I had a friend
who was an author, and I used to tell him stories about growing
up and about my grandmother … and he said, “You
should write that down.” My first love was writing, but
I didn’t know if I could do it. But he gave me the key.
He said, “Make it a letter to your children.” That
opened it up for me.
Eldercare
It’s known as the Sandwich Generation, and it is not an easy
task. Care for your own family, your own children, but find that
you need to step into a caregiving role for your parents at the
same time. This article provides many ideas and resources for how
to tackle this all-too-common challenge.
Adult children frequently feel guilty, frustrated, powerless
and torn between caring for their parents and their responsibilities
to the family they are raising. There
is nothing unusual, mean-spirited or bad about those feelings … it’s
best to accept your feelings.
Book Corner
Do you like knitting? Do you like
reading? If so, this month’s featured author is right up
your alley. Columnist Debbi Honorof introduces us to Northport
author Anne Canadeo who writes the “Black Sheep Mystery” series
about close-knit friends who gather at the Black Sheep Knitting
Shop, set in a fictitious Massachusetts village. Canadeo will
also be at a Book & Author Tea on April 18 (check the magazine’s
fyi section for more information).
Knitting works into the plot, but friendship is the main focus,
so both knitters and non-knitters
can enjoy the books (although both books offer directions for
knitting projects). “I have
a lot of really good friends, as I think most women do,” says
Canadeo. “Women are natural nurturers and always looking
out for each others’ welfare. As you get older, you value
your friends even more.”
Health
Listening to your body is one of
the most important skills we can develop. This article helps
decode the messages you might be getting – everything from
snoring to creaky knees – letting you know what is normal
and what should send you to the doctor.
If hiccups last longer than four hours, you could have a tumor
or an abscess near your heart or esophagus. Your doctor may order
a CT scan of your chest. If everything looks fine but the hiccups
continue, medication, such as Thorazine, can calm the nerves responsible.
FYI
Several authors are visiting Long
Island this month. Find out who, when and where … the
restored bedroom at Coe Hall mansion at Planting Fields Arboretum
is open to the public … get a personalized online makeover
that includes an audio CD talking you through makeup application … don’t
miss this month’s picks: a product (Goody® Foreign
Exchange hair accessory collection); a book (The Skinny On™ … Willpower);
an event (strolls at Old Westbury Gardens); an eatery (Cravings);
and, a website to check out (thecooksgarden.com).
Plus, meet this month’s Long Island Woman, Gail King, Ms.
Senior America.
My Turn
Gray hairs: every woman’s nemesis. Is it possible to make
peace with them? Resist the urge to color your hair? This amusing
essay explores these very questions.
We’re torturing ourselves. By dyeing, we’re perpetuating
the myth that a little loss of pigment means it’s all mushy
food and assisted living. We’re all to blame, but women in
the public eye are especially guilty.
Happenings
We have survived the crazy winter … it’s
time to enjoy our reward: Spring!
Check out our calendar for everything
from classes, lectures and art exhibits
to outdoor activities, concerts and
other entertainment.
Support Groups
Spring can be a chance for new beginnings.
If you have been struggling with any issue, look over our support
group listings (categorized by subject matter for easy reference).
You’re bound to find something to help.
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