"Fabulous after Fifty™" is the Syndicated On-Line Weekly Column by Shirley W. Mitchell, a National Author/Writer/Syndicated Columnist/Speaker and Celebrity Radio Talk Show Host, also known as "The Golden Egg of Aging™" -  View some of the most inspirational and motivational articles on aging, baby boomers, seniors, senior lifestyles, health, diet, exercise, business, women's and men's issues, specific topic articles, poems, writings, recipes, area news, and special people. Shirley W. Mitchell's "Passion" for encouraging Aging people is both Contagious and Intense! We have the Ability to Change Aging History with our "Pulse" & "Faith". To Teach. To Educate. To Transform. If you enjoy the Articles posted here, you will certainly enjoy my Column Articles within  "Senior Lifestyle Magazine". "Fabulous after Fifty™" is fashioned after her "Lace Over Steel™" and "Fabulous after Fifty™" Weekly Newspaper Columns that appeared in the Sand Mountain Reporter of Albertville, Alabama. We want to thank the newspaper and all our readers for their support over the past 25+ years Ms. Mitchell's Column was printed. We inspire to bring more Style and Enthusiasm to it in the future.

Jan. 8, 1998

Jan. 8, 1998 - Find Happiness In The New Year © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ I wish for all my faithful readers happiness during the New Year. Most people are innately happy. Researchers have found that most Americans say they are happy or pretty happy. The happiness set point theory embraces the idea that happiness is not derived from circumstances or people, but wired into your DNA. One of the research teams followed the lives of identical twins who lived very different lifestyles. They had different income, marital status, and education; however, one twin tended to be about as happy as the other. Happiness comes from within. However, there are a few tricks for elevating our happiness. No. 1 is finding your flow. Flow is the mental state you find yourself in when you are totally absorbed in something you enjoy. I remember chasing and catching fireflies and putting them in a covered jar. My brother, cousins and I would run, laugh, catch fireflies, not noticing that twilight had turned into total darkness, or the temperature had dropped or that it was time to eat supper. We were experiencing a happy time of timelessness, exhilaration and flow. Adults must find the magic flow of childhood. I am in a state of flow as I write you this column. I am totally absorbed in an activity I enjoy. When I am in my flow, my concentration level is at its peak. I forget about myself, failure or time. Finding flow especially during your work hours is very rewarding. Researchers say the best way to be happy is to be busy. After finding your flow, set goals. At the beginning of 1998, most of us set goals or priorities. Goals that challenge your skills and provide you with positive feedback build happiness. Four distinct characteristics describe happy people: (1) High self-esteem, (2) A sense of control, (3) Extroversion, (4) Optimism. Happy people tend to exercise regularly; find time for solitude; engage themselves in challenging work and leisure; and have intimate relationships. "A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a broken spirit saps a person's strength." (The Holy Bible) Happiness is powerful medicine. During happiness we experience a natural high. The chemicals, dopamine and beta-endorphin, are released in our brains. When we laugh we breathe out for longer periods of time, our muscles and body relax, and our heart rate and blood pressure rises. So, giggling is good. Be happy in 1998.

Jan. 29, 1998

Jan. 29, 1998 - Steps Help To Build High Energy © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ Last week I attended The Alabama Women's Economic Summit at Sanford University. The keynote speaker, Elizabeth Dole, portrayed a successful woman who knows how to maximize her energy level to accomplish the things she really wants out of life. The head of the Red Cross came on stage wearing a stylish purple suit, a face-lifting smile and a warm southern charm. The standing ovation gave her a clue to the respect she has earned as she has served our country well in the past decade. This energetic woman is full of zip. Her energy squeals, I'm excited about life. Zip puts her on pitch to sing the song of successful aging. For the "Fabulous after 50" women and men, energy is a priceless commodity. Energy is the power surge that keeps us young and active. Four basic steps will keep our energy level high. (1) Good health is the trump card of energy. (2) Exercise is the golden egg of aging and energy. (3) Enthusiasm captures the energy and excitement of aging. (4) Self-efficacy is the energizing power to stay in control of your life. If your energy is always low, examine your lifestyle. Center your life around things you enjoy. Steidmen Graham, author of "You Can Make It Happen" advocates following your passion. He said in his speech at the Summit '98, "Passion about what you are doing allows you to have a filled with positive energy." Some of the great energy zappers are (1) boredom, (2) poor health, (3) to little exercise, (4) not enough sleep, (5) stress, (6) poor diet, (7) nothing to look forward to. Building and maintaining high energy won't make y life perfect, but it will enhance your quality of life.

Feb. 12, 1998

Feb. 12, 1998 - Valentine's Focuses On Love © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ The celebration of Valentine's Day is special because we focus on love. Valentine's Day, originally celebrated by the church in Rome, is today a great day for affectionate exchange between lovers, friends, and family. "Love is patient and kind... is not jealous or boastful... arrogant or rude... Love does not insist on it's own way; it is not irritable or resentful... does not rejoice at wrong... Love bears all thing, believes all things, endures all things... Love never ends." I Corinthians 13 I like to tell the story of how love changed Elizabeth Barrett Browning from a sickly middle-aged invalid to a growing, blossoming woman. Browning grew up under the dictation of an oppressive, negative, controlling father. She became ill and spent most of her time in bed until her biological clock reached 40. She met Robert Browning who saw her as a beautiful, talented spirit ready to bloom. He loved her with all his heart and gave her constant attention, encouraging her to be herself. She changed into a beautiful woman. They were married and had a happy, full life. The story of Elizabeth and Robert Browning exemplifies the fact that the way you see people is the way you treat them, and the way you treat them is what they become." Elizabeth Barrett Browning wrote this love poem to her valentine, Robert Browning: "How do I love thee? Let me count the ways. I love thee to the depth and breadth and height My soul can reach, feeling out of sight For the ends of Being and ideal Grace. I love thee to the level every day's Most quiet need, by sun and candlelight. I love thee freely, as men strive for Right; I love thee purely, a turn from Praise. I love thee with the passion put to use In my old griefs, and with my childhood's faith. I love thee with a love I seemed to lose With my lost saints - I love thee with the breath, Smiles, tears, of  all my life!— and, if God chose I shall but love thee better after death."

Feb. 19, 1998

Feb. 19, 1998 - Pampering Leads To Self-Respect © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ "There is a connection between self-nurturing and self-respect.." Julian Cameron A prerequisite for liking other people is liking yourself. The first step to being kind to other people is to be kind to yourself. Why do we have a hard time nurturing ourselves? God tells us we are made in His image, and He wants the best for us. Take inventory of your life. How much time do you spend doing the things you enjoy? Do you schedule self-time into your busy schedule? Do you get enough sleep, exercise, proper food? Do you save meditation time to think and prioritize? How much time do you spend dreaming and following pursuits that give you pleasure? When was the last time you laughed? Wanda Dolby, national sales representatives for a cosmetics firm, suggests that a person take a day as a pamper day, just to pamper yourself. Why does self-nurturance frighten most of us? Why do we feel selfish when we grow mentally, physically and emotionally. Being "Fabulous After 50" means to launch out! The mind of God is pathomless. Self-nurturing may be a struggle for you, but treating yourself better will make your life richer. Your spouse, children, and friends will reap the benefits. So, start treating yourself better. No one can do it for you. When you read this column make a list of ways you can treat yourself nicer.  Then do it! You have nothing to lose and much to gain.

Feb. 26, 1998

Feb. 26, 1998 - Survive The Storms Of Life © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ The tornado was approaching. I placed myself in the innermost closet of my home. My mission? To survive the storm. Through God's vision, I see the storms of life approaching. I place myself in the innermost prayer closet of my heart. My mission? To survive the storm. Prayer is God's hotline to heaven. His line is never busy. He is omnipotent (all-powerful); omnipresent (the whole universe is filled with His presence); omniscient (He has all knowledge.); immutable (He never changes); He is perfect, and He loves YOU! Wow! What power is available in the prayer closet. Being closeted with the Lord is a powerful experience. He rewards you openly. (Matthew 6:6) The storm winds of life can make one fly higher if the busy boomer heads into the wind with God's prayer power. Kites rise against the wind. Thank God for the storm winds of life that keep us pressing onward and upward toward Him. Thank God for the prayer closet! The worried mind is torn, worn and without peace. Most of the things people worry about never happen! "If you see ten troubles coming down the road, you can be sure that nine will run in the ditch before they reach you," Calvin Coolidge said. Worry is counterproductive. It can be compared to a rocking chair. You won't get anywhere, but you will have something to do. Worry muddles the mind just as drugs, alcohol and disease. The wise apostle Paul gave great advice to the Philippians: "Don't worry about anything: instead pray about everything; tell God your needs and don't forget to thank him for his answers!" (Philippians 4:6 The Living Bible) Worry is an inside job, but it will die in a praying, trusting heart. So, count your blessings, not your burdens.

Mar. 5, 1998

Mar. 5, 1998 - March Is Tomboy Month © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ Will March come in like a lion or go out like a lamb? Or will it come in like a lamb and go out like a lion? Whatever the outcome, we know there will be howling winds and blustery weather somewhere in between. March has been called the tomboy of the year. Last week I observed a group of young people laboring to fly their kite, raising it against the wind. Like the kite flying in March, life often flies higher when headed into stormy winds. Often one finds God's mercy concealed within every storm cloud of life. We feel His grace flowing beneath every crosscurrent.When the winds of adversity blow high, timeless people become alert and keen to God's presence. He strengthens spiritual fiber through had times. No one ever flew a kite in a dead calm. It's difficult to advance life to a higher plane in a dead calm. Head into the wind and fly higher. Experiencing the blustery March winds, we feel the hope and beauty of spring as the daffodils raise their lovely yellow heads and scream for joy. Nothing can squelch the determined daffodil as it sings a song of winter's end. Wise old King Solomon said, "The winter is past. The flowers appear on the earth; the time of the singing of birds is come." The joys of Spring and new beginnings bring new vitality to the ageless person.

Mar. 12, 1998

Mar. 12, 1998 - Mid-Life Crackles With Adventure © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ Probably the happiest period in life most frequently is middle age when the eager passions of youth are cooled and infirmities of age not yet begun, as we see that the shadows, which at morning and evening are so large, almost entirely disappear at mid-day." Thomas Arnold Mid-life could be compared with noon. Stand in the sun at noon. There is almost no shadow. However, if you stand in the sun during early morning, or late evening, your shadow is long. Mid-life has the feeling of noon. Less shadow than youth of growth or end of life frailty. God empowers us to add life and quality to our years. Gravity, sun and time wrinkle the skin. Depression, worry, a broken spirit and failure to dream can wrinkle the soul. But, walking toward the millennium, many mid-lifers today experience a life that crackles with adventure and excitement. Life is a series of renewals. Middle-age is one of the times of renewal. This pausal time may lead you to different activities, higher goals and deeper relationships. Dr. Ken Dychtwald, president and CEO of the "Age Wave," has pioneered today's concept of aging. He said, "I've spent the last 25 years studying aging and older people... When I got involved in the aging field it was primarily concerned with the sorrows and woes of aging. And while the concern among the professionals in my field was real and important, it seemed to me that by primarily focusing on the difficulties of aging - the terrible problems and enfeeblements that later years may bring - we were not hearing from the other voice, the voice of a more positive aging. There are people in this country growing old well, with vigor, power, style, an interest in living fully and being part of the American marketplace." Everyone faces aging. As you age, it is possible for you to become like a jewel in the sun. If you age with proper mind set, positive attitude, practice of person excellence and transcendent faith, you'll become brighter. The marriage of experience and mature faith gives you the opportunity to enjoy a rich older life.

Mar. 26, 1998

Mar. 26, 1998 - Artist To Be Featured © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous After Fifty™ It has been my pleasure to speak to you through this column for the last couple of years. I welcome your response. Counting down to the millennium, I plan to add new features to Fabulous After 50. Look forward to information on cultural and entertaining events of the area and also book reviews and interviews with ageless people. An excellent art exhibit at the Mountain Valley Arts Council building, 300 Gunter Ave., Guntersville, is open to the public Sunday from 2-4 p.m. A reception for William Hallmark, one of the top three Christian artists in America, will be sponsored by the Bible Factory Outlet of Albertville. You will meet the famous artist and his wife Jessica in person. Please mark this event on your calendar. "Native and lifetime resident of Birmingham, Ala., William Hallmark became widely known for his paintings when he appeared on the Christian Broadcasting Network's program The 700 Club. Though only in his thirties, William paints with great insight and understanding as he portrays verses from the Bible through symbolic representation. "The eldest son of Billy and Jan Hallmark, William began painting at the age of 16, using the basement of his home as a studio. He launched his religious art career in his early twenties, and at the age of 23 painted what has become the best-known and widely-proclaimed piece, 'Lion Of Judah.'" Hallmark's original painting, "The Sceptor," will be on display at the Mountain Valley Arts Council Building Sunday afternoon along with framed, signed limited editions of a dozen of his other famous works.

Apr. 2, 1998

Apr. 2, 1998 - Road To Second Adulthood Is Not Always Downhill © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ Have you heard someone say, "If I knew I would have lived this long, I would have taken better care of myself?" It is true. The longer we live, the less alike we become. The consequences of preventive health care, mental attitude, genes, marital status, income, faith and gender all pile up as we age. We have the choice to choose successful aging or passive aging. We all live inside our bodies with light, heat and energy generated by the brain. If we don't constantly build our bodies, we will become weak and frail. If we don't constantly challenge our brain, we will become dull. Positive life strategies give power to successful aging. If we survive the middle-age years, 45-65, our mental attitude and healthy behavior will determine the quality of our later years. A positive attitude connecting oneself to the future, and physical discipline will help create an exciting later life. In the past when people over 65 developed health problems, the popular thought seemed to be that was all part of growing older. Not so today. New research and great examples have proved that being over 65 does not necessarily give one a verdict of going downhill. Later life after 65 can become great if one stays engaged in the process of living life to the top of one's potential. The odds of  increased longevity keep increasing. A great example of successful aging from the pages of the Bible is Moses. "He was 120 years old when he died, yet his eyesight was clear, and he was as strong as ever."

Apr. 9, 1998

Apr. 9, 1998 - Life Is Like Oysters And Eagles © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ "When God made the oyster, He guaranteed him absolute economic and social security. He built the oyster a house - a shell - to protect him from his enemies. When hungry, the oyster simply opens his shell, and food rushes in. He has no worries. He does not fight anyone. He does not go anywhere. "When God made the eagle, He gave him the sky as his domain. The eagle then nested on the highest crag. Storms threaten every day. For food, he flies through miles of rain, snow, sleet and wind. He screams his defiance at the elements. He goes about his own business, building his own life. When aroused, he's a vicious foe to his enemies. "The eagle, not the oyster, is the symbol of America." - Author Unknown The Continental Congress adopted the bald eagle as the central figure of the Great Seal of the USA June 20, 1782. The eagle, King of the Birds, is an perfect symbol of beauty, strength, authority and freedom. The eagle exemplifies God's best. They are committed, life-long partners, and their children have top priority in life. They build a strong home on a high cliff. Hannah Whitall Smith in her classic book, The Christian's Secret of a Happy Life, encourages her readers to fly like an eagle, to live life on wings continually flying to God. She emphasizes that flying is a matter of principle, not emotion. She tells today's aging society how to fly when she said, "It depends only upon the facts of an entire surrender and an absolute trust. Every one who will honestly use these two wings, and will faithfully persist in using them, will find that they have mounted up with wings as an eagle, no matter how empty of all emotion they may have felt themselves to be before."

Apr. 16, 1998

Apr. 16, 1998 - Maturity Comes Through Struggle © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ Watching the multicolored monarch butterfly flit from one flower to the other, my spirit became weightless. The soundless and unhurried movements of God's gorgeous creature gave the garden a sense of relaxation and timelessness. The dappled sunlight danced on the fragile wings of my inspiration. My thoughts were caught up in the metamorphosis of this beautiful creature, from a cocoon to a swollen body with tiny shriveled wings, finally into an exquisite mature butterfly. We could parallel the Christian life with the life of a butterfly - the cocoon stage when we are born again and Christ wraps us in His blanket of forgiving love. Then we emerge hungry for His word and begin to study the Bible, communicate with Him through prayer, and our spiritual growth begins, mature through the struggles and pain of growth in His perfect will and timing. Like the mature monarch butterfly, we shed multicolored beams God's love... "And let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us" Psalm 90:17 KJV How do we attain that maturity? How do we let the beat God rest upon us? Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you. "Cleanse your hands... and purify your hearts" James 4:8

Apr. 23, 1998

Apr. 23, 1998 - Eat Smart For Healthy Lifestyle © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ A maturing, healthy lifestyle is a goal for many. Eating smart adds energy to a day of work, play or relaxation. Ripe bananas contain many nourishing ingredients. A high carbohydrate content makes them a good source of energy. Extremely ripe bananas are great to use in a banana nut bread. I found an excellent recipe by Jeanne Lackey in a cookbook called Recipes from Christ Episcopal Church. Banana nut bread 1 stick margarine (softened) 1 cup sugar 3 eggs, beaten 3 large ripe bananas, mashed 2 cups plain flour 1 tsp. salt 1 tsp. soda 3 Tsp. cold water 1 tsp. vanilla 1 cup chopped nuts Cream margarine and sugar. Add eggs and bananas. Sift flour, salt and soda together. Mix. Add water and vanilla. Mix well. Fold in nuts. Bake at 350 degrees in a large loaf pan for 1 hour. Turn oven off and let stay in the oven over 30 minutes to cool. Enjoy!

Apr. 30, 1998

Apr. 30, 1998 - Seniors Keep Fit In Body And Spirit © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ Did you know that a 76-million-pound elephant has it's right foot on the shore of America, ready to walk across the nation for the next 18 years? This giant elephant represents the 76 million baby boomers born between 1946 and 1964. The young men returning from World War II were mighty glad to be home, and the young women of America welcomed them with open arms. Marriage, home and family was the "in thing." These couples turned America into a giant nursery for 18 years. Today, every eight seconds a Boomer turns 50. We dig a hole in front of this giant aging elephant by learning to age with vigor, style and power, or we can shoot darts at this rump as America turns into a giant old folks home. Hey, let's age with style, vigor and power by understanding the body, mind and spirit connection. In the Bible, John the Apostle understood the body, mind and spirit connection. "Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth." (III John, verse 2, KJV) I challenge you to stay fit: body, soul and spirit Exercise - It is the golden egg of aging. Eat properly - It is another trump card of aging. Build your faith - Faith gives you hope, love, joy and peace. Laugh - Those who laugh, last. Happy people live longer. A documentary on ABC television revealed that happiness is 50 percent heredity and genes, is inborn while the other 50 percent is choice. A positive attitude, a can-do spirit and a conscious effort to be up-beat will prolong your life. We should not sing the Battle Hymn without the Glory Hallelujah! We should sing all our in life. We should not die early. Life is a present! Enjoy it! Life is not a dressed rehearsal! Live it! Find that silver lining to your dark cloud. The eager elders who are happy feel in charge of their lives. They do not limit themselves and not allow anyone to put limits on them. The news is reverberating up and down the streets of America. 50 is fabulous!

May 7, 1998

May 7, 1998 - Seniors Need To Be Bold To Grow Old © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ Dr. Walter M. Bortz has written a book, Dare to be 100, that gives 99 steps to 100. Dare to be 100 is based on Bortz's "dare" philosophy: diet, attitude, renewal, and exercise. Diet: Regarding diet, Bortz focuses on activity, likening inactive people to zoo animals. "When you're a zoo animal, you must be carefully fed, but wild animals can eat anything," Bortz said. Exercise boosts your metabolism. "The most important step is to stay physically active," said Bortz. Another key step is to eat a varied diet. Attitude: This is a crucial and sometimes overlooked category. "Believe in 100," Bortz said. If you want to do something, such as stop smoking, you must believe you can. You need to set the goal first and have a plan. And remain optimistic. Renewal: "Recharge, keep working, and stay in the mainstream," said Bortz. Remain resilient because "it's not how many times you fall - because age brings losses - but how many times you stand up" that's important. Exercise: The benefits of aerobic exercise are clearly demonstrated. However, Bortz cautioned us to be strong, stay loose and stay balanced. "The most important organ in an older person is not the heart or lungs but the legs," Bortz said. Legs are what gives a person an active, independent lifestyle. Bortz stressed physical and mental activity as the key to longevity. He uses his vast clinical experience and immense knowledge to support his theories and research on aging. He also is known to spin a limerick from time to time. You got to have guts to grow old. To claim life, you've got to be bold. But you've got to be smart, as well as have heart, if you want your whole tale to be told.

May 14, 1998

May 14, 1998 - Take Charge With Right Attitude © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ Author Charles Swindall advises his readers, "We are in charge of our attitudes. "The longer I live, the more I realize the impact of attitude on life. Attitude, to me, is more important than facts. It is more important than the past, than education, than money, than circumstances, than failures, than successes, than what other people think or say to do. "It is more important than appearance, giftedness or skill. It will make or break a company...a church...a home. The remarkable thing is we have a choice every day regarding the attitude we will embrace for that day. We cannot change the past. We cannot change the fact that people will act a certain way. We cannot change the inevitable. "The only thing we can do is play on the one string we have, and that is our attitude. I am convinced that life is 10 percent what happens to me and 90 percent how I react to it.  And so it is with you... we are in charge of our attitudes," said Swindall. As we age, we are in charge of our attitudes. The positive attitude of hope will add quality to life. Hope is a dynamic, powerful word. Real, living hope breeds expectancy. Hope, expectancy, positive thinking and positive action can be the ingredients that change failure into success, sickness into health and weakness into power.

May 21, 1998

May 21, 1998 - The Sky's The Limit For Seniors © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ Have you put self-imposed limitations upon yourself because of your age? Norman Vincent Peal said, "The world will accept you at your own self-appraisal." Whatever you think you are, other people will become to think that of you. Why? Because you transmit your self-appraisal of yourself. It emanates from you. J. C. Penney wrote, "The only limits to our future are those we impose upon ourselves." Christianity teaches the sky's the limit. No matter how weak we are, we can become strong. "Who...out of weakness were made strong " Hebrews 11:33-34 What can we do to raise our own self-appraisal? First, have a higher opinion of yourself. Believe God has planted greatness within you. Norman Vincent Peal was shy and a stutterer. He heard a sermon that changed his life. The preacher said,  "A man can become strongest in his weakest place." Peal, a young man, knew his weakest point was communication. In his older life, Peal became a great communicator because this   point went to the center of his soul. Consequently he made his weakest point his strongest. Another way we limit ourselves is we give up too easily. Most successful have failed many times but refused to give up. One of the truly great men of all times never gave up. Our 16th president, Abraham Lincoln, left us a portrait of a successful failure:  failed in business in 1831; defeated for legislature in 1832; again failed in business in 1833; and elected to legislature in 1834. His sweetheart died in 1835, and he had a nervous breakdown in 1836. He was defeated for Speaker of the House in 1838; defeated for elector in 1840; defeated for Congress in  1843; elected to Congress in 1846; defeated for Congress in 1848; defeated for Senate in 1855; defeated for vice-president in   1856; defeated for Senate in 1858. He was then elected president of the United States of America in 1860. Abraham Lincoln never gave up. So don't quit. Let Jesus build you up on the inside so you believe,  "Who... out of weakness were made strong."

Jun. 4, 1998

Jun. 4, 1998 - A Sea Cruise May Make A Person Feel Feisty © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ America's cruise lines are focusing on the retiring market by offering great, affordable packages for the positive new elders that are aging with vigor, power and style. The adolescent retiree may be cruising the "age wave," on a Fun Ship. According to Dr. Ken Dychtwald, author of the Age Wave, the 50-plus Americans migrating up the life line are in charge of 70 percent of the net worth in the U.S. Retirement in the 90's may be a new beginning when dreams come true for the average retiree. The sea of excited aging pilgrims will add a whole new dimension to our society in the years leading to a new millennium. Cruising the sea during the summer months may make an older person feel fabulous, fit and feisty with an indefatigable spirit and unrestricted exuberance. The mystique of a new adventure, mysterious beauty of the sea, sensational sun, sumptuous food, spirit of camaraderie and energy of mutual support will make a cruise a time to remember. Many retiree's are enamored by the sea, where thoughts flow easily, like a stream gushing down the side of a mountain. The magnificent rising and falling waves of the vast ocean that cover 70 percent of this great earth, can make one feel close to God. All eternity is held in one moment of God's presence. One such moment for me inspired a poem as the sun popped over the horizon spilling gorgeous red, orange and yellow color over the ocean into the sky. Sunrise on the Azure Seas... The seething ocean waves of the Pacific, Slapped the morning with splashes of delight! The sea gulls flapped their wings wildly, Anticipating the ending of the night! Then that glorious ball of fire, Popped over the horizon embracing the morning with pure delight. The waves, the sea gulls and I felt God's presence, As He kissed the morning with a silent burst of golden light.

Jun. 11, 1998

Jun. 11, 1998 - Seniors Can Soar To New Heights © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ "It was 1910. Jimmy was 10 years old. He loved his six-year-old sister. He nearly panicked when his little sister fell off her bicycle and cut a large artery in her leg. The bleeding was profuse, and by the time the doctor arrived at their house, the little girl was failing fast. "In the early 1900's, blood transfusions and other medical miracles were not yet common. However, the doctor managed to clamp the cut ends of the artery. The little girl's heart was still failing. In desperation, the doctor turned to Jimmy and asked, 'Jimmy, will you give your blood to help save your little sister's life?' "Jimmy swallowed hard and nodded his head. So the doctor lay him on the kitchen table and began withdrawing blood from one of his veins. Then he injected the blood directly into the little girl's vein. "For the next thirty minutes, the doctor and the family watched over the little girl anxiously and prayerfully. The doctor kept his stethoscope over her heart to note its beating. Finally, she was over the crisis. The doctor wiped the perspiration off his forehead. Only then did he notice that Jimmy was still stretched out on the kitchen table, tense and trembling. "'What's the matter Jimmy?' asked the doctor. 'When do I die?' Jimmy replied through his clenched teeth. "The doctor realized that Jimmy had misundertood what the request for his blood really meant. Jimmy had imagined that his sister was going to need all his blood. Which meant that Jimmy though hesitating a moment and swallowing hard at the doctor's original request, had silently agreed to die for his little sister! "The doctor had tears in his eyes as he reassured Jimmy that he had extracted only a little of his blood for his sister, and that Jimmy was not going to die. Jimmy was willing to die so that his sister might live." What courage for a 10-year old! What love and sensitivity for a 10-year-old boy! I would like to know more about Jimmy's life. In my heart I feel he continued to soar new heights of excellence. Ralph Waldo Emerson said, "It is one of the most beautiful compensations of this life, that no man can sincerely help another without helping himself." The  power of the  human spirit is a miracle of God. This brings to my mind the movie "The Scent of Woman" with Al Pacino. In one scene when Pacino was defending his young friend on trial determining if the young boy would be expelled from school, Pacino shouted, "The worse thing you can do is amputate someone's spirit." The power of the human spirit will aid the mature person in soaring to new heights of excellence.

Jun. 25, 1998

Jun. 25, 1998 - Life Changes Bring Freedom © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ Mature people often encounter sudden changes in life. A large number of married mature adults have lost mates through death or divorce. This life changing experience may bring loneliness or unhappiness. However, with an attitude adjustment, an unwanted change in life can become a feeling of freedom to make the most of life. Making the most of singular opportunities may cause one to revel in the wonderful events that come late in life. To help those of you who are lonely and unhappy make an attitude change, I have listed ten positive attitudes about living alone, compiled by the magazine, Get Up And Go! (1) Freedom to do what I want, when I want. (2) Can cook and eat on my own schedule. (3) Privacy/solitude, time for myself, peace and quiet. (4) Control my own finances. (5) No accountability, obligations, housework. (6) Able to travel, explore, be spontaneous. (7) Increased self-reliance and confidence. (8) Free to pursue h new friends. (9) Control of TV remc environment. (10) No confrontation: promise. Are you ready to explore life on this new life stage with enthusiasm and vigor? Will loneliness and unhappiness keep you grounded or will you explore larger horizons? Get up and go to make a difference in the community. Make new friends, learn new skills and make new dreams. Making the most of your life is the ultimate freedom!

Jul. 2, 1998

Jul. 2, 1998 - Symbols And Events Represent The Meaning Behind Independence Day © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ July is hot with activity in Albertville. July 4, the nationally acclaimed Freedom Festival explodes with action and excitement. Albertvillians wake up on the 4th with the air crackling with excitement. The celebration of Independence Day in Albertville is a great way to enjoy the holiday. The Albertville Chamber of Commerce presents its 14th Annual Freedom Festival of fun, food and fireworks. Ann Sweitzer, executive director of the Albertville Chamber of Commerce said, "Team work and the wonderful, unique, special people of Albertville make the celebration great." Freedom is the icing on the cake of life! Being free gives each of us the great opportunity to become all that God has created us to be. Celebrating the Fourth of July causes us to focus upon our precious freedom! The Great Lady, The Statue of Liberty, is the symbol of freedom. Travelers who enter our country by boat or plane in New York see her beacon of welcome. Miss Liberty is standing in New York harbor as a symbol of government by the people for the people. Because freedom makes each new day a treasure, every American celebrates the Fourth of July with passion. However you celebrate the Fourth of July, the bottom line is freedom. Happy Birthday America!

Jul. 9, 1998

Jul. 9, 1998 - Laughter Is The Best Medicine © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ Spontaneous humor, invading our living, gives life a spicy flavor. Move from youth into middle-age without losing your sense of humor. Laughter is a stress buster. It lifts the spirits and the face by giving a person a cheerful heart. Wise old King Solomon said, "A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones." If there is one thing we mature people do not need is dried up bones. Erma Bombeck helped each of us keep humor in our lives. Before Erma died from a kidney transplant, she wrote hilarious columns while waiting for a kidney and enduring dialysis four times a day. She was so busy living, she did not dwell on the disappointment or fear of dying. Erma poked fun at life. Some of her funny columns made me think she lived at my house. There was one column about adult children appearing when you only cooked for one. She wrote, "I cook enough spaghetti to feed Sicily and no one shows. I nuke a small piece of leftover pizza for dinner, and they fly in from out of state." Another of my favorite comedians, Minnie Pearl, said, "Laughter is a drug, and I'm totally addicted." Laughter juices the chemical endorphins in the brain. It makes you feel good. So, have fun as you grow older. A hurry-worry attitude, an overcrowded life, the failure to set priorities and goals, an out-of-control feeling and leaving God out of one's life will lead to a crushed spirit. The Bible tells us a person with a merry heart will enjoy a continual feast. As we anticipate the millenium, a large number of health professionals believe in laughter and a positive attitude as part of continuing good health.

Jul. 16, 1998

Jul. 16, 1998 - Senior Maintains Ageless Vitality © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ She looked about 80 years young. The lady sitting across the airplane aisle was definitely aging with vitality. This spunky, feminine woman, wearing a satin coat of many colors, caught my eye. Traveling alone, she enjoyed a large print "Readers Digest." I thought to myself, when she moved spryly around the cabin, "This is definitely an ageless woman." She immediately gained my respect with two thumbs up. Her winning ways gave me the impression of aging with vitality. Enjoying her travel, she gave no thought to age. Rekindling her brain power, reading. Reading is the fitness center of the brain. She told hilarious jokes, causing her smile to give her a fantastic facelift. Her energy squealed, "I'm excited about life." For the "Fabulous After 50" bunch, energy is a priceless commodity. Energy is the power surge that keeps us young and active. The following is four basic steps that will keep your energy high: 1. Good health is the trump card of aging with energy. 2. Exercise is the golden egg of aging with energy. 3. Enthusiasm captures energy and excitement of aging with energy. 4. Self-efficiency is the energizing power for aging with energy. Seven great energy zappers (1) boredom, (2) poor health (3) not enough exercise, (4) stress (5) too little sleep, (6) poor diet and (7) nothing to look forward to. Growing old without getting older can be attained through positive attitude, a youthful, healthy lifestyle and working toward a goal of personal excellence.

Aug. 6, 1998

Aug. 6, 1998 - True Friendship Is A Celebration © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ Have you noticed when you pick a greeting card for any occasion the selection is grand? A "just right" card can be found if you are willing to persevere. I found a birthday card recently that stated my philosophy about aging. "Our souls don't get older. They never wrinkle, wear out or tire. They see life's beauty and hear the voice of conscience as clearly as ever. And so, no matter how many years pass, each of us remains forever new inside. And that is something to celebrate." Another celebration is friendship. The celebration of world friendship day was Aug. 3 and gave each a motivation to contact old friends and present friends as well as looking forward to making new friends. Friendships pad maturing life with joy, companionship, a warm fuzzy feeling and a sense of adventure. My female readers would enjoy reading a book on the bestseller list, Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood, by Rebecca Wells. A book about true lifetime friendship between four women. I receive a birthday card each year from my best friend in high school. That really warms my heart. Ralph Waldo Emerson believed friends are important. He said, "We take care of our health, we lay up money, we make our room tight and our clothing sufficient; but who provides wisely that he shall not be wanting in the best property of all - Friends." What is a Friend By Susan Polls Schultz... A friend is someone who is concerned with everything you do. A friend is someone to call upon during hard times. A friend is someone who understands whatever you do. A friend is someone who will tell you the truth about yourself. A friend is someone  who knows what you are going through at all times. A friend is someone who does not compete with you. A friend is someone who is genuinely happy for you when things go well. A friend is someone who tries to cheer you up when things don't go well. A friend is an extension of yourself without which you are not complete. Thank you for being my friend.

Sept. 3, 1998

Sept. 3, 1998 - New Autumn Season Brings Change In Attitude For Seniors © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ The autumn of one's life could be compared to the autumn season. Nature puts on a dazzling show during the fall season. God takes his brush and paints the leaves vibrant scarlet, deep purple, sunshine yellow and glowing orange to make the landscape postcard beautiful. Approaching the new season with the attitude of wholeness, balance and health will add color to each new day. Each new day is a new life. The key to successful aging tends to be staying engaged in life. Dr. Bortz, author of Dare To Be 100, said, "The more intense the engagement in life, the longer people live." Autumn is a great time to engage yourself in physical, mental and social activity. The disengagement of older people such as less touching, less driving, less phone calls, less talking, less learning and less creative activity, will lead to aging. Elizabeth Dole is a great example of a mature person staying engaged with life. The first female president of the American Red Cross since founder Clara Barton said, "Life is not just a few year spend on self-indulgence career advancement. It is a privilege, a responsibility, a stewardship to be lived according to a much higher calling - God's calling." A daily private conversation with one's Creator, a walk in the autumn woods, looking forward to the great autumn activities, planning colorful wardrobes and festivities encourages engagement to life. Autumn folks, enjoying the exquisite autumn season, it is your right to begin to live the rest of your life.

Sept. 10, 1998

Sept. 10, 1998 - Life Is Not A Dress Rehearsal © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ I gained respect for author J.J. "Jim" Packer through his book, Knowing God. I have two of his books on my reading list, Hot Tub Religion and Quest For Godliness. Packer was given a typewriter for his eleventh birthday by his perceptive parents. His request for that birthday had been a bike. This birthday gift moved Packer toward a precise career of communication by writing and lecturing. Because of his frequent lecture trips, Packer said, "God had prepared a square hole for a square peg. Packer is my name and packing became my game." At 72, Packer is fully engaged in life as a pastor, church man, lecturer and author who thrives on hobbies such as steam trains and jazz. One of the keys to aging gracefully is staying fully engaged in life. Dr. Jack Rowe, president of the Mount Sinai New York University Medical Center gave his expert opinion in an article called, "Aging Gracefully" in the AARP Bulletin. "If you're not fully engaged in life and actively involved physically, intellectually and socially, you're not aging successfully," he declares. "You're at risk." The responsibility to actively stay engaged in life is yours. No one can do it for you. Life is a stage, not an age. So get on life's stage and have yourself a ball. Today is not a dress rehearsal. It's the real thing.

Dec. 31, 1998

Dec. 31, 1998 - Gossip Has The Ability To Distort And Destroy © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ We are going to play a game called gossip. I am going to whisper a word into the ear of ---. He will whisper that word into the next person's ear, one time only. The word cannot be repeated. If you do not understand the word, you must tell the person next to you the word you thought you heard. No repeating. The last person will speak the word out loud and distinctly. As in this word game, gossip has the ability to distort and cause untrue communication. Just as gossip in real life has the ability to distort and destroy. Gossip has the power to destroy a marriage, a life, a spirit. Beware gossip. Words are energized with power to communicate, inspire, motivate or destroy.        Inspire... "Timely advice is as lovely as golden apples in a silver basket." Wise Old Solomon tells us this proverb in Proverbs 25:11, The Living Bible! Peggy Noonan, Reagan's speech writer has a new book out, "Life Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness." USA Today says she may be the voice of the 21st century. In her words, "She is for smaller houses and fewer things, but more Bible." Noonan remains an optimist: "...give your love and know your God and do your work. And be good to your troupe," all those people who give your life meaning. God's word, the Book of the Ages, The Holy Bible, will endure eternity. Jesus tells us, "Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away." Matthew 24:35 Jesus inspires us with these words, "I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life." John 8:12.        Words motivate... Every person is special. If you desire to be a motivator, imagine every person you meet wearing a sign around their neck - "Make me feel special." Be genuine - find something to talk about that will make that person feel important. Praise is a motivating word. When you genuinely praise someone you make that person feel important. His energy level will skyrocket. He will be walking on cloud nine. When you start his adrenalin flowing, his mind set changes from negative to positive... I Can - Do it! Toastmaster is a good example. We applaud one another. We receive positive feedback with recognition, tangible awards and verbal praise. Toastmasters sandwiches constructive criticism with praise. We praise the person but give constructive criticism for errors. This is a powerful communication combination. Words have the power to destroy! "I read recently about a little boy who had been naughty. During family devotions one night, the father prayed for his son, and he specifically mentioned a number of bad things the boy had done. Later that evening, the mother heard the six-year-old sobbing. When she asked what was wrong, the heartbroken boy cried out, "Daddy always tells God the bad things about me. He never tells Him the good things I do!" (Ekeren, Glenn Van, "The Speaker's Sourcebook," Prentice Hall, Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey 07632, 1988. Page 134. Article "Watch Your Language.") Parents, you are the first mirror your child has of himself. Examine your words. Do you give your child a false picture. Parents need to accentuate the positive in their children. To grow up emotionally healthy, a child needs his parents to reflect to him an image of himself that he can love and respect. A child who hears, "You look terrible," from his parents, does not feel beautiful! A child who hears, "You're like a bull in a china shop," from his parents, does not feel graceful. Children who grow up with a distorted picture of themselves are convinced that they are ugly, clumsy or undesirable. Be careful when you talk to your child that your words give him a good self-image. A Short Course In Human Relations... "The six most important words: I admit that I was wrong. The five most important words: You did a great job. The four most important words: What do you think? The two most important words: Thank you. The most important word: We. The least important word: I." (Ekeren, Glenn Van, "The Speaker's Sourcebook," Prentice Hall, Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey 07632, 1988, Page 127.; Article, "A Short Course In Human Relations.")

Shirley W. Mitchell is the Owner and Founder of Fabulous after Fifty™ - a Motivational, Inspirational and Educational Company located in Northern Alabama providing products and services related to Organizing and Conducting Educational Conferences, Classes, Symposiums, Seminars, Workshops, Speeches and Training Courses in the fields of Aging, Seniors, Senior Lifestyles, Health, Wellness, Nutrition, Generational Women and Men's Issues, Faith, Passion and Purpose, and Distribution of Materials including Multimedia Audio, Video, CD, DVD, Books, Newsletters, Journals, Magazines, Articles, Periodicals, Electronic Books, and other Written and Audio Publications. Ms. Mitchell and Fabulous after Fifty™ are managed and represented by Lighthouse Coastal Productions 466 Sardis Cutoff Road Sardis City, AL 35956. ***Copyright © and Trademark ™ Notice: 1967-2011 All Works, Venues and Content by Shirley W. Mitchell™ including "The Golden Egg of Aging™", "The Fabulous Author™", "Fabulous after 50®", "Fabulous after Fifty™", "Sensational after 60®", "Sensational after Sixty™", "Aging Outside the Box®", "Passionate Sparks™", "Spiritual Sparks for Busy Women™", "Lace Over Steel™", "Ageless Living™", "Endless Energy™", "Better Half of Life™", "Citrus Park™", "Crosstown Info™", "The Amazing System™" and "Aging with Glamour™"are © Copyright and ® Trademark protected*** No part of this Web-Site or Column may be reproduced without the prior written consent of the Agent. If you would like to purchase copies of the articles, please send an E-Mail to us with your request. If you should encounter any problems with this Web-Site please E-Mail the Webmaster.

Powerful and full-featured membership/subscription software for your website.