Having “The Talk”

Can you remember back to your early teens, or even pre-teens when you became curious about the opposite sex? And it was time for your parents and you to have “The Talk?” For some of us that conversation was something we wanted to have; but dreaded as much as our parents did. For some, that talk never came; because some were given a book from the Girl Scouts, or were sent off to a class at the local YMCA. Discussions about “growing up” were scary and uncomfortable for most involved.

Then came the time for us to have “The Talk” with our own children. Again, a needed discussion that may have come much sooner than expected; but was for many no less uncomfortable.

Now as we age or as we see our parents age, another kind of “talk” needs to occur. This time “The Talk” is between the child and the parent, where the discussion turns to later life issues. Instead of it being about “growing up,” it is time to talk about “growing old.”

This “talk” can be just as uncomfortable, but certainly as necessary, as it explores personal feelings, finances, living arrangements, final arrangements. But having “the talk” means there are no questions or misconceptions as to what the parent wants and how these desires can be accomplished.

Not having “the talk” can set up a family for having a loss of money, loss of security, loss of control, loss of independence, and loss of family stability.

Join Mary Grace Musuneggi, Financial Consultant & Andy Sykes, Elder Law Attorney, on October 10, 2013, to learn the strategies for having a Family Meeting and exploring the important questions. Learn how the Family Meeting can dispel potential legal and financial issues. Learn how to avoid significant mistakes that can cost time, hurt feelings, and of course, money.

Parents, bring the children. Children, bring the parents.

Desiderata

One of my favorites…

Just wanted to share this with all of you as we come out of summer, kids go back to school, hectic end of the year about to start, so much to do, so little time….

STOP. SIT. RELAX. READ.

DESIDERATA

Go placidly amidst the noise and haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence. As far as possible without surrender be on good terms with all persons. Speak your truth quietly and clearly, and listen to others, even the dull and the ignorant; they too have their story. Avoid loud and aggressive persons, they are vexatious to the spirit. If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain or bitter; for there will always be greater and
lesser persons than yourself. Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans. Keep interested in your career, however humble; it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time. Exercise caution in your business affairs for the world is full of trickery. But let this not blind you to what virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals, and everywhere life is full of heroism. Be yourself. Especially, do not feign affection. Neither be cynical about love; for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment it is as perennial as the grass. Take kindly the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth. Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings. Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness. Beyond a wholesome discipline be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe; no less than the trees and the stars, you have the right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should. Therefore be at peace with God whatever you conceive Him to be. And whatever your labours and aspirations in the noisy confusion of life, keep peace with your soul. With all its sham drudgery and broken dreams it is still a beautiful world. Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.

-Attributed to Max Ehrmann 1927

And Then There Was One

Living Alone In Your Senior Years

“People want to live a long time. Unless they don’t know they are living a long time.”
……..Dr. Oz’s thoughts on Alzheimer”

According to Web M.D. most women can expect to spend some portion of their adult life as a
single. Because they live on an average of 5 years more than their male counterparts, they
are more likely to live alone at the end of their lives. Also some spouses leave by choice and
not just by chance. According to the Census Bureau one of four divorces today are initiated
by people over the age of 50.

So what can a single woman do to make those senior years all they can be? According to Cyperparent.com

1. Remain goal-oriented
2. Develop and maintain a strong social support network of family, friends and
colleagues
3. Develop a personal exercise program
4. Take charge of your financial future
5. Eat a low-fat, high fiber diet
6. Don’t fall for fad diets
7. Practice light or no drinking
8. No smoking, not matter what
9. Take charge of your brain

“Maintain Your Brain” is an educational seminar which teaches good brain health in order to  reduce the risk for developing dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Learn about exercise, diet and ways in which you can engage your brain to boost your brainpower. Come and get brain fit!