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The buggy dives across sandy slopes in Huacachina, Peru, bringing to mind the movie Dune. Our driver parks and pulls out a snowboard. I lay face first, long legs behind me. Was it the pisco that made me do it?

Pisco, Peru’s signature spirit, is distilled from grapes, and packs a punch with up to 48% alcohol. No trip to Peru is complete without a tasting. Between cocktails, I explore Paracas, glimpsing wondrous wildlife, surf massive dunes, and hike to Machu Picchu.

Riding the Pisco Route

Pisco Cocktails

I tried a pisco sour on a press trip to Chile, and couldn’t get enough of the sweet, tart cocktail. Pisco sour is made with simple syrup, lime juice, egg white, and a dash of bitters. On my Peru trip, I aim to sample other pisco cocktails, including the Machu Picchu (colorful layers of liquid with a cherry on top), the Maracuya Sour (made with passion fruit), and the Aguaymanto Sour (made with berries).

Pisco Tasting

Grapes used for pisco must be grown in one of five locations: Lima, Ica, Arequipa, Moquegua, and Tacna. At CulturPisco in Ica, two native grape varieties, quebranta, a red grape, and torontel, a white grape, are used. Pisco is distilled in copper, to between 38 and 48 percent alcohol, and aged for at least three months.

“Workers crush the grapes with their feet,” says the guide, then adds, “Don’t worry, they wash their feet first.” I try five types of pisco. My favorite is the Maracuya Sour. Following the pisco tasting, I visit the Ballestas Islands.

The Poor Man’s Galapagos

A boat from Paracas heads for the Ballestas Islands, a series of rock formations and caves, considered the ‘poor man’s Galapagos’. I watch mesmerized as hordes of birds swarm fishing boats, scrounging for anchovies. Sea lions jockey for position on a green metal buoy, rocking back and forth. And Humboldt penguins waddle and flap their wings in the sun.

The Islands are covered in guano or shorebird poop, once considered as precious as gold. There were so many poop miners that the government set up a national reserve and required permits to protect the poopers. Today, poop mining is only allowed three months a year. We went from Pisco tasting to Paracas to sand-surfing all in one day.

Surfing Sand

I climb a steep sandhill, bordering a turquoise lagoon in Huacachina, and strap myself into a neon green buggy. The driver’s eight-year-old son sits in the backseat, so how dangerous could this be? The next thing I know, I’m flying up and down enormous mounds, which reminds me of roller coaster rides with my kids when they were small. I thought I was done with that. I guess not.

The driver pulls out a snowboard. I lay face-first on my stomach and woosh down, glad for the pisco-tasting at CulturPisco. The dune buggy and sandboarding tour in Huacachina is an amazing thrill ride. I have sand everywhere possible. And I mean everywhere. I am proud of myself and try not to notice the 20-somethings surfing higher hills. After all, ‘comparison kills joy’. I had another chance to get high on the way to Machu Picchu.

Machu Picchu, My Way

When I was younger, I envisioned a 4-day hike on the Inca Trail, camping along the way. Then I turned 60 and thought my days of adventure had ended. Not so.

The 1-day, 6-hour hike was the perfect challenge. The weather was clear, affording perfect views, and I reached Machu Picchu at the end of the day, when all of the tourists had left. At the end of the tour, an Alpaca nibbled on my favorite yellow sweater. It was hard to shake loose. I ended up leaving the sweater behind as a gift.

The trip to Peru checked all the boxes, wildlife viewing, active adventure, and culinary travel. I got outside my comfort zone, my way. And I look forward to more fun in the future.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Where would you like to travel? Which trips would you like to do but think you may be too old for? Why put them off? Is there a way to do the trip that you can manage? What’s your favorite cocktail? Would you like some pisco sour recipes?

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Are you worried that you may need to work far into the future, or change your lifestyle dramatically in retirement, or both? How do your retirement savings compare to others’?

The Average “Jane”

For many people, an employer sponsored 401(k) retirement savings plan houses their largest retirement account. Vanguard, one of the nation’s biggest providers of these accounts, found its participants had the following average 401(k) balances in 2022:

How Much Do I Need?

The answer to this question is highly individual. It depends on your income sources, spending patterns, cost of living in your area, and retirement lifestyle goals. There are rules of thumb, however. Financial firm Fidelity suggests people save for retirement using the following rule of thumb based on their annual income: 6X their annual income in savings at age 50; 8X at age 60; and 10X at age 67. Some advisors suggest even more aggressive savings goals.

It is apparent that many Americans are falling short. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average American annual wage across all occupations as of May 2023 was $65,470. That means the average retirement savings at age 67 should be $645,700, based on Fidelity’s guidelines.

If your retirement savings fall short, do not become discouraged! The SECURE Act of 2022 offers a way to boost your savings if you are in your 60s!

Catch-Up Contributions

Starting in 2025, participants in Roth or Traditional 401(k) or other employer-provided retirement plans [403(b), governmental 457 plans, and the federal government’s Thrift Savings Plan] who are ages 60 through 63 are allowed to make a catch-up contribution of up to $10,000 or up to 150% of the regular catch-up contribution amount for those 50 and older — whichever is greater.

In 2025, workers 50 and older can make up to $7,500 in catch-up contributions, in addition to the $23,500 limit for those younger than 50, for a total of $31,000. Under a change included in the SECURE 2.0 Act of 2022, starting in 2025 a higher catch-up contribution limit applies for employees aged 60, 61, 62 and 63 who participate in these plans.

For 2025, this higher catch-up contribution limit is $11,250 instead of $7,500. The total contribution limit for 2025 is then $34,750 ($23,500 plus $11,250) for those in this select age group.Going forward, both the regular catch-up and the extra catch-up for those in their early 60s will be adjusted for inflation.

When Can I Retire?

Good question! The increased contribution limit, if you take advantage of it, might make a difference when you can retire. How will you know? I recommend that, if you have not already, you sit down with a financial advisor or financial planner who is a fiduciary and go through your numbers. Don’t wait! The peace of mind that assurance about your future will give you is priceless! Some studies show that retirement savings of those who worked with an advisor improved substantially over self-management.

How can you find an advisor who is a fiduciary and why is that important? A fiduciary is an individual who is ethically bound to act in another person’s best interest. Fiduciary financial advisors must avoid conflicts of interest and disclose any potential conflicts of interest to clients. Look for a Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) or a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®professional. You can search for an advisor in your area who is a CFP® professional at the following website: https://www.letsmakeaplan.org/.

Questions to Discuss:

Are you ahead of, at the average, or behind in your retirement savings? Were you aware of the 2025 increased contribution limit for 60-63-year-olds? Do you plan to take advantage of the new limit?

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It’s time to be greedy and lock down your tickets ASAP because these prices won’t last forever.

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We didn’t see this coming.

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Her mansion was targeted in a robbery in 2018.

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Purchase Harry Potter, Star Wars and Marvel Spider-Man calendars before they’re gone.

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It’s currently discounted at Amazon for Black Friday.

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Finding the right e-bike can be a game-changer, especially for women over 70 looking to stay active, explore the outdoors, or run errands with ease. 

E-bikes provide pedal assistance, which makes cycling less strenuous and more enjoyable, especially on hilly terrains or longer distances. The good news is that you don’t have to break the bank to get a reliable and comfortable e-bike. 

Here’s a look at six of the best women’s e-bikes under $1000 that are perfect for seniors.

1. Jasion EB7 2.0 Electric Bike – Best Foldable E-bike Under $1000 
2. Nakto CLASSIC 2 Electric Bicycle – Best Vintage Look E-bike Under $1000
3. Sailnovo 14″ Mini Electric Bicycle – Most Affordable E-bike Under $1000 

Keep reading to discover our complete list of women’s e-bikes under $1000 – including the best rough terrain e-bike and the best step-through e-bike under $1000 for over 70s.

Women’s E-Bikes for Over 70s

Best Foldable E-bike Under $1000 – Jasion EB7 2.0 Electric Bike

The Jasion EB7 2.0 Electric Bike is an adaptable and compact folding e-bike designed for comfort and convenience. It features a 500W motor and a 48V 10Ah lithium battery, providing a top speed of 20 mph and a range of up to 20-40 miles, depending on the mode. The bike is equipped with 20″ puncture-resistant tires and a front suspension fork to ensure a smooth ride on various terrains. Its foldable frame makes it easy to store or transport, and the step-through design is ideal for seniors who prefer a low step-over height.

Features: 

• 500W motor
• 48V 10Ah battery
• 20″ tires
• Foldable frame
• Front suspension
• Dual disc brakes.

Best Vintage Look E-bike Under $1000 – Nakto CLASSIC 2 Electric Bicycle

The Nakto Classic Electric Bike offers a timeless design and a comfortable ride, ideal for women over 70 who want a blend of style and functionality. With a 250W brushless motor and a 36V 10Ah removable lithium battery, the Nakto Classic provides a range of up to 30 miles per charge. Its step-through frame makes it easy to get on and off, and the wide saddle and swept-back handlebars ensure a comfortable, upright riding position. It also includes a front basket and a rear cargo rack, adding practicality for carrying groceries or other essentials.

Features:

• 250W motor
• 36V 10Ah removable battery
• Step-through frame
• Front basket
• Rear cargo rack

Best Step Through E-bike Under $1000 – Ecotric 20″ Starfish Portable and Folding Electric Bike

The Ecotric UL Certified Starfish 20-Inch Portable Folding Electric Bike is a compact and highly portable e-bike, perfect for seniors who need a reliable bike that is easy to store and transport. Its foldable design allows for convenient storage in small spaces or transport in a car. The 350W motor and 36V 10Ah battery provide a range of up to 36 miles per charge, making it suitable for both short commutes and longer rides. With a low-step frame and comfortable seat, it’s designed with senior riders in mind.

Features: 

• 350W motor
• 36V 10Ah battery
• Foldable frame
• UL certification
• Front and rear disc brakes

Most Affordable E-bike Under $1000 – Sailnovo 14″ Mini Electric Bicycle

The Sailnovo 14″ Mini Electric Bicycle is a compact, lightweight e-bike perfect for shorter rides and easy storage. It features a 350W motor and a 36V 10.4Ah battery, allowing you to ride up to 28 miles on a single charge. With its small wheels and folding design, it’s an excellent choice for seniors living in apartments or those who want a bike that’s easy to manage and store.

Features:

• 350W motor
• 36V 10.4Ah battery
• Foldable design
• Front and rear disc brakes
• LED headlight.

Best Rough Terrain E-bike Under $1000 – Heybike Mars 2.0 Electric Bike

The Heybike Mars 2.0 Electric Bike is an excellent option for those looking for a durable, foldable e-bike with extra power. Equipped with a 500W motor and a 48V 12.5Ah battery, this bike can handle a variety of terrains and offers a range of up to 37 miles on pure electric mode or 48 miles with pedal-assist. The Mars 2.0 features 20″ x 4″ fat tires and front suspension, providing stability and a smooth ride on rough roads. Its foldable design makes it convenient for storage and transport, making it a great choice for seniors who need versatility in their e-bike.

Features: 

• 500W motor
• 48V 12.5Ah battery
• Foldable frame
• 20″ x 4″ fat tires
• Front suspension.

Best Looking E-bike Under $1000 – XP Lite 2.0 Lavender Haze eBike

The XP Lite 2.0 Lavender Haze eBike is a stylish and lightweight e-bike designed for easy city commuting and leisure riding. With its sleek frame and eye-catching lavender color, this e-bike is perfect for women over 70  looking for both functionality and style. It is equipped with a 300W brushless motor and a 48V 7.8Ah lithium battery, providing a range of up to 20-40 miles per charge, depending on the level of pedal assistance. The XP Lite 2.0 offers a comfortable ride with its ergonomic seat, adjustable handlebar, and puncture-resistant 20″ tires.

Features: 

• 300W motor
• 48V 7.8Ah battery
• 20″ puncture-resistant tires
• Adjustable handlebar

Choosing the Right E-Bike for You

When choosing an e-bike, consider factors such as frame design, motor power, battery range, and additional features like storage baskets or lights. Ensure that the bike is comfortable, stable, and easy to mount and dismount. Always test the e-bike, if possible, to ensure it meets your specific needs and preferences.

Finding the right e-bike for women over 70 doesn’t have to be overwhelming or expensive. The options listed above provide a great balance of affordability, comfort, and functionality, ensuring that you can enjoy the benefits of cycling well into your golden years without breaking the bank. 

Read 10 Alternative Vehicles for Older Women.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Do you own an e-bike? Are you looking at purchasing one? Which one is your favorite? Tell us about it in the comments below. 

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Black Friday signals one of the biggest shopping days of the year. TV adverts, social media posts, newspapers, magazines, billboards – everywhere we turn there is someone somewhere prompting us to buy the next new thing.

I don’t know about you, but it seems to go on for an eternity. We may as well just call it Black November!

And whilst it’s great to pay less for something you truly want or need, we will all undoubtedly fall foul of clever marketers and buy things we don’t need.

Because it’s so hard. When the world is getting whipped up into a media frenzy of offers, sales and bargains galore, it takes a strong person to let it pass by without succumbing to the hype.

If you’re naturally someone who loves to shop, days like Black Friday do not help one bit and this year we are encouraging people to come on board for a little anti-Black Friday revolution – Don’t Buy Ask Why.

The Don’t Buy part of it is simple enough to understand, of course. But what do we mean by Ask Why?

The Habits We Address by Asking Why

Ask Why #1: Emotions

If we want to make a conscious effort to have less in our homes, then it’s vital for us to understand the emotions and habits in our behaviour that drive us to succumb to retail pressure. It is only by understanding why we act the way we do that we can ever begin to initiate a change.

Ask Why #2: Born This Way

Are you a born bargain hunter? Do you struggle to bypass a sale and regularly buy things just because they are cheap? A telltale sign is if you have numerous items hanging in your wardrobe with the tags still attached, particularly if they’ve been there for months or years.

Ask Why #3: Retail Therapy

Do you find yourself drawn to shiny new things? Do you love the dopamine hit that comes with a new blouse, a craft magazine or a new candle? But have you ever noticed how short-lived that retail therapy is?

Ask Why #4: Purpose

Do parcels arrive at your house and you can’t even remember ordering them? Or do you have parcels that sit there unopened for weeks on end and then you forget you even had them?

All of the above statements point to the same thing – your shopping isn’t intentional. You are buying because it feels good rather than because you need it.

Consumerism Owns Us

Over the past few decades, we have become a hugely consumerist society the world over. And whilst no-one is suggesting shopping is a bad thing because consumer spending is a very real need for our economy, it’s fair to say there comes a time when we just have too much stuff.

Some of us have been burying our heads in the sand for way too long, and we know the time has come when we need to jump in and challenge our relationship with stuff. That’s where Don’t Buy comes in.

Don’t Buy

Whilst the rest of the world is jumping on to the Black Friday bandwagon to buy more stuff, let’s revolt, jump off and focus on having less stuff.

• We need to understand the emotions and habits that make us buy.
• We need to work out exactly what we have in our homes.
• We need to confront ourselves with our past excesses.
• We need to learn to love stuff less.
• We need to see what a difference simplicity makes to our relationships.
• We need to see how much money we save.

So, this Black Friday, instead of following the crowd, challenge yourself to be different. Walk on past that store, empty that online basket or delete that email. Your life will be all the much richer for it. Don’t Buy Ask Why.

If you’d like to know more about Don’t Buy Ask Why and our anti Black Friday revolution, please do come and take a look and make that change today!

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Are you in the habit of buying stuff you don’t need? What do you do with it? When do you shop them most – is it when emotionally deprived? Do you shop as therapy? What is your shopping ‘why’?

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Activewear isn’t just about comfort and functionality – it’s about how you feel when you wear it. For many women, especially those 60 and beyond, the right activewear can be transformative. It can instill confidence, foster a sense of empowerment, and enhance how you approach your fitness routine and daily life.

Here are some tips on choosing activewear that not only looks great, but also boosts your confidence and well-being.

Choose the Right Fit

One of the most important aspects of activewear is finding pieces that fit you well. Ill-fitting clothes can hinder your performance and make you feel self-conscious. When your activewear is too loose, you might find yourself adjusting your clothing mid-workout, distracting you from your movements. On the other hand, clothes that are too tight can restrict your mobility and feel uncomfortable.

Finding the perfect fit can elevate how you feel during your workout and in your everyday life. Consider pieces that offer just the right amount of support where you need it. For example, this Fits to a T Pant provides excellent coverage, while ensuring you feel secure and supported. When your activewear complements your body’s natural shape, it can boost your confidence, making every movement feel intentional and fluid.

Prioritize Comfort

When choosing activewear, comfort is key. Whether you’re doing yoga, going for a walk, or simply running errands, the last thing you want is to feel restricted by your clothing. Prioritize materials that are breathable, flexible, and moisture-wicking. These features ensure that you stay comfortable no matter how intense your activity is.

I believe that comfort shouldn’t be compromised for style, which is why I created Inner Joy Activewear. All our tops are made from high-quality cotton, which is breathable and gentle on the skin. They are designed to keep us comfortable throughout the day, whether we’re in the middle of a workout or relaxing afterward. With soft, flexible fabrics, we can focus on our movements rather than any discomfort, allowing us to stay fully present in the moment.

Embrace Vibrant Colors

Many women find that wearing vibrant colors can lift their mood and give them a confidence boost. Color psychology tells us that bright, bold hues can positively affect our mental and emotional well-being. So why not bring that concept into your activewear?

When selecting your next activewear pieces, try opting for colors that make you feel energized and happy. Bright colors can invigorate your workout routine while helping you feel more confident. Choosing colors that resonate with your personal style and energy can be a game-changer for how you perceive yourself.

Go for Versatile Pieces

In today’s fast-paced world, versatility in clothing is essential. Activewear that can seamlessly transition from workout sessions to casual outings boosts your confidence by ensuring you always feel put-together, no matter where you are. Whether you’re headed to a yoga class or meeting friends for coffee, versatile pieces save you the hassle of needing to change clothes, all while ensuring you feel stylish and comfortable.

This Buttery Button Shirt Jacket is a perfect example of versatility. It’s designed for both function and style, giving you the flexibility to wear it over your workout gear or as part of your everyday wardrobe. Its lightweight and cozy cotton fabric make it the ideal layering piece for cooler weather or for a quick post-workout errand. With versatile pieces like this in your closet, you can always feel confident and ready for whatever the day throws your way.

Find Your Inner Joy

I believe that activewear is more than just clothing – it’s a way to express yourself and feel empowered at any age. The right clothing can boost your mood, elevate your performance, and most importantly, make you feel great about yourself. By choosing pieces that fit well, embrace vibrant colors, prioritize comfort, and offer versatility, you can enhance your confidence and overall well-being.

I encourage women to embrace their bodies, celebrate their strength, and enjoy the comfort and style that comes with age. Confidence is not just for the young; it’s for anyone who feels empowered by what they wear. When you feel good in your clothes, that energy radiates through every aspect of your life.

Whether you’re engaging in a rigorous workout or simply enjoying a peaceful walk, the clothes you wear should make you feel like the best version of yourself.

Let your activewear empower you to stay active, healthy, and confident – at any age.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

How do you choose your activewear? Do your fitness clothes give you confidence? What colors have the greatest impact on your inner joy and fitness success?

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Are they hiding more secrets?

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I don’t know about you, but somewhere along my life’s journey, I picked up and carried with me a belief that I needed to be able to rely solely on myself. And somewhere along my path, that message morphed into an even more warped version of itself as if it stood in front of a fun house mirror. This version made me look like I was a failure in the pursuit of being independent if I couldn’t do everything by myself.

Was It the Divorce?

In retrospect, it may have happened when I got divorced. At the time, I couldn’t see the potential of a blooming forest through the trees of doom and gloom and uncertainty. My responsibilities felt daunting.

I had my two kids most of the time and was suddenly faced with the need to jump back into the work force after being a stay-at-home mom for 18 years. Also, I had to ramp up some income real fast as the timer was tic-tocking down to a deadline when support would come to a stop.

I felt I had to prove that I could handle everything on my own, and if I couldn’t, that would mean I had failed and let my kids down as well.

No pressure!

Can We Go It Alone?

There’s a quote from Margaret Wheatly I came across many years later which says, “Everything in the Universe only exists because it is in relationship to everything else. Nothing exists in isolation. We have to stop pretending we are individuals that can go it alone.”

I wish I had seen this earlier.

Asking for help is actually a sign of strength, not weakness. To ask for help requires vulnerability, and being vulnerable is a sign of strength. So when you do the math, asking for help equals being strong!

Bugs in Your Eyes

Some years ago, I was watching a TV show about two women friends living together to raise a baby. In one of the episodes after the baby had been born, the mom challenged a biker to a game of pool while holding her newborn in a sling, saying that she could do everything by herself and didn’t need any help.

He looked closely at her and said, “You’ve got bugs in your eyes.”

She tilted her head looking confused, and he continued saying, “You see, skeleton riders, we’ve got this saying … You’ve got bugs in your eyes …what it means is this… You can’t always be the lead hog. When we ride, we ride in formation. We trade out the lead, because if you stay in the front of the pack for too long, you get bugs in your eyes … You need to let other people help you. It doesn’t make you any less of a rider …”

It’s Lonely and Exhausting to Be Self-Sufficient All the Time

Brilliant, right?! Not only is it okay to rely on others, it’s imperative – for us as individuals and as a community. Being too self-sufficient can be an exhausting and lonely road, and relationships can become collateral damage.

We definitely need to know that we can rely on ourselves, and it is also important to be able to ask for help when we need it.

This is an example of an and/both situation. Both things can be true.

We all at times feel the weightiness of our thoughts, fears, concerns, to-do’s and responsibilities falling squarely on our shoulders. And if we can allow others to give us a hand, or a shoulder, or a hug, everybody wins.

Helping Others in Return

Doesn’t it make you feel good when you are able to help someone?

Letting the people who care about us give us some help when we need it, is giving them a gift as well. It’s not easy at first. Asking for help is a muscle. The more you exercise and do the reps, the heavy lift of asking gets easier.

I recently had Sky Bergman on my podcast Loving Later Life. In her 3^rd act of life, she became a filmmaker and created the documentary film Lives Well Lived, for which she interviewed 40 people aged 75-100. Hearing Bergman’s experiences making the film later in life as well as the participants’ moving stories helps us to realize that we’re here to live our best life and none of us can do it alone. We help ourselves by helping one another.

Let’s Talk About It:

Do you have bugs in your eyes? Do you always try to do everything yourself? Is it hard for you to ask for help? Are you afraid that it will make you look less capable?

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