Memorial Day

 
Memorial Day is celebrated the last Monday of May to honor fallen military.  The original name was Decoration Day, and it's the day the United States of America honors the deceased men and women in military.

Memorial Day was first to honor those who were from the Union soldiers who died in the Civil War. Later on, Memorial Day was expanded to honor all people who died in the military.

In 1882, Decoration Day changed into Memorial Day. After World War II, people began to observe Memorial Day and the official name was made in 1967.

We honor our men and women in the military and remember the fallen.  Thank you to each for allowing us our freedoms!  We ARE the land of the free BECAUSE of the brave!

Quotes:
"In the truest sense, freedom cannot be bestowed; it must be achieved."  ~  Franklin D. Roosevelt

"History does not long entrust the care of freedom to the weak or the timid."  ~ Dwight D. Eisenhower.

"Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn't pass it to our children in the
bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same."  ~  Ronald Reagan

"Freedom prospers when religion is vibrant and the rule of law under God is acknowledged."  ~  Ronald Reagan

"The framers of our Constitution meant we were to have freedom of religion, not freedom from religion."  ~  Billy Graham
 
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Spices and Herbs - What are they?

What is a Spice?  What is an Herb? 
Spices and herbs are used to enhance flavor to foods.  We use them dried or fresh.  As we think of certain recipes, we can't imagine omitting a spice or herb from them. The are a necessity to the palette, essential to nutrition and even delightful in the eye-pleasing presentation of a dish.

But what are they?
By definition, a spice is an aromatic plant substance used as a flavoring; food flavorings derived from the non leafy parts of plants; e.g. nutmeg or ginger.
By definition, an herb is a low-growing aromatic plant used fresh or dried for seasoning, for its medicinal properties, or in perfumes; e.g. sage, rosemary, basil, thyme, and parsley.

Dried spices usually have a longer shelf life than dried herbs.  Storing them away from heat (never over the oven or stove), in glass or tin containers (air tight), away from light (not on your counter in a spice rack) and away from moisture will allow a longer shelf life.  Since such elements are enemies of these delectable delights, keeping them stored properly will enhance the longevity of their color, quality, essential oil content, freshness and tastiness. 

When purchasing these, it is advisable to purchase smaller quantities as this will ensure you will buy fresh containers more often.  Not sure how old one is?  Take a sniff and taste test - is it still aromatically delicious?  If yes, use it; if no, discard it.  When in doubt, throw out!  Here's a rule of thumb:  Unopened containers have a shelf life of one year.  Opened containers have a shelf life of six months. 

Quote:
"Salt is a preservative. It really holds flavor. For example, if you chop up some fresh herbs, or even just garlic, the salt will extract the moisture and preserve the flavor."  ~ Sally Schneider

Helpful Hint:
When you purchase a new container of a spice or herb, mark the date on the bottom of the container with a permanent marker.  This will help you to know its age.

A Bit of Humor:
"Once you get a spice in your home, you have it forever. Women never throw out spices. The Egyptians were buried with their spices. I know which one I'm taking with me when I go." ~ Erma Bombeck
 
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Brain Boosters

Give Your Brain a Boost    ~  By Patricia Curtis - Reader's Digest

     Can't remember where you put your glasses? Blanked on your new colleague's name? "Forgetting these types of things is a sign of how busy we are," says Zaldy S. Tan, MD, director of the Memory Disorders Clinic at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston. "When we're not paying good attention, the memories we form aren't very robust, and we have a problem retrieving the information later."
     The key, says Harry Lorayne, author of Ageless Memory: Simple Secrets for Keeping Your Brain Young, is to get your brain in shape. "We exercise our bodies, but what good is that great body if you don't have the mental capabilities to go with it?"  
Brain Freeze #1
"What the heck is his name?"
• Pay attention. When you're introduced to someone, really listen to the person's name. Then, to get a better grasp, picture the spelling. Ask, "Is that Kathy with a K or a C?" Make a remark about the name to help lock it in ("Oh, Carpenter -- that was my childhood best friend's last name"), and use the name a few times during the conversation and when you say goodbye.
• Visualize the name. For hard-to-remember monikers (Bentavegna, Wobbekind), make the name meaningful. For Bentavegna, maybe you think of a bent weather vane. Picture it. Then look at the person, choose an outstanding feature (bushy eyebrows, green eyes) and tie the name to the face. If Mr. Bentavegna has a big nose, picture a bent weather vane instead of his nose. The sillier the image, the better.
• Create memorable associations. Picture Joe Everett standing atop Mount Everest. If you want to remember that Erin Curtis is the CEO of an architectural firm, imagine her curtsying in front of a large building, suggests Gini Graham Scott, PhD, author of 30 Days to a More Powerful Memory.
Brain Freeze #2
"The word is on the tip of my tongue."
• Practice your ABCs. Say you just can't remember the name of that movie. Recite the alphabet (aloud or in your head). When you get to the letter R, it should trigger the name that's escaping you: Ratatouille. This trick works when taking tests too.
Brain Freeze #3
"Where in the world did I leave my glasses?"
• Give a play-by-play. Pay attention to what you're doing as you place your glasses on the end table. Remind yourself, "I'm putting my keys in my coat pocket," so you have a clear memory of doing it, says Scott.
• Make it a habit. Put a small basket on a side table. Train yourself to put your keys, glasses, cell phone or any other object you frequently use (or misplace) in the basket -- every time.
Brain Freeze #4
"What else was I supposed to do today?"
• Start a ritual. To remind yourself of a chore (write a thank-you note, go to the dry cleaner), give yourself an unusual physical reminder. You expect to see your bills on your desk, so leaving them there won't necessarily remind you to pay them. But place a shoe or a piece of fruit on the stack of bills, and later, when you spot the out-of-place object, you'll remember to take care of them, says Carol Vorderman, author of Super Brain: 101 Easy Ways to a More Agile Mind.
• Sing it. To remember a small group of items (a grocery list, phone number, list of names, to-do list), adapt it to a well-known song, says Vorderman. Try "peanut butter, milk and eggs" to the tune of "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star," "Happy Birthday" or even nursery rhymes.

Quote:
"The two offices of memory are collection and distribution."   ~ Samuel Johnson

A Bit of Humor:
"I still have a full deck; I just shuffle slower now."   ~ Author Unknown


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Music as Medicine

Got pain? Got the blues? Try the music cure!
By Sari N. Harrar, Sarí N. Harrar, former health news editor at Prevention, is a freelance writer specializing in health, science, and medicine.

What Music Can Do for You

Clinical studies and anecdotal evidence from music therapists suggest that the sound of music...

• manages pain
• improves mood and mobility of people with Parkinson's disease
• reduces the need for sedatives and pain relievers during and after surgery
• decreases nausea during chemotherapy
• helps patients participate in medical treatment that shortens hospital stays
• relieves anxiety
• lowers blood pressure
• eases depression
• enhances concentration and creativity

     The best part is that to take advantage of music's healing power, you don't need to take a prescription to your local music store. You don't even have to go to the music store at all. The home remedies you need are probably already in your music collection.
     "Many years of research have shown me that there is no set prescription, no particular piece of music that will make everyone feel better or more relaxed," says Suzanne Hanser, EdD, chairperson of the music therapy department at Berklee College of Music and a music therapist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, both in Boston. "What counts is familiarity, musical taste, and the kinds of memories, feelings, and associations a piece of music brings to mind. Some people relax to classical music, others like the Moody Blues. The key is to individualize your musical selections."
     You can design your own musical "prescription." Just follow these guidelines, using your own favorite music or our suggestions, to cope with specific health problems.

To Beat Depression
The Research: Moods rose and depression fell for 20 people, ages 61 to 86, who listened to familiar music they selected while practicing various stress-reduction techniques--on their own or with the help of a music therapist--according to a study from Stanford University School of Medicine. Meanwhile, a control group who missed out on the music and the exercises saw no improvement during the 8-week study period.  **If you feel depressed, see a doctor for treatment. But if you're simply stuck in a blue mood, try this musical approach:
Best Music: Upbeat, energetic, rhythmic selections.
Examples: Depending on your taste, that might mean a foot-tapping big band number such as Duke Ellington's "Take the 'A' Train," the fast movements from a Baroque-era concerto, or a cheerful Beatles tune.
Listening Strategy: While the music plays, perform gentle exercises, depending on your fitness level. Let the music move you. Keep your movements light and flowing. Breathe to the music. With each new phrase, find a new way to move. Gently come to rest at the end of the music.

To Get to Sleep
The Research: Classical and New Age music helped 24 of 25 people with sleeping problems nod off more quickly, snooze for longer periods of time, or get back to sleep more easily after a middle-of-the-night awakening, according to a study from the University of Louisville School of Nursing.
Best Music: Quiet, melodic pieces with a slow beat and few, if any, rhythmic accents.
Examples: Many slow movements from classical music of all periods. Study participants listened to G.F. Handel's "Water Music," Pachelbel's Canon in D, and Vivaldi's "The Four Seasons." For New Age selections, try "The Fairy Ring" by Mike Rowland, which was used in sleep studies. New Age musicians Yanni or John Tesh might be good choices too.
Listening Strategy: Begin shifting into low gear after supper. Skip the after-dinner coffee, and avoid telephone calls and TV after 9 pm. Play softer and quieter music as bedtime approaches. Continue listening in bed with a tape recorder or CD player equipped with a silent on/off switch. Lie quietly, taking even, deep breaths.
 
To Reduce Stress
The Research: Many studies have found that soothing melodies can ease anxious feelings and quiet both blood pressure and heart rate--even under very stressful conditions. Everyday stress responds to music too, says Dr. Hanser, who leads music-therapy groups for patients, families, and staff at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Here is her technique.

Best Music: "Look for something that deeply focuses your attention, so that the worries of the day--your concerns about what's happened earlier and your plans for what should happen in the future--slip away," says Dr. Hanser. "You want to free your mind and distract yourself. The music must grab your attention and at the same time relax your body."
Examples: Anything goes. Slow music--a love song, a ballad sung by a great voice such as Ella Fitzgerald, Frank Sinatra, or Norah Jones, or a calm instrumental piece--may be perfect. But if a slow tune gives your mind time to fret or obsess, consider something livelier.
Listening Strategy: Sit or lie down in a comfortable position, in a place where you will not be disturbed. After listening for a few minutes, add a relaxation exercise: Starting at your feet, gently tighten, then relax your muscles. "You can feel refreshed after listening for as little as 10 minutes," Dr. Hanser says. "Afterward, you may find that you're able to think more clearly and approach the rest of your day with a more positive, relaxed outlook."

To Relieve Pain
The Research: Physical discomforts--from postoperative pain to chronic aches--can be eased with flowing melodies and distracting rhythms, music therapists and researchers say. One study from Yale University School of Medicine found that people who listened to their favorite music while awake during a surgical procedure needed smaller amounts of sedative and pain medications than those who didn't hear music.
     Alicia Ann Clair, PhD, a board-certified music therapist and director of music therapy at the University of Kansas in Lawrence, has also found that the application of music can bring temporary relief from both short-term pain and long-term discomforts associated with chronic medical conditions. "Music won't eliminate the need for pain relievers," Dr. Clair says. "But it may help them be more effective."
Best Music: Gentle, soothing stress-reducing selections. "You want to break the pain cycle by sending your body cues to relax and by occupying and distracting your mind," says Martha Burke, MT-BC (Music Therapy, Board-Certified), director of the Center for Music Therapy Research in Greenville, NC. "Gently flowing music or music with a slow, steady pulse can help promote relaxation, which can then alter your perception of pain."
Examples:  You may respond to lullaby-like selections. Or, if you're feeling agitated, an up-tempo piece, such as a Broadway show tune, may distract you more completely at first. Then switch to something more soothing after 5 to 10 minutes. This can help lower your heart rate and breathing rate, further relaxing you. "The goal is to reduce the tension that comes with pain," she says.
Listening Strategy: Sit or lie in a comfortable position while the music plays. "Take at least 15 minutes to concentrate fully on the music," Burke suggests. "This is more than background music for washing the dishes or reading the newspaper. Give it your full attention."  

Quote:
“Music speaks what cannot be expressed, soothes the mind and gives it rest, heals the heart and makes it whole, flows from heaven to the soul.”  ~  Unknown Author

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American Cities That Welcome Mature Workers

According to AARP and other sources that have interewed employers and mature workers, the Top 10 Employers and their Cities that welcome employees ages 50 and older are the following:

1. SC Johnson (Racine, WI)
2. Mercy Health System (Janesville, WI)
3. First Horizon National Corporation (Memphis, TN)
4. Scripps Health (San Diego, CA)
5. Stanley Consultants (Muscatine, IA)
6. Lee Memorial Health System (Fort Myers, FL)
7. Leesburg Regional Medical Center & The Villages Regional Hospital (Leesburg, FL)
8. George Mason University (Fairfax, VA)
9. Principal Financial Group (Des Moines, IA)
10. Massachusetts General Hospital (Boston, MA)

SC Johnson company is at the Number One Position,. A packaging corporation, the company is located in Racine, Wisconsin and operates successfully in 70 nations globally. The administration offers flexible work schedules of several types for mature, mid-career and young professional employees. Other attractive draws are health benefits that include their on-site medical clinic wellness, fitness, and recreation programs; on-site education for lifelong learning and college credit without leaving work; paid sabbaticals to employees of longer tenure, and others. SC Johnson also provides retirement planning services.

Other Employers significantly mature-worker-friendly include:
MidMichigan Health (Midland, MI)
Bon Secours Richmond Health System (Richmond, VA)
The YMCA of Greater Rochester (Rochester, NY)
Brevard Public Schools (Viera, FL)
Atlantic Health (Morristown, NJ)
ACUITY (Sheboygan, WI)
Volkswagen of America, Inc. (Auburn Hills, MI)
Saint Vincent Health System (Erie, PA)
Trinitas Hospital (Elizabeth, NJ)
Securian (St. Paul, MN)

Overall, the Top 10 Cities for Working Retirees are the following with major employers that are eager to have mature workers listed above in some addtional cities:
Harrisburg Metro Area PA
Bethesda MD
Raleigh/Cary Metro, N.C.
Tampa/Saint Petersburg FL
Phoenix, AZ
Las Vegas, NV
Madison, WI
Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN
Kansas City, MO
Seattle WA

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Birth Order - So THAT'S why we act like we do!

Why First Borns Fuss, Seconds Are Resilient and Last Borns Like To Laugh - By Michael Grose - Author of  "Why First Borns Rule the World and Last Borns Want to Change it"
     How can two or three children in the same family be so different? They are brought up in the same broad social environment, under a similar set of rules and an identical family value system. They also come from the same genetic pool yet they can be so different in personality, interests and achievement. While they may be born into the same family they are not born into the same position. The effects of their birth position have a significant impact on children, their behavior and their personalities. In order to really understand children it is useful to look at how their position in the family impacts on their development.
     If we look at the big three in birth order – first, middle and youngest – we will notice that children born in each position share a similar set of characteristics. Note that birth order presents possibilities only for parents. Also only children share similar birth order characteristics to first borns – they are super first borns.
     First borns are often more motivated to achieve than later borns. A greater percentage of first borns end up in the professions such as medicine and law. They go for jobs where determination, strong powers of concentration and discipline are valued. First borns are born into a pressured yet treasured position. They are usually the objects of great delight in a family – they are the first. Parents and grandparents often overdo everything with first borns. There is an air of expectancy even before their birth. Names are chosen half way through the pregnancy and photo albums are filled as baby’s every special moment is captured on film. They are the centre of attention, which is an obvious plus if you are a first-born child. 
     The flipside to this adulation is that first borns are coached, prodded and pushed to perform. The expectations are high for first borns, particularly first-born boys, so pressure is something they know all about. It is no coincidence that anecdotal evidence suggest that first born males tend to be lower risk-takers as learners than girls or those in other birth positions. First-born boys fear failure so they often steer away from areas where they can’t excel. Interestingly, some first borns confuse excellence with perfectionism and won’t try unless they can do the perfect job. These kids drive their parents and teachers nuts as they just won’t move out of their comfort zones to take a few risks and even (shock, horror) mess up. This is first-born thing.
     First borns are trailblazers for parents and for the children to follow. Parents are usually hardest on their first borns in terms of discipline and they loosen up as they move further down the family. First borns usually don’t react well to the arrival of the second born. To parents the arrival of another child means a playmate for their eldest. To the first born the arrival of another child means only one thing –DETHRONEMENT. You can read the headlines: “The emperor loses his crown.” Well not quite. The first-born child does everything in his of her power to retain the favoured first position. He will point out the failings of the second born to his parents. In all likelihood as he grows up the first born may well be less than pleasant to this intruder –particularly if they are both boys. 
    According to Kevin Leman author of The New Birth Order Book there are two types of first borns. The first are the compliant nurturers and caregivers. These children love to please and also love to do well in school as they have a high need for mum or dad’s approval. They also like to look after and care for other children. These compliant nurturers are more likely to be girls. Parents often rely heavily on their first borns and let them take much of the responsibility around the home.
     The second types of first borns are the aggressive movers and shakers. These children are assertive, achievement-oriented and strong-willed. They are often boys who have the drive but not the skills to be effective leaders. Their bull-in-a-China-shop approach doesn’t always endear them to others.
    
     The middle (and in all likelihood the second) child is influenced by his elder sibling. The one rule of thumb about birth order is that children are directly influenced by the sibling above and will differ from that sibling. Frank Sulloway, the author of Born To Rebel, puts it succinctly, when he says that the first rule of the sibling road is that first and second borns will be different in personality, interests and achievement. Generally, the middle or second will be what the first-born isn’t. If the first born is responsible the next in line may well be a pest. If the first born is serious, as they often are, the second borns may well be easy-going and gregarious.
     Middle born children are victims of bad timing. Born too late to get the perks and privileges of being born first but too early to get the easy ride that youngest receive, middles often feel squeezed between these two siblings and wonder, “Why me?” or “Its not fair!” The positive side to middle borns is that as they are squeezed between two siblings they are good negotiators and generally develop an adept set of people skills. They are often more flexible as their lives tend to fit in more with the first born. Also they tend to spend more time with children away from their family to avoid the frustration of being an outsider in the family. Middle children subsequently can end up with more friends than their elder sibling.
     Middle born children, particularly if they are surrounded by other boys often become the free spirit or the child most likely to upset (annoy, hassle) his siblings. If you have three children sitting quietly watching television and you suddenly hear a yelp coming from the television room you can bet that the middle child has disturbed the peace in some way. Perhaps he has thumped the youngest or flicked the eldest with a ruler or some foreign object. Middles can be like that! They like to get even!
     Parents need to be aware of the need to make middle children feel SPECIAL. Take photos of just them, and not the whole pack. Make sure you spend time with just them. Help them find their special talent that they don’t share with their siblings (that should be easy as they often stand apart).

     Youngest children in the family are typically charmers and manipulators. They love to get their own way – and they invariably do. They are in the fortunate position of having a sibling break their parents in for them and they don’t have the pressures of the first born. Their birth is not the big event as was the first born’s arrival. Parents are still thinking of a name when they are putting the birth notice for the youngest in the paper. “Ah what will we call him? Jarrod will do. Yeah, that sounds fine.” 
     Youngest are often babied, spoiled, affectionate, outgoing and uncomplicated. The pressure is off the last borns in terms of having to meet their parents’ high expectations so they are more likely to achieve in their own ways. Creative, artistic pursuits are full of later or last borns, whereas firstborns are more likely to end up in positions of leadership. One of the traits many last borns share is persistence. They learn when they are young that if they persist with what they want they will outlast their siblings and wear their parents down eventually. Persistence is a characteristic that pays off for this group. 
     Last borns tend to be more impetuous – they act now and worry about the repercussions later. The positive is that they are more likely to stretch themselves and try new experiences than their siblings. The negative aspect for boys is that their tendency to jump first and think later on can be downright dangerous. Youngest born girls can often be babied and have their parents jumping through hoops to satisfy them.
     Last borns can appear a little self-centred, which is probably due to the fact that they tend to do less at home to help others. There are bigger, more capable siblings at home to take all the responsibilities so youngest children can easily grow up with an ‘I’m here to be served’ attitude. It is important to give youngest borns plenty of opportunities to help around the home.

     The position a child in his family holds is a predictor only of personality, but a powerful predictor nonetheless. It is definitely a factor that parents need to consider as we look for ways to raise happy, well-adjusted and confident children.

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BEWARE: Staged Vehicle Accidents On the Rise

Here is what is going on:  Gangs of thieves stage accidents, fake injuries and then collect millions in fraudulent insurance claims.

Some tips from the Coalition Against Insurance Fraud to avoid becoming a victim of a staged accident:

1.  Never tailgate. This will give you ample time to stop if the driver in front of you suddenly steps on the brakes.
2.  If you’re involved in a collision, count how many passengers were in the other car. Get their names, phone numbers and driver's license numbers.
3.  Pay attention to how the passengers behave. Did they stand around and joke, but suddenly act "injured" when the police arrived?
4.  Keep a camera with you. Take pictures of the other car, the damage it received and the passengers.
5.  Call the police and get a police report, even for minor damage. A police report that says the accident caused only a few scratches will make it harder for crooks to claim serious injuries or major damage.
6.  Call your state insurance fraud bureau if a stranger tries to steer you to an unknown body shop, doctor, chiropractor or lawyer. Give officials the names, addresses and phone numbers of these providers.
7.  Keep careful records of your medical treatments. Compare those against the statements you receive to make sure the bill wasn't padded or treatments fabricated.
~  Information from:   Teresa Mears

Quote:
“I have known a vast quantity of nonsense talked about bad men not looking you in the face. Don't trust that conventional idea. Dishonesty will stare honesty out of countenance any day in the week, if there is anything to be got by it.”  ~  Charles Dickens

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Reverse Mortgages

Reverse Mortgages: They’re At It Again
by Steve Diggs ~ No Debt No Sweat!  Financial Seminar Ministry

     "The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly" is more than a movie title. It serves to describe most of the various mortgage products on the market. For several years I've been warning my audiences about the horrible mortgage products that glutted the market until the Great Meltdown of 2008.
     I have always been a fan of 15-year fixed rate mortgages (The Good). Adjustable rate mortgages were The Bad. Then, came the interest-only loans—my idea of The Ugly.
     But that was then, and this is now. Today we're hearing more and more about something called the reverse mortgage. What is it, and where does it fall on "The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly" spectrum? Well, that's a bit hard to say because reverse mortgages are in a class all their own. They can be good—but, often, they prove to be a huge mistake.
     Here are some generalities. Most reverse mortgages are for people 62 and better. They effectively lend against a home's equity and don't have to be repaid until the owner dies or sells. There are private programs, but the best known is the FHA plan called the Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM.) The amount you can borrow depends primarily on the value of your home, the equity you hold in it, interest rates, and your age. The older you are, the more you can borrow. So far, so good. But this is where these things get a bit more confusing.
     Reverse mortgages can make sense for a well-informed senior who determines that he or she (approximately 45% of reverse mortgages are made by single females) needs the income source to offset retirement expenses or to help with medical bills.
     But, too many people are using these programs to turn dollars into dimes.

Let me share a few of the deep, dark, dangerous pitfalls of reverse mortgages.
1. Reverse mortgages tend to be costly. By the time you add up the FHA fee, mortgage insurance premium, appraisals, and other costs, many of these loans have fees that exceed 6%. If you absolutely must borrow, consider a cheaper home equity loan. For some people this may a better alternative.
2. We baby boomers have never been known for our ability to defer gratification. Reverse mortgages are proving that we haven't changed. This year, the first boomers will turn 63. More and more of the coddled generation are doing typically stupid things with their proceeds from reverse mortgages like buying second homes, paying off credit card bills, and taking cruises. Sin can be forgiven, but stupid is forever.
3. Many seniors (and boomers, too) are being targeted by high-pressure life insurance annuity salesmen trying to get us to buy reverse mortgages and, then use the money to purchase deferred annuities. Look out! Experts warn that deferred annuities make great commissions for their pitchmen—but are rarely good for the seniors buying them. They can tie up retirement savings beyond one's life expectancy.
     Like almost everything else, reverse mortgages are a bit like chameleons.
     Depending on your line-of-sight, their appearance can change before your very eyes. Before you sign your name to the right side of the "X"—research, research, research!
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OPEN HOUSE at Camelot East, Sarasota, FL

Open House at Camelot East on May 15, 2010 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Come see ALL our homes for sale!!!

Camelot East is a 55+, premiere, gated, land lease, manufactured home community.
6300 Quernbury Blvd., Sarasota, FL  34241

941-923-2313  Website:  http://www.cameloteastmhc.com/

Lot 259

Reduced - Across from Clubhouse on Cul-de-sac

Selling Price: $16,900.00

Monthly Lot Lease: $807.52

Bed / Bath: 2 / 2.0

Square Feet: 1040

Year Built: 1986

Listing ID: CE-259

For more information and pictures, click on:

http://www.newbyrealty.com/listings/show.aspx?id=1582

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OPEN HOUSE at Eastern Shores, Edgewater, FL

OPEN HOUSE ~ May 15, 2010 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Eastern Shores is a 55+ land lease, manufactured home community.

19 Camino Real Court, Edgewater, FL 32132

386-427-4163

Community Website: http://www.easternshoresmhp.com/

Here are two of the several homes offered:

Lot 31

Price: $20,999.00

Monthly Lot Lease: $461.00

Bed / Bath: 2 / 2.0 ~ Square Feet: 900

Year Built: 1979 ~ Listing ID: ES-31

For more pictures and details of this home:

http://www.newbyrealty.com/listings/show.aspx?id=1765

Lot 6 ~ NEW!

Selling Price: $62,500.00

Monthly Lot Lease: $461.00

Bed / Bath: 2 / 2.0 ~ Square Feet: 1000

Year Built: 2009 ~ Listing ID: ES-6

For more pictures and details of this home:

http://www.newbyrealty.com/listings/show.aspx?id=1756

Newby Realty Website: http://www.newbyrealty.com/
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"Bounce" - more than just a fabric softener!

Here are some additional uses for Bounce:

• Eliminates static electricity from your television screen. Since Bounce is designed to help eliminate static cling, wipe your television screen with a used sheet of Bounce to keep dust from resettling.
• Dissolves soap scum from shower doors. Clean with a used sheet of Bounce.
• Freshens the air in your home. Place an individual sheet of Bounce in a drawer or hang one in the closet.
• Prevents thread from tangling. Run a threaded needle through a sheet of Bounce to eliminate the static cling on the thread before sewing.
• Eliminates static cling from pantyhose. Rub a damp, used sheet of Bounce over the hose.
• Prevents musty suitcases. Place an individual sheet of Bounce inside empty luggage before storing.
• Freshens the air in your car. Place a sheet of Bounce under the front seat.
• Cleans baked-on food from a cooking pan. Put a sheet in the pan, fill with water, let sit overnight, and sponge clean. The anti-static agents apparently weaken the bond between the food and the pan while the fabric softening agents soften the baked-on food.
• Eliminates odors in wastebaskets. Place a sheet of Bounce at the bottom of the wastebasket.
• Collects cat hair. Rubbing the area with a sheet of Bounce will magnetically attract all the loose hairs.
• Eliminates static electricity from venetian blinds. Wipe the blinds with a sheet of Bounce to prevent dust from resetting.
• Deodorizes shoes or sneakers. Place a sheet of Bounce in your shoes or sneakers overnight so they'll smell great in the morning.

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Advantages of Consuming Garlic

We have all heard, at some time or another, how garlic is “good for us”. Yes, it makes many dishes tasty! It also contains natural ingredients that can help a wide variety of illnesses and diseases.

It is said garlic helps in the prevention of strokes, heart attacks, (shown to reduce a second heart attack by 50%), helps the liver to perform, and reduces the risk of blood clots. The regular intake of garlic can reduce the risk of stomach, bladder, breast, colon and esophageal cancer. Appling crushed garlic to the skin has been helpful to reduce basal cell carcinoma.

More benefits:

Blood Pressure -  It reduces spasms in the small arteries, modifies the hearts rhythm and slows the pulse, effectively lowering the blood pressure.

Blood Sugar - It lowers blood sugar levels and enhances the production of insulin, which diabetics would benefit from.

Cholesterol - It emulsifies the cholesterol and takes it off the walls of the arteries, lowering cholesterol.

Infections - Raw, crushed garlic provides a more powerful anti-biotic than penicillin! It also treats bacterial, (even tuberculosis bacteria) fungal and yeast infections and strep throat and ear, bladder and kidney infections.

Anti aging - It has anti-oxidants which decrease the signs of aging and protect your skins health.

Digestion – It improves the digestive process. It enhances the bodies ability to absorb food. It also helps eliminate the harmful waste matter found in the body.

Allergies – inhaling garlic’s aroma can help stop the symptoms of hay fever and other allergies.

Pimples – Rub raw garlic on a pimple several times a day and it will disappear quickly, without leaving a scar.

Memory – is improved as well as learning performances.

As you see, we can’t underestimate the advantages of this simple yet powerful herb! ~ From Folk Remedies For You

Quote:
"Tomatoes and oregano make it Italian; wine and tarragon make it French. Sour cream makes it Russian; lemon and cinnamon make it Greek. Soy sauce makes it Chinese; garlic makes it good." ~ Alice May Brock

Helpful Hints:
1.  To peel a large number of cloves, drop them into a pan of boiling water for 10-20 seconds, drain and plunge into iced water, drain and the skins should just easily slip off.  Or micro-wave garlic cloves for 15 seconds.
2.  An easy rule of thumb to remember regarding the potency of the flavor of garlic is:  The smaller you cut it, the stronger the flavor.  Chopping finely and/or pressing a clove exposes more surfaces to the air, causing a chemical reaction to produce that strong aroma and potent flavor.

A Bit of Humor:
"A nickel will get you on the subway, but garlic will get you a seat."  ~ Author Unknown

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Colors of Tulips - What They Smybolize

Tulips are often associated with new birth and springtime.  They are symbolic of fame and perfect love. The symbolic meanings also change with the color of the tulips:
~  Red tulips mean "believe me" and are a declaration of true love.
~  Variegated and ruffled tulips can create a striking, modern look for a wedding centerpiece.
~  Yellow tulips mean sunshine and cheerful thoughts.
~  Cream colored tulips mean forever love.
~  White tulips symbolize heaven, newness and purity; to claim worthiness or to send a message of forgiveness.
~  Purple tulips symbolize royalty.
~  Pink tulips mean affection and caring. Great for weddings!
~  Orange tulips mean energy, enthusiasm, desire, and passion.  Great for a "congratulations" gift.
~  For a sympathy arrangement:  White tulips, peach tulips, green tulips and purple tulips have become popular choices for sympathy flowers. A bouquet with white tulips symbolizes the eternal rest of the departed.

Quote:
"Bring the tulip and the rose,
While their brilliant beauty glows."  ~  Eliza Cook

A Bit of Humor:
JOKE:  What does everyone have on their face?
Tulips

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Six Tips for Safer Salads

Six Tips for Safer Salads
Salads based on greens, particularly dark leafy varieties such as spinach and kale, can be a good way to get your Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) of vegetables. However, the contents of salad can sometimes be a source of E. coli and salmonella. Help minimize your risk of exposure to pathogens with these steps:
1. Always rinse packaged greens, even if the package states “prewashed.” Greens that look fresh, especially greens in plastic, can still harbor bacteria. Loose and unpacked greens should be washed three times under cold, running water to remove sand, dirt and any bacteria that may be present.
2. Don't purchase greens that are past their “best-if-used-by” date.
3. All vegetables and fruits should be scrubbed under cold, running water before being used.
4. Do not put raw bean sprouts or alfalfa sprouts in your salad - they aren't really all that healthy and risk of toxins, E. coli or salmonella from these sources is high.
5. If using tofu in salad, purchase it in packaged form only - avoid buying it in bulk out of open barrels, which may harbor unwanted organisms.
6. At a salad bar, make sure that the vegetables are well chilled (kept over ice) and that the food is properly shielded with a sneeze guard or hood. Avoid any items that look old or dried out.

Check out the Food Safety page on DrWeil.com for more information, and keep up to date on outbreaks of food-borne illness.

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Happy Mother's Day - A Tribute to all Moms

Mothers Are Special ~ Anonymous

There is no love like a mother's love,
no stronger bond on earth
Like the precious bond that comes from God,
to a mother when she gives birth.

A mother's love is forever strong,
never changing for all time
And when her children need her most,
a mother's love will shine.

God bless these special mothers,
God bless them every one
For all the tears and heartache,
and for the special work they've done.

When her days on earth are over,
a mother's love lives on
Through many generations,
with God's blessings on each one.

Be thankful for our mothers,
for they love with a higher love
From the power God has given,
and the strength from up above.

A Bit of Humor:  Lessons from Mom
My mother taught me:
TO APPRECIATE A JOB WELL DONE - "If you're going to kill each other, do it outside. I just finished cleaning!"
RELIGION - "You better pray that will come out of the carpet."
TIME TRAVEL - "If you don't straighten up, I'm going to knock you into the middle of next week!"
LOGIC - "Because I said so, that's why."
FORESIGHT -  "Make sure you wear clean underwear, in case you're in an accident."
IRONY - "Keep crying and I'll give you something to cry about."
OSMOSIS - "Shut your mouth and eat your supper!"
CONTORTIONIST - "Will you "look" at the dirt on the back of your neck!"
STAMINA - "You'll sit there 'till all that spinach is finished."
WEATHER - "It looks as if a tornado swept through your room."
HYPOCRISY - "If I've told you once, I've told you a million times - Don't Exaggerate!"
THE CIRCLE OF LIFE - "I brought you into this world, and I can take you out."
BEHAVIOR MODIFICATION - "Stop acting like your father!"
ENVY - "There are millions of less fortunate children in this world who don't have wonderful parents like you do!"
ANTICIPATION - "Just wait until we get home."
MEDICAL SCIENCE - "If you don't stop crossing your eyes, they are going to freeze that way."
THINK AHEAD - "If you don't pass your spelling test, you'll never get a good job."
ESP - "Put your sweater on; don't you think I know when you're cold?"
HUMOR - When that lawn mower cuts off your toes, don't come running to me."
HOW TO BECOME AN ADULT - "If you don't eat your vegetables, you'll never grow up."
GENETICS - "You're just like your father."
ROOTS - "Do you think you were born in a barn?"
WISDOM OF AGE - "When you get to be my age, you will understand."
JUSTICE - "One day you'll have kids ... and I hope they turn out just like you!"
PHYSICS PROBLEMS - "If I yelled because I saw a meteor coming toward you; would you listen THEN?"


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Roses - Of a Different Color - Defined

Red -  Sincere love, respect, courage, passion.  Send red roses to convey the message of your passionate love for that someone; saying "I love you".
Pink  - Grace and gentility, the rose of sweet thoughts.  Send deep pink roses to show your appreciation; gratitude; saying "Thank you". ****GREAT for MOM on Mother's Day!!  Send light pink roses to convey admiration or sympathy. 
Yellow -  In the Victorian times, yellow roses meant jealousy. But today, they signify friendship, joy, gladness and freedom, the promise of a new beginning.  Send yellow roses to brighten up someone's day; to congratulate your friends and loved ones during joyous occasions.
White -  Spiritual love, purity, the rose of confession, the bridal rose; "You are heavenly", "I am worthy of you".  Commonly used as traditional bridal bouquet during weddings to symbolize a happy love. You can also use them to convey the message of "You are heavenly, I miss you".
Lavender -  Love at first sight and enchantment.  Send lavender roses to convey the message of your "love at first sight" with that special someone. You can also send them if you would like to make a special impression.
Orange - Passionate desire, pure enthusiasm and fascination.  An excellent choice for a new relationship that you wish to pursue further. It can also be referring to a new business partnership.

Quote:
“The optimist sees the rose and not its thorns; the pessimist stares at the thorns, oblivious to the rose”.  ~  Kahlil Gibran

Helpful Hint:
For roses to last longer in a vase, fill half the vase with water and the other half with Mountain Dew.  They will last 3 to 4 weeks!

A Bit of Humor:
“I once had a rose named after me and I was very flattered. But I was not pleased to read the description in the catalogue: no good in a bed, but fine up against a wall.”  ~  Eleanor Roosevelt

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Preparations for Selling Your Home

When selling your home, think “out of the box”. Try to imagine what others will see and focus on when they walk into your home. To help with this, become a home shopper. Go look at model homes, or visit a neighbor. What strikes you first when you enter this home? What do you notice as a positive or a negative aspect?

Helpful Hints on what potential buyers may notice:
1. How does the exterior of the home present itself? Is the lawn mowed and edged, are flower beds weeded, or better yet: ARE there flower beds? Is the home clean, freshly painted, and are the windows sparkling clean? Is the driveway free from stains?

2. First impressions are exactly that – FIRST (only once can this happen) IMPRESSIONS (these can last a LONG time). They speak volumes! Does a pet odor meet you when you open the door? Is there evidence of a caged dog or cat living in the home? Is it obvious there is a full litter box in need of emptying?  What about a musty smell?  Check the bathrooms and kitchen under the sinks; carpets, ceilings and walls throughout the home for water marks.

3. Vivid colors on walls are great when you have decorated the home to express YOUR personality. Others may see them as more work to do to make the home express THEIR style. Tone the colors down. Let the buyer see the structure and design of the walls and floor plan of your home, not JUST the walls!

4. Does your home look like you take care of it? Signs that would say, ‘not so much’ are: Holes in walls and old wallpaper. Patch walls, take down the dated wallpaper and bring your home into 2010! Let’s talk about clutter! Arrange your furniture to compliment the room. Too much furniture in one room takes away from showing the size and versatility of the room. Put away magazines (they don’t have to know your interests here either), take down family pictures from side tables, coffee tables, dressers, etc. Let the potential buyer envision THEIR family pictures in these places. Put a plant or flower arrangement in place of the pictures!

5. Sports fan? Like the Tampa Bay Bucs? Have all their memorabilia displayed? Great you are passionate about them. However, your potential buyer may be REALLY turned off to that! Don’t let a simple sport affiliation be the reason to loose a buyer. Take down your beloved team memorabilia – you can do this… it won’t be as painful as you may think…

6. Kitchen clean up. Dirty dishes in the sink do not portray a “lived in look” as one may think. It shows neglect to keeping a clean home and paying attention to detail. Countertops should be cleared off, to show ALL the work space you DO have in your lovely kitchen!  Clean your stove and oven - greasy grime just makes the potential buyer wonder what dirt they CAN'T see.

Yes, it does take work to make your home presentable to sell!  More importantly, if you want the most price out of your home, it is well worth creating an environment where one will not easily find reasons to offer you less on buying your home!

Quote:
"Mid pleasures and palaces through we may roam, Be it ever so humble, there's no place like Home." ~   J. Howard Payne

A Bit of Humor:
"A man's home is his wife's castle." ~  Alexander Chase

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Summer Heat Safety Tips

Basic Summer Heat Safety Tips for Everyone

     Everyone should follow these basic heat safety tips in order to avoid heat exposure and possible death. Try especially hard to make sure that at risk individuals follow theses tips religiously.
     ~ During the hottest hours of the day, stay inside. If possible stay inside an air-conditioned building. The hottest hours of the day are typically from mid morning to mid afternoon.
     ~ Dress lightly and when sleeping use lightweight breathable covers.
     ~ Drink plenty of water and other fluids.
     ~ People who live in homes with no air conditioning should keep blinds closed from morning until the late afternoon to block extra direct heat from sunlight. Also, stay on the lowest level of your home.
     ~ Use a fan. Don’t place the fan directly in front of a window because it may push hot air in. Try placing the fan so that it blows in the room and out the window instead.
     ~ Move your exercise routine to early morning or later in the evening – even swimming.  Swimming pool dangers related to heat exposure do occur.
     ~ Never ever leave anyone in the car while you run to do a quick errand. Not a pet, not a child, not anyone. It’s never safe. Cars can become overheated quickly and when overheated become like ovens. People can succumb to heat exposure and death very quickly in a hot car.
     ~ Lastly, it’s smart to know the signs of heat exposure. Just in case. Even if you’re trying to follow the above summer heat safety tips, mistakes can happen. For example, if you happen to be at the park, and forget the time, someone may become overheated. Heat exhaustion signs will appear first, and then heat exposure signs.

The signs of heat exhaustion include:
Clammy skin
Loss of color in skin
Sweating
A tired, overestimated look on someone’s face
Dry mouth
Headache
Also watch for thirst. Research shows that people should never technically get thirsty. If you feel thirsty, there’s a good chance you’re already too dehydrated. If you see any of the above exhaustion signs get out of the heat immediately. Give the person plenty of cool fluids and wipe them down with cool cloths. If they don’t improve rapidly call 911.

The signs of major heat exposure, also known as heat stroke, include:
High body temperatures – (over 103 degrees F)
Confusion
Poor breathing – if you can’t hear a person breathing, it can indicate a problem
Seizures
The person has stopped sweating
Weak pulse
Hot dry skin to the touch
Fainting or total loss of consciousness
If you see any of the above exposure signs get the person out of the heat immediately and take them to the nearest hospital or call 911. Heat stroke always requires medical attention.
~  From lovetoknow.com

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Benefits of Reading

Reading - it's not just for librarians!  Benefits to reading are many and varied.  From the time we are read to, up to the time we need the larger print, reading demonstrates its rewards!  It keeps the mind active and engaged into our old age.  It takes us places we may not be able to physically go.  It touches the spiritual, social and mental aspects of our lives ... and yes, even the creative juices start to flow!  You see, these realms all intertwine. A reading routine brings enjoyment, entertainment, stress relief, relaxation, escape, and rejuvenation into our worlds, and it stimulates the right side of the brain, exercising it, if you will.  We are helping ourselves, although it may not be so obvious.  Learning. Comprehension. Focus. Understanding. Independence. All these are improved.  Which brings me to my next point:  it's like a ripple effect!  Leading to us becoming more self assured and confident!  Thus also impacting how decision making becomes easier, life's challenges and difficulties  are a bit less stressful, and we are more balanced!

Why not indulge in reading?  Reading - it's a routine worth having!

Quote:
“The greatest gift is a passion for reading. It is cheap, it consoles, it distracts, it excites, it gives you knowledge of the world and experience of a wide kind. It is a moral illumination.”  ~ Elizabeth Hardwick

Helpful Hint:
It's quite easy to find reading material at nominal cost.  The library is a wonderful source for books, literature, magazines or reference books.  If you are one to buy books, how about donating them to a library, your community, resident homes or churches, after you have read them? 

Humor:
Which building in town has the most stories?   The Library!

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