I Hope You Are Smiling, Darling!
It’s been a hard year, and sometimes it seems as if it will just keep getting worse and worse. We all are living in unprecedented times. But, there are things we can do during our daily life—even on the tough days—to make sure we are taking care of our mental health and physical health. Here are some of my favorites:
- Journaling for at least ten minutes a day. Get out any and all of your thoughts and feelings. And if you miss a day, don’t worry—just blame it on the classic “the dog ate my homework” excuse!
- Take a walk if you can (with a mask).
- Self-Care time. This can include taking a bath, meditation, a walk, a facemask, doing something fun or light-hearted, or anything you find revitalizes your soul.
- Making a list of all the things you are grateful for!
- Calling loved ones, or creating a Zoom call to catch up and have some face time.
- Digital self-care: Take a break from your computer, especially if you’ve just dealt with a computer crash—possibly one of the most frustrating self-care challenges!
These are just a few! Do something you enjoy and remember, things do get better. Self-care can vary from day to day and possibly not always go as planned, and that’s okay—sometimes the funny moments or little mishaps are what make the journey memorable. Hang in there. Sending much love to you and yours.
Why You Should Be Using Retinol
I’ve always been a fan of retinol. I wrote and shared many beauty stories about its benefits, and writing about retinol has deepened my understanding of how it works. The process of learning about retinol has been interesting, as I’ve gained valuable knowledge from researching and using it. Of course, I’m not the only one who knows the power of it.
I came across this article from Town & Country and it says, “The number one ingredient scientifically proven to prevent wrinkles and erase sun damage is retinol. It is the single most recommended anti-aging topical treatment by dermatologists. And yet, confusion abounds.”
So, why all the confusion? How and why does retinol work?
Let’s learn together! Read the article HERE
5 Minute Knee Strengthening Routine to Fix Knee Pain in Mature Women
Do you Struggle With Knee Pain?
If you do, this video is a great one for you. Knee pain can last a long time for some people, and finding relief may require patience and persistence. You may have tried many times to ease your discomfort, but consistent effort is key. In just 5 minutes a day, you can hit the mat and start a routine that helps strengthen your knees (at home!) and possibly rid yourself of horrible knee pain.
I just love that we can find this kind of good visual information on the internet.
Friday Night Activities to Kick Off Your Weekend
As the week winds down and Friday evening arrives, there’s a special kind of excitement in the air—the promise of the weekend ahead! Friday nights are the perfect opportunity to leave the work week behind, gather with friends or family, and create moments that make life feel a little more delicious and fun.
If you’re looking for inspiration to kick off your weekend, here are some interesting and enjoyable ideas to try:
- Host a Movie Night: There’s nothing quite like curling up with loved ones, watching a favorite film, and sharing laughter over popcorn. Set the scene with cozy blankets and pillows, and maybe even try a new snack recipe for a bit of extra fun.
- Game Night with Friends or Family: Whether you love classic board games, card games, or even a bit of friendly competition on the computer or video game console, game night is a great way to connect and enjoy each other’s company. Kids and adults alike can join in, making it a memorable evening for all.
- Explore Your Community: Sometimes the best way to start the weekend is by getting out of the house. Try a new restaurant, catch a live concert, or attend a local event. Exploring new corners of your city can bring a fresh perspective and plenty of stories to share.
- Quality Time with Kids: If you have children, Friday night is a wonderful time to focus on them. Go for a walk under the moonlight, read a book together, or simply listen to their stories from the week. These little moments can become cherished memories.
- Learn Something New: Why not use Friday night to pick up a new skill? Whether it’s cooking a delicious new dish, learning a few chords on the guitar, or diving into a book you’ve been meaning to read, taking time for learning can be both rewarding and fun.
- Take a Walk: If the evening is nice, a gentle walk can help you unwind and reflect on the week. Listen to your favorite music or a new podcast, and let the fresh air clear your head as you enjoy the light of the evening.
- Music and Relaxation: Sometimes, all you need is a good playlist and a comfortable chair. Discover new music on YouTube, or revisit old favorites that bring back happy memories. Let yourself simply enjoy the moment.
- Try a New Recipe: If you love to cook, Friday night is a great time to experiment in the kitchen. Invite friends or family to join you, and turn dinner into a little party. The act of creating something delicious together can be just as enjoyable as the meal itself.
- Practice Patience and Mindfulness: After a long week, it’s important to give yourself permission to rest. Try a bit of meditation, gentle yoga, or simply sit quietly and reflect on the good things in your life. Taking a moment to breathe and be present can set a positive tone for the entire weekend.
Ultimately, Friday nights are about doing what makes you feel alive and happy. Whether you’re surrounded by friends, spending time with your children, or enjoying a quiet evening with a good book, remember to savor each moment. The weekend is yours to enjoy—make it count, and fill it with love, laughter, and a little bit of adventure.
Friendships are Treasures
Time for a #throwback!
Do you know that it’s been proven, that having girlfriends in our lives is more important than exercise? Why is that? Because we share. Because we are united as one; as a group of women. Each person in our friend group brings something special, making every gathering unique and memorable. Friendships like these make me feel valued and supported, and we’ve created lots of happy memories together—especially during evenings spent laughing and talking, or at a party celebrating a special occasion. Last year, we decided to host a Christmas party at my place, which brought everyone together for a wonderful evening. Fridays are often our time to connect and unwind after a busy week balancing a job and personal life. Family gatherings, like when my daughter comes home or spending time with my parents, also remind me how important these relationships are.
Find out more from this short video I made almost 5 years ago! It’s still so relevant, however. Let me know what you think!
Practicing Mindfulness
As the weekend rolls around, many of us look forward to a little rest and a break from the busy pace of our week. It’s the perfect time to slow down, reconnect with ourselves, and truly enjoy the lives we’re living. One of the most powerful ways to make the most of your weekends is by practicing mindfulness—a simple ritual that can transform ordinary moments into something truly special.
Mindfulness is all about being present in the moment, focusing on what’s happening right now without letting your mind wander to the past or future. It’s a gentle reminder to savor the little things: the laughter of your kids, the warmth of a cup of coffee, the sound of your favorite book being read aloud, or the joy of listening to a loved one share a story. Reading books can also be a mindful activity, offering a chance to reflect, explore new ideas, and support personal growth through literature. When we practice mindfulness, we give ourselves permission to fully enjoy and appreciate the people and experiences that make our lives meaningful.
Weekends are often filled with family gatherings, time with friends, or quiet moments at home. By bringing mindfulness into these times, you can deepen your connections and create memories that last. Try taking a mindful walk with your family, noticing the light filtering through the trees or the way your children’s laughter fills the air. When you’re with friends, put away your phone and focus on truly listening—enjoying every word, every laugh, every shared moment.
You don’t need hours to practice mindfulness. Even a few minutes can make a difference. Take a moment each day to pause, close your eyes, and focus on your breath. Notice how it feels to simply be alive, right here and now. Or, when you’re reading a book or enjoying a delicious meal, let yourself be fully present—savoring each page, each bite, each sensation.
The importance of mindfulness isn’t just about feeling calm; it’s about living your life with intention and joy. It helps us remember what matters most, especially during weekends when we have the chance to step back and focus on what we love. Whether you’re spending time with your kids, catching up with friends, or simply enjoying a quiet Sunday afternoon, mindfulness can help you make the most of every day.
So as you head into your weekend, I encourage you to try a bit of mindfulness. Take a walk, listen to your favorite music, or simply sit and enjoy the moment. You might be surprised at how much more you enjoy your weekends—and your life—when you take the time to be truly present.
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