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Why You Should Commit to the Carry-On and Tips for Making it Easy

Why You Should Commit to the Carry-On and Tips for Making it Easy

The world is divided into two different kinds of people: overpackers and underpackers. If you fall into the first category, don’t turn away yet! Give me a few minutes to try and convince you that there is a better way to travel.

As you might already suspect, I am an underpacker. My measure of a packing fail: Coming home with even one thing in my suitcase that I did not need, use or wear during my trip. I do fail sometimes, but not often anymore.

Here’s how to pack lighter – all lessons I learned the hard way.

Start with an Attitude Change

It helps that I don’t really care how I look. I don’t mean I would travel in ripped or dirty clothes. But I don’t need to be the glammed up center of attention. In fact, when you’re traveling, the more you can blend in, the better. You’re less likely to be targeted by pickpockets and local scammers.

Spend a little time researching what the locals wear and try to pack like that. This is the lesson I learned when I wore my electric blue winter coat to Romania, a former Soviet block country where there were two colors of winter coat: grey and black.

So if you simply must be a fashion plate, try to pare down the clothes to a capsule wardrobe of items you can mix and match and pieces that will do double duty.

Use a Packing List

These printable packing lists will give you a feel for the things you’ll need. If the list includes something you don’t think you’ll need, don’t pack it. If there is something missing, make a note on the printed sheet so you don’t forget it.

Check the Weather Forecast

I make this recommendation because I live in Chicago. We like to say, “If you don’t like the weather, wait 10 minutes.” Here, the calendar might say May, but the thermometer might say March. Or July.

So check the forecast for your destination. It will tell you whether to pack a raincoat, sunhat, shorts, or sweaters.

Start Packing Early

If you have a spare bed, room, couch or some other spot to hold the things you want to pack, start a week early and put everything on the bed that you think you might want on your trip.

Then walk away.

Come back the next day and look it over. Is there anything missing? Is there anything you think you might not need on the trip? Make adjustments accordingly.

Then walk away.

Come back the next day with the intention of making choices. If you have two pairs of pants on the bed, take away one pair. If you have four shirts, take away two. And so on, until you have cut in half the things on the bed.

Then walk away.

The next day, it’s time to pack. Start with the pieces of clothing you absolutely MUST have with you.

If you run out of suitcase before you run out of clothes to pack, you get to make a choice: Leave something else behind or pay $40 or more to check a bag.

Buy Packing Cubes

I resisted buying this travel essential for years. Now I can’t believe I ever traveled without them.

Packing cubes are flexible pouches with a brilliant zipper system. You pack them with the clothes you want to take, and zip them shut. Then – this is the brilliant part – you zip a second zipper to compress the insides flat. (Think of it like your expandable suitcase, when you open that second zipper, it gives you an extra inch or two of suitcase space. When you zip it shut, everything inside is compressed.)

As a bonus, the clothes you lay inside the packing cube are much more likely to stay wrinkle free. I don’t know why. But it’s true.

Stick with One Basic Color

When I head to a Caribbean resort, that color will be white. But most of the time, it’s black – black pants, a black skirt, a black dress. Then I add color in the tops I will wear with the pants and skirt. Finally, I pack a few scarves and funky costume jewelry to dress everything up or down and add more color.

Wear the Heavy Stuff on the Plane

There are plenty of TikTokers and travel hacker influencers who will tell you to wear layers and layers on the plane to save suitcase space. Or to pack a pillowcase with your stuff and pretend it’s a pillow, not a suitcase, so it doesn’t count as a carryon.

While that might be useful info for travelers on uber-budget airlines that charge for anything that doesn’t fit under your seat, you really don’t have to go that crazy. Just use a little common sense.

If, for example, you’re flying from Florida to Colorado, you know you’ll need your winter coat, hat, gloves, hiking boots and heavy jeans. Wear the jeans and hiking boots on the plane, stuff the hat and gloves in the coat pockets and carry the coat on the plane rather than packing it in a suitcase.

I do this anyway because I’m always chilly on a plane. I’m always surprised when I see someone boarding a flight in shorts and flip flops. I would be blue by the time I landed!

Think Layers, Not Bulk

Thin layers are always the right answer, no matter where you are. Even a Caribbean vacation requires preparing for chilly evenings or overly air-conditioned restaurants. Layers are the answer to staying warm and packing light.

Make the Best Use of Your Under-Seat Bag

Finally, remember that you get not one, but two things to carry onto the plane – a bag that goes into the overhead and a smaller bag that fits under the seat in front of you.

Don’t waste the space in that second bag!

My go-to is a roomy backpack because I travel with a lot of electronics – laptop, Kindle, phone, ear buds and all of the cords and accessories they require. But those only take up two zippered compartments. That leaves two more compartments for other things – makeup bag, an extra pair of shoes, etc.

The other thing that works for me is a big striped bag that is super flexible. I can cram a lot into it and still stuff it under the seat. The downside of that is it is heavy to carry, unlike my backpack which easily distributes the weight across my shoulders.

Practice, Practice, Practice

I know. This isn’t easy. Especially if you’ve always been an overpacker. But practice will make perfect. Try it on your next quick weekend trip. That will give you a chance to see how it feels to only pack what you’ll need for 2-3 days, how much you like being able to lift that light carry-on bag and how happy you are not worrying about whether your suitcase will show up at the other end of your flight.

Just remember to pack one more thing: a credit card. That way, if you find you truly can’t live without something for a few days, you can head to the store to buy it.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Are you an overpacker or an underpacker? What’s your favorite packing hack? Share with us in the comment section below.

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Erika Girardi’s White and Blue Striped Cable Knit Polo

Erika Girardi’s White and Blue Striped Cable Knit Polo / Real Housewives of Beverly Hills Season 15 Episode 17 Fashion

I was a little bummed that so many people skipped out on Dorit Kemsley’s book cover reveal party, because I’m sure we missed out on some fab ‘fits. But we did get to see some more casual ones like Erika Girardi’s white and blue striped cable knit polo. And considering this feels like the 100th post we’ve done on Erika wearing a polo something, means you know it’s good and you know you should shop something similar. 

Sincerely Stylish,

Jess


Erika Girardi's White and Blue Striped Cable Knit Polo

Style Stealers

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Originally posted at: Erika Girardi’s White and Blue Striped Cable Knit Polo

Skin Care

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How to Make Your Own Essential Oil Blend for Mature Skin (Recipe)

A Basic Essential Oil Blend for Everyday Mature Skin Care

With all the wonderful natural facial serums on the market today, it can be a little overwhelming choosing the correct formula with safe, non-toxic ingredients, all at a reasonable price. The good news is that it’s easy and fun to make a quality product on your own using the miracle of nature – essential oils. 

When I started working with skincare formulas in 2003, one of the first products I was excited about making was an essential oil-based facial serum. My skin needs were changing, and a moisturizing oil made perfect sense for dry, maturing skin.

I decided to work with four wonderful healthy aging essential oils I had discovered: Lavender, Frankincense, Rose Geranium, and Carrot Seed.

The natural and highly effective nature of essential oils makes them perfect for skincare. When blended for their various properties and used with a carrier oil that matches your skin type, you can create a serum tailor-made for your skin.

What Are Essential Oils?

Essential oils are the essence of plants. Hidden away in many parts of the plant, like the flowers, seeds, and roots, they are very potent chemical compounds. They can give the plant its scent, protect it from harsh conditions, and help with pollination.

The benefits of essential oils on humans are diverse and amazing. Lavender flower oil, for example, contains compounds that help soothe skin irritation and redness, while the scent reduces feelings of anxiety and stress.

The beautiful Rose essential oil is hydrating to the skin and sometimes used to treat scarring, while the scent is known to help lift depression. 

There are many essential oils to choose from for specific skincare needs. I have used a myriad of different combinations but keep coming back to the tried and true blend from my very first serum.

The four essential oils used are the workhorses of skincare for mature skin, as well as being wonderfully uplifting for mind, body, and spirit. 

The Base Oil Blend Formula

Here’s what you’ll need:

Bottle

1 oz. amber dropper bottle. You can find those in pharmacies or online.

Base (Carrier) Oil

As a base, you can use one of the oils below or a combination of several that meet your skin’s needs:

  • Jojoba oil is my base oil of choice. It’s incredible for most skin types: it’s extremely gentle and non-irritating for sensitive skin, moisturizing for dry skin, balancing for oily skin, ideal for combination skin, and offers a barrier of protection from environmental stressors. It also helps skin glow as it delivers deep hydration.
  • Rosehip oil smooths the skin’s texture and calms redness and irritation.
  • Argan oil contains high levels of vitamin E and absorbs thoroughly into the skin leaving little oily residue.
  • Avocado oil is effective at treating age spots and sun damage, as well as helping to soothe inflammatory conditions such as blemishes and eczema.
  • Olive oil is a heavier oil and the perfect choice if your skin needs a mega-dose of hydration. Just be aware that olive oil takes longer to absorb and leaves the skin with an oily feeling. This may be desirable for extremely dry, red, itchy skin.

Essential Oils

  • Lavender essential oil is very versatile and healing. It helps reduce inflammation, kill bacteria, and clear pores. Its scent is also calming and soothing.
  • Frankincense essential oil helps to tone and strengthen mature skin in addition to fighting bacteria and balancing oil production.
  • Rose Geranium essential oil helps tighten the skin by reducing the appearance of fine lines, helps reduce inflammation and fight redness, and offers anti-bacterial benefits to help fight the occasional breakout. The scent is also known to be soothing and balancing.
  • Carrot seed oil is a fantastic essential oil for combination skin. It helps even the skin tone while reducing inflammation and increasing water retention.

The Recipe

Let’s start with a simple recipe:

  • 1 oz. Jojoba oil (or carrier oil of your choice)
  • 10 drops Lavender
  • 10 drops Frankincense
  • 10 drops Rose Geranium
  • 10 drops Carrot seed oil 

Place the essential oil drops in the amber dropper bottle then fill with Jojoba/carrier oil. It’s that simple!

Applying Your Homemade Serum

Use this serum morning and evening as part of your regular skincare routine. Serums work best when applied after cleansing your face. You can cleanse with Coconut Oil or a mixture of oils for enhanced hydration (we will cover this in the next article) or use your regular facial cleanser.

Essential oils will not interfere in any way with your normal skincare products.

Keep in mind that the serum is concentrated. Use only a pea-sized amount, work it into your fingertips, and apply evenly over the face without tugging or pulling.

If your skin feels tacky, reduce the amount on the next application. Your skin should feel soft, not oily. Follow with your regular moisturizer if you like. 

Making your own facial serum is fun and rewarding! I look forward to hearing your thoughts and ideas on essential oils and making personalized serums and skincare.

What facial serum do you use? Have you made one yourself? What is your favorite essential oil for skin care? Please share your thoughts with our community!

Erika Girardi’s White and Blue Striped Cable Knit Polo

Erika Girardi’s White and Blue Striped Cable Knit Polo / Real Housewives of Beverly Hills Season 15 Episode 17 Fashion

I was a little bummed that so many people skipped out on Dorit Kemsley’s book cover reveal party, because I’m sure we missed out on some fab ‘fits. But we did get to see some more casual ones like Erika Girardi’s white and blue striped cable knit polo. And considering this feels like the 100th post we’ve done on Erika wearing a polo something, means you know it’s good and you know you should shop something similar. 

Sincerely Stylish,

Jess


Erika Girardi's White and Blue Striped Cable Knit Polo

Style Stealers

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Originally posted at: Erika Girardi’s White and Blue Striped Cable Knit Polo

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Erika Girardi’s Red Denim Jacket and Jeans

Erika Girardi’s Red Denim Jacket and Jeans / Real Housewives of Beverly Hills Season 15 Episode 17 Fashion

I will never not love a monochromatic moment, so I was very happy to see Erika Girardi in one over at Rachel Zoe’s house on #RHOBH last night. It was a red denim jacket and jeans look and it was amazing on her. So much so we need to get red-y to try and recreate it ourselves with the Style Stealers below. 

Sincerely Stylish,

Jess


Erika Girardi's Red Denim Jacket and Jeans

Style Stealers

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Originally posted at: Erika Girardi’s Red Denim Jacket and Jeans

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Do Less or Do More? That is the Question of the Era

Do Less or Do More That is the Question of the Era

I turned 70 about six months ago and have noticed some changes in my physical ability, endurance and strength. I’m still very active, hiking up mountain trails at least once a week, doing strength training with a personal trainer one afternoon a week, working several mornings as a chef and take my dog for a mile jaunt almost every day.

It’s a full schedule and I enjoy all of it. But lately, I’ve been feeling a little less motivated and more fatigued. The immediate assumption is to blame it all on getting older. But I wonder.

So, I’ve set out on a quest to survey my peers and get their insights into when to adjust routines and how to tell if it’s physically necessary.

Antidotal Evidence

I asked my 80-year-old neighbor who I often find running the trails as I’m hiking. He explained his theory: “We can still do everything we’ve always done, but now must do it a little slower and more carefully.” A pragmatic and logical response, from a retired physician, not surprising.

I next quizzed my 93-year-old friend who I’ve always admired for her enthusiastic approach to life. She explained over a delicious lunch she prepared for me, that when her dog was failing, she reduced the length of her morning walks as to not exhaust him. After her beloved companion passed, she resumed her two-mile morning walks and reports feeling a renewed level of energy and reduction of body aches. She assured me that keeping her body performing at its upper limits is her secret to excellent health and well-being.

Another friend, just a few years my senior, does yoga at a weekly class. She credits her participation with keeping her feeling safe, confident and capable of doing whatever she feels inclined, knowing her balance and flexibility are up to the challenge.

The Data and Recommendations

I next queried the authorities. According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, those over 65 should get an average of 2.5 hours of moderate to vigorous aerobic exercise each week. Moderate to vigorous is described as any activity that causes increased heart rate and deeper breathing. (One should be able to talk but not sing!) It also recommends twice weekly sessions of strength training as well as activities like yoga and tai chi to maintain balance, improve proprioception and mobility.

I found more details on National Health Services of the United Kingdom, including a list of activities recommended for light, moderate and vigorous activities. It is important to note that things like digging in the garden, sweeping floors and biking to the market all count as physical activity.

To quote an article on the subject in the Harvard Health Publishing, from the Harvard School of Medicine, “Think about what motivates you to move – what are your reasons to get up in the morning? It might be family or social connections, volunteer work, shopping, participating in a cultural experience, enjoying nature, or walking a dog. Build more of these motivating experiences into your life to maintain your emotional and physical health.”

The Physiological Link to Motivation

Additional investigation reveals additional effects in play that can create an encouraging feedback loop. Exercise releases endorphins along with other chemical compounds that improve mood, a more optimistic and joyful mood motivates us to go out into the world and experience what we enjoy. The physical activity feeds our brain and our brain convinces us to keep going to enjoy the benefits.

The Secondary Benefit of Being Active and Engaged

There is also another component that seems to impact the determination to exercise and stay healthy and that is optimizing the experience, identifying the secondary benefit to the activity. My yoga friend enjoys the company of the others in her class and looks forward to seeing them. My trail running friend cherishes his time in nature and my elderly friend who is still walking miles every day relates that she feels a sense of accomplishment with every step.

Do More

The results of my informal investigation are not really surprising, but bear illuminating for what I should have suspected but didn’t, those individuals who have a positive outlook on life, in general, are socially engaged and active, who take good care of their bodies with adequate nutrition and physical activity responded unanimously that we must push ourselves through the times when we lack motivation and still work our bodies beyond our comfort.

So, it seems, the remedy to my recent decrease in motivation and enthusiasm for workouts, might simply be a good pep talk, a shift in outlook and coming up with some very good reasons why I should.

I have a sense these speed bumps are going to present themselves more often on the road through this decade and it feels good to know they are normal and just part of learning how to fully enjoy each era of this long life.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

What is your motivation to get up in the morning? Are there certain activities that energize you? How would you classify your state of well-being?

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Dorit Kemsley’s Lip Gloss

Dorit Kemsley’s Lip Gloss / Real Housewives of Beverly Hills Season 15 Episode 1 Beauty

While Sutton Stracke attempted to clock Dorit Kemsley’s issues with Kyle Richards, we clocked the familiar looking light pink lip gloss she was holding in her hand. It’s a pout-plumping gloss in a perfect-for-Spring sheer pink that is a celeb fave. In the past we’ve seen it on Lisa Barlow, Kyle Richards, Kristin Cavallari and even Dorit herself, which means I obviously have scooped up a few colors of my own along the way. And if you decide to get some for too you’ll definitely have nothing to apologize for.

The Realest Housewife,

Big Blonde Hair


Dorit Kemsley's Light Pink Lip Gloss

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*We think she is wearing shade ‘White Russian’. I have it and it looks the same!





Originally posted at: Dorit Kemsley’s Lip Gloss

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How to Work from Home Without Driving Your Pets (or Yourself) Crazy

How to Work from Home Without Driving Your Pets (or Yourself) Crazy

Working from home is no longer a temporary shift – it’s a lifestyle for many of us and one that many women over 60 happily embrace. No more going to the office! And if you share your home with pets, chances are they’ve fully embraced this change, too. To them, it’s the best thing that ever happened – you’re home all day.

While the novelty may have worn off for us, our pets still love the extra time and attention. The key is finding a balance that works for both of you.

How to Work from Home with Pets (Without Losing Your Mind)

Just like you have your workspace, your pets need theirs, too. Whether it’s a cozy bed in your office, a sunny spot by the window, or their favorite place on the couch, giving them a designated area helps create a routine. They get to be near you (which they love), and you get a little structure to your day.

As I write this, my dogs are exactly where they usually are – one curled up next to my desk, the other curled up just a foot away… despite having four beds in the room. I’ve stopped questioning it. If they’re happy, I’m happy.

Before your workday begins, take care of their needs. A nice walk, fresh food and water, and a little attention go a long way. Once that’s done, they’re ready to settle in – and so am I.

If you have a younger or more energetic pet, you may need to get a little creative. Keep a few toys nearby (preferably the quiet kind), along with safe chew options like bully sticks, or a Kong. You know your pet best – whatever keeps them occupied, safe, and content is a win. I tried puzzles, but it was a complete failure for us.

Meetings and Zoom Calls

Then there are the meetings.

Video calls are part of daily life now, and pets don’t always respect your schedule. A barking dog during a Zoom call happens. Fortunately, the mute button is your best friend – especially with deliveries, which don’t seem to slow down.

One-on-one calls can be trickier. If your dog decides to chime in during a FaceTime call, sometimes all you can do is apologize and hope the person on the other end is a pet lover. (Many are.) I keep a small water bottle nearby – not that I need it often, but somehow just picking it up does the trick. Thank you to my trainer for this one, though I have no idea why a squirt of water would stop them!

Working from home with pets isn’t perfect, but it’s absolutely doable. In fact, for many of us, it’s one of the best parts of our day. With a little routine, patience, and flexibility, you and your pets can coexist happily – and productively.

Making Your Home Work for Everyone

If you’re thinking about moving – or upgrading your current space – consider how your home accommodates both work and pets. A dedicated home office, plenty of natural light, easy-to-clean floors, and a backyard or nearby walking area can make life so much easier for you and your furry friends.

If you’re a woman over 60, and a pet owner who works at home, having a pet-friendly home makes working from home enjoyable for the whole family – four-legged members included.

Now… let’s get to work. 

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Are you a baby boomer with pets who works at home? Do your dogs and cats hang out with you while you work? Let’s talk about the challenges and the happy moments!

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5 Things to Consider Before Going Back to Work in Your 60s

5 Things to Consider Before Going Back to Work in Your 60s

At a recent gathering, a client of mine found herself in a familiar social moment. Someone leaned in, smiled, and asked the question many women quietly dread in retirement:

“So… what do you do?”

She paused.

Not because she lacked an answer – but because none of the old ones quite fit anymore.

This is a woman who had a successful career. She led teams. Made decisions that mattered. Built a reputation over decades.

But now?

Without the title, without the structure, the answer felt… less clear.

Not empty. Not diminished.

Just undefined.

And that moment – more than any financial concern – sparked a question she hadn’t fully faced yet:

“Should I go back to work?”

A Growing Reality for Women in Their 60s

In my retirement and career transition coaching practice, this question comes up more often than you might think.

Women in their 60s aren’t “done.” Far from it.

They’re experienced, capable, and often still deeply motivated to contribute. But the desire to work again isn’t usually about necessity alone.

It’s about:

  • Identity
  • Engagement
  • Relevance
  • Connection

And sometimes, simply having a satisfying answer to that question:

“What do you do?”

But before jumping back in, it’s worth pausing to reflect. Because going back to work now isn’t about repeating the past. It’s about designing something that fits who you are today.

So, I’ve put together a few questions that might be helpful moving forward.

1. What Do You Want to Keep Using?

Many women start with:

“What should I do next?”

A better question is:

“What parts of my experience do I still enjoy using?”

After decades of work, you’ve earned the right to be selective. Maybe you loved:

  • Mentoring others
  • Solving complex problems
  • Building relationships
  • Leading – but not managing

The most successful late-career transitions aren’t reinventions.

They’re refinements.

You’re not starting over – you’re choosing what stays.

2. Where Does Your Experience Solve a Current Problem?

Your experience is valuable – but only if it connects to a present-day need.

This is where many women get stuck. They look backward at what they’ve done, rather than outward at where they’re needed.

Ask yourself:

  • Who is struggling with something I’ve already mastered?
  • Where could my judgment prevent costly mistakes?
  • Who would benefit from what I know – right now?

This is the shift: From experience as history to experience as a solution. And that shift is what opens doors.

3. Do You Want a Job – or a Different Way to Work?

This is where you give yourself permission to rethink everything. Because returning to a traditional full-time job may not be what you actually want.

You might be drawn instead to:

  • Consulting or project-based work
  • Advisory or board roles
  • Mentoring or coaching
  • Starting something small and flexible

The real question isn’t:

“Where can I get hired?”

It’s:

“What kind of work structure fits my life now?”

Your time, energy, and priorities have changed.

Your work should reflect that.

4. What Are You Ready to Let Go Of?

This is often the most difficult step – and the most important. To move forward, something has to be released. It might be:

  • A title that once defined you,
  • The need to be seen a certain way,
  • Work that no longer energizes you,
  • The expectation that success must look like it used to.

Letting go isn’t about loss. It’s about making space. Because without that space, it’s easy to recreate your old life instead of designing a new one.

5. Are You Waiting for Clarity – or Willing to Create It?

Many women wait until they feel “clear” before taking action. But clarity rarely comes first.

At this stage of life, clarity is created through movement:

  • Conversations with people doing interesting work.
  • Trying something small before committing fully.
  • Saying yes before you feel 100% ready.

Think of it as experimenting – not deciding.

Momentum builds insight. Not the other way around.

A Final Thought

Going back to work in your 60s isn’t about proving anything. It’s about aligning your experience with what matters to you now. You don’t need a 10-year plan. You don’t need the perfect answer.

You simply need a direction that feels:

  • Useful
  • Interesting
  • True to who you are today.

That’s more than enough to begin.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Have you been thinking about starting a work-related engagement? Would it be a job, a small project or something else?

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