Author

Cathy Lawdanski

LOL Big Surprise and Other Gifts For Your LOL Surprise Lover

If you have a 4-8 year old little girl in your life, you have no doubt heard of the LOL Big Surprise. This is the little girl’s toy of the year, much like Polly Pockets were when my daughters were that age. My 4-year-old granddaughter is obsessed with them! She wants a new one every time we go to the store. So in honor of my sweet Madeline, I put together this post featuring gifts for YOUR LOL Surprise Lover.

This post contains affiliate links for your convenience. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I will make a small commission at no extra cost to you.

What is the LOL Big Surprise?

It’s a large, glittery ball filled with 50 surprises. Little dolls, accessories, charms and other knick-knacks. The fun part is that each of these little surprises is wrapped in layers of paper and can take a while to unwrap to discover each surprise.

LOL Surprise Toys come in a variety of sizes and prices – from about $7 to up to $200. Crazy, right?

But LOL Surprise merchandise is not limited just to the balls of surprises. Like any good marketer, they have taken advantage of little girl’s love of all things LOL Surprise and have created lots of other merchandise. Water bottles, duffles, sheets – you name it.

Here are my favorite gifts for YOUR LOL Surprise Lover

LOL Surprise Big Surprise

This is the big one with 50 surprises!

LOL Surprise! Doll Series 2

This is a much smaller, less expensive LOL Surprise! But it is still so fun. 7 layers of prizes and the ball becomes a purse, doll display or bath play set.

LOL Surprise! Glam Glitter Series Doll

Another of the smaller versions. With this one, you get to see if your Glam Glitter Doll cries, spits, tinkles or changes color.

LOL Surprise! Glam Bling Bow Pink Backpack

If you are tired of picking up the little LOL Surprises, get your LOL Surprise Lover this cute backpack.

Stackable Storage Container for all the LOL Surprise Toys

It doesn’t take long before those LOL Surprise toys totally overtake your house. This great storage container has 50 compartments. Plenty of room for all your surprises!

LOL Surprise House with 85+ Surprises

This wooden, multi-story house has 85+ surprises, working elevator, lights and sounds across 3 floors, real pool, spa and sandbox. The ultimate gift for LOL Surprise Lovers!

LOL Surprise! Fur Rainbow Duffel Bag

Don’t all little girls love a soft furry bag?

LOL Surprise Bedding | Soft Microfiber Sheet Set

Now you can decorate your room with LOL Surprise!

LOL Surprise! 1000 Sticker Book

If your girl likes LOL Surprise Toys, she probably likes stickers…lots of stickers..too!

LOL Surprise 600 ml Tritan Bottle

And to wrap it up, this handy LOL Surprise! Water Bottle. Perfect for sports, school or on the go!

Do you have an LOL Surprise! Lover in your family?

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October 15, 2018 2 comments

Fashion & Beauty

How To Restore Damaged Nails After Gel, Acrylic or Powder Manicures

Perfectly manicured nails. Who doesn’t love the look of the perfect length, shape and color you can get by going to the nail salon every two weeks and “getting your nails done” with acrylics, a gel or powders? But what happens when you try to go back to your natural nails? All of these methods damage your nails in some way, leaving them dry, brittle, thin and splitting. That’s why so many women go back to the artificial nails. It seems like if you don’t, you’ll never have “nice” nails again. But there is hope and I have found a way. Here’s how to restore damaged nails after gel, acrylic or powder manicures.

This post contains affiliate links for your convenience. If you make a purchase through one of my links, I will make a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Why I Wanted to Restore My Nails After Gel Manicures

I love the perfectly shaped nails that didn’t chip, cuticles with no hangnails and long lasting color that I got from my artificial nails. Over the last 15 years, I’ve tried them all – acrylics, gel and powder.

At first, getting my nails done every two weeks was a luxury. When I started these regular appointments in my 40’s, I had just been promoted to a management position at the nonprofit where I was working. I was making a little money. My boss got her nails done. After years as a stay at home mom with no extra money in the budget for such a luxury, I was ready to treat myself. And for a while, it was great. Until it wasn’t.

At some point, I got tired of sitting in the manicurist’s chair for an hour every two weeks. And I had other things I wanted to spend my money on. So I decided to go back to my natural nails. Except they weren’t the nails that I used to have. They were thin, dry, splitting and brittle. And after a few weeks of looking like that, I just couldn’t stand it anymore, so headed back to the salon to get the artificial ones again. I continued this cycle for 15 years.

A few months ago, I decided once again to try and go “natural”, but before doing so, I asked ladies in my Facebook group who had done this HOW they achieved healthy natural nails again. They encouraged me that it could be done. I also did some research online and came up with this plan that restored my nails to their strong and healthy original state in 8 weeks.

What I Did to Restore My Nails After Gel Manicures

I had the gels removed at the salon, had my nails trimmed short and got a regular manicure. Here’s how my nails looked on that day. You can see they are thin, ridged and uneven.

My restore my nails regimen started with applying one coat of nail strengthener daily. I did this for seven days. On the seventh day I removed the nail strengthener and started again.

After the nail strengthener dried, I applied cuticle oil to my nails and skin around them twice a day. I followed this with a heavy moisturizing hand and nail cream. Why use both an oil and a cream? The oil absorbs into the nail bed better and the cream creates a barrier so that the moisture doesn’t escape.

I left my cuticles alone. I didn’t trim or pick at them because the cuticles are there to protect the new nail growth that is occurring underneath.

If I needed to file my nails for any reason I used a glass nail file. Why? Because a glass nail file smooths and seals the freshly filed edges, reduces the nails susceptibility to splits and breakages. It does this by sealing the keratin layers at the edge of the nail together, preventing peeling and chipping. A glass nail file is inexpensive and the best investment you can make in restoring your fragile nails.

Other reasons to invest in a glass nail file?

They do not dull over time.
They are more efficient than emery boards of steel nail files because they file and smooth the nails in one quick motion.
They can be washed in hot, soapy water and even sterilized making them more hygenic.
Glass nail files will not wear down, corrode or rot.

I went for a manicure every 3 weeks. At that time, I did allow my manicurist to trim my cuticles, but only then. I also had her apply nail strengthen rather than traditional nail polish.

I took a Biotin supplement every day.

Here is how my nails looked at my first manicure, four weeks after removing my gels. Still weak, but looking better.

I followed my regimen RELIGIOULSY and after 8 weeks, here is what my nails look like.

I am so pleased with the results! I’m sure I’ll be sporting my natural nails from now on! Yes, you CAN have healthy, natural nails after gel, acrylic or powder manicures!

Do you have your natural nails or do you “get them done”? Have you ever gone natural after having artificial nails? Let me know in the comments!

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October 8, 2018 15 comments

Fashion & Beauty

Summer to Fall Outfits | Summer to Fall Transition Looks

I live in Texas where we won’t see even a HINT of cool weather until late October. So while those of you who live north of us are enjoying your pumpkin spice lattes and wearing your cute new sweaters and boots, we’re still in shorts, flip flops and running my AC 24/7. So what do those of us who live down south wear when we want an outfit that says FALL but it’s too hot to wear cold weather clothing? Turns out there are lots of options with the currently trending denim, animal prints and fall florals. Take a look at some of the Summer to Fall Outfits my favorite fashion bloggers put together!

This post contains affiliate links for your convenience. If you make a purchase through one of my links, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Summer to Fall Outfits – Denim

Claudia from Empty Nest Style added a chambray shirt to her white jeans and tied it all together with a cognac cardigan, bag & shoes. Those accessories just say fall to me and I am loving how the whole “no white after Labor Day” rule has gone by the wayside.

Summer to Fall Outfits – Florals

We saw lots of florals this summer, many of which can go right into fall.

In my look, I shopped my closet and put together this look. I paired the LOFT floral tee that I wore all summer with my Wit & Wisdom Thyme Cropped Pants. I topped it with a denim jacket, which seems to be the most versatile third piece for any season. Tied it all together with olive booties and burgundy color purse.

This particular denim jacket is from Talbots and I love it so much. It has a bit of a shape, which is more flattering on me than those that are boxy. And it has some stretch, which makes it easy to move around in. I also have it in white!

I received my first pair of Wit & Wisdom Ab-solution pants in my Trunk Club shipment this summer and immediately loved the fit, stretch and tummy control.

My booties are from Walking Cradles, a great line of shoes that are comfortable and stylish. You can get 20% off and free shipping at walkingcradles.com with the code MySide20.

Fonda from Savvy Southern Chic is wearing a floral camisole, crop flare jeans and blush colored cardigan. The cardigan is lightweight and a great piece when the weather is hot, but the AC in stores and restaurants is cranked up high. Notice her beautiful Kendra Scott necklace! I purchased this same one for my daughter’s birthday at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. It is gorgeous and very versatile. Follow Fonda on Instagram.

For a different kind of floral top, Suzy from Empty Nest Blessed is wearing a navy top with floral embroidery with blush jeans and camel booties. I am seeing lots of blush as a neutral this fall. And booties are a great way to add some fall to your wardrobe without heating things up! Follow Suzy on Instagram.

Summer to Fall Outfits – Animal Print

Jess from Elegantly Dressed & Stylish wears a ¾ length blouse with jeans and accessorizes it with an animal print clutch and scarf. Jess incorporates another fall trend by wearing a blouse in a menswear inspired print. And the pattern mixing she does here is so interesting a looks great. Follow Jess on Instagram.

Regan from Nifty 50 and Fabulous and Suzanne from Crazy Blonde Life both had the same idea for early fall in the south! Black tops and pants with animal print accessories.

Regan wears her animal print scarf as a wrap and Suzanne adds a leopard print clutch and booties! So cute! Follow Regan on Instagram.

Suzanne carries on the theme here with a semi-sheer animal print blouse and black distressed jeans. Belts are all the rage this fall and hers adds an extra touch of zing to a very classy fall outfit. Follow Suzanne on Instagram.

What about you? Is it warm where you live? What are you wearing for the summer to fall transition?

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And guess what? I am the featured guest on this week’s Ageless Style Linkup! Check out how all of these ladies styled fall outfits in their favorite colors!

Daenel ~ Living outside the Stacks blog, instagram, pinterest, twitter

Debbie ~ Fashion Fairy Dust bloglovin, blog, instagram, pinterest, facebook, twitter

Jennie ~ A Pocketful of Polka Dots blog, instagram, facebook, pinterest, twitter, bloglovin

Jodie ~ Jodie’s Touch of Style blog, facebook, instagram, pinterest, bloglovin, twitter

Jonet ~ Fabulously Chic Over 50 blog, facebook, , instagram, pinterest, twitter

Kellyann ~ This Blonde’s Shopping Bag blog, instagram, bloglovin, twitter

Lisa ~ Coast to Coast blog, facebook, instagram, twitter, pinterest

Paula ~ Dimples on my What blog, facebook, pinterest, instagram, twitter

October 2, 2018 28 comments

Fashion & Beauty

Women’s Fashion Sneakers | The Walking Cradles Metro Collection

What shoes do you wear on a day when you know you are going to be on your feet a lot? You’re shopping. Or running errands. Or chasing grandkids. Or traveling. Your athletic shoes are probably the most comfortable shoes you own, but they look pretty clunky. When you wear them, you don’t exactly feel like your look is “polished”? Do you sacrifice comfort to look good? That would be a big no for me. But fortunately you don’t have to choose comfort over fashion. Introducing Walking Cradles’ line of Women’s Fashion Sneakers called the Metro Collection.

This post is sponsored by Walking Cradles. All opinions are my own. This post also contains affiliate links for your convenience. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I will make a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Women’s Fashion Sneakers 2018

Take a look at the Onyx – a casual sneaker with urban styling! Don’t you just love it? I love the details on this slip-on sneaker. Check out the detailing: mesh and nubuck uppers that include goring and elasticized lacing.

And they are so comfortable!!!! Walking Cradles has thought of everything:

Removable Tiny Pillows® footbed insoles massage your every step.
An antimicrobial sueded fabric sock and lining that are super soft and moisture-wicking, making it optional to wear a sock.
The non-compacting cushion bounces back after compression so the cushioning continues wear after wear.
The unit bottom is flexible and moves naturally with your foot and it includes built-in tread for slip resistance.

But the Onyx is only fashion sneaker in the fabulous Metro Collection!

Check out Orleans that comes in a snake print and lots of fabulous fall colors!

Or Osmond that is a hi-top sneaker bootie.

You’ll never feel frumpy in the fashion-forward choices that are part of Walking Cradles Metro Collection!

Special Offer From Walking Cradles

Walking Cradles is giving My Side of 50 readers 20% off on any purchase from walkingcradles.com PLUS free shipping when you use the code MySide20! And they will send you a coupon with your delivery for a future purchase. Discount now. Free Shipping. Coupon for later. Could it get any better? Yes….

Walking Cradles Metro Collection – Your Purchase Helps Others

Walking Cradles has partnered with Soles4Soles a charity that works to “Wear Out Poverty” by providing gently used shoes, job opportunities and more to poverty-stricken women and children around the world.

Walking Cradles will donate $1 for every purchase from their Metro Collection to Soles4Soles.

A dollar per pair donation might not seem like much, but did you know that for each $1 donated, Soles4Souls is able to ship one pair of shoes to anywhere in the world? That means your purchase of any shoe from the Metro Collection equals one pair of shoes to someone in need!

Before I started blogging, I worked in the nonprofit sector for 25 years. Partnerships with companies like Walking Cradles can make such a difference in the great work these organizations do. And as a consumer, I love to patronize companies that are looking past their own bottom line and contributing to the greater good. Just another reason I love Walking Cradles.

Demin Jacket

Jeans

Blouse similar

Photos by Ginger Harris

See how my friends over at Jodie’s Touch of Style styled THREE from the Metro Collection!

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September 16, 2018 16 comments

Fashion & Beauty

Bra Fitting Guide | What To Look For In A Professional Bra Fitting

Have you ever had a professional bra fitting? When I did an informal poll of the My Side of 50 readers, it was split about 50/50. Half said they had been professionally fitted and the other half said they had not. I have to admit, it’s probably only been in the last several years that I’ve started to get professionally fitted and I can’t tell you what a difference it makes! When I was buying bras on my own, I had the size and fit all wrong! I was recently invited by Soma Intimates to get a professional bra fitting at their store at The Woodlands Mall in Texas. Here is my Bra Fitting Guide with things you should look for when getting a professional fitting.

This post is sponsored by Soma Intimates. All opinions are my own. This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of my links, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bra Fitting Guide | More Than Just the Measurement

When getting fitted for a bra, most of us know to measure around our rib cage under our breasts where the bra hooks. And then to measure around the fullest part of our breasts. There are all kinds of calculators online that will help you determine “your size” from these two measurements. But did you know that the SHAPE of your breasts also determines the size and type of bra you should wear? That’s why getting a professional bra fitting can be such an asset in getting the most comfortable and flattering bra.

Getting the correct measurements is only the first step. At a professional bra fitting, the specialist should also:

Ask what type of bras you are looking for. Strapless, racer back, underwire, t-shirt?
What do you not like about your current bra?
Examine how the bra looks on you. Does the gore (the part between the cups) lay flat against your chest? Do the cups cover your breasts or do they spill out on the side? Do the straps dig into your shoulders?
After looking at the bra, the specialist should ask you to put on a shirt to see how it looks under clothes.

My Complimentary Professional Bra Fitting at Soma Intimates

Maranda was the trained bra fit specialist who worked with me at Soma Intimates. She did everything she was supposed to do. She asked me what type of bra I was looking for, measured me, listened to my concerns, brought me options and adjusted where needed.

The first step was getting measured. I know that for some women, modesty is an issue and they may be uncomfortable being measured by someone else for a bra. In the privacy of the dressing room, Maranda gave me the option of being measured with or without my shirt on.

Then she asked me about what type of bra I was looking for. What my concerns were. About my lifestyle and the types of clothes I wear. I answered those questions for me, but also for all of you. Because prior to my fitting, I asked YOU what YOU hated about your bras! Here are the answers and the solutions Maranda had from the Soma Intimates line:

Bra Fitting Guide | My Straps Dig Into My Shoulders

Stunning Support Full Coverage Bra– This underwire bra has wide set padded straps that make the fit very comfortable through the shoulders. I tried this on and was amazed at the difference a little padding in the straps makes!

Bra Fitting Guide | I Hate UNDERWIRE

I wear a 36DD and always wear underwire bras, which I don’t find to be very comfortable. I really didn’t think I had another option. But I did! The Enbliss Wireless Bra! Full coverage, super soft fabric and no wires.

I couldn’t believe the support I received from this wireless bra. And when I put my shirt on over it, I looked like I lost 10 lbs! In the Enbliss Wireless Bra, I am every bit as lifted and supported as I am in my underwires!

Bra Fitting Guide | My Bra is So Uncomfortable I Take It Off the Minute I Get Home

That’s me. And since I work at home, I usually don’t wear a bra. Which is no big deal unless company or the UPS guy shows up unexpectedly! Enter the Enbliss Wireless Bralette. It’s kind of like a sports bra, but it is not as binding. Super soft and comfortable. Although at a 36DD it did not provide the support I would need to wear it out in public, it is the perfect around the house or sleep bra for me. And it does provide enough coverage so that I am appropriately attired if someone stops by the house unexpectedly!

Bra Fitting Guide | Bras That Irritate Post Surgery

One of my readers shared that post-radiation, she found her bras to be very irritating to her sensitive skin. Soma has a whole line of post-surgical bras including those with pockets for those women wear prosthetics after a mastectomy. These bras are soft, comfortable and pretty!

Bra Fitting Guide | It’s Hard to Find Bras for Larger Sizes

The Solution is Soma Intimates Curvy Couture line with beautiful supportive bras that go up to cup size HH.

Bra Fitting Guide | BACK FAT That Shows Through My Shirt!

You have to try the marvelous Vanishing Back Bra. You can read my review and see my results here!

My Soma Purchases | Bras and More

The two best bras for me were the Enbliss Wireless Bra and Enbliss Wireless Bralette.

And much to my surprise I also purchased SHAPEWEAR! The Vanishing Edge High Waisted Brief. This beautiful panty is so light and is the most comfortable shapewear I have ever put on.

I also stocked up on Soma’s Cool Night’s Short Sleeved Sleep Shirts. I have worn these for years! They are so light and comfortable to sleep in and when the night sweats hit, they DO keep you cool. They wash beautifully and keep their color and shape for a long time. They also have pajamas in this line that comes in the same fabric.

Has it been a year since you had a professional bra fitting? Or have you never had one at all? Stop by your local Soma Intimates and get one. You will be so happy with the results!

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September 4, 2018 12 comments

Health & Wellness

Fitness Over 50 | The Walking Half Marathon

Fitness Over 50. It can be a struggle. Our bodies don’t move as they once did. It takes lots of work and discipline to keep those extra pounds from appearing and sometimes that feels like a losing battle. My friend, Kim Taylor, has been there. Here’s her Fitness Over 50 story and how she reached her goal of completing The Walking Half Marathon.

This post contains affiliate links for your convenience. If you make a purchase through one of my links, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

This post is not an endorsement of any weight loss or exercise program. It is meant for informational purposes only. Always check with your healthcare provider before embarking on a new diet or exercise program.

Thirteen years ago, Kim Taylor had reached her Weight Watchers goal weight and life was good. She was healthy and thought that she was just where she was supposed to be. Mission accomplished. Done and done.

Fast Forward to Christmas 2016. One gift she received was a lovely golf shirt – size XL. Size XL and it was TOO TIGHT! What happened? Well, like for many of us, life and everything that goes with it got in the way of Kim maintaining her good health habits and Kim had gained all of the weight back. She knew it was time to do something.

So in January 2017, she joined Weight Watchers again and was committed to regaining her health and best weight.

But this time was different. This time there was social media, specifically Instagram, where she found inspiration to stay the course and meet her goals, even on the hard days.

In addition to her Weight Watchers eating plan, Kim added exercise – specifically walking. Using her Apple Watch, she tracked her steps every day, increasing them as time went by.

Kim soon discovered Stepbet – an online app that helps you to set a step goal, BET on yourself and if you get all your steps in, win a cash prize! Now that is motivation! Getting paid to exercise!

Fitness Over 50 | How Does Stepbet Work?

When you download Stepbet, it helps you set up walking goals. Kim’s goals for her first Stepbet game was to walk 7,200 steps a day 5 days a week and 8,500 steps two days a week. She would make a cash bet on herself and if she met her goals, would win part of the “pot”. Stepbet games usually last 6 weeks. Every time one game would end, Kim would start a new one, adding 300-500 steps per day each time. As she set these goals, her step goals increased rapidly. Here’s how she progressed:

2015 – Averaged 4,600 steps per day

2016 – Averaged 4,500 steps per day

2017 – Started Stepbet and averaged 13,100 steps per day

2018 – Averages 15,300 steps per day

So as you can see, the motivation of the Stepbet game was a big catalyst in helping Kim increase her steps!

The Walking Half Marathon | How She Trained

In January 2018, it was time to set a new goal. Kim saw an advertisement for a Walking Half Marathon the next month. She signed up, finished her current StepBet game and began a different training process, without StepBet.

The Walking Half Marathon training involved taking longer walks at a faster pace. She did LONG walks on Monday – starting at 7 miles and increasing a mile or two each week. This got her to 13 miles on her long walk days two weeks prior to the marathon.

Tuesdays – Day off from walking and took a class at the gym.

Wednesday –Sunday – Walk between 5-8 miles per day for 4 of those days.

On February 24, 2018, Kim met her goal of completing a walking half marathon.

She is such an example of setting small goals and when she reaches them, setting another. I asked her a few questions about her experience and here’s what she said:

What was it like to meet your goal of Walking A Half Marathon?

It was completely exhilarating! Crossing the finish line, seeing our best friends and my husband there filming me – taking pictures and cheering me on was like nothing I can even describe accurately. I was AWESOME and I am SO PROUD of myself!

What health benefits have you gained through changing your eating habits and regular exercise?

I have great blood pressure. My cardiovascular health is amazing and at my last stress test, my heart doctor could not believe what great shape I am in!

What do you tell yourself on the days that you “blow it”?

Tomorrow is a new day.

What would you tell others who might want to add walking to their exercise routine?

Go get fitted for good shoes! I buy my sneakers at Soul 2 Sole and the employees are awesome! They were thrilled for me and my half marathon accomplishment.
You will get blisters and you need to get pedicures to keep your toenails short. Nothing hurts worse than long toenails hitting against the end of your shoe.
Listening to music while I walked wore thin for me. I started listening to podcasts and have progressed to AudioBooks! I love them!
Don’t give up! I did not start out walking 6 miles per day. It takes time and effort and just don’t give up!

Remember how Kim used Instagram to get inspiration from others to meet her goals? Well, she is on Instagram every day inspiring others to do the same. That’s where I “met” her and I am inspired and encouraged every day by her positive outlook and encouragement. Follow Kim here.

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August 28, 2018 8 comments

Travel

10 Fun Things To Do In Bar Harbor Maine

One of the places that I’ve always wanted to visit is Maine. The thought of seeing beautiful lighthouses and eating lobster sounded great. And let’s get real. For this Texas girl, visiting anyplace in the summer with temperatures below 90 degrees sounded like Heaven. So when the time came for my husband and me to actually plan our trip to Maine, we decided to spend most of our time in Bar Harbor. Here are 10 Fun Things To Do In Bar Harbor Maine.

Why Bar Harbor?

If you love beautiful scenery and outdoor adventures in the summer, Maine is the place. And for us, Bar Harbor, a tourist destination on Mount Desert Island, seemed to offer the most bang for your buck!

Bar Harbor sits on Frenchman Bay and is right by Acadia National Park, which offers hiking, bike trails and beautiful mountains, ponds, and beaches to explore.

If you are looking for traditional Maine lobster, you won’t be disappointed. You can get steamed lobster and lobster rolls from many restaurants and lobster pounds. Bar Harbor is the place to enjoy the wonderful things that Maine has to offer.

This post contains affiliate links for your convenience. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I may make a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Where to Stay in Bar Harbor

As with any tourist destination, there are a number of big and small hotels, bed and breakfasts, campgrounds and vacation rentals. We opted to rent a condo through VRBO.

The one bedroom condo we chose was perfect for the two of us. It was 3 miles from the entrance to Acadia National Park and walking distance to everything in Bar Harbor.

Things To Do In Bar Harbor Maine : Acadia National Park

We started our day at the Hulls Cove Visitors Center to get our park passes. We were about to purchase the $30 pass for a private vehicle that is good for 7 days. However, a particularly astute park employee surmised that one of us may be 62 (and it wasn’t me…just yet) and suggested the Annual Senior Pass for just $20. This pass would get us into any National Park for a year. SCORE for being on THIS side of 50!

We could have purchased the $30 pass online and not gone to the Visitor’s Center, but I’m glad we did. First, because they have nice bathrooms and for me, it’s always good to stop at a clean one before I head out ANYWHERE (can I get an Amen?). Secondly, I was able to talk to one of the park rangers about our plans and get some great direction from these very friendly and knowledgeable folks.

We were there during the peak of the summer season in July, so the park was full of people and parking at the main attractions is limited unless you get there early.

The Island Explorer Bus offers transportation to all the main park attractions from Bar Harbor or the Visitor’s Center. But after talking to the park ranger, we decided to chance it with our car because she said that the buses were often crowded and there was a wait to get to where you wanted to go. As far as transportation goes, it seems to be six of one, half dozen of the other. The main tip is to go and see what you want to see EARLY in the day.

What We Did At Acadia National Park

Sand Beach – This is a gorgeous 290-yard long beach nestled in an inlet with granite mountains on one side and the rocky shores of Mt. Desert Island on the other. Although the water temperature rarely rises above 55 degrees in the summer, we saw a few of the many people on the beach dipping their toes in the water.

There is a lifeguard on duty from Memorial Day through Labor Day and changing rooms are available near the parking area.

Hiked around Jordan Pond, which was formed by a glacier and is beautifully clear. There is no swimming or motorboats allowed so the atmosphere around this scenic place is peaceful and serene.

I like to walk so I thought hiking the Jordan Pond Trail would be a great outing one of the mornings we were there. When I hear the word “pond” I often think of the tiny, man-made pond in my neighborhood. Don’t be fooled! The trail around Jordan Pond is 3.3 miles. And although most of it is well-maintained and relatively flat, there are areas of large rocks you’ll need to walk/climb/step over if you want to make the full loop. But it is so worth it!

Following our hike, we had lunch at the historic Jordan Pond House, which is right off the trail. Jordan Pond House opened in the 1800’s and is famous for its popovers. We arrived about 10:30 am and were able to get our name on the list to be seated at 11. Don’t be discouraged by the crowds. Jordan Pond House is large with both indoor and outdoor seating and the wait probably won’t be long.

We lunched on lobster salad, blueberry lemonade and of course, Popovers!

Cadillac Mountain – Standing over 1500 feet, Cadillac Mountain is the highest point along the North Atlantic seaboard and the first place to view the sunrise in the U. S. from October 7 – March 6. Getting there early to see the sunrise or going in the evening to view the sunset is one of the most popular things to do in Acadia National Park.

We took the scenic Summit Road to the top of Cadillac Mountain in the afternoon, stopping at several of the scenic overlooks along the way. Each one provided beautiful views of ponds, the ocean, bays, and mountains. Truly breathtaking.

When you arrive at the Summit, there is a large trail where you can walk to different points and take some gorgeous pictures as you look down on Bar Harbor, Frenchman Bay and see the blue expanse of the Atlantic.

Whale Watching in Bar Harbor

There are several cruise lines that offer whale watching tours in Bar Harbor. We chose to take Acadian Boat Tours Sightseeing in Nature Tour which promised that we would see some wildlife, not whales specifically. This tour was a 2-hour cruise with an extremely knowledgeable tour guide.

We got lucky that day and we did see whales. Or I should say the blow holes and fins of some small whales. If you think you are going to see a Shamu type creature jumping out of the water, that probably won’t happen.

Other wildlife we saw were seals, jellyfish, porpoises and a bald eagle that flew over us just like it was a scripted show! It was awesome to see.

We also learned about the history of the area, saw some gorgeous “summer cottages” (mansions) and enjoyed the beautiful scenery of Coastal Maine. Pictured here is the Egg Rock lighthouse.

Acadian Boat Tours also offers these tours:

Sunset Cruise
Fishing Trips
Puffins, Lighthouse and Seabirds Cruise
VIP Somes Sound Fjord & Harbors Tour

I was so impressed with this tour company from the first person we talked to who guided me to a cruise where I would not get seasick to the captain and the tour guide. I highly recommend this company!

More Things To Do In Bar Harbor

Shop in the Bar Harbor Shopping District which is really the 5 or 6 streets that makeup Bar Harbor proper. Lots of specialty stores, touristy places, coffee shops, restaurants, and bars! Something for everybody!
Explore all the things there are to do in Acadia National Park. Take a Ranger Guided Cruise or Bike Tour. Explore the many different places to hike or rock climb.
Visit Agamont Park – a beautiful park on Frenchman Bay with plenty of benches to sit on and enjoy the scenery.
Take a relaxing stroll down the Shore Path, which you can pick up at Agamont Park. Relatively flat and not too long. An easy stroll where you can see great views of the coast an islands in the bay.
Have a cup of coffee at Coffee Hound Coffee Bar. Delicious hand-crafted specialty coffee and espresso.
Dine outdoors or enjoy at a cocktail at Bar Harbor Inn’s Terrace Grille. The perfect location for outdoor dining overlooking the bay.

Have you been to Bar Harbor? What is your favorite thing to do there?

Watch for my next post where I tell you about all the great places to eat in Bar Harbor!

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August 21, 2018 6 comments

Fashion for Women Over 50 | Picture of Cathy Lawdanski in white sweater and jeans by Ethyl Clothing

Fashion & Beauty

Fall Fashion for Women Over 50 | Ethyl Clothing

Fashion for Women Over 50. Do you ever wonder if there IS such a thing? I know there is, but it can be hard to find with so many retailers showing their clothes on 14-year-old waifs who don’t weigh 100 lbs. soaking wet. That’s why I’m super excited to show you this outfit by Ethyl Clothing, a brand of clothing for real women with real bodies.

This post is sponsored by Ethyl Clothing. All opinions are my own. This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of my links, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Even though we are seeing 90-degree temperatures every day in Texas, most of us are finished buying summer clothes and are looking forward to shopping for some fall/winter outfits.

So I chose this Aviana-Petunia Sweater and Carly-Poivron pull-on jean to feature. This sweater and jean combination fits my lifestyle perfectly. I would wear this outfit just about anywhere – out to lunch, to go shopping, to a football game or for date night when it’s cold outside.

This Aviana-Petunia sweater is so luxurious. Super-soft and heavy enough to wear on the coldest days.

The boatneck is so flattering and has a beautiful “feathery” detail that is mimicked in the hem. The knit is so pretty all by itself that I didn’t accessorize the look with anything but my simple gold earrings.

I love the pull-on ease of the Carly-Poivron jeans. They are stretchy and comfortable. They are medium weight jeans can be worn year-round. And even though they are pull-on, they have front and back pockets!!! Just like your zip-up fly jeans. The denim is so soft and the fit is incredible.

I was introduced to Ethyl Clothing through my friend Jodie and Jodie’s Touch of Style. You can see the pieces that she styled here. And although Ethyl Clothing is a new brand to me, they have been around for over 30 years.

Their commitment to quality fabric and superior fit in all their pieces make them the perfect choice for women over 50 to find stylish clothing that they can wear for years. Ethyl’s missy-fit line is vanity sized meaning that you order a size down from your regular size. I ordered one size down on both pieces and they fit perfectly.

Shopping online with Ethyl Clothing is virtually risk-free. They offer free shipping on orders over $99 and provide a pre-paid postage return label so that you can send back any items that don’t work for you.

Check out some of my other favorites here:

Long Cardigan Sweater-Coat-Cadenza

The Carter-Coda Long Cardigan Sweater Coat

Special thanks to my sister, Sandy Lynch for taking the photos for this post in her air-conditioned studio. If you’re in the Dallas area, check out Sandra Lynch Photography for all your photography needs: Wedding, Family, Seniors, Beauty.

Like this post? Help me spread the word and grow my blog! I’d love it if you’d Pin it!

Are you excited when you walk into your closet to find something to wear or is a totally frustrating experience? Take the From Frustration to Functional Closet Challenge! This totally FREE challenge from the folks at Adore Your Wardrobe will give you lots of tips to help you love the wardrobe you have and a closet that functions for you!

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August 10, 2018 13 comments

Picture of Clock with the Caption Protecting Your Time When You Retire

Retirement

Time For You | Time Management In Retirement

Have you ever thought about needing to have a strategy for time management in retirement? Or are you looking forward to retirement as the season of finally having unlimited time to pursue your interests at a leisurely pace? Just getting up and doing what you want when you want to? You may have to think again.

In the midlife “space” where I publish this blog, there is lots of talk about women pursuing new interests after the kids leave home or they retire. That period of time can be filled with a lot of angst and confusion as women figure what they want to do in this new season of life.

But eventually, they hit their stride as they step out, try new things and discover a whole world of possibilities. They begin filling their time with things that bring them joy. Trying things they always wanted to do and never had time for. It could be a hobby. Or taking the time to exercise. Or perhaps embarking on a different career path.

Then, this happens. Grandchildren are born. Parents get old and need help. Husbands retire. Friends and family members assume you have a lot of time on your hands and are free to help them out whenever they call. Before you know it, there is no time left for you to pursue that thing you have found that gives you a reason to get up in the morning.

While family and helping others are an important part of life, if you’re not careful, everyone else and THEIR needs can take over and you have no time left for YOU. And if you don’t protect your time, there will be no time for you!

My Story

After raising my kids, leaving my job in the non-profit sector and caring for both of my parents before they died, I discovered blogging. I love it. It is so different than anything I have ever done before. What was once just a hobby has now become a part-time business. It’s work for sure, but the writing and creativity and relationships that are part of the blogging world fill my soul. I find that if I don’t get to blog, I get grumpy.

I am also blessed that both of my adult daughters and 3 grandchildren live close to me and I get to see them all the time. I love my girls and the grandkids. I would do anything for them.

But I recently discovered that if I wasn’t careful, I could be taking care of the grandkids or going to kids activities every night of the week. And that was infringing on the time that I blog and do things to take care of myself like exercise, cook healthy meals and rest.

I must offer this disclaimer. My daughters are wonderful. They always ask if I can help with the kids. They never assume that I am available. If they ask and I say no, it doesn’t make them mad.

We’ve talked a lot about the fact that I have raised my kids and am Gaga now. The fun one, not the parent. The back-up – not the one who is responsible. They totally get it.

They also know that they all get the best of me when I take care of myself and have a life of my own besides them. I have friends whose adult children are NOT as gracious as mine and feel absolutely entitled to their mother’s time! UGH!

But grandchild care issues don’t have to be the thing that eats away at your time.

Maybe your spouse has retired and wants your attention 24/7. Or wants you to stop whatever you’re doing to do something with them. Or be home to fix them lunch every day.
Maybe your parents or other family members call and want you to come at the drop of a hat (when there is not an emergency).
Maybe people from your church or other organizations assume that you can fill in or take on a lot of other responsibilities because you are retired or an empty nester.

Or sometimes it’s not OTHERS who sabotage your time. It’s YOU!

Do you drop everything to help out with your kids or grandkids even if they don’t ask? Maybe because you feel guilty and you feel like you SHOULD? After all you are just doing ________.
Do you assume that because your husband is retired, it’s now your job to make sure you have 3 meals on the table every day, even if he can take care of himself, doesn’t ask you to and is perfectly capable of making a sandwich?
Do you feel guilty spending the time to pursue your own interests and passions, so you volunteer all over the place because you feel like you SHOULD, always putting your need for fulfillment last?

Don’t let any of that happen! In order to thrive in retirement, you need to protect your time.

Instead, try this:

Communicate! Talk to friends and family members about what you are doing, why it’s important to you and why you are scheduling the time to do it. Ask for their support. I did this with my daughters and received nothing but cooperation and understanding from them.

Schedule the time that you need to do whatever YOU are doing first. For example, I work out every day at 4:30. Sunday afternoon is my time to read and rest. I go out to dinner with my girlfriends once a month. I work on my blog every day from 8-4. Whatever it is that you do for you – get it on the calendar and let everyone know.

Decide in advance what you are willing to do for others and be pro-active in scheduling that time. If someone gets their feelings hurt because they think that you setting some boundaries means you don’t care for them, say something like, “I’m sorry I won’t always be available when you call, but because you are important to me, I’d like to schedule this time __________ to do________”.

Here’s how I worked out my schedule:

Kept two eldest grandkids 2 nights a week while Daughter #1 had some important appointments and no other childcare options.
Eldest Grandson had 2 baseball practices and 2 games a week. I said that I would attend one baseball event a week.
Daughter #2 and husband attend a church group one night a week. I said I would keep their baby every other week, alternating with another family member.

Does that mean I never waiver from the schedule? No!

Or that if there is a real emergency or need that I don’t jump in to help? Absolutely not!

Or that I don’t sometimes drop everything to take my daughters to lunch or just hang out with the grandkids? No way. I love all of those things.

My point is, it’s important to find the things that fulfill you and make them a priority. If the thing that brings you joy is babysitting the grandkids every day while their parents work – do it!

If you find great fulfillment pursuing interests and activities with your retired husband – do it!

If just having the time to “be there” for friends and family when they need you, by all means – give yourself permission to do it.

None of us is the same. It’s not an all or nothing or one size fits all proposition. Just remember to protect and manage your time so that you have time for YOU!

Have you found time as an empty-nester or retiree to pursue what gives you joy? How do you manage your time so that you have plenty of it to devote to these pursuits?

This post first appeared on Sizzling Towards Sixty and Beyond.

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July 30, 2018 2 comments

Family

Safari Themed Baby Shower Invitations

Are you in a season of baby showers? If you have married children, you may be in the thick of it like I am. I have had 6 new grandbabies born within my circle of friends in the last year, so that means hosting lots of showers and celebrations. So much fun! I was so excited when Basic Invite invited me to partner with them to promote their Safari Themed Baby Shower Invitations because that was the theme for the shower that we had for my FIRST grandchild who was born almost 10 years ago!

This post was sponsored by Basic Invite. All opinions are my own.

Look how cute these are:

When ultrasounds that told you the sex of the baby before they were born became popular back when I was having babies, gender-themed showers became popular and have been for many years.

But I have also noticed a recent trend where couples are actually waiting to be surprised, so for these couples, a gender-neutral shower is in order. Basic Invite has lots of great choices for gender neutral baby shower invitations like this:

Picture of Gender Neutral Baby Shower Invitations with apple & garland design

O with f2 preset

One reason that I like Basic Invite is that all of their choices can be totally customized. Basic Invite is one of the few websites that allows customers almost unlimited color options with instant previews online. Once you select a design you can change the color of each element on the invitation to over 180 different color options so you can make sure it is exactly how you want it down to the smallest detail. This is what sets them apart from almost any other online stationery company.

Have you ever ordered invitations online and when they arrived, the paper, colors or quality wasn’t exactly what you hoped for? With Basic Invite you have the ability to order a printed sample of their actual invitation so that you can see exactly how it will print as well as the paper quality before you ever have to place your final order. Before writing this post, I created a few invitations on their site and ordered samples. I was so pleased with the quality all the way around.

Basic Invite offers over 40 different colors of envelopes to make your invitation stands out even before it’s opened. And all of their envelopes are peel and seal so the envelopes can be quickly and securely closed.

And how’s this for a time saver? Basic Invite offers an address capturing service that allows you to simply share a link on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or any other form of social media to request your friends and family’s addresses which will be stored in your account and can then be selected during the design process. And on Christmas Card orders, Basic Invite offers recipient address printing at no cost!

And since you know I love a good deal let me tell you about this special. Basic Invite is offering 15% off with coupon code: 15FF51.

Basic Invite is also featuring Christmas in July this month so you can use this discount to get a head start on getting your Holiday Cards printed. Do you have that perfect vacation picture that you said you wanted to put on this year’s Holiday Cards? Well, get after it!

Here is one of Basic Invite’s cute holiday designs. There are so many.

And in case you missed it: Basic Invite offers recipient address printing at no cost on all Christmas card orders. How’s that for getting one thing checked off your holiday to-do list?

Check out Basic Invite’s complete line of totally customizable invitations for any occasion.

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July 26, 2018 2 comments