2017 SPRING ACTIVE LIVING

Spring 2017

Active Living:

The Retirement Years

In This Issue : Summer Destinations: Near & Far Get More Out of Your Life.

Cycle.

A Supplement to the Skagit Valley Herald And the Anacortes American

Make the most of summer in your own backyard Isn’t it great to kick back at home? In truth, you don’t have to look beyond your own backyard to have the time of your life this summer!

The pleasures of outdoor living

This summer, embrace the outdoor lifestyle!

With a bit of planning, your deck can become an extension of your home. Goodbye, splintery picnic table—hello, fully equipped kitchen!

Workstations, drawers, fridge, sink and other accessories team up with your barbecue to afford you all the comforts of home outdoors in the glorious sunshine.

And that’s not all! You could also set up an outdoor bar or home theatre, or install a 2

heating system to stretch the good times well into the cool evenings of fall. And don’t forget custom lighting to create the perfect atmosphere for every occasion, be it a barbecue with friends or a romantic dinner.

The joys of making a splash

Can you think of a better way to get through a heat wave, enjoy time with friends or stay in shape this summer than with a pool? Or maybe you’d rather relax in a hot tub with your favorite beverage in hand? You could even go all out and get the best of both worlds with a swim spa! Let’s face it—it’s hard to beat the fun factor of a pool or hot tub. Now’s the time to go all in on summer in your own backyard!

Active Living: The Retirement Years

Spring 2017

goskagit.com

Table of Contents SUMMER DESTINATIONS: NEAR & FAR: Make the most of summer in your own backyard......................................................2 Modern camping trips: there’s something for everyone.............................................4 Ten close-to-home activity ideas to keep things lively this summer...........................4 Seven ways to sink your teeth into summer..............................................................5 Give your summer vacation a theme!.......................................................................6 Ten tips to plan a dream summer vacation...............................................................7 Don’t forget the essentials!......................................................................................7 Things to do on a rainy day.....................................................................................7 GET MORE OUT OF YOUR LIFE. CYCLE. Bike safety 101......................................................................................................8 The bicycle: providing more benefits than one can count!.........................................8

SKAGIT PUBLISHING

4: Ten close-to-

home activity ideas to keep things lively this summer

7: Ten tips to plan a dream summer vacation

1215 Anderson Rd. Mount Vernon, WA 98274 P: 360.424.3251 • F: 360.424.5300 ©Skagit Publishing, LLC 2017 | All rights reserved.

We make every day count!

• Pet Friendly • Transportation Services • Delicious HomeCooked Meals • Housekeeping and Linen Services • Emergency Response System • Staffed 24 Hours

1111 32nd St., Anacortes • 360-293-8088

goskagit.com

1589328

1596559

PAIN MANAGEMENT

www. capsantecourt .com

Active Living: The Retirement Years

Spring 2017

3

Ten close-to-home activity ideas to keep things lively this summer Feel like staying close to home this summer vacation? Great idea! There’s no shortage of exciting things to do right in your area. Here are a few activity suggestions to spice up your summer!

1. A round of golf.

Whether you prefer minigolf or you’re a pro on the links, golf is a great way to spend time with friends.

2. A nautical outing.

Motorboat, kayak, paddleboat or jet ski—which do you prefer?

Modern camping trips: there’s something for everyone What comes to mind when you hear the word “camping”? A blissful tenting experience in the middle of nowhere? A relaxed family trip spent in a cozy but cramped camper, or a nightmarish vision of being devoured by bloodthirsty mosquitoes?

However you picture camping in your mind’s eye, know that the activity has evolved radically over the years and now offers something for everyone. Yes, everyone!

3. A day in the water.

Whether at the waterpark or in your backyard swimming pool, there’s nothing like a refreshing dip to get the most out of summer.

4. A bike ride. Can you think of a healthier way to rediscover your region than by cruising along local bike paths?

5. Horseback riding. Breathe in the fresh air and take in stunning views from atop your friendly steed.

Today’s options go well beyond traditional camper and tent campsites. Want some examples? Yurts, tree houses, tepees, cottages, luxury trailers, cabins and ready-tocamp sites are just a few of the camping options available for the modern camper.

What’s more, you get to choose between solitude and friendly neighbors; dense forests and lush fields; a lake in the middle of nowhere and all the services you could ever desire (pool, tennis courts, bike and boat rental, laundromat, snack bar, etc.).

What’s not to like?

So, what’s your heart’s desire? To get back to basics and commune with nature, or to enjoy the great outdoors without sacrificing comfort? Whatever your preference, you’ll find a nature stay to satisfy your tastes. Between the most rustic camping (without services) and glamping (luxury camping) with all the comforts of home (wood floors, cozy beds, espresso machine and toaster), there is something for everyone. Do a little research, and you’ll be enjoying a memorable camping vacation that completely suits your unique tastes before you know it!

6. A wild meet and greet. Take a trip to a

local zoo, farm, aquarium, insectarium or wildlife sanctuary, and get ready to be amazed by all the creatures you’ll see!

7. A tasty treat. Head to the parlor and dig into some refreshing, decadent ice cream. It’s a summertime must!

8. A festival tour. From carnival midways to sporting events and local food tastings, you’ll be surprised at all you can do close to home.

9. Camping. Escape to the great outdoors with family or friends and enjoy life’s little pleasures around the campfire.

10. The great outdoors.

Enchanting woods, verdant hills, majestic parks, lush gardens—what does your region’s wilderness have to offer?

4

Active Living: The Retirement Years

Spring 2017

goskagit.com

Seven ways to sink your teeth into summer Do you love summer and good food? Here are a few suggestions to get the most out of both!

1. Picnics. What better way to

get the most out of summer than by enjoying a pleasant family meal or a romantic dinner outdoors? On the menu: fresh, simple foods and the best company you could ask for. So, what will it be—colorful salads or gourmet sandwiches?

10

$

New Club Members Receive:

FREE-PLAY

y! a d To p U n g Si

2. Barbecues. When it comes to the

quintessential smells of summer, nothing beats the mouth-watering aromas of burgers cooking on the grill. A good old-fashioned barbecue is the perfect get-together for friends and family.

What more could you ask for?

3. Food trucks. They’re everywhere!

Today’s food trucks are perfect for partaking in a whole range of palate pleasers, from the basic hotdog to the fanciest European cuisine by way of the most divine desserts!

4. Outdoor dining. Can you think of a better place to breathe in the summer aromas while enjoying a great meal? There’s a cozy patio for every taste.

5. Agro-tourism. Vineyards, cheese makers, chocolate factories, farmto-table restaurants—summer is the perfect time to take a culinary tour of your region.

6. Farmers’ markets. There’s no

better place to stock up on fresh seasonal eats! Whether you enjoy them on the spot or use them in your favorite recipes, stock up on the freshest ingredients local producers have to offer at your neighborhood farmers’ market.

Brunch 15 Saturday&Sunday

$

10am - 2 2pm

Buffet Includes: Coffee, Tea, Soda & Dessert!

Tax, alcohol,and gratuity not included.

7. Ice cream parlors. Ice cream

and summer go together like peas in a pod. The classic frozen treat and its countless delectable derivatives are unmatched heat-beaters.

CASINO • RESORT Owned by Upper Skagit Indian Tribe

theskagit.com • On I-5 at Exit 236 • 877-275-2448 goskagit.com

Active Living: The Retirement Years

Spring 2017

5

Give your summer vacation a theme!

Nature

Are you a big fan of waterparks or modern art galleries? Do you absolutely love baseball or hiking? Maybe music festivals or country fairs are more your cup of tea? This summer, go all out with your favorite activity—there’s nothing like a themed trip to make your vacation unforgettable.

How about hiking in the most breathtaking national parks or fishing the most well stocked lakes and rivers?

Sports

Take in a baseball game at any of a number of historic parks or bring your clubs and have a go at some of the most challenging and beautiful golf courses.

For a themed summer vacation to be a success, everyone involved should be as enthusiastic as you are about the chosen topic. Here are a few ideas for inspiration, whether you’re heading out with the family, with friends or as a couple.

Music

Make the rounds of your favorite music festivals, take in the best symphony orchestras or follow your favorite performer on tour.

Water

How about curling your toes in the sand of ten of British Columbia’s most beautiful beaches? Or visit each and every waterpark in the Waterpark Capital of the World, Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin!

Shopping

Animals

Sample the best of your favorite cuisine, or plan your route around mouth-watering food festivals.

Plan an itinerary loaded with destinations (zoos, aquariums, animal sanctuaries, insectariums, etc.) where the animal kingdom reigns supreme.

Shop till you drop in the biggest shopping malls Canada and the United States have to offer!

Good food

Movies

Visit some of the spectacular North American locations where famous movies were shot—and don’t forget to take in a few studios while you’re at it!

Adrenaline

Zip lining, rock climbing, rafting—with a little imagination, you’ll be feeling the thrills in no time.

Beverages

Tour vineyards, distilleries or craft breweries in search of your new favorite drink. Did you know that the first commercial winery in the United States was in Kentucky? The Bluegrass State is also home to over a dozen distilleries!

Amusement parks

Visit all the amusement parks within a radius of a couple of hundred miles from home, or organize a tour of the world-famous theme parks in Orlando, Florida.

Build your own itinerary

For endless inspiration, turn to the web. You’ll find a wealth of information on any travel topic you can imagine, from the best fishing spots to the biggest zoos in North America. Tourism websites and travel blogs are great resources to help you plan a vacation to remember.

Ice cream

Discover why Woodstock (in southwestern Ontario) is the Dairy Capital of Canada, or challenge yourself to sample ice cream from at least twenty different parlors during your vacation.

6

Active Living: The Retirement Years

Spring 2017

goskagit.com

Ten tips to plan a dream summer vacation Planning your summer vacation? Follow these tips to make it the best one ever!

1. Draw up a budget that will allow

you to have a great vacation without breaking the bank.

2. Pick two or three potential destinations and research them to get an idea of comparative costs (lodging, meals, activities, transportation, etc.), and then choose the one that best fits your budget.

3. Purchase a guidebook about your

destination of choice for ideas on places to visit, lists of must-see tourist attractions, information on local customs and more.

4. Set up itineraries that the whole family can enjoy. A long day visiting museums, castles and vineyards might not be a hit with the grandkids, for instance.

5. Leave room for spontaneity! Avoid

overloading your schedule so that you get the most out of each activity.

6. Consider different options for travel

(plane, train, personal or rental vehicle) and lodging (hotel, camping, a friend’s home, B&B) and compare prices, travel time, number of rooms, etc.

7. Lodging and tickets for popular ac-

tivities like cruises or shows should be booked in advance.

8. Round up the important documents you’ll need — passport, ID, insurance papers — and make copies.

9. Make a packing list and get your

Things to do on a rainy day Is Mother Nature interfering with your vacation plans? Don’t despair; there’s still a lot to do even if it’s raining!

not spend the day exploring the animal kingdom?

Get moving

Grab some popcorn and take in a movie, visit that spa you’ve been saving for a rainy day, stroll through a luxuriant greenhouse, escape to the neighborhood library, enjoy a meal at your favorite restaurant or let your creativity flow at an arts-and-crafts café. And you could always bundle up and go for a stroll in the woods—you won’t melt!

Cancelling your bike ride because of the weather doesn’t mean you’re stuck spending the day on the couch. Indoor amusement parks, laser tag, climbing walls, swimming pools, bowling alleys, indoor minigolf courses and roller skating rinks are all places where you and the kids can let off some steam.

Learn something new

Maybe science and culture are more up your alley. Check out the new exhibits at your local museum or get inspired at the neighborhood art gallery. If there’s an aquarium or insectarium nearby, why

suitcases ready well in advance.

Relax and unwind

Don’t feel like sticking your nose outside? Make the most of a rainy day by trying out a new recipe, tackling that science experiment the kids have been curious about, or enjoying a good oldfashioned round of hide and seek. Who said staying in had to be boring?

10. Find someone you trust to take

care of your pets, or locate a reputable kennel.

Don’t forget the essentials!

Clothes, toiletries, travel documents, accessories — it’s no secret: the best way to avoid forgetting things when you’re packing your bags is to make a list. Here are some things to consider.

Weather forecast

Mother Nature is unpredictable, so be prepared! But don’t overdo it; you probably don’t need to pack five sweaters if you expect a heat wave while you’re on vacation.

Activities planned

The clothes, footwear and gear you’ll need to bring will vary according to how you plan to spend your time. Sandals may be perfect for relaxing on the beach, but comfortable shoes are better for museum visits and nature walks.

Travel time

A good novel might be enough to keep you entertained during a twohour flight, but is it enough for an eight-hour car ride?

Your destination

Will you have to deal with pesky mosquitoes or marauding bears?

Do you need foreign currency and a passport? Do you require specific travel medicine or vaccinations?

Lodging

A hotel stay doesn’t require the same gear as a camping expedition. Traveling light? Remember that hotels supply soap, shampoo and towels, so leave them at home and bring extra batteries for your camera instead!

Insect bites, sunburns and scrapes are quick to happen.

Never leave home without a basic first-aid kit. goskagit.com

ARE YOU PREPARED TO RETIRE WITH CONFIDENCE?

The difference between “retiring” and “retiring with confidence” often comes down to how prepared you are. We provide financial guidance to our members every day. That includes creating customized retirement income plans that can help you reach your goals and provide guaranteed income—for life.

It’s easy to get started. Call us today to set up a free consultation.

Skagit Valley Financial Associates • 360-707-7677 2204 Riverside Dr Ste 260 • Mount Vernon, WA 98273 Thrivent Financial representatives are licensed insurance agents/producers of Thrivent Financial, the marketing name for Thrivent Financial for Lutherans, Appleton, WI. They are also registered representatives of Thrivent Investment Management Inc., 625 Fourth Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN 55415. For additional important information, visit Thrivent.com/disclosures.

Active Living: The Retirement Years

Spring 2017

Shawn E Steffens

ChFC®, FIC, RICP® Financial Consultant

Jason D Reichert

FIC, RICP®, CLTC® Financial Consultant 28396 N2-15

7

Bike safety 101

5. Ride in a straight line. The best way to stay vis-

More and more people are opting to take their bikes to get around the city, and for good reason: it’s a means of transportation that’s both environmentally and budget friendly. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a beginner, here are ten pieces of advice for to ensure safe travels.

1. Inspect your bike. Before you take off, always

check your tire pressure, bike chain, brakes and reflectors to make sure everything is in order.

2. Follow traffic laws. Rules and regulations

concerning proper bicycle conduct are put in place to ensure road safety. Remember, it’s not only up to motorists to signal their intent!

3. Stay visible. Wear brightly colored clothing and reflective gear to ensure motorists sharing the road can easily spot you. And don’t forget your lights when bicycling at night!

4. Signal your intent. A simple hand gesture signals your intent to turn, for example, allowing those around you to adapt their driving accordingly.

ible and predictable—and thus, to avoid accidents—is to bike in a straight line.

6. Stay aware. When sharing the road, it’s important to remain aware of your surroundings. Keep an eye out for vehicles exiting parking lots, motorists turning right on red or car doors suddenly flying open.

And don’t forget to ride cautiously around buses!

7. Wear a helmet. Most cycling deaths can be attributed at least in part to the victim not wearing his or her helmet. If you fall, your headgear absorbs the impact, protecting your skull from fractures, concussions and internal bleeding.

8

9. Stay seated and hold tight. Sorry, but there’s

no room for acrobatics on city streets. Make sure to remain seated at all times and use a firm (but comfortable) grip on your handlebar.

10. Follow traffic. Always ride with—not against— traffic, unless there are signs indicating the opposite is allowed.

The bicycle: providing more benefits than one can count!

Ah, bicycling! Is there anything better than peacefully riding along the bike path with your family in stride, touring new horizons or challenging yourself to off-road trails? Whether for leisure or for transport, there are countless reasons why everybody should give bicycling a try!

Health benefits

Nearly one-third of fatal bicycle accidents occur between six o’clock in the evening and six o’clock in the morning.

8. Equip your bicycle. Many different accessories for your bicycle are available to help reduce the risk of road incidents; for example, a bell, a horn, a reflector, a flag, and a luggage carrier to store your belongings as well as a few first-aid essentials.

Like all physical activity, bicycling is extremely beneficial to your health. It strengthens your leg muscles (quads, hamstrings, glutes, etc.), improves cardiovascular endurance and burns calories—all without putting too much extra pressure on your joints. But the benefits don’t end there!

Pedaling also significantly reduces stress and anxiety for clarity of mind. So, it seems an outing on your bike is just as good for your morale as it is for your physique!

Active Living: The Retirement Years

Spring 2017

Other advantages

More than just a sport, bicycling is an environmentally friendly commuting alternative that can get you to work in half the time. If you’re a city-dweller that lives within a three-mile radius of your place of work, then hopping on your bike is your fastest bet—not to mention the most economical! Furthermore, bikes prevent the early wear and tear of city streets, and their compact size makes them a breeze to park. Did you know that the length of ten parked bicycles is equivalent to that of a single car?

Above all else, bicycling is a gratifying activity that allows cyclists to take in the fresh air while enjoying the scenery. All things considered, it’s no surprise that the sport is gaining in popularity, especially in urban centers. goskagit.com