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Explore. Dream. Discover: An Over60 Reader's epic journey

<p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">Many people travel to all corners of the earth, seeking new and exciting experiences, especially when we retire and are able to do so. Sometimes we can be pushed beyond the boundaries of our comfort zone but usually the experience is positive and often transformational.</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">One popular destination for travellers who enjoy adventure is Sedona in Arizona, a town that nestles in a desert on the edge of red rock canyons. Nearby is Hopiland, home to the Hopi Indians. One of my most treasured memories occurred in this part of the world in 1990, on top of a desert mountain known as a mesa. The mesa rose thousands of feet above ground level and I climbed up there with a group of friends from Australia. As we reached the top, we began to hear the sound of drums and chanting coming from an underground cave. Our travel guide informed us that inside the cave, Hopi women and children huddled together on the dirt floor to watch their menfolk perform legendary rituals honouring their ancient ancestors. Since the ceremony was forbidden to tourists, we were given an hour to explore the top of the mesa.</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">Moving a short distance away from the rest of the group, I sat down on a rock to fully absorb the nearby pulse of drums and chanting. A few minutes later, three young Hopi boys appeared and attempted to converse with me. Initially, I found it difficult to understand what they were saying until I realised they were actually inviting me to accompany them underground to join their tribal family.</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">Throwing caution to the wind, I followed them down a rickety wooden ladder poking out of a hole in the ground. The atmosphere inside the cave was thick with burning sage combined with swirling dust from the pounding feet of men dancing, their heads hidden inside huge masks. Barefooted women and children squatted on the dirt floor and I felt very much an intruder as I squeezed myself amongst them. But, reassured by friendly smiles and head-nodding, I began to relax, absorbing the magical rituals of times past.</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">Eventually the ancient ceremony ended, and I climbed the ladder back into the twentieth century, overcome by a newfound sense of humility and realisation of just how unimportant the wealth and material greed of Western society is.</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">One can often rely on the unexpected to occur when travelling. During a visit to Egypt one year, our group emerged from the Temple of Isis to settle down and meditate on the bank of a nearby river when a military policeman appeared out of the bushes, clutching a large submachine gun. His other hand appeared to conceal something behind his back and as he drew closer, we noticed he had a second gun tucked into his belt. Terrified, we leapt to our feet. Then, his face breaking into a smile, he held out the hand from behind his back. Lying in its brown sinewy palm were eleven pink oleander blossoms, one for each of us. A moment of sheer terror switched instantly to one of absolute delight.</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">Another example of ‘the unexpected’ occurred a few days later for a member of our group who had just turned eighty. All her life she had suffered with claustrophobia and its related anxiety and panic attacks. Consequently, when we visited the Great Pyramid to ascend the steep tunnel inside which would take us up to the King’s Chamber, we arranged for her to remain outside with our tour guide. But at the last minute she changed her mind, not wanting to miss out on such a special experience. By slowly crawling through the tunnel all the way up inside the Great Pyramid, she managed to achieve something she had never in her life believed possible. We celebrated her victory that night with champagne, lots of laughs and some hilarious attempts at belly dancing.</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">A travel memory that always makes my grandchildren laugh is when I was visiting my friend Palden Jenkins, an historian who lives in Glastonbury. One day we set off for Snowdonia, North Wales, for a holiday. As we pulled up outside the 500-year-old stone cottage a farmer approached, urging us to be sure to leave a pot of tea outside every night for the Booka, the name given to Welsh brownies or elves. If we did this, he said, we would be assured of a hassle-free holiday. The Booka would not trouble us if we kept the cottage clean, left out the tea and didn’t have long noses. Words cannot describe the fun we two ‘grown-ups’ had in brewing tea every evening over an open fire to cater to the whims of Snowdonia’s faerie folk.</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">Travelling the world can create change in our lives that we will never regret, opening our hearts, broadening our minds, and sometimes transforming our lives forever.</span></p> <p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">To quote Mark Twain, ‘Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you did not do than by the ones you did. So, sail away from the safe harbour. Explore. Dream. Discover.’</span></p> <p><em>This wonderful story, including the images, was sent in by Over60 Reader Jo Buchanan. Thank you, Jo, for sharing your adventure with us!</em></p> <p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;"><em>If you have a Reader Story you would like to contribute to Over60, please send it to the editor via <a href="mailto:greg@oversixty.com.au" target="_blank" rel="noopener">greg@oversixty.com.au</a>.</em> </span></p>

International Travel

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Tips for putting together the perfect platter

<p>Entertaining loved ones can create beautiful memories but is by no means an easy feat. From considering dietary requirements, choosing what to cook, the preparation time and the final cost of the food, a simple do can turn into a stressful affair. Platters can be a great way to feed your guests whilst also showing off your food presentation skills. Here are five great tips to creating the perfect platter for entertaining.</p> <p><strong>1. Start with a centrepiece</strong></p> <p>When making your platter, decide on one key taste that can be at the centre of the platter that will compliment all the other flavours. Depending on the type of platter you are serving, your centrepiece could be anything from a cold meat, to a dip or cheese. If you want to be organised and prepare your platter ahead of time, just leave space for the chilled cheese and add it in before serving. This will avoid the last-minute panic of trying to make your platter look appealing before you serve it.</p> <p><strong>2. Don’t forget the dips</strong></p> <p>Dips and sauces not only add some variation to textures of the food but also compliment the flavours. Thick dips such as hummus, baba ghanoush and Greek yogurt dips work well as their consistency allows you to dollop them straight onto the platter.</p> <p><strong>3. Add difference textures</strong></p> <p>What separates average platters from great ones is the assortment of textures that are filling the platter. It is important to give your guests something that they can scoop into the cheese and dips that are provided. Top quality platters will have a minimum of two different types of crackers, usually one that is a bit sweeter and one that is more savory. Some platters require creativity but if you have cheese or meat on your platter, just think about what condiments will make the platter more spectacular. Jams, mustards or fruit spreads are good starting blocks to add to your spread.</p> <p><strong>4. Decorate your table</strong></p> <p>If you have gone to the effort of putting together a spectacular platter, you need to make sure the rest of the room matches the presentation of your platter. Bring out all your best table decorations such as linen table runners and placemats to reinforce the sophistication.</p> <p><strong>5. Remember to try your food</strong></p> <p>Although you might be caught up entertaining or preparing the next round of food, make sure you get to try the platter that you have ensembled so you can be your own critic.</p> <p>It is always good to add a pop of colour and fresh produce on the platter. Adding vegetables, carrot sticks and cucumber slices will provide a necessary variation in flavours and will also make your guests not feel so terrible for indulging in your delicious spread.</p> <p><em>Image: Getty</em></p>

Home Hints & Tips

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Some really GREAT advice on cruise holidays!

<p><em><strong>Over60 community member, Val Brown, shares her top tips for the next time you take to the open seas for a holiday!</strong></em></p> <p>1. Book early– sometimes companies offer free flights, or discounts so it’s worth getting in early to check it out.</p> <p>2. Take a universal power adapter and a mini first-aid kit. Sewing kits and a small range of toiletries (Touch-Up Kits) are sometimes provided in your cabin, and replenished daily – but check with your cruise line.</p> <p>3. Take some Post-it notes – to leave messages for your partner or staff.</p> <p>4. Take a bar of SARD soap in a plastic box and a nailbrush for light washing. (There’s usually a pull-out washing line in the bathroom).</p> <p>5. When purchasing drinks on board, note the tax – 15 per cent? The cost add up! Check company policy about taking alcohol on board; some do allow it.</p> <p>6. Plan your days ahead – each evening, check the Daily Program delivered to your cabin telling you what’s on the next day. Or you can choose to stay on the ship – all the normal services are still available.</p> <p>7. Clothes – before ticketing, you’ll be advised of the formal or other functions on board (usually two to three per cruise) where you may have to dress up. Pack separates, to dress up or down, add different jewellery, a jacket or scarf, shawl, change of shoes, etc. On most cruise ships, men don’t need suits/ties these days. Bathrobes and slippers are provided in the cabin – to wear to the pool. If not supplied, buy a lanyard to hold your cabin card.</p> <p>8. VIP – take a good pair of walking shoes. You only need two to three pairs of shoes – walking shoes, sandals, and “dress” shoes.</p> <p>9. Carry-on – pack your usual medications and more to cover all events, (antibiotics, tummy upsets, diarrhoea), a light jacket, phone/other charger, a foldable bag, book/e-book, laptop/iPad in your carry-on bag – ready for inspection. It’s a good idea to include a change of undies in case of delays or if you want to shower and change. You might also like to take togs in case you’re in a warm place and can swim in waiting-time!</p> <p>10. Do your own-thing in port – choose local tours to suit your interests, at your own pace; meet others interested in sharing costs for transport, meals, etc. If going to foreign countries, take maps, in English. There are always taxis to pick up passengers at ports but make sure you check the price, before you get in – and that they know where you want to go!</p> <p><em>Image: Getty</em></p>

Cruising

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15 cruise tips approved by the Over60 community

<p>There’s nothing better than a cruise, but it can be difficult to know what to expect. Here are 15 of the best cruising tips from the Over60 community. Don’t step onboard any cruise ship without reading this advice first.</p> <p>1. Pam Holland says when you’re on a cruise by yourself it’s important to be careful which cabin you choose: “It's not much fun on a balcony if you travel solo. Much better to take a cheaper room and use the seats/lounges up on deck and watch the sea.”</p> <p>2. Grace Boland reckons the solution to the post-cruise blues is to, “Just book another one! It’s river cruises for me. Booking my fourth. Don’t like the monster ships now. River cruise ships have spoilt me forever. Magnificent!”</p> <p>3. Jane Fisher advises on the hidden costs of cruise ships, especially when it comes to drinks, saying, “This is especially important if you travel on any American cruise lines, the prices for alcohol are in US dollars, so your nightly glass of wine ends up being quite expensive.”</p> <p>4. Nils Gustafsson has some good advice regarding shore excursions: “The most expensive part of your trip is your cruise tours, so book them with the locals when you arrive in each port. They’ll be half the price and less crowded as well.</p> <p>5. Sandra Woodhouse recommends two items every cruiser should pack, “Two essentials to take on a cruise, an e-reader and a pack of playing cards. Both perfect when the weather is not.”</p> <p>6. Rosemary Miles says, “There's a lot to be said for only booking with a well-known, large cruise company. There are a number who have been around for years and are well established.”</p> <p>7. Jac Haines says, “Take out travel insurance as soon as you start paying deposits. Talk to a person and have them highlight in the contract where you are covered for deposits and everything else right down to political turmoil and mother nature.”</p> <p>8. Diane Green is an advocate of the cabin balcony room, saying: “I always like a balcony room. That is my space. I don't have to share with loads of others. When we cruised through Fiordland, New Zealand, up on deck was like being in a sardine can. I retreated to my balcony, sat in reasonable comfort and had a great view.”</p> <p>9. Marion Johnson on the other hand, prefers interior cabins, “We prefer interior. Less noise from the hallways. Yes, we have a clock night light but don't take the battery LED lights any more. After all there are lights in the room. We sometimes leave the television on with no sound on the cam station if we want to be up for a new port.”</p> <p>10. Dianne Barnett has some good packing advice, saying, “When traveling with a partner, always have a photo copy of your passport, Medicare, private health card etc. in each other’s suitcase as well as your own.”</p> <p>11. Kerrie Sanderson has some important advice on how you should treat cabin crew: “Treat them with respect. Unfortunately, too many passengers treat the staff as servants. One cruise I was on a gentleman sent his boiled eggs back 11 times then ended up throwing them on the floor (I would have pushed his face into them) you just can't please some people.”</p> <p>12. Judy Kanizay says, “Go prepared and travel smart! Hard to avoid the coughs, colds, tummy bugs but careful preparation can give relief, save grief and money. A local pharmacy can be helpful. A must in my luggage are jar of Vicks plus bottle of apple cider vinegar.”</p> <p>13. Antoinette Devlin says, “As far as I'm concerned, cruising is the only way to holiday. Not mentioned in the tips is that if you book very early, you can pay the cruise off weekly or monthly. My sister and i have done that and in 2 weeks we start a cruise around Australia for 30 wonderful days. We've paid it of monthly for a year and a half. There's so much you can chose from and it doesn't have to cost money. Things like trivia, listening to music at night etc.”</p> <p>14. Jannah Foley recommends a trip to Egypt, “I have done this trip twice! It is highly recommended and very affordable. Also, very safe. Egyptians are very hospitable and friendly. I was in Egypt last year and it just gets better every time I go there... and I have been there several times!”</p> <p>15. Margrit Cameron says, “Cabins are always a bit on the tight side but who cares when all the classy entertainments, the food, the beautiful ocean and the numerous comfy public areas and cafes and bars will keep us happy.”</p> <p>What are your tips for cruising?</p> <p><em><strong>Have you arranged your travel insurance yet? Tailor your cover to your needs and save money by not paying for things you don’t need. <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://elevate.agatravelinsurance.com.au/oversixty?utm_source=over60&utm_medium=content&utm_content=link1&utm_campaign=travel-insurance">To arrange a quote, click here</a>.</span> For more information about Over60 Travel Insurance, call 1800 622 966.</strong></em></p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="http://www.oversixty.com.au/travel/cruising/2017/01/6-things-to-try-when-it-rains-on-your-cruise/">6 things to try when it’s raining on your cruise</a></strong></em></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="http://www.oversixty.com.au/travel/cruising/2017/01/carnival-vista-new-home-docked-in-miami/">World’s most impressive cruise ship to get a new home</a></strong></em></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="http://www.oversixty.com.au/travel/cruising/2017/01/clever-ways-to-skip-the-queue-on-a-cruise/">6 clever ways to skip the queue on a cruise</a></strong></em></span></p> <p> </p>

Cruising

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Best relationship advice from the Over60 community

<p><span>We asked about the best relationship advice you’ve received on our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/oversixtys/photos/a.1426634930900122/2417788678451404/?type=3&amp;theater">Facebook page</a>. Below are some of the most insightful responses.</span></p> <p><span>“Communication and trust my dad used to say. And don’t go mouthing your private business to your friends.”- Annette Clark</span></p> <p><span>“Say ‘I love you’ everyday. You are never sure when it could be your last.” - Pam Garmony</span></p> <p><span>“Whilst he is your whole life you’ll only ever be part of his. Told to me when I was sixteen and madly in love with my new boyfriend, by a mature work colleague. We have been married for 58 years and I have never been ‘clingy’.”- Val Woodrow</span></p> <p><span>“Don’t let work get in the way of your relationship.”- Lesley Back</span></p> <p><span>“You don’t know anybody until you live with them.” - Sandy Hemington</span></p> <p><span>“Don’t try to change your partner. Love them for who they are.” - David Peters</span></p> <p><span>“Don’t let the sun go down on your wrath.” - Yvonne Day</span></p> <p><span>“Never sleep on an argument!” - Gwenda Jeffrey</span></p> <p><span>“Don’t sweat the small stuff.” - Toni Kirkpatrick</span></p>

Relationships

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How painting contributes to healthy ageing

<p>A study published in <a href="http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0890406599000213" target="_blank"><em><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">the Journal of Aging Studies</span></strong></em></a> found that participants aged 60 to 93 identified six key aspects of successful ageing. These aspects were a sense of purpose, interactions with others, personal growth, self-acceptance, autonomy and health. The researchers found that creative activity contributes to successful ageing by fostering a sense of competence, purpose and growth. It also improves problem-solving skills, motivation and perceptions that translate into how individuals manage day-to-day life. Here are some more ways painting<a href="https://shop.oversixty.com.au/collections/painting?utm_source=Over60&amp;utm_medium=in-article-link-painting&amp;utm_campaign=Over60Shop&amp;utm_content=over60-shop" target="_blank"></a> contributes to healthy ageing.</p> <p><strong>1. Strengthens memory</strong></p> <p>A painter is required to sharpen their mind through conceptual visualisation and implementation. This activity boosts memory recollection skills and decreases the chance of developing memory loss illnesses later in life.</p> <p><strong>2. Stress relief</strong></p> <p>Stress is a problem that everyone deals with but frequent and high levels of stress can have a severe impact on your emotional and physical health. Focusing on painting allows a person’s mind to escape the stresses of life and relax. Releasing anxiety in painting helps someone contemplate a stressful situation out of a place of contemplation rather than through emotions. </p> <p><strong>3. Increases optimism</strong></p> <p>Painting<a href="https://shop.oversixty.com.au/collections/painting?utm_source=Over60&amp;utm_medium=in-article-link-painting&amp;utm_campaign=Over60Shop&amp;utm_content=over60-shop" target="_blank"></a> involves having a plan of your work of art and then accomplishing it. This process boosts levels of happiness and optimism once this goal is achieved and you have a beautiful artwork. As you continue to paint, your skills will grow and self-esteem will be boosted as you experiment with your new artistic skills.</p> <p><strong>4.  Nurtures emotional growth</strong></p> <p>Therapists regularly suggest painting as a treatment for patients who have suffered psychologically painful situations. Painting helps express your subconscious thoughts and feelings that you might be brushing over. Painting increases emotional intelligence and as you paint more you will become more reflective on what factors are influencing your varying moods.</p> <p>Do you enjoy painting? Let us know in the comments below.</p>

Art

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10 more uses for Sunlight soap from the Over60 community

<p>Sunlight soap was the world’s first packaged and branded laundry soap, being introduced by the Lever Brothers in 1884. Since then, it has continued to impress customers with its quality and many uses. We shared with you <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/lifestyle/home-garden/2016/01/uses-for-sunlight-soap/" target="_blank">surprising uses for Sunlight soap</a></strong></span> and now, the Over60 community have shared 10 more ingenious uses for Sunlight soap.</p> <p><strong>1. Laundry</strong></p> <p>“I remember my Grandmother using this for laundry, cleaning and used it for the bath and washing dishes. Soap went into basket, locked it shut then as the water ran over it make suds… sunlight soap is amazing.” – Susan Lyzwa</p> <p><strong>2. Shampoo</strong></p> <p>“I always used it to wash hair when we were young... it was remarkable how soft it left our hair too… no conditioner in those days.” – Marlee Marley</p> <p><strong>3. Remove stains</strong></p> <p>“Fancy expensive stain removers are not necessary. Cold water and Sunlight soap rubbed on any stains or marks, before placing item in the washing machine will do the trick.” – Fran Doyle</p> <p><strong>4. Discipline naughty children</strong></p> <p>“I remember having my mouth washed out with it for saying ‘bloody’. That was 55 years ago, and I never said it again in front of my Mum. I can still taste it!!” – Carolyn Korlaki</p> <p><strong>5. Remove splinters</strong></p> <p>“As a child I had a lot of splinters. My nan mixed grated Sunlight soap and sugar to form a paste, place it on my finger then bandage it... later you would feel it drawing the splinter out, no tears.” – Lois Boon</p> <p><strong>6. Clean pets</strong></p> <p>“Old vet told me to use it on my dog years ago when he had some sort of mite rash on his skin. It fixed it.” – Ellie Tarver </p> <p><strong>7. Treat grazes</strong></p> <p>“Very effective for those who get nasty grazes whilst playing various sports. Only 'treat' with Sunlight soap and it will clear up very quickly!” – Robyn Hern </p> <p><strong>8. Stop cramps</strong></p> <p>“Stops the cramps when you put it between the sheets, old wives’ tale but it works for me.” – Penny Button </p> <p>“Put a cake of Sunlight soap under your pillow. Helps with pain, funny but true. Try it.” – Rhonda McWilliam</p> <p><strong>9. Treat boils</strong></p> <p>“Sunlight soap, little water and white sugar makes a paste. It fixes sores, boils and draws out splinters.” – Patti Cloake</p> <p><strong>10. Firelighter</strong></p> <p>“Nanna used to cut chunks of it to put into the wood fired copper.” – Maureen Snelson</p> <p>What are your favourite uses for Sunlight soap? Let us know in the comments below.</p>

Home & Garden

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How regularly you should be washing your bed sheets

<p>A leading microbiologist from New York has advised people to wash their <a href="https://shop.oversixty.com.au/collections/sheets?utm_source=Over60&amp;utm_medium=in-article-link-sheets&amp;utm_campaign=Over60Shop&amp;utm_content=over60-shop" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>bed sheets</strong></span></a> once a week to avoid illness.</p> <p>Philip Tierno from New York University told Business Insider that microscopic life can build up over time and within a week gunk becomes “significant”.</p> <p>Tierno explained that not washing your bedding for two weeks will leave you with a build-up that can leave you with a scratch throat especially if you suffer from allergies.</p> <p>Unwashed bedding can also make you sneeze and sniffle more as the microbes are near your face, meaning you are more susceptible to breathing them in.</p> <p>"Even if you don't have allergies per se, you can have an allergic response," Tierno said.</p> <p>In a recent study, researchers found that a test sample of feather and synthetic pillows that were more than 11.5 -20 years old contained up to 16 species of fungus each.</p> <p>Mary Malone from about.com explained that leaving bedsheets unchanged can lead to health complications such as infected wounds and athlete’s foot.</p> <p>“It is possible to find saliva, urine, genital fluids and faecal matter in the fibres,” she told ATTN.</p> <p>“Infrequent cleaning of sheets and pillowcases allows the fluids to seep into the pillows and mattresses, and those are much more difficult to clean than tossing sheets in the washer,” she said.</p> <p>As well as your own microbial life, you can also find pollen, soil, lint, dust mite debris and faeces and finishing agents in your bedding.</p> <p>"If you touched dog poo in the street, you'd want to wash your hands," Tierno said. "Consider that analogous to your bedding. If you saw what was there — but of course you don't see it — after a while you have to say to yourself, 'Do I want to sleep in that?'"</p> <p>How often do you wash your bedding? Let us know in the comments below.</p> <p><em><strong> </strong></em></p>

Home & Garden

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Top 20 book recommendations from the Over60 community

<p>Being led on an engrossing and emotive journey through the pages of a magnificent book is an activity like no other. We asked you, the Over60 community, to share your favourite books, so you wouldn’t be short on recommendations once you finish your current read.</p> <p>Here are the top 20 book recommendations.</p> <p><strong>1. <em>Wild Swans</em> by Jung Chang</strong></p> <p>“Just coming to the end of it for a second time... a true story of three daughters of China. Brilliant!” – Margaret Hallam </p> <p><strong>2. <em>The Book Thief</em> by Markus Zusak</strong></p> <p>“Magnificent read. Markus Zusak has a very interesting, unique and engaging writing style.” – Yvonne Patterson</p> <p><strong>3. <em>The Lovely Bones</em> by Alice Sebold</strong></p> <p>“Very different to most books I read, a murdered 14-year-old girl tells her story of what happened after her death. I believe there is a movie too.” – Maggie Bibby </p> <p><strong>4. <em>A Fortunate Life</em> by Albert Facey</strong></p> <p>“Not long ago I finished a book by Albert Facey. A very interesting read about his growing up in the early 1900s and experiences with WWI and life. Kids these days who think they have it tough should read it.” – Graham Jackaman </p> <p><strong> 5. <em>The Little Coffee Shop of Kabul</em> by Deborah Rodriguez</strong></p> <p>“Life in the coffee shop during conflict in Afghanistan, the developing friendships with many complex characters. Recommended by a friend so glad she did. Great story.” –  Merrilee Pawley</p> <p><strong>6. <em>‘Gelignite’ Jack Murray</em> by Phil Murray</strong></p> <p>“The biography of<em> ‘Gelignite’ Jack Murray</em>, the quintessential Aussie larrikin, motorsport icon, father of water skiing in Australia, adventurer and top all round sportsman. His type will never be seen again, and I can thoroughly recommend the book as a good read.” – Darryl Wilkes </p> <p><strong>7. <em>Drums of Autumn</em> by Diana Gabaldon</strong></p> <p>“<em>Drums of Autumn</em> is book four in the<em> Outlander</em> series. Now reading book five... all for the second time. Highly recommend.” – Vicki Stebbins </p> <p><strong>8. <em>The Barefoot Investor</em> by Scott Pape</strong></p> <p>“I would recommend this to anyone to read, it will change your life. – Frances Van Kerk Oerle </p> <p><strong>9. <em>Long Walk to Freedom</em> by Nelson Mandela</strong></p> <p>“It has some  great background information if you are thinking of travelling to South Africa, too.” – Anne Dunnet</p> <p><strong>10. <em>Working Class Man</em> by Jimmy Barnes</strong></p> <p>“Please read the prequel <em>Working Class Boy</em> first. It's like he's talking straight to you.” – Sharron Millsteed Barker</p> <p><strong>11. <em>The Dry </em>and<em> Force of Nature</em> by Jane Harper</strong></p> <p>“I’d recommend both<em> The Dry</em> and <em>Force of Nature</em> by Jane Harper. Both great Aussie stories with mystery and whodunnit questions until the end. Another great Aussie series are books by Bronwyn Parry.” –  Vicki Newbury </p> <p><strong>12. <em>Tattooist of Auschwitz</em> by Heather Morris</strong></p> <p>“Fantastic read, sad but very enlightening on how humans can descend into hell and treat one another. I love books that inform us and take us into other people’s lives, it’s a great honour.”  – Lee Chilman </p> <p><strong>13. <em>The Hundred-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out the Window and Disappeared</em> by Jonas Jonasson</strong></p> <p> “Perfect for 60s age group because they will appreciate the snippets of history woven throughout this very funny tale. Loved it.” – Kerrie O'Dea</p> <p><strong>14. <em>The Lavender Keeper</em> by Fiona McIntosh</strong></p> <p>“As usual, a great story, and just about to start its sequel, <em>The French Promise</em>.” – Judith Daniel </p> <p><strong>15.<em> The Secret Children</em> by Alison McQueen</strong></p> <p>“A true story of two sisters fathered by a Scottish tea plantation owner in India in the 30s to a young Indian woman.” – Janelle Rosemary Campbell </p> <p><strong>16. <em>Against All Odds</em> by Danielle Steel</strong></p> <p>“Love all of Steel’s books. I love how when you are reading you get caught up in her characters. They come alive. Hard coming back to reality sometimes.” – Kim McLoughlin </p> <p><strong>17. <em>I am Pilgrim</em> by Terry Hayes</strong></p> <p>“Epic in its scale, from New York 2002 to Afghanistan to Syria… keeps you so engrossed. No low points.” – Christine Kirton</p> <p><strong>18. <em>“B” is for Burglar</em> by Sue Grafton</strong></p> <p>“I definitely highly recommend the series. I'm rereading them in memory of the lovely Sue who passed away in December.” – Wozzie Rose Mercer</p> <p><strong>19. <em>My Cousin Rachel</em> by Daphne Du Maurier  </strong></p> <p>“I am reading some of Daphne Du Maurier’s books, hard going but I loved <em>My Cousin Rachel</em> and <em>Jamaica Inn</em>, reading<em> The Glassblowers</em> now.” – Lesley Wilson</p> <p><strong>20.<em> All That I Am</em> by Anna Funder</strong></p> <p>“Good read about a group of German pacifists who flee Germany when Hitler comes to power.” – Margaret Shambrook </p>

Books

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Should you use hand cream on your face?

<p>There is a wide range of skincare products that someone can add to their daily beauty regime.</p> <p>From moisturisers to anti-ageing creams, it is hard to know which products to invest in and which ones to pass on.</p> <p>Hand creams target an area of the body that can often be neglected with the number of tasks they accomplish day in and day out.</p> <p>Hand cream combats signs of premature ageing as well as boosting moisture levels and skin elasticity. It can also protect your hands against UV exposure, which can lead to cracking and pigmentation.</p> <p>But, can use hand cream on your face?</p> <p>Today’s hand creams are far more advanced than what they were previously with most hand creams containing SPF and active ingredients designed to counter wrinkles.</p> <p>Founder of Hand Chemistry, Brandon Truaxe, reveals that hand creams are often inspired by face cream.</p> <p>“As hands can age more dramatically than the face, we had to include higher concentrations of a selection of the most effective anti-ageing technologies to be able to produce a very visible difference within just a few days,” says Brandon.  </p> <p>However, cosmetic chemist, Colin Sanders, reveals that hand cream can have adverse effects on your skin.</p> <p>“Hand cream can leave skin looking shiny and cause reactions or blocked pores on the face,” he said.</p> <p>So, if you are prone to dry skin and are willing to gamble on getting a spot, you can use hand cream to replace a night cream.</p>

Beauty & Style

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10 words and phrases you hate the most

<p>A couple of months ago, we asked the Over60 community to share the words and phrases people use that they can’t stand, and we were absolutely inundated with comments. Here are 10 of the most popular responses.</p> <p><strong>1. Somethink</strong></p> <p>“SOMETHINK instead of SOMETHING.” – Eileen Azzopardi.</p> <p>“SOMETHINK! When did that become a word? On tele, even ads! Drives me nuts.” – Julieann Oldman.</p> <p><strong>2. Pet names</strong></p> <p>“I hate being called ‘darl’ or ‘honey’ or ‘sweetheart’. I’m not your ‘darl’, ‘honey’ or ‘sweetheart’. I also dislike checkout people saying, ‘How’s your day been so far?’ Do they really want to know? I don’t think so.” – Janet Beal.</p> <p>“Hate being called ‘darl’ by shop assistants, especially men.” – Heather Lewis.</p> <p><strong>3. “Of” instead of “have”</strong></p> <p>“Using the word ‘of’ instead of ‘have’ (i.e. ‘I should of done such and such’ instead of ‘I should have done’). I am seeing it more and more these days which brings me to wonder what they are being taught in schools or is it just bad speech. It is not just the very young who are guilty either!” – Beverley Plane.</p> <p><strong>4. “Zee” instead of “zed”</strong></p> <p>“Pronouncing the letter Z as ‘zee’ instead of ‘zed’! I always think they say ‘C’! This is Australia not America!” – Diane Selby.</p> <p><strong>5. ‘Straya</strong></p> <p>“STRAYA… who for God's sake started that and why can’t we speak proper language?” – Diana Joy Garland.</p> <p>“At the moment the word that rubs me up the wrong way is STRAYA for Australia.” – Dorothy O’Sullivan.</p> <p><strong>6. Two thousand and eighteen</strong></p> <p>“What annoys me is when people say two thousand and eighteen. It’s twenty eighteen. Nobody said one thousand nine hundred and eighteen, it was nineteen eighteen, so why isn’t it twenty eighteen?” – Lorrine Lidston.</p> <p><strong>7. Youse</strong></p> <p>“Where do I start? ‘Brought’ instead of ‘bought’, ‘youse’ (or however people spell a word that doesn’t exist, unless you’re a sheep)!” – Snežana Gosden.</p> <p>“The plural of you is ALSO you. There is no such word as ‘yous’ or any other spelling derivatives.” – Kristopher Mudd.</p> <p><strong>8. Awesome</strong></p> <p>“I am so over social media use of ‘awesome’ for things that are not. How often these days are we truly in awe of something?” – Meg Milton.</p> <p>“Awesome! It seems this word is used for everything much the same as ‘absolutely’. Makes me cringe when I hear those two words.” – Phil Ross.</p> <p><strong>9. “Less” instead of “fewer”</strong></p> <p>“The use of ‘less’ instead of ‘fewer’. According to usage rules, fewer is used when discussing countable things, while less is used for singular mass nouns. For example, you can have fewer ingredients, dollars, people, or puppies, but less salt, money, honesty, or love. If you can count it, go for fewer.” – Sarah Lawrence.</p> <p><strong>10. “His” and “he’s” used interchangeably</strong></p> <p>“’His’ versus ‘He’s’. His so cute (no, he’s so cute), he’s mum (no, his mum). That is pure laziness. I have friends the same age as I am (mid 50s) that have started with this crap and it’s doing my head in – royally.” – Kezz O’Carroll.</p> <p>Tell us in the comments below, what word or phrase annoys you the most?</p>

Books

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1960s: A time of great change in my childhood

<p><em>Missed the start of series? Read <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/family-pets/2018/02/growing-up-on-a-farm-in-1950s-australia/" target="_blank">Chapter 1: Aussie Summers – 1950s</a></strong></span> and <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/family-pets/2018/02/growing-up-on-a-farm-in-1950s-australia-part-2/" target="_blank">Chapter 2: Aussie Winters – 1950s.</a></strong></span></em></p> <p align="center"><strong>Chapter 3: Aussie Winters – 1960s</strong></p> <p>The 1960s were for me personally, a decade of changes. From leaving a small country primary school to attending a large high school where I did not know many kids, to leaving school and working on our family farm with Dad and Robin. Later in the decade we changed farms and moved from the district, but that will be dealt with in another story.</p> <p>During this decade, I became an excellent driver of tractors and farm vehicles. Sport was a dominate feature of my life, about which I had grandiose, but totally unachievable dreams.</p> <p align="center"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Dealing with foxes</span></p> <p>Lambing time was still one of the highlights of the year, providing we received enough rain to provide feed for the ewes. We still had our pet lambs, and the first were still called Sally and Jimmy, and they lived their lives quite happily on the farm, with the Sally’s eventually having lambs of their own.</p> <p>We still had problems with foxes. On really dark nights, I used to go out with Dad and some friends/neighbours, in our Land-Rover with me holding the spotlight. I soon learnt the foxes were difficult to find and were very cunning. Sometimes they were very scarce and we would only shoot one or two, other nights we would get many more. All the neighbours knew us so had no problems with us shooting on their properties. By the time we arrived home (anytime between midnight and 3am) we would be FROZEN with the cold. After a short sleep it was probably back to tractor driving the following day.</p> <p>Shearing time continued to be great fun, especially after I left school and could spend all day trying to help. Initially I continued just to sweep the floor, but as I grew taller and stronger, I was taught how to do other jobs. I simply loved everything about shearing, the smells, sounds and the sights left me with happy, life-long memories.</p> <p align="center"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Farm “accidents”</span></p> <p>The older I became, the more Dad trusted me to do things unsupervised. This was best illustrated with driving the tractor. When I was about 12, Dad had just started cultivating a new paddock. By now I had seen him do this numerous times and it required a fair amount of skill, to pull an implement wider than the tractor, getting as close to (but not hitting) the fence. This was especially difficult when turning 90 degrees in the corners.</p> <p>After the outside few rows were completed, Dad would allow me to take over while he watched, providing there was nothing in the paddock that I could hit. I tried really hard to impress him, by driving straight like he and my brother.</p> <p>This particular day, it was starting to get really dark and overcast, and with the wind in the NW usually meant we could expect thunderstorms. After a while, Dad said, “I’m going home for tea, you can take over for awhile”. With a huge grin and pride to match it, I started, trying really hard to keep the lines straight like Dad had done.</p> <p>A short time later, I could see flashes of lightning and even above the noisy tractor, I could hear the thunder, and it seemed to be getting closer. My rows started to become quite crooked as I was become more fearful by the minute. I didn’t know a lot about lightning but knew that it struck the highest point, so I was trying to work out which was the highest, my head or the tractor exhaust.</p> <p>By now, it was windy and raining as well and I was pretty nervous and fearful of my life, so I pulled the tractor to a stop (I didn’t know how to turn off the motor) hopped off the tractor and crouched on the ground between the rear wheels.</p> <p>Finally Dad arrived and I was SO embarrassed for him to find me like that. He said laughing “What are you doing”? I explained my thinking. He laughed again and said, “The tractor has rubber wheels so you would be perfectly safe”. It was a lesson well learnt, and a huge blow to my ego.</p> <p>Another tractor driving incident when I was about 14. By now Robin drove one tractor and me the other, and Dad would take over on one of them while went home for lunch.</p> <p>Obviously with two tractors going around and round, very quickly the paddocks became smaller, until it reached the stage there were just the corners (headlands) left to do. It took a fair amount of skill and practice to complete the 180 degree turn, when confronted with two fences fast approaching, especially considering the fact that the combined length of tractor plus cultivator would have been at least 6 metres. I had ALWAYS been told that before turning, to change the tractor down to a much slower gear, thereby making the turn that much easier to complete.</p> <p>This particular day, we were working in the hill paddock, which was on a fairly busy road close to the house. One of the fences was brand new. Nearly completion of the paddock, Robin and I discussed what we would do. It was decided he would drive off and start in a different paddock so I did the headlands as I had been taught.  </p> <p>On the final one, with the new fence, I decided NOT to change to a slower gear, because I thought I was clever enough to achieve it. However, I left the turn far too late. Suddenly, the front wheels were disappearing through Dad’s new fence and the wires were getting tangled around the front wheels. I pulled the tractor to a halt in total panic and absolute shock, not knowing what to do. To continue would totally destroy the fence, to reverse meant driving over an expensive implement, either way I knew Dad would not be impressed. I decided to leave the tractor and walk home and face the music. As I expected, Dad was not at all happy with me. I’m not sure what happened next, as I think I was too traumatised to remember.</p> <p align="center"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Sporting glory</span></p> <p>By now I was totally absorbed with table-tennis and played when I could. The matches were fiercely competitive with our team. Reeves Plains was still one of the top teams, with our main opposition being Kangaroo Flat. Other teams included Wasleys, Two Wells, and teams from Gawler, amongst others. Each team consisted of six players, so with Dad, Mum, Robin and me, we only needed two others. One of Kangaroo Flat’s top players was Janice, so when she married my brother and played for us, that firmly tilted the balance in our favour.</p> <p>We played in the Adelaide Plains Table Tennis Association, and it was always a great honour to be selected to play for the association against others like Clare and Strathalbyn. In my final couple of years I was selected and it felt great to play with the rest of the family and friends from other clubs.</p> <p>Every year a local tournament was played in Wasleys and I was always keen to win the Under 15 Boys Single title. When I was 12, I was beaten in the semi-final by an older boy who played for our team. The following year I lost in the final. I was not happy, as I had played him many times previously and had always beaten him.</p> <p>The following year which was my last, all the older boys were too old, so I won with virtually no opposition, which was almost a hollow victory. Still, it was great to win a silver teaspoon, which I treasured dearly for many years, and have my name in the local paper.</p> <p>Those cold winter nights I will never forget. To come home after a night of table-tennis, have some of Mum’s cooking, a hot drink of Milo as we put our feet in the ARGA stove to warm up before going to bed, nothing has ever topped those feelings, of un-bridled happiness, and contentment. Then, getting up early next morning sit on a tractor in the freezing cold and rain, it didn’t seem to matter, as my world was perfect.</p> <p align="center"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">A time of change</span></p> <p>After leaving primary school, I was faced with the daunting situation of high school. My first year was spent at the new school that was being built by the race-course (Barnet Road) in Gawler. To get there, I first had to ride my bike 2 miles to catch the Mallala to Gawler bus.</p> <p>After our small primary school, where everybody knew everyone, to be faced with at least 200 new faces was rather daunting. With a series of tests completed, I was placed with about 40 others with Mr. Barr, in 1C who was our very nice class teacher. My good friend from primary school, Graham, was in another class so initially I missed him a great deal, until I got to know some of the others, (mainly “townie” boys from Gawler) and some nice girls.</p> <p>I was just an average student and didn’t really like high school and left when I turned 15 as I had no desire to be anything other than a farmer.</p> <p>Dad still went on his annual bush trips with friends, but now it was different. No longer being able to shoot kangaroos he now shot foxes on outback sheep stations. To cover their costs, they would skin the foxes, and then sell them to a firm in Adelaide.</p> <p>Most winters were cold and wet, with the wind from a southerly or south west direction. Sometimes however, we did not receive enough rain which caused all sorts of problems regarding the feed for the sheep, and germination of the seed crops. This lack of rain during the winter and early spring months meant our crop yields would be really low, therefore affecting us financially, a great deal.</p> <p>In those days, no one had nice warm tractor cabins to sit in. We were outside totally exposed to the weather. During the winter, no amount of warm, waterproof clothing could keep us warm, but as we did not know any different, we just endured it without complaining.</p> <p>I slept in a sleep-out attached to the house, with solid brick walls on two sides but the West and North sides were louvre windows down to about my waist. Sometimes as a thunderstorm approached on a winter’s night, I liked to watch the flash, and count the seconds to work out how far away it was, because I knew four seconds equalled one mile.</p> <p>About 20 metres from my room there was a large, high power pole. Suddenly there was a tremendous whizz-bang noise, which almost resulted in me almost hitting the ceiling and soiling the sheets because of the fright. Next day we realised the lightning had struck the nearby power pole. After that experience, I became a little warier when thunderstorms were approaching.</p> <p>Being married with two children (which a couple of years later became three), Robin was looking at alternative farming options in other areas of the state. Dad was looking to downsize, and I wanted a property with sheep and cattle, and no tractor work, because as much as I loved to drive a tractor, I was not the slightest bit interested in anything mechanical.</p> <p>Without doubt, the biggest problems were the droughts. In 1967 we had one of the worst droughts on record. In the middle of winter when we should have had lush green pastures, and thriving, healthy crops, we were experiencing strong northerly dust storms which took much of the priceless top soil. We had one sheep trough (where the sheep drank water) that was completely covered in dust. That year, like most farmers, we had to sell most of our sheep, which broke our hearts.</p> <p>It was time to stop and revaluate and decide what to do next. Despite the possibilities of droughts and associated problems with farming, it was still a great life. I couldn’t imagine my life not involved with farming.</p>

Family & Pets

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The best rock stars over 60

<p>Who says you have to be young to rock? These genuine rock stars are still going strong – well after they turned 60.</p> <p><strong>1. Carlos Santana, born 20 July 1947</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img width="498" height="245" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7268256/image__498x245.jpg" alt="Image_ (46)"/></p> <p>After making a name for himself in the 1960s and ‘70s, Carlos Santana is famous for his blend of rock and Latin American music. Considered one of the best guitarists of his age, Santana has 10 Grammy Awards and 3 Latin Grammys.</p> <p><strong>2. Stevie Wonder, born 13 May 1950</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img width="498" height="245" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7268257/image__498x245.jpg" alt="Image_ (47)"/></p> <p>The multi-talented Stevie Wonder has been blind since shortly after birth, but hasn’t let that stop him from being one of the best musicians of all time. One of Motown’s most recognisable talents, Wonder has sold over 100 million records, and won 25 Grammys.</p> <p><strong>3. Bob Weir, born 16 October 1947</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><img width="498" height="245" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7268258/image__498x245.jpg" alt="Image_ (48)"/></strong></p> <p>As one of the founding members of the Grateful Dead, Bob Weir has sold more than 35 million records during his career. Though the Grateful Dead disbanded in 1995, Weir continues to tour with other former members and John Mayer as “Dead and Company”.</p> <p><strong>4. Brian May, born19 July 1947</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img width="498" height="245" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7268259/image__498x245.jpg" alt="Image_ (49)"/></p> <p>Responsible for forming Queen along with Freddie Mercury and Roger Taylor in 1970, Brian May went on to write iconic hits such as “We Will Rock You”, “Fat Bottomed Girls”, and “The Show Must Go On”. Not content with his status as a virtuoso musician, May completed his PhD in Astrophysics in 2008, some 37 years after he first began his studies.</p> <p><strong>5. Stevie Nicks, born 26 May 1948 (pictured above)</strong></p> <p>Refered to by many as the “Queen of Rock and Roll, Stevie Knicks is best known for her work with Fleetwood Mac, as well as a successful solo career. During her career, she has sold over 140 million records, cementing her status as one of the best-selling musicians of all time.</p> <p><strong>6. Don Henley, born 2 July 1947</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img width="498" height="245" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7268260/image__498x245.jpg" alt="Image_ (50)"/></p> <p>One of the Eagles’ founding members, Don Henley is who you can hear on classics like “Desperado”, “Hotel California”, and “One of These Nights”. Once the band broke up in 1980, he embarked on a successful solo career, during which he has sold over 10 million albums, and won two Grammys.</p> <p><strong>7. Elton John, born 25 March 1947</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img width="498" height="245" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7268261/image__498x245.jpg" alt="Image_ (51)"/></p> <p>Having releases more than 30 albums over five decades, Elton John is one of music’s most recognisable talents. Famous for his flamboyant style almost as much as for his chart-topping songs, John has sold over 300 million records around the world.</p> <p><strong>8. Bette Midler, born 1 December 1945</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img width="498" height="245" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7268262/image__498x245.jpg" alt="Image_ (52)"/></p> <p>Since 1970, Bette Midler has released 14 studio albums, which have sold more than 30 million copies around the world. With her feature film debut in 1979’s <em>The Rose</em>, Midler cemented her status as a bona-fide rock star.</p> <p>Who is your favourite rock star over the age of 60? Tell us in the comments!</p>

Music

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10 of the most romantic movies, according to the Over60 community

<p>Romance movies have the powerful ability to tug on our heartstrings in the short two-hour span we watch them.</p> <p>If it is a truly great movie, the characters’ love almost becomes our own as we invest our heart into their triumphs and trials.</p> <p>We asked you, the Over60 community, to share your favourite romance movies and here are you top 10 picks.</p> <p>Scroll through the gallery above to see the Over60 community’s favourite romance movie picks.</p> <p>What is your favourite romance movie? Let us know in the comments below. </p>

Movies

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5 over-60 celebs who have nailed their brows

<p>Brows <em>can</em> become bolder and more beautiful with age. Here, brow expert and microblade technician Rachael Pietruszka from The Signature Brow in Sydney, reveals five iconic women who show us how.</p> <p><strong>1. Helen Mirren, 72</strong></p> <p>Dame Helen wears a darker, bolder brow against a stark platinum short bob. I wouldn’t normally recommend the everyday woman try a look that’s this dramatic, but for Mirren, who’s renowned for her confidence and age-defying attitude, it really works.</p> <p>I think the trick is to keep everything on point – to team that bold brow with strong lashes, a bold lip and a killer outfit, as well as a big serving of chutzpah. She is a great example of someone who has become even more comfortable in her skin – and her status as a theatrical icon – with each passing year.</p> <p><strong>2. Ellen Barkin, 63</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img width="498" height="245" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7266789/2_498x245.jpg" alt="2 (49)"/></p> <p>Barkin proves time and again that age is no barrier to beauty and sex appeal. Her darker brows stand out beautifully against her blonde hair, but they aren’t overdone. She has quite a strong jaw and angular cheekbones, but the slightly rounder arch curve of her brow offsets this and keeps her look soft and sultry.</p> <p><strong>3. Ellen Burstyn, 84</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><img width="350" height="525" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7266790/3.jpg" alt="3 (24)"/></strong></p> <p>Burstyn looks soft and stunning with a fuller brow that is lighter in colour. The straighter arch that tapers off to a slightly elevated tail frames her heart shape face gorgeously. The entire brow shape, length and colour brighten her eyes and make them appear happy and awake.</p> <p><strong>4. Jane Fonda, 79</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><img width="498" height="245" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7266791/4_498x245.jpg" alt="4 (14)"/></strong></p> <p>Fonda has kept everything together beautifully her entire life and she just keeps getting better. Her brows are the perfect width apart, the ideal length and width and the tail does all it’s meant to do in terms of thickness and elevation. Her brow colour isn’t too far off her hair hue, which creates a beautifully soft, natural and bright-eyed appearance.</p> <p><strong>5. Annie Lennox, 63</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong><img width="498" height="245" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7266792/5_498x245.jpg" alt="5 (15)"/></strong></p> <p>Style icon Lennox could probably get away with any look she wanted, but I love that she stays true to her platinum short crop and darker grey-brown brows. With her pixie face and hair-do, her angular brows create even more character and suggest a sharp wit and intellect. While her brows are on the thinner side, they frame her face well and add freshness to a look she has carried beautifully for many decades now.</p>

Beauty & Style

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Over60 community reveal their 6 biggest relationship deal-breakers

<p>What’s your biggest deal-breaker when it comes to love? That’s what we asked the Over60 community recently, and the responses were overwhelming. Here are six of the biggest red-flags in relationships according to our readers.</p> <p><strong>1. No communication</strong></p> <p>“The lack of communication, often people think their partner should understand how they feel, without actually articulating it.” – Anne McKeon.</p> <p>“Communication. Talk to each other and more importantly listen.” – Debbie Bryant.</p> <p>“My mum always told me that a good marriage meant: give, take and communicate.” – Christa Caldecott.</p> <p><strong>2. Emotional and physical abuse</strong></p> <p>“Domestic violence. Some people need to look up the meaning of these two words. Emotional blackmail.” – Rozanne Kevill.</p> <p>“Violence it's the only thing I can’t see being able to work through. Married 24 years and still working through new issues.” – Teresa Grudzinski.</p> <p>“Emotional and psychological abuse, financial abuse, physical and sexual abuse, these are killers.” – Patricia Simmons.</p> <p><strong>3. Dishonesty and unfaithfulness</strong></p> <p>“Destruction of trust. Honesty and love is paramount.” – Tony Saddington.</p> <p>“Infidelity. It destroys trust which is the foundation of a relationship.” – Jayne Connerton.</p> <p>“Lying. It destroys trust and a lack of trust can destroy love, so tell it how it is.” – Rob Fitzpatrick.</p> <p><strong>4. Financial incompatibility</strong></p> <p>“When one partner has a different attitude to spending money and running up debt than the other. It’s never going to get better.” – Felicity Weston.</p> <p>“Money wasting or perceived money wasting.” – Barbara Easthope.</p> <p><strong>5. Pride and ego</strong></p> <p>“Pride, some people are too proud to admit they are wrong, or that something said hurt them so they simply let little things fester and become so big they explode and say the most awful things that usually aren’t true. Then resentment builds between both partners.” – Vonnie Bateman.</p> <p>“One partner’s unshakeable belief in his/her own perfection and a complete refusal to discuss issues.” – Dianne McDonald</p> <p><strong>6. Lack of respect</strong></p> <p>“Lack of consideration, lack of control of bodily functions and body odour, taking over conversations and definitely not knowing when to shut up!” – Christine Speers.</p> <p>“Lack of respect for the other’s differing opinion.” – Helen Miles.</p> <p>“The root cause of all of these things is lack of respect and consideration of one’s partner.” – Marlee Marley.</p> <p>Tell us in the comments below, what would you add to our list?</p>

Relationships

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“What I wanted to be as a child…”: Over60 community share childhood ambitions

<p>When you’re young, the world is your oyster. Limited at times only by your imagination, life seems to have endless possibilities and there’s no telling what the future may hold.</p> <p>Then, reality kicks in. We’re slugged with bills, expenses and for better or worse we’re ushered down the hallway that is to become our career and ultimately our lives.</p> <p>A little while ago, we asked the Over60 community to share their childhood ambitions and whether they managed to achieve them. These stories provided an interesting look at the difference between childhood ambition and reality.</p> <p>To see some of the best answers, scroll through the gallery above.</p> <p>What did you want to be as a child? Were you able to fulfil your ambition?</p>

Retirement Income

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The exercise every over-60 should be doing

<p><em><strong>New Zealander Tracy Adshead is a yoga teacher specialising in yoga for seniors. She is passionate about bringing healing and healthy ageing to the community.</strong></em></p> <p class="gmail-p2">If you are from New Zealand or have spent any time there you may be familiar with Maori poi dance. Kate Riegle van West, a PhD student from the USA, has been studying international poi and its cognitive effects on the over 60s at the University of Auckland.</p> <p class="gmail-p2">Kate explained that her background in circus and dance had included using poi in performances, over time she began to notice that using poi always left her feeling good. Her curiosity was sparked – what was it about poi that created positive feelings?</p> <p class="gmail-p2">To find out Kate decided to pack her bags and head off to New Zealand where poi is widely used, today her study has become a world’s first to systematically evaluate the potential health benefits of poi for older adults. </p> <p class="gmail-p3"><strong>Tell us, what exactly do you mean by poi?</strong></p> <p class="gmail-p3">"Poi is a weight on the end of a cord which you spin in circular patterns around your body. It is generally a form of dance and play. There are two distinct poi styles: Maori poi and International poi.”</p> <p class="gmail-p3"><strong>Why do you think poi will have an effect on ageing?</strong></p> <p class="gmail-p3">“Our ageing population is set to increase by 2.5 times by 2050. This is a reversal of the demographics in 1950 and a phenomenon which will not be reversed in the foreseeable future. I believe poi has the potential to improve physical and cognitive functions in older adults.”</p> <p class="gmail-p3">“I would love to see poi in hospitals, retirement villages and nursing homes worldwide. Anyone can practice poi, from able bodied to those in wheelchairs. This research shows that poi maybe a promising tool for maintaining or improving quality of life in old age and will hopefully pave the way for future research.”</p> <p class="gmail-p3">The randomised study tested 79 older adults age 60 and over, practicing poi twice a week over a one-month period. At the end of the month, participants were reassessed for balance, grip strength, memory and attention – everyone had made improvements, everyone reported better coordination and said they enjoyed the challenge of learning a new skill.</p> <p class="gmail-p3">As Kate explains, “this research shows that poi may be a promising tool for maintaining or improving quality of life in old age, and will hopefully pave the way for future research on poi and health.”</p> <p class="gmail-p3">If you would like to know more about Kate’s work <a href="http://www.spinpoi.com" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">click here</span></strong></a> or <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7oM5raj-MI" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">watch this video</span></strong></a>. She currently looking for further opportunities to conduct further research on poi and health.</p> <p><em>Follow Tracy on Facebook <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="https://www.facebook.com/TracyChairYoga/" target="_blank">here</a></strong></span>.</em></p> <p><em>Image credit: James Hirata/SpinPoi.</em></p>

Body

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Top 10 crime authors according to the Over60 community

<p>Earlier this year, we asked the Over60 community to share their favourite crime authors with us, so the next time you’re looking for a good read, you can rely on these recommendations.</p> <p><strong>1. Agatha Christie</strong></p> <p>“When life is challenging, give me a raging storm, a roaring fire and Miss Marple, Hercule Poirot and the best mystery writer ever, Agatha Christie.” – Di Clanchy.</p> <p>Must read: <a href="http://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Fmurder-on-the-orient-express-agatha-christie%2Fprod9780007119318.html" target="_blank"><em><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Murder on the Orient Express</span></strong></em></a>. </p> <p><strong>2. James Patterson</strong></p> <p>“James Patterson is my favourite.  His story lines and twists and turns keep you so engrossed they make you completely ignore the housework.” – Nancy Pond.</p> <p>Must read: <a href="http://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Falong-came-a-spider-james-patterson%2Fprod9780446364195.html" target="_blank"><em><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Along Came a Spider</span></strong></em></a>. </p> <p><strong>3. Peter Robinson</strong></p> <p>“I have lots of favourites that I look for but Peter Robinson is right up there with his DCI Banks series. To me his writing is authentic police procedures written in a no-nonsense format.” – Beth Tennent.</p> <p>Must read: <a href="http://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Fgallows-view-peter-robinson%2Fprod9781447225430.html" target="_blank"><em><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Gallows View</span>.</strong></em></a> </p> <p><strong>4. Lee Child</strong></p> <p>“Lee Child is my favourite crime writer, in particular the <em>Jack Reacher</em> books. They are relatively simple, but page by page I am consumed, not by admiration exactly, but by something much more powerful – the great animating impulse of the whole story-telling business – the desire to know what is going to happen.” – Judith Negus.</p> <p>Must read: <a href="http://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Fkilling-floor-lee-child%2Fprod9780553826166.html" target="_blank"><em><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Killing Floor</span></strong></em></a>. </p> <p><strong>5. Michael Connelly</strong></p> <p>“Michael Connelly is my favourite because he does crime mystery with a side of supernatural making it that much more thrilling.” – Karen Baker.</p> <p>Must read: <a href="http://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Fthe-black-echo-michael-connelly%2Fprod9781760630881.html" target="_blank"><em><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">The Black Echo</span></strong></em></a>. </p> <p><strong>6. Lynda La Plante</strong></p> <p>“Lynda La Plante is my favourite crime writer. Her heroes and heroines are very believable – intelligent, thought-provoking, yet somewhat flawed. Plots are great.” – Jan Macklin.</p> <p>Must read: <a href="/%20http:/t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Fabove-suspicion-lynda-la-plante%2Fprod9781849834339.html" target="_blank"><em><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Above Suspicion</span></strong></em></a>.</p> <p><strong>7. Jo Nesbø</strong></p> <p>“My favourite crime author is Jo Nesbø who brings to life Scandi noir. I feel the ice, cold and vast open dark spaces.” – Beverly Foye.</p> <p>Must read: <a href="http://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Fsnowman-the-jo-nesbo%2Fprod9781784700928.html" target="_blank"><em><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">The Snowman</span></strong></em></a>. </p> <p><strong>8. Karin Slaughter</strong></p> <p>“Karin Slaughter. Her books are so thrilling and suspenseful. You can’t put them down once you start reading them. The stories seem so real and have great characters.” – Paul Pisani.</p> <p>Must read: <a href="http://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Fpretty-girls-karin-slaughter%2Fprod9780062499554.html" target="_blank"><em><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Pretty Girls</span></strong></em></a>. </p> <p><strong>9. Ian Rankin</strong></p> <p>“Ian Rankin. His writing can keep you on your toes and the book will stay in your hands till the last word.” – Roman Lichacz.</p> <p>Must read: <a href="http://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Fknots-crosses-ian-rankin%2Fprod9780752883533.html" target="_blank"><em><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Knots and Crosses</span></strong></em></a>. </p> <p><strong>10. Ruth Rendell</strong></p> <p>“Ruth Rendell enthrals with the very realistic and interesting characters that she weaves into her compelling plots. Her books involve the reader to the point they are hard to put down.” – Jenny Pigdon.</p> <p>Must read: <a href="http://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Ffrom-doon-with-death-ruth-rendell%2Fprod9780099588542.html" target="_blank"><em><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">From Doon with Death</span></strong></em></a>. </p> <p>Who else would you add to the list? Let us know in the comments below. </p>

Books

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