Memory Minute... wait, what?

It is said that for every new skill you learn (say, a new language, or hobby), you will help your mind retain its memory and perhaps stave off dementia. Do you find words escaping you? As of late, I certainly do.

Some of the top picks for maintaining your memory:

* Learn a new language (do you have any suggestions for good online courses? or does your local library offer courses?)

* Learn a new hobby, game or activity

* Try crosswords

* Proper nutrition (i.e., power up with brain foods at breakfast!)

We have decided, in our household, to whip out A's old guitar and try to learn how to play. A remembers a lot of chords, I am having problems "toughening up" my fingers to play. I have, however, found some great resources online for learning guitar:

- Guitar Chords, with display - so necessary for me to figure out how to position my fingers! Just click the chord you need and it shows you the finger configuration.

- Elizabeth Mitchell's "You Are My Flower" songbook

- And my new favorite, Ultimate Guitar's Tabs, especially 1234 by the Plain White Ts.