Boomer Websites

As an author of novels for baby boomers, also known as boomer lit, there are websites I read regularly to keep up-to-date on what is happening with the generation born from 1946-64. 

I have a keen interest in baby boomers. It's important for me to know the issues and concerns of those I'm writing about in this genre. And as a boomer, I'd be reading visiting these to see what is going on with those in my age group. 

I recently wrote about my hearing loss and getting hearing aids. It helped me understand this health issue from the viewpoint of others about this problem, both professional and personal.    

I also like to be informed about issues that I may encounter before my brief time on Earth is over. And it's not only health matters. There are financial and social matters that concern me. 

By keeping up with the various issues, it informs my writing and makes it relatable to my readers. I also gather information in other ways, such as chats with family and friends and other media (TV, books, movies, etc.)

Here's a shortlist of websites I frequent:

AARP —  The website is targeted for those 50 and over so it also brings in those who hit that magic number this year (Generation X). It's an all-encompassing site that provides useful information on health (such as Medicare, prescription, drugs, etc.), leisure, travel, and finance. 

Baby Boomers — This useful destination provides information on topics such as travel, healthy living, relationships, nutrition and more.  

Boomer Cafe — This site offers wide-ranging topics such as retirement, health, fitness, politics, and an active lifestyle. I receive a first-person story in my email each morning from boomers sharing their life experiences.

Growing Bolder — As part of the Growing Bolder Broadcasting that is seen nationally, the site focuses on active and inspirational lifestyles for older folks.  Not surprisingly,  the site contains quite a few interesting videos.  





Next Avenue — Like AARP, this site is aimed toward those 50 and over. It includes topics such as caregiving, health, work, and technology. It is affiliated with the Public Broadcasting System and produced by Twins Cities PBS.



I also read articles about boomers in MSN, HuffPost, WebMD, and other sites. 

Do you have any recommendations?

Until the next time . . .  



   

Story Songs: Thanksgiving Song

Mary Chapin Carpenter's thoughtful "Thanksgiving Song" reminds us that the holiday is one for showing gratitude for things we often overlook and take for granted in our lives -- family, friends, neighbors, and even the friendless.

The song is from her Christmas album, "Come Darkness, Come Light: Twelve Songs of Christmas," released in 2008.

Carpenter's words paint a picture of people sitting at the dinner table, giving thanks for the simple blessings that make for a fulfilling and satisfying life.

It's one of the busiest times of the year, in terms of travel, when people travel near and far to express their gratitude.

The opening verse:

"Grateful for each hand we hold

Gathered round this table

From far and near we travel home

Blessed that we are able."

She expresses thanks for shelter, light through the windows and being able to "come in away from the sorrow."

"Father, mother, daughter, son

Neighbor, friend and friendless; 

All together everyone in the gift of loving kindness."

And then she writes:

"Grateful for what's understood,

And all that is forgiven

We try so hard to be good,

To lead a life worth living."

Mary Chapin Carpenter

Carpenter, one of the most insightful songwriters in America, helps us reflect on the true meaning of this wonderful day. Her sensibilities and social consciousness are evident in many of her compositions. She's one of my favorite singer/songwriters.

Needless to say, many people in the United States do not have the means to celebrate the holiday. Here are some facts about hunger in the U.S. to help put a few blessings in perspective.

The History Channel has a videos about the Thanksgiving. 

I've also included an editorial from the Delaware County Daily Times -- We Share Many Blessings This Holiday Week.


"Thanksgiving Song" lyrics

And click here for some Thanksgiving quotes to consider throughout the year. 

Happy Thanksgiving....