Links You’ll Love

Here’s a round up of things I’ve been reading this week.  All the links open in a new window, so feel free to read one and then come back, without fear of getting lost in the internet.

Damomma, also known as Elizabeth Soutter and the woman who helped design my website, has a beautifully touching post on caring for a loved one at the end of life.

“We’re going to turn you on your side,” I said into her good ear, “and in a minute you’ll be all warm and fresh.”  I put my arms on her naked shoulders, lifted when the aid said lift.  My grandmother cried out.  I turned her into my chest,  wondering whether my presence was making it better or cosmically worse.

That was when she inhaled.  Deep against me, nuzzling, just like my babies did.  And it occurred to me that I was probably the first woman to hold her like that in about eighty years.  I rested my cheek against her head, stroked her hair.

As you can see, it’s a good idea to have some tissues handy before you go read the whole story. And return to her blog often, because she’s just as likely to have you laughing out load.

###

The New York Times has a new article on Estate Planning as a Family Conversation.

Families that speak freely about estate planning can sometimes address awkward situations that might arise, like the choice of the executor — who is in charge of distributing assets after someone dies — or succession plans for a family business or the leaving of assets in trust….

How families handle delicate issues depends both on the particular circumstances and the personalities involved. Sometimes it is best to have a series of talks, rather than covering everything all at once, Mr. Collier said. Or parents may talk to each child separately, rather than addressing them as a group. Afterward, he says, parents should ask, “What do you think?” Adult children “may have great ideas and opinions,” he said.

I wish the article had focused more on talking about planning for incapacity and who will make health care decisions while you are alive, or handle your property if you are unable, but any kind of conversation about estate planning is better than none at all.

###

And, since Spring is on its way and outdoor exercise becomes a little more pleasant, here’s a great reminder about the importance of exercise in healthy aging.

“I’m 86 and have walked every day of my life. The public needs to wake up and move.”

“I’m 83 going on 84 years! I find that daily aerobics and walking are fine. But these regimens neglect the rest of the body, and I find the older you get the more attention they need.”

Regular exercise is the only well-established fountain of youth, and it’s free. What, I’d like to know, will persuade the majority of Americans who remain sedentary to get off their duffs and give their bodies the workout they deserve? My hope is that every new testimonial to the value of exercise will win a few more converts until everyone is doing it.

Hmm, I’m 37 and I don’t walk every day.  I have sneakers, two legs that work and no excuses.  Maybe today is the perfect day to start my walking regimen. After all it is March 4th, what better time to March Forth!