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February 2024
ON THE
MOVE
As Valentine’s Day approaches, I can’t help but reflect on the fateful events that led me to meet the love of my life, Maria. Our story has an almost cinematic quality, reminiscent of the movie “Serendipity,” in which chance encounters and fate play a pivotal role in bringing two people together. It all began in October, 1999 when I had just completed my education and started working at NYU Medical Center in the heart of Manhattan. Little did I know that a seemingly ordinary event would set the stage for my love story. My brother, sensing an opportunity to build business connections through a young Italian American organization called Fieri, invited me to join him at a gathering. Reluctant and attempting to back out at the last minute, my brother insisted I attend. Fate had already set its wheels in motion. Falling in Love A Serendipitous Journey With Maria
Italy and arrived via plane in 1986, wasn’t initially keen on the idea but gave in to her friend.
A few nights later, I saw Maria again at the mixer. I noticed her talking with others, including my brother, but it was a sudden and unexplainable pull that urged me to approach her. We spent the entire night engaged in conversation, discovering shared interests and creating a connection that felt destined.
It’s funny how things fall into place when you are with the right person.
Our journey continued with a Halloween party, more Fieri meetings, and a memorable raffle at the last gathering we attended together. As winning numbers were announced, I orchestrated playful pranks to surprise Maria. Every time a number was called, I got up and slid my chair back, acting like I had won. At first, she was shocked. But the second time I pretended, she was a little less surprised. When the final winning number, “235,” was announced, I stood up once again, leaving her both amused and slightly embarrassed. I remember her tugging on my arm and mouthing to me to stop as I walked toward the stage. But I walked all the way to the announcer, with my eyes locked on Maria the whole time, and handed him my ticket with 235 on it! I actually won! As I came back, smiling the whole way, Maria was laughing and in shock! Looking back, it’s clear that our love story was filled with moments of serendipity and laughter. Our story was made possible by perfect timing, humorous antics, and an undeniable connection that seemed to align with the stars. It’s funny how things fall into place when you are with the right person. Sometimes, the most extraordinary love stories are written by chance.
We were running behind, and as we arrived, everyone was already engaged in discussions about upcoming events. A mixer at the Crazy Moose Bar was on the agenda. As they talked
and discussed the plans, I remember making eye contact with Maria. Unbeknownst to me, she had been persuaded by a friend to attend, hoping to connect with her Italian roots. Maria, a “real Italian,” as she humorously describes herself because she is from
–Dr. Robert Morea
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From Stray Dog to Nursing Home Hero SCOUT’S HEARTWARMING TALE
A heartwarming story unfolded about an hour north of Traverse City, Michigan. It’s the tale of Scout, an adventurous dog whose journey from an abandoned stray to a beloved companion showcases the love our furry friends have for us. Scout’s story began as a frequent escapee from Antrim County Animal Control. Scout constantly “slipped the leash” and traveled to the same location after all his escapes: the Meadow Brook Medical Care Facility. Every time he escaped, Scout crossed a highway, jumped a 10-foot chain link fence and a 6-foot privacy fence, and slipped in the front door to sleep on his couch in the lobby. The nurses at Meadow Brook had to make a choice after Scout reappeared in their lobby for the third time. And after recognizing the patients wanted
Scout around just as much as he wanted to be there, they happily took him in. After giving him a check-up, it was clear Scout had not lived the easiest life before finding his way to Meadow Brook. No one knows where he came from before escaping animal control for the first time, what his original name was, or the exact abuse he suffered before finding his forever home. Scout flinches at loud sounds and has round pellets, likely buckshot or BBs, lodged in his face. But despite his past, Scout openly cares for and protects the residents of Meadow Brook. Scout now patrols Meadow Brook, visiting the residents as often as possible. Whenever someone is having a rough day, whether it’s because a friend forgot to visit or their health is acting up, Scout is
there to ease their woes with a damp nose poking for affection and a doggy smile on his face. “He makes a good nursing home dog,” Stephanie Elsey, the facility’s clinical care coordinator, said. “He knows his job, and he’s good at what he does.” Scout’s journey from a shelter’s uncertainty to a beloved member of the Meadow Brook community is more than just a happy tale. It’s a reminder of life’s unexpected joys and the incredible, healing bond between humans and animals.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT PILLOW FOR A PAIN-FREE MORNING
Stomach Sleepers: The Flatter, the Better Stomach sleeping is generally not recommended due to the strain it puts on your neck and back. However, if this is your preferred position, choose a flat or no pillow. This helps keep your neck as straight as possible. A soft down pillow or a thin memory foam can work wonders in providing just the right amount of comfort without compromising your neck’s position. If you’re unhappy with your sleep position, gradually shift your sleep position. For instance, if you’re a stomach sleeper, try moving to side sleeping with body pillows for support. Remember, changing habits takes time, and comfort is the key to a good night’s sleep. Your pillow plays a pivotal role in ensuring a pain-free wake-up call. Choosing the right one for your sleeping position enhances your sleep quality and invests in your neck’s long- term health. Say goodbye to those pesky neck pains and unwelcome headaches, and embrace mornings filled with pain-free vitality.
Waking up with a stiff neck or a throbbing headache is the worst way to start your day. Often, the culprit is as simple as the pillow you rest your head on. Choosing the right pillow based on your sleeping position is not just about comfort but also neck health and sleep quality. Here are three options for your best pillow based on how you sleep.
Back Sleepers: A Balancing Act Back sleepers need a pillow that supports the natural curve of their neck. A too-high pillow can strain neck muscles, while a too-flat one can cause your head to fall back, both leading to morning discomfort. Ideally, a medium-thick pillow, preferably memory foam, works best. It cradles your head and neck, providing a balanced alignment. Side Sleepers: Height Matters Side sleepers have a larger gap to fill between their head and the mattress. A firm, high pillow is essential to align your head and neck with your
spine. Memory foam or a high-fill down pillow are excellent choices as they conform to the shape of your neck and head, ensuring optimal support.
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Supercharge Your Health With These 4 Nutrient-Rich Foods
Fish Fish are naturally low in fat and high in protein. They also have omega-3 fatty acids, which are hugely important for cell function, especially cells in your eyes and brain. Studies have shown benefits in preventing cardiovascular disease. Some good fish options are sardines, mackerel, salmon, trout, and tuna. Berries Berries are delicious, packed with natural sugars, plus high in fiber and antioxidants. They are a great snack on their own and make a great addition to cereal, oatmeal, and yogurt. You can add common berries like blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries or exotic options like goji or gooseberries. Dark Leafy Greens Dark leafy greens include chard, collard greens, kale, and spinach. Leafy greens are high in fiber and various vitamins and minerals, including calcium, vitamin C, and vitamin A. MARRY ME CHICKEN Inspired by HealthyLittlePeach.com
TAKE A BREAK! Here are four healthy, nutrient-rich options, but before making any significant dietary changes, consult your physician or health practitioner. provide all of the nutrients a healthy person needs, many foods are high in nutrients you can and should eat to improve your diet. We’ve all heard the term superfood, but what does it really mean? It’s often used in clickbait articles and referenced by dietitians and nutritionists. Articles with titles like “The 10 Superfoods to Supercharge Your Metabolism” and “Superfoods You Need to Eat” are everywhere. Unfortunately, the term “superfood” is marketing fluff, with no agreed-upon official definition among dietitians. However, superfoods have generally come to mean foods rich in vitamins and minerals that may have myriad health benefits. While there is no single food that can adequately
Legumes Like the children’s rhyme says, beans are a magical fruit. They are high in fiber, minerals, and vitamins. They have also been shown to lower the risk of heart disease. Many types of beans exist: soy, kidney, butter, red, black, and chickpea and can be used in many dishes like chili to add necessary fiber. Many foods provide the nutrition and health benefits you need to live a long, healthy life. Try incorporating some of these foods into your meals for a more balanced and nutritious diet.
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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1. The Stars Aligned — My Serendipitous Love Story 2. Michigan’s Stray With the Biggest Heart The Secret to Pain-Free Mornings 3. These ‘Superfoods’ Supercharge Your Health Marry Me Chicken 4. Natural Over Perfect INSIDE THIS ISSUE
The Art of Graceful Maturing ICONS WHO REJECT ARTIFICIAL YOUTH
Helen Mirren: Advocate for Authentic Beauty Dame Helen Mirren, with her captivating presence, is a beacon of authentic aging. Mirren has openly criticized the pressure to undergo cosmetic procedures, advocating for a more natural approach to aging. Her fearless fashion choices and selection of film roles that celebrate her mature charm highlight her commitment to aging gracefully and naturally. Samuel L. Jackson: Embracing Wisdom Samuel L. Jackson, known for his powerful on-screen presence, has also spoken against the trend of cosmetic alterations in favor of aging naturally. He views the experience and wisdom gained over the years as invaluable, choosing to focus on these qualities rather than altering his appearance. Jackson’s distinctive style makes him an inspiring figure for natural aging. These stars, through their examples, promote a refreshing perspective on aging. They exemplify the beauty of growing older without artificial intervention, embracing each wrinkle as a testament to their journey. In doing so, they inspire a shift toward a culture that values natural aging, viewing each passing year not as a challenge to combat but as an achievement to celebrate.
In a world captivated by the illusion of
perpetual youth, several celebrated personalities stand out for their admirable approach to maturing naturally.
These individuals not only embrace their advancing years with dignity but also advocate against relying on artificial methods to maintain a
Photo credit: Wikimedia commons, Flickr, Dick Thomas Johnson
youthful appearance.
Meryl Streep: The Unaltered Legend Meryl Streep, one of the greatest film actors of all time, has always approached her life stages openly and honestly. She has been vocal about her decision to avoid cosmetic alterations, preferring to age gracefully. Streep’s career, marked by roles that celebrate her evolving persona, reflects her respect for the natural process of aging. Her appearance at events, showcasing her elegant, unaltered features, reinforces her stance against the trend of cosmetic enhancements in Hollywood.
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