50+Living DECEMBER 2018

50+Living of Western NC

NC Arboretum celebrates 5th Annual Winter Lights 6 Ways to Be a Good Listener 50pluslivingWNC.com

December Activities to Enjoy in WNC. December 2018

Letter from the Publisher...

“Happy Holidays to all of our 50+ Living Readership.

Whether you read our magazine for the local interest, style, or informative articles we hope to provide you with an entertaining and enlightening publication.”

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Contact Al Sheppard at asheppard@rewnc.com or call 828-279-5962 to apply.

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50 + Living | December 2018

The North Carolina Arboretum Celebrates Five Years of Holiday Fun at its Fifth Annual Winter Lights Holiday Light Show November 16 – December 31, 2018

ASHEVILLE, N.C. (October 3, 2018) – Western North Carolina will shine brighter this holiday season as The North Carolina Arboretum celebrates the fifth anniversary of its Winter Lights holiday light show. On display nightly, Friday, November 16, through Monday, December 31, 2018, from 6 to 10 p.m., Winter Lights is an outdoor walking tour of the Arboretum’s nationally known gardens dressed in more than half-amillion holiday lights. Designed with an artistic aesthetic, this family-friendly event includes beautifully lit displays and glowing landscapes that emphasize the beauty of Western North Carolina during the winter season. Considered Asheville’s brightest holiday tradition, Winter Lightsis the Arboretum’s largest fundraising event of the year, and proceeds help support the Arboretum’s educational programs, exhibits and facilities year-round.

December 2018 | 50 + Living

New this year, Winter Lights will have a variety of vibrant new displays and themes, including “fire and ice!” Many fan favorites will also return, including the Arboretum’s signature 50-foot animated tree and lighted Quilt Garden, Rocky Cove Railroad G-scale model train, including a new North Pole Express train, as well as its animatronic children’s program, “Storytime at Woodland Cove,” and a variety of interactive motion-sensored games. Festive food and beverages, including hot cocoa, s’mores, wine and beer, will be available for purchase throughout the gardens and inside the Education Center.

“We’re proud to celebrate five successful years of hosting this wonderful holiday event for Asheville and the entire region,” continued on page 5 Page 3

50+Living of Western NC

CONTENTS

3 9

NC Arboretum Winter Lights Holiday Light Show Herb-Infused Cocktails and Ice Cubes

11 2018 Christmas at Biltmore

14 Best Christmas Sugar Cookies Ever

19 6 Ways to Be a Good Listener

27 Osteoporisis: Looking Beyond Calcium

20 Tips to Prepare Your Car 29 December Activities to for a Trouble-free Winter

22 Taylor’d with Style:

Tis the Season

Enjoy in WNC

30 Advertisers Index

24 Ten Fascinating Health Benefits of Prunes

16 Everything You Need to 26 Living with a Senior Dog

50pluslivingWNC.com

Know about Migraine

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50 + Living | December 2018

Winter Lights continued from page 3 said George Briggs, executive director of The North Carolina Arboretum. “Since Winter Lights’ inception, we have welcomed more than 115,000 guests hailing from all 50 United States and Washington, D.C., as well as several foreign countries. We are thankful for the support from our community, business partners, volunteers and staff to make this event Asheville’s brightest holiday tradition.”

In addition to Winter Lights’ “Friends and Family” Tuesday night promotion, the Arboretum will host “Arboretum Week,” November 26 – 29, which includes discounted pricing for adults and children. To help reduce traffic congestion and crowding, visitors will now be required to select an entry time of 6:00, 7:00 or 8:00 p.m. with their ticket purchase. Ticket holders can enter anytime between their selected entry time and 9:00 p.m. Many nights, including weekends and holidays, are likely to sell out and visitors are strongly encouraged to purchase their tickets in advance. Tickets for Winter Lights can be purchased online at ncwinterlights.com.

For visitors seeking transportation from Asheville, The Trolley Company will offer its Winter Lights Holiday Tour Thursday through Saturday from 6 to 9 p.m. This chartered package December 2018 | 50 + Living

includes a complimentary cup of hot cocoa, admission to Winter Lights and a scenic ride filled with music and merriment to and from the Arboretum. Pick-up locations for the tour will be at the Renaissance hotel in downtown Asheville and the DoubleTree hotel in Biltmore Village. Tickets for The Trolley Company’s Winter Lights Holiday Tour are $29.50 per person and must be purchased in advance through The Trolley Company’s website, www.thetrolleycompany.com.

The Arboretum is also excited to announce the expansion of the City of Asheville’s holiday lightdisplay. Thanks to a partnership between the Arboretum, the City of Asheville, the Asheville Downtown Association, Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority and the Historic Biltmore Village Association, the new Local Lights holiday display produced by the Arboretum will be placed in Pack Square Park, as well as new locations in Prichard Park and Biltmore Village. A special lighting ceremony to kick off Local Lights will take place at Pack Square Park on Saturday, November 17, at 6 p.m. with Santa and Mrs. Claus as part of the evening festivities following the Asheville Holiday Parade.

On Friday, November 30, Biltmore Village will celebrate its Local Lights display as part of the tree lighting ceremony for its 30th annual Dickens Festival. continued on page 7

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Tammy Sheppard 828.230.7537 tsheppard@rewnc.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS JeanAnn Taylor High Five Enterprises, Inc. P.O. Box 8683 | Asheville, NC 28814 828.279.5962

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All advertising published in 50+Living of Western NC is believed to be truthful and accurate. However High Five Enterprises, Inc. assumes no responsibility and shall have no liability whatsoever for errors, including without limitation, typographical errors or omissions in 50+Living of Western North Carolina. Any reference made to High Five Enterprises, Inc. is not to be construed as making any representation, warranty or guarantee concerning the information on properties advertised in 50+Living of Western NC. The content of all ads contained herein are solely the responsibility of the advertiser. The opinions and statements contained in advertising or elsewhere in this publication are those of the authors of such opinions and are not necessarily those of High Five Enterprises, Inc. High Five Enterprises, Inc. reserves the right to edit or refuse any advertising submitted to this publication.

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50 + Living | December 2018

Winter Lights Holiday Light Show continued from page 5

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DOWNSIZING? MOVING? RELOCATING? HANDLING AN ESTATE? “We are thrilled to see this light display expand to other parts of Asheville and to connect the local community with our light show,” Briggs continued. “We are grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with the City of Asheville, the Asheville Downtown Association, ExploreAsheville.com and Biltmore Village, and help ‘Light Up Asheville’ this holiday season.”

For more information about the Arboretum and Winter Lights, please visit ncarboretum.org.

About The North Carolina Arboretum Each year more than 500,000 visitors experience the Arboretum’s gardens, trails, exhibits and plant shows, educational programs, demonstrations and lectures. The Arboretum’s ability to meet its mission and enrich the visitor experience is made possible by a community of supporting resources – from members, volunteers and staff to state and local funds, tribute gifts, grants and community partners.

The central mission of The North Carolina Arboretum, an affiliate institution of the 17-campus University of North Carolina System, is to cultivate connections between people, plants and places. A standard $14 per vehicle parking fee is required for non-members. Special events and after-hours activities may require additional fees. For more information, please call (828) 665-2492 or visit www.ncarboretum.org. Ee December 2018 | 50 + Living

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New Year’s Eve is a time for celebration. Most celebrate the coming year, the opportunity to start over and resolutions for changes. But was this year really that bad? What about celebrating good memories made in 2018, friends and family and some of the wines that marked great life events!

We share with you here some of our 2018 best selling memory making wines.

Let’s start with sparkling. Juve y Camps Cava, founded in 1921 by Joan Juve Baques and his wife Teresa Camps Farre, has garnered an international reputation for producing top quality Cava now regularly served at state events hosted by Spain’s Royal Family.

Juve y Camps Brut Nature is pale gold in the glass with aromas of ripe white peaches, toasted baquette and hints of lemon and apricots. The palate is rich with flavors of green apple, jasmine green tea and toasted almonds.

From rising star, winemaker Michele d’Aprix, Pierre Angulaire is a Bordeaux Blanc blending 95% Sauvignon Blanc with 5% Semillon. Pierre Angulaire, is the French word for “cornerstone.” Way back, when a house was built, an offering of wine was placed on this key block that balanced all further stones. Offering melon, peach and citrus on the nose and palate, this wine is crisp and flinty.

“Love Drunk,” a rose’ from Maison Noir wowed us this year! Maison Noir founder, Andre Mack, left a successful career in finance, to pursue his passion for wine. After winning “Best Young Sommelier in America” from Chaine des Rotisseurs, Mack was hired by Thomas Keller at French

Laundry in Yountville. From there, Mack joined Per Se, a Thomas Keller restaurant in New York, where he managed an 1800 bottle wine cellar.

This position allowed Mack to forge relationships with the best growers and winemakers around the world and encouraged him to pursue winemaking. Maison Noir was founded in 2007 to produce wines for restaurants where Mack was sommelier but their popularity sent them national!

Made from Chardonnay with a splash of Pinot Noir, “Love Drunk” showers you in aromas of strawberry, raspberry, watermelon rind and just a hint of kiwi.

A personal favorite, Lucarelli Negroamaro, is from Salento, Puglia, the heel of Italy’s boot. Sited in one of Italy’s warmest climates, Lucarelli produces concentrated, fruity and spicy red varietals including Negroamaro, a Salento native. The vines average about 80 years in ground and the farmer owners who tend the vineyard are nearly as old!

The Lucarelli philosophy is “mastery of the three main elements of wine tradition in Salento: sun, sea and passion.”

Selecting the best fruit from the best vineyards combined with viticultural research and the extraordinary experience of the winemakers, Lucarelli is served in 70 countries.

Lucarelli, deep purple red with violet black reflections in the glass, brings intense aromas of plum, black cherry and black currant with wild fruit, spicy notes and a whiff of thyme.

This is a dry, full bodied wine, soft with a long finish.

Celebrate the new year? Yes. But celebrate 2018 too!

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50 + Living | December 2018

Herb-Infused Cocktails and Ice Cubes for New Year’s Eve

Herbs are a quick and easy way to transform any cocktail from fine to fabulous. Herb-infused cocktails and ice cubes are all the rage this fall, and the trend is highly likely to continue. From putting a simple sprig of herbs into a cocktail to using an infusion to create a stronger flavor, the possibilities are endless. Here are five tips for incorporating herbs into cocktails or ice cubes this New Year’s Eve.

1) Try these favorite herb-and-alcohol pairings Using herbs to add some extra zing or zest to alcohol is a timeless pursuit. Certain herbs go well with certain kinds of alcohol. Mint is a great addition to Japanese whiskey, cilantro, and sage go well with vodka, and thyme pairs perfectly with gin.

Certain herbs such as rosemary and lavender can be overbearing and are best infused into a syrup instead of added directly to a cocktail. Many drinkers prefer a fruit syrup or honey infused with herbs to give their favorite cocktail an edge.

2) Use ice cubes to beautify your drinks You can add herbs, berries, and even flowers to ice cubes purely for decoration. In this way, even designated drivers can enjoy beautiful alcohol-free “mocktails” not strongly flavored with herbs. To create stunning ice cubes, just wash, pick, and cut the herbs you wish to use. Add them to the water in an ice cube December 2018 | 50 + Living

tray and put them in the freezer.

3) Use a fruit and vegetable wash when preparing herbs Most herbs require minimal preparation besides washing and carefully picking the leaves or parts you wish to use. For example, basil works well with many different ingredients; it complements gin when combined with cucumber and watermelon, as well as honeydew when mixed with a spritzer; it also goes well with blueberries and vodka. Most recipes call for leaves of fragrant basil added to the top of the drink before serving. Even if you buy organic basil or other herbs, it’s still worth using a fruit and vegetable wash. It will remove any trace of dirt, wax, or other contaminants, and ensure that the pure herb flavor shines through.

4) Make your own infused syrup When handling intense flavors such as rosemary, creating an infused syrup will take some preparation. The May 2007 issue of Southern Living magazine features a simple recipe for rosemary syrup calling for one cup of sugar, one cup of water, and four fresh rosemary sprigs. Simply add the ingredients to a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Stir, let the mixture cool for 30 continued on page 10 Page 9

Herb-Infused Cocktails continued from page 9 minutes, and then pour it through a strainer to remove any errant leaves. You’ll have a flavorful syrup, perfect for adding to many cocktails. This recipe is also suitable for other strong flavors such as lavender, which can yield such well-liked pairings as a lemonlavender cocktail containing vodka and a peach-lavender cocktail incorporating Bellini.

5) Try rosemary with this cocktail recipe For a festive twist on the classic gin and tonic, try adding a sprig of rosemary to two ounces of your favorite gin and four ounces of tonic water. For simplicity, a sprig of rosemary makes a fantastic garnish. Alternatively, add some homemade rosemary-infused syrup for a subtle flavor. To transform the drink, add a half-ounce of grapefruit shrub for a sweet-and-sour kick that will help you get into the party spirit this New Year’s Eve! Hopefully, these five tips have shown you how quickly and easily herbs can be prepared and used to enhance a broad range of cocktails. The nutritional value and cosmetic appeal of herbs make them the obvious choice this holiday season. With care and attention to detail, you are guaranteed to impress your friends and guests with any of these herb cocktail creations. Ee

The Spice & Tea Exchange® of Asheville 46 Haywood St., #101 Asheville, NC 28801 (828) 505-7348 Page 10

50 + Living | December 2018

Christmas at Biltmore 2018 ASHEVILLE, N.C. — A holiday tradition that goes back more than 120 years, Christmas at Biltmore enchants those who visit Biltmore during its annual holiday celebration set for Nov. 3, 2018, through Jan. 6, 2019.

enjoy free tastings of Biltmore wines. Biltmore Winery will be decorated with 7,000 globe-shaped ornaments hanging from the ceiling—giving guests the feeling of being inside a bottle of sparkling wine.

Every year, Biltmore transforms into an unforgettable yuletide vacation destination. Biltmore’s design team will weave this year’s theme – “The Art of Christmas” – throughout every element created for the season, taking inspiration from both individual pieces of artwork in the house as well as places that George Vanderbilt traveled to collect artwork. Inside the 250-room Biltmore House, a towering 35-foot-tall Fraser Fir tree laden with ornaments and wrapped packages tucked into its branches serves as the seasonal centerpiece.

Weekends in Antler Hill Village will feature carolers sharing Christmas favorites and Santa making appearances at the bandstand to hear wish lists from guests of all ages. A constellation of holiday lights illuminates trees, buildings and paths in Antler Hill Village, making it a must-see.

Guests may enjoy the entire estate as part of admission. More than 100 Christmas trees—each hand-decorated and styled— will grace the house and estate combined. The Conservatory anchoring the Walled Garden is filled with poinsettias and offers a daily complimentary seminar that provides tips for guests’ own holiday décor. At Antler Hill Village & Winery, guests may December 2018 | 50 + Living

Candlelight Christmas Evenings — Nov. 3, 2018 through Jan. 5, 2019 Biltmore House glows with candlelight and firelight, changing the daytime visit’s mood and experience. By reservation only, Candlelight Christmas Evenings in Biltmore House allow guests to step back in time with an experience more like Vanderbilt’s guests had during their first Christmas Eve spent in Biltmore continued on page 12 Page 11

Christmas at Biltmore 2018 continued from page 11

House in 1895. Musicians stationed throughout the house such as choirs and instrumental duos perform seasonal favorites. Setting the unique scene is a 55-foot Norway spruce sparkling in the center of the front lawn and surrounded by 35 illuminated evergreens. Luminaries line the walkway to the house.

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Christmas at Biltmore 2018 Event Details Christmas at Biltmore features the following holiday activities and events: • Nov. 3 through Jan. 6, daily: Christmas at Biltmore daytime experience • Nov. 3 through Jan. 5, daily: Candlelight Christmas Evenings nighttime experience • Nov. 3 through Jan. 6, daily, 5:30 p.m.-midnight: Illumination of Antler Hill Village • Oct. 9 through Dec. 31, daily, 1:30 p.m.: A Gardener’s Place Seminar “Nature-Inspired Holiday Tablescapes” • Nov. 3 through Jan. 6, daily: Conservatory’s annual seasonal display • Nov. 3 through Jan. 6, daily: Complimentary wine tasting at Biltmore Winery. Look for the annual Christmas Wine release. Winery specialty tours available with additional price and reservations required • Nov. 3 through Jan. 5, Fridays & Saturdays, 6 and 7 p.m.: Candlelight Winery Tour with an intimate look into the winemaking process and tasting with light cheese pairing.

Additional price and reservations required • Nov. 3 through Dec. 23, Select dates, 1-5 p.m.: Visits with Santa at the bandstand in Antler Hill Village • Nov. 2 through Jan. 5, Friday and Saturdays, 3-7:30 p.m.: Roving Holiday Carolers in Antler Hill Village • Nov. 3 through Jan. 5, Select dates, 3-10 p.m.: Bonfires in Antler Hill Village with s’mores kits available for purchase at The Creamery • Dec. 15 through 22, Select dates, 1-3 p.m.: The Inn on Biltmore Estate’s Annual Gingerbread House Tea, Additional price and reservations required • Ongoing: Festive holiday meals prepared by award-winning chefs served in all of the estate’s restaurants 50 + Living | December 2018

Overnight stays Guests looking to extend their holiday visits have several options. For those seeking a retreat with personalized service, The Inn on Biltmore Estate offers fourstar accommodations in a private hilltop setting. Holiday packages starting with Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve are available.

Village Hotel on Biltmore Estate is for the guest looking for a casual overnight stay. Village Hotel is located in the heart of Antler Hill Village with a convenient home base steps away from shopping, dining, Biltmore Winery, and live music in the Village. Special holiday packages are available.

Seasonal activities and events for overnight guests include ornament decorating Dec. 23 – 24 at The Inn on Biltmore Estate, cookie decorating at Village Hotel on select dates between Dec. 15 – 24, and more. Ee

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even make plain, round cookies any time of year to enjoy their great taste.

This recipe makes approximately 4-6 dozen cookies depending upon the size of the cookie cutters. There are a few tricks so be sure to follow the recipe and directions carefully so you can enjoy the best sugar cookies ever.

Recipe Preheat oven to 350° F. Use the middle rack of your oven for baking.

Best Christmas Sugar Cookies Ever

By Deanna Lynn Sletten

If you’ve been searching for the best sugar cookie recipe to bake for your holiday gifts and parties then your search is over.

This sugar cookie recipe produces the fluffiest, tastiest and easiest to decorate cookies you’ve ever made. You will never go back to your old recipe again.

This recipe has been passed down in our family since the early 1900’s. Back then no woman worth her salt used measuring cups or teaspoons to make a recipe, she did a pinch of this and a handful of that. This recipe has been translated down through the years into cups and teaspoons for those of us who need to be exact but it has kept its charm and flavor. It works great for any holiday cookie that is either decorated or plain. You could

1 cup shortening (Butter flavored shortening tastes best. Don’t use real butter or margarine because it makes the cookies too crispy.)

2 cups sugar (Cream together until smooth) 3 eggs ¼ cup milk (The trick to not overdoing on liquid is to break the 3 eggs into a measuring cup and then add milk until you reach the 1 cup line.)

2 Tsp. Vanilla Now, beat the milk/egg/vanilla mixture into the sugar and shortening mixture with an electric hand blender or a whisk.

Make sure to beat until smooth. This step is how you get a fluffier cookie.

Next, using a medium to large hand sifter mix together: 2 cups flour (You will use 4-6 cups flour in all but do not add all at once.)

2 Tsp. baking powder 2/3 Tsp. baking soda 1 Tsp. salt ¾ Tsp. nutmeg Now you can sift dry ingredients into the liquid ingredients.

Sifting is very important; it mixes the ingredients while making the flour light and fluffy.

Hand-mix the flour into the batter until it is well-blended.

Next you will add 1 sifted cup of flour at a time until the batter turns to dough. As it becomes too stiff to stir you can begin to knead in the flour with your hands. Do not use more flour than necessary. Too much flour will dry out your cookies. If you are not sure, only add ¼ to ½ cup flour at a time until the dough feels

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50 + Living | December 2018

firm but moist. It should be firm enough to roll out without sticking but moist enough so your dough doesn’t crack when rolling.

Once the dough is ready it is best to use it right away. Don’t store it for a few hours or put it in the refrigerator. This will dry out the dough and the cookies will not turn out as nice.

Spread a thin layer of flour out onto the surface you will be rolling your dough on. Take a handful of dough and roll it into a ball with your hands then flatten it onto the floured surface. Spread a thin layer of flour on the top of the dough and then flip it and begin to roll out the dough in short, smooth movements. You want to slowly roll the dough in all directions until it is a little less than ¼ inch thick. Don’t roll the dough too thin or you will have flat cookies.

It’s better to have it too thick than too thin.

Now you are ready to cut the dough.

Try dipping the cookie cutters in a bowl of sugar instead of flour when you are cutting the cookies out. Sugar will keep the cutters from sticking while adding a little flavor.

Place cookies on a cookie sheet. If you are not using a non-stick cookie sheet you should use a light touch of non-stick spray on the sheet. Butter or shortening is too heavy and can cause the cookies to burn.

If you plan to decorate the cookies then you don’t need to sprinkle them with sugar.

If you are leaving them plain then you can add a light sprinkle of sugar on top.

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Bake cookies for approximately 10-12 minutes. This will differ depending upon the size of the cut. The finished cookie should look puffy and dry without having brown edges.

Cool cookies on a wire rack and then they are ready to decorate or enjoy.

It may take you a try or two to get the feel for the perfect dough but once you do you will always have the best sugar cookies to share with friends and family at Christmas or anytime. Ee December 2018 | 50 + Living

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Everything You Need to Know About Migraine

By Jasmine Stone Migraine is a common condition that affects people of all ages. Migraine can have a debilitating, and even destructive, affect on the lives of sufferers. In the most severe cases, migraine can ruin relationships, careers and increase the risk of developing serious health conditions. While there is currently no cure for migraine, most sufferers can find ways to manage the condition and reduce the impact it has on their lives.

What is a Migraine?

A migraine is a severe headache, usually affecting only one side or the front of the head, and often accompanied by other symptoms, such as nausea, tiredness and sensitivity to external stimuli. There are two types of migraine: migraine with aura and migraine without aura. Around one third of migraine sufferers experience migraine with aura, characterised by early warning signs, called aura, before the actual migraine attack.

What Causes Migraine?

Migraine is thought to be caused by a change in the levels of chemicals in the brain, particularly serotonin levels, which decrease during a migraine attack. Low levels of serotonin can cause blood vessels in the brain to contract (narrow). This narrowing of the blood vessels is believed to be responsible for the aura symptoms, or warning signs. Next, the blood vessels dilate (widen), which is thought to cause the headache and other associated symptoms. The cause of the change in brain chemicals is not yet clear, but there are certain factors known to trigger a migraine attack in susceptible people.

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Migraine Triggers Migraine triggers differ from one person to the next. Certain foods can trigger migraine in susceptible people. These trigger foods vary widely from person to person, but the most common trigger foods include: • • • • • • •

Coffee and other products containing caffeine Cheese Chocolate Citrus fruit, such as oranges and lemons Foods containing an additive called tyramine Alcohol Heavily processed foods, such as cooked meat.

Dehydration is also a common cause of migraine. In addition, dieting, restricting food groups and skipping meals can trigger migraine, as lack of food or irregular meals can cause blood sugar levels to drop. Similarly, foods containing high amounts of sugar, with little or no nutritional value, can also trigger migraine, as they cause blood sugar levels to spike and drop sharply.

Physical and emotional triggers for migraine include: • • • • •

Tiredness Insomnia Irregular sleep patterns Bad posture Muscular tension, particularly in the neck and shoulders 50 + Living | December 2018

• Stress • Anxiety • Depression.

For some people, strong emotions, even positive emotions like joy and excitement, can trigger migraine.

Hormones are thought to play a part in some cases, as many women experience an increase in migraine attacks around the time of their period, typically in the 2-3 days before and after the start of their period, when oestrogen levels are low. This is known as menstrual migraine. Around 10-15% of all female migraine sufferers only experience migraine attacks during this time.

Menopause and HRT (hormone replacement therapy) can also trigger migraine in some women.

Environmental factors can also trigger migraine in some people.

These may include: • • • • • • •

Strong smells Smoky or stuffy rooms Loud noises Humid weather conditions Sudden changes in temperature Flickering screens, such as computer or television screens Strong lighting.

Some people are also sensitive to certain products, such as perfume, air freshener or hairspray, which could trigger a migraine, or cause symptoms to worsen.

Medications can trigger migraine in some people. Regular painkiller use can lead to rebound headaches and migraine, caused by medication overuse, while some prescription medications, including the contraceptive pill and HRT (hormone replacement therapy), may also trigger migraine.

Symptoms of Migraine

• Changes in mood.

The aura stage usually starts 15 minutes to an hour before the onset of the headache. In severe cases, sufferers may lose consciousness during the aura stage, although this is rare.

During the headache stage, sufferers experience a severe headache, which usually affects only the front or one side of the head, although the pain may shift position during the course of an attack. The pain is usually experienced as an intense throbbing sensation, which may cause nausea and worsen with movement.

Other symptoms during this stage include: • • • • • • • • • • •

Nausea Vomiting Abdominal pain Diarrhoea Increased need to urinate Sensitivity to light, noise or smells Confusion Sweating Feeling hot or cold Extreme tiredness Strong desire to lie down in a cold, dark room.

This stage usually lasts between 4 hours and 3 days, although symptoms may come and go during this time.

While the most common symptom of migraine is a debilitating headache, some people experience migraine without the headache. Children, and some adults, may experience “stomach migraine”, with the intestinal symptoms of migraine, such as abdominal pain, diarrhoea and nausea, without the headache.

While other people experience only the visual symptoms most commonly associated with the aura stage.

Once the headache stage has passed, sufferers may continue to feel tired, weak, lethargic and queasy, have difficulty concentrating and experience food cravings for several days.

The symptoms of migraine are as wide and varied as the triggers. Every migraine sufferer will experience a different set of symptoms. There are, however, some symptoms that are commonly experienced during a migraine attack.

The 5 Stages of Migraine

During the aura stage, or early warning stage, symptoms can include:

There are 5 recognised stages of migraine, although not all sufferers will experience every stage.

• Visual disturbances, such as flashing lights, blind spots or zigzag patterns • Pins and needles or tingling in the neck, shoulders or limbs • Stiffness of the neck or shoulders • Feeling dizzy, disoriented or confused • Lack of coordination or loss of balance • Problems with speaking • Food cravings December 2018 | 50 + Living

1. The prodromal stage The prodromal stage typically starts a few hours before the aura or headache stage, although some people experience the prodromal stage for several days before it develops into a headache. During this stage there may be changes in mood, such as irritability, depression or anger. Friends and family may also notice a change in mood or behaviour. Some people experience food cravings, especially for salty or sweet food, and there may be an increase or continued on page 18 Page 17

painkillers prescribed by a doctor may offer better relief. In order to be effective, painkillers must usually be taken in the early stages of a migraine. Many people find that they are unable to digest tablets in the later stages.

Migraine continued from page 17

decrease in appetite. There may also be a noticeable increase or decrease in energy levels, along with unexplained muscle aches or stiffness.

2. The aura stage The aura stage is experienced by around one third of all migraine sufferers, and typically lasts 15 minutes to an hour. During this stage, there may be visual disturbances, confusion and other symptoms. These symptoms usually disappear once the headache stage is reached.

3. The headache stage The headache stage usually lasts between 4 hours and 3 days.

During this time, sufferers often experience a whole range of symptoms, including a severe headache.

4. The resolution stage Some people find that the headache and associated symptoms fade over a period of time, often with the help of sleep, while others experience a sudden end to their symptoms, perhaps after vomiting or an emotional outburst, such as crying.

5. The postdromal stage This stage is a period of recovery, which can last from a few hours to several days. During this time, some people continue to feel tired, weak, exhausted and confused. There may also be food cravings or extreme thirst.

Medical Treatments for Migraine There is currently no known cure for migraine. Treatment is aimed at preventing attacks and reducing the severity of symptoms. Finding the right treatment can take time and patience, as not all treatments will be effective for everyone.

Painkillers are commonly used to reduce the pain of migraine.

Painkillers bought over the counter, such as paracetamol and aspirin, may be effective for some people, but many migraine sufferers find these painkillers give little or no relief. Stronger Page 18

Anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen, can also help to alleviate symptoms, but a doctor should be consulted before trying these medications, as they are not suitable for those with certain medical conditions.

Anti-sickness medications can be bought over the counter or prescribed by a doctor. These are usually available in tablet form or as suppositories. They may also be available as a combination preparation with pain relief.

Triptans can be highly effective in the treatment of migraine.

Triptans counteract the dilation of blood vessels, which is thought to be the cause of migraine, by causing the blood vessels around the brain to narrow (contract). Some people have found great relief from migraine with the use of triptans, while others report little or no effect. Triptans are available from a pharmacist in tablet form, or on prescription in a higher dose. Triptans can also be prescribed in the form of a nasal spray or injection.

Preventative treatment may also be prescribed in the case of chronic migraine. Most commonly, beta-blockers (usually prescribed for high blood pressure or angina), amitriptyline (an antidepressant drug), anticonvulsants and drugs to control serotonin levels may be prescribed in an attempt to prevent migraine. However, these preventative treatments do not work for everyone, and most have unpleasant side effects.

If medical treatments provide little or no relief, referral to a specialist or migraine clinic may be advised. A specialist will be able to rule out any underlying causes and suggest a different treatment. There are several experimental treatment options available in severe cases.

Pregnant and breastfeeding women should talk to a doctor before taking any medication for migraine, as many treatments are unsuitable and may harm the baby.

Complications Migraine has been linked to a small increase in the risk of having an ischaemic stroke, and also an increased risk of developing mental health problems, such as depression. However, these risks are extremely small and should not be a worry for most people.

Aside from medical treatments, there are ways to take control of chronic migraine. Keeping a journal to record significant events, symptoms and triggers associated with migraine can provide valuable information. A migraine journal can help to identify triggers, warning signs and effective treatments. Ee 50 + Living | December 2018

Lend Me Your Ears: 6 Ways to Be a Good Listener

By Susie Yakowicz

When it comes to facing challenges, a good listener can make all the difference. Someone who takes the time to tune in to your concerns with care and compassion can help ease your hardship, find a solution, and make you feel better. But would you be able to return the favor? While anyone can listen, doing it effectively requires more than opening your ears. Once you get the hang of it, though, the payoff is well worth the gesture--for both of you. Not only will you be helping a friend in need, you’ll develop patience, gain trust and insight, and be appreciated. Try these six tips and discover what it takes to be a good listener:

Use Gentle Body Language Body language says a lot when you’re engaged in a conversation with someone. When listening to a friend in need, let down your guard. Show your compassionate side with a gentle touch of your hand, a warm hug, or a relaxed posture. Body language that’s tense will only make your friend tense too. Adopting an aura of calmness, on the other hand, will put everyone at ease.

Focus Your Attention Ever felt like the person on the other end of the phone is doing something else while listening to you? It’s annoying at best, not to mention highly discouraging for those pouring their hearts out. When listening to someone talk, put away your work and other distractions and offer your full attention. Listen as you would want to be listened to--with focus.

Make Eye Contact Looking at people directly when they’re talking assures them that you’re engaged and listening. Get in the habit of making eye contact while you listen, especially when someone is in a December 2018 | 50 + Living

vulnerable state. Eye contact helps put confidence and trust in you as a listener, plus you’ll be able to better absorb the conversation, thereby improving your listening skills.

Ask If You Can Offer Not everyone wants advice. Some people have a lot to unload, and all they want in return is a listening ear. If you start spouting off suggestions, you’ve gone from listener to lecturer. Giving unsolicited advice can, in fact, harm your relationship. Instead, ask if you can offer counsel. The talker retains control that way and may be more likely to seek your opinion.

Empathize Empathy isn’t always an easy thing to feel, but it’s a great asset for a listener. People who possess empathy can do wonders for helping a friend in need. Having the ability to put yourself in your friend’s shoes can help you feel more connected to him or her. It’ll also help you listen more actively, glean a better perspective of the problem, and find that silver lining.

Follow Up The best listeners don’t stop listening after the initial conversation. Check back with your friend a day or two later and see if things have improved or if there’s more to talk about. Don’t wait for a phone call. A good listener will reach out to the one in need by following up in the short-term as well as down the road.

Good listeners are hard to come by, but anyone can learn how to be effective at listening. The rewards for both parties are worth it. Ee Page 19

7 Essential Tips to Prepare Your Car for a Safe, Trouble-Free Winter

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Page 20

In a heavy winter, your windshield wiper blades will come in for a lot of punishment.

Make sure they’re not worn down and haven’t gotten split by the harsh heat of a dry summer.

Test them by pouring water onto your windshield and then turning the wipers on. If they leave streaks behind, you need to replace them before the bad weather arrives.

2) Battery Unless your car’s battery is new, you should have it tested and replaced if necessary.

In freezing temperatures, it takes much more 50 + Living | December 2018

energy to start a car. Also, the constant use of lights and heating fans can wear a battery down quickly, especially in slow traffic in adverse conditions. You can’t afford for your battery to give out under strain, possibly leaving you stranded.

3) Heating System In the summer months, you’ve probably been relying on your air conditioning, but now’s the time to make sure the heating system still works correctly. You don’t want to find there’s a problem only when the first cold weather unexpectedly hits.

4) Defrosting System Likewise, check that your rear windshield defroster is in working order and heats up when you turn it on. Do the same for any other defrosters, such as your side mirrors or passenger windows.

5) Tires If you have winter tires, switching over is the ideal time to check for wear and tear on both winter and summer sets. If the tread depth is less than 1/16 inch, or if some spots are worse than others, then you need new tires. Poor tread is dangerous at any time, but particularly in challenging, icy driving conditions.

Also, check your tires’ pressure, which will drop with the temperature, which reduces handling even further. Keep checking throughout the winter, as a plunge in temperature can tip your tires over the safety edge.

6) Fluids Check all your car’s fluid levels and top them up if necessary.

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Include windshield wiper, brake, antifreeze, power steering, and transmission fluids in your check. Topping up or replacing fluids is far more comfortable when the weather is still mild.

7) Lights Lastly, check all the external and internal lights, including blinkers and emergency flashers. On a cold dark morning, faulty lights can cause serious visibility risks.

Whether you’re a dedicated sun lover or a confirmed snowbird, the winter offers particular risks for your car. Making adequate preparations before fall will help keep both you and your vehicle as safe as possible during the long months ahead. Ee

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The perfect gift for your little ballerina!

Read the story of Lily, an endearing little girl who’s passion for spinning gets her into trouble until she learns to spin like a ballerina.

Available at The Toy Box 793 Merrimon Ave, Asheville A Walk in the Woods 423 Main Street, Hendersonville and online at gratefulsteps.org

Written by local author, JeanAnn Taylor

For more information on book signing events, please call 828-989-2651 December 2018 | 50 + Living

Page 21

Taylor’d with Style

Tis the Season

By JeanAnn Taylor

Tis the season for parties. This festive time of the year offers cocktail parties, office parties, dinner parties, family gatherings, and more. Fortunately, it doesn’t have to become the most stressful time of the year when it comes to the question of what to wear. This daunting dilemma can be easily deciphered by knowing what the dress codes of today mean. Today’s fashion codes have definitely evolved in comparison to the past when strict rules were expected to be followed. However, there are a few traditional guidelines that still hold true. To help you unscramble what a particular dress code means, I’ve put together a list of the most common holiday clothing customs.

Creative Black Tie ~ This is an acceptable time to wear something trendy and unique.

A man may wear a fun patterned bow tie and matching cummerbund. A woman can wear anything from a trendy cocktail dress to a pantsuit to a brightly colored floor length gown.

Cocktail ~ For men, a tie is technically optional. My thoughts however are that a man always looks sexier when wearing a tie.

It’s the one piece of fashion where he can freely express his personality. So, why not take advantage of this opportunity? For the woman, a typical cocktail dress is feminine and form-fitting with a hemline hitting just above the knee. Always wear heels with a cocktail dress. Jewelry can be simple or elaborate depending on the flair of the dress.

Semi-Formal ~ Men should wear a dark business suit with a tie.

Women can wear anything from a cocktail dress to a long, flowing skirt paired with a dressy top, to a little black dress. The LBD is considered to be the essence of style. It is always appropriate and you can change the aura of your look with your accessories. A semi-formal dress code is a great time to add a little sparkle, show a little lace, or glow with glitter.

White Tie ~ This is the most formal dress code and rules must be followed. Men should wear a dark suit or tuxedo with a white bow tie. Women are advised to wear a floor length gown with gloves and an up-do hairstyle. Heels and jewels will complete your look.

Black Tie ~ Still very formal, a man should wear a black bow tie with his tuxedo or dark suit. Women can choose to wear a floor length gown or a very formal cocktail dress.

Black Tie Optional ~ This is just what it says for men. Women can wear a simple little black dress or a nice cocktail dress, OR this is the night to wear that gorgeous, cream-colored, chiffon ballgown you’ve had in your closet all year because when you saw it you just had to buy it because you knew someday you would have the occasion to wear it. So what if you are the only woman in the room wearing a ballgown. You look beautiful! When there are options, there are no dress faux pas. Embellishments of beads, lace appliqués, and embroidery can add to the elegance of a pretty mermaid or ballgown silhouette.

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50 + Living | December 2018

thinking, I hope nothing falls out.

Dressy Casual ~ This code is often set for small dinner parties at posh hotels, business luncheons, or afternoon soirées. Avoid denim, chino, and polo shirts. Opt instead for silk, jersey, or rayon. Wear nice shoes, not tennis shoes or clunky leather sandals.

Festive ~ These parties are especially popular during the holidays.

The dress code is similar to cocktail parties with a holiday vibe, so traditional holiday colors are often worn to commemorate the season. A festive party is the perfect time to try something new and to express the jolly side of your personality. The “Tacky Christmas Sweater” party is an off-shoot of the festive party.

These playful festivities invite guests to wear a sweater bedecked with Santa Claus, reindeer, or the Grinch, along any assortment of tacky embellishments. This fun idea can be kept somewhat classy by choosing one gimmick and making it your focal point.

For example, if you are lucky enough to find a sweater adorned with pink flamingos wearing Santa hats, keep your jewelry to a minimum and wear the sweater with a simple pair of black leggings and ballet flats. Wearing this same sweater with chandelier earrings, hot pink leggings and red heels would send a completely different message. With a little planning, you can stay festive while remaining stylish.

A festive party dress code is also a great time to wear your red sequined cocktail dress. One thing to keep in mind is that shiny fabrics reflect light and can make you appear larger than you actually are. Take care to only wear them on the places of your body you want to emphasize.

Office Party ~ Consider the culture of the particular business when deciding what to wear. If the business is conservative, that environment will carry over to after hour events. This is not the time to wear a provocative, low-plunging red sequined cocktail dress. You won’t be taken seriously and it can affect your reputation for years to come. Rather, choose an outfit that respectfully expresses your personality. I once attended a celebration at a very nice hotel where the speaker wore an extremely revealing neckline.

I don’t remember a single word she said, but I do remember December 2018 | 50 + Living

Day and Night Casual ~ A casual dress code offers you the most freedom of dress. Daytime social events can be as simple as lunch with a few friends or a tea party with your bridge club. Depending on the location and theme, you may opt to wear nice bluejeans or a sheath with heels.

Nighttime events may be held at a fine restaurant or local pub. While still casual, it is stepped up a bit from daytime casual. Remember, just because an event is “casual,” it’s not free rein to wear sweat pants, torn bluejeans, or sneakers.

This is a lovely opportunity to express yourself with style—such as in a charming pantsuit.

Smart Casual ~ There are no set rules here, so dress for the location, weather, and purpose of the occasion.

Small accessories play a large role in your overall look. A beautiful ballgown can go from a “10” to a “1” by simply carrying the wrong purse. Imagine walking into a room wearing a stunning mermaid silhouette gown—with a large, brown leather zippered bag hanging across your shoulder. Gasp. Large bags distract and look disconnected. Instead, carry a small clutch to support your style. A small purse or clutch can also take your look from classical to whimsical. I have a small pink-sequined clutch in the shape of a strawberry. I rarely have the opportunity to carry it, but when I do, it definitely makes a statement. The same advice goes for outerwear. Stay warm with chic wraps made from velvet, fur, or feathers. Your shoes and jewelry should complement your attire without distracting from your overall look.

As always, the most important element of your ensemble is confidence. And confidence comes from knowing you are wearing an appropriate outfit for any celebration.

Remember, everything you wear tells a story. Take care that your script says what you want it to say. Ee

Style expert JeanAnn Taylor jeananntaylor@rewnc.com Page 23

Ten Fascinating Health Benefits of Prunes Prunes are sweet, chewy fruits that contain an impressive array of nutrients. They are also known as dried plums, and most people know that they can help to treat constipation. However, they are also capable of positively influencing many other parts of your body. Read on to discover ten compelling reasons to regularly eat more prunes.

1) They keep your blood sugar under control: The soluble fiber in prunes slows the movement of food from the stomach to the intestines, and slows the rate at which glucose is absorbed from food. These traits helps to keep blood sugar within healthy limits, and the soluble fiber in prunes may even help to reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes (by increasing insulin sensitivity).

2) They improve bone health: Researchers at Florida State University have discovered that eating prunes appears to reverse osteoporosis in older women.

Specifically, women who ate 100g of prunes each day were found to have significantly improved bone markers after just three months. It is suspected that this health benefit comes from the fact that prunes provide you with boron, which studies show is linked to a reduced likelihood of osteoporosis and brittle bones. It is also worth noting that the potassium in prunes may encourage improvements in bone health as well.

3) They lower cholesterol levels: The antioxidants in prunes help to prevent damage from dangerous free radicals, and so they prevent as much bad Page 24

cholesterol from sticking to the walls of your blood vessels. This reduces your risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. Further, the soluble fiber in prunes binds to bile acids and allows them to be excreted in bowel movements. This results in lower cholesterol levels as well, as the liver must use up cholesterol in order to produce new bile acids.

4) They help to boost energy: Prunes provide you with copper, and copper encourages the body to metabolize and use carbohydrates. This produces plenty of energy, so prunes are an ideal snack if you are tired or tend to suffer from slumps between meals.

5) They can protect you against certain types of cancer: A study on over 50,000 postmenopausal women revealed that the ones who ate the most prunes (and other fiber-rich foods) were 34% less likely to develop any form of breast cancer. On a more general note, scientists at Tufts University have recently discovered that prunes have a higher antioxidant capacity than any other food. This means that they may help to reduce your risk of developing cancer, as some studies support the claim that antioxidants can help to prevent DNA damage that can lead to 50 + Living | December 2018

cancer when damaged cells multiply out of control.

Prunes have this excellent nutritional property because they contain high levels of hydroxycinnamic acids and anthocyanins.

6) They prevent damage to fats: Prunes contain phytonutrients called phenols, and these have repeatedly been proven to effectively reduce the degree of oxygen-based damage to fats. While the benefit of this may not be immediately obvious, consider that our brain cells and cell membranes are primarily made up of fats. As a result, it is highly significant that prunes can reduce the likelihood of damage to these important building blocks of the body.

7) They can help you lose weight: The amount of fiber found in prunes means that eating prunes can help you to feel full and satisfied for a long time after eating. When you feel full, you are discouraged from overeating or excessively snacking between meals.

8) They promote a healthy digestive system: Prunes help the good bacteria in your digestive system to thrive, so that the types of bacteria that can cause disease do not dominate your digestive system. This is because good bacteria are sustained by the fiber in prunes.

As is obvious from the above health benefits, prunes are a great choice if you want to increase your daily consumption of fruits and vegetables. Given that prunes are dried fruits, they are available all year round. They taste delicious when mixed with nuts or dried apricots, and they should be stored in a cool and dry location. Ee

9) They promote iron absorption: Prunes encourage your body to absorb more iron, and you need iron in order to manufacturehemoglobin(whichisresponsible for carrying oxygen to all of your cells).

10) They can treat constipation: If you are extremely constipated, prunes can help to alleviate your discomfort. This is because prunes are extremely high in fiber, which makes your bowel movements softer and bulkier. This fact about prunes also makes them capable of assisting your body’s natural detoxification processes, encouraging old waste to be evacuated from the colon. In addition, prunes contain one gram of the carbohydrate sorbitol, which causes diarrhea in large quantities. The relatively small dose found in prunes provides your colon with just enough stimulation in order to help ease constipation without causing diarrhea.

December 2018 | 50 + Living

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Living With a Senior Dog You knew it when you first brought that little puppy home.

Eventually, it would become a senior citizen, and that time has arrived. As dogs age, they suffer many of the same infirmities as humans. Hearing and vision start to go, joints begin to ache, and a nap is preferable to a walk. With proper care, you can make your companion’s remaining years happy and comfortable.

Gum disease is likely the most common malady in dogs, especially as they age. Fortunately, it is also the most preventable condition you are likely to come across. Just as with people, canine gum disease results from plaque, a bacterial film that coats the teeth.

Another common age-related ailment is arthritis, which affects about 20% of all dogs. Not all dogs limp when they become arthritic; some begin to have trouble getting in the car, or they sleep more and don’t want to play.

The treatment for canine arthritis, as it is for human arthritis, begins with a healthy diet to keep the weight down. You may give your pet nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin. Veterinarians these days also will not hesitate to provide Fido with pain medications like Tramadol to make them comfortable.

Hearing loss often affects older dogs. You might first notice this when your dog seems to ignore you or gets startled when you walk by them. The dog can become aggressive because it can no longer hear someone approaching until they are right next to the animal.

A trip to the vet is the first step, to rule out treatable causes such as an ear infection. Beyond that, keep in mind that if the two of you are outside, your dog won’t hear warnings like approaching cars and so will need your protection. It is also a good idea to retrain your dog using hand signals; that way, if it goes completely deaf, you can still communicate. Dogs can adapt well to hearing loss.

Signs of doggie gum disease are much the same as in humans.

These symptoms include, but aren’t limited to, bleeding or red gums, bad breath, chewing only on one side of the mouth, and aversion to having their head touched.

Prevention of gum disease takes no more work than preventing your own gum problems. Brush your dog’s teeth at least once per day (twice is better). Feed quality dry dog food, unless your vet says otherwise. And, perhaps most importantly, do not feed the animal people food -- ever!

Treatment also closely follows that of humans, depending on how far the disease has progressed. In the early stages, a professional cleaning may be all that is necessary. In the later stages, extraction may be the only option.

Page 26

Loss of vision is yet another agerelated malady. Many people think that a bluish tint on their dog’s lenses is due to cataracts. However, the hue is natural. Cataracts display as a whitish discoloration of the lenses. While there is no treatment for cataracts in dogs, they adapt amazingly well to partial and even total blindness.

There are some of the many things you need to do for an older dog. In addition to ensuring fresh water at all times and keeping your pet on a healthy diet and at the proper weight, you should provide a comfortable bed on which to rest those aching joints.

And finally, don’t expect as much from your dog as you did when it was young. Take everything slower, and the final years can be as comfortable and enjoyable as the early ones. Ee

50 + Living | December 2018

Looking Beyond Calcium to Prevent

Osteoporosis

Close to a third of postmenopausal women in Europe and the US have osteoporosis.? If you have a family history of this bone-thinning disease or one of the other risk factors for its development, which include a small frame size, long-term use of steroids, an overactive thyroid gland and poor absorption of nutrients, it is especially important that you review your diet. By including those nutrients known to promote stronger bones you can reduce the likelihood of osteoporosis. However, while a large emphasis is placed on including plenty of calcium rich foods in

December 2018 | 50 + Living

the diet, this is by no means the only way you can enhance the strength of your bones. Here we take a look at some of the other dietary components important for bone health.

Vitamin D This vitamin helps to regulate calcium absorption in the intestines, but also has a direct role in the turnover of bone.

Although vitamin D is sourced most effectively by exposing your continued on page 28

Page 27

Osteoporosis continued from page 27 skin to sunlight for 10 to 15 minutes each day, as we generally spend less time outdoors than we used to and are more likely to liberally apply sunscreen when we do go outside, including dietary sources is now more important than ever. Although there are few foods rich in this vitamin, oily fish, liver, eggs and foods that may be fortified such as milk, margarine and cereal do provide a useful source. The under fives, women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, anyone who is housebound or who covers their skin are recommended to take a vitamin D supplement though.

Vitamin C Collagen forms a large part of the bone matrix and vitamin C is essential for its formation. Although citrus fruits are most well-known for their vitamin C content, a range of other fruit and vegetables are also rich in this vitamin. Other good sources include berries, kiwis, tomatoes, bell peppers, green peas, green leafy vegetables and potatoes.

Vitamin K Although you might be less familiar with this vitamin, it is required for the formation of a protein that is important for bone building. Choose to eat green leafy vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage and kale more often to up your intake of vitamin K.

Magnesium This mineral is needed for the production of vitamin D and also to enable the body to use calcium in bone formation. Dairy produce, leafy greens, nuts, pulses and wholegrains offer the richest sources of magnesium.

Potassium While sodium, which is largely sourced from salt, is known to be detrimental to bone health, potassium helps to counteract its negative effects. If you are looking to increase your intake of potassium, the easiest way is to increase your intake of fruit and vegetables - yet another reason why this food group is important.

Bananas might be famous for their potassium content, but beans, greens, oranges, melon, peaches, pears, potatoes, squash and tomatoes also supply this mineral in good quantities.

Zinc One of the hormones that regulates bone turnover is controlled by zinc and this mineral is additionally required for the action of an enzyme responsible for the mineralisation of bone.? While seafood, meat and dairy produce provide zinc in greatest quantities, anyone who relies mainly on plant based foods can still obtain sufficient through a good intake of oats, nuts, chickpeas and other pulses. Ee

50+Living “A lifestyle publication for people 50 and over�

For a Free Digital Subscription go to 50pluslivingWNC.com and sign up Page 28

50 + Living | December 2018

Victorian Christmas at Smith-McDowell House December thru Saturday, January 5, 2019

Events happening this month in the WNC area to enjoy!

PAN HARMONIA: ¡Viva La Música Latina!

Sunday, December 2, 2018 at 4 pm Heart-opening music from Puerto Rico, Argentina, Columbia, the Andes and Brazil. Kate Steinbeck, flute and Amy Brucksch, classical guitar. Benefit Concert for Pisgah Legal Services, celebrating 40 years of standing for justice and dignity. St. Mary’s Episcopal Church 337 Charlotte Street, Asheville, NC. Free admission: Donations encouraged! Proceeds to benefit the work of Pisgah Legal Services.

Visit: panharmonia.org

Christmas at Biltmore Saturday, November 3 to Sunday, January 6th The biggest event of the holiday season. See America’s largest home decked out in festive finery. Throughout the estate, find 100+ decorated trees with 25,000+ ornaments, 1.5 miles of fresh garlands, 500 wreaths and sprays, 2,000 poinsettias and other favorite holiday plants and 100 kissing balls! biltmore.com

Aluminum Christmas Tree Museum November to Saturday, December 22, 2018 This quirky exhibit in downtown Brevard. The Aluminum Tree & Ornament Museum (ATOM) is the world’s only museum dedicated to vintage aluminum Christmas trees Dozens of trees adorned with vintage and often tacky ornaments are displayed in whimsical themes.

Wed-Sat. Free admission.

December 2018 | 50 + Living

Tour the fascinating 1840s Smith-McDowell House, Asheville’s first mansion and oldest surviving structure, now restored as a history museum for the area. It was built 55 years before the Biltmore House. It is one of our Top 10 Civil War Sites. Authentically decorated with fresh trees, garlands, ornaments and toys of the Victorian Period. Six period rooms are decked out with gold, silver and glassware from their permanent collections. $9/adult & $5/children 8-18. wnchistory.org

Winter Lights at the NC Arboretum

The Big Crafty Saturday, December 1 to Sunday, December 2, 2018 The Big Crafty features the work of 170 carefully-selected artists, makers and crafters who embody the dynamism of the independent creative community. Local’s favorite art & craft show. Local food & beer. In the US Cellular Center in downtown Asheville (87 Haywood St). Saturday 1-8 PM ($5/person) and Sunday 11 AM-6 PM (free). thebigcrafty.com

Asheville Downtown Gallery Art Walk Friday, December 7, 2018 Galleries stay open late with special exhibits and artists mingling throughout downtown, 5-8 PM.

Holiday Sip & Shop, Grovewood Village Friday, December 7 to Saturday, December 8, 2018

Runs thru December to Monday, December 31, 2018 North Carolina Arboretum’s elaborate Winter Lights show, transforming the gardens into a nighttime wonderland with 500,000 lights!

Walk through spectacular displays and see the gardens in a completely new way - with even more lights this year including a “Fire & Ice” display. Designed with an artistic aesthetic, the Winter Lights show enhances the natural beauty of the gardens as you celebrate the holidays. RomanticAsheville.com is delighted to be a sponsor of this event. You must buy tickets in advance. Open 6-10 PM. Plan ahead since many nights will sell-out. Ticket info: ncarboretum.org

Lake Julian Festival of Lights Saturday, December 1 to Sunday, December 23, 2018 Christmas light show takes over a popular county park at Lake Julian in south Asheville (near Biltmore Park). Their annual Festival of Lights includes 50 animated and stationary light displays. Walk December 1, 2018, 6-9 PM: The season always kicks off with the “walk through night” - the only time you can walk through. Drive December 2-23, 2018, 6-9 PM: Admission is $10 per passenger vehicle and $20 for large vans, motor coaches, and buses. Advance tickets may be purchased online at a discount. eventbrite.com

Shop at the big gallery and save 10% on all art and craft while enjoying free cider, cookies and wine. Also, watch artist demos, take a free factory tour and get free admission to Antique Car Museum. Asheville. 10 AM-5:30 PM. For more info: grovewood.com

Montford Home Tour Saturday, December 8, 2018 Explore Asheville’s Montford historic neighborhood with Victorian, Arts and Crafts, Greek Revival and Dutch Colonial homes dating back to the late 1800s. Self-guided tour of 10 homes, 1-5 PM, $25/person. Tickets at Asheville Visitor Center. montfordtour.com

Santa on the Chimney Saturday, December 8, 2018 Watch Santa practice for his world-wide chimney-dropping tour on his “practice chimney,” the 312 ft. tall Chimney Rock monolith.

Included with park admission.

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DECEMBER ACTIVITIES continued from page 29 Guild Holiday Makers Sale at the Folk Art Center Saturday, December 8, 2018 Great deals on amazing art directly from the artists, offering over-runs, discontinued stock and studio seconds in a festive atmosphere. And don’t miss the special exhibits and main store at the Folk Art Center on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Free admission. 10 AM-4 PM. More info: southernhighlandguild.org/folk-art-center

An Angel Christmas @ Thomas Wolfe Home Saturday, December 15, 2018 A special open house at the fascinating 29room Thomas Wolfe Home in downtown Asheville with period decorations, special tours, angel wreath auction, kids’ activities, snacks and more. 9 AM-5 PM. $5/adult, children 17 & under free. wolfememorial.com

A Swannanoa Solstice

New Year’s Eve

Sunday, December 16, 2018

Monday, December 31, 2018

For 16 years and counting, A Swannanoa Solstice has welcomed the winter season, delighting local audiences with its world-class display of folk music and becoming a beloved holiday tradition, drawing more devoted fans each year. Bringing back renowned recording artists Al Petteway, Amy White, Robin Bullock and Grammy-winner David Holt, this seasonal selection promises an evening of creative Celtic, American roots and world-influenced melodies to dazzle locals and visitors alike. The Asheville tradition, reflecting the heritage of its hills, spreads a peaceful, united and uplifting message, perfect for the holiday season. 2 & 7 PM at Diana Wortham Theatre in downtown Asheville. $45/adult Visit: dwtheatre.com

Head to downtown Asheville for many dining and entertainment choices or go to celebrations throughout WNC. While there is no public outdoor event to welcome the new year, there will be plenty of indoor venues to celebrate - including many restaurants, clubs, pubs, live music venues, etc. If the weather is nice, the streets will be buzzing with lots of activity and fun street entertainers.

Asheville Restaurants: Many are open late on New Year’s Eve and feature a lively bar.

Make reservations ASAP! Beer Pubs: Plenty of pubs, breweries and bars to celebrate with local brews! Many are within walking distance in downtown Asheville.

50+Living

Advertisers Index | December 2018

of Western NC

Asheville Cotton Co. .............................................................21

Zachary S. Holcombe, DMD................................................... 6

Asheville Eye Associates........................................................25

JeanAnn Taylor, Author.........................................................21

Baked Pie Company................................................................15

Metro Wines................................................................................. 8

Biltmore Family Medicine PLLC.........................................32

Phillip C. Price Law Firm, PLLC..........................................27

Bryan Easler Toyota.................................................................20

Sassy Jacks Stitchery.................................................................14

CarePartners Foundations...................................................... 7

Strauss Attorneys, PLLC........................................................13

Frugal Decor & More..............................................................13

The Spice & Tea Exchange...................................................10

Grail Movie House...................................................................28

White Oak Financial Management Inc............................15

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50 + Living | December 2018

A publication for the 50+ lifestyle

50+Living of Western NC

50pluslivingWNC.com

For advertising opportunities please contact us at: asheppard@rewnc.com or call 828.279.5962

December 2018 | 50 + Living

Page 31

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