March 2008 Archives

"How do I dress appropriately, so I look like I know the current trends - but not look like an idiot?" Hands down, that is the number one question that we've heard whenever we talk about best age ever. Nothing else comes close.

Some friends were mulling this over the other day, trying to figure out what determines "appropriate". We came down to two things: place and age. Place can mean event or geography, and is easier to deal with.  A wedding in Southern California has a different style than one in Moline or Cincinnati. I've learned to check with the host if possible, in advance.

Age is trickier - especially since it seems like a moving target. What worked for my mom or grandmother sure won't fit the bill now. And all of the advances with hair coloring, knowledge of fitness and nutrition give us a great advantage.

Wow! In four days it is Spring Equinox! Already in my climate, the hyacinths, tulips and day lilies are poking up through the soil. Most of the trees look ripe to flower anytime. Friends in Southern California say the flowers are already in bloom, and the weather getting hot. In the next month, time to plant the borders, vegetables and herbs.

In the meantime, here is a picture from last summers garden. The marigolds on the edge kept the bunnies out.

I recently came across an article about the "silver tsunami" of  "aged" people moving to San Francisco. "Aged" is defined, apparently, as over 60. Right now it seems that 18% of the city is "aged" and more to come - projected at 20% soon.

Okay, we are not twenty anymore. But my goodness! It is funny to see the terms sprouting up. The more polite "woman of a certain age", and perhaps the old gem "snowbird" come to mind.

Seems to me one of the first things an inclusive lifestyle metro area - with 1/5^th of the population over 60 - may want to consider that "aged" and "elderly" and "geriatric" might not be the best words to use. : ) Anyone have some fun ideas?