The Gift of G.A.B. (Grumpy Aging Boomer)

The Gift of G.A.B. (Grumpy Aging Boomer)
by Alisa Singer
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Dear Grumpy Aging Boomer,*
I’m 55 years old and thinking about retiring soon from my teaching job. After three long decades of bratty, bored kids, unappreciative, complaining parents, miserly salaries and out of touch and indifferent administrators, I’m so ready to be done, but I keep hearing about people starting new, exciting careers after finishing the old ones. The truth is, I have no idea of anything else I’d like to do. I’ve worked long and hard for 30 years and think I’ve earned the right to do absolutely nothing. But these stories about people recreating themselves are making me feel guilty. What do you think - do I really need to put on my list of New Year’s resolutions: lose ten pounds and reinvent myself?
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Signed,
Pooped
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Dear Pooped,
Well, since I don’t know you I can’t say for sure if ten pounds is enough, but as for reinventing yourself, yes, that’s exactly what you’re expected to do. You should feel free, of course, to take a very brief intermission following the end of your first career. But after that the audience (I refer, of course, to family, friends and anyone whose opinion you value) will fully anticipate you to re-emerge onstage with an exciting and meaningful second act performance. It doesn’t matter how long and hard you struggled in your “first act”, or how successful you were, because as we all know, if the second act’s a dud the whole play’s a bomb. So unless you are willing to suffer the disdain of all you know, you’d better surrender your fond dreams of a future spent watching Seinfeld reruns, enjoying early bird dinner discounts and dodging your kids’ requests to babysit, and instead convert some frivolous hobby or pastime (i.e., your true passion) into meaningful committed work.
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You see, just as the feminist movement succeeded in making stay-at-home-mothers feel inadequate, the “bonus years” that boomers supposedly get (because fifty is the new forty) translate into a whole new set of pressures designed to make the stay-at-home retiree also feel like a failure. Words like “reinvention” and “giving back” are all code for “get off the couch, and start trying to impress people again”. Even a doctor’s note indicating a terminal illness will not be considered an acceptable excuse. (Reference the “Bucket List” where Morgan Freeman and Jack Nicholson felt compelled to complete a lengthy to-do list of frightening and uncomfortable adventures even though they had less than a year to live.)

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Now let me be clear about a few things, Pooped. As far as “giving back” is concerned, a few hours a week shelving books at your local library or volunteering at the community hospital isn’t going to cut it. In fact, anything short of single-handedly educating the female population of a small country or creating a new global food bank won’t even justify a line item on your new resume. And as for concerns about inadequate pay, no problem, you probably won’t get anyata ll. Nor should you, considering all the psychic rewards you’ll be receiving (not to mention the psychic medical and dental benefits).

But take heart. You’re about to discover that your career opportunities did not end with your last job. Far from it, because these new challenges will create new and different opportunities to fail which will surpass anything you’ve experienced over the last 30 years. You see this time you will be expected to succeed in a completely new venture without the benefit of education, training or youthful energy. And you will be delighted to learn that your new bosses and co-workers, tikes only slightly younger than your own children, will consider you (and your decades of experience) about as welcome and relevant as smoking in airplanes and instant coffee.

But not to worry, just let your true passion for your work carry you through. And if you’re not sure what that might be I can tell you that many people at your time of life take up teaching. Maybe that’s something you can consider.
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Good luck with that,
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G.A.B.
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*Any resemblance to real persons, living or deceased, is strictly coincidental, by which I mean to say that I made this up. I did this for two reasons: first, nobody would actually seek my advice; second, the thought of sifting through reams of letters about who should stand up at the wedding, is it ok to lock grandma out of the house if she smells like cheap liquor, or what to do with a husband who has an annoying habit of wearing your favorite bras and panties to work was just too overwhelming.
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About Alisa Singer
Alisa Singer’s humorous essays have appeared in a variety of print and online newspapers and magazines across the country and in Canada. She is the author of the books I Still Wanna Be A…, an illustrated collection of whimsical poetic fantasies in which she “morphs” herself into her childhood heroes, and My Baby Boomer Memory Album, an album to memorialize the first grand child, social security check, chin hair and other milestones of the second half of the boomer’s life. You can learn more about her work by visiting her website: www.AlisaSinger.com or contacting her at ASingerAuthor@gmail.com.
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Alisa is a member of our Boomer Authority™ community of experts.

Retirement Readiness with Mike Bonacorsi, CFP®

Retirement Readiness with Mike Bonacorsi, CFP® - a Special Monthly Column from the Awarding Book Author of Retirement Readiness

The Basics of Medicare
by Mike Bonacorsi

As baby boomers begin to leave the workforce and employer provided healthcare it is important they understand the options available to them. The primary source of health insurance for retirees is Medicare; established in 1965 to help pay medical expenses for those over 65, certain disabilities or permanent kidney disease. Medicare has four components, Parts A, B, C, and D each covering separate areas of healthcare.

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Part A covers inpatient hospital care up to ninety days per “spell of illness”, inpatient rehab care in a skilled nursing facility up to 100 days following a qualifying hospital stay of at least three days. The benefit also covers hospice care and “medically necessary” home health care qualified by the patient’s physician.

You automatically become eligible for Part A at age sixty-five, qualified to receive Social Security benefits, and have met payroll contributions of forty quarters or more. If eligible you do not pay a monthly premium for the benefit, you and your employer have prepaid the benefit through payroll deductions. Though you do not pay a premium, there are costs attached to the care, the first sixty days in a hospital had a $1068 deductible in 2009, days 61-90 a $267 per day co-insurance and after 90 days $534 per day. Those that received care in a skilled nursing facility paid a $133 per day co-insurance for days 21-100.

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You automatically become enrolled in Part B when you become eligible for Part A, but can choose to decline the coverage. To receive Medicare Part B benefits you pay a premium, in 2009 the premium moved to a sliding scale. Premiums range from $96.40 to $308.30 per month depending on household income.
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Part B coverage covers physician services, outpatient services, ambulance, durable medical equipment, dialysis and diabetes care. Certain preventative care services are covered, including glaucoma screenings, mammograms, and screenings.

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Part C plans are also referred to as Medicare Advantage Plans, these plans are similar to the HMO’s and PPO’s you may have subscribed to while employed, they are approved by Medicare but issued by a private insurer. They provide the coverage of Parts A and B, and may offer extra benefits including prescription drug costs, vision and dental care. Some plans may require referrals or that you receive care within a network, and premiums will vary depending on the carrier and the services offered. It is important to review your options and how they will affect you before choosing a plan.

Medigap policies are supplemental policies to fill in the “gaps in coverage” with Medicare A and B. These policies are, issued by private insurers, and you pay a premium for the coverage.
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Medicare Part D plans are offered by private insurers and a monthly premium is paid, the coverage is optional, and may provide some saving with your prescription costs. Make sure you review any other coverage you may have for prescription benefits.

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This information highlights certain benefits and options and others exist, but it shows the importance of preparing and understanding for your medical coverage as you move away from the workforce. Along with the information provided it is important to be aware of open enrollment periods, the consequences of failing to enroll during the designated time, and when changes made be made to your plan.

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As you plan for your coverage, there are several areas to consider:
> Cost- What are your premiums, out-of-pocket co-pays and deductibles?
> Benefits- Does the plan include the benefits needed (Part A, Part B, and prescriptions)?
> Choices- Can you continue with your current physician and treatment facility or must you use
“network” providers?
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It is estimated that someone entering retirement may spend $150,000 to $250,000 in out-of-pocket expenses and premiums over their remaining lifetime. Considering the longer life expectancies of the baby boomer generation these costs over 20 years and longer will add up to generate these expense.
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About Mike Bonacorsi, CFP®
Mike Bonacorsi is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional, public speaker and award-winning author of Retirement Readiness: A Guide to Creating Your Vision, Knowing Your Position, and Preparing for Your Future. You can listen to his radio show, The Mike Bonacorsi Show, at WSMN, 1590AM or on your computer at http://wsmnradio.com/ on Tuesdays from noon - 1:00 PM. For additional information, visit http://mikebonacorsi.com/ Follow Mike on Twitter @MikeBonacorsi or email Mike questions at mikebonacorsi@gmail.com
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Mike is a member of our Boomer Authority™ community of experts.

Urban Darling…Don’t Go Back into Your Closet Without It

Urban Darling…Don’t Go Back into Your Closet Without It

An interview with Corinne Phipps: Trendsetter, Entrepreneur, Fashion Correspondent for NBC Bay Area and Founder of Urban Darling®

By Elizabeth Cassidy—BB[KC] Women's Lifestyle Columnist
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ec: Hey Corinne, thanks for taking the time to chat with me about your company, Urban Darling. Before we jump into all the pluses of working with Urban Darling, I am always curious where people come up with the names for their companies. What I love about Urban Darling is that you take on a different personae just by saying Urban Darling. I know when I say it I spend a little more time on the word darling…so do tell.

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CP: This idea come to me that when I was starting a company I wanted a cool name that was easy to say and easy to spell. People butcher my name and I was really tired of that. Quite embarrassing too when you are in an interview and someone says your name incorrectly (not that you do Elizabeth, you are darling) so I opened up an Excel Spreadsheet and had 4 categories. I forget what they are now, but I brainstormed all these adjectives that described who I thought I wanted to represent and Urban Darling were on top of one another – I went and found that is was available and I bought it. I felt like I got a kiss from the Universe!

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ec: Why did you first sense that fashion along with shopping were two passions that were in your DNA?

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CP: Haa haa, yes definitely in my DNA – my mother is a nurse by trade and a seamstress by passion. She sewed all of her own clothing in high school. I used to joke that she would prop her Vogue magazines on her belly when I was cooking. It was infused into me. I remember when I was 10 years old and ESPRIT was big and so was pink and grey – I had this matchy matchy outfit that I loved but no SHOES to go with it. I was heartbroken and decided to wear my mother’s pink jellies (a full 2 sizes bigger) with the outfit. A fashionista was born.

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ec: What made you believe that the time was right for Urban Darling? What expertise in your own background gave you the moxie to forge ahead with a company that does much more then just help women put this with that? From what I can tell, you have given women the right to feel great about themselves and the right to look freaking fabulous without breaking the bank or a sweat.

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CP: Absolutely – we give a woman her permission back. It is an intimate experience for a lot of our clients; we connect and make them shine.

You know, I lead with my intuition and starting Urban Darling for me was as simple as this “Am I going to be an action person or am I am someone who says they are going to do something and never does it.” I got tired of hearing my own thoughts. I had enough leadership training, it was time to turn all of that inward. Since August of 2006 I have been a machine and asked myself “why didn’t I do this sooner?”

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ec: I like how you market Urban Darling as the working woman’s wardrobe stylist. It seems that by working with one of Urban Darling’s fashion consultants a woman can discover a more confident and sassy version of herself along with one less thing to have to worry about in her demanding, time crunched life. Can you tell us more about Urban Darling’s philosophy?

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CP: Our philosophy is simple: Urban Darling is defining, cultivating and revolutionizing the approach to wardrobe consulting with everyday luxury, humor, signature style, and living a modern life with sophistication and splash of sass. We are eco-friendly paying the purged wardrobe items forward to charities. Care to join the revolution?
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ec: A lot of women look into their closets and bemoan the fact that they have nothing to wear. I believe sometimes women don’t because they fall in love (or hate) with clothing that will never work with anything in their closets and well intentioned garments are banished to the dark corner of the closets. When you take on a new client how do you help them renew, reinvent, recapture their wardrobe and embrace their new sense of style?

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CP: Good question Elizabeth. It is really a bit different for everyone. We go through a closet audit with the Purge Merge Splurge™ process. Purge is touching every piece of clothing and put it in one of three piles: Keep, Alter, Donate. The worst of closets have treasures in those dark corners. We have the hind and fore sight to make educated decisions with our clients about their wardrobe.

Merge is taking what is left over and we will show you how to make the most of your current clothes and accessories. We’ll talk about how to mix and match your current pieces, create new combinations and outfits and suggest pieces you may want to add that really reflect the personal style you are creating.

Splurge with the pared down wardrobe there is now room for some new things. We’ll shop and show you how to find those great new pieces that reflect your style, budget, life and most of all, make you smile.

ec: When you or one of your Closet Auditors comes in to revamp a closet does every item get marching orders or do you hold onto basics and unique pieces?
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CP: We always hold on to basics, unless a client has worn them to the ground, then we replace!

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ec: How do your wardrobe stylists walk their clients through the Purge, Merge and Splurge! ™ program? And are there a lot of tears and gnashing of teeth during the process? I read that all gently worn clothing marked for the purge pile is donated to a local charity and your client gets a tax deduction. So Urban Darling is an eco-friendly company with a heart.
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CP: We are eco-friendly! We try not to annihilate a wardrobe, which will cause anxiety. Although some women love it, I have to admit. We love giving back, in fact it is one of the philosophies we adhere to.
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ec: One trend I have seen more of and just love is shopping for vintage clothing and updating one’s wardrobe with the help of a consignment shop. Do you encourage your clients to rethink where their clothing comes from and finally what is so great about going off the beaten path when adding one of a kind gems to ones wardrobe?
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CP: We do. We take the accessory route for vintage and antique pieces. I am not a vintage expert – we’d love to have someone who is!

ec: With all the success that Urban Darling has bought you still make time to give back to up and coming entrepreneurs. What are some of the pros and cons you tell them to consider before they start own business?

CP: I tell them they won’t make the big bucks the first couple of years! I am beginning my 4th year in August and 2009 was 50% down from 2008. You have to have an iron stomach, not take things personal “It’s just business” and have a passion that makes you want to turn naked cart wheels in the street.

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ec: What are your future plans for Urban Darling?

CP: Oh we are going big. I am licensing to women who want to break into wardrobe styling or join their own styling company with a brand that is about to knock the socks off the world. I want 30 chapters of Urban Darling by end of 2011!

ec: If people are interested in channeling their inner wardrobe stylist and becoming part of the Urban Darling Dynasty, how can they connect with you?

CP: Two ways: email me at Corinne@urbandarling.com or pick up the phone and call me at 408 332 3655

ec: I thank you for taking the time to talk to us about Urban Darling and its philosophy for bringing out the best in our wardrobe and ourselves.. And finally, do these shoes go with this outfit? J



About Elizabeth Cassidy

Elizabeth is certified life and career coach, is the founder of Branching Out Life Coaching. Elizabeth coaches women who are ready to re-define, re-invent and re-lease the optimistic and dynamic person that the world has been waiting to embrace. She offers support, motivation, accountability and dark chocolate when needed. Branching Out Life Coaching.

She is founder/Co-Creator of Coaches on the Edge – a coaching duo that mixes wit with wisdom in their coaching and blogs. Coaches on the Edge. Elizabeth is an award winning national blogger for Skirt!, and was a NYC comic and a comedy writer for WNBC radio. She is a member of our Boomer Authority™ community of Experts.

What if . . .

What if . . .
by Karen Lyons Kalmenson—Boomer Poet Laureate

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What if the world ran out of time,
there was no music, no more rhyme.

The sun turned his back and went away,
taking with it the moon as no more wolves to bay.

The planet lay barren, with rocks, sands and ice.
this is how we will be faring,
if man does not become nice.
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About Karen Lyons Kalmenson
Karen, still booming after all these years, is a teenager at heart. “I have not let the more than occasional barbs that life has thrown at me dampen my speed or my spirit. Each day is in itself a world to be lived, and to be grateful for the peace and love that has fallen out of favor, is alive and well in everything I do, be it yoga, animal rights, or making dinner for my husband.”

You can visit Karen’s blog at: http://myheart-fayely10.blogspot.com/ , where she is said to dabble in rhyme and, sometimes, reason.

The Boomer Athlete Book Series – Golf Past 50

The Boomer Athlete Book Series – Golf Past 50

Approximately nine million baby boomers are golfers. According to industry analysts the average rounds of golf we play will increase significantly as we age. Want to maintain the handicap you had when you were 30-year-old? You make want to pick up a copy of “Golf Past 50.”
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Golf Past 50 is rich in advice on how to maintain your handicap and, equally important, advice on how to stay injury free.
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Articles & Resources:
Boomers Remain Active Golfers Even After Shoulder Surgery
Golf Industry Caters to Women Boomers
Boomer Golf News – A terrific web destination for the boomer golfer. You can also subscribe to a free newsletter.
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Did you know . . .
Golfing aids stability. By comparing the performances during single-leg stands and forward lunges for 11 golfers, average age 66 years, and 12 non-golfers, average age 71 years, researchers observed that golfers were able to stand on one leg for a longer period of time and exhibited less body sway than the non-golfers. They also were able to lunge for a longer distance than the non-golfers.

SOURCE: Journal of Aging and Physical Activity - January 2010

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Where will Baby Boomers Move?

Where will Baby Boomers Move?

Considering the turmoil in real estate markets, it’s no surprise that developers want to know where the aging population wants to live.

SURVEY: The preliminary results were released from a survey conducted among an undisclosed number of “younger Boomers” who will be age 50 in 2010 and “older Boomers” who will be age 64 in 2010. Respondents included current residents in the survey sponsor’s retirement communities.

FINDINGS: About one-third of respondents said they planned to move to a new house during retirement. Approximately 50% of those who plan to move during retirement will relocate to a different state; about 25% will move to a different city within the same state. “Cost of living” and “healthcare” were the most important considerations in selecting a location.

For people who turn 50 in 2010, the most popular destinations were: South Carolina (20%), North Carolina (16%), Florida (15%), Tennessee (9%), Arizona (8%), California (8%) and Virginia (8%). For people who will be 64, the most frequently mentioned states were: North Carolina (19%), South Carolina (16%), Florida (15%), Tennessee (12%), Virginia (10%), Arizona (6%) and California (6%).

SOURCE: Del Webb, 2010 Del Webb Baby Boomer Survey (February 2010)

Cellulite, Menopause and You

Cellulite, Menopause and You
by Carrie E. Pierce and Menopauserus.com

Medical Researchers have just begun to unravel cellulite’s dark mysteries in the past couple years, and the findings are both encouraging- and somewhat discouraging.

Cellulite is unfortunately quite common in women- but is also be found in a few unlucky men and teenage girls.

It also rather profoundly worsens with the onset of menopause- and it is only now becoming clear as to why exactly this is.

During the peri-menopausal hormone bounce of a woman’s 30’s and early 40’s, the female body prepares for the onset of full-blown menopause. What researchers have recently discovered about cellulite- and Menopause-sheds new light on the subject and provides key insights that were missing from the equation entirely prior to this point in time.

It’s long been known that cellulite can exist in women who have as little as 15% body fat. Consequently because of this phenomenon it is incorrect to think of cellulite as merely ‘a fat person’s issue’ or that cellulite is just ‘fat’ in general terms.

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It’s well documented that cellulite (also known as localized lipodystrophy) is a condition marked by a very telltale ‘orange peel’ dimpling of the skin on the hips, thighs and buttocks of folks suffering from this condition. What is often not known is that cellulite can also form on the chest, back of the neck, stomach and back of the arms.

But how does this unsightly and unsettling condition begin- and why does it get worse after menopause?

The body contains three layers of fat. It is the top layer of fat (the subcutaneous layer) that is affected by cellulite. This subcutaneous layer is comprised of fibrous connective tissue that resembles fine mesh. These fibers are known as septae.

Septae serve to form chambers in the skin that house fat cells and keep these fat cells tightly compacted. This compact fat then serves to provide insulation and structural support to the body.
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New scientific findings reveal that PRIOR to menopause, cellulite is actually a condition comprised of two basic issues: Decreased microcirculation deep in the skin tissues- and inflammation caused by free radical buildup and insufficient lymphatic drainage.

There are also other possible conditions and circumstances that serve to exacerbate the condition during this time. Some of these possible factors include: poor diet/sluggish digestion/no exercise/too much exercise and/or undiagnosed food sensitivities.

AFTER menopause however, another factor kicks in to greatly exacerbate the condition. This factor being: the dreaded hormone imbalances that accompany the menopause process-chiefly excess estrogen.

It’s now thought that excess Estrogen can cause the body’s connective tissues- and septae- to weaken. This weakening then allows fat deposits to collect and push to the surface of the skin in bundles. Coupling this Excess-estrogen-induced weakening of the connective tissue with the earlier mentioned poor microcirculation and lymphatic drainage, you have the Perfect Storm scenario for the development and progression of cellulite.

As hormones become unbalanced, a woman’s skin begins to thin. Collagen and Elastin also weaken. This causes further rupture and structural failure of the septae and consequently a profound worsening of the dimpled appearance of the skin as more and more fat bundles push toward the surface.

Traditionally, Cellulite is believed to form in 5 stages:
Stage One - the beginning of diminished blood circulation.
Stage Two - the progressive rupturing of veins and capillaries and increasing pressure mounting in the tissues where leakage is occurring.
Stage Three - the swelling of fat tissues due to fluid accumulation.
Stage Four - the formation of thick fibers due to congealed/hardened septae.
Stage Five - the formation of steatomes due to lack of circulation in the now-congealed septae fibers.

All is not lost however as new research indicates that certain things CAN be done to improve- though not necessarily prevent- cellulite.

While not all cellulite treatment products such as creams and/or lotions are legitimate, there are some that actually can -and DO-lessen the visible appearance of cellulite. Certain ingredients such as caffeine and key herbs and botanicals when used topically assist in this lessening effect.
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Also certain vitamins, minerals and herbs taken internally have been shown to assist in maintaining healthy blood flow and microcirculation.

Taking this newfound understanding of the role hormones play in cellulite formation, and then pursuing proper medical help to balance hormones during peri-menopause -and prior to the onset of menopause –is Key in improvement and prevention!
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About Carrie Pierce and Menopauserus.com
Carrie Pierce has worked exclusively in the skin care, health and beauty industry for over 25 years. She’s a licensed Aesthetician, is certified in Color Analysis and has built a solid, international reputation in the field of holistic, menopausal skin care; specializing in harmful cosmetic ingredients and industry practices. She is a recognized speaker and published writer- having written numerous articles in women’s health and beauty publications and she is Founder and President of Menopauserus.com - The ultimate natural help and support site for women in need of peri menopause and menopause relief.
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Carrie is a member of our Boomer Authority™ community of experts.

The Sunday Funnies

Best Boomer Towns – Starting Fresh and Watch Your Skin!

Best Boomer Towns – Starting Fresh and Watch Your Skin!
by Nancy Shonka Padberg

Best Boomer Towns highlights the best places to live in the U.S. if you are a boomer. Recent statistics show more people are leaving California than moving in, so where are they going? Here are towns with culture, airport access, low cost of living, university access – all which baby boomer’s find a necessity.

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Here, we highlight a couple towns and authors advice before you move. One thing to consider when relocating is start with a fresh perspective with your partner, Dr. Barton Goldsmith discusses getting past the anger. Another author, Mary Mills Barrow, discusses the role of skin cancer in our lives – most all Best Boomer Towns have a lot of sunshine!

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Dr. Barton Goldsmith, “Couples, Communication and Connection”
It seems counterintuitive, but when you're mad at someone you care for, the best way to deal with your unhealed anger is to talk about it. All too often, we don't feel like speaking to the person who has irritated us, no matter who it is. But clamming up or inappropriately venting will only cause more ill feelings.

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The truth is that shutting out your partner is only going to make him or her feel distant, punished, and unloved. The next time you engage in this behavior, ask yourself the question, "What is my intent and do I really want to hurt the feelings of the person I am sharing my life with, and if so, will the outcome be a positive one? Additional information http://bestboomertowns.com

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Mary Mills Barrow, “Protect Your Skin from Skin Cancer”
A young friend with a receding hairline recently asked if bald men are more likely to get skin cancer on their scalps. Unfortunately, the answer is yes, skin cancers are more often diagnosed on scalps of men who are bald than those who are not.

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However, according to an article by Dr. Ida Orengo, professor of dermatology at Baylor College of Medicine and director of the Mohs Surgery Center at the Baylor Clinic in Houston, a full head of hair does not necessarily protect you from getting skin cancer on the scalp. "Dark thick hair gives more protection compared to blond wispy locks, but some type of extra protection should be used at all times." For additional information http://bestboomertowns.com

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Two of our Best Boomer Towns Highlight Spring Events. Paso Robles, CA and Austin, Texas.
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Paso Robles Wine Country Runs

Sunday March 21, 2010 6:30am - The Wine Country Half Marathon & 5K is set in the heart of California's scenic Central Coast, an area famous for wineries, natural hot springs, pristine beaches, Hearst Castle and much more. More information http://bestboomertowns.com

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Paso Robles 2nd Annual Paso Robles Dog Jog
Saturday March 27, 2010 - Dogs can bring their owners for a 4K/2K run or walk through the beautiful Salinas River walk trail that starts and ends at the Kennedy Club Fitness in Paso Robles. The proceeds from this popular event will benefit North County Dog Parks. More information http://bestboomertowns.com

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THE AUSTIN POETRY SLAM - Mike Henry and a rotating group of slam ninjas captain the crew that has all the best of stand-up, rock & roll, and phone sex rolled into one cosmic-heat blast. You thought it rocked before, check out its new all-ages power in the Independent. Wednesdays, 8pm. The Independent http://bestboomertowns.com
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THE FLAMING IDIOTS - The three brainy acrobats (Pyro, Gyro, and Walter, by stage name) who conjure shows of pure entertainment are reunited and returned to Zach Theatre with their manic antics. Juggling, balancing, wacky shenanigans and impressive skills: Recommended for the whole family! Held over through March 28. http://bestboomertowns.com

PASO ROBLES
California has a place for you to stay - and the hotels and innkeepers of Paso Robles have created an organization to help you experience it yourself. Paso Robles is an affordable, world-class destination big on value, beauty and experiences - and a car ride away for most Californians.
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The Travel Paso Robles Alliance (www.travelpaso.com) was founded by a group of 19 area hoteliers in 2008 so business, leisure and group travelers can discover the Authentic California experience of the Central Coast. The organization offers information for the 1,076 luxury, value, budget, and specialty room choices available to area guests. Area attractions include: strolling and vibrant downtown, award-winning wineries, gourmet dining, equestrian activities, fairs, concerts, cultural events, Hearst Castle state park, outdoor recreation, early California missions, a gateway to beaches and the state's most beautiful recreation areas.

For information on how to make the most of your stay, contact: (888) 988-PASO(7276), tourism@prcity.com.
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About Nancy Padberg
Nancy is president of BestBoomerTowns.com, is an MBA graduate from the Graziadio School of Business and Management at Pepperdine University. She is a guest speaker, published author, and former Big 12 golfer. Join Nancy each Thursday at noon (Pacific) for the Best Boomer Towns Talk Radio Show on VoiceAmerica, where she highlights a town each week.

Nancy is a member of our Boomer Authority™ community of experts.

Living Your Life On Purpose – Three Powerful Steps to Achieving a Thriving Quality of Life

Publisher’s Note:
In 2009, we began an initiative to serialize books of special significance – books on a variety of topics but all having one common theme. The content had to meet the fundamental objective: to provide high value content in real time that baby boomers can put to practical use in their daily lives. Not long ago, we were introduced to Kris Cavanaugh by our friend and colleague Carrie E. Pierce. The both of them are collaborating on a project, which you’ll hear more about in the weeks ahead. In the meantime, today is the second installment of Kris’ book “Living Your Life On Purpose.” Her book will be serialized on BB[KC]™ on the first Wednesday of every month. We hope you enjoy and find helpful her excellent insight and depth of knowledge. –Martin Diano

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Living Your Life On Purpose – Three Powerful Steps to Achieving a Thriving Quality of Life
A special book serialization by Kris Cavanaugh
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Part 3: WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF ACHIEVING A THRIVING LIFE?
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Before I go into detail about what it means to live your life “on purpose” in order to experience a Thriving quality of life, I’d like to share with you the benefits you’ll receive if you take a leap of faith in yourself and commit to doing whatever it takes to make that happen:

When you willingly choose to SHIFT your life, amazing things start to happen. You will:
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Gain more control of your personal & professional life.
o What would it be like if you could feel a deep sense of confidence that everything would fall into place in both your personal and professional life?

Spend more time with your loved ones.
o Can you imagine what your relationships would be like if you had the time to hang out with your family and friends more?

Enhance your ability to handle stress.
o How wonderful would it be to know deep down that no challenge would stress you out because you knew how to manage it in a healthy way?

Become more pro-active and not re-active.
o What would it be like for you to habitually take action from a place of peace rather than reacting from a place of fear or indecision?

Achieve your personal / professional goals and dreams.
o How amazing would it be for you to say “I want to do or be or visit X” and know without a doubt it will eventually happen?

Obtain the life you want.
o What would it be like if you could jump out of bed every day excited about all the wonderful things in your life?

Improve your time management and budgeting skills.
o Can you imagine what your days would look like if you learned how to make good choices with your time and how full your checkbook would be if you enhanced your budgeting skills?
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EACH OF THESE THINGS IS POSSIBLE WHEN YOU BEGIN TO LIVE YOUR LIFE “ON PURPOSE” IN ORDER TO CREATE A THRIVING QUALITY OF LIFE!
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AN IMPORTANT QUESTION:
What Quality Of Life Are You Currently Experiencing?
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If you are "Existing" or "Living," know you are capable of having a much more abundant life! Choose to "Thrive" and invest in yourself to begin to SHIFT your life into exactly what you want it to be like.

If you are "Thriving," CONGRATULATIONS! I love it when people get to that stage of their life! The next step is to invest in any resources you need to stay at that level more consistently.

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REGARDLESS OF YOUR CURRENT LEVEL, HERE ARE THREE POWERFUL STEPS TO LIVE YOUR LIFE “ON PURPOSE” TO REGULARLY EXPERIENCE A THRIVING QUALITY OF LIFE IN ANY TYPE OF ECONOMY……
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In next month’s installment of my book I’ll be sharing the first of the three powerful steps to live your life on purpose to achieve a thriving quality of life. Thanks for taking the time to read my book. Have a fabulous rest of your week!

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About Kris Cavanaugh
Kris is the C.E.O. Catalyst & Coach with Shift Inc. (www.begintoshift.com). Her passion is empowering others to live their lives “on purpose” through cultivating a C.E.O. mindset so they wake up every day excited about the possibilities and maintain an unwavering belief that they can overcome any obstacles to achieve their personal and professional goals and dreams more easily and consistently. If you are ready to boldly take back control of every area your life, resulting in a greater sense of freedom, joy, and fulfillment, click here to schedule a Free Exploration Meeting.

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Kris is a member of our Boomer Authority™ community of experts.

"TOM BROKAW REPORTS: BOOMER$!" WILL PREMIERE ON MARCH 4TH ON CNBC

"TOM BROKAW REPORTS: BOOMER$!" WILL PREMIERE ON MARCH 4TH ON CNBC

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CNBC will premiere a 2 hour documentary, "TOM BROKAW REPORTS: BOOMER$!" on Thursday, March 4th at 9pm. In a two-hour documentary, Tom Brokaw tells the story of history’s wealthiest and most influential generation. From hula hoops to civil rights, in war and politics, Brokaw chronicles the extraordinary impact 78 million baby boomers have had on American society over the past six decades, and explores the challenges they face as they begin to approach the age of retirement. Click >> http://www.cnbc.com/id/34827568/

Distress Free Aging with Amy Sherman

Distress Free Aging with Amy Sherman

Part 6: How to Be Happy
by Amy Sherman, LMHC – BB[KC] Columnist
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Henry Ward Beecher said, “A person without a sense of humor is like a wagon without springs, jolted by every pebble in the road.”

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A sense of humor is essential for healthy living. Do you worry about tomorrow and forget to live for today? Do you focus on what’s wrong with your life and ignore what’s going well? Happiness and satisfaction can be yours today, right now. All you have to do is decide to be happy. How you do this is by focusing more on the people and things that give you satisfaction.

Some strategies you can start immediately are:
1. Learn to laugh at yourself and perhaps your situation. Complaining, whining and moping just perpetuate more of what you don’t want. Therefore, enjoy the light side of life, because life can be fairly absurd and pretty funny.

2. Surround yourself with things that give you pleasure. Decorate your home with items you love to look at. Treat yourself to clothes you’d love to wear – and that make you feel good. Read books that teach and inspire joyfulness. These things boost feelings of well-being and bring about contentment in your life.

3. Find meaning and purpose by getting involved. People tend to be happier when they are giving to others as volunteers, mentors, support, and caring nurturers.

The happiest, most successful people in the world are able to maintain their optimism no matter what their circumstance. They do this because they take risks. They are comfortable with stepping out of their comfort zone to explore new avenues and techniques. They believe that it is within their control to shape the outcome of their lives and they do not fall victim to chance circumstances.

Happy people are willing to put in the effort necessary to make things happen for their greater good.

Ask yourself if you are the type to initiate humor or do you enjoy laughing along with others? Do you find jokes, one-liners, and sit-coms funny or are sarcasm and ethnic jokes your cup of tea? Are you able to be silly and fool around or are you too self-conscious to be the center of attention? Must you be in a good mood to laugh or can something amusing change your mood?

These questions can help you assess where you’re at in your “humor” rankings and if your humor quotient could use some boosting. A few minutes of frivolity every day never hurt anyone and it does reduce excess emotional stress that’s built up from the challenges of work and personal responsibilities. Also, try to be less judgmental and more tolerant so that the problems of life become subtle annoyances, rather than huge undertakings. You’ll then notice that your life will be less tense and more fun.
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Happiness is a journey and the benefits are priceless. Happy people cope better under stressful or challenging situations and have greater life expectancy. They have lower blood pressure and higher immune function. Happy people are more successful and create more long-term relationships.

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Even though some people are naturally more upbeat than others, you can learn to be happy. Just be aware of special moments with friends and family, how often you smile and laugh, how serious you take your life in general and whether your attitude is adding to or decreasing your life satisfaction.

Remember, it’s all about how you perceive your life that counts. Therefore, embrace your future with openness and excitement, optimism and hope and you will find you’ll be enjoying what lies ahead with more enthusiasm and joy.

Next month: Part 7: Get Rid of Irrational Thinking. Click HERE for Parts 1-6 of Amy’s Distress Free Aging column.

About Amy Sherman - LMHC
Amy is a licensed mental health counselor in private practice. Amy is the author of the ebook, “Distress-Free Aging: A Boomer’s Guide to Creating a Fulfilled and Purposeful Life” and “The Joy of Optimism 10-Lesson eCourse. Visit www.bummedoutboomer.com for more information and to purchase Distress-Free Aging. Amy can be reached at amy@bummedoutboomer.com

Amy is a member of our Boomer Authority™ community of experts.

I Want My Money Back!

I Want My Money Back!
A Bit Ahead Of, It’s Time
by Patrece Banks – Aging in Place Columnist

In 2008 Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) implemented a program called “Hospital Acquired Conditions (HAI)”. The concept is if the government stopped paying for preventable adverse events they would be reduced.

Doctor Would Not Listen

In, 2000 I went to a doctor that did biofeedback based on a friends recommendation and results she got with her son. I did biofeedback before so I knew what to expect but what I didn’t expect is what happened to me.

I went in for my first session and was impressed with the professionalism and knowledge. After a couple of sessions my head pain started to come back whereas it had been going away. I was also bothered by the marker pen used to put dots on my head. All of this was clearly communicated with the doctor on a number of occasions. The pen bothered me so much that I brought in my own eye brow pencil as an alternative.

It got to a point to where I told the doctor to slow things down during sessions. He would make adjustments and I would feel better. A few sessions later I started to feel bad after my visits, again.

After a few more visits, I told the doctor I was going to give it a couple more tries and again explained what he was doing that was hurting me. To no avail he didn’t listen and in essence belittled what I was telling him. I decided to call some other offices that did biofeedback because I could not take the head pain anymore. I found someone that could see me that afternoon. I went in and she explained how and why she got into this then she hooked me up to the system and did a 20 minute session. That session took the head pain away the other doctor was causing.

What I Did

I was tired of paying for services out-of-pocket that were not based on my needs and ones that hurt me. When I told my friends I wanted my money back they did not believe I would really ask for my $1,200 back. I wrote the doctor a nice but clear letter letting him what I wanted and why.

Days later I got a call asking if I would be willing to come in and talk to the doctor about what happened. He told he was stunned when he got the letter and that he had never received anything like it. I agreed to come in and discuss the situation.

The meeting went well and I got my money back. I went into this being well informed with the ability to articulate what he was doing that hurt me. The intent was to let the doctor know what he did and let him know I should not have to pay for a bad outcome especially when I was continually explaining what he was doing that was hurting me.

A Lesson On Many Fronts

Understanding what is going on in your body so you can express issues is important because even the best healthcare providers are not mind-readers.

You don’t have to accept a negative outcome. My thought was why should healthcare be any different that any other service. This scenario cannot apply to all situations but it can help us realize better communication on all sides is a way of preventing an adverse event. Luckily, these adverse events were easily reversed.

Hopefully it taught the doctor to listen to his patients a bit more than he did and it taught me to be more expressive in what was going on with me.

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Don’t forget healthcare providers are not mind readers and realize you as the patient will play a key role in preventing your own adverse event. It’s a win, win for everyone…

About Patrece Banks
Patrece writes and speaks about bed falls, fall prevention, design safety, aging in place, risk management, compliance, ageism, medical devices and assistive technology devices. In 2008 Patrece was recognized as one of the most innovative product designers. To learn more visit www.InvisibleCaregiver.com

Patrece is a member of our Boomer Authority™ community of experts.

Fit at Any Age and Any Size with Sherry Netherland

Fit at Any Age and Any Size with Sherry Netherland

Publisher's Note:
Fit at Any Age and Any Size with Sherry Netherland is regular column on BB[KC]. Sherry's column appears on the fourth Tuesday of every month. Sherry is a member of our Boomer Authority™ community of experts. - Martin Diano

I Don't Have Time to Exercise!!
by Sherry Netherland


I love excuses for not engaging in a fitness activity almost as much as I like excuses for playing bad golf. Actually, I might like bad golf excuses more. I bring my list of bad golf excuses with me to the golf course then interject them into the conversation whenever I can. "Wow, these new golf socks are really affecting my stance," or "Darn, it's so windy." But, I never use the excuse, "I'm too busy."
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If I were to collect all the excuses people give for not being active, the one that would top the list would be, "I don't have the time." Strangely enough, unlike my sock excuse, that is a good reason. In fact, the toughest reason to deny and the one that causes the most frustration. You really, really, really want to be fit, but you are really, really, really busy. I believe you. But, are you too busy?

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You know the expression, if you want something done, ask a busy person. I'll bet you can squeeze in a favor for a friend at the drop of a hat. There is always more time in your day for that unexpected car pool request. It's like juggling. Once you graduate to four balls going to five is not that big a deal.

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There is one good piece of news - if you are that busy, you are probably on the move and moving is good. But if you feel tired, don't recognize yourself in the mirror, or feel your age you need to step up and create space in your day for you. Keeping fit and healthy is self-employment - only you can have that job.

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What about that time crunch? The first task will be to know how you actually spend your time. Keep a log of all your activities for two weeks. I have a posted a Time Tracker on my website, www.healthandfitnesshumorist.com. Open the Fitness Programs page and click on the link for Time Tracker. Track everything in your waking hours. Some amazing things will be revealed. One, you are probably more active than you think and two, windows of time may become apparent. Is there time in the day when you are just vegging in front of the television (my downfall), or maybe you wake up an hour earlier? A half hour?

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Seeing how you actually spend your time can be a real eye opener. What are your time thieves? Sometimes our time thieves are things that we can do without, reschedule, or just get someone else to do. Make an appointment with yourself to engage in physical activity. Actually putting it in the calendar might be just the step you need to kick start your program.

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It is not always about finding the time, it is about priorities and the number one priority has to be you. Investment specialists will tell you to pay yourself first and that makes sense. Your flight attendant will tell you if you are traveling with a small child, you have to put your oxygen mask on first, then the child's because you can't help anyone else if you have not taken care of yourself.

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Taking care of yourself does not mean you are selfish. It will mean that you have the energy to care for yourself and your loved ones now and in the future. Your level of fitness and good health will serve to compress your years of disability in old age. You will reduce the number of years that you will need care. In fact, if you take care of yourself, you will be healthy your entire life and then just drop dead. There now, don't you feel better?

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About Sherry Netherland
Sherry motivates sedentary individuals to become physically active. She is a professional public speaker who combines her healthcare and physical fitness expertise with her experience on the stand-up stage to get her audiences laughing and moving.She is particularly interested in Baby Boomers who are feeling their age and want to turn back the clock She promotes lifestyle changes that increase physical, mental and spiritual well-being through activity and laughter. http://www.healthandfitnesshumorist.com/, http://www.fitatanyageandanysize.com/

©2010, Sherry Netherland