I’d admit, this is one of my favorite times of the year! There’s something about the decorations, the music and the memories that make me smile. While many people dream of a white Christmas, I personally prefer the warm glow of a cacti dressed up in holiday lights.
While the holidays for many are celebrated with football, food, family, friends and faith. For many other’s this festive season is a difficult reminder of loss and loneliness. My hope this Christmas is as you’re preparing for your holiday gatherings, you won’t forget to keep an eye out for those who might need an extra dose of encouragement, or an invitation to celebrate with your family and friends.
Regardless of what your holidays look like, I hope you enjoy each moment by focusing on what you have—not what you don’t. Also, if you’re looking for last minute gifts, please support the advertisers who make each issue of The Grand Season possible.
Melissa Whitton Editor/Associate Publisher
Ronnie & Tom
INSPIRE BELIEVE
Promise me you’ll always remember: You’re braver than you believe, and stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.
A. A. Milne
Faith is to believe what you do not see; the reward of this faith is to see what you believe.
Saint Augustine
The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.
Eleanor Roosevelt
Believe in yourself! Have faith in your abilities! Without a humble but reasonable confidence in your own powers you cannot be successful or happy.
Norman Vincent Peale
I believe if you keep your faith, you keep your trust, you keep the right attitude, if you’re grateful, you’ll see God open up new doors.
Joel Osteen
Don’t let fear or insecurity stop you from trying new things. Believe in yourself. Do what you love. And most importantly, be kind to others, even if you don’t like them.
Stacy London
I believe that the greatest gift you can give your family and the world is a healthy you.
Joyce Meyer
Follow your dreams, believe in yourself and don’t give up.
Rachel Corrie
Faith consists in believing when it is beyond the power of reason to believe.
Voltaire
LOCAL GARAGE DOOR COMPANY
1 How many U.S. states are part of New England?
2. What district does Katniss Everdeen represent in “The Hunger Games”?
3. What is the longest nerve in the human body?
4 What is Captain America’s shield made of?
5. What is the process called when a solid becomes a gas?
6. In what year did the Three Mile Island nuclear accident happen?
7 What is Edward’s last name in the movie “Twilight”?
8. What is the only marsupial found in North America?
9 Pop singer Taylor Swift was born in which U.S. state?
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Regency Specialties is a trusted name in Arizona for cosmetic and medical excellence. Our team of highly skilled professionals is dedicated to providing top-tier care in both aesthetic and medical services. Whether you are seeking to enhance your natural beauty or address medical concerns, we strive to deliver transformation results that renew confidence and improve overall well-being. At Regency Specialties, your journey to looking and feeling your best starts here. Our
Services
Dermatology
• Skin Cancer Detection & Prevention
• Skin Cancer Treatment
• Cosmetic Dermatology
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Plastic Surgery
• Regency Lift
• Breast Reconstruction/Augmentation
• Body Contouring
• Rhinoplasty
Sclerotherapy
Radio-frequency ablation
Matisse Med-spa
• Facials & Peels
• Aesthetic Injections
• Lasers & Devices
• Waxing, Lashes & Brows
Hair Transplantation
• Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE)
• Platelet-Rich Plasma Therapy (PRP)
• Hairline Restoration
Dr. Betty Hinderks Davis MD, FAAD
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FLASHBACK
1. Which group released “Best of My Love”? (Hint: It was on their “On the Border” album.)
2. Name the first artist to release “Misty Blue.”
3. Who was the first to release “Put Your Hand in the Hand”?
4. Which singersongwriter released “Only the Lonely (Know the Way I Feel)”?
5. Name the song that contains this lyric: “All my life was a paper, once plain, pure and white.
LOVE THE GREATEST GIFT
Give your partner a gift that will last forever.
It’s that time of the season when the pressure is on to buy the perfect gift for your better half. If you’re like many couples, you probably have bought yourself a gift, and handed it to your spouse to wrap for Christmas. This year, rather than wrapping up something to collect dust, consider learning to speak a new language—your partner’s love language.
Dr. Gary Chapman, best-selling author, counselor and speaker, realized his clients were trying all the “right” ways to show their partner love—but they were speaking the wrong language. The 5 Love Languages theorizes people tend to give love in the way they prefer to receive love. Since we don’t all have the same preferences as our partners when it comes to giving and receiving love, this is how relationships can start to get sticky. But by understanding our partners’ inherent love language, we can express our love to our partners more effectively—visit 5lovelangueages.com to learn more.
1. Words of affirmation
This language uses words to affirm other people. For those who prefer the words of affirmation language, hearing “I love you” and other compliments are what they value the most. Words hold real value within this language.
2. Quality time
This language is about giving the other person your undivided attention. Distractions, postponed dates, or the failure to listen can be especially hurtful to these individuals. Being there for them is crucial.
3. Receiving gifts
Dr. Chapman says for some people, what makes them feel most loved is to receive a tangible gift. This doesn’t necessarily mean the person is materialistic, but a meaningful or thoughtful present it was makes them feel appreciated.
4. Acts of service
For these people, actions speak louder than words—lending a helping hand shows you really care. People who thrive on this language have very little tolerance for people who make more work for them.
5. Physical touch
To this person, nothing speaks more deeply than appropriate touch. That doesn’t mean only in the bedroom —everyday physical connections, like handholding, kissing, or any type of re-affirming physical contact is greatly appreciated.
According to Chapman, even though we tend to favor one language more than the others we still enjoy traits of the others as well.
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HOLLYWOOD
Anthony Hopkins will be 88 on New Year’s Eve, but he isn’t letting his age slow him down. He’s completed the sci-fi thriller “Eyes in the Trees” with Jonathan Rhys Meyers and Ashley Greene He will also star in
Guy Ritchie’s black comedy “Wife & Dog” with Benedict Cumberbatch, Rosamund Pike and James Norton.
Hopkins is currently filming the sports biography “Maserati: The Brothers” with Andy Garcia, Jessica Alba and Al Pacino. In addition, he just released his biography “We Did OK, Kid: A Memoir.” Who needs sleep?
Oscar winner
Brendan Fraser (“The Whale”) is reteaming with Rachel Weisz for a fourth sequel to their “Mummy” franchise. And why not? The first three made over $400 million each. Even Tom Cruise’s “The Mummy”(2017) made $410 million. (But with his cut, it barely broke even.)
DINING GUIDE
CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS
Traditions are a family’s way to pass down important events and memories associated with a specific holiday. The greatest thing about traditions is they can be started at any given point and can be used to help your family cultivate a deep bond, or can signal to new friends, that they are indeed a part of your family traditions.
Consider using the following ideas to cultivate your Christmas traditions:
f Take the family to the mountains or to a tree farm and cut down your own Christmas tree.
f Attend a late-night Christmas services on Christmas Eve.
f Go to a Christmas concert in your neighborhood.
f Stuff an extra stocking if you might welcome an unexpected guest for Christmas.
f Clean out your closets and take clothes in good condition to a shelter.
f Decorate the tree while listening to Christmas music. When finished, make hot cocoa, with marshmallows, and admire your tree.
f Gather a group of family and friends and sing Christmas songs to people living in retirement homes. Also bring freshly baked gifts for the attendees to take as a memory.
f Attend the play, “The Christmas Carol.”
f Read the “Night before Christmas,” to your grandchildren.
f Host a neighborhood holiday party, exchange white elephant gifts.
f Spoil your neighbors with Secret Santa gifts. Just wrap up a gift, and leave it on the doorstep with a note from Santa.
f Volunteer to feed meals to the homeless during the holidays, invite your family and neighbors to join you.
f Consider adopting a family who is less fortunate for the holidays. Invite your family and friends to participate in the gift giving.
f Write holiday cards and deliver them to those who may be alone for the holidays.
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HIPAA Release Form
Death Certificate Form
VA Benefit Instructions
Online Legacy Instructions
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Dinner and a Movie!
8.
STRONG CONNECTIONS
Your family is the foundation on which much of your happiness, success and physical and emotional well-being is based. If your family relationships are unstable, that can cause a ripple effect that affects work, friends, finances and even your health. The feelings of connection and security that come with strong family relationships can give you the lift you need to endure life’s challenges and meet your goals with confidence and courage. Here are some ways healthy families grow (at any age and stage):
1. They learn what their strengths are and use them to overcome obstacles and to stay connected. They put in the effort to identify and work on their weaknesses as individuals and as a whole. If your family is great at networking, use
your networking skills to help yourselves in times of need. If your family has weakness in the area of conflict, make a family pact to try harder to be calmer during arguments and to improve your conflict resolution skills.
2. They have a foundation of respect. Respect relates to how members of a family feel and think about each other and how they interact with each other. You show respect if you always consider your family members’ happiness and place it equal to your own.
3. They value investment in the family. Anything that we truly care about requires investment of time and energy. Make sure that you and all of your family members make a concerted effort to spend
time together, think about one another and work toward being a strong and happy unit.
4. They work on good communication skills. Communicating takes effort; it is not just about having a conversation. Focus on listening and understanding what your family member is trying to say. Carve out time to work on communication skills by putting away cellular phones and other devices when your spending time together.
5. They establish traditions. One of the greatest ways to connect is to have shared family traditions. If you have already developed some, do your best to continue what you started. If you don’t have traditions, it’s never too late to start them.
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COMFORT & JOY
The holiday season often evokes images of warmth, togetherness, and joyous gatherings with loved ones. However, for many individuals, circumstances or personal choices might lead them to spend the holidays in solitude. While the prospect of being alone during this time might initially seem daunting, it can also offer an opportunity for self-reflection, relaxation, and the chance to create meaningful experiences.
Here are some comforting ways to spend the holidays alone:
Self-Care and Pampering
Take advantage of this time to indulge in self-care activities. Treat yourself to a spa day at home with a long bath, facial masks, or a DIY manicure. Engaging in activities that make you feel good can help create a sense of comfort and relaxation.
Movie or Book Marathon
Immerse yourself in a movie or book marathon, exploring genres or series you’ve been wanting to delve into. Create a cozy environment with blankets and your favorite snacks and lose yourself in the captivating worlds of storytelling.
Cooking or Baking Experimentation
Try your hand at new recipes or bake some holiday treats. Experimenting in the kitchen can be a therapeutic and rewarding experience. The aroma of freshly baked goods or a homemade meal can bring comfort and a sense of accomplishment.
Explore Nature
Take a solitary nature walk. Whether it’s a park, a trail, or simply strolling through your neighborhood, spending time outdoors can be rejuvenating. Embrace the beauty of nature and relish the tranquility it offers. Take the time to discover new parks and woods to stimulate your senses.
Volunteering or Acts of Kindness
Engage in acts of kindness in your community. Volunteer at a local shelter, donate to a charity, or simply reach out to someone who might be feeling alone. Contributing to the well-being of others can bring a sense of fulfillment and purpose.
Spending the holidays alone doesn’t have to equate to loneliness. Embrace this time as an opportunity for self-discovery, relaxation, and personal growth. Engage in activities that bring you comfort and joy.
1. Is the book of Abaddon (KJV) in the Old or New Testament or neither?
2. From Matthew 12, when an evil spirit returns to a person, how many companions does it bring? 2, 3, 7, 16
3. In which book’s 22:18 does it state, “Thou shalt not suffer a witch to live”? Exodus, Numbers, Isaiah, Hebrews
4. The mark of the beast number (666) is found in what chapter of Revelation? 1, 7, 11, 13
ANSWERS: 1) Neither 2) Seven 3) Exodus 4) 13:18
BEVERAGE CLUB BE FESTIVE
TIRAMISU WHITE RUSSIANS
INGREDIENTS:
4 oz. cold heavy cream
2 tsp. granulated sugar
Ice
4 oz. dark rum
4 oz. Kahlúa
Unsweetened cocoa powder, for garnish 1 Ladyfinger cookie, halved crosswise
DIRECTIONS:
In a pint-sized glass jar, combine cream and sugar. Seal and vigorously shake until cream thickens enough to hold a soft peak, about 3 minutes. (Alternatively, use a whisk or handheld mixer to beat cream until soft peaks form.) Fill 2 rocks glasses with ice. Divide rum and Kahlúa between glasses and stir to combine. Using a spoon, divide whipped cream between glasses, using the back of the spoon to smooth into an even layer that covers surface of drink. Dust tops with cocoa powder. Top with a cookie half.
SUGAR COOKIE MARTINIS
INGREDIENTS:
Rim
Pre-made cut-out sugar cookie dough
1/2 cup vanilla frosting
1/4 cup sprinkles, plus 1 tsp., divided Red and white royal icing
Martinis
1/2 cup whole milk
1/4 cup Baileys
2 oz. vanilla vodka
2 oz. amaretto
Ice DIRECTIONS: Rim
Preheat oven to 350° and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll sugar cookie dough out to ¼” thick. Using a cookie cutter, cut out desired shapes then place cookies on prepared baking sheet. Bake until just set and lightly golden around the edges, 12 minutes. Let cool. Using an offset spatula, spread a thin layer of frosting onto rim of two martini glasses. Pour ¼ cup sprinkles onto a small plate then dip rims in sprinkles to coat. Use an offset to frost cookies with frosting.
Martinis
In a cocktail shaker, combine milk, Baileys, vodka, and amaretto. Add ice and shake until cold. Pour into glasses and garnish rim with a cookie.
PARTRIDGE IN A PEAR TREE
INGREDIENTS:
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup water
1/8 tsp. ground cinnamon
1/8 tsp. ground ginger
Pinch of grated fresh nutmeg
4 oz. bourbon
2 oz. pear brandy (such as St. George Spiced Pear Liqueur)
1 1/2 oz. (or more) fresh lemon juice
Ice
Sparkling pear hard cider, for topping off
Thinly sliced pears and candied ginger, for serving
DIRECTIONS:
In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, bring honey, water, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg to a boil. Remove from heat. Let steep 15 minutes, then strain through a fine-mesh strainer into a small measuring cup or bowl. In a cocktail shaker, combine bourbon, brandy, lemon juice, and 2 oz. honey syrup. Cover and vigorously shake until outside of shaker is very frosty, about 20 seconds. Taste and add more syrup or lemon juice, if needed. Divide bourbon mixture between 2 glasses. Fill glasses with ice, then top off with pear cider. Garnish with pear slices and candied ginger (if using).
AAA SENIOR PLACEMENT AZ
A Message from Sue Royer
“I was born and raised in inner city Chicago, the sixth of eighteen children with fifteen brothers. Being the oldest daughter, I was always a caregiver which I believe influenced me to pursue work in the healthcare industry. Today, I have three daughters and five grandchildren.
Years ago, I volunteered for hospice and knew immediately that helping seniors was my calling. I was soon employed by hospice but I felt something was missing. I realized it was the limited time I was able to spend with my clients. Having my own business allows me to provide the intimate hands on service needed in our community. I am committed to our seniors throughout their lives and I thank the community for the opportunity to serve.”
Sue RoyerDirector
About Us
Since 2002, AAA Senior Placement AZ has been offering FREE services helping seniors find safe, affordable and loving assisted living.
When it becomes too difficult for you or your loved ones to safely manage daily living and/or manage medical needs, call Sue Royer for help navigating the many options available.
We are specialists in all levels of assisted living care resources with referrals to Arizona’s best:
• Group Homes
• Assisted Living Communities
• In-Home Primary Care Physicians
• Home Health Care Therapy
• Transportation
• Private Duty In-Home Care
• Respite Care
• Alzheimer’s Care
• Memory Care
• Hospice
• Support Groups
Assisted living resources accepting:
• Private pay
• Arizona Long Term Care-ALTCS
• Medicaid
• VA Benefits
6 Reasons You Should Call
AAA Senior Placement AZ
• We are well known and respected in the medical community.
• All clients are given a thorough assessment to determine proper placement needs.
• There is never a fee charged to the senior or their family for our service.
• We are NOT contractually bound to any outside business. This allows us to serve our clients with only their interests in mind.
• Years of knowledge and experience in the field of senior care.
• AAA Senior Placement AZ is family owned, allowing us to give you quality, personalized service.
FLASHBACK
1. The Eagles, in 1974. In 1975, Billboard rated it at No. 12 of all the songs for the year.
2. Wilma Burgess, in 1966. Months later the song was covered by Eddy Arnold. It had been penned specifically for Brenda Lee, but she said no to recording it
3. Anne Murray, in 1970. The following year the Canadian group Ocean released the song on their debut album. A dozen others followed over the years with their own covers, including Joan Baez, Elvis Presley and Tennessee Ernie Ford.
4. Roy Orbison, in 1960. The song was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1999.
5. “You Decorated My Life,” by Kenny Rogers, in 1979. The next year it won the Grammy for Best Country Song.
HEALTH BE WELL
The holidays are a wonderful time for family, friends and celebrations. But winter can take a toll on your physical and mental health, even during the festivities. You may be wondering what can you do to stay healthy this holiday season? Here are some great ideas:
Drink water. Winter may be a good time for hot cocoa and cider, but always make water your drink of choice. While hot beverages can be great for warmth, remember to keep it balanced with at least 8 cups of water per day. A glass of water with and between each meal can keep you hydrated, healthy and ready to fight off any germs winter may bring.
Stress less. Over-the-top holiday excursions can be stressful, which isn’t how you should feel in this joyful season. Focus on your holiday traditions — don’t worry about the rest. Make time for friends, family and good cheer, and embrace relaxation when you can.
Sleep enough. Don’t neglect the value of sleep. Do all that you can to stick to your typical sleep schedule, even around all the celebrations and traveling. Avoid or limit caffeine, alcohol, daytime napping and large meals before bed.
Exercise. Cold air sometimes can discourage you from keeping up with your fitness routines. It’s easy to let these habits slide for the season, but remember that regular activity can keep you healthy, both mentally and physically.
Keep the germs away. Three words: Wash your hands. This is one of the best ways to avoid getting sick and spreading common winter illnesses, such as colds. Germs accumulate through nearly everything you do or touch, so wash your hands frequently.
TALK CREATIVE CONVERSATIONS
Try these on for size:
We all know attempting to have authentic conversations during the holidays can be all but impossible. Perhaps some of these conversation starters can help you delve a little deeper with your friends and family this holiday season.
If you could give everybody in the world one piece of advice, what would you say?
If you could eat only one food for an entire year, what would you choose?
If you could time travel, where would you go? What would you change?
If you could switch places with one friend for a day, who would it be?
What’s the most important choice you will have to make in your life?
What’s something you know how to do that you could teach others?
What is something you use every day that you don’t need?
What was the your first thought when you woke up today?
What’s the smartest thing you heard someone say today?
What do you want to accomplish by your next birthday?
What’s the funniest thing someone said or did today?
