"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. 3, 2008

Jan. 3, 2008 - Columnist Names 2007 Favorites © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ Looking back in my rear view mirror of 2007, I have decided to pick a few of my favorites for the year. My favorite quote for 2007 was by Tony Snow, the former White House press secretary during his battle against cancer - "I am actually enjoying everything more than I ever have. God hasn't promised us tomorrow, but He has promised us eternity." My favorite newspaper article for the year was in The New York Times on Monday titled "When the Germans and their rockets came to town." The article talked about the 118 German rocket scientists, led by visionary Wernher von Braun, came to the cotton market town of Huntsville in 1950 and helped launch the first American satellite in 1958. My favorite award for 2007 was the Nobel Peace Prize awarded to Al Gore for his vision of global warming and his sharing it with the world. My favorite Kennedy Center honoree of 2007 was Dolly Parton, a southern girl from the hills of Tennessee. Her simple songs, joy and enthusiasm helped her win the high honor. My favorite academic appointment for 2007 was Drew Gilpin Faust, who was named Harvard University's first female president. At the age of 60, she is still climbing the ladder of success. My favorite first lady, Lady Bird Johnson, was born in 1912 and died this past year. She campaigned to banish billboards and plant wild flowers along the nation's highways. She fought pollution and promoted the preservation of our national parks. My favorite philanthropist, Brooke Astor, born in 1902, also died this past year. She loved the Big Apple and gave millions of dollars to causes and institutions that served New York City. My favorite quote of hers is "Money is like manure. It's worthless unless you spread it around." Now, on to 2008! (Shirley W. Mitchell's column appears every Thursday in The Sand Mountain Reporter)

Jan. 10, 2008

Jan. 10, 2008 - Love Your Age © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ When you live in God's purpose, you live in His power. You are positively ageless. The year 2008 is a perfect time to love your age. "The people whom I found the most impressive and most alluring were those who seemed the most comfortable in their own skins and seemed to be striving the least," said author Anne Kreamer in her book, "Going Gray." That is a great goal for aging seniors to work towards this year. At the age of 62, Diane Keaton's smile lights up the February issue of "Ladies Home Journal." She certainly feels comfortable in her own skin and with her age. She is a hands-on mom of Duke, 7, and Dexter, 12. Besides loving her age, being a mom, author, actress, and director, and serving on the Los Angeles Conservancy that fights to preserve historical architecture, she is passionate about her life. Are you passionate about your life? If not, take inventory and begin to create goals that will move your life into the life you desire. Maturity brings on a different value system. It's not always the accolades, accomplishments, or materialism that is most important, but relationships, moments with children, grandchildren, and mediation. Expect great things from God. Attempt great things for God in 2008. This is a year of new beginnings.

Jan. 17, 2008

Jan. 17, 2008 - Laughter Dissolves Winter Blues © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ As the world turns to January 2008, we face wars, global warming, natural disasters and the winter blues. Proverbs 17:22 says, "A joyful heart is good medicine, but a broken spirit drieth up the bones." The late President Lincoln was a student of the Bible and this verse led him to state; "With the fearful strain that is on me night and day, if I did not laugh I should die." Another quotable quote was from Red Skelton, who once said, "No matter what your heartache may be, laughing helps you forget it for a few seconds." If you are foxy after 40, fabulous after 50, sensational after 60, sexy after 70, feel like two 40-year -Ids after 80, still growing after 90, or loving life at 100, now is the time to laugh. I often chuckle at the Maxine-isms I receive over the Internet. Maxine is a very old woman to whom often is assigned some very quotable quotes that include, "Don't take life too seriously - no one gets out alive." "Being over the hill is much better than being under it;" For fun at Halloween, I paint black widows on my spider veins;" and 'Trust me; Tight-fitting jeans and loose-fitting skin are one bad combination." One way to beat the winter blues is to laugh. Experts say most healthy children laugh 100 times a day. Adults only laugh 15 times. Let's learn from the children.

Jan. 24, 2008

Jan. 24, 2008 - Baby Boomers Hit 62 This Year © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ When the soldiers flew home from World War II to the arms of wives in 1946, almost 80 million babies soon filled the nurseries. This month, 100,000 of those babies turn 62. The Baby Boomers that opt for early retirement will receive their first Social Security check, believed to average between $900-$1,000. Some leaders of the country believe the Boomers will drain the Social Security system by 2041. The huge number of Boomers plus the new senior boom will certainly become a drag on the economy and the health care system will be bursting at the seams with elder care because people are living longer and better. But America has always faced problems head-on. Living in a free country allows people to be creative in finding solutions for challenges. Advice from studies such as the one published by the University of Cambridge recently in the "Public Library of Science Medical Journal" stated that not smoking, regular physical activity, eating five servings of fruits and vegetables per day and moderate alcohol intake could lengthen life to 14 extra years. Author Bill Byham discussed why a large percentage of retirees have a desire to keep working in his book, "Why 70 Is the New 50." He indicated that seniors like the camaraderie and challenge of the work place and that many are able to relocate to work in different professions. Many corporations often adjust working hours and schedules to accommodate the value and experience of older workers. The older workers often become coaches, consultants and encourage "think tanks" in the work place. Many of the large number of Baby Boomers turning 62 this month will continue to be a positive force and add to the economy.

Jan. 31, 2008

Jan. 31, 2008 - Live The 'Go Red' Lifestyle © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ The month of February is heart month, which is appropriate since Feb. 14 is Valentine's Day. The big red heart represents the love in our hearts, just as wearing red on Feb. 1 signifies you love your heart. Encourage others to do the same and to live the "Go Red" lifestyle. That lifestyle requires that you should: • Celebrate with a checkup. Let each birthday remind you that it's time for your yearly checkup and talk with your doctor about how you can reduce your risk for heart disease. • Get off the couch. Step, march, or jog in place for at least 30 minutes five days a week. Choose to move! • Quit smoking in four steps. Cut the number of cigarettes you smoke in half each day, then cut that in half, and cut it in half again. Finally, cut down to zero. • Drop a pound or two. Cutting out just 500-1,000 calories a day can help you lose one to two pounds per week and gradually bring you. closer to a heart-healthy weight. Keep daily records of your calorie intake to help you stay on track. • Become a salt detective. Check out the nutrition facts panel on packaged foods to see how much sodium (salt) they contain. A heart-healthy salt intake per day is one teaspoon. • Learn how to read food package labels to help you make healthier choices. Look for the American Heart Association's heart check mark on food packages in the store. They're certified to be low in saturated fat and cholesterol. It's the heart on labels that you can trust. • Lighten up and keep your life upbeat.

Feb. 7, 2008

Feb. 7, 2008 - Super Living © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ I experienced a vision of living an aging super life with fervor and energy as I have observed the enthusiasm and zeal of the Super Bowl and this past Super Tuesday. I was introduced to a 90-year-old man last week at the Lumpkin House. He proudly announced he was engaged to the love of his life, adding, "When I become a centenarian, we plan to travel." Optimism, perpetual motion and stellar health habits keep us young indefinitely by creating its own energy. Exercise is the elixir to keep Father Time at bay. We can live large while shrinking! Super-agers refuse to give up or give in to the aging process. The Baby Boomers have merged with the senior boom to create a new social attitude about aging. They are managing life to experience the maximum health, vitality, energy and well-being to the end of days on earth. The New York Giants are returning home to celebrate with super parties. The Democratic and Republican winners of Super Tuesday will celebrate with super parties. It's time for the people who have passed the big 5-0 to celebrate life with super living.

Feb. 14, 2008

Feb. 14, 2008 - Words of Love © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ Today is Valentine's Day and the perfect time to connect with love. Proverbs 16:24 tells us "Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul and health to the bones." Sending Valentine greetings to my eight grandchildren always gives me a chance to affirm to them my love while sending pleasant words to their souls and health to their bones. Proverbs 25:11 tells us "A fitly spoken word is like apples of gold and pictures of silver." Valentine's Day is a perfect time to speak life into someone. The language of romance is spoken as couples focus upon each other. Gifts, flowers, cards and romantic dinners bring love to the forefront of life. I like to tell the story of how love changed the poet Elizabeth Barrett Browning from a sickly, middle-aged invalid to a growing blossoming woman. She grew up under an oppressive, negative, controlling father. She became ill and spent most of her life in bed until she reached 40. Then, she met Robert Browning, who saw her as a beautiful talented spirit ready to bloom. He loved her with all his heart, gave her constant attention and encouraged her to be herself. She changed into a beautiful, healthy woman. They were married and had a happy, full life. Her poem to him, "How Do I Love Thee? Let Me Count the Ways" has become a classic of which we are all familiar. Today would be a good day to read that poem to the one you love. Have a happy Valentine's Day.

Feb. 21, 2008

Feb. 21, 2008 - Making A Difference © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ President Bush and his wife, Laura, were interviewed by Ann Curry this week on the Today Show while they were touring Africa. She asked him his reason for allocating a large sum for money for AIDS relief in Africa. He responded that it was our duty to deal with a moral issue like AIDS because it is killing millions of people. Bush quoted the verse from Luke 12:48b from the King James Version of the Bible "...for unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall much be required." The president of the United States has great power, but so do you. You also have the power in your circle of life to make a difference in people's lives. Your circle of life is unique only to you. Step out in faith. Be bold with confidence to make that circle of life better. Proverbs 18:21 tells us our words have great power. It says, "Death and life are in the power of the tongue" (KJV). I challenge you to speak life into your circle of life today by praise, a compliment, or a smile that may lift someone's spirit. Our actions have great power. Find a need today and fill it. The actions of many people in my circle of life made the recent illness and death of my mother bearable. You can do that for others as you celebrate life in your circle.

Feb. 28, 2008

Feb. 28, 2008 - Words of Wisdom © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ I felt the perfect blend of ...ties and old-fashioned small town Southern hospitality when I visited Greenville, S.C. on a book tour. I strolled down an elegant, tree-lined rnain street as I enjoyed the sights of the city known as the "Gem of the South." Little did I know what I would find on my walk. Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountain, Greenville is being transformed into a world-class public garden, surrounded by the 60-foot high Reedy Falls downtown. A large statue of Joel Roberts Poinsett also decorates the Main Street. Poinsett is the statesman that brought the Poinsettia plant from Mexico to America for us to enjoy during Christmas. As I walked in front of the Poinsett-Westin Hotel in the historic district, I noticed slabs of marble in the-street engraved with quotes from great men. Of course, being a writer, I whipped out my pen and notepad and wrote down the quotes. I want to share them with you. "A light heart lives long"... William Shakespeare "So live that you wouldn't sell the family parrot to the town gossip"... Will Rogers. "I've been on a constant diet for the last two decades. I've lost a total of 789 pounds. By all accounts, I should be hanging from a charm bracelet"... Erma Bombeck "What makes greatness is starting something that lives after you"... Ralph W. Stockman "The three grand essentials of happiness are: something to do, someone to love, and something to hope for"... Alexander Chalmers "Common sense is genius dressed in working clothes"... Ralph Waldo Emerson

Mar. 6, 2008

Mar. 6, 2008 - The Daffodil Principle © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ I love the daffodil season. I once read a story about the daffodil principle that we all could follow. It seems a woman planted a daffodil bulb in 1958. For the next 40 years, she planted 50,000 bulbs of different colored daffodils in her large yard. She planted the same colors of deep orange, creamy white, lemon yelIow, salmon pink and saffron and butter yellow in patterns. When the wind blew, the swirling majestic ribbons and streaks of the flowers swayed in the yard with brilliant color, making a glorious sight. This woman had planted one daffodil and then a few at a time to create beauty and joy. She decorated her world with extraordinary magnificence, beauty and inspiration. She learned that to have a passion and stay focused by taking a few steps at a time will fulfill that passion and accomplish magnificent results. Everyone needs to use the daffodil principle. Stop waiting until your car or home is paid off until you get a new car or home, until your kids leave the house, until you go back to school, until you finish school, until you clean the house, until you organize the garage, until you clean off your desk, until you lose 10 pounds, until you gain 10 pounds, until you get married, until you get a divorce, until you have kids, until your kids go to school, until you retire, until summer, spring, fall or winter, or until you die. There is no better time than right now to put into practice the daffodil principle and follow your bliss. Small increments of time, with vision and effort, will accomplish your hearts' desire.

Mar. 13, 2008

Mar. 13, 2008 - Green is Color for Spring © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ As spring arrives, the earth begins to turn green. The buzz words for saving the planet from global warming is "Go Green." Green is also "the" color to wear during 2008. To top off our love of green, we celebrate St. Patrick's Day with the green shamrock. St. Patrick's Day reminds me of rainbows, pots of gold, shamrocks, the color green, the Irish, and the Holy Trinity. Americans started celebrating St. Patrick's Day in 1845 to honor the patron saint of Ireland. Legend declares that St. Patrick used the green shamrock to illustrate the idea of the Holy Trinity. God three-in-one: God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit. Knowing the Holy Trinity empowers an aging person to head into the turbulent life of aging without fear, much as we do when heading into a turbulent wind. The miracle of the Holy Trinity empowers aging people to fly higher. Kites rise higher against the March wind and so can an over-50 person. Hard times drive us to God. They make us desperately aware of our humanness and His Godliness. Human tragedy, cold with hopelessness and moist with tears, brings us into the supernatural reign of a higher power. And to repeat that well-known Irish Blessing: "May you always have work for your hands to do. May your pockets hold always a coin or two. May the sun shine bright on your window pane. May the rainbow be certain to follow the rain. May the hand of a friend always be near you. And May God fill your heart with gladness to cheer you."

Mar. 20, 2008

Mar. 20, 2008 - Upon Entering Spring © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ This spring, grandmothers and grandfathers are getting out of their rocking chairs. They are the product of the new longevity revolution. People older than 50 are experiencing a whole new vital period of life after middle age before any ravages of aging sets in. The silver foxes of the new millennium are dancing the fox trot. While Ponce de Leon's mystical Fountain of Youth has not been found, Dr. Ken Dytchwald, chief executive officer of Age Wave, stated on his Web site, "Today's 50-plus adults are more fit, better educated, and financially secure than any previous generations of mature men and women." As we enter the spring season, those of us who are golden oldies, sing the number one song of the 20th Century, "Somewhere Over the Rainbow." The rainbow colors of spring lift our mood as the pear trees, daffodils, Easter lilies, and tulips lift their blooms and fill us with delight. Another buzz word for spring is "go green." The color green shouts life. We should focus on saving our planet and enjoying the miracle of the new birth of spring.

Mar. 27, 2008

Mar. 27, 2008 - Radical Freedom of Age © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ If you have lived a half century, you have the radical freedom of age. You may have the freedom of time, place, mobility, wellness, energy and financial security. God wants each of us to have a deepening love affair with Him. He wants us to know how much we are wanted, loved, cherished and gifted. People more than 50 years old are blessed to have experienced life and matured through God's nurturing love. He wants us to be bold in making a significant difference in the lives of others. The Rev. Paul S. Moore will be a guest on my Internet Radio Talk Show, on April 9 at 6 p.m. He was inspired and founded Citi-Hope, a Christian humanitarian relief, education and development organization following a mission trip to Belarus and the Chernobyl nuclear region. As he encountered children dying from the exposure to the radioactive poison from the Chernobyl catastrophe, he realized help was needed to provide tangible access to medical nutritional aid for people in need worldwide. Since then, more than $600 million in assistance has been delivered to 21 countries, targeting more than 10 million beneficiaries. Malawi, Africa, is the latest addition to CitiHope's mission outreach, serving 45 plus orphanages, hospitals and prisons. One man's vigilance has made a huge difference in many lives. To be more than 50 is a gift. It's time we use this gift of life to the fullest. The new radical freedom of aging may be the impetus that liberates the "new old" to go beyond the ordinary and receive a higher, more exciting vision of aging.

Apr. 3, 2008

Apr. 3, 2008 - Maya Angelou Is A Poet And A Teacher © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ Maya Angelou, the famous poet, author and teacher, will enjoy her 80th birthday Friday. When the 6-foot-tall, elegant lady was asked how it felt to be 80 years young, she replied, "Exciting." Angelou is stepping up and out this spring with the publication of her latest book, "Glorious Celebration." She likes to tells folks she is a teacher who writes books and poetry. On being a teacher, she said, "I see all those little faces and big eyes - black and white. They look like sparrows in a nest. They look up with their mouths wide open, and I try to drop in everything I know." She attributes her love for teaching to her grandmother, who told her as a young girl, "Momma doesn't care what other people say about you, Maya. Momma knows when you and the Lord are ready, you are going to be a teacher." Approaching 80, this elegant, stylish teacher, author, and poet is making a significant difference in the lives of others. We salute all teachers today with much admiration.

Apr. 10, 2008

Apr. 10, 2008 - Sowing Seeds Of Kindness © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ Spring is a perfect time to sow seeds of kindness in the garden of life. If we could visualize the full extent of kindness, we would scatter more kindness seeds. C. Neil Strait said, "Kindness is more than deeds. It is an attitude, an expression, a look, a touch. It is anything that lifts another person." Is there someone in your life to whom you could plant a seed of kindness? A farmer once said, "For every kernel of corn planted, one stalk will grow. Each cornstalk produces an average of two ears of corn, each of which yield 200 kernels. "Of course, these kernels will become 400 stalks of com, each of which will have a couple of new ears of corn, with the total of 400 kernels. It's phenomenal. In just one season, one ear of corn becomes 160,000 kernels." I have learned that kindness reproduces itself in the very same way. One unselfish, kind act you do today may very well inspire the kindness of others. The Bible tells us to "Be not weary in well doing." Why? That which you send out, comes back; and what you give, you get. An abundance of kindness begins with one simple kernel. A few years ago, the movie "Pay It Forward" touched my soul. The movie's central theme was that when someone paid a kindness to you, pay that kindness forward to the next person in your life who needed kindness. What a great practice for us today in our everyday life as we plant seeds of kindness into other people in our garden of life.

Apr. 17, 2008

Apr. 17, 2008 - April 19 Is Boomer DIVA Nation Day © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ I will be speaking this week to the first national Divinely, Inspired, Vivacious, Anointed (DIVA) Baby Boomers Girlfriends Spring Break in Daytona Beach, Fla. After World War II, the Soldiers came home to the open arms of their loving wives and produced 76 million babies that we now call baby boomers. These baby boomers, as they have grown, have changed the way we age. Eight years into the new millennium, we are living longer and better. I would like to share with you the seven keys to becoming a Divinely Inspired Vivaciously Anointed (DIVA). First you must love God, yourself and your neighbor. You must be filled with zeal. You must have a vision. You must embrace a stable of friends. You must be fabulous beyond the age of 40. You must live your life being fit, fun and forever young, and finally, you must bring out the goddess in you. Dick Innes, an author and founder and director of ACTS International, once said, "Unless you are willing to launch out far from the sight and safety of the shore into the deep, beyond your present comfort zone, you will never know what you are capable Of becoming or doing. Nor will you ever discover the new horizons and greater dreams your heart is yearning for."

Apr. 24, 2008

Apr. 24, 2008 - Change Can Cause A New Birth © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ Possibility thinking brings positive changes in our lives after 50. "The pessimist complains about the wind. The optimist expects it to change. The leader adjusts the sails," said John Maxwell, a noted author. Are you a pessimist, an optimist, or a leader? Change opens the door of rebirth. I think of the phoenix, a mythical bird with beautiful gold and red plumage. At the end of its life cycle, the phoenix builds itself a nest of cinnamon twigs and then ignites it. Both nest and bird burn fiercely and reduce to ashes, from which a new, young phoenix arises. The new phoenix embalms the ashes of the old phoenix in an egg made of myrrh and deposits it in the Egyptian city of Heliopolis, the Greek sun city. The bird was also said to regenerate when hurt or wouuded by a foe, thus being almost immortal and invincible, a symbol of fire and divinity. We live our lives not counting the years, thus giving us the holy fire of God and an optimistic attitude. As mid-life brings many changes, we adjust our sails to sail smoothly into the sunset.

May 1, 2008

May 1, 2008 - Celebrate National Day Of Prayer © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ A few years ago, I conducted children's moments during the worship service. I used a toy telephone as a prop because all the children were familiar with the phone. I talked to them about praying to God, and how, similar to talking on the phone, He hears you even though you cannot see him. As we participate in the National Day of Prayer today, I pray God will orchestrate from Heaven our personal lives and our great nation. The United States of America, known as the land of the free, will become stronger as we lift our prayers today to God. "If my people who are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land" I Chronicles 7:14 KJV Dr. J. J. Packer, author of "Knowing God," has a new book out on prayer, called "Praying: Finding Our Way Through Duty to Delight." Enjoy your delight and freedom of prayer on our National Day of Prayer.

May 8, 2008

May 8, 2008 - Experience Is A Teacher © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ Let's not pretend that life never offers disappointments while aging outside the box in a broken world. We have all experienced pain and heartbreak, breakdowns in relationships and health, lost dreams and detours. Reality means that we must adjust our expectations at times to accentuate the positive side of aging. The term "aging outside the box" means celebrating the gift of years by focusing on the joys of aging with power, vigor and enthusiasm. We do this by soaring to new heights of excellence. This is where the grand adventure starts. Capturing the essence of life and illuminating the important second half comes from experience as the teacher. Wisdom hopefully is the product of years lived. Ecclesiastes 7:19 tells us "Wisdom strengtheneth the wise more than ten mighty men which are in the city." Positive agers are a fountain of effervescent wisdom. They experience the flame of triumph in mid-life and beyond! They shape and change the future for the better because they dare to dream. Embracing life is living victoriously in a redefined age. Baby boomers have put a more positive spin on aging. Middle age and beyond has become a crowning time in life. Life expectancy may be longer and the quality of life has the possibility of being better. Many baby boomers over 50 are finding mid-life is the pinnacle of their lives.

May 15, 2008

May 15, 2008 - Those Who Laugh, Last © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ Humor takes the friction out of life. I have eight grandchildren and we love to laugh together. I would like to share with you a few cute ideas about grandparents. ...Grandmas are moms with lots of frosting. ...Gene Ferret once said, "What a bargain grandchildren are. I give them my loose change, and they give me a million dollars worth of pleasure." ...A grandmother is a babysitter who watches the grandchildren instead of the television. ..."Grandchildren are God's way of compensating us for growing old," said Mary H. Waldrip. ...A grandparent is young on the inside, but old on the outside. ...Teresa Bloomingdale once said, "If your baby is beautiful and perfect, never cries or fusses, sleeps on schedule and burps on demand and is an angel all the time, you're a grandmother!" Grandparents are similar to a piece of string, handy to have around and easily wrapped around the fingers of their grandchildren. When Grand Ole Opry star Minnie Pearl was once asked her age, she responded, "Age is just a number and mine is not listed." So, laugh. A positive, youthful mindset helps us lighten up. Spontaneous humor invading our lives gives laugh a spicy flavor. Laughter is a stress-buster and lifts both the spirits and the face.

May 22, 2008

May 22, 2008 - May Is Older Americans Month © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ President John F. Kennedy's meeting with the National Council of Senior Citizens in 1963 served as a prelude to designating May as Senior Citizens Month. President Jimmy Carter changed the name to Older Americans Month. The 2008 theme for Older Americans Month is "Working together for strong, healthy and supportive communities." I saw that in action May 17, when I was the keynote speaker at the "Aging Outside the Box™" senior event in Plano, Ill. The population consists of three growing towns, Sandwich, Yorkville and Plano. They are suburbs of Chicago and consist of a large number of senior citizens. Three ladies from these towns felt a need for a community seniors group. The organization will be helping families who are taking care of small children and older parents that are now known as the "sandwich generation." They also will plan social events for seniors and the goal is to have supportive communities for seniors. The foundation, which has how been formed will be working together for strong, healthy, supportive communities. We are very fortunate to have many senior groups in Marshall County. These groups are also planning special events during the month. Aging has been redefined in the 21st Century. The baby boomers are aging in a more positive, healthier, charismatic way. That re-definition where age is beautiful over 50 is the pinnacle of life.

May 29, 2008

May 29, 2008 - Seniors Are Still Students © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ California's first lady, Maria Shriver, gave the keynote speech to her nephew's high school graduation. The title of her speech was "Just Who Will You Be." She told the graduating seniors to figure out what gave them joy and do it. She urged them to look inside themselves to know who they were and not what someone wanted them to be. She also told them to do what was true to themselves. That same titled question could be asked of anyone, at any age. As we senior adults age, who will we be? Mid-life and beyond is full of change. Many senior adults have become aware that learning is fun and rewarding. One out of 10 college students today are 50-plus. Many colleges even offer special classes for seniors and some classes are audited for free. Another plus is the full usage of the college library. New types of retirement communities are emerging in America. These retirement communities are connected to universities. The university environment is a fertile place to be stimulated and allow a senior adult to remain productive. Colleges usually offer opportunities for theater, concert series, academic courses, health connections, gym, museums and interesting people with which to communicate. We are learning that age is not a disqualifier. The brain has the ability to generate new brain cells. It is a fact that, at any age, the brain has the ability, to develop new cellular connections (synapses). Therefore, senior adults do not become less, they become more as they learn and add to the educational environment.

Jun. 5, 2008

Jun. 5, 2008 - Growing Riper © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ As the spirit of spring gives way to the spirit of summer, I remember many of the fun times over the years. I think of my grandchildren laughing and playing as they sprinkled each other with water from the garden hose. I remember chasing fireflies with the grandchildren, placing the lightning bugs into a mason jar to light up the sleepy child's bedroom later in the night. Summer, bright with sunshine and bright colored flowers, fills the long day with gleeful outdoor activities. The magnificent rising and falling waves of the ocean always make me feel closer to God. The adolescent retiree may be cruising the Age Wave on a fun ship with the mystique of a new adventure with the mysterious beauty of the sea, sensational sun, sumptuous food, and the spirit of camaraderie that makes the cruise a time to remember. In the summer of my life, I find 1 prefer valuable experiences over valuable things. During the summer of life, the baby boomers that are migrating up the lifeline are in charge of 70 percent of the net worth in the United States, according to Ken Dytchwald, president of "Age Wave." With that in mind, aging has become a new mental posture where dreams come true. Enjoying the juicy ripe produce of the summer, I think of Spanish artist Pablo Picasso, who said, "We don't grow older, we grow riper."

Jun. 12, 2008

Jun. 12, 2008 - Liberty Is State Of Mind © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ Liberty begins in our minds and hearts. In the clay-mation movie, "Chicken Run," Ginger, the plucky hen, is constantly scheming to set the prisoners free. She is thwarted at every turn, not only by the farmer, but also by the hens themselves. Finally, she tells them, "Face the facts, Ducks, the chances of us getting out of here are a million to one." Squaring her face and steeling her eyes, she continues, "Then, there's still a chance." The chances of getting life out of our senior years are far better than those of the hens if we choose to dismantle the fences the world, and our own psyche, throw around us. Writer Ken Dychtwald suggests we have more liberty our senior years unless we choose to be caretaker of grandchildren, spouses or aging parents. Even in care-taking, liberty becomes a state of mind and our attitudes can set us free. We can choose to give support with joy, finding freedom in the beauty of a smile or sunset, and in knowing we are serving others. With retirement at 62, 66, or 70, we still have a lot of years of life left to fill.

Jun. 19, 2008

Jun. 19, 2008 - Passion For Life © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ We are never too old to have fun. It is our choice. Energetic 50 plus people have a passion for enjoying life and are excited to explore new horizons. Exciting new beginnings, redefining life goals, experiencing life full throttle bring on joy! New millennium seniors are helping to write a golden chapter for aging Americans and all generations that follow. We are expanding our youth corridor with defensive aging and are involved in the world around us. We are staying healthy by practicing good health habits and proper nutrition and keep raising the bar to exceed sensational expectations for mature living. These bonus years are a blessing. We are pushing the aging envelope to the limit to enjoy our grand finale. It has been proven joyful, happy, positive people live longer. When we are joyful, endorphins, a chemical produced in the brain, promotes pleasure when producing a natural high, and lowers pain. To be joyful helps us to push through the pain to power. The other chemical, dopamine, is produced when we are happy, thrilled, euphoric, exuberant, and it reinforces the feeling of joy. Passionate, joyful people focus more on joy than matenal things, success, or negative thinking. At mid-life, more attention is being given to living large, enjoying relationships, loving, and having closeness with our families, following our bliss, spending time listening to music, letting the child inside play, traveling, dancing, enjoying sports, and interacting with art. We are building our aging life with praise and thanksgivng to God who never ages, but stands outside the box of time. Bob Hope, who lived to be 100, enjoyed his wife, career, people, laughter, travel, friends, food and entertaining the American troops. At the age of 73, Italian actress Sophia Loren will make her return to the big screen with the musical, "Nine" in 2009. The flame-haired beauty shared her beauty secret with USA Today reporter William Keck. "If you think joyful about life and find serenity inside you, it's very gratifying. Then, when your children grow up and you start to have grandchildren, it's a divine caress from God," she said. 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."

Jun. 26, 2008

Jun. 26, 2008 - Measured Lives © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ The American Business Women's Association's magazine, "Women in Business" has declared in an article by Marshall Goldsmith, that 70 is the new 50. Why? Because a positive approach to life, longevity and better health cause us to love the bonus years. Many 70-year-olds desire to continue work and not retire. Seventy also provides the opportunity to follow one's dreams, passions and hopes. It is a great time to begin a new career. The elongated years give one a lengthened adulthood and an old age with vigor and power. Life is not measured by the length of our lives, but the life in our years. Mother Teresa won the Nobel Prize at the age of 69 for her mission of charities. By the time she was 80, it was estimated that at any moment her charity was caring for 14,000 children, feeding 126,000 families, caring for 186,000 lepers and 22,000 dying homeless. As she grew older, she was gearing up instead of winding down. Comedian George Carlin passed away this week at the age of 71. When his wife died last year, he said: "Always remember, life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away."

Jul. 3, 2008

Jul. 3, 2008 - Celebrate Freedom © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ Freedom is one thing that is treasured among those of us who are older and still aging. We even appreciate it more as America celebrates its Independence Day on July 4. Older citizens of this country have much to celebrate on that day. Our government has indicated we have aged during a time in the history of this country when two-thirds of all of those born have lived to the age of 65. We have lived to witness a race for the presidency when a woman, Hillary Clinton, has made huge strides for women as she has made cracks in the glass ceiling that have, heretofore, stopped the progress of women. We have also witnessed an African-American as the winner of the Democratic primary, which would have been impossible prior to 1863 when President Lincoln issued the Emancipation Prociamation. The dedication of the military cemetery in Gettysburg still inspires us today. In that dedication Lincoln said, "That we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain, that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom; and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth." We have also lived to witness a prisoner-of-war hero, John McCain, who fought for our freedom, rise to the position as the Republican candidate for president. Life in the United States of America should be celebrated every minute of the day. Don't wait until "someday" to enjoy your life in this great land of the free. Celebrate life as it happens with your interests, talents. and opportunities, with the people you love, and with your spirit. A good time to start is this Friday as we celebrate Independence Day.

Jul. 10, 2008

Jul. 10, 2008 - A Perfect Season © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ God had a great plan when He made grandparents. He gave them laps for holding, arms for hugging, cheeks for snuggling, and hearts for believing the best. Whether you are a traditional grandmother - flowers from the garden, and cookies from the oven - or active in a career, travel, or both, 60-plus people are in the perfect season for making a difference in young lives. What a privilege to be considered part of a child's system of well-being. My granddaughter made this clear to me. My granddaughter, Monica, asked me when she was 4 what my name was. I replied, 'Shirley is my name.' She responded by telling me that was not my name. "Your name is Grandmother," she shouted. Grandparents comprise 70 percent of people who are over 65. That's nearly 50 million people. Think of the wisdom, life experience, goodness and laughter available in this repository of aging bodies and youthful, willing spirits available to make a difference in a generation that has been raised in day care, that has seen more divorce than any other generation to date, a generation where most mothers have been employed, at least part-time. Today, I can still feel the prayers and the love my grandmother had for me when I was growing up. Whether we are biological grandmothers or not, whether our grandchildren live close or far away, regardless of financial constraints, we can powerfully, positively, prayerfully impact the lives of the young generation. The beauty of this system is that we are the ones who gain the most.

Jul. 17, 2008

Jul. 17, 2008 - Be A Burning Bush In Life © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ While searching his life, Dr. Ward Tanneberg, author of "Seasons of the Spirit," realized Moses of the Bible had become his mentor. At 80 years old, Moses was just getting started into the most exciting time of his life. Moses was called into leadership when the voice of God spoke through a burning bush. Through that bush, God told Moses he was sending him to Pharaoh of Egypt to deliver His people into their own spacious land flowing with milk and honey. Moses was an old man who got a new vision! He became passionate about life as he discovered fresh meaning and purpose. Passion is flammable. It ignites high goals, new dreams and boundless energy. This mission extended Moses' life to 120 years. Like Moses, you may be over 65 years of age. Two-thirds of all those who have ever lived to age 65 are alive today. What an army of profound wisdom as each one becomes a mentor - a wise and trusted teacher guide and friend - for others! With the number of elderly in America expected to double by 2030, we are standing on Holy ground to become mentors - proclaiming that after 65 years of life you have become a treasure. You may be a matriarch or patriarch to live, learn and love with four generations in your family. It is time for you to be a burning bush for the younger generation. It only takes a spark to get a fire going. The fire of ageless living is to be yourself, engaged in life, empowered to practice the presence and passion of God. I consider life after 65 to be a bonus. I have the attitude that it is now or never to make a difference in someone's life, community, state, nation and world. Moses taught us that life is truly inexhaustible! Believing we are standing on Holy ground, marching to eternal life with Jesus Christ as our savior, we rejoice.

Jul. 26, 2008

Jul. 26, 2008 - What Makes Up The Fountain Of Youth © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ The Spanish explorer, Ponce de Leon, reached Florida while leading the first European expedition to seek an imaginary spring called the Fountain of Youth. People who bathed in or drank from this fountain of youth supposedly enjoyed their youth restored. In April 1513, Ponce de Leon landed on the shores of North America and called it Florida. Though he did not find the elusive Fountain of  Youth, he loved the flowers. Florida, in Spanish, means "full of flowers." While Ponce de Leon's mystical fountain of youth has not been found, Dr. Ken Dytchwald, chief executive officer of Age Wave, stated on his Web site, "Today's 50-plus adults are more fit, better educated and financially secure than any previous generations of mature men and women." We may have found that the Fountain of Youth consists of knowledge, hard work, faith and a positive attitude. With new technology, better medicine, knowledge that exercise and diet promotes good health; knowing that people who have faith in God live better longer and having a passion for life will add a new vigor to aging. The Fountain of Youth can be found in the Holy Bible. Jesus said. "If any man is thirsty let him come to Me and drink. He who believes in Me as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water" John 7:37, 38 "We may retire from our vocation, but never from life. God wants us to be players, not spectators, even though we may not be first string anymore. Nohody automatically stays young in heart and mind. Living old is a choice we make; it is not an inevitable sentence from Mother Nature and Father Time. No matter how old you are, count for something, even if it's only that you listen to the younger crowd, pray for them, and encourage them to live for God." - W. Wiersbe. If you are blessed with good biology, practice good health habits, live daily at the helm of your higher self, stay positive, creative and productive, you may have found your own fountain of youth. Grandmother and Grandfather are out of the rocking chair. We are the product of the new longevity revolution. Older people are experiencing a whole new vital period of life after middle age and before the ravages of aging sets in. The ageless attitude encourages those of us who are over 50 to keep healthy, keep moving, keep our brain from acting it's age and living life to the hilt. 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 Wendell Holmes said, "Some people die with the music still in them. It's important to make our music while there is still time." Time." Anonymous... 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 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. Like Ponce de Leon, keep looking for your own fountain of youth.

Jul. 31, 2008

Jul. 31, 2008 - I Am Well Thanks To God © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ July 4, 2008, my perfect health for my 70 young years came to a sudden standstill. Thanks to modern medicine and a pacemaker placed in my chest, I am again a bionic woman with a second chance at life. It took me a few days to get my mind wrapped around the fact that my perfect health I had enjoyed all my life was gone. I felt like David in I Samuel 30:1-6 (KJV) "And it came to pass, when David and his men were come to Ziklag on the third day, that the Amalekites had invaded the south and Ziklag, and smitten Ziklag, and burned it with fire; "And had taken the women captives, and were therein: they slew not any, either great or small, but carried them away, and went on their way. "So David and his men came to the city, and, behold it was burned with fire; and their wives, and their sons, and their daughters, were taken captives. "Then David and the people that were with him lifted up their voice and wept until they had no more power to weep. "And David's two wives were taken captives... "And David was greatly distressed; for the people spoke of stoning him, because the soul of all the people was grieved, every man for his sons and for his daughters: But David encouraged himself in the Lord his God." So I grieved over my sick heart, then I encouraged myself in my God. Being under the umbrella of God's presence I knew my pacemaker for my heart was a gain, not a loss. Many people in our world today are hurting! We have war, economic stress, global warming, natural disasters and failing health. Families are falling apart, and addictions plague many lives. In such times as these it is imperative we connect with our creator, the ruler of the universe. As David, we will pray to our God and He will hear. Verse 8: "And David inquired at the Lord, 'Shall I pursue after this troop (Amelekites)? Shall I overtake them?' And He answered, 'Pursue, for thou shalt surely overtake them, and without fail, recover all.'" And David recovered all. Verse 18: "And David recovered all that the Amalekites had carried away; and David rescued his two wives." Nothing is lost under the protection of God. As we live the Christian life abundantly, our recovery from hard times begins on the inside soul as we connect with our King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Encourage yourself in your Lord. Connect with Him for divine guidance. Pursue the enemy. The victory is yours. There is victory in Jesus!

Aug. 7, 2008

Aug. 7, 2008 - Olympics Are Always Inspiring © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ What an awesome time to be living. The explosion of knowledge and communication will thrust us into new beginnings, adventures and ways of thinking and living. Four weeks before the opening of the Olympic games, a lighted torch (originally a stick of wood dipped in tallow or oil and set ablaze at the end to provide light that can be carried about) is brought by relay running from the valley of Olympia, Greece, where the original games were held, to Beijing, China. Ships and planes transport the Olympic torch over the seas and mountains. The final runner carried the torch into the stadium and made a dramatic pass around the track, followed by all participating athletes, and then lights the Olympic flame. As the flame transfers from the runner's torch to the stationary torch, the Olympic ceremonies begin. The opening ceremonies, scheduled for 8 p.m. Friday, will be spectacular. It will be viewed all over the world on television and Internet. The top world athletes will thrill and motivate us as they participate in competition. As an advocate of living your life without thinking about your age, I focus on the American Olympic swimmer, Dara Torres, a 41-year-old mother of a toddler. The 2008 Olympics will be her fifth Olympic competition. She told Time magazine, "So many middle-aged women look up to me. I want them to feel proud, like they can do what they set out to do." I hope you enjoy the excellent coverage of the 2008 Olympics while learning about China as it parades across our screens, feeling like you are on the sidelines and pulling for gold medals for the USA! Olympic coverage: For a complete schedule of competitions, results, medal counts and much more, go to the Official Olympics Website or check with your local NBC station.

Aug. 14, 2008

Aug. 14, 2008 - The Olympics Reminds Us We Are All God's Masterpieces © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ The innovative design of the Bird's Nest in Beijing, China, lit up the whole world on 08/08/08, the Chinese luckiest day in 100 years, with lights, fireworks and the most famous athletes. On this auspicious day, the opening of the 29th Olympic games proved to be a huge success. China used to be behind the bamboo curtain. On this day they threw open the drapes. The joyful 2008 Olympic slogan, "One world, one dream," calls upon the world to unite in the Olympic spirit and build a better future for humanity. More than 4 billion people viewed the games on television giving the Chinese government a chance to highlight China's emergence on the world stage. The star of the water cube is America's Michael Phelps, full of vim, vigor and vitality. He gave his philosophy, "I don't believe in limits," in an interview. "The more you dream, the farther you get!" Phelps continued. The Olympic spirit lives on to remove limits and encourage dreaming big. The beauty of a mother and son relationship shined like the many twinkles of a diamond as Phelps' mother cheered him on to all nine gold medals, the greatest Olympic performance of all time! Superstar Michael Phelps has proven when determination, competition, inspiration and hard work mix with passion, joyful experiences emerge! We are magnificent, exquisite and significant, because we are each an original creation from God.

Aug. 21, 2008

Aug. 21, 2008 - Baby Boomers Reinventing Lives And Changing Attitudes © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ The leading edge of the baby boomers (the 84 million Americans born between 1946 and 1964) will reach 60 this year. Every eight seconds, a boomer will turn 60. More than 11,000 boomers will turn 60 each day. All baby boomers are over 40. The baby boomers turning 60 this year are more youthful and exhilarating. This new breed of agers are reinventing their own lives and changing the attitude for the years after 60. The new paradigm for aging Americans is reinvention of retirement. Instead of becoming less, they are becoming more. Many boomers are experiencing new spiritual fulfillment. Seeking life eternal has fueled the mega churches, media, small groups and international worship. A large number of retirees are charting new courses, considering new options, writing new chapters in their life's journey. The desire to deepen personal relationships is high priority. The excitement of making new relationships gives zest to the aging baby boomer. The anticipation of developing a social life is high on the priority list. Energy and fun reclaims youth for the 84 million aging boomers who are experiencing empowerment and personal reinvention. A book that will guide you into a powerful last half of life is Dr. Ken Dychtwald's book, "The Power Years - A User's Guide to the Rest of Your Life." This book gives you a step-by-step guide to pursue your dreams, deepen your relationships and achieve financial freedom. It's time we view the years ahead as a fabulous time to do the things, follow the passions, and enjoy the life God has planted inside each of us, instead of thinking our second half of life as retreat, decline and isolation.

Aug. 30, 2008

Aug. 30, 2008 - 'Tis The Time Of Year For Politics © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ Let freedom ring as we anticipate electing our next president and vice president of the United States of America. Politics are definitely in the air. Whether you are Republican or Democrat, you have seen many changes in your lifetime. We are seeing the unfolding of the vision of our forefathers, "Government of the people, by the people and for the people." More than 88 years ago when women were given the right to vote, it was certainly a stepping stone to equality. During Hillary Clinton's campaign to be nominated for the Democratic presidential candidate in 2008, she made 18 million cracks in the glass ceiling! At 72 years old, presidential candidate John McCain is a testimonial that age is not in the equation. Wisdom, life experiences, maturity of older people is now a trump card. An African-American presidential candidate shows great progress since the practice of segregation in this country. The headline speaker at the Democratic convention in Denver was Michelle Obama, candidate for first lady of the USA. She is proof we are moving toward freedom for all people. One of the highlights of this political race is the encouragement of Sen. Edward Kennedy, of Massachusetts, who got out of his sick bed. He has been undergoing treatment for brain cancer. He roared like a lion as he challenged everyone at the Democratic convention. "Chart your course, set your sail and sail against the wind to rise to our best ideals," he said. Americans who are over 50 years old have witnessed the happiest days and the stormiest days in our history. This seasons us to make a difference in the lives of young people. Age is a tide of hope. We desire to pass that hope of freedom, on to the upcoming generations. " ...Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty." II Corinthians 3:17 KJV

Sept. 4, 2008

Sept. 4, 2008 - All Should Celebrate Grandparents Day © by Shirley W. Mitchell,  Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ God had a great plan when he made grandparents. He gave them laps for holding, arms for hugging, cheeks for snuggling and hearts for believing in the best. Grandparents comprise 70 percent of people over 65; that's nearly 50 million people. Think of the wisdom, life experiences, goodness and laughter available in the repository of aging bodies and youthful willing spirits. Grandparents are available to make a difference in a generation that has been raised in day care, seen more divorce than any other generation to date. That generation has the most mothers who have been employed at least part-time. My mother told me when my grandmother, Hattie, visited she would walk in the cornfields behind our home, kneeling down in the dirt and praying loudly for me by name. Luke 2:40 and 52, KJV - This is what the Bible says about "the boy Christ." "And the child grew and waxed strong in spirit; filled with wisdom and the grace of God was upon Him. "And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature and in favor with God and man." A possible prayer for your grandchild: "Father, God, I ask you in the name of Jesus to bless (grandchild's name) to grow and be strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and may the grace of God be upon (grandchild's name). "Dear God, increase (grandchild's name) in wisdom and stature and give (him or her) favor with God and man, "Amen." Remember Grandparents Day Sunday!

Sept. 11, 2008

Sept. 11, 2008 - Celebrate Beautiful Women's Month © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ As we celebrate beautiful women, we realize that each woman has her own unique beauty given by God. Beauty is planted in the DNA, enhanced by parents teaching great health habits and secrets of a positive attitude. "And let the beauty of the Lord, our God, be upon us." Psalms 90:17 KJV September is the perfect month to review the late actress, Audrey Hepburn's seven simple "beauty tips," found in my book, "Sensational after 60 - Loving Life All Over Again" (See page 134): 1. For attractive lips, speak words of kindness. 2. For lovely eyes, seek out the good in people. 3. For a slim figure, share your food with the hungry. 4. For beautiful hair, let a child run his or her fingers through once a day. 5. For poise, walk with the knowledge that you never walk alone. 6. People, even more than things, have to be restored, renewed, revived, reclaimed and redeemed: never throw out anyone. 7. Remember, if you ever need a helping hand, you will find one at the end of each arm. As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands: one for helping yourself and the other for helping others. Did you know you are beautiful? Yes, you are, because God does not create ugly. "Oh! I'm old," you say. I say, "You are the new old." I look at the antique cars that have been restored to operate and look identical to when they were first manufactured, all shiny and rolling out in style. You can be all shiny rolling out in style, if you practice these seven hot ways to reinvent yourself as you age: 1. Exercise is the elixir of aging. 2. Proper diet will keep your energy raging. 3. The attitude of gratitude will give you altitude. 4. Revving yourself up will increase your latitude. 5. Keeping spiritually fit will give you wit. 6. Praying continually increases your grit. 7. Hydration will keep you fit. Congratulations to all the beautiful women reading this column!

Sept. 18, 2008

Sept. 18, 2008 - Sand Mountain's Great Fall Season Is Coming © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ I love our distinct four seasons we experience in the great state of Alabama, my favorite being the mystical fall season! This morning I walked the track at Marshall Medical Center South Health Connections. The smell of fall permeated the air as my breath came faster and deeper. Walking this lovely track through trees, across the wooden bridges, over the lazy brook, is a great way to start the day with my energy raging. The birds sang me a song as the crisp fall breeze blew back my hair. This fall season, many people in our country are hurting. Robert S. Walker said, "Instead of weeping when a tragedy occurs in a songbird's life, it sings away its grief. I believe we could well follow the pattern of our feathered friend." As I walked the early morning sunlight spread its rays across the sky, like great golden fingers making my spirit fly high. The brilliance of the sun pushed the harvest moon into a mere glimmer. This fall season is a great time to enjoy the fall season of life. The second half of life is like a raging river. Living life to the zenith is often rapid and strong like a raging river. Every lesson, relationship, circumstance, twist and turn, detours and rollercoaster ride brings each of us to our present destination. The fall season is a great time to embrace our aging life and be thankful for every single day! We are blessed!

Sept. 27, 2008

Sept. 27, 2008 - 10 Keys For Achieving Happiness © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ Andy Rooney says, "Life is like a roll of toilet paper. The closer it gets to the end, the faster it goes." So if you're over 50, I hope you are enjoying the happy side of living. Marguerite Gardiner says "There is no cosmetic for beauty like happiness!" The fall season and the fall of life is a perfect time to accentuate the positive and eliminate the negative. Top 10 happiness strategies: 1. Remember King Solomon's words: "There is nothing better to do than to rejoice and to do good in one's lifetime." Ecclesiastes 3:12 2. Another axiom to live by: "As a man thinks in his heart, so he is." Proverbs 23:7 3. Positive thoughts make positive lives. 4. Have a plan. Know what makes you happy. Do it! 5. When your mood swings down, start moving. 6. Dwell on positive things. "Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, 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." Philippians 4:8 NASB 7 - Practice thanksgiving and praise. 8. Journaling has medical benefits and makes room for happiness by getting the unhapplness on the outside. "A tranquil heart is life to the body." Proverbs 14:30 NASB 9. Dance. King David did. Dance in your heart, in the kitchen, in the attitude, in your fall garden. 10. Smile. It changes the way you see the world and the way the world sees you. Hear what Thomas Arnold said. "Probably the happiest period in life most frequently is in middle age, when the eager passions of youth are cooled and the infirmities of age not yet begun: as we see that the shadows, Which are at morning and evening so large, almost entirely disappear at midday."

Oct. 2, 2008

Oct. 2, 2008 - Celebrate Cool Weather, Autumn At The Boaz Harvest Festival © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ Yea! It's October. Yes, it's time for the annual Harvest Festival Friday and Saturday in Boaz. This great celebration of the fall season is anticipated to kick off the holiday season, Halloween and Thanksgiving. So bring your festive spirit to Boaz and enjoy the various festivities. Please visit my booth, No. 149, and introduce yourself. I would love to meet you and autograph a personal copy of my book for you. Pumpkins are a big part of our fall activities. A woman asked a coworker, "What is it like to be a Christian?" The coworker replied, "It's like being a pumpkin. God picks you from a patch, brings you in and washes the dirt off of you. Then he cuts off the top and scoops out all the yucky stuff. He removes the seeds of doubt, hate and greed. "And then, He carves you a new smiling face and puts His light inside of you to shine for all the world to see." I love the four distinct seasons we enjoy in Alabama. Fall is my favorite. The bright pumpkins, colored leaves and cool breeze fill me with zeal. Allow the fall season to get you inspired about the good life. Bring colorful leaves inside your home. Place in water in a clear glass vase and set in a prominent spot of beauty. Create a warm welcome to your home by placing a colorful fall wreath on the front door. Decorate the mantle with colorful pumpkins, squash, apples and nuts. The fall season is a wonderful time to travel and stay in touch with nature. But, with high gas prices, some of us will enjoy the new television season and bring the family around the table to enjoy the fresh fall vegetables and possibly the aroma of apple pie baking in the oven. Chef Julia Child enjoyed her 91 years of life. She hung a sign in her kitchen, which read, "Above all, have a good time." So with the late Chef Julia Child, I say to you above all, have a good time this fall season of 2008!

Oct. 9, 2008

Oct. 9, 2008 - Celebrate Christopher Columbus And His Faith © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ On Oct. 13, America celebrates Columbus Day. Christopher Columbus' first voyage to America is one of the greatest events in history. His idea was not to prove the world was round, but to establish a great city in the east and west for trade. His great adventure, motivated by God, gold and spices, discovered America, a new land of opportunity. As a prayer warrior, 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 natives and armed rebels on the land. His tenacity, strengthened by prayer and faith in God, was so great that he never gave up. What if Christopher Columbus has aborted his dream of spreading Christianity, finding gold and new spices? You and I could have missed an opportunity to live in freedom in the United States of America. As a nation, we are struggling with war, a failing economy and natural disasters. Thinking of Columbus traveling to America during his first voyage in three small boats - the Nina, the Pinta and the Santa Maria - gives me courage. He had no engines, no motor, just a compass and a few brave men, but he prevailed. As we Americans "pray without ceasing," we too shall prevail. An absolutely powerful verse for Americans today is, "If my people who are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face," and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and forgive their sins, and will heal their land." II Chronicles 7:14 KJV.

Oct. 16, 2008

Oct. 23, 2008

Oct. 23, 2008 - Freedom Motivates Americans To Cast Their Vote For President © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ The media, newspapers, magazines and people are exploding with negative conversations about America. Let's eliminate the negative and accentuate the positive. People and freedom are the two main strong points of America. Freedom motivates the American people to be creative. This creativity has the ability to bring order to chaos and positive results from a negative situation. John Maxwell said; "The pessimist complains about the wind. The optimist expects it to change. The leader adjusts the sails." Americans are now adjusting the sails to move America forward in the sea of life. As long as we have faith, love and character, we will prevail. I anticipate more Americans will take advantage of their freedom to vote on Nov. 4. This freedom to vote has been won through the vision and hard work by our forefathers. We cherish that right as we go to the polls. The divine spark of courage will bring American people to the forefront to proclaim what is right about America. We will work to right the things that have gone wrong, not just talk about the. In the movie, "The Scent of a Woman," Actor Al Pacino said, "The worst you can do to a person is to amputate their spirit." Americans will not allow the negative rhetoric of the news media to amputate our spirit. We will adjust our sail and head fnto the wind. What did President Abraham Lincoln do, when his beloved America raged in civil war? He prayed, "Oh, thou God that heard Solomon in the night when he prayed and cried for wisdom, hear me. I cannot guide the affairs of this nation without Thy help. Hear me and save this nation!" God heard President Lincoln and saved our nation! Let us pray this prayer for our nation today.

Oct. 30, 2008

Oct. 30, 2008 - America Should Unite In Prayer © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ "If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from Heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land." II Chronicles 7:14 KJV Prayers for the healing of our beloved USA should begin with each individual. Take three minutes for personal prayer, in preparation for our collective prayers. "Search me, o God, and know my heart: Try me and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting." Psalm 139: 23-24. King David wrote these words. His words could be ours as we humble ourselves to pray as we select our new president and vice president, also for the healing of our nation. As you participate in your own prayer, may I share with you the 2007 Prayer for Our Nation written by Dr. Charles R. Swindoll. "Almighty God, we pause to reflect of Your character as we seek wisdom for such a time as this. In these unsafe days, You remain all-knowing, leading us aright; In the unprecedented events we are facing, You remain absolutely sovereign. Our times are in Your hands. Therefore, our dependence on You is total, not partial. Our need for Your forgiveness is constant. Our gratitude for Your grace is profound. Our love for You is deep. We ask that You guard and guide our president and all who serve the people of these United States. May uncompromising integrity mark their lives. We ask that you unite us as truly one nation, under God. May genuine humility return to our ranks. And may that blend of integrity and humility heal our land. In our Lord's name we pray, Amen."

Nov. 6, 2008

Nov. 6, 2008 - Football Players Demonstrate Life © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ Yea! Football season is upon us! Watching a ballgame on television last week, I heard the announcer yell. "This player's greatest assets are his confidence and guts!" In the game of our aging life, confidence and guts are important. My friend Dr. Walter M. Bortz, author of the book "Dare to be 100" told me in an interview, "You've got to have guts to grow old, to claim life you've got to be bold. But you have to be smart as well as have heart if you want your whole tale to be told." Watching the athletes on the football field, I'm amazed at their teamwork, discipline, enthusiasm, strength and can-do spirit! To age successfully, teamwork is imperative. We need family, friends, healthcare professionals, community and spiritual guidance on our team. As on the football field, aging adults need a group of spectators cheering us on to a better and healthier life. Like a championship football player, successful agers must be disciplined! Championship-agers exercise the body, mind and spirit, while eating smart and enjoying a positive attitude. In football enthusiasm God within is the force that ignites competition for the winner's circle and the championship. Acing the game of life is also a thriller. Jesus said, "...I am come that they might have life and that they might have it more abundantly," John 10:10 KJV On the football field, the players intensely focus on the game of football. They have a fire in their belly. The adrenaline is flowing. The team puts into practice all the instructions of their coach. Their passion is to morve that ball toward their goal line and make a touchdown. Winning that ballgame is the most important thing in each player's mind. As we lay the aging game of life, let's be inspired by the football players, to be fit, focused, and enthusiastic and follow the rule book of life, the holy Bible. The triune God is our coach as we move toward the victory in Jesus and eternal life.

Nov. 13, 2008

Nov. 13, 2008 - Time Of Change © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ Positive thinking brings positive changes in our lives. As we experience the peaceful change of power when our new president brings his cabinet into power, it's important to support our leaders in prayer as we open the door of new birth. John Maxwell said, "The pessimist complains about the wind. The optimist expects it to change. The leader adjusts the sails."  Are you a pessimist, optimist or leader? Change opens the door of rebirth. I think of the phoenix, a mythical bird with beautiful gold and red plumage. At the end of its life cycle, the phoenix builds itself a nest of cinnamon twigs that it then ignites; both nest and bird burn fiercely and reduces to ashes, from which a new, young phoenix arises. The new phoenix is destined to live, usually as long as the old one. In some stories, the new phoenix embalms the ashes of the old phoenix in an egg made of myrrh and deposits it in the Egyptian city of Heliopolis (Sun City of Greek). The bird was also said to regenerate when hurt or wounded by a foe, thus being almost immortal and invincible - a symbol of fire and divinity. To have the Holy fire of God and an optimistic attitude, we live our lives, in the land of the free, being thankful to God for democracy. As the elections of 2008 bring many changes, we adjust our sails to sail smoothly into the new generation.

Nov. 20, 2008

Nov. 20, 2008 - Banish Worry And Fear To Lead A More Productive Lifestyle © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ "Finish every day and be done with it. You have done what you could; some blunders and absurdities no doubt crept in. Forget them as soon as you can. "Tomorrow is a new day. You shall begin it serenely and with too high a spirit to be cumbered with your old nonsense." - Ralph Waldo Emerson. With the economic slowdown, the environmental crisis and wars added to the stress of everyday life, many people worry. Worry is like rocking in a rocking chair. You rock but you get nowhere. The Bible tells us in Philippians 4:6 (modern language) "Entertain no worry, but under all circumstances let your petitions be made known before God by prayer and pleading along with thanksgiving." Fear can be paralyzing, as well as fatal. There is an old story about Nick Sitzman, who worked on a train crew. He was a notorious worrier and feared the worst about everything. "One day, the crew planned a birthday party for the foreman. Everyone left the train for the party except Sitzman, who was working in the refrigerator boxcar. Accidentally, Nick was left locked in the refrigerator boxcar. When Nick realized he was locked in, he screamed, hollered and banged on the walls and door. Finally, he found a knife and wrote on the wooden floor, "It's so cold, my body is getting numb. If I could just go to sleep. These may be my last words." The next morning the crew found Nick Sitzman dead, although the temperature in the refrigeration boxcar was 55 degrees. During this negative atmosphere of the media, the feeling that the world that we have known is crumbling around us, it is time to create new ideas, allow God to work through each of us to renew, reinvent and revitalize our lives, community, county and world.

Nov. 27, 2008

Dec. 7, 2008

Dec. 14, 2008

Dec. 14, 2008 - Hard Work Always Breeds Success © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ "The dictionary is the only place that success comes before work. Hard work is the price we pay for success. I think you can accomplish almost anything if you are willing to pay the price." Vince Lombardi. Nature is always an inspiration! Researchers have said the blackbird begins the day at 2:30 a.m. and ends it at 7:30 in the evening. During this time, over 100 meals are fed to the young. The honeybee provides a fabulous example of hard work. To make one gram of honey, the bee visits 125 clover heads. The freedom in America gives its people the opportunity to follow their dream and be creative and innovative. Passion about one's work creates an atmosphere of enthusiasm. Many successful people work long hard hours; however, the work is so rewarding it doesn't feel like work. Sculptor, artist, architect and poet Michelangelo, the genius of the Renaissance, has been called the greatest artist ever. He said, "If people knew how hard I have had to work to gain my mastery, it wouldn't seem so wonderful." Our beautiful first lady, Laura Bush, said, "At 60 I'm happy. If people are happy with what they do, they are happy. If you feel like a productive member of society, you will also feel like you are a happy member of society." I have confidence that the American people will work our way out of the recession and not a more powerful positive lifestyle.

Dec. 18, 2008

Dec. 18, 2008 - Celebrate Christmas As A Birthday Party For Jesus © by Shirley W. Mitchell, Lifestyles - Fabulous after Fifty™ The perfect Christmas is the first one. Because of the birth of Jesus Christ, you now know that God is with you, and you never have to face another day alone. Jesus came into the world to give you hope. Let Jesus fill the void in your life this Christmas. Offer to God thanksgiving for this magical Christmas we are about to celebrate. When one of my favorite authors, Rick Warren, was 3 years old, he asked his mother, "Why do we have Christmas?" She replied, "It's the celebration of the birthday of Jesus!" The youngster smiled at his mom and shouted excitedly, "Let's have a birthday party for Jesus with a birthday cake, candles and Kool-Aid." This first birthday for Jesus began a five-decade tradition with the Warren family. They celebrate each Christmas Eve with a birthday cake for Jesus. What a great idea! If you have young children, this is an excellent way to illustrate the true meaning of Christmas. With the dour economic predictions for this holiday season, many families are scaling back on spending for expensive gift giving. A birthday party for Jesus, using the time and money to focus on Jesus, the light of the world, has the possibility of drawing your family and friends into a more intimate relationship. Norman Vincent Peale said about Christmas, "If we open our hearts and embrace Him, not only to reap abundance and joy, and health, and happy fulfillment, but also for the cancellation of our sin. Then this is the greatest welcome we can give to the Christ child." Merry Christmas.

Dec. 25, 2008

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.