Paradise Valley Medical Clinic
Douglas M. Lakin MD
9977 N 90th Street, Suite 180
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
480.614.5800 (Phone)
480.614.6322 (Fax)
Updates With Doctor Doug
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Note From the Office Manager |
“I Love Fall Most of All”
Happy Autumn season to all our Patients at PVMC!
This is absolutely my favorite time of year. There is something comforting about the change in this season. The cool, crisp weather starts to set in which means the sweaters and scarves come out. Hot chocolate and small bonfires under the gazebo, truly make a delightful night.
And speaking of change, we’ve had a couple of new additions to our PVMC family. Gabbie, who has been here about four months now and Diana, who has been with us about seven weeks, so far. They both are a splendorous addition and we have heard some remarkable, lovely compliments about them from our Patients.
Yana, a long-time employee, has elevated in her position as well, however, she still works in the office on most days. You will most likely pass by her on your way to checkout, so be sure to wave hello to her.
I hope each and every one of our Patients has a wonderful, cheerful Fall season ahead. Be well, stay healthy and make time to celebrate whatever traditions you cherish, especially with the ones you love.
Sincerely,
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TOP PODCAST DONE WEEKLY
BY DR. MICHAEL OSTERHOLM
(UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA)
Dr. Osterholm is a world-renowned epidemiologist who was credited with first elucidating TOXIC SHOCK SYNDROME in the 1980’s, and he provides comprehensive and understandable/actionable ideas related to COVID.
Connect with all of
Dr. Osterholm Podcasts
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Getting in the Halloween Spirit!
Giant Elephants Eat Giant Pumpkins at Squishing of the Squash
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People Spend Half Of Their Lives Not Focused
On The Present, Research Says.
Here’s How To Change It.
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“A wandering mind is an unhappy mind.”
That’s what Harvard researchers Matthew A. Killingsworth and Daniel T. Gilbert of Harvard University wrote after their 2010 study found people spend nearly half of their waking hours thinking about something other than what is going on right in front of them.
There is good news, however: We are not doomed to a life of distraction.
By taking up a mindfulness practice, you can strengthen your ability to focus on the task at hand, experts on the form of meditation told CNN.
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11 Of The Most Beautiful Fall Destinations In Arizona |
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1. Aspen Nature Lollipop Trail (Flagstaff)
At just under three miles long, this easy, short-and-sweet trail is one of the most iconic fall destinations in Arizona. You haven't lived until you've hiked through a grove of brilliantly yellow aspens! You'll find the trail on the western slope of the San Francisco Peaks near the Snowbowl. More information here.
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2. Verde Canyon Railroad (Clarkdale)
Each fall, the Verde Canyon Railroad holds their ever-popular Fall Colors Tour. On board a historic train car, you'll whiz past eye-popping foliage that offers a stark contrast to the lofty red rocks surrounding them. The ride takes place in October and November. More information here.
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3. West Fork Trail (Sedona)
Perhaps even more renowned than the Aspen Nature Lollipop Trail is West Fork Trail. This 7.2-mile adventure features some of the most striking fall colors across the entire state, in a vast array of breathtaking colors. You'll find the trailhead 11 miles north of Sedona, with an access point at the Call of the Canyon day use area. More information here.
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4. San Francisco Peaks
Come autumn, the lush woodland terrain of the San Francisco is set ablaze with the fire of a thousand suns. Many a trail traverses this enchanting landscape, so lace up your hiking boots and start exploring!
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5. Boyce Thompson Arboretum (Superior)
The oldest and largest botanical garden in Arizona, Boyce Thompson Arboretum spans nearly 400 acres. Fall is by far our favorite season to visit, as various types of trees showcase their most spectacular red, orange, and yellow hues. Three miles of trails wind through the park, providing ample opportunity to enjoy the views. More information here.
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6. Apple Annie's Orchard (Wilcox)
t simply isn't fall in Arizona without a visit to Apple Annie's. Ten varieties of apple grow in their sprawling, you-pick fields, just waiting to be taken home and used in scrumptious recipes. Adding to the festive fun are a pumpkin patch and corn maze! The orchards and pumpkin patch have different addresses, so visit the Apple Annie's website for specifics.
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7. Forest Houses Resort (Sedona)
Can you picture a better place to escape to in the fall? Forest Houses Resort is nestled on Oak Creek in Sedona, making it perfect for a leaf-peeping getaway. With 16 charming treehouses to choose from, rest assured there's something to fit your unique needs and preferences. More information here.
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8. Inner Basin Trail (Flagstaff)
Another Flagstaff hike, Inner Basin Trail spans 3.2 miles of beautiful pine and aspen trees. There are no words to describe the striking vistas -- it's like something straight out of a fairytale. To access the trailhead, use Google Maps to Lockett Meadow. More information here.
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9. Orchard Canyon on Oak Creek (Sedona)
Also on Oak Creek, Orchard Canyon is nestled on ten acres of vibrant organic gardens and apple trees. 16 cozy cabins sleep between two and six people, all framed by the warm colors of autumn. Staying here feels like entering a whimsical storybook! More information here.
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10. Arizona Snowbowl (Flagstaff)
Although the Snowbowl is most popular in the winter for obvious reasons, we're partial to it during fall. Nothing quite compares to riding the ski lift through some of the most vivid foliage you've ever seen. More information here.
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11. Abineau Trail to Bear Jaw Trail (Flagstaff)
Finally, we head back to Flagstaff to embark on Abineau Trail to Bear Jaw Trail. The most strenuous hike on our list, this nearly seven-mile trek ascends almost 1,900 feet of mountainous terrain. Your efforts will be duly rewarded, however, as the pure bliss of seeing a forest floor covered in bright yellow leaves. More information here.
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Every October, people all over the world show their support for everyone
affected by breast cancer.
We’re focused on accelerating research and providing vital support,
every way we can, all year round.
This month, we’re committed to showing you that no matter who you are, whatever your experience of breast cancer – we’re always with you.
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Are You Ready!
Medicare’s Open Enrollment
October 15 - December 7, 2021
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You can enroll in Medicare health and drug plans from October 15 – December 7. Get ready for Medicare’s Open Enrollment with these 5 tips:
Check your mail. You may get important notices from Medicare or Social Security. If you’re in a Medicare plan, you’ll get an Annual Notice of Changes (ANOC) telling you of any changes in coverage, costs, or service area. Note any 2022 changes to your health coverage or any Extra Help you may get to pay for prescription drugs.
You may also get brochures and other marketing materials from insurance companies that offer Medicare health and prescription drug plans. Remember — plans aren’t allowed to call or come to your home without an invitation from you. Find out how to protect yourself from Medicare fraud.
Think about your Medicare coverage needs for 2022. Carefully review your current Medicare coverage, and note any upcoming changes to your costs or benefits. Decide if your current Medicare coverage will meet your needs for the year ahead. If you like your current coverage, and it’s still available for 2022, you don’t need to take any action to keep it.
Get personalized help in your community. You may be able to find free information and events online, or get help from health insurance counselors in your area by phone, like your State Health Insurance Assistance Program.
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Find Your Sleep 'Sweet Spot' To Protect Your Brain As You Age, Study Suggests
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How long older adults sleep could affect their brain health, according to a study published in the journal JAMA Neurology.
Disrupted sleep is common in late life, the study authors wrote, and associated with changes in cognitive function -- the mental capacity for learning, thinking, reasoning, problem-solving, decision-making, remembering and paying attention.
Age-related changes in sleep have also been linked with early signs of Alzheimer's disease, depression and cardiovascular disease, so the authors investigated possible associations between self-reported sleep duration, demographic and lifestyle factors, subjective and objective cognitive function, and participants' levels of beta amyloid.
Sleeping for too little or too much time could have varying effects on older adults' brain health, the study suggested.
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Tom's Travels
"PARIS IN THE TIME OF COVID"
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I had not been to Paris for three years, a record for me in that this was my 23rd visit since 1977 when my wife introduced me to the French language and international travel. From the internet and watching French news I knew that a mask had to be worn at all times unless you were outside or in a private home or eating (and they do a lot of that). Also my vaccine card was checked entering restaurants, theaters, and museums. At times mine was the first American card they had seen.
I went with a list of “must see” things that only got a few checked off but I was never bored. I had not ventured into the hilly and forested Butte Chaumont park with its temple, lake and bridge since my first visit. It is hard to believe a forest can exist surrounded by homes and much energy is demanded for exploring it.
A new bridge for me to discover was the Pont Mirabeau with its nymphs decorating the exterior. In my hotel neighborhood they were draping the Arc de Triomphe as a final tribute to the Bulgarian born artist Christo who died a year ago after draping monuments and natural wonders for years, some in Arizona. Finally the beautiful Art Deco Samaritaine department store was back in business after renovation, Art Deco being one of my favorite styles to photograph and collect.
I accomplished my goal of having an upscale lunch in the last of five luxury hotels my aunt had stayed in while buying leather goods for a department store in Pittsburgh. I remember stories she told about Paris and finally the Ritz Hotel had finished its remodeling. My lunch cost helped pay for the fabulous decor you find everywhere but the help there couldn’t have been more friendly and especially interested in my following in the Paris hotel steps of my Aunt Vera.
The French women especially love their dogs and one lady lunching at the Ritz even had her small dog seated nearby to keep her company in a special container of course. I had always wanted to see a movie at the Grand Rex cinema, a classic among historic theaters, and I accomplished that with viewing the new movie Dune. Unfortunately I didn’t get to take the tour of the interior but that gives me another reason to return to Paris.
Happy Travels!
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Masks & Vaccines Are a Must This
Holiday Season, CDC Says
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Get your holiday themed masks and porch heaters ready!
The CDC's number one advice is for all those who are eligible to get the Covid-19 vaccine before people get together and travel at the holidays. For kids ages 11 and under who aren't yet eligible to get the vaccine, the CDC recommends all those who will be around them over the holidays be vaccinated to protect them.
Unvaccinated adults in the US face an 11 times higher risk of dying from Covid-19 than fully vaccinated individuals and a six times higher risk of testing positive for Covid-19 according to new data published Friday from the CDC.
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How Often Should You Wash Your Towels?
Do you need to wash a towel after one use? An expert tells CNN how many trips to the washer and dryer you need to make.
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There is nothing like wrapping yourself up in a fluffy, warm towel after a hot shower or bath.
After drying yourself, however, the towel also gets wet. Now it's the perfect home for germs. Hopefully you're hanging it up to dry, but that doesn't keep your towel clean.
That's why CNN turned to an expert to learn how often towels should be washed to prevent them from getting us dirty, which is the exact opposite of its intended use.
Wash your towels at least once a week. That's the rule of thumb that Manal Mohammed, senior lecturer of medical microbiology at the University of Westminster in the United Kingdom, recommended.
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**There is a new newsletter every month with more interesting and up to date health information! Check it out!
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Pumpkin Spice Really Does Give You the Warm Fuzzies —
Here's the Science Of Why
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If you're suddenly craving pumpkin spice lattes or pumpkin bread now that it's officially fall, it's not just your stomach talking. Catching a whiff of a pumpkin spice-flavored food or drink can trigger emotions and memories that go deeper than a hunger pang.
Combined with savvy marketing, it's no wonder the phrase "pumpkin spice" has become synonymous with the onset of fall.
The part of your brain that processes smell is closely tied to the part of your brain responsible for memories, according to Jason Fischer and Sarah Cormiea of the Dynamic Perception Lab at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland.
This close connection accounts for the fact that smells such as musty books can take you back to long study sessions at the library or campfires can remind you of nights at summer sleepaway camp
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The Perfect Autumn Treat!
No-chop Pumpkin Soup
Autumn: time for curling up away from the onslaught of chill, turning to warming pots and heartier food we’ve missed through the summer. You’ll fall in love with these autumn dishes using in season produce.
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Ingredients
- 1 (about 1.5kg) butternut pumpkin, halved
- 2 tbs extra virgin olive oil
- 8 thyme sprigs
- 2 large carrots
- 4 slices cured and smoked streaky bacon (optional)
- ½ tsp fennel seeds
- ½ tsp chilli flakes, plus extra to serve
- 1 onion (unpeeled)
- 3 garlic cloves (unpeeled)
- 500ml chicken or vegetable stock
- 2 tbs creme fraiche, plus extra to serve
- Micro herbs (optional), to serve
Spiced parmesan croutons
- 75g very finely grated parmesan, plus extra grated to serve
- 75g unsalted butter, softened
- ½ tsp fennel seeds, crushed
- ½ tsp chilli flakes, plus extra to serve
- ½ tsp coriander seeds, crushed
- 3 thyme sprigs, leaves picked
- ½ sourdough baguette, sliced on an angle
Method
1.
- Preheat oven to 220°C (200°C fan-forced). Line a large baking tray with baking paper. Drizzle the cut sides of the pumpkin with 1 tbs oil, then place, cut-side down, on prepared tray on top of thyme sprigs.
2.
- Place the carrots and bacon, if using, in the middle of a large piece of foil. Sprinkle over the fennel seeds and chilli flakes. Drizzle with the remaining 1 tbs oil. Add to the baking tray and roast for 30 minutes.
3.
- Remove the vegetable mixture from the oven and add the onion to the tray. Enclose the garlic in foil and add to the baking tray. Roast for a further 30 minutes or until tender.
4.
- Meanwhile, for the croutons, combine the parmesan, butter, fennel seeds, chilli flakes, coriander seeds and thyme in a bowl. Season. Stir to combine. Spread the butter mixture over 1 side of the baguette slices. Place on a lined baking tray. Sprinkle with extra parmesan. Set aside.
5.
- Remove vegetable mixture from the oven and replace with the crouton tray. Roast for 8 minutes or until golden and bubbling.
6.
- To make the soup, strip the thyme leaves from stalk and add to a large saucepan. Scoop out the pumpkin seeds and discard. Scoop out the pumpkin flesh and place in the saucepan with the carrots and bacon, if using. Peel the onion and garlic, and add to the pan. Add any remaining pan juices. Use a stick blender to break down slightly, then add the stock and 1½ cups water. Blend until smooth. Stir in the creme fraiche. Season to taste and cook over medium heat until warmed through.
7.
- Transfer to serving bowls. Top with extra creme fraiche and micro herbs. Season with pepper and sprinkle with extra chilli flakes. Serve with spiced parmesan croutons.
**Can Keep this vego by leaving out the bacon and using vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.
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Did You Know Dr Lakin Has an Online Gift Shop?
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Welcome to our online store!
Thanks to CafePress.com, we can sell a number of products with unique graphics on them. Feel free to browse our store and buy anything you like!
**Please note:
100% of all profits from the shop are donated to the Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center, for breast cancer research.
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It's Fall, so That Means. . .'Football Is Here!'
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Paradise Valley Medical Clnic
Douglas M. Lakin , MD
9977 N 90th Street, Suite 180 Scottsdale, AZ 85258
480.614.5800 (Ph) 480.614.6322 (Fax)
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