Reaching Out Will Be So Appreciated this Time of Year

Isn’t there a lot going on this time of year? There’s the extra shopping and gift returning, and I’m not a big fan of crowds. OK, that’s an understatement. I avoid situations where there will be big groups of people—unless, of course, it’s a Health Alliance Medicare event.

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From Winter Wonderland to Just Plain Cold

When I was a youngster, I loved visiting my grandparents during the winter. There was always a lot of snow and my siblings, cousins and I would play outside for as long as we were allowed. The folks would slap a sock cap on our heads and make sure we wore a pair of woolen mittens and any available coat, then off we would go. I can remember enjoying it, but I can’t really remember getting cold. We usually came in when our cheeks and fingers were completely numb, but not before.

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On-the-Road Adventurers Face Trouble at Every Turn

As many of you know, I am on the road quite a bit. At Health Alliance Medicare, we understand the value of face-to-face contacts and relationship building. It takes a concerted effort, but the payback is worth it. Nothing can replace an in-person conversation or the dynamic of a group meeting.

That said, all us road warriors face a number of challenges over and above the typical adventures with weather and mechanical failure. Here I’ll share a few of them and the solutions I have developed over the years.

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Free Legal Help: Another Perk Of Aging

I acknowledge the fact that I am rapidly aging (as many of you can attest) so I make a concentrated effort to remind myself of the benefits of this process. Actually, that’s not incredibly hard and I meet and work with plenty of people who are aging quite nicely in my role as community representative at Health Alliance Medicare. Still, I recently discovered another benefit of aging that makes me look forward to reaching my maturity.

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Dust Eventually Will Settle On Health Care Reform

I have traveled the same route to work for about 25 years. This summer, as always, I’m encountering detours for building rehabs, sidewalk installations and road repairs. I understand these activities are necessary, and I always make it there and back with little or no problem. These impediments add a whopping five minutes to my commute, but I still have to remain vigilant and aware, especially during my morning trip across town.

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The Power Of Pets

I’ve noticed recently how much time and attention my mom’s dog requires. Four walks a day, trips to the grocery store and of course special treats and dog toys from the pet store. This 6 pound, 2 ounce poodle also insists on daily play dates, feeding, occasional grooming and naps as needed. I also noticed their walks inspire a number of opportunities for socialization in their neighborhood. The amount of attention a companion animal requires is beyond my scope right now, but I am very glad my mom has the company.

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Reduce-Reuse-Recycle Takes On An 'Old' Meaning

My great uncle Walter operated a repair shop after he retired. He had a knack for fixing things and probably needed some extra cash. He could fix almost anything, including our well-used favorite toys. One time I watched in amazement as he dismantled and repaired a steam iron.

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