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Collections are defined as a similar group of things, often more than three. Most of us equate them not in terms of the number but as objects that we really don’t need, and which have made our everyday lives more beautiful, fulfilling and interesting. They reflect our personal taste and style. They also require great time, effort and money spent learning and hunting for something that catches our attention and becomes a passion worth pursuing.   Margaret’s mother collected paperweights, and her husband amassed more than 5,000-vinyl records and many bottles of fine wine. And then there was all the...

Unlike other friends whose families moved frequently, we both grew up in one suburban community where we lived for decades. We went through one public school system, walked to school or stood at the bus stop with the same kids, made friends early on—some from kindergarten--and our parents continued to live in those places long after we graduated from our high schools. Margaret’s parents changed homes in St. Louis but stayed in the same school system and community. Barbara’s parents in Westchester County, New York, stayed in the same house for four decades. Her mother only moved to New York...

By Judy Rubin* Baby boomers are transitioning from the active workforce into active retirement. Most have part-time jobs, hobbies or family to focus on.  There is a lot to divert their attention from un-pleasantries like planning if they reach very old age and need assistance in daily lives.  Research modeling suggests that more than half of people who are 65 years old today will need some custodial care during their lifetimes. That means some help with the activities of daily living, including eating, bathing, toileting, dressing, transferring and help due to cognitive decline. Every boomer should take a few minutes...

We’re in our Mom-centric mode. With Mother’s Day fast approaching, we’re both thinking a lot about our grown children and the wonderful time we invested through the years to raise them. We hoped all would turn out well, but we had no grandiose expectations that we were raising little Einstein geniuses, future Presidents, musical prodigies or super athletes. Our wish was to turn out decent human beings who might do some good in the world, find their own paths to happiness and independence, want to be with us periodically and remember to call home occasionally, especially on Mother’s Day! This...

The word “spa” may conjure up images of a mindless getaway—meditation, yoga, Pilates, hikes, healthy food in healthy portions, massages, facials, pedicures, manicures and whatever else can be shared with willing guests. And some also offer a menu of spiritual pursuits, from learning to accept loss to having your future read by a clairvoyant. At the same time, it may suggest big dollars needed to afford such special treatments, often in a stunning location since outdoor greenery can be a healer of mind and body, we now know from scientific research. It’s not unheard of for a visit to cost...