A couple of days ago, I posted a casting call announcement for baby boomers. That's right! Baby Boomers are finally going to get their time to shine in front of a national audience. Follow this link to fill out your application: Baby Boomers
A casting search team is looking for boomers who have ditched their inactive, corporate nine to five job to follow their real passions in life. Does this sound like you?
1) Are you pursuing the active lifestyle that you finally realized you are so passionate about?
2) Did you decide to shake the dust off your life and are now starting your “second act” by actively embracing the sort of new experiences you would never have considered, even when you were younger?
3) Have you made your dreams of getting the most out of your life a reality? If you are a healthy and active “Baby Boomer” (45-65) individual/couple who has recently made a conscious decision to take positive steps towards reinventing your life,
All you need to do is complete an online application and send in a video highlighting what makes you "special." Click on this link: Baby Boomers
Friday, January 30, 2009
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Turn Up the Heat for Super Bowl Sunday
I don’t know about you but I am not going to sit at home alone while my husband decides he wants to be around "like-minded" individuals (who just happen to be all men) to watch the big game.
Actually, I won't be alone because my husband actually enjoys watching sports with me. Why? Because I've studied the games over the years---and being a cheerleader certainly helped. I can sit and intelligently discuss first downs and offside penalties and referee calls that should've or should not have been made. I've also learned how to make watching the game interesting in the romance department.
How can sports possibly be romantic especially if you hate it? Well, why not look at it this way. If you love your husband, why not take a sincere interest in his love for the game---whether it be football, basketball, tennis or WHATEVER! If it's something your husband really enjoys, wouldn't you rather learn about it, and share the common bond of sports than to have him watch it alone or always leave to watch it with his buddies? I prefer to be a baby boomer sports wife rather than a sports widow.
Before you start to panic, let me reassure you. You don't have to put on a parka and sit through an icy-cold and windy Chicago Bears game in December to show your husband your love. You can certainly sit warm and cozy on your living room couch together, to show him that he is special to you.
Here’s my tip for getting your husband prepared and in the mood for Super Bowl Sunday:
You can have your own pre-game show. The two of you can toss a football out in the yard. When he lets you tackle him, you can sneak in a kiss. Or why not be the quarterback and instead of hiking a 'real' ball, just pretend there's a ball there and turn it into a game of touch football. After an hour or so of fun, fantasy and sweat, you can go inside--take a shower--and relax while getting ready for the Big Game. And who cares if the neighbors are watching?
No matter what you plan, if you do it with excitement and enthusiasm, it'll be a treat for him. And, the next time you're watching an episode of Desperate Housewives, don't be surprised if you find your husband sitting next to you preparing to make some moves of his own.
What suggestions do you have for making a sporting event more fun?
Actually, I won't be alone because my husband actually enjoys watching sports with me. Why? Because I've studied the games over the years---and being a cheerleader certainly helped. I can sit and intelligently discuss first downs and offside penalties and referee calls that should've or should not have been made. I've also learned how to make watching the game interesting in the romance department.
How can sports possibly be romantic especially if you hate it? Well, why not look at it this way. If you love your husband, why not take a sincere interest in his love for the game---whether it be football, basketball, tennis or WHATEVER! If it's something your husband really enjoys, wouldn't you rather learn about it, and share the common bond of sports than to have him watch it alone or always leave to watch it with his buddies? I prefer to be a baby boomer sports wife rather than a sports widow.
Before you start to panic, let me reassure you. You don't have to put on a parka and sit through an icy-cold and windy Chicago Bears game in December to show your husband your love. You can certainly sit warm and cozy on your living room couch together, to show him that he is special to you.
Here’s my tip for getting your husband prepared and in the mood for Super Bowl Sunday:
You can have your own pre-game show. The two of you can toss a football out in the yard. When he lets you tackle him, you can sneak in a kiss. Or why not be the quarterback and instead of hiking a 'real' ball, just pretend there's a ball there and turn it into a game of touch football. After an hour or so of fun, fantasy and sweat, you can go inside--take a shower--and relax while getting ready for the Big Game. And who cares if the neighbors are watching?
No matter what you plan, if you do it with excitement and enthusiasm, it'll be a treat for him. And, the next time you're watching an episode of Desperate Housewives, don't be surprised if you find your husband sitting next to you preparing to make some moves of his own.
What suggestions do you have for making a sporting event more fun?
Monday, January 26, 2009
Are You a Baby Boomer Pursuing Your Passion?
Somebody has FINALLY gotten the memo that the media needs to stand up and take notice of the baby boomers.
Last week, I received an email from Lexi Shoemaker inviting me to participate in a new online series that will feature inspiring stories about people who have made the leap from dreaming about a change to making their passion a reality.
Initially, I dismissed the email because, frankly, I wasn't sure it was on the up and up. But today my inner voice told me to look into it to see if it was legit and you know, the journalist in me went to work. Sure enough, it appears Lexi Shoemaker has some casting credentials. She is apparently working on behalf of MSN and Reveille – producers of “The Office,” “Ugly Betty,” and “The Biggest Loser” –to help them cast this new online series.
They're looking for boomers who have ditched their inactive, corporate nine to five job to follow their real passions in life. Does this sound like you?
1) Are you pursuing the active lifestyle that you finally realized you are so passionate about?
2) Did you decide to shake the dust off your life and are now starting your “second act” by actively embracing the sort of new experiences you would never have considered, even when you were younger?
3) Have you made your dreams of getting the most out of your life a reality? If you are a healthy and active “Baby Boomer” (45-65) individual/couple who has recently made a conscious decision to take positive steps towards reinventing your life, then Lexi is looking for you!
Please send a short summary of your experience along with a recent photo to:
lexishoemaker@aol.com
I took the plunge--let me know if you decide to.
Last week, I received an email from Lexi Shoemaker inviting me to participate in a new online series that will feature inspiring stories about people who have made the leap from dreaming about a change to making their passion a reality.
Initially, I dismissed the email because, frankly, I wasn't sure it was on the up and up. But today my inner voice told me to look into it to see if it was legit and you know, the journalist in me went to work. Sure enough, it appears Lexi Shoemaker has some casting credentials. She is apparently working on behalf of MSN and Reveille – producers of “The Office,” “Ugly Betty,” and “The Biggest Loser” –to help them cast this new online series.
They're looking for boomers who have ditched their inactive, corporate nine to five job to follow their real passions in life. Does this sound like you?
1) Are you pursuing the active lifestyle that you finally realized you are so passionate about?
2) Did you decide to shake the dust off your life and are now starting your “second act” by actively embracing the sort of new experiences you would never have considered, even when you were younger?
3) Have you made your dreams of getting the most out of your life a reality? If you are a healthy and active “Baby Boomer” (45-65) individual/couple who has recently made a conscious decision to take positive steps towards reinventing your life, then Lexi is looking for you!
Please send a short summary of your experience along with a recent photo to:
lexishoemaker@aol.com
I took the plunge--let me know if you decide to.
Sunday, January 18, 2009
A Lesson about Burning Bridges
More than 20 years ago someone told me I should never burn the bridges I’ve crossed in life because I never know when I may have to make a U-turn and cross back over that same bridge.
I never gave that statement much thought back then but the older I got, I began to realize how true that statement really is. You never know whose path you may cross in life that can help you along the way. You never know who you may need to help you on your journey. It could very well be someone you’ve already come in contact with but if you’ve treated them badly, you shouldn’t expect them to offer you a lending hand if you need one.
That brings me to the story of a fellow baby boomer named Catherine Donnelly. Back in 1981, she began her freshman year at Princeton. This young, wide-eyed Georgia girl soon discovered her roommate was black. She told her mother, Alice Brown, who was horrified and demanded that her daughter be removed from that room. Catherine’s mother, who is now 71 years old, stormed down to the campus housing office and demanded that her daughter (Donnelly) be moved to another room. "I told them we weren't used to living with black people — Catherine is from the South," Brown said. Brown said she was raised to believe there should be no mixiing of the races in any way. She recalled hearing her grandfather, a sheriff in the North Carolina mountains, brag about running black visitors out of the county before nightfall. And Brown's parents held on to the n-word like a family heirloom.
Today Donnelly is living as a gay woman, which she says has made her far more aware of what it's like to be judged by a trait beyond your control. Meanwhile, her former roommate assumes her new role as the First Lady of the United States: Michelle LaVaughn Robinson-Obama.
I never gave that statement much thought back then but the older I got, I began to realize how true that statement really is. You never know whose path you may cross in life that can help you along the way. You never know who you may need to help you on your journey. It could very well be someone you’ve already come in contact with but if you’ve treated them badly, you shouldn’t expect them to offer you a lending hand if you need one.
That brings me to the story of a fellow baby boomer named Catherine Donnelly. Back in 1981, she began her freshman year at Princeton. This young, wide-eyed Georgia girl soon discovered her roommate was black. She told her mother, Alice Brown, who was horrified and demanded that her daughter be removed from that room. Catherine’s mother, who is now 71 years old, stormed down to the campus housing office and demanded that her daughter (Donnelly) be moved to another room. "I told them we weren't used to living with black people — Catherine is from the South," Brown said. Brown said she was raised to believe there should be no mixiing of the races in any way. She recalled hearing her grandfather, a sheriff in the North Carolina mountains, brag about running black visitors out of the county before nightfall. And Brown's parents held on to the n-word like a family heirloom.
Today Donnelly is living as a gay woman, which she says has made her far more aware of what it's like to be judged by a trait beyond your control. Meanwhile, her former roommate assumes her new role as the First Lady of the United States: Michelle LaVaughn Robinson-Obama.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Baby Boomer Happiness
Despite what some may think, money cannot buy you happiness. It may help ease some of the burdens associated with growing older and retirement, but money is not the end all---be all---of the rest of your life.
Believe it or not, age, genetics and a sense of purpose are significant factors in happiness according to some happiness research.
Here are some of the highlights of that research:
Midlife crisis: This plunge is real, no matter where you live or what your circumstances. According to a study of about 2 million people in nearly 80 countries, mental distress peaks at midlife. In the United States, this typically happens for women at around age 40 and for men at around age 50.
Golden years glow: Contentment swings up later in life. People in their 60s and 70s tend to be as satisfied as younger people. No one knows for sure what causes the upswing. It could be acceptance of weakness, more maturity or more appreciation for life as friends and loved ones die. And, happier people may live longer, affecting the data.
Genetics: Numerous studies have shown that genetics accounts for up to half of individual differences in both well-being and positive personality traits, which are closely linked. And women tend to be slightly happier than men.
Life circumstances: Regardless of genetics, people respond to life events, and long-term levels of happiness may change after major life events such as marriage, divorce or the death of a loved one.
Higher levels of education boost happiness. Social connectedness also increases happiness. This factor may explain why women are happier (and commit suicide less) than men, who are more likely to be socially isolated, especially after they retire.
Health: People in excellent health are almost twice as likely to be happier than those in merely good health. Poor health makes 70 percent less likely to be happy, compared with those in good health. And, a sense of well-being is linked to greater longevity and less risk of disease.
A happiness boost: Some researchers suggest focusing on intentional activities, the ones you choose to engage in mindfully and actively, as a good way to boost long-term happiness.
Believe it or not, age, genetics and a sense of purpose are significant factors in happiness according to some happiness research.
Here are some of the highlights of that research:
Midlife crisis: This plunge is real, no matter where you live or what your circumstances. According to a study of about 2 million people in nearly 80 countries, mental distress peaks at midlife. In the United States, this typically happens for women at around age 40 and for men at around age 50.
Golden years glow: Contentment swings up later in life. People in their 60s and 70s tend to be as satisfied as younger people. No one knows for sure what causes the upswing. It could be acceptance of weakness, more maturity or more appreciation for life as friends and loved ones die. And, happier people may live longer, affecting the data.
Genetics: Numerous studies have shown that genetics accounts for up to half of individual differences in both well-being and positive personality traits, which are closely linked. And women tend to be slightly happier than men.
Life circumstances: Regardless of genetics, people respond to life events, and long-term levels of happiness may change after major life events such as marriage, divorce or the death of a loved one.
Higher levels of education boost happiness. Social connectedness also increases happiness. This factor may explain why women are happier (and commit suicide less) than men, who are more likely to be socially isolated, especially after they retire.
Health: People in excellent health are almost twice as likely to be happier than those in merely good health. Poor health makes 70 percent less likely to be happy, compared with those in good health. And, a sense of well-being is linked to greater longevity and less risk of disease.
A happiness boost: Some researchers suggest focusing on intentional activities, the ones you choose to engage in mindfully and actively, as a good way to boost long-term happiness.
Monday, January 12, 2009
Baby Boomer Happy Feet
Most people get concerned about the health and appearance of their feet during the summer months. But by the time winter rolls around, feet are all but forgotten, shoved back into boots and heavy sneakers.
James McGuire and Howard Palamarchuk, podiatrists at Temple University’s School of Podiatric Medicine, say it’s just as important, if not more so, to be vigilant about foot care during colder months, when falling temperatures, drier air, ice and snow and closed-toe shoes can contribute to foot problems.
Here they offer five tips to keep you on your feet this winter.
Invest in some good shoes
You may need to cough up the extra cash to buy some decent winter shoes. Trying to put thick socks into thin summer sneakers isn’t the way to go. A good winter shoe should be waterproof, have enough room to fit two pairs of socks to insulate feet and prevent moisture buildup, and have a gripping sole to prevent slips and falls.
And socks, too
You should have one pair that is a light synthetic ‘wick’ sock, to transfer moisture to a thicker wool outer sock, where it is absorbed and evaporated to the outside. Cotton socks absorb moisture and make for a soggy environment, which ultimately makes the feet cold and wet and sets them up for frostbite.
Keep feet pretty
Just because you can’t see your feet doesn’t mean their appearance should fall by the wayside. Both doctors recommend keeping toenails trimmed to avoid ingrown toenails, and to keep slathering on the lotion. Feet tend to dry out in the winter, which can cause cracks and peeling. Use hypoallergenic lotion at least once a day to prevent irritation or infection from dry skin.
Walk softly
Cold weather leads to slippery surfaces and cracks in the sidewalk, therefore it is recommended that you keep an eye on the ground while walking. Clear pavement can be covered in ice you may not be able to see. You need to pay attention, because a good shoe alone won’t be able to protect you.
Also, don’t make sudden moves on slippery surfaces. Even if you don’t fall, you could pull or tear something that will take several days to heal.
Don’t get cold feet
Staying out in the cold too long can lead to numbness and pain in the lower extremities, which could mean the beginnings of frostbite. Warm towels and water should be used to warm the affected area at the first sign of numbness and then be sure to see a doctor immediately to be sure there’s no tissue damage.
James McGuire and Howard Palamarchuk, podiatrists at Temple University’s School of Podiatric Medicine, say it’s just as important, if not more so, to be vigilant about foot care during colder months, when falling temperatures, drier air, ice and snow and closed-toe shoes can contribute to foot problems.
Here they offer five tips to keep you on your feet this winter.
Invest in some good shoes
You may need to cough up the extra cash to buy some decent winter shoes. Trying to put thick socks into thin summer sneakers isn’t the way to go. A good winter shoe should be waterproof, have enough room to fit two pairs of socks to insulate feet and prevent moisture buildup, and have a gripping sole to prevent slips and falls.
And socks, too
You should have one pair that is a light synthetic ‘wick’ sock, to transfer moisture to a thicker wool outer sock, where it is absorbed and evaporated to the outside. Cotton socks absorb moisture and make for a soggy environment, which ultimately makes the feet cold and wet and sets them up for frostbite.
Keep feet pretty
Just because you can’t see your feet doesn’t mean their appearance should fall by the wayside. Both doctors recommend keeping toenails trimmed to avoid ingrown toenails, and to keep slathering on the lotion. Feet tend to dry out in the winter, which can cause cracks and peeling. Use hypoallergenic lotion at least once a day to prevent irritation or infection from dry skin.
Walk softly
Cold weather leads to slippery surfaces and cracks in the sidewalk, therefore it is recommended that you keep an eye on the ground while walking. Clear pavement can be covered in ice you may not be able to see. You need to pay attention, because a good shoe alone won’t be able to protect you.
Also, don’t make sudden moves on slippery surfaces. Even if you don’t fall, you could pull or tear something that will take several days to heal.
Don’t get cold feet
Staying out in the cold too long can lead to numbness and pain in the lower extremities, which could mean the beginnings of frostbite. Warm towels and water should be used to warm the affected area at the first sign of numbness and then be sure to see a doctor immediately to be sure there’s no tissue damage.
Tuesday, January 06, 2009
Healthy Living in a Sick Economy
With the economy in a state of decline, it is difficult for many Americans to afford health care. Visits to doctors are down 10 percent to 15 percent and many individuals are not taking their medicines as prescribed. However, there are certain measures that can be taken to lessen the burden while facing tough economic times.
Approximately one in nine individuals is cutting pills, taking them every other day or doing something the doctor did not recommend, according to Dr. Mark Fendrick of the University of Michigan Medical School. Fendrick says, “Cutting back on health care without consulting your clinician is a very risky decision. It may not only have an impact on your health, but also have a worsening economic consequence that will lead to greater costs down the road when minor health concerns become major health issues.”
There are affordable programs available to help individuals facing economic difficulties. Ask your doctor’s office or search online for information about decreasing or eliminating the costs of health insurance and prescription medications.
During an economic crisis, individuals with and without insurance tend to use the emergency room as a form of primary care. However, doing so could take a spot from someone who truly needs emergency care, while also compromising your own care.
“You should really think about going to your primary care physician who knows your medical history, coordinates your follow up care and interacts with other doctors to make sure you’re getting the highest quality care possible at the lowest cost,” says Fendrick.
While the economy is forcing individuals to make difficult choices Fendrick puts it in perspective: “Remember your health is your most important asset, not your money.”
Tips for healthy health care spending:
1. Continue to adopt healthy lifestyles: diet and exercise can help stave off many diseases.
2. Ask your doctor if prescription medications are available in generic forms.
3. Keep up-to-date with recommended screening tests, such as mammograms, colonoscopies or immunizations.
Information provided by Newswise
Approximately one in nine individuals is cutting pills, taking them every other day or doing something the doctor did not recommend, according to Dr. Mark Fendrick of the University of Michigan Medical School. Fendrick says, “Cutting back on health care without consulting your clinician is a very risky decision. It may not only have an impact on your health, but also have a worsening economic consequence that will lead to greater costs down the road when minor health concerns become major health issues.”
There are affordable programs available to help individuals facing economic difficulties. Ask your doctor’s office or search online for information about decreasing or eliminating the costs of health insurance and prescription medications.
During an economic crisis, individuals with and without insurance tend to use the emergency room as a form of primary care. However, doing so could take a spot from someone who truly needs emergency care, while also compromising your own care.
“You should really think about going to your primary care physician who knows your medical history, coordinates your follow up care and interacts with other doctors to make sure you’re getting the highest quality care possible at the lowest cost,” says Fendrick.
While the economy is forcing individuals to make difficult choices Fendrick puts it in perspective: “Remember your health is your most important asset, not your money.”
Tips for healthy health care spending:
1. Continue to adopt healthy lifestyles: diet and exercise can help stave off many diseases.
2. Ask your doctor if prescription medications are available in generic forms.
3. Keep up-to-date with recommended screening tests, such as mammograms, colonoscopies or immunizations.
Information provided by Newswise
Monday, January 05, 2009
Sex and the Single Baby Boomer
Single baby boomers are enjoying better sex, are open to threesomes and are not looking to get married, according to a poll conducted by the online dating site Lavalife.
Forty-six percent of the 1,000 adults born between 1946 and 1964 who were questioned in the survey said they enjoyed sex more now than they did during their 20s and 30s.
The poll showed that 34 percent would have sex on a first date compared with 17 percent of singles in "generation X", or people born between 1965 and 1982.
Twenty-five percent of sexually active boomers were open to participating in a threesome.
The survey also found that 47 percent of single boomers were primarily looking for friendship, while 19 percent were seeking a sexual companion.
Only about 10 percent of those surveyed hoped to get married, compared with 60 percent of those aged 30 to 39.
There are an estimated 85 million baby boomers in North America, according to the American Association of Retired People (AARP), comprising nearly 28 percent of the adult population. About 30 percent of boomers are single.
Forty-six percent of the 1,000 adults born between 1946 and 1964 who were questioned in the survey said they enjoyed sex more now than they did during their 20s and 30s.
The poll showed that 34 percent would have sex on a first date compared with 17 percent of singles in "generation X", or people born between 1965 and 1982.
Twenty-five percent of sexually active boomers were open to participating in a threesome.
The survey also found that 47 percent of single boomers were primarily looking for friendship, while 19 percent were seeking a sexual companion.
Only about 10 percent of those surveyed hoped to get married, compared with 60 percent of those aged 30 to 39.
There are an estimated 85 million baby boomers in North America, according to the American Association of Retired People (AARP), comprising nearly 28 percent of the adult population. About 30 percent of boomers are single.
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