The opening number for Damn Yankees at some other theater. Rehearsals from 6:00-11:00 every night this week before opening night on Saturday at Normal Community High School. The ticket prices are better than I originally recall.
Two weekends in all - for best quality I'd recommend the second weekend for anyone interested.
http://www.prairiefiretheatre.org/
Tuesday, July 31, 2012
Monday, July 30, 2012
Text Of The Day
From my Calculus 2 college student:
"I got a 96.67% on the second half of my final! Thanks for all the help Joe!"
So I guess my official range of tutoring is 2nd through 14th grade. Two years into a five-year career-building plan, shaping up like a dream coming true.
"I got a 96.67% on the second half of my final! Thanks for all the help Joe!"
So I guess my official range of tutoring is 2nd through 14th grade. Two years into a five-year career-building plan, shaping up like a dream coming true.
Sunday, July 29, 2012
Suiting Yourself
"The shoe that fits one person pinches another; there is no recipe for living that suits all cases." - Carl Jung
As we enter the home stretch of the presidential campaign, not a bad message to reflect upon. We're flawed; we're well-intentioned; we have some strong values. And we're all different. So easy to condemn, so hard to accept. Especially when the negative ads come streaming in.
In fact, it might be a lesson worth practicing when we go to work and about our daily lives in the morning. Can we agree to disagree, accept its smallness in the universe, and move on?
As we enter the home stretch of the presidential campaign, not a bad message to reflect upon. We're flawed; we're well-intentioned; we have some strong values. And we're all different. So easy to condemn, so hard to accept. Especially when the negative ads come streaming in.
In fact, it might be a lesson worth practicing when we go to work and about our daily lives in the morning. Can we agree to disagree, accept its smallness in the universe, and move on?
Architect Of Our Own Lives
"Written in ourselves is a blueprint defined in an answer. Any answer you want." - Arian Foster
What is that answer? That is, how do you choose to define yourself?
While visiting Mom a couple weeks back, she said that she knew I had a soft heart as a baby when I started (and stopped) crying during a scene in a soap opera when an actor did the same.
There may be no escaping certain aspects or instincts of our nature - empathetic, judgmental, competitive, helpful. But we have the strength to embrace or reject them in accordance with the type of person that we want to be.
So the question lingers. Do you want to be knows as the type of person you were last week? Or is something prompting you to set a new blueprint for your future, one to be pursued instantly and realized fully in the years to come?
What is that answer? That is, how do you choose to define yourself?
While visiting Mom a couple weeks back, she said that she knew I had a soft heart as a baby when I started (and stopped) crying during a scene in a soap opera when an actor did the same.
There may be no escaping certain aspects or instincts of our nature - empathetic, judgmental, competitive, helpful. But we have the strength to embrace or reject them in accordance with the type of person that we want to be.
So the question lingers. Do you want to be knows as the type of person you were last week? Or is something prompting you to set a new blueprint for your future, one to be pursued instantly and realized fully in the years to come?
Saturday, July 28, 2012
6,393 Days
That's how long Dena and I have been friends. What better way to fill a slow Friday night than to reflect on things that are utterly awesome?
Friday, July 27, 2012
Whose Live, Anyway?
We're going to see the Whose Line Is It Anyway gang in September!
Bloomington-Normal Convention And Visitors Bureau - Whose Live, Anyway?
Bloomington-Normal Convention And Visitors Bureau - Whose Live, Anyway?
The Root Canal Not Taken
"I don't think I was meant to be a dentist. Coaching is what the Lord called me to do." - Clarence Gaines
Keep dialing... try a new number... until you connect with your real calling.
Keep dialing... try a new number... until you connect with your real calling.
Kerri Strug's Olympic Vault
At the time this happened, it was the best Olympic moment I'd ever seen live.
Thursday, July 26, 2012
Puppy Tries A Daring Escape
Not all great escapes are carefully planned. Or even thought through at all.
Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Indigestion From A Foot Sandwich
Ever blurt out something mean without thinking?
One of the reasons that I don't drink is that I know there are too many unkind and unjustified thoughts that pass through my head, and they need filtering, or better yet, a shutoff valve.
Sometimes being tired, hungry, hot, or giddy can have the same effect.
Yesterday I was in a crowd of people and blurted out a one-line joke at someone else's expense. Someone else had asked a question, I tried to be funny.
Through the year's I've come to detest jokes that rip on other people. Yet here I was firing one off, about a perfectly nice guy for no good reason.
Several of my friends around me whipped their head in my direction with wide eyes.
I was disgusted.
It didn't help that the victim of the joke was four feet to my right.
Geez.
You look back over the last few days and see some of the early symptoms of such a boneheaded outburst... several mildly venting remarks about this and that regarding the world at large during conversations with Dena... building the habits of an insensitive person... loosening the precious valves that keep a wayward mind in check.
Now what?
Besides an apology, it's back to living day by day, strengthening the mind with little kindnesses, and the determined dismissal of inconsiderate thoughts. And it ought to be easier, thanks to this recent reminder burning in my mind of how I'm as flawed as anyone.
One of the reasons that I don't drink is that I know there are too many unkind and unjustified thoughts that pass through my head, and they need filtering, or better yet, a shutoff valve.
Sometimes being tired, hungry, hot, or giddy can have the same effect.
Yesterday I was in a crowd of people and blurted out a one-line joke at someone else's expense. Someone else had asked a question, I tried to be funny.
Through the year's I've come to detest jokes that rip on other people. Yet here I was firing one off, about a perfectly nice guy for no good reason.
Several of my friends around me whipped their head in my direction with wide eyes.
I was disgusted.
It didn't help that the victim of the joke was four feet to my right.
Geez.
You look back over the last few days and see some of the early symptoms of such a boneheaded outburst... several mildly venting remarks about this and that regarding the world at large during conversations with Dena... building the habits of an insensitive person... loosening the precious valves that keep a wayward mind in check.
Now what?
Besides an apology, it's back to living day by day, strengthening the mind with little kindnesses, and the determined dismissal of inconsiderate thoughts. And it ought to be easier, thanks to this recent reminder burning in my mind of how I'm as flawed as anyone.
Tuesday, July 24, 2012
Performing The National Anthem At A BallgameTonight
If you bring yourself, your friends, a few bucks and realllllly cool clothing to the Corn Crib tonight you can catch the cast of Damn Yankees singing the national anthem at the Cornbelters' game.
Cross half an item off my bucket list - I'd like to solo it some day at a game.
Cross half an item off my bucket list - I'd like to solo it some day at a game.
Science Has Calculated The Perfect Basketball Shot
Shooting a basketball is one of those things we attribute to years of
practice and some ineffable god-given talent. But what if you could
become a great, or at least much better, shooter just by learning some mechanical science?
Larry Silverberg, a mechanical engineer at North Carolina State University, analyzed "millions of trajectories based on shots by the best free-throw shooters," and he's pinpointed the best method:
But you're not going to use a math book in the middle of a game, nerd. Right? Well, not quite:
Larry Silverberg, a mechanical engineer at North Carolina State University, analyzed "millions of trajectories based on shots by the best free-throw shooters," and he's pinpointed the best method:
The magic formula: a launch angle of 52 degrees, three revolutions per second of backspin, and aiming for a spot 7 centimeters (2.8 inches) back from the center of the basket, toward the back of the rim.
"With backspin, if the ball hits the rim or backboard, the contact deadens the ball," said Silverberg. "That means it comes off slower, stays closer to the basket and is more likely to fall in."Aiming behind the center of the basket, instead of a dead-on shot, is better because it allows the shooter to miss the mark in either direction and still have a chance to make the shot. And while releasing at 52 degrees—which is actually only optimal for a 6-foot-6 player—might sound like an absurd thing to keep in mind, you can more or less match that by trying to make the top of the ball's arc even with the top of the backboard.
But you're not going to use a math book in the middle of a game, nerd. Right? Well, not quite:
Players can't do all of this mental imagery in the frenzy of a game, of course, but by doing it in practice they can get an intuitive feel for where to aim from different points on the court. "It's a training tool," said Silverberg.
Sunday, July 22, 2012
Upbeating The Odds
"With women, if I said ten things, I wanted nine of them to be positive. If I were to coach men again, I would be more positive. It may just have been the fact that I was a beginning coach." - Leon Barmore, college coach with the highest winning percentage in women's history
In fact, Barmore won nearly 9 of every 10 games that he coached.
When I'm walking uphill, what's the use in looking down?
In fact, Barmore won nearly 9 of every 10 games that he coached.
When I'm walking uphill, what's the use in looking down?
God Allows Bad Things To Happen?
While singing in a church band today I heard the priest say during the sermon that "God doesn't cause bad things to happen, he allows them to happen." At first I struggled to find the difference. Then I realized that the way I live tends to be like that. Whether it's family, friend or co-worker... I'm one to live and let live, to enable learning through trial and error, to let actions bring their consequences. I'm okay allowing "bad" things to happen, meaning that if someone makes a decision I find questionable, I'm disinclined to push them toward my way of thinking.
Now if I were omnipotent, I might manage things differently. Then again, I'm so thankful not to be micromanaged by a higher power... I just might behave in just the same way.
Now if I were omnipotent, I might manage things differently. Then again, I'm so thankful not to be micromanaged by a higher power... I just might behave in just the same way.
Superman Movie Teaser Trailer
Featuring Russell Crowe and Kevin Costner's voices, in case you can't tell:
Saturday, July 21, 2012
The 15 Most Popular Restaurants In America
From Yahoo! Finance. [Hidden Blog note: The top 14 all have stores in Bloomington-Normal!]
Americans love fast food. The top 15 fast food chains in the nation raked in a combined $115 billion in sales last year, and their 105,000 total stores blanket the landscape.
We asked food industry research firm Technomic to put together a list of the biggest fast food brands in America. They're defined as LSRs — "limited service restaurants" — which include burger joints, sandwich shops, coffee cafés, pizza places and more.
(calgaryreviews/Flickr)#1 McDonald's
2011 U.S. sales: $34.2 billion
Number of locations: 14,098
McDonald's unsurprisingly takes the prize for the biggest fast food chain across the U.S. Sales increased by about 5% last year, the company opened up 71 new locations and recently appointed a new CEO. There's just no stopping the Golden Arches.
(busbeytheelder/Flickr)#2 Subway
2011 U.S. sales: $11.4 billion
Number of locations: 24,722
Subway, which has the most locations globally of any restaurant on the planet, is the number one quick sandwich shop in the U.S. It saw a 7.5% increase in profits, and a whopping 872 new locations were opened up last year alone.
(Paul Davidson/Flickr)#3 Starbucks
2011 U.S. sales: $9.75 billion
Number of locations: 10,787
Starbucks' profits surged by 7.5% last year even though the company decided to close more than 300 locations around the country. Starbucks still has almost 3,800 more units open than Dunkin' Donuts, and it's starting to expand its store brands with Evolution Fresh and Tazo tea.
(Screengrab from wendys on YouTube)#4 Wendy's
2011 U.S. sales: $8.5 billion
Number of locations: 5,876
Sales at hard-charging Wendy's increased by 2% last year amidst a marketing revamp that has lifted it into the number two burger spot.
(joo0ey/Flickr)#5 Burger King
2011 U.S. sales: $8.4 billion
Number of locations: 7,231
Burger King ranks third in the competition for the top fast food burger restaurant in the nation. It's having trouble, though. Last year, sales dropped by nearly 4% and the chain was passed by a certain red-headed rival.
(othermore/Flickr)#6 Taco Bell
2011 U.S. sales: $6.8 billion
Number of locations: 5,674
Taco Bell, the only top fast food Mexican restaurant in the country, is going through a big turnaround. A bunch of crazy new products have hit the menus, including the infamous — and incredibly successful — Doritos Locos Tacos.
(Hope Photography)#7 Dunkin' Donuts
2011 U.S. sales: $5.92 billion
Number of locations: 7,015
Sales at Dunkin' Donuts increased steadily last year and the company opened up 115 new locations. This Massachusetts-based company is the number two coffee café behind Starbucks.
#8 Pizza Hut
2011 U.S. sales: $5.4 billion
Number of locations: 7,595
Funny enough, sales at Pizza Hut stayed exactly the same last year even though the company opened up 53 new units. The red roof company currently holds the title for most popular fast food pizza in the nation.
(Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)#9 KFC
2011 U.S. sales: $4.5 billion
Number of locations: 4,793
Sales at KFC fell steadily last year and the Colonel had to close 262 locations. The company almost had to forfeit its title as the leading chicken chain to Chick-Fil-A.
(Sonnett/Flickr)#10 Chick-Fil-A
2011 U.S. sales: $4.05 billion
Number of locations: 1,600
Chick-Fil-A saw a 13% increase in sales this year yet it still fell short of beating out its top competitor, KFC. This Atlanta-based company opened 64 new units last year alone.
(keaggy.com/Flickr)#11 SONIC Drive-Ins
2011 U.S. sales: $3.68 billion
Number of locations: 3,531
Known for its retro 1950's style drive-in, SONIC is currently the fourth most popular fast food burger restaurant in the nation. Though the company had to close several locations last year, sales did increase.
(YouTube/TheDenverEgotist)#12 Domino's Pizza
2011 U.S. sales: $3.4 billion
Number of locations: 4,907
This well-known pizza chain made a name for itself in the 1960s in Ann Arbor, Michigan but now is a household name across the country. The company closed 22 stores last year.
(cadillacjr2002/Flickr)#13 Panera Bread
2011 U.S. sales: $3.30 billion
Number of locations: 1,480
Panera Bread, a chain of fast-casual cafes that began in St. Louis, opened exactly 100 new locations across the United States last year. It's considered to be a healthy alternative to the classic fast food joint and a segment leader.
(wEnDaLicious/Flickr)#14 Arby's
2011 U.S. sales: $3.03 billion
Number of locations: 3,484
Arby's, best known for its roast beef and curly fries, was forced to close 39 units this year but still managed to increase profitability in its remaining locations.
(BrownGuacamole/Flickr)#15 Jack in the Box
2011 U.S. sales: $3.01 billion
Number of locations: 2,221
Jack in the Box is the fifth most popular fast food burger joint in the United States, but with direct competitors like McDonalds and Burger King, this California-born chain only saw a 1% growth in profit last year.
Americans love fast food. The top 15 fast food chains in the nation raked in a combined $115 billion in sales last year, and their 105,000 total stores blanket the landscape.
We asked food industry research firm Technomic to put together a list of the biggest fast food brands in America. They're defined as LSRs — "limited service restaurants" — which include burger joints, sandwich shops, coffee cafés, pizza places and more.
(calgaryreviews/Flickr)#1 McDonald's2011 U.S. sales: $34.2 billion
Number of locations: 14,098
McDonald's unsurprisingly takes the prize for the biggest fast food chain across the U.S. Sales increased by about 5% last year, the company opened up 71 new locations and recently appointed a new CEO. There's just no stopping the Golden Arches.
(busbeytheelder/Flickr)#2 Subway2011 U.S. sales: $11.4 billion
Number of locations: 24,722
Subway, which has the most locations globally of any restaurant on the planet, is the number one quick sandwich shop in the U.S. It saw a 7.5% increase in profits, and a whopping 872 new locations were opened up last year alone.
(Paul Davidson/Flickr)#3 Starbucks2011 U.S. sales: $9.75 billion
Number of locations: 10,787
Starbucks' profits surged by 7.5% last year even though the company decided to close more than 300 locations around the country. Starbucks still has almost 3,800 more units open than Dunkin' Donuts, and it's starting to expand its store brands with Evolution Fresh and Tazo tea.
(Screengrab from wendys on YouTube)#4 Wendy's2011 U.S. sales: $8.5 billion
Number of locations: 5,876
Sales at hard-charging Wendy's increased by 2% last year amidst a marketing revamp that has lifted it into the number two burger spot.
(joo0ey/Flickr)#5 Burger King2011 U.S. sales: $8.4 billion
Number of locations: 7,231
Burger King ranks third in the competition for the top fast food burger restaurant in the nation. It's having trouble, though. Last year, sales dropped by nearly 4% and the chain was passed by a certain red-headed rival.
(othermore/Flickr)#6 Taco Bell2011 U.S. sales: $6.8 billion
Number of locations: 5,674
Taco Bell, the only top fast food Mexican restaurant in the country, is going through a big turnaround. A bunch of crazy new products have hit the menus, including the infamous — and incredibly successful — Doritos Locos Tacos.
(Hope Photography)#7 Dunkin' Donuts2011 U.S. sales: $5.92 billion
Number of locations: 7,015
Sales at Dunkin' Donuts increased steadily last year and the company opened up 115 new locations. This Massachusetts-based company is the number two coffee café behind Starbucks.
#8 Pizza Hut2011 U.S. sales: $5.4 billion
Number of locations: 7,595
Funny enough, sales at Pizza Hut stayed exactly the same last year even though the company opened up 53 new units. The red roof company currently holds the title for most popular fast food pizza in the nation.
(Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)#9 KFC2011 U.S. sales: $4.5 billion
Number of locations: 4,793
Sales at KFC fell steadily last year and the Colonel had to close 262 locations. The company almost had to forfeit its title as the leading chicken chain to Chick-Fil-A.
(Sonnett/Flickr)#10 Chick-Fil-A2011 U.S. sales: $4.05 billion
Number of locations: 1,600
Chick-Fil-A saw a 13% increase in sales this year yet it still fell short of beating out its top competitor, KFC. This Atlanta-based company opened 64 new units last year alone.
(keaggy.com/Flickr)#11 SONIC Drive-Ins2011 U.S. sales: $3.68 billion
Number of locations: 3,531
Known for its retro 1950's style drive-in, SONIC is currently the fourth most popular fast food burger restaurant in the nation. Though the company had to close several locations last year, sales did increase.
(YouTube/TheDenverEgotist)#12 Domino's Pizza2011 U.S. sales: $3.4 billion
Number of locations: 4,907
This well-known pizza chain made a name for itself in the 1960s in Ann Arbor, Michigan but now is a household name across the country. The company closed 22 stores last year.
(cadillacjr2002/Flickr)#13 Panera Bread2011 U.S. sales: $3.30 billion
Number of locations: 1,480
Panera Bread, a chain of fast-casual cafes that began in St. Louis, opened exactly 100 new locations across the United States last year. It's considered to be a healthy alternative to the classic fast food joint and a segment leader.
(wEnDaLicious/Flickr)#14 Arby's2011 U.S. sales: $3.03 billion
Number of locations: 3,484
Arby's, best known for its roast beef and curly fries, was forced to close 39 units this year but still managed to increase profitability in its remaining locations.
(BrownGuacamole/Flickr)#15 Jack in the Box2011 U.S. sales: $3.01 billion
Number of locations: 2,221
Jack in the Box is the fifth most popular fast food burger joint in the United States, but with direct competitors like McDonalds and Burger King, this California-born chain only saw a 1% growth in profit last year.
9 Surprising Health Boosters
By Lisa Collier Cool, Yahoo! Health:
If
you think you know what’s healthy and what’s not, you may be surprised by some recent scientific discoveries. Simple everyday
changes and habits can give you the edge in the
good health game, from an easy way to get more vitamins from your salad to a
powerful stress management tool that takes just seconds. Take a look at these nine winning strategies:
Browsing your friends’ Facebook updates, clicking through a celebrity gossip slideshow, or searching for your high school sweetheart online may not seem like health enhancers, but researchers from UCLA report that middle-aged or older adults who know their way around the Internet get more stimulation of brain areas associated with decision-making and complex reasoning than those who are new to Web surfing.
Change Your Salad Dressing
You’ll get more nutrients out of your salad vegetables if you use a dressing made with olive oil or canola oil. These monounsaturated fats will promote absorption of healthy, fat soluble carotenoids from your salad greens, report researchers at Purdue University. Using as little as three grams of dressing made with monounsaturated fat boosts absorption of carotenoids as much as using 20 grams of this dressing would.
Salad dressings made with saturated or polyunsaturated fats also help you absorb carotenoids, but to capture those carotenoids you have to use a lot of dressing--the more dressing you use, the more carotenoids you absorb (and the more calories you consume). Nonfat dressings are low in calories but don’t promote carotenoid absorption, the researchers said.
Celebrate If You Have a Big Butt
Be thankful for your pear shape. Carrying your weight in your hips, thighs and butt protects you against diabetes and heart disease, according to findings from Britain’s Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Metabolism.
The opposite--an apple shape in which weight is concentrated in the abdomen--is associated with insulin resistance, diabetes and heart disease. The health benefits of being pear-shaped are independent of weight, unless you pile on pounds that land in your belly.
If you love to barbeque and whip up other tasty meals at home, you could be adding years to your life. That’s the intriguing finding of a new study, which linked frequent cooking to longer life.
The researchers tracked 1,888 men and women age 65 and older for ten years. Published in Public Health Nutrition, the study also found that the frequent cooks typically ate more nutritious meals that were high in fiber and vitamin C, and low in cholesterol.
Chewing Gum to Sharpen Your Wits
This habit could give you an edge when you’re taking a test, sharpen your math skills and your memory (at least temporarily), keep you more alert and even help you overcome the urge to snooze during the day. Exactly how gum chewing yields all these health benefits is unknown, although some experts have speculated that chomping minty gum could increase brain activity. One study from Wales found that chewing gum can also lead to a mellow mood.
New research shows that morning yawns bring blood to the brain, specifically to the area we use to plan, organize, make decisions and express our personalities. One theory holds that yawning cools the temperature of the brain on a seasonal basis. Yawning is also believed to enhance mental focus, defeat jet lag, improve mood and chill us out.
Yes, scientific research has found that looking through photo collections works better to lift moods than indulging in chocolate or a stiff drink. Research from Britain has found that viewing photos mellows your mood by 11 percent compared to a mere one percent lift from eating or drinking.
The study showed that looking through personal photo albums had a positive impact on relaxation, calmness, alertness and even feelings of being valued and popular. So when you need a lift, fanning out your favorite photos of family members and friends may do the trick.
Mindful breathing can help you unwind and banish stress if you learn how to do it properly. Integrative medicine pioneer Andrew Weil, M.D., advocates learning what he calls “the relaxing breath” which he calls “the most powerful tool I know for stress management.”
As Dr. Weil says, this exercise is “utterly simple, takes almost no time, requires no equipment and can be done anywhere.” It involves exhaling audibly through your mouth and inhaling quietly through the nose, repeated four times to dispel tension during the day or help you relax at bedtime.
You know that red wine is good for heart health, but beer has a surprisingly long list of health benefits, too: stronger bones, a healthier heart, and lower risks for kidney stones, cancer, Alzheimer’s, diabetes, high blood pressure and stroke. Drinking beer in moderation (two 12-ounce beers for a man or one for a woman) is also associated with a longer life, while higher amounts can be harmful.
Surf the Web to Keep Your Brain Young
Browsing your friends’ Facebook updates, clicking through a celebrity gossip slideshow, or searching for your high school sweetheart online may not seem like health enhancers, but researchers from UCLA report that middle-aged or older adults who know their way around the Internet get more stimulation of brain areas associated with decision-making and complex reasoning than those who are new to Web surfing.
Change Your Salad Dressing
You’ll get more nutrients out of your salad vegetables if you use a dressing made with olive oil or canola oil. These monounsaturated fats will promote absorption of healthy, fat soluble carotenoids from your salad greens, report researchers at Purdue University. Using as little as three grams of dressing made with monounsaturated fat boosts absorption of carotenoids as much as using 20 grams of this dressing would.
Salad dressings made with saturated or polyunsaturated fats also help you absorb carotenoids, but to capture those carotenoids you have to use a lot of dressing--the more dressing you use, the more carotenoids you absorb (and the more calories you consume). Nonfat dressings are low in calories but don’t promote carotenoid absorption, the researchers said.
Celebrate If You Have a Big Butt
Be thankful for your pear shape. Carrying your weight in your hips, thighs and butt protects you against diabetes and heart disease, according to findings from Britain’s Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Metabolism.
The opposite--an apple shape in which weight is concentrated in the abdomen--is associated with insulin resistance, diabetes and heart disease. The health benefits of being pear-shaped are independent of weight, unless you pile on pounds that land in your belly.
Cooking Meals at Home
If you love to barbeque and whip up other tasty meals at home, you could be adding years to your life. That’s the intriguing finding of a new study, which linked frequent cooking to longer life.
The researchers tracked 1,888 men and women age 65 and older for ten years. Published in Public Health Nutrition, the study also found that the frequent cooks typically ate more nutritious meals that were high in fiber and vitamin C, and low in cholesterol.
Chewing Gum to Sharpen Your Wits
This habit could give you an edge when you’re taking a test, sharpen your math skills and your memory (at least temporarily), keep you more alert and even help you overcome the urge to snooze during the day. Exactly how gum chewing yields all these health benefits is unknown, although some experts have speculated that chomping minty gum could increase brain activity. One study from Wales found that chewing gum can also lead to a mellow mood.
Yawn for an Energy Boost
New research shows that morning yawns bring blood to the brain, specifically to the area we use to plan, organize, make decisions and express our personalities. One theory holds that yawning cools the temperature of the brain on a seasonal basis. Yawning is also believed to enhance mental focus, defeat jet lag, improve mood and chill us out.
Flip Through Photos to Lift Your Mood
Yes, scientific research has found that looking through photo collections works better to lift moods than indulging in chocolate or a stiff drink. Research from Britain has found that viewing photos mellows your mood by 11 percent compared to a mere one percent lift from eating or drinking.
The study showed that looking through personal photo albums had a positive impact on relaxation, calmness, alertness and even feelings of being valued and popular. So when you need a lift, fanning out your favorite photos of family members and friends may do the trick.
Learn the Relaxing Breath
Mindful breathing can help you unwind and banish stress if you learn how to do it properly. Integrative medicine pioneer Andrew Weil, M.D., advocates learning what he calls “the relaxing breath” which he calls “the most powerful tool I know for stress management.”
As Dr. Weil says, this exercise is “utterly simple, takes almost no time, requires no equipment and can be done anywhere.” It involves exhaling audibly through your mouth and inhaling quietly through the nose, repeated four times to dispel tension during the day or help you relax at bedtime.
Have a Beer
You know that red wine is good for heart health, but beer has a surprisingly long list of health benefits, too: stronger bones, a healthier heart, and lower risks for kidney stones, cancer, Alzheimer’s, diabetes, high blood pressure and stroke. Drinking beer in moderation (two 12-ounce beers for a man or one for a woman) is also associated with a longer life, while higher amounts can be harmful.
Friday, July 20, 2012
My First Paycheck As An Actor!
Guess it's official - I'm a professional actor. No denying it now. I'll get an IRS 1099 form and everything.
I read about fifteen lines of script for the first episode of the Raventhorne Chronicles - an internet podcast soap opera by Pathways Productions.
Soon the world will cringe at the stylings of Dr. Thomas Raventhorne, wealthy doctor and doting father (yes, laugh at the irony here those of you who know me).
And I'll cash my check for five bucks.
I read about fifteen lines of script for the first episode of the Raventhorne Chronicles - an internet podcast soap opera by Pathways Productions.
Soon the world will cringe at the stylings of Dr. Thomas Raventhorne, wealthy doctor and doting father (yes, laugh at the irony here those of you who know me).
And I'll cash my check for five bucks.
Deep Thought
“When you go in for a job interview, I think a good thing to ask is if they ever press charges.” - Jack Handey
No-Whining Zones
Dena and I were changing out of the day's work clothes in the bedroom yesterday and making some small talk, when the subject of weather came up, which inevitably led to some lamenting.
Then my silly button was pushed. "Wait a minute! The bedroom is a no whining zone! Wine is fine, but not whining!" We had a few laughs at that.
Truth is though, I need to establish more of these zones.
E-mail's definitely been one, as Hidden Bloggers have heard through the years. Yesterday was another example. While writing a proposal about staffing changes to my superiors I found words escaping my fingers that were subtle and selfish complaints. Deletedeletedeletedelete...
As usual, hours later while driving home from rehearsal, I recalled those original words and realized how weak and foolish it would have been to send those thoughts. Yes, inevitably they come to mind. Time and time again, it's been a prize to let them just flutter into empty space and fade away rather than letting them take root in my mind, and certainly not in writing.
With Damn Yankees rehearsal in full swing, and great investments and energy being poured in by all of the cast and crew, there are more chances to whine. For example, in small group hallway conversations reflecting back on this scene or this dance or this song. So easy to participate. And so dumb! It's a little harder to "delete" in these moments, as syllables slip out of our mouths. A tight tongue can lead to an ever-expanding set of no-whining zones, or perhaps better put, an ever-expanding set of winning zones.
Then my silly button was pushed. "Wait a minute! The bedroom is a no whining zone! Wine is fine, but not whining!" We had a few laughs at that.
Truth is though, I need to establish more of these zones.
E-mail's definitely been one, as Hidden Bloggers have heard through the years. Yesterday was another example. While writing a proposal about staffing changes to my superiors I found words escaping my fingers that were subtle and selfish complaints. Deletedeletedeletedelete...
As usual, hours later while driving home from rehearsal, I recalled those original words and realized how weak and foolish it would have been to send those thoughts. Yes, inevitably they come to mind. Time and time again, it's been a prize to let them just flutter into empty space and fade away rather than letting them take root in my mind, and certainly not in writing.
With Damn Yankees rehearsal in full swing, and great investments and energy being poured in by all of the cast and crew, there are more chances to whine. For example, in small group hallway conversations reflecting back on this scene or this dance or this song. So easy to participate. And so dumb! It's a little harder to "delete" in these moments, as syllables slip out of our mouths. A tight tongue can lead to an ever-expanding set of no-whining zones, or perhaps better put, an ever-expanding set of winning zones.
1960's Batman's Top 5 Wackiest Moments
It's easy to see why Adam West has launched into stardom these days as the mayor's voice on Family Guy, and why Batman has always been the essence of cool.
Thursday, July 19, 2012
Boy's Minor Head Injury Leads To Life-Saving Discovery
One more reason to believe in the value of sports!
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Greatfulness Addiction
As Hidden Bloggers know, my life's better when I'm surrounded by happy people. Grateful people are greatful people in my book! Notes like this from our Damn Yankees director make me feel like I'm in the right place.
"I just wanted to send you a note to
thank you for all of your hard work and personal interest in the success
of this show. Everyone has stepped up to the plate (pun intended) and
gone above and beyond to help out and I am overwhelmed. You are truly a
blessing. This is going to be one of the best shows I’ve ever been a
part of and I am thrilled!
As always, please don’t hesitate to let me know if there are any questions or concerns about anything. I’m always available!"
Enjoying The Little Breaks
I drove onto my employer's property yesterday morning with the usual sense of anticipation. Or perhaps with a smidge more anxiety than usual, based on a couple of important meetings that I'd be running.
As I turned into the parking garage, incredibly, the car that occupied the very first spot was pulling out. The shady prize was even sweeter because the mercury was pushing 100 degrees that day. I try to wear a smile in the front door everyday as a matter of personal routine, but the good luck made it even easier.
The whole day went on to be a string of success after success, and even though I was working, tutoring and acting for 13 straight hours I got home with energy to spare. I'd likely have had a good day no matter what, but I appreciated what felt like a little peek of a gift from God in that parking lot to set it all in motion.
As I turned into the parking garage, incredibly, the car that occupied the very first spot was pulling out. The shady prize was even sweeter because the mercury was pushing 100 degrees that day. I try to wear a smile in the front door everyday as a matter of personal routine, but the good luck made it even easier.
The whole day went on to be a string of success after success, and even though I was working, tutoring and acting for 13 straight hours I got home with energy to spare. I'd likely have had a good day no matter what, but I appreciated what felt like a little peek of a gift from God in that parking lot to set it all in motion.
Seeking A Friend For The End Of The World
Dena and I caught this movie with a fresh twist on the end-of-the-world story.
An asteroid is headed unstoppably for earth (okay, so not everything is fresh here), giving humanity a few weeks to live. The early scenes are laced with light comedy as Steve Carrell's wife sprints out of the car and leaves him, and the insurance company that he works for asks if anyone wants to be CFO.
The comedy is window dressing on the grim reality (occasionally made stark, such as by a jumper off of a roof top) in the background, then ultimately gives way to a story about Carrell pursuing his long lost love that he'd let get away years ago.
He makes the trip with his apartment neighbor Kiera Knightly, and through a series of misadventures finally gets the girl. But which one? Check it out and see...
An asteroid is headed unstoppably for earth (okay, so not everything is fresh here), giving humanity a few weeks to live. The early scenes are laced with light comedy as Steve Carrell's wife sprints out of the car and leaves him, and the insurance company that he works for asks if anyone wants to be CFO.
The comedy is window dressing on the grim reality (occasionally made stark, such as by a jumper off of a roof top) in the background, then ultimately gives way to a story about Carrell pursuing his long lost love that he'd let get away years ago.
He makes the trip with his apartment neighbor Kiera Knightly, and through a series of misadventures finally gets the girl. But which one? Check it out and see...
Tuesday, July 17, 2012
Happy Birthday Mom!
If the world's any better for my being on it, the credit's got to go to Mrs. Judy McDonald of Bloomingdale, Illinois!
Whatever reserves of patience I've developed and thrived under through the years probably come from the gene pool of her kind and deep abundance.
Whatever reserves of patience I've developed and thrived under through the years probably come from the gene pool of her kind and deep abundance.
Damn Yankees - You Gotta Have Heart
I'm in a total of four musical numbers for the next musical, at Normal Community High School auditorium. Here's one of them. Tickets available at the link below.
http://www.prairiefiretheatre.org/damn_yankees_17.html
http://www.prairiefiretheatre.org/damn_yankees_17.html
Super Speedy Billy Hamilton Inside The Park Home Run
This guy has stolen 109 bases in 87 games! And he circles the bases in a blazing 13.8 seconds on this hit.
Friday, July 13, 2012
Overcoming: "I Was Really Intimidated By Them"
Just because people may not pay attention to you, or may have more experience, doesn't mean that they're better or smarter. It just gives you something to shoot for, fueled by self-confidence and determination.
Thursday, July 12, 2012
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
Wednesday Motivation: Humility
It is nice to feel important, isn't it? What might be even nicer is to get comfortable with not being important, at least in the sense of being recognized for it. Books about discovering "life's purpose" fly off the shelves as people search for meaning. I like to think that to people like the respected servant Mother Teresa, life's purpose was one of great usefulness but complete humility. When satisfaction comes from within rather than without, we have that much more control over our own happiness.
Tuesday, July 10, 2012
If Superheroes Were Golden Girls
Courtesy of Bridgette Richard. What happens when four aging superheroes share an apartment?
Tuesday Motivation: Momentum
Resist the snowflakes that would settle into the beginning of an avalanche.
A couple of weeks ago some back pain flared up. It was a little difficult to walk. Still, I decided to go through my weight lifting routine... lunges, push ups, jumps with barbells. It went just fine.
Yesterday my knee ached for some unknown reason. Almost felt like I'd sprained a ligament in there, weird since the flare-up had begun on Sunday (my only off-day from exercise of the week). Still, I decided to lift. It went just fine.
There are so many tempting reasons not to exercise. The world is filled with an increasing number of obese people. Health - in fact, life - is so much about momentum for better or worse. Failure, bankruptcy, addiction, depression can all be caused or aided by an accumulation of initially harmless things. Fortunately, so can a long streak of success.
A couple of weeks ago some back pain flared up. It was a little difficult to walk. Still, I decided to go through my weight lifting routine... lunges, push ups, jumps with barbells. It went just fine.
Yesterday my knee ached for some unknown reason. Almost felt like I'd sprained a ligament in there, weird since the flare-up had begun on Sunday (my only off-day from exercise of the week). Still, I decided to lift. It went just fine.
There are so many tempting reasons not to exercise. The world is filled with an increasing number of obese people. Health - in fact, life - is so much about momentum for better or worse. Failure, bankruptcy, addiction, depression can all be caused or aided by an accumulation of initially harmless things. Fortunately, so can a long streak of success.
Monday, July 9, 2012
A Secret Ingredient To Happy Marriage
By Julie Hanks, Sharecare:
Are you empathetic? Is your partner? It might be the secret to a happier marriage. According to a recent study from Harvard University, being able to accurately read a partner's emotions--and believing that your partner is trying to understand your emotions--is related to couple relationship satisfaction.
This study highlights certain gender differences that echo dynamics I've seen in my clinical practice and in my 23-year marriage:
1. Women are more satisfied in their relationship if their partner accurately empathized with negative emotions.
2. Men were more satisfied when they could read their partner's positive emotions accurately.
3. Women's ability to read their partner's negative emotions was positively linked to both men's and women's relationship satisfaction.
The authors suggested that for men, being able to understand and be empathetic to their partner's negative emotions may feel threatening to the relationship, but women don't seem to find negative emotions threatening. Findings suggest that effort, not just accuracy, positively impacts relationships.
Developing Empathy
If your relationship is distressed or if you simply want to make a good relationship better, here are some ways to work on your empathy skills.
Listen for emotional messages
The emotional message isn't the same as the words that your partner is saying. Your partner may be criticizing you for not spending enough time together, but the emotional message may actually be, "I miss you and I'm afraid I'm not important to you."
Push the pause button on your own emotions
When your partner is expressing something critical, it's easy to respond defensively. Before reacting, take a deep breath and try to slow down your own emotional response so you can hear the emotion behind the criticism.
Reflect back your partner's emotional plea
Instead of coming back defensively with, "What are you talking about? We just went on a walk yesterday, and we went to dinner last weekend!" respond to your partner's emotional plea by saying something like, "You really miss me and want to spend more time together. Thanks for letting me know. I love you."
Even if you read the emotional message inaccurately, your effort to understand your partner's emotions will pay off!
Are you empathetic? Is your partner? It might be the secret to a happier marriage. According to a recent study from Harvard University, being able to accurately read a partner's emotions--and believing that your partner is trying to understand your emotions--is related to couple relationship satisfaction.
This study highlights certain gender differences that echo dynamics I've seen in my clinical practice and in my 23-year marriage:
1. Women are more satisfied in their relationship if their partner accurately empathized with negative emotions.
2. Men were more satisfied when they could read their partner's positive emotions accurately.
3. Women's ability to read their partner's negative emotions was positively linked to both men's and women's relationship satisfaction.
The authors suggested that for men, being able to understand and be empathetic to their partner's negative emotions may feel threatening to the relationship, but women don't seem to find negative emotions threatening. Findings suggest that effort, not just accuracy, positively impacts relationships.
Developing Empathy
If your relationship is distressed or if you simply want to make a good relationship better, here are some ways to work on your empathy skills.
Listen for emotional messages
The emotional message isn't the same as the words that your partner is saying. Your partner may be criticizing you for not spending enough time together, but the emotional message may actually be, "I miss you and I'm afraid I'm not important to you."
Push the pause button on your own emotions
When your partner is expressing something critical, it's easy to respond defensively. Before reacting, take a deep breath and try to slow down your own emotional response so you can hear the emotion behind the criticism.
Reflect back your partner's emotional plea
Instead of coming back defensively with, "What are you talking about? We just went on a walk yesterday, and we went to dinner last weekend!" respond to your partner's emotional plea by saying something like, "You really miss me and want to spend more time together. Thanks for letting me know. I love you."
Even if you read the emotional message inaccurately, your effort to understand your partner's emotions will pay off!
Sunday, July 8, 2012
Gone To The Chapel: The Week In Thanks
"There shall be eternal summer in the grateful heart." - Celia Thaxter
There was no shortage of blessings to be thankful for this weekend, as we rolled out to Ohio for a family wedding.
The trusty Saturn covered the 1,000 miles with ease, as it consistently has throughout the 100,000+ before it. The air conditioning is going strong, important because...
We're having summery clear warm blue skies for weeks and weeks. For a non-landowner and poolside-lover, it's a stretch of paradise. And also for...
Photographs of a rose garden wedding, in the backyard of stately mansion near Quail Hollow Resort. The gated garden lilted with the notes of a violin and harp playing softly. Kurt's joining one thoughtful family. The needs of guests were considered in great detail, right down to the sun-shielding umbrellas and insect-repelling wipes. I could go on.
Long car rides can make for great "us-talk" dates. It was nice for Dena and I to share 15 hours of laughs and conversation with no other cares to distract us. We talked about careers, and activities, and family, and dreams. We enjoyed a lot of guilty-pleasure gas-station snacks.
Our nieces and nephews, brothers and sisters are a sight to behold. Playful and upbeat. It was good to be able to talk to some of them at length for the first time in months. New schools, new jobs, new adventures.
Thankfully, my other activities are flexible too. Damn Yankees, Raventhorne Chronicles, Life Teen band and the tutoring students all gracefully allowed this weekend to happen. And now, refreshed and enthused, we'll jump back in for a full week of the eternal summer.
There was no shortage of blessings to be thankful for this weekend, as we rolled out to Ohio for a family wedding.
The trusty Saturn covered the 1,000 miles with ease, as it consistently has throughout the 100,000+ before it. The air conditioning is going strong, important because...
We're having summery clear warm blue skies for weeks and weeks. For a non-landowner and poolside-lover, it's a stretch of paradise. And also for...
Photographs of a rose garden wedding, in the backyard of stately mansion near Quail Hollow Resort. The gated garden lilted with the notes of a violin and harp playing softly. Kurt's joining one thoughtful family. The needs of guests were considered in great detail, right down to the sun-shielding umbrellas and insect-repelling wipes. I could go on.
Long car rides can make for great "us-talk" dates. It was nice for Dena and I to share 15 hours of laughs and conversation with no other cares to distract us. We talked about careers, and activities, and family, and dreams. We enjoyed a lot of guilty-pleasure gas-station snacks.
Our nieces and nephews, brothers and sisters are a sight to behold. Playful and upbeat. It was good to be able to talk to some of them at length for the first time in months. New schools, new jobs, new adventures.
Thankfully, my other activities are flexible too. Damn Yankees, Raventhorne Chronicles, Life Teen band and the tutoring students all gracefully allowed this weekend to happen. And now, refreshed and enthused, we'll jump back in for a full week of the eternal summer.
Good To The Last Bite
In a recent experiment, test subjects were handed five pieces of different types of chocolate in random order. Prior to receiving each piece, the subject was told "This is the next one." The exception was for the final piece eaten, "This is the last one." Afterward the subjects were asked which piece was their favorite. Regardless of flavor, the "last" one was ranked as the favorite 64% of the time.
The implication is that we tend to enjoy something more if we believe it's the last time.
This weekend, the last of Dena's siblings was married - brother Kurt is the 7th of 7. It was also the last time that we'll see her brother Darren, Jane and the kids before they begin their missionary life in Texas.
How would you feel if tomorrow was the last day of your job? Of your friendship? Of your life? Would you behave any differently? Would it be a better day?
The implication is that we tend to enjoy something more if we believe it's the last time.
This weekend, the last of Dena's siblings was married - brother Kurt is the 7th of 7. It was also the last time that we'll see her brother Darren, Jane and the kids before they begin their missionary life in Texas.
How would you feel if tomorrow was the last day of your job? Of your friendship? Of your life? Would you behave any differently? Would it be a better day?
Saturday, July 7, 2012
Saturday Motivation: Retirement
To all my friends for whom their employment is something they do, and not who they are: Best wishes for you in achieving that balance of a successful enough career, with a healthy and joyful life outside of work. To master the art of the dresser-drawer mind, that can tightly compartmentalize the career strictly into those hours within the walls and then leave it behind at the door, is to lay a peaceful foundation.
To all my friends who are employed doing what they love: Congratulations!
Thursday, July 5, 2012
Thursday Motivation: Choosing The Right Handle
I recall a saying that "Each day when I wake up I have two handles before me. One is the handle of despair, the other of enthusiasm. I choose to grab one or the other. Thus determines the course of my day."
This particular morning one of the first thoughts that came to mind was a bunch of junk that I ate yesterday. The next thought was the one above. And now I'm thinking about Hidden Bloggers... and running the songs of the Damn Yankees musical through my mind... and organizing my plan of attack for the work day... and looking forward to a four-day vacation road trip with Dena starting tonight.
Grab a handle and have a great one!
This particular morning one of the first thoughts that came to mind was a bunch of junk that I ate yesterday. The next thought was the one above. And now I'm thinking about Hidden Bloggers... and running the songs of the Damn Yankees musical through my mind... and organizing my plan of attack for the work day... and looking forward to a four-day vacation road trip with Dena starting tonight.
Grab a handle and have a great one!
Wednesday, July 4, 2012
Wednesday Motivation: Mistakes
Most of my learning is a collection of mistakes. Most of my value is in sharing that learning with others. Likewise, there's plenty of potential in asking questions of those with more experience.
Which One Word Best Describes You?
I was reading an article today about a basketball coach who'd died years ago. The comment was made that if there was one word that best described him, it was "competitive."
My first thought was that I'd prefer a different word to describe myself. The word competitive is adversarial, maybe a little selfish.
My next thought was, what word would I want people to remember me by?
How about you? What one word would you hope people would use to sum you up?
"Family-oriented"?
"Loyal"?
"Integrity"?
"Honest"?
"Successful"?
"Winner"?
"Optimistic"?
"Fit"?
"Smart"?
"Selfless"?
My finalists included "Fun" and "Friendly"... but I think I'll go with "Happy."
My first thought was that I'd prefer a different word to describe myself. The word competitive is adversarial, maybe a little selfish.
My next thought was, what word would I want people to remember me by?
How about you? What one word would you hope people would use to sum you up?
"Family-oriented"?
"Loyal"?
"Integrity"?
"Honest"?
"Successful"?
"Winner"?
"Optimistic"?
"Fit"?
"Smart"?
"Selfless"?
My finalists included "Fun" and "Friendly"... but I think I'll go with "Happy."
Tuesday, July 3, 2012
Have A Ball
"You've just got to enjoy yourself. Who knows how long this career will last for anybody? If you don't enjoy it, what a waste." - Liam Neeson
A career... a life... there's only so much to go around. We celebrate what we can! Today I choose to celebrate the best parts of my job. The chance to teach, to manage, to solve logical puzzles. And on a 100+ degree day, to be indoors.
We can count our curses or blessings. Seems so easy, can be so hard. Today's a great to day to make the right choice and come out on top.
A career... a life... there's only so much to go around. We celebrate what we can! Today I choose to celebrate the best parts of my job. The chance to teach, to manage, to solve logical puzzles. And on a 100+ degree day, to be indoors.
We can count our curses or blessings. Seems so easy, can be so hard. Today's a great to day to make the right choice and come out on top.
Strategies To Boost Social Security Checks
From Andrea Coombes of MarketWatch:
You’d think claiming Social Security would be a simple retirement decision—you retire and you start your benefits. But there are certain complex strategies that can help pad a married couple’s retirement savings with tens of thousands of dollars of additional income.
Don’t make your claiming decision lightly, said Joe Elsasser, an Omaha, Neb., certified financial planner and creator of Social Security Timing, a software program for pre-retirees and advisers to run scenarios to assess strategies.
“It’s a decision that’s going to impact you for your entire life, and it’s a decision that’s going to make up a substantial portion of your income,” he said.
Specific strategies can help maximize savings, but couples also need to avoid a common mistake.
“Almost everyone thinks of it as their own earnings record, their own benefit, as opposed to integrating what they receive,” Elsasser said.
Instead, make the decision as a couple. Consider a hypothetical situation. The husband, the higher earner, believes he’s going to die relatively early and the wife thinks she’ll live a long time. So the husband claims his benefits as early as possible and the wife delays.
“That’s exactly opposite of the scenario that should happen,” Elsasser said.
Each year you delay claiming your benefits past your normal retirement age, your benefit ticks about 8% higher, up to age 70, thanks to what the Social Security Administration calls “delayed retirement credits.” And in the event of a spouse’s death, the surviving spouse can take the higher of her own benefit or that of the dead spouse.
If the husband claims early and then dies first, “effectively he’s shortchanged his wife’s survivor benefit,” Elsasser said. Instead, that husband should delay his claim, so if need be the wife can claim the highest possible benefit for the rest of her life. If the wife dies first, the husband simply keeps his own benefit.
“You’re trying to maximize benefits over both spouses’ lives. That’s the key that most people miss,” said Brett Horowitz, wealth manager at Evensky & Katz Wealth Management in Miami.
The ‘file and suspend’ strategy
A claiming strategy called “file and suspend” can help get the most money. Say a husband plans to delay his benefit until age 70. He is allowed to claim his benefit at his normal retirement age—say it’s 66—and then immediately suspend it.
That way, his benefit amount keeps growing—thanks to those delayed retirement credits—but since he did make that initial claim, his wife, at her full retirement age, can file a “restricted” application to claim spousal benefits based on her husband’s record, but not her earned benefit.
Generally, spousal benefits are up to 50% of the other spouse’s monthly benefit at full retirement age (some age restrictions apply). In this scenario, her own benefit now can grow until she hits 70, too.
In one hypothetical “file and suspend” scenario, a couple, both 66, could collect an additional $60,000 by delaying their benefits and the wife taking spousal payouts while they wait, according to Lisa Colletti, New York-based director of wealth management at Aspiriant.
Say a husband and wife, both 66, are entitled to monthly benefits of $2,500 and $1,500, respectively. The husband decides to file and suspend—he wants to delay until age 70, when his monthly benefit will be $3,300.
But, meanwhile, the wife can collect a 50% spousal benefit based on her husband’s benefit at his full retirement age—that’s one-half of $2,500, or $1,250 a month—from her age 66 to 70. Then, at 70 she switches to her benefit, which has grown to almost $2,000 a month.
End result: $60,000 more in benefits than had the couple simply delayed their benefits. This scenario assumes that delaying benefits until age 70 makes sense for the couple.
A ‘restricted’ application
Another use of a “restricted” application: Say a 66-year-old husband decides it makes sense for him to delay his benefits until he’s 70. His wife started her benefits at 62.
“What the husband doesn’t realize is he is entitled to 50% of his wife’s benefit while he waits, because she already filed,” Horowitz said.
When he turns his full retirement age, the husband can tell the Social Security Administration that, rather than filing for his own benefits, he wants to restrict his benefits to his wife’s record. If he changes his mind, he can switch over to his own benefits at any time.
Assuming his wife’s benefit at her full retirement age would have been $1,750 a month (she’s getting less because she filed at age 62), the husband will get $875 a month.
“If he waits till age 70, he will receive $875 a month for 48 months, or $42,000,” Horowitz said.
Note that the spouse who files a restricted application must be at least full retirement age. “If you apply for spousal benefits prior to full retirement age, then ‘deemed filing’ applies. You are deemed to have filed for both your own benefit and the spousal benefit at the same time,” said Jim Blankenship, a certified financial planner in New Berlin, Ill., and author of “A Social Security Owner’s Manual.”
It’s tough to generalize about Social Security strategies. Each spouse’s age, benefit amounts and health outlook play a big role in how and when to claim. The point is, don’t claim before you assess your options.
You’d think claiming Social Security would be a simple retirement decision—you retire and you start your benefits. But there are certain complex strategies that can help pad a married couple’s retirement savings with tens of thousands of dollars of additional income.
Don’t make your claiming decision lightly, said Joe Elsasser, an Omaha, Neb., certified financial planner and creator of Social Security Timing, a software program for pre-retirees and advisers to run scenarios to assess strategies.
“It’s a decision that’s going to impact you for your entire life, and it’s a decision that’s going to make up a substantial portion of your income,” he said.
Specific strategies can help maximize savings, but couples also need to avoid a common mistake.
“Almost everyone thinks of it as their own earnings record, their own benefit, as opposed to integrating what they receive,” Elsasser said.
Instead, make the decision as a couple. Consider a hypothetical situation. The husband, the higher earner, believes he’s going to die relatively early and the wife thinks she’ll live a long time. So the husband claims his benefits as early as possible and the wife delays.
“That’s exactly opposite of the scenario that should happen,” Elsasser said.
Each year you delay claiming your benefits past your normal retirement age, your benefit ticks about 8% higher, up to age 70, thanks to what the Social Security Administration calls “delayed retirement credits.” And in the event of a spouse’s death, the surviving spouse can take the higher of her own benefit or that of the dead spouse.
If the husband claims early and then dies first, “effectively he’s shortchanged his wife’s survivor benefit,” Elsasser said. Instead, that husband should delay his claim, so if need be the wife can claim the highest possible benefit for the rest of her life. If the wife dies first, the husband simply keeps his own benefit.
“You’re trying to maximize benefits over both spouses’ lives. That’s the key that most people miss,” said Brett Horowitz, wealth manager at Evensky & Katz Wealth Management in Miami.
The ‘file and suspend’ strategy
A claiming strategy called “file and suspend” can help get the most money. Say a husband plans to delay his benefit until age 70. He is allowed to claim his benefit at his normal retirement age—say it’s 66—and then immediately suspend it.
That way, his benefit amount keeps growing—thanks to those delayed retirement credits—but since he did make that initial claim, his wife, at her full retirement age, can file a “restricted” application to claim spousal benefits based on her husband’s record, but not her earned benefit.
Generally, spousal benefits are up to 50% of the other spouse’s monthly benefit at full retirement age (some age restrictions apply). In this scenario, her own benefit now can grow until she hits 70, too.
In one hypothetical “file and suspend” scenario, a couple, both 66, could collect an additional $60,000 by delaying their benefits and the wife taking spousal payouts while they wait, according to Lisa Colletti, New York-based director of wealth management at Aspiriant.
Say a husband and wife, both 66, are entitled to monthly benefits of $2,500 and $1,500, respectively. The husband decides to file and suspend—he wants to delay until age 70, when his monthly benefit will be $3,300.
But, meanwhile, the wife can collect a 50% spousal benefit based on her husband’s benefit at his full retirement age—that’s one-half of $2,500, or $1,250 a month—from her age 66 to 70. Then, at 70 she switches to her benefit, which has grown to almost $2,000 a month.
End result: $60,000 more in benefits than had the couple simply delayed their benefits. This scenario assumes that delaying benefits until age 70 makes sense for the couple.
A ‘restricted’ application
Another use of a “restricted” application: Say a 66-year-old husband decides it makes sense for him to delay his benefits until he’s 70. His wife started her benefits at 62.
“What the husband doesn’t realize is he is entitled to 50% of his wife’s benefit while he waits, because she already filed,” Horowitz said.
When he turns his full retirement age, the husband can tell the Social Security Administration that, rather than filing for his own benefits, he wants to restrict his benefits to his wife’s record. If he changes his mind, he can switch over to his own benefits at any time.
Assuming his wife’s benefit at her full retirement age would have been $1,750 a month (she’s getting less because she filed at age 62), the husband will get $875 a month.
“If he waits till age 70, he will receive $875 a month for 48 months, or $42,000,” Horowitz said.
Note that the spouse who files a restricted application must be at least full retirement age. “If you apply for spousal benefits prior to full retirement age, then ‘deemed filing’ applies. You are deemed to have filed for both your own benefit and the spousal benefit at the same time,” said Jim Blankenship, a certified financial planner in New Berlin, Ill., and author of “A Social Security Owner’s Manual.”
It’s tough to generalize about Social Security strategies. Each spouse’s age, benefit amounts and health outlook play a big role in how and when to claim. The point is, don’t claim before you assess your options.
Tuesday Motivation: Rising Above Mediocrity
What's your definition of a mediocre life? Or maybe put another way, do you feel that your life has been mediocre to this point or not? If so, what might you be able to do to change that?
It may be no instant process. It may start with defining what a successful life would be like for you. Or, more easily, what would it mean for today to be successful? Little steps like "I'll get that big laundry pile done," "I'll balance the checkbook," or something more internal like "I will keep on a smile on my face whenever I interact with so-and-so today."
These are the building blocks of habits. With patience and persistence through trials and failures, they can become a strong foundation for a peaceful soul!
7 Fitness Rules You Should Break
From Lisa Collier Cool of Yahoo! Health:
Old rule: Avoid exercising in the heat.
A series of experiments shows that cooling the neck before working out in hot, humid weather can significantly boost athletic performance. Volunteers wearing ice-cold, strap-on neck collars could run faster on a treadmill in 87-degree heat than when they weren’t wearing the collars. You can get similar results by dipping a handkerchief in ice water and draping it around your neck.
Stay safe by gradually increasing the length and intensity of hot-weather exercise over two weeks, drinking ample fluids, and taking frequent breaks.
For years, sports nutritionists recommended “drinking ahead of thirst” to avoid dehydration. However, recent studies show that slight dehydration doesn’t hurt athletic performance or health.
A study by the Sports Science Institute of South Africa compared runners who did three two-hour workouts, in which they either quaffed a sports beverage according to thirst (about 13 oz. per hour), at a moderate timed rate (about 4 oz. every 15 to 20 minutes) and at a high rate (about 10 oz every 15 to 20 minutes). There were no significant differences in core body temperature or finishing time.
“The idea that thirst comes too late is a marketing ploy of the sports-drink industry," says Tim Noakes, M.D., professor of sport and exercise science at University of Cape Town, South Africa.
New rule: Acclimatize slowly and cool your neck.
A series of experiments shows that cooling the neck before working out in hot, humid weather can significantly boost athletic performance. Volunteers wearing ice-cold, strap-on neck collars could run faster on a treadmill in 87-degree heat than when they weren’t wearing the collars. You can get similar results by dipping a handkerchief in ice water and draping it around your neck.
Stay safe by gradually increasing the length and intensity of hot-weather exercise over two weeks, drinking ample fluids, and taking frequent breaks.
Old rule: Drink before you’re thirsty.
New rule: Drink up, but avoid fluid overload.
For years, sports nutritionists recommended “drinking ahead of thirst” to avoid dehydration. However, recent studies show that slight dehydration doesn’t hurt athletic performance or health.
A study by the Sports Science Institute of South Africa compared runners who did three two-hour workouts, in which they either quaffed a sports beverage according to thirst (about 13 oz. per hour), at a moderate timed rate (about 4 oz. every 15 to 20 minutes) and at a high rate (about 10 oz every 15 to 20 minutes). There were no significant differences in core body temperature or finishing time.
“The idea that thirst comes too late is a marketing ploy of the sports-drink industry," says Tim Noakes, M.D., professor of sport and exercise science at University of Cape Town, South Africa.
Old rule: Cardio burns the most calories.
A recent University of Southern Maine study found that 30 minutes of weight training torches as many calories as running at a blistering six-minute-mile pace. Along with boosting strength and chiseling muscles, weight training revs up your metabolism for up to 36 hours.
High-intensity training is another excellent fat-burner, with a recent review in Journal of Obesity reporting that it’s more effective than other forms of exercise for flattening the belly, while also improving aerobic fitness.
A new study found that people who jogged 10 to 15 miles per week, at a pace of six or seven miles per hour, significantly outlived those who ran further and faster. The low-mileage group had 27 percent lower risk of death, compared to non-runners, while people who logged more than 25 miles weekly at higher speeds had no significant drop in mortality. The study analyzed the medical records of nearly 53,000 adults over an average of 15 years.
Another study, published in Mayo Clinic Proceeding in June, found that extreme endurance training may cause long-term heart damage in some marathoners, professional cyclists, and ultra-marathon runners. The researchers say that moderate exercise or interval training (mini-bursts of high-intensity exercise) is healthier for the heart.
New rule: Weight training is a better fat-burner.
A recent University of Southern Maine study found that 30 minutes of weight training torches as many calories as running at a blistering six-minute-mile pace. Along with boosting strength and chiseling muscles, weight training revs up your metabolism for up to 36 hours.
High-intensity training is another excellent fat-burner, with a recent review in Journal of Obesity reporting that it’s more effective than other forms of exercise for flattening the belly, while also improving aerobic fitness.
Old rule: Work out longer and faster to boost your health.
New rule: Aim for 30 to 60 minutes of moderate exercise daily.
A new study found that people who jogged 10 to 15 miles per week, at a pace of six or seven miles per hour, significantly outlived those who ran further and faster. The low-mileage group had 27 percent lower risk of death, compared to non-runners, while people who logged more than 25 miles weekly at higher speeds had no significant drop in mortality. The study analyzed the medical records of nearly 53,000 adults over an average of 15 years.
Another study, published in Mayo Clinic Proceeding in June, found that extreme endurance training may cause long-term heart damage in some marathoners, professional cyclists, and ultra-marathon runners. The researchers say that moderate exercise or interval training (mini-bursts of high-intensity exercise) is healthier for the heart.
Old
rule: Subtract your age from 220 to get your maximum heart rate.
To burn fat and improve endurance, typically, your target heart rate should be 60 to 80 percent of your max. However, the traditional formula is based on research in men and can result in a max that’s too high for women, according to a study published in Circulation.
The researchers developed the new gender-specific formula based on an analysis of about 6,000 healthy women ages 35 and older. And while the math is a little tricky, you only need to run the numbers once a year—on your birthday.
A study published in British Medical Journal found no scientific evidence to back up the notion that stretching before a workout reduces injuries or that stretching before and after prevents muscle soreness.
Other studies show that static stretching can actually impair athletic performance, while dynamic warm-ups—such as pairing calisthenics (like squatting and lunging) with running drills—improve it. Dynamic warm-ups also reduce injuries, a 2006 study found.
Custom orthotics are a billion-dollar industry, but there’s little evidence that they deliver more benefit. A study of military recruits found no difference in rates of stress fractures, ankle sprains, or foot problems in those given custom orthotics versus those who wore prefabricated inserts.
Another study found that prefabricated heel cups for plantar fasciitis (heel pain syndrome) actually provided better pain relief than custom orthotics, at far lower cost.
New rule: Women should use 206 minus 88 percent of their age.
To burn fat and improve endurance, typically, your target heart rate should be 60 to 80 percent of your max. However, the traditional formula is based on research in men and can result in a max that’s too high for women, according to a study published in Circulation.
The researchers developed the new gender-specific formula based on an analysis of about 6,000 healthy women ages 35 and older. And while the math is a little tricky, you only need to run the numbers once a year—on your birthday.
Old rule: Stretch before your workout to prevent injuries.
New rule: Do a 10-minute dynamic warm-up.
A study published in British Medical Journal found no scientific evidence to back up the notion that stretching before a workout reduces injuries or that stretching before and after prevents muscle soreness.
Other studies show that static stretching can actually impair athletic performance, while dynamic warm-ups—such as pairing calisthenics (like squatting and lunging) with running drills—improve it. Dynamic warm-ups also reduce injuries, a 2006 study found.
Old rule: Prevent or treat overuse injuries with custom foot orthotics.
New rule: Cheaper prefab inserts are just as good.
Custom orthotics are a billion-dollar industry, but there’s little evidence that they deliver more benefit. A study of military recruits found no difference in rates of stress fractures, ankle sprains, or foot problems in those given custom orthotics versus those who wore prefabricated inserts.
Another study found that prefabricated heel cups for plantar fasciitis (heel pain syndrome) actually provided better pain relief than custom orthotics, at far lower cost.
Sunday, July 1, 2012
Hidden Blog's 5 Year Anniversary
Today's the day.
Five years ago I started Hidden Blog with the whimsical goal of catching up to Country Joe McDonald on "Joe McDonald" Google searches. It was actually just a personal outlet for creativity, and the mental health of journaling some fun things that I could look back on in the years to come.
I might have guessed that a few family and friends might stumble upon it. Probably wouldn't have guessed that it would eventually be read over a hundred times a day by people around the world (or so the Blogger stats tell me). It has been amazing and humbling on occasion when a friend tells me that something I wrote brightens their day, especially when I had no idea they knew that Hidden Blog exists.
"If you act enthusiastic, you will be enthusiastic." The act of writing about fun, love and good life has had immeasurable psychological rewards for me, and hopefully for Hidden Bloggers as well. I pray that it keeps feedin' what you're needin'. In the words of that inaugural post... Let's go!
Five years ago I started Hidden Blog with the whimsical goal of catching up to Country Joe McDonald on "Joe McDonald" Google searches. It was actually just a personal outlet for creativity, and the mental health of journaling some fun things that I could look back on in the years to come.
I might have guessed that a few family and friends might stumble upon it. Probably wouldn't have guessed that it would eventually be read over a hundred times a day by people around the world (or so the Blogger stats tell me). It has been amazing and humbling on occasion when a friend tells me that something I wrote brightens their day, especially when I had no idea they knew that Hidden Blog exists.
"If you act enthusiastic, you will be enthusiastic." The act of writing about fun, love and good life has had immeasurable psychological rewards for me, and hopefully for Hidden Bloggers as well. I pray that it keeps feedin' what you're needin'. In the words of that inaugural post... Let's go!
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