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I Am My New Priority

new priority

It has taken me over 60 years, but I have finally come to understand that you truly cannot take care of anyone else unless you take care of yourself first.

Just like the safety instructions on an airplane – Put Your Oxygen Mask on First!

I Wanted to Serve Others

My history is the same as it was for most women my age. I was the one who looked after, supported, loved, nurtured, and sacrificed for everyone in my life. Family, friends, husband, children, neighbors, people at work, you name it. Often to my own detriment.

For many years, I felt like I was the only one who could or would do it.

From the bottom of my heart, it made me happy to give everything I had to those that I loved. They didn’t even need to ask. If I saw what seemed to be a need, I did whatever I could to help.

It made me feel valuable as a human being to be of service to others.

What I didn’t realize was that I was not saving some of that compassion for myself. Anything I did that was just for me felt selfish and many of those I had helped were very quick to criticize me for it.

But I Also Needed to Take Care of Myself without Feeling Guilt

Now, looking back, I wonder if the real issue was what I was taking away from them by having something for myself. Those, of course, are the same people who somehow were not available when I needed something.

Slowly but surely, I have pulled away from those people and situations. Creating some distance has helped me to see what I really needed and that was to take care of myself first and then share what I could with others.

Remembering what brings me joy and giving myself permission to have it has been wonderful. I relish those beautiful moments when something new shows up, and I know I am free to explore it.

There are so many things that I love, and now I am taking the time to enjoy them. Something as simple as shutting off my phone while I take a nap, read a book, or write an article feels like a total indulgence. I am no longer available to everyone 24 hours a day. Do Not Disturb has become one of my favorite settings!

I Am Also Learning How to Say No

I do not need to give an explanation or apology when I say no. I want to say it kindly but with conviction, so I’m practicing different ways to politely decline. It is a work in progress after a lifetime of always saying yes. It helps if I just pause before giving an answer to a request. I try to remember that sometimes I need to say no to them to say yes to me.

Another change I am making is how I give. I love to walk into a grocery store and pay for someone’s food or donate to a worthy cause as a gift to my grandchildren. There are so many people in need and so many ways that any kindness I can show fills my heart with joy and appreciation.

The real beauty of making myself a priority is that I have so much more to give. I feel nourished and abundant in ways that I never imagined.

My sense of self-worth is no longer tied to what others need from me; it is simply what I deserve for myself.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Have you been the person everyone turns to for help? Are you able to say no to requests or do you say yes even when it depletes you? How do you take care of yourself? Share your stories and join the conversation!

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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!

I Am My New Priority

new priority

It has taken me over 60 years, but I have finally come to understand that you truly cannot take care of anyone else unless you take care of yourself first.

Just like the safety instructions on an airplane – Put Your Oxygen Mask on First!

I Wanted to Serve Others

My history is the same as it was for most women my age. I was the one who looked after, supported, loved, nurtured, and sacrificed for everyone in my life. Family, friends, husband, children, neighbors, people at work, you name it. Often to my own detriment.

For many years, I felt like I was the only one who could or would do it.

From the bottom of my heart, it made me happy to give everything I had to those that I loved. They didn’t even need to ask. If I saw what seemed to be a need, I did whatever I could to help.

It made me feel valuable as a human being to be of service to others.

What I didn’t realize was that I was not saving some of that compassion for myself. Anything I did that was just for me felt selfish and many of those I had helped were very quick to criticize me for it.

But I Also Needed to Take Care of Myself without Feeling Guilt

Now, looking back, I wonder if the real issue was what I was taking away from them by having something for myself. Those, of course, are the same people who somehow were not available when I needed something.

Slowly but surely, I have pulled away from those people and situations. Creating some distance has helped me to see what I really needed and that was to take care of myself first and then share what I could with others.

Remembering what brings me joy and giving myself permission to have it has been wonderful. I relish those beautiful moments when something new shows up, and I know I am free to explore it.

There are so many things that I love, and now I am taking the time to enjoy them. Something as simple as shutting off my phone while I take a nap, read a book, or write an article feels like a total indulgence. I am no longer available to everyone 24 hours a day. Do Not Disturb has become one of my favorite settings!

I Am Also Learning How to Say No

I do not need to give an explanation or apology when I say no. I want to say it kindly but with conviction, so I’m practicing different ways to politely decline. It is a work in progress after a lifetime of always saying yes. It helps if I just pause before giving an answer to a request. I try to remember that sometimes I need to say no to them to say yes to me.

Another change I am making is how I give. I love to walk into a grocery store and pay for someone’s food or donate to a worthy cause as a gift to my grandchildren. There are so many people in need and so many ways that any kindness I can show fills my heart with joy and appreciation.

The real beauty of making myself a priority is that I have so much more to give. I feel nourished and abundant in ways that I never imagined.

My sense of self-worth is no longer tied to what others need from me; it is simply what I deserve for myself.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Have you been the person everyone turns to for help? Are you able to say no to requests or do you say yes even when it depletes you? How do you take care of yourself? Share your stories and join the conversation!

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How an Unplanned Trip Can Boost Your Energy

unexpected trip boosts energy

I am essentially a planner, but I love spontaneous events. There is something wild and wonderful about an unplanned experience in your life, such as a short trip that takes you away from your daily routine.

But I went to Italy about four weeks ago, and it gave me a real lift. A mixture of the inherent pleasure in being there and the brief interruption to my quotidian life (“a change is as good as a rest” and all that).

The Birthday Phone Call

It all happened as a result of a phone call on my birthday in mid-February. A very old friend, an Italian woman from Turin, phoned to wish me well. So far so normal.

But in the course of the conversation, she mentioned that she was feeling somewhat low for a series of reasons. I knew that both she and her husband had non-trivial medical problems and assumed this was part of the issue.

Discussing our conversation with my husband awhile later, he said unexpectedly, “Why don’t you go visit her for a few days? That might be good for both of you.” What a lovely idea.

The thought had never crossed my mind. But it is not that far. About an hour and a half by plane from London where we live. Yes, it was possible.

I love travelling but have been almost nowhere since before the pandemic, because said husband has not been too well, and I never wanted to be too distant in case of need. But he has been much better recently. Yes, I thought, it really was possible.

Of course, I had to check with my friend to see if a sudden visitor would be more of an imposition than a joy, but no, she was delighted at the idea. She suggested that they would both be free in about 10 days and so the trip began to take shape.

The Trip

So, in late February, two weeks after the phone call, I found myself on a plane to Turin and a subsequent train into the city. And there she was, with her husband, at the station to greet me.

We have known each other for over 40 years, spoken frequently over the telephone, but had not seen each other for close to a decade. How completely amazing.

And we passed a very enjoyable four days. We walked and walked around Turin. Although it never stopped raining (the one less-than-ideal aspect of the trip), it is a city of colonnades, so we could do that without becoming soaked.

We took in the occasional tourist attraction, like the famous cinema museum which sits within one of the strangest buildings I have ever been in, known as ‘le mole’ (which means ‘monumental building’).

We went out to eat and everything was delicious. When we didn’t, it transpired that her husband was a wonderful cook. I felt so well looked after. Indeed, I said I would rate him on Trip Advisor.

And, of course, we talked and talked. We always did. But it was usually on the phone. Now, we were arm in arm, looking at the shops and sights of Turin.

And, best of all, she wasn’t really low after all. Yes, she had had some immediate concerns at the time of our phone call, but they were both essentially doing well. I wondered if she had said she was fine at that time, whether the visit would ever have happened.

All so very unexpected. And delightful.

Coming Home

Of course, visits of four days are quickly over. I found myself all too soon on the train back to the airport.

But I came home very refreshed. I had experienced the pleasure of a warm friend and a complete change of scenery. My husband was doing fine.

And there was something special about the fact it had all been arranged and effected so quickly. It gave it an almost fairy-tale quality.

I highly recommend a brief change from your day-to-day life. It can do wonders.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Have you made any sudden visits recently? Where did you go and who did you see? What was the impact on your life?

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Gabby Prescod’s Tan Cargo Pants

Gabby Prescod’s Tan Cargo Pants / Summer House Season 8 Episode 4 Fashion

I have to give these girls major credit for their ‘fits for the ~3 hour drive from NYC to the Hamptons. They always look so chic, like Gabby Presod in her tan cargo pants on last night’s Summer House. If it were me I’d probably look like a total slob kabob. But now that I know where to get Gabby’s pants maybe next time I’m on a longer car ride I’ll have more of a drive to look cute.

Sincerely Stylish,

Jess


Gabby Prescod's Tan Cargo Pants

Style Stealers





Originally posted at: Gabby Prescod’s Tan Cargo Pants

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6 Real Housewives Approved Spring 2024 Trends

This post is a sponsored partnership between BigBlondeHair.com and Saks Fifth Avenue, although all thoughts and picks are our own. We receive a percentage of sales for items purchased from Saks Fifth Avenue through affiliate links in this post. The celebrity names mentioned are in no way affiliated with this post or endorsing any products mentioned.

Spring is only a week away, which means it’s time to shop. So once again I’ve partnered with Saks to curate looks based on six of Spring 2024’s top trends. And since the Housewives are always ahead of the curve when it comes to style, they’ve given me the perfect inspiration for the best pieces to pick. 

Whether you need a full wardrobe refresh or just a few new Spring staples, Saks has all of the it designers and pieces of the season. If you’ve seen the brand on Bravo, chances are they stock it. And if it’s good enough for our favorite Real Housewives to shop there, it’s definitely good enough for us. So don’t miss out on the fun of adding these stylish Spring trends to your wardrobe, all from Saks.

The Realest Housewife,

Big Blonde Hair


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Click Here to Shop This Look Exclusively via the Shop LTK App

Originally posted at: 6 Real Housewives Approved Spring 2024 Trends

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🌷Transform Your Kitchen Into a Haven for Spring Entertaining🌷

transform your kitchen

This article is sponsored by QVC.

Spring is in the air, and QVC is here to help you transform your kitchen into the ultimate hub for delightful gatherings. The “Now You’re Cooking Week” is when they bring you a curated selection of kitchen essentials and stylish dinnerware to boost your spring entertaining game. Let’s turn your kitchen into a haven of delightful gatherings filled with delicious aromas, elegant table settings, and memorable moments.

Let’s celebrate good food, great company, and unforgettable moments this season!

Boost Your Baking Experience

Imagine the sweet aroma of freshly baked treats wafting through your home as you whip up delightful confections with Carla Hall’s Sweet Heritage Bakeware Set. This 3-piece stoneware collection not only brings charm to your kitchen but also boosts your baking game.

Carla Hall's Sweet Heritage Bakeware Set

Set the Table in Style

Transform your Spring entertaining experience into a visual feast with the Temp-tations Floral Lace 12-Piece Essential Dinnerware Set. Honor the beauty of spring with this charming set that combines functionality and elegance. Whether hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual meal with loved ones, these dinnerware pieces add a touch of sophistication to your table.

emp-tations Floral Lace 12-Piece Essential Dinnerware Set

Indulge in Elegant Dessert Displays

Dessert becomes an enchanting affair with Valerie’s Set of 2 Graduated Ruffle Edge Cake Plates. Show off your sweet creations on these beautiful cake plates, turning every treat into a centerpiece. The graduated ruffle design adds a touch of whimsy to your table, making dessert time a truly delightful experience.

Valerie's Set of 2 Graduated Ruffle Edge Cake Plates

Streamline Your Cooking

Simplify your kitchen and amplify your cooking capabilities with Our Place’s Set of 2 10-in-1 Ceramic Nonstick Always Pans 2.0. These versatile pans not only reduce clutter but also enhance your culinary creations. The ceramic nonstick surface ensures a seamless cooking experience, allowing you to focus on enjoying the process and connecting with your guests.

Our Place's Set of 2 10-in-1 Ceramic Nonstick Always Pans 2.0

Mix, Prep, and Serve

Add a dash of style to your kitchen with the Dash 5-piece Stainless Steel Mixing Bowl Set. They blend style and practicality, perfect for mixing, prepping, and serving.

Dash 5-piece Stainless Steel Mixing Bowl Set

Brunch Like a Pro

Impress your brunch guests with Chefman’s 12″ Round Stainless Steel Crepe Maker. Create perfect crepes easily, thanks to the non-stick surface and adjustable temperature control. Bring your brunch game to another level and create a memorable experience with this sleek and versatile kitchen essential.

Chefman's 12" Round Stainless Steel Crepe Maker

Embrace the enchantment of spring entertaining by exploring these kitchen treasures and more on the Spring Entertaining Page. Make this season a celebration of good food, great company, and the joy of creating unforgettable moments in your kitchen.

Happy entertaining! 🌼🍽✨

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Are you ready for spring parties? Are there new kitchen tools that you’ve been looking forward to acquiring?

Read More

🌷Transform Your Kitchen Into a Haven for Spring Entertaining🌷

transform your kitchen

This article is sponsored by QVC.

Spring is in the air, and QVC is here to help you transform your kitchen into the ultimate hub for delightful gatherings. The “Now You’re Cooking Week” is when they bring you a curated selection of kitchen essentials and stylish dinnerware to boost your spring entertaining game. Let’s turn your kitchen into a haven of delightful gatherings filled with delicious aromas, elegant table settings, and memorable moments.

Let’s celebrate good food, great company, and unforgettable moments this season!

Boost Your Baking Experience

Imagine the sweet aroma of freshly baked treats wafting through your home as you whip up delightful confections with Carla Hall’s Sweet Heritage Bakeware Set. This 3-piece stoneware collection not only brings charm to your kitchen but also boosts your baking game.

Carla Hall's Sweet Heritage Bakeware Set

Set the Table in Style

Transform your Spring entertaining experience into a visual feast with the Temp-tations Floral Lace 12-Piece Essential Dinnerware Set. Honor the beauty of spring with this charming set that combines functionality and elegance. Whether hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual meal with loved ones, these dinnerware pieces add a touch of sophistication to your table.

emp-tations Floral Lace 12-Piece Essential Dinnerware Set

Indulge in Elegant Dessert Displays

Dessert becomes an enchanting affair with Valerie’s Set of 2 Graduated Ruffle Edge Cake Plates. Show off your sweet creations on these beautiful cake plates, turning every treat into a centerpiece. The graduated ruffle design adds a touch of whimsy to your table, making dessert time a truly delightful experience.

Valerie's Set of 2 Graduated Ruffle Edge Cake Plates

Streamline Your Cooking

Simplify your kitchen and amplify your cooking capabilities with Our Place’s Set of 2 10-in-1 Ceramic Nonstick Always Pans 2.0. These versatile pans not only reduce clutter but also enhance your culinary creations. The ceramic nonstick surface ensures a seamless cooking experience, allowing you to focus on enjoying the process and connecting with your guests.

Our Place's Set of 2 10-in-1 Ceramic Nonstick Always Pans 2.0

Mix, Prep, and Serve

Add a dash of style to your kitchen with the Dash 5-piece Stainless Steel Mixing Bowl Set. They blend style and practicality, perfect for mixing, prepping, and serving.

Dash 5-piece Stainless Steel Mixing Bowl Set

Brunch Like a Pro

Impress your brunch guests with Chefman’s 12″ Round Stainless Steel Crepe Maker. Create perfect crepes easily, thanks to the non-stick surface and adjustable temperature control. Bring your brunch game to another level and create a memorable experience with this sleek and versatile kitchen essential.

Chefman's 12" Round Stainless Steel Crepe Maker

Embrace the enchantment of spring entertaining by exploring these kitchen treasures and more on the Spring Entertaining Page. Make this season a celebration of good food, great company, and the joy of creating unforgettable moments in your kitchen.

Happy entertaining! 🌼🍽✨

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Are you ready for spring parties? Are there new kitchen tools that you’ve been looking forward to acquiring?

Read More

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