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February 2024
It’s Black History Month, and the 50th anniversary of hip-hop was just last year. The cultural impact of this music on African American culture and the world can be seen all over pop culture and countless other elements of day-to-day life. In the words of Tariq Trotter from the renowned group The Roots, “Now, 50 years down the line … hip-hop is where our hearts live.” In recognition and celebration of this, I’d like to share a story about my brief encounter with rap royalty. I grew up in Wyoming before the internet. However, I had the radio, which allowed me to “travel” the country and the world. The radio first introduced me to the magic of hip-hop. It was new, brash, bold, and exhilarating. Much like my own personal story, hip-hop was born in a small neighborhood and eventually traversed the world. Hip-hop, like jazz before it, became ubiquitous worldwide. Growing up in the dawn of this music was incredible. There are countless hip-hop styles to this day and so many creative ways to approach the poetry and layered nature of the music. Even now, I still love A Tribe Called Quest, Mos Def, and Jay Z. At the time, one of my favorites was a musician by the name of LL Cool J. On the radio, my best friend and I heard that LL Cool J was playing in Denver, only a few hours away. So, we planned a road trip. We loaded the car with snacks and drinks and set off for Colorado. On the ride there, we scoured the radio for new hip-hop songs, singing and squealing with excitement. WORKSHOP Have you (or your clients) “been meaning” to get a plan in place? It’s easy to get started with our 7 Hazards to Your Estate Plan Workshop . This free workshop explains the key planning concepts, documents, and the factors in selecting a plan that is right for you. Plus, workshop participants receive a complimentary consultation with no obligation to retain our services. The workshop is available on demand or in person, so stop thinking about a plan and create one. Register online at PromiseLaw.com/Estate-Planning-Workshop or call (757) 690-2470. A BRUSH WITH FAME
My Trip to See an Icon in Denver
Since Google Maps didn’t exist back then, we drove straight to the venue before grabbing dinner to ensure we could find our way back. The venue was huge, but our excitement was still palpable. As we circled the venue, planning our approach, we
came upon a long black limousine with a slightly cracked window.
We looked at each other incredulously; surely, it couldn’t be him. But then the window dropped an inch or two more, and we saw the unmistakable hat, one of LL Cool J’s signatures at the time, and we went wild. Dizzy with fame, we followed the limo until it reached a hotel. Building up our courage, we went into the lobby, where LL Cool J was sitting with some of his bodyguards. While I can’t recall exactly what I said, I do know I told him how much his music meant to me. He graciously signed autographs for me and my friend. After we headed to the car and regained our composure, we drove to our dinner destination and then back to the concert. The concert was terrific but paled in comparison to meeting the man in person. Both of us still remember that trip to this day! Sometimes, the journey isn’t really about the destination; it’s about your experiences on the way. This month, I encourage you to take some time to reflect on the special moments in your life that are priceless and unforgettable. Share these moments with
your loved ones because, much like the assets you leave behind with your estate plan, the stories you share of priceless experiences are full of richness they will cherish for years to come.
–Geneva Perry
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HISTORY OF PREGNANCY TESTING
From Seeds to Science From ancient times, human ingenuity has been pivotal in unraveling medical mysteries, and pregnancy testing is a particularly fascinating example. In Egypt, around 1350 BCE, pregnancy testing blended mysticism and early science. Women would urinate on wheat and barley seeds, an intriguing method that modern research has shown to be surprisingly accurate, with a 70% success rate. If barley grew, it indicated a male child; wheat signified a female. Across different cultures, unique approaches emerged. The Greeks, influenced by Hippocrates, developed diagnostic theories based on the four bodily humors. In India, ancient Ayurvedic texts detailed pulse examination techniques for various conditions, including pregnancy, showcasing remarkable observational abilities and a deep understanding of the human body. The Middle Ages saw a curious amalgamation of superstition and the beginnings of scientific inquiry. “Piss prophets”
examined urine for its color and clarity, practices that were precursors to today’s urinalysis.
A significant advancement came in the 20th century with the discovery of the hormone hCG. This breakthrough led to the first reliable home pregnancy tests in the 1960s, marking a dramatic shift from rudimentary ancient methods and offering greater accuracy and privacy.
This journey from ancient seed tests to sophisticated modern diagnostics illustrates the evolution in our understanding
of the human body. Those early tests laid the groundwork for the reliable techniques we use today, inspiring us to continue improving our medical knowledge and practices.
EVOLVING WITH GRACE How to Thrive in Times of Change
Shaking Up Your Routine Personal changes in your day and routine might seem strange, but soon, you’ll find a new rhythm and perspective, breathing fresh energy into your daily life. Simple acts, like picking up a new hobby, can revitalize your mental and emotional landscape. Cultivating Resilience and Flexibility Navigating change successfully is all about balance. Being resilient means you meet challenges head- on, while flexibility helps you adapt and find creative solutions. Imagine yourself as a mature, healthy tree, swaying with the winds of change without being uprooted.
Embracing the Process Remember, evolving with change is a journey, not a sprint. It’s normal to need time to adjust to new surroundings or situations. Be kind to yourself, seek support when necessary, and savor each step of this phase of life. After all, mastering the art of change is one of life’s most valuable skills. As you face change and the need to evolve, consider it a doorway to new experiences, not an insurmountable hurdle. It truly is a chance to grow, learn, and enjoy life from a fresh vantage point. So, take a deep breath and dive into the adventure like a champ!
The world today changes constantly, sometimes very quickly, and each twist and turn brings a new adventure! As we journey through life, especially in our golden years, change remains a familiar companion, offering a blend of new experiences and difficult situations. Here’s how to navigate this ebb and flow with confidence.
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TAKE A BREAK
Choose the Right Oil for Every Dish Your Olive Oil Guide
AQUARIUS CANDY CUPID GROUNDHOG HEART LINCOLN CHOCOLATE PENNSYLVANIA PHIL
PRESIDENTS VALENTINE WINTER
Olive oil is versatile in its culinary uses and varied in its types. Each type offers distinct flavors and health benefits, and you should choose the right one for your cooking needs. So, here’s a guide to the different types of olive oil and their optimal uses. Extra Virgin Olive Oil Extra virgin olive oil is the highest quality and is extracted through cold pressing, preserving its natural flavors. It boasts a rich, fruity flavor and is best used for salad dressings, dips, or finishing oil. Its high concentration of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties make it beneficial for heart health. Virgin Olive Oil This type has a milder flavor and lower acid content. It’s suitable for cooking at moderate temperatures. This oil retains most of its antioxidants, making it a healthy choice for everyday cooking. Pure Olive Oil Often labeled as “olive oil,” this type is a blend of refined and virgin oils. It has a more neutral flavor and higher smoke point, making it ideal for frying. While it has fewer antioxidants than extra virgin olive oil, it still offers heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. Light and Extra Light Olive Oil These oils are not lower in calories but lighter in color and flavor. They undergo considerable refining, which makes them suitable for high-heat cooking and baking where a neutral taste is desired. Each type of olive oil offers distinct flavors. Extra virgin is best for cold dishes, while pure olive oil suits high-heat cooking. Understanding the differences can enhance your dishes and wow your taste buds.
Marry Me Chicken
Inspired by HealthyLittlePeach.com
Ingredients
• 3 boneless chicken breasts • 1 tsp salt and pepper • 1 tbsp olive oil • 3 cloves garlic, minced • 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream • 3/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes • 1 tsp dried oregano • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
Directions 1. Season chicken with salt and pepper. In a skillet over high heat, add olive oil and allow it to heat up. Then add chicken. 2. Let cook for 6 minutes or until golden brown. Repeat on the other side. Remove cooked chicken to a plate and set aside. 3. Reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic, broth, and heavy cream to the skillet. Stir sauce for 1 minute. 4. Add sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, and red pepper flakes to the mixture. 5. Bring sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low. Add chicken back to the skillet, coating each side. Cook until chicken reaches 165 F.
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INSIDE THIS ISSUE
1
Investing in Moments: The Value of Creating Lasting Memories
Seeds, Science, and Surprises in Medicine
2
Embrace Change, Enhance Life!
Marry Me Chicken
3
Cooking With the Perfect Olive Oil
You’re Never Too Old to Help
4
Seniors Making a World of Difference: VOLUNTEER WITH IVHQ
For senior travelers seeking a unique journey, volunteer vacations with the International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ) offer an opportunity to impact the global community. These adventures go beyond the conventional, immersing seniors in foreign cultures while contributing to local communities. IVHQ’s diverse programs put senior volunteers in awe- inspiring locations worldwide. They’re not just visitors but active participants in cultural exchange and community enhancement. With age comes a wealth of experience, knowledge, and patience — attributes highly valued and admired by younger volunteers and locals alike. Whether it’s teaching English in Cambodia or participating in wildlife conservation in Sri Lanka’s jungles, IVHQ ensures every volunteer finds their perfect fit. Accommodations cater to every preference, and local cuisine adds an authentic touch to this enriching experience. Take Glenda Bernstein, a 55-year-old IVHQ volunteer in Tanzania, who describes her time at a local school as “one
of my greatest life experiences.” The warmth and gratitude she received from the community and the connections she forged with the children underscore the profound impact of her work. IVHQ’s volunteer vacations for seniors are more than just travel; they’re a testament to the power of experience in fostering global understanding and positive change. It’s an invitation to seniors to embark on a journey to explore the world and leave an enduring mark on communities and volunteers alike.
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