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June, 2011 – The Amazing Adventures of Chore Boy

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June, 2011 – The Amazing Adventures of Chore Boy

allan-williamsonAs I Was Saying

 

The Amazing Adventures of Chore Boy

 

By Alan Williamson

 

       As I picked up the stray piece of shredded cheddar cheese from the kitchen floor, my eye glimpsed something dark and menacing at the base of the refrigerator. Easy does it, I whispered under my breath, edging cautiously closer for a better look. Suddenly, chillingly, the repulsive ugliness of the situation hit me, sending me clattering back against the kitchen cabinets.

          “Galloping Greyhounds!” I bellowed, for that was my superhero rallying cry when duty called. The dust and crud that had accumulated on the refrigerator vent plate wasn’t going anywhere without a fight. There would be violence and horror and the kind of grunting sounds professional tennis players make when they’re trying to pound the ball. This was no task for an average civilian armed with a common household cleaner. No, my friends, this was a job for . . . ta-da-da-dut-da-da . . . Chore Boy!

          Now, while some superheroes might regale you with the gory details of the battle that ensued, that’s not how Chore Boy operates. Suffice it to say that the evil coating of crud that had invaded the refrigerator vent plate was vanquished and all signs of the epic struggle erased. Problem solved. Harmony restored. Best of all, the homeowner, a Mrs. A. Williamson, was left blissfully unaware of the narrowly averted disaster. THAT’S the Chore Boy way. Quick. Clean. No big scene.

          But wait. What’s that you say? It really is the gory details you want? Okay sicko, you asked for it. I give you this recent episode from the Chore Boy case files to satisfy your vile craving.

For weeks, a man I will refer to only as “Al Willy” had trouble shaving with his Norelco Reflex Plus electric shaver. The appliance, which normally emitted a robust buzzing sound, was making faint humming noises, not unlike those associated with an aging Paul Simon. A routine grooming task that once took Al Willy only two minutes had now become a five to seven minute skirmish that would often draw blood and leave him visibly shaken and scruffy.

Enter Chore Boy. One night while Al Willy slept, this chore-crushing crusader crept into the bathroom and sprang the Norelco Reflex Plus from an unguarded medicine cabinet. Prying the triple-headed rotary blade unit from the motor housing, I gasped and staggered back at the putrid proliferation of filth that poured forth. “Galloping Greyhounds!” I roared, though I kept it to a dull roar given that it was the middle of the night and people were sleeping nearby.

Each rotary blade was incased in an immovable band of solid filth and shaving stubble, unable to rotate, unable to shave. I wondered: What kind of depraved madman would neglect to clean out his razor for months on end?  I thought of taking the shaver into Al Willy’s bedroom and shaking its crude contents down his open mouth while he snored. But Chore Boy was not there to judge. My job was purely pragmatic. Fill what was empty. Empty what was full. Fix what was broken. With daylight about to signal the dawning of a new day, I finished painstakingly hand cleaning each rotary disc, reassembled the shaver, and went to slip out a side door at the far end of the house.

But what’s this? The once steadfast door leading out to the garage was squeaking mournfully, pitifully. Probably hadn’t had its hinges oiled in years. Pulling a small canister of silicone spray from a hidden compartment in my boxer briefs, I took dead aim and doused the shrieking hinges, flicking the door back and forth until it settled into a genial silence. Another job well done. All in a day’s work for the amazing Chore Boy.

Meanwhile, back in the bathroom, a groggy Al Willy plugs his Norelco Reflex Plus into the wall, splashes some pre-shave lube on his face, and begins to work the shaving head across his stubbled cheek. “Galloping Greyhounds!” he exclaims. “It’s a miracle! I’m getting the closest, smoothest shave I’ve had in months!”

Feeling a strange bulge in his underwear, he reaches down to find a small, half-empty canister of silicone spray.

          “Well that’s weird,” he mutters. “How did that get there?”

          It was a mystery, to be sure, but one that would have to be explored some other time. For the day was new and there were places to go, people to see and chores to be done.

          Boy were there chores.

June, 2011 – 20 Years of Perfidy. And Counting.

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June, 2011 – 20 Years of Perfidy. And Counting.

Cantankerously Yourswendell-abern-cantank-yours

 

20 Years of Perfidy. And Counting.

 

By Wendell Abern

 

Dear Outraged,

          In 1991, People Magazine published its first list of the 50 most beautiful people in the world. 

I was not included.          

Nor was I named in any of the annual issues thereafter until 2008, when the editors increased their list to 100.

          And I was still not selected.

          This month, the 20th year of such lists, I am excluded once again. 

          I have been protesting these egregious oversights annually, and now it is clear the magazine is striking back.  In the slick, behind-the-scenes way that powerful media frequently operates, I have reason to believe the editors of this magazine have poisoned some of the world’s most influential movers and shakers against me.

          I have not, for example, been asked to run for president by either the Democrats or Republicans.  I was not invited to the royal wedding. 

And I have not been asked to star in a movie with Jennifer Lopez, the magazine’s selection as the most beautiful woman in the world. 

This last insult – the most stinging of all – confirms that I am not just being paranoid.   Anyone who has read my column in the past several years knows how many times I have praised – nay, fawned over! – the beauty and allure of Jennifer Lopez.  Obviously, the magazine has retaliated by conspiring with producers and movie studios to make sure I am not even called for an audition to be her leading man … then thumbed their noses at me with their selection of her as the world’s most beautiful woman. 

Okay, editors, I get it.  You wanna play dirty?  You’re on.

          Page 62 – More Jennifer Lopez.

 

          Her family has taught her that beauty comes from the inside out.  Says Ms. Lopez, “I’ve always felt that real beauty comes from your heart.”

          Plagiarism!  I accuse you of blatant, outright plagiarism!  You have manipulated Jennifer Lopez to elicit from her the exact sentence I have always used to impugn your choices!  “Real beauty comes from the heart?”

I have protested your choices for years with those precise words.  You have undoubtedly read some of my columns and are now plagiarizing my phrases yourselves, probably under the guise of “research.”           

          Page 63 – Yet even more Jennifer Lopez.

          “Women always kind of tell me … your skin looks amazing.”

          Amazing?  Without one single blemish?  Where’s the “inside-out” beauty in that?  The “real” person?  The character!

          Character happens to be where I excel.  Even myopic editors such as you would marvel at the unique character and beautiful singularity of my skin.  I have sprouted so many warts, bumps and liver spots that when I took my grandchildren to the zoo last month, the spotted leopard started flirting with me.

          Page 69.  Half Their Age.

          Incredibly, you have devoted five pages to women who admittedly look half their age.

          Of course they do.  If you listed the names of all the moisturizers, creams, eyeliners, lip balms, powders, blushes and lotions they used, you’d need to publish another special issue of this magazine.  (Note that I have discreetly made no mention of plastic surgery.)

          But is “half their age” a genuine criterion of beauty?

          Because you have ignored me all these years, I find myself yet again in the uncomfortable position of shamelessly and immodestly pointing out my own spectacular features.  We’re talking beauty of unmatched character here.  Character!  Remember that word?  That’s what beauty is all about.

Please examine my photo adjoining this column.  You won’t be able to see the wrinkles, mottled skin, turkey wattle and hemi-facial tic … but please note the pronounced asymmetry and drooping mouth.  Is that gorgeous, or what?  I’ll have you know I just turned 78, and have been told my many that I don’t look a day over 76. 

         

Page 81 – Jessica Simpson, singer, fashion mogul.

 

          “I like my nose because there’s a bump in it.”

          What?  One bump?  That’s something to like?  If you look closely at my photo again, you might be able to detect a nose that has been broken four times.  In fact, my misshapen schnozz has created so many curves and loops inside my nose that an ENT specialist told me my deviated septum looked like a snake in heat. 

          Page 93 – Beautiful Minds.

          You lead off this section with, “A recent scientific study found that pretty people tend to have higher IQs.”

Excuse me for asking a question that will expose your non-sequitur logic, but what does a high IQ have to do with a beautiful mind?

A beautiful mind is, obviously, a mind filled with beautiful thoughts.  Given that as the proper definition, I hereby challenge anyone you have named to match these dazzling images coursing through my mind this very moment:*

Huge slabs of barbecued ribs; a 16-ounce ribeye steak; double cheeseburgers, stretching to infinity; a 24-ounce porterhouse steak; 

two-inch thick lamb chops; apple pies, still warm from the oven; a

32-ounce sirloin steak, and a two-foot tall hot fudge sundae.

Go ahead, selectees.  Try matching those.

*(Since this is a family publication, I have refrained from mentioning all thoughts of carnal depravity regarding every female in this publication.)

Page 104 – Jennifer Garner, Advocate for Save the Children. 

“I don’t believe we have to accept childhood poverty as an unsolvable problem.”

          Actually, I salute Jennifer Garner.  And I cite this quote for an important reason:  I don’t want anyone to misunderstand the way Save the Children works, as I did when my wife first told me about the organization years ago. 

She said, “We can support a child overseas for only fifteen dollars a month.”  I said, “Terrific.  Let’s send our kids to Bulgaria for ten years.”  But that missed the point, you see.  And I don’t want anyone else to make the same mistake.

P. 115 – Kaley Cuoco, actress, “Big Bang Theory.” 

“I do like my lips.  People are always asking me if I got them injected, so I feel like they’re plump enough.”

          Oh, please.  Like “plump” is a yardstick of some kind.  My lips may look like just standard variety, but when unleashed, could give a hickey to New Hampshire.

                                                *        *        *

          Okay, editors, chew on that for a while.  And if you think this is a spirited attack, wait’ll you see what happens next year if you don’t call me for a photo op.

          Cantankerously Yours,

          Wendell Abern

Wendell Abern can be reached at dendyabern@comcast.net.    

June, 2011 – Summer Safety

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June, 2011 – Summer Safety

Ask the Docsask-the-docs

 

Summer Safety

 

By Heather Loguidice, ARNP

 

We all know that summers in South Florida are hot. Kids are out of school. The days are longer. People tend to do a lot of outside activities. Along with the fun of summer comes some typical summer health woes. I will discuss how to avoid some of these problems and still manage to have your fun in the sun.

 

Dehydration and Heatstroke

 

Dehydration occurs when your body loses more electrolyte-packed body fluids than what is being replaced. It happens most commonly in people who are out in the sun sweating a lot. If electrolytes and fluids are not replaced, your body can become so dehydrated that it loses the ability to sweat and cool down. The body temperature quickly rises and causes a heatstroke.

 

Symptoms of dehydration vary from mild to severe including thirst, fatigue, headaches, nausea, lightheadedness, fainting, and confusion. A heatstroke can occur when the body’s temperature exceeds over 104 degrees. This is a medical emergency and needs immediate medical treatment by calling 911.

 

It is best to avoid being outside during the hottest hours. Try to limit outside time to early morning and after 3:OO PM. Wear light colored, cotton clothing. Drink plenty of fluids. If you are sweating a lot drink a 50-50 mix of Gatorade and water to replace lost potassium and sodium. Drink at least one liter of this mix every hour that you are working/exercising in the sun.

 

Sunburn

 

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends wearing at least 30 SPF sunscreen in order to prevent sunburn. Also, remember to apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes prior to going outside because it needs to be completely absorbed in order to work. Symptoms of sunburn usually start about four hours after sun exposure, worsen in 24-36 hours, and resolve in three to five days. Mild sunburn causes the skin to become red, warm, and tender. More serious burns are painful and the skin may blister. These more serious burns significantly increase your risk for skin cancer, including malignant melanoma.

 

If you do get sunburned, you can take over the counter acetaminophen or ibuprofen to relieve pain, drink plenty of fluids, and take cool baths. You can also apply lotion such as aloe vera or cocoa butter to help soothe the skin. If the skin is blistered, cover the blistered area with gauze and do not break the blisters open as this can lead to infection and slow down healing.

 

Mosquito Bites

 

Here in South Florida as the sun starts to go down, the mosquitoes come out in full force. Mosquito bites can cause serious infections like West Nile Virus and encephalitis. The best way to avoid mosquitoes is to stay inside during dusk and dawn which are peak biting times. If you have to be outside wear insect repellent with DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Also, wear long sleeves and pants to cover as much skin as possible.

 

Mosquito bites will appear as red, raised, itchy bumps on the skin. They typically resolve in less than a week. Try not to scratch them to prevent infection. Wash the area with mild soap and water. Keep the area clean.  Cool compresses, antihistamines, and topical anti-itching cream such as calamine lotion can alleviate itching.

 

The majority of people infected with West Nile Virus will not have any symptoms. You should see your healthcare provider right away if you develop fever, headache, body aches, nausea, vomiting, swollen glands, or a rash after being bitten by mosquitoes.

 

Swimmer’s Ear

 

Swimmer’s ear occurs after water is trapped in the external ear canal causing inflammation and infection. The best way to avoid getting it is by wearing ear plugs to prevent water from getting into the ear canal. You can also use a few drops of 50-50 mixture of isopropyl alcohol and white distilled vinegar in your ear after swimming. The alcohol dries up any moisture and the vinegar creates an acidic environment to prevent fungus from growing.

 

Swimmer’s ear causes pain and decreased hearing. See your healthcare provider for treatment if you think you have swimmer’s ear.

 

Food-Borne Illnesses

 

Food-borne illnesses are more common in summer. There is more opportunity for food to be left out of the refrigerator such as during picnics, hiking trips, and outdoor parties. There are  four basic rules to follow for preventing food-borne illnesses. First, use a thermometer when cooking so you know your food is adequately heated. Second, always wash your hands before you handle food. If you do not have access to soap and water, try using sanitizing handy wipes prior to touching food. Third, if you are going on a picnic use a cooler with enough ice to maintain food in a cool temperature. Finally, keep your utensils and dishes that you use for raw meat separate from those you use to eat.

 

Most common symptoms of food-borne illnesses are nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, diarrhea, fatigue, and body aches. Symptoms typically occur 2-6 hours after eating the contaminated food. Food-borne illnesses can be potentially harmful in young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. If symptoms are severe or last more than 24 hrs, see your healthcare provider for evaluation.

 

I hope these tips help you to stay safe this summer. If you have any questions, please contact us at Family Medical and Wellness Center (561) 721-1953.

June, 2011 – The Summer That Changed Everything

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June, 2011 – The Summer That Changed Everything

Teen Talkafter-the-script-concert1

The Summer That Changed Everything

By Stephanie Courtois

The anticipation escalated in each and every one of them. Only a few more seconds until the clock strikes 2:50p.m. Suddenly, a roar of screams erupt in unison, school is out for the summer.

All the way back to kindergarten, the summer months were the most memorable ones. Staying up late, getting up even later, hanging out with friends, and especially summer camp. Camp is one part of my life that I never got to experience as a youngster. Many of my friends would leave for the 2 sizzling hot months to enjoy all that this far away play land could offer them. At times, I wish that I could have had as much fun in the sun as they did, but I still was content with my summers at home.

One of the most unsurpassed ways of getting that envied summer fun, was not by attending the camp, but by working there. The camp counselor, the person who all the campers looked up to and craved attention from. I was thrilled about this opportunity, and applied as soon as the applications were released. I wanted this more than anything. I sought after the swimming pool, the laughter, the arts and crafts, and the paycheck.

On top of having the most rewarding employment that a teenager could ask for, I got paid for it. I was placed with the 6 year old girls group my first year on the job. I adored the kids and became attached instantaneously. The most challenging aspect of that year was that I worked closely with a girl who was diagnosed with autism. It was extremely difficult for me to adjust to the way she reacted to different environments and people. I attained a great deal of patience and understanding that summer. In the beginning, I was a tad disappointed because this is not what I thought my job would consist of. It didn’t take long before that little girl grew on me and we bonded. I felt proud to know that I got to be a part of her summer experience.

My junior summer was a remarkable one. Every adolescent should have this opportunity. It teaches responsibility, respect, punctuality and on the field experience. An initial job such as this for a teenager is a stepping stone towards become a mature adult.

I benefited from this experience immensely, and I am returning to work for the same camp this coming summer. It changed me, and I have to say that it was for the better.

Stephanie Courtois is a junior at Wellington High School. She is involved in tae kwon do, French, National and Chemistry Honor Societies, and is the news editor for the school newspaper. She loves journalism and plans to continue working for a magazine in her career after college.

June, 2011 – Obesity . . . Not just a People Problem

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June, 2011 – Obesity . . . Not just a People Problem

Creature Featurestephanie-karpf

 

Obesity isn’t just a People Problem

 

By Stephanie Karpf, DVM

 

“He isn’t fat, he is big boned.”

“She is just always so hungry!!  She looks at me with those eyes…and I just can’t say no!”

 “He really isn’t much heavier than my other dogs.  I think that because he exercises, he is just really muscular.”

“I don’t ever give her anything extra.  It is my husband’s fault!”

“It’s mostly fur…really.”

 

Really?  I have heard so many excuses for obese pets, and they continue to get more and more interesting with time.  The sad truth is that our pets are getting fatter. And it isn’t their fault.  It is ours.

 

Unlike their human friends, our pets do not have any control over their own weight.  We control exactly how much food they are given each day.  So, when our dogs and cats start to tip the scale, it is because we are the ones guilty of overfeeding them.

 

When feeding your dog or cat, it is important to actually measure the amount of food you are giving.  This is important so that you know exactly what is going in…so that if your dog is still gaining weight, you know how much to cut back.  It is not enough to “eyeball” the measurement, or use nonstandard amounts like “a handful.”  Get in the habit of keeping a plastic measuring cup in with your bag of dog or cat food, and measuring out the exact amount of food, every time.

 

It is best to ask your veterinarian for a recommendation on exactly how much your dog or cat needs to be eating.  Although the bag of food will come with instructions on how much to feed, this is typically too high.  It is important to remember that the pet food companies are in the business of selling pet food.  Therefore, it is in their best interest for your pet to eat more of their product.  The true amount of food needed, is often less than the recommendation that is on the bag.

 

For cats, especially, one of the major contributors to obesity is ad lib feeding.  This is when people just continuously fill and refill the food dish with dry kibble all day long.  This is most often a problem in households with multiple cats.  Ad lib feeding is just not healthy for cats.  It is better to feed them controlled amounts of dry food, or better yet, canned food that is only offered at specific feeding times (usually twice per day). 

 

Another major contributor to pet obesity is lack of exercise.  In our busy lifestyles, we often don’t find the time to take our dogs on long walks.  We would rather just come home from work, and rest on the couch.  But we really owe it to them to get them out for some exercise.  It is healthier for dogs both physically, and mentally to go on at least two long walks per day.  This has the added benefit of being good for us as well!

 

Cats also need exercise.  Most people feel that their cats are content to just lay around all day, but really, cats should be exercised.  In the wild, cats would spend a large part of their day hunting.  These types of activities can be replicated at home with various different types of cat toys designed to encourage a cat to stalk prey.  You can do this with “fishing pole” type toys that have feathers or little mice on the end.  You can also play with a cat by encouraging them to chase the little red dot produced by a laser pointer.

 

If you feel that your dog or cat is overweight, please take them in to your vet for an examination, and for advice on how to go about a safe and effective weight loss program.  As is true for people, pets do best when they lose their extra pounds very slowly and gradually.  Your vet can set you up with a concise diet and exercise program designed to help your pet reach a more healthy body size.

 

Dr. Karpf is the co-owner of The Visiting Vet, a housecall service for dogs and cats serving Palm Beach County.  For an appointment, please call 561-252-8874.

June, 2011 – Ask Dr. Z

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June, 2011 – Ask Dr. Z

Ask Dr. Zlaura-zipris

June, 2011

By Laura Zipris, Psy. D., LMHC

 

Dear Dr. Z.,

My mother died when I was 8 years old and my little brother was 5, leaving my father a very young widower.  Despite all of his grief and despair, he never skipped a beat with us.  He did an amazing job raising us and he worked really hard to provide us with everything we needed physically and emotionally.   He has sacrificed so much for us and gave us his whole life.  I do know how lucky I am to have him but the problem is I now feel so much pressure to always be there for him, as he always was for us.  

My brother is away at college now, but I am 25 years old and still living at home.  I never went away to college so that I wouldn’t have to leave my father alone.  I am in a serious relationship right now and even feel guilty when I stay at my boyfriend’s house or when we go away together.  My boyfriend has talked about taking the next step in our relationship (i.e. marriage and moving in together) but I feel overwhelmingly panicked and torn at the notion of leaving my father.   What should I do?

Signed,

M. P.

 

Dear M.P.,

I certainly understand why you feel so grateful for having a father who dedicated his life to his children and who did everything in his power to ensure you felt loved and nurtured, despite the tragic loss of your mother.  Your father sounds like an amazing man who deserves to be honored and loved for the sacrifices he made and the selflessness he has shown.  He did his job well! 

That being said, it is time for you to “leave the nest” so to speak, and embark on new adventures.   Given the way you have described your father, I am sure that he wants you to live a very full and happy life; one that he can be a part of.  Leaving your childhood home, finding true love, and starting your own family are the milestones in life that parents hope for and dream about for their children.

Try not to underestimate your father’s strength or over inflate his dependency upon you.  Your father has an opportunity to create a life for himself now outside of his children.  He has the opportunity to explore his own hobbies, interests and maybe even find new companionships.    While he may have some of his own fears and may express reservations about what lies ahead, he might also be filled with some excitement as he enters into this next phase in life.   Encourage him to explore this new path.

You and your father have a special relationship and a loving foundation to build on.  Talk to him about the future and share your concerns with one another.  He has always been there for you in the past so there is no reason to believe that now will be any different.

Signed,

Dr. Z.

Laura Zipris holds a doctorate in Psychology and is licensed to practice psychotherapy in New York, as well as in Florida. Laura is certified in Imago Relationship Therapy, a transformational approach that has been used successfully with couples around the world to help them to strengthen their partnerships, deepen their connection and reignite their passion for one another. Laura sees individuals of all ages and sexual orientations, couples, families, and groups in her offices located in Wellington and Delray Beach.  In addition to her psychotherapy practice, Dr. Zipris works part time as a licensed school psychologist for the Palm Beach County School District.  

For more information about Laura, please visit her website at www.drlaurazipris.com  or to set up an appointment, contact Laura directly at (561) 558-7815. 

Questions for this column should be sent to Dr. “Z” at Drlaurazip@gmail.com 

June, 2011 – Astrology at Work in Your Life

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June, 2011 – Astrology at Work in Your Life

ASTROLOGY AT WORK IN YOUR LIFEkarola-crawford

 

June, 2011

 

By Karola Crawford

 

    Happy Birthday Geminis!  It is your birthday month, and you get to celebrate by going out on the town in your newest outfit, and yes, you get to socialize, celebrate and amaze anyone that will listen, with your gift of gab.  We have all learned that you also have great intuition. Your ruler, Mercury, causes you to think and act swiftly, and your mind is usually going a mile a minute.  Communication and speech are important to you and your mind frequently jumps from one thing to another.  It is with ease that you keep communication going, but you must keep in mind the harm that you can do by being a chatterbox.  Your thirst for knowledge and study is eager, and your capacity to learn is high.  You can easily write, and are good at constructive criticism.  It is important for you to get the right kind of education to keep that mental energy from going to waste.  You have so much to offer to the world, so give it up!  If you are not properly trained, you can make life unbearable for others.  If you are well educated, however, you are the most charming and refined individuals around.  Your reactions are usually spur-of-the moment, and this gives a dual quality to your personality. 

 

In your way of thinking, variety is the spice of life and this philosophy can make you high strung.  If things do not go your way it is easy for you to become depressed.  Happiness comes to you if there is more than one dominant interest.  Meditation is good for you because it causes you to focus and keeps your mind from jumping around.  It also reminds you that God is good all the time, no matter how it looks in some bewildered moment.  Because of your inherent nervousness it is difficult for you to find intellectual or physical tranquility, but in emergencies you rarely lose control and you can provide many unsuspected solutions.  You gain much pleasure from giving either from your hands or your ideas, and there are many ideas that you have to offer.  It is important for you to eat slowly, as you tend to gulp your food down.  Your popularity is usually great because you are such a witty conversation maker, as well as being sociable, courteous and intuitive.  You greatly dislike being bound to any particular person or place, therefore you are continually curious and always searching for personal intellectual experiences.  You like travel and changes of atmosphere.  You see money as power and freedom and feel attracted to it.  You can be quite thrifty.  Gemini kids are so charming and ingenious that parents are often blind to their defects.  They should be trained early, since any objectionable traits are very difficult to correct in later years.  If education and discipline comes through your own volition, then passion turns into creative energy and originality, which can be manifested in both business and in the arts.  You are usually the nonconformists of the zodiac and consequently you remain different from those around you.  You rebel against the status quo, often breaking rules and resisting authority, and you rarely yield to any one person or place.  As you grow older you will realize that cooperation is necessary to your own self-fulfillment and because we are all in this together.  You also tend to grow younger the older you get, and one has to only be in your presence for short periods of time in order to understand what that means.  Your inner child likes to play.

  

This month is especially energizing for you on both a mental and a physical level.  Exercise and get rid of physical energy build up so that you don’t lash out at others as pressure is exerted upon you.  Stay focused on inner peace and find that balance inside of you.

 

   Cancer – Reflect upon the past gently, as a great force is lifted and you get to look beneath the surface for a while.  Work extra hard at keeping your emotions stable and remember that you really cannot control much; only yourself, as a greater power is already running the show and doing a perfect job of it.

 

   Leo – Yes, it is family time for you so go ahead and tell all the funny stories that you have been saving inside of you.  You get to enjoy the spotlight, but remember to invite your friends.  Isn’t life grand?

 

   Virgo – Your mind is very active as you are trying to figure out all the details of your newest venture.  Towards the end of the month it is a good idea to turn inside and spend some quiet time with yourself and a close family member.  Yes, you need some nurturing right now.

 

   Libra – You are always balancing things and have the ability to see both sides with keen observation and objectivity.  It is time to speak your words now and let those close to you know what is going on inside that pretty head of yours.  Yes, balance is important in your life.

 

   Scorpio –Your ability to stick to things and think them through is a positive attribute now.  Your reward is just around the corner, so don’t give up.  Adjust what you need to only and move forward.  You have earned the right to command your destiny now.

 

   Sagittarius – Happy little star, you are bouncing all around, sprinkling star dust everywhere.  Your power is in your hands, as well as in your ability to communicate openly, so be honest, speak your mind, and let the ultimate wisdom speak to and through you.  Share what you know to be true as others will be receptive.

 

   Capricorn – Don’t work so hard and try to pace yourself or you will find that you are burning out quickly.  This month, balance is important, so spend some quiet time getting to know the driving forces of the universe.  Life can be so effortless if you will only listen to the still voice inside of you.

 

   Aquarius –You feel driven to start new things and you have a lot of physical energy to support you right now.  Make your mark, but remember to spend as much time meditating as you do thinking and doing.  Answers will come easily if you open yourself and let the life force work through you.

 

   Pisces – You are feeling extra sensitive and are able to communicate on levels that amaze even you.  Spend as much time in and near the water as you can, as a deep healing is permeating your very being.  Sunsets can open the most artistic channels inside of you and may literally move you to tears.

 

   Aries – Have you been wanting to plant a garden and work the soil?  This is the time to do it, as you are ultimately creative in finding the perfect plants to fit that space that has been trying to capture your attention.  Your energy is high and the sun and heat won’t bother you as you watch your own creations taking place.

 

   Taurus – Spoil yourself now as you tend to spoil others most of the time.  Can you let go and allow them to do for you?  A massage would be heaven, as would a beautiful meal designed for your gourmet taste.  Just let others pamper you and stay out of the way.  Enjoy!

  

Karola Crawford, MAFA, has been a certified Astrologer for 25 years. She has cast charts for clients all over the world and also practices Holistic medicine, Yoga, Shiatsu, Reiki, Auricular Acupucture and is an accomplished artist. Where does she get all of her energy? A grand trine in fire, of course. Karola can be reached at 561-234-6338 or by visiting the web site at www.shamanofvisionsforhealing.com.

May 1st, 2011 | Tags: , , , |

June, 2011 – Parenting in 2011, Tiger Moms

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June, 2011 – Parenting in 2011, Tiger Moms

Mommy MomentsShakira Muneswar and her daughter Sabrina

 

PARENTING 2011

 

By Shakira Muneswar

 

While the initial furor over the ‘Tiger Mom’ memoirs penned by Amy Chua has abated somewhat, the questions it brought to the national stage regarding how we, in America, and many other advanced countries raise our children, has stayed with this mom.  Questions that brought a self-examination of parenting methods vis à vis the best interest of our children.

 

I had the same initial reaction upon reading about the methods that were reiterated in news articles that highlighted the book as controversy, as it seemed, did most parents in America.  I was aghast at the examples most cited by the media that told of extreme parenting methods including no sleepovers, play dates, or TV (actually something I agree with), extensive hours practicing music which were intimately criticized by the girls’ Tiger Mom.  Indeed it seemed all aspects of the two girls’ lives were given such inordinately harsh review, Chua made Simon Cowell look like Santa Claus by comparison.

 

The Wall Street Journal1 published an article by the author summarizing some main points of her book under the provocative title, ‘Why Chinese Moms are Superior’ – a guaranteed attention-getter and one that invites an equally superior response, Oh, really?  Chua makes no excuses for her methods citing how different ‘Western parents’ are from their Chinese counterparts when it comes to demanding academic excellence for instance.  She goes on to claim that most Western parents focus on making learning fun while by contrast, none of the Chinese parents she interviewed felt that fun even factored into the equation. 

 

In the same WSJ article, Chua states, ‘Chinese parents understand … that nothing is fun until you’re good at it.”  Yet in her memoir she tells of her younger daughter’s public outburst forcibly demonstrating her intense dislike for playing the violin which she had to learn and became very good at, being taught by a Juilliard teacher at the time.  I don’t think Lulu thought it was much fun even though she was so good at it.  Thirteen year old Lulu’s blow-up cited how she hated her life and everything in it.  This made Tiger Mom Chua do a 180 where Lulu was concerned.  My question regarding all this is:  Was it really necessary to put her child and herself through all of this? 

 

Being of Indian descent raised in North America, I have to say that while I gained an indelible belief that academic success was of paramount importance, it was not a punishable offense to bring home a B.  Feeling like a failure was punishment enough.  Having said that, I can see how effusively praising the fact that your first grader colored the sun yellow may be giving a false sense of accomplishment when it may be better, for your child in the long run, to demand their best effort in all they do.  

 

So where’s the healthy balance?  Do you threaten to burn a child’s stuffed animals as a disciplinary tool, or might it be better to take away the toy and donate them, which I actually did?  Is one worse than the other?  I think so.  In a toddler’s mind in which the child believes the world is a consequence of their actions, she is now responsible for the destruction of a beloved toy.  

 

In her interview with NPR2, that bastion of impartial reporting, she told interviewer Michel Martin, “… I think in some ways a part of the parent’s job is to help their child see what they’re capable of.”  In the same interview, she admits she doesn’t have the answers.  I do agree that we’ve grossly underestimated our children’s capabilities and given them a pass on striving for nothing less than their best.  Here’s where I’m reminded of the age-old script, echoed through the generations of “When I was little, I had to take out the garbage, mow the lawn and walk the dog – all before breakfast.” And of course, the further back in time, the more arduous the chores.  I remember hearing something similar and can’t believe that I want to voice the same thing to my own children.

 

What are we left with?  An issue that has been creeping up for a long time as we leave our future to zone out in front of the TV and place 18th out of 33 countries in math on the test given by the Program for International Student Assessment3 – the issue of engaging our kids in meaningful ways and having them learn what they need to in order to succeed.  While I don’t come close to the methods employed by Chua who claims that everything she’s done for her daughters she did out of love, I can see her point of what being a parent means – guiding and instructing and giving our children all the opportunities we can.  Perhaps it’s more a cultural difference that defines how we choose to engage our children.

 

Let’s face it; parenting is far from an exact science.  In fact, because it involves human interaction at a highly emotional, impacted level, it probably occupies the ‘inexact’ end of the science spectrum all on its own.  This is unquestionably a divisive issue, but with some common ground.  We all want to raise happy, healthy, well-adjusted, self-sufficient and successful (a very subjective term) children.  It’s the how and the degrees to which we employ our methods, while keeping in mind the individuality of each child, that will impact our kids in a hopefully positive and healthy way.  And of course through our kids, society and ultimately, these days, the global community will be positively impacted too.

Happy Father’s Day to all the great dads – Tiger or Teddy Bear!

 

1.            Copyright © 2011 The Wall Street Journal. ‘Why Tiger Moms Are Superior,’ by Amy Chua.  January 8, 2011, The Saturday Essay.

2.            Copyright © 2011 National Public Radio®. Michel Martin, host.

3.           

Shakira is Mom to two vibrant children who have taught me as much as I hope to have taught them.  I love to keep active biking or playing sports with my kids and also enjoy knitting or reading when I get the chance to.  I’ve always loved to write as a hobby and am relishing the opportunity to contribute to .

June, 2011 – ABS WORKOUT

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June, 2011 – ABS WORKOUT

Health & Fitnesscheryl-alker

ABS WORKOUT

By Cheryl Alker

You’ve just finished yet another set of abdominal crunches, you look down and “hey presto”……… no, you still don’t have a flat, defined set of abs.

So what are the key ingredients to achieving a perfectly toned midriff?

Firstly, you need to reduce your total body fat.  Even 1,000 sit-ups a day will not give you’re the flatness or definition you desire if your body fat is too high.

Secondly, you need to understand the function of the abdominals and the role each muscle plays.

There are six muscles within the group that extend from various places on the ribs to various places on the pelvis and spine.  They provide movement and support to the trunk as well as assisting in the breathing process.

All six muscles affect body posture.  The deeper the muscle is located (i.e. closer to the spine) the greater capacity it will have for creating and maintaining a healthy back.

From deep to superficial the abdominal muscles are:

·         Transverse abdominal – is not involved in any movement of the trunk, it plays an important function in forceful expiration of air from the lungs; as well as compression of the internal organs.

·         The internal obliques x 2 –flexes the rib cage and pelvic bones together, sideward bending of the trunk and rotating the trunk. Due to the fact that the lower fibers of the internal oblique muscles run horizontally, they are also strong trunk rotators. Their fan-like fibers extend all the way around the sides to the lower back in much the same way a corset fits a person.

·         The external obliques x 2 – as the internal obliques.

·         Rectus abdominis – flexes the spinal column, bringing the rib cage and/or pelvis towards each other, and assists in sideward bending.  It is also actively involved in stabilizing the trunk when the head is raised from a lying position.  

For abdominal training to be effective you should include a variety of movements i.e.  shortening, lengthening and static work. 

The exercises we have featured this month include all of the above.  Make sure you train at least 3-5 days per week, with a daily workout being permissible.  Unlike other muscles, you rarely fatigue the abdominals enough so that they need a day of rest.

The amount of repetitions per exercise will depend on your individual muscular strength and endurance in this area.  The key to success is to ask the muscles to work until overload i.e. fatigue and that will be different for each and every one of you. So listen to your body, it will tell you when enough is enough.

Ensure that your last repetition is as good as the first. You should be in control of every movement and SLOW DOWN! – Speed and momentum cause injuries.  Correct technique is the key to your success not how fast or how many you do.     

Before taking part in the following exercises ensure you have been cleared by your physician or other

This information is solely for informational purposes. IT IS NOT INTENDED TO PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. Neither the Editors of Around Wellington, the author nor publisher take responsibility for any possible consequences from any treatment, procedure, exercise, dietary modification, action or application of medication which results from reading or following the information contained in this information. The publication of this information does not constitute the practice of medicine, and this information does not replace the advice of your physician or other health care provider. Before undertaking any course of treatment, the reader must seek the advice of their physician or other health care provider.

BASIC SIT-UP

·         Lie on your back with both knees bent and feet on the floor.

·          Place your hands by your ears or support the weight of your head in your hands.

·         Draw your navel into your spine and pull your waistline in.

·         Lift the head and shoulders off the ground and lower.

Key tips:

·         Do not pull on the head as you lift.

·         Only lift your shoulder blades off the ground before lowering.  Research suggests that the abdominals flex the spinal column for about the first 30 to 45 degrees of movement.  Beyond 30 degrees the powerful hip flexors begin to take over.  Due to the potential pressure placed on the lower spine full sit-ups cannot be recommended.

·         Exhale on the lift.

FULL PLANK/3/4 PLANK

·         Start on your elbows and knees.

·         Draw the navel into your spine and pull your waistline in.

·         Extend both legs out fully for the full plank or stay on your knees for the ¾ position.

·         Lower your body weight until your pelvis is below your shoulder line.

 

Key tips:

·         Ensure your elbows are underneath your shoulders.

·         Draw your navel into your spine and pull your waistline in throughout the exercise.

·         Do not lift the pelvis high into the air.

·         Breathe normally.

 

 

 TABLE OPPOSITE ARM TO LEG

·         Start on your hands and knees ensuring the wrists are under the shoulders and hips over the knees.

·         Draw your navel to the spine and pull your waistline in.

·         Slide one leg out. When fully extended lift to hip height.

·         Once stable, extend opposite arm to leg.

·         Hold as long as you can keep good form.

Key tips:

·         Keep your pelvis in neutral.

·         If extending the arm is too intensive only extend the leg.

·         Ensure your navel is pulled to your spine and the waistline is drawn in throughout the exercise.

·         Breathe regularly.

CYCLE

·         Lie on your back with both knees bent and feet on the floor.

·         Draw the navel into the spine and pull the waistline in.

·         As you extend one leg draw the opposite knee into your chest and rotate your torso to the bent knee.

·         Repeat on both sides

Key tips:

·         Do not pull on your head.

·         Lead with your shoulders not your elbow as you turn.

·         Ensure your navel is drawn to your spine and your waistline drawn in throughout the exercise.

Exhale on the turn.

Cheryl Alker specializes in flexibility training, facial exercises and postural alignment.  Her 28 year career started as a group fitness and personal trainer, she has lectured and directed fitness training programs in both Europe and the USA and was an advisor for a Governmental health promotion program. Alker and her company Stretch Results International continues to work with a select clientele from a base in Palm Beach County, Florida, certifying health professionals in her results based stretching program, educating consumers through public speaking and offering consultation to clients who wish to lose their muscular pain and gain flexibility to achieve full and active lifestyles.   Alker has just released a DVD for back pain sufferers.For more information about professional continuing education and consultation options, e:books or DVD’s please call Cheryl on 561 889 3738 or visit www.stretchresults.com. 

This information is solely for informational purposes. IT IS NOT INTENDED TO PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. Neither the Editors of Around Wellington, the author nor publisher take responsibility for any possible consequences from any treatment, procedure, exercise, dietary modification, action or application of medication which results from reading or following the information contained in this information. The publication of this information does not constitute the practice of medicine, and this information does not replace the advice of your physician or other health care provider. Before undertaking any course of treatment, the reader must seek the advice of their physician or other health care provider.

June, 2011 – City Theatre’s Summer Shorts

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June, 2011 – City Theatre’s Summer Shorts

Summer Shorts Kicks Off on June 3rd!

citytheatresummershorts2011

What’s a short? The freshest, funniest, fastest 5 – 20 minutes of your life. Add Broadway and television star Jai Rodriguez to City Theatre’s award-winning mix, and you get a fresh, bold Summer Shorts unlike anything you’ve ever seen before. See 7 of the nation’s best short plays in one program!

JUNE 2 – 26 AT THE ARSHT CENTER    Buy Tickets
JUNE 30 – JULY 3 AT THE BROWARD CENTER    Buy Tickets

Visit www.CityTheatre.com for more info.

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