Welcome to JOYFUL REFLECTIONS. Also welcome to MARCH!!!! My header picture this month is a photo I took of the pretty Crocus blooms in our yard... The Crocuses and Daffodils are the first signs of spring here in Tennessee. I am definitely ready for SPRING...

Friday, March 11, 2011

Let's Talk Fridays: How important is it for you to stay YOUNG?

I guess,  no matter what age we are,  we all think about growing OLD.  So today's talk is about the ways we try to stay YOUNG.     I know that the reasons for staying young change as we age.... I am not nearly as worried about how I look now as I did when I was younger...




I have a good friend who won't even go to her mailbox without her makeup on...  I have NEVER been like that!!!   I don't wear makeup much at all anymore --but used to wear some when I was younger and working fulltime.




I have never been one to use alot of creams and 'things' to make the skin younger nor have I ever thought of having 'work' done (lifting, pulling, etc.) to prevent the body from looking older...  That is just not ME...




But--as I said,  I have friends who want to look their very best at all times and at all costs--no matter what they are doing or where they are going.  I'm certainly not criticizing anyone.. It's all just a personal thing...




Recently I read some ways which I can relate to --to keep us YOUNG..  Here are some of those ways:

  • -Try everything at least TWICE.
  • -Keep only cheerful friends.
  • -Keep learning.
  • -Enjoy the simple things.
  • -Laugh often, long and loud.
  • -The tears happen:  endure, grieve, and move on!
  • -Surround yourself with what you love (family, pets, keepsakes, music, plants, hobbies,  whatever)
  • -Cherish your health
  • -Do not take guilt trips.
  • -Tell the people you love that you love them,  at every opportunity.
  • -Forgive now those who made you cry.




I can relate to most of those ----so to me,  those are the things which are important,  and not the 'outer' appearance --as we age...  What do you think???  What keeps you young?

Hugs,
P.S.  ALL images above came from the internet.

Thanks so much for all of you who went to George's blog to wish him a Happy Birthday.  He's never gotten that many comments before... We had a marvelous time at Amicalola Falls State Park near Dahlonega, Georgia.   It rained --but that made the waterfalls we saw even more fabulous!!!!   I'll blog about this trip soon.

70 comments:

Unknown said...

WOW! I am never the first one to respond! This is a tough one for me since I turn 49 in a couple months and am a Mommy to two beautiful girls, ages 6 & 8! I just want to be healthy and not look like an old mom. Oil of Olay is my friend, and I am trying to lose that extra weight I put on this winter, but I need to to keep up with our girls. I don't want to look 24 any more, but I would like to think I was still 30 something in my mind and body!

Jo said...

Aha Betsy! You're so right. It's what is inside that will show on the outside. No amount of creams, potions or pills will change that either way. Off to George's blog - didn't know it was his birthday. Have a blessed weekend my friend. (((Hugs))) Jo

Tabor said...

While it is what is inside that is important we are frequently judged by what is on the outside and it is sometimes hard to overcome that. You 'rules' are perfect for taking us to happy endings, though.

Catherine said...

I've never really worn much make up either and I've been known to pop downtown without any on. But I always wear face cream with a good sunblock in it. I think a lot of the time staying 'young' is all part of your attitude ~ no? But I must admit, those '0's behind the number do hurt a bit. ;)

Happy Friday Betsy!
xo Catherine

Ruth Hiebert said...

I know that I am getting older,it shows in many ways.I am one who likes to wear a little make-up,not because I think it makes me look younger,but I am naturally vey pale and this adds a little color to my cheeks.Around here the seniors get together for an afternoon coffee at the church,once a month.Somehow,even though I am a senior as far as age is concerned,I don't think I would fit in at these coffees.I would rather take my camera and go out in search of pictures.So does that mean I am reusing to grow up,if so,I like it that way.
Blessings,Ruth

Ann, Chen Jie Xue 陈洁雪 said...

I am low maintenance just a quick application of lipstick and I am off. If I need to smear war paint, I will be late for work.

none of the teachers here water make up.,

Anonymous said...

I just happened upon your blog. Love it!

Melanie said...

I think you're a beautiful lady, Betsy. :)

I like the cute little cartoons. :)
In the past few years, I've noticed some grays and wrinkles are making their appearance. That's just life! I don't want to sweat it.
I like the list of how to keep young.

I'm glad George had a nice birthday. :) I'm looking forward to seeing the pictures and hearing how things went.

Hope you have a great weekend.♥

From the Kitchen said...

When I was younger, I looked much younger than my true age. When I was fresh out of college and in my first job, people were stunned to know that I was 21 because I looked like I should be in junior high. I hated it!!!!! A few (well, more than a few) years back, I realized people weren't stunned any more and I missed that reaction. Now I'm fine with where I am in life and how I look. I do take good care of my skin but wear little makeup. More importantly, I try to take good care of my mind.

Have a great weekend.

Best,
Bonnie

diane b said...

I have never liked wearing make up except lippy. It always makes my face feel dirty. Now that I'm older I have the attitude that people can take me how I come, as long as I feel comfortable and clean and tidy. You are as young as you feel. Sometimes this is young and sometimes it is old ( like after working in the garden and the back starts complaining.)

amelia said...

I have never worn make up, not even at my kids weddings etc.

I like your list and I try to abide by it most of the time but the guilt? I have a hard time getting past that...

Marg said...

I am very very low in maintenance. I am by myself most of the time except for my animals and I love to be outside and always have so just have never worn much make up. I like the natural look. Love all the cartoons. Have a great weekend.

Ginny Hartzler said...

Welcome back, Betsy!!! Amen to all of this, I feel the same way. Before I was married, It took me over an hour to put my makeup on and no one could see me without it on. I had a whole case just for my eyes!! But once I had a baby, that just kind of went away, there were more important things to think about, myself not being one of them!! I have lipstick, but rarely wear it. I always moisturize my dry face after washing it, that's all! For me, makeup seemed to be more a stage of life. Now, I just don't have the time or energy, as long as I'm clean and neat I figure I'm doing good!

MadSnapper said...

i wear light make up, had to give up mascara due to OLD droopy skin on eyelids and the goop gets on the lids and on my glasses, but i never to out without makeup. i wear the same makeup i have used for 40 years, pancake and goes on wet with a sponge, drys to powder. no lipstick now due to cracks in lips and it looks awful. gave up blush so i dont look like a clown.
i think if you look better doing something DO it.
i like all your list and agree, the one i want to know about though is HOW do you get rid of negative friends...the ones that drag you down. that is hard to do.
my aunt always dressed in heels and makeup to even do yard work. you don't want to see me in my yard.
i absolutely hate the fact my face has drooped and in the past 15 years i get droopier and droopier and if i had the money, i would get the lids and chin lifted

Dar said...

A big Happy Birthday and smooch for George. Hope it was a memorable one.
Just wrote a mountainous comment and it wouldn't load..........grrrrrr
I love to walk, even when I can't feel my feet, eating right has become as natural as the sun rising, rather than an effort, thus we do our best to keep our insides clean of toxins...detox, it works.
Love this entry BetsyGirl!
Have a wonderful weekend...we will be taking time off and going to see my daughter...yes!
BlessYourHearts

Out on the prairie said...

I forget about the age until I creak from playing a bit hard, but then try to ignore it.Keeping active is a major one.I worried about life and death when my parents were nearing 40, yet when I turned 40 I ran a 10k just to rebel about age.

Anonymous said...

Someone said that part of growing old is doing it as gracefully as possible & I don't think having 'work' done is what they meant by that! LoL!
The ONLY work I'd have done is a BREAST REDUCTION!!! That problem has been a pain in my rear end all my life... I don't like it!!! =)

Sorry if I got off track there... heheheee

Have a great weekend, Betsy! =)

RoeH said...

I actually think the computer skills everybody has had to learn has been the best thing to come along at keeping us young and brains working. I try to think of my mother using this technology and there was just no way. A couple of days before she died my sister was trying to explain how a fax machine worked. I've thought many times that it was what took her out. She'd laugh at that.

Lady Di Tn said...

Betsy
Age is just A NUMBER. I like you do not worry about the outer appearance when I leave home. I do try to dress up some when I am out with Prince because he is MY Prince. Now I have always had good skin and I do try to take care of it with yes creams and hats. I also love to do my nails as it makes me feel pretty and dressed up. My Mother always had beautiful hands and nails and I guess when I take care of them, I feel close to her. The best advise for aging is what my MIL does, KEEP MOVING. Have a wonderful sunny weekend. Peace

Anonymous said...

Hi Betsy, I am young at heart. I have friends of all ages. We had a tiny bit of snow that "Stuck" here. Lots of birds this morning with the Wood Ducks and Geese and Coots here in the backyard too. Have a great day. Remember those in Japan in your prayers as there was a terrible earthquake and Tsuname this morning.

Linda at To Behold The Beauty said...

I think the tip about forgiving those who have hurt you is a real key to healthy and happy living. Nothing turns a person ugly quicker than a bitter and unforgiving spirit. I've seen it happen.

I also loved the cartoon about everything slowing down except for how fast cake and ice cream reach your hips. So true!

Fred Alton said...

From one man's point of view, I like the philosophy my Dad had. Whenever this subject came up he would always say, "I want to get old!" After a long pause to give his listener time to think about that, he would add "The only alternative is to die young." And Dad did stay young until his death at age 82. After he had a stroke and was in the rehab unit and in much pain at times, he always managed to make us smile - no - laugh! I hope to keep a good youthful attitude while growing old.

Diane said...

What keeps me young? I guess people who I run into that I'm so happy to see and chat, the sun, walking with Rascal and my art.

Karin said...

Another great conversation starter! When I was young people always guessed me to be older and more mature than I was. Grew up without wearing make-up of any kind - just a moisturizing cream. Started wearing make-up - lightly applied - when I got Rosacea, simply to even out the skin tone. What keeps me young is exactly what you say in your list - forgiving those who hurt us, taking no guilt trips, grieving my losses and letting them go, learning new things of interest to me, and maintaining youthful attitude, laughing, loving, & growing in faith!

I sent vanity packing a long time ago! I have never liked being a slave to fashion and what other people think I should wear. Am comfortable in my own skin, even though I have extra adipose tissue in strategic places that I would gladly give away! Menopause and lack of exercise, you know!

You radiate youth! Keep up the good work!

mudderbear said...

Hello Betsy...Hi George...It's nice to have you back.
I love your comments and cartoons. They really hit right on. Aging is difficult only because of the aches and accompanying pains. Otherwise I am quite content. I still wear makeup for the sunscreen, and so my eyes don't look so small. But it doesn't look so great anymore. I spend lots of time with my family, shopping, lunches, long talks, going to movies, trying new makeup. My hubby is there too, of course. I have really great kids who invite me to go along almost everywhere. If there weren't the aches and pains of aging, it would all be just fine. I hate the lack of vitality and hurting when I move.

BTW it looks like you have really gorgeous skin. I'm jealous. And I love your peppy attitude that shows up here. Thank you for your friendship and the blog posts. They really brighten my day. love, Rosalie

Darla said...

The prettiest faces with the most glowing smiles are those that reflect Christ. Don't you agree?

Lynda said...

Your suggestions are GREAT tips. I have never been vain about my looks but the thyroid thing has aged my skin and face very quickly. That has bothered me. I use moisturizers/lotion frequently but it's life moving forward too quickly. I'm just not ready for some of it!!!! I use only foundation for make-up - - - can't do the eye stuff for health reasons. But inner beauty and a smile are definitely what people like best about us. People who look beautiful don't always act that way!

Cheryl @ TFD said...

Hi Betsy, well you know what they say...that pretty is as pretty does. If one wants to stay younger looking because of vanity then they will be disappointed because beauty fades, but staying younger as in staying healthy, fit and vital as long as possible...well, that's a worthy goal. Personally, I'm not nearly as concerned about my looks as I once was. I was fortunate in always looking so much younger than I was, although it was a pain when I was younger. Now it's a blessing. But even now I can see I'm catching up to my age and I'm okay with it. It's all about attitude, I say. And I have a good attitude, even if I don't have taut, age-spot free skin or perky boobs anymore! Have a good weekend.

Becca's Dirt said...

Well we love you and George.

I have always worn makeup and dress conservatively. I don't feel like I have to have it like I did when I was younger. I used to not even go out without it. I feel my best when I have makeup on and dressed. I do use the wrinkle creams but am watchful of how much they cost. So cost is a factor for me. I don't let things get to me like I did when I was younger. I let most things just roll off and I move on. I don't worry what people think anymore either. Have a good weekend.

Anonymous said...

My long-time friend is one who will not go to the mailbox or grocery w/o makeup. I like to look as nice as possible but I don't worry that much. While moving, there were days we really looked rough and I really was too busy to care! Like you, I'm not critical of those who enjoy their makeup, I just have different priorities nowdays. So happy you two had a great birthday trip to GA. Love and hugs for a great weekend.

Jen said...

The best way to stay young is to hang around older people. HA!

Busy Bee Suz said...

So happy George (and you) Had a nice birthday trip!
I am getting to care LESS and LESS about makeup and such. Although...I would love to NOT have to buy bigger pants anymore. I do use creams and potions...only to keep myself looking healthy...I have to give up on the YOUNG part.
xoxo
Have a great weekend,
Suz

nanny said...

It's not that I want to be young but I am getting old so fast!!!!!!
I don't worry about it (it's gonna happen anyway) I just relish the fact that I feel so darn good and every day is a joy. Life is truly good!

Arkansas Patti said...

All good thoughts Betsy. I have no desire to look young, healthy is my goal. Lipstick is my only make up and I do insist on that before going to get the paper. I look embalmed with out it.
So glad George had a nice birthday and am looking forward to the pictures.

Tracy said...

Hello my Friend...oh, let's see, what keeps me 'young' is my 11 year old son. I can't afford to get old before my time because he'll call me on it. Besides it really scares and bothers him when his dad and I talk about getting old.
I am so like you, I don't do creams, don't do all that stuff to make me 'look' young. I am what I am and I am who I am. I truly think that beauty comes from within and what counts the most to me is the ones I love love me back and they certainly don't care what I look like.
I don't live to please others; be kind, yes, but dress and look to please people? NO!
So, I like your list and truly agree with all of them and I follow every single one. EXCEPT~ trying foods...I am NOT experimental when it comes to food and only eat what is 'safe' so no, I don't even try stuff I don't like once...
love and hugs...

Kirigalpoththa said...

I think it will be difficult to stay young physically but you should try to be young mentally all the time.

Kim@stuffcould.... said...

I love your laughs, too cute. I feel the same about make-up...
kim

imac said...

My love for Julie.
Our friends.
Photography.
Holidays.
think young. (hard at timeslol)
going out with the lads(for a pint).

I also think its good to have a little time apart - the heart grows stronger this way.

Sunny said...

Okay, I confess I'm a bit vain, but I don't think that has anything to due with how I am on the inside.

Living out in the country, I don't fuss as much as I used to but I do wear makeup and get persnickerly over a bad hair cut, LOL! That's just who I am!

Age is a state of mind, I know people who are half my age and act twice as old as me. I never really think about how old I am...but the mirror has a way of reminding me!

I honestly believe one of the best ways to stay young is have a good sense of humor, and an excellent plastic surgeon! Haha!
☼ Sunny
P.S. Please don't jump to any conclusions, I'm still 100% original :)

Pedaling said...

It's so much more important to FEEL young! And I do...I can tell you do too. I go all day without makeup and even run errands that way sometimes.
but, that being said - I would probably like to have my eyelids tucked up someday in the future.

Lola said...

Inner beauty is always the best. It shines from within.
I've never worn much makeup, none now for several yrs.

Ann said...

I'm the same way with make up. I rarely wear it. Even when I was younger I didn't wear much. I don't like to spend more time than I have to fussing in front of a mirror.
Your list is perfect and worth remembering

Kilauea Poetry said...

Reminds me of Sophia L. "how to smolder when your older" (lol)and Raquel W...both of whom were in the news recently. So were a couple others actually..Joan Rivers!! There has to be a balance. I fight gravity but notice some find a virtue in letting everything go?
(ah ha ha) must be the wrong kind of guilt?
Regina~

Bookncoffee said...

Great entry!

Cicero Sings said...

I'm with you Betsy. I'm not much for keeping up the outward though I make sure I don't look like a slob. But I don't wear make-up, don't dye my hair, can't imagine getting nips and tucks. I'm quite happy with who I am and with my age (I really wouldn't want to be younger ... been there done that). I don't mind looking my age. I always think back to my own granny ... how comforting to have such a soft (as in padded), gray haired, aproned little lady that looked like a grandma and not your Mom, fold you in her arms. I think it is a shame what the media has done. I have a sister-in-law who does everything, every thing to look young. I think there's more important things to do ... like loving and well, all of those things on your list there.

All that said, in my mind I see still myself as 30 something and am always a little surprised to look in the mirror and ahem, realize that I'm becoming one of the seniors of the flock.

Pat - Arkansas said...

My motto is a quote from James A. Garfield (president of the U.S.):

"If wrinkles must be written on the brow, let them not be written on the heart. The spirit should never grow old."

I don't worry about gray hair and wrinkles; I earned every one of them.

Pat @ Mille Fiori Favoriti said...

I think staying interested in life and being positive and cheerful are the best ways to stay young at heart. I always wear sun block as I am fair skinned and have some frekles from childhood sun damage. I like my face better with makeup on it but I can still easily go out without waering it.

Glad you and Geroge had a good time celebrating his birthday!

pam said...

I surround myself with 14 year olds all day. It either keeps me young, or makes me feel grateful for my age and wisdom.

The Retired One said...

I am a big believer that laughter and humor makes one stay younger. That,and a tendency to forgive and forget. LOL

SquirrelQueen said...

I do use a lot of creams and lotions but, as someone said above, the object is too keep my skin looking healthy. I always use sunscreen when I go into the sun.

Because I am fair skinned I use some makeup, without mascara and lipstick I look like a ghost. I was born blonde and I intend to go out the same color. I'm not necessarily trying to look younger but I know what I like.

I think the biggest key to staying young is to keep the brain active, I have always liked technology and learning new things.

Rose said...

Betsy, for once I don't have much to say...I could almost have written your post. ha

Love Of Quilts said...

I don't wear makeup any more and haven't in years because of allergys but I sure do need to.lol Trish

Carletta said...

I never enjoyed makeup and quite frankly all that rubbing on one's face isn't good for it. I do use sunscreen but that's all. My girlfriend in high school never understood me. She wore it all! When she was 55 she had a breast reduction and a tummy tuck and was thinking of a chin lift. I saw her right after her operation and we haven't been in contact since. I don't have time to worry about those things and it's her life - sadly.
My grandkids keep me young even long distance. It's talking to them and interacting that makes me want to be around to watch them grow.
I do color my hair. I'm not ready to go completely white (redheads go white, not gray) so I'll do that until it's way too obvious. :)
Such thought provoking questions each week Betsy - I'm loving them!
Can hardly wait to see and hear all about the trip you and George took. Have a wonderful weekend!

Anonymous said...

My belly keeps me going.

Unknown said...

Hello Betsy! I hope you and George are doing well. A belated happy birthday to him! What a lovely Friday blog. Let's see..what keeps me young. I just turned 42 at the end of February but birthdays have never bothered me. 30 came and went, 40 came and went. It's just a number after all and testament to the many things we've learned and mistakes we've made over the years. I think nature has a huge part in keeping me young. Camping, hiking, being outdoors as much as possible. It's good for the soul and when the soul feels young, the body does too. :D Have a great weekend!

Anonymous said...

What do I think??? What keeps me young?

Coffee, brand muffins and my grandkids :-)

Take care and have a great weekend :-)

~Ron
*******

Brenda Kay Ledford said...

Betsy,
This is wonderful advise how to stay young. Thanks. I needed this posting today.

I hope you have a wonderful weekend.

Janice K said...

Interesting question..I have always felt "young." Maybe it was because my parents were still living, and I was still someone's little girl. Around a year ago when both of my parents passed away in thier 90's within a few months of each other. And then, within a month I had my 70th birthday, I remember looking in the mirror and thinking, "What in the world happened." I felt like I had aged 10 years. I'm sure the stress of those last couple of years had a lot to do with it. I think in the last six months I have become younger again...I think it really has a lot to do with how you feel inside. If you think and act young, and keep your mind alive with learning and doing new things, I believe people see you that way.

KathyA said...

I am a product junkie and spend a lot of time on my skin trying to undo some of the horrid damage I inflicted on myself while getting that summer color.

That being said, the ONLY thing that keeps us young is attitude.

Your list is chock full of great advice!

LV said...

I know you had a great trip and lots of fun. George may be a year older, but you will never know it. I love your post on aging. I never worry about that. One of my sisters does, and tries everything to look like she did when in school. Not me, I am thankful I still have all the parts that I was blessed with. Only thing, is my gall bladder. I use a lot of lotion as you do tend to have dry skin at my age. I just need to exercise more as that is definitely good for us. I get plenty in the summer, but not the winter. You get plenty exercise hiking around the world with George.

Loran said...

Betsy, you have the best attitude! That's what keeps you young.

Loren said...

Betsy! I am LOVING your Friday posts!

I am alot like you! I have never been real big into makeup or making sure I am all made up before I go somewhere. My momma, bless her heart...always looks just beautiful but trust me ...you will NEVER I mean NEVER catch her without makeup LOL
What keeps me young?
My grandkids and kids...they keep me laughing and we all know the benefits of laughing :)
So glad George had a good bday and I can't wait to hear about your trip!

Great post! Love the Pics you found :)

eileeninmd said...

I missed George's Birthday. Tell him I said happy belated Birthday please. I loved your post, very cute. Sounds like you two had a lovely trip. I expect to see lots of photos. I am not much of a makeup person. I do use some creams, just to keep my skin from drying out and for sunscreen.

T said...

Great post Betsy!

I totally agree with the list….

Ann, Chen Jie Xue 陈洁雪 said...

what did you do with George on his birthday?

Lisa said...

Besty you are beautiful inside and out. I love what you have written here about the ways to stay just the way you are and love it.
I do wear make up but not everyday and I use lots of creams and think I always will . I need them. :) Its a must. Same with my jewelry and things that are in style. I guess it who I am.
Loved your blog and your candor.
Hugs

Lisa said...

Oh and I love Love your new header.

Annie Jeffries said...

Hi Betsy. Loved reading this. I think the only vanity I have is my hair. I color it from time to time because I just don't like seeing it go gray. Perhaps with time, I will get over that. The other thing I never do without is a creamy lipstick. Darn these old lips; they have gotten so dried up. The rest of it? Well, I guess there is a reason why we age and I'm grateful that I got here to enjoy it.

Pranavam Ravikumar said...

Betsy,

Absolutely wonderful thoughts.. Thanks for your header. I enjoyed your lovely post. My wishes.

regards

Pranavam Ravikumar a.k.a. Kochuravi

Janie said...

You're obviously young at heart, and I think happiness, however we can achieve it, is the key.
I'm like you - no primping or "fixing." Keeping active, trying and learning new things, avoiding grudges, and laughing a lot all work pretty well for me.