HAPPY NEW YEAR 2012! As another year rings in, most folks are preparing (either mentally or physically) to start the typical “New Year Resolutions” ritual. They have prepared their lists and, usually, start out STRONG in working on the goals. But then, after a few weeks, lose steam and motivation. With that said, is it WORTH even trying to make resolutions in the first place? Recent research tells us, YES!

It has been shown that 40 to 45% of American adults will make one or more resolutions for the coming year.

Top new years resolutions include: weight loss and/or more exercise and finally quitting the smoking habit. Just as popular are resolutions of committing to better money management or getting rid of old debts.

Here is a quick breakdown of how these resolutions are kept as the year progresses:
- past the first week: 75%
- past 2 weeks: 71%
- after one month: 64%
- after 6 months: 46%

While many who make new years resolutions do break them, research shows that making resolutions is still useful to do. People who explicitly make resolutions are 10 times more likely to meet their goals than people who don’t explicitly make resolutions. So how can we make and KEEP our resolutions? The answer is right between your ears!

1) It is great to create a list of resolutions, but it is even more important and powerful to visualize and affirm your goals. The power in clearly seeing your “end goal” keeps you motivated and helps to stay focused.

2) Keeping a daily journal of your progress will help to see how you are doing and quickly identify when you are losing steam! Also, if you are dealing with any mental blocks that may hinder meeting your resolutions, the act of journaling helps to get those “blocks” written down on paper so you can see and address them.

3) Be accountable. While it is great to rely on our own strength, it is sometimes even more powerful to have someone else hold us to our promises. And that includes promises we have made to ourselves. Share your resolutions with someone you trust and who will make sure you are staying on track.

As you start your New Year resolutions, make sure to spend just a few minutes each day to incorporate the above. Your own mind — thoughts, attitudes, and expectations — could make a BIG difference in the success or failure of meeting and KEEPING your resolution list.

Until next time…

Traci
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The elderly population is quite large and steadily growing. Just over 20 years ago, 8.5 million elderly lived alone. It is estimated by 2020, 13.3 million elderly will live alone. More than 77% of all elderly living alone are women and are more likely than men to live alone with age. Widowhood is the most common situation for older women who live alone. Men who live alone are far more likely to be divorced or have never married. This situation is mostly due to the fact that, in general, women tend to marry men older than themselves and, in general, women live longer than men.

The increase in widowhood as well as the overall economy are just two factors that contribute to the elderly being more susceptible to the “Holiday Blues” than the rest of us. Here are a few more contributing factors and/or mindsets:

1) Unrealistic expectations — The unfulfilled expectation of family togetherness and certain events or traditions can contribute to feelings of loneliness, despair, and sometimes anger.

2) Anticipation of a lonely holiday — With more and more seniors living by themselves and family members living further away, there could be a lurking feeling of not seeing their kids or grand kids during the holidays. The “fear” of this, alone, and bring on anxiety, sadness, and depression.

3) Reminders of significant loved ones who have passed on — The holidays can enhance the memories of loved ones who are no longer here.

4) Sadness over how things “used to be” — Memories of holidays in the past that were more festive and closer knit than present celebrations can result in sadness and depression

5) Facing and dealing with failing health — Realizing that, due to health factors, they may not be able to perform activities like in holidays past can agitate and depress many seniors.

However, there are a few things we can ALL do to bring comfort, joy, and cheer back into the holidays for the elderly:

1) Encourage “healthy” reminiscing – Instead of leaving our seniors alone to dwell on the past, spend time with them and encourage them to share their stories and life experiences. Just the simple act of offering a listening ear can provide peace and companionship to the elderly. Also, it allows them to spend more time focusing on the good and “funny” memories instead of the hurtful ones.

2) Involve them in holiday activities – While there may be activities that are too much for them to bare, including them in sending out Christmas cards, placing decorations on the tree, or simply getting their “advice” on a recipe for a holiday treat can help them feel less alone and more involved.

3) Let technology help – Show seniors how to use modern day conveniences like SKYPE to keep in touch. Not only will they enjoy seeing and talking to their loved ones online, but they will feel less “obsolete” in today’s digital world.

4) Volunteer often – For seniors that may be residing in nursing homes and hospices, there can never be enough “quality time” spent. While we all have busy schedules, it is extremely important to carve out a little time, especially at holiday time, to visit some of our more valuable resources (the elderly).

While we can’t be there 24/7, if we just did some of the above as often as we can, it will go a LONG way to reviving the spirit, joy, and feeling of usefulness for our older population. This way, the joy and cheer of the holidays can truly be had by ALL!

Until next time…

Happy and Blessed Holiday Wishes!

Traci
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While some in the current generation are rushing in droves to see the latest movie in the Twilight series, “Breaking Dawn” and others are contemplating their next move after college given the grim economy, another trend is emerging. Over 20% of students currently enrolled in seminary schools across the nation are over the age of 50. And, this trend is growing!

According to the United States Census Bureau, a baby boomer is someone born during the “birth boom” between 1946 and 1964 after post World War II. This generation was not alive during the war, but grew up in the period that was marked by rebuilding, both socially and financially. Baby boomers were growing up in a time of significant and historic social change. Part of this change included their views on religion and spirituality.

In a recent story featured on CNN, a few baby boomers, who have enjoyed successful careers in law and politics for example, shared their reasoning for embarking on such a different and much more spiritual profession. They noted that this is a time when they can truly devote time and attention to a path that they always wanted to pursue. Since these baby boomers are oftentimes more stable and more financially comfortable than their younger seminary school counterparts, they are under much less stress to make ends meet while fulfilling a spiritual calling. Most noted that there is also a GREAT need to help others now more than ever in the world. There is too much work to be done to retire! And many more spiritual leaders (pastors, reverends, etc.) are required to do it.

This trend will also enable struggling churches, who are in need of qualified leadership, but may not be able to provide a large salary. They can now obtain much needed help from these financially comfortable and newly educated pastors, priests, and reverends. Churches can then grow more readily and for these spiritual leaders, they can enjoy a new meaning and deeper fulfillment in their new profession that may have been missing in the previous careers.

Until next time…

Blessings!

Traci
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There was a time when it was a common sight to see kids playing on the playground or running up and down the street in the afternoons following their school day. I remember my mother having to “call me in” for dinner because I was soo involved in playtime. I dreaded to hear her voice yelling for me down the street. Ahh…those were the good old days. But, at the time, we had no idea how “GOOD” those days really were!

Fast forward many years and here we are in 2011. The economy is in such bad shape that cuts are being made left and right. These cuts oftentimes include the cutting of physical education programs in schools. Also, as much as I personally LOVE technology, the hard fact is that the advent of recent video games and other “gadgets” has made playing hopscotch or dodge ball less attractive to our youth. Instead, they rush home, plop down in front the the TV, load up on fast food, and play “Call of Duty” for hours on their computers!

These facts have played into the recent epidemic of childhood obesity that has swept our nation like a plague. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, in 2008, over one third of our children were classified as overweight or obese. The obesity rate has TRIPLED over the past 30 years for kids. Nowadays, kids are consuming many more calories than they expend (or burn off playing basketball or riding a bike) in recent years. The latest news tells us that children under the age of 6 are now prone to obesity and those statistics are on the rise. And the increase in Type 2 Diabetes in young people is steadily growing.

It was bad enough for us, as adults, to “battle the bulge”. Now, this problem has crept into the lives of our kids. So what can we do? Recently, organizations such as Weight Watchers has recently offered FREE weight loss classes for children to help do their part in tackling the childhood obesity epidemic. But what can we (moms, dads, aunts, cousins, siblings) do to conquer this problem that could be getting out of control in our very homes?! Here are just a few simple suggestions that could make a HUGE impact on your health as well as your teen or child:

1) TURN OFF THE TV! Sounds simple, huh? Well it may not be if your teen or child has been conditioned to view the TV or computer as an extended family member. Instead, why not try setting aside a certain amount of time for family interaction each day or a least a few times a week that includes walks or going to the gym together.

2) Boycott Fast Food! I love a McDonald’s french fry ever now and then myself, but it is not wise to make this part of an everyday menu…for us adults as well as for our youth. Get them in the habit of eating fruits, veggies, and drinking PLENTY of water on a daily basis and leave the occasional run to Burger King for the weekend or better yet….maybe once or twice a month.

3) Pick “healthier” food on the menu. Even at fast food restaurants, it is usually better to get the chicken sandwich instead of the double cheeseburger! Most restaurants and fast food chains are offering healthier choices like apples and yogurt.

4) Become a label reader. Start training kids to read labels and educate them on the harmful effects of too much sodium or fat. Teach them how to watch their calorie intake. Do it together…you BOTH will benefit

5) Talk to the doctor. If the above changes are not yielding changes in your already overweight teen or child, then it may be time to talk to your doctor to address any possible underlying issues. The sooner the issue is caught and addressed, the faster your child can be on his or her way to a healthier life.

Until next time…

Blessings!

Traci
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The title of this post may not alarm too many folks today. Sadly, the fact that this title does not immediately cause a rush of anguish and shock simply underscores the challenging and oftentimes horrific environment we are in today. It is a somber sign of the state of mental and emotional turmoil our youth are currently facing.

Brandon McInerney was just 14 years old when, one day three years ago, he decided to exercise his OWN sense of justice and fatally killed a fellow classmate, Lawrence King. To Brandon, it was just to kill Lawrence for one simple fact: Lawrence was openly and admittedly a gay male. Because the jurors, at the time of his trial three years ago, were “hopelessly deadlocked”, a mistrial was declared. Now, three years later and the ripe old age of just seventeen, Brandon has plead guilty to this heinous crime and will be tried as an adult on murder and voluntary manslaughter charges.

Brandon was fueled by enough hate and disdain for Lawrence, that he obtained a firearm and gunned down Lawrence in front of his fellow classmates and teacher in a computer lab. The questions that remain are: Where did this hate come from? Why did Brandon decide HE should administer judgment and his own form of justice over Lawrence? Why did Lawrence’s choice of lifestyle “offend” Brandon to the point of violence?

This quote was taken from the American Psychological Association’s report called ” Hate Crimes Today: An Age-Old Foe in Modern Dress”: “Most hate crimes are carried out by otherwise law-abiding young people who see little wrong with their actions. Alcohol and drugs sometimes help fuel these crimes, but the main determinant appears to be personal prejudice, a situation that colors people’s judgment, blinding the aggressors to the immorality of what they are doing. Such prejudice is most likely rooted in an environment that disdains someone who is “different” or sees that difference as threatening.” It goes on to include a quote by Dr. Karen Franklin of the Washington Institute for Mental Illness Research and Training that “…offenders perceive that they have societal permission to engage in violence against homosexuals.”

Personally, I believe this tragic incident could have been avoided. As a matter of fact, many incidences like this one could be prevented if, in addition to the skills of math, reading, and writing, our young people receive in school, that they are also exposed to “practical and spiritual skills that develop and nurture their psyche and attitudes.” It is simply not enough to provide the “basics” of reading, writing, and arithmetic to young people in today’s apathetic society. The false sense of superiority and/or the threat another person’s lifestyle poses are rooted in a skewed sense of self and a lack of understanding in character and attitudes. The media, which is almost a lifeline to many teens, can be very powerful in fueling skewed opinions and perceptions. And sadly, there are not enough sources to counteract these oftentimes negative perceptions and opinions.

In the case of Brandon McInerney, he felt that Lawrence was a threat or was “lesser than”. His personal repulsion lead him to commit an act that he can never take back. As it stands, Brandon will serve 25 years (for manslaughter and for the use illegal of a firearm) for his actions. It is an unhappy ending. And, yet, it is an ending we see more and more of today. Maybe if we put constructive measures (education, mentoring, at home reinforcement) in place to mitigate and get to the root of the hate and rage in teens, stories like Brandon will become less and less prominent. Maybe, just maybe, the justice of hate will, one day, cease to exist in our young people. What do you think?

Until next time…

Blessings!

Traci
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According to a Wall Street Journal article on charitable giving that was published earlier this year, there was an increase in charitable giving in 2010. However, we are still not at the level of giving we [U.S.] were in previous years. There is a definite increase in those who are in need. 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A woman in Warren, Ohio, Ruby Asman summed it up best, ” onclick=”return TrackClick(” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”" onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”,” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”)”I am so thankful,” onclick=”return TrackClick(” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”" onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”,” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”)” the 56-year-old woman said. ” onclick=”return TrackClick(” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”" onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”,” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”)”Times are so hard. 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Ruby is not alone. Many of us, who have enjoyed a comfortable middle class existence, are now hovering at poverty level or have even dipped below it. The ” onclick=”return TrackClick(” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”" onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”,” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”)”face” onclick=”return TrackClick(” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”" onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”,” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”)” of the destitute person is changing quickly in these current times.

Although we all are facing challenges in our OWN finances and well being, it is even more crucial today to share the blessings we do have. It is even more important now, even if our own cupboards are not as fully stocked as before, to willingly part with canned and dry goods to help out others. Charitable organizations such as The Salvation Army, have seen clothing donations declined by 5 to 10 percent since the recession started, according to Tim Raines, marketing manager for the charity” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”s Northeast region. ” onclick=”return TrackClick(” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”" onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”,” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”)”Instead of donating clothing, more people are wearing it out or selling it at yard sales” onclick=”return TrackClick(” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”" onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”,” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”)”, he said.

So what does this ” onclick=”return TrackClick(” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”" onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”,” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”)”gloom and doom” onclick=”return TrackClick(” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”" onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”,” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”)” message mean to the rest of us? Of course we all know how tough it has been over the past few years. But, until the current economy stabilizes, becoming a ” onclick=”return TrackClick(” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”" onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”,” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”)”person in need” onclick=”return TrackClick(” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”" onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”,” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”)”is hitting closer and closer to our own homes. This message means that in addition to being thankful for our jobs, our homes, and our families, we should also be thankful that for the ability to give to others. It means that we need to exercise not only our ” onclick=”return TrackClick(” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”" onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”,” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”)”thanksgivings” onclick=”return TrackClick(” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”" onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”,” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”)” at the dinner table, but also exercise our ” onclick=”return TrackClick(” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”" onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”,” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”)”giving muscles” onclick=”return TrackClick(” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”" onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”,” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”)” to local food and clothing drives and other help initiatives. It is one thing to be thankful for all that we have received over this past year. It is even more important to be thankful for the blessings and help we can actually give to others this holiday season.

” onclick=”return TrackClick(” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”" onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”,” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”)”HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO YOU AND YOURS!” onclick=”return TrackClick(” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”" onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”,” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”)”

Until next time…

Blessings!

Traci
Did you enjoy this post? Did it give you some ” onclick=”return TrackClick(” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”" onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”,” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”)”food for thought” onclick=”return TrackClick(” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”" onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”,” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk” onclick=”return TrackClick(”,’ttp%3A%2F%2Flancasteronline.com%2Farticle%2Flocal%2F400700_Charities-feel-pinch-in-clothing-donations.html%23ixzz1eUOtHGIk’)”)”? If so, why not subscribe to this blog!? It is easy, just click on the white icon with the wavy lines below RSS icon (wavy lines) to get a regular feed OR click on the mail icon (envelope) below to get blog updates via email.

Recent statistics on life expectancy suggest that this role reversal of the child becoming the parent is more likely to grow. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the average life expectancy in the U.S. is now 77.9 years. And according to the Data360 website, the U.S. male’s life expectancy is now 75.68 years and it is 81.58 years for a woman in the U.S.

Many are ill-prepared for the job of parental care giving (I was somewhat “blindsided” when, unexpectedly, I was thrust into the caregiver role). I was not exactly ready for the physical, financial, and emotional demands that my mother required. This is not an unusual circumstance. A recent survey revealed:
63% of caregivers have no plan as to how they will pay for their parent’s care over the next five years.
62% say the cost of caring for a parent has impacted their ability to plan for their own financial future.
34% spend $300 or more per month out of their own pocket for care giving expenses.
48% say they are earning less money at work as a result of care giving.
And, according to the Family Caregiver Alliance, close to 44 million Americans are currently providing unpaid care to another adult, and oftentimes, around the clock. Family members provide approximately 80% of the long-term care given in the U.S.

Here are some tips and advice that may make the transition from the child to the parent, for our parents, a little easier:

For your OWN wellbeing:

Take a daily vitamin supplement – keep your immune system and general health in tiptop shape
Get exercise — make it a priority for both your mental and physical well-being.
Get regular check-ups and do not ignore possible symptoms of ill health.
Take a break from care giving – you need to recharge in order to be effective, mentally and emotionally, in your care giving.
Get a flu shot – it is important not only for your own health, but for the overall health of your parent
Watch for signs of depression – this applies to you as well as your parent.The demands of care giving can often lead to depression and watch for signs of depression in your parent.
Stay involved in hobbies – another outlet to cope with the mental demands of care giving
Laugh with a friend – laughter is indeed a great medicine for you and your parent

For Financial Planning and Advice:
These websites, compiled by the New York Times, offer very helpful advice and guidance to help plan, financially, for the needs of your parent:

BenefitsCheckUp – A search tool developed by the National Council on Aging to determine eligibility for 1,300 benefit programs that help pay for medications, health care, utilities and so forth.

National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys – Search by location for members of the association. Provides questions to ask lawyers about qualifications and areas of expertise, and a wide-ranging resource list for the elderly.

National Association of Insurance Commissioners – Free fact sheets and shoppers’ guides for long-term care insurance, annuities and Medigap policies.

Insurance Information Institute

Reverse.org - A consumer’s guide to reverse mortgages from a non-profit with no ties to the industry. Links to the AARP’s calculator for choosing such policies.

ReverseMortgage.org -Similar calculator and search tool to find local lenders, with links to their Web sites.

Nolo – Do-it-yourself legal advice. Wills, powers of attorney and other documents.

Senior Law Home Page – Advice from a New York law firm on the legal and financial issues facing the elderly. state forms for powers of attorney, health care proxies and living wills.

U.S. Living Will Registry – Free state-by-state forms.

American Bar Association Aging Tool Kit – Offers a 10-step process for making end-of-life decisions with worksheets, suggestions and links.

While the demands of being a caregiver to a parent are tough and often challenging, do not lose sight of the rewards as well. This is a time when you can form a closer bond with your parent and give back to them for the sacrifices and efforts they previously gave to you. Remember to cherish this time and embrace this new chapter in the relationship with your parent.

Until next time…

Blessings!

Traci
Did you enjoy this post? Did it give you some “food for thought”? If so, why not subscribe to this blog!? It is easy, just click on the white icon with the wavy lines below RSS icon (wavy lines) to get a regular feed OR click on the mail icon (envelope) below to get blog updates via email.

I just read an interesting article about members of the Congressional Deficit Reduction Committee. These 12 “brave” souls are coming together to tackle one of the biggest economic crises probably since World War II. What’s even more interesting is the proposed solutions they are advocating to deal with this issue….First, give folks the honest facts. Then make a plan TOGETHER, step up to the challenge TOGETHER, and then work hard and work TOGETHER. In other words, instead of fighting each other and sugarcoating the truth, why not try telling the truth and working as a team?? Hmmm…what a novel idea!

The article does go on to talk about the particulars of the plan, which would include more spending cuts than the Democrats favored and higher revenue than Republicans originally supported. Basically, this group is advocating a WHOLISTIC approach to tackle this seemingly insurmountable problem: we have to touch upon ALL aspects of this failing economy which includes dealing with revenue, defense spending, Medicaid and Medicare and Social Security. And, dealing with them all simultaneously. There is no “silver bullet” that will solve all of the issues like JUST focus on tax cuts or JUST focus on more spending.

So, what will this teamwork and wholistic view of tackling the current economic fiasco mean to folks like you and me? Well, that remains to be seen. But if the mantra that this committee takes hold, maybe….just maybe….we can end the shenanigans and sideshows we have seen of late and put aside the titles of Democrat or Republican. If so, maybe we can one day soon see less unemployment and less much needed programs being cut from schools.

One thing this article did say and I quote, “People admire guts and courage. They may fight you. They may vilify you. But they will admire you.” Hmmm….wouldn’t it be great to actually admire our leaders once again? Wouldn’t it be great to feel confident in giving them our support and rolling up our sleeves to join in the fight with them….together? Wow…now THAT would be a novel idea!

Until next time…

Blessings!

Traci
Did you enjoy this post? Did it give you some “food for thought”? If so, why not subscribe to this blog!? It is easy, just click on the white icon with the wavy lines below RSS icon (wavy lines) to get a regular feed OR click on the mail icon (envelope) below to get blog updates via email.

Jane is the Creator, Editor & Publisher of ‘A String of Pearls’ a worldwide E-zine for women, by women. She has been blogging for approx 9 years and is active in several areas of social networking. She is proactive in learning and applying new technologies to the best advantage of A String of Pearls, and her other online sites. Jane is currently studying IT Web Design. She is a member of the Carindale Writers Group.

In this audio interview, Jane interviews YOURS TRULY (Traci Sanders Campbell) and we talk about our newest project, The Beauty In/Beauty Out Tour. Listen and find out what this tour is all about AND how it can make a great impact on your inner and outer self!

Until next time…

Blessings!

Traci
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The demise of ANY relationship, in this case the divorce of Kim Kardashian and Kris Humphries, is a somber event and most would prefer to deal with the issues surrounding such a breakup in private. However, when your last name is Kardashian, it becomes imperative to share the details, almost play by play, with the world at large. But what is it, exactly, that makes teen girls idolize this family (especially Kim Kardashian) and, despite what you may say, even us adults just can’t help ourselves from gossiping about the this family’s late breaking news?

In an article actually published by Fox News last year about the Kardashians, notes that Kim Kardashian,in particular, is a fashion icon for many young girls. She epitomizes modern day glamour and success which is a strong obsession that we see many young people in Generation Y experiencing. Unlike other “heiresses” she has been able to create a very profitable conglomerate based on her image, products, and exploits (sex tapes, playboy spreads, weight loss pills, self tanners, etc.) While those achievements are stellar in the business realm, the other message that is being sent and embraced by Gen Y is that it is BETTER to be beautiful and famous than to to smart and “regular”. As a result of this first family of reality TV, the Kardashians have triggered a ripple effect that has many would be doctors and lawyers opting, instead, to try to become the next best rapper or reality TV star. Did they do this on purpose? Probably not. But the “reality” (no pun intended) is that the bombardment of their presence on TV and online has a definite effect on the minds and attitudes of the current generation.

What do you think of the Kardashian’s effect (positive or negative) on this current generation (Gen Y)?

Until next time…

Blessings!

Traci
Did this post feed your spirit? Can it be applied in your life or can it help someone close to you? If so, why not subscribe to this blog!? It is easy, just click on the orange RSS icon (wavy lines) to get a regular feed OR click on the white envelope to get blog updates via email.