So many of us worry from time to time that 'we're losing it.' We can't remember why we walked into a certain room, can't recall someone's name, can't find our keys, etc. Not to worry! Welcome to EnGAGE Your Brain, Boomer's newest blog by Doctor of Behavioral Health and Social Gerontologist Dr. Krystal L. Culler, DBH, M.A. Her vision for this blog is to provide a reliable resource of information for brain wellness, healthy aging and memory care. Her blog entries will translate current research into actionable steps that readers can implement into their daily lives today!

In November, we show gratitude for the many things we are thankful for throughout the year. Family usually tops the list. The strong women in our lives are one of the central figures we appreciate. More women in the 21st-century work, pay Social Security taxes, and earn credit toward monthly retirement income than at any other time in our nation’s history. Yet, on average, women face greater economic challenges in retirement than men. 

Every kid who grew up in Cleveland in the mid-’50s and ‘60s remembers Captain Penny, who hosted a popular, locally produced children’s show. In his trademark railroad engineer uniform, Captain Penny introduced his young audience to classic comedy shows like The Three Stooges. Other regular features were an adoptable pet segment called “Pooch Parade,” Jungle Larry’s exotic animals, and conversations with Mister F.W. Nickelsworth. He encouraged picky eaters to join the Clean Plate Club. Mr. Jingeling stopped by at Christmastime.

We asked our favorite foodies — including our cover subject Chef Eric Wells — for book suggestions this time around. Food and the holidays go together like turkey and stuffing, mini-marshmallows and sweet potatoes, fruitcake and… nothing. You get the point. Enjoy!

The weekend before Labor Day, we were in one of those warehouse clubs and they were putting out Christmas trees and decorations. This isn’t the first time we’ve seen it, but it’s still rushing the season.  The holiday season used to start on Thanksgiving. Kids would see a new episode of Mr. Jingeling every day on WEWS in a thinly veiled commercial based on some new toy.

You know how the feeling when you stop at a different grocery store and you can’t find what you need? Your usual hunt-and-gather mission becomes more like a freewheeling scavenger hunt. That’s a good thing because your brain shifts off automatic pilot and gets a good workout.