In our effort to be politically correct and tolerant of others with their varied faiths and philosophies, America has lost sight of the fact that first and foremost we are a Christian country.
Our forefathers were Christian. They trusted in God as they created our government and its constitution, and said so on our money.
The majority of our citizens are Christians. Those who don't believe as most Americans do are allowed to practice otherwise because our Constitution has given them the right to do so, and because Americans believe that people should be allowed to worship as they choose without repercussions. This is not true in lots of other countries.
We have made a lot of mistakes, however, in the name of tolerance:
We should not have taken God out of public buildings. We need reminders of God's wisdom and power as often as possible and at every turn. Perhaps our present day politicians would be better leaders if they were driven by God's laws instead of their individual desire.
We should not have taken God out of the schools. Our children would benefit greatly from learning and following the Ten Commandments. Perhaps we could eradicate bad behavior and bullying and violence, if children believed they were accountable for that behavior to a greater authority.
We should not have taken God out of the holidays. Materialism and superficiality are honored rather than Christ who is the reason for our celebrating Easter and Christmas.
I've traveled the world including to non-Christian countries. I have been expected to behave according to their rules and to show respect for their differences. And I do, but I believe we should expect the same in this country.
We should “tolerate” (the definition of which is accept, bear or endure) those who are different, but tolerate does not mean agree or acquiesce to those differences. I wonder how God must feel when we choose political correctness over honoring HIM.
There has been controversy over whether we should say Happy Holidays instead of Merry Christmas so as not to insult non-believers. How extraordinary that we should be made to feel ashamed to exclaim our love for this blessed holiday.
Well, I refuse, and so should you. I will say Merry Christmas, and I will express my belief in Christ as my savior. I will continue to think of America as a Christian country which tolerates other belief systems, and I pray you will too, but we must honor our own faith. We must never be coerced otherwise but instead proclaim what we believe without shame.
Merry Christmas to you all, and may God bless you abundantly in this new year.
Saturday, December 25, 2010
Saturday, December 18, 2010
Female Heart Attacks
When women have a heart attack, they rarely have the same dramatic symptoms that men do. Because a woman's symptoms are so different and can be explained away as other possibilities, her first heart attack is often her last, and that is because she waited too long to get help.
Women often decide the symptoms are indigestion, take some Maalox or other anti-heartburn preparation and go to bed, hoping they'll feel better in the morning when they wake up... which doesn't happen.
The symptoms and what to do bear repeating, and this story of what happened to a nurse addresses both.
"I had a heart attack at about 10:30 p.m. with NO prior exertion and NO prior emotional trauma that one would suspect might have brought it on. I was sitting all snugly and warm on a cold evening, with my purring cat in my lap, reading an interesting story my friend had sent me, and actually thinking, 'A-A-h, this is the life, all cozy and warm in my soft, cushy Lazy Boy with my feet propped up.
A moment later, I felt that awful sensation of indigestion, when you've been in a hurry and grabbed a bite of sandwich and washed it down with a dash of water, and that hurried bite seems to feel like you've swallowed a golf ball going down the esophagus in slow motion and it is most uncomfortable. You realize you shouldn't have gulped it down so fast and needed to chew it more thoroughly and this time drink a glass of water to hasten its progress down to the stomach. This was my initial sensation--the only trouble was that I hadn't taken a bite of anything since about 5:00 p.m.
After it seemed to subside, the next sensation was like little squeezing motions that seemed to be racing up my SPINE (hind-sight, it was probably my aorta spasms), gaining speed as they continued racing up and under my sternum (breast bone, where one presses rhythmically when administering CPR).
This fascinating process continued on into my throat and branched out into both jaws. NOW, I stopped puzzling about what was happening. We all have read and/or heard about pain in the jaws (which can awaken you from sleep) being one of the signals of an Myocardial Infarction (MI) happening.
I lowered the foot rest dumping the cat from my lap, started to take a step and fell on the floor instead. I thought to myself, If this is a heart attack, I shouldn't be walking into the next room where the phone is or anywhere else, but, on the other hand, if I don't, nobody will know that I need help, and if I wait any longer I may not be able to get up in a moment.
I pulled myself up with the arms of the chair, walked slowly into the next room and dialed the Paramedics. I told her I thought I was having a heart attack due to the pressure building under the sternum and radiating into my jaws. I didn't feel hysterical or afraid, just stating the facts. She said she was sending the Paramedics over immediately, asked if the front door was near to me, and if so, to unbolt the door and lie down on the floor where they could see me when they came in.
I unlocked the door and laid down on the floor as instructed and lost consciousness, as I don't remember the medics coming in, their examination, lifting me onto a gurney or getting me into their ambulance, or hearing the call they made to St. Jude ER on the way, but I did briefly awaken when we arrived and saw that the radiologist was already there in his surgical blues and cap, helping the medics pull my stretcher out of the ambulance. He was bending over me asking questions (probably something like 'Have you taken any medications?') but I couldn't make my mind interpret what he was saying, or form an answer, and nodded off again, not waking up until the Cardiologist and partner had already threaded the teeny angiogram balloon up my femoral artery into the aorta and into my heart where they installed two side by side stints to hold open my right coronary artery.
I know it sounds like all my thinking and actions at home must have taken at least 20-30 minutes before calling the paramedics, but actually it took perhaps 4-5 minutes before the call, and both the fire station and St. Jude are only minutes away from my home, and my Cardiologist was in his scrubs and already to go to the OR and get going on restarting my heart (which had stopped somewhere between my arrival and the procedure) and installing the stints."
What to do:
1. Be aware that something very different is happening in your body. Your symptoms might not be exactly like those above, so call the Paramedics if ANYTHING is unpleasantly happening that you've not felt before. It is better to have a 'false alarm' visitation than to risk your life guessing what it might be.
2. Be sure to call the Paramedics, and, if you can, take an aspirin. Ladies, TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE:
Do NOT try to drive yourself to the ER - you are a hazard to others on the road.
Do NOT have your panicked husband who will be speeding and looking anxiously at what's happening with you instead of the road.
Do NOT call your doctor -- he doesn't know where you live and if it's at night, you won't reach him anyway, and if it's daytime, his assistants (or answering service) will tell you to call the Paramedics. He doesn't carry the equipment in his car that you need to be saved. The Paramedics do, principally OXYGEN that you need ASAP. Your doctor will be notified later.
3. Don't assume it couldn't be a heart attack because you have a normal cholesterol count. Research has discovered that a cholesterol elevated reading is rarely the cause of an MI (unless it's unbelievably high and/or accompanied by high blood pressure).
MIs are usually caused by long-term stress and inflammation in the body, which dumps all sorts of deadly hormones into your system to sludge things up in there.
The story is a warning to us all. Be alert, be careful and be quick about calling for help.
Women often decide the symptoms are indigestion, take some Maalox or other anti-heartburn preparation and go to bed, hoping they'll feel better in the morning when they wake up... which doesn't happen.
The symptoms and what to do bear repeating, and this story of what happened to a nurse addresses both.
"I had a heart attack at about 10:30 p.m. with NO prior exertion and NO prior emotional trauma that one would suspect might have brought it on. I was sitting all snugly and warm on a cold evening, with my purring cat in my lap, reading an interesting story my friend had sent me, and actually thinking, 'A-A-h, this is the life, all cozy and warm in my soft, cushy Lazy Boy with my feet propped up.
A moment later, I felt that awful sensation of indigestion, when you've been in a hurry and grabbed a bite of sandwich and washed it down with a dash of water, and that hurried bite seems to feel like you've swallowed a golf ball going down the esophagus in slow motion and it is most uncomfortable. You realize you shouldn't have gulped it down so fast and needed to chew it more thoroughly and this time drink a glass of water to hasten its progress down to the stomach. This was my initial sensation--the only trouble was that I hadn't taken a bite of anything since about 5:00 p.m.
After it seemed to subside, the next sensation was like little squeezing motions that seemed to be racing up my SPINE (hind-sight, it was probably my aorta spasms), gaining speed as they continued racing up and under my sternum (breast bone, where one presses rhythmically when administering CPR).
This fascinating process continued on into my throat and branched out into both jaws. NOW, I stopped puzzling about what was happening. We all have read and/or heard about pain in the jaws (which can awaken you from sleep) being one of the signals of an Myocardial Infarction (MI) happening.
I lowered the foot rest dumping the cat from my lap, started to take a step and fell on the floor instead. I thought to myself, If this is a heart attack, I shouldn't be walking into the next room where the phone is or anywhere else, but, on the other hand, if I don't, nobody will know that I need help, and if I wait any longer I may not be able to get up in a moment.
I pulled myself up with the arms of the chair, walked slowly into the next room and dialed the Paramedics. I told her I thought I was having a heart attack due to the pressure building under the sternum and radiating into my jaws. I didn't feel hysterical or afraid, just stating the facts. She said she was sending the Paramedics over immediately, asked if the front door was near to me, and if so, to unbolt the door and lie down on the floor where they could see me when they came in.
I unlocked the door and laid down on the floor as instructed and lost consciousness, as I don't remember the medics coming in, their examination, lifting me onto a gurney or getting me into their ambulance, or hearing the call they made to St. Jude ER on the way, but I did briefly awaken when we arrived and saw that the radiologist was already there in his surgical blues and cap, helping the medics pull my stretcher out of the ambulance. He was bending over me asking questions (probably something like 'Have you taken any medications?') but I couldn't make my mind interpret what he was saying, or form an answer, and nodded off again, not waking up until the Cardiologist and partner had already threaded the teeny angiogram balloon up my femoral artery into the aorta and into my heart where they installed two side by side stints to hold open my right coronary artery.
I know it sounds like all my thinking and actions at home must have taken at least 20-30 minutes before calling the paramedics, but actually it took perhaps 4-5 minutes before the call, and both the fire station and St. Jude are only minutes away from my home, and my Cardiologist was in his scrubs and already to go to the OR and get going on restarting my heart (which had stopped somewhere between my arrival and the procedure) and installing the stints."
What to do:
1. Be aware that something very different is happening in your body. Your symptoms might not be exactly like those above, so call the Paramedics if ANYTHING is unpleasantly happening that you've not felt before. It is better to have a 'false alarm' visitation than to risk your life guessing what it might be.
2. Be sure to call the Paramedics, and, if you can, take an aspirin. Ladies, TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE:
Do NOT try to drive yourself to the ER - you are a hazard to others on the road.
Do NOT have your panicked husband who will be speeding and looking anxiously at what's happening with you instead of the road.
Do NOT call your doctor -- he doesn't know where you live and if it's at night, you won't reach him anyway, and if it's daytime, his assistants (or answering service) will tell you to call the Paramedics. He doesn't carry the equipment in his car that you need to be saved. The Paramedics do, principally OXYGEN that you need ASAP. Your doctor will be notified later.
3. Don't assume it couldn't be a heart attack because you have a normal cholesterol count. Research has discovered that a cholesterol elevated reading is rarely the cause of an MI (unless it's unbelievably high and/or accompanied by high blood pressure).
MIs are usually caused by long-term stress and inflammation in the body, which dumps all sorts of deadly hormones into your system to sludge things up in there.
The story is a warning to us all. Be alert, be careful and be quick about calling for help.
Saturday, December 11, 2010
Food for Thought
The holidays are here and my family members look forward to the special dishes that I make during the season. In fact, my son is appalled if I even consider dropping one recipe from the menu, so despite the calories, I cook dishes luscious with butter and cream and bake sweets steeped in sugar.
The problem is what to do with all that fabulous food that is left over when the meal is finished. I send some home, of course, but because I always make way too much, I still have those extra calories staring at me whenever I open the refrigerator door, and resisting them is so tough. Long ago, though, I decided not to be too hard on myself. After all, the holidays come only once a year.
I read an interesting article just yesterday that may save the day. It says if one thinks repeatedly about a particular food, the desire to eat it is diminished. In other words, think long and hard about what it is like to ingest that piece of cake or candy, and you will eat less of it.
The Carnegie Mellon University study dispels the long believed notion that the more we think about something, the more we want it. We do have to do the "imagining" repeatedly and in great detail.
For instance, if we want to eat a piece of cheese (my downfall), we must imagine unwrapping it, slicing through it, putting it into our mouth, chewing it, and savoring each bite until it is swallowed. In fact, the greater the detail of visualization, the better it is. The researchers promise that if we do that 30 times or more, we will eat smaller portions or none at all.
"Engaging in the mental act of eating can reduce interest in that type of food," said lead researcher Dr. Carey Morewedge. The brain actually believes that we have eaten so much of that particular food that any more of it is a turn-off.
Wouldn't it be fabulous to think ourselves thin? Let me know if it works for you!
The problem is what to do with all that fabulous food that is left over when the meal is finished. I send some home, of course, but because I always make way too much, I still have those extra calories staring at me whenever I open the refrigerator door, and resisting them is so tough. Long ago, though, I decided not to be too hard on myself. After all, the holidays come only once a year.
I read an interesting article just yesterday that may save the day. It says if one thinks repeatedly about a particular food, the desire to eat it is diminished. In other words, think long and hard about what it is like to ingest that piece of cake or candy, and you will eat less of it.
The Carnegie Mellon University study dispels the long believed notion that the more we think about something, the more we want it. We do have to do the "imagining" repeatedly and in great detail.
For instance, if we want to eat a piece of cheese (my downfall), we must imagine unwrapping it, slicing through it, putting it into our mouth, chewing it, and savoring each bite until it is swallowed. In fact, the greater the detail of visualization, the better it is. The researchers promise that if we do that 30 times or more, we will eat smaller portions or none at all.
"Engaging in the mental act of eating can reduce interest in that type of food," said lead researcher Dr. Carey Morewedge. The brain actually believes that we have eaten so much of that particular food that any more of it is a turn-off.
Wouldn't it be fabulous to think ourselves thin? Let me know if it works for you!
Saturday, December 4, 2010
Decking the Halls
Christmas is my favorite holiday. The music brings me to tears. The decorations are amazing, and the lights are magical. I just adore driving through our neighborhoods to see how others have expressed their love of this blessed season.
As I've gotten older, I do less in the way of lights on the outside of the house, but I still decorate like crazy inside. Angels and Mr. and Mrs. Santa light up and move; snow covered houses in a mini village twinkle, stockings are stuffed; the tree sparkles like a beautiful jewel and is covered with special ornaments.
Each year, I bought a new ornament for each family member. They would depict whatever made that year special for them--ballet and cheerleading for my daughter and a soccer ball and Santa on the computer for my son are examples.
The best ornaments on the tree, however, were the ones my children made for me through the years. I especially cherish the angel my daughter embroidered when she was 10 and the fingerprint flower my son made whe he was six.
I could easily theme the tree or buy sophisticated baubles, but I'd rather have the tree represent the memories of Christmas I so cherish. I still buy new ornaments for my children each year--something to symbolize my daughter's wedding, my son's love of football, and my granddaughter's birth were the most recent ones. It's still fun to find just the right one.
Someday, all the ornaments will go to the intended, and I hope will make keepsakes that will prompt the stories of our very special celebrations.
As I've gotten older, I do less in the way of lights on the outside of the house, but I still decorate like crazy inside. Angels and Mr. and Mrs. Santa light up and move; snow covered houses in a mini village twinkle, stockings are stuffed; the tree sparkles like a beautiful jewel and is covered with special ornaments.
Each year, I bought a new ornament for each family member. They would depict whatever made that year special for them--ballet and cheerleading for my daughter and a soccer ball and Santa on the computer for my son are examples.
The best ornaments on the tree, however, were the ones my children made for me through the years. I especially cherish the angel my daughter embroidered when she was 10 and the fingerprint flower my son made whe he was six.
I could easily theme the tree or buy sophisticated baubles, but I'd rather have the tree represent the memories of Christmas I so cherish. I still buy new ornaments for my children each year--something to symbolize my daughter's wedding, my son's love of football, and my granddaughter's birth were the most recent ones. It's still fun to find just the right one.
Someday, all the ornaments will go to the intended, and I hope will make keepsakes that will prompt the stories of our very special celebrations.
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Holiday Sadness
We've just celebrated Thanksgiving, and I have so much to be thankful for--good health, fulfilling work, wonderful friends and a lovely family.
I love the holidays because they are a particularly special time for family members to gather, express their love, and pass on cherished traditions to new generations. Most of us spend a lifetime anticipating and treasuring these moments and the people with whom we share them.
The holiday season can be a very hard time, though, for those who have experienced loss--a family member, their job or their home. As we grow older, losing that which we love is not only more common but also happens in multiple ways. Loss causes people to struggle with sadness and even depression and none of us are immune.
Normally, these feelings of sadness during the holidays are temporary and don’t impact ability to function. If, however, you feel so sad that you’re losing interest in or withdrawing from regular activities, experiencing a lack of energy, inability to concentrate, or a change in your eating or sleeping patterns, consult your physician about the possibility of depression.
Clinical depression, which can also be caused by bio-chemical changes in the brain, interferes with performing the simplest tasks, erodes self-esteem, and can cause the affected person to question the value of life.
The good news is that treatment that includes behavioral changes and medication is highly effective, dramatically so among seniors. Treatment should be carefully monitored and results vary, but there is marked improvement in 4-12 weeks.
Talk therapy is also beneficial. Surround yourself with supportive people who understand and sympathize, and seek out a good therapist. Contact the American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry (AAGP) at 301-654-7850 or visit main@aagponline.org to request board-certified experts in your area.
If you find yourself alone during the holidays, be kind to yourself, even indulgent. Buy that new outfit or bauble you’ve been wanting forever; have a spa day (manicure, pedicure or massage—perhaps all three), and invite a friend to go out with you to a new restaurant. You’ll feel special and will be adding new memories to your holiday recollections, perhaps even creating some new holiday traditions.
If you know someone who is alone, invite them into your holiday. Christmas is a time for giving, and giving of yourself is the best gift of all.
I love the holidays because they are a particularly special time for family members to gather, express their love, and pass on cherished traditions to new generations. Most of us spend a lifetime anticipating and treasuring these moments and the people with whom we share them.
The holiday season can be a very hard time, though, for those who have experienced loss--a family member, their job or their home. As we grow older, losing that which we love is not only more common but also happens in multiple ways. Loss causes people to struggle with sadness and even depression and none of us are immune.
Normally, these feelings of sadness during the holidays are temporary and don’t impact ability to function. If, however, you feel so sad that you’re losing interest in or withdrawing from regular activities, experiencing a lack of energy, inability to concentrate, or a change in your eating or sleeping patterns, consult your physician about the possibility of depression.
Clinical depression, which can also be caused by bio-chemical changes in the brain, interferes with performing the simplest tasks, erodes self-esteem, and can cause the affected person to question the value of life.
The good news is that treatment that includes behavioral changes and medication is highly effective, dramatically so among seniors. Treatment should be carefully monitored and results vary, but there is marked improvement in 4-12 weeks.
Talk therapy is also beneficial. Surround yourself with supportive people who understand and sympathize, and seek out a good therapist. Contact the American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry (AAGP) at 301-654-7850 or visit main@aagponline.org to request board-certified experts in your area.
If you find yourself alone during the holidays, be kind to yourself, even indulgent. Buy that new outfit or bauble you’ve been wanting forever; have a spa day (manicure, pedicure or massage—perhaps all three), and invite a friend to go out with you to a new restaurant. You’ll feel special and will be adding new memories to your holiday recollections, perhaps even creating some new holiday traditions.
If you know someone who is alone, invite them into your holiday. Christmas is a time for giving, and giving of yourself is the best gift of all.
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Cheaters Never Prosper?????
One of the values considered important in my family was never to cheat--not in school or work, not on your taxes and not in a relationship. It would seem this life lesson has become archaic.
CEOs have thought nothing of destroying a company as long as their pockets were lined; too many politicians are corrupt, and infidelity is rampant. The legacy is that our children have few models in our society, and even at home, for honesty and integrity. As a result they think nothing of cheating, and many have been doing so since elementary school. Some even take pride in having cheated their way through school, reveling in the stories of their creativity or the teacher’s stupidity.
Cheating crosses all boundaries too. It’s not just the “losers” who try to take the easy way out. Now, it’s the “good” students too who cheat rather than risk failing. There have been examples of National Honor Society officers and top 12 students who have stolen tests and plagiarized papers. And believe me; it’s tough to talk to number 13, who didn’t cheat, about why life is not fair.
The legacy of so many kids cheating most of the time, besides the obvious moral problem, is the epidemic on the college level of kids flunking out—now in astronomical numbers. They already begin college with knowing far less and because they are not accustomed to studying or working hard, they can’t make it.
The ramifications for our country are terrifying. How will these kids contribute to society? How, like generations before them, will they move us forward? How will they help us to compete on the international level? The United States was once the number one educational system in the world. Today, we are 24th and dropping.
The effects of no moral compass and diminishing work ethic will be our country's demise. We must tackle this problem or our heyday as the leader of the free world is over.
CEOs have thought nothing of destroying a company as long as their pockets were lined; too many politicians are corrupt, and infidelity is rampant. The legacy is that our children have few models in our society, and even at home, for honesty and integrity. As a result they think nothing of cheating, and many have been doing so since elementary school. Some even take pride in having cheated their way through school, reveling in the stories of their creativity or the teacher’s stupidity.
Cheating crosses all boundaries too. It’s not just the “losers” who try to take the easy way out. Now, it’s the “good” students too who cheat rather than risk failing. There have been examples of National Honor Society officers and top 12 students who have stolen tests and plagiarized papers. And believe me; it’s tough to talk to number 13, who didn’t cheat, about why life is not fair.
The legacy of so many kids cheating most of the time, besides the obvious moral problem, is the epidemic on the college level of kids flunking out—now in astronomical numbers. They already begin college with knowing far less and because they are not accustomed to studying or working hard, they can’t make it.
The ramifications for our country are terrifying. How will these kids contribute to society? How, like generations before them, will they move us forward? How will they help us to compete on the international level? The United States was once the number one educational system in the world. Today, we are 24th and dropping.
The effects of no moral compass and diminishing work ethic will be our country's demise. We must tackle this problem or our heyday as the leader of the free world is over.
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Recipe for Powerful Parenting
I’ve gotten many requests from readers asking me to take the flip side and analyze what makes a good kid good. I firmly believe it is all about parenting. Schools can only offer the continued development, reinforcement, and enrichment of the education that the parents should begin with a child from the moment they’re born. Good kids are the outgrowth of positive and effective parenting.
Now, I know this is no easy trick. I believe parenting is the hardest job on earth. I know because I’ve done it with two kids. No other work comes with more emotional baggage or less training, and if the modeling that we had as children was ineffective too, we have an even greater challenge, but I also believe there is no other job in life more important or gratifying.
I tackled parenting my own children with at least the same commitment and energy as I have given to any other work I have ever done. I did my research and read everything I could about effective parenting. I picked the brains of friends who had children about the techniques that worked best for them, and I analyzed my family’s style of child rearing to delineate what I would or would not pass on to the next generation. Then I put all that material away and followed my heart and instincts.
I created the most positive, loving relationship I could while modeling and reinforcing the values I wanted my children to assimilate and the behavior I wanted them to emulate, and when I have students who are as well-behaved, motivated, hard-working and successful as my children became (I am definitely a proud mama), I find that their parents did the same.
What constitutes effective parenting? If caring parents incorporated the following, they would create children who would become a force—powerful, passionate, persuasive, and ultimately prominent in whatever they choose to do.
• Conviction—Parents must clarify their own beliefs and values before hoping to pass them on. Decide what values are most important to you. Complete honesty, faithfulness, hard work, commitment, and excellence in all things were the ones I wanted my children to embrace, and they are the values I encourage in my students as well.
• Courage—A parent must be tough—set clear boundaries, enforce rules consistently, and have high expectations for their children despite what is happening among their peers, your peers or society. Honest feedback is important. Children need to know that you will always tell them the truth, even if it is hard to hear.
• Compromise—Though it is critical to have clarity of conviction and rules, flexibility must also be the cornerstone of any successful relationship, and it is a relationship you are creating with your child that will continue to evolve throughout your lives. If you are too inflexible, you risk breaking your child’s spirit and ultimately breaking the relationship. Be reasonable in all things.
• Constancy—Be dependable. Make sure your children know they can come to you about anything. Be consistent. If they know what they can expect from you, you will ensure their feeling of safety. Create traditions your children will remember and cherish. Have morning and evening rituals. Make holidays unique to your family. Repetition in all things is important—for learning and for security.
• Compassion—Hear your child’s voice with your heart. Be available to listen to them when they speak, to hug them fiercely when they’re hurt, to believe in them, to be proud of them and to tell them so often.
Now, I know this is no easy trick. I believe parenting is the hardest job on earth. I know because I’ve done it with two kids. No other work comes with more emotional baggage or less training, and if the modeling that we had as children was ineffective too, we have an even greater challenge, but I also believe there is no other job in life more important or gratifying.
I tackled parenting my own children with at least the same commitment and energy as I have given to any other work I have ever done. I did my research and read everything I could about effective parenting. I picked the brains of friends who had children about the techniques that worked best for them, and I analyzed my family’s style of child rearing to delineate what I would or would not pass on to the next generation. Then I put all that material away and followed my heart and instincts.
I created the most positive, loving relationship I could while modeling and reinforcing the values I wanted my children to assimilate and the behavior I wanted them to emulate, and when I have students who are as well-behaved, motivated, hard-working and successful as my children became (I am definitely a proud mama), I find that their parents did the same.
What constitutes effective parenting? If caring parents incorporated the following, they would create children who would become a force—powerful, passionate, persuasive, and ultimately prominent in whatever they choose to do.
• Conviction—Parents must clarify their own beliefs and values before hoping to pass them on. Decide what values are most important to you. Complete honesty, faithfulness, hard work, commitment, and excellence in all things were the ones I wanted my children to embrace, and they are the values I encourage in my students as well.
• Courage—A parent must be tough—set clear boundaries, enforce rules consistently, and have high expectations for their children despite what is happening among their peers, your peers or society. Honest feedback is important. Children need to know that you will always tell them the truth, even if it is hard to hear.
• Compromise—Though it is critical to have clarity of conviction and rules, flexibility must also be the cornerstone of any successful relationship, and it is a relationship you are creating with your child that will continue to evolve throughout your lives. If you are too inflexible, you risk breaking your child’s spirit and ultimately breaking the relationship. Be reasonable in all things.
• Constancy—Be dependable. Make sure your children know they can come to you about anything. Be consistent. If they know what they can expect from you, you will ensure their feeling of safety. Create traditions your children will remember and cherish. Have morning and evening rituals. Make holidays unique to your family. Repetition in all things is important—for learning and for security.
• Compassion—Hear your child’s voice with your heart. Be available to listen to them when they speak, to hug them fiercely when they’re hurt, to believe in them, to be proud of them and to tell them so often.
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Raise Successful Kids
There is an epidemic among kids today. Often they (there are exceptions of course) are extremely rude and disrespectful. They are certainly not well-spoken and more often than not just plain vulgar; they do not exercise even the basest level of consideration, and they are completely self-centered.
Other people’s feelings are just not important to them—the reason, I am convinced that bullying in every form is no longer an aberration but a norm. Kids are out of control, feeling entitled and just plain obnoxious, and their lack of propriety and discipline will be their demise.
The resolution to this problem begins with parents who need to recognize the severity of the problem and get back in charge. Even if your child is not the brightest bulb in the chandelier, they will shine if they’re well mannered and respectful. Adults are impressed when a child’s behavior is exemplary and let’s face it; the adults in the life of a child give the feedback that impacts their self-esteem and self-image.
Teaching a child manners and appropriate behavior contributes mightily to character building. If the parent expects the child to be respectful, kind, considerate and controlled, then the child will be respectful, kind, considerate and controlled. It is just that simple and powerful, but this training (and that is what it is) must begin as early as age one and must be reinforced and modeled constantly and consistently throughout the preschool and elementary school ages.
The following are some basic guidelines that parents and grandparents should instill. Teach your child:
1. a reverence for their elders—to stand up when someone older walks into the room, to greet them politely (with words, a firm handshake or a hug), and to listen attentively even if the stories are repeats. It’s how they will learn your family’s values and history. If you teach your child that they must treat all their elders with respect, they will also treat you with respect.
2. to open doors for others, to allow elders always to go first, and to say thank you if someone opens a door for them.
3. to say hello, good-bye, have a good day, please, thank you, you’re welcome, pardon me, excuse me, may I, and I’m sorry—If you teach your child to speak respectfully, they will become considerate of others. Teaching a child to be polite and humble is a gift to them. They will become content with their circumstances, and people will treat them with respect.
4. to pay attention when spoken to—an active listener learns better, is more present in their circumstance, is more popular with their peers, and more successful in their relationships.
5. to wait—for their turn to speak, for their turn in line, and for what they want. You create a child who learns to be patient and to value what’s really important in life.
6. to honor the differences between people with respect to culture, race and religion—no name calling, not even in fun. Teasing is hurtful regardless of motivation.
7. to clean up after themselves—whether at home, at someone else’s house or at school, children should learn never to leave a mess but should instead leave things even better than they found them. You will create a child who is organized, attentive to details, and who will take pleasure in an orderly environment.
8. to be a good sport—not to gloat if they win and not to sulk if they lose, but instead to be pleasant and to congratulate.
9. to share with others—teach your child to have a generous spirit, to consider people and relationships more important than things.
10. to be honest—to share their thoughts and feelings authentically but respectfully and to follow all the rules (legal, moral and societal) to accomplish their goals.
Parents…you must start parenting. Begin teaching and training as soon as your child understands what you’re saying. When your child does something well, tell them so effusively and when they do something wrong, tell them gently and show them how it is done best and why.
Gift your children with good manners, strong values and a generous spirit and you will ensure their success.
Other people’s feelings are just not important to them—the reason, I am convinced that bullying in every form is no longer an aberration but a norm. Kids are out of control, feeling entitled and just plain obnoxious, and their lack of propriety and discipline will be their demise.
The resolution to this problem begins with parents who need to recognize the severity of the problem and get back in charge. Even if your child is not the brightest bulb in the chandelier, they will shine if they’re well mannered and respectful. Adults are impressed when a child’s behavior is exemplary and let’s face it; the adults in the life of a child give the feedback that impacts their self-esteem and self-image.
Teaching a child manners and appropriate behavior contributes mightily to character building. If the parent expects the child to be respectful, kind, considerate and controlled, then the child will be respectful, kind, considerate and controlled. It is just that simple and powerful, but this training (and that is what it is) must begin as early as age one and must be reinforced and modeled constantly and consistently throughout the preschool and elementary school ages.
The following are some basic guidelines that parents and grandparents should instill. Teach your child:
1. a reverence for their elders—to stand up when someone older walks into the room, to greet them politely (with words, a firm handshake or a hug), and to listen attentively even if the stories are repeats. It’s how they will learn your family’s values and history. If you teach your child that they must treat all their elders with respect, they will also treat you with respect.
2. to open doors for others, to allow elders always to go first, and to say thank you if someone opens a door for them.
3. to say hello, good-bye, have a good day, please, thank you, you’re welcome, pardon me, excuse me, may I, and I’m sorry—If you teach your child to speak respectfully, they will become considerate of others. Teaching a child to be polite and humble is a gift to them. They will become content with their circumstances, and people will treat them with respect.
4. to pay attention when spoken to—an active listener learns better, is more present in their circumstance, is more popular with their peers, and more successful in their relationships.
5. to wait—for their turn to speak, for their turn in line, and for what they want. You create a child who learns to be patient and to value what’s really important in life.
6. to honor the differences between people with respect to culture, race and religion—no name calling, not even in fun. Teasing is hurtful regardless of motivation.
7. to clean up after themselves—whether at home, at someone else’s house or at school, children should learn never to leave a mess but should instead leave things even better than they found them. You will create a child who is organized, attentive to details, and who will take pleasure in an orderly environment.
8. to be a good sport—not to gloat if they win and not to sulk if they lose, but instead to be pleasant and to congratulate.
9. to share with others—teach your child to have a generous spirit, to consider people and relationships more important than things.
10. to be honest—to share their thoughts and feelings authentically but respectfully and to follow all the rules (legal, moral and societal) to accomplish their goals.
Parents…you must start parenting. Begin teaching and training as soon as your child understands what you’re saying. When your child does something well, tell them so effusively and when they do something wrong, tell them gently and show them how it is done best and why.
Gift your children with good manners, strong values and a generous spirit and you will ensure their success.
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Crisis in the Classroom
I have been teaching for almost 20 years and sadly (and now terrifyingly) what I have recognized is that each year the students are progressively more ill-mannered, illiterate and ill-equipped. We babyboomers are trusting our futures to young people who will not be prepared to handle their own adulthood much less make wise and well-informed decisions for us when we're in the home.
Now, there are exceptions and I have had the privilege to teach a good number of them, but they are becoming the minority. The group of teens who are respectful, motivated to do well, and highly responsible is shrinking in size, and we are losing entirely the middle-class group—the strong B-C students who are hard workers but not necessarily destined for college and much better suited for skilled work in the various trades. Today in schools, we have that much smaller group of great kids and all the rest, who are out of control, driven by a sense of entitlement rather than earned success, and out of touch with any sort of moral compass.
Just recently, and not for the first time, "top" students have even been involved in cheating. I have had many students tell me (and most with pride or levity) that they have cheated their way through school from as early as elementary school. They have convinced themselves that it is so critical to be on top (or even just to pass) that playing fair and following rules is just not important; in fact, has no value. The legacy of that, of course, is that even the "good" kids believe the ends justify any means, and we are producing kids who know little or nothing.
Then there is the student who cares so little that as long as they pass a class, they’re satisfied. I’ve tried to explain the concept of what knowing only 70% of anything means—that they wouldn’t want a doctor who only knew 70% of the material performing surgery on them or they wouldn’t want to work in a building where the architect only knew 70% of the material, but they don’t get it.
They believe somehow that just because they exist, they should succeed—a sense of entitlement that is contributing greatly to the demise of the modern student. They want to make six figures, but are not at all interested in investing the time or effort necessary to reach that level of success.
Who is to blame? The parents, of course, are the first target. Many have turned the job of parenting over to $5.00 an hour caregivers with different values and morals, who are not well educated themselves and certainly not as motivated as the parent would be to invest in their child.
Honestly, I don’t really understand having children and turning them over to daycare to raise unless there is absolutely no alternative. What a precious experience missed forever and what a disadvantage to the child.
The result—guilty parents who compensate with over-indulgence, are too tired to expect much and too terrified to discipline, and out of control first graders with mouths like sailors and behavior that is belligerent at best. Have you ever watched Super Nanny? Those are no longer aberrant situations. Imagine 25 of those kids in a classroom. It is no wonder that the quality of education is being impacted.
And what do the parents do when their kids are out of control? They blame the school and expect it to resolve the problem, and perhaps the school could discipline and make a difference when they’re on the elementary level, but all its programs to correct behavior fail when there is no consistency at home.
If we get them acting out in high school, it is really too late to make a difference. Hear this parents! If your child is not a conscientious student who behaves well, they will not succeed in high school, and it may be too late to impact a change for the positive. Their success in high school and later in college, if they make it in, is totally predicated on their training during those critical preschool and elementary school years. If you don’t do it then, you and your child will pay the piper in junior high school and thereafter.
The schools, of course, have to accept responsibility too. Historically, the schools have resisted parenting in lieu of educating, but, because parenting is nonexistent in too many cases, valuable time is now spent teaching students basic manners, respectable dress, time management and a sense of responsibility.
The schools have also relaxed expectations. The effort to “Leave No Child Behind” has resulted in passing kids who can’t read or write a complete sentence, and rather than deal with the problem, we deny the problem exists or put on a band aid and hope we can get them graduated. I was part of a conference with parents and counselors trying to determine college attendance for their student who was really illiterate. I was appalled and astounded that they were not trying to determine how to get this kid skilled in some trade that would result in him becoming a productive member of our society.
Unlike in almost any other country where students earn the right to higher education with hard work, good grades and exemplary behavior, we give our students the notion that they are entitled to a college education whether or not they’ve worked for that opportunity. At some point, we decided in America that working in the trades is not a lofty enough goal or important enough work, so, because there are fewer of them, my plumber earns $100 an hour, a lot more than I do as a teacher or writer, and I have a Master’s Degree.
Not all students are college material and when we send those who are ill-equipped, we impact the quality of everyone’s education. We’ve watered down the education on the high school level to accommodate the masses and now we’re watering down college. America is in trouble because our kids will not be as skilled or as educated as any number of our enemies like Iran or competitors like India and China. Already, American children cannot compete with students globally in math and science. When once we were the number one educational system in the world, we are now 24th. Scary enough for you?
The third area of fault needs to be placed squarely on the shoulders of society as a whole. To what have we reduced ourselves? Nuclear families who have isolated themselves from the love, support, wisdom and encouragement of older generations; the preoccupation with being on one screen or another 24/7. It seems everyone is glued to their televisions, computers and phones like they are appendages.
As a result, kids’ social skills are nonexistent because they can only relate to their families and friends via facebook and texting, and the family is breaking down because they can’t even find time for a family meal (now known to be significant tradition for producing a successful kid.)
Kids are immune to violence because of the movies and games to which they are constantly exposed, and they are promiscuous because of what they see on the television in their own living rooms.
It isn’t just because there is a 50% divorce rate or a 10% unemployment rate. Financial and familial struggles have existed forever. The difference is how we are dealing or not dealing with those struggles.
What to do? Well, I think my next book may be about this topic so stayed tuned for suggestions.
Now, there are exceptions and I have had the privilege to teach a good number of them, but they are becoming the minority. The group of teens who are respectful, motivated to do well, and highly responsible is shrinking in size, and we are losing entirely the middle-class group—the strong B-C students who are hard workers but not necessarily destined for college and much better suited for skilled work in the various trades. Today in schools, we have that much smaller group of great kids and all the rest, who are out of control, driven by a sense of entitlement rather than earned success, and out of touch with any sort of moral compass.
Just recently, and not for the first time, "top" students have even been involved in cheating. I have had many students tell me (and most with pride or levity) that they have cheated their way through school from as early as elementary school. They have convinced themselves that it is so critical to be on top (or even just to pass) that playing fair and following rules is just not important; in fact, has no value. The legacy of that, of course, is that even the "good" kids believe the ends justify any means, and we are producing kids who know little or nothing.
Then there is the student who cares so little that as long as they pass a class, they’re satisfied. I’ve tried to explain the concept of what knowing only 70% of anything means—that they wouldn’t want a doctor who only knew 70% of the material performing surgery on them or they wouldn’t want to work in a building where the architect only knew 70% of the material, but they don’t get it.
They believe somehow that just because they exist, they should succeed—a sense of entitlement that is contributing greatly to the demise of the modern student. They want to make six figures, but are not at all interested in investing the time or effort necessary to reach that level of success.
Who is to blame? The parents, of course, are the first target. Many have turned the job of parenting over to $5.00 an hour caregivers with different values and morals, who are not well educated themselves and certainly not as motivated as the parent would be to invest in their child.
Honestly, I don’t really understand having children and turning them over to daycare to raise unless there is absolutely no alternative. What a precious experience missed forever and what a disadvantage to the child.
The result—guilty parents who compensate with over-indulgence, are too tired to expect much and too terrified to discipline, and out of control first graders with mouths like sailors and behavior that is belligerent at best. Have you ever watched Super Nanny? Those are no longer aberrant situations. Imagine 25 of those kids in a classroom. It is no wonder that the quality of education is being impacted.
And what do the parents do when their kids are out of control? They blame the school and expect it to resolve the problem, and perhaps the school could discipline and make a difference when they’re on the elementary level, but all its programs to correct behavior fail when there is no consistency at home.
If we get them acting out in high school, it is really too late to make a difference. Hear this parents! If your child is not a conscientious student who behaves well, they will not succeed in high school, and it may be too late to impact a change for the positive. Their success in high school and later in college, if they make it in, is totally predicated on their training during those critical preschool and elementary school years. If you don’t do it then, you and your child will pay the piper in junior high school and thereafter.
The schools, of course, have to accept responsibility too. Historically, the schools have resisted parenting in lieu of educating, but, because parenting is nonexistent in too many cases, valuable time is now spent teaching students basic manners, respectable dress, time management and a sense of responsibility.
The schools have also relaxed expectations. The effort to “Leave No Child Behind” has resulted in passing kids who can’t read or write a complete sentence, and rather than deal with the problem, we deny the problem exists or put on a band aid and hope we can get them graduated. I was part of a conference with parents and counselors trying to determine college attendance for their student who was really illiterate. I was appalled and astounded that they were not trying to determine how to get this kid skilled in some trade that would result in him becoming a productive member of our society.
Unlike in almost any other country where students earn the right to higher education with hard work, good grades and exemplary behavior, we give our students the notion that they are entitled to a college education whether or not they’ve worked for that opportunity. At some point, we decided in America that working in the trades is not a lofty enough goal or important enough work, so, because there are fewer of them, my plumber earns $100 an hour, a lot more than I do as a teacher or writer, and I have a Master’s Degree.
Not all students are college material and when we send those who are ill-equipped, we impact the quality of everyone’s education. We’ve watered down the education on the high school level to accommodate the masses and now we’re watering down college. America is in trouble because our kids will not be as skilled or as educated as any number of our enemies like Iran or competitors like India and China. Already, American children cannot compete with students globally in math and science. When once we were the number one educational system in the world, we are now 24th. Scary enough for you?
The third area of fault needs to be placed squarely on the shoulders of society as a whole. To what have we reduced ourselves? Nuclear families who have isolated themselves from the love, support, wisdom and encouragement of older generations; the preoccupation with being on one screen or another 24/7. It seems everyone is glued to their televisions, computers and phones like they are appendages.
As a result, kids’ social skills are nonexistent because they can only relate to their families and friends via facebook and texting, and the family is breaking down because they can’t even find time for a family meal (now known to be significant tradition for producing a successful kid.)
Kids are immune to violence because of the movies and games to which they are constantly exposed, and they are promiscuous because of what they see on the television in their own living rooms.
It isn’t just because there is a 50% divorce rate or a 10% unemployment rate. Financial and familial struggles have existed forever. The difference is how we are dealing or not dealing with those struggles.
What to do? Well, I think my next book may be about this topic so stayed tuned for suggestions.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Shanghai Shines
I missed writing my Saturday column because I was touring in Communist China, and boy what an experience that was. I'm not entirely sure what I expected, but what I found in Shanghai was truly amazing.
I knew there would be lots of people, and there were--dashing about in large groups, racing around on thousands of bikes and motorcycles, and gliding on boats, gigantic and tiny, on the Huangpu River.
I found the people to be industrious and friendly, though they stared unashamedly at us. The average height of the men in our group was 6'2" and we had several women almost that tall. The Chinese are really tiny, so we all felt like giants and must have appeared so to them.
For we Americans, personal space was an issue when we were sightseeing and shopping on the Nanjing Road and in charming old town. The Chinese don't have the luxury of the bubbles we have come to expect. They live in relatively tiny spaces (1000-1500 square feet is average) often with many family members, so touching and crowding routinely happens everywhere, but, for us, it was a bit disconcerting.
Food was extreme--dramatically presented and exotic in flavor. Live chickens, eels, and crabs, and vegetables that looked like they were on steroids were commonplace in the markets, and though tofu and starchy white rice were staples on the table (and I'm not a fan of either), most of the dishes were delicious. I adored the bok choy, which I was excited about because it is one of those powerful cancer fighting foods.
What was most amazing about Shanghai was the color. During the day, gardens profuse with ruby pointsettias, orange blossoms and golden pansies abounded. They lined the streets, filled the parks, and encircled every building. Ponds, fountains, bamboo and delicate trees adorned temples and restaurants. Creeks and canals snaked through the city, and potted gardens guarded every corner. The buildings shone--jade and blue glass stretching seemingly thousands of stories to the sky sparkled in the sunlight.
The signs (which were mostly in English) were huge, dramatic and colorful, but nothing had prepared me for the night time when lights of every color emblazoned the city. The blue-lit roadways ribboned through the city and all the trees twinkled, but it was the skyscrappers that were almost unbelievable--each more exraordinary than the next, and all these massive buildings were erected in the last 20 years--when the Communist government recognized that its economic policy perpetuated poverty and that capitalism allowed citizens to flourish.
So rather than the restraint, armed guards and tanks I expected, I found a version of America--individuality, industry and excitement at every turn--freedom to succeed, a consequence of capitalism that we in America must never compromise.
Even the Communists know now that it's true that human beings work hard and prosper when they can profit from their own industry, that success is not predicated on hand-outs, and that profit, prosperity and advancement is the consequence of self-motivation.
I loved Shanghai and recommend it as an introductory city to China. It is a fabulous example of the cooperative and successful meshing of the best of two oppositional cultures and governments.
I knew there would be lots of people, and there were--dashing about in large groups, racing around on thousands of bikes and motorcycles, and gliding on boats, gigantic and tiny, on the Huangpu River.
I found the people to be industrious and friendly, though they stared unashamedly at us. The average height of the men in our group was 6'2" and we had several women almost that tall. The Chinese are really tiny, so we all felt like giants and must have appeared so to them.
For we Americans, personal space was an issue when we were sightseeing and shopping on the Nanjing Road and in charming old town. The Chinese don't have the luxury of the bubbles we have come to expect. They live in relatively tiny spaces (1000-1500 square feet is average) often with many family members, so touching and crowding routinely happens everywhere, but, for us, it was a bit disconcerting.
Food was extreme--dramatically presented and exotic in flavor. Live chickens, eels, and crabs, and vegetables that looked like they were on steroids were commonplace in the markets, and though tofu and starchy white rice were staples on the table (and I'm not a fan of either), most of the dishes were delicious. I adored the bok choy, which I was excited about because it is one of those powerful cancer fighting foods.
What was most amazing about Shanghai was the color. During the day, gardens profuse with ruby pointsettias, orange blossoms and golden pansies abounded. They lined the streets, filled the parks, and encircled every building. Ponds, fountains, bamboo and delicate trees adorned temples and restaurants. Creeks and canals snaked through the city, and potted gardens guarded every corner. The buildings shone--jade and blue glass stretching seemingly thousands of stories to the sky sparkled in the sunlight.
The signs (which were mostly in English) were huge, dramatic and colorful, but nothing had prepared me for the night time when lights of every color emblazoned the city. The blue-lit roadways ribboned through the city and all the trees twinkled, but it was the skyscrappers that were almost unbelievable--each more exraordinary than the next, and all these massive buildings were erected in the last 20 years--when the Communist government recognized that its economic policy perpetuated poverty and that capitalism allowed citizens to flourish.
So rather than the restraint, armed guards and tanks I expected, I found a version of America--individuality, industry and excitement at every turn--freedom to succeed, a consequence of capitalism that we in America must never compromise.
Even the Communists know now that it's true that human beings work hard and prosper when they can profit from their own industry, that success is not predicated on hand-outs, and that profit, prosperity and advancement is the consequence of self-motivation.
I loved Shanghai and recommend it as an introductory city to China. It is a fabulous example of the cooperative and successful meshing of the best of two oppositional cultures and governments.
Saturday, October 2, 2010
Remembering to Love Despite Alzheimer's
"It was a busy morning, about 8:30, when an elderly gentleman in his 80's arrived to have stitches removed from his thumb. He said he was in a hurry as he had an appointment at 9:00 am.
I took his vital signs and had him take a seat, knowing it would be over an hour before someone would to able to see him. I saw him looking at his watch and decided, since I was not busy with another patient, I would evaluate his wound. On exam, it was well healed, so I talked to one of the doctors, got the needed supplies to remove his sutures and redress his wound.
While taking care of his wound, I asked him if he had another doctor's appointment this morning, as he was in such a hurry.
The gentleman told me no, that he needed to go to the nursing home to eat breakfast with his wife. I inquired as to her health. He told me that she had been there for a while and that she was a victim of Alzheimer's Disease.
As we talked, I asked if she would be upset if he was a bit late. He replied that she no longer knew who he was, that she had not recognized him in five years now.
I was surprised, and asked him, 'And you still go every morning, even though she doesn't know who you are?'
He smiled as he patted my hand and said, 'She doesn't know me, but I still know who she is.'
I had to hold back my tears as he left, and all I could think was that I wanted that kind of love in my life."
5.3 million people suffer with Alzheimer's Disease, and there is still so much confusion about the difference between being forgetful and the onset of far more dramatic symptoms that, when caught early are, are treatable.
The Alzheimer’s Foundation (866-232-8484) recommends screenings to anyone with concerns about their memory. The foundation sponsors National Memory Screening Day each November, when free screenings are offered at more than 2,000 sites nationwide, including at many assisted living facilities.
They say that the test is no substitute for a medical diagnosis, but it can tip people off to early Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementias, and can encourage a patient to see a doctor who could prescribe a treatment plan to slow the progression of symptoms.
The Alzheimer’s Foundation discusses the disease as follows:
•Alzheimer's disease dates back to 1906 when Dr. Alois Alzheimer, a German physician, presented a case history before a medical meeting of a 51-year-old woman who suffered from a rare brain disorder. A brain autopsy identified the plaques and tangles that today characterize Alzheimer's disease.
•Alzheimer's disease is a progressive, degenerative disorder that attacks the brain's nerve cells, or neurons, resulting in loss of memory, thinking and language skills, and behavioral changes.
•Two types of abnormal lesions clog the brains of individuals with Alzheimer's disease. They are sticky clumps of protein fragments and cellular material that form outside and around the neurons.
•Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia, or loss of intellectual function, among people aged 65 and older, but it is NOT a normal part of aging.
Signs of Alzheimer's vs. Typical age-related changes
Poor judgment and decision making vs. Making a bad decision once in a while
Inability to manage a budget vs. Missing a monthly payment
Losing track of the date or the season vs. Forgetting which day it is and remembering later
Difficulty having a conversation vs. Sometimes forgetting which word to use
Misplacing things and being unable to retrace steps to find them vs. Losing things from time to time
Get screened (It takes only minutes), if you have any concern about your memory. You can allay your fears or address the symptoms ASAP!
I took his vital signs and had him take a seat, knowing it would be over an hour before someone would to able to see him. I saw him looking at his watch and decided, since I was not busy with another patient, I would evaluate his wound. On exam, it was well healed, so I talked to one of the doctors, got the needed supplies to remove his sutures and redress his wound.
While taking care of his wound, I asked him if he had another doctor's appointment this morning, as he was in such a hurry.
The gentleman told me no, that he needed to go to the nursing home to eat breakfast with his wife. I inquired as to her health. He told me that she had been there for a while and that she was a victim of Alzheimer's Disease.
As we talked, I asked if she would be upset if he was a bit late. He replied that she no longer knew who he was, that she had not recognized him in five years now.
I was surprised, and asked him, 'And you still go every morning, even though she doesn't know who you are?'
He smiled as he patted my hand and said, 'She doesn't know me, but I still know who she is.'
I had to hold back my tears as he left, and all I could think was that I wanted that kind of love in my life."
5.3 million people suffer with Alzheimer's Disease, and there is still so much confusion about the difference between being forgetful and the onset of far more dramatic symptoms that, when caught early are, are treatable.
The Alzheimer’s Foundation (866-232-8484) recommends screenings to anyone with concerns about their memory. The foundation sponsors National Memory Screening Day each November, when free screenings are offered at more than 2,000 sites nationwide, including at many assisted living facilities.
They say that the test is no substitute for a medical diagnosis, but it can tip people off to early Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementias, and can encourage a patient to see a doctor who could prescribe a treatment plan to slow the progression of symptoms.
The Alzheimer’s Foundation discusses the disease as follows:
•Alzheimer's disease dates back to 1906 when Dr. Alois Alzheimer, a German physician, presented a case history before a medical meeting of a 51-year-old woman who suffered from a rare brain disorder. A brain autopsy identified the plaques and tangles that today characterize Alzheimer's disease.
•Alzheimer's disease is a progressive, degenerative disorder that attacks the brain's nerve cells, or neurons, resulting in loss of memory, thinking and language skills, and behavioral changes.
•Two types of abnormal lesions clog the brains of individuals with Alzheimer's disease. They are sticky clumps of protein fragments and cellular material that form outside and around the neurons.
•Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia, or loss of intellectual function, among people aged 65 and older, but it is NOT a normal part of aging.
Signs of Alzheimer's vs. Typical age-related changes
Poor judgment and decision making vs. Making a bad decision once in a while
Inability to manage a budget vs. Missing a monthly payment
Losing track of the date or the season vs. Forgetting which day it is and remembering later
Difficulty having a conversation vs. Sometimes forgetting which word to use
Misplacing things and being unable to retrace steps to find them vs. Losing things from time to time
Get screened (It takes only minutes), if you have any concern about your memory. You can allay your fears or address the symptoms ASAP!
Saturday, September 25, 2010
Wake-up Parents
At the start of my journalism classes, my students are required to respond to prompts in a journal. The prompts require them to think, develop an opinion, defend their opinion with examples, and explain their opinions to others in the class. The point is for them to develop critical thinking skills and to improve their ability to communicate in written and verbal form.
Like most young people their age, they are sure their parents don't understand them and haven't experienced their difficulties and pressures. Despite my assurances that the pressures to engage in drugs, alcohol and sex have existed for generations, they are positive that things are much different now.
And in one significant way, things are very different. These kids are on screens (television, computer, facebook, texting, gaming) of one sort or another 24/7, and it is taking its toll. The younger ones no longer get outside to play so they are growing fatter and less able to socialize. The older ones don't read any more and neglect their school work.
One of my students told me that she had been grounded from the computer, the phone and the television, and she was "shocked" at what she was able to accomplish. She even picked up a book to read "for pleasure" an old-fashioned term, I know, and an alien concept for most kids today.
Each class of students I teach now knows less and less about everything--history, current events, the political and social arenas and the English language. They think and communicate in sound bytes and abbrievations.
How do we solve the problem? Well, the first step is really easy. Begin with turning off the knobs and switches. Parents...you are in charge. Limit the time your kids spend on screens. Require that they do their homework, get outside for fresh air, eat dinner with the family and discuss important issues, and read.
You will be giving your kids a precious gift and even they will begin to see the value and appreciate what you're doing for them.
Like most young people their age, they are sure their parents don't understand them and haven't experienced their difficulties and pressures. Despite my assurances that the pressures to engage in drugs, alcohol and sex have existed for generations, they are positive that things are much different now.
And in one significant way, things are very different. These kids are on screens (television, computer, facebook, texting, gaming) of one sort or another 24/7, and it is taking its toll. The younger ones no longer get outside to play so they are growing fatter and less able to socialize. The older ones don't read any more and neglect their school work.
One of my students told me that she had been grounded from the computer, the phone and the television, and she was "shocked" at what she was able to accomplish. She even picked up a book to read "for pleasure" an old-fashioned term, I know, and an alien concept for most kids today.
Each class of students I teach now knows less and less about everything--history, current events, the political and social arenas and the English language. They think and communicate in sound bytes and abbrievations.
How do we solve the problem? Well, the first step is really easy. Begin with turning off the knobs and switches. Parents...you are in charge. Limit the time your kids spend on screens. Require that they do their homework, get outside for fresh air, eat dinner with the family and discuss important issues, and read.
You will be giving your kids a precious gift and even they will begin to see the value and appreciate what you're doing for them.
Saturday, September 18, 2010
Tired of Being Tired
Are you struggling with the following symptoms?
* Insomnia (poor sleep)
* Low energy - fatigue
* Ice-cold hands or feet
* Dry skin
* Hair loss (alopecia)
* Brain fog
* Weight gain
* Tingling in hands and feet
* Muscle pain
* Edema (swelling in ankles)
* Elevated cholesterol
You may have an under active thyroid. I did for over fifteen years. To add insult to injury, the condition was initially undiagnosed then treated improperly, so I was taking the wrong medication daily that would never have solved the problem.
There are over two dozen major symptoms and signs associated with an under active thyroid, and the disease seems epidemic among women between the ages of 45 and 60.
The thyroid is a small gland in the neck that affects nearly every organ in the body. It produces hormones that tell each organ how fast to work, and it regulates the body's metabolism, but millions of Americans have disorders that cause the thyroid to produce too much or too little of the hormones and that affects everything from energy level to brain fog and weight gain.
There are actually four types of thyroid hormones: T1, T2, T3, and T4. The most important are T3 and T4. I was only being treated for T1, a common mistake, so I still couldn't lose weight; my skin was dry and my hair was falling out. When the deficiencies in all four hormones were finally addressed properly, the symptoms began to be resolved.
The other component that is recently getting a lot of attention is that those who struggle with these symptoms also do not have enough iodine in the thyroid gland and that supplementation is helpful. Check with your physician about its benefits.
* Insomnia (poor sleep)
* Low energy - fatigue
* Ice-cold hands or feet
* Dry skin
* Hair loss (alopecia)
* Brain fog
* Weight gain
* Tingling in hands and feet
* Muscle pain
* Edema (swelling in ankles)
* Elevated cholesterol
You may have an under active thyroid. I did for over fifteen years. To add insult to injury, the condition was initially undiagnosed then treated improperly, so I was taking the wrong medication daily that would never have solved the problem.
There are over two dozen major symptoms and signs associated with an under active thyroid, and the disease seems epidemic among women between the ages of 45 and 60.
The thyroid is a small gland in the neck that affects nearly every organ in the body. It produces hormones that tell each organ how fast to work, and it regulates the body's metabolism, but millions of Americans have disorders that cause the thyroid to produce too much or too little of the hormones and that affects everything from energy level to brain fog and weight gain.
There are actually four types of thyroid hormones: T1, T2, T3, and T4. The most important are T3 and T4. I was only being treated for T1, a common mistake, so I still couldn't lose weight; my skin was dry and my hair was falling out. When the deficiencies in all four hormones were finally addressed properly, the symptoms began to be resolved.
The other component that is recently getting a lot of attention is that those who struggle with these symptoms also do not have enough iodine in the thyroid gland and that supplementation is helpful. Check with your physician about its benefits.
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Starve Cancer Cells We All Carry
It turns out that almost 50% of women as young as 40 carry microscopic cancer cells in their breasts and 100% of all people in their 70's do so in their thyroid. In as little as two weeks, a microscopic tumor can grow to 16,000 times its original size, according to the Angiogenesis Foundation, which has produced groundbreaking research about how to stop cancer from growing.
Angiogenesis is a new term for me, but it would seem we are going to be hearing much about it going forward. It is the process by which the body forms new blood vessels, beneficial when they fight clogged arteries and heal wounds and injuries, but harmful because these blood vessels also feed malignant tumors and cause them to grow in size.
The good news is that the medicine we need to fight angiogenesis is in our refrigerator. I don’t normally think of food as medicinal (I enjoy it too much!), but five foods can actually change the internal environment of our body and prevent the growth of cancer cells.
The five foods are:
1. Bok Choy—a type of Chinese cabbage that contains brassinin, a powerful cancer-fighter. Brassinin is also found in broccoli, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts. To achieve its full benefit, Bok Choy should be eaten 3 times a week, in 1/2 cup servings.
2. Tomatoes—contain the molecule lycopene, a cancer fighting property, but what is important to know is that you must cook the tomatoes for their full benefit. The heat changes their chemical structure and makes the benefits more readily available to your body. You should eat 2-3 (1/2 cup) servings of cooked tomatoes a week, so we have a good excuse for a little pasta now, and they are even better for you when the tomatoes are cooked in olive oil.
3. Flounder—a fish that is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and low in mercury. You should eat three 6-ounce servings a week.
4. Strawberries—are rich in antioxidants. You should eat 1 cup a day.
5. Artichokes—¼ cup of hearts per day contains 3 different cancer-fighting molecules.
Recipes
Bok Choy Apple Slaw
Ingredients
• 1/3 cup reduced-fat sour cream
• 1/3 cup reduced-fat mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons white-wine vinegar
• 2 teaspoons sugar or honey
• 1/2 teaspoon celery salt
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 6 cups very thinly sliced bok choy (1-pound head, trimmed)
• 1 large Granny Smith apple, julienned or shredded
• 1 large carrot, julienned or shredded
• 1/2 cup slivered red onion
Directions
1. Whisk sour cream, mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar (or honey), celery salt and salt in a large bowl until smooth.
2. Add bok choy, apple, carrot and onion; toss to coat.
Flounder with Simple Tomato Stir-fry
Directions
1. Chop green onions, yellow peppers and fresh tomatoes.
2. Sauté garlic in olive oil and add vegetables.
3. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Stir-fry vegetables until they turn bright in color (approximately 5 minutes).
5. Pan fry flounder in olive oil and smother with vegetables before serving.
Strawberry Banana Smoothie
Ingredients
• 4 ounces of vanilla, low-fat yogurt
• ½ cup milk
• 1 ripe banana
• ½ cup frozen, unsweetened whole strawberries
Directions
Peel banana and cut into chunks. Place banana chunks, frozen strawberries, yogurt and milk into blender. Blend on high speed about 1 minute or until mixture is smooth.
Artichoke and Parmesan Salad
Ingredients
•1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
•1 teaspoon Dijon-style mustard
•2 garlic cloves, minced
•1/4 teaspoon salt
•1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes
•2 tablespoons olive oil
•1-14-ounce can artichoke hearts, drained and sliced, -Or- 1 cup fresh artichoke hearts, sliced
•1 cup celery, sliced
•1/3 cup fresh Parmesan, grated
•1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Directions
1. In a bowl whisk together lemon juice, Dijon, garlic, red pepper flakes, oil, salt and pepper to taste.
2. Stir in artichoke hearts, celery, Parmesan and parsley.
3. Chill covered for one hour before serving.
Healthy Eating!
Angiogenesis is a new term for me, but it would seem we are going to be hearing much about it going forward. It is the process by which the body forms new blood vessels, beneficial when they fight clogged arteries and heal wounds and injuries, but harmful because these blood vessels also feed malignant tumors and cause them to grow in size.
The good news is that the medicine we need to fight angiogenesis is in our refrigerator. I don’t normally think of food as medicinal (I enjoy it too much!), but five foods can actually change the internal environment of our body and prevent the growth of cancer cells.
The five foods are:
1. Bok Choy—a type of Chinese cabbage that contains brassinin, a powerful cancer-fighter. Brassinin is also found in broccoli, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts. To achieve its full benefit, Bok Choy should be eaten 3 times a week, in 1/2 cup servings.
2. Tomatoes—contain the molecule lycopene, a cancer fighting property, but what is important to know is that you must cook the tomatoes for their full benefit. The heat changes their chemical structure and makes the benefits more readily available to your body. You should eat 2-3 (1/2 cup) servings of cooked tomatoes a week, so we have a good excuse for a little pasta now, and they are even better for you when the tomatoes are cooked in olive oil.
3. Flounder—a fish that is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and low in mercury. You should eat three 6-ounce servings a week.
4. Strawberries—are rich in antioxidants. You should eat 1 cup a day.
5. Artichokes—¼ cup of hearts per day contains 3 different cancer-fighting molecules.
Recipes
Bok Choy Apple Slaw
Ingredients
• 1/3 cup reduced-fat sour cream
• 1/3 cup reduced-fat mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons white-wine vinegar
• 2 teaspoons sugar or honey
• 1/2 teaspoon celery salt
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 6 cups very thinly sliced bok choy (1-pound head, trimmed)
• 1 large Granny Smith apple, julienned or shredded
• 1 large carrot, julienned or shredded
• 1/2 cup slivered red onion
Directions
1. Whisk sour cream, mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar (or honey), celery salt and salt in a large bowl until smooth.
2. Add bok choy, apple, carrot and onion; toss to coat.
Flounder with Simple Tomato Stir-fry
Directions
1. Chop green onions, yellow peppers and fresh tomatoes.
2. Sauté garlic in olive oil and add vegetables.
3. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Stir-fry vegetables until they turn bright in color (approximately 5 minutes).
5. Pan fry flounder in olive oil and smother with vegetables before serving.
Strawberry Banana Smoothie
Ingredients
• 4 ounces of vanilla, low-fat yogurt
• ½ cup milk
• 1 ripe banana
• ½ cup frozen, unsweetened whole strawberries
Directions
Peel banana and cut into chunks. Place banana chunks, frozen strawberries, yogurt and milk into blender. Blend on high speed about 1 minute or until mixture is smooth.
Artichoke and Parmesan Salad
Ingredients
•1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
•1 teaspoon Dijon-style mustard
•2 garlic cloves, minced
•1/4 teaspoon salt
•1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes
•2 tablespoons olive oil
•1-14-ounce can artichoke hearts, drained and sliced, -Or- 1 cup fresh artichoke hearts, sliced
•1 cup celery, sliced
•1/3 cup fresh Parmesan, grated
•1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Directions
1. In a bowl whisk together lemon juice, Dijon, garlic, red pepper flakes, oil, salt and pepper to taste.
2. Stir in artichoke hearts, celery, Parmesan and parsley.
3. Chill covered for one hour before serving.
Healthy Eating!
Saturday, September 4, 2010
Negativity's A Killer
Navigating through life's treacherous waters is daunting and sometimes even dangerous. The drain of difficult relationships and the disappointment of dreams unrealized can take their toll, and negativity can be the result.
Negativity is a killer though. It can kill our spirit and ultimately contribute to killing our body. The good news is that we can control our attitude despite our circumstances.
Even though wallowing in the self-pity that often accompanies negativity can ironically feel good in the short term, a negative attitude is destructive on many levels. It impacts how others feel about us, how we feel about ourselves, and how we feel physically.
Research shows that people with heart disease, America’s number one killer, are 40 percent less likely to laugh in various situations than those of the same age without heart disease.
Though researchers don’t know how a positive attitude contributes to a healthier heart, they do know that mental stress and negativity impacts the protective barrier that lines the blood vessels. So to exercise, not smoking and a low fat diet, it’s crucial to your health to add regular doses of hearty laughter.
Living in the past or even spending too much time planning for the future can prevent you from appreciating the moment. Begin a gratitude journal. Date each entry and list all that was good in your day. Forcing yourself to find value in the small things--nature, silence, a delicious meal--will help you to cherish that which is most important—your relationships, abilities and contributions to others.
Read Living Agelessly: Creating a Lifestyle for Mid-Life and Beyond for more ideas for creating joy in your life, and read Conquer Your Critical Inner Voice: A Revolutionary Program to Counter Negative Thoughts by Robert W. Firestone, Lisa Firestone and Joyce Catlett (New Harbinger Pub.), an excellent book for “overcoming negative thoughts and working through self-imposed limitations that impact intimacy, career and quality of life”.
The happiest people are those who continue to discover and share their special gifts, who seek to learn new things, and who reach out to help others rather than focus on themselves. Join an outreach program and give service to those in need. Sometimes seeing that others have a more difficult life challenge helps us to be grateful about our own situation.
Being positive is a choice. Even if you don’t feel upbeat, behave as if you do. Your mind and body will respond. Others will be drawn to your warmth and friendliness. You’ll begin to feel valued and loved, and you’ll want to treat others the same way. It becomes the loveliest of cycles.
Negativity is a killer though. It can kill our spirit and ultimately contribute to killing our body. The good news is that we can control our attitude despite our circumstances.
Even though wallowing in the self-pity that often accompanies negativity can ironically feel good in the short term, a negative attitude is destructive on many levels. It impacts how others feel about us, how we feel about ourselves, and how we feel physically.
Research shows that people with heart disease, America’s number one killer, are 40 percent less likely to laugh in various situations than those of the same age without heart disease.
Though researchers don’t know how a positive attitude contributes to a healthier heart, they do know that mental stress and negativity impacts the protective barrier that lines the blood vessels. So to exercise, not smoking and a low fat diet, it’s crucial to your health to add regular doses of hearty laughter.
Living in the past or even spending too much time planning for the future can prevent you from appreciating the moment. Begin a gratitude journal. Date each entry and list all that was good in your day. Forcing yourself to find value in the small things--nature, silence, a delicious meal--will help you to cherish that which is most important—your relationships, abilities and contributions to others.
Read Living Agelessly: Creating a Lifestyle for Mid-Life and Beyond for more ideas for creating joy in your life, and read Conquer Your Critical Inner Voice: A Revolutionary Program to Counter Negative Thoughts by Robert W. Firestone, Lisa Firestone and Joyce Catlett (New Harbinger Pub.), an excellent book for “overcoming negative thoughts and working through self-imposed limitations that impact intimacy, career and quality of life”.
The happiest people are those who continue to discover and share their special gifts, who seek to learn new things, and who reach out to help others rather than focus on themselves. Join an outreach program and give service to those in need. Sometimes seeing that others have a more difficult life challenge helps us to be grateful about our own situation.
Being positive is a choice. Even if you don’t feel upbeat, behave as if you do. Your mind and body will respond. Others will be drawn to your warmth and friendliness. You’ll begin to feel valued and loved, and you’ll want to treat others the same way. It becomes the loveliest of cycles.
Saturday, August 28, 2010
Battling Dragons
"In my day, I battled dragons
Walked with giants, ruled the seas
And all the riches known to man
Belonged to only me
What am I now? Fragile and lonely.
In the shadow of my glory
Robbed of everything by time."
I judge the quality of publications for Columbia University and recently read the poem above written by a student. I thought it ironic that a young person could so eloquently capture the feelings of the people my age who often lament the loss of their physical prowess, mental acuity and financial freedom.
I recently dined with a large group of babyboomers who spoke of nothing else but their physical problems. The common denominator was that none were resolvable only controllable, and that was anger provoking to each of them.
These people had been movers and shakers in their lives. They had been problem solvers and now they couldn't fix the physical problems that plagued their lives. They were angry because they'd been told they had to accept and live with their conditions--resign themselves to the fact that aging was robbing them of their physical and even mental well-being.
When I was in my thirties, I vividly remember thinking, as I listened to older family members conversing about their aches and pains, that I would never make that the focus of my discourse with other people. But like all the others vows rooted in ignorance and inexperience that I made in my youth, I now know that it is hard to be our best when we don't feel our best.
In my thirties, I was strong and pain free. I danced and exercised daily with ease. I juggled the myriad repsonsibilites of family and work without forgetting a thing, and I slept like a baby.
I didn't know what it was going to be like to have trouble even opening a jar or medicine bottle. I didn't know what it was going to be like to struggle with walking sometimes much less exercising because of an arthritic knee. I didn't know I would someday toss and turn trying to find a position that wouldn't aggravate my fused neck and allowed me a quick retreat to the bathroom for the umpteenth time.
Yes, welcome to aging. Is the trade-off for a weakening body and brain greater wisdom and a firmer focus on that which is really important in life? I don't know. I talk with friends and the answers to the "big" questions in life still seem elusive and the difficulties in relationships still loom large.
Is there any compensation for losing our physical and mental strength? One great sage in his late sixties, whom I well respect, suggested that losing all that makes us vital allows us to let go at the end.
I'm not sure losing our faculties is God's design to ready us for death, but I have seen enough people, who had been giants in their day, lose their strength and their desire to battle dragons, and as soon as they did, they sought a heaven that promises a new body, a life without pain, and eternity with our maker. Their eyes were focused only on God.
Walked with giants, ruled the seas
And all the riches known to man
Belonged to only me
What am I now? Fragile and lonely.
In the shadow of my glory
Robbed of everything by time."
I judge the quality of publications for Columbia University and recently read the poem above written by a student. I thought it ironic that a young person could so eloquently capture the feelings of the people my age who often lament the loss of their physical prowess, mental acuity and financial freedom.
I recently dined with a large group of babyboomers who spoke of nothing else but their physical problems. The common denominator was that none were resolvable only controllable, and that was anger provoking to each of them.
These people had been movers and shakers in their lives. They had been problem solvers and now they couldn't fix the physical problems that plagued their lives. They were angry because they'd been told they had to accept and live with their conditions--resign themselves to the fact that aging was robbing them of their physical and even mental well-being.
When I was in my thirties, I vividly remember thinking, as I listened to older family members conversing about their aches and pains, that I would never make that the focus of my discourse with other people. But like all the others vows rooted in ignorance and inexperience that I made in my youth, I now know that it is hard to be our best when we don't feel our best.
In my thirties, I was strong and pain free. I danced and exercised daily with ease. I juggled the myriad repsonsibilites of family and work without forgetting a thing, and I slept like a baby.
I didn't know what it was going to be like to have trouble even opening a jar or medicine bottle. I didn't know what it was going to be like to struggle with walking sometimes much less exercising because of an arthritic knee. I didn't know I would someday toss and turn trying to find a position that wouldn't aggravate my fused neck and allowed me a quick retreat to the bathroom for the umpteenth time.
Yes, welcome to aging. Is the trade-off for a weakening body and brain greater wisdom and a firmer focus on that which is really important in life? I don't know. I talk with friends and the answers to the "big" questions in life still seem elusive and the difficulties in relationships still loom large.
Is there any compensation for losing our physical and mental strength? One great sage in his late sixties, whom I well respect, suggested that losing all that makes us vital allows us to let go at the end.
I'm not sure losing our faculties is God's design to ready us for death, but I have seen enough people, who had been giants in their day, lose their strength and their desire to battle dragons, and as soon as they did, they sought a heaven that promises a new body, a life without pain, and eternity with our maker. Their eyes were focused only on God.
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Java Junkies Can Relax
I love coffee and can drink it in any form--hot or iced, and black, creamed or flavored. I felt compelled to stop drinking it on a regular basis, though, because I had been convinced it caused more harm than good physically, so I approached coffee like it was a dessert (only on occasion).
Now, they tell us that coffee is not only good for us but those who drink lots are better off than someone who drinks only one cup a day. Don't you wish these doctors would make up their minds. Honestly, there's a very clear reason they call medicine a "practice".
Many new studies confirm that coffee is a rich source of nutrients and anti-oxidants that destroy damaged cells, lower cholesterol, improve insulin sensitivity and lower the risk of Type 2 diabetes, colon cancer and Parkinson's disease. If that weren't enough, coffee treats headaches, helps control asthma, lifts mood, and reduces cavities.
Prevention Magazine says:
1 cup per day lowers your risk of early death from all causes by 37%.
2 cups per day reduces your risk of death from heart disease by 25%.
3 cups per day slashes your risk of dementia and Alzheimers by 65%.
4 cups per day makes you less likely to develop Type 2 diabetes.
If this news weren't good enough, The Harvard School of Public Health recently published a study indicating that drinking caffeinated coffee is the most beneficial choice, so unless you suffer with insomnia or high blood pressure, drink your java in its high octane version to benefit fully from its anti-bacterial and anti-adhesive properties and to dramatically decrease the incidence of gall bladder disease and gall stones in both women and men.
Two studies have shown that individuals who drank two or more cups of caffeinated coffee per day were less likely to develop Alzheimer's disease than individuals who drank no coffee or a small to moderate amount.
The studies also indicated that regular coffee drinkers score significantly higher on cognitive ability tests, spatial awareness exams, IQ tests, and short term memory studies, and the effects of coffee on an individual's cognitive ability appear to be even more pronounced among women and the elderly.
And a study of more than 45,000 men conducted over a 12-year period showed the amount of coffee consumed was inversely related to their risk for developing gout.
There are so many reasons now for drinking coffee that it would be almost irresponsible not to indulge again, and don't dump those grinds after you savor that first cup and pull the plug on the pot. Use them for a great facial scrub before applying make-up. The anti-oxidants in the grinds reverse skin aging for men and women, and the texture sluffs off dead cells. The coffee grinds also leave a natural oil that lubricates the skin.
Well, I don't know about you, but I'm firing up the pot again tomorrow morning.
Now, they tell us that coffee is not only good for us but those who drink lots are better off than someone who drinks only one cup a day. Don't you wish these doctors would make up their minds. Honestly, there's a very clear reason they call medicine a "practice".
Many new studies confirm that coffee is a rich source of nutrients and anti-oxidants that destroy damaged cells, lower cholesterol, improve insulin sensitivity and lower the risk of Type 2 diabetes, colon cancer and Parkinson's disease. If that weren't enough, coffee treats headaches, helps control asthma, lifts mood, and reduces cavities.
Prevention Magazine says:
1 cup per day lowers your risk of early death from all causes by 37%.
2 cups per day reduces your risk of death from heart disease by 25%.
3 cups per day slashes your risk of dementia and Alzheimers by 65%.
4 cups per day makes you less likely to develop Type 2 diabetes.
If this news weren't good enough, The Harvard School of Public Health recently published a study indicating that drinking caffeinated coffee is the most beneficial choice, so unless you suffer with insomnia or high blood pressure, drink your java in its high octane version to benefit fully from its anti-bacterial and anti-adhesive properties and to dramatically decrease the incidence of gall bladder disease and gall stones in both women and men.
Two studies have shown that individuals who drank two or more cups of caffeinated coffee per day were less likely to develop Alzheimer's disease than individuals who drank no coffee or a small to moderate amount.
The studies also indicated that regular coffee drinkers score significantly higher on cognitive ability tests, spatial awareness exams, IQ tests, and short term memory studies, and the effects of coffee on an individual's cognitive ability appear to be even more pronounced among women and the elderly.
And a study of more than 45,000 men conducted over a 12-year period showed the amount of coffee consumed was inversely related to their risk for developing gout.
There are so many reasons now for drinking coffee that it would be almost irresponsible not to indulge again, and don't dump those grinds after you savor that first cup and pull the plug on the pot. Use them for a great facial scrub before applying make-up. The anti-oxidants in the grinds reverse skin aging for men and women, and the texture sluffs off dead cells. The coffee grinds also leave a natural oil that lubricates the skin.
Well, I don't know about you, but I'm firing up the pot again tomorrow morning.
Saturday, August 14, 2010
Cairo in the Summer
Well the verdict is in and it is unanimous---I am not a third-world kind of gal. Spending time in Cairo during the hottest possible month convinced me that life is easier and more productive when people can at least escape 115 degrees into a home or work place that is air-conditioned.
The problem is that, in most third-world countries, people cannot afford to air-condition their homes or work places including, if you can believe this, the capital city's biggest and most important museum. Except for the room in which the King Tut exhibit resides (by the way amazing to see in Cairo), the rest of the museum was sweltering, and, ironically, we had saved it for the afternoon believing that at least it would be cool after a full day of being outside visiting the Pyramids, the Sphinx and Old Cairo, all of which were truly a miracle to see.
I have never really thought about the importance of air-conditioning before, but I am a firm believer now that it can change people and ultimately a society. On a small scale, one is better rested, in better humor and more motivated if they've slept in an air-condtioned room. I know because I have had to, in my lifetime, toss and turn rather than sleep in a room without. On a large scale, if people can escape the heat, they can work harder and be more productive, particularly in the afternoon, when life shuts down because the heat is so oppressive.
I was frankly shocked when I visited Cairo. The people are literally and figuratively hot under the collar, and the place it showed itself most was on the road ways. Driving in Cairo is truly death defying. There are no street lights, signs or respected lanes. If there are three lanes, the drivers operate as if there are five. The beeping and shouted insults are incessant, and pedestrians walk out into the road as if there are no cars bearing down on them at high speeds and intent on stopping for no one. I spent all my travel time looking out the side window at the sights. Looking out the front window was too terrifying, and I'm not afraid of much.
The city was filthy, not just with the layers of brown dust that blanketed everything, including what little there was in the way of plants and trees, and the layers of black grime spewed by cars not governed by exhaust laws, but with the trash that was strewn everywhere--along all the streets, in the parks and rotting in the buildings that were brown concrete boxes colored only by laundry flapping in the dirty wind.
Generally speaking, the people looked and acted as sour as their surroundings. Despite tourism being important to the economy, this was not a service oriented locale. Even if there is the promise of additional payment, I felt I was an imposition rather than a prospective customer, and at every turn we had to be concerned about being taken advantage of.
But in a way, I couldn't blame them. Many were poor, some so poor, in fact, that they have moved into the crypts in a cemetary that was thousands of years old. Can you imagine having a grave in your bedroom?
Poverty doesn't necessarily equate with unhappiness, but struggle at every turn to live life in a hard environment takes its toll, espcially when there is no promise of change.
I have been asked if I would have chosen to go again, and my answer is a resounding yes. Visiting massive monuments that date back thouands of years and speak to the sacrifice of the human beings who constructed them, sailing on the Nile River where the basket holding Moses was found, and walking among camels on a desert so stark and awesome that other experiences pale by comparison were just a few of the reasons for doing so.
Would I go again in the future? Well...I always wanted to visit Egypt and now I have, and, as I feel about all my opportunities to travel the world, I am grateful to have seen it and to have been with family members living there now, but it is checked off my bucket list.
If you're contemplating going, I would suggest going in November through March, taking one of those hand-held fans, and choosing accommodations with air-conditioning.
The problem is that, in most third-world countries, people cannot afford to air-condition their homes or work places including, if you can believe this, the capital city's biggest and most important museum. Except for the room in which the King Tut exhibit resides (by the way amazing to see in Cairo), the rest of the museum was sweltering, and, ironically, we had saved it for the afternoon believing that at least it would be cool after a full day of being outside visiting the Pyramids, the Sphinx and Old Cairo, all of which were truly a miracle to see.
I have never really thought about the importance of air-conditioning before, but I am a firm believer now that it can change people and ultimately a society. On a small scale, one is better rested, in better humor and more motivated if they've slept in an air-condtioned room. I know because I have had to, in my lifetime, toss and turn rather than sleep in a room without. On a large scale, if people can escape the heat, they can work harder and be more productive, particularly in the afternoon, when life shuts down because the heat is so oppressive.
I was frankly shocked when I visited Cairo. The people are literally and figuratively hot under the collar, and the place it showed itself most was on the road ways. Driving in Cairo is truly death defying. There are no street lights, signs or respected lanes. If there are three lanes, the drivers operate as if there are five. The beeping and shouted insults are incessant, and pedestrians walk out into the road as if there are no cars bearing down on them at high speeds and intent on stopping for no one. I spent all my travel time looking out the side window at the sights. Looking out the front window was too terrifying, and I'm not afraid of much.
The city was filthy, not just with the layers of brown dust that blanketed everything, including what little there was in the way of plants and trees, and the layers of black grime spewed by cars not governed by exhaust laws, but with the trash that was strewn everywhere--along all the streets, in the parks and rotting in the buildings that were brown concrete boxes colored only by laundry flapping in the dirty wind.
Generally speaking, the people looked and acted as sour as their surroundings. Despite tourism being important to the economy, this was not a service oriented locale. Even if there is the promise of additional payment, I felt I was an imposition rather than a prospective customer, and at every turn we had to be concerned about being taken advantage of.
But in a way, I couldn't blame them. Many were poor, some so poor, in fact, that they have moved into the crypts in a cemetary that was thousands of years old. Can you imagine having a grave in your bedroom?
Poverty doesn't necessarily equate with unhappiness, but struggle at every turn to live life in a hard environment takes its toll, espcially when there is no promise of change.
I have been asked if I would have chosen to go again, and my answer is a resounding yes. Visiting massive monuments that date back thouands of years and speak to the sacrifice of the human beings who constructed them, sailing on the Nile River where the basket holding Moses was found, and walking among camels on a desert so stark and awesome that other experiences pale by comparison were just a few of the reasons for doing so.
Would I go again in the future? Well...I always wanted to visit Egypt and now I have, and, as I feel about all my opportunities to travel the world, I am grateful to have seen it and to have been with family members living there now, but it is checked off my bucket list.
If you're contemplating going, I would suggest going in November through March, taking one of those hand-held fans, and choosing accommodations with air-conditioning.
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Happiest of Birthdays
We have just celebrated one of the happiest occasions I've ever known--the first birthday of my first grandchild, and, if that were not enough, I got to see the heart beat of my second grandchild on that same day.
What a miracle a grandchild is---the source of love, laughter and pride with none of the responsibility or hard work, and what hard work it is. I'd forgotten just how "on" I was as a Mommy.
It's not so much the constant nursing and feeding, or the soothing and rocking, or the education and exercise; it's the not knowing fully what is going on in that sweet, little body--the high temperature, the piercing cry for no apparent reason, the unclear reason for a change in schedule. It's downright scary--terrifying really as you don't want a moment's discomfort for that darling baby.
The compensating factors for the concerns that come with parenthood (and grandparenthood when we hear about the high fevers or the terrible falls that we can do nothing about) are the snuggling after waking up, the outright laughter at some repeated silliness (in my case, it was sticking out my tongue repeatedly and playing peek-a-boo), and the full blown smile when they see you.
There really is no greater joy except perhaps to remember those same things about your own children. My granddaughter looks just like my daughter and when Lily turns a certain way or makes a certain gesture, she takes me back to being 28 and in love with someone in a way that is totally indescribable--boundless and breathtaking.
I still feel that same beautiful love for my daughter, but because of the boundaries that come with maturation and the changes in relationship that come after children marry, the expression of that love has changed.
But as I watch my daughter express her love to her daughter in much the same way that I expressed my love to her, I am transported and truly amazed at the miracle life can be.
What a miracle a grandchild is---the source of love, laughter and pride with none of the responsibility or hard work, and what hard work it is. I'd forgotten just how "on" I was as a Mommy.
It's not so much the constant nursing and feeding, or the soothing and rocking, or the education and exercise; it's the not knowing fully what is going on in that sweet, little body--the high temperature, the piercing cry for no apparent reason, the unclear reason for a change in schedule. It's downright scary--terrifying really as you don't want a moment's discomfort for that darling baby.
The compensating factors for the concerns that come with parenthood (and grandparenthood when we hear about the high fevers or the terrible falls that we can do nothing about) are the snuggling after waking up, the outright laughter at some repeated silliness (in my case, it was sticking out my tongue repeatedly and playing peek-a-boo), and the full blown smile when they see you.
There really is no greater joy except perhaps to remember those same things about your own children. My granddaughter looks just like my daughter and when Lily turns a certain way or makes a certain gesture, she takes me back to being 28 and in love with someone in a way that is totally indescribable--boundless and breathtaking.
I still feel that same beautiful love for my daughter, but because of the boundaries that come with maturation and the changes in relationship that come after children marry, the expression of that love has changed.
But as I watch my daughter express her love to her daughter in much the same way that I expressed my love to her, I am transported and truly amazed at the miracle life can be.
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Flying High?
I've spent the last six weeks traveling--by boat, bus, train and plane and all of it went well except the flying. Forget that they don't feed you any more, even on fairly long trips, and you need to take out a second mortgage to buy airport meals. Forget that the seats are shrinking so dramatically in size that when the person in front of you reclines, their head is in your lap, and forget that we're required to report hours before the plane may take off on time. These problems now pale by comparison to the crazy thing that just happened to me.
They actually put me on a plane going to the wrong city! Despite being at the right gate and on a plane with the right flight number, they sent me to Cincinnati instead of Dallas. Who knew such a thing could happen?
And the worst of it was that there was no apology or even concern that there were no more flights out to take us to the correct destination (there were of course several of us to whom this happened), that I had to spend the night in the wrong city, and that I missed an important meeting the next day. Instead, if you can believe this, I was met with irritation at having to deal with the problem they created for us.
How could this happen? Imagine, if you will, five gates crammed together filled with thousands of people all waiting for various over-booked flights, one plane after another being delayed for the big excuse now--mechanical problems, and gate employees who are on automatic pilot when they answer questions, because, believe me, I even verified repeatedly that they were putting us on the right plane.
Now...I certainly don't want to fly on a plane with mechanical problems, but, in my case, a trashcan latch was broken--seriously! Hundreds of people were delayed, inconvenienced (one couple lost all their vacation trip connections), and left stranded because they couldn't figure out how to stow trash generated on a two-hour flight that wasn't even going to serve drinks.
What to do? They have us over the proverbial barrel--don't they? If we need to get someone far or fast, we must fly. And, for the most part, one airline is indistinguishable from another. If they have too many flying (and since they overbook, they often do.), they can throw you off the flight. They charge you now to carry the clothes you need to travel, and now they can send you where you don't want to go!
Anyone have any solutions or are we truly out of luck if we can't travel by land or sea--the only industries which still seem interested in customer retention or service.
They actually put me on a plane going to the wrong city! Despite being at the right gate and on a plane with the right flight number, they sent me to Cincinnati instead of Dallas. Who knew such a thing could happen?
And the worst of it was that there was no apology or even concern that there were no more flights out to take us to the correct destination (there were of course several of us to whom this happened), that I had to spend the night in the wrong city, and that I missed an important meeting the next day. Instead, if you can believe this, I was met with irritation at having to deal with the problem they created for us.
How could this happen? Imagine, if you will, five gates crammed together filled with thousands of people all waiting for various over-booked flights, one plane after another being delayed for the big excuse now--mechanical problems, and gate employees who are on automatic pilot when they answer questions, because, believe me, I even verified repeatedly that they were putting us on the right plane.
Now...I certainly don't want to fly on a plane with mechanical problems, but, in my case, a trashcan latch was broken--seriously! Hundreds of people were delayed, inconvenienced (one couple lost all their vacation trip connections), and left stranded because they couldn't figure out how to stow trash generated on a two-hour flight that wasn't even going to serve drinks.
What to do? They have us over the proverbial barrel--don't they? If we need to get someone far or fast, we must fly. And, for the most part, one airline is indistinguishable from another. If they have too many flying (and since they overbook, they often do.), they can throw you off the flight. They charge you now to carry the clothes you need to travel, and now they can send you where you don't want to go!
Anyone have any solutions or are we truly out of luck if we can't travel by land or sea--the only industries which still seem interested in customer retention or service.
Saturday, July 17, 2010
Cell Phone Magic
5 Things You Never Knew Your Cell Phone Could Do
For all the folks with cell phones. (This should be printed and kept in your car, purse, and wallet. Good information to have with you.)
There are a few things that can be done in times of grave emergencies.
Your mobile phone can actually be a life saver or an emergency tool for survival.
Check out the things that you can do with it:
FIRST
Emergency
The Emergency Number worldwide for Mobile is 112. If you find yourself out of the coverage area of your mobile network and there is an Emergency, dial 112 and the mobile will search any existing network to establish the emergency number for you, and interestingly, this number 112 can be dialed even if the keypad is locked. Try it out.
SECOND
Have you locked your keys in the car? Does your car have remote keyless entry? This may come in handy someday. Good reason to own a cell phone:
If you lock your keys In the car and the spare keys are at home, call someone at home on their cell phone from your cell phone. Hold your cell phone about a foot from your car door and have the person at your home press the unlock button, holding it near the mobile phone on their end. Your car will unlock. Saves someone from having to drive your keys to you. Distance is no object. You could be hundreds of miles away, and if you can reach someone who has the other 'remote' for your car, you can unlock the doors (or the trunk).
THIRD
Hidden Battery Power
Imagine your cell battery is very low. To activate, press the keys *3370#. Your cell phone will restart with this reserve and the instrument will show a 50% increase in battery. This reserve will get charged when you charge your cell phone next time.
FOURTH
How to disable a STOLEN mobile phone?
To check your Mobile phone's serial number, key in the following Digits on your phone: *#06#. A 15-digit code will appear on the screen. This number is unique to your handset. Write it down and keep it somewhere safe.
When your phone get stolen, you can phone your service provider and give them this code. They will then be able to block your handset so even if the thief changes the SIM card, your phone will be totally useless. You probably won't get your phone back, but at least you know that whoever stole it can't use/sell it either. If everybody does this, there would be no point in people stealing mobile phones.
And Finally....
FIFTH
Free Directory Service for Cells
Cell phone companies are charging us $1.00 to $1.75 or more for 411 information calls when they don't have to. Most of us do not carry a telephone directory in our vehicle, which makes this situation even more of a problem.. When you need to use the 411 information option, simply dial: (800)FREE411 (800)FREE411 , or (800) 373-3411 (800) 373-3411 without incurring any charge at all. Program this into your cell phone now.
For all the folks with cell phones. (This should be printed and kept in your car, purse, and wallet. Good information to have with you.)
There are a few things that can be done in times of grave emergencies.
Your mobile phone can actually be a life saver or an emergency tool for survival.
Check out the things that you can do with it:
FIRST
Emergency
The Emergency Number worldwide for Mobile is 112. If you find yourself out of the coverage area of your mobile network and there is an Emergency, dial 112 and the mobile will search any existing network to establish the emergency number for you, and interestingly, this number 112 can be dialed even if the keypad is locked. Try it out.
SECOND
Have you locked your keys in the car? Does your car have remote keyless entry? This may come in handy someday. Good reason to own a cell phone:
If you lock your keys In the car and the spare keys are at home, call someone at home on their cell phone from your cell phone. Hold your cell phone about a foot from your car door and have the person at your home press the unlock button, holding it near the mobile phone on their end. Your car will unlock. Saves someone from having to drive your keys to you. Distance is no object. You could be hundreds of miles away, and if you can reach someone who has the other 'remote' for your car, you can unlock the doors (or the trunk).
THIRD
Hidden Battery Power
Imagine your cell battery is very low. To activate, press the keys *3370#. Your cell phone will restart with this reserve and the instrument will show a 50% increase in battery. This reserve will get charged when you charge your cell phone next time.
FOURTH
How to disable a STOLEN mobile phone?
To check your Mobile phone's serial number, key in the following Digits on your phone: *#06#. A 15-digit code will appear on the screen. This number is unique to your handset. Write it down and keep it somewhere safe.
When your phone get stolen, you can phone your service provider and give them this code. They will then be able to block your handset so even if the thief changes the SIM card, your phone will be totally useless. You probably won't get your phone back, but at least you know that whoever stole it can't use/sell it either. If everybody does this, there would be no point in people stealing mobile phones.
And Finally....
FIFTH
Free Directory Service for Cells
Cell phone companies are charging us $1.00 to $1.75 or more for 411 information calls when they don't have to. Most of us do not carry a telephone directory in our vehicle, which makes this situation even more of a problem.. When you need to use the 411 information option, simply dial: (800)FREE411 (800)FREE411 , or (800) 373-3411 (800) 373-3411 without incurring any charge at all. Program this into your cell phone now.
Saturday, July 10, 2010
A Journey Shared
Being able to travel is a true gift and even a privilege since we are not all able.
Travel is the opportunity to experience the beauty of another's world--their landscape, their art, their history, and their culture of course, but more than that, it is the opportunity to understand what they are proud of and why.
Spain was magical--steeped in legends, mystery and even magic (the street actors stood for hours in positions not to be believed). I stood in the room where Queen Isabella paid Christoper Colombus to go find America. I stood before a church so massive and magnificent that it was impossible to believe human beings created it,and I stood before God's greatest creation--silver mountains dipping into a sapphire ocean.
Travel to Spain was a treat for the sences. I saw flowers blooming like pastel whipped creme. I heard bells peal in a tower 300 feet high. I touched smooth mosiacs that dated back to the 12th century, and I tasted perfect paella, sweet sangria, and crunchy churrohs coated in chocolate.
Clearly, my trip was amazing. It is doubly special to share the experience with others during the trip and with others afterwards. It magnifies the experience and cements the memories.
If I've peaked you desire to hit the road or airways, I'm thrilled. There is so much to see and experience throughout the world, and you can do it the 5-star method, back-packing it, or any number of ways in between those two extremes.
And even though I love every minute of travel, I am equally thrilled to hear a US customs officer say "Welcome Home!" to what I believe is the best country of all--America.
Travel is the opportunity to experience the beauty of another's world--their landscape, their art, their history, and their culture of course, but more than that, it is the opportunity to understand what they are proud of and why.
Spain was magical--steeped in legends, mystery and even magic (the street actors stood for hours in positions not to be believed). I stood in the room where Queen Isabella paid Christoper Colombus to go find America. I stood before a church so massive and magnificent that it was impossible to believe human beings created it,and I stood before God's greatest creation--silver mountains dipping into a sapphire ocean.
Travel to Spain was a treat for the sences. I saw flowers blooming like pastel whipped creme. I heard bells peal in a tower 300 feet high. I touched smooth mosiacs that dated back to the 12th century, and I tasted perfect paella, sweet sangria, and crunchy churrohs coated in chocolate.
Clearly, my trip was amazing. It is doubly special to share the experience with others during the trip and with others afterwards. It magnifies the experience and cements the memories.
If I've peaked you desire to hit the road or airways, I'm thrilled. There is so much to see and experience throughout the world, and you can do it the 5-star method, back-packing it, or any number of ways in between those two extremes.
And even though I love every minute of travel, I am equally thrilled to hear a US customs officer say "Welcome Home!" to what I believe is the best country of all--America.
Saturday, July 3, 2010
Being Flexible
...and I'm not talking about what you can achieve with exercise. I'm talking about attitude.
I just returned from almost three weeks in Spain, and it was wonderful and amazing and delightful. The weather, for the most part, was perfect. The food, for the most part, was delicious. And the people, for the most part, were friendly and helpful.
The reason I keep saying for the most part was because there were a few exceptions. We experienced a couple of rainy days, ham in too many entrees, and a few residents who were not completely enthusiastic when the group I traveled with converged on them.
It frankly would have been a miracle if there weren't some glitches, yet there were still some travelers who complained, who angered easily and who, rather than roll with the punches, preferred striking out.
I don't get it. When did people start thinking that they should be catered to 24/7? And that if things don't go just as they want when they want it, they're entitled to make life miserable for everyone around them. What happened to serving others first, old fashioned chivalry, or basic civility for that matter?
I've never understood people with unpredictable anger or intimidating behavior. Their selfishness is always so astounding, and for me, unacceptable.
Perhaps growing older has taught me that happiness is a decision. We can choose it or not. And I believe it begins with flexibility and a willingness to accept those things we cannot change.
I just returned from almost three weeks in Spain, and it was wonderful and amazing and delightful. The weather, for the most part, was perfect. The food, for the most part, was delicious. And the people, for the most part, were friendly and helpful.
The reason I keep saying for the most part was because there were a few exceptions. We experienced a couple of rainy days, ham in too many entrees, and a few residents who were not completely enthusiastic when the group I traveled with converged on them.
It frankly would have been a miracle if there weren't some glitches, yet there were still some travelers who complained, who angered easily and who, rather than roll with the punches, preferred striking out.
I don't get it. When did people start thinking that they should be catered to 24/7? And that if things don't go just as they want when they want it, they're entitled to make life miserable for everyone around them. What happened to serving others first, old fashioned chivalry, or basic civility for that matter?
I've never understood people with unpredictable anger or intimidating behavior. Their selfishness is always so astounding, and for me, unacceptable.
Perhaps growing older has taught me that happiness is a decision. We can choose it or not. And I believe it begins with flexibility and a willingness to accept those things we cannot change.
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Fill Her Up
Two weeks ago, I discussed the health benefits of immersing yourself in water. This week, I need to discuss why it's important to drink it.
I don't know about you but sun exposure dries out my skin; overhead fans dry out my nasal passages and my eyes, and 100 degree weather has caused my sweat glands to go nuts. I love summer, but it plays havoc with staying hydrated.
Water, though not exactly the fountain of youth, is at least the “fount of life” and the most critical substance in the human body. Every organ, tissue and cell needs water to function. It transports nutrients, promotes digestion, and carries away waste. Controlling body temperature and ensuring proper blood volume, water keeps skin, mouth, nose and eyes moist.
Preventing thirst is crucial, particularly for those over 60. Thirst suggests that the optimum level of water in the body (50-75% of weight) is already compromised. In other words, if you're thirsty, you are already dehydrated. Seniors are at particular risk because as aging occurs, the amount of water in the body is reduced and the ability to recognize thirst signals is greatly diminished.
If enough water isn’t ingested, the body will drain the body’s organs and tissues. Symptoms are: headache, fatigue, poor circulation, muscle spasms, kidney failure, and increased body temperature and pulse rate. Weakness will escalate, and labored breathing, dizziness, and even delirium can result.
A minimum of 64 ounces per day of water is the remedy. Absorbed faster than any other drink, water is no calorie and now even injected with vitamins and minerals. Fill a a large jug with at least that many ounces first thing in the morning and drink throughout the day until finished. Remember, don't wait until you're thirsty.
Milk, juices, soup, and at least five servings of fruits and vegetables (high water content) are good sources for additional fluid intake.
Modify processes that dry skin. Wear gloves when cleaning, and take warm rather than hot showers. Wash off chlorine after swimming. Slather on oils or lotions before completely drying hands or body to lock in moisture. Use drops to prevent dry-eye before going to sleep, and drink, drink, drink!
I don't know about you but sun exposure dries out my skin; overhead fans dry out my nasal passages and my eyes, and 100 degree weather has caused my sweat glands to go nuts. I love summer, but it plays havoc with staying hydrated.
Water, though not exactly the fountain of youth, is at least the “fount of life” and the most critical substance in the human body. Every organ, tissue and cell needs water to function. It transports nutrients, promotes digestion, and carries away waste. Controlling body temperature and ensuring proper blood volume, water keeps skin, mouth, nose and eyes moist.
Preventing thirst is crucial, particularly for those over 60. Thirst suggests that the optimum level of water in the body (50-75% of weight) is already compromised. In other words, if you're thirsty, you are already dehydrated. Seniors are at particular risk because as aging occurs, the amount of water in the body is reduced and the ability to recognize thirst signals is greatly diminished.
If enough water isn’t ingested, the body will drain the body’s organs and tissues. Symptoms are: headache, fatigue, poor circulation, muscle spasms, kidney failure, and increased body temperature and pulse rate. Weakness will escalate, and labored breathing, dizziness, and even delirium can result.
A minimum of 64 ounces per day of water is the remedy. Absorbed faster than any other drink, water is no calorie and now even injected with vitamins and minerals. Fill a a large jug with at least that many ounces first thing in the morning and drink throughout the day until finished. Remember, don't wait until you're thirsty.
Milk, juices, soup, and at least five servings of fruits and vegetables (high water content) are good sources for additional fluid intake.
Modify processes that dry skin. Wear gloves when cleaning, and take warm rather than hot showers. Wash off chlorine after swimming. Slather on oils or lotions before completely drying hands or body to lock in moisture. Use drops to prevent dry-eye before going to sleep, and drink, drink, drink!
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Honor Grandpa on Father's Day
Though I think we must honor dads on Father’s Day, I believe granddads are equally important to remember. Mine was a great gift in my life. He was the link to other generations in my family, one of my most important teachers, and the man in my life who loved me unconditionally.
A grandfather can be a grandchild’s most important mentor, role model and guide, and is a critical influence on their growth and success. According to AARP, researchers have determined “that grandchildren who have a close relationship with a grandfather are more likely to perform well in school, display positive emotional adjustment, have higher self-esteem, and a greater ability to develop and maintain friendships.”
Grandfathers are the great story tellers. They keep the family’s history alive by passing on the details to new generations. They recount first hand how life has changed culturally and technologically through the ages. They teach powerful lessons by relating the joys, hard times, and even mistakes in their own life experience.
Because grandfathers generally need not fulfill parental responsibilities, their relationships with grandchildren are more open and relaxed. Without the fear of judgment and reprisal, grandchildren are more willing to confide fears, ask difficult questions, and entrust their most guarded secrets.
A grandfather’s wisdom is highly respected, and their suggestions more readily followed. Their behavior and actions can set the standard for the kind of man a grandson may become or the kind of man a granddaughter may choose to marry. They have the power and opportunity to teach their grandchildren important life values like loyalty, patience, perseverance and self-sacrifice. Grandfathers should fulfill this sacred obligation to their grandchildren, and their grandchildren should honor them for doing so.
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Take the Plunge
I told you about my frozen shoulder a few entries back and that doing the exercises to loosen it were excruciating but helpful, though they did not entirely solve the problem. Well getting in the pool and doing the backstroke in cool water did.
In fact, working out in the pool is really magical. Now, I'm no Esther Williams, so I'm not doing laps for 45 minutes, but I keep moving hard for that long so my heart rate stays up and I'm breathing deeply (I refer to the amazing benefits of deep breathing in my book Living Agelessly and give lots of exercises.).
Then I do 15 minutes of isometric exercises and stretches in the shallow end. Afterwards, I float on the water and just relax deeply. I feel so good that it's like having been to a spa, and I always sleep well that evening.
Water workouts are particularly good for us because we eliminate the abuse to our joints and for those who suffer with Osteoarthritis, it's the perfect way to exercise without exacerbating wear and tear. Those who suffer with muscle pain should also avoid high impact activities. Gentle but invigorating exercises improve muscle tone and strength, and it's the perfect way to exercise for those who are overweight.
The following are more benefits as outlined on iloveindia.com.
Provides Buoyancy
One of the major benefits of water aerobics is that it provides buoyancy and support for the body, making it less likely for the muscle, bone and joint to get injured. Water supports upto 80% of your weight, thereby causing less strain on the joints, back and torso, when compared to exercises performed on land.
Quick Muscular Endurance
The high density of water, as compared to air, leads to increased resistance, thereby augmenting muscular endurance and tone. This means that water aerobics builds-up toned and endured muscle mass all around the body. Also, one tends to get quicker results exercising in the water, than on land.
Improved Flexibility
The reduced effect of gravitational force in water leads to improved flexibility in the body. The joints can be easily moved through a wider range of motion, which makes water aerobics all the more beneficial as we age. Since there is no joint pain caused, you can perform the exercise without any kind of anxiety.
Improve Cardiovascular Conditioning
Water aerobics exercises prove to be extremely beneficial in terms of cardiovascular conditioning. In such an exercise, the heart rate is maintained at a lower rate, when compared to cycling or running. The heart seems to work better when you indulge in water aerobics.
Helps Keep Cool
The 'cool' quotient cannot be ruled out when we talk about the benefits of water aerobics. It is refreshing activity and lifts up the mood instantly. It keeps the body temperature constant throughout the exercise. Also, water keeps you cool and comfortable, even when the mercury is rising.
Burn Calories
We all know that exercising is the best way to get rid of those bulging fats and ever-increasing waistlines. However, do you know that water aerobics are more effective, as compared to land exercises? The former leads to a loss of about 450 to 700 calories per hour. So, if you want to shed those extra kilos, water aerobics can be extremely useful.
When I work out, I don't use any apparatus, but if you want to, visit http://www.waterworkout.com/ for things like aqua shoes, aqua barbells, webbed gloves, flotation belts, power paddles, and water workout DVDs including one called Aqua Latin Rhythms that I found intriguing because I love to dance and hate to sweat, so what could be better than dancing in the water.
Just dive in folks. The water is really fine!
In fact, working out in the pool is really magical. Now, I'm no Esther Williams, so I'm not doing laps for 45 minutes, but I keep moving hard for that long so my heart rate stays up and I'm breathing deeply (I refer to the amazing benefits of deep breathing in my book Living Agelessly and give lots of exercises.).
Then I do 15 minutes of isometric exercises and stretches in the shallow end. Afterwards, I float on the water and just relax deeply. I feel so good that it's like having been to a spa, and I always sleep well that evening.
Water workouts are particularly good for us because we eliminate the abuse to our joints and for those who suffer with Osteoarthritis, it's the perfect way to exercise without exacerbating wear and tear. Those who suffer with muscle pain should also avoid high impact activities. Gentle but invigorating exercises improve muscle tone and strength, and it's the perfect way to exercise for those who are overweight.
The following are more benefits as outlined on iloveindia.com.
Provides Buoyancy
One of the major benefits of water aerobics is that it provides buoyancy and support for the body, making it less likely for the muscle, bone and joint to get injured. Water supports upto 80% of your weight, thereby causing less strain on the joints, back and torso, when compared to exercises performed on land.
Quick Muscular Endurance
The high density of water, as compared to air, leads to increased resistance, thereby augmenting muscular endurance and tone. This means that water aerobics builds-up toned and endured muscle mass all around the body. Also, one tends to get quicker results exercising in the water, than on land.
Improved Flexibility
The reduced effect of gravitational force in water leads to improved flexibility in the body. The joints can be easily moved through a wider range of motion, which makes water aerobics all the more beneficial as we age. Since there is no joint pain caused, you can perform the exercise without any kind of anxiety.
Improve Cardiovascular Conditioning
Water aerobics exercises prove to be extremely beneficial in terms of cardiovascular conditioning. In such an exercise, the heart rate is maintained at a lower rate, when compared to cycling or running. The heart seems to work better when you indulge in water aerobics.
Helps Keep Cool
The 'cool' quotient cannot be ruled out when we talk about the benefits of water aerobics. It is refreshing activity and lifts up the mood instantly. It keeps the body temperature constant throughout the exercise. Also, water keeps you cool and comfortable, even when the mercury is rising.
Burn Calories
We all know that exercising is the best way to get rid of those bulging fats and ever-increasing waistlines. However, do you know that water aerobics are more effective, as compared to land exercises? The former leads to a loss of about 450 to 700 calories per hour. So, if you want to shed those extra kilos, water aerobics can be extremely useful.
When I work out, I don't use any apparatus, but if you want to, visit http://www.waterworkout.com/ for things like aqua shoes, aqua barbells, webbed gloves, flotation belts, power paddles, and water workout DVDs including one called Aqua Latin Rhythms that I found intriguing because I love to dance and hate to sweat, so what could be better than dancing in the water.
Just dive in folks. The water is really fine!
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Don't You Be Weak in the Knees
I played soccer in junior high, basketball in high school, and I've been dancing since I could walk. I loved every minute, but I'm paying for it now with my knees, and since knee surgery to repair a torn ligament, arthritis has set in big time. Aging and weight gain have also had an impact.
More than 20 million Americans suffer with osteoarthritis (OA), the number one cause of disability in the United States. OA strikes three times as many women as men and most often occurs in people over 50. However younger people who have been injured in sports or accidents can start having symptoms in their 20s and 30s.
OA is a chronic disease, and it will never get better (YUK!). In fact, because the knee pain and immobility are caused by wear and tear between the joints, the symptoms will worsen overtime (YUK! YUK!). Symptoms include pain, stiffness, swelling and inflammation of affected joints and are more prominent after activity (including walking, driving, lifting, standing, bending and climbing), but pain and stiffness can be experienced after resting too, particularly in the morning. OA sufferers also report gaining an average of 42 pounds after diagnosis because they cannot exercise as much, and they often lose two to three hours of sleep at night because of the pain.
In addition to physical symptoms, osteoarthritis takes an emotional toll as well. OA changes lifestyle forever, impacts relationships and the ability to work and be active, and those kind of losses cause depression.
Because of the pain, the tendency is become more inactive, but that will worsen the problem. It is true that if you don't move it, you will lose it. You may not be able to jog any more or even use the treadmill, but you can and should ride a bike and work out in a pool.
Regular exercise will strengthen the muscles around those joints, increase flexibility and blood flow to the affected area, in addition to helping you lose weight. Lightening the load will lessen the pressure on those weight bearing joints, diminish more wear and tear, and decrease inflammation and pain. When, not if, the pain becomes really difficult, medication and injecting steroids can help.
Well, I did all that but still struggled with my knee collapsing, so I took another step as well. My orthopedic physician suggested injections of ultra-pure hyaluronan--which is naturally found in healthy joint fluid. Given as one injection for three consecutive weeks, the protocol helps restore healthy joint fluid to cushion, protect and lubricate the knee joint. It can relieve knee pain for up to six months. In my case, relief lasted an entire year.
The most dramatic course of action is surgery but take care with that decision. I've heard stories of great successes but also terrible nightmares. Seek out a great orthopedic physician for x-rays of your joints and to discuss what options are best for you.
And keep moving. Don't let OA win!
More than 20 million Americans suffer with osteoarthritis (OA), the number one cause of disability in the United States. OA strikes three times as many women as men and most often occurs in people over 50. However younger people who have been injured in sports or accidents can start having symptoms in their 20s and 30s.
OA is a chronic disease, and it will never get better (YUK!). In fact, because the knee pain and immobility are caused by wear and tear between the joints, the symptoms will worsen overtime (YUK! YUK!). Symptoms include pain, stiffness, swelling and inflammation of affected joints and are more prominent after activity (including walking, driving, lifting, standing, bending and climbing), but pain and stiffness can be experienced after resting too, particularly in the morning. OA sufferers also report gaining an average of 42 pounds after diagnosis because they cannot exercise as much, and they often lose two to three hours of sleep at night because of the pain.
In addition to physical symptoms, osteoarthritis takes an emotional toll as well. OA changes lifestyle forever, impacts relationships and the ability to work and be active, and those kind of losses cause depression.
Because of the pain, the tendency is become more inactive, but that will worsen the problem. It is true that if you don't move it, you will lose it. You may not be able to jog any more or even use the treadmill, but you can and should ride a bike and work out in a pool.
Regular exercise will strengthen the muscles around those joints, increase flexibility and blood flow to the affected area, in addition to helping you lose weight. Lightening the load will lessen the pressure on those weight bearing joints, diminish more wear and tear, and decrease inflammation and pain. When, not if, the pain becomes really difficult, medication and injecting steroids can help.
Well, I did all that but still struggled with my knee collapsing, so I took another step as well. My orthopedic physician suggested injections of ultra-pure hyaluronan--which is naturally found in healthy joint fluid. Given as one injection for three consecutive weeks, the protocol helps restore healthy joint fluid to cushion, protect and lubricate the knee joint. It can relieve knee pain for up to six months. In my case, relief lasted an entire year.
The most dramatic course of action is surgery but take care with that decision. I've heard stories of great successes but also terrible nightmares. Seek out a great orthopedic physician for x-rays of your joints and to discuss what options are best for you.
And keep moving. Don't let OA win!
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Eat Fruit to Reverse Aging
Doctors all agree eating fruit is critical for a healthy diet. Some believe fruit is important for detoxifying the body, increasing energy, and reducing the inflammation the causes aging and ravages our faces--specifically resulting in wrinkles and dull skin.
It turns out there are important rules to follow when you eat them:
Eat your fruit first, and you will avoid bloating, burping and gas. It has even been suggested that if you eat fruits on an empty stomach, you will forestall balding, gray hair and dark circles under the eyes, and that we may even impact our longevity and energy level, and create a healthy weight. What have we got to lose? Oh yes..maybe those extra pounds some of us are carrying around.
You can begin a new fruit regimen with a three-day fruit fast to cleanse your body. Just eat fruits and drink fruit juice, and you will feel and look better. As with ALL dietary changes, however, consult with your physician before trying anything new.
Check my book Living Agelessly for a more complete list of fruits that pack a punch.
Fruit Salad
It turns out there are important rules to follow when you eat them:
- Eating whole fruit is better than drinking juice. There are lots of nutrients in the skin.
- Drink only fresh fruit juice, not canned. Canned drinks are high in calories and preservatives.
- Don't eat cooked fruits because you don't get any nutrients.
- Don't drink juice that has been heated for the same reason.
- If you do drink fresh juice, drink it one mouthful at a time so your saliva mixes with it.
- Eat fruits on an empty stomach.
- Eat fruits at the start of the meal, never after.
Eat your fruit first, and you will avoid bloating, burping and gas. It has even been suggested that if you eat fruits on an empty stomach, you will forestall balding, gray hair and dark circles under the eyes, and that we may even impact our longevity and energy level, and create a healthy weight. What have we got to lose? Oh yes..maybe those extra pounds some of us are carrying around.
You can begin a new fruit regimen with a three-day fruit fast to cleanse your body. Just eat fruits and drink fruit juice, and you will feel and look better. As with ALL dietary changes, however, consult with your physician before trying anything new.
Check my book Living Agelessly for a more complete list of fruits that pack a punch.
- Berries are best. They are great antioxidants and result in radiant skin. Strawberries in particular protect the body from cancer-causing, blood vessel-clogging free radicals.
- Kiwi is a good source of vitamin E, potassium and magnesium. Great for fiber, this little fruit has twice the Vitamin C as an orange.
- An apple also has antioxidants and lowers the risk of heart attack, stroke and colon cancer.
- Oranges really do keep colds at bay, lower cholesterol and lessen the risk of colon cancer.
- Watermelon is a source of potassium and Vitamin C, boosts the immune system and fights cancer.
- Guava and papaya have the highest source of Vitamin C. They are rich in fiber, which helps prevent constipation, and the carotene that is good for the eyes.
Fruit Salad
- Slice strawberries, grapes, bananas into a bowl.
- Add chopped walnuts.
- Mix in vanilla yogurt and serve.
- Slice green apples with skin into very thin slices.
- Mix cinnamon into vanilla yogurt and let the dipping begin.
Sunday, May 23, 2010
Life Saving Tests
According to the American Heart Association, we should seriously consider undergoing a vascular and/or cardiovascular screening. Both are painless procedures that can predict our risk for developing coronary heart disease within the next ten years.
A vascular screening, which takes only 15 minutes, includes an ultrasound of the neck and abdominal arteries and a Doppler measurement of the arteries in our ankles. A cardiovascular screening, which takes only 20 minutes, is more in depth. It includes a cardiac health history, a physical examination with blood pressure check and glucose and cholesterol blood tests, an electrocardiogram, and a personal Framingham Risk Assessment to determine our risk for having Cardio Vascular Disease (CVD).
CVD is the number one cause of death in the nation. In fact, more than 80 million people in the United States have one or more forms, and some of us are at greater risk for the disease. Be concerned if you are a man over 45 or a woman over 55 and have diabetes, high blood pressure or cholesterol, a family history of heart disease or stroke, or if you smoke.
The danger of developing CVD increases with age and early detection is critical. A vascular or cardiovascular screening is the best way to determine the extent of your risk, and what you find out might be just the motivation you need to make important lifestyle changes to prevent a stroke, a heart attack, or heart failure that can result in your death.
Contact the American Heart Association at 1-800-AHA-USA1 for more information.
A vascular screening, which takes only 15 minutes, includes an ultrasound of the neck and abdominal arteries and a Doppler measurement of the arteries in our ankles. A cardiovascular screening, which takes only 20 minutes, is more in depth. It includes a cardiac health history, a physical examination with blood pressure check and glucose and cholesterol blood tests, an electrocardiogram, and a personal Framingham Risk Assessment to determine our risk for having Cardio Vascular Disease (CVD).
CVD is the number one cause of death in the nation. In fact, more than 80 million people in the United States have one or more forms, and some of us are at greater risk for the disease. Be concerned if you are a man over 45 or a woman over 55 and have diabetes, high blood pressure or cholesterol, a family history of heart disease or stroke, or if you smoke.
The danger of developing CVD increases with age and early detection is critical. A vascular or cardiovascular screening is the best way to determine the extent of your risk, and what you find out might be just the motivation you need to make important lifestyle changes to prevent a stroke, a heart attack, or heart failure that can result in your death.
Contact the American Heart Association at 1-800-AHA-USA1 for more information.
Saturday, May 15, 2010
What's Happening in Our Schools?
The end of the school year is a crazy time for teachers! Exams, final grades, trips and banquets make up the "millions" of details and events that must be attended to before that final bell.
The journalism department in my school just celebrated a year's worth of work with a banquet. It was a catered affair for which the students donned their prettiest clothes and best behavior. During the evening, I recognized the numerous awards that my students won on a national and state level with compliments, certificates, and encouragement to aspire to even higher levels of achievement for after graduation, if they were seniors, and for the coming year, if they were underclassmen.
It is easy for me to honor my students. For the most part, they are truly the cream of the crop--academically gifted, hardworking, self-motivated, ethical and respectful. They most certainly give me hope for the future, and they are really the reason why I still teach when I don't have to. My worry is that they are not representative. They are the exception.
America was once number one is the world with regard to educational achievement. We have dropped to 27th, well behind China and India. We are no longer the best and the brightest. In fact, we are struggling to stay in the race. The problem is even more magnified when I have foreign exchange students in my class; they speak and write ENGLISH better than my American born students. What has happened?
We have lost the middle class student--that strong B/C student who may or not have gone to college, but who would have become a strong, contributing part of society. We now have the exceptional student (and a far smaller group of them) and all the rest, who are disenchanted, discontented and disengaged.
They act out, choose badly, and don't have a clue what they are going to do in the future. They are disrespectful to the adults in their life. They are irresponsible, and they don't care about anything that's important, and the problem is terrifying to me both as a teacher and as a citizen who will be aged when these students will be making the decisions that impact me, my family and my country.
What makes the difference in kids? My fabulous students come from involved families that have very high expectations for their behavior and their achievements. Those students generally work in the real world too where they learn appropriate adult behavior and advanced skills, and they are busy with constructive school and church activities that encourage their talents, strengths and value systems. Even if these students wanted to engage in risky behavior, they don't have time, and they know that there would be severe consequences if they did.
There's the key--families that care and are involved in their children's lives; parents and grandparents who model and expect exceptional behavior and achievement, and activities that keep students accountable. All that should begin when children are born and be sustained throughout their lives. It's too late to fix substantive problems in high school or college. Prevention begins with good parenting.
The school system should not be adhering to the "No Child Left Behind" theory if we're passing students who haven't earned the right and appropriate education to move forward. It doesn't help them or our society to graduate students without the necessary skills to become productive. Not everyone should go to college, but all should have a skill set that can allow for success.
Parents shouldn't expect the school system to give their children a pass if they break the rules, and we should ALL be raising the bar, not lowering it, on expectations for our children to work harder, learn more, and behave in a way that makes us proud.
America needs this generation of students to do better and be better or we are in serious trouble.
To the exceptional students, whom I'm blessed to have, I thank you for your moving tribute to me at the banquet, and for being my hope for the future. You have a greater burden than any generation before you, though. You have the lion's share of the job to put America back on the right road. I wish you strength and wisdom to accomplish the task.
The journalism department in my school just celebrated a year's worth of work with a banquet. It was a catered affair for which the students donned their prettiest clothes and best behavior. During the evening, I recognized the numerous awards that my students won on a national and state level with compliments, certificates, and encouragement to aspire to even higher levels of achievement for after graduation, if they were seniors, and for the coming year, if they were underclassmen.
It is easy for me to honor my students. For the most part, they are truly the cream of the crop--academically gifted, hardworking, self-motivated, ethical and respectful. They most certainly give me hope for the future, and they are really the reason why I still teach when I don't have to. My worry is that they are not representative. They are the exception.
America was once number one is the world with regard to educational achievement. We have dropped to 27th, well behind China and India. We are no longer the best and the brightest. In fact, we are struggling to stay in the race. The problem is even more magnified when I have foreign exchange students in my class; they speak and write ENGLISH better than my American born students. What has happened?
We have lost the middle class student--that strong B/C student who may or not have gone to college, but who would have become a strong, contributing part of society. We now have the exceptional student (and a far smaller group of them) and all the rest, who are disenchanted, discontented and disengaged.
They act out, choose badly, and don't have a clue what they are going to do in the future. They are disrespectful to the adults in their life. They are irresponsible, and they don't care about anything that's important, and the problem is terrifying to me both as a teacher and as a citizen who will be aged when these students will be making the decisions that impact me, my family and my country.
What makes the difference in kids? My fabulous students come from involved families that have very high expectations for their behavior and their achievements. Those students generally work in the real world too where they learn appropriate adult behavior and advanced skills, and they are busy with constructive school and church activities that encourage their talents, strengths and value systems. Even if these students wanted to engage in risky behavior, they don't have time, and they know that there would be severe consequences if they did.
There's the key--families that care and are involved in their children's lives; parents and grandparents who model and expect exceptional behavior and achievement, and activities that keep students accountable. All that should begin when children are born and be sustained throughout their lives. It's too late to fix substantive problems in high school or college. Prevention begins with good parenting.
The school system should not be adhering to the "No Child Left Behind" theory if we're passing students who haven't earned the right and appropriate education to move forward. It doesn't help them or our society to graduate students without the necessary skills to become productive. Not everyone should go to college, but all should have a skill set that can allow for success.
Parents shouldn't expect the school system to give their children a pass if they break the rules, and we should ALL be raising the bar, not lowering it, on expectations for our children to work harder, learn more, and behave in a way that makes us proud.
America needs this generation of students to do better and be better or we are in serious trouble.
To the exceptional students, whom I'm blessed to have, I thank you for your moving tribute to me at the banquet, and for being my hope for the future. You have a greater burden than any generation before you, though. You have the lion's share of the job to put America back on the right road. I wish you strength and wisdom to accomplish the task.
Saturday, May 8, 2010
Happy Mother's Day to Single Moms!
Mothers are extraordinary creatures. They cherish their children and think of little besides their security, contentment and success, put their own desires on hold, and give all that is humanly possible. They sacrifice the bodies of their youth and a simple life of self-centered pursuits.
Regardless of the constant work, exhaustion and worry, mothers still invest every ounce of their energy and emotion into the job of raising their children. The rewards for their self-sacrifice are gray hair, guilt about not doing the job perfectly, being taken for granted, and, ultimately, an empty nest.
Ironically, if asked to do it again, most would do so in a heartbeat--their baby's goodnight kisses, toddler's small hand in theirs, and teenager's laughter and excitement at life's unfolding, all sweet compensation.
Single moms have a particularly tough road, especially if they don't have family help. Often they have to work in addition to full time mothering and home keeping, and some have to work two jobs. They have to be mother and father, offering both the soft shoulder and necessary boundaries, and they can't play Disneyland Dad because their kids must stay grounded and secure.
They walk a delicate line--how to protect their children and when to allow them to experience truth, and unlike Disneyland Dad, who is often treated with kid gloves, the single mom must absorb the negative feelings that her children are likely to have as the result of divorce. She is the easy target because the children know she will always be there for them.
Single mothers are particularly amazing--true unsung heroes. Without showing the fear that often darkens their world, they must find the strength, endurance and courage to carry out their awesome responsibility alone and in an environment that is complicated, costly, unsupportive and even hostile.
There is help, however. Read The Single Mother's Book: A Practical Guide to Managing Your Children, Career, Home, Finances and Everything Else by Joan Anderson (Peachtree Publishers) and Going It Alone: Meeting the Challenges of Being a Single Mom by Michele Howe (Hendrickson Publishers). Visit www.singlemothers.org, www.parenting.ivillage.com, and www.singleparents.about.com for excellent resources, information and support while accomplishing nobly the most important job of all.
Take time to celebrate, single moms. You've earned it and even if your children don't understand or even appreciate all you've done yet, one day they will.
Regardless of the constant work, exhaustion and worry, mothers still invest every ounce of their energy and emotion into the job of raising their children. The rewards for their self-sacrifice are gray hair, guilt about not doing the job perfectly, being taken for granted, and, ultimately, an empty nest.
Ironically, if asked to do it again, most would do so in a heartbeat--their baby's goodnight kisses, toddler's small hand in theirs, and teenager's laughter and excitement at life's unfolding, all sweet compensation.
Single moms have a particularly tough road, especially if they don't have family help. Often they have to work in addition to full time mothering and home keeping, and some have to work two jobs. They have to be mother and father, offering both the soft shoulder and necessary boundaries, and they can't play Disneyland Dad because their kids must stay grounded and secure.
They walk a delicate line--how to protect their children and when to allow them to experience truth, and unlike Disneyland Dad, who is often treated with kid gloves, the single mom must absorb the negative feelings that her children are likely to have as the result of divorce. She is the easy target because the children know she will always be there for them.
Single mothers are particularly amazing--true unsung heroes. Without showing the fear that often darkens their world, they must find the strength, endurance and courage to carry out their awesome responsibility alone and in an environment that is complicated, costly, unsupportive and even hostile.
There is help, however. Read The Single Mother's Book: A Practical Guide to Managing Your Children, Career, Home, Finances and Everything Else by Joan Anderson (Peachtree Publishers) and Going It Alone: Meeting the Challenges of Being a Single Mom by Michele Howe (Hendrickson Publishers). Visit www.singlemothers.org, www.parenting.ivillage.com, and www.singleparents.about.com for excellent resources, information and support while accomplishing nobly the most important job of all.
Take time to celebrate, single moms. You've earned it and even if your children don't understand or even appreciate all you've done yet, one day they will.
Saturday, May 1, 2010
Exploring With Tinier Tots
Ideas abound for quality time with grandchildren, but pace yourself. Friends of mine who have grandchildren can't wait for them to come but are exhausted by the time they leave, so keep it simple and fun.
Children of all ages love exploration, and you needn’t go far. Rummage in your attic or garage for memorabilia, old clothes, hats and jewelry to dress in for tea parties or story time about the family. Serve up photo albums and scrapbooks with punch and cookies and you have an event to remember.
Explore nearby parks and begin collections. Identifying and displaying rocks, leaves, flowers and even bugs is educational and fascinating for even the youngest scientist. Don’t forget a picnic basket filled with snacks and drinks, a kite if it’s windy, fishing poles if there’s a creek and a wagon for those who get tired.
Investigate your neighborhood library. Apply for library cards (Having one makes children feel so grown up), and sign up for story or show time (sometimes conducted by costumed storytellers). Check out stacks of books and the library’s free videos and cassettes.
Search the countryside for working farms that let children milk cows or feed chickens, roadside markets that allow picking fruit or vegetables, and zoos that encourage petting the animals.
Hunt through and kitchen-test recipes. Then “write” a family cookbook. Pepper it with family anecdotes and decorate it with photos of the kids cooking and their drawings of the experience.
For more activity suggestions and information about raising grandchildren, visit www.cyberparent.com. Also read Vicki Lansky’s books 101 Ways to Make Your Child Feel Special, 101 Ways to Tell Your Child “I Love You”, 101 Ways to be a Special Dad and 101 Ways to be a Special Mom.
Children of all ages love exploration, and you needn’t go far. Rummage in your attic or garage for memorabilia, old clothes, hats and jewelry to dress in for tea parties or story time about the family. Serve up photo albums and scrapbooks with punch and cookies and you have an event to remember.
Explore nearby parks and begin collections. Identifying and displaying rocks, leaves, flowers and even bugs is educational and fascinating for even the youngest scientist. Don’t forget a picnic basket filled with snacks and drinks, a kite if it’s windy, fishing poles if there’s a creek and a wagon for those who get tired.
Investigate your neighborhood library. Apply for library cards (Having one makes children feel so grown up), and sign up for story or show time (sometimes conducted by costumed storytellers). Check out stacks of books and the library’s free videos and cassettes.
Search the countryside for working farms that let children milk cows or feed chickens, roadside markets that allow picking fruit or vegetables, and zoos that encourage petting the animals.
Hunt through and kitchen-test recipes. Then “write” a family cookbook. Pepper it with family anecdotes and decorate it with photos of the kids cooking and their drawings of the experience.
For more activity suggestions and information about raising grandchildren, visit www.cyberparent.com. Also read Vicki Lansky’s books 101 Ways to Make Your Child Feel Special, 101 Ways to Tell Your Child “I Love You”, 101 Ways to be a Special Dad and 101 Ways to be a Special Mom.
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Tripping With Teens
I apologize to those who've contacted me about having missed the last two Saturdays, but I've been away with my students. In addition to writing professionally, I teach journalism and publication production on the high school and college level. The trips I took were to journalism conventions and included members of my publication staffs. Attendance allowed them to compete in writing and photo contests and to take specialized classes.
One of these trips included almost 50 fifty kids. Though there were several other teachers with me, the noise level and harnessed energy on one charter bus was enough to keep all of us on our toes.
Now, I have really good students (which, by the way, keeps me teaching), but even with good kids, there are the inevitable emotional moments. Soothing a student who missed getting hard-fought, fabulous photos into the contest on time; chastising a student who decided it would be fun to join another group's party instead of being in her room at curfew, and calming emotions about an issue that we adults might dismiss but on a teenage scale is over the top are just a few examples.
Despite the raucous music, the short attention spans and the irrepressible energy, I love traveling with teens. I did with my own children; I do with my students, and I hope someday to do so with my grandchildren. What a treat it is to watch their excitement when they see new sights for the very first time. Their joy is contagious even when the sights are familiar to me, and what an opportunity it is to teach them that which is beyond books. It's the time we can share with them what our experience with the world has been, what we know about life beyond school or family, and what our loves and passions are. We become the guide to their new adventure, and they become a witness to our experience.
If you have teens in your life, consider traveling with them. They're old enough to remember and appreciate every moment, and you will see even that which you know in a new way.
One of these trips included almost 50 fifty kids. Though there were several other teachers with me, the noise level and harnessed energy on one charter bus was enough to keep all of us on our toes.
Now, I have really good students (which, by the way, keeps me teaching), but even with good kids, there are the inevitable emotional moments. Soothing a student who missed getting hard-fought, fabulous photos into the contest on time; chastising a student who decided it would be fun to join another group's party instead of being in her room at curfew, and calming emotions about an issue that we adults might dismiss but on a teenage scale is over the top are just a few examples.
Despite the raucous music, the short attention spans and the irrepressible energy, I love traveling with teens. I did with my own children; I do with my students, and I hope someday to do so with my grandchildren. What a treat it is to watch their excitement when they see new sights for the very first time. Their joy is contagious even when the sights are familiar to me, and what an opportunity it is to teach them that which is beyond books. It's the time we can share with them what our experience with the world has been, what we know about life beyond school or family, and what our loves and passions are. We become the guide to their new adventure, and they become a witness to our experience.
If you have teens in your life, consider traveling with them. They're old enough to remember and appreciate every moment, and you will see even that which you know in a new way.
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