Recently I asked in a poll what you would like me to discuss in an upcoming blog. Especially since I had just turned 70 and I’m sure people have wondered how I maintain my vitality in my 7th decade. The choices I gave were diet, exercise, or mental health. Overwhelmingly, you chose diet. As I thought about that it occurred to me that it’s not so much about diet, after a certain age it’s really about your hormones. Telltale signs of unbalanced hormones are weight gain, a midsection that has gotten bigger that you can’t seem to shrink. Also the loss of elasticity in your skin and hair that is continually falling out. But perhaps the most frightening sign of all is forgetfulness. Enter: Bio-identical hormones.
The first time I heard about bio-identical hormones was a few decades ago from Suzanne Somers’ book and Oprah’s magazine. They had mentioned how important these hormones could be to the aging process and the incredible medical research behind them. So, I spent some time learning about how these hormones could benefit my aging process. I’m very happy to say that it has significantly improved every aspect of my life since. I spoke to Dr. Jennifer Hawes about the differences in hormone replacements and what option would be best for me. Thankfully she had extensive knowledge of this subject! Read on below for some more information.
How are your hormones helping you?
Have you ever researched hormone therapy and how it can affect your body? Well, I can tell you that the media certainly has their own opinions on this matter. Unfortunately, they often lump all hormones into one big troublesome basket. The truth is that all hormones are not created equal. There are two types of hormone replacements: synthetic and bio-identical hormones.
Synthetic Hormones
Synthetic hormones are made in a lab from either chemicals or animal (horse) hormones. These false hormones are put into pills, injections, creams, and patches for human use in order to mimic the effects of real hormones. Some examples of synthetic hormones are birth control pills, Premarin/Provera, Estrace, Ogen, FemHrt, etc. They’re not a perfect match for a woman’s hormones and they’re not as effective on a molecular level, but a hormone-starved body will still accept them.
Almost 99% of all media coverage of synthetic hormones is debating the dangers of hormone replacement. Numerous studies prove the many negative side effects of synthetic hormones. However, doctors still prescribe them and people still take them regularly. Why? I think it’s because there are not many easy options and perhaps the doctors and their patients are unaware of any alternatives. If you were suffering from sleep deprivation, hot flashes, or weight gain you might not care what you are putting in your body, as long as it helps.
Bio-Identical Hormones
Bio-identical hormones come from plant sources and are modified in a lab in order to make them active. After this process, humans can use them as a hormone replacement. Whether it’s creams, gels, sublinguals, lozenges, or capsules, these hormones can be combined to create the perfect regimen that’s specific to you. They are named “bio-identical” because they are a truly perfect match for human hormones. If you were to look at plant hormones and human hormones under a microscope, you could not tell the difference between them.
Wouldn’t you prefer to put a perfect hormonal match into your body rather than horse estrogen? I certainly would. Over the last several years there have been numerous positive small studies on bio-identical hormones and there are even some that are FDA-approved. Of course, you should always talk to your healthcare provider before hormone treatment so you know what to expect. Unfortunately, there aren’t many large-scale studies done on bio-identicals because they are non-patentable and customizable. There is no money in a non-patentable drug and unfortunately, no money equals no study. Also, bio-identical hormones are mixed per patient and individualized per symptoms/lab tests, which is another reason why large studies cannot be done.
How Bio-Identical Hormones Can Help You
Most doctors will take into account family history, personal history, and lab testing for hormone levels before recommending treatment. Then, depending on the results, a doctor may come up with a recipe of hormones that’s specific to that patient. The mix may contain estriol, estradiol, testosterone, progesterone, DHEA, or even cortisol. Antiaging is a common potential benefit, but one could also see improved overall health, quicker healing, and enhanced heart and brain health.
Do you want to live a full, active life with a healthy body? Then consider asking your doctor about bio-identical hormones! They have changed my life in the best possible way and I believe that they are the secret to how I maintain my vitality in my 7th decade. If you’re interested in reading more about maintaining hair, muscle mass, and skin elasticity then check out my blog about collagen loading.
If you’re a fan of the outdoors but not too keen about sacrificing your comfort, then join me as I revisit my Glamping Adventure with Heritage Inspirations. An incredible experience where I was able to tour the wild, beautiful scenes of New Mexico while camping with all the comfort and luxuries of home.
You may be asking “What is glamping?” Glamping is a combination of the words glamorous and camping and refers to a style of camping that provides lavish amenities and accommodations. Heritage Inspirations provided me with both. It was the perfect 70th birthday present for myself and I love that it inspired and challenged me.
Day One
Glamping was taken to a new level in these spacious, full-height, completely carpeted tents. My travel buddy and roommate Andrea (@loubiesandlulu) flew in directly from Dallas via Taos Air. A wonderfully quick and convenient flight.
Placed on a high ridge overlooking the Rio Grande, our camping site had all the amenities you can imagine in a location second to none.
We loved the yoga meditation tent with the wonderful Nadine from Movement Lab as our guide. We started or finished each day grounding ourselves and connecting to our surroundings.
Our first evening started with a glorious set of hors d’œuvres curated by our fantastic chef. Plus a delicious dinner that set the tone for the rest of our stay.
This meal was absolutely divine! It was so delicious and provided all the fuel that we needed for the adventurous days ahead of us.
Our fireside chat included a talk about the Taos Pueblo and the incredibly fascinating history of the area. The Taos Pueblo is one of the oldest continuously inhabited communities in the United States and it has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you want to learn more about the remarkable multicultural history of the Puebloan people, then you’ll want to look up Ilona Spruce, the Director of Taos Pueblo Tourism.
Day Two
In the morning, we woke up in our beautiful tent, rested, and ready for a great day. But first coffee.
Our first ride in the van took us out on an incredible adventure; a tour of the Gorge Bridge and a kayak or paddle board down the Rio Grande.
The Rio Grande Gorge Bridge is situated about 650 feet above the river, making it the second highest bridge on the U.S. Highway System and the fifth highest bridge in the U.S. While it was being constructed in the 1960’s, there wasn’t enough funding to complete it, which resulted in the famous nickname “Bridge to Nowhere.” Nowadays, it’s become a popular tourist destination where people can peek over the railings at the immense cliffs and tumbling river underneath.
The perfect place for a photo op, overlooking the stunning Rio Grande with this incredible group of ladies. What a breathtaking view!
Another photo op with the ladies before we enjoyed the next adventure on the river. The perfect place to cool off while being surrounded by the vibrant natural landscape.
Luxurious Amenities
Wondering about the personal accommodations? Here is a view of our shower, complete with hot water, and our vanity area with running water toilets, and sinks. Heritage Inspirations truly provided all of the comforts of home while being surrounded by nature.
The day isn’t complete without a winery tour at Vivac Winery. This beautiful winery is stationed at 6,000 ft, making it one of the highest altitude wineries in the world. A delightful tasting of their award-winning wines hit the spot and was the perfect way to conclude our action-packed day.
While we were getting ready to tuck in for the night, the night sky cleared, revealing a stunning full moon. This was the perfect way to fall asleep. Knowing the vastness of the wilderness was surrounding us, and a sky full of stars loomed above us.
And of course, I’m dressing for dinner in this gorgeous feather print by Lotta Stensson Design. It’s easy to pack and fits the theme of this glamping experience perfectly.
Day Three
The third day presented the biggest challenge for me, a hike to Williams Lake, 11,000 ft up. This is one of the most popular trails in Taos and it’s absolutely beautiful. The trail itself is 2 miles long, but the elevation climbs to more than 700 feet per mile.
Stopping to smell the roses…or taking a rest and inhaling a shot of oxygen. I’m not much of a hiker. Climbing from such a low altitude to the top of this trail was indeed a big challenge for me. But the views at the top make it worth the trek.
Williams Lake – 11,040 feet! A proud moment for me surrounded by the most incredible landscape.
I want to thank these wonderful women for their patience as I took on this daunting challenge on my 70th birthday. It was an incredible experience that I was happy to achieve alongside some lovely people.
Our final night and another beautiful sky above us. With the night sky darkening and the stars peeking out, we were treated to an amazing introspective experience with a coach to guide us through the skies. A not-so-subtle reminder of how small we are in the vastness of the universe.
I want to thank my friend Andrea for suggesting this trip, and Angelisa and her staff from Heritage Inspirations for making it so memorable. This was an incredible experience that is not to be missed and I cannot recommend it enough. From the attention to detail, the knowledgeable and passionate tour guides, and the phenomenal accommodations, this glamping adventure was the full package. For more information on Taos and the surrounding area, check out my latest blog post here. Happy travels!
If you’re looking for a place to travel that has plenty of history and cultural experiences to offer, Taos, New Mexico is the perfect spot. From the ancient pueblos and historic churches to the art galleries and endless outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or have been coming back for years, read on for some tips on what to see and do in this enchanting corner of the Southwest.
If you’re thinking about traveling to Taos, here are six reasons why you should add it to your list:
1. The Scenery
The scenery is stunningly beautiful, with snowcapped mountains and rolling hillsides covered in pinon trees. Everywhere you look, you’ll be amazed by how breathtaking your surroundings are. It’s the perfect place to explore when you want to feel at peace and connect with nature.
2. Cultural Experiences
There’s an abundance of cultural experiences available. From watching traditional dances, and exploring local art galleries, to visiting the World Heritage Site: Taos Pueblo. Immerse yourself in history by visiting this ancient pueblo belonging to a Native American tribe of Puebloan people. It is considered to be one of the oldest continuously inhabited communities in the United States.
You can learn more about the rich culture of Taos at the Millicent Rogers Museum. Take a walk through more than twenty galleries and exhibition spaces, all filled with historic pueblo pottery making, contemporary jewelry, and more.
3. Outdoor Adventures
Outdoor enthusiasts will find no shortage of things to do here. From skiing and snowboarding in winter months to hiking, mountain biking, and rafting during warmer weather.
Or if you’re up for a truly daring adventure, then check out Taos Balloon rides. You can float for up to 10 miles at altitudes ranging between 500ft and 4000ft above the Taos area!
Or you can embark on a glamping adventure with Heritage Inspirations. If you’re a fan of the outdoors but not too keen about sacrificing your comfort, then this is the perfect experience for you. Join one of their “glamping” tours, where you will be able to tour the wild, beautiful scenes of New Mexico while camping with all the comfort and luxuries of home.
4. Small Town Charm
The small town charm makes Taos a welcoming place where you can relax and take your time exploring all that it offers.
There are plenty of interesting places to visit within the town but Taos Plaza is one that you shouldn’t miss. It’s the center of the Taos Historic District where the locals can gather for live music and farmers markets. Plus visitors can stroll through all of the beautiful shops and galleries.
5. Tourist Destination
Although it’s not as well known as other destinations like Santa Fe or Sedona, Taos is still one of the most popular tourist destinations in New Mexico. As a tourist, if you’re looking for things to do that combine fun and culture then there are numerous options for you here. Touring some of the grand churches within the community is a wonderful experience where you can learn about the incredible multicultural history of the area.
Or you can tour the 600-plus-acre Greater World Earthship Community. This is an incredible group of unique architectural creations on shared land that are fully off the grid, using solar and wind power exclusively. Most of them are are a single-story, with one side built into a hill and the other side constructed of glass. You can book a tour of these amazing Earthships or you can rent some of them out by the night.
6. Peaceful and Quiet
If you want some peace and quiet away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Taos might be just what you’re looking for! It was voted one of the “15 Quietest Towns In America” by Forbes. A quaint community but overflowing with incredible experiences and the utter stillness of nature, this place is paradise.
I hope that you enjoyed this guide to visiting Taos, New Mexico and that it inspires you to add it to your list of vacation spots. There is so much to do and see, I know that it will become a fast favorite for anyone who ventures there. You can find all the general information you need on Taos at this site. Or if you’re interested in exploring a different area then check out my guide for Whitefish, Montana. Happy travels!
Your home is an extension of your energy field and profoundly impacts your body, mind, and spirit. It’s the place where you are most comfortable, surrounded by your favorite things and personal touches. It can be hard to leave that comfort behind when you travel, especially when you’re gone for an extended period of time. This month I’m enjoying some time in New Mexico, which means it’s the perfect time for me to share my Travel Lifestyle Edit: Taos Edition.
Renting any place for a month can be a daunting proposition. It is said that pictures speak louder than words, but sometimes good photography can be deceiving. The reality is, at times, something different. To ensure that our stay is a pleasant experience, I always bring along a few things that remind us of home and therefore make us more comfortable.
Our Own Bedding
I start with good bedding. It’s incredibly important to get a good night’s sleep, especially when you’re on vacation. Bringing our bedding is the perfect way to ensure that we’ll be clean and comfortable every night. Our amazing pillows are from Sleep and Glow and I also make sure to bring our silk pillowcases from Lily Silk.
I also love my lightweight blanket from Ecuadane. The vibrant, unique pattern is the perfect theme for the area and the fabric is soft but tough enough that I am comfortable bringing it on my camping trip. Plus it comes with a lifetime warranty!
Daily Must Haves
My Nutribullet is a must for my travel lifestyle. I use it every morning to mix my Ancient Nutrition collagen that goes into my coffee. Plus, for me, my daily protein shakes are absolutely non-negotiable.
Décor
As for decorations, I make things homey with what’s around the house and never forget the flowers. Typically I’ll just pick the wild ones. I just found out that there is a lot of fragrant lavender growing around the local streets of Toas. While I’m here, I’m going to make some sachets for my closet to keep my stored sweaters smelling fresh.
Coffee
Confession… my husband is a coffee connoisseur. When it’s your favorite way to start every morning, it’s important to drink the good stuff. The beans come from Specialty Java and barring a Miele coffee machine, he chose a Technivorm Moccamaster from Sur La Table. Of course, great water is a must. I brought a ZeroWater filter which I will leave for the next lucky tenants.
Fragrance
I’m addicted to Nest, nowadays I use plug-in units around the house. I brought some along with me. My favorite fragrances are Ocean Mist & Sea Salt, Bamboo, Grapefruit for the kitchen and Rose Noir for the bedroom.
Note: Make a list of everything you brought with you, otherwise you’ll be sure to leave something behind.
Packing for any trip can be a bit daunting, but if you can bring some familiar favorites with you then I would certainly recommend it. These must-haves of mine are sure to bring me some comfort as I spend the next month away from home. If you’re looking for some more tips on packing for a vacation, check out my post here. I hope you enjoyed this Travel Lifestyle Edit: Taos Edition, and wish you all happy travels!
Do you ever feel like you’re stuck in a styling rut? You know, like wearing the same thing over and over again because it’s comfortable and known. Everyone has a fashion comfort zone, but sometimes we need to switch things up. If you’re looking to experiment with some new looks, take a look at some of my favorite summer fashion choices.
Linen Sundresses
Moving to a hotter climate has made me rethink my summer style. Being Petite always made me lean toward more body-con styles in neutral colors. But, I can learn new tricks. This Belladonna Blue Tiered Linen Sundress by Chicos was a happy change for me. I love that the relaxed silhouette still offers a subtle feminine touch.
Pretty sleeve details and eyelet trim gives this dress special appeal and the collared V neckline helps to create an elongated appearance. It features an A-line maxi skirt and has front pockets and three-quarter length ruffle sleeves. Plus, it’s made of washable 100% linen and comes in petite sizes. This is a dress that will make you feel beautifully feminine and comfortable at the same time.
Accessories are an important factor when it comes to summer fashion, and Chicos has some of the best options. These beachy seashell slides and brimmed summer hat compliment the look perfectly. Feel free to play around with long and short necklaces, this neckline is perfect for both.
Neutral Summer Fashion
Back to neutral ground but still trying something new, this Flutter Sleeve Midi Dress from Chicos checks all the boxes. With details like this beautiful eyelet trim and fringed hemline that is just the right length. The elbow sleeves are perfect for arms of a certain age and it features the popular addition of pockets. Plus, check out these stunning black seashell slides, they just might be my favorites.
Regarding arms at a certain age. I am shocked that even with all my working out, the texture of my skin is deteriorating. When I was younger (in my early 60s) I thought all we had to do was work out to solve the problem. This is something that we all should do on a regular basis, but it’s really about the skin texture. There are many options that I have tried and they’re all worth a shot. I have even had “Needling” done to wake the collagen up, it’s certainly an ongoing battle.
Functional Dresses
I love functional dressing, one dress with several looks gives me so much joy! A great deal of that is because I like having a small footprint. As you know from previous blogs, I am a carry-on only kind of gal (for tips on packing light, check out my blog post here).
This Modern Peasant Maxi Dress by Chicos is made of soft, lightweight material that flows as you walk. It features a beautiful tassel tie neck detail that adds a classic touch to this otherwise contemporary design.
For a more form-fitting look, I cinched it with an organic belt and complimented the look with raffia hoop earrings and black seashell slides. Have you noticed these slides go with everything? Presto afternoon out on the town!
Modern Prints
Green is the color of the season and this Ikat print is so modern. Notice how the print placement gives the impression of more height. I styled this elegant outfit with a shell bib necklace, neutral seashell slides, and raffia earrings.
STYLE NOTE: When wearing a bib necklace like this one, make sure that it’s up high enough to cover the neckline of the dress. You want it to look as if it was part of the dress design. This picture does not depict what I’m getting at, but it’s something to keep in mind when styling an outfit. Don’t be afraid to wear your jewelry in different ways. For example, here I have a necklace around my wrist as a bracelet. One thing that I love is finding multiple uses for a piece of jewelry.
I am definitely serving up some attitude in these photos but truthfully I am always happy when I’m in my favorite linen no-iron shirt. I have purchased it in multiples from Chicos and it is the perfect over-anything summer cover-up. You’ve probably seen me post this quite often on my Instagram account, as it’s a perennial favorite. I styled it with the necklace I previously wore as a bracelet, the same cute earrings, and my white sunglasses that I never leave home without.
There that’s better, maybe my attitude was hiding in this great tote. It holds everything and is the perfect summer fashion accessory. This outfit is an ideal choice whether it’s for a fancy dinner out or a pool party the next morning!
One of the best ways to develop your summer fashion style is to look for inspiration. Whether it’s in a store like Chico’s, from a friend or fashion icon, on social media, or even from a blog like this one, you can find a style that speaks to you. I hope you found some inspiration in this post and that it encourages you to experiment and have some fun with fashion. You’ll never know if you like something until you give it a try.
