Archives for 2023

How To Get the Most Out of Retirement

You’ve reached your destination, retirement.  You can say goodbye to the everyday stresses of work, the traffic, the commute, the difficult customers and co-workers.  This is the life, right?

That initial feeling of relief can one day wear off and you find yourself asking, Now What?

There are things you can do to get the most out of retirement.

Give Yourself Something to Look Forward To

Give yourself goals and objectives.  Having something to look forward to, and working towards it helps to keep you looking forward and eager about life. 

The goals can be simple or complex.  For example, planning a trip to visit distant relatives or family next year puts something there for you to look forward to.  You have to plan your route, if you’re driving, or book your airline tickets and hotels.  You think about what gifts you want to take to share, and what activities you have to do.  These activities help focus your mind and create your future.

There is no shortage of goals you can set for yourself.  Lose 10 lbs, read 5 books, and take that dream vacation you’ve always wanted.  There’s a whole world to explore and experience.  Splurge on it!

Gymnasium.

You’ve made the move to a retirement village or Lifestyle Communities at Point Lonsdale, and have access to the facilities.  Go to the gym regularly

The benefits of regular exercise, in particular weightlifting, can’t be over-emphasized. 

Weightlifting improves your mood and outlook.  It will help you sleep better, it helps to strengthen your bones, it improves muscle mass and balance and more.  It will give you more energy and confidence to try other things you may not have considered.

Don’t worry if you’re not athletic or have never tried it before.  Consult your doctor, and work with a trainer to help design a program that you can stick with.

Take a New Job

Just because you’re retired from one job or career, doesn’t mean you can’t have another.

If work is not for you, consider volunteering.  There are lots of organizations that would love to get some extra help. Love pets, consider helping at your local kennel or shelter. Have special skills, try teaching at a local school or youth group.  There is no shortage of opportunity to volunteer your special skills and talents.

Research has shown that retirees who volunteer or take on a less stressful secondary career are often in better health, both mentally and physically and report higher levels of satisfaction with life.

You will meet new people, and experience new things, and this helps keep you young in both mind and spirit.

LouLou, Dec. 29 Pet of the Week

awwwww

LouLou is a lovely domestic longhair, a gentle kitty without a mean bone in her furry body. She doesn’t hiss, scratch, bite, or act aggressively in any way—that is, if you happen to be a human. LouLou loves people but not other animals. If she’s the only pet in a loving home, her life will be perfect, and so will she! LouLou is spending her kennel time at the Paw Shoppe, Long Beach Animal Care Services’ offsite adoption center, located at 6416 E Spring St., Long Beach. To adopt or foster LouLou, visit her at the Paw Shoppe, and email PetAdopt@longbeach.gov to speed the process, or call (562) 570-7387. Ask for ID#A696570.

The Boy And The Heron * Gorgeous Animation By Renowned Animator Hayao Miyazaki With a Complicated Story

From Academy Award winning and internationally acclaimed filmmaker Hayao Miyazaki, The Boy And The Heron follows the incredible journey of young Mahito. After he experiences the tragic loss of his mother, Mahito settles into a new town that is anything but ordinary. After several strange encounters with a grey heron, Mahito goes on a search for his mother that leads him to a magical world unknown. There, death comes to an end, and life finds a new beginning. A semi-autobiographical fantasy from the mind of Hayao Miyazaki.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Tia O. comments, “The Boy And The Heron, directed by Hayao Miyazaki is a very unique Japanese film. The amazing high quality sound effects and suspenseful background music are spectacular. However, this film does get confusing very quickly.” Avalynn G. adds, “The film The Boy and The Heron is unlike any film I’ve ever seen before. I was in awe with the beautiful scenery and the music that goes from simple piano notes to complex orchestrations.” See her full review below.

The Boy And The Heron
By Tia O., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 14

The Boy And The Heron, directed by Hayao Miyazaki is a very unique Japanese film. The amazing high quality sound effects and suspenseful background music are spectacular. However, this film does get confusing very quickly.

This semi-autobiographical animated movie follows the story of young Mahito Maki (Soma Santoki), who tragically loses his mother in a fire and  moves to the country with his dad Shoichi (Takuya Kimura) and his step-mom Natsuko (Yoshino Kimura). Action soon rises after Mahito interacts with a talking gray heron (Masaki Suda) who is revealed to be a shapeshifting avian guide. The gray heron alludes to Mahito’s mother still being alive and Mahito goes on a journey to find her.

The sound effects in The Boy And The Heron enhance the film tremendously. Even though this film is animated the sound effects make it seem almost as if it is a live action film. From realistic deep footsteps to the realistic sounds of crashing ocean waves; sound director Kôji Kasamatsu absolutely brought this movie to life. I also enjoyed the background music throughout this film. The music by Joe Hisaishi creates suspenseful and surprising moments that kept me engaged throughout my viewing experience. My favorite scene in the movie is when Mahito and a fisherwomen named Kiriko (Kô Shibasaki) watch the Warwara (creatures whole embody both life and death) be released into the normal world. The music is beautiful and creates a sense of awe and wonder. Who could forget the gorgeous animation by the world renowned animator Hayao Miyazaki? Every scene in this movie is animated to perfection. For example, when Mahito first enters this new world he lands on an island surrounded by a vast deep blue ocean and stormy clouds. The ocean waves crash very fluidly and the clouds are different shades of purple and move very realistically. The detail and fluidity of the animation does not go unnoticed. As much as I like this film, I did find it somewhat confusing. Over the course of two hours we primarily follow the main character searching for his mother, but this plot is somewhat drowned out by many other side plots taking place, which makes things murky and difficult to track.

The film’s message is to not let grief hold you back and to find different healthy ways to move on. However, this film delivers this message in a very confusing way. It’s important to note that this movie contains mentions of self-harm, minor cursing, gore and small jump scares that could be frightening to younger audiences. 

I give The Boy And The Heron 3 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters December 8, 2023. Make sure you give it a watch! 

The Boy and The Heron

By Avalynn G., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 10

The film The Boy and The Heron is unlike any film I’ve ever seen before. I was in awe with the beautiful scenery and the music that goes from simple piano notes to complex orchestrations. 

The storyline follows a family living during a time of war in Tokyo. Tragically, the main character, Mahito Maki’s (Soma Santoki) mother dies in a fire at the hospital where she works. Years later, Mahito and his father move from Tokyo to start a new life with his new step-mother. Outside this new home, Mahito is drawn to a gray heron that seems to be taunting him and leading him to a tower on the property.  His step-mother, Natsuko, (Yoshino Kimura) disappears and Mahito follows the heron into the tower in search of her. Entering the tower brings him into another world where he meets his mother from another time and together they race to find Natsuko while battling many obstacles such as pelicans, parakeets and the heron’s sneaky and selfish ways.        

I love the character, Kiriko (Ko Shibasaki), both in her younger and older self. She is helpful and fierce and stays by Mahito’s side. The ship she lives on in the strange tower world is so beautiful and the idea of her taking care of the warawara before they float into our world and are born as human beings shows how nurturing she is. I really enjoy how this movie makes me think and make connections between parallel worlds. I knew that Lady Himi was going to be his mom and when I realized that he was meeting her during the year she vanished into the tower when she was younger, my mind was blown as the puzzle came together. I was also shocked when Natsuko said that Mahito’s mom is her sister! There are many twists and turns in this film that kept me on the edge of my seat. The artistry in the animation, by Hayao Miyazaki, is really neat to watch and made me want to research and learn more about the film and about anime. 

The film’s message is to find acceptance after the loss of a loved one and to find peace during a time of turmoil. Mahito struggles with personal grief while his country is also struggling during a period of war. 

I give The Boy and The Heron 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. This film releases in theaters December 8, 2023.

Seasonal Affective Disorder and Its Connection to Substance Abuse

As the days grow shorter and sunlight becomes a scarce commodity during the winter months, some find themselves grappling with a condition known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). This type of depression, often colloquially referred to as the winter blues, can have a profound impact on mental health.

Surprisingly, there is a growing body of research suggesting a link between Seasonal Affective Disorder and substance abuse. Unfortunately, loved ones who are alcoholics can often struggle even more with their addiction at this time of the year.

To better understand what is going on, let’s look at the intricate relationship between SAD and the misuse of substances.

Understanding seasonal affective disorder

Seasonal Affective Disorder is described as a subtype of major depressive disorder that occurs at specific times of the year. Particularly during the fall and winter months when daylight hours are limited.

The symptoms of SAD are similar to those of major depression and may include persistent feelings of sadness, low energy, and difficulty concentrating. You can also experience changes in sleep patterns and diminished interest in activities that you used to enjoy.

While the exact cause of SAD remains unclear, researchers believe that a combination of biological and environmental factors contributes to its onset.

The role of light and circadian rhythms

One of the leading theories explaining the connection between Seasonal Affective Disorder and substance abuse revolves around the role of exposure to light and its impact on circadian rhythms.

Reduced exposure to natural sunlight during the winter months can disrupt your body’s internal clock, leading to imbalances in serotonin and melatonin levels.

These neurotransmitters play a crucial role in regulating mood and sleep-wake cycles. When these systems are disrupted, someone with SAD may experience a heightened vulnerability to substance abuse as a means of self-medication.

The path from self-medication and substance abuse

When someone is grappling with the persistent gloom of Seasonal Affective Disorder, substances such as alcohol, nicotine, and illicit drugs may seem like they offer temporary relief from the emotional pain.

This form of self-medication is a common coping mechanism for those attempting to alleviate the symptoms of depression. However, the relief is often short-lived, and the use of substances can quickly spiral into dependence and addiction.

Dual diagnosis – SAD and substance use disorders

The intertwining of Seasonal Affective Disorder and substance abuse often results in what mental health professionals refer to as a dual diagnosis. This dual diagnosis creates unique challenges as attempts are made to grapple with the complexities of both mood disorders and addiction.

Treating these co-occurring conditions requires an integrated approach that addresses both the underlying causes of SAD and the patterns of substance abuse.

Treatment strategies

Recognizing the connection between Seasonal Affective Disorder and substance abuse is crucial for developing effective treatment strategies.

Light therapy, or phototherapy, is a common and proven intervention for SAD. This aims to regulate circadian rhythms and alleviate depressive symptoms. Additionally, psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and support groups can provide valuable tools for anyone dealing with the dual burden of SAD and substance use disorders.

Seasonal Affective Disorder casts a shadow over the lives of many individuals during the dark winter months, impacting mental health and well-being. The link between SAD and substance abuse highlights the importance of addressing both conditions simultaneously for effective treatment.

By understanding the complex interplay between mood disorders and substance misuse, healthcare professionals can develop targeted interventions to help break the cycle of self-medication and achieve a lasting recovery.

Holiday Pet Guide

Alzoo Hip & Joint Mobility Soft Chews

If you are like me, then your fur baby is definitely on your holiday shopping list! Here are a few favorites!

Soft Chews (90-count): Potent, natural blends of ingredients specifically formulated to improve target areas for your beloved dogs:   Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil and flax seed oil work wonders in Skin & Coat Soft Chews.

       Probiotics, fennel, and other immune-supporting ingredients keep dogs’ seasonal allergies in check in Allergy Soft Chews.

        Botanicals like chamomile manage stress (from fireworks to car rides to separation anxiety) for Calming Soft Chews.        Powerful antioxidants support normal inflammation response in Hip & Joint Mobility Soft Chews.

With additions to their popular concentrated shampoo, they will also add a concentrated stain and odor remover, as well as a new plant-based mobility collar and severe accident remover. Perhaps the most noteworthy of ALZOO’s new product offerings is a new category of natural soft chews, designed for your dog’s overall health and wellbeing. Please see below for more details on all ALZOO’s new product innovations.

Concentrated Shampoos: Three new concentrated powders omit single-use bottles and never ship water while working wonders on your pet’s bath routine. In three varieties (Soothing, Puppy Care, and Deep Conditioning) these shampoos will be a new go-to.

Mobility Collar: The first dog collar to naturally soothe joint discomfort with essential oils, ALZOO’s clinically studied innovation showed to reduce stiffness and improve mobility within 3 days of usage. Each collar lasts up to 30 days and is waterproof.

Severe Accident Remover: This highly absorbent lavender powder easily cleans up the worst types of messes pets leave behind without leaving behind any residue.

Concentrated Stain & Odor Remover: A more sustainable option to remove pet stains and odors while reducing carbon footprint with NO water shipping and no single-use plastic.

All Alzoo products are available on Amazon, Walmart.com and other national retailers and specialty stores.

For more information, please visit: https://alzoo-vet.com/

Self Disclosure: I received information and images to post.

Family Travel Essentials this Holiday Season

Keep Going First Aid Kit

Whether your adventures take you around the world or close to home, the handy, compact Keep Going First Aid Kit has all the essential first aid supplies you need. From burn relief to bandages, your family will be ready for anything! TSA approved, the lightweight kit is packaged in an organized, stylish water & stain-resistant case for at home or on-the-go. Created by a mom of four for parents, travel and adventure loving families, the Keep Going First Aid Kit is an essential for the entire family. Four kits are available, including the SuperKit (270 pieces), GoKit (130 pieces), NEW MiniKit (60 pieces) and KidsKit (44 pieces). A variety of stylish, trendy patterns and colors are available. The kits can be found on the website https://www.keepgoingfirstaid.com/ and on Amazon.com. I absolutely love this kit and keep one in my car all of the time!

Price: $14.99 (KidsKit) and up

Website: https://www.keepgoingfirstaid.com/

Alarmee Self-Defense Keychain

Introducing Alarmee, the rechargeable personal self-defense keychain alarm from 3DActive. The stylish personal alarm is sleek and small in size, but powerful and loud when pulled! Ideal for travelers, as well as anyone walking, hiking, jogging or taking their pet for a walk. Simply attach the Alarmee directly to your keys, waist, purse and more using the included carabiner. Simply pull the ring to emit a loud 130db siren and bright strobe light to attract attention. To deactivate the alarm, replace the ring. Made from premium quality, impact-resistant materials with an integrated internal structure, Alarmee is durable and made to last. Alarmee features a rechargeable Lithium ion battery and low battery warning so you can recharge in as little as 60 minutes. The alarm can run continuously for up to 70 minutes. A USB-C Charging Cable is included for fast charging. Learn more at www.3DActive.com. Available on Amazon.com, as well. 

Price: $23.99

Website: www.3DActive.com

Water Bottle Bands

Avoid water bottle mix-ups and back seat squabbles with the handy Water Bottle Bands from Mabel’s Labels! It’s easy to personalize and identify your child’s water bottles with reusable silicone name bands. Designed to stretch and fit snugly over most sized bottles, the bands are dishwasher and microwave-safe, so you won’t have to worry about them falling off! The Water Bottle Bands are also sterilizer-safe, BPA-free, durable and reusable. With font and design customization options, the bands are available in two sizes and six bright colors. Choose 2, 3 or 4 bands per package. In addition to the new Water Bottle Bands, Mabel’s Labels offers a vast collection of durable, waterproof labels & more that are ideal for getting your kids organized for daycare, school, camp or any other activity. Learn more at https://mabelslabels.com/.

Price: $15 and up

Website: https://mabelslabels.com/

Handzies Soap + Water Wipes

Get a ‘soap and water clean’ anytime, anywhere! Individually packaged and perfect for on-the-go, Handzies Soap + Water Wipes give you fresh, clean hands using only natural castile soap, water and essential oils. Say goodbye to harsh hand sanitizers, Handzies do not contain alcohol, BZK, triclosan, artificial perfumes or dyes. Gentle for use by the entire family! Ideal for keeping in your carry-on bag, laptop bag, purse or backpack while out and about with your family. 

Price: $7.99 and up

Website: http://handzies.com/

Baby Car Seat Mirror

Car rides with your baby feel like a breeze with KeaBabies Baby Car Seat Mirror. Whether a daily drive to run errands or an adventurous road trip, the mirror enables you to check on and stay connected with your baby while staying focused on the road. Drive with peace of mind while your baby is nestled safely and comfortably in their rear-facing car seat. The mirror is scratch-free, shatter-proof and crash-tested. Suitable for all car types. Available in two sizes.

Price: $21.96

Website: www.KeaBabies.com

New Swift Diaper Changing Mat

From the backseat, the park, a busy airport or rest stop to even the grandparents’ home, diaper changes become a breeze with the new Swift Diaper Changing Mat from KeaBabies! With an innovative one-hand design, you can simply whip out your Swift Diaper Changing Mat from your diaper bag and unfold it with one hand while holding your baby. Easy to clean, waterproof, portable and compact for quick diaper changes on-the-go! Available in 9 modern colors and designs, including Woods, Acacia, Rainbow, Clouds, Gray Mod, Black Geo, Navy Blue, Sweet Pink and Classic Gray. Learn more at www.KeaBabies.com.

Price: $13.96

Happy and safe travels this holiday season!

Self Disclosure: I received free samples of the above products. Images were also provided.

Kandy, Dec. 22 Pet of the Week

awwwwww so sweet!

A little bit of Kandy goes a long way to make things sweet, not just for you but also for Kandy herself! Kandy, seen here in her cone of pride, is a 2-year-old Chihuahua who was found near Belmont Veterans Memorial Pier covered in a motor oil-like substance. Shelter vets found some damage on her eye. Wow, does she need a Christmas gift, like a real home with trusted people! This month, Long Beach Animal Care Services is offering a Naughty or Nice, Pick Your Own Price deal for adoptions. Shelter hours are Wednesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 7700 E. Spring St. at the entrance to El Dorado Park (no parking fee for shelter visitors). You can email PetAdopt@longbeach.gov to speed the process for adopting or fostering Linda. Ask for ID#A682262.
(This rescue encouraged by the usual suspects.)

More Holiday Gift Ideas

PLAYMOBIL Rainbow Castle in the Clouds

Climb up the rope ladder and join the princesses in the Rainbow Castle.  Find a seat on the rainbow merry go round or look out on the horizon through the telescope.  You and a friend can sit on the swing while enjoying some tasty treats.  Pegasus will roam close by.  Play with this set on its own or combine it with other PLAYMOBIL Rainbow Castle sets (71360-71364) for even more fun. The set includes two figures, Pegasus horse, castle with cloud platform, swing, ladder, telescope, serving cart with assorted food, merry go round plus other accessories. Recommended ages 4-10. This will surely be a hit this holiday!

Retailer: Playmobil.us    Retail Price: $99.99

Love this Bento box for lunches!

From meal prepping to baking, Dreamroo has that covered! I love the Bento box which is great for either children or adults! I like the quality and it’s the perfect size for lunch on the go! Available at dreamroo.comAmazon, HomeGoods.

BIPOC, Women-owned, Veteran-owned, eco-conscious brand Dreamroo creates practical and functional products to help keep up with the demands of modern life.

Groovy, Retro Inspired Clothes for Modern Kids.

Strawberry Jam Kids has a unique collection of groovy, retro-inspired clothes designed to let kids express their creativity and individuality while embracing the colorful and vibrant spirit of the past.

What Sets Strawberry Jam Kids Apart:

  • Authentic Retro Vibes: Our designs capture the essence of the ’60s and ’70s, featuring bold patterns, bright colors, and funky prints that were synonymous with these eras. Your kids will love grooving in our bell-bottom pants, graphic tees, and flower power dresses.
  • Quality and Comfort: We understand that kids need to move and play, so we prioritize comfort without compromising on style. The majority of our collection is made from quality cotton-spandex fabrics to ensure maximum comfort.
  • Mom Owned: Strawberry Jam Kids is owned by a Mom who understands what kids need from their clothes. Comfortable materials and fun designs to keep them confident and happy. I received an adorable toddler dress and it is so stylish!

About Strawberry Jam Kids: 
After having an Etsy shop for many years, founder, Caitlyn, launched Strawberry Jam Kids in 2020 and quickly grew a following of vintage-loving moms. Our pieces at Strawberry Jam Kids are designed by myself or with the help of print designers under my direction. We extensively research vintage children’s styles, silhouettes, prints and colors to create one of a kind styles inspired directly from the 60s and 70s. 
https://www.strawberryjamkids.com/

Say goodbye to unsafe and harmful children’s clothing fabric and hello to Bellabu Bear’s organically grown and chemical-free bamboo clothing. Awarded the Seal of Acceptance from the National Eczema Association, Bellabu Bear has a mission to dress every child in a pajama that is safer and more comfortable for bedtime. They pass all the tests from having YKK zippers (choking proof zippers) and Oeko-Tex Certification with pinch-free and worry-free garments. Each design is hand drawn and an original work of art that through much effort becomes the beautiful prints you see displayed on our bamboo baby clothes. Gift your new mama-to-be with Bellabu Bear’s baby clothing and know she can go to bed at night worry-free! Price: $39. Available on Amazon and Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Bloomingdales.

Available on Amazon, Walmart, Target, Kohl’s, and more!

Through Leveret’s classic designs and high quality blend of cotton, this brand is able to rise to the occasion. With families and comfort at the forefront of their vision, they carefully craft their pajamas with high quality cotton fibers, making for lasting comfortability and breathability.

Kiddietotes Scooter Luggage 

This next one is just the coolest for kids and travel this holiday season! Kiddietotes Scooter Luggage is a must-have for kids and families taking a trip around the world or an upcoming road trip! These luggage pieces are TSA and IATA compliant and fit in overhead bins. The scooter deck folds up into the back of the luggage and can be pulled like traditional luggage with the handles extended. Kids will have so much fun riding this lightweight scooter luggage. The light-up LED wheels are smooth-rolling, and the luggage is made from waterproof plastic that won’t crack or lock up. In fun colors and styles like Robot, Space Boy, Unicorn and Race Car. 110-pound weight limit and recommended for children 4+. Available at https://kiddietotes.com/AmazonWalmart.com and Target.com.

Voice of the Vanishing

Voice of the Vanishing puts its money where its mouth is with sustainable activewear that directly saves endangered species.

It’s time to swap fast fashion for activewear with an environmental edge. Voice of the Vanishing is the clothing line that serves as a catalyst for ending wildlife extinction. Where designers combine on-trend, effortless looks with eco-friendly, high-quality materials made in the US and unique graphics, Voice of the Vanishing delivers on its mission daily to save near-extinct wildlife.

I love this comfy hoodie with an important message!

What is Ark 15? Ark 15 is a Voice of the Vanishing initiative that steers the brand’s resources to save 15 species found on the critically endangered species list. Critical endangerment classifies animals that will be completely wiped out in the next few years if nothing is done. So, Voice of the Vanishing is doing something by donating 51% of its profits to support the animals on its list. The money is donated to conservation organizations around the world to develop nature reserves, combat poaching, spread awareness, and more.

Ark 15 includes: Blue-Throated Macaw, Malayan Tiger, Black Rhino, Forest Elephant, Cross-River Gorilla, Brown Spider Monkey, Bornean Orangutan, Hawksbill Turtle, Kakapo, North Atlantic Right Whale, Northern White-Cheeked Gibbon, Panama Golden Frog, Philippines Eagle, Pygmy Three-Toed Sloth, and the Sunda Pangolin.

Through each purchase of Voice of the Vanishing’s sustainably sourced, ethically manufactured activewear apparel, customers support reputable organizations on the front lines of species preservation. Voice of the Vanishing specializes in women’s, men’s and vintage kids’ styles with all the staples, from tees to hoodies and accessories.

To shop Voice of the Vanishing, check out their online shop. For more information about Voice of the Vanishing, visit them online and follow on Instagram.

I love this pillow!

Give the gift of comfort, wellness and peace of mind this holiday season!

 A new standard of warmth, safety, energy efficiency and cost savings with Beurer’s Nordic Collection of heating pads, pillows and blankets that go under the mattress pad, thoughtfully engineered as well as the groundbreaking Menstrual Relief with Heat and TENS technology, a one-of-a-kind wearable, offering soothing warmth and targeted Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS), providing relief during the menstrual cycle.

You can find more information and gifts at: https://www.shop-beurer.com/ and on Amazon, Walmart.com, and other national drug stores and independent retailers.

Self Disclosure: I received free samples of the above items. Images were also provided.