The Boomer's Guide to the Roosevelt Homes: Val-Kil

Located about two miles from the Roosevelt estate, Springwood, is the fieldstone retreat of Eleanor Roosevelt, Val-Kil.  Loosely translated, Val-Kil means waterfall stream. FDR had the cottage built in 1924 for Eleanor and her two friends, Nancy Cook and Marion Dickerman.  Val-Kil is a National Historic Site run by the National Park Service. Unlike FDR's retreat, Top Cottage, Val-Kil is accessible by private automobile or the Roosevelt Ride shuttle. As a National Historic Site, you may use your Senior Pass.

Tours of Val-Kil are offered on the hour.  Before the tour begins, be sure to see the short, 15 minute video shown in one of the adjacent buildings. It provides an interesting and informative background for the woman known as the "First Lady of the World."

Although it was a retreat for Mrs. Roosevelt and her female friends, FDR frequently visited as well. Often he would drive his specially outfitted Ford convertible up the dirt road known as the Roosevelt Farm Lane to Val-Kil. 

In addition to being a restful retreat for Mrs. Roosevelt, Val-Kil was also the site of a business operated by Mrs. Roosevelt and her friends known as Val-Kil Industries.  Craftsmen were hired to make small furniture and other decorative items. Today, some of them are reputed to be quite valuable.

Val-Kil was simply decorated and much of the original furniture is in place, particularly in the modest dining room.

If you are interested in more information about Val-Kil, Springwood, Top Cottage or Hyde Park, visit www.HistoricHydePark.org or phone 1-800-FDR-VISIT.

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The Boomer's Guide to the Roosevelt Homes: Top Cottage

In addition to his Springwood estate in Hyde Park, just a few short miles away, was Franklin Roosevelt's retreat known as Top Cottage. FDR spent many days in this idyllic spot on a hill with the Hudson River Valley visible through the trees in the distance from his back porch. He had intended to use it as a place to write and think after his presidency but made many visits to it between 1939 and his death in 1945. It was specially designed to accommodate his wheelchair long before the Americans with Disabilities Act. Although he never spent the night there, he would often entertain guests including King George VI and his wife Queen Elizabeth (the "Queen Mum") in a famous visit that included a picnic lunch on the back porch which included hot dogs!

Top Cottage is now operated by the National Parks Service and is available for tours only three times a day via shuttle bus from the Henry Wallace center located at the Roosevelt Library and Museum near Springwood.  The tour guide we had the day we visited was named Charlotte and was quite knowledgeable and charming. She had us all sit on chairs on the back porch and contemplate the lovely environment.  It was a mindfulness moment,

The Boomer's Guide to the Roosevelt Homes in Hyde Park

Franklin D. Roosevelt,  or "FDR" as he was affectionately known, was born in Hyde Park, New York and spent a good part of his life there.  Stricken with polio when he was just 39, he went on to become the 32nd President of the United States of America. He led the nation out of the Great Depression in the 1930s and led the country to victory in World War II.  FDR was elected president four times before dying in the first year of his fourth term in 1945.Although he died before most boomers were born, he remains a fascinating figure for boomers as well as those who were alive during his presidency.  We are fortunate to be able to visit the home he grew up in and often returned to during his life, Springwood, the cottage he used as a retreat, Top Cottage and the house used by his wife, Eleanor, as her own separate retreat, Val-Kil. All are located within a few miles of each other in Hyde Park, New York.

FDR's boyhood home, Springwood, is located on a 1500 acre tract on Route 9 in Hyde Park. It has been designated as a National Historic Site and is operated by the National Park Service. Because of that, all of the Roosevelt sites, Springwood, Top Cottage and Val Kil, are free to those with a senior National Park Service Pass. Up to four guests are also free. There is a charge, however, for the Presidential Museum and Library (which was under renovation when we visited).  Free shuttle service is offered between Springwood and Top Cottage and Val-Kil on The Roosevelt Ride, which is available at the Henry Wallace Center.  Wallace had been FDR's vice president.

Springwood

Springwood is available for tours conducted by very knowledgeable volunteers who take you through the house. Photography is allowed inside the house. The house itself is a mixture of Victorian furniture (his mother, Sara Delano was a major figure in FDR's life and was of that era) and political accessories. One whole wall of the entrance way is covered with political cartoons. Springwood has basically been kept the way that it was when FDR was president. His den and bedroom are particularly interesting.

In addition to the house itself, there are stables which contain riding gear and which still smell of horses.  There is a large rose garden on the property that also contains FDR's tomb.

Our next post will discuss the presidential retreat, Top cottage and Mrs. Eleanor Roosevelt's personal retreat and cottage industry located in Val-Kil a few miles away.

The Boomer's Guide to Vassar College

Vassar college is located in Poughkeepsie, New York in the beautiful Hudson Valley, 75 miles north of New York City.  It was founded in 1861 as a women's college. .  Vassar was the first of the Seven Sisters which were sister institutions to the Ivy League all male schools.  Vassar became co-educational in 1969 Before he became President, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, who lived in nearby Hyde Park, was a trustee.
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The main campus is located on a beautiful 1000 acres off of Richmond Avenue, 3 miles from the city's center.  There are a number of historic  buildings located on campus including two which are National Historic landmarks, the main building (above) and the observatory.The Main Building had at one time housed the entire college.

The campus consists of a mixture of both old brick buildings and contemporary structures.  The student cooperative,Ferry House was designed by the famed architect, Marcel Breuer.  The Finnish-American architect, Eero Saarinen, designed Noyes House.  The Lehman Loeb Art Center was designed by American architect César Pelli.

The beautiful chapel (above) is Gothic in style.

One of the most impressive of the buildings on campus is the library.

If you are in Poughkeepsie, the Vassar campus is well worth a stop.

The Boomer's Guide to Travel Sites in Hyde Park

Evver since I was young I have been fascinated by two places that I wanted to see. First, was the home of Franklin Delano Roosevelt, the longest serving President of the United States, in Hyde Park, New York.  Second, waas The United States Military Academy or as it is more commonly refered to, West Point.  This summer, we were privileged to have the opportunity to tour both places.

Hyde Park, New York, is located about  an hour and a half from New York City. and three hours from Philadelphia  Train service is available on Amtrak and the Metro-North Railroad with stops in nearby Poughkeepsie. That is where our touring began.

We arrived at our hotel in the middle of a Sunday afternoon. Not  knowing what to expect in Poughkeepsie, my wife grabbed a stack of brochures from the hotel's front desk. We studied them in our room and saw that there were at least two places in Poughkeepsie we should see, Vassar College and Locust Grove, the former home of Samuel F.B. Morse, the inventor of the telegraph and a well-known portrait and landscape painter of the Hudson River Valley School.

Locust Grove is located at 2683 South Road on Route 9 or the Albany-Post Road as it has been called for hundreds of years. It is a 40 room Italianate mansion which is available for guided tours only. Because the Morse family had sold it near the turn of the last century, most of the furniture and paintings in the house are from the subsequent owners, the Youngs. It is an interesting mix of Victorian and older antiques and paintings. The views from the estate's gardens are of the Hudson River Valley and are fantastic..

There is a small museum on the grounds which houses some of the artwork of Samuel Morse as well as some of his telegraphic inventions.  It is well worth a visit.  There is also a small gift shop. One of the staff members recommended we try the Shadows on the Hudson for dinner that night.

Just a few short blocks away, Shadows on the Hudson has magnificent views of the Hudson River Valley. The food matches the view.  I had the Lobster bake and it was excellent, with a one and a quarter pound lobster, andoiuille sausage, redskin potatoes and corn on the cob. You felt like you were right on the beach. www.shdadowsonthehudson.com, 176 Rinaldi Blvd., Poughkeepsie, NY.

The next day we visited Vassar College in Poughkeepsie.  More about that in our next post.

The Baby Boomer's Guide to the Best Places to Visit and Things to Do in America

I have not written in a while because---what else---we were traveling. This time we were visiting Hyde Park, New York and Spring Lake, New Jersey.  Before I discuss those trips in later posts, I just wanted to acknowledge my gratitude to Patricia Schultz, the author of 1,000 Places to See Before You Die.. The book is a rich source of information concerning places to visit not only in the United States but also throughout the world.  In reading the book, it occurred to me that my wife and I had already visited a number of the places she has written about.  As an example, my most recent post dealt with Shipshewana, the Amish community in Northern Indiana. Although we had been there many times over the last decade, it was interesting to see it listed in the 1,000 Places book.

This got me thinking:  why not see how many of the 1000 places can we visit and also write about. So, that we are going to try to do.  We may not cover them all and we will write about some places not on her list, but we will try to give you baby boomers a guide to what we think are the best and most fun places to visit and things to do.  While the book is a starting point in some instances, the opinions expressed are our own and the observations are ours also.

I hope you will enjoy our Baby Boomer's Guide to the Best Places to Visit and Things to Do!

Shipshewana: A Unique Visit for the Boomer

If you, like me, are a boomer looking for an other-worldly place to visit, I have just the place for you.  It is Shipshewana, Indiana in Northern Indiana.  You probably never heard of it. Neither did we until we stumbled upon it one Friday afternoon as we were on our way to South Bend, Indiana for a Notre Dame football game. We have visited Shipshewana on several occasions since our first visit some 7 or 8 years ago. Each time we find something new that interests and enchants us. Shipshewana, which is named for a Potawatami native American chief, was listed in Patricia Schultz's "1,000 Places to See Before You Die."

Located off of the Indiana Toll Road, Interstates 80/ 90, at Exits 107 and 121, it is an Amish community that is quite unexpected in the middle of the cornfields which surround it. By the way, after leaving the Toll Road, you will pass the Howe School. If you have the time be sure to stop and see the school's chapel. The chapel was built in 1903 and is listed on the Register of Historic Places.  You will note the hand-carved pews and the collegiate style seating.

Amish, which is an offshoot of the Mennonite religion, is not just a religion but a way of life. The Amish reject many of today's modern conveniences, including automobiles. They prefer horse-drawn buggies, which march alongside the road.  Their life is simple, emphasizing the family and community. The Amish are friendly but ask that you respect their traditions and privacy. For example, they request that you not take their photograph.

Shipshewana is home to numerous shops where you can buy antiques, furniture, baked goods and quilts. There are also several dining options available. In addition, Shipshewana is host to the Midwest's largest flea market,  It is held every Tuesday and Wednesday from May 1 through the end of October. It is said to be a Hoosier tradition not to be missed.

If you are interested in furniture that will last a lifetime and beyond, we recommend you stop by the Riegsecker Marketplace Shops located at 105 E. Middlebury St.  We bought our kitchen table and chairs there and they are as solid as any you will find anywhere.

For dining,we recommend the Blue Gate Restaurant. The food consists of typical Amish fare and is available either from the menu or family style.  The homemade pies are delicious. Each meal is served with bread and homemade peanut butter.  Wonderful! The restaurant is located directly in front of the Riegsecker shops. www.BlueGateRestaurant.com.

How to Make Flying Easier: Tips for Baby Boomers

Are you a baby boomer who does not fly very often?  If so,  every experience at the airport and on the airplane can seem  like the first time. Here are some tips that might help ease your way. Most of them are just common sense but it pays to be reminded of them.

One of the first recommendations I have is that you put all your travel papers in a folder that you take with you to the airport. For just a few dollars, you can buy a cardboard folder at Office Max or Office Depot.  If you prefer, you can also get one in leather or vinyl depending upon your style and budget. I prefer the ones that are self-closing.

As you are getting ready for your trip, put all of the papers you will need for the trip in the folder.  This will include your boarding pass, itinerary, hotel and rental car confirmations and if you are leaving the country, your passport and any othere papers you may need during your trip.  By the way, you need to remember that you now need a passport to enter into Canada. Having all these papers in one place will save a lot of aggravation and time at the airport and on your trip.

The day of your trip, you may also want to add to the folder your driver's license or other picture ID that you will need to go through security at the airport. One important point about the travel folder: keep the folder with you at all times.  It does you no good if it is in your checked baggage or in your carry on bag if you have to surrender it at the door of the plane if it is too large or there is no room in the overhead bins.

I also recommend you take as little additional clothing on the plane with you.  Overcoats, hats, scarves, etc, either become lost or crushed by someone's luggage in the overhead bin.  I always try to put those items either in my checked bag or carry-on. Speaking of carryons I happen to think the Delsey carryons are the most useful.  They fit a lot of clothing, but are lightweight and easy to put in the overhead.

I find it useful to wear slip-on shoes when traveling by plane. Not only is it easy to take them off on the plane, which is particularly important on long flights where you want to get comfortable, you will spend less time at the security gate since you will not have to unlace and lace up tie shoes.When you are seated, I recommend doing some basic stretches, particularly on long flights.  Just raising your arms in the air or leaning forward in your seat and touching the floor with your hands can do wonders for your circulation.  Compression stockings also may make sense on long flights. These cost about $10 and you can get them at Dick's Sporting Goods stores.

As the title of this post states, these little tips can make your flight just a little easier.

For information on some cool destinations, please take a look at my earlier posts and those yet to come.

Pittsburgh on $100 a Day

Hey Pittsburgh, you have just been named one of the "10 Best Places to Live on $100 A Day"  by AARP Magazine.  That works out to $36,500 a year.  The survey was based on the purchase price for a median priced home, the climate, the availability of cultural opportunities and, not surprisingly, access to topnotch medical facilities and services. Another factor that was considered was the local economy.  Pittsburgh, while hit by the recession like everywhere else, has not seen the foreclosure rate seen elsewhere.

Interestingly enough, Morgantown, West Virginia, which is located about 90 miles South of Pittsburgh also made the list.

If you are thinking about a move in retirement, consider Pittsburgh!

Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix

Myron Cope  was the well-known, high-pitched radio commentator for the Pittsburgh Steelers.  Known for creating the "Terrible Towel," the black and gold towel seen being waved at every Steeler game, whether home or away, Cope was also one of the foundesr of the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix. Estatblished in 1983 as a fund raiser for the Allegheny Valley School and later the Autism Society of Pittsburgh, it is now one of the most popular races of its kind. Nearby are two great universities, Carnegie-Mellon and the University of Pittsburgh.Pictured above is the University of Pittsburgh's Cathedral of Learning.

Each year, generally during the third weekend of July, drivers of vintage race cars and fans of sports cars gather in the Oakland section of Pittsurgh in Scheleny Park to watch the only vintage car race run on city streets.. The course is 2.33 miles  long and has over 20 turns. About 250,000 people attend the time trials, the international car shows and the races.

Each year, one car is selected as the marque for the car show.  This year it was the MG and the spotlight car was the Lotus. In addition, German cars were highlighted. Porches, Audis, BMWs and Volkswagens filled the Bob O'Connor golf course where the car shows were held on this past Saturday. I even saw a Beetle that resembled my old 1970 Bug. Because of the German theme, there was even a Biergarten, where your favorite German brew was available under a large tent.

While the car shows are going on, so too are the qualifying races. The Crown Royal Featured Races took place on Sunday. The racers include classics such as Bugatti, Aston-Martin and Alfa-Romeo.

Be sure to mark your calendar for next year's event.

Alternatives to Immediate Annuities:in Retirement 101

As we come closer to retirement, we all start thinking about how we can supplement our social security and other sources of income such as pensions or IRAs.  One of the investment vehicles being touted today is the immediate single premium annuity The immediate annuity works like this in its simplest form:. You take a lump sum of money, say $100,000, and give it to the insurance company when you reach age 65. Except in very limited circumstances, you no longer have access to the principal. In return, you will receive a monthly payment until you die. If you are lucky enough to have a long life, you will undoubtedly receive back your investment and more. On the other hand, if you were to die shortly after purchasing the annuity, your estate will lose the entire amount.  There is some variation of the immediate annuity that allows your spouse to continue receiving a reduced payment until his or her death. The question is: are there other investments that may produce  income without risking losing the entire amount and without those restrictions on access to your money?

Although none of these investments are guaranteed or without risk, I think that there are several alternatives which together may provide a reliable source of income.  As always, the key is to maintain diversity, i.e., spreading your investment money around several different classes of assets..  In that regard mutual funds are probably the better choices for most people rather than individual stocks and bonds. One type of fund to consider is the municipal bond fund. These generate tax-free income and if they contain municipal bonds from your state, the income(or some portion of it) may be free of state as well as Federal income tax.  A second type of fund to consider is the dividend growth fund.. These generally invest in high quality stocks that have paid dividends for many years and are regularly increasing the amount.The third leg of the stool is an investment grade corporate bond fund. These are designed to generate the highest levels of income consistent with the preservation of principal..  Of course ,unlike the immediate annuity, none of these mutual funds produce a guaranteed income and you could also lose your principal.  However, with any of these  alternatives, you do have access to your money and it may still be there for your heirs.

All of the major mutual fund companies offer these types of investments, Vanguard (www.vanguard.com), Fidelity (www.fidelity.com), T. Rowe Price (www.troweprice.com), etc. So which you choose is really a matter of personal preference.

DISCLOSURE:  The author has investments with each of the mutual fund families referred to in this post. The opinions expressed in this post are informational only and are not intended to provide investment advice.  You should consult with a professional advisor before investing your money.

The Atlantis Found on Paradise Island

In mythology, Atlantis is the "Lost Continent" somewhere in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. In reality, it is a fabulous resort in the Caribbean.

Paradise Island is located near Nassau in the Bahamas It is connected by two bridges over Nassau Harbor to the Bahamian island of New Providence, where Nassau is located . Originally developed by the A&P supermarket heir, Huntington Hartford, the island was formerly called Hog Island. Little wonder why he changed the name

The island has been the location of a number of motion pictures including the 2006 remake of  the James Bond flick, Casino Royale. Although there are several resorts and hotels on the island, the most well-known and most popular is the Atlantis Resort and Spa.

In the 1980s, Donald Trump acquired the Atlantis. Subsequently, it was bought by the late singer and television host., Merv Griffin, who was also known for squiring the Hungarian beauty, Eva Gabor, of the famous Gabor sisters,  Ms Gabor was perhaps best known as the society matron turned farmer in the television series, "Green Acres." The Atlantis is currently owned by South African, Sol Kerzner, who has significantly expanded the resort beyond its two original towers joined by a bridge.Michael Jackson is said to have once stayed in the bridge.

The Atlantis has over 2000 luxuriously appointed rooms.  We stayed in the Coral Tower and were very pleased with our room.  As part of our package, we also received breakfast in the Sea Grapes restaurant just off the magnificent lobby. The breakfast was buffet style and those lucky enough to have a table near the window could see sea turtles playing in the shallow pools outside the window. One of the hallmarks of the Atlantis is the water bodies which seem to be everywhere. There are 11 swimming pools scattered throughout the grounds.  The grounds themselves are immaculately kept. One of the highlights of the swimming experience is the Mayan Temple water slide (if you dare!) There is also a dolphin cove where children and I suppose adults can play with the dolphins.  Those less adventurous can watch from across  the cay.

The water theme is carried inside as well as there is a large aquarium that is below ground and contains numerous fish and other sea animals.

The Atlantis has a number of fine restaurants in addition to casual dining spots outside.  Our favorite is Bobbby Flay's Mesa Grill.  It serves the same menu as his New York restaurant and is definitely worth the splurge.

The casino in the Atlantis is the largest in the Caribbean.  On the ceiling are these fabulous glass sculptures by the artist Dale Chihuly. They are not to be missed even if you do not gamble. For those who do gamble, you won't be disappointed as all your favorite table games and slot machines are available. Good luck!

The Atlantis can be pricey but it frequently offers extra days for free and even free airfare.  Check their website if you are interested in going. www.atlantis.com

For another take on Atlantis, see our post, The Boomer's Guide to Travel Sites in Santorini Greece.

What's Going on In Canonsburg, Pennsylvania

Located about 20 miles South of Pittsburgh is the small borough of Canonsburg, Pennsylvania. Despite its relatively small size, it is the home of several important singers. One of the most prominent of these is the late crooner, Perry Como. Originally a barber in Canonsburg, he went on to become one of the most popular singers of the 1950s and early 1960s, known for his smooth and easy style. He was a major television star with the Kraft Music Hall where his theme song was "Dream Along with Me," one of Como's best known songs. Como was also noted for a soul-inspiring version of the "Ave Maria." Not surprisingly, Canonsburg has honored this native son, who died in 2001, with a statute in the middle of town. On the base of the statute is one of his favorite phrases, "To This Place God Has Brought Me."

Bobby Vinton, one of the best-selling singers of the 1960s and 1970s also grew up in Canonsburg. Best known for his songs, "Blue Velvet" and "Lonely," Crooner Bobby Vinton was a top male vocalist from 1962 to 1972, with more number one songs in that period than Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley. His hit songs were mellow; most were romantic. It was only the Beatles who displaced him from that high perch Canonsburg has also honored this native son, who now lives in Florida, with two streets, Bobby Vinton Blvd and Bobby Vinton Drive.

One place that is a "must see" in Canonsburg is the Sarris Chocolate Factory & Ice Cream Parlour. Located on a side street near the exit to Interstate 79, it is a mecca for those who love chocolate. There is plentiful parking across the stree from the brightly decorated building. The only time that is not the case is for the holidays, particularly Valentine's Day and Easter. Then it is every man and woman for themselves both inside and outside the store. (Actually at those times, there is usually a police officer outside the store to avoid parking confrontations!). Sarris also provides corporate gift and fund-raising opportunities.

Sarris has every kind of candy imaginable.  One of their specialities is their chocolate-covered pretzels, which are available in both milk and dark chocolate. Many of the candies are made onsite. Each year at Easter, large five foot bunnies dominate the store.  And throughout the year, at least one large chocolate exhibit is displayed.

Believe it or not, the entire castle is made of chocolate!

In addition to the candy store, the building also houses an old-fashioned ice cream parlour, with a player piano that for a dollar plays some old-time songs. But it is the ice cream that you will go there for. And as with the chocolate and other candies, you will not be disappointed. From cones to sundaes and old-fashioned ice cream sodas (my favorite is the cherry--yum, yum), it is an ice cream-lover's delight.

Sarris located at 511 Adams Avenue, Canonsburg, PA  15317.  The phone number is 1-800-Sarris-1.  They can also be reached through their website, www.sarris-candies.com.

So, if you are in the area of Canonsburg to pay homage to Perry Como or Bobby Vinton, make sure you stop in at Sarris.  You will not be disappointed.

What to See in Lisbon

Recently, reporter, Frank Bruni, of The New York Times, wrote a column about his trip to Lisbon, Portugal. He lamented that, after an all night flight from New York to Lisbon, his hotel room was not ready and the only option available was to sleep in the lobby.  Instead he opted to wander around the city, exploring new places. This all struck a chord with me as my wife and I had a similar experience on our honeymoon. We flew into Lisbon after our first honeymoon stop----where else----Niagara Falls.

One of the highlights of our trip to Lisbon was the Gulbenkian Museum. The museum houses the eclectic collections of art and other antiquities assembled by Calouste Sarkis Gulbenkian.Gulbenkian, an Armenian businessman and philanthropist was largely responsible for making Middle Eastern oil available to the Western Hemisphere. Gulbenkian, had once lived in Constantinople (now Istanbul) but traveled the world in the late 19th and early 20th centuries in search of antiquities from ancient Egypt, Greece and Babylonia.  Over 6000 pieces he found are now in the collection.The permanent collection at the museum displays many of those items. Alxo on display are many of the paintings he collected.  These include paintings by Rembrandt, Degas, Manet, Monet and Gainsborough. We lingered most of a day at the Gulbenkian.  It is well worth the visit if you are in Lisbon.Avenida de Berna 45A 1067-001 Lisbon, Portugal
217 823 000
Located in the Belem District of Lisbon is an impressive statute of Columbus.

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Boost The Brain's Power Through Tai Chi

We all have heard those horror stories about losing the brain's cells at an early age and how that can effect our memory and cognitive skills. . Now there is something you can do about it.  And it does not involve buying expensive equipment or spending lots of money on supplements.  The answer?  Why, tai chi, of course.

In the June 19, 2012 edition of the  Journal of Alzheimer's Disease, a team of researchers from China's Shanghai Fudan University and the University of South Florida, reported on an eight month study they conducted of Chinese seniors who practiced the art of tai chi at least three times a week. They found that comparing those individuals with those who did not practice tai chi, those who did practice it had increased brain volume.  In turn, that resulted in improvements in both memory and cognitive function.

So, if you are having trouble remembering where you put the car keys, try tai chi.  Who knows, you might even find the keys. Let me know if it seems to work for you.

City of Parks: Great Minneapolis Parks

Minneapolis is known for the Vikings, the Twins and the Metrodome as well as the skywalks between downtown buildings that provide shelter to workers on cold winter days. What a lot of people are unaware of is that it is also a city full of parks.  Yes, parks.The land of 10,000 lakes is host to 182 parks, many of them on or near one of those lakes. On a recent visit to the Twin Cities, we visited several of those parks and were pleasantly surprised at their variety and the extensive use made of those parks.

Minnehaha falls is a wonderful place for a picnic or even a wedding, both of which we saw while visiting there. Located south of downtown Minneapolis, it has a wonderful waterfall, which drains into the Mississippi river.  No, it is not as high as Niagara Falls, but it is impressive.

There is a small concession stand where soft drinks and beer are available for drinking inside or alfresco. Bicycles, including one that can accommodate four people, are also available for use on the many trails throughout the park.  Parking in the designated lots is at a premium so be prepared to park your car on the street and walk to the falls.

Two other parks also merit mention.  These are Lake Harriet and Lake Calhoun, which are located about five minutes apart near the Uptown section of the city.  Both have walking and biking trails around the lake, each of which is around 3 miles long. They have small beaches where limited swimming is permitted. One of the benefits of walking around Calhoun is the presence of a small restaurant called the Tin Fish.  It offers mainly fish dishes (no surprise there) including fish tacos and walleye sandwiches. On the weekends, the lines can be quite long, so be prepared to wait. It is definitely worth the wait.

For more information on these and other parks in the Minneapolis area, visit www.minneapolisparks.org

Financial Freedom

The road to financial freedom can be a bumpy one. With children costing some $250,000 to raise according to some published reports (and that does not even include college, which can run another $250,000 at certain private schools) and the prospect of also having to take care of grandchildren (a not uncommon event these days), no wonder more and more people are choosing to defer retirement or even giving up the thought of retiring altogether.  We will try to give you some strategies which may help you through the thicket of information surrounding items such as mutual funds, Social Security, 401 (k)s, IRAs and other financial matters. Of course, you should always consult with a financial professional before manking any changes in your plans and there is no guarantee that you will make money.  We will try to be as factual as we can concerning these topics based upon our independent research, but keep in mind, no one strategy works for everyone.

In our next web we will discuss when you can receive Social Security and what other options you may have.  So, be on the lookout for it.

Fatigue

Today's "New York Times" has two intriguing stories on fatigue.The first discusses whether ginseng can help relieve the fatigue suffered by cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. Ginseng is an herb or root that can also be found in supplement form. Although the article refers to a study that concluded that taking 1,000 to 2,000 milligrams of ginseng can provide some relief from the sometimes paralyzing fatigue, it also cautioned that the long term impact of using ginseng was still unclear.

The second article, entitled "Statin Drugs Cause Fatigue in Some People" reports on a study from the June 11 Archives of Internal Medicine.  Statin drugs are regularly prescribed to lower cholesterol. Although its positive effects in lowering cholesterol are well-documented, the new study seems to support the long-held suspicion that one of its side effects may cause fatigue in some people, particularly women. Some participants in the study took between 20 and 40 milligrams of either
simvastatin or pravastatin.  Others were given a placebo.  More fatigue was reported in those taking the statin drugs than those taking the placebo.

As the lead researcher, Dr, Beatrice Golomb of the University of California, San Diego, cautioned, patients taking the drugs need to discuss the matter with their physicians if they notice the side effects.

Tara

For those of you who enjoy a bit of Southern hospitality but don't have the chance to actually visit the South, Tara-A Country Inn is the place for you.

Located in Mercer County, Pennsylvania, about a 90 minute drive from Pittsburgh and about an hour from Cleveland, Ohio,it is a wonderful weekend getaway at a reasonable price. If you are a fan of "Gone With the Wind", this is the place for you. Named for the antebellum mansion in that book and movie, it offers some 27 luxurious guest rooms, all named for some aspects of the book, the Rhett Butler, Scarlett, etc. Built in 1854, it was opened as a country inn by the late Jim Winner and his wife Donna in 1986. Mr. Winner was noted as an entrepreneur (he was responsible for the popularity of the "Club" automobile safety device popular in the '70s and '80s) as well as his civic efforts on behalf of the Mercer County area, particularly Sharon, Pennsylvania.

When you arrive at the inn for a visit, you are greeted by the bellman, who offers you a glass of champagne as he takes you to your room.  In your room, you will find a bottle of champagne and several small snacks to tide you over until dinner. The rooms are quite spacious and include vintage furniture as well as in-room Jacuzzis and televisions and DVD players. (A large selection of DVDs is available. Just ask at the front desk)

Sprinkled throughout the Inn and the beautifully-manicured grounds (the smell of boxwood fills the air) are numerous large bronze statutes, most with a Western theme. Also, there are many Civil War artifacts and memorabilia from the movie. It is worth taking one of the tours to learn about those as well as the mansion itself.

One of the highlights of any visit is the food! Guests are invited to attend a tea on weekends at 4:00 p.m. that includes a large selection of teas (Plantation Mint is one of my favorites and particularly appropriate) as well as several pastries, including scones with clotted cream, cookies as well as chocolate-covered strawberries and egg salad sandwiches. At 6:00 p.m. a cocktail party is held in one of the parlors. A champagne punch is offered as well as cheese and crackers. Both are included as part of the "Gone With the Wind" package.

Also included in the package is dinner and breakfast at one of the fine restaurants, Ashley and Stonewall. We have eaten in Ashley's several times and it offers outstanding cuisine consisting of a seven course menu that begins with soup (last time we had asparagus consomme) and ends with a pastry with brie cheese and port wine or Christian Brothers brandy. In between are salads, appetizers such as beef carpaccio,  entrees such as beef medallions and desserts, including cherries jubilee (my favorite) and bananas Foster (a favorite of my wife). Both are flamed in the dining room before your eyes. A piano player, a large sparkling crystal chandelier and a large mural covering the walls showing plantation life create a truly romantic atmosphere. Many of the couples are celebrating wedding anniversaries and birthdays. A jacket and tie is required for men at dinner and reservations are a must for both dinner and breakfast. Breakfast is also wonderful, including fried french toast and buttermilk pancakes.

 Tara is a favorite place for wedding ceremonies and receptions.  The weddings take place in a large gazebo and the receptions in a large tent next to the outdoor pool. There is also an indoor heated pool.

For more information, contact Tara at 724-962-3535 or view the website at www.Tara-Inn.com.

We highly recommend Tara as a refreshing getaway.

Stress: Who is Stressed and Who Isn't

In a recent study published in "The Journal of Applied Social Psychology", researchers from Carnegie-Mellon University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania reported on the results of three national surveys measuring the degree of stress in various groups of individuals.  The surveys, conducted in 1983, 2006 and 2009, showed some surprising results.  In all three surveys, it was found that stress levels were higher in women than men and stress decreased with age. Apparently that is one of the benefits of being older.

Not surprisingly, the surveys also showed that the unemployed showed higher levels of stress than the retired.  The young were particularly hard hit by the economic downturn beginning in 2008 as they found it difficult to find jobs.

One way to relieve stress, whatever your age, sex or employment status is meditation.  So, click on one of the recommended cites listed on this blog.  It could well help.

Meditation and Tai Chi

I begin each morning by doing a meditation exercise.  Usually while still laying in bed, I will just concentrate on my breathing. With my eyes closed, I will do this for as long as I feel comforable.  Sometimes it is just a minute, sometimes it is half an hour. No matter. Even a short period of meditation seems to make a difference in my attitude, sense of well-being and mental acuity.

I usually follow up with a session of tai chi.  If you are not familiar with tai chi it is a form of martial art without the martial.  It is very nature oriented in its movements and is said to follow  the path of least resistance.  Yet it is great for stretching and improving balance.  A great resource is the exercise dvds of an instructor, Scott Cole.  www.scottcole.com. He has videos of all types and for all age groups focused primarily on tai chi but with additional types of exercise such as yoga. Check it out.

For more information on meditation, click on the relevant links on this post.

National Park Service Senior Pass

If you are 62 years old or older, you are eligible to purchase a lifetime pass for seniors from the National Park Service.  For only $10, you can have access to all of the national parks run by the National Park Service. Since that number is close to 400, that is quite a bargain.  But, as they say in those infomercials on television, it gets even better.  Not only you have that access, you can take along 3 other persons with you on your visit---at no charge.

We were recently in St. Augustine, Florida and visited the Castillo de San Marcos. It was there that one of the park rangers told us of this real steal. By the way, the Castillo is an absolute must-see if you get a chance to visit that part of the country. It is in excellent condition, despite dating back to 1672. Built by the Spanish to protect their empire in America, it was built to last. Some of the walls are said to be between 14 and 19 feet thick. It was also surrounded by a 40 foot moat. Large cannons still line the gun deck. At 2:30 p.m. during our visit last Sunday, there was a demonstration of the firing of one of those cannons.  It was an excellent show that had everyone cheering.

Two suggestions: If you are interested in visiting the national parks, by all means secure a senior pass. And if you are in the vicinity, you must stop and see the Castillo de San Marcos.

Tamarack Revisited

In my last post, Country Roads, Part Two, June 2, 2012, I discussed the wonderful facility known as Tamarack, located outside of Beckley, West Virginia.  In the May, 2012 issue of Smithsonian Magazine, www.Smithsonian.com, Beckley is listed as one of the 20 Best Small Towns in America. If you get a chance, take a look at the entire article. There are some real surprises on the list, including Butler, Pennsylvania. All of them are well worth looking into for a visit.

Country Roads--Part Two

Last time I wrote about two well-known resorts in West Virginia, the Greenbrier and Oglebay Park,  Today, I'd like to tell you about another West Virginia spot you will undoubtedly enjoy visiting. It is called Tamarack and is located near Beckley, West Virginia, just off Exit 45 of Interstate 77.
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Opened in 1995, Tamarack is not a resort as such, it is an arts and crafts center, run as an economic development project of the West Virginia Parkways Authority. It consists of a large circular building with multiple shops for the sale of locally produced glass, pottery, jewelry, fine art, wood and textiles. Most are reasonably priced. The area is particularly well-known for glass ware.

In addition to the shops themselves, there are resident artisan studios where you can watch as their art objects are being produced. Many weekends during the summer, there are also craft demonstrations. There is also a small theater that offers musical theater and dancing. Finally, for those foodies (like me), the food court offers food from the Greenbrier resort.  The broiled trout is one of the specialities. And for dessert, you must try the Greenbrier's signature peaches or the cherry cobbler. Both are outstanding. In addition, a small shop offers Greenbrier merchandise. 

That's it for our short tour of places to visit in West Virginia. For more information, please go to www.tamarackwv.com or  phone 304-256-6843.

 Next up is Lisbon, Portugal.

Coffree: A Life Saver

Several weeks ago, I wrote about the beneficial effects of coffee "Coffee: Just What the Doctor Ordered", April 28, 2012.. Recently, The New England Journal of Medicine, May 17, 2012,  published an article about a study that showed that coffee drinkers (particularly those who consumed three or more cups a day) had a 10% less chance of dying from heart problems, stroke, diabetes and other causes The study was  conducted by researchers from the National Cancer Institute and the AARP. The researchers followed some 400,000 men and women over a 12 year period. .The study involved those who drank coffee with and without caffeine, so it does not appear that caffeine is the operative ingredient that may be beneficial.

So, have another cup of java and drink up!

Country Roads

John Denver sang about the "country roads" of West Virginia.  Those country roads lead to some wonderful vacation spots.

Almost everyone has heard of the Greenbrier resort. Located in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, eighty miles from the Roanoke Regional Airport, for over 200 years, it has been a playground for presidents(26 of them have stayed or visited there) and princes, as well as those who want to pamper themselves a little .It is a AAA Five Diamond award winning luxury resort and spa.  With three championship golf courses, this year it is the host to the Greenbrier Classic, July 2-8.  Phil Mickelson and Sergio Garcia are expected to play in this PGA event.. Slamming Sammy Snead himself was the golf pro there for many years.The rooms are brightly decorated, the food is superb and the atmosphere is just outstanding.With a movie theater, two pools and, since 2010, a casino, it offers excitement every day and night.

 But this post is not just about the Greenbier.  Plenty of information is available on the Greenbrier See www.greenbrier.com .Moreover, not everyone can afford the Greenbrier.  No, this post is also about two other West Virginia places you might want to consider visiting this summer. Moreover, not everyone can afford the Greenbrier.

First, is Oglebay Park, in Wheeling, West Virginia. Once the summer estate of Earl Oglebay, at his death, he willed all 1700 acres to the City of Wheeling. It is still owned and maintained by the city of Wheeling,and is located at the top of a mountain just off of Interstate 70.  As you climb the mountain, you will pass on the left a sign stating that the property was once owned by Lawrence Washington, the brother of George Washington. Once you have zigzagged up the mountain, you will see a large yellow building.  This is the Oglebay.mansion and it is available for tours of the antique filled rooms. For more information, phone 304-243-4090 or visit the website at www.Oglebay-resort.com

Once you pass the mansion, you will see a sign, reading "Wilson Lodge," Turn there and it will take you down to the lodge which is the center of activity. As the name suggests, it is just that, a "lodge." Nothing too fancy but very much directed at families and conventioners or those on a business retreat.  Just off the lobby is a fine gift shop with branded merchandise and bottles of wine. Cottages are also available.

In addition to a skiing area just down the road and its own zoo, Oglebay is blessed with two magnificent golf courses, one designed by Arnold Palmer, and the other by Robert Trent Jones Sr. If you are a golfer, you will enjoy both. The Palmer is the flatter of the two courses and if, like me, you do not favor playing off the side of a mountain, try it first.

Each Christmas season, Oglebay puts on a Festival of Lights, which draws families from the surrounding states. Also, in April, Oglebay hosts an antique show with dealers from the Upper Peninsula of Michigan to Florida. Each of these events is well worth the trip.

The next post will be about another West Virginia attraction, Tamarack.  Make sure you come back to read it.

Click on the sidebar for more information about the Greenbrier.

The Beneficial Effects of Meditation

The many beneficial effects of meditation continue to be recognized.  In an earlier post, " Every Breath You Take," I discussed a number of different forms of meditation or mindfulness. In today's edition of The New York Times,an article entitled "In Sitting Still, A Bench Press For the Brain," the Times reports on a number of studies which tend to show that meditation has a number of beneficial effects on the brain. These are believed to include increased gray and white matter which can improve cognitive performance in older adults.  What is fascinating is that the longer meditation is practiced, the greater the benefits appear to be. This is in addition to the physical benefits such as lower blood pressure as shown in such studies as the "Relaxation Response.."

Moreover, it is never too late to start. It requires no equipment and almost no time. Just get started.

The Secret of Success

Sister Corita Kent

If you are looking for the secret of real success at your job, with your family and in life, you might want to consider the above little saying: "To Do a Common Thing Uncommonly Well, Brings Success."

The quote is from H.J. Heinz, the founder of the Heinz food company. The print is by Sister Corita Kent, a wonderful pop artist known for these type of prints.

You might be asking yourself, "what exactly does this mean?" I think it means that whatever you do, no matter how apparently small it may be, if you do it as best as you can, you will already have succeeded.

What do you think?

Ragtime

We just got back from a three day visit to Niagara Falls and Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario.  Now I know you have already heard quite enough about those two locations, but I just had to share with you our experience in seeing the play "Ragtime" at the Shaw Festival in Niagara-on-the-Lake. As one of the persons sitting next to us commented at the intermission, one word suffices to describe the production, "Superb".  And he was right.

For those of you not familiar with the play, it is a musical set in the early part of the 20th century.  It chronicles the interactions of three very different families in New Rochelle, New York, the Lower East Side of New York City and Harlem.  There is the upper middle class family with the usual pretensions at the outset of the play. Next, is an immigrant family from Latvia that literally just got off the boat. Last, is a black family that is trying to make it into the middle class.  Based upon the book by E.L. Doctorow, the music  by Stephen Flaherty is haunting.  The singing, particularly that of the lead character, Coalhouse Walker (played by Thom Allison), is outstanding. The play lasts almost three hours but as my wife says, "It seems like 15 minutes."

"Ragtime"  will be playing all summer at the Festival Theatre in Niagara-on-the-Lake.  If you love drama and music, this play is for you.

For more information about this and the other plays and for tickets, contact the Festival at www.shawfest.com or at 1-800-511-SHAW.

Every Breath You Take

Sting sang about "every breath youI take."  In my last post, I quoted Ralph Waldo Emerson on clearing the mind of all the "absurdities" of yesterday in order to face the "serenity" of today. You are probably asking your self, "Just how do I go about doing that?"  The answer is really quite simple and it is something we do unconsciosly every day.  The difference is we never think to pay attention to it. The way to clear the mind is to finally pay attention and use it as an opportunity to improve not only our state of mind but also our physical well-being.  What is it?  You  have probably guessed it by now: breathing. Not just any breathing, of course.

Dr. Andrew Weil, the anti-aging guru, has a CD set called Breathing: The Master Key to Self-Healing, which describes a number of breathing techniques and leads you through them. One of the simplest is to inhale for a count of four, hold the breath for a count of seven and exhale to a count of eight.Doing this three times with your tongue behind your upper front teeth is designed to reduce anxiety. I have tried it and it really does work.

Another widely popular breathing technique is mindfulness or meditation as it used to be called. Basically, it involves sitting in a chair quietly with your eyes closed and monitoring your breathing. You should not try to breath any specific way but you should just concentrate on breathing, paying attention to to exhalation and inhalation. When other thoughts come to mind, just let them float away since they are not real.  It takes a while, but you will get used to it.  Start with a minute or so and work your way up for as long as you can.  The important thing is not to get discouraged.  Keep at it.  You will be surprised how quickly your mind will clear. A good book describing several more techniques is Mark Williams' Mindfulness: An Eight Week Plan for Finding Peace in a Frantic World. It is available on Amazon for the Kindle and well worth the price.

If you really get into breathing techniques, you might want to pick up The Art of Breathing by Nancy Zi.  It describes breathing techniques for almost every occasion. Let me know if you like it.

Just remember to breathe easy!

Clearing the Mind for Boomers

Finish each day and be done with it. You have done what you could. Some blunders and absurditie​s no doubt crept in; forget them as soon as you can. Tomorrow is a new day; begin it well and serenely and with too high a spirit to be encumbered with your old nonsense.

Ralph Waldo Emerson

Easter In New York City

We recently spent a long weekend in New York visiting our son.  It was over the Easter holiday. We did quite a bit of sightseeing and dining. One of the most spectacular buildings we saw on that trip was the Empire State Building decorated for Easter. The photographs above show the Empire State Building as seen through the arch at Washington Square.

Coffee: Just What the Doctor Ordered

Last time I wrote about the many potential health benefits of high intensity interval training or HIIT. In as little as two ten minute sessions of cycling a week, the same results can be achieved as with multiple longer, less intense sessions. Today, I want to report on two other shortcuts to healthier living that you might want to consider.

First, Prevention Magazine recently reported on a British study that showed that cutting back on carbohydrates such as pasta, breads, etc, just twice a week had as much effect on weight loss as full-time dieters. Definitely worth looking into and trying if, like me, you hate counting calories.

Another recent study has appeared to confirm what we thought all along--coffee is good for you! In a recent study by the University of Madrid and Harvard University, dramatic reductions in mortality were found among coffee drinkers. According to the study, womenn who drank two to three cups of java had as much as an 18% reduction in death from all causes. The reduction for women who drank four or five cups was even more dramatic---up to a 26% reduction. The reduction for men was smaller but still not insignificant. So. drink up!

High Intensity Interval Training for Better Health

Each month we will rotate the focus of  our posts.  In May we will stress health and fitness issues. Here is a preview of the type of post you can expect

It seems like every time I turn around, I see an article on the advantages of interval training, particularly cycling. You know what that is. You go flat out for a given time period, usually a minute or so, then cut back to a relaxed cadence. You've seen those guys at the track, running sprints and then stopping or just slowing to a jog or a trot. What I didn't know was those types of actions can be good for us ordinary exercisers. The New York Times recently reported that as little as a series of one minute intervals of cycling at 90 percent of the person's maximum heart rate followed by a minute of relaxed training repeated just 10 times each could have a significant impact on their fitness. And more, it actually lowered the risk of Type 2 diabetes by regulating the blood sugar. "How 1-Miinute Inervals Can Improve Your Health", February 15, 2012. IIt seems like it is a valuable means of shortening your workouts and reducing the chance of becoming diabetic.

That's not all. The Norwegian University of Science and Technology in January 2010 also reported on a study that showed that persons with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease or COPD improved their oxygen intake up to 20% after several weeks of one legged high intensity cycling sessions. "Cycling to better health, one leg at a time", press release, NTNU, January 20, 2010. Cycling one legged apparently causes the lungs to work harder. I tried to do this just to see how hard it would be and found it impossible to even turn the pedals with only one leg at a time. If you have better luck, let me know.

Niagara-on-the Lake: A Hidden Jewel

Located about  a 20 minute drive  from Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada is a hidden jewel, Niagara-on-the-Lake. A scenic drive along the Niagara Parkway past Queenston Heights and stately homes overlooking the river, it is well worth a side trip if you plan on visiting Niagara Falls. I recommend that you go when the Shaw Festival is open. From April to October, each year, the professional actors of the festival present a number of fine shows, some of which are George Bernard Shaw's (his statute is in the center of town) plays but other playwrights such as Noel Coward are also represented  This year they are presenting Ragtime, Come Back Little Sheba and nine other plays in the various theaters in town. For more information, see www.Shawfest.com.

  Along the road into town you will pass a number of large wineries. We recommend the Reif winery. In our view they have the best Chardonnay.You should also buy a bottle of icewine made from frozen grapes each winter. It is a sweet ending to any meal. In the summer you will find numerous fruit stands where you can buy cherries and other fruits in season. Also along the way into town you will pass the Whirlpool golf courrse (a fairly flat course with a restaurant) and the well-known Floral Clock. In addition, there is a Butterfly Garden and on the very edge of town, Fort George, which is well worth seeing.

The town is a Victorian mixture of new and old. In the center of town is a clock tower. The main street has both modern shops (we particularly like the Irish shop) and old hotels such as the Prince of Wales. You have got to stop there for afternoon tea. Although expensive, it is well worth the price. Dinner there is also recommended. If you have the chance you should also stay there or in one of the nearby Bed and Breakfasts. Right outside the hotel are several horse drawn carriages ready to take you around town. A walk down to the lake front is a must. Be prepared though for the wind off the lake.  It can make even a spring day very cold so bring along your woolies.


For a weekend or a week, Niagara-on-the Lake is the place to be for fine acting, food and wine. Have a great time there.

A Niagara Falls Weekend

For a timeless weekend trip, nothing beats a visit to Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada.  Just about a half hour from Buffalo, New York, the falls are as breathtaking as they were when your parents visited on their honeymoon sixty years ago .Make sure you bring your passport.  You'll need it for the border crossing. You'll also need to pay a small toll when you enter Canada. Generally be prepared to take a small haircut when you convert your US dollars to Canadian dollars. The exchange rate changes daily and usually in favor of the Canadian dollar. The best place to make the exchange is probably at a casino. They will usually give you the best rate.

 If you cross the Peace Bridge from Buffalo, you will be on the QEW (Queen Elizabeth Way) highway. You follow that for about 20 miles or 32 kilometers (at 1.6 kilometers to the mile). If you continue on the QEW, you will end up in Toronto .Instead take the Mcleod exit and follow the signs to the falls.  You will find yourself in the Fallsview sectiion of Niagara Falls, our favorite part of the falls area.. More about Fallsview later.

 The area at the other end of the falls has changed considerably from your parents' trip there. (Although of course, Clifton Hill is still there with all its well-known attractions, such as Ripley's Museum, which, by the way, is well worth a visit). In those days, the main hotel on the Canadian side of the falls was the Brock, named for the Canadian hero of the War of 1812, whose monument can be seen on Queenston Heights on the road to Niagara on the Lake . (More about Niagara on the Lake soon). The hotel is still there as a Crowne Plaza, 5685 Falls Avenue. Architechually it is as impressive as ever but now inside is a casino, the newly renovated Casino Niagara, connections to  a waterpark and a food court. There is even a Hard Rock Cafe nearby as well as the famous Rainbow restaurant overlooking the falls. Be sure to book a window table. Across the street  from the hotel is a beautiful garden and the famous carillon tower that you can see in the movie, "Niagara" with Marilyn Monroe and Joseph Cotton.

The hotel is very near the Rainbow Bridge which is another border crossing from the US. Our favorite spot for lunch on the US side is just across the Rainbow Bridge. The Red Coach Inn is a historic bed and breakfast located at 2 Buffalo Avenue, very near the American Falls and Goat Island.. From the enclosed porch dining room you can see the Upper Rapids. If you have the time, the Seneca Niagara Casino is close by and worth a visit.

Next post will be about the Fallsview area.  You won't want to miss it.

Mission Statement

Our mission is to provide current, useful information and unbiased opinions for boomers and those who wish they were.  We will primarily focus on the areas of health, finance and travel. We will provide the best information available from both the Internet and our research elsewhere.

Stay tuned for a discussion on our next post of Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada, where the falls still fall and honeymooners still honeymoon. Peace.