
MALE CALL
THE RESURRECTION OF SIMON REYNOLDS This is the rare March that comes in like a lion and goes out like a bunny. Easter on the final day of March occurs about every 11 years, and will happen again in 2024. It is the celebration of a Great Resurrection- that of Jesus, and until a few days ago, was the only one I ever believed. There’s been another, right in my neighborhood.
I love my neighborhood! It sits next to one of America’s largest municipal parks, the Alabama Shakespeare park. It is a sprawling complex, complete with an art museum and the Shakespeare Festival Theater which draws some of America’s best stage talentmany from Broadway.
My neighborhood backs right up to the park perimeter. We’re divided by a long line of tall dogwood trees that shred the afternoon sunlight in a most charming way. The homes are tastefully modest but rich with great occupants and while every subdivision has its pickle-pusses, my little piece of heaven is loaded with great friends and neighbors.
My block is exactly one-half mile around, like a large Monopoly board and dotted with many characters and a large contingent of small dog owners. Almost any time I am out with Hershey (pictured) we cross paths with one or more of his counterparts which leads to ritual sniffing and wonderful small talk with he owners. OK... So this resurrection story. I’ll get to it.
A few years ago, Dorothy Reynolds - a feisty senior Alabama girl - had a feisty fall and suffered some broken bones. Her golden retriever, a 10 year old named Simon, became something of a health threat because while Golden’s are awesome creatures of sweet disposition, they’re strong and can put serious torque on a leash. Dorothy did not need to be jerked to the ground by a strong dog!
Dog leash-torque is no laughing matter. My dad was in his late 60s, visiting my kid sister Kim in California, when he decided to take her twin Dalmatians for a walk. Everything was fine until one of them spotted a cat. My Dad went airborne, parallel to the ground and landed on his wrist, fracturing it in 2 places! Dorothy offered my girl friend’s son some pocket money to walk Simon once a
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day and it soon became a family event every evening. When walking Simon, I think about Pops and pay attention. So far, he hasn’t pulled me out of my sandals.
It wasn’t long before walking Simon became more important to me than the boy, who had the serious after- school distractions every 12 year old faces. Me? After 3 radio shows a day and all the fun one man can have, my idea of a perfect end to a perfect day is to walk down to the Reynolds’s home, secreting a couple large Milkbone biscuits and corralling Simon for his walk with Hershey happily tagging along. I have been doing this for almost 3 years now. Dogs can tell time.
Once my routine with Simon became a regular event, I’d arrive at Dorothy’s to see his smiling (really) face waiting by her back door, and I honestly found that flattering. So on a recent Sunday afternoon, I was a little disappointed to arrive at Dorothy’s with no Simon near the door. I didn’t have Dorothy’s house key so I walked home to get it and figured to go back after waiting an hour or so. Once home, my cell phone rang, and Dorothy’s name was on the caller ID.
“Greg” she said softly. “Simon’s dead. I found him on the bedroom floor. His eyes are staring at the ceiling and his tongue is hanging out.”
When I had been to the house earlier, I thought of that possibility. Simon wasn’t slowing down but he’s a senior age dog so who knows? Dorothy’s description was that of a deceased animal “I’ll be right over! My reaction to this tragedy was totally selfish. My routine was over. Dorothy wouldn’t need me. The flattery of Simon’s excitement at my arrival was forever gone.
My eyes were filling with tears as I quickly pulled on my flip flops.
I burst through the front door of my house blinded by my welling tears. I wanted to get to Dorothy’s quickly but my crappy flip-flops kept flying off as I tried to run so I shoved my feet deeper inside and shuffled furiously down the sidewalk at warp speedwith the gait of a man in serious need of a toilet, overwhelmed by the abrupt death of my golden friend. As I approached Dorothy’s corner I looked up through the tears and saw an image romping outside Dorothy’s house. No. It couldn’t be! But it was! Simon was alive! And as good as new!
Dorothy looked at me sheepishly. “I swear, I thought he was dead. But right after I called you he jumped up and was fine!”. It was an amazing 5 minutes from death to resurrection. In that short span, I experienced shock, loss, pain and heartbreak and wished my good friend hadn’t died, only to find out he hadn’t.
Simon was the victim of nothing more than a knockout nap, the kind known to produce a strand of drool on a human being in a Lazy-Boy.
Dorothy and I shared a laugh over the confusion but the event shook me. I’d never been told someone had died only to learn they hadn’t.
Back from the grave, Simon and I still walk daily for as long as God permits - and I don’t take the privilege for granted after the Big R... After all, it’s already been a life and “death” experience.
Greg Budell lives in Montgomery with his dog Hershey. He’s a 25 year veteran of radio who hosts the Greg & Susan morning show 6-9 am and Happy Hour 3-6 pm on Newstalk 107.9, Greg can be reached at gregbudell@aol.com The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
The River Region’s 50+ Lifestage Magazine
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