December Dayton The HIP Senior 2020

The HIP Senior
DECEMBER 2020 ISSUE 07
Dayton, Ohio

Love and Peace,
I'm not a big holiday fan. In fact, I'm happy when they are over so
the world can get back to normal. As I write this though, we are
waiting to find out who our next President of the United States is
going to be, so I think by the time Christmas time comes, I may
be ready for the nice break this year!
Last month, you may have noticed that the magazine was a bit
short. It was - but - and this is big - the other articles were on the
website at www.TheHIPSenior.com/articles! There's some
changes coming in January and February so we are getting you
used to going to the website for some of the content. Please be
patient with us! Love you all! Happy all inclusive Holidays!
From the Editor
Marianne Bailey
0 2 | T H S • A U G U S T 2 0 2 0
Happy Hanukkah!
Happy Kwanzaa!
Merry Christmas!
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UglySweater S
eason
Who has the ugliest sweater this season?
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In the meantime, enjoy these that I found
on Pinterest.
CHICFROMCHICAGO.COM
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LIVINGLOCURTO.COM
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CHRISTMAS SWEATERS TX
Ugly Sweaters
Continued
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While visiting a beautiful group home I was introduced
to a gentleman named Bob. He was a successful
businessman and loved outdoor activities. A recent
head injury changed his life forever, but he obviously
still had places to go.
Bob was sitting in his Geri-chair wearing his favorite
outdoor adventure hat and attempting to propel his
chair across the room. The wheelchair brakes were
hindering his forward motion and his body was
beginning to slide out of the seat.
The caregiver was beginning to lose her patience and
said, "we need to get him in a recliner quick, before he
falls." I asked if we could try something and allow him
to pedal around in his chair? She agreed with much
reservation, but Bob was finally free. He immediately
pedaled to the large TV where music was playing from
his high school days. He listened attentively and even
swayed to the rhythm of each song.
Next, he moved to the back of the living room where a
wall of windows provided a wonderful a view. The sun
was shining, and the birds were busy at the feeders. I
could only imagine what was going through his mind,
but the smile on his face was priceless.
The Dementia Corner
Don't Keep A Good Man Down
Then he pedaled towards the kitchen where
he bumped into a weight bearing column, and
the caregiver said, "that's it.” The adventure
was over for Bob that day, but I am hoping the
caregiver was able to see the importance of
allowing him to move. Even though there is a
head injury or memory problem, we need to
remember that people were created to move,
investigate, learn, and most importantly have
purpose.
Safety awareness is frequently impaired, but
curiosity can be driving their need to keep
moving. Do yourself a favor and take time to
plan activities for and with them for as long as
they are able. You could take walks, play
games, or bake together. As time passes
their abilities will change, so adjust the activity
to complement their deficit so they can still
feel successful and find enjoyment.
TERESA
YOUNGSTROM
RN, Dementia Specialist, Founder of A Better
Approach to Memory Care
www.teresayoungstrom.com

We now know what Medicare is, and have a pretty good idea about Medicare supplement insurance,
as well as Medicare Advantage (Part C), but something is missing. Maybe you’ll go to the hospital
sometime, occasionally you’ll go to the doctor. Your prescription drugs, however, are an everyday
thing. Regardless of how often you see your doctor, you most likely take your pills every day… and
drugs can get expensive! What to do?
For over 40 years after Medicare was first created, there was nothing to do but deal with it yourself.
Medicare didn’t cover prescription drugs, so the Medicare recipient was left to their own devices: pay
for it or go without. Most anyone reading this is old enough to remember in the 1990’s there was a lot
of talk amongst politicians and the public about how hard it was for seniors in many cases to afford
their drugs. Images of parents and grandparents having to choose between prescriptions or food
assailed us in the media. I vividly remember the one story where a woman’s children discovered that
she had been eating dog food so as to have money for her prescriptions… horrible!
As the end of the decade approached, the ball began rolling towards Congress eventually taking up a
bill to cover drugs for Medicare recipients. That was certain to be a central piece of domestic
legislation for the incoming President in 2001. Alas, this was not to be, as several months after the
inauguration of President Bush, 9/11 happened and all emphasis went towards the war on terrorism.
Drug coverage would have to wait.
And wait it did. Congress would eventually pass, and the President would sign, the act that created
Medicare Part D. This allowed people on Medicare to finally have coverage for their prescriptions.
The mechanics of the bill were (and remain) quite complex, so the new law had CMS (the
government agency that administers Medicare) use the same insurance companies that were already
offering Medicare Advantage plans to offer the drug plans as well. Since they already had the
infrastructure, they could best administer the plans.
Medicare 4: Part D
Eric Talks Medicare

The plans would be partially funded via the Medicare trust fund, with the member
paying a monthly premium and either copays or coinsurance (or both) for their
prescriptions. The plans would be created by each insurer, often with multiple plans
being available with different costs attached. All plans would share the same basic
structure, however.
The plans would be available in two ways. For those people who were either on just
original Medicare or have original Medicare plus a Medicare supplement insurance
policy, they would be able to purchase a stand-alone prescription drug plan. For those
on a Medicare Advantage plan, the drug coverage would be built in as part of the plan.
Medicare Part D is required and subject to a late enrollment penalty if a person delays
enrollment. There are exceptions to this. My father, for example, was a veteran who
got his meds from the VA. Had he later decided to switch to Part D, he would not have
been penalized. Many (but not all) people who have prescription drug coverage
through an employer are also exempted from the late enrollment penalty when they
later enroll as well. Medicare Part D, while not a perfect law, has been life-altering for
millions of Medicare recipients, allowing them the financial security of having access to
their prescriptions without being put out of house and home to do it. Talk to a licensed
agent to learn more.
ERIC P.
CHRISTIANSON
Your Medicare Professional
Offering Medicare supplemental insurance products
as well as
life, dental, vision, and long-term care insurances.
Christianson Health Brokers, LLC

Grandparents are such a blessing that us
grandchildren get to enjoy in life. I know I
am so thankful for mine. My Grandpa, or
as I call him “Papaw”, passed in February
of 2018 and it was one of the hardest
things I have been through, and I have
been through a lot. The one thing that I
keep alive is his spirit and his stories.
Every time I would go over to his house,
he told me a story. Sometimes, it was the
same story that I had already heard but I
never cared because I have that story so
well memorized that I am able to tell it to
the next person. I know one day I will
pass them all on to my children. Growing
up and being so close to my Papaw was
such a blessing. I realize that more and
more as I get older.
All throughout my life until he had
passed, he played Santa Clause. He
would dress up for all the churches and
fire stations around town that did a meet
and greet with Santa. I always thought it
was the coolest thing ever because I
always knew I had an “in” with Santa.
When I was little my Mom always told me
not to say anything to anyone about him
being Santa because it was a secret. Of
course
I told some of my friends about it and they would
always ask me if I could tell him what they wanted for
Christmas. I usually wouldn't tell him because I knew he
wasn't the “real” Santa and that he only worked for him.
Every year my mom would want to get pictures with him
at the fire station so she would have them and I can’t
tell you how glad I am that she did that for me and my
brother.
How old were you when you learned to mow grass? I
remember being 11 when I first learned how to mow
grass. My Papaw was the one who taught me how and
how to do it the best way. I remember going over to his
house on Saturdays so we could work in the yard. One
day, he asked me if I wanted to mow. I told him I was a
little bit scared to try it. He said “Why are you scared,
come on don’t be scared, there’s nothing to be scared
about. About an hour into the day, he started to show
me how to mow. He always told me to go in the same
direction which was basically a circle around his
backyard. Of course I had to go around and maneuver
around objects and flower beds but it seemed very
much like a circle. Going in the same direction and
going half way over what you had already mowed was
a huge key factor for him and mowing. The reason for
going partially over what I had already mowed was so I
didn't miss any pieces of grass on the edge of the line
that it made. I ended up mastering
this way of mowing. So ever since he taught me how to
mow, I’ve done it the way he taught me.
The Things My
Papaw Taught Me
by Molly McCarroll
Columbus, Ohio

The stories that my Papaw told me were always so
interesting or funny. He was born back in 1939 so
the stories he usually told me were from his earlier
years. I loved listening to all the stories he had to
tell. There was two stories that I always thought
were the best. The funniest one which probably
wasn't funny back when it happened but when he
told me it, he was cracking up! My Papaw was a
salesman for Lipton Tea and he won many awards
for being their top salesman of the year. There was
one time that he was at a grocery store set up with
all of the Lipton Tea items he had to sell that day.
There was a lady that was working with him and
he asked her if she would go look for an item that
the store had and to bring it back to him if she had
found it. He continued to sell a couple Tea items
and then he heard something from a couple aisles
over. It was the lady yelling that she found what he
was looking for. So my Papaw walked over to see
what aisle she was in. He found her in the tea aisle
and told her to grab it and he would meet her back
at the table. So her turned his back and started
walking back to the table when her heard a loud
crash.
He looks back to see about three aisles falling like
dominos, down the lane of the grocery store. He
runs over to her to see if she was okay and she
hold up the specific tea that she was supposed to
grab. She said, “I got it” as she was holding the
tea. So he asked what happened and she said that
it was on the top shelf so she had climbed the
shelves to grab it. He was so glad she wasn't hurt
but little did she know that he would be telling this
story for years to come.
Now for the best story he ever told me, it was
about my Grandma, which I call her Mamaw. This
is a short story but some short stories truly are the
best. Back in 1963, my Papaw went to Jack and
Jill dude ranch with one of his buddies up in
Michigan. My Papaw was living in Cincinnati for
business and this was a vacation trip they were
both taking.
Him and his friend were able to ride horses for a
little while until this lady showed up with one of her
friends. When he first saw this lady, his jaw
dropped. He then turned to his friend and said, “I’m
going to marry that woman one day”. My Mamaw
lived in Detroit so it made it harder to see each
other since they were a state away. Even though
they were hundreds of miles away from each other,
my Papaw traveled every two weeks up to Detroit to
see her. They continued to do this for a whole year
until they finally decided to say “I Do”. In 1964, a
whole year of love later, they made it official. This is
my favorite story because it involves two of my
favorite people.
There is not a single day that goes by where I don’t
think about my Papaw and all of his stories and
things that he did for me growing up. I know that he
would be so proud of me and everything that I have
done with my life thus far. I can’t wait to one day
pass on everything that he had shown me to my
kids. I will always tell them that they truly were the
good ol’ days.

We all have so many special times to remember, and some of them are the simple family and friends
get-togethers we experienced. We might have one particular memory of this beautiful time of the year
when we experienced something way out of the ordinary. Mine was visiting the Christmas markets in
Germany. I traveled with ten lady friends over to Germany, where our private guide and driver
awaited us.
Towards the end of November, Christmas markets pop up all over Europe and celebrate the festive
season with music, beautiful decorations and lights, and delicious food. Small and large towns in the
Alps are no exception and join in the festivities.
We visited one of Nuremberg's oldest Christmas markets on our trip, where the Christmas angel is
famous. The enticing smells of mulled wine and rum punch, roasted almonds, Nuremberg bratwurst,
and gingerbread fill the air. Everyone will be excited as
the Nuremberg Christkind appears on the Church of Our Lady's balcony to open the holiday season.
Friday before the first Sunday in Advent is the day it all begins as she opens the world-famous
Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt. From then until Christmas Eve, the "little town of wood and cloth"
shines in the heart of Nuremberg's Old Town and turns it into "Christmas City." More than 180 market
stands are all decorated for Christmas with fresh greens and lights. You will enjoy traditional
Christmas ornaments of all shapes and sizes, the local gold-foil angel, "Zwetschgenmännle" made of
prunes, delicious holiday treats to eat and drink, toys, and games. I'm sure you would enjoy this one of
a kind atmosphere and enjoy the magic of the Nuremberg Christmas Market!
Travel
Europe’s Magical
Christmas Markets
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays! Wow, can you believe
it is that magical time again when we celebrate our faith with
family and friends? Do you have a favorite memory of the
holidays? It's fun to think back on those fun times when we
were children or when our children were young.

Another market we visited was the Munich Christmas Market at Marienplatz. This traditional Christmas
market dates back to the 14th century and is considered the most original and authentic in Munich. The
romantic setting in front of Marienplatz's neo-Gothic town hall adds to the magic of the many stalls radiating
traditional Bavarian charm. Living tradition and ancient craftsmanship here, as is Germany's most
extensive "Kripperlmarkt" ("Manger Market "). Everything imaginable to create a nativity scene is available,
from manger lanterns to the Three Magi gifts. Munich's first "Krippenmarkt" started in 1757. Then there is
the "Krampuslauf," which involves a horde of wild and wooly creatures charging through the Christmas
market disguised as Saint Nick's evil twin, the Krampus. It is well worth the experience. Traditional
Bavarian house music is played daily on the Town Hall balcony with musicians and choirs accompanied by
wind instruments, to set Advent's mood.
Garmisch-Partenkirchen is known for stunning views of Germany's highest peak, Zugspitze, the annual ski
championship, and as a gateway to alpine winter sports. In the weeks leading up to Christmas, the town
center transforms into a magical winter wonderland. Snow-decked houses, fairy lights, and festively
decorated Christmas market huts make for the perfect setting to shop for handcrafted souvenirs and gifts
and sample some of the local sweets and savory specialties. While we were in Garmisch, we experienced
Krampus, the evil twin of Saint Nick, as referenced above. The "actors" were great and very believable!
You should have seen the little children's eyes get wide!
While my trip to the markets was by motorcoach, another great way to visit the markets is by a river cruise!
You unpack once and enjoy your floating luxury hotel that will transport you from one destination to
another. River cruising is my favorite way to travel to many parts of the world!
One cruise I've enjoyed sailing is from Nuremberg to Budapest, with visits all along the Danube!
Throughout this journey, many magical Christmas markets come alive. A winter wonderland awaits at
Prague's Christmas markets brightly decorated with wooden huts stocked with handicrafts and delicious
scents flavoring the air. Be spellbound by the medieval atmosphere of Nuremberg's primary Christmas
market, and sample its renowned gingerbread. Stroll through Regensburg's romantic Christmas market at
the Thurn and Taxis Castle, savoring fresh dumplings with vanilla sauce. While in Regensburg, don't forget
to stop at the Sausage Kitchen!

Get caught up in the magic of Salzburg's Christmas markets at both Hellbrunn Palace and at
Christkindlmarkt, located at the foot of the Hohensalzburg Fortress and around the venerable cathedral,
which is a feast for the senses, from the warm aroma of mulled wine and Austrian pastry delights to the
sights and sounds of holiday performances to the colors and textures of traditional handcrafts. And while
in Vienna, visit enchanting Christmas markets from the regal Schönbrunn Palace to Vienna's charming
Maria Theresa markets. You will be visiting Austria, Germany, and Hungary on this river itinerary.
Simultaneously, enjoy the atmosphere on the decorated ships as you delight in the sights, smells, and
tastes of local Christmas traditions along the Danube River. Enjoy stunning winter views on the Danube
with the warm glow of Christmas markets, beautifully adorned with ageless traditions.
Another idea for an itinerary would be to savor the season's outstanding views by embarking in Vienna
with a culinary tour in the City of Music's Christmas markets. Sail through the beautiful Wachau Valley with
visits to Melk's magnificent Benedictine Abbey perched above the Danube. In Passau, browse through the
shining Christmas markets in the "City of Three Rivers." Spend a day exploring the Christmas markets
here for traditional keepsakes and delicious specialties. Take an excursion from Nuremberg to Munich to
see the historic home of monarchs at Nymphenburg Palace. While in Nuremberg, you can have your
choice of a city tour or the WWII Rally Grounds.
You can visit a quaint Bavarian Main River village on a river cruise and enjoy a cookie-baking
demonstration on board your ship. If you feel adventurous, take an excursion to Rüdesheim in the Rhine
Valley wine region to experience the joyful Mechanical Music Museum. Enjoy Christmas market lights and
delights through Heidelberg and Speyer before sailing to Strasbourg for the La Petite France district and
Christmas markets. Continue to the Black Forest for a traditional Bavarian Christmas atmosphere or visit
Europe's largest wine producer at Badischer Winzerkeller winemakers.
As you can see, there are many different combinations of itineraries to see some of Europe's most
beautiful sights and Christmas markets. If you'd like to experience these fabulous and fun markets, now
would be the time to consider planning for next year! This trip is ideal for multi-generational groups and
ladies that just want to have fun!
CINDY
BERRE
Cindy Berre is a certified travel advisor who is well-traveled to be able to offer her clients
travel advice and great experiences to enhance their trip. After all, planning a trip is not just
about transportation and the accommodations, it is about your experience! Cindy is the owner
of Cindy Berre Travel, an affiliate of Travel Planners International. She can be reached at
513-645-1754 or Cindy@CindyBerreTravel.com.
www.CindyBerreTravel.com

Get plenty of sleep! Fatigue is one of the most common symptoms of tired, puffy and bloodshot eyes.
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. For every glass of wine, cup of coffee or ice tea, you need at least 2
glasses of pure water to not be dehydrated. Dehydrated skin is wrinklier and less firm- which also is a
giveaway to age.
Find your self some undereye patches with collagen boosting ingredients and aloe.
You can wear them 5-20 minutes before an event to get an instant “lift”, cool down allergy eyes, and
just an overall sense of wellbeing.
Use an undereye cream both morning and night. Need a recommendation? Let’s talk.
Lose the black eyeliner. As we mature, “black” eyeliner can look harsh and aging. Choose navy,
bronze or forest green as an uplifting alternative.
Use eyeliner and mascara on the top lid only. Again, using underneath can be again and dark. Often
the color on the upper lid drops onto the lower lid anyway, which would really be a makeup disaster.
Want to find out how to keep your eye makeup look on your eyelid?
Use an eyelash curler. It will make your lashes look longer and fuller and help your mascara do it’s
magic!
Consider wearing “falsies” – on your lashes of course. There are plenty of options out there for stirp
lashes ad now magnetic eyeliner with magnetic lashes. Your eyes will really POP!
Make sure you have a significant eyebrow look. A strong (not necessarily dark) eyebrow is always
UPLIFTING!
Isn’t it great to have something to look forward to? I know I definitely need that. Your Holi-daze” might
look different than ever before, but you can still find ways to celebrate and people to celebrate with!
Especially NOW – more than ever before, your eyes are more important than ever- especially since your
sweet smile may be hiding behind a mask.
Here’s my top 9 tips to emphasize those eyes!
Men & Women
Ladies Only 😊
7 Tips to Look and Feel
Holiday Hip
DEBORAH
DAY FAWAZ
Makeup is her first love but she also advises others about color selection for
clothing, hair and makeup, does professional makeup for head shots, events, public
speakers and private industry. She enjoys teaching workshops about color,
skincare, style, makeup techniques and helping women craft their memorable
image. www.ddfacesbydeborah.com

Can we all agree that in 2015, not a single
person got the answer correct to the question:
“Where do you see yourself 5 years from now?”
Emotions ran the gamut for everyone I know,
from being grateful to being home with family,
to fear about job security, to loneliness from the
isolation, to peace from simplifying their
lifestyle, and grief for losing family members to
illness or death.
Like it or not, the future has always been
unpredictable, but we live as if we have a
crystal ball that has told us how it will all turn
out. Then we “go to sleep” until a big event
wakes us up to life. COVID was a big wake-up
call for many of us.
As we approach the December holidays, many
of us long for that picturesque Norman
Rockwell holiday to make up for a crappy year.
You know the one, a beautiful home, snow
covering the trees, lights on the tree, candles lit
in the window, a turkey in the oven, children
and grandchildren gathered, and a dog curled
up by the fire place.
Some of you will spend a ton of money this
holiday season in an effort to achieve this
imaginary and elusive vision that someone
painted in the 1940s’s—a time when half the
houses were fired by coal and the other 25%
were heated by woodstoves; more than 50% of
homes did not have hot water piped into the
house and many didn’t have flushable toilets.
What is it about those Norman Rockwell visions
that are so darned attractive? Personally, I
wouldn’t want to go back in time to no running
water or electricity, but I secretly romanticize
about happy times lived by the Walton family
on TV!
To answer this question, let’s look to a different
time in the past—our own memories. If you
take a moment and think back on those
holidays, birthdays, and events that brought
you the most happiness, what do you
remember? Think about it in exquisite detail.
Who was there? What did you eat? What
smells do you remember? What did you laugh
about? Was there squealing and giggling of
kids? IF the memories aren’t readily available,
take a look at some old photos and those
feelings will come rushing back!
What you’ll likely see is all the things that made
it perfect! But when you’re young, we are
oblivious to all the work that went into preparing
the meals, buying and wrapping the presents,
the frustration felt by the hostess (in my case,
my grandma) about trying to get everything
ready on time so that no one noticed that the
rolls were burnt, or the turkey went into the
oven late, or that you forgot the present for
Aunt Judy. I am sure my grandma was more
panicked than I ever realized, yet it never
impacted my experience of the holidays!!!
Planning the picture
perfect holiday

According to Sumitha Bhandarkar, author of “A
Simple, Scientifically Proven Way to “Buy”
Happiness for Your Family”, the most important
thing is to create EXPERIENCES. It’s the
experiences I remember more than anything from
childhood. Not the toys, the clothes, or the shows
that were on TV. It was the screaming for our
favorite football team together that I remember,
not the score of the game. Trying to stay awake
all night waiting for Santa with my sisters.
Sneaking downstairs in the middle of night, hoping
Mom and Dad wouldn’t hear us as we looked at
all the presents under the tree. I have no idea
anymore what was under the tree. It was the
experience.
Bhandarkar also reports, and I believe this fully,
that perceptions of experiences improve with time
and are more “social” by nature, which in turn has
been linked to happiness. Plus, experiences seem
to be less subject to comparative evaluation. So,
go ahead and create your Norman Rockwell
experience, but do it with intentionality!
She says that when you set out to create an
experience, be sure to consciously cultivate an
“experience gift” culture in your family—a culture
takes time, so don’t spring the idea on them
December 24th! Tailor the choice of your
experience to match the family’s interests and
spread out the experiences over a few days if
possible.
Why am I telling you this? For decades I have
studied the emotions behind the money. It turns
out that the emotions behind money guide
everything you do, day-in and day-out. Dr.
Marshall Rosenberg, a world-renowned author on
how to create connections between people,
developed a Needs Inventory, that helps people
communicate more compassionately. He
discovered that there are 7 types of “needs” and
when one or more are missing, then you can feel
separate from others. These needs include:
Connection, Physical Well-Being, Honesty, Play,
Peace, Autonomy, and Meaning.
When you’re feeling pretty good, you’re
operating at peak performance with regard to
most of the 7 Needs.
If you’re feeling negative, sad, or down in the
dumps, one or more of the 7 Needs re not being
met. You probably know the one(s) that is
missing most for yourself—a physical need for
exercise, quiet time for meditation or reflection, a
good laugh, etc.
If friends and family aren’t engaged, they have
one or more of the 7 Needs missing as well—
and the one’s they have missing may be
completely different from yours. So, if you need
physical exercise and your family member needs
quiet time, forcing them on a hike may make
things worse.
This is why its so important to create the
experience together, so that the needs of all are
being met! Often around the holidays we are so
busy, we don’t even realize that we are missing
a Need, we just know that are sad, frustrated,
overwhelmed because we are busy. So, pause,
feel and get curious about your emotions so they
can move allowing all emotions are available to
you. Reach out if you need help getting
intentional by emailing me at
SheMoolah@gmail.com. Happy Holidays to you
and yours!!! Much love, connection, laughter,
and whatever emotion makes itself known to
you!!
LIZ
KITCHELL
Liz Kitchell is the President and Co-Founder of
SheMoolah, and owner of Liz Kitchell Coaching. After
decades coaching individuals through Liz Kitchell
coaching, her new company will provide a stronger
platform for disrupting the “old school” financial
conversations to bring balance to the logical and
experiential sides of money so people can find true
freedom in life. @Shemoolah on Facebook and
Instagram. www.SheMoolah.com.

Merry
Christmas
fromOnlineTechLessons.com

As we wind down the year 2020, many people around
the world are ready to kiss the year goodbye. It has
been interesting and unusual year, for sure. I don’t need
to rehash for you the good, the bad and the ugly for you
with the coronavirus and the devastation left in its wake.
Some really want to “write off” the year and move on.
The idea that waiting the year out and wanting it over so
we can have a fresh start on January 1 means you give
up. January first will not magically make life better
because it is a new, different year. The idea that because
we simply turn the page on the calendar - that life will
somehow be different, better, normal is false.
Let me remind you, there really is not such thing as
“normal”. Which is why it is so important to stay focused
on each day as it comes. Wishing away the days and
years only leaves you wondering where the time went.
Every day is a gift. You know that. Wishing away the rest
of this year means you quit. And you are waiting for
things to be “right” before your start again. When you
quit, you give up your resolve and your power. Focused
work towards a goal or something important gives life
meaning and purpose. We all have something important
we are working towards. We want to travel, improve
health, work on a business, visit family and loved ones,
have celebrations. Let me encourage you to use every
day left in this year to work towards your goals and
dreams.
Living each day with intention and purpose will set you
up to start the next year strong.
If you want things to be different, focus on what you
want. How do you want things to be different? What can
you do to make them different. What small steps can
you take every day to get you toward the life you truly
desire and deserve?
When we focus on the outcomes we desire, our
energy remains high and we are optimistic. “Where
you focus is where your energy goes.” (Tony
Robbins)
Here are three reasons to have focused intention
every day. One, it creates gratefulness for what you
have. Every day is a gift and we really don’t know
what tomorrow will bring.
Two, it gives you clarity and momentum. Three, you
have a huge advantage going into the new year with
clear intentions, knowing where you are headed and
how you are going to get there.
Here are three ways to focus on the present and
finish strong. One, live each day with intention. Two,
set your purpose for the day and live it out. Three,
practice gratitude.
Hoping next year is different will not make it the way
you want it. You have to work for it. Decide what
you want to be different. Decide what you
are going to do to create your life to bring about the
outcomes you desire?
By focusing on what is important to you and working
every day to get closer to what you want, you can
build a really solid foundation to start the new year.
Then turning the page on the calendar is powerful.
Finishing with focus sets you up
to start the new year with clear vision, purposeful
intentions, and momentum
towards your purpose and goals. See you
in January.
THERESA
VERMILLION
Theresa is the creator and founder of Lighter Life Coach
where she guides unique experiences by merging
Personal Growth techniques with her expertise in health
and fitness so you can have a Lighter Body and
LighterLife.
FINISH WITH FOCUS
FINISH THIS YEAR STRONG SO YOU CAN
START THE NEW YEAR STRONG.

My husband and I are both in a high risk category when it comes to the pandemic. In 2018 he had
congestive heart failure due to a virus and I was diagnosed with lymphoma in 2019. We are not
exactly the model customers for Blue Cross Blue Shield. To say we’ve been playing it safe is an
understatement. The good news is due to my compromised immune system, we were already
stocked up on masks, gloves and 50 gallon drums of hand sanitizer as we rolled into 2020. I had no
sooner returned to my routine of greeting people with an embrace, I found myself pulling back once
again. I’m a hugger and an awkward fist bump, air kiss or elbow tap is simply not the same.
Overall, however, I think I’ve done fairly well adjusting.
The meal train from the old chemo days had left the station so I’ve spent the last nine months trying
new recipes, many which were actually edible. I’ve cleaned out every closet, cabinet (with a keen
focus on the liquor cabinet) and drawer in two homes. So much so that I could have opened my
own thrift store. Last week, my husband shredded enough paperwork to keep 867 hamsters very
comfortable for the next seven years. Plus I’ve been able to work remotely, thus eliminating my 52
mile-per-day round trip commute, saving hundreds on medium grade unleaded. I went so long
between fill ups I forgot what side the tank was on the last time I pulled into Kroger to redeem the
1,283,041 fuel points earned from all of the groceries I’ve purchased.
Yes, I’ve done well indeed!
Until December.
More specifically, until Season 4, Episode 13 of Schitt’s Creek.
Like many, I’ve been binge watching Netflix to pass the time, focusing on comedy to buoy my
spirits. Episode 13 is the holiday program where the main character, Johnny Rose (who happens
to be Jewish), decides he wants to host a last minute shindig on Christmas Eve. Plans don’t
always go according to plan. The show ended with a beautiful rendition of Silent Night and Stevie
wasn’t the only person crying. Well, she was the only person crying on TV. I was crying on my
couch.
Earlier in the day I had been working on my Christmas card list, sobbing while crossing off names
and addresses of loved ones that had passed away during the last twelve months. Oh well, at least
I’ll save a few stamps! As harsh as that sounds, I try to find positivity in everything and that’s really
hard to do when you white out a favorite relative or your beloved old neighbor two doors down.
HOME (ALONE) FOR THE
HOLIDAYS
by Diana Bosse

While signing the cards and occasionally including a note that said, “I’ll miss seeing you this
season”, I blared the Elvis Christmas Album louder than normal due to the tinnitus that started
ringing louder than sleigh bells a few months ago. When my favorite song, “Mama Liked the
Roses” came on, I teared up again. The tune reminds me of my own mom who was born on
Christmas Eve and passed away 21 years ago. She loved roses. And Elvis. Why in the world
did he include such a sad song that has nothing to do with the holidays on his Christmas album?
I’d like to crown The King for that one.
In the afternoon, my sister-in-law sent the email we all knew was coming. The Annual Bosse
Family Party has been postponed until next summer. We’ll gather safely outdoors around her
pool and she’ll deck her deck (versus the halls) with oversized beach balls resembling
ornaments. “A real Christmas in July party!” she said. “Ball Humbug!” I said.
Not more than a half an hour later, my cousin (not the one I whited out) suggested we cancel the
Denzler Christmas Eve Eve Extravaganza on Dec. 23. It was the straw that broke the nativity
camel’s back. I immediately set up a Zoom meeting at 7 p.m. so we could at least gather online.
Actually, I mistakenly sent out the invite for Nov. 23 as my other younger, more tech-savvy
cousin was quick to point out, but I was equally quick to respond, “I just couldn’t wait to see you!”
I also slyly used the virtual occasion as an excuse to obtain Uncle Bruce’s coveted super-secret
punch recipe. I claimed, “It wouldn’t be an Extravaganza if no one was drinking punch!” Uncle
Bruce conceded and now I’ve added maraschino cherries, pineapple juice, pink lemonade and
more bourbon (how in the world did that bottle get so low?) to my shopping list. More Kroger fuel
points!
By the end of the evening, in sheer desperation, I popped my old How the Grinch Stole
Christmas tape into my even older VCR player. My own heart grew three sizes when The Grinch
realized Christmas didn’t come from store, maybe Christmas…perhaps…means a little bit more.
Using the last of my toilet paper for tissues, I wiped my eyes for the final time, fully aware that
COVID can’t steal the holidays away from us. We will make do and smile while we hit SUBMIT
for last minute gifts on Amazon Prime. We’ll avoid having to hand wash the fine china by hosting
holiday dinners for no more than four on disposable paper plates. Children will excitedly see
Santa Zoom into our living rooms versus coming down the chimney. Those of us who can’t stay
awake until 12 a.m. can view Midnight Mass at Our Lady of the Virtual Event, pre-recorded
earlier in the day. And we’ll go to bed the night before Christmas not with sugar plums dancing in
our heads, but with visions of a vaccine and brighter days to come.
Happy Holidays!

Born and raised in Watford, Hertfordshire. I have always
loved art and photography, reading and writing.
Discovered London at an early age and fell in love with
her. Married with three daughters. Love history and trivia.
Work for the NHS since 2003.

Tis the season to be jolly - as the song goes. Christmas is now upon us. At this time many ethnic
groups remember their traditions and cultures. Christmas traditions include a variety of customs in
which food is the major part, religious customs, and folklores associated with the Italian Christmas
Traditions and Customs celebration of Christmas. Many of these traditions have been passed down
from generation to generation. These traditions vary by country or region while others are universal
and practiced across the world Since I am of Italian descent, I will give a good picture of the Italian
Christmas traditions and customs. Christmas is a time for abbondanza meaning abundance. Foods
are prepared and served in large quantities in a Italian Household. The Italians will sit down for long
(usually about 6 to 7 hour) feasts of many courses, even more extreme than on Easter or other
holidays. What they eat depends on the region of Italy as well as the family. Christmas is a holiday in
which every family has its own recipes.
One tradition that stands out in the Italian culture is the “Feast of 7 Fishes”. This tradition comes from
South Italy and Sicily where it is known simply as the Virgil (LaVigelis). This celebration
commemorates the wait, the Vigilia di Natale, for the midnight birth of the baby Jesus. The Feast of
the 7 Fishes was introduced in the United States by Southern Italian immigrants in New York City”s
Little Italy in the late 1800’s. Italian-Americans in New York City and its surrounding areas are usually
the only ones who keep this tradition today. The long tradition of eating seafood on Christmas Eve
dates from the Roman Catholic tradition of abstaining from eating meat on Fridays and on the eve of a
feast day. As no meat or animal fat could be used on such days, observant Catholics would instead
eat fish typically fried in oil or baked. In Southern Italy and Sicily fish is extremely abundant which may
explain why so much of it was added to the Christmas Eve dinner.
Why Seven Fish? There is no exact meaning for the number seven. There are many
hypotheses for what the number seven represents. Seven is the most repeated number in the Bible
and appears over 700 times. Other theories are that the number 7 represents completion as shown in
Genesis 2:2: “By the seventh day God completed the work He had been doing; so on the seventh day
he rested from all His work”. During the Feast of the Seven Fishes, participants celebrate the
completion of God’s promise of the Messiah through Jesus. Other theories include that the number
represents the Seven Sacraments of the Roman Catholic Church or it represents the Seven Hills of
Rome. It may also represent the 7 deadly sins.
Italian Christmas Traditions
and Customs

The typical menu of the “Feast of the 7 Fishes” includes some combination of anchovies, white fish,
lobster, sardines, baccala (dried whiting fish), smelts, eels, squid, octopus, shrimp, mussels and clams.
The menu also includes pasta, bread, vegetables, desserts (dolci) and wine.
Some wonderful Italian desserts you may want to consider baking include: Panettone (Christmas Fruit
Bread) and Cannoli (fried cream shells). Italian Christmas cookies made are: Anginetti D’ Arancia
(Orange Drop Cookies), Biscotti Di Ricotta (Ricotta drop Cookies), and Baci D. Dama(Lady’s Kisses).
Some other Italian Desserts are Sfingi Di Fruitta (Fruit Fritters) and Baked Pears (Pere Al Forno). The
last menu item included in the feast are roasted chestnuts (castagne).
If you want to imitate a generous Italian Christmas eve dinner tradition, make sure you look up some
recipes for preparing fish and Italian Desserts. A recipe will be provided in this article.
Buon Natale !!
MARY ANNE
CHADBOURNE
Registered and Licensed Dietitian
Worked in all areas of Dietetics in Hospitals and Nursing
Homes Mary Anne is currently a Skin Care Consultant for a
skin care company.

We always talk about how seniors get
scammed and there's hardly ever any way to
fight it. We decided to create a DIRECTORY
for seniors where they can shop and work
with vendors who we have personally
spoken with and vetted in your area. It's
brand new and growing every day - so
please go to www.TheHIPSenior.com click
on Directory and bookmark it and check
back often for businesses in your area! And
email us if you'd like a specific business to
be listed - we'll contact them!
AND FINALLY
The Hip Senior
800-525-5364

December Dayton The HIP Senior 2020

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