When do you try different approaches to problems and when do you rely on a doctor only? Being fiercely independent, I always like to think that I can manage my own health without a doctor. I have, in the past, managed to try a large number of what are called “alternative” therapies. Some have worked, some have tasted just awful, and some have not worked at all.
 

People often have the idea that to change something, you have to feel like it first. But, unfortunately, the feeling may be the last thing to change. For instance, some people will think, “if I could only stop feeling so hungry all the time, I could lose some weight.”

So, 2012 offers a new chance to eat better foods, exercise, or quit a bad habit. But, these goals are often quite large - and many of us set out with all the best intentions and enthusiasm only to find ourselves in front of the TV with a bag of chips by January 5th. At that point, we may give up. And some of us hate the idea of failing so much, we don’t even bother to make any resolutions at all!

As you think about the gifts you want to give your elderly loved ones this season, consider giving the gift of time. Instead of spending hours at the mall shopping for just the right present, why not use that time as a gift and spend it with someone who would enjoy spending time with you?

My 8-year old son started his "Lego Advent calendar" today and now I am in that foggy Christmas zone where I can get out of the normal grind and start thinking about what really matters.  Today I felt inspired by who else but John Denver.   Who knew?  Of course, we have all loved one of his songs at one time or another.  But this one hit me in the right way today and I thought I would share it.  James Twyman, by the way, is someone I follow because he seems to be clear about his mission to follow his passion and spread love and peace.  In this holiday season, we could all use a little of that - eh?

Every day, over 65 million family caregivers provide more than $375 million of caregiving to their loved ones. These caregivers provide 80% of our country’s long term care services. Since 1994 the National Family Caregivers Association (NFCA) has been celebrating these family caregivers.