Let me start off with saying, I miss Joan Rivers! Whenever she said those three words, “Can We Talk?,” you knew she was going to say something very honest and incredibly funny.
Well, I’m no Joan Rivers, but let’s talk anyway!
I’ve been planning on writing this post for awhile. I just needed to find the courage and how to articulate myself properly. This is going to be raw and extremely honest. I wanted to explain my reasoning behind starting this blog, which I did not come up with overnight.
As social media has grown over the years, I’ve enjoyed watching these young beauty and makeup bloggers. I’ve learned so many tips from watching their tutorials. Within this new forum I noticed that women my age were not being represented. So, I came up with the idea of starting the Mrs. Stafford blog.
“I want to share with other women my experiences, my interests, starting my 60’s, and plenty of other topics that we never get a chance to talk about.”
As women today, at every age, we have so many choices to make. Your early 20’s is typically trying to navigate becoming an adult, and finding out what you want out of life. This could include finishing your higher education, beginning your career, and doing the dating thing. In your 30’s is when you start having a better understanding of who you are as a person. You’re furthering your career or still deciding on one that makes you happy, and possibly thinking about starting your own family. Choices. So many choices!
Having said that, when you pass those milestone decades, as a woman society starts to expect less from you. As if you should have already accomplished everything in your 20’s and 30’s. This is the furthest from the truth. For example, at age 23, Tina Fey was working at a YMCA and Oprah was fired from her first reporting job.
“Vera Wang didn’t design her first dress until she was 40. Life doesn’t stop after a certain age. You actually have the ability to do more with the wisdom of life experiences to back you up.”
Growing up in the 70’s, I was a young teen at the beginning of the Women’s Movement. It was a pretty amazing time with lots of women who were incredible role models. There was Gloria Steinem, Bella Abzug, Shirley Chisholm, First Lady Betty Ford, just to name a few. These were women I read about every day.
Their fight was for women to have choices in their life. So, let’s not tear down women for their choices, or for not following the expectations of society. Let’s applaud them and support them because that means that you can make your own independent choices, too. We’re not all the same, each of us are different, and that’s what makes us so damn special!
Now after saying that, we still go through so many of the same things. Being a young woman and all the “fun” that brings. Going through pregnancy or falling in love. Becoming more mature, the lovely time in life called menopause… and on, and on, and on! Everyone out there is always telling us how to feel and what to do with our lives. How amazing and fulfilling it is to be young and pregnant, or single, or a mother, or a wife, or to do what we do in our careers blah, blah blah!!!! Sometimes, each and every one of these things is awful, terrible, thankless, and just plain stinks. But let’s not say it out loud because someone might hear!
“Well, on this blog, we’re going to say it all out loud!”
Since I am a woman who has gone through it all, I can talk about these topics, and speak honestly about these life stages. No matter what age you are, life can be difficult. You won’t always see things through rose colored glasses, which people like to portray on social media.
No one told me how terrible menopause was, and the depression that sometimes comes along with it. I had never dealt with depression before, or weight gain in places I never gained weight. The unexpected symptoms took their toll on me… Waking up in the morning and just wanting to bite someone’s head off. My eye lashes actually started to fall out for Christ sake – no one ever told me about that!!! Jesus take the wheel!!!
So I’m going to be completely transparent in this blog. I’ll tell you all my beauty regimens, makeup tips, and life hacks I’ve learned through life and from being a mother. You’ll see me working out with my good friend Charlotte Brynn in the gym. You’ll see me getting botox & fillers at Dr. Lane’s office, because no one gets older without having wrinkles. I’ll document my travels with me and my Hubby, plus lots of other things that make up my life now.
The media presents women over 50 only as grandmothers… What a joke! In this blog, you’ll see the choices I’ve made to age gracefully and live fabulously. Whether you do the same or not, I would love you to be part of the conversations going forward. This is all about women supporting other women, and trying to have some damn fun in the meantime. Hope you like it!!
With all that being said, what would you like to talk about on this blog? I’m an open book. So let me know in the comment section below!
I’m not a blogger but love to read them … this one sounds great! Love a “real” read! And from someone my age! Keeping it real!
Yes yes yes!!!!
Honesty and some real talk….
I’m all in!
Love to hear more about aging skin, menopause (pre) nonsense, all things fashion of course, and specifically for me, workout friendly makeup.
Steph! I’m loving your excitement!! You’re definitely in the right place because I’m going to be covering all those subjects! I have some great videos coming out soon that I think are right up your alley.
The workout-friendly makeup is actually a great idea for a post! I’ll work on writing that one soon:)
Thanks for the read Charlotte! It’s so nice to hear that other women, like you, are interested in talking about the topics no one seems to want to say out loud. Stay tuned we have so much more coming soon:)
Love reading blogs that a real life
Thanks for reading Rosie! 💋
I love your “about me” description. I think I have met a kindred spirit.
I subscribed and can’t wait to start reading and learning!
Sharon – Arabella
So I’m not the only woman in her 60s scratching her head and wondering what happened. Look forward to seeing what Mrs. Stafford has to tell us.
Hi Kay, thanks for reading! Let me know what topic you would like me to really go into and I will be happy to provide. I am working on a ton of projects right now, so stay tuned:)
Can’t wait to soak up all of the info! Thank you!
Thanks for reading, and hope you enjoy!!
Not liking this “getting older”business – but not in favor of the alternative, either🙄. So , any feedback on making the best of it will be appreciated 👌
Hi Lin! Thanks for calling me out on that! I also hate the phrase getting older, which I actually say in my Mindset Video under the About tab. I prefer calling it growing up;)
Learning to navigate life after a “gray” divorce. (Yes, that is the term for those of us divorcing after the age of 50). Looking forward to your posts and insight for your “gray” followers!
Thanks for reading Michelle!! We are talking to you on this blog and I hope it gives you ideas on what the next step for you can be and how to embrace and enjoy change!
I am 70 and stagnant! This sounds promising….perhaps chatter, tips, and advice will put a little lift in my step. Bring it on ladies!
I hear you Holly! We’ve all been there. It’s tough trying to keep life fresh! Check out my Intro & Mindset videos under the About tab for some tips and honest talk on this subject.
Just turned 80 but very active and still working feel good l
Hi Sandra I think we all need tips from you! Active is the way to go to stay healthy and happy. Hope you enjoy the blog!
I would like to hear about second careers, time management tips and fashion.
Hi Gayle! Thanks for the feedback and ideas. Changes and how to handle them are going to be a major focus on our blog and fashion of course is included. Hope you keep reading!
I am very interested in your blog. I am 69 years young, but I’ve been told I look younger. I am retired from the medical field, and for the last 15 year’s have been a certified group fitness instructor and a certified personal trainer at a local gym. I work out at least 5 hours a week.
I am blessed with my mother’s good skin and not yet graying hair, but I am very interested in being healthy and looking my best as I (ahem) age.
Hi Linda! What you’re doing sounds so inspiring and I feel the same way. Looking good is all about feeling good and we’ll be discussing all that on the blog. I definately want people like you to also be chiminng in with advice as well. I am working on filming some of my workouts and hoping to post them soon. Thank you so much for your feedback and hope you continue to read.
My first blog to follow. I’m excited!
Thanks for being a part of this, Katrina. I’m excited too and we’ve got some great things in the works!
Wow great timing! Today is my 60rh birthday! I’m excited to be a part of this!
Happy Belated Birthday Valerie! I just had my 60th birthday and I loved it. Thanks for following and hope you enjoy. Keep me posted on things that you would like to see discussed.
Today is October 31, and I’m 68 today. It’s been a tough year. My Mom died in January at 89, and my oldest brother died in June at 69. So much drama from family members. My heart just broke. I started going to the gym and now I’m trying to reinvent myself. Caretaking is hard especially when other family member like pointing fingers and greed. So, I know this might be a good site for me, because a lot of families go though this. I feel like I’ve aged years. It’s time to make new friends. Thank you
Hi Dolly! First of all Happy Birthday! Enjoy every minute. Life can be exhausting at times, I know I’ve been where you are right now. So excited that you are out there making changes for you now. Follow along, I think you’ll enjoy everything that we have coming up. Stay positive!
I’m 62, retired now. Married to a 53 yr old. He works long days,so I keep up with him fine. I have slowed down in the last 2 years, I had 2 small strokes 6 months apart. They never figured out why. But put me on a few meds. I want to talk about what menopause does to some women’s sex life. Mine! Dr.says atrophy..wth?! Its painful, even with lubes etc..does anyone know about estrogen progesterone and their safety.I want my sex life back. Thanks Debbie
Hi Debbie, thanks for sharing you story. We’re going to be talking about menopause and the effects it has on women. The Mindset video on the blog hits on the topic and some things I went through. I suggest you talk to your Doctor about estrogen/progesterone and what would work best for you. Hope you keep reading and commenting!
This is going to be terrific!
Hi Penny! Love you excitement!! Keep reading we have so many fun projects in the works:)
Your blog sounds simply wonderful! I turned 60 in June, married for forty with five children and nine grandchildren under the age of 7! Returned to college at age 50 to finish my degree to become an RN. Was a SAHM for 30 years and loved every minute. Please delve into the gaining weight issue. Have gained 15 pounds in the last 10 years. Need advice. Thanks!!
Happy Belated 60th Margaret! You sure are keeping busy and I love your motivation! So inspiring. I hear you on the weight gain, I along with so many women have dealt with that. We’re going to get into that and what we can do so keep checking in with us. We’ve got lots of great things coming up!
I am 65, very active and healthy fighting 2 bouts of leukenia ,happy to be alive and having fun and kicking up my heals.
But it gets to you and I desperately need a boost right now to get me the confidence to continue on this journey. I spent last 22 year fighting my health& the effect of leukemia, need some reason to keep up the fight.
Hi Barb, thanks for sharing your story, you sound like a very tough lady! I hope you enjoy the blog and I am so impressed by all the women here who are sharing their stories. You keep fighting girl and having fun! We’re going to make this a great place to share and try to help each other.
Sound wonderful. I’m having a hard time with being 60.
Thanks for reading Debbie! Stick around we’re going to make you love 60! We’ve got some great things coming up in the next few months. Let me know if you have something you’d like us to talk about.
My beauty regimen includes,……chicken coop cleaning… wood stacking…..taking care of what ever visiting hoards come in on the weekend and fitting my shower in before assisting my 89 yr old father with his morning routine! Ps…sometimes When I do manage to apply makeup…I fall asleep in it!
Hi Deirdre, thanks for reading. Wow, you’re a busy woman. Hope you’re able to take a bit of time for yourself every now and then.
Yes, yes, yes! All the questions and answers we all are thinking about and want to know some answers!!
Your honesty and willingness to share is a gift to all of us !
More please!
Thank you so much Kathy! I’m blown away by all the comments. Obviously we all have something to share so hope you keep reading and let me know what topics you’d like me to discuss.
First, teach us how to BLOG! lol
Then, how about empty nesters? I don’t want to do any more ChuckECheese, zoo or class trips. I dont want to eat chicken nuggets and buy McDonald’s kiddie meals. I dont want to go to another soccer game or cheer exhibition. How do we find new LIKE MINDED friendships ???
Hi Donna, well follow along because I’m learning how to blog by myself trial & error! My husband and I are empty nesters too and it’s great! No more chicken nuggets for us either. These are great times so enjoy them together and we’ve met new friends along the way. Have fun and thanks for following. Hope you continue!
I’ve just turn 63. And let my gray come in. Should I colored it like yours and what color you used. Also my eyebrow has gotten thinner. How can I pencil it in like yours. Thank you
Hi Maria – I went platinum because it worked for my skin tone. Talk to your hairdresser and find out what would look beautiful on you! Also, my first video I did for the blog was on doing my eyebrows, check it out and hope it helps!
I think this is going to be an awesome blog. It will be nice to have someone understand the aging process at the same stage as I am.
Hi Diana! Thanks for following along. We have so many great ideas for 2019 based on all the responses. Hope you enjoy!
I enjoyed your first blog. I will be 60 in March. I’ve gone thru some very difficult struggles in the past 12 years. Now I have new ones since July I gained 20 lbs in places I never had excess before. I’ve always been active but due to herniated disks in my neck and ruptured disks in lower back, waking, yoga , crunches and every day cleaning have almost impossible. I also was never good about doing my make up. Money is vert tight. Any and all advise is appreciated.
Hi Billie, I’m so happy you found our blog! We’re going to be dealing with weight gain in relation to menapause in our follow up to this post. I will give you all the ideas of where to start and my own personal experince. We will also be posting three videos about exercise from beginner to a little more advanced. And don’t worry I will also continue to post all about important makeup questions! Please let me now your thoughts and hope you enjoy!
Where did you find that wonderful pink sweater? It is gorgeous!
Hi Linda! That cozy pink sweater is from one of my favorite brands, J.Crew:)
Absolutely love it!! I am also a new blogger and a woman of a certain age! I look forward to your posts.
Hi CarolAnn! Love that your blogging too! I hope you enjoy what we have lined up for 2019!
I don’t normally like “blogs” but I like what you’ve stated already. I’m 69 and love my age. I don’t understand when women make a negative statement about their age. I’m not crazy what aging is doing to my body. But It beats the alternative. I’ve been a caretaker for my husband since he had his first heart attack at age 29 and almost died. Along with his other health issues we are both hanging in there. I’m a breast cancer survivor also. I’m amazed at the way young people think older women can’t have fun or really enjoy being a senior. I can hold my own on a dance floor. I’ve been taking ballroom dance for many years and love it. So blog on. 😁
Hi Linda! Wow, you’re a boss! I can see you have lots on your plate but love your attitude! I completely agree with you that being of a certain age does not stop women from feeling confident and having fun. That’s a big part of why I started this blog, and I’m happy you feel the same way. We have some great things in store for 2019 so I hope you enjoy. Keep dancing!!
I will turn a young 70 in 2019 and have recently become single, by choice. Life is what it is and I don’t want to ruminate over all the bad stuff from the past – because it wasn’t all bad. I want to look forward to the new adventures, friends, experiences that life has in store for me!!
With this being said, I would love advice on makeup for mature ladies, exercise tips for a less than perfect torso, and hair color/style tips!! I am an avid reader, love to garden, & a member of my neighborhood association. I try to keep active but at least one day a week I become a slug and do nothing but read😊…..looking forward to seeing posts from you!!
Hi Vickie! I love your attitude. Looking forward is the best way to go through life. We’re literally going to be covering all these topics and more with the new year. I’m so excited to share all the new projects we are working on with you ladies. This month we will be focusing on working out and weight gain so stay tuned! I hope you enjoy and let me know your thoughts going forward!
Looking forward to a great read. I am 59 so I hope there will be articles I can relate to. Excited for you and all of us that will be reading .
Hi Linda, thank you so much! We have so many great things for 2019 that I think will be very relatable to the community of women who have joined the conversation. Keep me posted on what you think and thanks for following!
Love it!
Just found your blog… I am 60 yrs old also and so happy to finally find a site for woman my age! Thanks … looking forward to relating to things that woman my age want to know about!
Hi Patti! Thank you so much for the kind words. I hope you enjoy the things we have planned for 2019. Keep me posted on your thoughts and what you would like to see!
I’d like to hear about depression I seem to be in the thick of it and unable to get out.
Hi Kim! I’m so sorry but I’ve been there too. We have a new post along with some expert advice dealing with exactly what your going through. Let me know what you think and hang in there! You are not alone!!
I can’t tell how many times I’ve asked myself the question, “Why aren’t women talking about this stuff?” It’s real and we’re all going through or will go through it! I’ll be 52 in a couple months and I’m so tired of the generic, sell me something answers I get when I Google what are the best supplements for menopause relief, or what’s the #1 lubricant rated by women, what’s the best moisturizer, etc. I’d love to see us ban together, helping one another, reinforcing to women of all ages what it means to be a woman and loving who you are no matter what your age is. I’ve waited my whole life to be this age and I’m going to enjoy it:) I’m so ready to be transparent about what I’ve learned and so open to the wisdom other women have to share. Let’s get talking!!!
I love it Robbin!! I feel exactly the same way you do. It’s time for us to band together and help each other with the things that we’re all going through. I love your outlook and hope you continue sharing your positive energy. Thank you for reading and I hope you keep letting us know your thoughts too!
Whoop whoop!! Excited to be on board. My husband has cancer and I’m losing myself being his caretaker. He just turned 60 and I’m 2 years behind. I need help and just maybe I can offer help.
Whoop whoop!! Excited to be on board. My husband has cancer and I’m losing myself being his caretaker. He just turned 60 and I’m 2 years behind. I need help and just maybe I can offer help.
There is always a better way!
I just turned 60 three days ago. I came across your blog today on FB, I’m looking at as fate. I love all that your saying and giving info. Looking forward to more people insight and tips. Wishing you and your followers a good day 😊
First of all I think it is coincidental that your blog name is Mrs. stafford as I was just telling my daughter about the “Stafford Wives” the other day. 😬. In the Fall of 2017, we lost our son in a tragic motorcycle accident and I am having a hard time getting my “sparkle” back. Along with being in my mid-60’s and all the stuff that comes with that, I want to feel beautiful again. Now more than ever I celebrate each day of life and want the “beauty” obsession to come from a deeper place than just outward appearances. Looking forward to sharing our experiences and gaining a network of support and encouragement in this journey of staying vital to life. I think we all deserve a big metal of honor!
I’d like age-appropriate makeup tips, among other thing mentioned by other commenters. I don’t want to look painted up, rather just embrace and enhance my natural beauty and age well.
I have never read a blog but this one caught my eye. I read your info and thought “why not”. I am ready to change a lot about my life and I am 65, I am scared but I need to be happy for the rest of my years. Let’s journey together.
Well, this just came across my feed on FB…so a little behind in time… heck, I’m not even sure what a blog is..but….I about to find out! I think this is a great idea! Kudos Mrs. Stafford!
Just glad to see it f you have any of my age related questions issues, and if you did anything in your younger years that you regret or is taboo today. Also make up and dermatology info 👍🏼
Yea!!!Im 60 and excited for someone of my age to share thoughts, ideas
So happy I found this blog!
Me too!! Welcome and hope you enjoy;)
This sounds interesting. Not sure what I am wanting to learn more about, but I know I want to be a part of this group.
Would love to be apart of your blog! This will be my first.
Thanks for starting this blog! Need info on physical exercise for women 65 and over. I want to feel good about my body again.
Thanks
So excited about finding your blog. You look adorable! What a great haircut and style for you and it looks like a “no fuss” do. Would love to see the “before” version. Keep inspiring and motivating. Sometime I need a pep talk when weighed down with the unexpected realities of life such as dealing with an aging parent, coping with unexpected financial burdens to go along with that, and the realization that we are now replacing that generation we are seeing pass away.
This is so awesome!
Thank You!
This is a great idea! Thank you.
Would love to see and hear more about this. I’m new to blogs and not sure how to keep up with it but want to figure it out. I think you look adorable and love your style
Sounds wonderful to me. I’m now 70, never expected to live this long!(And yes, had I known, I would have taken better care of myself!Lol! Would love to hear all you have to say & have & are experiencing! You will have a loyal follower! Please notify of any new texts by email! Thx
How do I get to read this blog everyday
I’m going to enjoy being part of this blog. Menopause was and is awful. I’m never feeling great any day of the week. Aches where I never knew there were places. Dr just keeps saying your blood work is fine so keep doing what your doing? What in hell am I doing but suffering. I am 65 and would like to feel somewhat human. To sleep a entire night and not feel so awful. After reading many comments I already know that there is alight at the end of this tunnel. Thank you for having this blog.
Looking forward to reading, watching and learning new tips for women my age.
I, so, agree with everything you said. I work with much younger women. Your comments made me know I can still offer things to others!
I’m now 65. I’ve let my hair go naturally gray. I get so many compliments on how beautiful my hair is and how beautiful I am! Thanks for your site!
Please notify me of everything new Thank you
I simply want to know how to sign up to Mrs Stafford’s posts. Not acquainted with posting and reading them at all, subject matter fascinates me.
Please sign me up! Would love to hear everything new. Thank you!
Most weight gained during menopause is not hormonal. It’s all the wine being drunk. I weigh less than I did in high school (120lbs and 5’7” then) but I don’t have a glass of wine the size of my head in my hand all the time.
I would love to be in your community
Divorce after 60
Hello there. Looking forward to reading your blog and being part of your Community!! I’m 69 and sometimes wonder how on earth did I get to this place in time?? I’ve done some of everything…….right and wrong and have some scars to show for those 69 years. But GOD has brought me through and to this place!! And if he allows….I plan to be the best I’ve ever been ….going forward.
Looking forward to joining this blog
Would love to hear about great products for aging women. Also hobbies & interests for women over 60. And women over 60 starting businesses.
Where do I read this? Emails or instagram? Am interested in hairstyles for our age, thinning hair and wigs and of course fashion, travel and makeup.
Thank you for leading a group regarding real women after 60 who are still full of life and want to live a real life like everyone else.
Looking forward to following you.
Loving your concept! Raw, real and innovative. Just turned 60, sommelier in a man’s world.
Hi, I watched your video about Botox and found it very informative, since I am seriously considering it. I am 74 & have always took an interest in my appearance & people say much younger looking than my years. However, I recently had cataract surgery done on one eye & it caused my under eye, eye brow & cheek to droop. Hopefully, the Botox would help to even out my face again. My question to you Mrs. Stanford, you had what appears 2 vials of Botox done. Can you give a novice an idea of cost?
Hi
I would love to hear about making friends; relocating; dating … all of those things. Retiring… reinventing oneself…. everything!
First I love your blog!
Let’s talk about urinary inconvenience. Is that tabu?
Count me in! Sounds like fun …
Finding your Blog is so y to timely for me. There has always been “The Four of Us”! I never gave a thought to life’s interference and that one of us or some of us wouldn’t always be around. We are down to three…one has recently been diagnosed with glioblastoma, one has advanced Parkinson’s Disease and one (me) has a little of everything. I need to read about the I’ve been there and know how you feel from others’ points of view. Not therapy…real experiences from real women.
Thank you for producing a blog for the in-depth. I’m in!!!
I just turned 60! I’m looking at this moment as one to develop my life with children out on their own.
I will soon become a GiGi which I know will be something of joy.
I want to enjoy the many new aspects to this time while developing myself and thriving.
One big prayer for me is for true, lifelong dependable friends to become an integral part of my tribe.
Keeping myself and my door open to that heart’s desire. Bring on the suggestions!
So happy to have found a forum to connect with relatable people with a virtual hug!
Adriana
Hi, I’m looking forward to being part of this community.
I’m interested in your blog. However, I believe you may want to talk to the audience that live on a tight budget, that may have to shop sales racks, shop at Walmart, etc. This is an audience I believe deserve helpful tips and encouragement they’re doing the best the can with what the can afford.
Very exciting project! When I retired 4 years ago at age 70, I found I had to do a complete reinvention of my wardrobe. Not all at once, of course, but over the course of the last four years I’ve morphed from a corporate image into a more free-flowing boho type. I love it! I’ll bet a lot of women are faced with this prospect and would appreciate some guidance. Good luck!
Looking forward to your blog
I’m in my mid 70’s and trying to be as active
as I can be with walking, chair yoga, President of an organization that gives scholarships to women plus I love to do all kinds of handiwork, love gardening and am in two book groups. I would love to hear what others are doing and reading. Also, how to deal with husbands that just want to sit and read and not participate much in life
Looking forward to enjoying and following your blog, a first for me. I’ll be 70 in March and have never allowed myself to spoil me, evidently that quality never entered my DNA. Thankfully your blog introduction caught my eye this morning on my Instagram feed which is only social media I allow myself to follow (because my upfront opinions got me in Facebook prison LOL). BLESSNGS AND HAPPY THANKSGIVING
You’re fabulous! Especially with your encouraging words about it never being too late to pursue whatever you aspire to! I published my first novel, The Red Coat -A Novel of Boston (480 pages) at age 68! And I hope this is an encouragement to “woman of a certain age” 😉 aspiring to become a writer. You can do it!✨ Blessings on your path!✨
Yes very interested to read your blog. Women after 50 become invisible. I’m 62 and trying to be the best me! My list is long:Tips on getting ready to retire, 2nd careers/business, crepy skin, tummy pooch, thinning hair, sparse eyebrows, blending families, long term gray dating ( 10 yrs! didn’t want to blend families lol) gray weddings (almost kid free) adult children that won’t adult, decluttering and combining homes after 18 yrs of single hood, marriage after 60, elderly parents/kids/ sandwich generation. I got a lot on my mind lol
Hello
I’m curious to hear your take on “life after 60.”
I want to stay strong, for as long as I can, even though my body is betraying me. I don’t want to prematurely become the Grandmother who only sits and reads with her grandkids! Lol