Dear Candid Candace: My husband and I just retired to a nice place in Arizona. We spend a good deal of the winter there now, which is great, but it has created a bit of a problem we did not anticipate. Visitors! Suddenly, many of our friends from Chicago and the Midwest are calling to come for a visit and, of course, wanting to stay with us. I’m okay with it as I enjoy the company, but my husband says “ fine, as long as they don’t stay here in the house.” He likes his privacy, especially in the mornings. I am trying to respect his wishes. Any suggestion on how to let people know the visit is welcome, but they would have to stay in a hotel? Signed – Happy but Harried in Arizona
Dear Happy but Harried: The golden years in Arizona, where retirement dreams flourish along with unexpected guests and where we all wish we were right about now! It seems like your cozy abode has become the hottest winter retreat. Now, for the delicate dance of hospitality without sacrificing your husband’s morning peace, try this: “Absolutely thrilled about your visit! We’ve become connoisseurs of local hotels here – it’s practically an art form. We can’t wait to share our newfound expertise with you! Let’s make it a true Arizona adventure!” See, you’re not just redirecting them to hotels; you’re inviting them on a thrilling expedition into the world of local accommodations. It’s like a game of hospitality chess – checkmate with a wink. OR, you could just tell them you’re redecorating your only guest bedroom and converting it into a den. Done and done! Best of luck maneuvering through the guest shuffle!
Dear Candid Candace: I’ve been neglecting my health and wellness lately with too much “holiday eating” and want to make positive changes going into the New Year. I have no more excuses like “I just want to clean out the fridge.” Also, with so many parties, my drinking has gotten out of hand too. I don’t want to be a party pooper, but I also want to find some realistic and sustainable habits I can adopt for a healthier lifestyle. Do you have any suggestions for me other than Ozempic? Signed – Health Seeker
Dear Health Seeker: I completely feel your pain. I’ve been happily eating and drinking my way through the holidays too. Sadly, I must also put a stop to my own madness. However, now with the snow and dark and cold days, it seems like now, more than ever, I am craving comfort food. I’ve taped a photo of myself to the fridge but all that does is scare the dog, so I have to knuckle down and find different motivations. I think it’s fantastic that you’re ready to prioritize your health and wellness. Making positive changes doesn’t/shouldn’t be an overwhelming task, and it’s great that you’re seeking some advice for this very common problem. Here’s a few suggestions from the experts:
- Start Small: Begin with manageable changes to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Small adjustments to your daily routine, like taking short walks, choosing healthier snacks, can lead to significant improvements over time.
- Hydration is Key: Make sure you’re staying well-hydrated. Often, our bodies can mistake thirst for hunger, leading to unnecessary snacking. Drinking water throughout the day can help you feel more energized and satisfied.
- Avoid Stress Eating: I know this is easier said than done, but a lot of over-eating is due to stressful situations.
- Balanced Nutrition: Focus on a balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Incorporate colorful and nutrient-dense foods into your meals for a broad range of health benefits.
- Exercise for Enjoyment: Find physical activities that you genuinely enjoy. Whether it’s dancing, hiking, or a favorite sport, making exercise fun increases the likelihood that you’ll stick with it. Consistency is key.
- Limit…
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