A Tree for the Holidays..

Have you ever sent the same Christmas card out 2 years in a row. I thought I could never do that. However, this year I find myself without a photo that could possibly be better than the one from last year. In my opinion, there really is no more beautiful place at Christmas than this place: New York City I wish all of my visitors Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays-- and thank you for visiting this year. ..and I hope we can all look forward to a healthy, happy and successful 2012...maybe it will be your year to find your retirement home.
Carol,
BestGuide-RetirementCommunities.com

Wellness Lessons from Martha Stewart

Martha Stewart is 70 years old and she says she has time during her workday for yoga, exercise and naps.   She sets a fine example on what can be done in your down time.  See the video. 

She says the secret is to be organized.  When asked to take a walk, I know I often shake my head and say "I don't have time."  But this video makes me realize anyone can find the time if well-known business tycoon Martha can. 

I always say whether you are still working or full-time retired, you can still have your cake and eat it too--work and play.  Just include the things retirees do in your work day--exercise, yoga, eating healthy--all good things to do in retirement.

And, of course, at a retirement community you will have time for these things and more with the abundance of activities available and someone else doing your yard work.

Martha's down time video:

Sounds fo Nature at Retirement Communities

This autumn morning I woke up at my usual 6:30am -- it's still dark out and I am hearing a soothing sound.   It sounds like rain but I look out and I realize it is the rustling of leaves on the tall old oak tree outside my window.  At this time of year the leaves start to turn brown and when there is a breeze the edges are knocking together and making this wonderful rustling sound.  Quiet, mysterious and pleasant to the ear.

I begin to think of other sounds of nature I have enjoyed.  Some of my favorite ones are:

..raindrops and wind howling against the window
..roaring ocean surf 
..rippling streams in the mountains as the snow melts in spring
..seagulls wings flapping in flight overhead
..pockets of silence from canyons, oceans, deserts
..wind chimes in a breeze

The cool autumn air inspired me to take a walk before sunrise to discover that all the majestic trees were making the same rustling sound as I walked on the trail through my retirement community.

 I saw a family of deer feeding on the dewy grasses--silent and serene. 

I'm sure you have your favorite sounds of nature too.  I think retirees look for sounds like these in retirement.  Next time you visit a retirement community you have been thinking about, listen as well as look.  Listen for the sounds of nature at retirement communities.