Category Archives: SMILES

“Musical Interlude”

Posted on August 21, 2011 by john graham

A little while ago I read a negative article about a hospital patient being given a tambourine to summon a nurse.  I recently re-read the report more carefully and it set me thinking —– this no doubt well-intended, if thoughtless idea, … Continue reading →

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“Cast Adrift 2”

Posted on August 14, 2011 by john graham

End of July 2011 and I have just returned from a cruise up the West Coast of Norway on board the latest ship in the Cunard fleet – the new Queen Elizabeth.  A massive ship – 10 decks high – … Continue reading →

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“Coffee cures wrinkles”

Posted on August 7, 2011 by john graham

Ever in the search to stay looking young, older women are always willing to try new ways to banish wrinkles! Way back in May 2010, I first wrote about rather scary laser treatment which burns the skin off your face!  … Continue reading →

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“My Garden Age”

Posted on July 24, 2011 by john graham

My Grandfather was a professional gardener, who worked for a garden enthusiast and writer – Avery Tipping.  Together they renovated several manor house gardens in the Chepstow area of Monmouthshire.  At one time there were over 40 gardeners working for my … Continue reading →

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“Fruit Juice Hopes Squashed”

Posted on July 3, 2011 by john graham

Just when I thought I had found the secret to eternal life, my hopes have been shattered. My earlier posts on “Fruitful Research” (9, 23, 30 January; 15 May; 26 June 2011) seemed to suggest that a glass or two … Continue reading →

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“Fruitful Research” 5

Posted on June 26, 2011 by john graham

There seems to be a new wonder fruit found almost every week that helps extend your life.  The problem now is keeping up with all the claims and even knowing what some of the fruits are and how to find … Continue reading →

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“My Country Garden”

Posted on June 22, 2011 by john graham

Everyone needs a garden in their life.  Not necessarily a literal garden, just somewhere where things can grow.  Everything from plants to ideas to children to peace of mind. Right now at six o’clock in the morning, I am sitting … Continue reading →

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“Breakfast Exercise” 6

Posted on June 5, 2011 by john graham

The New York Times regularly has good coverage on ageing. Recently I was sent a very interesting article entitled “Tai Chi eases depression in elderly”, by someone who knows it is a regular early morning pastime of mine. The report … Continue reading →

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Mountains and Molehills

Posted on May 22, 2011 by john graham

I went for a walk this morning for the first time since I retired six months ago.  At the very time when I had the time to go walking I stopped walking.  When you have all the time in the … Continue reading →

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“Fruitful Research” 4

Posted on May 15, 2011 by john graham

Baylor in Texas must be the carrot growing capital of America.  So here’s a message for my gun-toteing, cattle ranching, oil-prospecting cowboy friend John T. in Pampa, Texas.  When the oil runs out you can always turn to carrot farming, … Continue reading →

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