Take a look at our December newsletter!
DECEMBER 2025
847-515-8970 • KineticPTS.com
A Rooftop Tale Gone Wrong Enjoy Christmas Lights Without the Ladder
that point. Needless to say, the lights never got finished, and the moment I got back inside the house was utter mayhem. The irony? My dad, Mr. Too-Busy- for-Lights, now goes all out. We’re talking glowing reindeer, light- up trees, and synchronized lawn decor. He starts in November like a true professional. Meanwhile, I’m content to admire the neighbors’ handiwork. Our subdivision and the one next to it go big, even wrapping all the parkway trees in coordinated displays. These days, my decorating is limited to the bushes and a few window lights. My wife, Emilie, keeps suggesting I hang some from the peaks of our two-story house, but unless she’s hiring a lift truck, it’s not happening. Especially not while I’m still recovering from a broken leg from my recent ski mishap. No ladders for me … ever again. Still, I love the lights. They make the season brighter, especially when we don’t get much snow anymore around December. And even though I’ll never be the guy on the roof again, I’m happy being the guy on the ground with coffee in hand, admiring the glow, and laughing about that one Christmas I learned an important lesson: never trust your brother with the ladder. –Mike Ulmer
Ah, Dec. 1, also known as National Christmas Lights Day. The day when people untangle last year’s light strands, climb onto icy rooftops, and transform their homes into glowing winter wonderlands. I admire those people. Truly. Because as much as I love looking at Christmas lights, I’ve got a bit of a history with hanging them. Let’s just say it involves a sibling rivalry, a snowbank, and one very bad idea. Growing up, my dad was a jeweler (still is, actually), and Christmas was the busiest time of year for him. He didn’t have time to string up lights between custom orders and last-minute shoppers. My brother and I, of course, were devastated and always just had to make a fuss about it. One year, my mom finally gave in and bought some lights. “If you boys want them so badly,” she said, “you’re putting them up yourselves.”
So, naturally, giving us a ladder, a tangled pile of lights, and a snowy roof was a recipe for chaos. At first, things were fine; we had a system. He held the ladder; I climbed up and hung the lights. But after about 15 minutes, we both decided this process was “taking too long.” My brilliant, undeveloped brain thought, “Why not just climb on the roof? That’ll be faster.” So, up I went, snow and all, ready to conquer the gutter line in record time. That’s when the snowball fight started. To this day, neither of us remembers who threw the first one, but within seconds, it was war. There I was, on the roof, hurling snowballs down at him, and then, in a move that can only be described as brotherly betrayal, he took the ladder and went inside. Just left me there. On the roof. In December. My parents weren’t home and wouldn’t be for hours, and I had two choices: freeze or improvise. So, I found the biggest snowbank I could, said a little prayer, and jumped. I landed … eventually. Deep in the snow, soaked, freezing, and probably questioning every life decision I’d made up to
That’s where things went sideways.
My brother and I love each other, but teamwork has never been our strong suit. I’m talking about two kids who once took all day to pick apples from just two trees because we kept bickering and throwing apples at each other.
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Eliminate This Hidden Hazard From Your Diet Get Smart About Sugar
Most Americans know that too much sugar in their diet is bad for them, increasing the risk of heart disease, cancer, obesity, Type 2 diabetes, and other chronic conditions. While avoiding candy, desserts, and sugary drinks may be the first thought that comes to mind when you think about reducing sugar, that may not be enough. You may be getting hidden sugar in other foods that masquerade as healthy choices, such as granola, processed snacks, and smoothies. Hidden sugars are a major reason 12%–16% of most Americans’ daily calorie intake comes from sugar, instead of the recommended 5%–10%. Here are three ways to eliminate hidden sugars from your everyday diet. READ LABELS Did you know that ketchup is more sugary than ice cream? Marinara and other sauces are sugary culprits as well. Some canned foods also contain large amounts of sugar. A consumer’s best defense is to read labels. The most prevalent ingredients are listed at the top. Also watch for its many other identities, including high fructose corn syrup, maltose, and dextrose.
CHOOSE FULL-FAT Nonfat or low-fat foods might seem like a healthy choice, but they often contain more sugar and calories than the
full-fat alternative. Also, full-fat foods tend to be more satisfying. For a pleasing dessert, try combining a full-fat dairy topping with fresh fruit. The natural sugar in fresh fruit doesn’t rocket straight into your bloodstream in the same harmful way the sugar added to processed foods does. INCREASE PROTEIN Not only are protein-rich foods good for you, but they also curb your appetite and carb cravings. In fact, they have the opposite effect as sugary foods, which tend to increase cravings and weight gain! Protein-rich meat, fish, eggs, avocados, and nuts can all be tasty allies in reducing hidden sugars. Don’t tackle all these dietary changes at once. Choose one at a time and stick with it until it feels natural. Embracing new habits gradually makes them more likely to stick!
PATIENT TESTIMONIALS Getting Confidence Back
“When I came back to Kinetic I had lost all confidence in myself due to a fall in which I fractured my pelvis. I was afraid to walk at all. Amanda helped me with specific exercises and
“I sought help because I was noticing my fingers were ‘tingling,’ especially playing the piano, but sometimes for no apparent reason. Simultaneously, I had a couple of weeks of really strenuous theater work — loss of stamina, sick. The offer of a free
much TLC in order for me to get my confidence back. I now walk and do stairs just like I did before my fall. “Thank you so much Amanda! You have brought me back from the brink!” – Marijean Ribordy
evaluation in your newsletter prompted me to get help. The exercises and new information changed my posture, which relieved the tingling in my fingers. I have the information I need to continue my theater piano work. Thank you!” – Diane Aitken
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WRAP UP WELLNESS! ‘Tis the Season for Stretching, Strengthening, and Smiling
Looking for the perfect present this holiday season? Why not give the gift of wellness! From tools that improve posture to fun fitness gadgets, there are plenty of ways to help your loved ones feel their best while having a little fun. TRACK AND CELEBRATE PROGRESS A fitness planner is an ideal choice for goal-setters and resolution- makers in your life. Whether it’s simple or detailed, planners help track workouts, nutrition, and personal milestones. Pair it with a fitness watch , and they’ve got a digital sidekick to monitor daily activity, heart rate, and even sleep. Whether someone is starting a new routine or leveling up their fitness game, these gifts are a winning combo.
Sudoku This season, give gifts that spark joy, support wellness, and inspire movement. Whether bouncing, stretching, or tracking progress, these creative wellness tools don’t just make thoughtful presents; they make healthier, happier people year-round. thoughtful option, letting them sneak in steps and stretch breaks without leaving their workspace. RECOVERY AND RELAXATION After workouts or a long day, tools that relieve tension can be lifesavers. A foam roller is a simple way to reduce muscle tightness, improve flexibility, and aid recovery from home. If comfort is the priority, Lazy Reader Prism Glasses allow for reading or TV time without neck strain, turning leisure into a relaxing experience.
SUPPORT THE BACK YOU LOVE Hours at a desk, endless scrolling, or curling up with a book can wreak havoc on posture. A lumbar pillow offers support where it matters most and encourages better alignment while reducing neck and back strain. For a high- tech twist, the In8Love Posture Noodle helps naturally retrain muscles to maintain proper posture, fading away slouching while building upper body strength. MAKE MOVEMENT FUN Exercise doesn’t have to feel like a chore. A mini trampoline brings cardio, balance, and core strength into play (literally)! Jumping is a joyful, portable way to stay active, perfect for all ages. For those spending hours at a desk, an under-the-desk treadmill is a
Baked Feta, Tomato, and White Bean Skillet
INGREDIENTS • 2 pints cherry tomatoes • 2 (15-oz) cans no-salt-added cannellini beans, rinsed • 4 medium cloves garlic, finely chopped • 2 tsp Italian seasoning • 1/4 tsp salt • 6 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, divided
• 6 oz feta cheese, packed in brine, cut into 4 pieces • 1 tbsp hot honey • Basil leaves, for garnish • 4 slices toasted whole-
wheat country bread, optional, for serving
DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 450 F. 2. In a large, oven-safe skillet, combine tomatoes, beans, garlic, Italian seasoning, and salt. 3. Drizzle with 5 tbsp of olive oil and stir gently. 4. Add feta pieces 2 inches apart in the mixture and drizzle with remaining olive oil. 5. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the tomatoes have burst. 6. Remove from oven and drizzle with hot honey. Garnish with basil leaves, and serve with toast if desired.
Inspired by EatingWell.com
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847-515-8970 KineticPTS.com
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INSIDE
Stranded on the Roof: Mike’s Bright but Not- So-Merry Holiday Memory PAGE 1 How to Reduce Hidden Sugar In Your Diet PAGE 2 Patient Testimonials: Getting Confidence Back PAGE 2 Skip the Socks: Find Fun and Functional Wellness Gifts This Season PAGE 3 Baked Feta, Tomato, and White Bean Skillet PAGE 3
3 Train Trips to Take Today PAGE 4
remarkable gourmet food (including breakfast in bed!) and live entertainment, this world-renowned train will take you through Venice, Paris, Istanbul, and other legendary European destinations. A SYMPHONY OF SWISS SCENES For many travelers seeking some of the most breathtaking visuals imaginable, all rails lead to the Swiss Alps. The Glacier Express’ 292-bridge/91-tunnel track from Zermatt to St. Moritz gives passengers a personal view of picturesque valleys, mountain streams, and alpine meadows. Often referred to as “the slowest express train in the world,” it travels 24 miles per hour, allowing you to feast your eyes on the scenery through its panoramic windows. Boasting millions of passengers in its decades-long history, the Glacier Express has earned its rightful place as one of the most celebrated names in tourism.
AN ALASKAN ADVENTURE If you’re looking for railway adventures closer to home, consider hitting the tracks in Alaska. Since 1903, the Alaska Railroad has provided travelers an intimate way to explore what later became our 49th state. Getting a seat will guarantee a breathtaking journey through scenic landscapes, national parks, fjords, snow-capped peaks, and valleys brimming with wildlife. For the ultimate Alaska experience, opt for the Alaska Railroad’s GoldStar Service, which offers glass-dome ceilings for panoramic nature viewing, a full-service dining room, and a one-of-a-kind upper-level platform for additional sightseeing. The next time your wanderlust inspires you to explore new wonders, skip the plane and take a train!
Tracks and Treasures SCENIC RAIL JOURNEYS WORTH RIDING
Flying over beautiful landscapes can be exhilarating, but what if you could experience those beautiful
sights in a closer and more personal way? With railway
vacations, you can. Whether you’re a seasoned train traveler or curious about cruising on the tracks, here are three travel options you can only experience and appreciate on the rails. A EUPHORIC EUROPEAN ESCAPE While there are plenty of thrilling sights to behold in America, the glamorous international excursion of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is incomparable. From its pristinely preserved 1920s/1930s-era carriages and stunning Art Deco interior to its
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