"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. 6, 2005

Jan. 6, 2005 - Faith, Values Were Red Hot Topics In 2004 © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ From the box office at the movies to the ballot box at the voting polls, 2004 screamed faith and values. Mel Gibson's "The Passion of the Christ" gave us hope as we watched the crimson blood of Jesus Christ flow freely on the screen. We understood from viewing the movie that His blood covered our sins and gave us hope of eternal life. From the White House, we were bombarded through the media with our President, George W. Bush's verbal proclamations concerning his strong faith and values. He and Laura live the Christian life. The words, "red hot" denote spirit, passion and power. The red states dotting the map of the United States gave U. S. citizens passion for the leader of the free world, who leads with faith, values and virtue. The "red hot" Boston Red Sox baseball team captured the World Series Championship. We observed on our television screens the "red hot" passion and power of this team. Stepping over the threshold of 2005, Americans are reaching out to the victims of war and the deadly Tsunamis with "red hot" passionate hearts. This is one of those defining moments when hard times draw us closer to our Creator.

Jan. 13, 2005

Jan. 13, 2005 - Resolve In The New Year To Celebrate 50 © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ Once you were a young whipper-snapper. How about now? Are you an I-take-a-napper? Do you hold onto your youth so tightly you get cramps in your hands? On this road of life, have you turned down wrinkle street and into the driveway of middle-age bulge? Celebrating this time of middle-age change, let's think more about what we gain and not the losses. Sure, you may have lost hair, waistline, and some memory, but gained self time, wisdom, and a new appreciation of life. If you watch Oprah on television, you will notice she is celebrating her 50th year of life. She has verbalized on her show this is the best time of her life. On the cover of her January 2005 magazine, there are two pictures of her, one in a work-out suit, and the other in an evening dress. The caption reads, "from working out to stepping out." If you're ready to celebrate life, January 2005, set goals for lifestyle changes that are attainable and feasible. Make sure your new goals are rewarding and will make your life better. In the Bible, Levticus 25, the Lord told Moses on Mount Sinai to inform the people of Israel each seventh year should be a Sabbath and they should allow the land rest. After seven of these Sabbaths (49 years), the fiftieth year should be a jubilee. "A jubileee shall that 50th year be unto you..." Lev. 25:11 KJV A good New Year's resolution for the 50 and over is to make this year a jubilee. A time of rejoicing.

Jan. 20, 2005

Jan. 20, 2005 - Celebrating Liberty © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ Today is the inauguration of our 43rd president, George W. Bush. His historic speech, "Liberty is powerful and freedom is peace" will sink into our souls. The people of the U. S. have spoken at the polls and we are proud to stand with our President and pray for his wisdom. Freedom is precious to each of us. With freedom to be creative, America, both past and present, has built a wonderful democracy, strong and brave. Not only do we fight for our own freedom, but the freedom of other people who are in bondage. One example is Iraq. Americans have a heart for hurting people as shown by the rush of aid to the people crushed by the tsunami. Our 43rd president stated in Time Magazine that he had the "energy, driye, and desire to serve four more years." He faces big challenges as he sets big goals for our country. We have observed Laura Bush's dedication to her husband, family, faith and country. I enjoyed the privilege of hearing our First Lady speak in Birmingham during the campaign. She is elegant, reserved and poised. She's interested in literacy, women's health and women's rights in Afghanistan. The next four years she plans to highlight programs for young men and Junior Rangers, a program which encourages children's interest in nature. We are celebrating a new year, four more years with George W. Bush as our President, and living to be over 50 years old.

Jan. 27, 2005

Jan. 27, 2005 - A Trip To The Inauguration Of The President © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ Standing for four hours on an inch of snow, with the flame of freedom burning in my heart, I experienced history being made as I viewed my  Presidential inauguration in Washington, D. C. Being one of the 100,000 people who thronged the area around the steps of the capitol, where George W. Bush was being sworn in as our 43rd President, I reflected on our special favor of being Americans. I felt the spirit of the Lord. I remembered memorizing, with my GA friends at Mount Vernon Baptist Church many years ago, II Corinthians 3:17, "Where the spirit of the Lord is, there is Liberty." As the twins, Barbara and Jenna, watched their dad being sworn in with his left hand on the Holy Bible held by their mother, an elegant First Lady, I was proud this special family would lead our country for four more years. In his inaugural speech, President Bush vowed to fight terrorism and light a flame of freedom that would ignite the whole globe. He said, "The survival of liberty in our land increasingly depends on the success of liberty in other lands. The best hope for peace in our world is the expansion of freedom in all the world. My policies have lit a fire in the minds of men. And one day this untamed fire of freedom will reach the darkest corners of the world." In his powerful 21-minute speech, Bush used the word freedom 27 times and liberty 15 times. People everywhere were having prayer breakfasts. There was an opening night celebration at the Ronald Reagan Building on Jan. 18 prior to the inauguration. Tuesday night was filled with concert, dessert and dancing. Wednesday the inaugural luncheon was held, and there were many Inaugural Eve Balls along with an elaborate afternoon special tribute saluting those who serve. Of the 10 inaugural balls visited by our President and First Lady, I was invited, along with other Alabamians, to the Freedom Ball at Union Station to celebrate freedom. Governor Bob Riley and First Lady Patsy Riley represented Alabama with grandiose flare as they danced across the stage at the same moment as President Bush and First Lady Laura Bush enjoyed their dance at the Freedom Ball. I have used the phrase, "live large," writing my new book, "Sensational After 60." I observed this in action as our nation celebrated the inauguration of President George W. Bush.

Feb. 3, 2005

Feb. 3, 2005 - Joy Is A Body, Soul And Spirit Builder © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ The Jan. 17 special issue of  Time Magazine, in the article, 'The Science of Happiness," the question is asked, "Does God want us to be happy?" Paul tells us in the Bible, "Rejoice in the Lord always; and again I say, rejoice." Philippians 4:4 (KJV) Jesus teaches his disciples the beatitudes of happiness in Matthew 5:1-12. Scientists today tell us joyful, happy, positive people live longer. When we are joyful, endorphins (a chemical produced by the brain) promotes pleasure when producing a natural high, and lowers pain. The other chemical, dopamine, is produced when we are happy, thrilled, euphoric, exhuberant, and it reinforces feeling of joy. Fabulous after 50 people focus more on joy than material things, success or negative thinking. At mid-life, more attention is being given to living large, enjoying a relationship with Jesus, loving and having closeness in our families, following our bliss, spending time listening to music, letting the child play, traveling, dancing, being exhuberant over sports, and interacting with art. The Jan. 25 edition of USA Today ran an article on Alzheimer prevention in which it stated, "The best Alzheimer's prevention might be this simple: Go have fun." Robert Louis Stevenson said, "There is no duty we so much underrate as the duty of being happy. By being happy, we sow anonymous benefits upon the world."

Feb. 10, 2005

Feb. 10, 2005 - February Is A Time For Love © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Golden Years - Fabulous after Fifty™ "As the smallest light beam is but a reflection of the light and heat that are the sun, so all truth and all love have their origin in God. Love, indeed, makes the world go round - and takes it back to its ultimate source, which is God." - Rev. Fulton J. Sheen We celebrate Valentines Day Feb. 14, by sending greeting cards, called valentines, to sweethearts, friends, and family. Celebrations of love abound with candlelight dinners, dance floors filled with lovers, and great family feasts. Red is the dominate color - red roses, red boxes of chocolates, and red gift packages, add zing to the party of love. A French novelist, Victor Hugo, said, "What a grand thing to be loved! What a grander thing still, to love!" The focus on love this month will give each of us a smile, a warm cozy feeling, and a reason to celebrate. God is Love! Happy Valentines' Day! It's a Season of Love.

Feb. 17, 2005

Feb. 17, 2005 - Courageous Aging - Making Those Dreams Come True © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ "A person doesn't spring into existence at the age of 50; there are years of preparation, which God uses in ways we may never know..." Corrie ten Boom "Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she smiles at the future." Prov. 31:25 NAS Age is no barrier to either dreaming or to achieving. Countless models have shown us the way. Peter Mark Roget was first a Doctor in the 1800's; only after retirement at the age of 61 did he begin to work on the first edition of his 'Thesaurus." It took him 12 years; little did he know that "his little tool" would survive into the next millenium! Grandma Moses started painting at age 80. She created 25 percent of her famous paintings as a centenarian. Furthermore, hardship is no inhibitor of dreaming and achievement: "When a man is determined, what can stop him? Cripple him and you have a Sir Walter Scott. Put him in a prison cell and you have a John Bunyon. Bury him in the snows of Valley Forge and you have a George Washington. have him born in abject poverty and you have a Lincoln. Put him in the grease pit of a locomotive roundhouse and you have a Walter P. Chrysler. Make him second fiddle in an obscure South African orchestra and you have a Toscanini. The hardships of life are sent not... to crush, but to challenge." That was from Reader's Digest, April 1995, page 33. So what dreams might be tugging at the sleeve of your heart right now? Perhaps your dream list looks like a different job, or further schooling, selling the farm (or buying a farm!), starting your own business, backpacking in the Andes, learning to dance or swim or speak a different language. Whatever items compose your list, be done with excuses. It's time to stop simmering and start cooking!

Feb. 26, 2005

Feb. 26, 2005 - A 'Fabulous After 50' Person Should Wear A Smile © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ What should a Fabulous after 50 person wear? A smile! A smile is the very best facelift. We all benefit from a face lift, and this one is painless, non-invasive and free. The corners of the mouth, curved upward with a pleasant expression on the face, gives a favorable, approachable appearance. To appear cheerful cloaks the face with youth dew. Thinking a smile all the time will keep your face youthful. The laugh lines around the eyes move upward as the sparkle of the eyes beam radar rays of happiness to the world. A big smile moves the face muscles, lips, eyes, even the ears, upward. A perfect face lift! "Wrinkles should merely indicate where smiles have been," said Samuel Clemens. When a smile turns into a ha, ha, hee hee and a ho ho, endorphines juice the brain to promote a natural high, signaling the brain that life is good. The Bible tells us that laughter is the best medicine. The evidence proves that nature installed laughing software into our body to help nurture and keep it healthly. A smile is contagious. The line of a song, "Smile and the whole world smiles with you," is so true. Try walking up the street with a huge smile on your face. Watch as the people meeting you on the other side of the street turn on their own smiles. A smile lifts the spirit. "Mirror mirror on the wall, who's the fairest of them all?" The mirror will invariably answer, "The Fabulous after 50 person with a smile." Stand in front of a mirror. Look at your natural face and smile BIG. Do you see the face lift? Here's what Wilbur Nesbit said about a smile: "It's full of worth and goodness too, Manly kindness lent, It's worth a million dollars. And it doesn't cost a cent." The logo for the fast food chain of Hardees is a little smiling star and is definitely a spirit-lifter. Recently, eating a famous Hardees biscuit while sitting in my car in the parking lot, I observed a lady whom I knew had recently widowed. Walking into Hardees she looked sad; however, when she returned to her car she had a smile on her face, swinging a smiling star paper bag filled with breakfast. So, smile, you're on candid camera!

Mar. 3, 2005

Mar. 3, 2005 - Don't Forget To Let The Child Inside You Have Lots Of Fun © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ Perhaps one group that most shouts "Celebration," is the Red Hat Society. When we get to be Fabulous after 50, we have a desire to belong and in the Red Hat Society, everyone belongs. It's a friendship club, travel club, support system and laugh factory. The only requirement is to have fun, because the club is all about fun and friendship after 50. In her book, "The Red Hat Society," Sue Ellen Cooper, founder, tells how she formed the group. Even its origins are festive. While visiting Tuscon, Ariz., with her husband, she bought a red fedora in a thrift shop. Weeks later, for her friend Linda Murphy's birthday, she gave her a joke gift - a cute red bowler. Cooper included a copy of Jenny Joseph's poem, "Warning," which begins: "When I am an old woman, I shall wear purple, with a red hat which doesn't go, and doesn't suit me." The gift was such a hit, her friends expected it when they turned 50. The next they knew, they were shopping for purple dresses and red hats. In April 1998, Sue Ellen and her friends wore their purple dresses and red hats to a tea room inside the Springfield Banquet Center. The group of friends named Sue Ellen Queen Mother for thinking of such a fun party. So much fun, that Queen Mother and her friends knew they would celebrate life in this manner again. At that tea room, this group became the Red Hat Society. Through email and cell phone, the news of the Red Hat Society got around. When the Orange County Register placed the Red Hat Society on the front page, it was picked up by the major wire services and the Red Hat Society became a household word in America. Sue Ellen writes, "All people need a place to belong, a place where they feel they fit in without trying to hard. The Red Hat Society aspires to be such a place for the increasing number of women who are entering mid-life determined to savor every minute of their existence. Will we manage to change the world? Maybe. Maybe not. But we know we will manage to make some changes in our own lives. We are not done!" Neither are my readers. In fact, we are just beginning a new voyage into a new season, filled with excitement and verve, wow and wonder, new horizons, and thrilling returns on our investment in life. Life is good. We are royalty. Let's celebrate! Fifty is fabulous.

Mar. 10, 2005

Mar. 10, 2005 - The Storms Of Aging In Our Lives © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ Are the storms of aging producing sky-high waves from the sea of life, waves that threaten to capsize you? One way to stop the raging waves of aging is to make each day a holiday and each minute banquet. This sounds like the principle of renewal to me. We feast by letting God renew us day by day, calming the age wave, as we choose our heart's focus. Consider the words from the Book of Life. "Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So, we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." 2Corinthians 5:1 NIV A new day is dawning. Let your heart be encouraged. When the storms of life hit you (and they will slap the sides of your boat, splashing into your life) never waver, pray for sea legs and hold only the captain's wheel. Jesus is the One who quiets the sea, who bids the storms to hush. Stand firm in Him and His power. During our golden, graying years we must keep moving from life to life, watching for the sunrise even in the darkest night, waiting for the calm that comes inevitably after the storm. The Rev. Grady Nutt, formerly of television's "Hee-Haw," spoke a few years ago at a banquet in Cullman. His topic was "Live Every Day Like It Would Be Your Last." He practiced what he preached. Flying home that night, his small plane crashed. God took the Rev. Nutt to his heavenly home. Heaven is the only certainty for our future. Life on this earth is fragile as a flower. The darkness and despair will wilt it. The sunshine of joy will make it bloom. Though the nighttime is dark, the sun rises each morning with healing in its wings. (Excerpt from Shirley's new book, "Sensational after 60")

Mar. 17, 2005

Mar. 17, 2005 - Winds Of March Like Life © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - 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, raising it against the wind. Like the kite flying in March, life often flies higher when headed into storm winds. One often finds God's mercy concealed within every storm cloud of life. We feel His grace flowing beneath every crosscurrent. When the winds of adversity bow 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. I planted my first daffodil bulbs earlier this year. What joy this morning, walking down my front walk, as I gazed at the beautiful yellow flowers blowing in the wind. Wise Old King Solomon said, "...the winter is past... the flowers appear on 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 appears 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." Saint Patricks Day is celebrated March 17 to honor the Christian missionary to Ireland, who used the shamrock to explain the idea of the Trinity, God - the Father, God the Son, God the Holy Spirit. Hope your day is shamrock blessed and rainbow bright.

Mar. 24, 2005

Mar. 24, 2005 - Millenium Moments Rediscovered © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ The following is a morning prayer from my millenium diary that appears in my newest book, "Sensational after 60." Lord, I have moved around the four seasons of the circle of life 62 times. This life You gave me is awesome. You have given me a beautiful ability to enjoy life, have a passion for life, and celebrate life. Thank you, your Majesty! I will "rejoice in the Lord always." Today I feel the Wow factor in my life. I do not think in terms of number of years lived, but in living each day to the fullest. Each day I reinvent myself. Living, not aging, is my focus. My plan is to be perpetual and incessant. To keep moving and rev uP my dreams. If I enjoy this life, what ecstacy heaven will be! God says in Isaiah, "I created you and have cared for you since before you were born. 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 46:3-4 NLT) New millenium seniors are helping write a golden chapter for aging Americans and all generations who will follow. We are expanding our youth corridor with defensive aging. We are involved with the world around us. We are staying healthy by practicing good habits and nutrition. We keep raising the bar to exceed sensational expectations. We are striving for ageless living and endless energy. We are pushing the aging envelope to the limit. What a great time in history to be marching toward the age of 65. Two-thirds of all the people who have ever lived to age 65 are alive today, according to an item in Life Wise Magazine. We are building our aging life on a faith that is eternal, on the God who never ages, who lives outside the box of time. Jesus is turning my life and my family from water into wine - the beginning of miracles.

Mar. 31, 2005

Mar. 31, 2005 - Shine While Unwrapping Gift Of Each New Day © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ I am reading the book "Shine," by Larry A. Thompson, an acclaimed Hollywood film producer and personal manager to over 200 stars. This author states most of us use10 percent of our ability and leave 90 percent inside yelling to get out. Thompson's mother told him when he was a boy, "I want you to be somebody - somebody important. I have so much faith in you, I went to Memphis and bought a new dress, put it under the bed in a box to wear when you invite me to Hollywood to meet the stars and take me to the Academy Awards on the night you win one." His mother planted a seed that grew into a giant Hollywood film producer. She gave him a goal to reach for. She wore the beautiful dress that was in a box under her bed when her son won an Academy Award. God has placed in each of us many talents, abilities and desires. Being Fabulous after 50, you have recognized your own innate abilities, personality, and charisma that make you unique, special and fulfilled. Your DNA, special talents and abilities have been recognized by those around you. You may be a great cake baker, a computer whiz, social butterfly, teacher, inspirational leader - the list goes on and on. When your talents are accompanied by skill, training, passion and persistence, you will shine! When you focus on what you are good at, what you enjoy, what makes you productive, happy and fulfilled, you are in your flow! Are you in your flow? For 15 years I have had a passion to encourage people over 50. With persistence, I wrote two books, "Fabulous after 50," and "Sensational after 60." Today, I am enjoying the pizzazz of promoting these books. One of my speeches is titled, "Passion Plus Persistence Equals Pizzazz." Today I enjoy unwrapping the gift of each new day as I am living in my flow of life. Talent, skill, education, passion, persistence, and flow will keep you moving upward and forward in your aging life.

Apr. 7, 2005

Apr. 7, 2005 - Igniting Fire For God © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ A line from a favorite hymn reads,"it only takes a spark to get a fire going," describes the life of Pope Paul II. Rome's modern Pope lit the hope of Catholics and non-Catholics alike as he advocated the liberation of the human spirit. His death, April 2, at the age of 84, is mourned all over the world because he traveled extensively taking his portable altar with him. The longest serving Pope of the 20th Century bridged the new millenium with this statement, "We are beginning to write another page in history. Last night, we looked at the past, how the world was when the second milleniumn began. Today, beginning the year 2000, we cannot but question ourselves about the future - what direction will the great human family take in this new stage of history." (USA Today, Jan. 1, 2000). At his inauguration in 1978, he proclaimed his motto: "Do not be afraid." His faith, (which included six hours a day in prayer), his rural Polish upbringing, and being a soldier in World War II, tempered him as a man of steel. His motto is much needed in our world today. He was God's man in the world. Being engaged with the word without becoming worldly was his signature. His friends called him John Wayne. He loved drama, kayaking and skiing. His love of God. love of life, and love of people gave him a charisma that lit the fire of the world. Don't miss your moment to ignite someone's fire for God.

Apr. 14, 2005

Apr. 14, 2005 - Recipes From My Sister © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ My sister, Debra K. Goodwin, Ph.D., R.D. is an Assistant Professor of Nutrition among her many other duties as a freelance writer and community speaker. For several years she combined her love of cooking with a quest for health and authored a column, "Lighten uP." In that column she modified readers' favorite recipes into healthier versions. here are a few of those recipes.        Creamed Spinach I package of frozen spinach and 4 tablespoons low-fat cream cheese. Prepare the spinach by package directions. When spinach is cooked, stir in cream cheese (1 cup equals 2 vegetables and 315mg calcium)        Easy Chicken and Broccoli Stir-fry 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 2 packages of frozen brocolli spears, 1/2 onion sliced, 1 clove garlic, 2-3 teraspoons olive oil, 1/4 cup peach preserves, salt and pepper to taste. In a large wok, saute onions and garlic in olive oil. Slice chicken breasts into paper thin portions and add to wok. Cook until chicken is no longer pink. Add broccoli spears, cook and stir for approxiamately 10 minutes. Once the broccoli is tender crips, remove from heat and add peach preserves, tossing until coated. Serve alone as an entree or over steamed brown rice. Makes 4 servings. Each serving equals 1 meat, 2 vegetable and fiber.        Fruity Yogurt Parfait 1 cup of chopped mixed fresh fruit, 1 cup light flavored yogurt, 1 cup nut and raisan trail mix. Layer fruit, yogurt, and trail mix in a parfait glass. Makes 2 servings. Each serving equals 1 fruit, 150mg calcium and important fibers and phytochemicals.

Apr. 21, 2005

Apr. 21, 2005 - Ageless Living Is Endless Energy © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ Energy is a hot commodity for the Fabulous after 50. To keep your energy raging, keep moving, have a passion, challenge your brain daily, believe II Timothy 1:7 (KJV), "For God has not given us the spirit of fear, but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind." According to a Jan. 25 USA Today article, "The Albert Einstein study found that the most active seniors, both mentally and physically, reduced their risk of developing dementia by 63 percent, compared with the least active seniors." Alzheimer's prevention might be as simple as having as much fun as you can, twirling around the dance floor, following your bliss, keeping your mind in motion, reading several books a week (especially the Bible) and keeping your social life hot. The 76 million Baby-Boomers plus the senior boom fuels the number of people over 50 to the largest segment of our society. Traveling around the country promoting my new book, "Sensational after 60," I observe more people over 50 dating than the younger crowd.On a cruise ship, I see more gray hair than blonde, brunettes or redheads. Look at our world leaders. Most are over 50. We are becoming an ageless society with power, style and vitality. A few years ago, I heard Norman Vincent Peale speak. At 90 years old, he gave a rip-roaring speech, "Seven Ways to Renew Your Energy." Here they are: Strive for wholeness, think positively, read the book of energy, the Bible, overcome unhealthy habits, develope a calm center, use the power of affirmation and joy, and keep interested in life.

Apr. 28, 2005

Apr. 28, 2005 - High Tea With The First Lady Of Alabama © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ Our great First Lady of  Alabama, Patsy Riley, invited women of Alabama to enjoy high tea with her recently under a huge white tent in the garden of the Governor's Mansion. All the attendees were dressed to the nines, wearing beautiful hats and Southern charm. The First Lady has a heart for restoring the Hill House, the sister house of the Governor's Mansion. All funds raised at this exquisite high tea will go to the Alabama Executive Mansion Foundation, who will oversee the project. The extraordinary gala, catered by Leslie Bailey, of Silver Spoon Caterers in Montgomery, made me feel like Miss Scarlett at Tara. While beautiful harp music floated through the electric mood, and spring flowers from the garden perfumed the air, a fashion show filled with passion and taste of the simple, elegant styles of spring from the New Hob Nob, delighted the guests. And, hats, were the talk of the day. Patsy Riley gave a short welcome. She shone as she told everyone she was glad they stopped in to have a spot of tea with her. "We like to get dressed up and wear beautiful hats," she said. "We have a lot of hard breaks in this life, so we look for a time when we can be joyful and celebrate. We are here today because we are the daughters of the King of Kings. We are having this tea party to glorify Him." After high tea, guests moved to the gift shop, and since the First Lady had asked each guest to bring their favorite tea cup, she autographed them sitting on the porch of the Governor's Mansion gift shop. Inside the gift shop, Leslie Bailey, author of "Hey Leslie,  What's Cooking," autographed her new cookbook. The day was an unforgettable high tea, with a lovely First Lady, and a party to celebrate life and it gave me more zeal to be Fabulous after 50.

May 5, 2005

May 5, 2005 - When Grandmother Becomes Mother Again © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ When Alice's daughter died of cancer, Alice took over the role of mother. At 81, she makes sure the kids have clean clothes for school, presses her check against a forehead to check for fever, schedules physicals and meets teachers. And she prays over the children holding them close both phyiscally and spiritually, inviting God to help the family grieve over the enormous loss the mother's death brings, and find life again. She is tired. Her heart aches. Her stress levels are elevated. She has revised her hopes and dreams for the last third of her life. Her finances are stretched taut, but her new responsibility cram-jams her life with meaning, with a reason to get up in the morning. Alice is not alone. According to the American Association of Retired Persons and infomration from the 2000 census, 4.5 million children under the age of 18 live in grandparent-headed homes. That's 6.3 percent of the total number of children under 18 in America. Churches, hospitals and support groups are coming alongside these valiant grandparents, offering counseling, companionship and a place to explore the pain and possibilities of a second round of parenting. Message boards and on-line groups offer an exchange of ideas and a place to vent, a spot to give and receive encouragement in a hard new reality. "We might have chosen a different set of circumstances for our child and grandchildren, but we are glad to care for our grandkids this way," these second-time parents seem to say. If you are in a situation, please don't try to do it alone. Find people to support and encourage you, give you a breather, and swap ideas. And you know that God is dancing with joy over you as you care for these precious children He has entrusted to you. (This is an excerpt from Shirley's new book, 'Sensational after 60.")

May 12, 2005

May 12, 2005 - The Unbridled Spirit Of Aging © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ Did you watch the 131st Kentucky Derby on May 7? The announcer came on the air, proclaiming the "unbridled spirit of the Kentucky Derby" had saturated the place that day. The excitement, pressure, zeal, and enthusiasm that filled Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky produced a natural high for everyone involved in selecting the superstar. As Bellamy Road, the 5-2 favorite shot out of the starting gate, I kept my eyes on the beautiful creature. However, I was captivated by Giacomo, as he raced to the finish line to become the Kentucky Derby winner. He displayed the unbridled spirit. Researching the positive side of aging while writing Fabulous after 50 and Sensational after 60, I have become aware of the unbridled spirit of aging America. "Now the Lord is that Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty." II Corinthians 3:17. The aging baby boomers are teaching us that Mother Nature and Father Time do not give one an inevitable sentence of growing old. Living old is a choice we make. Or, we have the liberty to stay young at heart, body and soul. Searching for the Fountain of Youth, we may retire from a vocation but never from life. Nobody grows old by living a certain number of years but by giving up a passion for life, a passion for a dream, a passion for love, a passion for beauty, a passion for an unbridled spirit. Just as his unbridled spirit made Giacomo the winner of the Kentucky Derby, the unbridled spirit of aging America will allow the Fabulous after 50 to cross the finish line of life as a winner.

May 19, 2005

May 26, 2005

May 26, 2005 - A Book Worth Reading © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ Martha Bolton, author of "Didn't My Skin Used to Fit?" was a staff writer for Bob Hope, Phyllis Diller and Ann Jillian. I would like to share a few of the quotes from her book today. "You know you're getting old when getting in the groove means your walker hit a crack in the sidewalk." "You know you're getting old when the brand new house you remember moving into as a child is now protected by the historical society." "The tragedy of life is not that it ends so soon, but that we wait so long to begin it." "We make a living by what we get, we make a life by what we give." - Winston Churchill "You know you're getting old when you find yourself wishing recliners had ejection seats." "You know you're growing old when you need a running start to go for a walk." "You know you're growing old when your grandchild asks you to close your eyes so she can give you a surprise, and you don't wake up until the following afternoon." "You know you're getting old when you start buying Geritol by the six-pack." (If you do not know the product Geritol, you're too young to read this column!) "Life is a big canvas, and you should throw all the paint on it you can." - Danny Kaye "And in the end, it's not the years in your life that count. It's the life in your years." - Abraham Lincoln

Jun. 2, 2005

Jun. 2, 2005 - Life's Lessons From The Eagle © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ The enormous strength of the eagle gives him the ability to fly above storms. His eye-sight is eight times more powerful than humans. With his keen vision and infallible sense of direction, the big bird sees the storm approaching long before the storm arrives. Likewise, at age 62, one is equipped with a God-given spiritual insight, intuitiveness, and wisdom to see the storms of life approaching. The eagle sits patiently, unafraid as the great storm rumbles closer. When the wind begins to howl and the rain begins to fall, the eagle launches from his nest high on a cliff. He will spread his majestic wings, spanning six to ten feet, lock them into ascending position, and fly into the face of the storm, using the strong updrafts of the wind as he circles round and round until he rises up over the storm into the bright sunshine above the clouds. As we age, the storm winds of life make us fly higher into the warm sunshine of God's love. While we might prefer dead calm, it is impossible to fly as high in the stillness as in the midst of the storm. I have learned that God's mercy is concealed within every storm cloud. His grace flows beneath every crosscurrent if wind. Faith in a living God gives us the freedom to soar sensationally after 60. I hope each and every one of you had a wonderful Memorial Day and remembered our soldiers both past and present. Let's pray they also possess this great strength the eagles possess.

Jun. 9, 2005

Jun. 9, 2005 - Celebrate Life As It Happens © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ Do you live your life as a celebration? Living life as a celebration every minute of every day means the party is today, not a preparation for a party someday. Celebrate the indomitable spirit God put inside you. Betty Nesmith Graham, a Dallas secretary, single mom, and amateur artist in 1956, discovered she could mix her paint to match the color of paper on which she was typing. She called it Mistake Out. Those of us who typed on the old Royal typewriter called it liquid paper. When Betty was fired from her secretarial job, she started mixing the Mistake Out with her electric mixer in her kitchen. Her young son and his friends delivered it to the buyers. Betty Nesmith Graham celebrated life as it happened. She sold her Liquid paper Corporation for $47.5 million in 1980. Her indomitable spirit, her life, her created product, her success were "No Mistake." So, celebrate your talents! Celebrate your interests. God planted those interests inside you. Pursuing your interests will enrich your life and the life of others. Celebrate your loved ones. My family and friends celebrated the graduations of my oldest granddaughter, Michelle Corcoran, for three days this past weekend in Cincinnati, Ohio. Being the star, this beautiful girl shined. Celebrate your life now! Life is short.

Jun. 16, 2005

Jun. 16, 2005 - Living Healthy Lifestyle Results In Large Benefits © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ Total health is the result of a lifestyle combination of good nutrition, physical activity, and factors such as adequate sleep and rest, stress reduction, and meditation. When it comes to health, remember small changes in habits can result in large benefits. Being strong enough to have lived for 60 years is a milestone. "Win-win" aging gives a sense of invincibility, power and possibility. With exercise, diet, and positive attitude, the aging generation can retard or repel the ravages of disease, time, and gravity. These are the years to RE-SPARK! Let's throw retirement out of our vocabulary! Exchange old-timer for older and better. Forget about being on your last legs, and run forward to your golden years. Exercise until you change creaky and cranky to flexible and fun. With our health, and life in general, what we most fear rarely happens. "Only 10 percent of Americans 65 and over have a chronic health problem that restricts them from carrying on a major activity," one doctor told his patient, "You need to make a body plan, to keep everything up and running smoothly until the last years of your life." What will your body plan be. Can't keep the pace? Music helps us forget exercise agony and impacts our minds. In an Ohio State University study, people who listened to classical music while working out on a treadmill scored higher on a verbal ability test than when they exercised without the tunes. It's never too late to commit, to exercise, and age and infimity shouldn't stand in the way. A ftiness director recently designed a fitness regimen for 20 wheelchair bound nonagenarians at a local nursing home. After 16 weeks of moderate strength training, 19 of the 20 were able to spend at least part of the day out of their wheelchairs. One was strong enough to live independently again. Doctors and fitness experts say the message is obvious: Do whatever exercise you can, and get started right away! Exercise makes the most of your best! Keep moving. Now is the perfect time to begin. Increase your joy level with the golden egg of aging.

Jun. 23, 2005

Jun. 23, 2005 - Columnist Recommends "Cinderella Man" As Must See Movie © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ If anyone enjoys seeing movies, they will enjoy seeing the new movie, "Cinderella Man" which stars Russell Crowe and Renee Zellweiger in a true story about unconditional love and the power of the human spirit. Directed by Ron Howard, it took eight years to complete the story of boxer, James J. Braddock. During the Depression, the boxer battled his way from the welfare rolls and gathered the prize for the world heavyweight boxing champion. The story brings the viewer into the reality of the hard times with no food, and only the heat of the love between the man and wife and their three chuildren. The strength of that love at home is what glues the film together. Zellweiger plays the role of a devoted wife, loving mother, and keeper of the home to the hilt. Russell Crowe came alive on the screen as the boxer and family man, unwilling to compromise and remaining tenacious. He floats like a butterfly and stings like a bee in the scene at Madison Square Garden. However, the movie is not for the faint-hearted. The boxing scenes are bloody, especially the world championship fight at Madison Square Garden in New York. The story of the boxing champion proved to be a role model for all downtrodden Americans. The spiritual uplift of a close-knit family and of American decency will give the viewer a thrill.

Jun. 30, 2005

Jun. 30, 2005 - Wishing Everyone A Happy July 4TH © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ Happy Fourth of July. I think it would have been fun to have witnessed the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. John Adams, one of the signers of that document said, "I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival. It ought to be commemorated as the day of deliverance, by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forever more." Just as Independence Day was first observed in Philadelphia, the United States today considers Independence Day a time to rejoice. I'm glad you are celebrating the birthday of our great nation in your own special way. Since that signing, many great Fourth of July celebrations have been enjoyed by families, communities, and states. Freedom liberates individuals to be all that God has created within each of us. We love our freedom so much we are willing to send our troops into Iraq to help them escape from tyranny to form their own democracy. Many of us watched the Rev. Billy Graham preside over his last crusade for Christ this week in New York City. This giant religious leader proclaimed many times, "Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty." (Galations 2:4). We celebrate liberty this week as one of our most prized blessings.

Jul. 7, 2005

Jul. 14, 2005

Jul. 14, 2005 - Stepping Outside The Comfort Zone © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ Faith and energy prime us for adventure. Women (and people) who make life an adventure don't grow older - they grow sensational. Minnie Pearl mastered sensational living - she was indeed a real pearl. Her straw hat may have been worth $1.98, but she was priceless. She died at the age of 83 and I still miss turning on the television to her greeting, "How-deee! I'm just so proud to be here." She filled her life - and the lives of others - with faith and humor. I first met Minnie Pearl at a prayer luncheon in Guntersville in 1971. She autographed my copy of her cookbook, Minnie Pearl Cooks, with "Happy Cooking!" She told the ladies at that luncheon that her philosophy continued to be, "to brighten the corner where you are." She said, "Laughter is a drug and I'm totally addicted." I met her again when my second book, Spiritual Sparks for Busy Women, was published in 1982. The Grand Ol' opry star interviewed me on her noon show, live on MSM-TV in Nashville. She breezed into the studio looking sophisticated in her bright yellow suit and high-heeled shoes, with her hair swept into an up-do. When she entered, the studio glowed with sunshine of her up-beat attitude. The audience erupted with laughter at her quick wit. Her positive spirit and her love for life were contagious. Minnie Pearl's sophistication and down-to-earth character, her warmth and humor, her dignity snd charm, broke down barriers around the nation. Born Sarah Ophelia Colley in Centerville, Tenn., she rose to fame wearing a dime store hat and saying, "How-deee!" Her rise included a starring role on the popular television show, Hee Haw. In 1975, she was inducted into Country Music Hall of Fame. The belle of Grinder's Switch stretched outside of her comfort zone when she left her cultured upbringing and stepped on the boards as a homespun humorist. Her greeting cut across artifice and gave her access to people's hearts. As long as we live, we have choices: to be sensational, or to stagnate; to move torward magnificence, or toward mediocrity; purpose or petering out or puttering about. Thankfully, the marriage of time and experience, believing in a living God who loves us extravagantly, stretching out of our comfort zone, making the years count, wrapping ourselves in a cloak of zeal, and remembering that eveything old is new again; these choices will distinguish us as Sensational after 60.

Jul. 21, 2005

Jul. 21, 2005 - Mid-Life Years Crackle With Adventure And Excitement © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ Life is certainly crackling with adventure and excitement for many of you over 50 people. "Probably the happiest period in life most frequently is in middle age, when the eager passions of youth are cooled, and infirnities of age not yet begun; as we see that the shadows, which at morning and evening so large, almost entirely disappear at mid-day." Thomas Arnold Mid-Life could be compared with noon. A large segment of society are living to be 100 years old. 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, being torch bearers into the millenium, makes mid-lifers 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 professionals in my field was real amd 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 a 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 the proper mind set, positive attitude, practice of personal excellance, and transdcendent faith, you'll become brighter. The marriage of experience and mature faith gives you the opportunity to enjoy a rich older life.

Jul. 28, 2005

Jul. 28, 2005 - Diamonds To Live By © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ How old would you be if you didn't know how many years you have lived? We who are Fabulous after 50 and Sensational after 60 are at the noon of our lives if we live to be 100-120. At noon the sun is overhead. There is no shadow. I think of a 50 or 60 year old person at a time in life that can crackle with excitement and adventure. The shadow of youth, growing into an adult and maybe raising a family is past. The shadow of frailty of old age has not set in. The stage of age is set for you. Play on it! "Probably the happiest period in life most frequently is in middle age, when the eager passions of youth are cooled, and infirmities of age not yet begun; as we see that the shadow, which at morning and evening so large, almost entirely disappear at mid-day," said Thomas Arnold. My desire is to give my readers three diamonds to live by: (1) Think Big, (2) Push the Envelope, and (3) Have Passion. Thinking Big, Ward Burt, saxophone player at La Strada's Restaurant learned to play the sax again after a boating accident took away four of his fingers on his right hand. Pushing the Envelope, Lance Armstrong stood in the winner's circle in Paris after winning his seventh consecutive Tour de France. A simple yellow plastic band on his wrist , the Livestrong cancer-awareness bracelet gives all people hope. His greatest win was being a cancer survivor. We Fabulous after 50 people should be Pushing the Envelope. God has put into each of us seeds of greatness. We use only 10 percent of the talents He has planted inside us. Ninety percent is screaming to get out. Having a Passion, a Fire in the Belly, pushed Lance Armstrong to accomplish an amazing seven wins. What is your Passion?

Aug. 4, 2005

Aug. 4, 2005 - Discover Creative Peaks By Re-Identifying Self © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ If this season of your life finds you staring into a large window of time after the children are grown and gone, or the career wandering, what about redirecting your gaze? This is your time. Like Lauren Bacall, re-identify yourself. Refuse to be a has-been. Become a "will-be." Do not allow society's standards of beauty and youth and acceptability to define or limit you. This time could be your creative peak. Diane Sawyer, hostess of Good Morning America, on ABC, said, "We should be incubating something new - a second career, a more passionate hobby for the later years - just to make sure that we're stretching and growing and not repeating ourselves." At 60-something, I feel as I am climbing a mountain to my creative peak. My Fourth Book, Fabulous after 50, has given me an opportunity to stretch out of my comfort zone, as I enjoy promoting around the nation. I am learning to speak on my feet in front of television cameras, to be articulate over the phone, to broadcast through radio air-waves, all while honing my skills as I continue to speak and travel. Constant challenges jump start my creativity and keep me charged. Though not everyone is a writer or speaker, we are all creative individuals. How can we not be, as children of the Creator God, who plants our creativity inside us? With creativity as our birthright, we can continue to cultivate and grow the special gifts He gives... "And I (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 KJV). When we cultivate those gifts, we grow and others benefit as well. But when we as aging poeple do not give out, producing what God has planted inside us, we wither on the vine. We miss a blessing, as do others. Talents and gifts, regardless of size and shape, multiply when used and shared in grace. Are you cheating someone out of those blessings of your talents? What are those gifts, and what do you need to do to incorporate them into your daily life? More education, more training? A friend to hold you accountable? Now is a great time to explore your possibilities, dream awhile, get more education or training, take opportunities that will boost you to your creative peak.

Aug. 11, 2005

Aug. 11, 2005 - Life Is Brief © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ ABC nightly news anchor for many years, Peter Jennings, my role model as an extraordinary journalist, speaker, and humanitarian, succumbed to lung cancer this week. The nation mourns as we feel we have lost a dear friend who came into our homes each night to give us up-to-date news with power, style, and accuracy. We watched on television as he covered many historic events as they happened, giving us a feeling we were participating in the event. He kept us connected to what was happening in our world. Since Peter Jennings and I are the same age, my thoughts turn to the fragility of life. Life is brief. It can be compared to a shadow. As a child, I remember walking in the sun, watching my shadow follow me. Jumping behind a large tree, my shadow would disappear. In James 4:14 of the King James Vesrion, we read, "Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away." Peter Jennings has touched our lives and our world, leaving us better by having known him. God planted seeds of greatness inside. Peter Jennings shared his talents with the world.

Aug. 18, 2005

Aug. 18, 2005 - A Time For Hope And Courage © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ A Reader's Digest story many years ago about two frogs has given me courage in life. Two frogs accidentally jumped into a bucket of cream. One frog told the other they might as well as give up because they were goners. The other frog told him to keep on paddling, they would get out of the mess somehow. The first frog gave up and said it was no use, the cream was too thick too swim, too thin to jump, and too slippery to crawl. he decided to give up and promptly sank to the bottom of the bucket and drowned. But, the second frog kept on paddling and by morning was perched on a mass of butter, which he had churned himself. Like the second frog, those of us who were raised on the cotton farms of Alabama, have survived disease and accidents to become Fabulous after 50, know about frogs and remember our moms churning butter from cream. We have practiced the principle of working long enough to become winners. As we enjoy our freedom today and struggle to keep that freedom for our children and grandchildren, we realize the symbol of America is the eagle, not the oyster. One unknown Author penned, "The Oyster and the Eagle." "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 defiance at the element. He goes about his own business, building his own life. When aroused, he's a vicious foe to his enemies." I recently enjoyed an interview with Dr. Freda Crews on her television program, Time for Hope. In America, it's time for hope. I hope you follow the example of the second frog and keep on paddling. Look to the eagle for your example of strength.

Aug. 25, 2005

Aug. 25, 2005 - Role Models For Successful Aging © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ To age outside the box with power, style and vitality, I look for role models. I have added two new people to my role models list - Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice and actress, Diane Keaton. Who could have guessed a little black girl from Birmingham, Alabama in 1954, is today the most powerful woman in the world? She was named after the italian musical term con dolcezza meaning "with sweetness." During the 1950s, little black girls could not eat at Woolworth's Five and Dime store in Birmingham. Recently, for Cond's 50th birthday, 100 guests including President and First Lady Bush, surprised the Secretary of State with a huge birthday bash at the U. S. Embassy. Only in America could a little black girl from Birmingham, Alabama become the nations first black female Secreatarty of State. My second new role model , actress Diane Keaton splashed her million dollar smile across the magazine, Vim and Vigor, a publication of  Memorial Health. The caption read, "Natural Woman - nobody wants to grow older - but Diane Keaton shows us the way to graceful aging." She is about to turn 60 and is enjoying her age. Her recipe for aging naturally and gracefully is to maintain a healthly diet, exercise regularly, not drink excessively, not smoke, stay engaged mentally, stay involved in the world, and get enough sleep. We have watched her through the last 30 years age with power, style and vitality, marching across our movie screens in such movies as Annie Hall, The Godfather, and her new release, Mad Money. Still working, superstar Diane Keaton is just proud she can walk and work. As long as your body works, age is just a state of mind.

Sept. 1, 2005

Sept. 1, 2005 - Today Is A Gift To Be Unwrapped With Great Care © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ I received a birthday card this week from my best friend in grade nine at Albertville High School. Myra Wright Ragsdale never fails to send me a beautiful birthday card each year. The card read, "Today is a gift, so unwrap it with great care. Be surprised by all that it brings and treasure it always." I was reminded of my drive on Monday from Augusta, GA. with the wind, rain and evacuees from Hurricane Katrina. I had noticed a dozen utility trucks in a row in front of me on U.S. Interstate 20. From my rearview mirror, I could see 12 more trucks behnd me. My eyes filled with tears when truth filled my heart. My prayers go out to all who have experienced loss during the devastating hurricane. We will all also miss our favorite tourist spot, New Orleans. Americans will certainly experience stress in our economy. America is the land of the free, but in times of trouble, we all pull together to help each other. As I watched the devastation of nature with the hurricane, I was once again reminded of my birthday card. I was also reminded of a Bible verse in James 4:14. "Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your Life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away. (KJV). How very true ! Life is truly a gift.

Sept. 8, 2005

Sept. 8, 2005 - Over The Rainbow © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ Katrina stormed ashore to devastate the South. We have not experienced such destruction since the Civil War. Many people experienced death, destruction, loss and grief first-hand. Others witnessed the unfolding of the hurricane's wrath through the media. As the South has struggled in God's loving arms, we have witnessed heroism, strength of character, unselfish help and internal strength. We have felt despair, but we will pick ourselves up and keep moving forward to prevail in this hard time. A southern lady interviewed on NBC news said, "We're valiant people in this part of the world. We will endure. We're alive, that's all that matters." We're looking for a rainbow as we begin to rebuild. The song, "Over the Rainbow," which was voted number one for the 20th century, expresses it all: "When the world is a hopeless jumble and the raindrops tumble all around, Heaven opens a magic lane. When all the clouds darken up the skyway, there's a rainbow highway to be found, leading from your window pane to a place behind the sun, just a step beyond the rain. Somewhere over the rainbow, way up high, there's a land that I've heard of once in a lullaby. Somewhere over the rainbow, skies are blue; and the dreams that you dare to dream really do come true."

Sept. 15, 2005

Sept. 15, 2005 - A Time For Hope For Sand Mountain © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ All of us who have visited New Orleans have special memories of the place. I've had many fun times there, the most exciting being the launching of my book, Fabulous after 50 by New Leaf Press in 2000. After working on the book for 10 years and 25 rejections, this was certainly a high time for me. While in New Orleans, I enjoyed breakfast at Cafe Du Monde, the original French Market coffee stand, serving cafe au lait and hot beignets 24 hours a day, year round. This familiar landmark has been located in the French Quarter since 1862. I bought a coffee cup and brought it home as a souvenir. Since Katrina stormed ashore destroying the city, I'm drinking my coffee each morning from this special cup and praying for all the victims of this tragic storm. We are mourning the devastation of our southern playground, the southern shores. Watching the pictures on TV, newspapers and magazines, I find myself weeping every day over the lost lives, disrupted lives and the massive destruction. Everyone's indomitable spirit shines forth as we help each other and the clean up begins. Americans are persistent and set goals to prevail. The readers of The Sand Mountain Reporter have certainly become involved as a massive effort from all individuals through local businesses, government agencies, churches, and charitable organizations have progressed. Hopefully, the silver lining of this great tradegy will be drawing us closer to each other and our creator. "Tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance proven character; and proven character, hope." Romans 5:3-4

Sept. 22, 2005

Sept. 22, 2005 - The Mystique Of Fall © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ I walked the track at Marshall Medical Center South in Boaz this morning. What a treat! The smell of fall penetrated the air as my breath came faster as I walked. The cool, early morning with the birds singing me a song gave my spirit a lift as well as my heart rate. As I walked, the early morning sunlight spread its rays across the sky like great golden fingers making my spirit fly so high. The brilliance of the sun pushed the harvest moon into a mere glimmer. Remember, exercise is the golden egg of aging. For those of you who would like to start walking when the weather becomes crisp with the fall breeze, this lovely track through the trees filled with brilliant colored leaves, squirrels scurrying around gathering nuts, and some nice wooden bridges across is a great place to get that energy raging. Of course, there are benches along the trail if you desire to sit and enjoy the mystique of the season. Dr. Ken Dychtwald appeared on Good Morning America this week. He is the President of Age Wave. He has written three books, Age Wave, Age Power, and his new book, The Power Years. These books give people over 50 the ability to see the mystique of the fall season of life. We are the first generation to have the prospect of living longer while living better. We are called the new old. Dr. Dychtwald said, "Eighty percent of baby boomers do not want to retire. They want to reinvent themselves." After 65 years of living, many are starting new careers, breaking out having fun, traveling, living in different locations, and making new friends. Celebrate the mystique of the fall season and the fall season of your life.

Sept. 29, 2005

Sept. 29, 2005 - French Women Don't Get Fat © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ In the book, "French Women Don't Get Fat: The Secret of Eating for Pleasure," by Mireille Guiliano, the author shares the secrets of the French paradox of how these women enjoy food and still stay slim and healthy. I thought our readers might enjoy some of these ideas. The author states the key is to learn how to get the most from the things they enjoy without depriving themselves. She emphasized feshness, variety, balance and pleasure and stated eating small portions of healthy food several times a day will keep one satisfied. Other tips are to never get hungry, eat on real plates, put one's utensils down after a few bites, and savor the food as it is eaten. By doing this, one enjoys the flavors, brilliant colors, and the smell. She also encourages individuals to eat slowly and eat small portions. Eating like the French takes time - time to shop, time to prepare the food, time to eat and enjoy and no eating in fast food restaurants or bringing food home to eat from a box. Eating shoukld be a ritual and there should be no television or newspapers at the meal. Some of the herbs in French cuisine are parsley, sweet basil, tarragon, thyme, lemon thyme, chervil, marjoram, oregano, and rosemary. Nutritious nuts are added to salads, fish, pasta, and deserts. Drinking as much water as possible is important. A glass of water before going to bed and another each morning when getting up is encouraged. The French highly ackowledge a mystique surrounding fabulous after 60 people. The author gives six suggestions for becoming a highly favored older person. They are to (1)  practice some routine physical exertion all your life. (2) Eat more fresh fruits and vegetables along with berries. Eat meat once a week and fish twice a week. Drink one glass of wine with dinner. Eat yogurt religiously. (3) Eat small portions of food. (4) Reserve rich desserts to special occassions and small portions. (5) Lubricate the skin morning and evening and add a tablespoon of walnut oil to your daily diet. (6) Drink lots of water.

Oct. 6, 2005

Oct. 6, 2005 - Great Ideas © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ Christopher Columbus' first voyage to America is one of the greatest events in history. His great idea was not to prove the world was round, but to establish a great city between the east and west for trade. His great adventure, motivated by God, gold, and spices, discovered America, a new land of opportunity. This great man is a role model for us today as we face many challenges in our great nation. He had great moral and physical courage. Again and again, he faced frightful storms on the sea and fought Indians and armed rebels. His tenacity was so great, he never gave up. Like Christopher Columbus, God has planted within each of us divine individual artistic talent, creativeess, inventive motivation, wisdom, understanding, knowledge and workmanship. To abort an idea God plants in your mind could be one of the greatest tragedies of your life. What if Columbus had aborted his dream of spreading Christianity, finding gold and new spices? You and I could have missed the opportunity to live in free America. The fabulous over 50 years create a time to pursue our very own great ideas. The same passion that fueled Columbus' energy gives the older citizen the courage to age brilliantly. As a nation, we are struggling in the aftermath of Katrina and Rita. I think of Columbus traveling to America during his first voyage in three small wooden ships, the Nina, the Pinta and the Santa Maria. He had no engines, no motor, just a compass and a few brave men, but he prevailed. With the indomitable spirit of the American people, we will prevail.

Oct. 13, 2005

Oct. 13, 2005 - Life Moves Forward © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ While reaching 50 often makes one cringe, it's an opportunity to reflect on the past, anticipate the future, and celebrate the present. Using the past as a platform to launch yourself into the future, blasting off the fireworks during the changes in midlife has the opportunity to catapult you onto a higher plane. Agatha Christie, at age 75, said, "I learned that one can never go back, that one should not ever try to go back; that the essence of life is going forward. Life is a really a one-way street." A good example of this is Sue Ellen Cooper, queen mother of The Red Hat Society. It all started with a simple gift. Sue Ellen gave a dear friend Linda Murphy a copy of the poem, "Warning," by British Author Jenny Joseph and a bright red vintage fedora to celebrate her 55th birthday in November 1997. "Waring" begins, "When I am an old woman I shall wear purple with red hat which doesn't go and doesn't suit me," and continues on to state that aging can be filled with many frivolous and feeing moments. The Red Hat Society officially formed in April of 1998 when Cooper and a group of five women, dressed in purple clothing and red hats, in the spirit of the poem, met for tea. This group of women became known as the founding chapter of Fullerton, CA. Currently, exalted queen mother Sue Ellen Cooper reaches more than 90,000 Red Hatters each week through the Friday broadcast, a personal E-Mail address, updating each member on the happenings of hatquarters and chapters all over the World. The Red Hat Society has grown to more than 41,000 chapters creating a world-wide sisterhood one million strong. I am a member of the Red Hat Chapter, The Guntersville Gussies. We have fun and fellowship after 50. Sue Ellen Cooper is the author of two must-read books, "The Red Hat Society Fun and Fellowship at 50," and "The Red Hat Society Laugh Lines (Stories of Inspiration and Hatitude.)" Sue Ellen Cooper will be my guest, Oct. 19, 2005 at 10am on my hour-long Live Internet Radio Show, "Aging Outside the Box-Fabulous Women Over 50". I invite you to listen in.

Oct. 20, 2005

Oct. 20, 2005 - Friendships Count © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ Midlife is a good time to examine our friendships. If we find ourselves constantly on the listening end, is the other person truly a friend? A friend really listens to us and doesn't feel obligated to immediately jump in with, "I know what you mean. Just the other day.." and grab back the converstional focus. Friends are there for the work and for the fun. Friends pick us up when we are down for the count, or if we're too heavy, they just get down alongside us. A real friend affirms us. Even though a senior may have high self-esteem, everyone looks for, and profits from affirmation. Friends energize us. Friends ask us hard questions, love us even we don't get the answers right, listen throughly, challenge us to live out our dreams and use our gifts, and encourage us to grow deeper. One of the best ways to grow is to seek out people who are role models for us - who challenge us to grow better as we grow older. Firends can also make for us what we don't have in our transient society - family. It's not to late to find a surrogate sister. The movie, "Steel Magnolias," grips the viewer with its theme of friendship. Olympia Dukakis, one of the co-stars, describes "the cement bond of friendship as a group of women move together through life's ups and downs, surrounding one another with support, love and humor." We each have a longing for a deeper connection. This great relational God, three-in-one, created us for relationships - with family, with friends, with Himself. He also created us to be mentors and role models for others in life.

Oct. 27, 2005

Oct. 27, 2005 - A Storm At Sea © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ Are the storms of aging producing sky-high waves from the sea of life, waves that threaten to capsize you? Such was the case for my friend and mentor, Kathleen Garrett. My petite, charming high school economics teacher and I were having lunch at a local restaurant, the Food Basket. Looking at her across the table, I knew she had been experiencing health problems.  "How are you feeling?" I asked. "You look great!" "My doctor at Mayo Clinic gave me a unique prescription," she said, her eyes twinkling. I must have looked puzzeled, because she continued, "He advised me to enhance the quality of my life by getting out of bed each morning and saying, "Make each day a holiday and each minute a banquet." This sounds like the principle of renewal to me: we feast by letting God renew us day by day, calming the raging waves, as we choose our heart's focus. A new day is dawning! Let your heart be encouraged. When the storms of life hit you - and they will slap the sides of your boat, splashing into your life - never waver, pray for sea legs, and hold onto the Captain's wheel. Jesus is the one who quiets the sea, who bids the storms to hush. Stand firm in Him and His power. During our golden, graying years we must keep moving from life to life, watching the sunrise even in the darkest night, waiting for the calm that comes, inevitably, after the storm. (Taken from Shirley Mitchell's latest book, "Sensational after 60")

Nov. 3, 2005

Nov. 3, 2005 - Parks An Inspiration For Seniors © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ In an effort to honor icon, senior citizen and inspirational leader Rosa Parks, those of us over 50 should renew our determination to live longer, better, and make a difference in the world. Parks, a 42-year-old seamstress in a Montgomery department store, boarded a bus on Dec. 1, 1955 to ride home from work. Her refusal to give her seat to a white man and move to the back of the bus ended with the U.S. Supreme Court ordering the integration of city buses. The decision paved the way for the ciivil rights movement. Now, at her death, she has become the first woman to lie in honor in the capital rotunda in Washington D.C. The media continues to tell us people are living longer and better. USA Today pictured a centenarian on the front page declaring many of us will live to be 100. With 79 million baby boomers entering the senior boom, it will catapult our population into a senior society. To be a happy centenarian, we should be building our lives and moving forward to becoming more of who we really are, not trying to go back to our lives when we were younger. We honor Rosa Parks for inspiring the world and set our own goals to follow her lead.

Nov. 10, 2005

Nov. 10, 2005 - The Art Of Giving Thanks © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ Family, faith, and freedom inspire thanks. People who have thankful hearts live happily with simple abudance. They are balcony people, not basement people. I am thankful to live in America. I'm thankful the editor of Godey's Lady's Book, Sarah Josepha Hale, promoted the idea of a national holiday for Thanksgiving and persuaded President Lincoln in 1863 to proclaim the last Thursday each November as Thanksgiving Day - 24 hours to focus on family, food, and fun. First Lady Laura Bush said Thanksgiving Day is her favorite holiday. She said she loved the simple and profound fact this unique time of gathering with family and friends is shared by all Americans and celebrated around the globe, whereever Americans may be. Thanksgiving is the perfect time to reflect and be thankful of our freedom. "I am especially thankful for the brave men and women of the United States armed forces who, throughout our country's history, have sacrificed so much to safeguard our freedoms and share them with others." The thankful hearts of the American people during these difficult days after such devastation from hurricanes and our involvement in the war, will change our fear into faith. I hope you and your family, however you celebrate, will give thanks to God for the gift of life and the opportunity to live in America.

Nov. 22, 2005

Nov. 22, 2005 - Thanksgiving Recipes From Shirley © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ Editor's Note: Although Shirley Mitchell frequently writes the Fabulous after 50 column on Thursdays, this week she is sharing with us some of her recipes for Thanksgiving. She has included Maw Maw Mitchell's Candied Sweet Potato recipe and Barbara Bush's Red, White and Blue Cobbler given to her by Althea Dennis. This week I am sharing some of my favorite recipes for Thanksgiving. Included are Maw Maw Mitchell's Candied Sweet Potato recipe and Barbara Bush's Red, White and Blue Cobbler given to her by Althea Dennis.        Maw Maw Mitchell's Sweet Candied Potatoes 7 medium-sized potatoes sliced in long strips 1 iron skillet with lid 2 cups sugar 1 tub (8oz.) margarine or butter Place fresh cut strips of sweet potatoes (no water) in skillet. Add 1 cup sugar and tub of butter. Cover with lid. Cook on top of stove.Simmer on low for 1 hour. Turn stove up to 2. Add second cup of sugar. Slow cook for for 2 hours. Stir occassionally (lighthly, the strips need to be whole when served). The longer the potatoes are cooked, the more candied they become.        Apricot Nectar Cake Mix together: 1 lemon supreme cake mix 1/2 cup of sugar 1/4 cup of wesson oil 1 cup apricot nectar (can be bought at store in can) Beat: 4 eggs into the batter, one at a time. Add all ingredients together and bake one hour at 325 degrees. Glaze: 1 cup sugar Juice of 1 lemon  Mix glaze mixture together. When cake is done and is still hot, spread glaze on top.        Barbara Bush's Red, White and Blue Cobbler For Blueberry filling: 1/4 cup sugar 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice 2 cups fresh or frozen unsweetened blueberries Mix sugar and cornstarch in a saucepan and add all the other ingredients. Cook until thickened. Put into 8-inch square pyrex dish and keep hot in a 250 degree oven while making cherry filling. Cherry Filling: 1 can sour pie cherries 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar 1 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon 1/8 teaspoon almond extractIn a saucepan mix dry ingredients. Gradually stir in juice from canned cherries and cook until thickened, adding cherries and flavorings at the end. Smooth cherry filling over blueberry mixture. Keep hot while making topping of whipped cream.

Nov. 24, 2005

Nov. 24, 2005 - Memorable Thanksgivings From The Past © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ As a child my family celebrated Thanksgiving on the Sunday after Thanksgiving, the reason being the urgency of gathering the cotton crops before cold weather. The harvest of the cotton crops was our livelihood for the coming year. My Maw Maw Todd, with the daughter and daughters-in-law, produced a huge feast for the clan of uncles, aunts, cousins and anyone who did not have a place to celebrate the holiday. Thanksgiving Day, however, was a long day of hard work. The weather was usually cold, and most of the time we were gathering the remnants of cotton left after most of the cotton had been picked, taken to the gin, baled and sold. As a 10-year-old girl, I awoke one Thanksgiving morning to observe a four inch snow. The whole world had turned white while I slept. I jumped up and down with glee, clapping my hands. No cotton picking on that day. I knew I would read a book cuddled cozily near the coal heater that sat in the middle of the living room. I also remembered Mom always made delicious snow ice cream. I could smell the aroma from the kitchen of a homemade chocolate cake to enhance the ice cream. Today we are living in a stressful and troubled world. As we rush around our hectic pace each day, we hear of crime, disasters, tragedies and terrorism. Being thankful to God will turn our hearts to Him, His power and His blessings. The people in the Old Testament sang, "O give thanks to the Lord. for He is good; for His loving kindness is everlasting." (I Chronicles 16:34 NAU).

Dec. 1, 2005

Dec. 1, 2005 - Women, Health And Heart Disease © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ Last week on my weekly live internet radio show, Aging Outside the Box-Fabulous Women Over 50, I interviewed the spokesperson for the American Heart Association, Dr. Nieca Goldberg. Dr. Goldberg's book, "Women Are Not Small Men, Life-Saving Strategies for Preventing and Healing Heart Disease in Women," is the most up-to-date guide to the single greatest health risk for women. Heart disease and other cardiovasular diseases kill nearly 500,000 women each year. That's more than most causes of death combined, including all forms of cancer. The American Heart Association is a national voluntary health agency whose mission is to reduce disability and death from cardiovascular diseases and stroke. Dr. Goldberg is the spokesperson for the Go Red for Women movement. She said, "Go Red. Wear it, Feel it, Live it. The Go Red for Women movement gives women the power to significantly reduce their risks of heart disease and live a long, healthy life. So put your hand over your heart and make a promise to be heart healthy." Millions of women have added the red dress pin to their fashion accessory collection to support the women and heart disease movement. As the icon of the movement, more than five million oins have been distributed nationwide since the inception of the program in 2004. Get one. Give one. When you join the campaign, you'll get your free red dress pin and educational brochure with tips for reducing your risk of heart disease. Call 1-888-MYHEART. Know the numbers your heart really counts on - blood pressure, cholesterol, etc. and read "Women Are Not Small Men, Life Saving Strageties for Preventing and Healing Heart Disease in Women." Your Heart tells you when you're in love, hurt or afraid, but it may not let you know you have heart disease.

Dec. 8, 2005

Dec. 8, 2005 - Aging Is Adventure © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ It is possible for the middle-aged years to be the best years of life. Practicing life balance, knowing your priorities, and managing your time to fulfill your priorities will move your life upward and forward to your goals. Margaret Mead said, "The most creative force in the world is the menopausal woman with zest." The same could be said about a mid-life man in crisis. Many over-50 people have an energized attitude - a time of life to take on new things. Retirement some say is outdated and does not relate to the third stage of life. Most people today work into their 70's. Dr. Walter M. Bortz II, author of "We Live Too Short and Die Too Long," views older Americans not as seniors, but as people in the prime of their lives. in this book, he redefines the categories of age to reflect the reality of healthy aging and longevity in today's society as follows: Young-young as birth to age 20; young-middle as age 40-60; young-old as age 80-100; old as age 100-120. Making the most of your latter years includes priority setting which involves making hard choices. But once made, they help us live our lives in conjunction with the things we have decided are most important to us. That's a good feeling. Priority setting will clear out time fillers that are not accomplishing your goals and provide time for the more important things.

Dec. 15, 2005

Dec. 15, 2005 - Exercise Golden Egg Of Aging © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ Zip puts you on pitch at 50 to sing the song of successful aging and zip requires a fit body. A fit body can't be bought, but the good news is women in middle life can build muscle, gain strength and increase their stamina and flexibility. We can discard one of the common myths of aging - atrophy and crippling are not inevitable. With the proper exercise plan, our generation can retard or repel the ravages of disease, aging and gravity. Fitness for older women is imperative if we are to believe current t-shirt wisdom - "If you don't take care of your body, where will you live?" All the goal oriented information is worthless if our bodies are not fit to carry out our dreams. Exercise, combined with sound nutrition and an upbeat attitude, offers an unbeatable formula for vigor in midlife. After compeling recent research, it was found the benefits of exercise on health, attitude and longevity, are great. I feel it is safe to say, exercise or die. Unfortunately, not many of us take up the challenge to improve our physical well being. Data from the Centers of Disease Control shows only 16 percent of women 65 and older exercised regularly in 1990 and this percentage decreases as we age. Mike Snider wrote in USA Today, "If the USA got a grade for exercise, it would probably be a "D" for "darned little." In the age of instant oatmeal, instant cash, instant telecommunication - many find it hard to imagine long-term planning for fitness. Instant fitness is not possible, but the rewards of consistent workouts are tremendous.

Dec. 22, 2005

Dec. 22, 2005 - The Blessed Season Of Christmas © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ This is your Christmas season to enjoy. It is 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 cradled the baby that is the hope of the world. The cross symbolizes the death and resurrection of Christ that gave meaning to his birth. And, 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 air waves 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 strated 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 represent 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. 29, 2005

Dec. 29, 2005 - Shift To Ageless Living © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ The wave of the future is a new mental posture for over-50 people. Many healthy folks, enjoying the last half of life are feeling younger, fit and energetic. I'm inviting you to get excited about being strong enough to have lived 50 years or more of life. You have survived the tides of disease and accident. Congratulations. Thinking one could prove to be a self-fulfilling prophecy. With this positive mindset, we jump deeper into life with anticipation. Aging is no longer considered a time in life to avoid or fear. It is a natural growth process. Fear is not of God. God gives us the spirit of power, love and sound mind. Father Time and Mother Nature do not put us on an inevitable sentence of being old. Living old is a choice. The attitude that each new day is a special gift from the Master's hand will keep us drinking the fountain of youth. God hands us a package of 1,440 new unused minutes each day to be spent in the manner we choose. At the end of the day, our 1,440 minutes are gone forever. We cannot save them or carry them over to the next day. Each new day is a new life. God in His infinte wisdom givers each of us only one moment at a time. We only deal with the moment. Look at an hourglass. One grain of sand passes through the narrow part of the hourglass at a time.That is how God gives us one moment at a time. As the moments turn into days, we have the opportunity to make each day a pearl. At the end of our long lives we will have a string of pearls. Helen Keller made her life a string of pearls. Although the Alabama girl was blind, and deaf, she became an international symbol of strength and achievement. She wrote that external conditions are the accidents of life it's outer wrappings. She also urged others to "Resolve to keep happy and your joy and you shall form an invincible host against difficulty." Older can be better. Like superior wine, ageless people mellow and refine with age. Experience brings with it deeper more interesting beauty, combining body, mind and spirit. The fountain of aging is overflowing with a savvy, gray-haired power group. As a member of this power group, I hope you take the positive encouragement of this column to make 2006 the best in your life.

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.