55+ Living Winter 2021

55pluslivingguide.com

Happy New Year!

HOW HAPPINESS

CHANGES WITH AGE

THE ART OF

BAKING BREAD

CALM YOUR ANXIETY

SNOWSHOEING:

January - March | Winter 2021

THE PERFECT WINTER ACTIVITY

55PLUSLIVINGGUIDE.COM

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“

You bring love into all you do …

I couldn’t have found a better home.

— Florence

”

We offer Independent Living for active seniors and Assisted Living and Memory Care for seniors who need a little extra help.

Six exceptional communities located in: Troy - Beechwood at Eddy Memorial • Niskayuna - Glen Eddy Queensbury - The Glen at Hiland Meadows • East Greenbush - Eddy Hawthorne Ridge Slingerlands - Beverwyck • Latham - Marjorie Doyle Rockwell Center — Now Offering Virtual Visits —

518-280-8385 • EddySeniorLiving.com

A PARTNER YOU CAN TRUST At Eddy Senior Living, we have been keeping you and your loved ones safe for over 40 years!

Orthopaedic Urgent Care Make Your First Stop Your Last!

At The Bone & Joint Center, we understand that injuries occur when least expected and that convenience is important. That’s why when you visit our Orthopaedic Urgent Care with a bone, joint, or muscle injury or condition, you won’t need to go anywhere else. We are a one-stop shop for all your orthopaedic needs.

Same-Day Appointments. Walk-Ins Welcome.

Albany

1367 Washington Avenue, Suite 201 Albany, NY 12206 Monday – Friday: 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Saturday: 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Sunday: 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

(518) 292-2766 Albany – Main Location • Catskill • Clifton Park • Latham • Malta • Saratoga • Schenectady Ankle • Back • Elbow • Foot • General Orthopaedics • Hand • Hip • Knee • Neck • Orthopaedic Oncology Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation • Shoulder • Spine • Sports Medicine • Total Joint Replacement & Revision • Trauma • Wrist

w w w . T h e B o n e A n d J o i n t C e n t e r. c o m

CONTENTS Winter 2021

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THE VINE: THREE LITTLE WORDS

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20

12

FOOD & DRINK

26 STEPS TO CALM

30 THE ART OF BAKING BREAD

36 HOW HAPPINESS

BOURBON SMASH

TRAVEL

20 VERMONT IS ALIVE WITH

THE SOUND OF VON TRAPP

FINANCE

42 IN THE KNOW WITH

CONOR BOYD, OF THOROUGHBRED ADVISORS

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

9 THE CLASSIC MAKEOVER:

EDITOR’S NOTE

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January • February • March | Winter 2021

OUR ANXIETY

CHANGES WITH AGE

LIFESTYLE

12 WINTER WARDROBE ESSENTIALS: COZY & PRACTICAL

44 SHOWSHOEING: THE

PERFECT WINTER ACTIVITY

55PLUSLIVINGGUIDE.COM

The privilege of a lifetime is to become who you truly are. — C.G. Jung

Publisher & Editor in Chief Alison Michael

Consulting Editor Mary Beth Galarneau

Art Director Christine Silva MoonlightDesignsNC.com

Contributing Writers Frank Buck Randy Cale, PhD Bonnie Conrad Andreas Mergner Christopher Michael Wendy Ritz

55PLUSLIVINGGUIDE.COM 55+ Living is published four times a year by 55 Plus Living Guide, LLC. 38 Mall Way, #83, West Sand Lake, NY 12196 *CBPP’s average sales price YTD vs MLS

Call us today

find out what 105% means to you!

Amsterdam | Johnstown Clifton Park O. 518.762.9885 O. 518.383.0030

Greenville O. 518.966.4900

Hillsdale O. 518.325.4900

Loudonville O. 518.427.9000

Lake George | Glens Falls O. 518.793.4488

Niskayuna O. 518.370.2100

N. Greenbush O. 518.477.1000

Slingerlands | Albany O. 518.439.9600

Saratoga Springs O. 518.587.3400

West Sand Lake O. 518.674.3238

Phone: 518-713-4765 Email: alison@55pluslivingguide.com

55+ Living Guide, LLC. Copyright 2021.

All rights reserved. This publication may not be reproduced in any fashion, including electronically, in part or whole without written consent from 55+ Living Guide, LLC.

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January • February • March | Winter 2021

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Myth: Aging leads to loneliness.

Not at Summit.

Discover the friendship, fun and togetherness waiting for you at Summit.

INDEPENDENT SENIOR LIVING | LEASING NOW

In-person or virtual tours available.

518.290.7814

NORTH GR EENBUSH | GLENVILLE | SARATO GA GUILDER LAND | CO LO NIE

SummitSeniorLife.com

EDITOR'S NOTE

KRIS QUAY PHOTOGRAPHY SHOT ON LOCATION AT JUNE FARMS

I

think I speak for all of us when I say that I have never been happier to welcome a new year. Saying the words, “Goodbye 2020” never felt so good.

As with each passing year, I can’t help but reflect on what last year taught me.

Though it brought changes none of us could ever have fathomed, 2020 taught me to slow down and focus on what is truly important. It taught me not to look to the future for happiness, but to enjoy the present. From taking daily walks in nature, to hosting a virtual happy hour with friends, to treasuring the time spent with my husband and son day in and day out, 2020 taught me not to take anyone or anything for granted.

Happiness changes as we age (page 36). It evolves as we do. The search for happiness throughout one's life can be both elusive and palpable. As I get older, I find that I am no longer searching for it; instead, I try and take stock of it in its purest forms.

For me, that means enjoying the simple things in life: making my husband laugh, feeling the warm sunshine on my face, getting a hug from my son, taking a walk with our dog Lola in this beautiful area we live, enjoying a glass of wine and good food with friends.

It brings me great pleasure to introduce our Winter 2021 issue. I wish all of you a year filled with happiness & promise …we all deserve it!

Cheers,

Alison Michael Follow along on Instagram @ 55+Living

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January • February • March | Winter 2021

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The Classic Makeover Bourbon Smash Don't let the name of this drink fool you. This winter you'll want to warm yourself up by a fire (or fire pit!) with this soothing, warm Bourbon Smash, courtesy of the Chatham Bars Inn, in Chatham, MA. chathambarsinn.com

• 2 oz Chatham Bars Inn Private Select Makers Mark Bourbon Blend (or higher proof bourbon (45%+) • 1 1/2 oz fruit puree (raspberry, cherry, peach for example) • 1/2 oz fresh lime juice • 2 dashes orange bitters • Orange ribbon oil or rind Fill a double old-fashioned glass with ice. Shake all ingredients with ice and double strain over fresh ice.

Spritz orange ribbon oils over glass or simply rub an orange rind over rim of glass and drop on top of cocktail.

Photos by WalkthruPhoto

Love Where You Live

WELCOME TO MAXWELL VILLAGE The Area’s Newest 55+ Maintenance Free Community.

$25,000 BUILDER INCENTIVE (Limited time offer)

John Mesko, Associate Real Estate Broker

• Starting in the mid $300’s

518.466.9700(c) | Jmesko@cbpp.com

• Maintenance free townhome community

Coldwell Banker Prime Properties 569 N. Greenbush Road, Rensselaer, NY 12144 Open House: Sat-Sun • 1–4pm coldwellbankerprime.com

• Prime Loudonville/Colonie location • Close proximity to airport • Minutes to shopping/restaurants/golf • Luxury amenities • Spacious plans

UPSTATE NEW YORK’S PREMIER ADULT LIVING COMMUNITY

“For the Best Season of Your Life” Family Owned and Operated • Affordable pricing with no buy-ins • Transportation included • 24-hour maintenance services

• Screened in balconies and porches • Washer and dryer in each apartment • 4 star restaurant • Pet-friendly

Come See What You’re Missing.

Call for a Tour Today!

9 YEARS IN A ROW!

518-584-7766 • PrestwickChase.com • 100 Saratoga Blvd., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866

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January • February • March | Winter 2021

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Winter Wardrobe Essentials:

Cozy & Practical

BY WENDY RITZ

Living in upstate New York brings cold and snowy winters, but that doesn’t mean you have to give up on style. You can still be cozy and practical, while remaining stylish and comfortable. As we hunker down this winter, heed these winter wardrobe trends and tips, which will leave you feeling comfy, cozy and rosy!

Essential elements for a fashionable winter: Winter Essential #1- Turtlenecks: Layer under blazers, cardigans, dresses, sweaters or wear alone tucked into denim or your favorite pants. Turtlenecks are timeless and classic. Invest in neutral colors and pair with almost anything in your closet.

Winter Essential #2 - Tank Tops: Find the ones you love and buy in bulk. Stick with the classic colors – white, black, cream – and layer under cardigans, jackets, blouses and sweaters. Tanks always give a smoother look to your body.

I recommend having at least two shapewear tanks for extra smoothing.

Winter Essential #3 - Athleisure: This trend gives you an instant, effortless, chic vibe. Whether its sweatpants, yoga pants, cargo joggers, sneakers or sweatshirts, the comfort is always on point. Pair with a dressier piece to look chic and polished. For example: a lightweight cashmere sweater paired with athletic pants, ankle booties and a blazer.

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Winter Essential #4 - Vests: I love vests because they add warmth and style without too much bulk.

Try faux fur, puffy, suede or an on trend print this season. Pair vests with long sleeve shirts and tall boots. Having your boots match your vest in color will make you look even more pulled together.

Winter Essential #5 - Cardigans: These are your "comfort food" of sweaters. Cardigans are a yearround fashion accessory because they come in full length and 3/4 sleeves. Make sure to purchase a cardigan one size smaller so that it fits snug to avoid looking frumpy. Wear it open (never closed). The point of a cardigan is for extra warmth and to cover your arms. They also add color and style to a simple outfit.

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January • February • March | Winter 2021

Winter Essential #6 - Sweaters: For the most cozy and luxurious sweaters try knit, cashmere, cotton, chenille and pair them with jeans, pants and leggings.

Don’t forget to add a scarf when heading outside.

Winter Essential #7 - Leggings: Make sure you have lycra stretch pants or fleece lined leggings in black, charcoal and navy. These are your staple bottoms and three important building blocks of a smart functional winter wardrobe. Pair them with long sweaters, cardigans, ponchos, blazers and jackets.

Add a classy heeled boot and you're ready for anything and anywhere.

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Winter Essential #8 - Dark denim: A great fitted pair of dark wash jeans are a must! Purchase bootcut or straight leg with a bit of stretch in them.

PRE-LEASING

FOR JANUARY 2021

Winter Essential #9 - Winter boots: Get out your all-time favorite slip on boots and match them to a scarf, sweater, coat or purse for a put together look.

Nothing looks more chic than a pair of boots that match a coat and stylish handbag.

Winter Essential #10 - Black leather jacket: A crop leather jacket is not just for the young; they are timeless and ageless. Wear it with everything you own. Invest in a quality black leather jacket (or faux) that fits at the waist.

Wendy Ritz, owner of W Boutique in Glenmont, NY, is a fashion stylist and designer. Visit wboutiquefashion.com to learn more and follow her on Facebook for live shows.

Wendy's Winter BONUS TIPS: • Clothes look best when they fit well

Luxury apartments in the heart of Guilderland

• Define your waist no matter how big or small • Keep your skirt and dress length

UPSCALE & CONVENIENT

to the knee • Don’t show too much skin

52 townhouse-style apartments

• Keep it simple and add some

4 floor plans to choose from

great accessories

1 & 2 bedroom options

• Choose solids over loud prints

LUXURY amenities:

• Invest in a good fitted bra

stainless steel appliances, premium kitchen cabinetry & granite countertops, spacious in-unit laundry room, and large bedroom closets.

• Invest in shapewear No matter what stage of life you are in, always remember to stay true to yourself.

For more information, please call 518-858-3285 | 518-858-3297 or visit our website at www.preservewindingbrook.com

Cozy up and have a wonderful, warm fashionable winter season!

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CRAFTSMAN STYLE RENTAL COTTAGES

1 Floor Living • Attached Garages Cable & Internet • 24 Hour Maintenance Private Porches & Patios Washer & Dryer in Unit Trash Removal Pet Friendly

A 55+ ACTIVE, ADULT COMMUNITY CALL

518-689-0162 TODAY

and schedule a tour!

The Spinney at Van Dyke • Open Mon-Fri: 8 AM - 4 PM 6 Parker Mathusa Place, Delmar, NY 12054 TheSpinneyatVanDyke.com • VanDykeLeasing@TheSpinneyGroup.com

Downsizing? Moving?

Inherited an estate?

We take care of sorting, pricing, marking, and selling your items for the best prices possible. No matter how big or small your estate is, let us help you manage it from start to finish.

Why we do it.

Antiques & Collectibles

We have a passion for this business.

We also privately buy and sell To us, it’s not just about selling your a large variety of antiques and items and making money. Our goal is collectibles, specializing in to take a potentially stressful and mid century modern furniture. difficult process and make it as easy and Please feel free to reach stress free for everyone involved. out if you’re selling something We will be with you every step of the you think we might be way to meet all of your needs. interested in.

Albany, NY • 518-369-0038 • 518estates@gmail.com • 518estates.com Visit our website to join our mailing list and get notified about upcoming sales!

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January • February • March | Winter 2021

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HOME TO A NEW GENERATION — Craftsman Style Cottages—

Enjoy COTTAGE LIVING, designed for active, independent “55 and better” residents.

Life at The Spinney is more than a great home...it’s a COMMUNITY OF FRIENDS. Single-story, maintenance-free living with attached garages, patios and decks. Cottages offer modern conveniences… all completed with a charming and friendly community lifestyle.

AMENITIES INCLUDED AT POND VIEW:

• Pet Friendly • Cable & Internet • 24 Hour Maintenance • Front & Back Porches • Washer & Dryer in Unit • Community Activities • Attached Garages

• Snow Removal • Trash Removal • Water Usage • Community Gardens • 5000 Sq Ft Clubhouse • Pools

CALL

518-479-0800

FOR A TOUR TODAY! 2490 Pond View, Castleton-on-Hudson, NY 12033 Mon–Fri: 8–4pm TheSpinneyatPondView.com PondViewLeasing@TheSpinneyGroup.com

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—Advertorial—

TMS THERAPY Do you suffer from moderate to severe depression? Have you tried therapies or medications without success? Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is an innovative, life-changing therapy for those who have moderate to severe depression and have had trouble responding to medication.

How does it work?

TMS is a safe, FDA-approved, non-invasive and drug-free treatment that uses a magnetic pulse to stimulate nerve cells in key areas of the brain that are thought to control mood. Similar to the magnetic pulses that you would receive from an MRI machine, TMS stimulates the part of the brain that is under-active in people with depression. Using TMS allows doctors to change brain activity without surgery and with minimal discomfort to the patient. The area of the brain that is stimulated creates gentle electrical impulses that activate neural pathways in the brain associated with depression.

Are there side-effects?

TMS treatment process involves placing a small electromagnetic coil against the scalp near the forehead. TMS has no reported side effects other than some mild

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January • February • March | Winter 2021

discomfort at the application site and the patient can drive to and from the TMS treatment. The procedure is approximately 20 minutes and can be done during your lunch break.

How long does the treatment last?

Treatment sessions last 20-30 minutes and the first 25 sessions must be done five times per week for the first five weeks.

The remaining sessions can be tapered over a period of weeks.

What is the success rate?

TMS has a success rate between 70-80 percent, meaning that the vast majority of individuals find significant relief after treatment.

About 50 percent of people experience complete remission, meaning that the symptoms of depression are absent after just one course of treatment.

Is TMS similar to Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) No, ECT, commonly referred to as “shock therapy”, uses electricity to produce seizurelike activity in the brain while the patient is under anesthesia and has side effects that can be substantial. While both treatments relieve depression,

TMS is a treatment that is performed while the patient is awake and alert, no anesthesia or sedation is needed. TMS uses magnetic energy, rather than electricity that is applied to the scalp.

What conditions can it help?

TMS can be applied to different brain areas with the goal of treating other conditions.

Research is ongoing to determine whether these techniques are effective to treat: • Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) • Autism • Bipolar Disorder • Chronic Pain • Multiple Sclerosis (MSC) • Parkinson’s Disease • Post Stroke Rehabilitation • Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) • Schizophrenia (Negative Symptoms) • Smoking Cessation Pinnacle Behavioral Health is located at 1 Pinnacle Place, Albany. For more information call 518.689.0244 or visit pinnaclebehavioralhealth.com.

55PLUSLIVINGGUIDE.COM

Depression is Real

Recovery is Possible • Are you suff ffe ering from moderate to severe depression?

• Have you tried numerous medications but nothing seems to work?

• Are you currently seeing a therapist?

If you answered YES, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) may be right for you Let Pinnacle TMS help you!

Safe, FDA Approved, No side eff ffe ects

Call Rocco for a Free Consultation (518) 509-4TMS www.pinnaclebehavioralhealth.com/TMS

Vermont is alive with

the

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n o Sound of v

January • February • March | Winter 2021

55PLUSLIVINGGUIDE.COM

“The hills are alive with the sound of music.”

That one simple line from a song invokes memories of children singing on a beautiful green hillside in the Austrian Alps. The 1965 movie, “The Sound of Music”, was based on an autobiography written by Maria von Trapp, but the story of the von Trapp family, who fled Austria during WWII, is an interesting one that leads them to northern Vermont. The family was granted asylum in the United States and arrived in Philadelphia with just $4. The 10 children (one was born in the US) turned their family hobby of singing into the Trapp Family Singers. In the early 1940s, they bought a farm in Stowe, VT, as it reminded them of Austria, and continued to travel the world sharing their songs and story. The Trapp Family Lodge is now owned and operated by Johannes, the youngest of the children, and his family.

Upon arrival at the Lodge, which sits on 2,500 acres, you might feel like you have been transported to an Austrian village, with its European architecture, stunning views and a Bierhall. This four-season resort offers many lodging options for couples and families alike, including private rooms, guest houses or villas.

A simple room or spacious suite will serve you well with their rustic, yet modern feel. Private guest houses sleep up to six people and have a working fireplace. The 2,500 sq. ft. villas accommodate up to eight and have massive stone fireplaces and a dining area with fully-equipped kitchens. No matter where you rest your head at night you will wake up to a beautiful view of

p p a r T chael er Mi h p o hrist

by C

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the Green Mountains in the morning.

Upon waking, you can enjoy a full-country breakfast in the main dining room, or head to the Kaffeehaus Bakery and Deli. Run under the guidance of Bavarian Baker Maurizio Odermatt, offerings include freshly baked pastries, breakfast sandwiches, Quiche, granola, authentic Austrian coffee and more. Additionally, you can order sandwiches to go for your daily activities or you can bring a delicious cheese board back to your villa. Be sure to try the Linzertorte, a favorite of Ben Gilbert, marketing manager, of Trapp Family Lodge.

Franciscan Heights

SENIOR COMMUNITY

Awesome Move-In Specials!

APPLY TODAY!

A place you’ll love to call home!

1 St. Anthony Lane • Rensselaer

• 2 Bedroom Apartments Tax Credit 2-4 People (Income Restricted) • 2 Bedroom Apartments Market Rate 1-4 People (No Income Cap) • 55+ • Move-in Incentives • Fully Accessible • Pet Friendly • Smoke-Free • Maint. Free

Hurry - Act Now! Don’t Miss This Great Offer!

Accepting Applications Now! • 518-432-3555 www.depaulhousing.com CHECK OUT OUR NEW ONLINE PHOTOS

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January • February • March | Winter 2021

There are many activities to enjoy during every season. During the winter months, guests can enjoy horse-drawn sleigh and carriage rides, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing on over 62 miles of trails. Be sure to make a pit stop at the Slayton Pasture Cabin and grab a hot chocolate by the roaring fire before you ski back to the Lodge. Maple sugaring tours and baking/crafting/art classes are also available.

During the warmer months, you can enjoy water sports, hiking and mountain biking. You can partake in a guided forest hike or tour the farm and meet the cows. Nearby golfing awaits or try your hand at disc golf. Indoor and outdoor swimming pools give you a chance to take a dip year-round. Other activities include von Trapp Family History Tours, weekly wine tastings, morning yoga, live music and a weekly feature film of, you guessed it, “The Sound of Music.”

Don’t forget about the kids! Whether its singalongs, kite flying, fishing, nature scavenger hunts, hikes, arts and crafts, the kids will be glad to put down their electronics and partake in many of these activities.

The town of Stowe also offers many activities.

With Stowe Mountain Resort nearby, downhill skiing and snowboarding are available when Mother Nature cooperates.

Are you a beer lover? In 2010, after two decades of dreaming about opening an Austrian-style brewery, Johannes finally recognized his dream, when the von Trapp Brewing Bierhall Restaurant opened. Situated on the cross-country ski and mountain bike trails, the brewery lives up to its’ tagline as a gathering place for friends to enjoy “a little of Austria, a lot of Vermont”.

Here, you can enjoy American versions of the tasty lagers produced in the Austrian Alps. Over 200 years ago lagers were first crafted by storing large casks in cool caves in the Alps. Lagers are a smoother, crisper and more balanced beer. This award-winning beer is available in many different flavors and seasonal offerings. The Pilsner, Helles, Vienna Lager and Dunkel are available year-round and can be found at your local beverage center. They are clean and light made with Vermont water. Yes, you can taste the difference!

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Be sure to try the Trosten, a smoky, dark winter seasonal lager. These brews do not disappoint. Grab a beer and bratwurst at the Bierhall and once again, enjoy the beautiful views of Vermont.

With many acres of land to enjoy, one of the wonderful things about the Trapp Family Lodge is that it is pet friendly. Be sure to bring your four-legged friends along for the amazing journey. Join visitors from all over the world and explore the numerous opportunities to enjoy the beautiful, natural grounds. Hike out to a green pasture overlooking Stowe and break into your song. Let the hills be alive with your voice as you twirl with amazement and joy.

For more information visit trappfamily.com

Blue Skies Travel,

Your Journey Matters to us.

We have over 27 years of experience meeting the needs of clients, just like you, who require more than just a booking.

With Blue Skies Travel, you are the beneficiary of the relationships we have cultivated throughout the world. Enjoy a seamless, tailored,

Your Journey Matters To Us

and relaxing travel experience

518-477-4700

every time!

For updates on our current events follow us on www.facebook.com/blueskiestravel-ny

KEEP DREAMING.

2 Pittsfield Ave., East Greenbush, NY 12061

Your Blue Skies Travel Advisor is ready when you are.

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A 55+ Close-Knit, Vibrant, Pet Friendly Community!

Conveniently located to major roadways for easy shopping. Health and fitness facilities, plus many social activities will help you feel rejuvinated.

• Active Tenant Organization • Community Clubhouse • NEW & Used Manufactured Homes for Sale northwayestates.com 2560 U.S. 9, Malta, NY 12020 • (518) 899-2526

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55pluslivingguide.com

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Steps to Calm Our Anxiety ANXIETY IS ON THE RISE FOR MANY REASONS: A SIGNIFICANT ONE BEING DUE TO COVID-19 AND HOW IT HAS AFFECTED OUR LIVES IN SIGNIFICANT WAYS. FOR SOME, THE IMPACT IS MORE PRONOUNCED THAN FOR OTHERS. THIS DETRIMENTAL EFFECT IS OFTEN EXPERIENCED AS OVERWHELMING ANXIETY.

BY RANDY CALE, PHD

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55PLUSLIVINGGUIDE.COM

Fight or flight: The brain’s natural response Over the many thousands of years that mankind has evolved, there was a need for daily vigilance to remain alert and everpresent to the threats that could take our lives. The threats were clear, and our bodies adapted to rapid changes in our states when fight or flight was necessary.

The priority was survival, not happiness. As a species, we were not doing so well for many thousands of years. Infancy survival rates were low, and many children did not live to propagate.

Now, for most of us in this fortunate world we live in, our priority has shifted to happiness more than survival. Yet, our brains did not catch up with us. The centuries of programming have kept us vulnerable to fight/flight tendencies, and thus the experience of anxiety.

So, in the modern world, we are seeking happiness with some biological hardware that is wired to notice the threats more than the daily gifts we experience.

Prior to Covid, very few of us dealt with daily threats to our existence, but this did not thwart our struggles with anxiety. Now, with Covid added to our lives and the very real additional threats that exist, many are struggling with levels of anxiety that are truly debilitating.

How to reduce anxiety starting today As you go through these steps, I encourage you to be a thorough tester, not a quick naysayer. Those folks want the easy, quick answer and the grand slam effect. True change means changing a habitual set of neural pathways that are well-worn in the brain. We must accept this if long-lasting relief is what we seek.

Anxiety is not a thing It is a fluid process This is much more important than it appears. We know from measuring brain waves and bodily responses that anxiety is not static, but our minds tend to make it so.

We label it a ‘thing’ and as such it becomes more fixed than it is.

So, our first step is to begin to raise our awareness of the fluidity of this process. Anxious feelings move with our thinking, but we only notice our feelings that follow the anxiety-producing thoughts.

Become less a believer of your thoughts, and more of an investigator. We identify with our thoughts, rather than have curiosity. This curiosity creates some detachment from the thoughts and starts us down the path to a more easeful experience of life.

Acknowledge: There is no threat right now We must do everything we can to de-activate the fight/flight response. Clearly see that right now, there is no threat. You might say, “Covid-19 is right outside my door,” and I would say, “Really?

Step outside and see if that is true.” In other words, be intensely practical with yourself, and clear on what threats exist right at this moment to you. Most likely, none exist right now.

If a threat does exist, be clear on your plan. What steps can you take and are you taking them? If so, this is all you can do.

So now we can affirm, with conviction that, “There is no threat at this moment. I have done all I can do.” Will this immediately make it all go away?

No, but it’s the first step. Say it to yourself, clearly and with conviction. The more we leave this moment, and move to tomorrow, next week or next month…then we will have anxiety! Because the imagination can create limitless ways to be afraid for moments we do not have to cope with right now.

Rather than believing the threat exists right now, consider affirming the truth of this very moment

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Become more aware of those actions that you aren’t typically aware of, such as your breathing or your eating or even brushing your teeth.

Slow these down a bit, and just be aware.

Be more attentive to small daily actions This process is not easy, yet it is remarkably simple and effective. If you can accept that there is not a threat right now, turn your attention to whatever you are doing. At this moment, I am noticing the feel of the keyboard on my fingertips, and turn my toes wiggling in my socks. It’s these simple acts of present awareness that start to force us into the moment. Do more and more of this, as you focus being present with your actions.

I also encourage you to do some quick research on Heart Rate Variability (HRV) Breathing, as this is a simple breathing process with proven results. Start to practice HRV breathing two to three times daily. The impact will be substantial, if, and only if, you stick with it.

Stay away from anxiety-producing content I find many folks struggling with anxiety spend a significant amount of time consuming information that produces anxiety. Why do this? There is little value here, and the answer is to stop. Stop today.

Instead, go for a walk, sip your tea gently on the porch or spend some time doing something you love.

If you must be on your phone or laptop, then seek out content that inspires and uplifts and gets your brain tuned away from anything fearful.

We can all be safe, wearing our masks and keeping our distance as we accept the reality of life for now.

It will not be forever, and there is no value in railing against what keeps us and others healthy. The fundamentals of what we must do have not changed, so it's best to limit consumption of any content that heightens anxiety.

There are many tools that will reduce anxiety incrementally. Rapid changes are available, but none sustain without effort. All of the above suggestions take daily effort to re-program the brain. If this is accepted, then progress is not just possible, real relief is probable.

Dr. Cale is owner of Capital District Neurofeedback "Retrain Your Brain to Work for You...Not Against You." For more information visit CapitalDistrictNeurofeedback. com or call 518.383.0600.

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Art

The of Baking Bread

BY ANDREAS MERGNER, THE BREAD BUTLER

“Good bread is the most fundamentally satisfying of all foods; and good bread with fresh butter, the greatest of feasts.”

— JAMES BEARD, AMERICAN CHEF, COOKBOOK AUTHOR, TEACHER, AND TV PERSONALITY

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With so many of us cooped up in our homes, bread baking has become increasingly popular a go-to activity to dispel the winter doldrums. And no wonder.

What can beat the aroma of a loaf baking in the oven, or the memory of that last morsel luxuriating on our taste buds?

More than that, baking bread is comforting and reassuring, an old friend who assures us that everything will be all right.

After all, if chicken soup is for the soul, then homemade bread must be for the heart.

Flour, water, salt, and yeast. Four simple ingredients that make something so delicious Yet, these ingredients aren’t as simple as they sound. They have a hidden complexity, which is why baking bread is considered by many to be an art form. There are many factors involved to get a perfect loaf: kneading technique, timing, temperature, ingredient ratios, process, and equipment. Then, take into consideration adding additional ingredients, such as a different type of flour, spices, or enrichments (butter, oil, eggs, sugar) and it’s easy to get overwhelmed quickly.

How to bake bread You can read a half-dozen technical books to understand the underlying theory, but even then, your bread might not come out that great. If you want to become skilled at bread baking, experiment with a simple, basic recipe and keep a log of what you’ve done each time. However, it’s important to get good at

one recipe before changing it significantly, otherwise, you won’t know if the change in quality is due to the change in the type of bread or your technique/ process.

First, gather your equipment. I recommend an electronic scale that weighs in grams, which you can find online for under $15. Weighing ensures consistency as measuring by volume doesn’t account for variations in flour density. Using grams vs. ounces/pounds give better accuracy. Next, you will need a Dutch oven, which results in a commercial quality result that will make a big difference. You’ll also want a large mixing bowl and good oven mitts to safely handle a very hot Dutch oven safely.

Next up are the above-mentioned ingredients: flour, water, salt, and yeast. You can very successfully use all-purpose flour (I do!) and the water and salt are straightforward. As for yeast, I have had some challenges with store bought yeast where it just doesn’t make the bread rise. Therefore, you may want to invest in some Lesaffre SAF-Instant Red

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January • February • March | Winter 2021

yeast, which has never failed me. You can purchase it online for $7.50 per pound, or feel free to go with whatever you wish….as long as it rises!

Now for the recipe...500g all-purpose flour, 325g water, 1g salt, 1g yeast. This is a starting point. You can adjust all of these AFTER you try this recipe at least once and make notes. Eventually, you’ll get an idea for how the dough should feel at different stages which makes it easy to succeed. Then, once you are comfortable with the standard recipe, you can experiment with other ingredients, use different flours, and play with different amounts of water later.

Technique is important, and bakers use many variations, but here’s how I would suggest starting: Put room temperature water in a small bowl, add the salt and yeast, then add flour and mix with your hand. It’s going to stick to your hand, but don’t panic. Keep squeezing the mixture through your fingers to make sure all the ingredients are thoroughly mixed. After about 2 minutes, the dough will be in a sticky, “shaggy” state and won’t look like smooth dough. Next, cover the dough with a lid or a towel and wait 15 minutes.

When the time is up, keep the dough in the bowl and reach below the dough and grab a piece of it to stretch over to the top of the dough ball. This is called “stretch and fold.” Do it at a medium speed, not slow. Rotate the bowl 90 degrees and repeat. Do this 4-10 times until the dough feels a bit tighter than when you began. This should take only about 1030 seconds to complete. You might want to google an online video to see exactly how it’s done. Wait another 15 minutes. Repeat the stretch and fold 3-4 times and you will see and feel how the dough changes. It should end up soft, smooth, and elastic.

After it reaches this point, you want to let the covered dough rise for anywhere between one to four hours so that it can “proof”. How long the dough should be proofed depends on your yeast, the temperature the dough is kept at, how wet the dough is, plus a few other factors. How will you know when it’s ready? Experience! It’s really a compromise.

55PLUSLIVINGGUIDE.COM

Word Of The Day:

FIDUCIARY. fi•du•ci•ar•y

“A fiduciary is a person or organization that acts on behalf of another person or persons, putting their clients’ interest Much too little rise and the bread will be dense and inedible. Slightly under-proofed and the bread will expand in the oven impressively making a pretty loaf especially if you score (I’ll explain scoring below) it.

Slightly over-proofed and the bread won’t expand much in the oven, but the bread will be light and fluffy. Very over-proofed and the bread will collapse in the oven making a flat, ugly loaf, but will be fine to eat. You want the dough to approximately double in size during proofing.

After the dough has risen 1.5 times, gently remove it from the bowl and lightly shape it into a ball with the same stretch and fold technique you learned before. Don’t be too rough with it, but also note that quicker movements tend to work better than very slow ones. You will then let it rise while the oven preheats.

Pre-heat your oven to 475 degrees F with the cast iron Dutch oven (and lid) inside. You want it very hot when you put the dough inside it. Once dough has risen a bit, carefully place the dough in the Dutch oven and put the lid on. Bake in the oven 15 minutes, and then take the lid off and bake 10-20 minutes more until it gets as brown as you like.

As you can see, there are many steps and variations to the process. The creative part comes in how you decide to implement it. Try a new technique or recipe to see how the bread changes!

The Bread Butler currently bakes and delivers bread around the Capital Region on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. For contactless delivery, the bread bag will be hung on a front doorknob. Visit breadbutler.com for more information or follow them on Facebook and Twitter.

Winter 2021

ahead of their own, with a duty to preserve good faith and trust.”

NOT ALL FINANCIAL ADVISORS ARE FIDUCIARIES. We at Fagan Associates ARE. Is your financial advisor a fiduciary?

If not, it’s time to re-evaluate that relationship.

Registered Investment Advisors

767 Hoosick Road Troy, NY 12180 (518) 279-1044 (800) 273-6026 www.faganasset.com Locally owned & managed since 1989 55PLUSLIVINGGUIDE.COM

33

Almost No-Knead Bread Courtesy of America's Test Kitchen

Makes 1 Loaf 3 cups (15 ounces) all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting 1½ teaspoons table salt ¼ teaspoon instant or rapid-rise yeast ¾ cup water, room temperature ½ cup mild beer, such as Budweiser, room temperature 1 tablespoon white vinegar 1. Whisk flour, salt, and yeast together in large bowl. Whisk water, beer, and vinegar together in 4-cup liquid measuring cup. Using rubber spatula, gently fold water mixture into flour mixture, scraping up dry flour from bottom of bowl, until dough starts to form and no dry flour remains. Cover bowl tightly with plastic wrap and let sit at room temperature for at least 8 hours or up to 18 hours.

2. Lay 18 by 12-inch sheet of parchment paper on counter and lightly spray with vegetable oil spray. Transfer dough to lightly floured counter and knead by hand until smooth and elastic, about 1 minute.

3. Shape dough into ball by pulling edges into middle, then transfer seam side down to center of prepared parchment.

4. Using parchment as sling, gently lower loaf into Dutch oven (let any excess parchment hang over pot edge). Cover tightly with plastic and let rise until loaf has doubled in size and dough springs back minimally when poked gently with your knuckle, 1½ to 2 hours.

5. Adjust oven rack to middle position. Using sharp paring knife or single-edge razor blade, make two 5-inch-long, ½-inch-deep slashes with swift, fluid motion along top of loaf to form cross. Cover pot and place in oven. Turn oven to 425 degrees and bake loaf for 30 minutes (start timing as soon as bread goes in oven).

TIP: Start the 30-minute timer as soon as you put the bread in the cold oven; don't wait until the oven has preheated to start the timer or the bread will burn.

6. Remove lid and continue to bake until loaf is deep golden brown and registers 205 to 210 degrees, 25 to 30 minutes. Using parchment sling, remove loaf from pot and transfer to wire rack; discard parchment. Let cool completely, about 3 hours, before serving.

This bread is best eaten the day it is baked, but it can be wrapped in foil and stored for up to 2 days. It also freezes well. Recrisp it in the oven before serving.

Beer and Cheddar Fondue

8 ounces mild cheddar cheese, shredded (2 cups) 8 ounces American cheese, shredded (2 cups) 3 tablespoons cornstarch 1½ teaspoons dry mustard ¼ teaspoon pepper ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper 1½ cups beer 1 garlic clove, minced

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• Serves 8 to 10 • Courtesy of America's Test Kitchen Toss cheddar, American cheese, cornstarch, mustard, pepper, and cayenne in bowl until well combined. Bring beer and garlic to a boil in 10-inch cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.

Reduce heat to medium-low and slowly whisk in cheese mixture, one handful at a time. Continue to cook, whisking constantly, until fondue is smooth and begins to bubble, 4 to 6 minutes longer.

Serve with chunks of rustic bread 55PLUSLIVINGGUIDE.COM

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How

HAPPINESS CHANGES with AGE

BY BONNIE CONRAD

The search for happiness throughout one's life can be both elusive and palpable. Depending on one's current situation, one may feel varying levels of happiness at different times in their lives. But just what constitutes a state of happiness? And how does one know they are truly happy? As a famous poet once said, "It is a consummation devoutly to be wished."

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January • February • March | Winter 2021

55PLUSLIVINGGUIDE.COM

WHAT IS HAPPINESS? Happiness might be described as a feeling of elation or joy such as at the event of one's marriage, the birth of their first child, or their first paycheck at a much longed-for career. But this kind of jubilation is short-lived as one gets back to the mundane tasks of life. What can one do to have sustainable happiness?

Most people long for a later time in their lives when they will acquire all of the wealth, friends, and achievements that they want. Then they will be happy. Whether or not someone truly reaching the ultimate happiness at the end of their life is difficult to measure.

With approaching age, also comes new problems such as the death of loved ones, friends who move away, and changes in jobs or status. Some end up in their twilight years with lots of money, while some have tragic events that set them back financially.

The golden years are supposed to be the best, right?

In fact, it is in this ideally more calm and restful period of life that often one suffers the most doubt at whether they have found true happiness.

WHAT CAUSES ATTITUDES TOWARD ONE'S HAPPINESS TO CHANGE? The question that must be explored regarding happiness is whether older people have more general unhappiness than younger people and, if so, what creates this change? Is it something within the person's control or is it something inherent with growing older?

In the book, Stages, by famed psychologist Eric Erikson, he wrote that the most important components of living a happy life after age 65 were to be able to look back on one's life with a sense of achievement and satisfaction. He believed that, if someone were able to recall the achievements and contributions that seniors made in their lives as they approached older age, they would be able to achieve a high degree of happiness.

Was Erikson right? For the most part, yes. People

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Winter 2021

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37

are happiest when they are contributing something to the world or doing something that they are proud of. Using their unique skills, they want to know that they contributed something toward the betterment of the world or at least in their little corner of the world.

HOW PERCEPTIONS CHANGE WITH AGE While there is no hard and fast rule on the way older people view happiness as opposed to how younger people view it, it is pretty established that younger people have what we might call a "normalcy bias," the idea that everything will work out in the end versus the more realistic view of someone much older who has lived through enough experiences to know things do not always turn out the way we think they should.

This change from believing the pollyanna view of "everyone is okay" to "some things are good enough," may change a person who is aging from what psychologists would call an "intrinsic" happiness perspective rather than an "extrinsic" happiness perspective.

INTRINSIC VS. EXTRINSIC THINKING What do we mean by intrinsic vs. extrinsic?

Extrinsic thinking people are "reactive" rather than "proactive." They tend to rely on the things that

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happen around them to determine their happiness.

For example, if they get the person they want to be with, the job they think they deserve, or the level of income they dream of, then they are happy. Such reliance on some unknown, or dreamed up event, that may or may not happen in the distant future leaves one waiting for Godot, so to speak and always waiting for someone or something else to make them happy. This is a type of victim mentality that one should avoid.

Intrinsic thinkers, on the other hand, never rely on their environment or the happenings of the day to determine their happiness. Instead, they take a proactive view that "I can create my own happiness."

Older people tend to think this way more often than younger people do because often their circumstances do not allow them to do everything they did while they were younger. Therefore, they learn to determine their own happiness and find something good about their situation as they learn to adapt to their changing lives.

This view is backed up by a very famous psychological theory of "existentialism." Developed primarily by Victor Frankl during the Nazi era as a Jew trapped in a concentration camp, Frankl decided that, since he could do nothing about his situation at the time, he had to learn to make meaning of it.

55PLUSLIVINGGUIDE.COM

From this, he developed his theory that everyone is virtually in the world alone and it is up to all of us to find out ways to other people, situations, and opportunities that could bring happiness into our lives.

Regardless of the view one takes toward his or her own happiness, the fact is that there are some things we can control and others we cannot. Factors such as failing health, inability to do what one could once do, mobility issues, and others may cause seniors to reevaluate how they view their own happiness.

of the area’s finest Apartment Communities Tri City Rentals has a variety of communities to choose from with a wide array of apartment features and community amenities.

TIPS TO BECOME A HAPPIER PERSON If you are among our growing senior population and want to be a happier person, you can! Abe Lincoln once said, "A person can be as happy as they make up their minds to be." Though a bit oversimplified, what our great former President once said makes sense when you realize that your happiness really is in your own hands.

Regardless of your physical and psychological situation, there is always something new that you can bring into your life to give you a different perspective on life. Taking up a new hobby, entering a new relationship, starting a business (if you are physically able to do so), and spending time volunteering for others can give seniors a renewed energy and zest to life that they did not have before.

Many people think that happiness is something that you devoutly wish for (as Hamlet put it), and indeed it is something that we long for all of our lives, from the cradle to the grave. But the level of happiness we reach is not dependent on the size of our bank accounts, the number of friends, or other opportunities we have that makes us happy. It is the level of self-satisfaction and self-actualization that we reach as we enter our sunset years.

As William Shakespeare said, "A thing is neither good nor bad, but thinking makes it so."

So shine brightly and long, as you age.

Be the star that others admire.

And not only will you be happy, but you will be remembered as someone who made others happy.

Perhaps, in the end, it's as simple as that.

Winter 2021

• VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE DETAILS •

With Over 5o Years of Experience, Tri City Rentals Offers Outstanding Value & Personal Service.

Each of our communities is unique in its own way and all offer a convenient location, peaceful neighborhoods, great amenities, and superior customer service.

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Protecting What You Value Most As a full-service Estate Planning and Elder Law firm, we pride ourselves on being able to walk you and your family through all stages of Estate Planning, Medicaid Planning, Estate Administration and Tax Planning.

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40 January • February • March | Winter 2021

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Providing Quality Senior Housing Communities Since 1995!

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—Advertorial—

IN THE

KNOW

with CONOR BOYD

THOROUGHBRED ADVISORS we have been able to attract over 80 financial advisors and financial representatives to join us in this short time.

In a competitive industry, what sets you apart?

I don’t see our industry as competitive at all! I do, however, see a lot of financial advisors hanging around in our industry. Are there other great financial advisors out there? Absolutely. Sure, we are in the business of financial planning, investments, and insurance but we are also in the business of personal development of ourselves and our clients. Helping to know our clients as individuals and not a number is important to us because each client is unique and has their own story. With our expertise and guidance, we help steer our clients toward financial security and prosperity.

When and how did Thoroughbred Advisors come about?

My goal was always to create an independent firm, but I wanted to get a strong corporate background with a large company before doing so. For the decade prior to founding the company, I was a financial advisor and managing director at Northwestern Mutual.

My established client base and deep knowledge of the industry allowed me to scale Thoroughbred Advisors very quickly. We opened in 2014 and I am proud to say that

"We believe it is our job to support our clients across all areas of their lives."

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January • February • March | Winter 2021

Who is your typical client?

My typical client is currently in retirement or close to retirement.

They often were successful professionals or small business owners.

Whether they consider themselves “officially retired” or not, they like to remain active and productive. They are focused on ensuring their investments can continue to support their active lifestyle throughout their lifetime. They also tend to be focused on making sure their assets are protected and that they are positioned to pay for long-term care in their home should they need it later in life.

Once they have secured their own futures, they tend to be focused on making sure their assets are efficiently passed to the next generations.

What services do you provide?

Thoroughbred Advisors offers an extensive range of services to provide our clients with a comprehensive plan that meets their individual needs. We believe seeking advice and implementing it are completely different. Our services include retirement planning, financial planning, investment management and life insurance services.

What is the one piece of financial advice you can give to a younger client vs. an older client?

Many of the popular retirement vehicles such as 401(k)’s and Roth IRA’s are future-oriented, which means they can’t be accessed without taxes or penalties before 59.5 (there are some exceptions).

I remind my younger clients that not every financial opportunity 55PLUSLIVINGGUIDE.COM

you will ever experience happens after age 59.5. In fact, the exact opposite is often true. Liquidity today is also important.

I remind my older clients that it was about income while you were working and now that you are retired, it is still about income. The positioning of your assets during retirement is essential. If positioned properly, you may be able to create greater income. Or alternatively,

FINANCIAL SERVICES FOR THOSE THAT VALUE FA IL FINANCIAL SECURIT AND GROWTH

you may be able to create the same income with a smaller asset.

What do you say to the person that thinks they don't need a financial advisor or think they are only for the wealthy?

Unfortunately, many of the larger name brand companies in our industry have created that perception. Many of these companies have minimums of $250,000 - $500,000 of investable assets in order to become a client. How many 40-year-olds in the Capital Region have $250,000 outside of their 401(k) plan to invest with one of these large name brand firms? When I came into this industry, I made a commitment that I would not set a minimum investment amount in order to work with the advisors in my firm. Where you are headed is what is important to us.

What is the most common mistake that people make when planning to retire and/or looking to downsize?

Two that stand out have to do with the timing of retirement and the location of retirement. Retirement is something riddled with emotion, peer pressure, fear and confusion. It is essential that I help a client clarify their motivation for retiring and what their retirement is going to look like.

The other thing I occasionally witness is a client's strong desire to retire, sell their home and move to another part of the country.

It is my job to really help a client think through their motivations for both of these things. We believe it is our job to support our clients across all areas of their lives. The relationships we have with our clients are very personal.

Conor Boyd is a Registered Representative and Investment Adviser Representative of Equity Services, Inc. Securities and Investment Advisory Services are offered solely by Equity Services, Inc., Member FINRA & SIPC, 333 Westchester Ave, South Building Suite 3302, White Plains, NY 10604 914.428.4000. Thoroughbred Advisors, LLC is independent of Equity Services, Inc. TC118125(1120)1

thoroughbredadvisors.com Winter 2021

Conor Boyd is a Registered Representative and Investment Adviser Representative of Equity Services, Inc. Securities, Financial Planning, and Investment Advisory Services are offered solely by Equity Services, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC, 333 Westchester Avenue, South Building Suite 3302, White Plains, NY 10604 914.428.4000. Thoroughbred Advisors, LLC is independent of Equity Services, Inc. TC118236(1120)1

55PLUSLIVINGGUIDE.COM

43

Snowshoeing: The perfect winter activity

BY BONNIE CONRAD

44

As the weather turns colder many people are looking for ways to spend more time in the great outdoors. Winter is a wonderful time to get some exercise and enjoy the world around you.

Snowshoeing is a great activity that combines the excitement of downhill skiing, the whole-body workout of cross-country skiing and the serenity of hiking. The best part? You don’t have to buy a ton of expensive equipment to get started. In fact, snowshoeing is the perfect choice for winter lovers on a budget.

Y

ou don’t have to strap on a pair of skis and speed down the slopes to get your fill of winter fun and adventure. All you need is a snowy backyard, a pair of snowshoes and a desire to spend some time outside.

The excitement of skiing, the serenity of wintertime hiking Whether you plan to compete in snowshoe competitions, challenge yourself or just enjoy the peace and serenity of a stroll atop the new fallen snow, here are some key things to know about this wonderful winter sport.

A chance to slow down Unlike downhill skiing, where the winter scenery whizzes by in a flash, snowshoeing gives nature lovers a chance to slow down and enjoy the scenery they are passing.

If you want to get started, you can simply strap on your snowshoes and walk outside after a heavy snowfall. Or if you prefer, you can drive to a more scenic location, where you can explore the pristine wilderness and even come face to face with a grazing elk or stare in awe at a majestic moose.

Why is snowshoeing growing in popularity?

While many winter sports are declining in popularity, the sport of snowshoeing is growing. There are many reasons why so many more people are strapWinter 2021

ping on the snowshoes and making their way into the wilderness, including the desire to live a simpler kind of life.

As the world gets more hectic and people find themselves increasingly stressed out, it is hard to turn down the opportunity to get away from it all. The chance to commune with nature is certainly enticing, and it is no doubt part of the enduring, and growing, popularity of snowshoeing as a sport and a winter pastime.

Snowshoeing also harkens back to earlier days when our ancestors lived in snowy climes and relied on their improvised footgear to hunt and provide food for their tribes and their families. And while those necessities are no longer in place, human nature has not changed at its deepest level. Even modern man (and woman) still has a desire to enjoy the outdoors, even if they come armed with a smartphone camera instead of a bow and arrow.

Snowshoeing is the perfect family adventure If you’re starting to suffer from cabin fever, getting outside with family and friends is a great way to spend time together while getting exercise.

Snowshoeing is the perfect wintertime adventure for families, suitable for all ages from the youngest kids to your grandparents. It’s an easy sport to enjoy, regardless of age, health or medical condition. If you can walk, you can walk on snowshoes. Unlike skiing, 55PLUSLIVINGGUIDE.COM

45

which requires a certain level of coordination and training, snowshoeing has no such barriers to entry; just strap on the snowshoes and start walking.

What you need to get started If you are ready to get started, all you really need is a good pair of snowshoes, which you can find online or at a sporting goods store. Once you have the snowshoes, you can try them out in your own backyard; all you need to do is wait for the flakes to fall.

If Mother Nature fails to cooperate and your backyard is green instead of white, there are plenty of other options as well. As this fun wintertime activity grows in popularity, many ski resorts are opening their cross-country trails to snowshoe enthusiasts. Just think about how much fun you can have with your family as you traverse those beautifully groomed trails.

When the weather gets colder and the snow starts to fall, you may feel like hibernating, but why sleep away the winter when you could be outside having fun? Snowshoeing is the perfect wintertime activity,

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January • February • March | Winter 2021

inexpensive, healthy and a great choice for the entire family. So, strap on the snowshoes and head outside this winter; you will be glad you did.family as you traverse those beautifully groomed trails or head off trail for a true wilderness adventure.

When the weather gets colder and the snow starts to fall, you may feel like hibernating, but why sleep away the winter when you could be outside having fun? Snowshoeing is the perfect wintertime activity, inexpensive, healthy and a great choice for the entire family. So strap on the snowshoes and head outside this winter; you will be glad you did.

55PLUSLIVINGGUIDE.COM

Places to SNOWSHOE

ALBANY COUNTY

SARATOGA COUNTY

Albany Pine Bush 195 New Karner Road #1, Albany, NY

Saratoga Spa State Park 19 Roosevelt Drive, Saratoga Springs, NY

Five Rivers Educational Center 56 Game Farm Road, Delmar, NY

Peebles Island State Park 1 Delaware Avenue North, Cohoes, NY

John Boyd Thacher State Park 830 Thacher Park Road, Voorheesville, NY

Moreau Lake State Park 605 Old Saratoga Road Gansevoort, NY

Margaret Burke Wildlife Management Area Co Road 254, Altamont, NY

SCHENECTADY COUNTY

Partridge Run Wildlife Management Area Berne, NY

Great Flats Nature Trail West Campbell Road Schenectady, NY

Capital Hills at Albany Golf Course 580 Albany Shaker Road, Loudonville, NY

Mohawk River State Park Loop Head to the end of Whitmyer Drive in Niskayuna, NY

Capital Hills Golf Course 65 O’Neil Road, Albany, NY

FULTON COUNTY Lapland Lake Nordic Vacation Center 139 Lapland Lake Road Northville, NY

RENSSELAER COUNTY Dykon Pond Environmental Center 475 Dyken Pond Road, Cropseyville, NY Frear Park 155 Oakwood Avenue, Troy, NY Huyuk Preserve 5052 Delaware Turnpike, Rensselaerville, NY

WARREN COUNTY Landis Arboretum 174 Lape Road, Esperance, NY Up Yonda Farm 5239 Lake Shore Drive, Bolton Landing, NY Gurney Lane Recreational Area 118 Gurney Lane, Queensbury, NY Natural Stone Bridges & Caves Park 535 Stone Bridge Road Pottersville, NY Cole's Woods 40 Parkview Avenue, Queensbury, NY

Grafton Lakes State Park 254 Grafton Lakes State Park Way, Grafton, NY Pineridge Cross Country Ski Area 1463 Plank Road, Petersburg, NY

Winter 2021

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2 BEDROOM APARTMENTS

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January • February • March | Winter 2021

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62 Santanoni Dr. 12047 (518) 608-1502 FIND US ON GOOGLE MAPS

Directions: 3.2 miles north of Latham Circle, left on Ver Planck Lane, left on Santanoni Drive.

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healthy

HOMMUS Simple yet sophisticated, Hommus-Crusted Chicken with Asparagus is inspired by flavors from the Mediterranean. Creamy spinach combined with crunchy nuts perfectly adds nutritious fiber to a healthy, lean protein. Dig in!

Here’s what you need:

Roll up your sleeves:

1 bunch asparagus (about 20 spears) 2 Tbsp. Kraft Olive Oil Balsamic Vinaigrette 1/2 cup Fresh Express® Baby Spinach 1/2 cup Cedar’s® Artichoke Spinach Hommus 1 oz. Planters NUT-rition Wholesome Nut Mix, chopped 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1.

Preheat oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2.

Prepare the asparagus by chopping off the tough ends (roughly the bottom inch) and rinsing thoroughly. In a large bowl, combine the asparagus and dressing until well coated. Transfer to sheet pan in a single layer. Pour any remaining dressing over the asparagus.

3.

Chop spinach and nut mix into small pieces; fold in to hommus until mixed evenly. Place the chicken breasts on the pan and spread a layer of hommus mixture over each chicken breast. Season with salt and pepper.

4.

Bake for 30 minutes or until internal temperature of chicken reaches 165°F. Serve warm.

Nutritional Information: Calories 279 Total Fat 12 g Saturated Fat 1 g Cholesterol 83 mg

Sodium 232 mg Carbohydrate 11 g Fiber 3 g Protein 31 g

Pro tip: Serve over a bed of greens using remaining spinach and add a side of sliced avocado for a pop of color and even more nutrition!

Have questions about your health? Our team of registered dietitians offer free nutritional services online and in-store.

Visit hannaford.com/dietitians to learn more.

SERVES 4

30-60 MINUTES PREP TIME

—Advertorial—

Moving in the age of Covid One size does not fit all when it comes to living arrangements for seniors. Naturally, seniors want to stay in the privacy and comfort of their own home for as long as possible.

However, there comes a time when a change is needed. When that time comes, the search for a senior community can be overwhelming in the best of times, but even more so during a pandemic. Finding that “perfect fit” home that meets health care needs and lifestyle preferences takes patience, energy and most importantly, time.

With so many choices in housing, such as continuum of care communities, independent senior apartments or assisted living facilities, how does one choose?

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January • February • March | Winter 2021

The good news is that moving is still possible, even during these difficult times. The reasons why seniors decide to move haven’t changed, but may be heightened during Covid. Isolation is one big reason. Often, seniors find themselves without meaningful interaction with peers or with family and friends, on a greater scale now that senior centers, day programs and support groups have either closed or are only virtual. Moving to a senior apartment or assisted living allows seniors to have more social opportunities and to feel more connected to a community. Of course, all communities are practicing social distancing and face mask protocols, but activities and meals have, for the most part, resumed. If someone does test positive in a senior community, they do quarantine and Covid protocols do change. Instead of having meals together in the dining room, they are delivered to residents in their rooms. Activities also may be postponed during the quarantine as well.

Another major factor for making a move is a health crisis. Most seniors who are moving to an assisted-living facility are doing so because they need assistance with activities of daily living. An assisted-living facility provides three meals a day, housekeeping 55PLUSLIVINGGUIDE.COM

and laundry service, case management, transportation to doctor’s appointments, medication management and assistance with personal care.

There are caregivers in the building 24-hours a day. Residents have their own room or apartment and caregivers are there whenever needed. Covid protocols in these communities include bi-weekly testing for all staff, mask and social distancing for meals and activities and a negative Covid test prior to moving in.

In some ways, Covid has highlighted a need for a change in living arrangements. If a senior depends on family or friend for meals or transportation and they are suddenly quarantined, that senior may have to do without. If they were living in a supportive community, their needs would be met by staff. Some independent senior living communities also provide meals and transportation to doctors and stores. For those seniors who do not need help with personal care or medication management, this may be a good choice.

You A re Not Alone On This Path...

Colonie

518-456-4500

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Many times, a move to senior housing involves a downsize from a home or apartment. There are organizations that can help the family decide what to bring and coordinate the move. If the financial situation doesn’t allow for that or there are questions concerning finances, it’s advisable to meet with a financial expert or elder law attorney or long-term care specialist. Social workers are also available to help coordinate services a senior may need if medical services are needed.

Although the decision to move can be emotional and difficult, it can also lead to a safer environment and a higher quality of life for the senior and their families.

Choice Connections NY, offers free guidance through an emotional and often confusing process. We work with seniors and their family members to identify specific needs and narrow the options to the most appropriate homes. For a free consultation call Choice Connections at 518.894.2443. choiceconnectionsny.com

Leading the Way in Memory Care We offer joy and meaningful stimulation to those afflicted by dementia along with safe and secure services for our residents 24 hours a day. Our services include: - Spacious Private Rooms, ground-level floor plan with common areas - Three nutritious meals a day plus snacks - Expansive grounds and secure, enclosed courtyards - Dedicated chapel for all denominations with meditation leader on staff - On-Site beauty parlor - Housekeeping, laundry and maintenance services included - Aromatherapy - Pet Therapy

Winter 2021

As more and more seniors are staying active longer planning stay activeactive for years to and As more andand more seniorstoare staying longer planning to stay active for years to come, Teresian House rehabilitation specialty. With a full team of physical therapists (PTs), Occupational youryour energy, strength and and abilities. workrenew to renew energy, strength abilities.

Where the spirit of love and dedication lives...

Where the spirit of love and dedication lives...

200 Washington Ave Ext. Albany, NY 12203 www.teresianhouse.org 200 Washington Ave Ext. Albany, NY 12203 www.teresianhouse.org • 518-456-2000 55PLUSLIVINGGUIDE.COM

51

CAREGIVER /’ker l giver/ | noun

1. Someone who dedicated themselves to the care of others.

2. A person who does big things and small things with great love.

3. Someone who does what nobody else will do, in a way that nobody else can, in spite of all they go through.

4. Nurturing, understanding, smart and extraordinary.

5. Someone who does more than required and cares more than they’re supposed to.

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January • February • March | Winter 2021

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Elder Law & Estate Planning Attorneys

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“We see our facility as the bridge from the hospital back into the community. Our pulmonary rehab program includes efficient medication choices, diet & oxygen goals, oxygen use & respiratory devices, psychological support, smoking cessation teaching and education. We are staffed with strong physical and occupational therapists, as well as great nurses, that work with me and our respiratory therapist, Eleda Waite.”

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Winter 2021

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FO R EVER M O R E

CAREGIVING SECTION

"

We are all just walking each other home —RAM DASS Local couple Marion & Robert, married 66 years *Photograph by Sue Clark, SuePhotography.com

"

Home is Where You’ll Find Us

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u Skilled nursing

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For more information or to schedule a tour contact us at 518-689-0453 | daughtersofsarah.org 182 Washington Avenue Ext., Albany, NY 12203

Teresian House is a skilled nursing facility with all private rooms. . . . . . . . . .

Post-Hospital Rehabilitation Physical, Occupational & Speech Therapy Resident-Centered Care Respite Care Special Alzheimer’s Pavilion 24-hour Per Day Nursing Care Pastoral Care Social Services End-of-Life Program

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Where the spirit of love and dedication lives...

Winter 2021

200 Washington Ave Ext. Albany, NY 12203 teresianhouse.org 55PLUSLIVINGGUIDE.COM

55

97 1924 - 2021

Please Call for Rates and Information!

The Heart of Senior Living in Saratoga When it’s time to make a transition, we provide a carefree lifestyle in a friendly community that offers independent and assisted living apartments.

Some people make their mark not through grandiose boldness, but through tireless work. Amidst the chaos of the COVID-19 pandemic, it takes special selfless individuals who are in it for the long haul, working behind the scenes, with effective communication and coordination, doing whatever needs to be done to provide the support needed by the seniors throughout the community.

For almost forty years, Colonie Senior Service Centers (CSSC) has concentrated our programs and services and how we can truly benefit older adults throughout our community, providing a network of support and enrichment for both seniors as well as their families.

Since March, CSSC has delivered over 37,000 hot meals to shut-in seniors and over 70,000 pounds of donated shelf-stable groceries to low and middle income seniors.

We also made countless reassurance phone calls to promote connectivity, made hundreds of grocery runs for seniors and offered dozens of virtual programs and activities.

Per a tremendous “can-do” attitude, CSSC continues to meet the needs of seniors throughout the community during this time of uncertainty.

Please join our heroes in supporting Capital Region seniors by making a year end gift to Colonie Senior Service Centers, Inc.! Online at www.colonieseniors.org by clicking “Make A Gift” or call 518.459.2857 ext. 304 or by mail at Colonie Senior Service Centers, Inc., 6 Winners Circle, Albany NY 12205.

INDEPENDENT LIVING | ASSISTED LIVING | LONG TERM CARE THERAPY AND REHABILITATION | HOME CARE

A non-profit organization 131 Lawrence Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 518.587.3600 | thewesleycommunity.org

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January • February • March | Winter 2021

Colonie Senior Service Centers, Inc. was established in 1981 as a duly authorized 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation.

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Plans that give you more for less.

CDPHP® Medicare highlights: f 5 Star PPO plans*—enroll anytime during the year! f $0 primary care physician office visits f $0 mail order for 90-day supply of tier-one prescriptions drugs f $0 video doctor visits with Doctor On Demand f Dental, hearing, vision, all in one plan Call today for more information: (518) 641-3400 or 1-888-519-4455 (TTY/TDD: 711) Visit CDPHP on the web at www.cdphp.com/medicare. *Every year, Medicare evaluates plans based on a 5-star rating system.

CDPHP is an HMO and a PPO with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in CDPHP Medicare Advantage depends on contract renewal.

Capital District Physicians’ Health Plan, Inc. | CDPHP Universal Benefits,® Inc.

Winter 2021

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57

The Vine

BY FRANK BUCK

THREE LITTLE WORDS When I pick up a dictionary and discover that there about a million words in the English language I realize all too quickly how many I do not know and how many I have never used. New words are always being added to the dictionary and others fall out of use. The average person is said to know between 20,000 and 30,000 words and many of those can be misconstrued to have another meaning.

Some words never fall out of favor and span time immortal. Every word we use has a history, and in most cases, it is a story of action and a story of something happening. Words have grown out of sounds that we make, and we then create a word with a similar sound that imitates it. I would love to have heard the first three little grunts from a caveman to a cavewoman.

Grunting or not, I guarantee it got the point across.

Three little words once uttered can never be misconstrued. Saying these three little words can sometimes be a hard thing to do. One might feel pressured into saying them because you become vulnerable and worry that they will not be returned. I remember the first time I said them to my wife-to-be. I must admit, I was smitten and scared to death she felt the same way. There is no right or wrong time; it is when you believe that you have to say those three little words. It

58

January • February • March | Winter 2021

is when your thoughts of them surround you constantly, their heartbeat becomes yours and life without them would be impossible. I remember when we were going together and I could not hang up the phone when we when we were talking, eventually playing a game of who was going to say goodbye first.

Saying those three little words is probably best demonstrated by our actions. We must realize that by saying those three little words is just the beginning of proving how deep our feelings really are. I still believe in saying those words, but we all know the old saying, “actions speak louder than words!” So, do be helpful, do lend an ear on a bad day, tell them how proud you are of them, compliment them on just how great they look, make them smile, ask how they are doing, spend some downtime together, don’t be afraid to give them a card or some flowers, have a date night, tell them how lucky you are to have them in your life, try not to be so critical, give them a big hug, hold their hand, leave a love letter, a kiss out of nowhere, cuddle up on the couch, always be supportive, pay attention to when they are down and lift them up. Last, but not least, please tell them how much they make you feel loved and how blessed you are to have them in your life.

If you haven’t figured it out just yet, these three little words are ‘I love you’, which are universal in all languages. You are the giver, the author, the doctor of love and you are the one who will make it happen. Yes, it takes two, but always remember, that those three little words start from you.

55PLUSLIVINGGUIDE.COM

Your Journey Matters To Us

2 Pittsfield Ave., East Greenbush, NY 12061 • 518-477-4700

As Virtuoso Members, Blue Skies Travel & Avalon continue a longstanding relationship which benefits you in many ways.

Blue Skies Travel Advisors have sailed various rivers throughout the world.

Let us put our experience to work for you. We take care of the planning process from start to finish. Give us a call to see how we can work together on planning your river cruise.

Ask about departures that come with a Virtuoso perk of prepaid gratuities.

For updates on our current events follow us on www.facebook.com/blueskiestravel-ny

THE SAFETY OF RIVER CRUISING WITH AVALON WATERWAYS Small ships from 36 to 166 guests Travel with the same group adhering to health checks throughout the trip Travel through countries in the same room circulating outside air Dine in the same venues adhering to consistent protocols Skip the lines at sights to make it easier and safer Always a few feet from shore and medical assistance if needed

Winter 2021

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Let’s do Medicare together.

When you’re ready for Medicare, MVP Health Care® gives you more. Take advantage of $0 benefits, including primary care visits, preferred generic drugs, and fitness memberships. Support your well-being with a $100 reward card for completing health and wellness activities. Get dental and eyewear allowances. Visit doctors and hospitals throughout our vast network, or away from home. Plans start at $0 a month!

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Monday–Friday, 8 am–6 pm Eastern Time October 1–March 31, Saturdays, 8 am–12 pm MVP Health Plan, Inc. is an HMO-POS/PPO/MSA organization with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in MVP Health Plan depends on contract renewal. Out-of-network/non-contracted providers are under no obligation to treat MVP Health Plan members, except in emergency situations. Please call our customer service number or see your Evidence of Coverage for more information, including the cost-sharing that applies to out-of-network services. Y0051_4704_M