Month: August 2021

All Aboard! The 5 Things I Absolutely Love About Train Travel

travel by train

I love train travel. I think it’s in my blood. My grandfather was a depot agent in the small town of Douglass, Kansas, so my father grew up around trains. While I did not, the sound of a train whistle in the distance still stirs a sense of excitement in me.

Union Station

Years ago, I played a game at a family reunion where we took turns splitting into two groups according to various preferences. One of the questions was, Are you a plane person or a train person? The plane group was definitely larger – but the train enthusiasts were definitely more passionate!

Those who favored travel by airplane highlighted convenience in getting places faster. Can’t argue with that; if you have to go far or get there fast, you can’t beat stepping on an airplane.

But beyond getting somewhere far or fast, the “plane people” were hard pressed to come up with things to like about airline travel. The “train people”? They waxed eloquent about all the things they loved about train travel.

With all the time it takes to get to and from an airport (typically located outside city limits) and then all the security mazes, domestic airline travel can take longer than you think, and is often fraught with various kinds of headaches. Then there’s the comfort – or lack of it – once you enter the plane, as seating is notoriously cramped. (At least sardines get some oil to ease things a bit!)

So here, in no particular order, are the top five things I like about train travel, especially when traveling with grandchildren on a “skip-gen” trip. These are all true whether you travel with a grandchild or not, but traveling with a grandchild is more fun. Kids love trains!

Ease of Departure

No long lines, no patdowns, no X-ray machines. No removing shoes, belts, electronic devices. Want to bring your own drinks on the train? Or little bottles of liquids in various sizes? Go ahead!

This lack of security may worry some, but think about it: when was the last time you heard of a US train being taken over or blown up by terrorists? Or any other serious violent incident? Exactly. Even without all the security checks, train travel is extremely safe.

Space

As in, lots of it. Seated on a train, I can fully extend my legs, with toes pointing forward, before touching the seat in front of me. And this is in coach! Now, I admit that I am on the short side, but even my six-foot husband finds plenty of room to stretch his legs.

space on trains

I can have my rather large carry-on bag right beside me on the floor, not wedged under a seat or in an overhead compartment. My entire suitcase is also readily accessible, if need be. This is so helpful with kids. Games, snacks, whatever you need – it’s easily accessible.

The Scenery

One spring break, I took my three daughters, including two newly adopted teens from Russia, on a cross-country trip to visit my retired father in New Mexico. Now, we could have flown there from Michigan, but I wanted the girls to really see our country – the endless corn and wheat fields, the wide-open prairies, the canyons, mountains, interesting rock formations, and deserts.

I have also taken the California Zephyr from Michigan to northern California by way of the Rockies, considered one of the loveliest train trips in the US. These trains have observation cars with large floor-to-ceiling windows to take in the sights.

Better than flying, where all you see are clouds. Better than driving, where you have to worry about traffic, road construction, and driver fatigue. Or potty breaks. Need to use the bathroom? It’s right onboard! No need to look for a rest stop.

Freedom of Movement

Children are far less restrained than with either plane or car travel, which makes for a happier kid. More space, and they can get up and walk around (with supervision). It’s good for your physical and mental health.

It’s important to get up and stretch while traveling and train travel makes that so easy. I love to get up and stroll down to the snack car, on to the observation car, and then back to my seat. Or maybe linger in the observation car.

Adults are freer to point out interesting sights along the way, as they are not distracted by driving or keeping kids as quiet as possible on a plane. A train ride is a more out-of-the-ordinary experience and keeps their interest longer. Definitely a case where the journey can be just as interesting as the destination!

The Camaraderie

Train travel is just friendlier than travel by plane. And more relaxed. Even with Covid, people chat and converse with each other more.

On my most recent trip, I interviewed my attendant, curious about how long she had worked for Amtrak (38 years!), and asked for interesting stories she could share with me. I can’t imagine doing that with a flight attendant as she rolls the drink cart up and down the narrow aisle.

Do you like to travel by train? Have you ever taken a grandchild on a train trip? How was the experience and where did you go?

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The CVS Epic Beauty Event Is Back & Includes Even More Wellness Products on Sale

There’s nothing more annoying than going to one store thinking you’ll get everything you need, only to have to hit two other places because the first didn’t have it all. Luckily, the CVS Epic Beauty Event features self-care, wellness, skin care, hair care and cosmetics. From August 29 through September 25, you can score ExtraBucks Rewards, as well as Hot Offers each week on cosmetics (the offers change weekly). Shop everything you need for practically any situation, from a house party with the girls (including new makeup) to a post-spin class refresh.

Not only are there four long weeks of sales with rotating options, but you can score even more ExtraBucks the more you buy. Spend $40 on select beauty and wellness products and get $15 in CVS ExtraBucks Rewards. Spend $30 on select beauty and wellness products and get $10 ExtraBucks Rewards. So, whether it’s nail polish for a DIY manicure or new vitamins, the CVS Epic Beauty Event has got you covered both in-store and online.

There are hundreds of items on sale each week but we got you started with some of our faves, below.

Our mission at STYLECASTER is to bring style to the people, and we only feature products we think you’ll love as much as we do. CVS is a STYLECASTER sponsor, however, all products in this article were independently selected by our editors. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale.

Week 1: August 29-September 4

shea moisture curl

CVS.

SheaMoisture Coco Shea Curl Glam Sulfate Free Conditioner for Frizz-Prone Hair

This sulfate- and silicone-free conditioner can be used as a cleansing conditioner and/or dry hair treatment for curls so it’s basically a two-in-one.

Flamingo Razor

Flamingo Women’s 5-blade Razor with Replacement Blade Cartridge

Ashley Graham’s favorite razor features a flexible hinge that glides over knees and curves, helping you get the closest shave ever without nicks. Choose from either the Taro or Rose color options to match your bathroom aesthetic. And don’t forget the shave gel!

cvs body wash

CVS.

Beauty 360 Sensitive Skin Body Wash

This hypoallergenic body wash is unscented and soap-free — perfect for those with sensitive skin. And even though it’s gentle, it still makes a creamy lather that gives you a deep cleanse.

L'Oreal Paris Bambi Instant Volume Oversized Eye Washable Mascara

CVS.

L’Oreal Paris Bambi Instant Volume Oversized Eye Washable Mascara

For bold, look-at-me-lashes, this lifting and curling mascara is exactly what you’re looking for. The mix of long and short bristles separates each lash for tons of length and definition.

Neutrogena Stubborn Marks PM Treatment with Retinol SA

CVS.

Neutrogena Stubborn Marks PM Treatment with Retinol SA

Post-acne marks are no match for this nighttime treatment infused with Retinol SA, a stabilized form of vitamin A.

Olly Glowing Skin, 50CT

CVS.

Olly Glowing Skin, 50CT

Support hydrated, youthful-looking skin with these hyaluronic acid, collagen and sea buckthorn gummies.

Week 2: September 5-11

Olay Cleansing & Nourishing Body Wash with Vitamin B3 and Hyaluronic Acid

CVS.

Olay Cleansing & Nourishing Body Wash with Vitamin B3 and Hyaluronic Acid

Why can’t skincare ingredients be in your body products, too? They can with this ultra-nourishing body wash infused with hyaluronic acid to really lock in moisture.

Miss Jessie's Jelly Soft Curls

CVS.

Miss Jessie’s Jelly Soft Curls

Get ultra-soft, touchable curls with this leave-in styling gel. And there’s no petroleum or sulfates — you know Miss Jessie’s cares about the health of your hair, too.

covergirl lash blast wterproof

CoverGirl.

CoverGirl Lash Blast Clean Waterproof Mascara

CoverGirl just launched a waterproof version of its best-selling clean mascara. Hint: we love it.

Nature's Bounty Advanced Hair, Skin & Nails Jelly Beans with Biotin, 80 CT

CVS.

Nature’s Bounty Advanced Hair, Skin & Nails Jelly Beans with Biotin, 80 CT

These yummy jelly beans contain 6,000 mcg of biotin to support hair, skin and nails, as well as keratin and vitamins A, C and E.

 

Week 3: September 12-18

maybelline fit me

CVS.

Maybelline Fit Me Tinted Moisturizer Natural Coverage Face Makeup

The brand’s Fit Me foundation line is a best-seller so it only makes sense a hydrating tinted moisturizer would be up next. This one lets your skin breathe while still covering any imperfections.

GSQ by GLAMSQUAD Gold Half Moon Claw Clip

CVS.

 

GSQ by GLAMSQUAD Gold Half Moon Claw Clip

Claw clips are back and more fashionable than ever. This one bumps up any casual outfit with ease.

essie color

CVS.

Essie Nail Polish

Perfect-for-summer shades including Ice Cream and Shout (above) and Air Spun Fun (a pale pink) are on sale at just the right time.

L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives 2.5% Hyaluronic Acid + Caffeine Eye Serum

CVS.

L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives 2.5% Hyaluronic Acid + Caffeine Eye Serum

This hydrating eye serum contains pure hyaluronic acid and pure caffeine to plump, brighten and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Gaiam hip bands

CVS.

Gaiam Restore Hip Bands

This set of two fabric bands can help you increase your mobility in your legs, hips, glutes and thighs, as well as build muscle. There are two levels of resistance as well as an exercise guide.

Week 4: September 19-25

Sun Bum 3-in-1 Leave In

CVS.

Sun Bum 3-in-1 Leave In

Detangle, condition and protect hair with this 3-in-1 leave-in conditioner. It contains a blend of coconut oil, banana and sunflower seed oil to help control frizz and prevent split ends.

revlon eye so fierce

CVS.

Revlon So Fierce! Chrome Ink Liquid Eyeliner

Your nighttime glam is pretty much set with this chromatic liquid eyeliner. Available in three shades, the formula easily glides on and provides full color payoff in just one swipe.

roc retinol

CVS.

RoC Retinol Correxion Capsules Anti-Aging Night Retinol Face Serum

Reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles with RoC’s retinol-infused serum. Each capsule is sealed for optimal retinol freshness.

Hydrant water supplement.

CVS.

Hydrant HYDRATE Blood Orange, 12 CT

Boost your hydration with a blend of essential electrolytes and real fruit juice powder.

STYLECASTER | Ashley Benson Interview

Read More

The CVS Epic Beauty Event Is Back & Includes Even More Wellness Products on Sale

There’s nothing more annoying than going to one store thinking you’ll get everything you need, only to have to hit two other places because the first didn’t have it all. Luckily, the CVS Epic Beauty Event features self-care, wellness, skin care, hair care and cosmetics. From August 29 through September 25, you can score ExtraBucks Rewards, as well as Hot Offers each week on cosmetics (the offers change weekly). Shop everything you need for practically any situation, from a house party with the girls (including new makeup) to a post-spin class refresh.

Not only are there four long weeks of sales with rotating options, but you can score even more ExtraBucks the more you buy. Spend $40 on select beauty and wellness products and get $15 in CVS ExtraBucks Rewards. Spend $30 on select beauty and wellness products and get $10 ExtraBucks Rewards. So, whether it’s nail polish for a DIY manicure or new vitamins, the CVS Epic Beauty Event has got you covered both in-store and online.

There are hundreds of items on sale each week but we got you started with some of our faves, below.

Our mission at STYLECASTER is to bring style to the people, and we only feature products we think you’ll love as much as we do. CVS is a STYLECASTER sponsor, however, all products in this article were independently selected by our editors. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale.

Week 1: August 29-September 4

shea moisture curl

CVS.

SheaMoisture Coco Shea Curl Glam Sulfate Free Conditioner for Frizz-Prone Hair

This sulfate- and silicone-free conditioner can be used as a cleansing conditioner and/or dry hair treatment for curls so it’s basically a two-in-one.

Flamingo Razor

Flamingo Women’s 5-blade Razor with Replacement Blade Cartridge

Ashley Graham’s favorite razor features a flexible hinge that glides over knees and curves, helping you get the closest shave ever without nicks. Choose from either the Taro or Rose color options to match your bathroom aesthetic. And don’t forget the shave gel!

cvs body wash

CVS.

Beauty 360 Sensitive Skin Body Wash

This hypoallergenic body wash is unscented and soap-free — perfect for those with sensitive skin. And even though it’s gentle, it still makes a creamy lather that gives you a deep cleanse.

L'Oreal Paris Bambi Instant Volume Oversized Eye Washable Mascara

CVS.

L’Oreal Paris Bambi Instant Volume Oversized Eye Washable Mascara

For bold, look-at-me-lashes, this lifting and curling mascara is exactly what you’re looking for. The mix of long and short bristles separates each lash for tons of length and definition.

Neutrogena Stubborn Marks PM Treatment with Retinol SA

CVS.

Neutrogena Stubborn Marks PM Treatment with Retinol SA

Post-acne marks are no match for this nighttime treatment infused with Retinol SA, a stabilized form of vitamin A.

Olly Glowing Skin, 50CT

CVS.

Olly Glowing Skin, 50CT

Support hydrated, youthful-looking skin with these hyaluronic acid, collagen and sea buckthorn gummies.

Week 2: September 5-11

Olay Cleansing & Nourishing Body Wash with Vitamin B3 and Hyaluronic Acid

CVS.

Olay Cleansing & Nourishing Body Wash with Vitamin B3 and Hyaluronic Acid

Why can’t skincare ingredients be in your body products, too? They can with this ultra-nourishing body wash infused with hyaluronic acid to really lock in moisture.

Miss Jessie's Jelly Soft Curls

CVS.

Miss Jessie’s Jelly Soft Curls

Get ultra-soft, touchable curls with this leave-in styling gel. And there’s no petroleum or sulfates — you know Miss Jessie’s cares about the health of your hair, too.

covergirl lash blast wterproof

CoverGirl.

CoverGirl Lash Blast Clean Waterproof Mascara

CoverGirl just launched a waterproof version of its best-selling clean mascara. Hint: we love it.

Nature's Bounty Advanced Hair, Skin & Nails Jelly Beans with Biotin, 80 CT

CVS.

Nature’s Bounty Advanced Hair, Skin & Nails Jelly Beans with Biotin, 80 CT

These yummy jelly beans contain 6,000 mcg of biotin to support hair, skin and nails, as well as keratin and vitamins A, C and E.

 

Week 3: September 12-18

maybelline fit me

CVS.

Maybelline Fit Me Tinted Moisturizer Natural Coverage Face Makeup

The brand’s Fit Me foundation line is a best-seller so it only makes sense a hydrating tinted moisturizer would be up next. This one lets your skin breathe while still covering any imperfections.

GSQ by GLAMSQUAD Gold Half Moon Claw Clip

CVS.

 

GSQ by GLAMSQUAD Gold Half Moon Claw Clip

Claw clips are back and more fashionable than ever. This one bumps up any casual outfit with ease.

essie color

CVS.

Essie Nail Polish

Perfect-for-summer shades including Ice Cream and Shout (above) and Air Spun Fun (a pale pink) are on sale at just the right time.

L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives 2.5% Hyaluronic Acid + Caffeine Eye Serum

CVS.

L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives 2.5% Hyaluronic Acid + Caffeine Eye Serum

This hydrating eye serum contains pure hyaluronic acid and pure caffeine to plump, brighten and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Gaiam hip bands

CVS.

Gaiam Restore Hip Bands

This set of two fabric bands can help you increase your mobility in your legs, hips, glutes and thighs, as well as build muscle. There are two levels of resistance as well as an exercise guide.

Week 4: September 19-25

Sun Bum 3-in-1 Leave In

CVS.

Sun Bum 3-in-1 Leave In

Detangle, condition and protect hair with this 3-in-1 leave-in conditioner. It contains a blend of coconut oil, banana and sunflower seed oil to help control frizz and prevent split ends.

revlon eye so fierce

CVS.

Revlon So Fierce! Chrome Ink Liquid Eyeliner

Your nighttime glam is pretty much set with this chromatic liquid eyeliner. Available in three shades, the formula easily glides on and provides full color payoff in just one swipe.

roc retinol

CVS.

RoC Retinol Correxion Capsules Anti-Aging Night Retinol Face Serum

Reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles with RoC’s retinol-infused serum. Each capsule is sealed for optimal retinol freshness.

Hydrant water supplement.

CVS.

Hydrant HYDRATE Blood Orange, 12 CT

Boost your hydration with a blend of essential electrolytes and real fruit juice powder.

STYLECASTER | Ashley Benson Interview

Read More

10 Things to Ditch from Your Home Today

10 things to declutter right away

Sometimes we don’t have time for a big decluttering project, and we want something quick and impactful. To that end, here are 10 things you can throw away right here right now.

Dead Plants and Flowers

When they’re gone, they’re gone. If you have flowers in a vase that are past their best, take the opportunity to recycle them with your garden waste. Fresh flowers are a welcome addition to any home but once they have seen better days, it’s time to say goodbye.

When it comes to plants, an element of realism is needed. If you know it still has life in it, make a point of starting the revival project today. If not, cut your losses and let it go.

Newspapers

If you get a newspaper on a regular basis, be mindful that a newspaper is supposed to mark a moment in time that is here today, gone tomorrow. Don’t have piles of newspapers hanging around waiting to be read or kept for posterity. Let them go.

Out-of-Date Medication

I’d like to wager that if you look at your medication supplies, some will be way out of date. By its nature, medication is often bought for a one-off ailment or illness, and once the ailment is gone, we no longer need the remedy.

But it stays in the cupboard for months, often years, till we need it again and that day, more often than not, never comes! If you are disposing of medication, bear in mind this should be done responsibly.

Odd Socks

Odd socks are a mystery. Where do their partners go? I think we will be wondering this till the end of time. There’s an old adage out there that odd socks turn into tupperware container lids! In any case, once an odd sock has been hanging around for a while without its friend, it’s time to say goodbye.

Takeout Menus

Takeaway menus are posted through our letter boxes on a very regular basis. They are junk mail and should be treated as such. If you have a place in your home where old takeaway menus pile up, make a point of going through them and only keep the ones you regularly use.

Dead Batteries

Dead batteries are something that hangs around our homes for a while. Mainly because we need to dispose of them responsibly. It’s a great idea to have a small box or container to keep them in while you’re storing them to take to the recycling point.

Once the box is full, make a point of dropping the batteries off. Once they get old, they leak, and you don’t want to deal with that in your drawer!

Videos and Cassette Tapes

We are at least four generations past videos and cassette tapes when it comes to media. If you stream, download or at the very least listen to CDs and DVDs, it’s time for the old music cassettes and video tapes to go.

It’s a tough thing to part with as they are not readily recyclable but nevertheless, take action today! Be sure to weed out any highly sentimental ones first though.

Empty Jars

How many empty jars do you have in your home? They feel so useful, right? We tell ourselves they will come in for all manner of things.

Particularly if you’re a cook or a crafter, it can be all too easy to convince yourself that you need to keep any jars that come into your home – but be mindful of volumes. They are taking valuable space in your kitchen cupboards that could be used for other, more important things.

Carrier Bags

If you have carrier bags from shops that have started to breed, it’s time to pass them on. We don’t need many of them but homes all around the world have hundreds of them kept forever and a day. It’s not hard to find people in local community groups and food banks that absolutely do need a steady supply of bags so pass them on and declutter your home at the same time. Win-win!

Out-of-Date Spices

What is it about herbs and spices? We can go through them every year and still find one with a date from 2007 on! Have a quick look through yours today and discard any that are out of date. Whilst they are most likely not harmful, they may have lost their potency.

Did you know there are three key ingredients for decluttering success? If you’d like to find out what they are, pop over and sign up for our 45 minute free webinar. You never know, it might just set you on a new path towards a clutter free home.

So, how many of the items on this list do you have cluttering up your home? Can you find half an hour to make a big impact on your clutter? When was the last time you got rid of something you don’t really use?

Read More

The 5 Most Common Senior Micronutrient Deficiencies

micronutrient deficiencies

You might be surprised to learn that even in developed countries like the United States malnutrition is a serious problem. It’s especially prevalent among senior citizens. In fact, one in three older adults who are admitted to the hospital are malnourished.

When it comes to fighting malnourishment, many people focus solely on increasing consumption of macronutrients (proteins, fats and carbohydrates).

These are certainly important, but there also needs to be a focus on making sure seniors get plenty of micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) as well.

Micronutrient deficiencies present a variety of problems and can severely hinder your quality of life as an older adult. Read on to learn more about five micronutrient deficiencies that affect the majority of seniors.

Calcium

Research shows that only a very small percentage of seniors (14.6 percent) are meeting or exceeding the daily calcium recommendation. Researchers have also argued that this number is, at best, a generous estimate.

Calcium is necessary for bone growth and bone density maintenance. And even though they are in the risk factor age group, seniors typically tend to consume less calcium than their younger counterparts. As a result, their body begins to leach calcium from their bones to function properly.

Calcium supplements can help seniors meet the daily recommendation (1,200 milligrams). They can also get plenty of calcium from dairy products, leafy greens and broccoli.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D plays a role in proper bone health and improved immune system function. It is also necessary for proper calcium absorption. If you’re deficient in this vitamin, it doesn’t matter if you’re consuming enough calcium because you won’t reap all the benefits.

One study found that approximately 60 percent of seniors were deficient in vitamin D, with dark-skinned seniors being more likely to experience a deficiency.

The skin produces vitamin D when it is exposed to the sun, and people with darker skin typically need more sun exposure in order to increase their vitamin D levels to the desired amount (600-800 IU).

Spending more time outdoors can help seniors increase their vitamin D levels, but most can also benefit from consuming a vitamin D supplement on a regular basis.

Folate

Folate is an essential B vitamin that most people associate with pregnant women. Pregnant women do need to consume sufficient amounts of folate to prevent neural tube defects in their babies. But, they’re not the only ones who benefit from consuming this vitamin.

Folate can help reduce the signs of aging and improve cognition in senior citizens. Adequate levels of folate are also associated with lower rates of depression.

One study found that approximately one in seven seniors is deficient in folate. A B-vitamin complex can help seniors meet their daily folate recommendation (400 micrograms per day). Folate is also found in a variety of fruits and vegetables, and many juices and breakfast cereals are fortified with it.

Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 plays a major role in creating healthy DNA and red blood cells. It’s also necessary for proper nerve function.

Approximately one in eight seniors are deficient in vitamin B12. Many seniors actually consume sufficient amounts of B12, but they are still deficient because they don’t absorb enough of it.

Consuming a B12 supplement can help make up for poor absorption, as can eating more B12-rich foods. Some of the best food sources of vitamin B12 include:

  • Red meat
  • Poultry
  • Fish
  • Eggs
  • Milk and other dairy products

Vitamin E

A whopping 92 percent of adults over the age of 51 are not consuming sufficient amounts of vitamin E.

This vitamin is a fat-soluble antioxidant that helps reduce oxidative stress in the body and can delay the onset of chronic disease. It also plays a role in immune system function, metabolic processes and gene expression.

Seniors should try to consume at least 1,000 milligrams of vitamin E each day. It’s abundant in foods like leafy green vegetables, nuts, seeds, lean meats, legumes, eggs and soy products.

Final Thoughts

As you can see, micronutrient deficiencies can be just as problematic as their macronutrient counterparts.

If you think you’re experiencing a deficiency in any of the nutrients mentioned above, get yourself tested right away. Then, start making the dietary and supplementary changes you need to improve your levels and increase your quality of life.

Have you tested yourself for any nutrient deficiency? What modifications have you made to get more vitamins and minerals in your diet? Please share in the comments below.

Editor’s note: Nothing in this article should be considered medical advice. Always consult a doctor before making any changes to your diet, medical plan, or exercise routine.

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