The Allure of Boomer Women

"Too many shoes? I'm not sure I understand the question..." | Fashionably Black

2010-09-30T11:33:00.000-07:00

"Too many shoes? I'm not sure I understand the question..." Fashionably Black

Hello Boomer Women,

Oftentimes we embellish our fashion sense with the style the younger women bring us.

I enjoy the 'Style Sample' magazine; published for fashion bloggers and all of us who are quite interested.

Check out my girl, Tamia at the link above. While this is the 'Fashionably Black' website, look up StyleSample.com. Tamia has very diverse friends and shows you how to vamp your style on a tight budget.

Baby Boomer Rhythms

2010-08-20T12:32:00.000-07:00

Baby Boomer Women and Young Women friends,

Are you having a 'jam boogie' Summer? Meaning, are you having a little music, wine, dance, and good times?

If not, try to get with it a little! Some of my girlfriends are 'flashin' (talking about "hot flashes") and sit around fanning like the grand ladies of the South who say they've got the "vapers" (chuckle) I say, flash on! Then cool it down with your man or partner by getting a dance or two going.

LIFE is a struggle some time, for sure. And for some it's a major uphill battle. Yet, for many of us life holds routines, responsibilities, and rituals.

Break free, old girl! Don't let life slow you down or weigh on you.

Turn up your radio, CD, or mp3 and boogie a little! Find a favorite song and dance, I say! Let that music and dance put a smile on your face.

You're worth being happy. For example, I was supposed to be in Las Vegas next week. I was so happy and excited because I haven't been there since the 1990s. However, my friend's mom passed away a few days ago. Her grief is immense and she's surrounded by family. My visit is postponed. But I will visit her soon. She'll want and need her friends. She's worth getting to 'happy' again.

So I say 'live a little'. We've got all kinds of sadness and problems. Yet, when life is okay (just a little boring and humdrum), do your dance! Make merry, for times do change. And you'll want to remember all the little things that made for happy moments.

Don't Let SUMMER Go!

2010-07-09T12:44:00.000-07:00

SUMMER is Here! WALLOW in it!

Do you remember that we had ALL SUMMER to do the things we wanted? We rode our bikes, took blackberries off the bushes, played softball, bought penny candy/hot pickles/potato chips/soda pop all the time, and dreamed about what it would be like to grow up. We thought grownups had all the fun because it appeared that NO ONE told them what to do! But the truth was, we had it GOOD - we just didn’t know it!

Boomer youngsters used to play ‘hide & go seek’, climb trees, scratch bug bites, get sick from eating the green pears off Mr. Johnson’s pear tree and try to stay out of fights. We’d lay on the ground looking up at the sky to ponder the shapes of clouds, wondered why the sky is blue, and be fascinated by worms, tadpoles and gold fish.

Swimming used to be the coolest (and I MEAN coolest!) thing to do. Having a backyard carnival or puppet show was neat too!

I’m really not a sentimental boomer woman as it seems here. I just want to remember how wonderful Summer was. We didn’t even go back to school until the Monday after Labor Day.

And more importantly, we lived in the MOMENT – not looking ahead to the change in seasons and the program for our daily lives.

It ticks me off that TV advertisers will start talking about Fall/Winter in the next week or so. There will be ‘back-to-school’ commercials because many kids will go back to school in August (sad, so sad!). Retailers want parents to be prepared now to get discounts on school clothes and supplies.

And some folks will start talking about Labor Day and what the weekend with this holiday will bring.

Pleeeeeeeeeeeze! I have waited ALL YEAR for Summer to FINALLY get here! I want to relish every day that allows me to go sleeveless, makes me want the coolness of pool water, and lets me walk barefoot on my patio. Don’t you want to feel the warmth of the sunshine on your skin, look at beautiful flowers in your and your neighbor’s yards, and watch the children have fun running around playing outside?

THAT’S what I’m TALKING ABOUT!

Live for today and ENJOY! Luv ya!

Skin Care and Makeup for... the Summer Time!

2010-06-22T11:59:00.000-07:00

Okay, you fantastic Baby Boomer women and Young Women friends,

First, I must tell you that I wanted to 'lighten up' my blog for the Summer, so here is the new look! :-)

This article was initially called “Makeup for Mama”. However, as I was thinking on summer skincare and makeup, the tips and ideas apply to EVERYONE.

Everyone has a different skin tone; whether you’re Asian, Black, White, Latino, Native American – it doesn’t matter. And, in each group our skin colorings vary. Nevertheless, the majority of women share many skin-protection concerns.

Yes, most of us (including African-Americans) need sunscreen. Lighter or lightest white skin may need sun block to minimize skin’s ability to burn. Plus, if you apply sunscreen or block at 9:00am then go swimming that morning, you’ll need to reapply product after you swim and probably again in the afternoon.

As an African-American I was surprised at fifteen years old when, after being in the sun all afternoon, my nose felt very sore and sensitive to touch. I looked in the bathroom mirror to see a red nose that appeared a little swollen. Mom said to put ice on it; if it didn’t feel better the next day we were going to the doctor. It turned a reddish brown, then started peeling. My mom and dad laughed that I had been sun-burned. Wow!

Don’t stay in the full sun too long! Find shade while cooling down with a bottle of water when you’re not romping in the sun or going for a swim. This will protect your skin better than anything.

Light colored clothing and light natural fabric like cotton are a big help too. Keep in mind: light colors reflect the sun, dark colors absorb the sun’s heat.

Below are my skin & makeup tips:

1) Cleansing your face & neck: First thing, BE GENTLE to your skin. The French women have the right idea about it. Do not scrub your face, ears and neck! Gently cleanse your skin. Clean your neck with a gentle, upward motion barely touching your skin. Softly cleanse your face, especially around areas that are sensitive to aging; such as outer eye area, nose, cheeks, and smile areas.

2) Cleansing Products: Before I expound on this product type, a great idea is to have all of your skincare products in the same line. If you use Olay, use everything Olay. If you use Almay.. well, you get my drift.

Cleansing lotions, creams, soaps, you name it are available to remove makeup or just take the day’s bacteria off your skin. In the summer, the lighter the texture of the product the better, unless you have very dry skin.

3) Toning – Skin fresheners, toners, or astringents are good for two things: a) to remove any skin-cleanser residue left after you’ve cleansed and, b) to prepare the skin to accept your moisturizing by delivering it properly to your pores.

4) Moisturizing – Again, use light-texture moisturizing if you can. Many have a good SPF sunscreen to provide sun protection. Moisturizers soften skin, and I truly believe they slow down the aging process. Though older skin usually requires more moisturizer, you can adjust with less for the summer.

5) Masque - Now this is something extra special for the skin. Sometimes skin appears a bit dull, not bright and fresh the way you like it. A skincare masque (or mask) sloughs off the dead skin cells plus pulls out impurities and attacks free radicals. Most are rinse-off, scrub-off (gently now), or peel-off types. The best idea is to find one in the skin care line you're using so all of the ingredients are compatible. This will minimize skin breakouts due to allergic reactions.

Hey, what is SPF? That stands for ‘sun protection factor’. It is the degree to which a sunscreen protects the skin from the direct rays of the sun. If you don't protect your skin, those ultraviolet rays – the invisible but intense rays of the sun – can cause damage such as deep wrinkles, dry rough skin, liver spots and more serious disorders such as no cancerous (benign) and cancerous (malignant) skin tumors.

While you’re slathering product all of you, don’t forget the kids and grandkids! Their skin needs protection as much as yours does. And put some protection on your man! (teehee! How does THAT sound??) Don't let him believe that he's a tough guy where his skin can stand up to the sun. He's got the same skin concerns that we have.

Now, about that summer makeup: light texture all the way. If you really must have some foundation to even out your skin, try this makeup trick: mix a little of your moisturizer with your foundation then apply to your face. Let it dry. This gives you a light version so that when you sweat you will minimize getting makeup streaks.

Also! When you tan or your skin darkens from the sun, you’ve GOT to consider going to a darker foundation or powder. I’ve been trying to get away with using my same powder as I wear in the fall/winter and it always looks too light by the middle of summer.

If you’re a baby boomer, please consider going with brown or brown/black eyeliner or eye pencil. Same with mascara – these are softer tones which look much better on older skin than the blackest black.

Lighter colored lips, blush, and eye shadow are the answer for summer. Throw in a little glitter for nighttime outings and you’ll look fantastic!

Well, have I missed anything? If so, or if you have any questions, give me a shout! Just wallow in the summer and have loads of fun!

Swimwear and Coverups!

2010-05-18T13:04:00.000-07:00

My Baby Boomer Women and Young Lady Friends,

Hey, if you’ve still got a bikini-ready body, I am PROUD OF YOU!

As we get older, many of us experience body changes that are different than the body of our youth.

However! All this does is signal us to find clothes that are flattering for whatever body shape we have. And purchasing swimwear is no exception.

A couple of things to consider when purchasing swimwear: First, I mentioned “body shape” above. You’ve got to take a goooooood look in the mirror at your body, preferably nude. There are some standard body shapes when considering swimwear: 1) Rectangular – from your breast to your waist you are relatively long and your waist gives the look that you’re straight up & down, 2) Pear-Shape – small to average breast yet very hippy, 3) Hourglass – you’ve got the smaller waist with noticeable breast and hips, 4) Long Torso – you have a long area from breast to hip, 5) Large Breast, smaller bottom – Big on top, smaller on the bottom.

Now, there are additional body shapes. These are standard when you pursue help in the department store for your body type. Still, if you don’t fit any of these standard types, be assertive enough to say no to what does NOT look good on you and you don’t want! Find YOUR TYPE!
The second thing is: know what your physical assets are and your shortcomings when looking for swimwear. For example, you may have beautiful breasts – and a poochy tummy. Or you legs may be gorgeous – yet you have very small breasts. Flat stomach – and saggy breasts. Nice arms – and cellulite legs. BE FOR REAL! Accept what you've got, THEN you are able to go to the next wonderful step.

ACCENTUATE THE POSITIVE and COVERUP OR MINIMIZE THE NOT SO GOOD. This is the KEY for ANYBODY’S body to look it’s absolute best!

Think on this: If you’ve got nice breasts, show off a little cleavage. However, if you also have wrinkly skin above or in between your breast, you might want to cover a little. Or, if you have a flat tummy (with no stretch marks), why not show it off some.

Last thing: Swimwear styles are to be considered when you're accentuating the positive and covering up the less than positive body parts. Some styles to consider:

- Maillot (pronounced: “mayo”) – A full one-piece look
- Monokini – A bikini with a center piece of fabric connecting the top & bottom
- Tankini – One-piece swimsuit with fabric to help conceal your midriff
- Bandeau – Strapless one piece (note: how in the heck do you keep this from falling down??? (Chuckle)
- Swim Dress – One-piece swimsuit with a built-in little dress.

Cover Ups – Ladybugs, there are some coooool cover-ups out here! The Pareo is a coverup skirt that can be long or short. It’s comfortable and allows you to feel confident about your body on the beach or at the pool. There are also some nice See-through Tops; crochet-type look, sheer fabric and more. Sarongs are great as a skirt accessory, get one to match a color in your swimwear, wrap it around your waist and sashay to the beach bar! Lol! Pant cover-ups are happenin’ too! Soft, swaying fabric or light sheers are sooo beautiful and easy to relax in.

In summary, take a good look at YOU before you go swimwear shopping. Then examine the swimwear styles to see what is RIGHT for your body & comfort level.

I expect you to feel good about yourself out there! And don’t be afraid of the water! 

V-A-C-A-T-I-O-N! In the Summertime!

2010-05-07T11:53:00.000-07:00

Baby Boomer Women & Young Ladies!

Where are you going this Summer? We all need a break from our everyday lives.

What do you plan to do for vacation? Hey, if you’re making plans with your spouse, partner, kids, or friends you better all be on the same page of what you desire to do!

I have a girlfriend who planned a vacation for her and her husband. They had only been married two years and this was going to be their first excursion away. Davina kept talking about the Caribbean vacation she was planning; going to Antigua for parasailing, jet skiing, swimming in the ocean and dancing at night. Davina told me Gary was real laid back about it all; she wondered why he wasn’t as excited as she was.

Well…when they got to their destination Gary had other things in mind. He wanted to stay in their hotel room and..(well..you know what he wanted to do! Heh heh heh…). Or, he just wanted the two of them to hang on the beach lying in the sand, or watching the natives play cricket. Davina came home ticked off because she wanted lots of activity – and Gary wanted to relax and do nothing.

I’m not saying either one is right – it’s just that vacation means different things to different people. Some folks get very happy when you talk about Hiking! Girl, they want to go to a national forest or the mountains, spend the night in a tent, and hike all day. To them, THAT’S a great vacation!

Or, vacation could be a road trip. Grab the kids, pack shorts, t-shirts & swimsuits, bring some food – and let’s go! When I was a kid my parents took us on road trips to Toronto, to dad’s family in Cleveland, or mom’s people in Georgia. My parents would be all psyched at first until we started hollering, “are we THERE YET??” Us kids would see who could spot the most out-of-state license plates. We’d sing, play kid’s cards, and get on each other’s nerves! Lol!

Nowadays, when parents and kids do road trips, the kids have hand-held video games and roof-mounted video monitors to watch. They can talk or text friends on their cell phones to keep in touch. They can even take their laptops with games on them.

But, you know what? I wouldn’t trade the fun with my brothers, sister, and parents on our road trips to be a kid today for anything! We had EACH OTHER to connect closely with – and I learned more about their likes, dislikes, strengths, and character than I think the kids of today do. They’re more plugged into THINGS instead of PEOPLE.

Oh well, Let’s have some fun this summer! If you get a minute, give me a comment to say what you’re doing or where you’re going for the Summer.

I’m going to VEGAS! (chuckle) One of my best girlfriends lives there. I’m looking forward to seeing the Hoover Dam again, seeing how residential Las Vegas has become, and checking out all the newer hotels & clubs on the Vegas strip (I might even get a little tipsy while there! Lol!) However, I’m not a gambler – I like to KEEP my money! (chuckle)

Have fun!

Kiss The Cook - It's All About Greens!

2010-04-28T12:30:00.000-07:00

Foxy Baby Boomer Women & Friends,

Now, I KNOW you’ve been eating your vegetables over the years, yes? You’ve got your favorites too; baked potato with all the trimmings (ie, butter, sour cream, chives), that loaded salad & dressing, broccoli & carrots maybe?

My people are from the South. There were vegetables they never got into cooking like artichokes (what’s that?), asparagus (makes your pee stinky), mushrooms (might POISON you! lol!) and more. However, they loved squash, eggplant, sweet potatoes, okra, tomatoes – and one of their favorites was Greens (pictured at right above).

If you’ve never eaten greens or taken the time to learn more about them – you just don’t know the good that you’re missing. So, let me give you a little education and a recipe to try.

Greens are a wonderful leafy vegetable that come in several varieties. They are:

Collard Greens – mildest flavor
Turnip Greens – mild but distinctive flavor
Mustard Greens – most pronounced flavor
And cousins of the greens are Kale & Spinach

Collard greens are a member of the cabbage family. The ancient Greeks used kale and collards, enjoying them both.

The soil in Southern U.S. made it very easy for green crops to grow. Today, a favorite meal for some Southerners is fried chicken, black-eyed peas, corn bread and collard greens.

Greens are really good for you too! Dark, leafy greens are a great source of vitamins A, C, and K, folate, iron, and calcium. Plus, they have wonderful fiber in them. Research suggests that the nutrients found in dark green vegetables may prevent certain types of cancers and promote heart health. It is recommended that you eat 3 cups of dark green vegetables per week.

Now. You can mix the greens if you want; turnips & collards, mustard & turnip greens, etc. People from the South usually boil their greens to cook them. They may add seasoned pork or turkey to the water, plus other seasonings. However, that’s no longer how I ROLL! I’ve got a whole new way to cook them plus keep the vitamins that are generally lost within the boiling process. My greens are sauteed (wink!)

So let’s start at the beginning. Keep in mind I’m a vegetarian who also eats fish, so MY VEGETABLES have got to be GOOD! I’m going to suggest you try the following wonderfully flavorful dish.

“Connie’s Contemporary Collard Greens” – (chuckle!)

2 Bunches of Collard Greens
½ bell Pepper
4 stems of Green Onions
1 tsp. Parsley Flakes
1 Tblsp. Olive Oil
½ Tblsp. Butter or Margarine (for more flavor)
Garlic Salt
Pepper
Spray bottle of Water

First, go to the grocery (or down South, to the garden) to get two bunches of collard greens. It may seem like a lot, but these greens cook down to less than half of what they look like now.

It’s VERY IMPORTANT that you wash these greens well; put them in a bowl in the sink, run the faucet water over them, and sprinkle the greens with salt. Down South the salt gets rid of worms who like to chew on them. Clean them good so no dirt grit is left.

Tear the leaves off of each stem; this means the middle stem part of each leaf. The stems get thrown away.

Get a large skillet, pre-heat putting the burner temperature on medium. Add a tablespoon of olive oil. Then add the butter or margarine, making sure it doesn’t get burnt (if it smokes a little, turn the heat down).

After separating the greens from the stems, place several leaves on the chopping block, cut vertically then horizontally making bite-sized pieces (or thin strips).

Begin putting the greens in the skillet. Cut up the green onions and bell pepper. Add them then add more greens until all of the greens, green onion and bell pepper are in.

Add the parsley flakes, plus sprinkle garlic salt and pepper lightly over everything. Spray water on them and use your spatula to turn the greens to ensure light water saturation.

Turn the heat down to low-medium to allow the greens to cook and cover them. Turn the greens periodically. Takes about 20 minutes. Makes 8 servings.

You will be amazed at how mouth-wateringly, delicious these greens are and how good they are for you! One of my favorite dinners is broiled Salmon, baked sweet potato, small salad, and collard greens.

You may even create your own recipes or have your own already. Please share if you like mine or you want to add a recipe. And, if you need someone to SHOW you how to make a greens dish, here ya go!

Now, tell your family or friends to KISS THE COOK on the cheek! Bon Appetit!

Home & Garden - Outdoors

2010-04-20T06:46:00.000-07:00

Hey lovely Baby Boomer Women & my Young Ladies,

Do you watch HG TV for house and garden ideas? I just love this channel (as well as the Food Network, History Channel, TCM and TNT).

Anyway, it’s time to prepare for the plants and flowers you’ll have around you for the Spring & Summer.

I’ve got a ‘jungle’ of plants in the house that will be going outside. Philodendrons, coleus, begonias, spider plants, and soo many more types of plants will make their way outdoors. And they love it out there & thrive! The only thing that gets me is how often I have to water them. In the house they only get watered on Wednesday and Saturday. When they’re outside they get watered almost every day. Of course, the rain helps too.

My patio will look like at ‘outdoor room’ when I get everything setup. I’ve got a 4-tiered rack that I put firewood on in the Winter – now I’ll use it to showcase my plants outdoors. Comfortable patio furniture, a main table and side tables to set drinks & food on will adorn the area. Plus, I’ll put out an outdoor dining table and chairs for meals. Last, I’ve got my grill to barbeque fish & vegetables. (I’m a vegetarian who eats fish, didn’t I tell you?)

I could use some new patio chairs. Do you have a favorite place to shop to purchase them?

One thing about the outdoor seasons is to have color around you. I’ll buy pots of yellow snapdragons (they’re perennial, you know), various colored petunias, and pink coneflowers.

Are you planting herbs, or have you thought an herb garden? You can use various parts of herb plants to add to food; certain seeds, flowers, berries, roots, and stems depending on the herb. I’ve been thinking of planting some and you can start them in your home rather than just outside. I want to plant mint (because I enjoy mint tea), basil, rosemary, and thyme herb plants. Some are wonderful in spaghetti sauce, soups, and on my fish. If you enjoy meat you’ll find fresh herbs very flavorful.

Let’s enjoy the outdoors! Any ideas you have, please share them so others can have the comfortable spaces they want too – thanks!

Love The Skin You’re In – Feet First!

2010-04-14T12:32:00.000-07:00

Hey Baby Boomer Lady,

Do you love your skin? You know it’s that time of the year when our skin means EVERYTHING to us. After all, your skin is the biggest organ of your body. Us baby boomers will be exposing a lot more of it as the weather gets warmer.

I’ve been looking at all the sundresses, sandals, swimsuits, short sets, and sleeveless tops. Girl, we’ve got to get it together when it comes to our skin!

Let’s start with the feet. Who wants to look at my tired, dried out feet in those cute mule sandals I just bought? No, no, no, NO ONE! And you better know that men WILL look at your feet, and judge you. If you don't take care of your feet, what else are you neglecting?

Now, I could go to the nail salon to let them give me a pedicure. OR, I can give myself the treatment. Hey, it’s your choice! I’m going to opt to save money by doing my own pedicure. After all, I was a Salon Distributor Consultant at one time who sold nail products to the haircare/nail care salons. I worked with the BEST!

So, I recommend Gena’s Pedicure Line. Put aside 1 hour to take care of your feet. Here are the steps:

1. Get a nice basin you’ll cleanse your feet in.

2. Gena’s Pedi Soak is wonderfully fragrant, sudsy and softening. Pour a couple of capfuls of Pedi Soak in your very warm water while you're running it. Then gently place your feet in the water. Soak for 10 mins.

3. Moderately dry one foot with the towel so you can work on it. Spray it with Gena Pedi Septic to kill any bacteria on the feet. It’s cooling and feels good to your feet.

4. Use a cuticle wood stick to clean under the toe nails.

5. Then place you foot back in the water and work on the other foot. You will place your feet back in the water after each step except the last two steps.

6. Go back to the first foot to put some Gena's Pedi Care Sloughing Lotion on it. This will be the first step in removing dry, calloused skin. Pedi Sloughing Lotion is peppermint-scented to go on your feet like lotion. However, there are little granules in it so when you continue to rub your feet the product will slough off the dead skin cells. Do each foot plus have a wash cloth to wipe off all product.

7. Now, for more sloughing effect try Gena’s Pedi Warm. It’s an additional foot scrub with soothing macadamia nut oil in it. A little more gentle rub to get another layer of dead skin off.

8. The next thing I use is Gena’s Pedi Sander. It’s a two-sided foot file that can take any noticeable flaky skin off with ease. However! There is a high grit side and low grit. I recommend using the low grit plus not rubbing hard. You’ve already addressed the top layers of skin with the sloughing products. Your feet may need just an easy filing to refine the skin.

9. Aaaahhh… you’re nearing the end! Go for Gena’s Pedi Ice which is a cooling gel. You will IMMEDIATELY feel a difference in your feet. Don’t put them back in the water after you put the Pedi Ice on. This is also a wonderful product to apply to your feet after you’ve been standing a long time. Just cleanse your feet then put Pedi Ice on.

10. Last but not least, Gena’s Pedi Lotion is icing on the cake! Feet feel smooth and beautiful afterwards.

11. Baby, you are ready for your toenail polish close-up! Feet look good and feel great. I recommend doing this once per month so exposed feet will stay gorgeous all summer. Voila!

Oh! If you don't want to order the products online, you can get them at Sally's Beauty supply. Plus, try OPI Nail polish and their other nail care products. These LAST the longest and give you the prettiest manicures & pedicures ever!

Meanwhile, I'm steppin' out, Ladybug!

Healthcare Reform: How Does It Affect You?

2010-04-12T10:33:00.000-07:00

To My Boomer Women and Young Ladies,

I don't know if you've learned about the ins & outs of the new healthcare reform, and I don't care what your political party is. You see, we are ALL individuals trying to make better lives for ourselves, husbands/partners, children, other loved ones and more.

This is a world about "survival of the fittest". Some of us have everything we need to make healthy strides in this life. But if your heart cares that human life as we know it continues on in a better way, you will see the value in changes to health care in the United States.

I mentioned in a previous blog that I have arthritis. It has impacted my work decisions, social activities, sleep, emotional stability at times, and even my relationship with my son. I've always had employer healthcare and utilized it for medical assistance with the arthritis pain.

When I changed employers in the mid 1990s I received a letter from my new healthcare insurance company stating that my records showed I had been to a rheumatologist to receive arthritis care. This labeled me as having a pre-existing condition. Because of this, the insurance company informed I would have to wait 6 months before I could receive coverage to pay for my healthcare. SIX MONTHS????? Were they kidding?? At the time I needed medication from my physician. So for six months all of my medical expenses came out of my pocket. I was very angry and disturbed about this; it's affect on minimizing my discretionary income, ability to save money, and more.

Yet, I was very fortunate. There are people with HUGE medical responsibilities who cannot afford to be without healthcare for even one hour let alone six months. My heart hurts for those who die everyday because they could not obtain the healthcare they needed.

So, President Obama decided to change that. And it wouldn't have mattered to me if a Republic, Democrat or Independent changed this - I DON'T CARE! As long as SOMETHING was done to help the people of the United States have greater access to healthcare - to live longer and make us a stronger nation.

Let's take a look at what this healthcare reform is all about. See the following:

The Patient Protection and Affordable Healthcare Act, more commonly referred to as the "healthcare bill", has taken over a year to craft and has been a lightning rod for political debate because it effectively reshapes major facets of the country's healthcare industry.

Here are 10 things you need to know about how the new law may affect you:

1. Your Kids Are Covered

Starting this year, if you have an adult child who cannot get health insurance from his or her employer, and is to some degree dependent on you financially, your child can stay on your insurance policy until he or she is 26 years old. Currently, many insurance companies do not allow adult children to remain on their parents plan once they reach 19 or leave school.

2. You Can't Be Dropped

Starting this fall, your health insurance company will no longer be allowed to "drop" you (cancel your policy) if you get sick. In 2009, "rescission" was revealed to be a relatively common cost-cutting practice by several insurance companies. The practice proved to be common enough to spur several lawsuits; for example, in 2008 and 2009, California's largest insurers were made to pay out more than $19 million in fines for dropping policyholders who fell ill.

3. You Can't Be Denied Insurance

Starting this year your child (or children) cannot be denied coverage simply because they have a pre-existing health condition. Health insurance companies will also be barred from denying adults applying for coverage if they have a pre-existing condition, but not until 2014.

4. You Can Spend What You Need To

Prior to the new law, health insurance companies set a maximum limit on the monetary amount of benefits that a policyholder could receive. This meant that those who developed expensive or long-lasting medical conditions could run out of coverage. Starting this year, companies will be barred from instituting caps on coverage.

5. You Don't Have To Wait

If you currently have pre-existing conditions that have prevented you from being able to qualify for health insurance for at least 6 months, you will have coverage options before 2014. Starting this fall, you will be able to purchase insurance through a state-run "high risk pool", which will cap your personal out-of-pocket expenses for healthcare. You will not be required to pay more that $5,950 of your own money for medical expenses; families will not have to pay more than $11,900.

6. You Must Be Insured

Under the new law starting in 2014, you will have to purchase health insurance or risk being fined. If your employer does not offer health insurance as a benefit or you do not earn enough money to purchase a plan, you may get assistance from the government. The fines for not purchasing insurance will be levied according to a sliding scale based on income. Starting in 2014, the lowest fine would be $95 or 2.5% of an individual's taxable income by 2016. There will be a maximum cap on fines.

7. You'll Have More Options

Starting in 2014 (when you'll be required by law to have health insurance), states will operate new insurance marketplaces - called "exchanges" - that will provide you with more options for buying an individual policy if you can't get, or afford, insurance from your workplace and you earn too much income to qualify for Medicaid. In addition, millions of low- and middle-income families (earning up to $88,200 annually) will be able to qualify for financial assistance from the federal government to purchase insurance through their state exchange.

8. Flexible Spending Accounts Will Become Less Flexible

Three years from now, flexible spending accounts (FSAs) will have lower contribution limits - meaning you won't be able to have as much money deducted from your paycheck pre-tax and deposited into an FSA for medical expenses as is currently allowed. The new maximum amount allowed will be $2,500. In addition, fewer expenses will qualify for FSA spending. For example, you will no longer be able to use your FSA to help defray the cost of over-the-counter drugs.

9. If You Earn More, You'll Pay More

Starting in 2018, if your combined family income exceeds $250,000 you are going to be taking less money home each pay period. That's because you will have more money deducted from your paycheck to go toward increased Medicare payroll taxes (my side note: you better start looking for tax shelters to help you keep more income). In addition to higher payroll taxes you will also have to pay 3.8% tax on any unearned income, which is currently tax-exempt.

10. Medicare May Cover More or Less of Your Expenses

Starting this year, if Medicare is your primary form of health insurance you will no longer have to pay for preventive care such as an annual physical, screenings for treatable conditions or routine laboratory work. In addition, you will get a $250 check from the federal government to help pay for prescription drugs currently not covered as a result of the Medicare Part D "doughnut hole".

However, if you are a high-income individual or couple (making more than $85,000 individually or $170,000 jointly), your prescription drug subsidy will be reduced. In addition, if you are one of the more than 10 million people currently enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, you may be facing higher premiums because your insurance company's subsidy from the federal government is going to be dramatically reduced.

Conclusion

Over the next few months, you will most likely receive information in the mail from your health insurance company about how the newly signed law will affect your coverage. Read the correspondence carefully and don't hesitate to ask questions about your policy; there may be new, more affordable options for you down the road.

Baby Boomer Woman: Do You Wear Jeans?

2010-04-10T21:56:00.001-07:00

Dear Baby Boomer Women,

Do you still wear JEANS?

For the past few years I have NOT been a proponent of jeans except to clean in around the house. When I went shopping for jeans to wear going out, I was sooo disappointed with what I found. Jeans for young girls; slim on the hips, hugging the hipline (not waistline), and uncomfortable fit in the tummy to crotch area. I used to wear jeans in a multitude of colors and styles. But lately I couldn't find a doggone pair of jeans that looked good on my little poochy tummy - until now!

Not Your Daughter's Jeans are some of the coooolest jeans out here for us Baby Boomer women!

Not Your Daughter’s Jeans (NYDJ) are the latest jeans that actually fit. They come in a variety of colors, washes and cuts, which are designed to flatter and create your best silhouette. Sizes range from 0 - 28.

These jeans are engineered with special lift technology to slim your stomach, lift your butt and contour your hips, making it appear as if you’ve lost a size! In addition to great fit, details like cross stitching and reinforced pockets flatter further.

Check them out when you get a chance!

More Classy Boomer "Before" & "After" Styles!

2010-04-09T13:24:00.000-07:00

My Baby Boomer Sisters,

Again, we can do sooo many things to look good! I've got a few more "before" and "after" pics with commentary for each one. Take the BEST of what you see that will work for YOU!

Look at Nancy (at left). I'm telling you, she is one SHARP LOOKING lady here in her 'after' picture! What made the difference from her 'before'? First, a shorter, soft bob with bang updated her right away. Nancy could have gotten some fashion-forward glasses too, but looks like she opted for contact lenses (or maybe even Lasik surgery, if she was a candidate for it).

Her makeup is more polished with a neutral lipcolor that works soo much better than the red in the 'before' picture.

Nancy's jacket in the 'before' pic is probably good and warm, yet it made

her look heavier and older. Her new, long jacket in the cool patchwork is so slimming! Pairing it with a white blouse and shimmering pants - Yes! Nancy has got it going on! I'm telling you: Nancy looks 10 years younger! Can you see a similar look working for you? Yeah, baby!

Carol (at right) is 69 years old. She's five years older than our Boomer group, but I've included
her in my blog because she has such ENERGY! You can 'feel' her enthusiasm about life. She was truly happy to get the makeover.

And girrrl! Look at CAROL 'after'! Alright!

I wanna be like Carol when I grow up! :-) Again, update your hairstyle. Carol's new 'do' is a soft halo cut quite flattering to her face. The gray top and pants give a very sleek jumpsuit affect with the wide-leg pants offering a gentle flow as she moves. The light gray jacket is slightly fitted for an elegant, feminine appeal.

Also, try on high heels to find the right height for you. In my 20s I loved 5" heels. Now 3-3 1/2" heels are perfect for me. Additionally, look at the shape of the shoe. If you can't do pointy toe shoes, forget about 'em! Square toe or rounded toe might be the best. Carol's heels, though barely visible, give her a great finished look.
Now Gail here (at left) looks like she bought into the 'grunge' look (her 'before') and didn't let it go even after the look died down. Gail, Gail, Gail, GAIL! Woman, you are tooooooo old for THAT LOOK! She appears like she was keeping up with her teenage son or something!

The dark top, hair and makeup was soo unflattering. Gail is a slim woman who could have done better - and she FINALLY did! Her 'after' affect is slammin'!

Lighter hair, makeup and outfit makes her smile sparkle! Gail shows off gorgeous skin with a body that says, "I'm STILL youthful, and am ready to go!" Her decorative sandles are at a height that works for her and the great sundress. Beautiful!

Last but not least, is Rici (at right). Rici's 'before' pic seems to say that she had settled into a style that was "grandmotherly". She appears to have accepting the look of where she was going growing older.

But, thank God her makeover opportunity came along to change all of that! Check Rici out! I'm lovin' her NEW LOOK!

Rici received a lighter, more stylish haircut. And let me say a word on haircolor as we get older. "Lighter" haircolor is GOOD. Dark haircolor often looks like a hair helmet; unnatural and unflattering. If you're determined to go dark as you were while younger, at least consider adding highlights to it so that the hair has depth and appears much more natural.

Rici's clothing silhouette is dynamite. The fitted leather jacket and smooth slacks set off her look wonderfully. Nothing wrong with wearing flats too. She looks comfortable and ready to go to work, to the movies, mall, or to dinner with her man. Oooooo baby!

Look Boomer mamas, UPDATE, REMAKE, DO OVER your style! Find that sharp, classy look that speaks of your spirit and puts you front & center with 2010! Let go of the old look and old you! You deserve to have looks that bring you compliments and sometimes a 'second look' from others. As you know, "when you LOOK GOOD you FEEL GOOD! Right on!

Clothes That Say "YOU"!

2010-04-02T13:18:00.000-07:00

Wonderful women,

We all know that several factors change the type of clothing we wear. From aging to gaining weight (or weight-shifting) to the events we participate in and more - we've GOT to find the clothing that makes the BEST statement for us Baby boomers. Heck, even our young women stress over the type of clothes to wear, didn't you when you were young? How many times have you looked in your closet full of clothes and said, "I don't have a THING to wear!" Usually what we were really saying was, "I don't have something special for this particular event", or "everybody has seen me in this outfit several times already", or "doggonit, I can't FIT into anything I've got!"

Let's talk about "age-appropriate clothing". I've got some "Before" and "After" pics that I want to evaluate. You may have seen these on the link of one of my earlier postings.

Now, Linda here (at right) got some jazz going on when she got her makeover! Woo wee! From dowdy to hot! She's my age and I can tell you I NEVER would have walked out the door looking like her "Before" pic! Can you rock her "After" style? Even if you couldn't wear the highest heels like Linda has on, you can still make something similar work for you.

For one, she got a new power hairstyle that's fresh and uplifting. Two, the colorful top she's wearing commands positive attention. And it shows a little skin which says, "I'm not afraid to reveal a bit of myself to you!" From the slim skirt down applying black to the toe WORKS! Think about stylin' for you like that.

Now, my girl Lynda (left) here has probably been a wife and mom who was used to taking care of family, work, and home. She was just trying to make it through the days, so a pair of jeans with casual sweater became her "mantra".

However, Lynda got her makeover - look at her NOW! Right on!

She learned she could still do casual, but when you & your hubby go to the movies with friends, or go visit them you need to get OUT of those jeans and into something definitely with more style. The natural fibers of linen and cotton are breathable, so very comfortable. Add some color to the neutrals with a toned-down red necklace - and all is right with the world!

Lynda got a new "Do" too; a few inches cut with a fuller style brings more visibility to her face. I like her new look, don't you?

Ha! Cheryl (below right) didn't get the "age-appropriate" dress memo! Cheryl is 61 years old. Her "Before" style looks like something she would have worn 40 years earlier! I don't know if she was planning to go anywhere in that outfit, but I assure you she would have gotten some snickers under the breath from her friends. And I'd bet her family was privately ashamed.

Ladies, no matter how "cute" you think you are, you are doing yourself an injustice to try to hang with your daughter or granddaughter wearing similar clothing as they do!

What a dramatic difference the "After" photo makes! While color brings you forward to allow you to be more noticeable, softness offers power too. These soft shades of green, slimming styling, and doable height of heels lets Cheryl look quite vibrant!

And, let's go back to the "Before" pic; a lot going on wrong here. Cheryl overdid the makeup with heavy black liner and mascara. The pink top is too revealing plus shows her bulges. The skirt is too short; older legs don't always look cute like years ago. Plus, she must have pulled the "go-go" boots out of the back of the closet where they've been since the 1960s! Lol!

Finally, please don't hold onto old hairstyles just because you got compliments on it years ago. Update! Refresh! And I GUARANTEE you'll feel better with more confidence knowing that you LOOK your best.

I'm glad Cheryl finally got the message. You can STILL have STYLE at ANY AGE!

Okay, I've got more before and afters to give - so I'll be back!

Tell me, what's your view on these looks? :-)

Men (Sigh...)

2010-03-27T21:54:00.000-07:00

Sisters, don't give up on our men! Yes, I know they can get on your LAST nerve. And, as an unmarried Baby boomer, it's an interesting thing dealing with the fellas.

I'm trippin' right now because my guy, Larry Green (pictured right), lives in Chicago and it's the weekend and he's not here! I'm concluding that a successful long distance relationship has got to have some MONEY to go along with it. You know what they used to say back in the day, "romance without finance is a nui-sance!" What I mean is: traveling to see each other more often. Or, flying off together for a weekend getaway in between the monthly visits.

Larry and I have known each other since August, 2009. Larry is a good man. He is a partner in his own business of staffing minority attorneys.

We had a hot & heavy romance (yes, boomers STILL get hot & heavy!) that appears to be cooling a little due to the distance.

Oh he still calls me at work two times a day, and once at night. We've been seeing each other once a month. I'm just having a problem with this arrangement because I want to go out with a man on all the other weekends. Plus, we both seem to be getting busier with our civic, religious, and social activities. Sigh..oh well...

See, I'm a stone-cold romantic who likes to keep the fires burning (oh yeah!)

Let's talk about something else: African-American men dating or marrying outside their race. Some of us have already discussed it; about Tiger Woods, Reggie Bush, Kobe Bryant, heck even Hill Harper who wrote a book on black male-female relationships. Okay, what about some celebrity BOOMER brothers: Bryan Gumbel, Wesley Snipes, Ahmad Rashad (pictured left above), and the list goes on.

Now look, I too have dated outside my race in the past. I do believe you can love anyone you choose. However... A primary reason I've been hearing lately why our black athletes, entertainers, and celebrities go there is "he views her as a "prize" that legitimizes or validates him as a successful man".

What do you think about this, hmmm?

We'll talk more - this can get pretty INTENSE!!

Relaxation..Aaaaaah...Health & Stay Spa Retreat

2010-03-26T07:55:00.000-07:00

Hi Ladies,

You know, you just go, go, go --- week after week. Us Boomer women have sooo much to do!! I've got my nonprofit to run and a job to go to (that's paying the bills). Plus, I'm involved in civic, religious, and social activities.

My cousin Marcie and I were saying that we were just stretched to the limit! Marcie is the director of a group home for mentally-challenged men. She has meetings to go to, paperwork that's continuous, staff to manage, and ensuring the men have everything they need. And getting enough sleep wasn't enough.

So on March 13th, we had a reservation to go to the Inn & Spa of Cedar Falls for a couple of days. WOW! What a DIFFERENCE getting away makes! The place is located in Hocking Hills State Park in Ohio, but it's privately owned. The Inn is 2 1/2 hours away from Cincinnati; southeast of Columbus.

Such a beautiful place! After we got off I-71 North we took the state routes and back roads to get there. We drove in the rain through rural areas to find ourselves surrounding by amazing forests with caves, cabins, and incredible wild life (eg, wild turkeys, hawks, speckled deer).

However, the REAL REASON we went was for the Spa Services! Girrrl, after we registered and got in our cabin, we had the Signature Spa services done. This included body scrubbing, a body wrap, shower, and relaxation massage. Aromatherapy scents and gentle new age music filled the air. A small water feature brought the soft sound of water ripples. And a light tinkling sound came from a tiny windchime in one corner of the room. Heavenly.....

Marcie and I were in the same room with our spa therapists, so we could talk to each other or lay quiet as we wanted to. I lay on a heated bed to counteract the cold day. Windows wrapped around three quarters of the room so we could see the animals and the forest. My spa therapist, Ellie, is fantastic! She paid attention to me when I informed her of arthritis in my right knee. During massage time Ellie put an icy hot preparation on my knee plus massaged it with a wonderful technique. My muscles felt better than they had in a long time!

Plus Ellie used the Reflexology techniques on my feet which stimulated movement in my stomach. Can I tell you I had the best bowel movement after this experience?

Marcie and I were very pleased with the services we received. My skin glowed; it looked and smelled sooo good. Afterwards we were limp like jelly upon leaving the spa. Aaahhh....

Hey, we stayed in the coolest cabin called Red Bud, just the two of us! It's built on a hill with huge windows that look down into the park's valley and a fast moving stream. We had our own bedroom with king-sized beds and our own bathroom too. There was a comforting gas-log stove that heated the place, plus a sun room to sip your morning tea in quiet privacy.

You should go! The Inn has great gourmet food with a free full breakfast included in your reservation.

However, it's not cheap. But it's worth every penny for the peace of mind to get away. I found the location online at: http://www.innatcedarfalls.com/. They respect you and treat you right!

Last thing, we ended our visit by going to Ash Cave in the Hocking Hills park (they have SEVERAL caves there). The air was the freshest I've experienced ever. The cave was huge with a 100 ft. waterfall coming down in it.

All in all, this was a SUPERB experience. Ladybug, if you need a getaway I truly recommend coming here!

Romance - Do You Still Want It?

2010-03-23T20:12:00.000-07:00

Romance - Do You Still Want It? (And how do you get it?)

Ro manc(e): 1. A dreamy, imaginative state of mind. 2. A love affair, esp. one in which the lovers display their deep affection openly, by gestures of giving.

Does a grown woman like you still desire romance? I hope so.

Sometimes we baby boomer women pursue definition number one above. We get in that dreamy state of mind by reading romance novels and wishing we were the heroines wooed by that sexy stallion of a man.

Yet, isn't it truly best to live it?

Boomer women know that oftentimes the thrill of romance can be gone shortly after a relationship or marriage get going off the ground.

Still, it's not over in your mind. So, let's give our definition of romance from the words of some songs:

You needed more walks, more talks, more feeling close to your loved one. Candle light & dinner - wouldn't that be nice? Roses? A diamond ring? Can we "court" again, like we used to?

I want to offer some ideas to bring romance back into your life with your man:

- Touch him more. Gently on the arm, glide your finger down the side of his face, rub his shoulders, put your leg on his leg. Touch is a wonderful part of romance, and we could all use more touching.

- Smile. Smile with your eyes; give a pretty smile, coy look, or eyes open with wonderment. Your happiness relaxes him and you, and your smile affirms that he is okay in your book.

- Cook. Maybe you don't cook as much as you used to or don't cook at all. But, even if you warm up a frozen or pre-cooked dinner, share it with him with a lighted candle on the table. Most of us look good in candelight.

- Love notes. Put a note in his briefcase, or in a pocket of the pants he will wear that day. If your note says what sexy thing you want to do to him or with him, I'll bet he will think about it through out the day. There is power in sharing your love this way.

- Change your image. A comfortably form-fitting dress and heels as high as you can wear them brings out the woman in you. Add a new lipstick or makeover - wow! Or, change your hair style - get it cut. If he doesn't notice right away, don't be mad. Do these things for YOU and he will come around.

- Massage. Dear ladybugs, there are some WONDERFUL products out here that produce the most erotic, desirable massage. It's that touch again - try the K-Y Touch Massage Oil in Bali Moonlight . Mmmm.....baby. Romance is back again! :-)

- Understanding. Know that he may have had a hard day too, and needs a bit of understanding. Listen to him. Then run HIM a bubble bath (not as much bubbles for him as for you), put a candle in the bathroom and turn out the lights. Give him a glass of his favorite libation or wine. And bathe him..... woooo wee! Let the Romance begin!

- Share a dessert . You know it's sooo romantic him feeding you and you feeding him dessert. Ohhh yeah....and let the REAL dessert commence later....

- Slow dance. If anything is truly romantic it is to be held in a close embrace with your man while dancing to a slow beat. His cologne, your perfume, hearts pulsing next to each other. Hey, I'm smiling... are you smiling?

- Encouraging foreplay. Once more for massage, tickling him with a feather, love talk or sexy talk in soft tones, languishing in the hot tub together, licking the palm of his hand or, sucking gently on a finger can encourage HIS foreplay behavior. Let your man be a man!

- Teddy and High Heels. You know, it doesn’t make any difference if you are fat, skinny, tall, short, or whatever. Men like a teddy and high heels. Pick the right moment to put them on – and you’ll have an exciting love life all over again!

Check out more romantic ideas here.

If you've got ideas or scenarios you want to share, I welcome your thoughts.

And even if you don't have a partner, keep a romantic spirit with that wonderful hope of sharing your love & joy one day with that special person.

Keep Up With This Boomer In Her High Heels!

2010-03-22T19:08:00.000-07:00

Hello and Welcome to my world of Baby Boomer women with Style!

You want to know "what's THAT all about??"

It's about this new generation of women born between 1946 and 1964 who are filled with LIFE and got it goin' on!

I'm representing for the baby boomer women who are STILL excited about living! And my blog is going to tell you all about it

For example, I feel GOOD about myself, don't you? You've got to feel good about who you are, the choices you've made, and living for TODAY. Every moment is special - because tomorrow is not promised. I think you truly start to value time when you get older. Then you know you've got to make the most of it.

I've got a host of 'baby boomer topics' that I will be sharing with you. Plus some wonderful guest writers (and a few who I want to write PERMANENTLY here!) Below is just a sample of conversations and places where I'm going to take YOU:

- Girl's Got Style
- Love the Skin You're In
- Healthcare, are You affected?
- Makeup for Mama
- Clothes that say "YOU"
- Still Want Romance?
- Pamper Me, Spoil Me
- MEN (Sigh..)
- Now That's MY RIDE!
- Dancing With The ____
- Lingerie Don't Go Away!
- Kiss the Cook
- Let's Travel Together
- Comfort/Discomfort
- Why Am I Healthy?
- Savoring Time
- Men - O - Pause
- Music That Soothes
- You Read My Mind

And sooooooo much more! Wooo weee! I can't wait to get started!

I invite my Boomer sisters to take a look and join in the conversation. I want my younger girls to let us mentor you - so that YOU feel the same 'joie de vivre' (or joy of living) that WE DO - and that you take it to another level to include your generation of sisters from around the world who see through similar eyes as you.

I look forward to my Latina sister, Margarita, coming to share her Boomer point of view. We've been on a Boomer panel that wanted our ideas - and PAID us for it!

So, let's get started! I'm either running or I'm laying down, and right now I've got my high heels on and moving. So you better keep up! Okay... I'll wait for you! :-)