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Which Organ Is Most Important?

December 28, 2015 by admin

learn biology in school

Which organ in my body is the most important?

Everything is in your body for a reason—even your appendix. However, your most vital organ is your brain. Why? You only get one! You can replace or live without any other organ, but you only get one brain.

Your brain is an amazing organ. It controls everything in your body. Your brain controls your heart rate, balance, coordination, what you see, and much more. Your brain uses nerves to send and receive information to every muscle and organ in your body. This constant barrage of input is filtered so you are only aware of the information that is important at the time.

A common example of this is when you hit your thumb with a hammer (usually unintentionally). The first response is almost always to shake your hand or squeeze your thumb. Any verbal reactions are unrelated to this example. By shaking or squeezing your thumb, you are activating pathways to the brain. The brain then shifts your focus and the pain feels less intense. Of course, this does not always work. But it often provides you the opportunity to continue with your day and to focus on something other than the pain.

Take care of your brain. Eat brain­healthy foods, such as spinach, blueberries, and fish (which have omega­3 fatty acids). Avoid unhealthy additives, such as artificial sweeteners. Run or walk for 10­30 minutes a day, and sleep at least seven and a half hours a night. A healthy brain leads to a healthy body!

Filed Under: Advertorial, Health Tagged With: body health, health and wellness, nutrition

How to Help Mom and Dad

December 28, 2015 by admin

Walking in summer

Senior Citizens are one of the most valuable assets in our community. They possess a wealth of knowledge gained over a lifetime of experience. Unfortunately, we don’t always recognize how the needs of our loved ones change as they age. In order to properly plan for and help protect our aging relatives (or ourselves for that matter), it is vital that frank, often uncomfortable discussions are had and questions are asked, such as:

  • Who do you want to help you manage your finances if you can no longer do so for yourself?
  • What kind of end of life care do you want to receive if you are terminally ill or incapacitated?
  • What is the likelihood you are going to need long term care and how are you going to pay for it if you do?
  • Who do you want to give authority to if you are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or dementia and need a guardianship and conservatorship?
  • How do you want your possessions divided when you pass away?

The answer to these questions are as unique as each individual that asks them. In order to answer questions like these effectively, it’s always helpful and often necessary to enlist the help of an Elder Law Attorney. Effective representation of seniors must address a host of interrelated, often very technical issues. The question isn’t just “Do I need a will” (which you definitely do), it’s “how do I effectively plan for the host of life changes that may happen from now until I pass away, how can I protect what I’ve worked so hard to gain, how can I maximize the benefits I could be eligible for, and how can I protect and provide for my loved ones?” It’s also “How do I make sure mom or dad have what they need to be as happy, healthy and safe as possible as they age.” And as difficult as these questions and answers may be, a difficult answer to a tough questions is much better than no answer to a question unasked. For more information on how to effectively plan for the transitions that come with aging, contact the attorneys at Masterson, Bottenberg & Eichorn, LLP.

Information provided by Chad Eichorn, attorney for Masterson, Bottenberg & Eichorn, LLP. 14225 University Ave., Suite 210 515­216­0737, www.dsmlawyers.com. Mr. Eichorn is an Elder, Special Needs & Family Law Attorney and Partner at MBE Law. He is a member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, the International Academy of Collaborative Professionals, and is accredited by the Department of Veterans Affairs to aid in application for Veterans Benefits.

Filed Under: Advertorial, Health, Senior Living Tagged With: Elder Law Attorney, Masterson Bottenberg & Eichorn LLP

Smart Uses for Your Tax Refund From American Trust

December 28, 2015 by admin

Piggy bank

Nearly eight out of ten U.S. tax filers will receive a federal tax refund this year. Instead of spending it hastily, take a moment to evaluate your financial situation and decide where those dollars will make the most difference. Here are some ideas for making the most of your tax refund:

Save for emergencies. An emergency fund should be able to cover three to six months’ worth of living expenses in the case of sudden financial hardship like losing your job or needing to replace your car.

Pay off debt. Pay down existing balances by chipping away at the loan with the highest interest rate or by eliminating smaller debt first.

Save for retirement. Open or increase contributions to a tax­deferred savings plan like a 401(k) or an IRA. American Trust can put you in touch with a retirement expert to discuss which options would work best for you.

Put it toward a down payment. The biggest challenge most first­time home buyers face is coming up with enough money for a down payment. Putting your tax refund toward a down payment is a smart move. When you’re ready to start shopping, see your American Trust mortgage lender to get pre­approved. Pre-approval allows you to know exactly what size of monthly payment you can afford.

Invest in your current home. Use your refund to make home improvements that will pay you back in the long run by increasing the value of your home. If you’re planning an extensive remodel, more than your tax refund will cover, see American Trust for a home equity line of credit.

See your American Trust banker for other smart ideas on how to manage your money. They have the banking tools and expertise to help you begin the new year with a financially healthy start.

American Trust has been a community pillar since 1911. We have grown to strengthen the products, services, and financial management we can provide to our clients while retaining the integrity and commitment that can only be found through a community bank.

Filed Under: Advertorial, Banking, Financial Tagged With: American Trust, financial planning, tax refund

Picture Books and Early Literacy

December 28, 2015 by admin

Reading

One of the things I really miss about having small children at home is picture books. You know the kind I mean – large, easy-to-read books featuring lovely big pictures to help tell the story; the kind that are perfect when you hold a child on your lap and read aloud.

Listening to you read books aloud helps prepare preschoolers for school. Waukee Public Library offers a program called 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten. This is a year-round, self-paced program for infants through preschoolers who have not yet entered Kindergarten.  Studies show that children who are exposed to 1,000 books before kindergarten have a more solid foundation for school and are more prepared to learn.  Sign up at the library for your child to receive rewards for every 100 books read. After completing 1,000 books, a library staff member can take a photo of your child wearing a tiny cap and gown.

So pick up a stack of picture books and get started on a fun and easy way to help your child succeed in school – by reading picture books together. Snuggling up together and reading right before bed is an opportunity for you both to wind down at the end of the day.

Filed Under: Lifestyles, My Library

Ring in the New Year in Waukee

December 28, 2015 by admin

two glasses of champagne ready for christmas celebration

Maybe the tune has already wormed its way into your ears after sneaking onto your holiday playlist. Not as well known as “Aude Lang Syne,” but the longing refrain, “What are you doing New Year’s Eve?” demands to know—what are you actually going to do to ring in 2016?

Last year’s neighborhood party was a bust and the year before that you fell asleep at 9:45 p.m. Time to shake things up and shake off the old to make room for the new. Nothing innately magical changes at midnight on December 31, but it is your opportunity to kick off a fresh 365 days in style. Read on for a few local suggestions of party places and family friendly fun.

Gimikk at Mickey’s Irish Pub
No on can party as hardy as the Irish, so converge at Mickey’s Irish Pub and raise a pint or two in bright spirits. Party band Gimikk will rock to room from 9 p.m.-1 a.m. There will be a free champagne toast for a rousing “sláinte” to the past year. The mood will be rousing when free appetizers are put out (while they last) at 11:30 a.m. Party favors will be out for the taking. Plus, there is no cover so, the more money for libations and eats!

Time: 9 p.m.
Address: 50 SE Laurel St., Waukee, IA 50263
Phone: 515-987-9604
Web: mickeyswaukee.com


Miss Kitty’s Party
Head to neighboring Clive to kiss in 2016. In classic Kitty’s fashion their New Year’s Eve celebration is going to be all about the dancing, music, and general party atmosphere. The venue is taking reservations; $65 includes cover for four people, table, chairs, and a bottle of champagne ready to toast with! There will be free party favors for all.

Time: 7 p.m.
Address: 8800 Swanson Blvd., Clive, IA 50325
Phone: 515-327-1303
Web: kittysusa.com


Bounce in the New Year
The kiddos will love to celebrate the festivities in their own rambunctious way! Luckily Pump It Up in nearby Urbandale offers just the place for happy feet to bounce and play until they are worn out. Plus, they’ll be tuckered out so there will definitely be bedtimes before midnight. Reservations are encouraged and the minimum height requirement is 34”.

Time: 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
Address: 4069 121st St., Urbandale, IA 50323
Phone: 515-270-5017
Web: pumpitupparty.com


New Year’s Eve with the Sons of Gladys Kravitz
Local watering hole, Kenny’s Pub, will welcome in the new year with the classic rock band, The Sons of Gladys Kravitz. Per usual the sports bar will host a full menu of food, drinks and a lively ambiance. Chill out, bring your pals, and enjoy merry camaraderie right in the heart of Waukee.

Time: 9 p.m.
Address: 605 Ashworth Dr., Waukee, IA 50263
Phone: 515-987-0161


Jammin’ & Glammin Noon Year’s Eve Party
Head on over to West Des Moines with your kids to share in the New Year festivities. They will love celebrating with the fabulous Glamour Girls Dress Up Party characters. The best part? The countdown is to noon, not midnight, so no need for sleepyhead kiddos on January 1. Games, crafts, door prize drawings, giveaways, and refreshments are all part of the free, family-friendly event. Of course, rhinestone tiara and noisemaker packs will be available for purchase. A reservation is required and parents must stay with children throughout the duration of the event.

Time: 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Address: Glamour Girls Dress Up & Princess Parties – 116 5th St., West Des Moines, IA 50265
Phone: 515-519-3513
Web: GlamourGirlsParties.com


Funny Bone Comedy Club
Make a resolution to laugh more in 2016 and start at the Funny Bone Comedy Club, in West Des Moines, for a special New Year’s Eve comedy show. Doors and seating start at 9:30 a.m. for the 10 p.m. show start time. A ticket price of $45 includes one ticket to the NYE show, party favors, champagne at midnight, and an added admission pass to a future show (one pass per couple). Comedian Kevin Bozeman will be taking the stage. Among other accolades Bozeman was the winner of the Midwest region of the HBO Comedy Competition and competed in Los Angeles as a finalist as well as a semi-finalist on NBC’s Last Comic Standing in 2010. Comedy, libations, and good company in one place, sounds like the perfect start to a new year.

Time: 9:30 p.m.
Address: 560 S Prairie View Dr. #100, West Des Moines, IA 50266
Phone: 515-270-2100
Web: desmoines.funnybone.com/

What’s your favorite place to celebrate New Year’s Eve in the Waukee area? Tell us in the comments below.

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Filed Under: Lifestyles

How to simply poach an egg

December 18, 2015 by admin

Egg on toast

Poaching eggs may seem daunting but it’s really quick and easy. Follow these simple steps for a tasty treat.

  1. Boil enough water to cover the egg(s).
  2. Turn heat off.
  3. Crack eggs separately into hot water.
  4. Once white is firm remove with a slotted spoon and blot with a paper towel.

Filed Under: Featured Recipe, Food, Lifestyles, Recipe

Mashed Potatoes 101

December 18, 2015 by admin

Oven baked chicken in gravy with mashed potatoes and vegetables

It’s Cooking 101 and today’s lesson is Mashed Potatoes

  • Cut potatoes in uniform pieces. Add cold water to cover and bring to a boil.
  • Very important to use cold water, hot makes them mushy as they cook faster
    on the outside before cooking through to the inside.
  • Turn down to simmer and test with a knife by poking one, if it falls off
    they are done…if not a few minutes more…generally speaking 30 min.
  • Heat all dairy to be added in advance…butter, cream cheese, sour cream, milk
    heavy cream, half and half…so as not to add cold and potatoes cool down.

Filed Under: Food, Lifestyles, Recipe

Holidays and Books

December 18, 2015 by admin

Christmas cookies

The best part of holidays and birthdays when I was growing up was new books. Sure, there were other presents, but I could always count on at least one new book to add to my own little library.

At some point during the day I would find time to curl up in an out of the way spot with my newest print acquisition – usually in the company of one of my sisters and a cousin or two who were reading their own new treasures.

I’ve continued the tradition with my son and nieces and nephews by giving books and bookstore gift cards over the years. It has made my heart warm to see my nieces and nephews grow up and share their favorite books with their children.

Several years ago, one of my nephews introduced me to interactive children’s books on his laptop. What a great and fun innovation! A wide variety of titles for children of all ages is accessible on the library’s website: http://www.waukee.org/515/Downloads-Databases. Click on Tumblebooks and enjoy.

I’m hoping there’s a book – print or digital – under the tree with your name on it! Merry Christmas!

Filed Under: Lifestyles, My Library

Enter To Win A $500 Holiday Giveaway from myWaukee

November 30, 2015 by admin

$500 Holiday Giveaway from myWaukee

myWaukee and participating sponsors are offering one lucky reader the chance to win a Holiday-themed giveaway package valued at $500. What a great way to get your Holiday Shopping started!

See entry details below and be sure to enter before December 15th, 2015!

“Free Skin Analysis” from Des Moines Plastic Surgery {$100 Value + Spend $200 and Get $100 Off Gift Card}

Healthy Skin & Laser Center’s state-of-the-art VISIA Imaging System helps give you a clear visualization and detailed analysis of your skin and complexion. With innovative technology, you’ll be able to see actual images of your wrinkles, spots, pores, skin tone bacteria and sun damage – and then to take an active part in determining the first steps you can take along your own path to skin rejuvenation, facial vitality and long-term complexion health.

Free Scholarship to Spring No Boundaries Class from Fleet Feet Sports Des Moines {$75 Value}

No Boundaries is a 10 week program to take people from their current level activity to completing a 5K (3.1 miles). Participants receive 20 coached group workouts, weekly emails, t-shirt, training schedule, training topics, graduation party and more. The next No Boundaries class will begin in March.

4 Tickets from Des Moines Playhouse {$180 value}

Winner will be able to select a show of their choosing. Upcoming shows include: Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, 12 Angry Men, Sister Act and You Can’t Take It With You just to name a few!

Adjustment and Consultation from Spinal Tuning Chiropractic {$50 Value}

Car Organizer from Knapp Properties {$50 Value}

Enter To Win…

$500 Holiday Giveaway

Filed Under: Business, My City Tagged With: giveaway, holiday giveaway

A New Intersection (Driving Experience) Is Coming To The DM Metro

November 24, 2015 by admin

Ever heard of a “diamond” intersection? Well, drivers are in for a completely new driving experience with the development of the new Grand Prairie Parkway interchange along Interstate-80 in Waukee.

So what is a “diamond” intersection exactly? This new kind of intersection is called a diverging diamond and first appeared in 2010. There are only 57 diverging diamond interchanges in the U.S., with three being in Kansas City.

When the light changes, traffic crosses onto what is traditionally known as oncoming lanes. Drivers can turn left on the onramp or continue straight to be diverted back to the southbound side of the road. The biggest advance is that those turning onto the highway don’t have to stop at a second signal.

If you are a visual person, check out this video from KCCI:

Diamond Intersection Coming To Des Moines - Waukee

What do you think of this new “diamond” intersection and will it improve traffic?

Related Posts…

  • Kettlestone Waukee
  • No Stone Unturned
  • Under Construction

Filed Under: My City, Under Construction Tagged With: commute, diamond intersection, traffic

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