Tag Archives: Women over 50

Why Age Shouldn’t Define You: A Personal Perspective

Posted on by
Reply

Does the word “age” bother you?

Recently I was having a conversation with someone and used the phrase, “at this age…” He immediately interrupted me to say that I’m not old and he hates when people use age is a factor in what they can or can’t do.

I explained that I wasn’t saying ‘age’ as in ‘old,’ I was just making a comparison in what I think about the subject now as opposed to earlier in my life.

He obviously doesn’t know me well, as I don’t let age define me. I got my motorcycle license at age 59 and took swim lessons for the first time at age 64–right after I learned to kayak.

I have a few friends who also bristle at the word age. One substitutes the word, “vintage.” Another says at this “wisdom.” Sometimes I say, “at this stage,” in order not to offend the ones who object to “age.” I heard somewhere that we should call ourselves ‘Queenagers.’ I like that!

I’m not old. I am aging. I started the day I was born. And so did you.

Children love to answer the, “how old are you?” question. They are proud of every year. As am I. Age is how many years you’ve been alive. Old is an attitude.

Of course I don’t want to look old. Or act old. I actively work to take care of my body to stay youthful. To look younger, keep my balance and posture and to stay strong and flexible.

What about you? Does the word “age” bother you? How do you like to refer to this stage of your life? Tell me in the comments!

7 Galantine’s Day Activities Your Girlfriends Will Love

Posted on by
Reply

Did you know that Galentine’s Day was created in 2010 by the character Leslie Knope, on the TV show Parks and Recreation? Leslie, played by Amy Pohler, called, “Only the best day of the year!” is now celebrated by women everywhere on February 13th, the day before Valentine’s Day.

Having been single, or ‘re-singled’ as some say, since I was widowed in 2009, I’ve had more than a few solo Valentine’s Day’s. Some of my single friends have been a bit freaked out about being alone on V-day and found that making plans helped take away some of the sting. Galentine’s Day is a perfect holiday for us single gals. Here are some ideas for celebrating with your lady friends.

  1. Have a fun brunch. Like the gals at Parks and Recreation you can have brunch with gift bags, champagne, and lots of laughter. Retail therapy afterward and you can make an entire day of it!
  2. Go to a Movie. The year that the movie Fifty Shades of Grey was released on Valentine’s Day, I went with a gaggle of girlfriends. So much fun!
  3. Take in the arts. Theatre, ballet, or an art gallery would be a sophisticated way to celebrate. If you want to kick it up a notch, have your hair and make-up done and dress to the nines! Make it a night of fashion and fun!
  4. Do a progressive dinner. Uber to a walkable area and visit different restaurants or bars for drinks, appetizers, dinner, and dessert. Maybe go dancing after!
  5. Have a girls night in. Popcorn and movies in your PJ’s while you catch up on the latest gossip with old friends may be just what you need. Movie trivia games can make it even more fun!
  6. Book a spa day. Check local day spas and hotel spas for Galentine’s specials. Up for a drive? Check out ResortPass.com for a day pass to a nearby resort for a daycation.
  7. Get active. Go bowling, roller skating or ax throwing. Maybe there’s a Top Golf or Dave & Busters in your area you’ve wanted to check out. Grab your gal pals and go!

I always feel energized after hanging out with my women friends! Research shows that there are many physical and emotional benefits to having strong female friendships. Whether you’re with your one bestie or your whole tribe, Galentine’s Day is a wonderful way to celebrate the bonds of friendship!

How do you celebrate Galentine’s Day? Which of the 7 tips sounds most appealing to you? I’d love to hear your story!