Just Ask Elizabeth: Walking Safely

Dear Elizabeth,

I see so many people driving very close to walkers. Any suggestions for keeping all walkers safe?

Staying Safe in Seattle

Dear Staying Safe in Seattle,

When I walk, I know that I need to always stay alert. I get off the road when a vehicle is approaching, wear bright colors, look directly at the drivers, and avoid phone chats. Be safe always and enjoy your daily walks.

Just Ask Elizabeth: Healthy Shopping Habits

Dear Elizabeth,
I simply have too much clothing. I love to buy new things, but I am running out of space in my closets. Do you have any suggestions?

Too much shopping in Tuxedo

Dear Too Much Shopping in Tuxedo,

We all like to shop, some of us occasionally, others of us every week. I have a few rules that may help you curb your shopping habits.

1.     If I buy one new thing, I need to toss two old things.

2.     I shop with a list and buy only what is on the list.

3.     I shop for sales only and use a coupon always.

4.     I choose classics and add accessories.

5.     I only buy what I will still be wearing next year.

Do you have tips? Share in the comments!

Just Ask Elizabeth: Dealing With Family & Differing Views

Dear Elizabeth,

Some of my family members have very different views than I do. We disagree on many things, but we are still family. Help.

Signed,
Oh Dear in Omaha

Dear Oh Dear in Omaha,

I understand how you feel. I have had family members not speak to me, too. We finally decided that we loved each other more than these different opinions and have agreed simply to “agree to disagree” for now. It seems to work for us. Time will tell. Try this and see if it works for you.

Just Ask Elizabeth: Thoughts on Everyday Kindness

Dear Elizabeth,

I witnessed kindness in the grocery store yesterday. One man allowed another man who had far fewer items than he did to go ahead of him. The second man beamed and thanked him profusely. It seems that we should all be this kind. Thoughts on everyday kindness?

Seeing Kindness in Scranton

Dear Seeing Kindness in Scranton,

I agree. I always allow a person with fewer items, who might be walking with a cane, or even a mom struggling with her kids go ahead of me. We should always be kind and considerate to others. It is simply the right thing to do, and makes me feel great to give someone else a brighter day.

Just Ask Elizabeth: Where To Beach This Summer?

Dear Elizabeth,

I desperately need a beach vacation. Any suggestions?

Signed,
Need to See the Beach This Summer

Dear Need to See the Beach This Summer,

My neighbors just returned from the beach, looking rested, relaxed, and rejuvenated.

They traveled a distance but found every sunrise, morning, evening, and sunset better than the day before. Book your trip soon and decide whether to stay local or travel. There are so many choices, so little time. Any beach will do for me. Go for it. Enjoy!

Just Ask Elizabeth: Being A 'Friend' To Your Children

Dear Elizabeth,

I know so many friends who insist on being a friend to their children instead of a parent. Kids do need parents and not “friends.” Your thoughts?

Perplexed in Pittsburgh

Dear Perplexed in Pittsburgh,

I completely agree. Kids need parent role models, not parent “friends.” I see this all the time as

kids “negotiate” with their parents. Do your kids a favor and be the parent who sets

boundaries, models great behavior, and is proud of all that your children do. They, in turn, will be

the parent that you should be.

Just Ask Elizabeth: Worried That My Grandkids Aren't Eating Healthy Enough!

Dear Elizabeth,

I am very concerned that my grandchildren are eating a high-fat diet, becoming overweight, and not getting enough exercise. I am worried about their long-term health. Any suggestions?

Concerned in Carlisle

Dear Concerned in Carlisle,

Given the vast array of healthy choices available today, high-fat diets are easily exchanged with

healthier choices. Model great eating habits always. They are also taught about healthy eating

in school, so serve those food choices when they visit you. Take them for a walk or swimming so

that they can get enough daily exercise. Substitute healthy fruits and veggies for the high-fat

options. Serve tasty, healthy meals when they visit you. Do all you can to keep your

grandchildren healthy!