Month: February 2024

Originally posted at: Kyle Richards’ Light Wash Jeans

A couple of weeks ago, I had some minor surgery. All is well, but I could not bend, stoop, lift, twist, or ride in a car while recuperating. The silver lining? These constraints gave me the perfect excuse to pull on my sweats, curl up on the couch, and read.

And I fell in love with these novels.

The Women by Kristin Hannah

Attention! Attention! I urge readers – especially those who grew up watching M*A*S*H – to pick up Kristin Hannah’s latest! One of my favorite novels of the past year, this book contains everything I love – history, an exotic locale I know little about, romance, friendships, unexpected developments – all wrapped up in a compelling story.

It’s 1966, and Frances (Frankie) McGrath longs to be among the photo collection in her father’s study – photos of heroes in the well-to-do Southern Californian family. With little to no training – like the wounded men she fights to save – Frankie blossoms into a top-notch surgical combat nurse in Vietnam. Returning home from war, Frankie faces a nation that doesn’t appreciate her service or sacrifice.

This novel gave me a greater understanding of the environment our courageous men and women (women were only nurses) encountered, the unspeakable hardships many endured, and the nation’s response.

Just announced – Warner Brothers will bring this novel to the big screen.

An American Beauty by Shana Abe

If we’re too timid to expand our boundaries, we’re little more than mice, aren’t we?

On trips to New York City, I’ve strolled down Park Avenue or Fifth Avenue or wandered the Upper East Side. I’ve ogled the ornate architecture and buildings, most now chopped into apartments, retail stores, or the occasional museum. I’d have loved to tour those mansions in their heyday. Back when ladies’ maids prepared the residents for tea or dinner, arranging their elaborate gowns and pinning up their hair. If those walls could talk…

I adore people stories, and this historical fiction novel chronicles Arabella Huntington and her lifelong love affair with the railroad tycoon that lifted her – and her family – out of abject poverty. Fans of HBO’s The Gilded Age – and interested history buffs also – will adore a peek into 1800s society.

If travel takes you to the Los Angeles area, be sure to plan a visit to the magnificent Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens in San Marino. It’s on my someday list!

A Beautiful Rival by Gill Paul

Long before women wore makeup regularly and skin care was the monumental industry it is today, Helena Rubenstein and Elizabeth Arden introduced American women to luxurious lipsticks and creams.

But the cosmetic giants detested one another…

Elizabeth grew up poor and hungry and couldn’t shed the feeling that she “wasn’t good enough.” A Polish native, Helena learned to create herb-infused potions to make women look younger and brighter.

Both strived to be the most successful in their field and would stop at nothing to reach their goals. They poached employees, planted spies, spread rumors and gossip, and copied products. Another great people story!

The Surgeon by Leslie Wolfe

A good friend stumbled on this page-turner, raced through it, and passed it on to me. It was everything she promised it was.

A cardiac surgeon has a successful career, a wonderful husband, and a charming home. And she’s never lost a patient on the operating table.

Until the day a patient’s heart stops beating, and the surgeon pronounces him dead. Did he have to die? Or did she want him to die?

Loaded with twists, turns, and surprises, I couldn’t wait to eat dinner, clean up the kitchen, and snuggle in for the evening with this fast-moving, psychological thriller.

Signal Fires by Dani Shapiro

We make plans, and God laughs.

Idyllic Avalon’s Division Street hosts a famous tree, a son who may not be what his parents dreamed of, a tragedy, and lots and lots of secrets. The story embraces relatable and thought-provoking touchpoints – Alzheimer’s, cancer, death, and protecting loved ones at all costs.

Flip-flopping back and forth in time, the book follows the residents and their lives over 50 years. Like me, readers may reflect on the connectedness and coincidences in our tiny world.

Lots of media buzz (warranted) surrounds this family novel and its gentle reminder that we cannot know what the impact of our decisions and actions – however small – may be.

The Senator’s Wife by Liv Constantine

After finishing this psychological fiction book, I pondered which actors I’d cast in the movie. Because this novel seems perfect for the big screen!

Writing under the name Liv Constantine, sisters Lynne and Valerie Constantine weave another twisty, escapist read that I couldn’t put down.

Sloane and Whit are a Washington, D.C. power couple with an interesting backstory. Senator Montgomery, handsome and charismatic, is at the top of his political game. Sloane is a philanthropist, heading up the foundation she and her first husband created. Athena moves into their Georgetown mansion to help Sloane recover from hip surgery and manage her Lupus.

Can Sloane trust her husband? What is Athena up to? Will Sloane recover? I enjoyed learning about this erratic disease and peering into the glad-handing political arena.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Have you read any novels lately that have become movies or TV series? Do you recommend the book or the show? Do you have a favorite author whose books you automatically read?

When was the last time you wrote yourself a love letter? When was the last time you lovingly looked upon yourself in a mirror and spoke positively to yourself?

For some, the answer could be as recent as this morning. For many women over 60, the answers are not as easy.

In the final article and video of a three-part series on loving more of yourself after 60, I will share with you how to establish a self-love routine through journaling.

Let’s begin by understanding what can get in the way of a self-love routine.

3 Common Challenges to Self-Love

All of us feel better about ourselves when we show love, kindness, and compassion to others. But how often do we do this for ourselves? And why is it so difficult for so many?

Here are three common challenges women over 60 experience when it comes to practicing a self-love and self-care routine:

Outdated Expectations

Women of our generation grew up in a time when societal expectations heavily influenced our roles and identities. Breaking free from these ingrained expectations and embracing self-love can be a process that requires self-acceptance and courage.

Distorted Body Image

Like many women of our age, you may struggle with accepting and loving your body. A big part of this is society’s emphasis on perceiving love and beauty through a youthful look. This makes it challenging to develop a positive body image and practice self-love without feeling uncomfortable.

People Pleasing

Many women over 60 have spent years forsaking their own well-being to take care of others. Today, this can include caregiving responsibilities for aging parents, grandchildren, or even their own partners. These responsibilities can leave little time and energy for self-love practices.

To help you overcome these challenges, let’s look at 10 ways journaling can serve as a solid foundation for establishing and sustaining a self-love and self-care routine for yourself.

10 Steps for Self-Love Journaling

Many women engage in journaling. Not everyone, however, who journals does so with the clear intention of using this powerful practice as the basis for self-love.

Journaling is something I have engaged in for most of my life. It wasn’t until I reached my early 60s that I began to see it as an essential component of loving more of myself.

Journaling is now something I joyously do throughout the day. It has had a profoundly positive impact in all areas of my life, and I believe it will be for you, too.

Dedicate Time

Dedicate time every day for self-reflection and journaling. Find a quiet and comfortable space to focus on yourself without distractions.

Center Yourself

Begin each journaling session with deep breaths and a few minutes of mindfulness or meditation. This helps you quiet your inner critic by centering yourself and connecting with your inner thoughts and emotions.

Start with Gratitude

Write down three things you are grateful for in your life. Focusing on gratitude helps shift your mindset towards positivity and appreciation.

Celebrate Your Success

Reflect on your strengths and accomplishments. Write about your strengths and things you have achieved in your life, perhaps as recently as the day before. This is about celebrating your successes, big or small.

Self-Care Activities

Make a list of self-care activities that make you feel loved and rejuvenated. These can be anything from walking in nature, taking a bath, reading a book, enjoying a hobby, or even journaling.

Self-Love Letter

Write a love letter to yourself, showing kindness, understanding, and forgiveness. Acknowledge any self-critical thoughts and replace them with compassionate, loving words.

Positive Intentions

Journal positive affirmations or intentions for yourself. These can be empowering statements that reflect your self-worth, goals, and desires.

Reflect on Personal Growth

Journal valuable lessons you have learned and how you have grown over the years. Recognize the resilience and wisdom you have gained through your experiences.

Express Yourself

Silencing your thoughts and hiding your desires diminishes your voice. Express yourself vocally, by talking out loud to yourself with love, acceptance, and gratitude for who you are. Then journal the experience.

Conclude on a Positive Note

Finish each journaling session by writing one thing you love about yourself or something you are looking forward to experiencing in the future.

Sustaining Your New Routine

Starting a self-love routine is one thing, sustaining it is where the results will be seen and felt. It is important not to overwhelm yourself by trying to do all of these 10 steps every day.

Be sure to combine these steps with some of your own so you can create a unique process that suits your specific needs and desires.

When developing a self-love and self-care routine, it is important to be patient and kind to yourself throughout the process. When challenges arise, remember the immense benefits you experience from this practice.

Regular journaling can foster a sense of empowerment, self-acceptance, and overall well-being. It allows you to prioritize your own needs, embrace your unique talents, and cultivate a deep sense of self-worth and fulfillment.

I invite you to join me in the video where I will share eight thought-provoking journal prompts to help you get started with your self-love routine.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

What are your favorite self-love practices? How has journaling benefited your life after 60?

Fashion for plus-size women has come a long way, and travel clothes are no exception. Forget the days when comfy outfits meant sacrificing style. When going overseas, your travel outfit should speak volumes about your confidence and sense of adventure.

1. Best Outfit for Long Haul Flight – Long Cardigans are perfect for flights overseas. They can also serve as a blanket or a pillow if needed.
2. Best Travel Outfit for a Train Trip – Tunics and crop pants are a comfortable go-to while traveling. Choose a colorful printed tunic and pair it with solid colored bottoms.
3. Best Travel Outfit for Warm Destination – Lanzom Women Wide Brim Straw Panama Roll up Hat is the perfect sun hat for traveling. It can easily be rolled up and added to your luggage without worry of damaging it.
4. Best Travel Outfit for a Cruise – The TRAVELON Anti-Theft Heritage Tour Bag is ideal for keeping your belongings safe while traveling. It is made of slash-resistant body panels and shoulder strap and locking compartments.
5. Best Travel Outfit for a Cold Destination – Large scarves/wraps are great for keeping warm and also can double as a blanket or pillow while traveling.

Learn how to confidently navigate airports, stroll through historic streets, and bask in the sun with outfits that effortlessly combine fashion and comfort.

What to Look for in Clothing for Traveling Overseas When Over 60

When selecting travel clothes, consider factors that prioritize comfort, style, and practicality for a seamless travel experience.

Comfortable Fabrics

Opt for breathable, stretchy fabrics like cotton, jersey, or blends with a bit of spandex for ease of movement during long journeys.

Versatile Layers

Choose clothing items that can be easily layered to adapt to changing temperatures. Lightweight cardigans, scarves, and jackets are excellent choices.

Elastic Waistbands

Look for bottoms with elastic waistbands for added comfort during extended periods of sitting.

Flat or Low-Heeled Shoes

Prioritize comfortable, supportive shoes for walking through airports or exploring new destinations.

Wrinkle-Resistant Clothing

Select fabrics that resist wrinkles to keep you looking polished without the need for constant adjustments.

Mix-and-Match Pieces

Pack items that can be mixed and matched to create different outfits, maximizing wardrobe options without overpacking.

Easy-Care Garments

Choose travel clothing that is easy to care for and can be laundered without much fuss, helping you maintain a clean look with minimal effort.

Functional Accessories

Consider accessories like crossbody bags for convenience and comfort and add statement pieces to enhance your style.

Remember, the key is to find a balance between comfort and style, allowing you to enjoy your travels without any wardrobe-related concerns.

Best Outfit for a Long-Haul Flight

Traveling overseas probably means a long-haul flight. Finding the right balance between comfort and style during long flights can be challenging, especially for our curvy travelers.

This outfit combines both coziness with a touch of fashion flair. From an essential layer to subtle statement pieces, this is an excellent travel outfit for a journey that prioritizes comfort without compromising on style.

Marguerite Long Cardigan Sweater

Black Essential Ponte de Roma Sculpting Straight-Leg Pant

CALVIN KLEIN Perry Striped Crossbody with Web Strap

Wrap & Scarf in One

Best Travel Outfit for a Train Trip

When traveling through Europe, train travel often becomes an integral part of the experience. Renowned for its high-speed trains and scenic routes, the continent offers a unique travel landscape.

This outfit easily combines cozy warmth with a hint of fashion finesse, offering an ideal selection for train travel. Tailored for a trip that prioritizes comfort without sacrificing style, this outfit is thoughtfully curated to enrich the travel experience.

Plus Size Mid-Rise Pull-On Capri Pants

Remi Tunic – indigo

Le Pliage Marinière Recycled Nylon Canvas Travel Bag

Read 7 BUCKET LIST TRAIN VOYAGES IN THE WORLD.

Best Travel Outfit for Warm Destination

Heading to a warm and tropical location? Ever traveled with a sunhat? Hat boxes are not a common thing anymore, and packing your hat into your luggage can damage it. I’ve picked out a foldable and travel-ready hat that you can choose to wear while traveling or pack without worry. I have also added a versatile canvas weekender bag to add practicality to this chic vacation look.

You can wear this outfit with the cardigan on the plane ride to your destination and without it when walking on the beach or exploring lively markets during your travels.

Plus Size Double Binding Swing T-shirt

Lanzom Women Wide Brim Straw Panama Roll up Hat

Trendy Plus Size Drawstring-Waist Cargo Pants

SOUL IDEA BALLET FLAT

Space Dye Long Cardigan with Patch Pockets

Atona Canvas Weekender

Best Travel Outfit for a Cruise

Getting ready for a cruise demands a comfy, stylish, and practical outfit, especially as you head to the ship. Opt for a relaxed outfit with stretch pants paired with a comfy top. Slip-on shoes make it easy for travel, and a light jacket is handy for changing temperatures.

Plus Size Active 5 Pocket Pants

Plus Size Striped Chain-Neck T-Shirt

TRAVELON Anti-Theft Heritage Tour Bag

Dr. Scholl’s Emilia Shoes

Plus Size Chambray Field Jacket

Read 5 BEST NEW CRUISES FOR SOLO WOMEN OVER 50.

Best Travel Outfit for a Cold Destination

Getting ready for air travel to a chilly destination calls for an outfit that combines warmth, style, and practicality. Choose warm stretchy pants paired with layered tops, to provide comfort during the journey and upon arrival.

A jacket is essential for the varying temperatures in-flight and at your destination. Carry your essentials in a roomy weekender tote for convenience, and don’t forget your wrap scarf that can double as a blanket or pillow while traveling.

Plus Size Knit Pull-On Pants

Chanice Long Puffer Vest

100% Cashmere Oversized Scarf

Nylon Travel Tote Weekender Bag

Read 11 BEST STORES FOR WOMEN’S PLUS SIZE CLOTHING.

Also read INTERVIEW WITH A PLUS-SIZE FASHION DESIGNER – HER STYLING TIPS FOR CURVY MATURE WOMEN.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Do you travel overseas often? What do you like to wear when you are traveling? Do you have any tips for comfortable travel as a plus-size woman over 60? Tell us about it in the comments below.

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Originally posted at: Kyle Richards’ Black Jacket and Leggings