Happy, happy Friday, ladies! We’re marching through the merry month of May at a brisk pace. The weather in Georgia has taken us on a roller coaster ride this past week. Last Saturday, my family attended a Braves game. It was chilly enough for a jacket! Although I shan’t complain. Looking at the forecast, we’ll be in the 90s next week. Looks like we’re going to jump straight into summer this year with just a brief glimpse of spring. Oh, the weather is a fickle creature for sure. I’m packing my bags today and heading to Tybee on Saturday, so I think summer temps will be A-Okay while I soak up all that vitamin sea. Before I head out the door, let’s take a moment and savor every moment this beautiful Friday has to offer! Life is short, life is fleeting, and it can change on a dime. It’s important that we make every day count.
I so appreciate all the a-ma-zing readers that tune in every day to check in on how we can age with grace, strength, and beauty. But what, exactly, is aging with grace, strength, and beauty? Am I talking about aging gracefully? This generally means acting your age, wearing age-appropriate clothing (apparently, some women think clothes have ages sewn into the label), wearing age-appropriate hair, and doing age-appropriate activities that don’t seem like you’re trying too hard. God forbid we would try too hard, right?! Who made up these rules? Here’s an interesting quote:
“Aging gracefully" entails walking a tightrope between a youth-obsessed society, which tells us that our value declines as we age, and a culture that says nothing is as uncool as desperation, the fervent desire for something we can’t have.”
Sounds exhausting! This is why I look at aging a bit differently. Age isn’t something to defeat and conquer; it’s not my goal to “look ten years younger” or “age-appropriate,” although we should strive to be the best version of ourselves. In my mind, aging is all about embracing and navigating all the changes age brings with grace, strength, and beauty. It has more to do with attitude than anything else.
Attitude is everything, especially as we age. Life is a gift, and we need to treat it as such. When we reach a certain age, we understand all too well that anything can be taken from us at any moment, including our health and wealth. But one thing that can never be taken away is our attitude; it’s our freedom to choose how we respond to life and to others.
Here are a few things I’ve discovered in the past 63 years: I no longer have to prove anything to anyone. And I don’t carry grudges anymore. I place value on wisdom and authenticity. And I try to live mindfully. My body may be deteriorating even though I’m giving it my best shot to keep it healthy. And that goes for my brain too. Yes, I have a few more wrinkles at age 40 or even 50, so I’ll keep slathering on skincare products to help me look my best. But my attitude has improved through the years. I’ve let go of judgment and criticism and live purposefully, to be present, live in the moment, and not worry about the past or what could go wrong in the future. I hope you’ll join me on this journey they call aging ‘cuz it ain't for sissies! And I hope grace, strength, and beauty abound in your life.
Oscar and I wish you a lovely weekend! TGIF!
Today's featured item is a pair of camo pants from Anthropologie
The pants are modeled
The outfit is shoppable via a text or image widget
Cargo pants are on trend this spring and summer. These paper bag waist pant from Anthropologie will be on repeat all summer long due to their comfort. It has an elastic waistband! Need I say more?! What’s better than that, especially on a Friday?! I added a white ribbed tank tee from Banana Republic and a white linen shirt from J.Crew. This time of year, a light layer comes in handy!
6 ounces cured meat (I like salami)
1 jar olives, drained (I like Greek olives)
1 can artichoke hearts (sliced in quarters if they are large)
Spinach
Toothpicks
Assemble salami, olives, artichokes, and spinach on a toothpick.
3/4 cup limoncello, chilled
8 to 10 mint leaves, plus springs for garnish
1 cup cantaloupe cubes
1 cup honeydew melon cubes
1 (750-ml) bottle pinot grigio, chilled
In a pitcher, combine the limoncello and mint. Use a long wooden spoon to gently bruise the mint. Add both melons and stir to combine, lightly pressing the melons as you stir. Add the pinot grigio.
Cover and chill the sangria until ready to serve, at least an hour or overnight. Serve in glasses filled with ice, making sure to scoop some of the melon into each glass, and garnish with mint sprigs.
Since it’s sandal season I decided to slip into brown sandals we’ve featured as a Real vs. Deal. Yep, these sandals are patterned after the famous Hermès Oran sandal that never goes out of style. They’ve been around for twenty years and are still going strong.
Yesterday, I put together my favorite items from Kohl's weekend summer sale. Click the title or image below to read the article.
Great commentary for all us mature ladies. The other day I walked out of the grocery store with a bounce in my step thinking in my head that I’m only 25! I think self care and positive thinking are two ways to stay young at heart.
Thank you. One of your best posts yet. And, incidentally, I really love your new hairstyle.
Great post today! I really needed this this morning. Turning 75 has been an eye opener. Accepting the reality of three quarters of a century does put everything in perspective. When I retired 15 years ago, I determined that I would no longer compete with anyone or anything. Then came becoming a care giver to my soulmate for ten years. That put everything but him on the back burner. Now I am creating the life that works for me, that gives me pleasure and makes me smile. Here’s hoping that my perspective will give others some ideas or comfort.
Aging gracefully beautifully described! Thank you!
I am 71 and totally agree with your wise words. I feel the same! Thank you for the encouragement and for the great recipes too!
Beth, this was very good. I have been struggling with becoming older and holding on to regrets of the past. I turned 71 in December and I think of this a lot. What you said was very helpful. Thank you. That is why I follow what you have to say. Have a great weekend.
Well said Beth I couldn’t agree more. Always enjoy your posts. Have a great time at the beach!
Agreed with the previous reader’s comment : this is one of your best posts.
Thank you for encouraging me to live out my best version and hold a positive attitude toward aging .
Great words and advice.
I think Queen Letizia of Spain is inspired by you too! She stepped out recently in an outfit you modeled for us within the last few weeks! https://www.tatler.com/article/queen-letizia-pink-ring-detail-dress?uID=0b4561c715b6ffe1793adc09bc210a2d8c31aecf4641bba1a946a45f9971b99d&utm_campaign=newsletter&utm_source=newsletter&utm_brand=ta&utm_mailing=TAT_Newsletter_CourtCircular_120522&utm_medium=email&utm_term=ta_news_the_court_circular
Such a thoughtful post, Beth! We women of a certain age need to be reminded that although there’s a long view behind us, there’s a lot of promise ahead, too, and we can put into practice all of the lessons we’ve learned along the way to make our lives more meaningful while ditching the baggage. I also wanted to chime in about your new hairdo—it is so very flattering and, as the French would say, it’s gamine. Love it!
Such a thoughtful post. I totally agree with everything you said. I always look forward to reading your blog.
Have a happy beach break.
PS Oscar looks especially good today! That smiling first picture is my favorite. Hugs to Oscar.
Great post, Beth. You are that wonderful friend that, by example, encourages us to be better, live our best life and enjoy trying new things. Wishing you a fabulous trip.
Your comments on aging are right on. I read your blog every day but seldom comment. We must remember tomorrow is not promised, so make the best of today.
Great post. You look youthful … and I want to steal Oscar! He has a big smile today.
Good morning Beth,
Your post was beautiful. Thank you for sharing exactly what I needed.. I wish you lived next door but reading your posts makes every day better.
Spot on, Beth. Loved your comments and your attitude about aging. I’m 10 years ahead of you in age but share your committment to growing older with grace. Thanks for the help. Kate
Spot on – not for sissies – lol.
I have never thought about trying to please others, with regard to fashion etc.. It’s not that I don’t want to look my best, I just think we should follow our heart in all matters of ageism. I think when we feel our best internally, we automatically shine on the outside. I do find I have to be mindful of expressions that have clung from our pasts, like saying something makes one look young, when I just mean it looks current, fresh, suits, or just plain great. Navigating ageism is a journey. The one thing that we can always rely on is our core – if we treat others with kindness and respect, it will shine, regardless of makeup, fashion, wrinkles or disabilities.
Love your take on the linen shirt. Not totally in love with linen, but this casual take is the perfect solution.
Dear Beth,
You continue to be such an inspiration to me. I listened to your podcast a week ago and was so moved by your life story. In my 50s, I never thought aging would be a problem, but once i hit the 60s, it hit me with force. You’re right, it is not for sissies. We all have to work through it, but your positive, but realistic, attitude is a great help.
Kathy
Thank you for pointing out that how we feel about our selves is all about our attitude towards life. As I age I try to also not be judgmental and give other people grace. Grace after all is the unearned, undeserved, unmerited love from God and we should treat other people with the same grace.
Have a great time at Tybee.. Hi Oscar! Hi Ollie!
Today is my 80th birthday but I can still look good thanks to you ,Beth. I am a little old lady but haven’t given up on being a fashionable one. Enjoy soaking up that vitamin sea!
Happy Birthday MaryLynne!
Wishing you a happy, healthy, stylish year ahead
I’m 68. Because I was born in 1953. So I’m older than people born after me. So what? I’m the same girl in an older body. I consider myself lucky to be alive and enjoying life – many loved ones never reached my age. I do not feel inferior to people born after me – on the contrary, I feel some degree of superiority. I make no effort to hide my age, and I loved growing up when I did. There is no age limit on fun or style, as Beth and her readership know. P.S. Charming outfit and hairstyle. Cute recipe too.
Beth you are amazing! You help us to know we can be amazing too at any age!
Between family, health, fashion, home decorating and cooking you are so talented! Your blog helps affirm that we’re not just getting older we’re getting better!!! We still have so much value and purpose ! Thank you!!
Well said. I was a subscriber to More Magazine. They always talked about how to dress in your 40,s 50’s and 60’s. I think I let myself believe that there is a certain way to dress as we get older. I have commented a couple of times that a particular outfit or hairstyle makes you look younger and you definitely called me out. Good to have a different perspective. Love the new “do”.
A thoughtful post and such words of wisdom in the comments section. What an inspirational community of women. Wishing everyone a healthy joyful weekend and season ahead.
I am happy to be 71 ! I don’t make time for negativity in my life. I’d rather embrace age and the wisdom that it brings.
You continue to inspire me each day and your attitude is so spot on.
Thank you for all that you do,
Suzanne
Beth – I’m really pleased with your new Zine – it’s helpful, interesting and full of fun topics. The addition of Kelly and her content is fantastic! I’m 64, recently retired and living back in the Bay Area after living in Europe, Asia and the Middle East- your travel tips come from experience and deep knowledge which I appreciate! I’m thrilled to see how well your enterprise is progressing- I’m truly a fan girl!
Amen, regarding aging! Thanks for the pep talk and perspective. Your hair looks so cute in this latest style you’ve been sporting!
Hi Beth
I agree that this is one of your best posts. Aging is not for sissies, that is for sure. We are the same age. You look great, and inspire me to be the best version of myself. Aging with grace, beauty, and strength is a mantra to live by. You continue to give great ideas for style, cooking and decorating. Thank you so much!