Quote of My Life

THIS

QUOTE

DEFINES

MY 

L.I.F.E.

Yes, I'm on Facebook way too much.

I hope to be on it less after this year.

But then I find this:

No explanation needed if you really know me.

librarianintx 

A Monday

Ultimately, today was about gratitude for what I was able to accomplish and giving myself grace for what I was unable to achieve.

This was not about anxiety limiting me.

Or a lack of motivation preventing me.

It was about still recovering from illness

And less than ideal weather

Plus an inability to schedule transportation 

There was no anger or self-criticism.

I knew I did the best I could.

I gave myself credit for that.

And chose to focus on what I was able to do.

Today was not about courage, but I am reminded of one of my favorite quotes:

"Courage doesn't always roar. Sometimes courage is that still, small voice at the end of the day that says, 'I will try again tomorrow.'"

I faced the shortcomings of the day with a calm determination that I will complete my tasks another day. 

A healthier approach to a challenging day.

Progress feels good.

librarianintx

Gratitude

It is during times of difficulty and frustration with life that focusing on gratitude can be the most beneficial and enriching:

So today I am grateful for:

The ability to work from home

Potato soup

A brownie

Three new shirts (on sale!)

Cough drops and green tea with lemon

Organizing

And...

Believing that tomorrow will be better. 

librarianintx 

DWTS Season Finale - Who Should Win?

The show starts in forty minutes as I am composing this - I am SO excited!

Because of the move to Disney Plus, I have missed some of this season. However, I would say that this is one of the strongest final four I have seen. In my opinion, they all deserve to be there, and any one of them could take that mirrorball trophy.

I have been rooting for Shangela and Gleb all season. I CANNOT wait to see their freestyle! And I will be THRILLED if they snatch the crown...I mean win the title. 

But at the same time, I think Charli is one of the best contestants the show has ever had. She looks like a professional dancer. And she is so sweet and humble. Gabby and Wayne are also extremely talented. It's one of the few seasons where I will feel happy and satisfied with whoever wins. 

A lot of it boils down the freestyle. I have seen some frontrunners do some lackluster freestyles, and I have seen some less capable contestants do some highly entertaining freestyles. What will happen tonight? Will they all make us jump off the couch and cheer?

Enjoy the show, and the ride dance fans! Good luck to the final four!

librarianintx 

Always Someone to Cheer For

I am not a good sports fan.

I get into a sport when one of my teams gets into the playoffs.

That's not fair.

I should be rooting for them from the beginning. 

Celebrating the wins and suffering through the losses.

Believing in them when they're down as well as when they're up.

But anyway...

The point of this post is that while it sucks when a beloved player retires or is traded, it's important to know that a new player always has the ability to steal your heart and earn your respect.

I was so upset when Carlos Correa left the Astros. He was one of my favorite players. He is an excellent Short Stop. I loved his "bromance" with Jose Altuve. I missed that magic.

But now the Astros have a new Short Stop. And I know there are MANY people smitten with and very impressed by Jeremy Pena. What a season this rookie had. ALCS AND World Series MVP! Youth, vitality, athleticism. A winning smile, a team player, and a surprising lack of ego for someone who has catapulted to stardom in the sports world.

The Astros are awash in talent. Every member of the team contributed to their World Series victory. It was a magical season. I'm thrilled for the players, the city of Houston, and for their manager, Dusty Baker Jr. At 73 years old, Dusty finally gets a WS ring.

librarianintx 

Fourteen Brain-Healthy Foods that Will Help Protect Your Memory and Cognition

From Prevention.com

green leafy vegetables

coffee or tea

poultry

citrus

fatty fish

whole grains

eggs

beans

nuts

olive oil

berries

dark chocolate

raisins

red wine

My thoughts:

Hooray! I like and will eat or drink everything on this list, except coffee and red wine. I already eat whole grains, poultry, eggs, beans, and berries several times a week. I can't chew or swallow nuts well, so I have started eating adding a tablespoon of walnut flour to yogurt. I also use olive oil as my base for homemade Italian dressing, and I am going to start substituting olive oil for butter on my red potatoes. I bought some frozen spinach this past weekend, and I have packets to make green tea. I like salmon a lot, but I don't make it very often. And I like raisins and citrus but don't tend to eat them because they are both high in potassium, and I have to watch my potassium. And dark chocolate - yes please! I eat dark chocolate sugar free pudding sometimes - does that count? 

librarianintx

Fifteen Ways to Reduce Your Risk of Cognitive Decline

Here are fifteen ways to reduce your risk of cognitive decline:

1. Manage your blood pressure

2. Keep healthy cholesterol levels

3. Keep a consistent and stable blood sugar range

4. Rack up enough physical activity

5. Eat a nutritious, well-balanced diet; the DASH diet and the Mediterranean diet are Alzheimer's Association favorites, and the MIND diet is a perennial neurologist pick

6. Consume fewer refined carbs and more dietary fiber

7. Don't smoke (talk to your healthcare team about quitting if you do)

8. Seek treatment for symptoms of depression, if present

9. Keep socially connected

10. Limit alcohol use

11. Score 7 to 9 hours of sleep regularly

12. Challenge the brain through puzzles, reading, music or other hobbies

13. Treat hearing loss, if present

14. Meditate—even 12 minutes per day can move the needle

15. Take steps to protect from head trauma—wear seat belt in vehicles, wear a helmet during sports and "fall-proof" your home from slippery surfaces and rugs

Thoughts on my risk:

My blood pressure tends to be on the low side. But I also have anxiety and because of that I think my cortisol levels are elevated sometimes, so that increases my risk. 

I don't get my cholesterol levels checked often enough. They've been okay so far, I think, but I need to find out what my numbers are yearly. 

I also need to work on blood sugar. The last time I got my blood sugar checked, it was slightly out of range. Not bad enough to concern a doctor. But what I think I need to work on is not getting overly hungry. I need to eat more frequently, and more complete meals. And I am chronically dehydrated. That is a big problem for me. 

I exercise every day, but it never feels like enough. And it's getting harder as I get older. But I'm still doing what I can. I am trying to incorporate more yoga and strength training. 

I am REALLY working on eating better. I definitely eat healthier than I used to. For me, I have to balance eating healthy with also getting enough calories, because I need to gain weight. 

I eat fewer refined carbs than I used to. I used to eat white rice. Now I eat quinoa and bulgur wheat. But I still consume too much sugar. 

I have never smoked.

I am working on reducing anxiety and depression. 

I was very sheltered during the pandemic but am working my way back to being more social. 

I don't drink. 

Sleep - I average six and a half to eight hours a night. For my age I think that's very good. 

I do Wordle every day and play a variety of games on my phone. I am trying to learn some Spanish and sign language, but I need to practice more. I want to learn how to play the piano. I journal and blog. 

I get my hearing checked every other year. 

Meditation is on my list of activities to start. :)

I always wear my seat belt, but my balance has become worse. I need physical therapy and am trying to get set up with home PT. 

librarianintx

Leslie Jordan

Emmy-award winning TV actor

Film actor

Stage actor

Playwright

Singer

Author

Social Media sensation

Leslie Jordan made the most of his too-brief 67 years on this earth.

His shocking death today has left us bewildered and mourning this comedic talent and lovable personality.

The amazing thing about Leslie was his ability to take the characteristics that could make him the object of ridicule - his effeminate qualities, his short stature, his Southern drawl, and spin it all into comedy gold. Leslie wasn't only a comedic actor. But it will be what he is remembered for. That, and the smiles and comfort he brought to a lonely and sheltered world through his social media presence during the pandemic. 

"I was baptized 14 times. Every time the preacher would say, 'sinners, come forward,' I would say, 'Oooh, I was out in the woods with that boy, I better go forward.'" Leslie Jordan

"Karen Walker...I thought I smelled gin and regret" Beverly Leslie

"Beverly Leslie...if you sat on a phone book, it'd be nice to see you too." Karen Walker

librarianintx 

Dancing with the Stars: Disney+ Nite

Disney+ Nite, not to be confused with Disney Nite - Promotion, Dance Fans, it's all about promotion!

Okay, disclaimer at the outset: The judges are the dance experts. I am not. So when I say my scores differed from the judges, I understand that they know far more than I do about technique. Still, I think the judges were inconsistent with their scoring on Monday night. Read on to find out when we agreed and when we didn't. 

I am with the judges on their critiques for Charli and Gabby. For me they were the top of the night. But I think they should have both received 10's. Charli should have received a perfect score for dancing with that Marge wig and dealing with hundreds of bobby pins in her head. Seriously, though, both of those routines were full of content, musicality, and personality. 

I was slightly less impressed with Wayne & Witney - I thought the dance was a little slow to take off. But I love him and I'm glad he did well. 

On the flip side, I thought Jordin & Brandon deserved all 9's for their beautiful jazz routine. 

I COMPLETELY agreed with Len on Daniel & Britt's High School Musical-themed Quickstep. The desks and extra dancers got in the way and interrupted the flow of the dance. But I also felt that the umbrella in Heidi and Artem's Mary Poppins routine was distracting and should have been cast aside earlier than it was. I think one judge mentioned the umbrella, but they weren't as vocal about it as I would have been. 

Okay, first big gripe of the night: Shangela & Gleb's Charleston received the same score, and about the same amount of praise, as Selma & Sasha's Quickstep. I love Selma. As a person with a disability, I am very happy to have Selma in this competition. But Len talks about how he doesn't want dancers "messing about", being out of hold, etcetera, and that is exactly what Selma & Sasha did. Did Sasha choreograph the dance that way because Selma could not physically do a proper Quickstep? It's fine if that is what had to be done, but why did she get 8's for that dance? I don't think the two routines deserved the same score. 

Gripe Number two: Trevor & Emma and Vinny & KoKo both did Samba routines. Trevor had hip action, good energy and partnering, musicality. Trevor had technique. Vinny had no technique that I saw. No hip action, no musicality. The dances came right after each other; Trevor's was first. I gave Trevor an 8 and Vinny a 6. The judges scored Vinny one point higher. HOW? What am I missing? Yes, I think Trevor is hot and I particularly enjoy dances where he is moving his hips with his shirt open, but that is not why I gave him an 8. 

Okay, main rants over. 

I pretty much agreed with the judges on the remaining three contestants: Joseph, Jessie, and Sam. Joseph's lifts were sloppy and made me nervous for Daniella. The routine was too challenging for him. I thought Jessie and Sam both improved from last week. Jessie's kicks and flicks were on point, and Sam showed surprising musicality and attack in his Paso Doble. 

Trevor DID NOT belong in the bottom two. In my ballroom, Vinny and Joseph would have been up for elimination.

These are my opinions, and I am sticking to them. 

My ranking for this episode would be:

Charli

Gabby

Jordin

Wayne

Heidi

Shangela

Trevor

Jessie 

Selma

Daniel

Sam

Joseph

Vinny

librarianintx

Twenty Heart-Healthy Snacks

 www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/20-registered-dietician-approved-heart-210000282.html

 I'm happy to see this list, because I like several of these foods. 

1) almond butter and fruit - I eat almond butter sandwiches occasionally. Not too often because I eat the stir-no kind that has palm oil in it

2) red grapes, cranberries and pomegranates - I like grapes but have not tried the other two, other than cranberry juice

3) avocado toast - I like avocado toast, but rarely make it. 

4) hummus and veggies - I like hummus. Sometimes I eat hummus in a tortilla with mushrooms and tomatoes 

5) bread and olive oil - When I go out for Italian food, I eat bread dipped in olive oil and spices. YUM

6) tuna, avocado, and cucumber slices - I have eaten tuna salad with avocado and cucumber slices. I have also eaten tuna salad with diced cucumber in it. All tasty. But I have read not to eat tuna too often because of the mercury content. 

7) tuna salad - I eat tuna salad about twice a month. I would eat it more often if it weren't for the mercury levels. 

8) salmon and crackers - for the holidays my mom always makes lox and cream cheese spread that I eat on bagels or wheat bread. I need to make this for myself sometimes. 

9) walnuts and fruit - I'm not a big fan of nuts, and they are difficult for me to chew and swallow. Sometimes I eat Greek vanilla yogurt or sugar free pudding with walnut flour mixed in. I need to do that more often.

10) bean salsa with sliced bell peppers - I eat refried beans, black beans, and pinto beans often

11) popcorn - I do not eat popcorn due to the choking hazard. It's not worth it to me.

12) Roasted chickpeas - I like hummus but otherwise I don't eat chickpeas

13) edamame - I don't like or dislike edamame. I just don't eat it. 

14) pumpkin seeds - I don't usually eat any kind of seeds.

15) cheese and whole grain crackers - I eat cheese at least once a day. I like veggie crackers - are they whole grain? 

16) trail mix -  I don't eat trail mix

17) peanut butter and whole grain toast - I was not raised on PB&J. I liked peanut butter for awhile as an adult, but I prefer almond butter. 

18) overnight oats with nut butter - I've tried oatmeal, and I know how healthy it is, but I don't like it. I eat grits and cream and wheat, but not oatmeal.

19) corn chips and guac - YES! Now you're talking! My mouth is watering.

20) yogurt or cottage cheese - I like both. But I don't eat plain yogurt. I like Greek vanilla yogurt, especially with walnut flour or fruit mixed in - blueberries, strawberries, or peaches. I also like cottage cheese with fruit.   

librarianintx

 

 

Today

Today was tough.

But I did not give up.

Had a cry.

Then breathed and sighed.

Made a decision 

Resolved it will come to fruition. 

Now will lay in bed

Rest my achy bones and head

A new day will dawn

And I will carry on.

I know the choice I need to make

To hopefully ensure I do not break.

librarianintx 

Lizzo and the Famous Flute

 www.yahoo.com/news/republicans-mad-library-congress-allowed-170710690.html

Okay, can someone please explain to me what the problem is here? 

Why do some Republicans have their panties in a twist about this? 

Here are the facts as I understand them:

Lizzo asked permission to play the flute during her DC concert. 

The Library of Congress granted her request.  

The Library of Congress sent the flute in a protected case with a curator and security officer to guard it. 

End of story. 

Except it's not. 

Suddenly people involved are being threatened with deportation (absolutely ridiculous) and of course Lizzo is being degraded for her weight, her clothes, and her dance moves. 

Y'all. 

Get a hold of yourselves. 

She didn't fornicate with the flute. 

She didn't throw it on the ground and stomp on it. 

She played it. 

She is a talented singer, rapper, lyricist, and CLASSICALLY TRAINED FLUTIST / FLAUTIST.

She is not, as one Republican claimed, famous for being the most morbidly obese person in the world. 

She is famous because she has won Grammy, Emmy and MTV Video Music Awards, as well as having hit albums, producing a reality television show, and having her own clothing business. 

Please quit finding ways to trash Lizzo. 

And by the way, if you're keeping score:

Librarians: 2

Republicans: 0

Quote of the day: "We just did a DNA test. Turns out: It's 100% that [crystal] flute @lizzo played at her D.C. stop on the #SpecialTour tonight," The Library of Congress 

librarianintx

Self-Care

In August I went to my yearly dermatology appointment. 

My dermatologist, Dr. R., did a mole check and examined the psoriasis on my scalp and the dry skin on my feet.

"Are you using the medications on your scalp and feet?" he asked.

"Occasionally," I reply, squirming a little. "Not as often as I should be."

"How often? He inquired. "Once a week? Less?"

"Less," I admitted.

I didn't want to say that it was much less than that.

How long does it take to slap some cream on my head before I wash my hair, and do the same with my feet (a different cream) before I put my socks on?

I am not good at developing habits.

I am not consistent. 

But since that appointment I have started "self-care Saturdays." Every Saturday morning I treat my scalp before I get in the shower, and I treat my feet when I get out of the shower.

Once a week isn't enough.

But it's a start.

I've only missed one Saturday so far, so I did a "self-care Sunday" that week.

librarianintx 

Oral Health

 A few years ago I attended some online webinars to earn a CHIS (Consumer Health Information Specialist) designation from the NLM (National Library of Medicine). 

I take my role as a disseminator of health information seriously. These blog posts aren't exciting, but if they help at least one person, I am pleased.

How good am I at following the health guidelines that I blog about?

To be honest, often not as good as I should be.

I am a work in progress.

Now on to the topic of this post: Oral Health

Taking care of your teeth and gums are important at all stages of life, and especially as we age.

Here are some points to consider:

Brush your teeth at least twice a day. And don't forget your tongue. Use a soft toothbrush and apply light pressure. If you have a condition that affects using your hands, use a battery-operated toothbrush, or one with a long handle. Replace your toothbrush every three to four months.

Floss at least once a day. Floss on a stick is often easier to use than string floss.

Eat nutritious food. Sugary, starchy and acidic foods can weaken tooth enamel.

If you have dry mouth, drink a lot of water. Bacteria often thrives in a dry environment. Some medications have dry mouth as a side effect.

If you use a lot of cough drops, chew gum, or suck on hard candy, use sugar free varieties. 

Avoid tobacco products.  

See a dentist every six months to a year - more often if you are having symptoms such as a toothache or bleeding gums.

Certain conditions can affect oral health, including diabetes, HIV / AIDS, osteoporosis, and dementia. In turn, poor oral health can be a contributing factor in cases of endocarditis, cardiovascular disease, and pneumonia.

Source: www.mayoclinic.org/healthy lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/dental/art-20047475 

librarianintx 

Twelve Modifiable Risk Factors for Dementia

 Here are the twelve risk factors:

• high blood pressure
• lower education levels
• impaired hearing
• smoking
• obesity
• depression
• physical inactivity
• diabetes
• low levels of social contact 
• excessive alcohol consumption
• traumatic brain injuries
• air pollution

And here are simple lifestyle interventions that can help lessen that risk:

• a healthy diet - heavy on vegetables and fiber, low on processed food
• movement - any movement is good!
• quality sleep - prioritizing sleep 
• stress reduction - finding calm in our lives
• mental stimulation - making sure we keep learning whatever our education attainment level
• reducing our toxic load - fewer toxins in, more toxins out 

source: www.thelancet.com/article/S0140-6736(20)30367-6/fulltext 

librarianintx

Fascinating New Health Phrase

Today during a webinar for work I heard a new health term that unfortunately fits me perfectly most nights:

Revenge Bedtime Procrastination

This means that you find ways to not go to bed even when you are tired and know that you need to be asleep. 

Why do we do it? 

A few reasons:

We want to have a feeling of control. 

We might be nervous about what we have to face the next day. 

We sometimes stay up late because we finally have the time to do something that we enjoy. 

Night owls tend to do this more than morning people.

I do this almost every night. 

I never knew it had a name.

I will delay exercising, eating, doing chores to get ready for work, etcetera.

I should be in bed by 10 during the week. 

Usually, it's 11 or after.  

On the weekends I'm often up until 1 or 2 in the morning. 

What do I do instead? 

Unfortunately, too often nothing very productive or constructive, like scrolling through Facebook or watching tv. 

Sometimes playing phone games or reading or writing, which are at least beneficial for my brain. 

Now that I know it's a thing, and that it's not healthy for me (which I figured), hopefully I can work on doing something about it. 

Maybe tomorrow. :)

librarianintx

Hurricane Coverage

www.yahoo.com/entertainment/weather-channel-reporter-hit-flying-201515720.html

Like a lot of people, I get sucked into coverage of big news and weather events. I have had a weather phobia my whole life, so I can get very anxious when severe weather is in my area. When it is not threatening where I live, I am fascinated by it. 

Having said all that, I get frustrated when members of the weather and news media deliberately put themselves in harm's way to get ratings and hype a weather event. They will say repeatedly, "Stay inside! This is a dangerous situation!" and then there they are, in winds so strong they can barely stand, in rushing flood waters, etcetera. They urge residents to evacuate coastal areas, and then they move into hotels on the beach, or set up their equipment in a parking garage nearby. "We're safe here; this is a sturdy structure," they proclaim.

In 2018 Hurricane Michael roared ashore in the Panhandle of Florida as a Category Five storm. I remember that a reporter was broadcasting from a hotel during the height of the storm. He was outside, under an awning, and declared that he was perfectly safe because of said awning. Less than a minute after he went inside, the awning collapsed. 

The viewing public is lucky that we have never had to witness a member of the news media killed by flying debris or struck by lightning on live television. But that doesn't mean it can't happen. Be in the thick of the action if you must, but can't you film from inside and still accurately communicate the gravity of the situation? I don't have to see anyone holding on to a tree for dear life to know that a hurricane can cause destruction and loss of life. There is plenty of time to film damage and talk to residents after the storm has passed.  

librarianintx

Something You Don't See Every Day

Working next to the Capitol, I have seen a few girls celebrating their quinenera, coming to the Capitol for a photo op on the lush grounds with a backdrop of the majestic building. I have witnessed them arrive in limousines and stretch Hummers, dressed in their ornate princess gowns, attended by a group of young men attired in matching suits. A photographer documents every move as they exit the vehicle and pose as I watch admiringly. They are young, exquisite, and radiant with dreams and promise.

Today I did not see a quincinera girl.

I saw a bride and groom.

I don't know if they got married at the Capitol, or were there for a photo opportunity. It was just the two of them - no entourage. 

They were walking hand in hand, the groom holding her bouquet so she could hold the hem of her long gown with her other hand. Her white wedding dress and veil were adorned with crystals and beads that dazzled against the blue September sky. They both smiled self-consciously as my driver and I waved at them.

Another opportunity for me to see hope and promise and beauty personified. 

librarianintx 

Dancing with the Stars Week 1

 A new season, a new home (first time on a streaming channel), and a new co-host, Alfonso Ribeiro! 

Charli D'Amelio was the star of the night, earning the highest score and wowing the judges with her partner, returning pro Mark Ballas. 

But several other contestants made strong showings, including Deaf actor Daniel Durant, actor Wayne Brady, singer Jordan Sparks, and Dancing with the Stars' first drag queen, Shangela.

Actress Selma Blair, who has Multiple Sclerosis, garnered praise and had members of the judging panel and the audience shedding tears during her dance. 

The show doesn't always eliminate a contestant on the first night, but this season actor Jason Lewis was shown the ballroom door after only one dance.

One thing I noticed among the top dancers of the night was the musicality and personality on display. 

My top five dancers of the night:

Charli

Shangela

Wayne

Daniel

Jordan

librarianintx

Big Brother Season Finale - My Thoughts

 Was I watching the same show that everyone else was? 

Taylor wins over Monte?

And decisively - Eight to One.

I'm not saying that she is undeserving. She won challenges. She made alliances. It's just her personality that I didn't care for. In a way, I can understand the jury voting for her. They didn't hear her snide comments to the camera. I understand the girls voting for her. But the guys? Joseph, who had a showmance with her until he left and then she started making out with Monte? Terrance, Michael, Kyle - they chose Taylor over Monte? Only Turner voted for Monte. 

I will say that I thought her final speech to sway the jury was very powerful, and apparently it worked. But I am very surprised and perplexed that she also won America's vote for favorite houseguest. Really, America? She was more deserving than Monte, Michael, Joseph? I don't understand. 

Anyway, congratulations to Taylor. I know she'll enjoy her celebrity, her shopping sprees, and the endless bags of potato chips that $750,000 will buy. 

Although I'm not a fan of Taylor, I DO think she was treated unfairly over her argument with Nicole. That was a big misunderstanding, and I was very happy to see the two of them embrace and apparently reconcile that very difficult situation. 

Monte, I think you're a good guy, and I think you deserved to win. 

But really, Michael should have won this season. 

librarianintx

Eleven Foods that Boost Your Bone Strength and Joint Health

www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/11-foods-II-bone-181500160.html.

In case you don't want to click on the link, here's the list:

tumeric

bone broth

prunes

fortified milk

tofu

blueberries

bell peppers

sweet potatoes

bok choy

mushrooms 

sardines

I drink milk and eat blueberries almost every day. I like mushrooms and tofu and will endeavor to eat them more often. I've never tried bok choy. I prefer red potatoes to sweet potatoes, but I don't dislike sweet potatoes. Sardines and prunes - I don't see myself eating those two. I have an Instant Pot recipe for bell pepper soup that sounds good. I've read about the health benefits of tumeric, but haven't used it in cooking yet. 

The article also mentioned what vitamins are important for strong bones and healthy joints:

Calcium

Vitamin D

Collagen

Vitamin C

Omega-3

Magnesium

Vitamin K

librarianintx

Top Ten Ways to Stay Independent and Active

 Just watched a good webinar for work about staying independent and active as you age. 

Here are my notes:

10

Get PT early

You can ask for it

Strengthen skills before something bad happens

PT

OT - functionality

Speech therapy – speaking, swallowing

 

9

Social interaction

Engage in the community

Cognitive component

We are social beings

Social skills – cognitive engagement

 

8

Exercise / movement / physical activity

Create a simple routine

Movement every day

Ask for advice if needed

Even just walking or moving your arms

Chair or couch exercises are good

You don’t need equipment, but weights are good

You don’t have to go to the gym

Exercise helps your bones, muscles, and brain

 

7

Community resources

Senior centers

Libraries

Area Agencies on Aging:

Financial

Transportation

Meals

 

6

Following medical advice

Advocate for yourself

Communicate with your doctor

Allow the process time to work

 

5

Fuel your body with nutrition / hydration / sleep

Nutrition builds muscle, heals wounds, provides energy:

Protein

Antioxidants

Eat colorful foods

Making sure you eat enough

Hydration transports nutrients and oxygen, detoxifies body

Dehydration common as you age because you are less thirsty

Dehydration can lead to:

Disorientation

Dizziness

Falls

Milk, tea, coffee okay but we really need water

Sleep allows us to recharge

Look into sleep remedies

Limit beverages at night so you don’t have to wake up during the night to use the restroom

Limit alcohol

Limit screen time

Practice good sleep hygiene

 

4

Address hearing / vision problems

Loved ones may notice this first

 

3

Have a hobby / passion

Do what you love

It brings more benefit than you realize

Some examples

Gardening:

Planning skills

Standing skills

Sunshine / vitamin D

Enjoy seeing something grow

Sewing Circle:

Hand strengthening

Counting

Being in a group

Playing soccer:

Movement

Playing with others

Cognition

Competition

 

2

Help each other

Know your neighbors

In giving we receive

 

1

Don’t be afraid to ask for help

It is a sign of wisdom, not weakness

 

heidi@ascendtherapypnw.com

www.weagewithpurpose.com

 

https://knowledgeableaging.com   

 

 librarianintx

 

The State Funeral of Queen Elizabeth II

I did not want her to die.

She is a person first and foremost.

A beloved matriarch

Loved by children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and other family

Admired by people in power

Respected by the people of her country, and the Commonwealth

A person of fascination by many around the world.

I certainly do not delight in the outpouring of grief and mourning.

But as a lover of history - I was pleased to be a witness to this historic occasion. 

I have seen grand British funerals in my lifetime.

The ones I remember were for Princess Diana and Prince Phillip

But there has not been a funeral for a British Sovereign in more than 70 years.

There were plenty of images and sounds that evoked sorrow.

The grief on the faces of the family

The glimpse of the Queen's beloved corgis

The hearse dusted with flowers

The bagpipes and the choir

But the pageantry, the precision, the historical significance of the occasion - all of that was magnificent. 

librarianintx 

The Challenge USA Finale - My Thoughts

I don't think I've ever watched The Challenge before.

I was intrigued because the show includes contestants from Survivor and Big Brother.

Man, those challenges are bananas!! They look so difficult, and dangerous. It's interesting that the challenges include mental components like arithmetic, puzzles, spelling, and trivia.

The finale was especially grueling. I was very surprised that after dominating the game, Tyson didn't finish. I understand that he gave up when he knew Danny was going to win, but I thought he would still want to complete the course. 

I can kind of understand Andrea's decision to skip a challenge, but I do think it was the right decision to kick her out. It would not have been fair to the others that she got a full night's sleep in a warm tent, while the others labored in the cold late into the night.

I like Danny and I was very happy to witness his triumph. Sarah is not my favorite person, but I have to say, I was impressed with her "don't quit" attitude. She thought she was in last place, that she had no chance of winning, but she was determined to finish anyway. She battled the cold and exhaustion and her frustration with the puzzles. It was fun to watch her find out that she was the only woman and the second person to finish. She refused to give up, and her tenacity paid off.

librarianintx 

Big Brother Final Four - My Thoughts

I can sum it up in one word...

Meh

I'm interested enough to watch, but I don't have a favorite, and I don't really care who wins. I can't say I like any of them. Overall, the personalities have not been very likeable IMO. Michael was my favorite,  and he was playing the best game. But I did not like how he handled his eviction. I have no idea who will win Favorite Houseguest. I won't be voting for anyone.

librarianintx 

Dancing with the Stars 2022

Get ready dance fans!

DWTS' new season starts tomorrow night!

For the first time on Disney Plus!

Not a good move IMO, but anyhoo...

Here is who I am excited about, who I know, and who I've never heard of.

The list of people I don't know is equal to the other two lists combined. 

I have never heard of:

Heidi D'Amelio 

Charli D'Amelio

Gabby Windey 

Joseph Baena

Jessie James Decker

Trevor Donavan

Vinny Guadagnino 

Jason Lewis

I know these contestants:

Sam Champion

Cheryl Ladd

Wayne Brady

Jordin Sparks

Teresa Giudice 

I am most excited to see:

Shangela

Selma Blair

Daniel Durant

Looking forward to it!

librarianintx 

Article Criticizing Prince William

https://pagesix.com/2022/09/12/prince-william-slammed-for-treatment-of-kate-while-harry-is-praised/

Okay, so this is from Page Six, a tabloid, so take it with a grain of salt.

But I have no doubt that uninformed people in Twitter are reprimanding Prince William. I'm being nice by using the term "uninformed."

Here's the story if you don't want to click on a gossip rag:

William is being raked over the coals by some Twitter users because he seemed distant from his wife, Princess Kate, while Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan held hands and caressed each other when they all interacted with the public during a royal walkabout after the death of Queen Elizabeth. 

Get educated, Twitter-verse.

There is a one word explanation for the couples' differences in behavior and demeanor.

PROTOCOL 

William and Kate are working royals. There are procedures they have to follow. They are not supposed to show affection in public during any official appearance. Kate is supposed to walk a step behind William. It's not because she's a woman. It's because he is a royal. He is in the line of succession. Prince Philip was supposed to walk a step behind Queen Elizabeth. That is protocol.

Harry and Meghan are not working royals. Their behavior is not ruled by protocol. They can be as touchy-feely as they want to.

There is a reason why Lady Gaga called social media "the toilet of the Internet." People rant and complain about events they know nothing about. William doesn't need to learn manners from Harry. William is adhering to the rules of a working royal. It has no bearing on his love for and treatment of his wife.

librarianintx 

Family Recipe

In my family, we have a few cherished recipes. Arguably, none of them are as popular as Filet of Chicken. Fillet of chicken is like chicken McNuggets but ten times better. Making it is a lengthy process and it helps to have a few people involved. You take boneless skinless chicken breasts or tenders, cut them into small pieces, soak them in egg, then roll them in bread crumbs and then flour, and finally fry them. Oh my goodness, they are so good. We eat them and eat them and eat them, and if there happen to be any left over, we eat them cold the next day.

I have helped with the Filet of Chicken prep before, assisting with the breading process, but I have never fried the chicken, and I have never tried to make it all by myself.

Until today.

I am happy to report that all went smoothly. I didn't burn myself or set off the smoke alarm. The first batch turned out dark because the oil was too hot, but they were still edible. I think I got a little better with each batch. I still pulled apart every piece to make sure they were thoroughly cooked. One package of tenders made about 40 pieces of Filet of Chicken!

Making it and eating it by myself wasn't the same as sitting around with the family, talking and laughing and and stuffing ourselves with chicken and other tasty food. But the feeling of accomplishment, trying and succeeding in a desired activity, comes with its own feeling of delight and purpose. And as my fingers were sticky with egg, bread crumbs, and flour, waves of nostalgia washed over me, as I remembered helping to make Filet of Chicken many times before.

librarianintx 

Teachable Moment

I'm walking back from the recycle bin on the apartment complex property.

A young boy is staring at me.

I take a few more steps, glancing at him.

The next time I look at him, he says to me in a flat tone, "You're short."

I smile, in my head relieved that he didn't say "ugly" or "weird looking."

"Yup, I sure am," I reply.

"How old are you?" He asks.

"I'm old," I say, still smiling. Then I ask him, "How old are you?"

"Eight." he answers.

"Cool," I say, then add, "I like your blue scooter." 

That's it. He slides away on his scooter and I start up the hill.

No harm. No foul.

Kids may not always express their curiosity and confusion in the nicest way. But that doesn't they are intentionally being rude. Hopefully our brief encounter showed him that I'm just a person who looks a little different from "the norm." But I'm still a person and it's okay to talk to me.

librarianintx

Virtual Resources for Older Adults

 Social isolation was a problem for older adults before the pandemic and continues to be an issue as people return to in person events.

Poor health, financial constraints, lack of transportation, and scheduling personal care attendants are some reasons why older adults and people with disabilities cannot attend in-person events. 

Here is a list of online resources for older adults that offer companionship, enrichment, lifelong learning, and social opportunities.

Sorry the spacing is messed up. I'm trying to copy and paste, and the format is not cooperating. 

            Companionship

AARP Friendly Voice: Leave a message at 888-281-0145 and a volunteer will call back

Big & Mini: 817-755-0775, https://bigandmini.org/: Seniors who would like companionship are paired with young people. Chats can take place by phone or Internet.

Friendly Voices: https://friendlyvoices.org: Nationwide, free service that connects seniors with volunteers for weekly phone calls. Sign up online

Social Call (Covia): 877-797-7299, https://covia.org/services/social-call/, Seniors who would like companionship are paired with a volunteer. Chats can take place by phone or Internet.

Discussion Groups for Seniors

DOROT University Without Walls: 877-819-9147 (toll free), Cost: Small fee / donation: https://www.dorotusa.org/our-programs/at-home/university-without-walls

Lifetime Connections Without Walls: 888-500-6472 (toll free), Free: www.familyeldercare.org/healthy-connections-2/

Senior Planet (OATS): 210-504-4862 (San Antonio tech hotline): https://seniorplanet.org/, Phone and virtual group events

Senior Planet Community: https://community.seniorplanet.org, Offers interest groups to interact with like-minded individuals

Well Connected: 877-797-7299 (toll free), https://covia.org/services/well-connected/

Lectures / Classes

Coursera: https://www.coursera.org/, Free and for a fee courses

OSHER Lifelong Learning Institutes, National Resource Center

List of Institutes: https://sps.northwestern.edu/oshernrc/files_nrc/lli_directory_2021update2.pdf (links to Texas institutes on page 17)

Classes designed for older adults. Prices vary.

Road Scholar: www.roadscholar.org/collections/online-lectures

One-hour lectures, from free to $25, on topics such as art history, world cultures, archeology, and more. Most lectures are recorded and available later. A free account is needed to sign up for lectures. 

Enrichment

A Mighty Good Time: www.amightygoodtime.com, A web site that lists                 events and experiences, many online, for older adults. Some programs are         free and some charge a fee.

Aging is Cool: www.agingiscool.com/calendar, Offers free virtual programming for seniors including exercise, socializing, brain training and games 

Cyber-Seniors: 844-217-3057, https://cyberseniors.org/, Seniors can                 schedule phone chats for assistance with using technology or sign up for technology-related webinars or view previous webinars. Site also features virtual exercise classes, community chats, movie, and trivia nights

Hey Go!: www.heygo.com, Free, live, interactive streams from around the world. Registration is required. All tours are free, but tips are encouraged. Not just for older adults

librarianintx

Dehydration

 Dehydration is something that can sneak up on you and cause unpleasant symptoms. 

Luckly dehydration is easily overcome by ingesting fluids. 

Easy for most people anyway. 

Individuals who have swallowing difficulty, who work or play in a hot environment, or have digestive issues or are dealing with a virus can become dehydrated. 

Some people struggle with chronic dehydration. I am one of those people. 

If you have any of the following symptoms, dehydration could be either a cause, or a contributing factor:

thirst

fatigue

headaches

irritability

dry skin

nausea

muscle cramps

constipation

high potassium levels

difficulty urinating

poor kidney function

kidney stones

rapid heartbeat

low oxygen levels

low blood volume

seizures

confusion

Water is the best thing to drink. 

If you don't like the taste of plain water, you can add fresh fruit or a flavoring packet. Some flavoring packets are made with artificial sweeteners or a lot of sugar. 

Tea, coffee, milk, and milk substitutes are also good sources for fluids. 

Fruit juices, even 100% juice, are high in sugar and calories, but can be good for hydration. 

Sports drinks can be helpful if you are working or playing in the heat for long periods of time.

Sodas are not good for you but are better than nothing if you dehydrated. 

Sugar-free carbonated beverages are a good alternative to soda and will help to hydrate you. 

A cold alcoholic beverage might taste good on a hot day, but it will only dehydrate you further. 

A good rule of thumb is to drink at least half of your body weight. So, if you weigh 160 pounds, make sure you are drinking at least 80 ounces of fluids. But you may need more if you are out in the heat, exerting a lot of energy, or have a virus or infection.

librarianintx

Big Brother 8/4 Episode: My Thoughts (Spoilers!)

Wow.

That was an EPIC blindside!

Go big or go home - bye Nicole!

She was my pick to win - for about five minutes

For a police officer, she was too emotional. And cocky. And loose-lipped.

She and Daniel turned out to be a terrible alliance. Their single-minded goal to oust Taylor resulted in a truly dumb move. I understand they thought they had the numbers, but y'all...this is Big Brother! And when Monte got the three girls to flip - that added icing to the cake. An almost unanimous eviction - and now Daniel is a dead man walking - unless he wins HOH or makes a new alliance. But I don't see anyone wanting to work with him considering his bitchy comments after Nicole walked out the door.

Having said all this, though, I'm not exactly celebrating Taylor's win. I agree that she has been bullied, and the misunderstanding with Nicole was not her fault, but Taylor can be cocky too. The whole "Queen" thing - it's a lot. Belief in yourself - fantastic. Belief that you're better than everyone else - thumbs down.

librarianintx 

"Be On Time" Chronicles

This was the start to my day:

Text Mom

Pee

Brush hair

Shower

Dress

Pee

Wash hands

Do hair

Jewelry

Pee

Wash hands

Take medicine 

Put on jacket and badge

Put food in bag

Check for ride

Pee

Wash hands 

Check for ride

Moisturize face

Walk outside 

Solve Wordle

Do Spelling Bee

Look at Facebook 

Ride is late - start to call Metro

Van pulls up

librarianintx 

"Be On Time Chronicles"

Since my ride was late this morning, this was everything I did to occupy myself:

Solved the Wordle

Texted with a friend / co-worker

Checked Facebook

Read a chapter

Went back into the apartment 

Sent an email with attachments 

Used the restroom

Cooked and ate breakfast

Watched an episode of "The Challenge"

Okay, the last two didn't happen. 

Everything else is true.

I'm now in the van, we have three people to drop off, I have to be at work in less than an hour, and the traffic is bananas. 

Paratransit doesn't have to be on time.

But I do.

At least my bladder is comfortable. 

Always look for the good. 

librarianintx

"Be on Time" Chronicles

I am writing this on July 25, but the situation occurred a week earlier on July 18th.

I didn't coin the term "Hell's Front Porch" when it comes to Texas heat, so maybe I'm going to be sued for copyright infringement if I use it in my writing. So let me think of a new phrase. "Climate change hellfire?" "Blazing steam bath?" "Burning skin and brain cells?" Names and titles are not my forte. It was another ridiculously hot day, y'all. Period.

This was my post from Facebook that day, "I'm waiting for my ride in the 'Hell's Front Porch' Texas heat, so to distract myself I decide to start listening to Lizzo's new album 'Special.' I have earbuds in my bag, but I think to myself, "Oh it's just me sweltering out here; I'll keep the sound low in case anyone comes outside or walks up." So I press play on Spotify, and Lizzo starts singing, "Hey, mothaf**ka...did ya miss me? I've been home since... 2020....I've been twerkin'..."

Oops

Better listen later, Lizzo. 

Or find my earbuds."

So now I've used "Hell's Front Porch" twice AND Lizzo lyrics, so how many regulations am I violating?

Anyway, there is more to the story of waiting for my ride on July 18 in the Year of Our Lord 2022.

I was in a Sophie's Choice sort of situation. 

I had to make a decision between:

Risking heat exhaustion by remaining outside but having the ability to sit

Or 

Fleeing to the air conditioning but having to stand for an undetermined amount of time 

I made it for twenty minutes in the fiery sauna before I dragged my sweaty bones and bags into the library. 

I stood in the doorway, watching and trying not to look unsteady, frustrated, and anxious.

Luckily the van pulled up at the end of the Fresh hell known as the thirty minute window. As I relaxed into the comfy, air conditioned vehicle, my driver said, "Its too hot for you to wait outside. Next Monday wait inside and I will come in and find you."

That was a lovely offer that should have resolved my problem and left me awash in relief. 

But it was a promise that I could not rely on. 

This driver USUALLY picks me up on Mondays, but that's not a guarantee. 

If I roll the dice and sit inside to wait, I could get a driver who plays by the rules and leaves my ass because I'm not waiting outside.

It's not a risk I'm willing to take. 

Not only would it delay me getting home, but I could also rack up "no show" points which could result in my suspension.

Then I would truly be f**ked.

End on Gratitude:

I don't have to work outside.

I just have to wait there - 

30 minutes

Twice a day

Three times a week

Minus holidays

Paratransit wants us to live the motto of mail carriers - endure rain, snow, sleet, and hail - They need to add the rain-deprived, Saharan dust and oak pollen-coated, fireball-drenched, record-setting temps of a Texas summer.

librarianintx