"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. 1, 2004

Jan. 1, 2004 - The New Year Brings Time For Renewal © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ What an awesome experience it is stepping over the threshold of a new year. Remembering the past, imagining the future and celebrating the present gives the Fabulous After 50 person's life balance. Focusing on the good memories of the past, expanding on personal dreams for the future will give the present a charm and magical feeling of possibilities. "The New Year is not some place we are going to, but a life we are creating. Each eager ager is president of his or her own life -- president of one's own thoughts, actions, dreams, desires, priorities, time and the list goes on. You are the star and you are writing your own life. The path of the new year is not to be found, but made. New paths and higher goals have the possibility of changing the person and the destination of life. If anyone had an excuse to sit and do nothing with her life, complain and grow old, it was the famous blind, deaf girl, Helen Keller, from Alabama. Yet she wrote: "Join the great company of those who make the barren places of life fruitful with kindness. Carry a vision of heaven in your hearts and you shall make your name, your college, the world, correspond to that vision. Your success and happiness lie in YOU. External conditions are the accidents of life, it's outer wrappings, the great enduring realities are love and service. Joy is the holy fire that keeps our purpose warm and intelligence aglow. Resolve to keep happy and your joy and you shall form an invincible host against difficulty." Helen Keller inspires the "Keenagers" of 2004 to be joyful. Joy has the ability to take the friction out of life. Each new year is a gift from the Master's hand. His gift of 365 new days in 2004 is yours to put your personal stamp on. "Golden Oldies" that radiate zeal and passion for life, will taste the waters of the Fountain of Youth in 2004! Happy New Year!

Jan. 8, 2004

Jan. 8, 2004 - Mount Up With Wings As Eagles © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ All people over 50 have experienced the heat of life. We have gained strength from it's winds. The crucible of life has given us strength and resilience for our soaring spirit. Let us vow to soar through the last decades of life with the majesty, strength, beauty and freedom of the eagle, king of the birds. "Majesty is defined as the greatness and dignity of a sovereign and his grandeur It is not a term that is used loosely with things of beauty, wealth or strength, but is reserved only for those who possess all these things and more. "The eagle, in flight, is all these things. His mastery of the awesome force of the wind, his beauty in flight, his strength in battle, his compassion for the young and his all-encompassing eyesight are but a shadow of God." ~(Kenneth Price in The Eagle Christian) The enormous strength of the eagle gives him the ability to fly above the storms. His eyesight is eight times more powerful than humans. With his incredible eyesight and infallible sense of direction, the big bird sees the storm approaching long before the storm arrives. As the big bird, God's children are equipped with a God-given spiritual insight, intuitiveness and wisdom to see storm of life approaching. The eagle sits patiently, unafraid as the great storm approaches. When the wind begins to howl and the rain begins to fall, the eagle launches flight from his nest high on a cliff. He will spread his majestic six to ten feet wing span, lock his wings into ascending position, and fly into the storm, using the strong updrafts of the wind as he flies round and round until he flies up over the storm into the warm, bright sunshine. During the new year, the storm winds of 2004 can make us fly higher into the warm sunshine of His love. No one has ever flown higher in a dead calm. Facing war, terrorists, earthquakes, floods, mud slides, etc., we know God's mercy is concealed within every storm cloud.  His grace flows beneath every crosscurrent. The handbook of life, The Holy Bible, reminds us, "...they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles: they shall run and not be weary: and they shall walk and not faint." Isaiah 40:30 KJV Turning the new year, and the second half of life, into a quest can be a special journey of new beginnings: 2004 may prove to be your voyage of discovery!

Jan. 15, 2004

Jan. 15, 2004 - Spirit and Possibility © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ Isn't it fun to be on a winning team? As Americans we all feel we are a part of the NASA team that has landed the Lander carrying the robotic spacecraft, Spirit, safely on the planet Mars. The pictures sent back to earth are magnificent. Jennifer Trosper, mission manager, said during a press conference, "It (Spirit) now stands at full height (4 feet, 11 inches), and all six wheels are in their final position." Spirit is ready to roll off the Lander and is expected to reach the Mars surface as early as Wednesday morning. Opportunity, the identical twin of Spirit, is scheduled to land on Mars Jan. 24. Their mission is to prospect for evidence that Mars was once conducive to life. Saluting the space program, we feel the positive energy, enthusiasm and power all the people involved experienced, giving the thundering herd of people over 50 on the horizon of aging America a super role model of spirit and possibility. Every 7.5 seconds a baby boomer turns 50 with one foot in the grave and one on the dance floor. The baby boomer turning 50 today can anticipate living to the ripe old age of 83. There are 72,000 centenarians living today. According to the U.S. Census, there could be four million by 2050. I asked my friend, Bobbi Sims, author of "Don't Crumble Your Cookies," what was her secret of being ageless. She replied, "When you live out of your spirit, because your spirit has no age." (Speaking of age or ageless people, President George W. Bush's father plans to do another parachute jump on his 80th birthday!) Hebrews 12:2 says, "Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith." Every successful race is run with head high and eyes on the goal. No farmer plants a straight row of cotton looking backward, sideward or downward. No brick mason builds a straight wall without a plumb line. We praise the space program for their focus, spirit and hard work to take the opportunity to take us to Mars. Making the last half of life a Winner will involve fixing our eyes upon Jesus and looking toward the goal of heaven.

Jan. 22, 2004

Jan. 22, 2004 - Maintain An Ageless Attitude © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ "Enjoy the last of life for which the first was made." - Robert Burns An ageless attitude is eclectic! It creates an ageless life and lifestyle.Wonderful older people portray depth, strength, positive attitude, alert mind, attractive appearance, ageless body language, passion, enthusiasm and vigor. Wonderful older people think of the possibilities of aging, not problems. Wonderful older people think of the opportunities of aging, not old people syndrome. Wonderful older people think re-fire, not retire. Wonderful older people think of God's calling, not empty worldly success. Through the years, Elizabeth Dole has been one of my role models. Addressing a prayer breakfast, she said, "Life is not just a few years to spend on self-indulgence and career advancement. It is a privilege, a stewardship to be lived according to a much higher calling-God's calling. In a world where so little seems permanent, we draw from eternal truths, expressed in customs handed on like fine family silver from one generation to the next." Mrs. Dole's record speaks for her beliefs: Harvard Law degree, Secretary of Transportation, Reagan Cabinet, Secretary of Labor, George Bush Administration, President of American Red Cross, campaigned for President of the United States, today-Senator of her home state of North Carolina. Like Elizabeth Dole, you are extraordinary. You are the only person God made with your own extraordinary uniqueness. Bloom in your second half of life.

Jan. 29, 2004

Jan. 29, 2004 - Aging Means Remodeling © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ The excitement of remodeling a house that has become outmoded, inconvenient and unserviceable adds zest to life. Our lives could be compared to our homes, as we become older and wiser, we realize that certain areas need tearing out and rebuilding. Workmen who remodel our homes start with a strong new foundation for a new wing. Adding a new wing to our lives requires a strong foundation of faith. Carpenters may tear out walls that have been weakened by termites or age to be replaced by new walls. There are times when the walls of our lives have been eaten by termites of busyness, mediocrity or complacency and must be replaced by new boards of excellence, enthusiasm and wise use of precious time. When windows age and get clouded, they are replaced by new ones. Remodeling our lives involves putting new windows in the rooms filled with hate, frustration and selfishness to allow the warm sunlight of God's love beam inside. The roof is a big project when remodeling a house. Throwing away the old shingles of insecurity, fear and hopelessness, then replacing with new ones- faith, hope, love and peace-will make life feel new. When the house is remodeled, we take good pieces of furniture, refurbish, polish and shine each one. We probably add a few new pieces. As we age, we must refurbish, polish, shine old skills and add new ones. God, the master planner, has the power to remodel our aging lives into beauty and charm. "By wisdom a house is built, and through understanding, it is established; through knowledge its rooms are filled with rare and beautiful treasures." Proverbs 24:3-4 NTV "Those that be planted in the house of the Lord shall flourish in the courts of our God. They shall still bring forth fruit in old age; they shall be fat and flourishing." Psalms 92:13-14 KJV.

Feb. 5, 2004

Feb. 5, 2004 - Voyage Of Life Can Be A Symphony © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous After Fifty™ I experienced the heavenly music performed by the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra recently. My thoughts floated with the music as I prayed God would show me the path to make the remainder of my life on this earth a symphony. Webster defines symphony as a harmonious or agreeable mingling of sounds. When one practices seven simple successful aging secrets and is connected to the source of the universe, God, the music never ends. Life becomes a symphony! • Set your mind at your perfect age and never get any older. • Make your journey beyond youth, the prime time of your life. • Positive aging will empower you to be ageless. • Knowing God will propel you into universal and eternal living. • Personal excellence will elevate you into superior living. • What's important is not the years in your life, but the life in your years. • "Don't waste a day. You don't get the opportunity to go back and repeat life."  (Quote from Alabama's First Lady Patsy Riley) As we grow older and retire, we put a new emphasis on leisure and rest. The term leisure comes from the word Licere, meaning to be permitted. You will only experience leisure as you give yourself permission. As the symphony orchestra played their beautiful music there were rests in the music. Although there is no music in the rest, John Rusken tells us "there's the making of music in it." As we age we are in a good position to put leisure and rest into our lives to make them a symphony. "Music is well-said to be the speech of angels." Thomas Carlyle.

Feb. 12, 2004

Feb. 12, 2004 - Love Makes The World Go 'Round © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ "These things I command you, that ye love one another." St. John 15:17 KJV "As the smallest light beam is but a reflection of the light and heat that are in the sun, so all truth and all love have origin in God." "Love, indeed, makes the world go round and takes it back to it's ultimate source, which is God." Rev. Fulton J. Sheen Saturday we celebrate Valentine's Day, and our thoughts turn to love. Many roses, cards, candy, teddy bears and other gifts will be exchanged. What a fabulous way to celebrate love. Valentine's day is an ageless celebration. The hugs and kisses, especially from grandchildren gives the day a warm glow. I have scrap-books of handmade valentines created by the hearts and hands of my children and grandchildren back through the years. These are priceless treasures. The positive energy created by love, the celebration of Valentine's Day and the new patriotism we feel in America gives today a new meaning, a time to embrace, a time to give, a time to live. "Love is patient and kind. . .is not jealous or boastful. . .arrogant or rude. . .Love does not insist on its own way, it is not irritable or resentful. . does not rejoice at wrong. . .Love bears all things, 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. She 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. Her story 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, when feeling out of sight for the ends of being and ideal grace. I love thee to the level of every day's most quiet need, by sun and candlelight. I love thee freely, as men strive for right; I love thee purely, as they 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 choose, I shall but love thee better after death."

Feb. 19, 2004

Feb. 19, 2004 - Keys To Longevity © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ Most readers will remember the legendary Alfred Hitchcock's movie, "Psycho," starring Janet Leigh. She also appeared on television's Bob Hope Show, The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour and the Red Skelton Show. A friend shared with me an article about the ageless Janet Leigh at the age of 74. She shared with her readers that her keys to ageless living were to remain perpetual and incessant. Perpetual, according to Webster's New World Dictionary, means "lasting forever or for indefinitely long time, continuing indefinitely without interruption; constant." Perpetual motion means "the motion of a hypothetical device which, once set in motion, would operate indefinitely by creating its own energy." Incessant means, "never ceasing; continuing or repeated without interruption; constant." At 74 years young, Janet Leigh portrays the same vigor, style and power we remember in her younger days. She did a film with Christopher Lloyd, "A Fate Totally Worse Than Death," out in the Fall of 2000. She works with The Library of Congress Film Registry and American Movie Classics to preserve television and firm archives. Her fourth novel is out and she is working on a two hour television documentary. This timeless, gracious lady is healthy because she takes advantages of right habits and nutrients. She is perpetual motion doing the things she enjoys and thinking in terms of life, in terms of days, not number of years lived. Like the 76 million baby boomers, Leigh refuses to give up or give in to the aging process. The new American social attitude about aging is to manage our lives to experience the maximum, health, vitality, energy and well-being to the end of our days.

Feb. 26, 2004

Feb. 26, 2004 - 'Passion' Left Me Spellbound © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ I was one of the 3,000 people who was given the opportunity to preview Mel Gibson's film, "Passion," at the National Religious Broadcasters Annual Convention in Charlotte, N.C. on Feb. 17. We were immersed in the death of Christ for two hours. As we left the theater, we were all spellbound. We were too overwhelmed to speak. Everyone filed silently into the convention center. My belief is God will speak personally to every person who attends. "Passion" is an extraordinary movie. It is true to what the Bible teaches. The acting, movie production and authenticity are fabulous. "Passion" has been rated R because of the graphic depiction of Jesus' death on the Cross. I would not recommend this movie for children; however, it is a must-see for all Christians. The movie gives the viewer a new meaning of the passion (love) Christ has for us. We have all sinned and come short of the glory of God; so "Passion" allows the viewer an awesome new awareness of the price Jesus paid for our sins. Experiencing this movie proved to be a blessing for me. I pray my readers will take this opportunity to view the movie and realize the passion of Jesus. While attending the NRB, I had a chance to chat briefly with Oliver North. He autographed his new book, "True Freedom." North's book is a small book with big take away. He shares his Christian faith and many stories. Patriotism is running high in the U.S. This book is an excellent read for anyone over 50.

Mar. 4, 2004

Mar. 4, 2004 - Looking Toward New Millennium © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ Leaning on the shoulders of time, I'm learning through the richness and totality of life we are becoming a generation belying our age. Looking down the corridor of the new millennium, I vision many of us living to be centenarians. When gravity and years serve as a natural bulldozer, bringing our spirits crashing to the ground, our dreams, passions and   persistence will bring back the majesty of life. Oliver Wendel Holmes said, "Some people die with the music still in them. It's important to make our music while there is still time." This   anonymous  poem; "Time", says a lot. Take time to work-it is the price of success. Take time to think-it is the source of power. Take time to play-it is the secret of perpetual youth. Take time to read-it is the fountain of wisdom. Take time to be friendly-it is the road to happiness. Take time to dream-it is hitching your wagon to a star. Take time to love and be loved-it is the privilege of redeemed people. Take time to look around-it is the music of the soul. Take time for God-it is life's only lasting investment.

Mar. 18, 2004

Mar. 18, 2004 - Tomboy Of The Year © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ Will March come in like a lion and 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, rising it against the wind. Like the kite flying in March, life often flies higher when headed into the storm winds. Often one finds God's mercy concealed within every storm cloud of life. We feel His grace flowing beneath every cross current. When the winds of adversity blow high, timeless people become alert and keen to God's presence. He strengthens spiritual fiber through hard 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. The magnificent rainbow of colors which often appear after a cool rain, causes our hearts to soar with expectations of Spring. We desire to sing with the late Judy Garland, in the movie, "The Wizard of Oz" - "Somewhere over the rainbow, bluebirds sing." Hope your day is shamrock blessed and rainbow bright.

Mar. 25, 2004

Mar. 25, 2004 - Passion Equals Pizzazz © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ "Think Outside the Box" has been a buzz phrase for the past few years. Thinking with wings encompasses valor, thinking positively. progressively and constructively. One's life is seeded in his or her thoughts. My passion is to encourage people to "Age Outside the Box", by discovering Ageless Living and Endless Energy - living with power, style and vitality. Psalms 90:14 (TLB) tells us to "Satisfy us in our earliest youth with your loving kindness, giving us constant joy to the end of our lives." Living life passionately, fired with intense feeling, enthusiasm (God within) and zeal pulls people into the universe of possibilities with zest and pizzazz. Moving toward your goals and following your bliss allows you to get into your flow - the mental state you find yourself in when you are totally absorbed in something you enjoy. Marita Littauer, President of ClasServices, Inc., an organization that provides resources, training and promotion for speakers and authors, lives life large. She lives life extravagantly with freedom, love, inspiration and entertainment. Being a student of hers for years, I caught the zeal she dishes out in her class. Like Marita, if you are passionate about your life, you will love life. If you are passionate about your work, you will love your job. If you are passionate about your God, you will love Him. With Mel Gibson, you will feel the Passion of Christ! Adding persistence to passion equates to a powerful equation. Most of us have carried our kids to the Golden Arches. Have you wondered what made this world wide business a big success? Simply their motto. McDonald's executives came up with two words - "Press On!" With the busyness of life, many times in mid-life we feel as if we are performing a juggling act. With the constant changes and ups and downs of life it would be easy to give up and quit, but we do not quit - we press on. John A. Riis said, "When nothing seems to help, I go and look at stonecutter hammering away at his rock, perhaps a hundred times without as much as a crack showing in it. Yet, at the hundred and first blow, it will split in two, and I know it was not that blow that did it, but all that had gone before." You are the star on the stage of your life. Live life to the fullest by recognizing your own uniqueness and importance. I challenge you to look deep inside your soul and determine what passions God has planned for you. Be persistent in cultivating that passion. Then enjoy the pizzazz of your life.

Apr. 22, 2004

Apr. 22, 2004 - Hope, Happiness © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ Knowing God leads us into places of hope. Let no discouragement or weariness cause you to turn loose the rope of hope which is in Christ Jesus. Hope, however, is a muscle as Tyne Daly said, and muscles grow by working them out. Thankfully, the muscle of hope grows simply by loving God more and more. So, crawl up into His lap and allow Him to wrap His warm arms of love around you.           Top Ten Favorite Happiness Strategies 10. Remember Solomon's words: There is nothing better to do than to rejoice and to do good in one's lifetime (Eccles. 3:12). 9. Another axiom to live by: "As she thinks in her heart, so she is." (Proverbs 23:7; NKJV, paraphrased). 8. Positive thoughts make positive lives. 7. Have a plan. Know what makes you happy. Do it 6. When your mood swings down, start moving. 5. Dwell on positive things. "Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, let your mind dwell on these things." (Phil. 4:8; NASB). 4. Practice thanksgiving and praise. 3. Joumaling has medical benefits and makes room for happiness by getting the unhappiness on the outside. "A tranquil heart is life to the body."  (Proverbs 14:30; NASB) 2. Dance. King David did. Dance in your heart, in your kitchen, in your attitude, in your garden.  1. Smile. It changes the way you see the world and the way the world sees you.

Apr. 29, 2004

Apr. 29, 2004 - Old Is Wonderful © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ Experiencing this absolutely gorgeous Spring season, I praise God for the four seasons we enjoy in Alabama. Spring brings us the crisp, cool air, the brilliant colorful, fragrant flowers, the green foliage everywhere and the bright yellow sunshine gives us a thrill. Enjoying the wonderful Spring season, I ran across this poem, "Old is Wonderful," by M. Germa Burke, given to me by a dear friend, Bro. Raspberry. "Let us take note that it is the old apple trees that are decked with the loveliest blossoms; that it is the ancient redwoods that rise to majestic heights; that it is the old violins that produce the richest tones; that it is for ancient coins, old stamps and antique furniture that many eagerly seek; that it is when the year is old and has run its course that Mother Nature transforms the world into a fairyland of snow; that old friends are the dearest and that it is the old people who have been loved by God for a long, long time. Thank God for the blessing of old age-it's faith, it's love, it's hope, it's maturity. When all is said and done, Old  is Wonderful." "Now that I am old and gray, do not abandon me, O God. Let me proclaim your power to this generation, your mighty miracles to all who come after me." Psalms 71:18 (New Living Translation of the Bible).

May 6, 2004

May 6, 2004 - Learn To Fight Fear With Euphoric Laughter © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ If you laugh-you last! A positive youthful mindset helps us lighten up and lightens the load we haul around with us. Spontaneous humor invading our living gives life spice. Laughter is a stress buster and lifts both the spirits and the face. Laughter juices the chemical endorphis in the brain that make us feel euphoric. Robin Williams plays medical student Hunter Patch Adams in the movie (a true story), "Patch Adams." He fights against the traditional strictures of medicine with humor and patient empathy. Facing a supervisor who is angry with Adams methods, Adams spouts that according to the "American Journal of Medicine," laughter increases the endorphins which in turn increases oxygenation of the blood, relaxes the arteries, speeds up the heart, decreases blood pressure, which has a positive effect on all cardiovascular and respiratory ailments as well as overall increasing the immune system response. Though his supervisor was not impressed, his patients were and Adams' work led to the founding of a free hospital called "The Geshundeit Institute," with a waiting list of thousands of physicians ready to provide free medical care to patients. Laughter is healing, proving the truth of wise old King Solomon's words, "A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones" (Proverbs 17:22 NIV). In "The Girls with the Grandmother Faces," Frances Weaver writes, "The never-fail rule for feeling better about being older is maintaining a sense of humor. Laughter also gives us an ageless quality, knowing no boundaries or limitations. Once again, we see the close connection to attitude and age. Richard Armour says, "I hope I have a young outlook. Since I have an old everything else, this is one chance of having a bit of youth as a part of me.

May 13, 2004

May 13, 2004 - Surrender To An Ageless Beauty © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ During a recent trip to the National Religious Broadcasters Convention in Charlotte, North Carolina, I talked with Kim Murray who is owner and founder of Vision Media International of Modesto (California). Here is what he asked me to share with my readers: "The spirit within us is ageless. It does not grow old like our body. You can remain young in spirit regardless of your age for the real you is ageless. Our spirit is ageless and the Holy Spirit is ageless. There is no age in the spirit, there is no illness or deterioration; ageless. "We can choose to let our spirit be a flame with the vibrancy of life or we can let it be squelched and encumbered by the depressive, negative things around us. We can choose our emotional and mental attitude. And we must, because it will dominate, control and influence our lives and our behavior. It's not the circumstances we face that determines our attitude. It's our attitude that often determines our circumstances. It's how we choose to respond or react to circumstances that determine our dispostion and place in life. "Our spirit can be aflame and free when our soul is surrounded by a positive mental attitude. A positive mental attitude thrives when surrounded by what is morally and physically clean, wholesome and pure. "What is old, but that which is negative, cynical and faithless; that which has been stained and strained with bitterness, deceit and unforgiveness? "You can never go forward looking back anymore than you can plow a straight furrow looking back or driving a car staring in the rear vision mirror." You must let go of the past in order to have power in the present and faith in the future.

May 27, 2004

May 27, 2004 - Fabulous After 50 Define Own Success © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ Successful Fabulous After Fifty people define their own success. Author Bessie A. Stanley says, "He has achieved success who has lived well, laughed often and loved much." Lived well: Life is a gift. Life after 50 is unique. It is an invisible package that must be opened every day. The gift of years is received with thanksgiving. A life well-lived is a process. Today is the time to live well, not tomorrow when you think times will be better; not next year when you plan to be wealthy; not when your life is perfect. "The heart of living life to its fullest is exemplified by a 94 year-old woman from Arizona. Her friends described her as charming, delightful and always polite. When asked her secret of living, she responded, "It is my enthusiasm for life. Because I think positive, I am positive." Pausing a moment, she continued, "Even at 94 I have four boyfriends. I begin each day with Will Power, then go for a walk with Arthur Ritis. I usually return home with Charlie Horse and spend the evening with Ben Gay. Need I say more?" (copied) Laughed often: "Laughter is wine for the soul-laughter soft or loud and deep, tinged through with seriousness - the hilarious declaration made by man that life is worth living." (Scan O'Casey) Loved much: "Love is the basic need of human nature, for without it life is disrupted emotionally, mentally, spiritually and physically." (Dr. Karl Menninger)

Jun. 3, 2004

Jun. 3, 2004 - There's No Greater Job Than Time Spent With Grandchildren © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ One of the joys of being Fabulous After 50 is spending time with grandchildren. A few weeks ago, I traveled to Cincinnati to enjoy a week with three of my granddaughters. What great fun, shopping, laughter, movies, groups of teenaged friends in the house, chatter and non-stop eating. My grandchildren make me feel young. I always have great adventures and learn new things. While in the greater Cincinnati area, I was warned about the five billion Cicada insects swarming Cincinnati for the next few weeks. I think I am the only person who has not heard of the 17 year Cicadas that visit Cincinnati every 17 years while I'm sure all my readers know all about them! However, as an Alabama farm girl, I did not know about them. This would certainly be an adventure for me, a new experience. The invasion of five billion heavy-bodied insects with four wings that fold over the body like a roof, looking at you from two red eyes made me think of the Hitchcock movie, The Birds, I had viewed as a young woman. I was assured the insects were harmless and tasty treats for all animals, including humans. A chocolate-covered one might have been tasty, although I was not offered one to eat. The Cicadas are known for the buzzing song the male makes to attract females. Male Cicadas assemble in  large groups. The Cincinnati folks are being serenaded by loud vaves of Cicada music. The adult Cicadas die after a few weeks only to return in 2021. The Chamber of Commerce has encouraged people in the area to have fun with this invasion of insects. Artist Bev Kirk designed an official mascot of the brood X emergence, Super Cicada. The suit is to be worn at festive occasions and happy hours and is a cheerful blue with yellow and green accents. The red eyes light up and a CD player plays "Seventeen Year Itch." Entrepreneurs have created Beanie Babies Twitterbugs, a life size Cicada refrigerator magnets, sterling silver Cicada earrings and t-shirts that read, "Remember, don't run with your mouth open." Many are inspired by the celebration of the Cicadas as a miracle of life. Like the rising and setting of the sun each day, the 17-year cycle and the return of the Cicadas reaffirms that life is still on God's timetable. When the Cicadas return to Cincinnati in 17 years, I will probably be a great-grandmother, reminding me that life is short and organized in cycles.

Jun. 10, 2004

Jun. 10, 2004 - President Ronald Reagan Lived Large © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ "The Great Communicator," our nation's 40th President, Ronald Reagan, communicated to the world 10 years ago, when he disclosed that he had Alzheimer's disease - "I now begin the journey that will lead me into the sunset of my life." The sun set on his wonderful life, June 5, 2004. Looking at his life and legacy we could croon with Frank Sinatra, HE DID IT HIS WAY! This man of dignity came from humble roots, to become a much loved movie star, inspirational speaker, sportscaster, Governor of California and President of the United States. The magic of his warm smile, his innate ability to connect with people, his mild manner and his good nature put him in the center of optimism in America. His strength and wisdom helped end the Cold War! 'Reaganomics' forged new paths for a better economy by cutting taxes. Reagan's Midwestern, folksy, style of presiding over the nation gave him much popularity. He loved to spend time at his Rancho del Cielo, in Southern California, and ride his horse, El Alamein. But, his first love, we all know, was his wife, Nancy. A true love story, played out on the stage of America. I met President Reagan briefly at the capital in 1988. The early morning meeting was brightened by his smile and his jokes. After a few minutes of chatting, his assistants said to him, "You must go Mr. President, you have another appointment." He smiled at her and asked, "could I tell just one more joke?" The President kept a candy dish full of jelly beans on his desk to share with his mends. I also keep a jar of jelly beans on my desk. The jelly bean company has printed a label on the bottle which reads, "If things get better with age, you're approaching magnificent." This little bottle of jelly beans reminds me to keep a positive spin on aging as I write each day to encourage people to age outside the box with power, style and vitality. Ronald Reagan's movie nickname, THE GIPPER, after his role as halfback George Cipp in Knute Rockne, lasted a lifetime. So, we say a fond goodbye to THE GIPPER.

Jun. 17, 2004

Jun. 17, 2004 - Nancy Reagan: Woman Of Honor © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ With uncommon grace and dignity, Nancy Reagan stepped to the podium May 16, 2002, to accept the Congressional Gold Medal - the highest honor for a civilian, for herself and for Ronald Reagan. Nancy Reagan inspired us while in the White House as First Lady, later as caregiver for the Gipper, who suffered with the devastating disease of Alzheimer's. As we watched her say goodbye to her beloved husband during his burial, her loyalty and love warmed America's heart. Being the First Lady of the United States could be the second toughest job. The U. S. Constitution is silent about the duties of the Presidents wives; however, Nancy Reagan created her own job description. As First Lady, she taught the Nation the power in three simple words, "Just Say No." She waged a personal war against illegal drugs in the United States, traveling and educating Americans about the pervasiveness and problems of drugs. While First Lady of California, she endorsed the Foster Grandparents program and worked to free the POW's. Nancy loved her Ronnie. Beautiful, charming and smart, she was the President's constant companion and friend and stood with him shoulder to shoulder to take the burden of the office. President Reagan said of her, "Knowing her, being married to her is kind of like coming into a warm, fire lit room when you've been out in the cold. She's a tiny little thing, but I once nicknamed her Peewee Powerhouse" (USA Today, 11/30/87-David Frost). "A gracious woman attains honor" (Proverbs 11:16, NW).

Jun. 24, 2004

Jun. 24, 2004 - Torchbearers Into The Millenium © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ What an awesome time to be living. We are standing at the threshold of the 2004 Olympics. We're enjoying the fourth year of the new millenium. The explosion of knowledge and communication will catapult us into new beginnings, new adventures and new ways of thinking. We have seen such rapid advancements in our lifetime. For instance, the Wright Brothers flew the first airplane on Dec. 17, 1903. Sixty-five years later Neil Armstrong set foot on the moon. We can only imagine the advancements of the future. We will be torchbearers for the next thousand years. When I think of torchbearers, I think of the Olympic games which take place every four years. Excitement surrounds the Olympics with colorful ceremonies and thrilling athletic competition. One of the most impressive parts of the Olympics is the opening ceremony. The athletes march to the stadium led by the athletes of Greece, where the original Olympics were held. The leader of the host country declares the games open, the Olympic flag is raised, cannons boom and as a symbol of peace, 100 doves are released into the air. The most moving part of the opening is the lighting of the Olympic flame. Four weeks before the opening of the games, a lighted torch is brought from the valley of Olympia, Greece by relay runners. Ships and planes transport the torch over seas and mountains. The final runner carries the torch into the stadium, making a dramatic pass around the track before lighting the flame. I recently sat under the teaching of Dr. Dennis E. Hensley. He has a new book out, Millenium Approaches, an exciting look at the wonderful world of the 21st Century. Dr. Hensley says "Building on the momentum of the remarkable achievements of the 20th Century, we are about to enter a new era of transformation that will affect virtually every area of our lives." Here are some of the headlines we are likely to see as we enter the 21st century: Robot power replaces human power, Businesses flourish in remote mountain areas, interactive shopping lets consumer custom design products, computers revolutionize art and entertainment, U.S. golfer plays 18 holes in Scotland without leaving home, wheelchair-bound woman lives in palace of virtual reality, China's economy grows to one-quarter of global product and worldwide network means new life for millions.

Jul. 8, 2004

Jul. 8, 2004 -  Books Make A Good Read © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ What a thrill I had when the announcer introduced Bill Simmons, CEO of the Bible Factory Outlet of Albertville at the Christian Booksellers Association's International Convention in Atlanta last week. Simmons represented us well as he introduced my favorite author, John Eldredge, and shared his testimony of how John's books changed his life. He is the author of "Wild at Heart" and co-author of 'The Sacred Romance." Eldredge launched his new book, "The Glory of a Heart Fully Alive Waking the Dead." He shared Proverbs 4:23 NIV on the jacket of his book: "Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the well-spring of life." "How has the central truth been lost...that the heart is the center of human life? It is the connecting point between you and others, between you and God. In fact, the heart is where we receive that life God offers and we long for a life flowing through us, as Jesus said in rivers. And it is through your heart that God wants to change the world." In "Waking the Dead," John Eldredge shows us how God restores our hearts, our true humanity and sets us free. Eldredge said there are four streams through which we can discover the abundant life: walking with God, receiving His intimate counsel, deep restoration and spiritual warfare. Once the 'eyes of our hearts' are opened, we will embrace three eternal truths. Things are not what they seem. There is a world at war. Each of us has a crucial role to play. A battle is raging and it is a battle for your heart. Since our readers love to read, from time to time, I will share books with you I think you will enjoy. Please visit my website at www. fabulous after 50 .com, and tell me if you enjoyed John Eldredge's books.

Jul. 15, 2004

Jul. 15, 2004 - Are You Nurturing Your Body, Heart, Soul © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ Funk and Wagnalls Dictionary defines the soul as "the rational, emotional and volitional faculties in man conceived of as forming an entity distinct from the body." The Bible confirms this definition in Ecclesiastes 12:7, "Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it" Our heart and soul is the center of our universe. We experience emotional force. We feel love. The heat of fervor, ardor and vitality warms our souls. The desire of the soul is the spark that gets a fire going as we move forward into life. Our souls are filled with divine creativity which gives fullness to our lives. "And the Lord have filled him with the Spirit of God, in wisdom and understanding and in knowledge and in all manner of workmanship." Exodus 31:3 Creative souls are filled with passion. Benjamin Franklin published his first newspaper column at age 16 and had the honor of framing the U.S. Constitution when he was 81. After painting the Sistine Chapel, Michaelangelo carved the Rondanini Pieta' shortly before he died at 89. The desire of the soul is to be intimate, to be attached. You have enjoyed the delightful experience of being soul mates with someone, to be profoundly interior with another person. Being familiar with one's deepest soul and being engaged with the deepest of another person's soul fills our emotional tanks. We feel comfortable in our own skin and comfortable being in the presence of our soul mate. We crave the euphoria we feel when touching the soul of another person. Our souls yearn to be intimate with God and be attached to Him! "There is nothing in all creation that will ever be able to separate us from the love of God which is ours through Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 8:39) (TEV) Thanks be to God we can never be separated from his marvelous love. It is always unending, unchanging, unfailing. Security of the soul springs from this truth. It is heart-warming to see one soul reaching out to comfort another soul. Being of farm background, my dad was strong, masculine and did not like hospitals. During his last stay, a sensitive nurse saw the horror in his face when she brought the hospital gown. She said with a cheerful laugh, "A hospital gown is an intensive bare unit. The front is rated G and the back is rated X. Now I know what they mean by southern exposure." My dad laughed while putting on the gown. This caring nurse defused his fear with humor. After my dad passed on to heaven, my soul mate sent to my home a dozen gorgeous pink roses. I placed the precious gift in my beautiful mirrored bathroom. Each time I went into the bathroom, I had the glorious experience of fabulous pink roses reflected all around me. Many times our souls are filled with extraordinary happenings. The movie "A Beautiful Mind" portrayed a true story of a schizophrenic math professor who through the love his wife, and genius in the field of math, beat the odds to win a Pulitzer prize. Actor, Russell Crowe, in his acceptance speech after winning The Golden Globe Award for the movie, said, "In our lives something extraordinary can always happen." Extraordinary care should be taken in nurturing our souls. Most of my life I have nurtured my soul, having a daily quiet time. I find a quiet secluded place. I read my Bible and allow God to speak to my heart. I pray and talk to God, believing He hears my words and my heart. I meditate and listen to the still small voice of God inside my heart. I feel the heartbeat and pulse of God. I nurture my soul as I live out of God's simple abundance. I love the beauty of nature, around me in God's wonderful world. I enjoy eating spiritual food and natural food for a healthy wholesome, total life. "Rejoice in the Lord always; and again, I say, Rejoice." Philippians 4:4 KJV.

Jul. 22, 2004

Jul. 22, 2004 - Learn To Age 'Outside The Box' © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous After Fifty™ "Satisfy us in our earliest youth with your loving kindness, giving us constant joy to the end of our lives." (Psalm 90: 14 TLB) The popular phrase "think outside the box" gave me the idea to "age outside the box," living with power, style and vitality. Many over-50 people, with their toes barely inside the new millennium, are discovering ageless living and endless energy. They are neither imprisoned in the past, nor refusing to embrace the present. Aging-out-side-the-box people do not fear the future but rather capture each moment as an opportunity to learn, to grow, to become increasingly all that they were designed to be. Power: Think of the people in your life who are aging with power. There is power in living through the Word of God, The Holy Bible. Rev. Rick Warren has taken me and many billions of people deeper into the understanding of having power through the Bible. Hopefully, as we age we enjoy spiritual maturity as we live in God's simple abundance. My stuttering Paw, Paw, (my grandfather), who is now walking the streets of gold, sang with gusto, "There's Power in the Blood," directing the choir of our small church. He did not stutter when he would sing. As a ten-year-old girl, my Paw Paw put me in his choir. I recall vividly, him turning red in the face as he belted out the song. That song, and my Paw Paw, implanted forever in my heart and head that the power of the blood of Jesus was above all powers. There is power as many aspects of aging becomes a positive. It is possible after the financial responsibilities of raising a family, an older person may have more financial flexibility to glorify God. With an empty nest, there often is more self-time and time to enjoy one's passions. It's a good time to get into the career or geographical area of one's choice. Style: What style of life has God planted in your DNA? Many times as we age, we flow into the life God has planned for us. My passions are God, family, country, writing, speaking and traveling. I feel I have lived many years to get into my flow of life that feels good in my spirit. I am enthusiastic about my style of aging. "And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper." Psalm 1:3 KJV Vitality: "And Moses was an hundred and twenty years old when he died: his eye was not dim, nor his natural force abated." Deuteronomy 34:7 KJV By the end of this century more people will be over 50 than under in this country. It's important that we age outside the box with style and vitality.

Jul. 29, 2004

Jul. 29, 2004 - Hope Is The Saving Element Of Life © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ Could you see the passion, zeal, excitement and determination with which Lance Armstrong raced the Tour De France? Could you feel his euphoria and joy Sunday celebrating his record sixth win? Could you grab for yourself the idea that anything is possible as he held his trophy high above his head while the United States, France and Texas  flags  waved  in  the breeze and the huge crowd of people roared and cheered. Did you remember Lance has won a much harder battle? He beat cancer! When asked on television his reason for his passion to make history and win the Tour De France race for the sixth me, he answered, "People who are fighting anything in their life need hope. If people could look at me and my accomplishments and have hope, it's worth all my efforts." Hope is the saving element of life. "For we are saved by hope: But hope that is seen is not hope; for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for?" (Romans 8:24 KJV) "In a race, everyone runs but only one person gets the prize. So run your race to win. To win the contest you must deny yourselves many things that would keep you from doing your best. "An athlete goes to all this trouble just to win a blue ribbon or a silver cup, but we do it for a heavenly reward that never disappears." (I Corinthians 9: 24, 25 RKJV)

Aug. 5, 2004

Aug. 5, 2004 - God Is Bigger Than Terrorism © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ Paradoxically, as we look into our future, we are filled with hope and the dread of the giant problems created by the terrorist threat of another attack on our country. Searching God's word for strength, I gathered it from Caleb and Joshua. Moses sent 12 of the leaders of the tribes of Israel to spy out the Promised Land, the land of Canaan. The men found great walled cities, strong people, even giants; they also found a land flowing with milk and honey. The brought back to Moses one cluster of grapes that took two men to transport on a pole between their shoulders. Ten of the men saw giants, comparing themselves with grasshoppers. Caleb and Joshua recognized problems but focused on the possibilities. All 12 men had seen the same thing. Ten said, "We can't." Two said, "We can!" The 10 thought about 'we.' Caleb and Joshua added the Lord to the equation. The Bible tells us: "And Caleb stilled the people before Moses and said, "Let us go up at once and possess it, for we are able to overcome it." (Numbers 13:30 KJV). Our president has gained my respect and given me courage as he leads the nation in this time of peril. President Bush could be compared to Caleb. Our president verbalizes to the American people, "We can." Caleb and Joshua portrayed, the spirit that life with God turn problems into possibilities. The 10 men who said, "We can't" died of a plague. Caleb and Joshua doubled their lifetime and were sent to conquer the Promised Land. Courageous Caleb, who conquered old age with vigor and faithfulness to God, said, "I am this day fourscore and five years old. And yet, I am as strong this day as I was in the day that Moses sent me; (45 years old) as my strength was then, even so is my strength now, for war, both to go out and to come in. Now give me this mountain. . ." (Joshua 14:10-12, KJV). God is bigger than these giants of aging, giants of terrorism and giants of war. Though these giants may make you feel like grasshoppers, remember God will give you the courage to possess your promised land of aging and America will be flowing with milk and honey. Facing new terrorist threats we say in prayer, "Give us this mountain, keep America safe." (Matthew 20:17 KJV)

Aug. 12, 2004

Aug. 22, 2004 - Remember To Put First Things First © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ Before dreaming big as women approach the years of fabulous 50 and beyond, we have to recognize our losses. Life is full of them, especially as we age and it's vital to acknowledge those losses to honor the process of life. Grief is an appropriate emotion as we age. We have lost some things, things even more vital than youth in a culture that worships youth. Noticing is not vanity; it is a reality check and imperative to finding our focus after the age of 50. Creating a list of personal losses may help each of us grieve and then move on. Some possible losses are: loss of loved ones, loss of a beloved home, or personal losses of health, agility, body function and even body parts. Other losses nay be subtle, less obvious to the casual observer of life. Loss may look like a disappointment, broken dreams and disillusionment over our own abilities to be in relationships or to carry out our chosen roles such as wife, mother, friend, and worker. Losses may include mistakes, which have cost us, or another, greatly. Freedom to grieve these losses, to notice and say, "I am sad about this aspect of life, love," grants us the ability to heal and then, ultimately, to refocus our lives. To shift our focus from what we have lost, to who we are becoming and how we will impact the world in our remaining years.

Aug. 19, 2004

Aug. 19, 2004 - People Of The World Are More Alive Than Different © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ I felt the pulse of the human spirit as I have enjoyed the opening ceremonies of the 2004 Olympics held in Athens, Greece, which is the only regularly scheduled gathering of the world. Wow! Can you imagine a small country with about as many people as live in Ohio pulling off that kind of extravaganza? Greece, home of the first Olympic games, has surprised the world when it was ready for the opening night of the World Olympic Games 2004. Athenians performed a miracle as the world witnessed the glistening white arches over the main stadium. The spellbinding lighthing of the 2004 Olympic Flame, the marching in of the parade of countries led by Greece, the fabulous performances, the colorful costumes and the sensational music (especially the drums that had the rhythm of a human heart beat) set my heart racing. My conclusion: People of the world are more alike than different! Isn't it a paradox that Athens, Greece - the first to host the Olympics - spent $1.5 billion to stop terrorism, but crowned the medal winners with an olive wreath as a symbol of peace?  The competition that I watched profiled and portrayed superhuman strength of body, soul, spirit, discipline and sportsmanship - the elements we strive for in our daily lives. I also experienced the Olympic Spirit at the Ms. Senior Alabama Classic Etowah County Pageant. All eight contestants, Gloria "Jan" Ector-Kelley, Janice Phillips, Ann Boatwright, Mary Bailey, Minnie Nell Smith, Wanda R. Fox, Carol Bonita Link, and Mary B. Young were all winners. Many years of life has polished these sensational over-60 women into jewels that sparkle. The crowned Ms. Senior Alabama Classic, Mary B. Young, shared with the audience the principles by which she lives her life: "Live, love and laugh. Look forward to the future with confidence. When you are faced with decisions, make those decisions as wisely as possible and then go on. Be happy and enjoy what is beautiful. Dance like nobody's watching and love like it is never gonna hurt." Jack London said, "I would rather that my spark would burn out in a brilliant blaze than be stifled by dry rot. I would rather be a superb meteor, every atom of me in magnificent glow, than a sleepy and permenant planet. The proper function of man is to live, not exist."

Aug. 26, 2004

Aug. 26, 2004 - Today Is Prime Time To ReInvent Yourself © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ Old, outdated, slow, set in your ways, health risk were words used to describe the generation before us. The new millenium, the 21st century, describes this generation with words like spirit and determination to stay active, vital and engaged in work place and in their personal life. The "Third Age" - that time between primetime midlife and dramatic decline - is an age of liberation when people find that newfound freedom and prolonged good health which provides the opportunity to make their most profound contributions to life. If you are healthy and have zest for life, being 50, 60 or 70 actually does not feel old. Fifty, 60 or 70 year-olds in our society today do not feel or act the same way as the generation before. We consider this time in our lives as prime time. It is the time the real you stands up. It is time to reinvent yourself into that real person inside you. Here are seven ways to reinvent yourself: Take on new challenges by (1) working in fields you really enjoy, (2) staying active mentally, physically, socially and spiritually, (3) following your dream, (4) living in the present (each day is a present from God), (5) being productive, (6) making life a stage, knowing you are the star of your life and (7) putting God on the throne of your life. Do you remember the fable, "Rumplestiltskin" which involved spinning straw into gold? If you feel your older life is straw, try spinning that straw into gold by reinventing yourself.

Sept. 9, 2004

Sept. 9, 2004 - Don't Quit When Life's Unexpected Twists And Turns Come Your Way © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ Have you seen the commercial that says life can come at you fast? Hurricane Frances certainly interrupted many lives land caused great destruction land devastation. President Bill Clinton was jogging 5 miles one day and put in the hospital the next day and has undergone bypass heart surgery. You have had sudden unexpected changes in your life. Life at best is uncertain and fragile. The Lord comforts us with His promises: "When thou pass through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee; when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee." Isaiah 43:2 KJV. The author is unknown, but the poem, "Don't Quit" is worth reading: "When things go wrong as they sometimes will, When the road you're trudging seems all uphill, When the funds are low and the debts are high, When care is pressing you down a bit, When you want to smile but you have to sigh, Rest if you must, but don't quit. Life is queer with its twists and turns, As every one of us sometimes learns, And many a failure turns about when, He might have won had he stuck it out; Don't give up though the pace seems slow, You may succeed with another blow. Success is failure turned inside out, The silver tint of the clouds of doubt, And you never can tell how close you are, It may be near and yet seems so far, So stick to the fight when you're hardest hit, For it's when things seem worst that you must not quit.

Sept. 16, 2004

Sept. 16, 2004 - God Bless America © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ I d like to share with you my cousin's poem that she wrote for the 9/11 families of 2001. Angela Todd, singer/songwriter from Atlanta was killed in February 2004 in a car accident. As we were going through her songs and poems we came across this poem and song she wrote after 9/11 while she was on tour. The poem is called "Ode to Yesterday" and the song is called "Heartbeat." Angela was on a World Tour with Royal Caribbean in the Mediterranean Sea when the captain of the ship came over the intercom and said he had an important announcement — America was under attack. The Crew brought Angela and the other American singers upstairs where they watched CNN and called their families back home. Angela later wrote both the poem and song.        'Ode to Yesterday' Yesterday mornin' was easy. Compared to this light. Yesterday's struggles were petty, Up against this fight. Now   to  wake  with  this vision. Of the stars we use to see. Yesterday's towers have crumbled. They live only in our memory. Is there more to tomorrow Than a lifetime of revenge. Recollecting all the sorrow? The ghost of what  has been Somewhere upon this field of ash, A rose will blossom soon Just as the world it has its thorns. But it's stronger than we knew. The rose is a symbol Of the strength that lives within. The life that fell from the sky    And its will to live again. Stronger and wiser And braver for it's years The sound of cheers and laughter Have dried it's distant tears. For through the pile of rubbish, These  roots  have  found their way. They rose again together United they will stay. But still the thorns remain To keep keep in mind and heart Dear memories of the lives it took To heal yesterday's heart.        'Heartbeat' And I often wonder what you're doin' right now. Wishin' you were with me To see this place somehow. And I know eventually I will see you again. These memories bridge the distance, Between now and then. So, I'll keep on livin' like you are with me, And I'll keep on singing' like you can hear me. And maybe somewhere between the distance that we keep, You can hear the sound of my heartbeat. I could live forever Without a penny to my name. 'Cause without love you know this world don't mean a thing And it means nothin' without a hand to hold This place is empty when there's no place like home. So, I'll keep on livin' like you are with me, And I'll keep on singin' like you can hear me. And maybe somewhere between the distance that we keep, You can hear the sound of my heartbeat. And I send a message on these angel's wings Can ya' hear the sound Please God hear the sound Of my heartbeat. And maybe somewhere between the distance that we keep, You can hear the sound of my heartbeat. God bless America, our flag, and God bless our solders who keep it free!

Sept. 23, 2004

Sept. 23, 2004 - Enjoying The Last Of Life © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ I viewed the great Liberty Bell in Philadelphia the summer of 2003. I had seen pictures of the huge bell since I was a young girl. We studied about it in elementary school. What a thrill to see that big crack down the side and read the scripture printed on the bell.  Leviticus 25:10 KJV, tells us to "Proclaim liberty throughout all the land unto all the inhabitants thereof." The Lord told Moses to tell the people of Israel to rest and let the land rest every seven years. Then, in verse 11, he said, "A jubilee shall that 50th year be unto you." As I autograph Fabulous after 50 books, I write "A jubilee shall that 50th year be." Is it possible for life after 50 to be a jubilee? The answer is yes. Did you view Barbara Walter's two-hour 20/20 special on ABC, when she retired after 25 years? I had seen almost all of the clips of her shows. The program was a snapshot of 25 years of history. Barbara had interviewed American presidents and first ladies, world leaders, famous entertainers and criminals. Witnessing her aging process through 25 years, I came to the conclusion, now is her best age. Her youthful, elegant grace and charm defy her age. She is not retiring, she is refiring. She will have the flexibility to create her own specials on ABC. Barbara's brainchild, the popular morning show, The View, will be invigorated as she visits the set occasionally. Barbara Walters is Fabulous after 50. Her latter years are a jubilee.

Sept. 30, 2004

Sept. 30, 2004 - Create Your Own Uniqueness © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ Sculptor, artist, architect and poet, Michelangelo, the genius of the Renaissance, has been called the greatest artist ever. In 1508, Pope Julius ll summoned Michelangelo to Rome to paint the Sistene Chapel. This titanic task of working alone, painting 340 magnificent biblical figures and scenes on a complex curved surface of about 10,000 square feet took 20 months and made him famous for all time. At his death, Feb. 18, 1564, at 88 years, Michelangelo left a legacy of faith with his life, his work, his passion and his focus, as he moved into his later years, all centered on his faith in God. Though he painted under duress, on his back with painstaking attention to detail and fraught with difficulty, five centuries after his death Michelangelo's art in the Sistene Chapel in Rome, Italy is considered one of the greatest masterpieces of history. You, as a successful ager, possessing your own God-given uniqueness will leave your footprints on the sands of time. The key to greatness is uniqueness: (1) The road to failure is doing the routine. (2) Think the opposite of the norm, find another angle. (3) Associate ideas of others. (4) extremes. (5) exaggeration. (6) doing the unusal. (7) doing the unexpected. We have all the tools necessary for a work of genius - the canvas (our life), the gifts, the time, the energy. What will your life's colors be? Will the effects of your choices extend beyond your last breath (the last stroke of your brush) ? Who will benefit from your canvas of contributions to the world? What are those contributions? Paint your picture of aging as Michelangelo. Faith is the paint that will make your aging picture glow with light and exciting color.

Oct. 14, 2004

Oct. 14, 2004 - Life Stage More Important To Consider © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ My home state of Alabama 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. The landscape is postcard beautiful. Just as the autumn of the year splashes bright colors everywhere, so does the autumn of life. Step out from the dab dryness of late summer to the color, panache and wonder of this extraordinary life season! Joseph Antonini, past chairman and CEO of K-Mart Corporation said, "Life stage is more important than age!" I hope you enjoy this poem I wote: Grow Older Without Getting Old...by Shirley Mitchell... The "Age Wave" is here, that no one will deny, The older crowd is growing, it's our time to fly. Exercise is the golden egg that will reverse this aging, We walk, we jog, we Jazzersize to keep our energy raging. With proper diet and attitude we golden oldies believe, We retard the ravages of age, gravity and disease. Jumping into the sea of aging with wild anticipation, Exhilaration, excitement and adventure will be our reputation. What's our secret for getting older without getting old? Positive thinking and enthusiasm is the oldest secret ever told. Jesus is the answer as we walk this earthly road. We're only getting better, we're not getting old.

Oct. 21, 2004

Oct. 21, 2004 - Fight Fear Of Old Age By Living The Moment © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ Father Time and Mother Nature do not sentence us to old age. Living old is a choice, and so is living young.The attitude that each new day is a special gift will keep us sipping from the fountain of youth. Baby boomers are part of the "carpe diem" generation, seizing the day. Every morning we are handed a package of 1, 440 new, unused minutes to be spent in the manner we choose. At the end of the day those minutes are gone forever. We cannot bank them, save them, or carry them over to the next day. "Each day is a new life," sang gorgeous, radiant Miss Alabama, Kim Wimmer in 1993. The opportunities of today will never be repeated. So, walk through every door with enthusiasm. A great way to start the day at first awareness after a good night's sleep is to resolve, "This is the day the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it." (Psalm 118:24). In infinite wisdom, the Creator gives us only one moment at a time. That's all we can handle! In the hourglass, one grain of sand slips through the narrow waist of the glass at a time. As the moments turn into days, the sands of time create, like sand in an oyster, the perfect chance to make each day a pearl. At the end of our lives, if we live them fully, what a glowing strand of pearls we'll have! Successful living and happy aging require we live in the present and for the future rather than dwell on losses.

Oct. 28, 2004

Oct. 28, 2004 - Halloween Is A Day To Play © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ Being grown up and mature, we are in our prime to enjoy Halloween anyway we choose. Giving treats to grandchildren, neighbors, and friends will probably be a top priority. Of course, creativity with costumes, decorating, entertaining, and pulling pranks will add variety to life. Just what is Halloween? How did it originate? Centuries ago, before Christianity, the Celts celebrated New Years Eve the last night of October. Historians think Halloween started in the United States toward the end of the 19th century when the Irish immigrants arrived. The Celts celebrated a festival called Sambain meaning "the end of summer," and they believed the powers of evil came out to celebrate their power over good. People would put out sweets and other good things to eat to placate the evil spirits. Many would diguise themselves and roam the countryside. In the eighth century A.D. the Catholic Church declared the first day of November, All Saints Day. However, the tradition arose for the current Halloween holiday, it has become a big time to play in America. We realized how commercialized it has become when shopping in the retail stores. Children become excited about dressing up in costume and trick-or-treating for candy and gifts. America enjoys a holiday and a chance to celebrate. Halloween is a great time for the Fabulous after 50 to pretend, play, enjoy children, and eat candy. Happy Halloween !

Nov. 4, 2004

Nov. 4, 2004 - Advancements Redefine Aging © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ Looking down the corridor of the 21st century, scientific advancements have redefined the meaning of aging. Now we know - we use it or lose it and must train the brain that aging need not be negative. One mentor lived a sensational life, living past the time when most would have given up. Moses had just cleared his sixties and was close to 70 when God called him away from his second career of shepherd, and into his new vocation of tending a million and a half slaves and being part of  the genius plan to set them free. It was a quiet journey. "And Moses was 120 years old when he died, his eye was not dim, nor his natural force abated." Deuteronomy 34:7 KJV Dr. Walter M. Bortz lll, author of "Dare to be 100," and past president of the American Geriatrics Society, believes we are designed by our Creator to live full of days for 120 years or 1 billion hours. Watching the "Oprah" show on age-defying breakthroughs confirmed my belief that this is the best time in history to be Fabulous after 50. Oprah is 50 years young. She said, "I'm selling 50. It's rejuvenating and exhilarating!" She is young inside and out. Oprah said, "Doing what you love youngs you up! Have a passion for what you do, and be with people you have a passion for. Take care of yourself first. If the well is empty, there is nothing to give out." Several years ago, Dr. Ken Dychtwald instructed Age Wave Conference attendees that we must live a healthier lifestyle - or have one big nursing home in the United States. Exercise will help us live young and avoid wheelchairs and nursing homes. Exercise results in better health, more strength, stamina, power and energy in minimum time. Exercise will put a smile on our face and a spring in our walk, no matter our age. The best exercise is the one you will do! A fit body cannot be purchased, but it can be earned. It takes knowledge of nutrition, exercise, discipline, time, and hard work Too often, we reap the results of poor self-care from our earlier years and what we consider to be aging is actually disuse.

Nov. 11, 2004

Nov. 11, 2004 - Millenium Moments © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ Living the first four years of the new millenium has been a thrill. Like many of you, I kept a diary which I called Millenium Moments. It gives me great pleasure to share some of those special thoughts. A threefold approach to life in the new millenium - remembering the past, imagining the future, and celebrating the present - gives momentum and ongoing life balance. In a world that views aging as a wobbly proposition, being Fabulous after 50 requires balance. Gaining inspiration from the past, while expanding on personal dreams for the future, gives the present a charm and a magical feeling of possiblities. It helps me fight the battle of dull; keeps me from giving up; or carving in to the prevalent and pessimistic views of aging. Della Reese, star of the TV show, "Touched by an Angel," presents a beautiful example of the past forming our present. She told Parade Magazine, "Everything that has happened to me has made me the woman I am today. I like that person. I respect her. She's courageous and honest." We are definitely a composite of all the experiences of our life-to-date. Not only does this shape us now, it empowers us to become all we are created to be for the future. Sometimes we forget to envision the future - forget that we have the freedom to design our own lives with the help of the Holy Spirit as director. Since we have elected a president, I would like to share a quote from Bob Moore, from his book, "You Can be President." "Today I am not afraid; I feel confident toward myself and what I can accomplish. I am president: president of my thoughts, president of my actions, president of my reactions and president of the quality of my work - I am president of my life. "As president, I am free to carry out any type of administration I wish - good, average. poor. However, I know that what I give to my adminstration determines what life gives me in return - not luck or fate. Whatever my actions, I can expect the same type of reaction from the world in return. "In the past I have been like the average person and used only 10 percent of my potential and ability; 90 percent of what I can be and do is still inside me begging to be used! "Today I will handle well all the situations that I face because I will use more of the untapped potential and ability that I possess. "I am somebody. I am the president of my life. Mine will be a good adminstration. I have potential! I have ability! I am delighted to invite you into my Millenium Moments, truths and hope condensed from a year where I wrestled with my past, dreamt about and planned for my future, and accepted the gift of the present.

Nov. 18, 2004

Nov. 18, 2004 - Top 10 Female Strategies © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ The following is a list of the Top 10 Female Strategies: 1. Even though no one talks about it anymore, find out what colors work best on you. You'll never be sorry. 2. After that, start at the top, with hair and face shape and work your way down. What lines work best, where? 3. Figure out where you need to create width or height, and which styles can do that for you. 4. Measure your widest points and determine not to end lines at those points. 5. Clean out your closets and then reorganize them by color and type of clothing item. 6. Go to your favorite make-up counter and get a makeover. Be sure to ask for free samples. 7. Looking good gives the God who created you all the glory. Who needs dowdy? 8. Just because someone else is wearing it, doesn't mean you must, also. Style is defined by your life, your passion and your personality - not by emaciated and grim-faced models on the runway. 9. Body changes are inevitable and no one has a perfect body (Marilyn Monroe was a size 14.) Stop pining away for the body you once had, or never had, or wish you had, and get on with taking care of the one you're currently inhabitating. 10. When you know you look your best, you're free to forget yourself and focus on others. Remember to be 50ish, female, and fabulous, I will make the most of my best! This is the attitude for aging successfully! (This is an excerpt from Shirley W. Mitchell's book, Fabulous after 50)

Nov. 25, 2004

Nov. 25, 2004 - Let Freedom Ring On Thanksgiving Day © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ As we gather our family and friends around our tables this Thanksgiving to thank God for all his blessings, we are especially thankful for our freedom. We are thankful for Godly leaders in our government in Washington, D. C, our military troops at war, and all who are fighting against terrorism. Staff Sergeant Lawrence Provost has given me permission to share a letter he recently wrote: "Our greetings from Iraq. We are writing to ask your help and support. On Sept. 11, 2001, I worked the search and rescue at the World Trade Center for the first seven days as a U.S. Army reservist. On Sept. 11, 2002, my team landed in Afghanistan, and this September we landed in Iraq. Sadly, we have become experienced at these events together. We are in an important and dangerous situation here. In Iraq we face a great many difficulties. I will not go into the politics of it all but there is also so much good that is not being reported, just as in Afghanistan. My Civil Affairs team rebuilds schools, bridges, roads, clinics, hospitals, sewage pump stations, and work with troops from the United Kingdom, Poland, Bulgaria, Ukraine, the Netherlands, Italy, Slovakia, Denmark, Estonia, Thailand, South Korea, and so many other countries. We are trying our best for the people here and back home. We are trying to build up the next generation of Iraqis to live in freedom, especially the children. Regardless of the feeling of the Iraqi campaign, the Iraqi children have suffered a great deal and we cannot desert them. This is where we need your help. We are in desperate need of pens, pencils, notebooks, paper, school supplies, and little candies to hand out to the children. These items may seem small but make the world of difference, especially to a child. We can handle the big stuff in the building of the schools, but we need help to cover the small stuff. These items also lead to the saving of American lives. We have people who tell us, on the basis of us being nice to their children, information on people who try to kill us. If you will help us, it will help both our nation and the emerging Iraqi Nation. The soldiers here also request items such as baby wipes, and other personal hygiene items such as shampoos, toothbrushes, toothpaste, etc. If you would feel comfortable doing so, when sending items, could you send a picture of your loved one? These would not be for any sort of public display but because we want to remember and honor the memories of your loved ones. The best way to send these supplies is to send it to me personally. It may be more expensive but is the surest way to getting materials to Iraq. Also, I try to answer, out of 18-hour days, every piece of mail that comes in. I will try to send digital pictures as well. We have to take them for all our missions. (Address: Staff Sgt. Lawrence Provost, (on 2nd line)B Co. 403rd Civil Affairs BN, (on 3rd line) HHC 3/153 IN. 39th BCT, (on 4th line) APO AE 09378). If you have any further questions, my email is lawrencprovost @ aol.com and please just throw in subject line Iraqi Campaign. The greatest thing that you can help out with is your prayers - prayers for our soldiers, for the Iraqi people, and we dare say even our enemies. Please do not feel obligated to us and/or to stop giving to other troops that you are giving to. If you can send anything to us, the prayers are the best. We thank you for your time We have been at your service since Sept. 11, and we always will be as you all have never forgotten our loved ones as we will never forget yours. Thank you very much for your time. God bless you all. September's Mission is a nationally recognized non-profit organization devoted to building a positive and meaningful legacy out of the events surrounding 9/11. Their address is: September's Mission, 548 Broadway, 3rd Floor, New York, NY 10012. Their phone is 1-888-424-4685.

Dec. 2, 2004

Dec. 2, 2004 - Christmas Is A Blessed Season © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ This is your Christmas Season to enjoy - a time to celebrate life. Jesus is the reason for the season. We experience Christmas through the cradle, cross and crown. The cradle in Bethlehem held the baby that is the hope of the world. The cross symbolizes the death and resurrection of Christ that gave meaning to His birth. The crown gives hope of Christ's return as King of Kings and Lord of Lords. The magic of Christmas is felt in many, many ways. Christmas carols float through my home all during the season. I get an inspirational shock of electricity when I visit any church in the area for the Christmas Cantata. I love the Christmas specials on television. The radio airwaves are full of good cheer! Trees are significant during the Christmas season. Trees represent the continuance of life. The Bible tells us "The trees of the Lord are full of sap; the cedars of Lebanon which He hath planted." The cedar stays green all year. Our tradition of red decorations on the green tree started with the Germans. They put red apples on their Paradise tree to symbolize the blood of Jesus shed for our eternal life. The lights on the tree representing Jesus as the light of the world. I love to see the reflection of the Christmas lights in the eyes of beautiful children. We give, we sing, we decorate, we dress festive, eat sumptous food, laugh, love and enjoy. Christmas gives each of us a warm, fuzzy feeling - a feeling of hope of eternal life.

Dec. 9, 2004

Dec. 9, 2004 - Home Is Where The Heart Is © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ I decorated my home for the celebration of Christmas with great zeal. I found myself putting extra thought and labor into deep cleaning and clearing away clutter. Working my way through the house cleaning and decorating, I have precious memories of years gone by when I placed the special ornaments that were collected through the years on the Christmas tree. Reminiscing over Christmas pictures back through the years was great fun. I felt fine, on cloud nine, as I made the holiday menu, being careful to include everyone's favorite dish. Shopping for food was a breeze and setting the Christmas table weeks in advance to make the celebration special reaffirmed my passion for the season. I feel a song in my heart as I anticipate the gathering of my three children, their spouses, and my seven grandchildren. The house, once again, becomes a beehive filled with laughter, conversation, feasting and hugs. Growing older gives a desire to make the place you live your own special place. We have different needs at mid-life. For some, downsizing the empty nest - for others, a move to a warmer climate. But, when children gather at Christmas, home is where the heart is. Looking toward the future, it is smart to plan for older years of comfort, celebrating the fabulous you, while enjoying the last half of life. making plans for the celebration of my clan, I thought of Job 5:25 from The Living Bible: "Your sons shall become important men; your descendants shall be as numerous as grass! "You shall live a long, good life; like standing grain, you'll not be harvested until it's time! "I have found from experience that all of this is true. "For your own good, listen to my counsel."

Dec. 16, 2004

Dec. 16, 2004 - Wishing You A Merry Christmas © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ I have observed that during the Christmas holidays everyone over 50 acts and looks younger. Investigating this phenomenon. I came up with the answer. When we celebrate, we dress festive, enjoy parties, family gatherings, great worship services at church, and shopping. The love of Jesus reigns! Everywhere I go, I see people wearing lots of red. Red is a very cheerful color. The glow of the red often reflects in the face and spirit. This week I joined the Guntersville Gussies Red Hatters for their Christmas party. Wow! What fun! Everyone was dressed to the nines in purple dresses and red hats to enjoy "high tea" at the Whitaker Lodge. The music, laughter, food, red hat camaraderie, gala Christmas tree and exchange of gifts filled the room with joy. The exuberance, high spirits, and enthusiasm gave the over-50 crowd a feeling of celebration. The belief that people lose their passions after 50 is simply not true. The "greatest generation" and "baby boomers" are writing a love song to life this Christmas season. I have greeted about a dozen people today with "Merry Christmas." The dictionary tells us the word merry means given to mirth and laughter; marked by cheerfulness and gay spirits; and to make merry,  to be in high spirits." While shopping, I see shoppers making merry. Worshiping at special Christmas church services, I feel the love. Decorating the tree, I remember the green tree represents the continuance of life; the red decorations, the blood of Jesus. Baking becomes fun, as the kitchen again becomes the center of the gathering of the family for a feast. As the magic of Christmas spreads it's web of love around you, I wish you a MERRY CHRISTMAS.

Dec. 30, 2004

Dec. 30, 2004  - Have A Happy New Year © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ "Behold I make all things new." Revelations 21:5 We are about to step into a new year! For most of us it is a time of reflection, a time of renewal. Garson Kanin said, "Youth is the gift of nature, but age is a work of art." The Fabulous after 50 people will build on our 50 plus years of experience and knowledge to live life large, while we focus in 2005 on the passion God has planted within us. Remember, Jesus was "clad with zeal as a cloak." Dr. Phil, on The Today Show, told Matt Lauer, "We generate the life we are thinking." The baby boomers (those born between 1946-1964) are changing the way we think about aging. Whether retired, starting a new career, or taking time for leisure, the goal is to stay mentally active, physically active, and to remain productive and useful. God has a positive attitude about aging. His love letter to us from His Holy Word says: "Gray hair is a crown of glory; it is gained by living a Godly life." Proverbs 16:31 "The glory of the young is their strength; the gray hair of experience is the splendor of the old." Proverbs 20:29 "I will be your God throughout your lifetime - until your hair is white with age. I made you, and I will care for you. I will carry you along and save you." Isaiah 46:4 "Grandchildren are the crowning glory of the aged." Proverbs 17:6 "Show your fear of God by standing up in the presence of elderly people and showing respect of the aged. I am the Lord." Leviticus 19:32 "The Godly will flourish like palm trees and grow strong like the cedars of Lebanon. For they are transplanted into the Lord's own house. They flourish in the courts of our God. Even in old age they will still produce fruit; they will remain vital and green." Psalm 92:13-14. Our youth-obsessed society may have the mind set not to cherish the older people; however, God thinks older people are precious. Happy New Year!

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.