Month: May 2025

Sixty and Me, by definition, is written for people (mostly women) in their 60s. But a lot of us have been around for a lot of years and – I know you like to think it isn’t true – we do grow older.

I have been writing for Sixty and Me for roughly 10 years and, yes, I admit it, I was in my early 70s when I started.

And now I am 83.

What It Feels Like

I find being 83 a complete revelation – both that I ever got here (like many others, I thought old age only happened to other people) and what joy it brings me to be here.

I can’t speak for other people aged 83 any more than I could have spoken for other people aged 25 or 40 or 65. But I can say how it feels to be me right now.

I honestly don’t think I have ever been as much at peace with myself. Yes, I have had more moments of utter joy (my wedding day, the birth of my two children – not to mention my two grandchildren – finishing my PhD and probably a few others) in earlier years.

But overall, being in my 80s is a period of great emotional contentment – nay, happiness. And this is a lovely surprise.

The surprise works in two ways: I did not expect that I would have as many sources of pleasure as I do nor did I expect that there would be so little anxiety.

I wish someone had told me this years ago.

I Actually Like Being Old

Somewhere in my mid-70s, I realised I enjoyed being old – and proceeded to write a book about it, in which I explore in more detail the thoughts set down here. I have had no cause to revise this view as I head into my mid-80s. Indeed, if anything, it has become more firmly entrenched.

I must note that I have had the good luck all my life to experience very good health. Yes, I look after myself – I eat a very healthy diet, and I exercise – but I have also escaped any serious illness so far.

Without the good health, I might have a different view.

The great benefit of being old is that you feel at ease with yourself, comfortable in your own skin. You have had to face a lot of challenges of one sort or another over your many years – who could avoid them? – and come through.

In my case, I have raised two extremely different children (now, that in itself was a surprise that they could be so different) and seen them grow into confident mature adults.

I have taken on a lot of different work assignments over time and learned from them. I have reflected and travelled both abroad and within. I have ripened and matured, as someone said recently, like a fine wine.

Put another way, so many of the anxieties of my younger years no longer hold any sway. All those terrible unanswerable questions (in no particular order, as they pop up in no particular order):

Am I smart enough? Am I pretty enough? Am I a good enough mother? Is my career advancing enough? Am I a good enough wife? Do people like me?

They go on and on, as you doubtless know. They follow us into every nook and cranny of our lives.

It’s not sudden, but slowly, slowly as you age, they just fall away. By your 80s, you know who you are, you know your strengths and your weaknesses and whatever you were going to become in life, you have probably become.

Sit Back and Enjoy Your Life

It all brings – in one simple word – confidence. You can sit back and enjoy your day-to-day life like never before. And you have the knowledge that whatever life throws at you, you have the strength and resilience to cope. At least, I think I do.

And as if this were not enough, there are other positives of being 80. You not only have confidence in yourself, but many others think they could learn a thing or two from you.

Yes, of course, many think (as I did once) that old people are too old to know anything (an odd piece of logic), but some come to me for advice because of my experience and insights.

This passing on of what one has learned is enormously gratifying. Somehow, all those hurdles and travails had a purpose after all.

And finally, for some of us lucky ones, there are grandchildren. I have only two, but their importance was completely unexpected, as neither I nor my children had very active grandparents.

Yet just when you think you have finished with the joys of being around small children, there is a new baby to coo over, and then a child to play with and then a teenager to talk to about all sorts of important issues.

This relationship is very special – not only for the children involved but for the adults too. It is the latter viewpoint – that of the grandparents – in which I am particularly interested and have written a whole book about it.

Some Downsides to Aging

I can’t pretend that there isn’t also a downside to being my age. Of course, our bodies are falling apart (I call it ‘the wheels coming off’) and my memory is atrocious.

Lack of Energy

In many ways, the most irritating aspect of growing older is the lack of energy – my brain wants to get busy with something (an outing, some writing, even weeding the garden) but my body says, no, no, just go lie down. It is a definite dampener.

Loss of Loved Ones

And then there are the heavy issues to be faced. You lose friends, as they die. There is the ever-present possibility of a crippling disability of the body or brain of my husband or myself.

Death Itself

And the final, final worry – the Grim Reaper could show up for either of us at any time. These are not small issues, and they hang around in the background for any thoughtful person over 80.

You don’t think about these things every day. And you don’t feel death is about to happen very soon.

Lack of Certainty Beats All Other Worries

But the real issue is the lack of certainty. Something could happen at any moment. I could fall down tomorrow and be hospitalised for weeks or have a heart attack and die. Or my husband could.

The world would turn upside down on a dime.

That is the part that none of us wants to think about. Yet we must and we do. They remain a very present part of life at 80.

STOP PRESS. Two days after drafting this post, I went for an outing with my son and daughter (saw a wonderful exhibition, followed by lunch) and came home in a lovely mood to find said husband sprawled on the bathroom floor.

There was a head wound, a lot of blood everywhere, but he was conscious and not in terrible pain. I called an ambulance at once.

He spent one night in hospital for observation and has been resting since. No broken bones, but likely concussion. It transpired that he had gone for a walk, felt dizzy on returning home, fainted and hit a newel post on his way down.

I was told that head wounds produce a lot of blood. I said it looked like an axe murderer had come and gone.

No lasting damage but it does prove that I wasn’t just waffling when I said bad things can happen any time.

They just did.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Are you in your 80s? How do you feel about that? Have I missed some of the positive aspects of being old? Or some of the negative ones?

If you grew up in the 1970s or raised your children during that era, chances are you spent more than a few evenings watching The Waltons. Set in Depression-era Virginia, this beloved TV show became a cultural touchstone, not just for its down-to-earth characters, but for the enduring values it portrayed – family, resilience, kindness, and community.

Anybody in my close circle knows that I watch The Waltons every single night – and I mean EVERY SINGLE NIGHT! And even though most would not relish the redundancy, it’s my way of relaxing and preparing for sleep. If I had to guess, I would say I’m on my fifth time around all nine seasons.

In a world increasingly focused on speed and screens, it’s easy to dismiss shows like The Waltons as relics of the past. But for those of us who remember gathering around the TV as a family, or hearing that iconic “Goodnight, John-Boy,” we know better. The show offered something more than entertainment – it gave us a blueprint for living with heart.

Now, as women over 60, we may be navigating different seasons of life – empty nests, retirement, caregiving, or rediscovering our passions. Yet the lessons from The Waltons feel more relevant than ever. Let’s revisit those mountain memories and uncover the timeless truths still echoing through the Blue Ridge.

1. Family Isn’t Perfect – But It’s Everything

The Walton family didn’t always get along. Tempers flared, mistakes were made, and misunderstandings ran deep. Sound familiar? What made the show special was its honest portrayal of imperfect people doing their best to love one another.

In a time when families are often scattered across states – or even estranged – The Waltons reminds us that family is worth the effort. Whether it’s mending fences with a sibling, making that overdue phone call to your adult child, or passing down family stories to grandchildren, staying connected matters. It always did, and it always will.

2. Hard Times Don’t Last – But Strong People Do

Set during the Great Depression and World War II, The Waltons showed us that resilience isn’t just about enduring – it’s about adapting, growing, and keeping your values intact through it all.

Many of us have weathered our own “Depressions”: financial downturns, health challenges, losses, and reinventions. Watching the Waltons scrape by with grit and grace reminds us that we’ve got that same strength within us. We’re part of a generation that knows how to survive and thrive.

3. Simple Pleasures Are Often the Most Profound

In the world of The Waltons, a Saturday picnic, a shared pie, or reading a book aloud held more joy than any grand event. We sometimes forget that happiness doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated.

As we age, we’re rediscovering the beauty of simple pleasures: tending a garden, baking from scratch, or laughing over coffee with old friends. The show didn’t preach this – it lived it. And it gently nudges us to slow down and savor what’s right in front of us. It’s important to learn to appreciate the mundane, everyday “forgettable” moments that we so often pass right by in our daily lives.

4. Everyone Has a Role to Play – No Matter Their Age

Remember Grandma and Grandpa Walton? They weren’t shuffled off to the sidelines. They were the moral compass of the family, their wisdom valued and their presence essential. Sometimes, people become disillusioned with the show because they don’t agree with Will Geer and Ellen Corby’s off-stage personal lives, but whoever they were and whatever they did off-stage doesn’t diminish their brilliance in their roles on the screen.

In today’s youth-obsessed culture, it’s easy to feel invisible after 60. But The Waltons reminds us that elders hold stories, perspective, and strength that younger generations desperately need. Whether we’re mentoring a grandchild, volunteering, or simply living with grace and purpose, we still have so much to give.

5. Community Is the Backbone of Resilience

When neighbors needed help, the Waltons showed up – with hammers, casseroles, or open arms. There was no “every woman for herself” mentality; there was a shared responsibility for one another.

Many of us grew up in similar communities, but somewhere along the way, front porches turned into privacy fences. Maybe it’s time to bring some of that old-fashioned neighborliness back. We can initiate that book club, offer help to a lonely widow, or smile at the young mom at the grocery store. Small gestures can rebuild the village.

6. Faith and Morals Ground Us in Uncertain Times

The Waltons wasn’t preachy, but faith and ethics were always in the background, guiding decisions and shaping character. Whether it was church on Sunday or doing the right thing when no one was watching, the show gently pointed us toward integrity.

At this stage of life, many of us are seeking deeper meaning. The show reminds us that a strong moral foundation can provide peace, especially in uncertain times. You don’t have to be religious to believe in goodness, decency, and doing what’s right.

Conclusion

Watching The Waltons again – whether through reruns or just in your memory – is like opening a time capsule filled with warmth, wisdom, and a few well-earned tears. In an age of rapid change and digital noise, it quietly calls us back to what matters: faith, family, connection, and character.

You may already know about this, but Judy Norton, the actress who played Mary Ellen on The Waltons, produces pithy YouTube behind-the-scenes commentary and interviews with those who were on the show.

As women over 60, we’re not just looking back – we’re still shaping our stories. Let’s take the best of what The Waltons taught us and carry it forward. And maybe, at the end of a long day, we’ll whisper to ourselves, “Goodnight, John-Boy” – and smile.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Do you have a favorite episode of The Waltons? If so, which one? Which of the six timeless truths in this article resonates with you the most?

If it’s been a while since you last updated your resume, you’re not alone. Many of us built our careers when resumes were printed on paper, handed to someone directly, or passed along through a personal connection. One page was the gold standard (and often hard to achieve), and phrases like “References furnished upon request” were practically required.

But in today’s job market – shaped by digital tools, automation, and artificial intelligence (AI) – your resume has to do more than look professional. It needs to perform.

Whether you’re seeking a new job, reentering the workforce, or exploring what’s next in your professional life, here’s a brief overview that highlights key things you can do to bring your resume up to date and make it shine in this digital age.

1. Know Your Audience (Hint: It Might Be a Computer)

Many employers – especially larger companies, hospitals, schools, and government agencies – use software called Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to screen resumes before a human even sees them. These programs scan for specific keywords and skills that match the job description. If your resume doesn’t align, it may be filtered out.

Tip: Review the job listing closely. Highlight the tools, responsibilities, and language it emphasizes. Then echo those terms (where they truly apply) on your resume. For instance, if a listing mentions “project coordination,” don’t use “project support” unless that’s also stated. Word choice matters when it comes to getting through ATS.

2. Keep the Format Clean and Simple

While visual design can make a resume feel modern, too much formatting – columns, graphics, fancy fonts – can confuse ATS software and make your resume unreadable. To avoid that potential pitfall, you should prioritize clarity and structure.

Tip: Stick to a traditional layout with clear headings like “Experience,” “Skills,” and “Education.” Use a standard font (such as Calibri or Arial), avoid text boxes and tables, and save your resume in the format the job posting requests – typically Word or PDF.

3. Use Strong, Specific Verbs

Your resume shouldn’t read like a task list; it should tell the story of what you’ve contributed. This is where strong verbs and a focus on impact come in. Instead of saying what you were “responsible for,” show what you actually did and how it made a difference.

Tip: Begin bullet points with action-oriented language, using words like implemented, led, supported, simplified, launched, resolved, and improved. When possible, link your work to results.

For example:

Instead of: “Managed inventory system”

Try: “Implemented a new inventory tracking process that reduced stock discrepancies by 35%.”

If you don’t have specific numbers, you can still describe the outcome. For instance, you could use: improved client satisfaction, reduced delays, enhanced team coordination.

4. Tailor It – Every Time

You don’t need to start from scratch with each application, but tailoring your resume for the specific role can significantly improve your chances. ATS tools and hiring managers alike are looking for relevance and alignment.

Tip: Keep a “base” resume that reflects your full experience, then customize the summary, skills, and key accomplishments for each role. Be sure to adjust the language and focus to mirror the job posting’s priorities.

5. Highlight Transferable Skills

If you’ve worked across industries or taken time away from traditional employment, focus on skills that carry across roles: communication, adaptability, problem-solving, leadership, time management. These are often more valuable than technical skills that can be taught on the job.

Tip: Experiences like caregiving, volunteering, or consulting may be more relevant than you realize. Think in terms of what you learned and how it applies. For instance, organizing a community event demonstrates project management and collaboration. Those skills should be featured on your resume.

6. Include a Modern Summary

Ditch the now old-fashioned “objective” statement. Instead, begin your resume with a summary – a few lines that highlight who you are, what you bring, and what you’re seeking. Some people write this in first person (“I’m an experienced…”), while others prefer a more neutral tone. Either is fine. Choose the one that best fits your style and comfort level.

Example (Neutral Tone):

Seasoned operations professional with 20+ years of experience supporting fast-paced teams and improving efficiency. Known for clear communication, client-focused service, and a steady hand during times of change.

This section helps frame your resume for the reader, and it makes it easier for ATS software to pick up relevant skills early on.

7. Don’t Forget the Human Element

Yes, technology may screen your resume first, but real people will make the final decision. Your tone, confidence, and authenticity matter.

Tip: If the job posting allows for a cover letter, use it. Share why the role excites you, how your values align with the organization, or what motivates you. It doesn’t have to be overly formal, just sincere and clear. Remember: you’re more than a list of skills. Let that come through. Some postings allow you to submit a portfolio or other documents, too. If they’re relevant to your experience and/or the role you’re applying for, include them as well.

8. Be Mindful of What You Don’t Include

Sometimes what you leave off is just as important as what you include. An updated resume should feel focused, relevant, and uncluttered.

Here’s What to Avoid

• References or “References available upon request” – These are no longer expected and take up valuable space.
• High school education – Unless it’s your highest level of education, leave it off.
• Years for degrees earned – Especially if you’re concerned about age bias, it’s fine to omit graduation years.
• Outdated skills – If a tool or software is no longer used in your field, don’t list it.
• Personal details – No need to include birthdates, marital status, hobbies, or your full mailing address.

9. Understand the Landscape (and Give Yourself Grace)

Even a well-written resume may not get a response. Unfortunately, that’s a common reality in today’s job market – and it doesn’t mean your resume is “broken” or you’re doing anything wrong.

There are various reasons someone might not hear back: the role may be paused, filled internally, or posted for compliance reasons only. Sometimes the timing just isn’t right.

What matters is that your resume is up-to-date, relevant, and aligned with what employers are looking for now. That alone puts you ahead of many applicants.

Putting Your Best (Digital) Foot Forward

The job search landscape may be evolving, but so are you. Whether you’re looking for your next opportunity or simply want to be ready for what comes next, a thoughtfully updated resume can help open the door. With a few modern adjustments and a clear sense of your value, you’re well-positioned to make your next move with confidence – and clarity.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

When was the last time you updated your resume, and what changes did you make to reflect who you are today? What’s one part of the job search process that feels different now than it did in the past? Share your thoughts and experiences with our community!

Most people know about chicken salad. But have you heard of smoked chicken salad?

I first discovered smoked chicken salad as an appetizer at a little local restaurant. One bite and I was hooked.

It was creamy, smoky, and just the right kind of addictive – the kind of snack you think about hours later.

I may or may not have gone through their drive-thru the next day and ordered a whole pound of it. Let’s just say the container didn’t last long.

Eventually, I decided to try making my own salad at home because I was so addicted. I even started researching smokers.

But then one day it hit me: I could cheat a little.

I grabbed a rotisserie chicken from the store, added a touch of liquid smoke and smoked paprika, and just like that, I had the flavor I craved without having to buy that smoker.

Here’s how I make it.

Smoked Chicken Salad Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken (white or dark meat, or a mix)
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise (adjust to your liking)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon of liquid smoke (a little goes a long way!)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or more if you want)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion (optional, but adds a nice bite)
• Salt and pepper to taste

About liquid smoke: If you’ve never used it, don’t worry – it’s easy to find in the condiment aisle. A little goes a long way and gives that “fresh off the grill” taste without the hassle.

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mayonnaise, and mustard.
2. Add the liquid smoke and smoked paprika. Stir until everything is well coated.
3. Mix in the red onion if you’re using it.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more smoke if you’re feeling bold.
5. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Ways to Enjoy Smoked Chicken Salad

This smoky chicken salad is so versatile. Here are a few of my favorite ways to eat it:

• In lettuce wraps: Crunchy, fresh, and no crumbs. Perfect for warm days or light lunches.
• On crackers: Fancy enough for guests, easy enough for snacking in pajamas.
• As a sandwich: Soft sandwich bread, a slice of tomato, and you’re in business.
• With a spoon, straight from the container: No judgment. I’ve done it.

Optional Add-Ins to Mix Things Up

Here are a few fun extras I sometimes toss in:

• Chopped celery – for crunch
• Diced pickles or sweet relish – for tang
• Chopped pecans or walnuts – for a nutty twist
• Halved red grapes or dried cranberries – for a pop of sweetness
• A dash of hot sauce – for heat lovers

Shortcuts and Swaps

Want to tweak it a little? Try these quick swaps:

• Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a lighter version.
• Try leftover grilled chicken in place of rotisserie.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness.
• Swap smoked paprika for chipotle powder for a smoky-spicy kick.

Storage Tips

It keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days – if it lasts that long. (Mine rarely does.)

Final Thoughts

Smoked flavor isn’t for everyone, but if you like that rich, savory vibe, then smoked chicken salad is a winner.

It’s easy to make, easy to eat, and dangerously easy to finish.

Whether I’m picking it up from the restaurant or whipping it up at home, smoked chicken salad has become one of my go-to cravings.

Just try not to eat the whole batch in two days. Or do. I won’t tell.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

What is your favorite salad? How do you like to prepare it? Which season does it work best for?

What is happening to the father-son duo?