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My First Blog Post

Just Be Brave….

Be yourself; Everyone else is already taken.

— Oscar Wilde.

This is the first post on my new blog. I’m just getting this new blog going, so stay tuned for more. Subscribe below to get notified when I post new updates.

DON’T BE SCAMMED

Photo by Canva Studio on Pexels.com

As if things couldn’t get worse …. the scammers are out in full force. As quickly as COVID19 might be spreading, so are the scammers trying to steal your information and your money. In addition, these folks love to take advantage of senior citizens and those who might be most at risk.

Some scams claim to offer assistance through the CARES Act to cover things like hearing aids, which clearly aren’t a part of this act.

These scams may come in the form of mailings, texts, emails, robocalls and may offer antibody tests, cures, and bogus financial help through the CARES Act.

Another tactic is “phony” contact tracers calling you to warn you of exposure to someone with COVID19. They will then seek health insurance information, social security numbers and even back account info so that you can be tested. Emails or texts may also include links that if downloaded, will introduce malware to your device or computer.

Please be wary of these kinds of communications. The CDC and WHO are reputable sources of information regarding COVID19 and they will never ask for personal information or financial information.

Stay safe and don’t be SCAMMED!

My 86-Year-Old Mother Has a Boyfriend in Assisted Living

Many older adults have relationships, but maybe not when they’re in assisted living, have Alzheimer’s and the 91-year-old boyfriend has dementia, too.

Source: My 86-Year-Old Mother Has a Boyfriend in Assisted Living

Such a great article as so many of us “50+” are caring for aging parents.

THE POWER OF PETS

Photo by Josh Hild on Pexels.com
Photo by Elina Sazonova on Pexels.com

While I did not consistently have pets while a growing up, as an adult, I have had two rescue pups for the last 10 years. Charlie is a Chihuahua/Jack Russell mix and Chiclet is a Chihuahua/Mini Pinn mix. I am their momma and they are my babies. LOL

It hasn’t always been easy caring for them, especially when they were puppies. They got into everything and training them to use “potty pads” inside and to go outside as well was a challenge. We have a well established routine now and it often seems like they can read my mind. Somehow they know when I am leaving even when I try to sneak out. They also faithfully greet me every time I walk in the house. Even if it’s just a trip to the mailbox!!!

They get their feelings hurt if I leave them too long and will sulk a little or perhaps have an “accident” in the floor. It often feels like caring for toddlers year after year, but the reward is so much greater than the inconeveniences.

The American Heart Association has published studies that reflect the physical benefits of owning pets such as lower risk of heart attack and stroke; higher levels of activity from owners; greater emotional connections and boosting your mood. I can certainly testify that after a tough day, having your pets greeting you with ecstatic joy certainly lightens your mood.

I also want to state that it’s not just dogs that provide health benefits. Cats can provide the same kind of companionship. The difference between dogs and cats is that dogs are unconditionally loyal; while cats choose you and are much more independent in showing their affection. They are simply more subtle with their expressions.

As our nest emptied, I have to admit that my pups definitely helped fill the void of not having children in the house any more. I probably spoil them too much, talk to them like they are human and absolutely enjoy our snuggle time every day.

It’s a big responsibility to own pets and provide a stable loving home for them for their lifetime. It’s not for everyone, but for those folks who can handle the responsibility of pet ownership, I highly encourage visiting a shelter and considering adopting a dog or cat that needs a permanent home.

Not only will you have a great companion, but your overall well being will benefit!

EASY PLEASING MEATLOAF

Before Baking

If you are looking for an easy meatloaf recipe, then I have one for you that never disappoints. The pic above is before being cooked and it looks great!

Growing up, I was never a big fan of meatloaf; however, as an adult, I have come to appreciate a really good one and even better if you have leftovers! Since I don’t LOVE cooking, I found a very easy meatloaf recipe years ago that my family adores, and I thought I would share with you.

You can use any kind of ground meat. In the pic above I used 1lb. ground turkey. Here are the other ingredients:

  • 1/2 – 3/4 pkg of Stove Top Stuffing Mix (I use generic brand)
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1 cup (divided in half) Barbecue Sauce [1/2 for mixture and 1/2 for top]

Directions: Mix all of the ingredients except 1/2 cup of barbecue sauce in a large bowl. Pour the mixture into a baking pan 13X9 or smaller (I line mine with foil and lightly spray with olive oil). Shape the mixture into a loaf about 1 in. to 1 and 1/2 in. thick. Use the remaining barbecue sauce to cover the top and sides of the loaf. Bake at 375 degrees for about 30-35 minutes.

After Baking

As you can see, the meatloaf bakes up with a light texture and the barbecue sauce gives it that something extra that everyone loves. Not only does it taste great, it smells wonderful while cooking. My pups go nuts when I bake this!!!

I usually combine with a salad and some kind of green vegetable like green beans, lima beans or asparagus. It is very filling and I always have leftovers. The recipe is sooo easy that I hope you’ll give it a try!

Happy Eating!

Get Your Summer Look OnGet Your Summer Look On – LivingBetter50 –

LivingBetter50 has the latest and best summer fashions and styles. Get your summer look on with these ideas for women over 50.

Source: Get Your Summer Look OnGet Your Summer Look On – LivingBetter50 –

Nothing better than a great summer sundress!