Did you do something kind for someone today?

Warm and Fuzzy .. That's the way every day should be...

Colder days are coming...






















Hippo enjoys warm and fuzzy days most days....


Have you had a warm and fuzzy day today?




"Good Night"
      from
Hippo and friends


PS. I hope that you ate blueberries or berries                   
of your choice today.

"Hippo" has some brain healthy tips and recipes to share with you.             "Recipes"... then "Tips" .....

"Blueberry Scones"-Combine 1st- 5 ingred. &
mix until coarse crumbs, Whisk eggs and milk
together,add to dry ingred. Mix lightly,turn on
board,knead gently,Pat in 8 inch circle pan,cut
into 8 wedges,place on gr. pans ,brush with
1 Tbsp. of milk,Bake@375 degrees/15-20 min.
 2 cups flour
 3 Tbsp. sugar
 2 1/4 Tbsp. baking pulv.
 1/4 tsp. salt
 1/3 cup butter
 1/2 cup milk
 1 cup blueberries

"Blueberry Muffins"
Combine 1st 3 ingred. Stir, Make
a well in center,Another bowl cream
butter &sugar,,beat egg,mix milk and
vanilla,stir BB's with flour,fold to mixt.
Bake @ 375 degrees for 25 min. (16)
 1 3/4 cup flour
 1Tbsp. gr. flax seed
 1 Tbsp. of baking pulv.
 1/2 tsp salt
 1/4 cup butter
 1/2 cup sugar
 1 egg
 3/4 cup milk(opt-buttermilk)
 1 tsp. vanilla
 1 cup blueberries
 1 Tbsp. flour for BB's

Enjoy!
While baking items maybe ponder about a few "brain fitness  tips." Maybe they could fit into tomorrow's plans.
#1. Eat for your brain, focus on fish oils found in wild salmon, nuts such as walnuts, and seeds such as flax seed and olive oil.
#2. Exercise your body to exercise your brain. eg. walk a few more steps than yesterday.
#3.
Make a simple change, because we all love routines. eg. change route to the store.

                               Have a "Happy Hippo"day! sent to you by "Hippo" & "Seahorse"

Did you have your smoothie today?

Blueberries on top of cereal or in a healthy muffin are great for Brain health?

Have a wonderful "HIPPO" Day!

The History of the "Blueberry"

"Hippo" and "Seahorse" have been at a workshop today learning about the nutrients and history of "blueberries".So they are sharing their information that they learned at the seminar. "Seahorse"said"that blueberries are native to North America. They were not  in Europe until the 1930,s. They originated in the wild and are usually erect bushes but can be as small or tall as 4 inches-4 meters. Larger species are known as high bush bueberries. The leaves are broad and the flowers can be pink,white, or greenish. The fruit tends to be produced at the middle of the growing season. (May-Aug). Blueberries taste from sweet to tart to tangy". Hippo was extremely fascinated with this next fact that he wanted us to know about it. Hippo exclaimed"The blueberries(special nutrients) increase the production of brain cells in the hippocampus. There is some supposition that blueberries may help with age-related problems in the area of brain function. The berries also are an antioxidant and also contain a flavonoid called anthocyanin which is known to work in various ares of the brain. Canada exports approximately $350 millions a year". Tomorrow "Hippo" and "Seahorse" have recipes for you that are brain healthy along with nutrients and  are super tasty and yummy.

Another favourite day...

" 'Unshelved', didn't whine today about his family not calling him yesterday.When they said they would call and didn't, he made his mind up then and there that he will tell them nicely that he has 'socialization' to take part in -on the weekends and perhaps they should have a chat about both of their schedules next time they are together for that short walk. Maybe, they will come to a more satisfactory solution to the 'visit' situation.I was asked today by 'Unshelved' if he could hang out with me for part of the day.I said sure,that would be great,because you can meet a couple of my other lady friends who love to dance, belly dance that is-we left the cafe to go to the park where, I was meeting my friends for a wee visit. 'Unshelved' was so impressed with their apparent fitness level and enjoyed meeting them and the visit. Both of us had some work to do at home to prepare for the upcoming week so we did that and met later at the book store where 'Unshelved' is so very comfortable.I was researching a few books on 'Well being' and also 'Healthy cooking'.He was searching for some 'self taught language' books specifically 'italian' as he wants to go to Italy in about a year. Meanwhile, we commended each other on our healthy finds and sauntered back home,after a great day. Another week gone by... Have a great week... Talk to you tomorrow ..."

Saturday evening on the Avenue...

'Hippo' and 'Unshelved' are waiting for the ladies to catch up to them walking down the sidewalk.We had all been to a Birthday dinner at a restaurant on ninth. It waa lovely evening. "Aurora and Rainbow are enjoying looking in the closed store windows doing some 'window shopping' which woman love to do. The weather is lovely for it being later evening time. We are walking home and the young people are just going out.
Seahorse is stopping to talk to folks along the way.He is telling them about his new invention (not quite an invention yet?)The stroll on the avenue was very peaceful and temperature just right.I am going to sign off early tonight. Have a wonderful day."

Friday is treat night at my house!

Hippo received her'Light Cooking Magazine 'today in the mail and is preparing to make Brownies with a caramel topping-What could be better than a 'treat' on a Friday or Saturday night? "I have just phoned everyone to come over in 1 hour to eat these scrumptious looking brownies (in picture).So I had better get these ingredients into a bowl and mixed.I need 3/4 cup of flour and 1 cup white sugar,3/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa,1/2 tsp. of baking powder.1/2 cup of brown sugar.
6 Tbsp. of butter,2 large eggs,1 tsp. vanilla. Combine the first 5 ingredients together in a bowl. stir well. Then mix remaining ingredients together and and combine with first mixture. Mix and grease your pan with butter or spray and bake at 350 degrees for 19 minutes.. cool in pan on rack,This the yummy part- Prepare topping,melt 1/4 cup of butter and 1/4 cup of br. sugar and 1& 1/2 Tbsp. milk, cook for 2 minutes,Remove from heat. Add vanilla and 1/2 cup powdered sugar;Stir with whisk and spread evenly over cooked brownies. Let stand for 20 minutes and then combine 2 Tbsp. of milk and 1 square of bitter sweet chocolate that has been somewhat chopped -place in safe bowl and nuke in microwave for 45 seconds on high temp. Then stir and drizzle over caramel topped brownies.It calls for sea salt but some of the group are on a low salt diet, so we will omit this item from the delicious looking Brownies.Cut into squares and devour. The group is just arriving as I am drizzling the chocolate mixture over the caramel topped treat! Not exactly 'Brainfit nutrition' but a treat eaten in moderation, will never hurt one unless of course, it is not on your 'never-never' list. Enjoy!"

Honour your dreams...

"Most people haven't honoured near half of their dreams as they travel through life and many folk realize this, at a later place and time. Think about it. Have you fulfilled all of of your dreams?
Ask yourself- How do I relate to the outside world? We should be thinking of what things we will regret, by not doing by the time we are too old to carry out our ambitions.
First of all-We all have our own basic standards by which we live by each day. So,sometimes these components get forgotten in our busy lives and we lose touch with the basic standards that we have lived by for a good part of our lives. I think I require a tune-up periodically, and then I am back in tune with the outside world.I am always thankful and do try to show that gratitude.I think that a person must live closely to their feelings and beliefs.As an individual,there are many directions that a one can follow and whatever direction a person chooses to take will reflect on how we establish our relationships with others. Many people say they would like to be happier,others say that wanted to do more travelling but always had an excuse of why they could not venture away on a vacation. and on and on it goes....It all comes down to 'choices.''Well-being' is an excellent choice.The definition of 'well-being' is a good satisfactory condition of existence characterized by health and happiness and prosperity." Have an 'Upbeat Day' in a 'Hippo'way"!

Back to school....Review

Hippo is on a learning tangent these days.Hippo says "Some of our group think I am 'out to lunch 'so to speak. I just continue along, with hoping that some of my sharing' of information will be well received and filed and stored in my friend's 'memory' banks. Did you know that forming new 'memories', organizing and storing takes place in the 'hippocampus' or also known as a portion of the temporal lobe. There is also another 'hippocampus' on the other side of the brain. Each side and section has different duties. Today, we will talk about the left side of the 'hippocampus'. New 'memories' are formed in this part of the temporal lobe. 'Memories' of names, animals, and tools are all formed in this area of the temporal lobe.In the hippocampus,forming of new 'memories' takes place and emotions and senses such as smell and sound are then connected to new 'memories'. This is a very important process. Without this structure you would not be able to live in the present,only in the past. You would be stuck living with solely old memories. We all have old 'memories' but I can't stress how important it is to form new 'memories' each and every day of your life.
Ask yourself , why do I care about the 'hippocampus'? Because it is necessary for making new 'memories, so think about that and enjoy your day!"

Peach Pie..Delicious

"Hippo was busily whipping up a green salad with lots of green and colour with the added veggies. Olive oil and lemon juice and minced garlic for dressing. This was served with orange glazed salmon fillets and brown rice palaf. Then we had peach pie and frozen yogurt for our dessert. How good is that? No one complained about anything, just so grateful for a lovely prepared dinner and the company. As we are all a little older, we tend to have our gatherings earlier and return to our homes before the sun sets. If we time it just right, we can watch the sun setting on our way home. Hippo will have to ask Aurora for her recipe for her pie. It was so good. Already we are planning for our next dinner. We decided that it would be 'Potluck' and in about a month's time.We have done the dishes and tidied up following dinner, as Hippo had an business engagement tonight following the dinner to attend. Unshelved is just writing in his daytimer about the upcoming thedinner."as stated by Alveus
"The fall activities at the senior centers, are soon beginning, and registration has already begun.Some of the popular classes will fill up quickly so the secret is for you to register early.
There are some day trips listed at many of the centers and they all sound interesting and fun.
"Rainbow and Alveus wants me to walk them home,so I am signing off tonight for 'Hippo' as she is not back from her meeting, so have a great day tomorrow" from 'Sea horse' and 'friends'

Cognitive cooking... Omega 3's plus antioxidant ..

'Hippo' has invited a few of the'ole'girls over to assist her in preparing a meal for some of the 'ole' boys that we chum with -like a dinner party but not so fancy. "Rainbow and Aurora are pleased and available. Aurora likes to bake,and Rainbow is more for the meat or fish dishes. we thought we do this as a buffet, as very few of us can seat too many at one table. Menu tomorrow night will be: 'Almond Salmon and orange glaze' and a 'brown rice palaf' and a luscious green salad. Today we are preping for the glaze on the 2.5 lbs. of salmon and making sure that we have the ingredients for the Rice Palaf dish.I will give you the recipe for the choices we have made for tomorrow night's dinner."
ALMOND ORANGE GLAZED SALMON: Salmon- 8 small fillets of Salmon(as much as required)Rainbow says "that in our case, we are using 3/4 cup of orange marmalade,garlic to taste,1 tsp.thyme,1/2 cup slivered almonds or sesame seeds,1/4 tsp. pepper,1 med. onion. chopped finely-Mix ingredients together. Place fillets on oiled baking dish or cookie sheet and then using 1 Tbsp.
of glaze on each fillet an spread. Now thinly slice an orange and place one sl. on each fillet.
Bake at 375 degrees for 20-25 minutes-Cover lightly with foil for first 10 minutes."
"I am overseeing the rice dish.. Now for the Brown Rice Palaf you require: Chop and saute 1 med. onion,1/2 cup green pepper in 1 Tbsp. olive oil,1-1/4 cups of brown rice ,garlic to taste,1 cup chicken broth,Place in cooking pot and cover-now bring to boil for 1 minute and turn down to simmer for 35-40 minutes.(We will double the recipe for the rice.)Salad -lots of greens... and seeds and colour.Recipe tomorrow.
Aurora is busy baking, two super fresh peach pies (we need to taste one first) before we share the recipe. That will be Wednesday. We are going to have a cup of green tea before the girls go home-Pies are in the oven. Have a great day!"

I will be back tomorrow-Taking a break.....

A Fair 'Fare' ride for 'Hippo'...

Hippo was at the Fringe and was enjoying a ferris wheel ride. Hippo exclaimed "Whow! It's been a long time since I was on a ferris wheel. Perhaps about 15 years ago...It was just as exciting as it was then, even on a mid-size wheel. The cost of the fare cost quite a bit more than years ago."
Hippo noted out loud "This ferris wheel runs on canola oil. How green is that? Apparently it is the first 'green rides carnival', certainly in the area - I do not know for sure, so I won't say. It has been a beautiful day in every aspect. I was able to accomplish my necessary errands and also meet with my friends for coffee.I did plenty of walking with 'Unshelved' and 'Alveus' and that was fun. 'Alveus' is sometimes of two minds but very lovely all of the time, just like dear ole 'Unshelved'"
"Yes, we are going to share some 'brain healthy' recipes, so beginning on Monday, I should have a few recipes to share with all of you."Hippo said with enthusiasm.
Brian fit Tip for the day -Mental stimulation -Be mentally active and do a variety of things, even if you aren't that good at it... Learn something new everyday...

Brain Mythology-Do you believe in myths?

'Hippo' has been reading a great deal lately about brain fitness in general. So she will share what she learned. "Have you ever heard of this myth? - that you only use about ten percent of your brain. You actually use all of it,in its universality. This myth has been around for along time and neuroscience discoveries have been misinterpreted by both professionals and lay people alike and have kept the myth strengthened. But the truth is that we use our total brain every day. Another myth is if one suffers brain damage, that it is always permanent. It takes courage to challenge such a myth, but this myth has been discredited over the past twenty years. The myth has been difficult to dispel, as there is not enough about the brain that has been fully comprehensible in the past years.In recent years scientists have learned far more and are now able to discredit this myth. The third myth is that a person's personality will indicate to the rest of us, whether or not they have right or left brain dominance. The myth is that the tendency for the right brain dominance people are more creative/intuitive and the left brain dominance people are more like problem-solvers/logical.The brain hemisphere's roles are not quite so cut and dried as previously thought. The two hemispheres are highly complimentary.
Tomorrow is Saturday at the cafe. Most of the group thought that we should start sharing brain fit recipes amongst ourselves,so that is on the agenda for tomorrow for us to begin this project, and we'll certainly not forget to share with you.."

Memories are made of .... and just a little advice from 'Hippo'

"I hope that you all had a great day. I had another wonderful day, as I am preparing to facilitate a course called 'Brain Fitness'. I have begun to prepare my triweekly tip sheets, providing hints about improving or maintaining brain fitness.(handouts). Everyone begins a decline of their cognitive skills around 29/30 years of age.I will now begin on regular basis to share advice for you to consider, in order to assist you with this wonderful project."
"'Brain fitness Maintenance' has grown to be my 'Greatest Passion' in life.If you ever meet me, you will quickly realize that this is a passion that I must share with anyone who wishes to listen and learn. Memory plays a vital role in all aspects of our lives.It provides a sense of self and a continuity of our life's experiences. It is a remarkably complex process and it involves several parts of the brain.As we age our memories are very susceptible to inaccuracies and memory loss. We 'store and file' away information until we need it. Your brain controls most everything that happens in your body.As we age ,we can lose some of our ability to learn and to remember things. You can keep your brain in top notch shape,just like your heart or your liver by eating nourishing foods. They will have a great impact on keeping your thinking skills sharp and your memory intact. Here is Tip #1 Brain food- Berries/blueberries. I love blueberries as they give a boost of brain cells to the hippocampus.(part of the brain) Also blueberries have an antioxidant power. One of the most important things to remember is 'Our memory helps 'make us who we are' 'and our 'brain healthy foods' that we eat,could help offset the natural processes of aging."

What a busy day in our neighbourhood

Several of my friends took a ride on the 100 year old streetcar to the Fringe today. They all enjoyed the experience of going over the High Level Bridge and then through the tunnel. Quite a sight.. There were a lot of children and adults at the Fringe today just taking in the day. Some were going to attend plays of all types, as the afternoon approached.Of course food and beverage was on everyone's agenda throughout the day. There appears to be an abundance of beverage bars and plenty of free entertainment, but I am not sure if the Fringe is maintaining its Theatre /Arts theme for the family to enjoy.I actually noticed a few acts that were not 'Class Acts' My personal feeling is that our area is not large enough to accommodate for 'what' their 'take' on family outings or theatre /arts buffs.I do think that Capital Ex should suffice for folks wanting that kind of entertainment that is at the '10 day Fair' and the numerous rides that are here this year are not required at such an event.I have noticed that the 'play park' is not near as well attended as usual, with good gatherings of children and parents and grand parents. That is supposed to be part of the scene. When you live in the neighbourhood, you perhaps feel a little 'put upon' by change and style with some inappropriate booths and acts. I feel much better now that I have vented and we'll hope that the organizers and city council look at both the negative/ positive results about this present situation and make appropriate changes for the future at the Fringe.

'Memories' are made of this......

I am writing this post of my blog in 2 parts, as I am going for a walk with 'Minor' and 'Alveus', while conditions are still good. Our friend, 'Alveus',whom I haven't introduced to you yet, as sometimes he tends to be a bit of a loner and a little aloof. Each to their own and the world continues to go around. I find him extremely trustworthy and very well read, also somewhat objective. It's nice to have a friend like 'Alveus' in our group. I read that it is very important to get plenty of physical activity and of course socialization...Pause... I have returned from a lovely fast walk and feel re-energized and now I will be able to navigate myself more efficiently through the rest of the evening.
'Ole Seahorse' has invited me to a 'horseshoe tournament' tomorrow evening at a park. That should be mighty interesting, as I am a very basic horseshoe player, but the experience will be fun. Think of all of the people that I will meet. I can practise remembering people's names at the tournament. I will have to use my short-term memory (working memory) and then when I get home transfer it to my long-term memory bank for storage, in case I get invited back to the activity. Now this is where it gets complicated. Will it be stored in my 'explicit memory' bank or the 'implicit memory' or the autobiographical memory? Probably ,it will be directed to my 'explicit' area of storage, which requires conscious thought and that is what is most people have in mind when they think of a memory.

An Ordinary Day !

'Hippo' had a enjoyable day but was still able to add all of the basic activities that she likes to participate in and thoroughly enjoy the day. Two of our friends have been away on holidays for well over a month. It is nice to have them back to the cafe, as we're all like an extended family.
Our friend's name is 'Minor'(nickname) and her cousin 'Major'(nickname) are both volunteers at the center. They enter data into the computer much like 'sorting and filing.' 'Unshelved' enjoys having them about as they do assist him at the library or with his personal affairs, when he gets into a bit of a dither.I believe that they contribute on different days at the Center. Those 'two' provide great 'positive' reinforcement to our group. They seem to keep us balanced in our conversations or discussions.
One of the odd things that happened to me today, as I was sitting on the bench at the bus stop with 2 other men - a pregnant lady( approx. 28/29 yrs.)came along and asked me for my seat.I kindly gave my seat to her and then began thinking about order of priorities for bus seating and did I have a foot to stand on,in this situation? No, I don't think I had a foot to stand on- 'Seniors ladies' and 'pregnant ladies' are on an even keel for seating priority. I don't usually sit while waiting for the bus and perhaps I won't in the future. It's never happened in 65+ years so I will let this go and not make it an issue. Always be at rest, and never allow yourself to have petty issues stirring up your emotional resources and energy.
PS.I have been thinking overnight about this seat on the bus bench. Did it belong to me or did it belong to the young lady?. Oh my! I did say I would drop the issue...

Hippo enjoyed a day in 'Old Strathcona' !

It has been a very relaxing , sociable day for 'Hippo' and 'Aurora.' Hippo made a very short visit to the cafe for a coffee and then off for a long walk up and down the treed streets of Old Strathcona, It was quiet and most enjoyable. On a walk such as that,I am able to plan my upcoming week and cautiously make sure that I will have a happy balance of 'physical activity, 'volunteering,' 'socialization,''mental stimulation' and last but not least 'spirituality.' I also need 'quality 'home time.' I mentally prepare a list for the week, once it is firm in mind that my plan is workable. Through the years, I found 'flexibility' is a wonderful trait to maintain if you are able to do this.. Part of my plan for the next week is to make sure that I will have healthy 'nutrition' occurring in order to keep up the pace that I am most accustomed to.... So, off to the store with a list so that I am able to keep on track for 'healthy items.' on my list, I do have 'treat' written and I rationalize a little while but not for long, when I choose that item. Everybody should have a treat now and again. Following my shopping trip to the grocery store or food essential and then home, I went to the 'Fringe' to meet 'Aurora' as we had tickets for a play this afternoon. The name of the play was 'Bridget Ryan's Standards.' It was a musical cabaret. It was about the 'basics of life' told by music. Most enjoyable though Aurora found the music to be a bit too loud. I am wishing everyone a 'Happy week' Talk to you tomorrow night...

'Hippo' is 'Sparkling' with Passion....

I had a wonderful day filled with many,extraordinary events. Of course 'Sat AM' is one of my favourite times of the week, when everyone that we know, gathers at the cafe. It's a day when most of us make this event a priority on our lists. The conversation veered towards the calibre and enjoyment of plays some of us had seen last night at the Fringe and the question was "would we recommend them to each other. Then of course came the telephone call to 'Unshelved' on his cell phone to say they wouldn't be coming to take him for some exercise."'Unshelved' and 'Aurora' appear to have teamed up together. That is nice for both them. I heard 'Unshelved' telling 'Aurora' that his family were not bothering to come to take him for a walk today, as it would be too crowded for them.( I don't think that he was at all upset.) They decided to take in play called 'Best of Times'. 'Seahorse' was attending a show called 'A Perspective on Something Important.' Rather sounds like a play he would enjoy. Then there's the market with all of it's regular,interesting vendors and crowds of folk searching for that unique gift and also looking and comparing prices and quality of the fruits and vegetables and other edible items. I love to watch the happy families navigate their way through the market and to the concession. I do believe that treats are consumed at this station, as well as coffees and teas and juices. Today there are many people shopping that are not regulars, due to the fact that the Fringe has arrived in our city. I do hope that you will be able to join in to take in some of the frolic and camaraderie that occurs during the Fringe. By noon, some of us were off to one of the many venues throughout our Town to see the plays we had chosen.'Rainbow' and 'myself' headed for city center to see 'Its a Hard Knock Life'. We both enjoyed it and the message that touched our hearts throughout the play was "We are often yearning for something better and a place of belonging, away from our present conditions only to find if we really try and work together that (it is here already) and great things begin to happen....." Happy Fringing!

'Sphere of Activity'

My friends are out tonight enjoying all of the happenings at the Fringe Festival. 'Unshelved' is very anxious to try some 'foods that he has never tried before and is looking forward to eating his dinner outside. Everyone of the 'coffee gang' is going to a 'play' of their choice tonight and I will join them at show time as I had a dinner date elsewhere earlier this evening. Tomorrow at the cafe everyone will be discussing the play that they attended. 'Seahorse'has his own method of taking in the 'Fringe.' He likes to sit on the benches and chat with folks about why they like attending the event and he usually gets good reviews of some of the plays people have seen at the festival.That's how he decides what play he will go and see. 'Rainbow' and 'Aurora' are each going to buy an elephant ear and then find a piece of grass to sit upon and munch away until show time. 'I' always waits until near the end of the festival week to buy my treats. It might turn into it being a smoothie. Maybe I will be a little more adventuresome!
So, I think I will sign off early as I must be off to the 'Fringe' for the play tonight and it's important to be timely.I certainly don't want to be known as the 'Late Hippo.'

Hippo's Day begins in a healthy way!

Smoothies are very nutritious and delicious. Depending on what ingredients  you use , you may increase the vitamin and mineral content. Here are a few recipes to get you started...

Papaya and Pineapple Smoothie 
2/3 cup yogurt
1/2 papaya pieces
1/2 cup pineapple pieces
1/4 cup strawberries
2/3 ice cubes-Mix on blend-1 min. or so


Peach and Carrot Smoothie
1 fresh peach (pitted)
1/2 cup yogurt
1/2 cup raspberries and 1/2 cup
2 med. carrots(small pieces)                                  

2/3 ice cubes-Mix on blend-1 min. or so

Citrus Smoothie
1 cup orange juice
1/2 cup yogurt
1 banana and 1/2 cup blueberries
1 tsp. matcha tea powder(opt)
2/3 ice cubes -Mix on blend-40 seconds or so


Hippo's very Favourite Smoothie
1/2 cup yogurt
2 small trees of brocolli and small amt. of another raw vegetable
1/2 cup blueberries,1/4 apple pieces,1/2 cup strawberries, 1/2 cup melon and 1 banana
1/2 cup orange juice
1 tsp matcha tea powder, wheat germ, flax(ground)
2 /3 ice cubes-Mix on blend -40 seconds or so


You may add flaxseed oil (1 tsp), oats,wheat germ (1 Tbsp.) These are opt. and only suggestions. I also use non- fat or low fat- yogurt. Be creative! Enjoy!

Hippo maintains her health with a daily morning 'Smoothie'

I decided to look up some information about the 'History and Health Benefits of Smoothies.'
I begin my day by preparing and drinking a 'smoothie.'
Smoothies are generally accepted as a cold, blended beverage a little on the thick side for consistency. They can be very healthy and can contain fruit and vegetables at the same time. They differ from juices as they contain other ingredients such as yogurt,honey,sometimes wheat germ.
It is believed to have originated on the west coast of America in the 1930's. But it took years before they gained popularity in the 1960's. They began to be sold in the health food stores in the 60's/70's and were a favourite food of the Hippies. Middle eastern and Indian restaurants have served a traditional smoothie for hundreds of years.
Smoothies are undeniably good for your health. They are typically rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants as well as dietary fiber. I find my daily morning smoothie gives me increased energy and also increases my fruit and vegetable intake. I know that it also keeps my heart, brain and other organs healthy.I make my own smoothies at home because it is much cheaper than purchasing a commercial pre-prepared smoothie from a store. They appear to limit my need for snacking during my waking hours thus helping me not to gain more weight.
Tomorrow I will share some of my favourite 'smoothie recipes' with you...

Hippo suggests that you try not to get discouraged when things go awry....

I woke up bright and early this morning and planned to go to the Center and relax with a coffee and perhaps do a 'Sudoko' before my duties started for the day. I had told all the others that I meet at the cafe, that I wouldn't see them until Thursday. Time moved on and then I showered and continued preparing for work. I turned on the kitchen light to prepare my 'blueberry smoothie' and the bulb promptly burned out. Moving along to duties in order of priority, I was standing at the bathroom sink brushing my hair and I saw and heard a small clatter and realize that the middle shelf in bathroom cupboard with cosmetics etc. upon it, fell down in front of me, and all of the items were now in the sink or on the counter. I took a deep breath and said oh well, (not quite all, I said) there's nothing I can do, with the arrival of bus#22 in five minutes or so-
I was off to the fridge to reach for my 'nutritious hand packed lunch' and out of the door, with time to spare, and wait for my numbered bus . There were five regulars there waiting at the stop, but after a while, we were all beginning to despair that perhaps due to a detour, we had all been left - behind that is... so off to another bus stop for a different numbered bus and it was not long to wait. By this time we were all rather late.. but you know I thought 'without chagrin' that today I would move through my day knowing that those 'three' things had happened all in row did not matter the least little bit. .
I hope that your day goes as well as mine truly did....

"Learn knowledge from those around you."

'Hippo' has been thinking a lot lately about maintaining a vibrant brain. She is open to ideas for projects that can be attempted so that many of her peers could also benefit along with her. 'Seahorse' has made a suggestion that our friends that are not volunteering at all yet, become volunteers. His thoughts are that then it will be a great way for them to meet new folk while dedicating their time to a cause that they believe in, and the people they meet will also have big hearts. 'Unshelved' suggests that some of our friends or acquaintences join a book club or start one of their your own. Hippo likes to expose her brain to fresh ways of thinking and then it fires up new neural pathways as you try and analyze what other the person is saying. We have all heard that a brain that isn't stimulated by new thoughts is very limited and will begin to make super highway pathways into wee country roads.In contrast, some of us learned in a workshop that the brain that is open, remains in a younger state and more flexible with each entry of new ideas. 'Aurora' is a new lady that has recently joined us at the cafe and has attended some of our activities. She strongly advises that talking to others and sharing and exchanging information is a great fun way to learn. So our challenge to each other today is to see if we can find a buddy to elevate and expand our minds on some topic we don't know much about.
Maybe you can come up with a fresh idea or topic that we can learn more about the subject.

Folks have been festing all weekend long !

Great day for enjoying life in general. 'Hippo' is spending the day attempting to catch up on some very important 'socialization'. We all know what 'Unshelved' is doing today as he will be home waiting for the family to call to take him out for his weekly walk. Unfortunately the 'outing' appears to be a little more of a duty for the family, rather than seizing the moment and enjoying our dear friend. Then again Unshelved' can be very 'closemouthed' about the rest of his active week. Goodness knows how 'Seahorse' is doing ....He could be going down a wrong pathway or two, but he will be able to straighten himself out to 'think before he 'speaks'. The others will be out and about the town for most of the day, meeting new folk as they see fit. and some will go to the park and maybe just sit.
Hippo had breakfast with a friend at the Inn and chatted a spell, then off to the fabric shop to redecorate for the fall. On foot for most of these jaunts ,one realizes it's so good to walk the mile instead of riding the bus. Home for a time to tidy the house for a jiff, and soon off to the 'Folk Fest' to listen to tunes, and of course to see and hear the closing artist, no less than
'KD Lang'
So now off to dreamland and picture, all that I've seen and places I've been............

'Gateway To New Memories' in blossom again today!

Oh,what a fantastic day. 'Hippo' and 'Mongo' were up early today,and a smoothie was prepared, devoured and shared. Mongo and Hippo went quickly to the 'cafe' to meet Hippo's friends, and to listen and greet. 'Unshelved' and 'Seahorse' were the next folks there, followed by several of the ole'girls all ready for chat with the gents and then on do errands until the need of a new event. Sometimes 'Seahorse' gets off on a track too intensive for some out for a Saturday whim.
All the fellers decided to eat, so off to the restaurant where there were old comfy seats in the booths.Hippo and 'Mongo' and four of my girl friends started off to the market,but passed a dress shop along the way, and convinced each other that a dress or scarf was just what was needed, before treking on to the market down street. 'Mongo' had acquired a 'Sudoko book' and a pen, and I noticed he sort of listened and grinned and then gave 'Grannie Hippo' a smile. Mongo's comment " women ,no matter how young or old ,take a long time to make a decision of choice, in a dress shop." 'Off to the market for essentials and 'frills' in the support of nutrition for the new week coming up... We all parted and went on our way for the rest of the day. 'Hippo' was hungry and 'Mongo' too, so off to eating at a shop, while using our heads.On pathway to home, 'Hippo' and 'Mongo' stopped to browse through the library and spotted a 'chess board' waiting for a pair to play. 'Mongo' asked if I knew how to play,the answer was no but I would love to learn so with that we began and had wonderful game and now I understand better how to play the game and lose or win. Home for a rest at the end of our day ....."We did wonder all the day, who was looking after whom? Mongo said "Grannie Hippo,I really like your friends."

Eating without our heads.....

It's Friday night in our town. Once a month, I try to spend time with one of the granddaughters or grandsons and this weekend is a visit from my pre-teen grandson. 'Mongo' is coming for dinner and a 'sleep over'. We have been planning for the past few days on what we would eat and also about what we would do for the evening, and also tomorrow. Suggestions submitted by both parties began with dessert. Strawberries, Apples, peaches, and bananas served with a wee dish of melted dark chocolate. This was unanimously accepted by both parties.Hamburgers and BBQ chips were included to add a little protein to the meal,but an awesome amount of sodium going grannie's way. 'Bob' suggested that we add cheese ,lettuce for greens, tomato/cucumber and the rest of the usual scene as that will appease his mother if she gets wind of our meal.Oh well-Grannies have rights as long as we don't go overboard. We have spent the evening chatting and laughing and 'bookmarking' a comedian / ventriloquist which 'Mongo' showed me a video or two. My endorphins certainly rose to the top and now I will follow this comedian along too.A 'sleep over' treat was brought in his gear so we shared a package of doughnuts and milk. Hippo is hoping that Mongo's mother will not read this short story for a day or two. We will rise early tomorrow and begin our day at 7AM and a homemade smoothie will help us to go along our way.
Tomorrow night our adventures, we'll share, and for sure we'll begin to 'eat with our head.'

Thinking outside the box...

Yesterday, during a walk around the park, we were talking about how lucky we are that we're genuinely interested in each other and genuinely care. 'Unshelved' had missed our cafe visit yesterday, so one of the boys gave him a call last evening to chat.He had forgotten due to a shorter week. On a higher note we find it most interesting on what makes us all tick... 'Unshelved' said "our 'joie de Vivre' is the difference between a memorable and a dull interaction." 'Seahorse' is excellent about refreshing us all about what's going on in the world yesterday & today." Hippo reminded us how multigenerational the cafe had become in the past few years. We all enjoy it and 'Seahorse' tickled our memory for us to tell us that we do learn from young people and it empowers our minds. Similarly, our experiences and wisdom enrich our understanding of ourselves and the world around us. (Cafe included.) The last topic that we chose was about 'Challenging old ideas.' We decided that we should make 'more' of an effort to listen to other points of view and engage in healthy mind expanding debates with our friends.
Hippo loves a challenge, so I am sure that the few weeks will provide very stimulating conversation. 'Hippo' is eagerly thinking that she will now learn a little more about our crowd and perhaps be able to have more healthy discussions in a more informative way.
This coming week would be great time to 'challenge some of our own old ideas.'

Places to go and things to do...

Hippo was the very first person at the cafe this morning and waited for the rest to arrive for some Tuesday morning socialization. Hippo always carries his 'suduko book' with him so in his idle time, he can give his brain a little shake."The rest of our chums arrived at the cafe for a quick cup of green tea/coffee. The only person missing was 'Unshelved' who sometimes gets his days confused. We'll check on him tomorrow to make sure he is not having any problems. His family checks on him every Sunday, just like clock work. Everyone seemed to have something to do today. Some of us were going to volunteer at places around town and others are tending to some necessary errands. Seahorse, our new friend says he is having a problem, since he became a widower, with keeping his apartment free of 'junk' that he really doesn't need. Today he is beginning a new project and he will take some of his things to a Center where they take donations of clothing and small household items. So we encouraged him, to perhaps keep up this regime, maybe on a weekly basis and then it wouldn't become a burden to him. Seahorse went away with the group's support looking very pleased with the way the chore now seemed more exciting than before coffee. Some had classes at their senior center which they were waiting in anticipation to begin learning a new skill. Hippo was so pleased that others were really working on maintaining and or upgrading their memory bank by learning new skills and applying them to their daily lives. Hippo's expression was worth a thousand words!
We all hope that you try something new in the near future.We would love to hear from you very soon.

Don't forget to smell the roses .....

Hippo would like all us to practice consolidating our memories including his own memory. So our assignments will begin with this blog unit.
"My goodness, that's a tall order." said 'Unshelved' "I think, I need to do some serious homework!"
"Sometimes my filing and sorting doesn't get into the correct piles." "Hippo explained that we would be now getting involved with the Hippocampus if we participated in the workshop. "the part of the brain called the Hippocampus is involved in Memory forming,organizing and storing." "Unshelved said he remembered from night class recently that the shape of the hippocampus was like a horseshoe."
"It's particularly important to connect our emotions and senses such as smell and sound to memories.
Oh, I forgot to introduce you to 'Seahorse.' He is going to join our group of pals and will be a welcome addition to our group. He was extremely intelligent in his younger years and proved to be a wonderful high school teacher. He has maintained a great attitude and says "that it is okay to fail sometimes and that many successes have come from failure. So this is a great attitude wouldn't you agree?"
Don't forget to 'smell the roses', so that you don't have to search for your 'memories' too often in the 'Lost and Found' department. Your 'Memory Gates' will open more often...

'I wonder what it's like to be a 'Wild Wacky Woman.'

Hippo went to the cafe this morning and as the saying goes 'Socialization' is the way to go. 'Unshelved' was there also and several other people that we know quite well. We shared our story about searching for the Drive-In (like it used to be). Mind you, if we had found the Drive-in and as with several of our friends, many of us are experiencing poor night vision which might have made it a chore. Some of the folk wondered and suggested that next time, we go on a hunt that we
should check the computer listings and or pick up the phone, so we can make plans to confirm at least a presence of the location at the right destination and perhaps a time.
"When I returned to my home, there was a wee gift at the door in a pretty 'green'(environmentally that is) envelope. I love 'anticipation' even though I am a little older, but I am not extremely older. At first I thought that one of the widowers had asked me to go out for tea .I couldn't wait until I got inside,to open it and it was a 'membership card' welcoming me into a group called 'The Wild Wacky Woman's Club'." Just think of the new folks that we are going to meet. Oh,my I can't wait - maybe there's "A Wild Wacky Men's Club",oh what a thought! I bet that you can't wait for tomorrows' version of how we're going to spend our next day .