Darling, I’ve come to believe that every woman over 50 should carve out a part of her life that belongs to her alone. Something that brings her joy, lights her soul, and smooths the edges of what causes distress. Not every problem can be solved, but many can be softened with time, tenderness, and the right advice. When we align our days with pursuits that bring us meaning, we practice the deepest form of self care. We give ourselves permission to thrive.
Like many of you, I live with unsolvable circumstances. My beloved husband, my Ultimate Concierge, is not going to recover from dementia. I am estranged from one of my adult daughters and her family. This is my reality, but I am not defeated. Instead, I’ve reshaped my life to be more peaceful and fulfilling. I want to help you do the same.
You see, I have earned my PhD in life – not from books, but from experience. If you’re facing your own storms, know this: all the wisdom from experts cannot compare to the lived insight of a woman who’s walked through the fire and emerged with grace.
My Advice
That’s why I created something new for you, something from my heart. You can now write to me directly at AskMe@honeygood.com. This is your invitation, darling, to share what’s on your mind. Write to me with your worries, your questions, your triumphs, or your tears. I will read every letter with compassion and care because I know what it feels like to search for answers in the quiet hours of the night. I know how heavy a woman’s heart can become when she feels invisible or uncertain.
This is not therapy, but rather sisterhood. It’s wisdom passed from one woman to another with grace, love, and the hard-earned truth that only time and experience can teach.
Write to me, darling. I’m here and I promise, I’ll respond with the honesty, hope, and spirit you deserve. You are not alone, and you never have to be.
From Caregiver to Self-Caregiver
Being a caregiver to my Ultimate Concierge is a demanding passage: emotionally, physically, spiritually. I had to learn how to live with the ache of loss while he was still beside me. It’s been two years of reshaping our daily life, and my own.
Everyone who knows me knows I’m madly in love with my husband. Sitting quietly beside him, even without words, is one of my greatest joys. There is a sacred comfort in simply being near the person who holds your heart. Yet, as his caregiver, I realized I couldn’t afford to lose myself entirely in the role of loving and caring for him. I had to find a way to honor both of our lives – his changing needs and my enduring spirit.
So, I paused and turned inward. I asked myself three life-changing questions:
- What do I want to do with my life? (This gave me clarity.)
- Why do I want to do it? (This gave me purpose.)
- How will I achieve it? (This gave me momentum.)
These questions became my compass, guiding me through one of the most emotionally complex passages of my life. With these answers in hand, I began creating a new rhythm… one that allows me to care for my Ultimate Concierge with love and devotion while also nurturing my own soul. It’s not perfect, but it’s real and it brings me peace.
Every woman’s life is different, every path uniquely personal. But you, too, can find your rhythm: one that fits your needs, your dreams, and your truth. I would be honored to help you discover it. All you have to do is reach out to me at AskMe@honeygood.com. Together, we’ll navigate your next steps with grace, clarity, and heart.
Building a New Life With Purpose
Over time, and with great thought, I began to rebuild myself from the inside out. I didn’t make drastic changes. I didn’t book a solo trip to Paris or retreat into silence. Instead, I made intentional, gentle shifts in my daily rhythm. These shifts nourished my mind, my body, and my spirit. I honored my role as a caregiver while also honoring the woman I’ve always been: curious, passionate, purposeful, and full of life.
- Financial Empowerment: I began tracking our household expenses through QuickBooks with the help of my assistant. It gave me confidence and control over the everyday.
- Meaningful Purpose: In addition to running HoneyGood.com and my private Facebook groups for women over 50, I joined the national board of the ZOA (Zionist Organization of America). The work is meaningful, and it nourishes my soul.
- Community Connection: I joined two book clubs, lunch occasionally with dear friends, and play mahjong. These simple pleasures remind me I am still me.
- A Peaceful Escape: I find solace in beautiful films and documentaries. Anna Karenina, War and Peace, and even the show The Bear (which I watched beside my Ultimate Concierge). Ask me for a recommendation – I’m a walking guide to Netflix, Hulu, and more!
- Self Care: I take Pilates twice a week while Shelly is asleep and treat myself to regular manicures, pedicures, and haircuts. These rituals keep me feeling like the true self.
Through it all, I’ve crafted a form of self care that doesn’t take me away from him. It’s possible to care for someone else without abandoning yourself.
I’m Here for You
If you’re facing your own crisis… estrangement, grief, loneliness after 50, a divorce, the empty nest, or even a nagging feeling of invisibility… Please write to me, darling. I am here. I’ve been through it. I’ve lived it. And I want to help you uncover your light.
Reach out to me anytime at AskMe@HoneyGood.com.
The last few years of my life have tested me, but I’m an optimistic woman. I always see my glass half full, sometimes even when it’s nearly empty. That optimism gives me the strength to take action towards hope and positivity.
Recently, my grandson said I was strong. My doctor said the same… But when I look in the mirror, I don’t see strength, I see spirit! A woman who chose to keep living her life with clarity, purpose, and action.
And you can, too.
Darling, what would you like to change in your life? I’m listening. Email me at AskMe@HoneyGood.com. Let’s navigate this passage together.
Thank you for this beautiful Sunday message and reaching out to your followers. Life has been more than good. I see the need to have more structure in my life. I need to become more purposeful. This article will help me with that. Thank you, friend.
I am so glad I could help. Makes me very happy. I have a daughter, Jenny. I love the name. Have a delicious summer. Warmly, Honey
Another excellent article! While fantasizing about running away and/or moving can be a momentary escape, it isn’t always a realistic option so the fact that you have outlined the daily practical and realistic steps you have taken towards your own self care during an exceptionally challenging season of life is really quite the gift to those of us whom might be struggling with something similar either now or in the future. You are an inspiration Susan – thank you for sharing your journey with us!
Thank you for your lovely message. I am most appreciative and wish you a happy summer. Warmly, Honey
The reality is that all women can in their own manner, regardless of money, live a charmed life. Money does not bring happiness. Feeling good about yourself and love brings happiness. My manicure or a trip brings instant joy- not lasting joy. I have lasting joy because I use my energy making others happy and giving my love. I am a content woman because of who I am – not because what I have. One of my daughters came back – out of the blue. I am still pinching myself. She told me she loved me and missed having me in her life. She is happily married with three children who also are back in my arms.
Thank you honey you always enlighten my thoughts❤️
You are so very welcome. You make me feel special. Have a lovely summer. Warmly, Honey
I also have a husband with dementia and its uncertain timeline makes planning our future difficult so we take it a day at a time. My incredible girlfriend network and having my own blog Boomerbroadcast.net sustain and support me. Sharing your experience is encouraging and reassuring, particularly on those days when my patience has failed and I’m unhappy with myself.
Please don’t spend time being unhappy with yourself. The situation is very traumatic. What degree is your husband’s dementia? I am here for you, too. Warmly, Honey