ByKat Hours Updated
Comments 214 Comments

Weekend Open Thread

This post may contain affiliate links and Corporette® may earn commissions for purchases made through links in this post. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

black weighted vest (12 lbs)

Something on your mind? Chat about it here.

I think I've mentioned this vest before, but I don't think we've done a feature on it for Weekend Open Thread — I really do like this weighted vest I got for walks!

I haven't been running as much lately because my knees, and timing (and, honestly, the binding bras I need for running aren't conducive to my procrastinate-until-you-exercise mindset, ha) — but I am liking going on casual walks. I like that walking is a weight bearing exercise, but I liked the idea of having a little bit of an extra weight on my back, so when I first heard about weighted vests for hot girl walks, I decided to bite the bullet and try it.

I don't have any complaints about my ZELUS vest! I got 12 lbs because that seemed like a good amount — I've heard you should not go more than 10% of your bodyweight, for what that's worth. It fastens securely with the front strap, isn't terribly hot, and fits nicely beneath a jacket if you don't want to look completely weird to your less-online neighbors.

The vest is under $35 if you want 12 lbs or under, but prices go up if you want 16 lbs, 20 lbs, 25 lbs, or 30 lbs.

Psst: here's how it went when we set up a walking pad for our home!

Sales of note for 4/17:

  • Nordstrom – Beauty savings event, up to 25% off – nice price on Black Honey
  • Ann Taylor – Cyber Spring! 50% off everything + free shipping
  • Boden – 25% off everything (thru Sun, then 15% off)
  • Brooklinen – 25% off sitewide — we have and love these sateen sheets
  • Evereve – 1000+ items on sale, including lots from Alex Mill, Michael Stars, Sanctuary, Rails, Xirena, and Z-Supply
  • Express – $29 dresses
  • J.Crew – 30% off all dresses
  • J.Crew Factory – Up to 60% off everything, and extra 50% off clearance
  • Lands' End – 50% off full price styles and 60% off all clearance and sale – lots of ponte dresses come down under $25, and this packable raincoat in gingham is too cute
  • Loft – Friends & Family event, 50% off entire purchase + free shipping
  • Macy's – 25% off already reduced prices + 15% off beauty & fragrance
  • M.M.LaFleur – Spring Sale Event – Buy More, save more! 10% off $250+, 15% off $500+, 20% off $750+, 25% off $1000+ (Try code CORPORETTE15 for 15% off if you find any exclusions.)
  • Sephora – Spring sale! 20%, 15%, or 10% off depending on your membership tier; ends 4/20. Here's everything I recommend in the sale!
  • Talbots – Spring sale! 40% off + extra 15% off all markdowns
  • TOCCIN – Use code CORPORETTE15 for 15% off!
  • Vivrelle – Looking to own less stuff but still try trends? Use code CORPORETTE for a free month, and borrow high-end designer clothes and bags!

214 Comments

  1. I’ve been invited to a prom-themed networking event in DC. I am a client of the invitee (a law firm partner). I come from tech and am used to a fairly flexible dress code. Is this lawyer prom event truly expecting attendees to wear prom attire? If so I am very excited. Dress code is formal.

    1. You’re not talking about the Tax Foundation event, are you? “Tax prom?” That’s definitely black tie optional – wear a sequin evening gown if you like – I have in the past!

    2. If it’s a policy-related “Prom” event (Health Prom, Tax Prom, etc.), it’s not literally prom themed. I’d say women’s attire varies from cocktail to black tie optional. Most men will show up in suits indistinguishable from their general business attire, maybe with a more festive tie.

        1. They’re not the official name – Health Prom’s officially called the “Health Policy Ball.” They’re generally fundraisers to comply with various laws. But many industries have them and they’re just nicknamed ‘prom’ because there are a lot of DC ‘galas’ and the ‘proms’ are different because they usually aren’t on a work night and people usually fancier attire. It varies WIDELY by industry though.

    3. Look at pictures from last year’s event, of participants and not the board.

    4. If this is the CDT’s tech prom, very few people actually dress in “prom” attire. Most come straight from work, in usual business garb. Enjoy!

  2. Every woman in my neighborhood between the ages of 40 and 59 is wearing one of these vests while walking a large dog and wearing head-to-toe Lululemon. Including me. I like being able to pretend that I am getting exercise while walking my slow senior dog who likes to stop and sniff everything.

    1. I feel like this would result in some niggling alignment injury if I tried it. IDK, I weigh 20 pounds more than I did at 35, does that count?

      1. Yeah, the same people telling us that gaining weight will destroy our knees are now telling us we need to wear weighted vests. Sorry, not buying it.

        3. THANK YOU!!!!

          I said this in our mom chat. They all said I was wrong. Please can someone explain how physics is altered by the weight not being your own?

          Also, I walk up the stairs near my home. It’s 100 steps or so and it’s just as effective.

          1. It’s exactly the same. If anything it’s better when the weight is your own because you gain it over time and your body adjusts. I guess a vest is less of a burden because you don’t carry it all the time, but that can also make you more prone to injuries because you might make weird postural changes to compensate. As someone who has always been injury prone, there’s no way I’d use one of these.

          2. I’m not a weighted vest fan myself but it seems pretty obvious that as far as your knees are concerned, carrying extra weight all the time is very different than carrying it for a brief workout. I also think the distribution of weight is probably relevant and your shoulders do a lot of the carrying with a vest.

    2. The news round today up has an article from the 19th indicating that as of now, there is no scientific evidence to support that they increase bone density. You do you, but personally I don’t plan to get on this train. I’ll stick with my traditional weight class.

    3. One of my friends was wearing a weighted vest while walking her dog and got pulled too hard and ended up injuring her knee on one side and needed to get PT. So, please be aware that wearing a vest carries some additional risks.

  3. How do you and your partner reset or change things up when you are feeling stagnant? We’ve been married 14 years, have a 5 and 9 year old. They go to bed by 8pm and that’s the only time we have to spend together. But by that time we are both so mentally worn out and not really feeling like talking or being together in any meaningful way. I will typically read for 45 min while he does some exercise and then we watch a show in bed before one of us falls asleep, usually by 9:45. I know this is not helping our marriage but we can’t seem to get out of this rut. Date nights happen sometimes, but not enough to really shake things up. We have no local family. I don’t know, I guess I miss excitement in my life and he used to be part of that excitement. Now I feel boring and bored and I think he probably feels the same. We love each other and things are going well overall in our lives–good paying jobs, great kids, nice house–but both struggle with depression and anxiety, which I suppose contributes to the issue. How do you and your partner spend your evenings? How do you keep it from feeling mundane?

    1. I don’t have an answer for the evenings since that’s what we’re doing too (young baby), but I find that doing an exciting hobby together helps so much to see the fun and excitement that brought us together in the first place. We ski and mountain bike together and it helps SO much. Apparently there is research showing that adrenaline mimics arousal, too.

      So – find an active date idea and a babysitter!

    2. Weeknights are hard, you’re not alone in this. What are your weekends like? Even reconnecting over a cup of coffee while the kids watch Saturday morning TV helps us, though it’s definitely not exciting. IDK, unless you have a lot of outside support, it’s hard to be exciting as a couple during this phase.

      1. At ages 5 and 9, though, I think it’s time (as the OP is doing) to address it and not just call it a phase.

        1. I agree with this. You are still kind of in a little-kid stage, but 5 and 9 are more than old enough to entertain themselves for periods of time, or to be able to handle more adventure. Can you revisit some old hobbies or new thrilling activities as a family, like a ropes course or hiking? And on Saturday evenings, send the kids off or set them up with a movie and have a cocktail hour with frozen apps and drink of choice and chat with your spouse.

          I will also put in a plug for reading some spicier books about relationships. I am not really a romance person at all, though I do enjoy some Emily Henry and the like. I am reading a book now called This Summer Will be Different by Carley Fortune and I’m not sure what has come over me but I am craving my husband this week! Normally I am the queen of low libido and have no interest, but this book has hit all the right notes for me I guess (I didn’t feel this way about her other books, but this one is great).

          1. Just as a counterpoint, I’ve actually found this stage can be harder in terms of connection than the little kid phase. School age kids need you much less when they’re awake, but little kids sleep so much more. My elementary schoolers have a 9 pm bedtime which is basically my own bedtime too so we don’t really have long evenings after they’re in bed.
            And yes, bigger kids can do more fun weekend stuff, but they also have their own activities and social calendars. 3 year olds do whatever their parents want to do, 9 year olds have sports games and friend parties they really care about attending. It’s much much more fun having bigger kids, but I find myself absolutely exhausted by weekends now in a way I didn’t when the kids were 6 & under.
            I’m not saying don’t work on improving things, but the gut reaction of “you’re out of the baby/toddler stage, it should be easy now” doesn’t ring true to me.

          2. That’s fair! My kids are ages 1-10 so I find myself thinking often about all the fun we “could be” having if I had only older kids…and my kids don’t consistently sleep through the night until at least age 3, so we get much less sleep with babies and toddlers (and since we are all on big kid schedule now, its 9:30 bedtime for all of them!) But I see how my experience is not universal.

            We do, however, limit activities because I have no interest in running myself ragged, and I don’t think it’s good for us as a family unit either. Kids get to each do 1, maybe 2, extracurriculars each season. If kid activities are straining anyone’s marriage, that IS something within your control (to an extent)! At least at the middling ages of 5 and 9; I know that high schoolers are a different ballgame

          3. We don’t overload on activities or do travel ball or anything but even 1-2 activities per kid per season leads to a lot of running around on weekends. My kids were preschoolers during Covid so that may have been a factor, but I think many people skip formal activities in preschool and feel less need for play dates at that age, so weekends can be a lot calmer if you only have little kids. I definitely think it’s the best thing for my kids to let them see their friends and do activities now that they’re in elementary school so I have no regrets about our choices, and like I said I find life more fun now, but also a lot more exhausting.

    3. You need a project you can work on together. Could you do puzzles every once in a while or something along those lines?

    4. You’ve just got to create the life you want. This calls for regular date nights, a regular babysitter or similar (do a co-op with other parents to get a free night or two). Start entertaining or going places. Get a sitter who can do overnights. Make a special dinner for the two of you once a week that’s ready at 8 (takeout works too). Just use your imagination and do it.

      1. I’m guessing if the childcare issue were that easy to solve, she would’ve done it already. I know you’re trying to help, but I’ve been there, too, and … it’s not always a matter of not trying hard enough.

        1. I didn’t say it was easy but it is necessary. I’ve actually been there and done that. The best way to avoid divorcing is to stay connected and committed to an interesting life together and that takes work. The best thing you can do is stop assuming, like stop assuming childcare will be hard. Ask around, there’s more resources than you realize. Maybe you’ll save a little less money but it will be cheaper than a divorce. If something is important, you put the effort in.

          1. I tend to agree (and my baby isn’t yet 1). We haven’t gotten a babysitter at night yet but I know it’s very possible to find one (no local family either). Sometimes the inertia problem in motherhood is more significant than the logistics.

        2. Yes and no. I have similar-enough aged kids and while we don’t have an easy babysitter to turn to that’s largely because we haven’t made that effort. I don’t think it’s impossible to find someone to watch the kids twice a month and it’s much easier to commit to this when it’s a plan made in advance vs. a last-minute scramble.

          Some other small things that I’d recommend, OP:
          – maybe once in a while, skip dinner with the kids and order take out for after they’ve gone to bed. At this stage of life, sushi delivery and some wine can feel exciting!
          – if sushi isn’t an option, maybe try tapas night at home. Lots of little appetizers that are easy to put out and a nice bottle of wine can be really fun. How much you actually cook is up to you. You can easily do this with just frozen TJ apps & some ham and cheese.
          – lunch dates if you can make that work. Even a couple of times a month is amazing.
          – see if you can put the kids in a kids’ club of some kind and go have dinner. Everyone will be happy and it won’t be a big production.

      1. Ha! I didn’t read the comments and just typed ‘get into bed naked’

        Absolutely agree with you.

    6. My husband and I were pretty irregular in bed, but then he got snipped and I was able to get off birth control and life is definitely more romantic and fun since my drive has gone up.

      1. Yep, we have showers together. And even if it doesn’t end in gardening, it ends in closeness which helps.

      2. You never met my almost-ex husband. Then again, my friends think he bats from the opposite side of the plate so….

    9. When our child was in school, ex-H and I would celebrate our anniversary and birthdays by taking off work on a weekday, so we didn’t need to get a babysitter. We would have a nice lunch (and as a bonus, lunch is usually less expensive than dinner), sometimes go to a movie or museum, and have some alone time at home when we weren’t both exhausted.

    10. This is a hard stage for a marriage with young kids. My kids are now teens but for many years we were just hanging on and barely making it to bed and collapsing at the end of the night haha. Now I really appreciate our boring evenings together. We try and go for a walk every evening. Sometimes with our kids and sometimes without. We have a couple of shows we watch together so we usually watch an episode or two. We also like to play the NYT games together and words with friends so that is part of our evening routine. It is really important to us that we go to bed at the same time. That helps with intimacy for us. We also both like to do arts and crafts, so we will paint together or he will do a puzzle while I do embroidery. It is far less exciting than when we were in our 20’s but in our mid-40’s it is nice. We do a lot of traveling and also get out of the house often on the weekends with friends, we go dancing sometimes or to live music or hiking or camping (with our kids and sometimes without), but during the weeknights, I just want to chill. My job is busy, my kids are busy and I need to rest.

    11. You have 1.75 hours between the kids going to bed and falling asleep. Can you dedicate 20 minutes of that time to hanging out and doing something fun together? We have a dart board in our basement and so we’ll head down there and play a round of darts (often betting something small, like taking out the trash or unloading the dishwasher to keep it entertaining). I’m not a TV person, but we nominally watch a show together (I’ll be on the couch with him doing whatever – knitting or reading or scrolling); we almost always end up cuddling during this time – the physical closeness helps connect us too.

      We try for a biweekly date night. We get a sitter almost every Saturday night and alternate between doing something with our friends or having a date night. Even on nights we are seeing friends, we’ll often grab 1 drink before just ourselves for a “mini date”.

      If we don’t have a sitter or couldn’t get a date night planned, we’ll do an “at home date”. We can do this on a weekend afternoon or after the kids go to bed – if we do it when the kids are awake we’ll lovingly tell them to scram or set them up with a movie. We’ll build a fire (in the fire place or the fire pit, depending on time of year), have a drink and some snacks (appetizers, dessert, depending on timing) and just enjoy. Lighting a fire and enjoying a drink in a fun glass always feels more special than a random Tuesday or Sunday would.

      We don’t do any housework or actual work after kids bedtime. After dinner/before bed we all take 10 mins (I set a timer) to clean up. There’s a list on the fridge with assignments and everyone does their assigned task til the timer goes off. What’s done is done.

      We try to make a point of kissing each other goodbye in the morning and hello in the evening. Sometimes its a quick peck and sometimes he’ll hold me for a few minutes. Once again – just making sure we’re connecting physically even if its not in a gardening way.

      I have hobbies (both that I do with him and without him) that I find exciting. They make me feel bad@ss, which makes me feel exciting and interesting. I love crazy trail runs, and while I no longer race ultras, I do still trail run at least once a weekend. We hike as a family, which isn’t the same but is still fun. I still do 1-2 sprint tris a year, that makes me feel exciting. I read a lot of both fiction and non fiction – I love to learn new things and that also makes me feel “cool”.

    13. As someone who babysat for 30 years: make a regular date. You absolutely need time together, away from the house, even if it’s just to go to Home Depot.

    14. About once a week, DH and I will play Monopoly Deal (card game) or Ticket to Ride (board game). It gets us looking at each other and connecting, even if we’re too fried from work to engage in deep conversation.

  4. After many years in a rough relationship, I am trying to build new habits and thoughts. My therapist helped me with a list. One is fashion, which brought me here. I have worn baggy, shapeless midi dresses since getting married in college, for work often paired with a blazer and flats. Pants still feel odd but I hope to try them outside of work to see if I like them. My office is business/business casual. I would like to find some dresses that maybe cinch in towards the waist but are still professional. I have been wearing a size 6-8 and tailoring the neck and armholes. My close friend had me try on a 2 and tells me that is what fits. It feels so different but I want to try a couple at home and see if I can get more comfortable. Looking for
    – not deep V neck
    – not turtleneck (I have a lot of those)
    – not skintight
    – has a sleeve, prefer short/elbow or 3/4
    – could pair with a black top layer if I need more coverage, like a sweater or blazer.

    I am overwhemled googling. I am mid 30s if it helps. I have some anxiety trying things on in stores. Any ideas appreciated. $400 for 3 nice dresses would be my goal. Also, if anyone else has gone through a style transition like this with deep-rooted thoughts about what is OK to wear, I would appreciate thoughts or advice!

    2. I’d try a major department store and look at brands like DKNY, INC, Maggy London. Good luck!

    4. It sounds like there may be some religious underpinnings to your concept of what fits and looks appropriate. I grew up in something that might be similar, and it took me a long time to retrain my eye, so to speak. If you think you wear an 8, and your friend says you wear a 2, your eye also needs to be retrained. Will this friend go shopping with you? If not, do you have an Evereve store near you? I’ve found their grown-up employees to be helpful in putting outfits together for fashion novices. I really think you need to pick a real store with mid-life ladies working the floor, put yourself in their hands and let them help. A small store with a variety of options (I know I keep describing Evereve; I am sure there are others; Ann Taylor maybe?) would be a great first step. I wouldn’t order a bunch of stuff online; you need real-life help.

      1. Talbots might be a good option for this as well – their salespeople tend to be very helpful, and their clothes are decidedly not sexy and appropriate for work. You won’t get anything really fashion forward but it will be more fitted than it sounds like you are used to. Good luck and have fun!

        1. Talbots and Evereve are both great places to start. Personal shopper at Nordstrom or Bloomingdale’s if they have big stores in your location. In person will definitely be best.

      1. Yes – this and mmlafleur has one called the etsuko I think with sleeves, you can wear cinched with belt or without.

        For affordable dresses I’ve always really liked maggy london, Eliza J, and Donna Ricco. All are Macy’s or TJMaxx or Rack type brands.

    6. There are flattering, fashionable outfits that don’t show much skin! A-line shapes are great for this. Try the three quarter sleeve crew neck dresses from Eliza J. Alexia Admor at Nordstrom Rack has some fairly modest but cute dresses. If you’re wearing a non-sheath midi dress I think cropped lady jackets look better than a standard length blazer.

    7. I’ve gone through a similar (though less extreme) style change, and I am excited for you! I am mid-30s, post-divorce, and when I was married I was a bit of a frumpy dresser. What helped for me was first ordering clothes online in a smaller size than I normally buy and never thought I’d wear out and trying them on and taking some pictures of myself at home. Then, I basically did exposure therapy to realize that no one is judging or leering or whatever I might be afraid of. Either leaving the house for a short amount of time or going out with a friend as my emotional support hype person helped a lot.

      Also, as you go about your life, just notice what people are wearing. I think you’ll be surprised how revealing some people dress and you don’t even really notice, because it’s truly not a big deal.

      Now I’m comfortable wearing mini skirts or tiny little shirts out, and my confidence is going through the roof. I hope you have a similar experience!

    8. I just wanted to say thank you for the responses so far. I was nervous to ask and probably a little ashamed, too. I will keep checking back and really appreciate the helpful suggestions. My eye is definitely not trained (and I had to look up the brands, A-line etc.) but it makes sense so far!

      1. Consider getting some belts, if you’re not ready to buy a dress with a cinched waist. You can always adjust or remove the vest.

        You’re really brave! I’m making my own lifestyle changes after a mid-life divorce and it’s a journey- you’re doing great!

    9. Co-signing Talbots. I’m a modest dresser and they usually have some good classic styles. I’m loving the gray scallop sleeve sweater dress they have right now.

      Nic+Zoe has some gorgeous shirtdresses (Olivia, Juni) that would pair perfectly with a black layer.

      Rooting for you! This is hard. tell us how it goes.

    10. I was lost as regards dress-sense after covid and years of working from home and not seeing what people out and about were wearing. Watching many many videos on MM Personal Styling on YouTube has helped enormously. She gives incredible advice on how to make the most of your own body shape, whatever that is, and emphasises the importance of looking ‘current’. I also appreciate that she goes to typical high street stores. I’d suggest this kind of research alongside real-life shopping. Good luck!’

  5. what are your best products that address uneven skin tone or small dark spots (that actually work)? already using vitamin C and sunscreen, although I was out of my vitamin C for the last 2 weeks.

    1. I have rosacea and uneven skin. What has helped the most is Paula’s Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster.

    2. For dark spots you want niacinimide and hydroquinone. To increase the speed of cell turnover (skin tone) you want a retinol/retinoid. You can go an online pharmacy as you really need high concentrations to see an impact. Musely has a formula that does both and has good reviews. Otherwise – look for a high niacinimide serum plus OTC retinol (ROC, Differin, etc.).

    3. Coleman Compound (arbutase) for dark spots and uneveness. Find Mrs.Derm on IG and do what she tells you

      1. +1 to this BUT if you have sensitive skin go slowly. I’m using it twice a week at the moment as my entire face molted like a lizard after trying to use it daily (yes, I slather on sunscreen, it just caused peeling, no burns).

        1. but if she’s selling the product (or her husband is) is she really a good source for whether it works?

    4. Honestly, just get IPL and use topicals for maintenance. It is not that expensive, only minimally painful, and makes a huge difference.

      1. Where do you get your IPL and can you share how long it takes and the cost per session?

      2. This is the way. I get a BBL and Moxi combo 3 times a year (November, December and January). The rest of the year I maintain my results with creams and serums. Obviously, no improvements will last without a strict sun care regimen.

        1. wow! can i ask how old you were when you started it? i’m 48 so wondering if i’m too old already (have never done botox)

          1. I started with BBL around 40. Moxi is a newer treatment so I only added that in the last year (plus). Before that, sometimes I’d have a glycolic peel with the BBL. I’m 49 now and without trying to sound obnoxious, I look younger/better than I peers. It’s never too late to feel great about yourself!

      3. +1. I tried various serums for years with minimal results; when I finally did laser and saw what it took from that to finally get rid of my spot that was bugging me it was laugh out loud that I thought a serum would achieve the same results. Happily has stayed away with an annual maintenance session. (Agreed on sun avoidance though).
        OP, I don’t think it matters what age you start lasers for spots?

    5. Go to a dermatologist and get a prescription for hydroquinone. Also you can consider laser treatments.

  6. I wanted to recommend a new-ish(?), at least new-to-me, product that’s great at removing makeup. Dickinson’s Witch Hazel now has a micellar water makeup remover that’s great with foundation and mascara. It’s got the witch hazel, aloe, and a long list of bad ingredients it doesn’t include.

    Anyways, just thought I’d recommend it here because witch hazel is such a great, old fashioned product. The company’s been family-owned for like 200 years and still collects their plants locally in Connecticut where they’re based. You can find them at big box stores, generally on the bottom shelves, but I found the micellar water on the river site. (I’m bad, I know!)

  7. Help me figure out my face cleaning routine on a typical workday when I have mascara and other make up on? Right now it’s bioderma micellar water on a round cotton pad. It takes easily 4-5 of those pads to get it all off, esp the mascara. Then I wash with my Cerave and proceeds with the rest of the evening moisturizing etc.

    What else could I be doing to make this less (figuratively) painful? The mascara removal is such a b****. It is waterproof (Benefit BANG!) – should I not be using waterproof? I’m due to buy a new tube so could make a switch soon.

    1. Try Tarte or Thrive’s tubing mascara – both stay on all day and come right off with a bit of water.

    2. Is there a particular reason you aren’t using cleansing oil? The asian brands will take off waterproof makeup much more easily. You apply on dry skin, run gently to loosen makeup, and then wash off. My personal choice is the Kose Softymo Speedy Cleansing Oil as it’s cheap, has a pump, and doesn’t sting my eyes. Banila clean it zero is also great and I use it for travel as it’s a ‘solid’.

      1. +1 to Kose Softymo Speedy Cleansing Oil, you can get it on Amazon for $10-12. It emulsifies much better than micellar water, and I find that is just enough extra power to take off sunscreen and makeup.

      2. Another vote for a cleansing oil or balm. I like the E.L.F. balm, which removes makeup easily and doesn’t break me out.

      3. Clinique’s take the day off is so good for this, removes everything and then I use a gentle cleanser. Banila is a good dupe.

    3. Switch to reusable pads to make the process better for the environment. Etsy has a million options.

      And if you don’t need waterproof, stick with regular. You know if you’re a weepy or sweaty person for whom waterproof is necessary.

      Consider switching makeup removers to something that can actually cut through waterproof mascara more quickly than 4-5 pads.

      1. I used to use the cotton pads from the drugstore, then got a set of flannel ones (one side flannel one side light cotton)from Etsy…game changer with micellar water. It was a pack of 20 & they’re going on 4 years old…that’s a lot of waste no longer being made plus cost$!
        I wash the pad with a bit of soap after use, then launder with any load of wash. They are great. I use regular mascara.

    4. Definitely try switching from waterproof! Even removers designed for waterproof makeup require so much tugging and dragging on delicate eye skin. I only wear waterproof for events where I’m likely to cry. Also, this wasn’t really your question, but mascaras are a product category where the difference between drugstore and high end formulations is extremely minimal. I do spend $$$ on other categories of makeup, but swear by drugstore mascara (currently L’Oreal Panorama). So maybe give a non-waterproof drugstore option a try!

      I don’t use a special remover, just double cleanse with Cerave. I find it doesn’t sting my eyes, doesn’t require harsh rubbing, does a great job, and lets me buy one fewer product.

    5. Use actual makeup remover for your eyes? I like Clinique’s purple one – gentle.

      And waterproof is always rougher to remove.

    6. I wear waterproof mascara because it’s the only way my eyelashes will stay curled.

      Good old fashioned Ponds cold cream is my favorite way to remove every trace of mascara, sunscreen, and makeup. I massage a small amount over my eyes and face, gently wipe with a wet washcloth, then follow up with a gentle cleanser. No skin issues and no eye irritation.

    7. I’ve used Bioderma micellar water for sensitive eyes and it’s way too weak to remove waterproof mascara; it barely removes my eyeliner and eye shadow off after 2 pads. Switch to Neutrogena Gentle Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover & Cleanser for Sensitive Eyes, Non-Greasy Makeup Remover, Waterproof Mascara Remover, Dermatologist & Ophthalmologist Tested, 8 fl. oz.

    8. agree that waterproof is the worst if you have sensitive eyes. i saw this random product the last time i made an order from YesStyle and i do feel like it’s helping my sensitive eyes:

      https://www.iherb.com/pr/kissme-heroine-make-speedy-mascara-remover-0-22-fl-oz-6-6-ml/97895?gad_campaignid=22821030360&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjw0sfHBhB6EiwAQtv5qa7TtRBhndFdkrN-tlcgReTq8gyA-Gvcqy3bvTiMDUuid82dqxkomBoClnYQAvD_BwE

      I swipe it on first then use the lancome (blue bottle) to remove my mascara. then wash my face with glossier’s wash. if i’m wearing a full face like foundation then i’ll use one of those melting balm things because i feel like they’re the nicest experience for me, but even after cleansing i often feel like it’s still in my eyes. i’ve used colleen rothschild and have one from elemis now.

      i’ll also just say that mascara in general makes my eyes really really dry and uncomfortable – i only wear it for nights out at this point. wore it daily for like 20 years and then suddenly no.

    9. I like Clinique Take the Day Off cleaning balm. You can probably find a sample to see what you think.

    10. I have a small jar of coconut oil and just a drop or two takes off waterproof mascara, then wash my face as usual.

    11. Waterproof is sooo hard on your lashes, absolutely switch to regular mascara. If it smudges during the day, a wet paper towel is what I use to clean up the edge. Once you switch this, all you need to do is miscellaneous water. People over process their faces.

  8. Anyone want to share something personal they’re proud of going into the weekend? I could use some positive vibes.

    I’m proud of starting OrangeTheory classes even though I’m the least fit one there postpartum. I’m also proud I stopped my aggressive breastfeeding/pumping regimen when I noticed my mental health was taking a hit.

    1. I got a huge promotion, effective Jan 1. It’s not really public yet, but I’ve been learning and preparing for the transition and every day I am proud of myself in a I cannot even believe it kind of way.

      1. I am switching jobs after 20 years at the same company even though I was put for promotion. I just wanted to do something different. I joke it’s my mid life crisis.

    2. I’ve got nothing to add for this weekend, but just wanted to yay for you! I did the same thing coming out of postpartum when I realized I couldn’t move like I used to. It’s been great! Orangetheory is happy place.

    3. I scheduled a session with a therapist for next week. I dislike therapy (acknowledging my feelings is hard for me) but I do recognize that it makes a huge difference in my resilience during hard times.

    4. I pushed myself to try a new class this year, and I’ve been attending a barre class since August!

      1. I love barre class! I have been going for almost 2 years. I’m 55 and my arms and shoulders have never looked better and they are so toned and I’ve really strengthened my core.

    5. I flew most of the way across the country last weekend to show up for a friend at her daughter’s wedding, and I’m really proud that I did it because it meant a lot to her and her husband and her daughter.

    6. I did the Thing — it was a small task I’d been putting off because I didn’t quite know how to do it, but I figured it out and accomplished it. Not huge, but it feels great.

    7. I finally changed the air filters in all the house air cleaners.

      Yes, I am proud. Ok to judge me.

    8. I’m proud that I took up yoga earlier this year and that I’m sticking with it. I found an amazing teacher and I really love it.

  9. That… and in the morning.

    My husband and I wake up early and spend time together in bed snuggling, kissing, and sometimes $3x. We talk over coffee about non-logistical topics.

    I get it that you need sleep, your kids get up early, etc., but we call out that this time is working on our marriage. It’s not a waste to spend time exchanging physical affection and ideas.

    At 5 and 9, you should be able to tell the kids to stay in their rooms until a certain time, have all-family quiet time where everyone goes to their room to read, nap, play quietly, whatever, and you two can connect with each other.

    And finally, a staycation with a naughty photoshoot. My husband and I have done 1-2 nights in a hotel, I bring l1ing3rie and he takes pictures of me, and then we switch. This naturally leads to kissing, massages, $3x, and adult conversations. We bring champagne and a fancy outfit to enjoy a drink at the hotel bar, and handily, our room is right upstairs. We sit in the hot tub, we take a long bath together or shower together. The entire goal is to just enjoy each other, and we intentionally put ourselves in the headspace of having lots of physical interaction.

    We’ve been married for almost 20 years, and we’ve done this type of staycation weekend a few times when we feel like we need to reset.

    1. Ok this is the second post I’ve seen somewhat recently about telling kids to stay in their rooms in the AM… do y’all not let your kids get up and go downstairs and play on their own?

      Why is this something people are policing?

      1. I think it depends on how much stuff your kids have in their rooms to amuse themselves and how old they are to be up and around the house unsupervised. Like if I woke up early on the weekend as a young elementary schooler, I had no issue staying in bed and reading until 7:30 or whatever. I could also play with the dolls I had in my room, etc.

        1. And also how old kids are and if they can be unsupervised or not. And siblings’ ages, like if they’ll play with each other or get into trouble.

      2. Yeah I think it’s odd too.

        My 6 year old goes downstairs and watches TV on weekend mornings.

        It’s 50/50 if a parent is awake yet, but even on the mornings I am up first I’m happy to have her entertain herself so I can ease into the day.

        1. My kids also go down and watch TV on weekend mornings, while DH and I sleep in a bit. But we still have a set time for when they can leave their rooms, or they’d head down there at 4am if they happened to be awake then! Plus I have several kids and its smoothest for all if we just set a blanket rule of 7am. I find it odd that so many people think this is odd

          2. @ 8:17, I’m 40 and was supposed to stay in my room until a certain time. There were exceptions for special days like Christmas but in general that was the rule. So I don’t think it’s a new thing. I was a night owl who normally stayed up late reading and wanted to sleep in and my parents had to drag me out of bed to get to school from about second grade on, so it didn’t impact me that much. But I definitely don’t have any resentment about it.

          3. Agree, it’s odd that so many people think
            It’s odd! You wouldn’t leave a 6-yo home alone… probably not a 10-year old either. Why would it be ok to spend hours without supervision because they woke up early?

          4. interesting. I absolutely would and do leave my 10 year old home alone (maybe not for several hours) but I also don’t “supervise” her constantly when I’m home.

          5. I do leave my 10yo home alone, nor do I actively “supervise” all his awake time. But we still have a 7am rule to 1) encourage him to sleep, as he’d pop downstairs at 5am if he happened to wake up then, and 2) because we have many kids, we like to keep the house quiet until then so we can all get the rest we need. It has nothing to do with being overprotective; it has to do with what works best for the kids we have and the family on the whole

        2. Six year olds are not toddlers. They can play outside and be in the house without eyes directly on them. We need to be home for a school age child in case of emergency.

      3. If they are contained in their room it’s easier for mom and dad to get some rest. Once they are roaming the house they start to want breakfast/tv/outside.

        This is a very valid thing to police.

        1. We say to keep it quiet / not wake us up until 7:30, but the kids can be anywhere in the house til then.

          We, however , let them watch tv and help themselves to healthy snacks.

          They get a lot of leeway so are used to behaving, but they also know if they trust we put in them is abused that leeway goes away. So, we haven’t had any issues of inappropriate behavior before we’re awake.

        2. For real, this is 100% how you keep a quiet house in the morning. It’s okay to have rules with kids….

          1. I have plenty of rules with my kids, but this is a weird one to me. Our rules are mostly about how we treat other people and that you need to listen to mom and dad and follow their directions. I feel like we give a lot of freedom, so I do expect good behavior and listening ears. The two things I do not fool around with are dinner time and bed time (and from reading here, I’m definitely way stricter about those than most), so I’m apt to be much more lax during the day.

            So on weekends, the kids get up and go watch TV (it’s the same idea as Saturday morning cartoons!). I do say, if you wake up and its before 6 try to go back to sleep, but after 6 it’s fair game. They know to not wake us up til 7:30 (we’re usually up well before then, but every now and then it’s nice to sleep in!).

            They also know that if this is a problem (too loud, fighting over what to watch, somehow watching something off limits), then the option to watch TV when they wake up will go away.

            If they’re hungry (they aren’t), they know they can get fruit or yogurt or another snack. But, if they make a mess and don’t clean up they know that will be changed too.

          2. 6:06 – so you do have a rule about leaving the room in the morning. For you, its 6am. For those of us whose kids go to bed at 9:30/10, it’s 7am (or maybe later). Maybe to you that seems so oppressive, but it’s the same idea of teaching our kids to try to sleep some more because they need it, not because we are weird and controlling for the sake of it.

          4. The rule is wake up if you want but I will have coffee before you can make noise and or ask for anything.

          5. Why is it weird to be strict about the morning routine but not about bedtime? I’m fairly lax on bedtime, compared to most – we have lots of chats and reading time and no specific time when we go up. This means lights out can often be close to 10pm. But that means I set a minimum time when they can get out of bed in the morning because we all need rest and a quiet house.

      4. Because my kids will wake up early instead of rolling over and going back to sleep if they know they can leave their room. Plus, they are kids and even if they are trying to be quiet, they are noisy, thumping down the stairs, talking loudly to each other, etc.

        We tell our kids they have to stay in their rooms until 7. One of them will be out of there at 7 on the dot, the others often sleep later. (They are 10, 8 and 4)

          1. He’s the one who will not go back to sleep, even though he needs it, without the rules. I don’t see why guiding your child into appropriate sleep habits is so objectionable? If he really can’t sleep he reads in bed and it’s fine. It’s okay to have rules that maximize rest for the whole family!

      5. Policing is such a strange word choice. Parenting involves setting rules and boundaries and slowly letting out the leash as kids get more mature.

      6. my son used to wake up at 3 AM and want to play. every day. for years. we used to keep jigsaw puzzles in the master bath so he could go entertain himself if he really wanted to.

        but i have all of their screentime set to downtime until like 5:30/6 in the morning. i never wanted them to deprive themselves of sleep so they could get more dumb ipad time.

      8. We enforce you have to stay in your room until 7 (obviously except bathroom) because (a) it encourages them to try to go back to sleep or spend some time reading, (b) it wakes us up if they get up, even if they’re just walking around, and we both really struggle to get enough sleep. Our house is not big and anyone moving around wakes other people up. I really don’t think that’s an unreasonable way to manage having quiet hours in the house.

        1. We also have a 7 am rule, and your first reason is the main reason. It’s less about the kids bothering us but more that I think sleep is really important and if they wake up at 6 am, I really want them to try to close their eyes and go back to sleep. Or at at the very least read quietly in bed which is more restful than getting up and running around.
          Also we’re not that conservative about screen time, but morning screen time seems really unnecessary when they’re willing to read in bed and if we didn’t allow screens I think there’s a good chance they’d wake us up. They play great without us but it’s normally fairly loud.

  10. Now that it’s darker in the evening, I want to continue my walks but would also like to carry some basic self-defense item. I already have pepper spray but never take it with. For some reason, it makes me nervous it will “go off”. (Open to being persuaded otherwise!) Also, that I will accidentally spray it at myself! So, does anyone have any suggestions for something else? I totally realize nothing is super effective but could maybe delay someone grabbing you so you can get away. I do live in a really mixed neighborhood in terms of safety. (If pepper spray is the best thing then please suggest a brand/best mode of carry). Thanks all!

    1. I would take transit to a neighborhood where your safety is less uncertain. The most likely outcome for any defense item is that it is used against you.

      1. I don’t think that’s true. It’s *possible* pepper spray could be used against you but not *most likely.*

        1. It isn’t likely to do much if you get jumped. Getting out of your dicey neighborhood is a guaranteed safety upgrade.

      2. I carry a whistle around my neck. I took a self-defense class for women and she said carry a pen in your hand, the clicking kind, and if somebody comes near, you shove it up their nose ~ wow !!

        1. Oh, wow. I was always taught to go for the eyes with your hands, but pen up the nose is brutal. There is easy access going up the nose straight into the brain.

    3. ime, the most useful stuff is skills & training, not gear alone. A lot of this will depend on what specifically the safety issues in your neighborhood are. But options:
      1. +100 to the good flashlight/headlamp
      2. Think about your route – are there streets with better lighting, more pedestrian traffic, better visibility (like narrow sidewalk with a solid line of parked cars immediately adjacent is a no-go for me – I’ll walk in the middle of the street to avoid that if needed; but if there’s a wide grassy strip, and intermittent cars, you have more options to see and skirt potential issues). Which streets have an open business/restaurant you can duck into if you’re uncomfortable but not yet at dial-911 levels? What time of night do the streets empty out?
      3. Think through the actual specific safety scenarios you’re concerned about. Actually visualize yourself responding the way you want to respond: ie, someone approaches you behaving erratically, you back away & head towards the coffee shop; someone grabs you from behind and tries to force you into a vehicle, you can visualize all the steps of actually using the pepper spray; someone approaches you with a weapon and demands your wallet, visualize yourself calmly handing it over.
      4. Practice de-escalation techniques. Honestly, truly, these have saved my life.
      5. Just like hiking, what’s your “tell someone where you’re going and when you expect to be back” plan?
      6. OK, back to actual gear – you can get some “practice” pepper spray canisters and actually set them off (ie. they have no active ingredient – just water, or sometimes water and dye, so you can see where you’re spraying them). This will probably help you figure out whether the real one is something you could realistically use well.

    4. Perhaps a self defense class so you know what you are doing? Weapons of any kind don’t do you much good if you aren’t sure how to use them, and lack of self confidence is a huge detriment.

    5. Would it make sense to actually do a test with the pepper spray? In a well ventilated area, facing downwind, doing a few sprays? Then you are prepared for how it handles, which makes it easier in case you actually need it.

      1. This. I’ve heard law enforcement officers recommend this so you know how to handle pepper spray.

    6. Wear a reflective vest. (Not weighted, lol) but you can get these at any running shoe store or of course online. Usually mesh and stretchy, goes over even winter jackets.

    7. I think I would focus on a route/area with more foot traffic if that is really concerning you. But maybe carry a personal alarm?

    8. fun story – i used to carry pepper spray in college and pepper sprayed myself and my friends at least 3x by accident. i remember once dropping my keys while coming back to my apartment and screaming RUN!! to all of my friends. good times.

    9. As a middle-aged woman who likes being able to vote and have bodily autonomy, I already have RBF, which probably helps. That said, I try to stand up straight and have a sort of “don’t mess with me” look on my face, a la the scariest Studio Art major I knew in college. It seems to work pretty well.

      1. Yes! I always used to call my mom for a walk and talk when I felt unsafe or just pretend to be talking to her if it seemed sus.

    10. I bought a personal alarm keychain that I carry on walks. when activated, lights flash and it emits a high pitched sound.

    11. Vary your route and timing from day to day. Don’t wear headphones. I did carry pepper spray when I went for early AM walks in the city.

  12. who are the funniest creators that you follow? i love the holderness family and now “Farideh” has been dominating my feed – her song “your mother used to be a ho” has been playing in my head nonstop.

    1. Luke Holloway on Insta who makes songs out of exchanges on dating apps. He did the “I have one daughter” song, this week was “four meal your” and “updog”. I was crying laughing and finally went back through many of his previous posts and they are so funny

    3. He’s not super laugh-out-loud funny, but I love Barry on Sandwiches of History. Who doesn’t love a nice sandwich every day? And even better if it’s a dud.

    5. There is a “Your Slavic ___ does this” series by a comedian from Toronto. They’re really funny. His accent is spot on. There’s another guy who does Arab versions… Like, what your mom does when your kidnapper calls with the ransom demand. “If I pay you $10,000, will you keep my useless son for another week?” They’re both on Yoo-toob.

      1. Eeeeeh we run in similar internet circles! You might also like Frankie Quinones and Zebediah Nofire

    7. I’m not in medicine or in tech, but Dr. Glaucomflecken and alberta.nyc can still be cathartic. I seem to enjoy skits more than stand up so that is a lot of what I encounter through the algorithm!

    8. I absolutely love Éros Brousson on Insta. His reels on relationships, gardening, menopause, and so many other things are hilarious and show real insight at the same time.

  13. Anyone else here in a long-term relationship or marriage and finding that you would prefer to just self-garden than to engage in $ex with your partner/spouse? I’m still attracted to my DH, but after 20 years together, I realize that I just prefer my own pace and a lot of alternatives are just not as pleasurable, but I feel guilty for feeling that way.

    1. This is why I’m glad I’m single. I’m just so much better at pleasing myself. Curious about the responses from coupled people.

    2. Yeah. Sometimes I just want to do what works for only me and not have to consider anyone else’s mood or timeline.

    3. Yes, same boat here. I love him, and while I’m not ace, I really prefer solo gardening and at a much lower frequency than he does.

    4. Together 20+ years. Yeah, sometimes you just want to get in and get out for some quick stress relief. But DH knows what to do and s3x is fun for both of us. If yours doesn’t, time to show him…?

  14. I think I have the beginnings of frozen shoulder. My issues match every description. It has kind of crept up on me for about a month. I was traveling and thought the shoulder pain was from carrying a lot and more frequently, but now I am back, the symptoms persist. Does anyone have any recs to prevent it getting worse and become a full-on case? Note, I am *not* willing to go to physical therapy (spent all year there for another issue and it didn’t help). Would appreciate any advice from people who have experienced this. Thanks! PS being in your 50s is the absolute worst! Everything hurts!

    1. Unfortunately PT is the way to go (you can do it on your own) and then I had some pain blocks injected. The mechanism of frozen shoulder is not well understood and it may unfreeze by itself or it may require a procedure

    2. Well, NSAIDs/Ice. You could see an orthopedist to confirm what is going on, but sorry to say the orthopedist is going to want to image it and then send you to PT. If it is frozen shoulder you can do injections and sometimes surgery but a basic eval with PT and then do your home program if you don’t want to spend time with PT sessions.

      These exercises are good:

      https://www.health.harvard.edu/pain/how-to-release-a-frozen-shoulder

      But maybe this isn’t what you have.

      Your dismissal of all PT seems shortsighted.

      1. And I recommend HRT for perimenopause to help for your pain threshold, optimizing sleep positioning in case this is aggravating your shoulder, and yoga to improve your core strength/flexibility, and mindfulness to help deal with the discomfort of…. aging as a woman.

        1. There are studies showing that HRT cuts the risk of developing frozen shoulder in half.

      2. Maybe so but I am burned out on it so would line to try home measures first.

      3. A combination of steroids, massage and physical therapy helped. But I am also thinking about looking into HRT.

      4. The average PT is keeping chiropractors and acupuncturists in business, and I am not a huge fan of chiropractors and acupuncturists either.

        1. I should have said “the average” again. There are truly wonderful PTs and acupuncturists out there (and chiropractors despite the buyer beware credential and substantial risks), but it can take a lot of work to find them or just kissing a lot of frogs.

    3. This is a common symptom of perimenopause/menopause. I would see a certified menopause specialist and get on HRT.

    4. Acupuncture! I had frozen shoulder diagnosed by a shoulder-specializing orthopedist. Mine was prompted by a fall where I slipped and slammed my shoulder on the edge of a step. When it wasn’t better after a few weeks, I went to the ortho to see if it was broken. It was not, and he recommended PT. I drove straight to an acupuncturist who fixed it in one visit. I’ve since met a couple of other people whose frozen shoulder was fixed with acupuncture.

      1. Thanks for this suggestion. Hadn’t thought of acupuncture and it is appealing to me.

    5. You should get an orthopedist to look at it. I too had a shoulder issue that didn’t improve from PT because I needed shoulder surgery. I tried massage, acupuncture, etc. as well, but at the end of the day, the only thing that was ever going to help was surgery.

    6. I had a cortisone shot under guided imagery and within a few days the pain disappeared forever. It took several months to get my range of motion back, but the pain relief was like a miracle. My orthopedist said my response was unusually good, but if it worked for me, it’s worth a try. (Low risk and low effort). My BIL, same age as me, had the surgery and it was pretty traumatic, although it did end up helping.

  15. The Gap High Rise Downtown Runaround Pants have been workhorses for me on the weekends and for travel in warmer months. However, the fabric is really thin. Is there a thicker/warmer version for Fall and winter?

      1. My original post was not clear. I know Gap doesn’t have a thicker version. I’m asking for suggestions on similar style pants (ie, technical fabric that looks tailored from the front, straight leg, not jogger) that come in a thicker fabric.

        1. It was pretty clear! That person was just being a butt for no reason on a Saturday!

    2. Have you tried Athleta Pinnacle High Rise pants or Brooklyn midrise pants? Gap and Athleta are the same company, so they might not be that different, but worth a shot.

      I’d take a look at Uniqlo, too, to see if they have anything.

      Good luck!

  16. Seeking advice on weight loss/slimming procedures.

    I became a mom at 39, my kid is now six, and I’ve only lost 1/3 of my baby weight.

    In the past if I got heavier than I wanted I could work out more and eat better and lose the weight pretty easily. Losing baby weight during perimenopause is much harder than any weight loss I’ve ever attempted before.

    I’m eating healthy and working out multiple times per week (pilates, weight lifting, dog walking, chasing six year old). I am seeing progress but oh my god it’s slow. I’ve always been sturdy but healthy — usually a size 12 or 14 but I’m tall-ish and have a big frame. I’m currently a size 16 or 18 and my BMI is 30.

    I’m able to throw money at this problem and am looking for something to help me lurch my progress forward a bit. What are folks doing that works?

    I know we have weight loss meds now, but I don’t want to be on meds for the rest of my life. I don’t think I’m heavy enough for bariatric surgery, but not 100% opposed to it.

    I’m getting a lot of ads for Sono Bello but reading mixed reviews. Interested to hear people’s thoughts about coolsculpting, various types of lipo, etc.

    I grew up working class and have no experience with cosmetic procedures so please explain it to me like I’m five.

    1. To keep my weight steady I run 3x a week and strength train 2x a week. I then limit my diet to mainly fruit, vegetables and lean meats.

      This way I’m burning about 2,000 calories a day on average. I track that I eat less than this calorie wise but obviously I don’t because I’m not losing weight.

      1. OP here — thank you for your reply! I need to get back into running. I miss it. I appreciate the suggestion.

      2. The advantages of strength training pays off now, and pays off again when you are in your 80s and 90s and can still carry your groceries. Kind of a 2 for 1 benefit.

    2. I’m a very similar size and age. For me, I only see meaningful weight loss with sweaty, steady cardio (like running 3 days a week consistently).

      And my personal foible: less mindless snacking, because food like fruit & nuts and carrots & hummus may be healthy, but eating too many of them is still too many calories for weight loss.

      1. OP here — I’m vegetarian and focus my diet on fruits, vegetables, nuts, and beans. I cut down alcohol to one beer per week (before I was averaging more like three per week).

        I eat oatmeal for every breakfast and a big salad for lunch. No dairy in lunch or dinner. My dinner is usually based around roasted vegetables, but sometimes I slip up and make less healthy choices here. When I want a snack I eat fruit or a hardboiled egg.

        I avoid oil, sugar, salt, and processed food in my cooking.

        I could do better with portion size, so that’s what I’m working on now, along with planning healthy and tasty dinners so I don’t let myself get sidetracked there.

        1. I could not lose the x pounds I put on between ages 48-52 by cutting alcohol and sugar, although it did stop the gain. Exercise made me feel stronger and sleep better but didn’t do anything at all for the weight. At.All. For me, it was portion sizes, even though I cook almost every night and seriously thought I was doing a truly great job choosing ingredients. It turns out there *is* such a thing as too much of a very healthy food. (Looking at you almonds, beans, squash…and everything else, really. Even that stuff in my salads.) I lost almost all of those x pounds at 54 by eating the same things but never seconds and paying close attention to portions. I also serve myself in the kitchen and eat at the table, so seconds or “just a little nibble out of the bowl” isn’t within arms’ reach.

        2. Salt and oil are part of a healthy diet! A certain degree of both are necessary for your body to function, and incorporating them in moderation will probably help you reduce portion sizes while increasing satiety.

        3. This is not enough protein for me. I eat grilled chicken, fish and turkey that is low fat.

          If you are vegetarian look at protein supplements. Otherwise white fish first works well for me. It’s not cheap but it is very low/no fat, high protein and quick to cook.

          I also eat a lot of fat free Greek yoghurt. My salad dressing is tzatziki. It add another 15g of protein to my lunch.

    4. Do you know your A1C and glucose numbers? (Sometimes slipping up or getting side tracked is a glucose thing, and in general having some kind of issue with blood sugar is common in people who have weight to lose.)

      I personally wonder if there will someday be weight loss med protocols that are lower dose, aimed at losing visceral fat, and temporary (since losing visceral fat can help with weight loss maintenance).

    5. What works for me is subscribing to a meal plan (Thistle) and eating only the food provided for a long period of time. I’m too lazy to count calories and macros, so this allows me to get the stats I’m looking for with minimal effort on that end.

Comments are closed.