Rohypnol, another common date-rape drug, is not legal in US. It is produced and sold by prescription in Europe and Latin America, then smuggled into United States. Rohypnol can often be dissolved in a beverage and is undetectable. In combination with alcohol, it can induce a blackout with memory loss lasting 8-24 hours. The drug takes effect after roughly ten minutes. Victims of drug report feeling dizzy and disoriented, and some become nauseated.

By taking preventive measures to protect yourself and your friends, you can avoid becoming a potential victim.

Here are a few helpful tips for staying aware, alert and safe:

•Do not accept drinks from anyone you don't know well. •If you are accepting a drink, make sure it's from an unopened container, and that you open it yourself. •If dancing, don’t leave your drink unattended. If your drink has been left unattended, toss it out. •Consider buying a specially designed drug testing coaster (see below) to test your drink for drug. They are low-cost and a smart choice. •If your drink tastes or looks different than it should, if it tastes "funny" or has residue in it, throw it away. •Don't go to parties alone. •Assign a designated sober person when going out. •Be observant to behaviors and actions of your friends. Trust your instincts. •Keep a charged cell phone with you in event you have a problem and need help.

Please, share this information with your friends. Stay safe and vigilant, and remember that you are your own best protector.

Women’s Resources: If you have been victim of rape and think that you may be pregnant, Lifetime can help. Call 1-800-923-6784. Drug testing coaster: a drop of liquid on a cardboard drink coaster can identify two of most popular date-rape drugs. If spot turns blue, toss that cocktail. Fifteen million of these coasters have already been distributed; look for them at 7-Elevens. See http://www.drinksafetech.com/. It runs about 50¢ a coaster. National Institute on Drug Abuse (Rohypnol and GHB) http://www.drugabuse.gov/Infofax/RohypnolGHB.html

Copyright © 2005 Mardie Caldwell, C.O.A.P. Mardie@LifetimeAdoption.com All rights reserved worldwide. No part of this may be copied or sold without permission.

What about you? What do you really want? This is not as easy of a question as it appears. Ask your self some questions and record your answers in your journal. Visit it often and see what presents itself to you.

Here are some questions to consider.

1. Name 3-5 things you have accomplished in your life. These are things you are most proud of. What are they?

2. Name your strengths. What are at least 5 positive qualities that you have? Any special talents or particular areas you are strong in?

3. What are things that get you up every morning? What are you passions? What makes your toes tingle and your soul quicken?

4.What is important in your life? If you were at end of your life, what would you need to have accomplished so that you have no regrets about anything.

5.With above questions answered, action do you need to take so that second half of your life is truly extraordinary?

Answering these questions will help you find your passions, priorities and your life’s purpose. It’s time to start living it.

©2005, OlderWiserWomen, LLC. Barbara C. Phillips, Nurse Practitioner and founder of OlderWiserWomen(tm) inspires women to embrace the freedom, magic and wisdom of Successful Aging. Visit www.OlderWiserWomen.com for your copy of "Celebrating You: 50 Tips for Vibrant Living".