There is something I always loved about neutrals. They are classy, easy to put together, and timeless. That is one of the reasons why I am such a big fan of Banana Republic.  Their neutral autumn pieces are stunning and the utilitarian, but still feminine, style works beautifully. Here are just a few pieces that every woman over forty should have in her closet this fall: Silk pants or skirt You can mix them with a simple tee in the warmer months or with a chunky knit sweater and a blazer in the colder months. Neutral suit Tan, beige, or white suit is such a classic and can be dressed do ..read more

The last few weeks have been hard. At first, my husband got laid off from his job of five years. Then, he and our daughter came down with Covid. As I was tending to our sick daughter, trying to lower her fever, cooling off her warm body, and rubbing her back, I felt scared. I was thinking about how our life, so wonderful just a few weeks ago, could turn around in such a short time, and I felt emotionally and physically depleted. When I read my devotional that day, it said “Do not let any circumstances intimidate you. The more challenging your day, the more of my power I place in your disposal ..read more

It was soon after I turned 45 that I started to notice a visible change in my body. The once flat stomach started to get a bit rounder, the so-called “love handles” made their appearance, and losing a few pounds wasn’t as easy as it used to be.   I knew a less active COVID lifestyle played a big part, but I also knew hormonal changes associated with perimenopause were to blame. The clothes didn’t fit as they used to, so I needed a little help. I decided to purchase several different types of body shapewear.  It’s amazing what the right shapewear can do! The bumps and cellulite w ..read more

I usually write about light-hearted, fun subjects, but one of the advantages of having a social platform is to educate and help others. If my story helps just one other person, my heart is happy. The story I am about to share with you started about six months ago, during my vacation in Mammoth Lakes. After several days of hiking, kayaking, and playing in the sun, I noticed my lips were getting super chapped and were burning. At first, I thought it was just from the dry heat we were experiencing, so I kept applying lip balm to ease the discomfort. But after two months my lips were still severel ..read more

It’s less than two weeks until the official first day of fall, but I can hardly contain myself. I know some of you are still loving this hot weather and are clinging on to every pool and beach day to the last minute, but personally, I am ready to switch seasons. Yes, I admit, I love fall fashion and pumpkin spice lattes. But even more, I am ready to move on from the fast-paced, hot summer, to a slower routine and hopefully a bit cooler weather. Heck, I’ve been playing Autumn in New York by Frank Sinatra on repeat for the past few weeks, and I can’t even look at a pumpkin without ..read more

Turning 40 can be scary. I know, because it felt that way for me almost eight years ago. You are not only roughly halfway through your life (depending on your family’s history), but the number 40 doesn’t match at all how you feel on the inside!   But hang tight, it’s not all that bad! I wish I had talked to other women who have navigated this territory before entering the 40’s world. I am now going to be that person for you and will share with you all you need to know. If you are already in your forties, these will resonate with you. But if you are in your 30’s, about to approach the ..read more

Many people will be going out this Valentine’s Day. But if ordering in, opening a bottle of wine, and watching a movie is more of your thing, I’ve got you covered ladies! Whether it’s you and your special someone, you and a group of girlfriends, or just you alone with a glass of wine, here’s a list of some of the best romantic movies for women over 40 sure to guarantee a fun night in! Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make purchase, I’ll earn a commission, at no additional cost to you. This helps me to continue improving my website and allows me to keep ..read more

Before COVID-19, I considered myself to be a good mom.  I only saw my children a few hours a day so I knew I had to squeeze all the fun and cuddles in a few precious hours.  I gave my kids my undivided attention, because my work and chores were done while they were at school.  I looked forward to seeing them every afternoon and I enjoyed their chattiness.  And because they only saw each other for a few hours a day, there was barely any bickering and teasing.  It wasn’t perfect all the time, but I felt we had a strong bond. Everything changed when Covid-19 and subsequen ..read more

As I was putting away the remains of Christmas decorations, I noticed something shoved in the back of the garage closet. I tugged on it, only to discover my old Vision Board. I looked at the board I put together back in December of 2019 and had to chuckle. The magazine cutouts representing my hopes for 2020 were hanging by a thread, very much like me. From small goals like losing five pounds to big goals like remodeling our house and growing my business, they all became laughable in retrospect. I guess there is truth to the saying “We make plans and God laughs”. My first instinct was to shove ..read more

With the California beaches closed once again, I yearn for the perfect summer day at the beach.  I’m already picturing it in my head… the warmth of the sun on my skin, kids laughing while splashing in the waves, sandcastles being built, the smell of sunscreen, the sand on my feet, the perfect summer novel urging me to read on, cut-up watermelon staining my kids’ lips, and all of our worries slowly melting away. I can’t wait for this dream of mine to become a reality again but for now, all I can do is to get my beach bag ready.   Which got me thinking… What are your favorite beac ..read more