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Valentine’s Day

Red Gerber Daisy in the Garden
Gerbera Daisies naturally attract pollinators in your garden.

Valentine’s Day, often celebrated as a day of romantic love, has evolved into a broader celebration of friendship and kindness. While traditionally linked with couples, this day offers a chance to extend love and appreciation beyond romantic relationships.

It’s a chance to recognize and cherish the various forms of love that enrich our lives. Whether it’s the bond with family, the friendship of colleagues, or the support of close friends, celebrate this year!

Celebrating Love

Valentine’s Day is a perfect reminder that love is not limited to just one type of relationship. While celebrating couples is popular, the 14th can also be about expressing gratitude to those who are important to us. Family members, colleagues, schoolmates, and friends contribute to our happiness and well-being every day. Remember these folks in countless ways, since they also deserve recognition and your love.

Family is often our first experience of love, providing a foundation of support and care. This Valentine’s Day, consider showing appreciation to your parents, siblings, or even extended family members. A heartfelt note, a phone call, or a small gift can make them feel valued and loved.

Co-Workers and Schoolmates

We spend a lot of time with our cc-workers and classmates. These relationships play an important role in our daily lives. They support us in our work or studies, celebrate our successes, and help us through challenges. Valentine’s Day offers a unique opportunity to strengthen these bonds.

Consider organizing a small celebration at work or school, where everyone exchanges cards or small tokens of appreciation. This can foster a sense of community and remind everyone that they are valued.

Cherishing Friendship

Friendship is another powerful form of love that often gets overlooked on Valentine’s Day. Friends are the ones who stand by us through thick and thin, offering advice, laughter, and companionship.

Take time this Valentine’s Day to reach out to your close friends. Plan a get-together, send a thoughtful message, or even share a meal. These gestures can deepen your connections and remind your friends how much they mean to you.

Valentine’s Day is more than just a celebration of romantic love. It’s an opportunity to acknowledge all the important relationships in our lives. By extending our appreciation to family members, colleagues, schoolmates, and friends, we can spread positivity and strengthen the bonds that make life meaningful.

This Valentine’s Day, let’s embrace the full range of love and celebrate the people who make our lives richer.  Happy Valentine’s Day!

For more living well tips check out my website: KathyHusserTempe.com

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Your Heart Health

As you age, maintaining a healthy heart becomes increasingly important. Cardiovascular health is crucial to overall well-being, as the heart plays a central role in sustaining life. Your heart delivers oxygen and nutrients to every part of the body.

                  Photo by Aziz Acharki on Unsplash

With age, your risk for heart disease and related conditions like high blood pressureand stroke increases. This makes it essential to adopt heart-healthy habits right now. Prioritizing heart care and overall health can lead to a longer, more vibrant life.

Heart Health

Heart disease is the leading cause of death globally. But it is largely preventable through lifestyle choices. As you age, your arteries may stiffen, and plaque can build up in them, increasing your risk for conditions like atherosclerosis, heart attacks, and strokes. By taking proactive steps to care for your heart, you can significantly lower your risk for these issues. You will also improve your overall quality of life.

Regular Exercise

One of the most effective ways to care for your heart as you age is to stay physically active. Regular exercise helps strengthen the heart muscle, improves circulation, and helps maintain a healthy weight. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise, such as brisk walking, five days a week.

Activities like swimming, cycling, and dancing are also excellent choices. Incorporating strength training exercises at least twice a week can help build muscle mass. This is important for maintaining metabolic health as you age.

Heart-Healthy Diet

Diet plays a significant role in heart health. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help protect the heart. This also reduces the risk of disease in your entire body. Foods like salmon, flaxseeds, nuts, and avocados are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health.

Limiting processed foods, sodium, and added sugars can also help prevent high blood pressure and cholesterol levels.  These factors are common contributors to heart disease.

Managing Stress

Chronic stress is harmful to the heart, leading to high blood pressure and increased risk of heart disease. As you age, it becomes even more important to manage stress through relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, and yoga. Engaging in hobbies, spending time with loved ones, and practicing mindfulness can help reduce stress. All these stress-reducers promote a healthier heart.

Regular Checkups

Regular medical checkups become increasingly important through the years. Monitoring your blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar can help detect any early signs of heart issues. If needed, your doctor can recommend lifestyle changes or medications to help manage these risk factors.

Getting Enough Sleep

Sleep is vital to heart health. As you age, getting seven to eight hours of quality sleep each night becomes essential. Poor sleep can lead to heart-related issues, including high blood pressure and increased risk of heart attack.

Quality sleep is defined as no interruptions, like animals, snoring partners, or other factors waking you up at night.

Caring for your heart and staying healthy is a combination of regular exercise, a heart-healthy diet, stress management, and checkups. By making these lifestyle choices, you can reduce your risk of heart disease, enhance your quality of life, and enjoy a longer, healthier future. Prioritizing heart care is a gift to yourself that pays off with long-term health benefits.

For more living well tips check out: KathyHusserTempe.com

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Let Things Go

"Be wary of Negative People..."

I had to share the latest book I read, “How to Let Things Go, 99 Tips…” by Shunmyo Mansuno. Simple and valuable nuggets I found helpful to get us through challenging and good times.

Character

The way you handle difficult people show a great deal about your character and value system. Do you let the little things get to you or worry a lot? If you tend to focus on what “can go wrong,” vs. allowing life to happen, listen up.  Mansuno, who is also a Buddhist Monk, provides reminders on “…relinquishing anxiety, impatience, and anger.”

You are in control of your own emotions and the reaction to personal situations, nothing else. If worry about every scenario that “could happen,” you’re wasting valuable energy.

Let life happen, but be smart about it. Suggestions include, “moderating your expectations.”  Not everything will go your way in life. So be humble, and let me say that again, just be humble.

Social Media

What you see on social media is the 2%-5% of the “great” that is happening in people’s lives. The author suggests that people knowing about 50% (or even 30%) is a healthy way to live.  Keep your life private for peace of mind.

We don’t need to know everything, and it keeps the pressure off of you to be “picture perfect.”  Everyone has something they are dealing with, that we don’t know about it.  And that’s just fine, and it’s a healthy way to go through life.

Accountability

Finally, do what you’ll say you are going to do.  “Don’t push things off until tomorrow,” we’re reminded.  You can tell a person’s true intentions by what “they do” not what they say. So just do it, and live your life with integrity and accountability.

That also goes for taking responsibility when things don’t work out, or you make a mistake. We learn more from our mistakes than we do from our successes, always.

And surrounding yourself with people that lift you up and support you will help you all through life.  As the authors reminds us, “Be wary of negative people.”  Positivity and kindness will be habits for life to help during the bad times and nurture you in good times.

So, what is your “go to” to help others navigate this changing world?

For more living well, tips check out my website: KathyHusserTempe.com

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Selfcare for 2025

Sunflower from my garden this spring.
A bright sunflower growing in my front yard garden.

As 2025 begins, it’s an ideal time for selfceare that will help you lead a healthier, more balanced life. Rather than making drastic changes that might be hard to sustain, focus on small habits that can make a big impact over time. Here are some tips to start the new year off right with a focus on health and personal growth.

Prioritize Your Health

Good health is the foundation for a successful year. Begin by evaluating your current habits and identifying areas for improvement. Simple changes like eating more fruits and vegetables, drinking more water, and getting enough sleep can improve your well-being. Regular exercise is also essential; it doesn’t have to be intense. Activities like walking, yoga, or swimming can help keep you active while also being enjoyable and stress-free.

Engage in Stress-Free Activities

Managing stress is key to maintaining both mental and physical health. Start by incorporating mindfulness practices into your daily routine. Meditation, deep breathing exercises, or simply taking a few minutes each day to focus on your breath. These simple habits can help reduce stressand promote a sense of calm.

Additionally, consider hobbies that bring you joy and relaxation. Whether it’s reading, painting, gardening, or playing an instrument, have some fun!  These activities provide a creative outlet and a break from the pressures of daily life. Spending time in nature is another great way to de-stress. Studies have shown that even a short walk in a park can reduce anxiety and boost your mood.

Focus on Personal Growth

The new year is a great time to set goals for personal development. Start by reflecting on the past year and identifying areas where you’d like to grow. This could be learning a new skill, improving your time management, or working on your emotional intelligence. Setting realistic, achievable goals is important; break them down into smaller steps to make them more manageable.

Reading is another powerful tool for personal growth. Choose books that inspire you, challenge your thinking, or teach you something new. Journaling is also a valuable practice.  Writing down your thoughts, goals, and reflections can help clarify your intentions and track your progress throughout the year.

Starting the new year off right doesn’t mean making drastic changes overnight. By focusing on your health, engaging in stress-free activities, and setting achievable goals for personal growth, you can create a foundation for a happier, healthier year ahead. Remember, progress is made through consistent, small steps, so be kind to yourself and enjoy the journey.

For more living well tips check out: KathyHusserTempe.com

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It’s Not You

Nature is rejuvenating
Wishing you calm and happiness this season

After reading Dr. Ramani Durvasula’s new book, “It’s Not You: Identifying and Healing from Narcissistic People,” I had to share. This book is life affirming if you need to understand why “bad things” happen to you and motivators of narcissists. Dr. Durvasula also provides extensive strategies for healing and dealing with these highly manipulative and vengeful people.

Who Are They? 

We don’t know why people act the way they do to hurt others. It’s a diagnosed personality disorder that is finally getting the attention it needs. The definition of a narcissistic goes beyond just wanting their way all the time or being powerful.  It’s about people you have in your life, that abuse and shift blame by gaslighting, manipulating, and lying without remorse.

“Nothing is ever their responsibility or their fault because for a narcissistic person to take responsibility or accept blame means having to accept that they are accountable and imperfect.”

There are varying levels of abusive behaviors outlined, some classified as “malignant narcissists.”

They malign people publicly, or harm their reputations. They are highly manipulative, transactional, and judge everyone based on how useful they are – whether for power, profits, pleasure, or validation. In the simplest framing, the malignant narcissist is a bully, mean and menacing…”

You will recognize the examples used in your own family or workplace relationships. You will also understand how often these behaviors happen and go unchecked in society. The focus is never really on the narcissistic, but more on the actions of the victims being abused.  Almost as if the victim has something wrong with them, despite the facts not adding up from narcissist’s manipulated account.

How Does It Happen?

If you are in an abusive relationship, the obvious answer is to leave. But it’s not always that simple. Dr. Durvasula provides examples where it’s just not possible to leave a job, marriage or other important relationship despite abuse. The victim talks themselves out of it, thinks THEY are the reason that these “bad things” are happening.

Victims routinely believe the manufactured and false narratives about what is taking place due to other silent and compliant people.  It boils down to trust. When those closest to you break that trust and know what’s really going on but do nothing, that’s your truth.

“In other words, narcissistic people make you feel small so they can feel safe.” 

These narcissists get something from their victims while “love bombing,” charming them, and prioritizing the relationship.  When the victim realizes what is actually going on and sets boundaries and reveals the truth, all hell breaks loose.  

“Hell, really hath no fury like a narcissist scorned. Their vindictive behavior may range from spreading damaging workplace gossip” to other more harmful and life threating outcomes.

Be warned, that stalking and public humiliation of their victims is quite commonplace for these individuals. Their tactics escalate when their victims pull away or start understanding the truth about past events. 

How to Protect Yourself 

There are many strategies discussed in the book to combat DARVO, or the common methods narcissists use.  (That’s a very useful chapter.) You should also try to distance yourself spiritually or physically from your abuser(s.) If you must stay in a relationship for work or family reasons, sound strategies are provided. These will help you heal and learn to deal with these negative people. As the author states, you will be better informed the next time you come across these individuals. And you most definitely will!

The healing that takes place when you know you’re not the crazy one is incredible. Narcissist behaviors happen daily to so many of us, but now you have a voice…an authentic voice.

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Canada This Fall

Sunflower from my garden this spring.
A bright sunflower growing in my front yard garden.

Visiting Canada this fall offers an extraordinary blend of vibrant foliage, crisp air, and a variety of activities in the country. Whether you’re a nature lover or just looking for a cultural getaway, Canada in the fall has something for everyone. Here’s a guide to the top provinces to visit, along with must-see sights and activities.

Quebec: Fall Foliage

Quebec is a prime destination for fall foliage. The Laurentian Mountains, just north of Montreal, offer breathtaking vistas of autumn leaves. Mont-Tremblant National Park is particularly popular for its hiking trails and panoramic views.

In Quebec City, the historic old town, with its cobblestone streets and European charm, is especially beautiful in the fall. Don’t miss the Plains of Abraham and Montmorency Falls, which provide stunning backdrops for autumn colors.

Ontario: Urban Landscapes to Natural Wonders

Ontario’s fall foliage is legendary, especially in Algonquin Provincial Park, where you can hike, canoe, and camp amidst a sea of red, orange, and yellow leaves. For a mix of urban and natural experiences, visit Toronto and take a day trip to the Niagara region.

The Niagara Parkway, often called one of the prettiest drives in the world, is spectacular in the fall. Also, explore the Bruce Peninsula and its rugged landscapes and clear waters.

British Columbia: Coastal Beauty

In British Columbia, the fall season offers a unique combination of coastal and mountainous beauty. Vancouver’s Stanley Park, with its seawall and towering trees, is a must-see.

Head to Whistler for world-class hiking and mountain biking against a vibrant backdrop of fall leaves. Vancouver Island, particularly around Victoria and the Cowichan Valley, showcases stunning autumn scenery with a milder climate. Butchart Gardens in Victoria is worth the visit, to see native plants and flowers during the season.

Nova Scotia: Scenic Drives

Nova Scotia’s Cabot Trail is often cited as one of the most beautiful drives in the world, especially in fall. This scenic highway loops around the northern tip of Cape Breton Island, offering breathtaking coastal views and endless autumn colors.

Halifax, with its rich maritime history and lively waterfront, is another great spot to explore. Don’t miss the picturesque towns of Lunenburg and Annapolis Royal.

Alberta: Majestic Mountains

In Alberta, the Canadian Rockies provide a stunning backdrop for fall adventures. Banff and Jasper National Parks are renowned for their dramatic landscapes and diverse wildlife. The Icefields Parkway, connecting Banff and Jasper, offers unparalleled views of mountains, glaciers, and vibrant fall colors.

Lake Louise, with its turquoise waters is a go to destination for many during the busier summer months. Banff is a must see on my travel list for the year.

This fall why not try Canada and its lovely scenery for your fall foliage fix! Happy travels.

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Streaming Entertainment

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Streaming entertainment, offers a lot of content at our fingertips. However, with so many streaming platforms available, finding the most economical way to enjoy your favorite movies and music can be challenging. Fortunately, there are several strategies you can use to make the most of your streaming experience without breaking the bank.

Bundle Services

Many streaming platforms offer bundle deals that allow you to access multiple types of content for a discounted price. For example, you might find a package that includes access to movies, TV shows, and music all in one subscription. By bundling services, you can enjoy a variety of content while saving money. This a huge savings compared to paying for each service separately.

Take Advantage of Free Trials

Most digital services offer free trials for new subscribers. These trials range from a few days to a month or more. Take advantage of these test periods to explore different services and determine which ones best suit your needs. Just be sure to cancel before the trial period ends. If you decide not to continue with a subscription, you will avoid being charged for a full month’s service.

Utilize Libraries

Many libraries offer digital lending services that allow you to borrow eBooks, audiobooks, movies, and music for free. You just need to sign up for your FREE library card to access the 1000’s of titles.

Additionally, subscription services like Kindle Unlimited or Audible offer unlimited access to a vast selection of eBooks and audiobooks for a monthly fee. This provides a cost-effective way to enjoy reading and listening to current and “Top 10” content.

Explore Free Streaming Platforms

There are numerous free streaming platforms that offer a wide range of movies, TV shows, music, and even books. These platforms may include ads or have a more limited selection compared to paid services. But, they can still provide plenty of entertainment options at no cost to you and your family.

Share Subscriptions

Consider sharing streaming subscriptions with family or friends to split the cost. Many streaming services allow multiple users to create profiles under a single account, making it easy to share access while minimizing expenses.

By employing these strategies, you can enjoy a diverse selection of movies, books, and music while staying within your budget. Whether you prefer the latest blockbuster films, best-selling novels, or chart-topping tunes, there’s a cost-effective streaming solution out there.

For more living well tips check out: KathyHusserTempe.com

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Caring for Parents

Nature is rejuvenating
Wishing you calm and happiness this season

As our parents age, the question of when to transition them into assisted living becomes a delicate, personal decision. This choice is often intertwined with emotions, practical considerations, and the desire to ensure the well-being of aging parents. Here are three important factors to consider when caring for your parents and making this decision.

Assessing Health and Safety Needs

The primary concern in determining the need for assisted living is the health and safety of aging parents. Evaluate their ability to perform daily activities independently, such as bathing, dressing, and managing medications. If there are signs of declining health, increased frailty, or a higher risk of accidents, assisted living may provide the answer.

Look for indicators such as frequent falls, forgetfulness, or difficulties managing household tasks. Engage in open communication with healthcare professionals to gain insights into your parents’ current and potential future needs. Assessing their physical and mental well-being serves as a foundation for making an informed decision about the level of care.

Social and Emotional Well-being

Isolation and loneliness can significantly impact the overall well-being of seniors. I know first-hand, how a lonely parent’s health can decline rapidly. If your parents are experiencing a lack of social interaction, assisted living communities can offer a supportive environment for engagement. Consider the emotional aspects of their current living situation, and evaluate whether assisted living will be a more socially connected lifestyle.

Family dynamics also play a role in this decision. Assess the availability of family members to provide support.  Recognizing that the emotional well-being of both aging parents and their caregivers is important and impacts the entire family.

Financial Impact

The financial impact of assisted living is a huge consideration. Explore the costs associated with various assisted living options. You must factor in services, amenities, and potential future healthcare needs. Consult with financial advisors to understand the long-term implications and available resources.  You don’t realize how expensive adult care facilities are especially as the level of care rises through the years.

Additionally, assess the practicality of managing the current living situation. If the maintenance of a home becomes challenging, assisted living may offer a more practical solution. Balancing financial concerns with practical daily needs is essential for making a well-rounded decision.

Difficult Nature of the Decision

Deciding when to transition aging parents into assisted living is one of the most challenging decisions a family can face. It requires careful consideration of individual needs, family dynamics, and the emotional well-being of everyone involved. Recognize that this decision is deeply personal, and there is no one-size-fits-all answer.

Open communication, empathy, and involving your parents in the decision-making process can help navigate the difficulties.  This ensures that the chosen path supports their wishes and quality of life.

The decision to move aging parents into assisted living is complex and demands thoughtful consideration. By prioritizing health, social and emotional well-being, financial considerations, families can work together. As adult children, you must make choices that prioritize their support, recognizing that the well-being of both parents. It’s not easy, but it’s a fact of life as we all age.

 

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Downsizing

Have an agenda and your goals will be accomplished
Have a plan and keep refining for success.

Starting on the journey of downsizing your home is simple. It’s a thoughtful process of simplification, organization, and evaluation of your possessions. Whether motivated by a desire for a simpler lifestyle, financial considerations, or a change in priorities, downsizing can be a positive experience with planning and the right mindset.

Your Priorities

The first step in downsizing is determining your needs and priorities. What aspects of your current lifestyle are essential, and what can be discarded? Consider the function of your current space and identify elements that align with your lifestyle goals for the future. This reflective phase sets the foundation for a more intentional and streamlined living space.

Decluttering with Purpose

Downsizing involves decluttering, a process that goes beyond merely discarding items. It’s an intentional decision about keeping items that hold sentimental value or serve a practical purpose. Begin with one room at a time, categorizing items into keep, donate, sell, or discard. This step not only lightens the physical load but also contributes to a decluttered mental space.

Space Optimization

A smaller home translates into strategic space optimization. Invest in multi-functional furniture to maximize utility without sacrificing style. Consider creative storage solutions, such as under-bed storage, wall-mounted shelves, or furniture with hidden compartments. The goal is to create an environment where every inch serves a purpose, creating an efficient and organized living space.

Moving

When the decluttering process is underway, start planning the details of the move. Whether hiring professional movers or opting for a DIY approach, create a timeline that includes packing, transportation, and unpacking.

Label boxes clearly, emphasizing essential items for immediate use. Downsizing offers an opportunity to reassess furniture needs, potentially selling or donating pieces that won’t fit in the new space.

Positive Mindset

Downsizing is not merely a reduction in physical space but a conscious shift in mindset. Embrace the positives of a smaller home, focusing on the benefits of simplified living, reduced maintenance, and potentially lower expenses. Cultivate an optimistic outlook throughout the process, emphasizing the new opportunities and freedoms that downsizing can bring.

Settling into a Smaller Space

Once the move is complete, allow time for adjustment. Experiment with furniture arrangements and unpacking your essentials to find the most functional and visually pleasing setup. Embrace the sense of coziness and intimacy that often accompanies a smaller home, creating a space that feels welcoming.

Downsizing is a journey of intentional living. Each decision contributes to a more streamlined and fulfilling lifestyle. By assessing needs, decluttering with purpose, optimizing space, and maintaining a positive mindset you’re halfway there. The process becomes an opportunity for growth, simplicity, and a newfound appreciation for the essentials in life.

For more lifestyle inspiration check out: KathyHusserTempe.com

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Summer Vacation

Have an agenda and your goals will be accomplished
Have a plan and keep refining for success.

As the school bells ring their final chime, it’s time to decide on the family summer vacation plans.  Coming up with a trip that provides “fun” for everyone (and all ages) requires thoughtful planning. Here’s a guide to help you plan the perfect summer getaway for your family this summer.

Your Family’s Vacation Goals

Begin by gathering your family for a discussion on vacation goals. Identify shared interests and preferences to create an itinerary that resonates with everyone. Whether it’s sandy beaches, a mountain adventure, or cultural exploration, understanding your family’s vision sets the tone for your vacation.

Realistic Budget

Establish a realistic budget that aligns with your family’s financial comfort. Consider factors such as accommodation, transportation, meals, and activities. Research cost-effective options and explore discounts or package deals to maximize your budget. Without compromising on the quality of your vacation, you will enjoy savings and fun for the family.

Family-Friendly Destinations

Select a destination that offers diverse interests for all ages within your family.  Look for destinations offering a variety of activities, attractions, and amenities suitable for children and adults. Whether it’s a theme park, a national park, or beach resort, choose a location that’s a well-rounded experience for your family.

Age-Appropriate Activities

Tailor your itinerary with age-appropriate activities to ensure everyone has a good time. Consider the interests of your younger children, teenagers, and all the adults. Be sure to incorporate a mix of adventure, relaxation, and educational experiences for all tastes.  Strike a balance between planned activities and free time for spur-of-the-moment exploration or relaxation.

Create a Flexible Itinerary

While planning is essential, allow room for flexibility in your itinerary. Unexpected discoveries and adventures often become the most cherished memories. Leave space for downtime and unplanned activities, ensuring your family can embrace the joy of exploration without feeling rushed.

Pack Thoughtfully

Encourage each family member to contribute to the packing process. Create a checklist to ensure essentials like clothing, toiletries, and any specific items related to planned activities are not forgotten. Pack snacks, entertainment, and comfort items for the journey, especially if traveling with younger kids.

Planning a family summer vacation involves a delicate balance of organization and flexibility. By defining goals, setting a budget, and choosing a family-friendly destination you set the stage for a memorable vacation experience. Embrace the chance to create lasting memories, strengthen your family bonds, and enjoy shared adventures under the summer sun.

For more travel inspiration check out: KathyHusserTempe.com