More at Mather’s OCTOBER | NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2017

Fortress America, p. 6

Enjoy live music & more in the evenings—we’re open till 8:00 p.m. Monday–Friday!

7134 W. Higgins Avenue, Chicago, IL 60656 | (773) 774.4804 TECH- Look What’s Happening KNOWLEDGE at Mather’s! Smartphones 8

7 Saturday, October 14 Tech-Knowledge...... 2 1:00–3:00 p.m. iPad Class You’ll learn how to use all the special features and the Music & Entertainment ...... 3 powerful apps that come with it. Whatever you love to do, there are iPad apps to help you do it. Cost $20 Enjoy live concerts and events. Monday, November 20 Lifelong Learning ...... 4 1:00–2:00 p.m. Internet Basics Choose from author presentations, travelogues, and more. Aaric Straford, Chicago Methodist Senior Services We’ll simplify and explain the basics to make the Internet understandable, useful, and enjoyable. There’s no reason Health & Wellness ...... 6 to be left out! Cost $10 Do something good for your health! Monday, December 11 Trips ...... 7 1:00–2:00 p.m. Smartphones Aaric Straford, Chicago Methodist Senior Services Join us for a trip to see some of Chicago’s best live theater! Aaric will bring you up to speed with an overview of features, apps, and information about smartphones. Free Resources ...... 7 Cost $10

Culinary Delights...... 8

Enjoy meal specials, cooking demos, and food programs. Open Tech Table 1:00–2:30 p.m., Fitness ...... 9 Saturdays, October 28, Tech November 25, Drop into a class like Jazzercise or Ageless Grace. Questions Answered! December 9 & 16 Art & Creativity ...... 10 Claire Stahl, Assistant Café Manager Get artsy in a hands-on class, like our calligraphy workshop. Get answers to all your tech questions. First come, first served. BYOD–Bring Your Own Device! FREE Ongoing Events...... 11

October|November|December At-a-Glance. . . 12

MATHER’S—MORE THAN A CAFÉ HOURS Monday–Friday: 7:30 a.m.–8:00 p.m. (menu available until 7:45 p.m.) 2 Saturday: 8:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. (menu available until 2:45 p.m.) MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT

Did you know we offer regular Dinner Theater events? These events offer live entertainment along with a delicious dinner. Each one is BYOB, and a great way to kick off your weekend!

Friday, October 13 of favorite songs from a 4:30 p.m. Dinner Theater: variety of genres. Oktoberfest with the Dinner 4:30 p.m. Mike Knauf Duo Show 5:30 p.m.; Meal Cost $10 The Mike Knauf Duo Entertainment Suggested will entertain us with Donation $8 ACOUSTIC EvENINgS traditional German music. Thursdays, 6:30–7:30 p.m. Dinner 4:30 p.m. Friday, November 10 Join us for an evening of local talent. Each week we’ll Show 5:30 p.m.; Meal Cost $10 6:30 p.m. Edizon Dayao feature a different musician—and a unique musical Entertainment Suggested in Concert experience! Come early for dinner, and keep in mind Donation $8 Join us for a later-than-usual we’re BYOB. Suggested Donation $5 Friday evening concert. Monday, October 16 Edizon is a multitalented Dinner 4:30 p.m. 1:00 p.m. game Time musician who will have you Friday, December 1 Show 5:30 p.m.; Meal Cost $10 Jeanne Roppolo, Moderator singing and dancing along 4:30 p.m. Dinner Theater: Entertainment Suggested Join in the fun as we recall to favorite rock-’n’-roll hits An Early ! Donation $8 moments from the ’50s from the 50s to today. John Eskola, Vocalist to the ’90s. Be the first to Suggested Donation $8 & Pat Rusk, Piano Friday, December 15 correctly answer questions Make merry for the holidays 4:30 p.m. Dinner Theater: pertaining to history, movies, Thursday, November 16 with John and Pat. They will Rick Pickren’s Prairie Holiday music, TV shows, games, 3:30–5:30 p.m. Spinning delight you with holiday A Mather’s musical favorite, books, and fashion. Discs with “Jivan” Ivan classics along with some Rick returns to play some Suggested Donation $8 fun and unusual songs, in- Friday, November 17 cluding “Jingle Bell Rag.” seasonal favorites with Thursday, October 19 4:30 p.m. Dinner Theater: Dinner 4:30 p.m. a lovely twist. Enjoy his wonderful guitar and vocals 3:30–5:30 p.m. Spinning Christopher Walz & Friends Show 5:30 p.m.; Meal Cost $10 in this special holiday Discs with “Jivan” Ivan Join us for a good old-fash- Entertainment Suggested performance. Enjoy an afternoon of your ioned flatpicking and singing Donation $8 Dinner 4:30 p.m. favorite tunes courtesy of bluegrass special. Show 5:30 p.m.; Meal Cost $10 our house DJ. All requests Dinner 4:30 p.m. Friday, December 8 Entertainment Suggested welcome. FREE Show 5:30 p.m.; Meal Cost $10 4:30 p.m. Dinner Theater: Entertainment Suggested Chris Casello Rockabilly Trio Donation $8 Friday, October 20 Donation $8 Join us for an unforgettable Thursday, December 21 4:30 p.m. Dinner Theater: performance by one of the 3:30–5:30 p.m. Spinning Sandi Haynes most dynamic and enter- Discs with “Jivan” Ivan You’ll be wowed by Sandi’s taining guitarists in the unforgettable performances world of roots music today.

PLEASE REGISTER AT LEAST ONE WEEK IN ADVANCE FOR ALL PROGRAMS

7134 W. Higgins Avenue, Chicago, IL 60656 | (773) 774.4804 • mathersmorethanacafe.com 3 LIFELONG LEARNING

Register for AARP Driver Safety and receive $5 off your meal purchase of $10 or more when you dine with us after the October 4 class.

Wednesday, October 4 1:30–5:30 p.m. AARP Driver Safety, Day 1 Phil Breneman, Certified AARP Driver Safety Volunteer Instructor Learn current rules of the road, defensive driving techniques, and ways to operate your vehicle more safely in today’s increasingly challenging driving environment. Cost $15 for AARP members $20 for nonmembers. Make checks payable to AARP. You Can Find Love at Any Age

Thursday, October 5 Tuesday, October 10 strangers while providing 12:30–4:30 p.m. AARP Safe Driving Course, Day 2 3:30 p.m. Chicago Music in life-changing gifts to the ’60s & ’70s unsuspecting Good Dean Milano, Author, The Samaritans. FREE Friday, October 6 Monday, October 9 Chicago Music Scene: 1960s 2:00–3:30 p.m. 1:00–2:00 p.m. You Can and 1970s Saturday, October 14 Try Something New! Find Love at Any Age AUTH OR 11:30 a.m. great Courses: Mather’s Jeopardy! Aaric Straford, Chicago PRESENTATION Crimes—Killers of One, Buddy Cole, Eilleen - Methodist Senior Services A longtime fixture on the Killers of Many Galán & Rich Lang, Facilitators We tested several popular local music scene, Dean Today’s DVD lecture analyzes Come and try Jeopardy! live dating sites, and came up brings back to life the most four complex and tragic as Buddy, Rich, and Eilleen with four that we deem creative decades in Chicago murder cases that were introduce you to their own older adult-friendly. Join us music history. Dean will solved with the help of version of the game. Light and find a good fit for you. perform memorable songs, forensic evidence. refreshments will be served. Suggested Donation $5 read from his book, and Suggested Donation $1 Suggested Donation $3 share photos from this 6:00 p.m. Design Your Living glorious musical era. 1:00–2:00 p.m. American Saturday, October 7 Space with Feng Shui Suggested Donation $5 Classic Tours Presentation 11:30 a.m. great Courses: Randa Clark, Feng Shui Joe & Sheila Conroy, Presenters Criminal Minds—Psychology Consultant, Allied ASID, CRMT Thursday, October 12 Come and learn about some & Psychiatry Learn to freshen up the look 2:00 p.m. Living with amazing tours offered in the This series of DVD lectures of your home and get rid of Kindness next few months! FREE delves into the use of clutter. When you feng shui Leon Logothetis, Author evidence, witnesses, and your dwelling, it will change We’ll talk by Skype Wednesday, October 18 deductive reasoning to your life! Bring a small object with Leon Logothetis, global 1:00–4:00 p.m. Critic’s solve crimes. Today’s lecture from home that you either adventurer, kindness advo- Choice: Emma by Jane Austen examines the case of serial love or hate. Suggested cate, and philanthropist. Leon Share your thoughts after killer Jeffrey Dahmer. Donation $5 is famous for his trip around we watch the film version Suggested Donation $1 the world, documented on of a book we’ve read during the TV show The Kindness the month. See Café manager Diaries, in which he lived for details. FREE solely off the kindness of

4 Mather’s—More Than a Café October | November | December 2017 Monday, October 23 Reliving History: 6:00 p.m. DIY Home THE GREAT COURSES: Decorating The Hobby of Re-Enacting BRAIN MYTHS Karen Carpino, Interior Designer EXPLODED Decorate your home like 11:30 a.m., Saturdays a professional designer— In this DVD series, we’ll without spending any money! discover truths behind Karen shares tips on redesign- prevalent myths about the ing a room using what you human brain. Suggested own, basic organizing tech- Donation $1 per session niques, and more. Those who attended Karen’s previous Saturday, November 4 session are welcome to Are Bigger Brains Smarter? return, since this program and How Different Are is largely Q&A. Suggested Male and Female Brains? Donation $5 Saturday, November 11 Thursday, October 26 Does Your Brain Shut Down 1:00 p.m. Don’t Squash during Sleep? and Are You That Bug Always Conscious while Jim Rowan, Historian, Awake? Naturalist & Photographer Meet some often-maligned Saturday, November 18 animals that are often How Accurate Is Your considered creepy: insects Monday, October 30 World War II. Try on some of Memory? and Can Adult and spiders! Through Jim’s 6:00 p.m. Chicago’s Jim’s period uniforms and Brains Change for the Better? amazing macro photography, Haunted History see how you look! Suggested we’ll come face to face with Scott Larson, Storyteller, Donation $8 Saturday, November 25 some of these creatures and Historian & Graphic Novelist Can Brain Games Make You learn the role they play in Scott will share stories of 3:00 p.m. American Classic Smarter? and Do You Only the world’s ecosystems. Chicago’s haunted history Tours Presentation Use 10% of Your Brain? Suggested Donation $8 and talk about some of the city’s most haunted places. Monday, November 13 Saturday, December 2 Saturday, October 28 Suggested Donation $5 6:00 p.m. The glory of Poland Do You Have 5 Independent 11:30 a.m. great Courses: Joe Cunniff, Instructor, Senses? and Can Certain Applications—Mass Disaster Wednesday, November 1 DePaul University Foods Make You Smarter? Forensics and Identification 1:00 p.m. Reliving History: Join Joe for a virtual tour Matters The Hobby of Re-Enacting of Poland with a film and Saturday, December 9 Today’s DVD lecture looks Jim Rowan, Historian, personal stories. We’ll cover Is Your Brain Objective? at how forensic techniques Naturalist & Photographer Cracow and Warsaw, the and Can You Multitask come into play when the Re-enactors have a passion country’s beautiful art and Efficiently? crime scene is a mass disas- for history and for sharing architecture, and the enor- ter like the 1994 crash of that passion with the public. mous social and political Saturday, December 16 American Eagle Flight 4184. This program highlights changes Poland has under- Are Dreams Meaningful? Suggested Donation $1 some events Jim has partici- gone in the last few decades. and Is Your Brain Too Smart pated in as we visit historic Enjoy a delicious Polish treat. for Magic Tricks? periods from the Romans to Suggested Donation $8

PLEASE REGISTER AT LEAST ONE WEEK IN ADVANCE FOR ALL PROGRAMS

7134 W. Higgins Avenue, Chicago, IL 60656 | (773) 774.4804 • mathersmorethanacafe.com 5 LIFELONG LEARNING Continued from page 5 HEALTH & WELLNESS

Tuesdays, October 3–24 8:20 a.m. Meditation & Relaxation: A 4-Week Workshop Joany Binder, Meditation Facilitator Join us to learn how to overcome stress, ease your mind of clutter and anxiety, and change the negatives to positives. Suggested Donation $20 for 4-week workshop

Wednesday, October 4 9:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. Free Flu Shots Get a free flu shot courtesy of Walgreens Pharmacy. If you have a Medicare Part B card, please bring it with you. Appointment required.

Monday, October 16 get Your Sparkle On: Sparkling Wines for the Holidays 2:30–4:30 p.m. vein Care Screening Ramon Castro, MD, Chicago Vein Care Clinic Wednesday, November 15 Wednesday, December 6 Do you suffer from leg pain, spider veins, 1:00–4:00 p.m. Critic’s Choice: 1:00 p.m. Fortress America swelling, or restless legs? Learn about The Ice Harvest by Scott Phillips Jim Rowan, Historian, treatments such as laser and sclerotherapy. Naturalist & Photographer Participants will receive a complimentary Monday, November 27 Join us as historian Jim Rowan screening and consultation. FREE 1:00 p.m. got Photos? takes us on a visual tour through get Organized! America and Canada, exploring Wednesday, October 25 Lida Bunting, Association of significant structures built to 12:30–2:30 p.m. Medicare Open Professional Photo Organizers protect borders, frontiers, and Enrollment Presentation We all have hundreds of photos, people against invasion and UnitedHealthcare Representatives but organizing and preserving harm. Suggested Donation $8 Get all your Medicare questions answered— them can be overwhelming. Lida including which plan fits your needs. Afterwards, shares some simple steps to help Monday, December 11 talk one-on-one with a UnitedHealthcare agent get you started. You’ll leave with 6:00 p.m. get Your Sparkle On: to address your questions. Light refreshments a plan for sharing and caring for Sparkling Wines for the Holidays will be served. FREE your photos. FREE Bill Gilmore, Wine Consultant Just in time for the holidays! Tuesdays, November 7–28 6:00 p.m. The Family in Art Learn the basics of sparkling 8:20 a.m. Meditation & Relaxation: Caroline Edasis, Manager of Art wines, including cava, prosecco, A 4-Week Workshop Therapy, Mather LifeWays and Champagne. We’ll provide Discover new ways of looking at samples of five varieties, and Bill Monday, November 13 and exploring works of art. We’ll will explain everything you need 12:30–2:30 p.m. Medicare Open look at images of the family in to know about the wines that Enrollment Presentation art history, describe what we see, create a party in your mouth! and find connections with our Suggested Donation $5 Tuesdays, December 5–19 own experiences. Suggested 8:20 a.m. Meditation & Relaxation: Donation $3 A 3-Week Workshop Suggested Donation $15 for 3-week workshop

6 Mather’s—More Than a Café October | November | December 2017 FREE TRIPS RESOURCES

Mather’s—More Than a Café in Tuesday, October 3 Chatham: Tour, Lunch & More! 3:30 p.m. Facial Care Head to Chicago’s South Side for a Mia Dumanlang, Licensed Beautician day at our Chatham location. We’ll tour Look years younger using home the recently renovated space, attend a ingredients for skin care. Come see quilt exhibit and presentation, and a live demonstration on how you can share a delicious lunch while enjoying save money using everyday house- the Proscenium Players Variety Show. hold products that make a difference. DATE: Tuesday, October 3, Escape to Margaritaville 10:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Thursdays, October 12, Departure Location: Mather’s – a powerful, moving story and an November 9, and December 14 7134 W. Higgins Avenue exquisite score of original music and 12:30 p.m. Sharing Life’s Lessons Cost $45 traditional holiday favorites. Shirley Thomas, Facilitator Please pay and register by Friday, DATE: Thursday, December 14, In this journey called life, we’ve September 15. Cost includes transporta- 12:00–6:30 p.m. learned great and powerful lessons, tion, lunch, and entertainment. Limit 20. Departure Location: Mather’s – as well as funny ones. Share your ex- 3235 N. Central Avenue periences and learn from each other. Escape to Margaritaville Cost $80 Oriental Theatre, Chicago Please pay and register by Friday, Monday, October 23 Imagine a place where the sun is hot November 10. Cost includes transporta- 3:00–5:00 p.m. Drop & Swap and the water’s warm—welcome to tion, lunch at Zia Lago Vista, and show. Only new or clean, gently used items, Margaritaville! Take a break from your Limit 25. please. Register at the front desk. No troubles and enjoy this new musical perishable items. You must be able about the choices we make and the American Classic Tours to transport items on your own. people we become once we’ve had a Door County in the Fall, October 11–13 change in latitude. This musical getaway Tour the picturesque lakeside villages, Monday, November 6 features original and much-loved extensive shoreline, and rolling wood- 1:30 p.m. White Elephant Jimmy Buffett songs. land of the “Cape Cod of the Midwest.” Mercy Prindes & Charlaine Ryan DATE: Wednesday, November 29, Stay at the beautiful Stone Harbor Bring two new or gently used items 12:30–5:30 p.m. Resort on the Sturgeon Bay waterfront wrapped in newspaper. FREE Departure Location: Mather’s – for two nights and enjoy a guided tour 7134 W. Higgins Avenue of the county. Monday, November 13 Cost $60 3:00–5:30 p.m. Haircuts Please pay and register by Friday, Nashville Country & Mia Dumanlang, Licensed Beautician November 3. Cost includes transportation Opryland Hotel, November 16–20 Sign up for a free haircut! Mia will take and show. Limit 30. Get in the holiday spirit as we visit the appointments every 20 minutes with Music City—Nashville, Tennessee! This the last one of the day at 5:30 p.m. The Christmas Schooner tour features a four-night stay at the Mercury Theater & Zia Lago Vista Opryland Hotel, which will be decorated Wednesday, November 29 Restaurant, Chicago with millions of glittering lights, and a 1:30–3:00 p.m. Mather’s Don’t miss this heartwarming holiday visit to the Grand Ole Opry. Connections Meeting classic that tells the story of the first Find out about volunteering at For pricing and details, contact ship and the family who Mather’s—More Than a Café and American Classic Tours at risked their lives to fill Chicago with the its benefits. Call Claire Stahl at (800) 666.0358 Christmas spirit. The production features (773) 774.5771.

PLEASE REGISTER AT LEAST ONE WEEK IN ADVANCE FOR ALL PROGRAMS

7134 W. Higgins Avenue, Chicago, IL 60656 | (773) 774.4804 • mathersmorethanacafe.com 7 CULINARY DELIGHTS

Cookbook & Holiday Cookie Exchange

Thursday, October 5 Thursday, November 2 Thursday, November 16 Meal Meal Meal Special Meal Special: Oktoberfest Special Meal Special: Comfort Food Special Meal Special: Lentil soup, salad, pork Chicken noodle soup, meat Thanksgiving Meal schnitzel, spätzle, red cabbage, rye roll, loaf, mashed potatoes, green beans, Herb-roasted turkey (white and and apple strudel. Cost $9.50 and chocolate pudding. dark meat), mashed potatoes, gravy, Cost $7.99 , stuffing, green beans, Wednesday, October 11 and your choice of dessert from the 1:00–2:30 p.m. The ART of the COOKIE Wednesday, November 8 sweet table. Cost $9.50 Michele Hansen, Instructor 1:00–2:30 p.m. The ART of the COOKIE Join us in creating edible art! Master See October 11. Registration and Every Tuesday in techniques for embellishing everyday payment required by November 3. December, enjoy cookies and holiday cookies. All supplies $1 bottomless mugs included. Registration and payment 4:00–5:30 p.m. The ART of the COOKIE of old-fashioned required by October 6. Suggested Bring your grandchild (age 7 to 12) stovetop hot chocolate! Donation $10 for an additional $5. Registration and payment required by November 3. 4:00–5:30 p.m. The ART of the COOKIE All supplies included. Suggested Wednesday, December 13 Michele Hansen, Instructor Donation $10 1:00 p.m. The Culinary Delighters Michele offers a repeat of this after- Present: Chicken vesuvio noon’s sweet workshop—but this Friday, November 10 Culinary Delighter José will demonstrate time you can bring your grandchildren 4:00–6:00 p.m. victorian Tea with how to make Chicken Vesuvio, a dish (age 7 to 12) for an additional $5 each. Amelia Earhart unique to and rarely seen outside of Payment required by October 6. Leslie Goddard, Impersonator Chicago. Enjoy some history and a plate- Suggested Donation $10 Bring your grandchildren to high tea. ful of this tasty Chicago original. Cost $7 Enjoy finger sandwiches, tea cookies Monday, October 30 and other dessert delicacies, plus an Friday, December 15 3:00 p.m. The Culinary Delighters assortment of teas. Hear firsthand 2:00 p.m. Cookbook & Holiday Present: Homemade Ricotta from spirited aviator Amelia Earhart Cookie Exchange Mary Beth will teach you how easy it is as she tells you about her dazzling Whip up a double batch of your favorite to make fresh ricotta from scratch, as achievements. Please register and treat—enough to share for take-home she provides interesting background pay by November 1. Suggested treats and to sample as we chat. Bring on this versatile ingredient. Sample Donation $20; $15 for children recipes and cookbooks to exchange, ricotta with extra virgin oil on crostini, age 8–14 gather recipes for other sweet delights, cherry ricotta blintzes, and ricotta and leave with the warm glow of dumplings. Cost $6 holiday cheer. FREE

8 Mather’s—More Than a Café October | November | December 2017 FITNESS

ALL CLASSES ARE 45 MINUTES LONg UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED.

6:00–6:45 p.m. Try Something New! Mind-Body Workout This class blends the strength of tai chi, Qigong yoga, meditation, and relaxation into a fun experience that helps with balance, core strength, mobility, and better energy flow. Cost $3

THURSDAY 9:00 a.m. Jazzercise See Wednesday.

10:00 a.m. Tai Chi Tai chi is non-impact and will move you slowly and gently while promoting full- Mind-Body Workout body strength, stamina, and flexibility. Cost $5 MONDAY 10:30 a.m. Prime Time Fitness 9:00 a.m. Walking Club Achieve balance physically and 11:00 a.m. Total Body Fit Get out in the neighborhood, feel mentally with aerobic activity aimed Get energized with some vigorous fantastic in the fresh air, and get the at improving your cardiovascular cardio moves (keep that heart healthy!), exercise you want while you chat with health and well-being. Cost $3 build muscle strength, and tone up. friends. Weather permitting, this group Cost $3 meets year-round. FREE 11:30 a.m. Fun Fitness with Beth Improve your overall health with moves 5:30–6:30 p.m. Yoga 9:00 a.m. Yoga that focus on strength, endurance, See Tuesday. Yoga is wonderful for muscle tone, balance, and flexibility. Cost $3 strength, and flexibility. Please wear FRIDAY loose, comfortable clothing, bring a 5:30–6:30 p.m. Yoga 9:00 a.m. Walking Club towel or mat, and don’t eat one hour Try our evening class—we welcome See Monday. before class. Cost $5 every fitness level and experience level with yoga. Cost $5 9:00 a.m. Total Body Fit 10:30 a.m. Ageless grace See Thursday. Try this brain fitness program that WEDNESDAY addresses all 21 physical skills needed 9:00 a.m. Walking Club SATURDAY for lifelong optimal function. Cost $3 See Monday. 10:00 a.m. Total Body Fit See Thursday. TUESDAY 11:00 a.m. Jazzercise 9:30 a.m. Muscle Movers Jazzercise borrows moves from dance, Get moving while increasing flexibility. hip-hop, yoga, Pilates, and resistance Warm up and gain strength for higher training and bundles them into one energy challenges. Cost $3 powerful hour. Cost $5

PLEASE REGISTER AT LEAST ONE WEEK IN ADVANCE FOR ALL PROGRAMS

7134 W. Higgins Avenue, Chicago, IL 60656 | (773) 774.4804 • mathersmorethanacafe.com 9 ART & CREATIVITY

Monday, October 23 whose multimedia artwork will be 1:30 p.m. Try Something New! on display for the full month. FREE Decorate a Holiday Stocking Aleca Breneman, Designer Tuesday, November 7 Time to start thinking about the 3:00–4:30 p.m. Make Your holidays! Here’s a fun way to begin: Own Earrings embellish a using Michele Sztorc, Designer beads, ribbons, glitter, and more. All Michele will guide you through supplies provided. Suggested Donation $5 designing and creating your own simple yet stunning earrings. Wednesday, October 25 All supplies included. Suggested 2:00 p.m. Flower Arranging: Donation $5 Halloween Arrangement Creative Arts Celebration Robert Neri, Robert’s Floral Design Studio Friday, November 17 Create beauty while you relieve stress 1:00 p.m. Create Your Own Friday, October 6 by practicing the fine art of flower Decorative Boutique Tray

BYOB 5:00 p.m. Art Exhibit Opening arranging. Payment required in Aleca Breneman, Designer Reception: Jim Rowan advance. All supplies included. Aleca will guide you through the Suggested Donation $15 steps of creating, decorating, and Tuesday, October 17 embellishing a mini boutique tray. 3:00–4:30 p.m. Create Your Own Friday, October 27 Suggested Donation $6 or two for $11 Stretch Bracelets 6:00–8:00 p.m. Paint & Sip with val Michele Sztorc, Designer Val Zucker-McCune, Owner, Saturday, November 18 Michele will guide you through design- Smart Art Studios 10:00–2:00 p.m. Arts & Crafts ing and creating your own simple yet Enjoy an evening of painting with Learning Resource Fair for All Ages stunning bracelet to take home. All local artist Val McCune. She’ll guide Various Artists/Instructors supplies included. Suggested Donation $5 you through recreating a selected piece Bring in your grandchildren for an while you enjoy your favorite BYOB all-ages interactive creative workshop Thursday, October 19 beverage. Take home your masterpiece! of multiple experiences! Complete 1:00–2:00 p.m. Calligraphy Workshop Light refreshments will be served. three or four projects of your choice Michele Hansen, Instructor Includes painting supplies and canvas. using mixed media for making journals, We’ll practice four different calligraphic Suggested Donation $25 books, and cards. Experiment with styles. All supplies provided. Payment soap bubbles, shaving cream, salt, and required at least one week in advance. Thursday, November 2 sewing. Then take home your projects. Suggested Donation $8 1:00–2:00 p.m. Calligraphy Workshop Suggested Donation $10; children $8

Saturday, October 21 Friday, November 3 Wednesday, November 22 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. Arts & Crafts 4:00 p.m. Creative Arts Celebration 2:00 p.m. Flower Arranging: Learning Resource Fair Celebrate the creative spirit by partici- Thanksgiving Arrangement Join us to explore and be inspired pating in or attending our annual by watercolors, acrylics, pencils, and Creative Arts Celebration. Musicians, Wednesday, December 20 pastels. Instructors will be available to singers, writers, actors, comedians, 2:00 p.m. Flower Arranging: help with instructions on-site and to dancers, and all performing artists Christmas Arrangement take home. You’ll complete a work of are welcome to sign up and perform art and take it home! All art supplies original or non-original work. Then join Friday, December 22 included, and frames available for us for a reception, where you can meet 6:00–8:00 p.m. Paint & Sip with val purchase. Suggested Donation $10 the performers as well as the artists

10 Mather’s—More Than a Café October | November | December 2017 ONGOING EVENTS

ALL ONgOINg EvENTS ARE 1 HOUR LONg UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED.

MONDAY THURSDAY 10:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m. MAGAZINE 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. Open Tech Table Learn to Play Chess Get answers to all your tech questions. Whether you’re new to the game or RELEASE DAY! First come, first served. BYOD–bring want to brush up on basic moves and FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8 your own device. FREE strategies, this is for you. Takes place Be an early bird and get the inside 1st & 3rd Monday of each month. FREE scoop on all the great programs 12:30–3:30 p.m. Social Worker Make an appointment for individual 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. Chair Massage found at Mather’s—More Than a sessions. FREE Pamper yourself with a relaxing 20- Café. We’ll give you the upcoming minute massage. Takes place 1st & 3rd More at Mather’s program schedule FRIDAY Monday of each month. Appointment 10:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Piano Lessons in advance so you can be the first required. Cost $18 Each lesson is 30 minutes. Appointment to register! Call (773) 774.4804 required. Payment required in advance. 3:30–5:00 p.m. Jam Session for more information. Suggested Donation $90 for six lessons Bring your guitar, harmonica, or musical instrument of your choice. Meet other 12:00 p.m. Creative Writers’ group musicians and make music together! 1:00–3:00 p.m. Chess Is Fun! Have you been thinking of writing a Takes place 1st Monday of each month. Drop-ins at all skill levels are welcome. story or starting your memoirs? Join FREE FREE our Creative Writers’ Group and express your inner voice. Takes place 2nd & 4th 5:30–7:30 p.m. Try Something New! 1:00–3:00 p.m. Crochet Class Friday of each month. FREE Watercolor Painting Suggested Donation $2 Learn to use color and apply composition 1:00 p.m. Brainwaves Over Coffee guidelines to create original paintings. 1:00 p.m. News & views Try fun brain exercises, stories, and Basic supplies needed: watercolor Explore the world through discussion, games. Takes place 1st & 3rd Friday of paints, paper, and brushes. Takes place readings, and podcasts. We’ll introduce each month. Suggested Donation $2 1st & 3rd Monday of each month. a new topic each time. Takes place 4th Suggested Donation $8.50 per class Tuesday of each month. FREE 1:30–3:30 p.m. Blood Pressure Screening TUESDAY WEDNESDAY FREE 9:00 a.m. Bowling group 8:45–10:45 a.m. Art Class: Bowl with us at Brunswick Zone, Watercolor Painting SATURDAY 7333 N. Milwaukee Avenue, Niles. See Monday. 11:30 a.m. Ukulele group Lessons Free shoe rental. Cost $7 for three Have fun strumming with your peers! games, payable at the lanes 1:00–3:00 p.m. Coupon & Rebate Suggested Donation $15 per hour Exchange Club 9:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. Senior Health Trade deals, tips, and shopping 12:00–1:30 p.m. RTA Bus Passes Insurance Program (SHIP) experiences in a fun setting. Bring Those 65+ can apply for a reduced Learn how to complete Medicare forms any circulars, mailers, or Internet fare card. To qualify for Free Ride, you and settle claims with your insurance deals. Takes place 4th Wednesday must be registered for Benefit Access. company. Takes place 2nd & 4th Tuesday of each month. FREE Takes place 1st Saturday of each month. of each month. Call (773) 774.4804 to FREE make an appointment.

PLEASE REGISTER AT LEAST ONE WEEK IN ADVANCE FOR ALL PROGRAMS

7134 W. Higgins Avenue, Chicago, IL 60656 | (773) 774.4804 • mathersmorethanacafe.com 11 October | November | December At-a-Glance

OCTOBER WEEKLY EVENTS Monday, October 2 9:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. Senior Health Monday 10:30 a.m. Learn to Play Chess ...... 11 Insurance Program (SHIP)...... 11 9:00 a.m. Walking Club ...... 9 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. Chair Massage. . 11 3:30 p.m. Chicago Music in the 9:00 a.m. Yoga...... 9 3:30–5:00 p.m. Jam Session...... 11 ’60s & ’70s ...... 4 10:30 a.m. Ageless Grace...... 9 5:30–7:30 p.m. Watercolor Painting. . 11 Wednesday, October 11 Tuesday Tuesday, October 3 1:00–2:30 p.m. The ART of the 9:00 a.m. Bowling Group . . . . . 11 TRIP: Mather’s—More Than a Café in COOKIE ...... 8 9:30 a.m. Muscle Movers ...... 9 Chatham: Tour, Lunch & More! ...... 7 4:00–5:30 p.m. The ART of the 10:30 a.m. Prime Time 8:20 a.m. Meditation & Relaxation: COOKIE ...... 8 Fitness ...... 9 A 4-Week Workshop ...... 6 11:30 a.m. Fun Fitness 3:30 p.m. Facial Care ...... 7 Thursday, October 12 with Beth ...... 9 12:30–1:30 p.m. Sharing Life’s 1:00 p.m. Crochet Class ...... 11 Wednesday, October 4 Lessons...... 7 1:00 p.m. Chess Is Fun!...... 11 Morning events cancelled for flu shots. 2:00 p.m. Living with Kindness ...... 4 5:30 p.m. Yoga...... 9 9:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. Free Flu Shots . . . . 7 1:30–5:30 p.m. AARP Driver Safety, Friday, October 13 Wednesday Day 1...... 4 12:00 p.m. Creative Writers’ Group . . 11 8:45 a.m. Art Class: 4:30 p.m. Dinner Theater: Oktoberfest Watercolor Painting ...... 11 Thursday, October 5 with the Mike Knauf Duo ...... 3 9:00 a.m. Walking Club ...... 9 Meal Special: Oktoberfest...... 8 11:00 a.m. Jazzercise...... 9 12:30–4:30 p.m. AARP Safe Driving Saturday, October 14 6:00 p.m. Mind-Body Workout. . 9 Course, Day 2...... 4 11:30 a.m. Great Courses: Crimes— Killers of One, Killers of Many ...... 4 Thursday Friday, October 6 1:00–3:00 p.m. iPad Class ...... 2 9:00 a.m. Jazzercise ...... 9 1:00 p.m. Brainwaves Over Coffee . . . 11 1:00–2:00 p.m. American Classic 10:00 a.m. Open Tech Table. . . . 11 2:00–3:30 p.m. Mather’s Jeopardy! . . . 4 Tours Presentation...... 4 10:00 a.m. Tai Chi...... 9 5:00 p.m. Art Exhibit Opening 11:00 a.m. Total Body Fit ...... 9 Monday, October 16 12:30 p.m. Social Worker ...... 11 Reception: Jim Rowan ...... 10 10:30 a.m. Learn to Play Chess ...... 11 5:30 p.m. Yoga...... 9 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. Chair Massage. . 11 6:30 p.m. Acoustic Evenings. . . . 3 Saturday, October 7 11:30 a.m. Great Courses: Criminal 1:00 p.m. Game Time ...... 3 Friday Minds—Psychology & Psychiatry. . . . . 4 2:30–4:30 p.m. Vein Care Screening. . . 6 9:00 a.m. Walking Club ...... 9 12:00–1:30 p.m. RTA Bus Passes. . . . . 11 5:30–7:30p.m.Watercolor Painting. . . 11 9:00 a.m. Total Body Fit ...... 9 10:30 a.m. Piano Lessons . . . . . 11 Monday, October 9 Tuesday, October 17 1:30 p.m. Blood Pressure 1:00–2:00 p.m. You Can Find Love 8:20 a.m. Meditation: A 4-Week Screening ...... 11 at Any Age...... 4 Workshop, Week 3 ...... 6 6:00 p.m. Design Your Living Space 3:00–4:30 p.m. Create Your Own Saturday with Feng Shui ...... 4 Stretch Bracelets ...... 10 10:00 a.m. Total Body Fit ...... 9 11:30 a.m. Ukulele Group Tuesday, October 10 Wednesday, October 18 Lessons ...... 11 8:20 a.m. Meditation: A 4-Week 1:00–4:00 p.m. Critic’s Choice: Emma Workshop, Week 2 ...... 6 by Jane Austen ...... 4

12 Mather’s—More Than a Café October | November | December 2017 Thursday, October 19 1:00–2:30 p.m. Open Tech Table ...... 2 1:00–2:00 p.m. Calligraphy Thank you for being Workshop ...... 10 Monday, October 30 a part of Mather’s— 3:30–5:30 p.m. Spinning Discs 3:00 p.m. The Culinary Delighters with “Jivan” Ivan ...... 3 Present: Homemade Ricotta ...... 8 More Than a Café 6:00 p.m. Chicago’s Haunted History. . 5 Mather’s—More Than a Café Friday, October 20 customers tell us they love the 1:00 p.m. Brainwaves Over Coffee . . . 11 sense of community, well-being, 4:30 p.m. Dinner Theater: NOVEMBER Sandi Haynes...... 3 and exploration they experience Wednesday, November 1 at our locations. The Cafés are Saturday, October 21 1:00 p.m. Reliving History: a part of Mather LifeWays— 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. Arts & Crafts The Hobby of Re-Enacting...... 5 a unique, non-denominational Learning Resource Fair ...... 10 3:00 p.m. American Classic Tours not-for-profit organization Presentation...... 5 founded more than 75 years Monday, October 23 ago and dedicated to developing 1:30 p.m. Decorate a Holiday Thursday, November 2 and implementing Ways to Stocking ...... 10 Meal Special: Comfort Food ...... 8 SM 3:00–5:00 p.m. Drop & Swap...... 7 1:00–2:00 p.m. Calligraphy Age Well. 6:00 p.m. DIY Home Decorating ...... 5 Workshop ...... 10 We are looking to the kindness Tuesday, October 24 Friday, November 3 and caring of people like you 8:20 a.m. Meditation: A 4-Week 1:00 p.m. Brainwaves Over Coffee . . . 11 to help us continue to provide Workshop, Week 4 ...... 6 4:00 p.m. Creative Arts Celebration. . 10 our quality (and fun!) lessons, 9:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. Senior Health lectures, and entertainment. Insurance Program (SHIP)...... 11 Saturday, November 4 Please join our family of donors 1:00 p.m. News & Views ...... 11 12:00–1:30 p.m. RTA Bus Passes. . . . . 11 with a gift of $25, $50, $100, or 11:30 a.m. The Great Courses: any amount that is right for you. Wednesday, October 25 Brain Myths Exploded...... 5 12:30–2:30 p.m. Medicare Open You’ll see your generosity at Enrollment Presentation ...... 6 Monday, November 6 work every time you walk 1:00–3:00 p.m. Coupon & Rebate 10:30 a.m. Learn to Play Chess ...... 11 through our door. Exchange Club ...... 11 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. Chair Massage. . 11 2:00 p.m. Flower Arranging: 1:30 p.m. White Elephant ...... 7 Your tax-deductible gift can Halloween Arrangement ...... 10 3:30–5:00 p.m. Jam Session...... 11 be made in person at any 5:30–7:30p.m.Watercolor Painting. . . 11 Mather’s—More Than a Café, Thursday, October 26 or by mail to: 1:00 p.m. Don’t Squash That Bug . . . . . 5 Tuesday, November 7 8:20 a.m. Meditation & Relaxation: Mather Possibilities Friday, October 27 A 4-Week Workshop ...... 6 1603 Orrington Avenue 12:00 p.m. Creative Writers’ Group . . 11 3:00–4:30 p.m. Make Your Suite 1800 6:00–8:00 p.m. Paint & Sip with Val. . 10 Own Earrings...... 10 Evanston, IL 60201

Saturday, October 28 Wednesday, November 8 Please make your check payable to 11:30 a.m. Great Courses: 1:00–2:30 p.m. The ART of the Mather Possibilities and indicate Applications— Mass Disaster Forensics COOKIE ...... 8 “Café” on the memo line. and Identification Matters ...... 5

PLEASE REGISTER AT LEAST ONE WEEK IN ADVANCE FOR ALL PROGRAMS

7134 W. Higgins Avenue, Chicago, IL 60656 | (773) 774.4804 • mathersmorethanacafe.com 13 Wednesday, November 8 11:30 a.m. The Great Courses: DECEMBER 4:00–5:30 p.m. The ART of the Brain Myths Exploded...... 5 COOKIE ...... 8 Every Tuesday in December, enjoy Monday, November 20 bottomless $1 mugs of old-fashioned Thursday, November 9 10:30 a.m. Learn to Play Chess ...... 11 stovetop hot chocolate! 12:30 p.m. Sharing Life’s Lessons . . . . . 7 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. Chair Massage. . 11 1:00–2:00 p.m. Internet Basics ...... 2 Friday, December 1 Friday, November 10 5:30–7:30 p.m. Watercolor 1:00 p.m. Brainwaves Over Coffee . . . 11 Café closed from 3:00–5:00 p.m. Painting...... 11 4:30 p.m. Dinner Theater: 12:00 p.m. Creative Writers’ Group . . 11 An Early Yule! ...... 3 4:00–6:00 p.m. Victorian Tea with Tuesday, November 21 Amelia Earhart ...... 8 8:20 a.m. Meditation: A 4-Week Saturday, December 2 6:30 p.m. Edizon Dayao ...... 3 Workshop, Week 3 ...... 6 11:30 a.m. The Great Courses: Brain Myths Exploded...... 5 Saturday, November 11 Wednesday, November 22 12:00–1:30 p.m. RTA Bus Passes. . . . . 11 11:30 a.m. The Great Courses: 1:00–3:00 p.m. Coupon & Rebate Brain Myths Exploded...... 5 Exchange Club ...... 11 Monday, December 4 2:00 p.m. Flower Arranging: 10:30 a.m. Learn to Play Chess ...... 11 Monday, November 13 Thanksgiving Arrangement ...... 10 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. Chair Massage. . 11 12:30–2:30 p.m. Medicare Open 3:30–5:00 p.m. Jam Session...... 11 Enrollment Presentation ...... 6 Thursday, November 23 5:30–7:30p.m.Watercolor Painting. . . 11 3:00–5:30 p.m. Haircuts...... 7 CAFÉ CLOSED – Happy Thanksgiving! 6:00 p.m. The Glory of Poland ...... 5 Tuesday, December 5 Friday, November 24 8:20 a.m. Meditation & Relaxation: Tuesday, November 14 CAFÉ CLOSED – Happy Shopping Day! A 3-Week Workshop ...... 6 8:20 a.m. Meditation: A 4-Week Workshop, Week 2 ...... 6 Saturday, November 25 Wednesday, December 6 9:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. Senior Health 11:30 a.m. The Great Courses: 1:00 p.m. Fortress America ...... 6 Insurance Program (SHIP)...... 11 Brain Myths Exploded...... 5 1:00–2:30 p.m. Open Tech Table ...... 2 Thursday, December 7 Wednesday, November 15 CAFÉ CLOSED – All-Employee Meeting 1:00–4:00 p.m. Critic’s Choice: The Ice Monday, November 27 Harvest by Scott Phillips...... 6 1:00 p.m. Got Photos? Friday, December 8 Get Organized! ...... 6 Magazine Release Day! Thursday, November 16 6:00 p.m. The Family in Art ...... 6 12:00 p.m. Creative Writers’ Group . . 11 Meal Special: Thanksgiving Meal . . . . . 8 4:30 p.m. Dinner Theater: 3:30–5:30 p.m. Spinning Discs Tuesday, November 28 Chris Casello Rockabilly Trio ...... 3 with “Jivan” Ivan ...... 3 8:20 a.m. Meditation: A 4-Week Workshop, Week 4 ...... 6 Saturday, December 9 Friday, November 17 9:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. Senior Health 11:30 a.m. The Great Courses: 1:00 p.m. Brainwaves Over Coffee . . 11 Insurance Program (SHIP)...... 11 Brain Myths Exploded...... 5 1:00 p.m. Create Your Own 1:00 p.m. News & Views ...... 11 1:00–2:30 p.m. Open Tech Table ...... 2 Decorative Boutique Tray ...... 10 4:30 p.m. Dinner Theater: Wednesday, November 29 Monday, December 11 Christopher Walz & Friends ...... 3 TRIP: Escape to Margaritaville ...... 7 1:00–2:00 p.m. Smartphones ...... 2 1:30–3:00 p.m. Mather’s Connections 6:00 p.m. Get Your Sparkle On: Saturday, November 18 Meeting...... 7 Sparkling Wines for the Holidays . . . . . 6 10:00–2:00 p.m. Arts & Crafts Learning Resource Fair for All Ages . . . 10

14 Mather’s—More Than a Café October | November | December 2017 Tuesday, December 12 Monday, December 25 Mather’s Chicagoland Locations 8:20 a.m. Meditation: A 3-Week CAFÉ CLOSED – Happy Holidays! 7134 W. Higgins Avenue, Chicago, IL 3235 N. Central Avenue, Chicago, IL Workshop, Week 2 ...... 6 33 E. 83rd Street, Chicago, IL Tuesday, December 26 For information, please call (888) 600.2560.

9:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. Senior Health 9:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. Senior Health Mather LifeWays opened Mather’s—More Than a Café in Insurance Program (SHIP) ...... 11 Insurance Program (SHIP)...... 11 2000. Mather LifeWays enhances the lives of older adults SM 1:00 p.m. News & Views ...... 11 by creating Ways to Age Well. Wednesday, December 13 Important Information 1:00 p.m. The Culinary Delighters Wednesday, December 27 TRIPS: Full payment is due at time of registration. After the trip deadline has passed, no refunds will be issued unless Present: Chicken Vesuvio...... 8 1:00–3:00 p.m. Coupon & Rebate your reservation can be filled. Exchange Club ...... 11 WAIVERS: Participants registering for any programs Thursday, December 14 involving physical activity and trips/tours must sign TRIP: The Christmas Schooner ...... 7 the Waiver of Liability available at the Café prior to participation. 12:30 p.m. Sharing Life’s Lessons. . . . . 7 SPECIAL ACCOMMODATION: When registering for an event, please notify the Café of any special accommoda- Friday, December 15 tions needed. 1:00 p.m. Brainwaves Over Coffee . . 11 Disclaimers 2:00 p.m. Cookbook & Holiday GENERAL DISCLAIMER: The opinions expressed by Cookie Exchange ...... 8 presenters are their own and do not reflect the views of Mather LifeWays or any of the sponsoring organizations. 4:30 p.m. Dinner Theater: Rick Pickren’s Prairie Holiday ...... 3 PHOTOGRAPHY DISCLAIMER: Mather’s uses pictures of events and participants to inform others about these opportunities. Some pictures may be used on our Facebook Saturday, December 16 page. If you do not want your picture taken, please tell our photographer. 11:30 a.m. The Great Courses: Brain Myths Exploded...... 5 HEALTHY LIVING DISCLAIMER Mather’s—More Than a Café implemented a members- 1:00–2:30 p.m. Open Tech Table ...... 2 only process for all its fitness programs in order to comply with City of Chicago licensing rules. Mather’s fitness pro- Welcome, Claire! grams will be available only to Mather’s members. There Monday, December 18 is no charge for this membership, no paperwork for you 10:30 a.m. Learn to Play Chess...... 11 Mather's—More Than a Café in to complete, and no ID card or badge. The next time you Norwood Park and Portage Park check in with the Café receptionist, simply confirm your 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. Chair Massage. . 11 fitness membership. If you are a new visitor, please sign 5:30–7:30p.m.Watercolor Painting. . . 11 welcome Claire Stahl, our new up for this free membership at the front desk. At any time Assistant Café Manager. Claire if you do not wish to be enrolled, please contact the Café Manager or receptionist. Tuesday, December 19 has a master's degree in public LESSONS & LECTURES DISCLAIMER 8:20 a.m. Meditation: A 3-Week health from the University of In order to comply with City of Chicago licensing rules, Workshop, Week 3 ...... 6 Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. lessons and lectures other than computer classes and fitness programs will have a suggested donation. We hope you will make the suggested voluntary donations so we Wednesday, December 20 Claire will be at Mather's in may continue to bring high-quality programs to Mather’s. Any donations are purely voluntary and can even be 2:00 p.m. Flower Arranging: Norwood Park on Tuesdays, deducted from your income taxes! Christmas Arrangement ...... 10 Thursdays, and Saturdays. ENTERTAINMENT DISCLAIMER Her phone number there is Entertainment is available to all customers regardless Thursday, December 21 (773) 774.5771. She is at Mather's of meal purchase. We hope you will make the suggested donation so we may continue to bring high-quality 3:30–5:30 p.m. Spinning Discs in Portage Park on Wednesdays programs to Mather’s. Any donations are purely voluntary with “Jivan” Ivan ...... 3 and Fridays and can be reached and can even be deducted from your income taxes! Mather’s—More Than a Café does reserve the right to there at (773) 205.3304. reserve seating for those customers purchasing the Friday, December 22 She is available every day at Dinner Theater Menu and/or meals. 12:00 p.m. Creative Writers’ Group . . 11 [email protected]. Mather LifeWays is committed to helping 6:00–8:00 p.m. Paint & Sip with Val . . 10 Earth Age Well. Please recycle.

PLEASE REGISTER AT LEAST ONE WEEK IN ADVANCE FOR ALL PROGRAMS

7134 W. Higgins Avenue, Chicago, IL 60656 | (773) 774.4804 • mathersmorethanacafe.com 15 Research shows us that happier people tend to report -, TIPS having better physical health, greater psychological well-being, more fulfilling relationships, and a deeper sense of purpose. Fortunately, you can increase your TO BOOST happiness by savoring positive experiences. At Mather’s— More Than a Café, we build happiness with a variety of YOUR ways to be social, get active, and learn something new. Here are 10 savoring strategies (plus a bonus strategy) HAPPINESS you can start using today to boost your happiness!

1 Say “Thank You.” 7 Challenge Yourself. Choose someone who has had a positive impact on your Set specific, achievable goals that you can complete life and write them a letter expressing your gratitude. within a month. When you reach your milestone, make a point to recognize and celebrate your success. 2 Treat Yourself to Learning Something New. Regularly schedule uninterrupted time to focus on a 8 Take a New Approach. hobby or learn a new skill. Sharpen your senses to savor positive experiences in new ways. Close your eyes when you’re enjoying 3 Increase Your Appreciation. your favorite music. You can avoid taking good things for granted by imagining what it would be like if you lost them. 9 Put on a Happy Face. Try skipping your afternoon coffee or sweets for a Even if you’re feeling a little down, acting like you’re in week—you’ll savor them more after the break. a good mood by smiling and laughing can help improve your mood. Acting happy can lead to actual happiness. 4 Snap a Picture. For the next 30 days, take one photograph a day of 10 End the Day on a Bright Note. something you find interesting, beautiful, meaningful, At the end of each day, take a few moments to think or enjoyable. of three positive things that happened that day.

5 Put on Your Walking Shoes. BONUS STRATEgY: Take a 15- to 20-minute walk each day where you only 11 Phone a Friend. focus on positive things. Actively search for things that You don’t have to be alone when you try these out— bring out joy, awe, curiosity, or contentment. invite a friend or family member to join you on your 6 Redirect Your Thinking. daily walk, or even learn something new together. When you catch yourself dwelling on negative thoughts, intentionally shift your mind to a more positive topic or perform a random act of kindness.

These tips are based on research by Mather LifeWays Institute on Aging, an area of service of Mather LifeWays, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of older adults by creating Ways to Age Well SM. Staffed by nationally recognized researchers, the Institute is an award-winning resource for research and information about wellness, aging, trends in senior living, and successful aging service innovations.

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