Garry F. Liday Corp - February 2021

Garry F. Liday Corp - February 2021

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FEBRUARY 2021

Garry F. Liday Corporat ion FINANCIAL COACH

RETIREMENT ASSET MANAGERS, INC. A Registered Investment Advisory Firm (RIA)

Life Can Be Scary

Looking Back on 60 Years of Friendship LET’S START 2021 WITH THE RIGHT PERSPECTIVE

Although I’ve always gotten along well with people, I’ve never had more than a few close friends at any given time. To get that close to someone is a blessing, and it’s even more of a blessing to look back and realize I had the same 3 or 4 people as close friends for as long as I have — decades, in most cases. In the last decade, however, I’ve started to experience something that I know many older readers can relate to: I’ve lost many of my good friends. And while I know that none of us have a guarantee on this thing, I got a phone call from an old buddy’s wife recently that’s got me thinking about one of the few old friends I have left and how best to spend the time we still have together. When I was young, I didn’t have as many options available to me as some do today, or, for that matter, as some did in my own day. My schooling had left me with an open future, a bit of a yearning to see the world, and a sense of patriotism — or maybe duty — that I think was a little more common back then. I decided to join the Marine Corps, which was happy to fulfill all of those desires and more. On its own terms, of course! Whether you serve in peace or in wartime, you will form bonds in the military that are stronger than most people can imagine, if they haven’t done it themselves. My friendship with my buddy is one of those bonds. I don’t have space here to go into all the memories from

those days that I’d like to, and even if I did, there are a few of them that we couldn’t print, anyway!

during his whole childhood. I know many of you readers have experienced this with your own family members. It’s heartbreaking for me, and I know the same is true for his wife and brother. Despite all of this, though, he still remembers me. Our friendship over six decades has seen a lot, and he was there for me during the most trying periods of my life. I want to be there for him, now. I go back to visit him often and was there about a year ago — a visit that his wife tells me he still remembers, against all odds. Although I noticed that he wasn’t doing very well, spending a lot of time sleeping in or watching TV, I didn’t find it too difficult to get him talking, either. Like I said, it’s my job to be there for him as much as I can. And I enjoy spending time with him. The memories we have together are always worth reliving, and watching him light up when we talk about our time trudging around various parts of the world … well, it just makes me happy to see. I don’t know how much time we have left together, but you can bet that I won’t waste a moment of it. I hope that as we all enter this new year together, we spend it treasuring the important times with our friends and family. It’s always worth it in the moment, and we never know how many of those moments we have left. – Garry Li day

All joking aside, let me just say that joining the Marine Corps is, at times, a confusing and disorienting experience. When you’re first starting out, you really depend on the more experienced Marines to help you learn the ropes. It’s a sink or swim environment, and the buddy that I’m writing about helped make sure that I swam. His help turned into a friendship that lasted our whole time in the Corps and beyond. Sixty years beyond, in fact — a figure that makes me proud and also amazes me a bit. To me, it seems like only yesterday we were shipping out to points abroad, packs heavy and futures bright. It seems like only yesterday to him, too, and that’s important because my friend is now suffering from some very advanced memory loss. That’s what the recent phone call from his wife was about. We’ve known about his situation for years, but things are getting worse. His short-term memory is pretty shot, and it’s a gamble whether he responds to his wife or not most days. She knows a few tricks to get him to talk, like bringing up his childhood on the farm or his time in the Marine Corps. But lately, some of those “triggers” aren’t working so well. My buddy has a twin brother, and during a recent visit, he barely responded to his twin, either, who was there

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MACKENZIE THE CHIHUAHUA IS ONE BIG HERO Heroes Come in All Sizes

The American Humane Hero Dog Awards competition is an annual celebration that honors some of the world’s most extraordinary canines. The awards recognize dogs that have gone above and beyond the call of duty, whether it’s saving lives on the battlefield, comforting the ill or elderly, or demonstrating just how powerful the bond between humans and animals can be. Winners are crowned in several categories, but the “American Hero Dog” is the top winner selected by expert panelists and a popular vote. It most often goes to dogs who show astute bravery in what they do, and in 2020, that bravery came in a 4-pound package. MacKenzie the Chihuahua bested over 400 competitors to be selected as 2020’s American Hero Dog. Born seven years ago with a cleft palate and severe pneumonia that nearly took her life, MacKenzie fought hard to overcome her sickness and birth defects. Soon after she defied all odds, her owners noticed her affinity for other animals — despite being tiny compared to many of them. That’s when they gave her a special job: caring for baby animals born with birth defects just like she was.

Many of the rescue animals MacKenzie helps care for have medical problems that prohibit them from staying with their mothers, but MacKenzie takes a genuine interest in each baby from the moment they’re introduced, no matter its species or size. She plays nurse, cleans, and comforts them through their recovery, becoming a pseudo-mother that teaches them how to socialize and play. She’s nurtured countless puppies, kittens, birds, squirrels, mice, goats, and turkeys. Despite her tiny size, she’s even mothered a Great Dane. In addition to caring for rescued animals, MacKenzie also helps kids learn to be open-minded about both animals and people with physical differences or disabilities. The Chihuahua teaches the kids kindness and patience and shows them that no matter how small you might be, you can make a big difference. MacKenzie lost her ability to bark very early in life, but she has one of the loudest voices when it comes to speaking for disadvantaged animals. Heroism truly comes in all shapes, sizes, and forms, but MacKenzie demonstrates that the most heroic act of all is exuding compassion for others, no matter their circumstances.

Stay Safe This Winter Sports Season WITH THESE 5 INJURY PREVENTION TIPS

What do model Heather Mills, Daimler CEO Dieter Zetsche, and former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger have in common? They’re all into skiing — and they’ve all been injured on the slopes. Mills broke her shoulder blade running into a ski pole, Zetsche broke his colliding with a snowboarder, and Schwarzenegger’s leg snapped in a tumble. Winter sports injuries obviously don’t discriminate — all of us are susceptible — but you can stave them off with the right steps. Physical therapists are experts at treating the aftermath of broken bones, dislocations, sprains, ACL injuries, and rotator cuff tears caused by winter sports. They’re also prevention experts! These tips from PTs will help you stay safe this winter while you ski, snowboard, sled, or play hockey. 1. Use targeted exercise to strengthen vulnerable muscle groups. Life’s Work Physical Therapy advises researching common injuries in your sport. Then, you can train your vulnerable muscle groups to make themmore injury-resistant. If you’re

worried about ACL injuries, for example, you need powerful hamstrings and glutes (try deadlifts, glute bridges, or barbell hip thrusts in the gym). If a shoulder injury is more likely, you should train your rotator cuff and trapezius muscles (try plank taps, dumbbell military presses, or dumbbell snatches). 2. Learn how to fall safely. According to ProActive Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine, there is a “right” way to fall to minimize your chance of injury. Their suggestions include crouching when you lose your balance so you don’t fall as far, twisting to land on your side or butt instead of your hands, tucking your chin and turning your head to avoid a face-plant, and relaxing your body before impact. 3. Wear the right protective equipment. MTI Physical Therapy advises wearing protective gear like goggles, a helmet, gloves, and padding when you’re doing a winter sport, whether it’s sledding in your neighborhood or skiing at a resort. You might look silly, but you’ll stay safe!

If you’ve already pulled a muscle or broken a bone this winter, turn to the advice of physical therapists to help with your recovery. ChoosePT. com is a great resource packed with science-based pain management tips. If your injury is serious or you’re still in pain, seek out a physical therapist in person. They’ll help you get back to the winter sports you love.

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In the famous Swiss novel “Heidi,” a little girl recovers from her fragile health — both physically and mentally — by spending time in the mountains. There are plenty of anecdotal stories about the medicinal effects of mountain air, but how much is supported by research? Here’s what there is evidence for so far: Cleaner, Pollution-Free Air One basic but important benefit of getting to a higher altitude is the escape from city pollution. It may surprise some city dwellers that air pollution is linked to asthma attacks for those with sensitive lungs and also to more serious conditions. Research suggests that prolonged exposure to air pollution may lead to chronic illnesses such as cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema, and other lung diseases. The Benefits of Spending Time in the Mountains

Up in the mountains, you’ll likely be able to breathe a little easier.

Reduced Risk of Obesity and Heart Disease People who spend more time at high altitudes may also experience a decreased appetite and lower risk of obesity. One study from 2017 even found that living at a higher elevation is associated with a lower risk of metabolic syndrome, which is a cluster of conditions that include high blood pressure, excess body fat, and abnormal cholesterol.

Balsamic Roasted Vegetable Pasta Inspired by TheFullHelping.com

Even more interesting, mountain air may passively improve your weight loss journey as well.

Natural Weight Loss One German study followed 20 obese men who lived in an environmental research station below the highest peak in the country. The subjects reached the peak effortlessly by railway or cable car, and they were allowed to eat as much as they liked. By the end of the week, however, each had lost an average of 1.5 kilograms or 3.3 pounds. Two factors are thought to have contributed to the weight loss: A naturally decreased appetite from the altitude (the men ate nearly 700 fewer calories than usual) and an increased metabolic rate. While there is still more to learn about the potential benefits of spending time in the mountains, these three studies give the greenlight for more high-altitude adventures.

INGREDIENTS

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1/2 tbsp grapeseed oil

• • • • • • • •

1 shallot, thinly sliced

2 1/2 lbs mixed vegetables of choice, chopped into 3/4-inch pieces (parsnips, turnips, carrots, butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, etc.)

2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced 8 oz uncooked pasta 1/2 cup vegetable broth 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar

2 handfuls arugula

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1 red onion, chopped

Salt and pepper, to taste Nutritional yeast, to taste

1 tbsp olive oil

DIRECTIONS

1.

Preheat oven to 400 F.

2. In a large bowl, combine grapeseed oil, root vegetables, and onion. Toss until evenly coated, then spread the mixture across two foil-lined baking sheets. 3. Sprinkle vegetables with salt and pepper, then roast them for 35–40 minutes. While vegetables are roasting, cook pasta according to package directions. 4. When vegetables are done, heat olive oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Sauté shallots and garlic for 4–5 minutes. 5. Add the root vegetables and onion, pasta, vegetable broth, and vinegar to the pot and stir until warm. Add the arugula and cook until wilted. 6. Serve with salt, pepper, and nutritional yeast.

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Garry F. Liday Corp. Retirement Asset Managers, Inc. A Registered Investment Advisory Firm (RIA) 15405 SW 116th Ave., Suite 103A King City, OR 97224

Call Us: (503) 620-3531 www.garryliday.com

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Inside This Issue 60 Years of Friendship PAGE 1 A Tiny Dog Is Crowned the Biggest Hero PAGE 2 5 Tips for Preventing Winter Sports Injuries PAGE 2 Can Mountain Air Actually Improve Your Health? PAGE 3 Balsamic Roasted Vegetable Pasta PAGE 3 Teach Your Kids Life Skills This Valentine’s Day! PAGE 4

4 Life Skills You Can Teach Your Kids This Valentine’s Day

the University of Utah shows that kids learn best through hands-on activities and play. Have fun while teaching these life skills, and you’ll earn thank-yous for decades to come. Clean the House Were you ever surprised by how often you have to clean your kitchen? Your child may be too. Although your 10-year-old won’t have to worry about cleaning the stove today, they will need to know how when they move out, so find ways to incentivize cleaning and make it more fun. You can have your kids collect “chore points” that add up to a prize, like an extra hour of playing video games! Develop Cooking Skills You may be hesitant to have a little chef in the house, but if you’re teaching them how to clean up and stay safe while making some easy dishes, there’s no reason to worry! Even if you’re not a great cook yourself, it’s fun to prepare simple recipes as a family. Plus, your kids will get used to

the idea of cooking for themselves, which is both healthy and cost-effective.

Learn to Garden What’s a better way to get outdoors with your child than to garden together? From using tools like shovels and rakes to nurturing another living organism, gardening provides plenty of rich life lessons, such as patience. Understand Household Maintenance Whether they’re learning how to use an electric breaker, unclog a drain, or clean out the washer or dryer, your kids can get started learning household maintenance skills with just a little guidance. Who knows, maybe they will be their dorm’s future superhero! There are many lessons you can teach your child at any age, so don’t limit yourself! Be creative with the lessons you pass on, and there’s a chance they’ll never forget them!

Nothing says “I love you” more than equipping your children with important knowledge they’ll need for the rest of their adult lives. Even if they groan about it now, they’ll be grateful for the know-how when they’re on their own in the future.

Keep in mind that your home classroom doesn’t have to mimic a school classroom. Research from

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