Clinton Township Newsletter

2 J a n u a r y 2 0 1 7 www.ClintonTwpNewsletter.com www.RetireStrategically.com Don't Just Retire... Retire Strategically. Mark Chioda Managing Director/CEO • Income Planning • Insurance • Social Security Planning • Annuities • LTC ...and more! Call 908.797.3881 We'll Make Your Money Work For You! retirement planning services Shirley (Sherry) Havens CRS, GRI, SRES ® Sales Associate Because the Right Realtor Really Makes the Difference. Questions About Real Estate? Ask Sherry Over 30 Years Serving Huntercon, Somerset, Warren and Morris Counties cell: 908.507.4927 office: 908.735.8080, ext. 145 shirleyhavens@gmail.com sherryhavens.com Ruth Keesing has published a revised edition of her booklet "What Do I Do Now?" – a practical guide for surviving the tasks associated with the death of a loved one. It addresses Probating a Will, Social Security, Military Benefits, Funeral Information and other relevant subjects. And, most importantly, What To Do While Everybody is Still Alive. If you're interested in purchasing a copy, email Ruth @ ruth.ella@comcast.net. Alas, the end of 2016 held a most unwelcome surprise for me. While casually strolling through Walgreen's in search of AA batteries, I turned to talk to my daughter about said batteries when suddenly nothing would come out of my mouth but random garbled sounds. Even if I could have managed spoken words my brain refused to find the necessary syllables to communicate effectively other than weird dysfunctional noises. Since I had had two TIA's several years ago, I was well aware that this was a repeat performance. Sally drove over the speed limit to Hunterdon Medical Center's Emergency Room where I was whisked to a room and hitched up to machines and wires and an EKG and Cat Scan faster than the speed of light. What a way to attract attention and get immediate service! I can't say enough positive things about the superb care I received. From the nurses and the stroke coordinator (Dana – what a treasure!) to Dr. Yoon (who gets a standing ovation in my book) they were beyond wonderful and caring. After more tests than an SAT exam, I was pronounced OK to go home with my daughter with a strong admonition to see a neurologist about possible medication adjustments. Something as life threatening as a stroke (even a "mini" one) surely makes a person do some serious thinking. I refuse to live as if death is imminent. In fact the next day I actually renewed my subscription to Reader's Digest for THREE YEARS! If that isn't looking on the bright side I don't know what is. I'm walking and driving and volunteering and writing columns (and dating!) and carrying on a normal life. But, honestly, I'm scared. What seemed very important one day, seemed much less so the day after. I have put the election results in the proper perspective. My wrinkles don't look half as bad as they did. I am re-appreciating my love and affection for friends and family. I seem to savor my morning coffee a bit more and a stroll down Cokesbury Road in the afternoon sunlight is more a treat than a chore. So often a negative episode in my life turns into a positive one. There's a lesson in there somewhere. Realization of how precarious our lives are. I'm going to try and eliminate as much stress in my life as possible. You know – wake up and smell the roses – one day at a time. I do so want to celebrate birthday #89 in February. However, let's face it. Que Sera Sera! P.S. On one of the many lengthy followup tests I had, the technician said, "Well, I guess I won't be seeing YOU again." "My God!", I said, "You mean I'm terminal?!!!" "No," she replied, "I'm going on maternity leave." WHEW! ALL GOOD ALL DAY! Locally Owned and Operated by Phil & Diane Koury Proudly Serving Hunterdon County Since 1988 185 Center St., Clinton • 735.4499 NOW HIRING!

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