Category: Cate Rees-Hessel

How to be a Feminine Feminist

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How to be a Feminine Feminist

How to be a Feminine Feminist

Editor: I love it.

 

By Cate Rees-Hessel

 

I have always been both a girly girl and staunch feminist – a true Elle Woods, from Legally Blonde fame. Below are a few ways to embrace your inner princess without sacrificing your feminist being:

  1. Wear something pearl everyday for Kamala, the woman who should be President.
  2. Read anything written by Gloria Steinem while getting a pedicure.
  3. Suggest a showing of “Legally Blonde” at your local library (next year is the 25th anniversary…).
  4. Invite friends over to watch the “Barbie” movie and everybody wear pink.
  5. Show your Ken some affection and I don’t mean the doll.
  6. Run for office wearing pretty dresses and, if you can walk in them, a pair of Prada pumps.
  7. Always look your best – when you feel confident you are taken seriously.
  8. Remain well groomed at all times.
  9. Encourage other ladies – call each other beautiful, sexy, and sisters.
  10. Know beauty comes from within.
  11. Recognize beauty comes in all shapes, colors, sizes, ages, and ethnicities.
  12. Don’t go after someone else’s significant other – if you can’t keep a love interest, ask yourself why.
  13. A blush and quiet giggle are okay if followed by an intelligent wisecrack.
  14. Never belch or pass gas in public – you don’t have to be rude to sit at the boys table.
  15. Turn the boys table into the women’s table with your intelligence and wit.
  16. If the guys don’t give you a seat at the table, follow the wisdom of the immortal Shirley Chisolm and bring a folding chair (mine is pink).
  17. Nail biters most often don’t win – keep them groomed.
  18. Take a bubble bath while reading law journals.
  19. Remember Adam and Eve both disobeyed God, not just Eve. As a favorite comic of mine would say, “Where’s the dude?”
  20. Channel Geraldine Ferraro.
  21. Watch “Clueless” in celebration of its 30th anniversary – “as if” Trump actually won the election. “My bad” NOT, because I didn’t vote for “The Donald” – I proudly voted Harris-Walz.
  22. Volunteer for a female candidate’s campaign, as long as they’re not a Trump supporter.
  23. Host a tea for a feminist organization, serving cucumber cream cheese sandwiches and lemon scones on floral china.
  24. Never let them see you sweat – hide your tears from those that mean you harm.
  25. Watch a WNBA game.
  26. Join NOW and campaign for girls and women in sports – go to bat for them.
  27. Be a Ms. even if you’re a Miss or a Mrs.
  28. Stand up for yourself and other women – it’s all about internal sisterhood.
  29. God gave us emotions – they are normal. Don’t be afraid to show them, but don’t let anyone use them against you.
  30. Buy some bad ass lipstick and earrings.
  31. Accessorize and put your pretty game face on.
  32. Dance like everyone is watching.
  33. Drink a mocha latte.
  34. Get a facial or do one at home.
  35. Go to a thrift store for some retail therapy and look for some vintage issues of MS magazine, Vogue, Elle, and Glamour, then do a reading swap with friends.
  36. Read “Whiskey in a Teacup” by Reese Witherspoon.
  37. Have a Reese Witherspoon movie marathon and include both “Legally Blonde’s.
  38. Watch reruns of “That Girl” because Marlo Thomas is an empowered feminist.
  39. Watch reruns of “Murder She Wrote” because J.B. Fletcher was a well-dressed, well-mannered bad ass.
  40. Campaign for Kamala Harris to take her rightful place in the Oval Office in 2028.

 

 

Self-Care for Trump’s Terrible Tariffs

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Self-care for Trump’s Terrible Tariffs

Self-care for Trump’s Terrible Tariffs

By Cate Rees-Hessel

These tariffs are taxes on the American people! Do not bend the knee to Donnie Dictator.  These tariffs are fucking illegal. The tariffs game is nothing more than an arm twisting exercise by Donald Trump to bring corporate America to heel. Sadly his tactics are costing the average American big time. The most needy are as usual hit the hardest,  but that’s nothing new with this  president.

Walmart CEO Doug McMillon has in public statements said that tariffs are raising prices here in the United States and is negatively affecting consumers. Economic strife is stressful and many of us are facing uncertainty in the our futures, the threat of losing many hard earned benefits, especially seniors, the disabled, and families with children is terrifying. It’s even worse than I imagined when I heard Trump was re-elected. He has approved of drastic cuts to many vital programs like SNAP, Medicaid, and Medicare. A Democratic Senate and House can heal our economy, so vote in every election. Remember that Social Security is our money that we worked for and we are entitled to – use it wisely in these crazy economic times. This too shall pass, hopefully sooner than later.

During these times self care is more important than ever but how do we afford to take care our selves, our families and also remain healthy and sane. Here are some suggestions and helpful tips to weather the storm:

  1. Grocery prices are outrageous; try eggless recipes and vegetarian dishes – both healthy and economical. Resist the current administration – they are destroying our economy.
  2. Use outdated yogurt and past their prime fruits for face masks and cuticle treatments.
  3. Join rewards programs, and look for coupons and deals online.
  4. Look for free shipping.
  5. Join a warehouse club to purchase in bulk. Purchasing family or jumbo sizes are often cheaper by the ounce or count (though not always, so double-check), when you can afford the initial cash outlay. Resist the current administration – they are destroying our economy.
  6. Consider split payment programs – some even offer a debit type card to use in store as well as online. Often fees are minimal and most are interest free. Some of these services even offer monthly installment options – down payments are usually low, and minimum purchases vary from very low to mid ranges.
  7. Invite a multi level marketing representative to do a spa day at your home. Tutorials are available online to learn to do your own mani-pedi, facial, and haircuts. There are also many good at-home hair colors available.
  8. Shop local to save on gas.
  9. Look for special discounts on pharmaceuticals and the like. Many places offer AARP, student, and/or military discounts. Seek out scholarships, as well, for education.
  10. Consider clothes swaps, reselling on eBay, Poshmark, Marcari, Facebook Marketplace or local consignment-type shops that buy used goods. Try bartering to save on funds, and use your creativity to make money. Resist the current administration – they are destroying our economy.
  11. Seek out free library and park district/recreation department programs.
  12. Look for no annual fee, cash back, and lower interest credit cards.
  13. Pay off balances when you can to avoid interest.
  14. Opt for fee-free checking accounts.
  15. Try a side gig – there are many opportunities online, but double-check online ratings and with friends for legitimacy. Resist the current administration – they are destroying our economy.
  16. Consider a private mechanic versus a chain shop.
  17. Consider a vocational school for car repairs – instructors oversee the work to keep it safe.
  18. Teachers also oversee at beauty school clinics and work is done by senior students.
  19. Offer to be a haircut, hair color, or manicure model.
  20. Ask for samples prior to buying anything. Resist the current administration – they are destroying our economy.
  21. Drugstore cosmetics are often as good as department store but be very wary of any thing made in China, sometime labeled as PRC. Even items that have U.S., Canada, Korea, Mexico, Turkey, or the like components that are assembled in China, I personally still avoid. Be extra careful when shopping in dollar stores. Make sure pet products are safe and nutritionally complete. Read labels on anything you purchase.
  22. Sign up to be a cosmetic, jewelry, or other merchandise company rep to get discounts on products and access to samples.
  23. Take advantage of streaming services – many offer new subscriber and returning subscriber specials, as well as access to new movies being shown in theaters or released recently.
  24. Prime Days, Walmart Days and Black Friday-type specials are often worth the time and effort, especially non-large purchases. Our local Fred Meyer’s has a first Tuesday of the month 10% senior discount.
  25. Clearance items that are not outdated can save a lot of money, especially after season discounted items. Resist the current administration – they are destroying our economy.
  26. Many restaurants of all levels are offering special pricing or deals these days. If you are a veteran, or an ARRP member remember to ask for your discount. It’s usually enough to give pay your tip.
  27. Going out of business sales can offer up to 75-90% off deals.
  28. Homemade beauty items are often excellent, effective, and safe – the same goes for home created cleaning products.
  29. Consider thrifting or purchasing pre-owned. It’s okay to re-gift, but be discreet.
  30. Local theaters often need volunteer ushers which allows free access to their productions.

Remember, if we stick together and resist the current administration, we can get through this. So add a scarf or costume jewelry to last year’s ensemble to change up your look; show up for local rallies and sign those email petitions to make your voice known. Impeachment should be a given but Trumpty Dumpty still owns his Republican congress. Remember, keep well groomed and steadfast in faith as we all pray, hope, and wish for the day we are rid of the Trump-Vance dictatorship.

Trump and his henchmen are going to do everything possible to tinker, I mean ‘eff with the 2026 election. The higher the turnout the harder it is to skew the results. So, damn it, VOTE! Deciding to consciously not vote just plays into Trump’s hands. Don’t let cynicism keep you from the polls.

You Still Might be a Woman of a Certain Age

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You May be a Woman of a Certain Age 

You May be a Woman of a Certain Age 

By Cate Rees-Hessel

 

  1. If you were and are a Charlie Girl, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  2. If you know how to use a pencil to dial a rotary phone and save your manicure
  3. If you know what a rotary dial phone is, you might be a woman of a certain age.
  4. If you watched Scooby Doo on Saturday mornings while eating Fruit Loops
  5. If you know who, not what the Banana Splits are, you just might be a woman of a certain age.
  6. If you know the lyrics to the Archies “Sugar, Sugar”
  7. If you know who the Archies are
  8. If you know who Caroline Keene is
  9. If you know who Nancy Drew is
  10. If you know who Franklin W. Dixon is
  11. If you know who the Hardy Boys are
  12. If you know who Gertrude Chandler Warner is you just might be a woman of a certain age.
  13. If you know who the Boxcar Children are
  14. If you “wear a Coke and a smile”
  15. If you ordered a Peter Pan collared blouse from the Sears Roebuck catalog
  16. If you had a Montgomery Ward credit card and called it a “charge-a-plate”
  17. If you ever owned a transistor radio or portable record player
  18. If you watched America Bandstand every week
  19. If you know who Dick Clark was
  20. If you shopped at Thom McCann for platform shoes you just might be a woman of a certain age.
  21. If you still own bell bottoms but were never in the Navy
  22. If you know who Barnaby Jones was
  23. If you know who Buddy Ebsen was
  24. If you know who Lee Merriweather is
  25. If you call Uber and Lyft taxi cabs
  26. If you call 7-11 the corner store
  27. If you know what a penny arcade was
  28. If you remember “Me and my RC”
  29. If your spell checker was made by Miriam Webster
  30. If you know who Miriam Webster was
  31. If you attended the Barbizon School of Modeling
  32. If you attended John Robert Powers Finishing School you just might be a woman of a certain age.
  33. If you know what modeling and finishing schools are
  34. If you attended White Gloves and Party Manners classes at a local department store
  35. If you ever owned white gloves that weren’t for winter
  36. If you ever went through the Red Door
  37. If you read “The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe” in school
  38. If you had a color plastic sheet that went over your bunny eared black and white TV set
  39. If you had a silver metallic Christmas tree with a multi-color light wheel
  40. If you think retro and vintage are the latest fashions, you just might be a woman of a certain age.

 

Vol.119

What We Could Have Had

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We Could Have Had The Bright, Beautiful Black Lady

Kamala Harris, fulfillment of the American dream. Vote Blue 2024 Biden/Harris

What We Could Have Had

We Could Have Had The Bright, Beautiful Black Lady

 

By Cate Rees-Hessel

 

Regrets?

I wonder if anyone that voted for “The Donald” is finally tired of the insanity and has regrets. I recall years ago the Dream Date game – you could get a handsome male or the dud; we sure got The dud. A popular game show allows contestants the opportunity to choose curtains number one, two, or three but beware, a booby prize is behind one of those curtains. We got zonked big time, but unlike that game of chance, the deal those who voted for the orange monster was a deal made with the Devil.

We Had Our Chance

We had the golden opportunity to elect the most accomplished, the most beautiful,  the most gracious, and the most compassionate, and highly intelligent attorney-prosecutor to ever seek the presidency, but those who are ruled by racism and sexism chose the weak wizard behind the ugly curtain. Now we’ve been zonked and I don’t know if I can last another 1270 days. Below are some prevailing truths because we regretfully did not elect the smart, beautiful Black lady to run our nation:

  1. When the tariffs prevent you from getting what you need or want, remember, we could have had the bright, beautiful Black lady…
  2. When I.C.E. takes your loved ones away, remember, we could have had the bright, beautiful Black lady…
  3. When you can’t afford groceries, remember, we could have had the bright, beautiful Black lady…
  4. When your wife, sister, or daughter can’t get medical care, remember, we could have had the bright, beautiful Black lady…
  5. When none of us have health care, remember, we could have had the bright, beautiful Black lady…
  6. When the Social Security money we all worked for goes to pay Elon Musk’s debts, remember, we could have had the bright, beautiful Black lady…
  7. When the war in the Ukraine rages on with no hope in sight, remember, we could have had the bright, beautiful Black lady…
  8. When we are at war with Iran, including the likely terrorist attacks here, remember, we could have had the bright, beautiful Black lady…
  9. When children have empty plates to fund a want-to-be dictator’s military birthday parade, remember, we could have had the bright, beautiful Black lady…
  10. Even though he and “The Donald” have parted ways, the unfettered power given to Elon Musk has already strongly contributed to running our nation into the ground and his new political party as dangerous as he is, remember, we could have had the bright, beautiful Black lady…
  11. When eggs remain at five dollars a carton, remember, we could have had the bright, beautiful Black lady…
  12. Biden capped inulin at $35.00; Trump dropped the cap so insulin is now unaffordable for seniors, remember, we could have had the bright, beautiful Black lady…
  13. When school lunches are cancelled and children go hungry, remember, we could have had the bright, beautiful Black lady…
  14. When shootings continue to rise, remember, we could have had the bright, beautiful Black lady…
  15. When Medicaid and Medicare are no more, remember, we could have had the bright, beautiful Black lady…
  16. When veterans benefits are no more, remember, we could have had the bright, beautiful Black lady…
  17. When the National Guard is sent into a peaceful protest, remember January 6th; and that we could have had the bright, beautiful Black lady…
  18. When the Gulf of Mexico is referred to as the Gulf of America, we could have had the bright, beautiful Black lady…
  19. When only billionaires get tax breaks, remember, we could have had the bright, beautiful Black lady…
  20. When you wake up drenched in sweat from a nightmare because you voted for Trump, remember…we could have had the bright, beautiful Black lady. We could have had Kamala Harris.

Deranged and Demented

Shame on the racist sexists who voted a mentally deranged narcissist with dementia back into the Oval Office, along with his slimy new sidekick JD Vance; instead we could have had the bright, beautiful Black lady, as our President. Kamala Harris and the delightful, down-to-earth schoolteacher/coach/governor Tim Walz at her side. This was a pair that I proudly voted for.

A Long Wait

I have been waiting for our first female President since Shirley Chisholm, Geraldine Ferraro, and Hilary Clinton. Richard Nixon predicted in 1970 that within the next 50 years we would certainly elect a woman president. Well, according to Nixon we are past the time to elect a woman president of the United States.

Thank You, Joe

Thank you, President Joe Biden for helping us smash the glass ceiling; making Kamala Harris the first woman Vice President of the United States. Please join me in wearing something pearl white in the honor of the early suffragettes who demanded the right of women to vote, and our recent presidential candidate Kamala Harris.

Summer Beauty

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Summer Beauty and Entertainment Tips

 

Summer Beauty and Entertainment Tips

 

By Cate Rees-Hessel

 

Summer is here – we want to look our best while we enjoy the warm temperatures. Don’t let Trump’s tariffs ruin your fun in the sun. Here are some time and money saving ideas for the hot weather months:

 

  1. Use safe sunscreen – the FDA considers only two active ingredients as “generally recognized as safe and effective” – zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.
  2. Moisturize your body after sun or pool exposure.
  3. Use a gel based moisturizer in hot weather to avoid breakouts.
  4. Make your own body scrubs with sugar, salt, and olive or coconut oils.
  5. Shave often but if you use a disposable razor, change it out after just a few uses.
  6. Use a toner or astringent straight from the refrigerator.
  7. Create a sunburn cream and keep it in the fridge, should you get burned.
  8. Shower or bathe often but use a moisture laden body wash or soap.
  9. Use a non-aluminum deodorant with antiperspirant – try an all over deodorant.
  10. Take advantage of water parks, pools and beaches – enjoy the water but practice water safety.
  11. Enjoy picnics and barbecues, but be mindful of food safety and sanitation. Use an alcohol based hand sanitizer and dry off with paper towels if soap and water are unavailable. Lysol public restrooms in parks and picnic areas. Keep food cold and line public grills with tin foil. Never cross contaminate utensils by using them for raw and cooked food. Separate serving spoons, forks, spatulas, and tongs – rinsing is not sufficient. Carry used items home to be washed in a plastic bag or use disposable cutlery. Do not allow flames to touch food – this produces carcinogens. Do not use non-potable water to wash foods. Never rinse chicken. Wash vegetables and fruit before cooking or consuming to avoid food borne illness.
  12. Summer clothes can be fun and fashionable but beachwear is for the beach, not church, work, or entertainment venues. Get dressed before heading out…
  13. Enjoy outdoor concerts and films – many are free. Take along a bag chair, sweater, non perishable snacks and beverages in insulated reusable bottles but wash them often, after each use. Remember insect repellent for outdoor activities.
  14. A Christmas in July party can be fun. Use a few of your winter decorations to save money on decor. Remember that animals, small children, and those with PTSD, for whom it can trigger flashbacks, don’t like fireworks – please be mindful of this. Small children might enjoy them with earplugs. Consider a parade or picnic during the day but do remember that the five second rule on dropped food does not apply. It’s simply not sanitary or safe to consume what has fallen on the ground.
  15. Have a summer clothing and jewelry swap to remain fashionable on a budget. Be careful with jewelry in the pool – certain stones and gold don’t mix well with the chlorinated water.
  16. Shells are a pretty addition to a porch or patio – so are driftwood and sea glass.
  17. Splash pads are often free or low cost, but many have no locker rooms or showers, and may not have restrooms. Often they are near by facilities with public restrooms so plan accordingly. Do a dry run to figure out the lay of the land before you get your swimsuit ready for a day at the splash park.
  18. Enjoy summer starlit nights with the use of a telescope.
  19. A flower and vegetable garden are not only pretty but practical. Check out a community vegetable patch.
  20. Grill fruit, have an ice cream social, or open a lemonade stand for charity. Summer bake sales can be fun but be careful of chocolate or frosting melting. In addition to campfire s’mores, try bananas split down the center with marshmallows, chocolate, peanut butter, and butterscotch chips. Wrap in foil for the fire but be careful when removing them – tin foil can cause burns on your hands and fingers.
  21. Ready your car for road trips by checking oil and tire pressure. Keep water, coolant, and jumper cables handy. Have a good spare tire in your vehicle and join a motor club. Never leave children or pets in hot cars. Consider rail or bus travel.
  22. If you recall days gone by, reminiscing is great but don’t drink from the garden hose or catch fireflies or ladybugs in a jar, even with holes poked in the lid. Let them live in their God-given environment – enjoy looking at them in nature.
  23. Enjoy marina activities but be very careful about boating safety. Never cross alcohol with navigating, and always use life jackets, especially with children, those unable to swim, older adults, and pets.
  24. Take advantage of travel discounts and resident swaps.
  25. Remember to stay hydrated in heat. Don’t ruin your summer with a trip to the emergency room. Avoid caffeine and don’t over indulge alcoholic beverages. Having a fun summer means moderation and sense – don’t risk heat or sun stroke. Enjoy the warm weather – it only lasts a few months…

Ways to Celebrate Juneteenth

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Ways to Celebrate Juneteenth

Editor: Also called Emancipation Day, Freedom Day or Jubilee Day, Juneteenth is the commemoration of June 19, 1865, the day enslaved African Americans in Galveston, TX, learned that they were free.

Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863, but it only applied to people in Confederate states, not those enslaved in Union-held territories (they were not freed until the proclamation of the 13th Amendment). In Texas, a Confederate state where there was little Union Army presence, slavery continued years after the Emancipation Proclamation — and even after the 13th Amendment was passed by Congress on January 31, 1865 —most enslaved people in Texas were not aware of the news. Finally, in June of 1865, Major General Gordon Granger and a contingent of Union troops landed in Galveston, Texas to tell the enslaved peoples that the Civil War had ended and that they were now free. Something worth celebrating, I’d say.

Ways to Celebrate Juneteenth

By Cate Rees-Hessel

Thanks to President Joe Biden, Juneteenth is now a national holiday, as it long should have been. Here are some meaningful ways to celebrate this historic holiday with loved ones:

  1. Wear a Juneteenth T-shirt – my husband and I each have one (mine is pink).
  2. Teach a child about actual Black history.
  3. Teach a child about Abraham Lincoln, a president who was not afraid to end slavery, even if it caused the Civil War.
  4. Attend a Juneteenth event – towns all over the country are celebrating.
  5. Make a donation to the Obama Foundation – obama.org or the NAACP – www.naacp.org.
  6. Make a donation to the United Negro College Fund – after all, “A mind is a terrible thing to waste.” uncf.org
  7. Watch “The Color Purple” or “Roots”.
  8. Read “For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide/When the Rainbow is Enuf”
  9. Watch “A Raisin in the Sun”.
  10. Check out the Juneteenth book displays at your local library.
  11. Look for Juneteenth museum displays.
  12. Have a soul food picnic.
  13. Read about the Obamas, and Vice President Kamala Harris’ family.
  14. Research Hakeem Jeffries.
  15. Research Cory Booker.
  16. Post about Junteenth on social media.
  17. Read about the slaves that positively affected the life of Dolley Madison.
  18. Wish people a blessed and happy Juneteenth.
  19. Do something for holiday fun: water park, bike ride, enjoy summer on this new holiday.
  20. Resist racism by protesting against Trump – help save our democracy.
  21. Read about apartheid and Nelson Mandela.
  22. Many Black males are targeted for crimes they do not commit – tell a Black man you love and believe in him.
  23. Support Black owned businesses ( add a few)
  24. Watch Black television shows, listen to Black radio: letsstaytogethertalkshow.com, www.soarradio.com, and visit Black social media: www.facebook.com/theofficialplussizepower/.
  25. Pray for President Biden’s health, and thank him for making this holiday possible.

What Flag Day Means to Me

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What Flag Day Means To Me

What Flag Day Means to Me

Editor: Flag Day, celebrated on June 14th, commemorates the adoption of the American flag by the Continental Congress in 1777.  While the day was first observed nationally in 1877 and celebrated by various communities during the Civil War to support the union troops, it wasn’t until 1949 that President Harry Truman signed a congressional resolution officially designating June 14th as Flag Day.

Over the last decade it has seemed as if the MAGA crowd had hi-jacked our flag; but that is only a fact if we allow it. I will not hide my flag, I will fly it proudly. My flag will not adorn the back of a pick up truck flapping and shredded from the wind. No I will honor that red, white, and blue symbol. of our bond. 

 

Ways to Celebrate the American Flag

By Cate Rees-Hessel

 

June 14th, Flag Day, is not a day for fake kings, it is a day to honor our flag, which stands for freedom and those who fought for it. Trump is a 35 count convicted felon. He incited the January 6th, insurrection. He is a traitor to everything our flag stands for. Here are ways to celebrate Flag Day, un-MAGA style:

  1. June 14th – celebrate our nation’s flag-not Trump’s birthday
  2. Celebrate Juneteenth.
  3. June is LGBTQ month – let’s celebrate
  4. Show your colors. Fly your stars and stripes right next to the Pride flag, the Breast Cancer Awareness flag, My Body My Choice flag, or how about a blue and yellow Ukraine flag. I support them all
  5. Have your Father’s Day celebration include at least one same-sex couples that are dads, like Pete and Chasten Buttigieg
  6. Cookouts, picnics, and celebrations that honor diversity, equity, and inclusion.
  7. Have a vegetarian cookout or party.
  8. Support our military.
  9. Plant a tree in honor of a vet.
  10. Pray for our troops in the Middle East
  11. Teach a class about “Liberty for All”
  12. A day at the water park or pool can be a learning experience with books written by progressive authors or your favorite website on your tablet, perhaps Calamity News and Politics….
  13. Teach the truth about Francis Scott Key and the song that became our National Anthem. I respect the song but the attorney that wrote the words had a serious racist streak that troubles me. I feel much the same about Christopher Columbus
  14. Advocate for “God Bless America” to become our National Anthem and Leif Ericsson as the first European in the Americas
  15. Boycott Tesla and Elon Musk the world’s first trillionaire, better known as one of the oligarchs who bought the 2024 election for “The Donald”
  16. Support NATO.  Fly NATO’s dark blue flag with it’s centered white compass next to the red, white and blue.
  17. Visit your library for information on democracy and how we are supposed to do it here.  I love my library.
  18. Offer to teach a class at the local community college on significant black women that shaped  America, like  Shirley Chisholm, Sister Rosetta Tharpe: The Godmother of Rock & Roll · Harriet Tubman · Maya Angelou · Rosa Parks · Misty Copeland, to name just a few.
  19. Know before you speak; teach Black history with accuracy to those around you.
  20. Denounce any parade for Trump’s birthday. America has no king and money should not be wasted on this foolishness when there is a threat to necessary federal programs that many of our nations citizens rely on
  21. Teach a teen how to read and write cursive so they can read historical documents
  22. Be woke
  23. Stand up against tariffs that are a tax on Americans
  24. Stand against ICE murders and imprisonment
  25. Stand firm in your convictions against tyranny and greed.

“God bless America, my home sweet home.”

Stand for right. Join the Resistance.

 

More Woman of a Certain Age Wisdom, Vol 112

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More Woman of a Certain Age Wisdom, Vol 112

Woman of a Certain Age Wisdom, Vol 112

By Cate Rees-Hessel

  1.   If you recall the opening of the first drive through in the area, you might just be a woman of a certain age…
  2. If Jean Nate, Youth Dew, Chanel Number Five, Sweet Honesty, Love’s Baby Soft, or Charlie are your favorite fragrances…
  3. If you have been to a drive-in movie on date night…
  4. If you know what a rumble seat is…
  5. If your date ever ran out of gas…or had a flat tire…
  6. If you know where Superman changed his clothes…
  7. If you ever used a pay phone…
  8. If you know what a toll call was…
  9. If you had a long distance calling plan…
  10. If you still have a landline…
  11. If you know what a landline is…or a party line…
  12. If you used Noxzema to wash your face, Sea Breeze to tone and Clearasil cream…
  13. If you ever pinched your cheeks in lieu of blusher…
  14. If you refer to blusher as rouge…
  15. If you have been using Maybelline Great Lash Mascara since you were a teenager…
  16. If you had an original Baby Alive or Susie Cute doll…
  17. If you had an original Barbie, Ken, Midge, or Alan doll…
  18. If your first car was a Mustang…
  19. If you attended the Barbizon or Powers School of Modeling and Finishing…
  20. If you know that a permanent wave is actually a perm…
  21. If you can sing and do the dance steps to the “Who wears short shorts, Nair for short shorts” jingle…
  22. If you still use cold cream or rose milk lotion…
  23. If you take Geritol vitamins…
  24. If you recall when hair mousse first came on the scene…
  25. If you call flip flops thongs…
  26. If you own a bathing cap, especially one with a rubber pink or orange flower…
  27. “Curlers in your hair, shame on you” – if you own curlers that don’t heat…
  28. If you ever made a jello mold…
  29. If you ever set your hair with flat beer…or rolled your hair on those super size cans…
  30. If you ever used a homemade egg white facial mask….

30 Ways to Honor Our Heroes

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30 Ways to Honor Our Heroes On Memorial Day

30 Ways to Honor Our Heroes On Memorial Day

Editor: Memorial Day is a day to remember and honor those who have died serving in the US. military, both in times of war and peace.

By Cate Rees-Hessel & Wes Hessel

 

Remember and Honor…

The current occupant of the Oval Office may think the military are “suckers and losers”, but we as a nation under God know differently. Our military gives their all for our country and we remember them this Memorial Day with heavy hearts and extreme admiration.

A Prayer of Thanks for Freedom

“Heavenly Father, thank You for the precious gift of freedom, the freedom to worship, to speak, and to live according to our conscience. On this Memorial Day, we remember with deep gratitude the brave men and women who gave their lives so that we might enjoy these liberties. Their sacrifice reflects the love of Christ, who laid down His life so that we might be eternally free. Help us use our freedom wisely, to serve others, seek justice, and reflect Your light in a world longing for peace. Comfort the families who have lost loved ones in service, and remind them that their sacrifice was not in vain. May we live each day with thankfulness and courage, honoring both their memory and Your grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Commemorate Before Sun-a-brate

Memorial Day officially ushers in the summer season despite the cooler weather. Here are some fun ways to celebrate this holiday. Let’s honor our veterans that have given their lives in service of our country, making the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom…

  1. Attend a mass or service on Memorial Day – light a candle for a military member that has passed. What better way to honor our fallen service members? Pray for our men and women in uniform.
  2. Send a card or gift to a military person; those on active duty would love some home baked cookies – older veterans may welcome a visit or small gift. Let those who serve or have served know you care.
  3. Widows, widowers, and children of fallen soldiers might enjoy a present, also – a batch of cookies or a plant, perhaps.
  4. Memorial Day used to be called Decoration Day, so let’s decorate. Honor the graves of service members with flags or flowers. I even decorate our living room window.
  5. Red, white, and blue bunting, banners, and decor are great ways to get in the holiday spirit. Doors, patios, balconies, walls, and windows can all be decorated. I leave my patriotic decor up through Flag Day, July 4th, and Patriot’s Day.
  6. POW and MIA bracelets may be a thing of the past but a nice patriotic pair of earrings or necklace looks pretty for the holiday.
  7. Picnics and barbecues can be fun. Grocery prices are sky high thanks to Trump’s tariffs, try new economical recipes with less red meat – try grilling fruits and veggies. Keep food safe from warm temperatures, iced or cooled until time to eat salads and cold sandwiches.
  8. Parades, as well as outdoor concerts and films are free activities for the whole family to enjoy.
  9. Avoid sparklers or other fireworks by your self – they can cause very serious injuries. No one wants a trip to the ER – that’s no way to celebrate
  10. Veterans in nursing facilities might like a visit – make a new friend.
  11. Patriotic films can be found online, on streaming services, and at your local libraries.
  12. Many pools and water parks open Memorial Day weekend, providing the temperature is warm enough. Use a safe sunscreen (ones containing only zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide are the best) and enjoy water play. Remember SPF lip balm, also. It’s fun to hit the beach, but check conditions and bacteria levels locally before swimming – do the same for lakes. Install a weather app on your phone for quick updates on air quality, temperatures, and storm warnings.
  13. Pay attention to boating safety if you decide to do some sailing. Keep keys on a floating chain, at least enough life preservers on for everyone in the boat, and a well charged cell phone in a waterproof case with you at all times.
  14. If it rains, an indoor picnic is just as much fun. Indoor grills are a great way to bring the outdoors inside. A movie with a military theme can be streamed for a fun afternoon.
  15. Check ingredients before allowing pets any of the celebratory fare. Onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, and chocolate are some of the foods toxic to our fur babies.
  16. Remember summer is a short season, so patriotic items are usually inexpensive. Some stores will put them on sale after Memorial Day, so you can stock up for the 4th.
  17. Take a walk in the park, hike, or bike ride – summer is finally here. Some cities have free or minimal fee bike rentals available. Enjoy some sunshine but don’t forget to use a safe SPF.
  18. Use the long weekend to clean out your garage or basement. Power wash your deck or patio, and outdoor furniture. It’s time to get everything season ready.
  19. It’s a great weekend to wash the car or the dog in the backyard, weather permitting.
  20. Start a vegetable and flower garden – fresh vegetables and fruit you grow yourself are nutritious, taste great, and rewarding. And who does not love the look and fragrance of beautiful flowers?
  21. Don’t forget the insect repellent – check websites like the CDC and Consumer Reports about the safety of the various active chemicals; I still like the Skin So Soft products by Avon, myself.
  22. If you have allergies to bug bites, food or the like, carry your EpiPen, and your inhaler if your asthmatic. Hotter temperatures can intensify reactions.
  23. Stay hydrated – water is important in avoiding heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
  24. Sunburn cream can be kept in the refrigerator for a nice cooling effect. Lipsticks, lip balms, and eye pencils are less likely to melt if kept cold, also. Toners are more refreshing when chilled, as well.
  25. I am addicted to indoor plumbing, so camping does not work for me, but if you are inclined to enjoy nature this way, keep safety first and foremost. Know where you are – carry physical maps and a compass. Most cell phones go out of range when far from civilization. Have provisions such as hand sanitizer, wipes, extra socks, antibiotic, and burn ointment and Band-Aids with you, as well as acetaminophen and water with you. You might want to carry a pocket size Lysol for those outhouses. Keep a cooler with ice for anything perishable to avoid dehydration and food poisoning. Nothing can ruin a trip more than an unprepared and unexpected injury or illness. S’mores are great, but bring clean metal sticks to use over the campfire. Respect nature by cleaning up your camp site. Consider a tree hanging shower pack. Personally, I feel a nice camper with a kitchen and bathroom inside at a camp site or a cabin on the campground is a bit more my way of roughing it. Cabins have indoor plumbing facilities; guess I am a hotel kind of girl.
  26. If you are traveling for Memorial Day, make sure your gas tank is full – carry a tire gauge, jumper cables, and Fix-A-Flat or the equivalent, as well as coolant and water in your trunk. Have transmission and brake fluid on hand, also. Check your vehicle’s oil and get it changed if necessary. Make sure your battery is well charged. Better safe than sorry, is my motto. Keep your motor club and insurance cards handy, too. Be extra cautious this year with Trump’s deportations. There have been American citizens caught in this horrific, racist web of lies.
  27. Many restaurants have outdoor patios to dine al fresco – search the Internet for money saving coupons and offers. There may be chalkboard specials as well.
  28. Festival season has begun. Wear your comfortable shoes and carry a light jacket for weather fluctuations. A bag chair or other portable seating is a must, also. Check policies before bringing a cooler. Many venues might require that you carry clear purses or tote bags – leave anything that might be problematic at home or locked in your car, out of sight. Carry a charged portable charger with you. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry, and keep cash and credit/debit cards on your person.
  29. Enjoy your loved ones, include your fur babies, but make sure pets are permitted at your outdoor events. Check local leash laws, and bring a travel water bowl for Rover or Fluffy, when attending events close to home. When traveling with animals, pack a small favorite toy, disposable litter pan (for cats), and baggies of food. Furry friends likely won’t need clothes in warm temperatures but a cute neckerchief never hurts. Make sure dogs are on a leash and have vaccine information handy. Remember, if you are warm in your skin, imagine how hot they must be in their fur – keep pets hydrated and cool. Bring a cold wet washcloth in a bag or container.
  30. As a final suggestion, carry a few disposable bags, hopefully sustainable ones, for any trash you may accumulate. Find a garbage can or take the rubbish home to dispose of – never litter or just leave debris behind.

Let’s take care of our planet; God bless America and our service members that actually have made and do make America Great. Let’s all resist the Donald’s military parade on June 14th- we are not a dictatorship we don’t grovel before wanna be dictators or honor them with military parades.

Looking Good Despite Trump’s Bad Economy

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Looking Good Despite Trump’s Bad Economy

Looking Good Despite Trump’s Bad Economy

 

By Cate Rees-Hessel

We are all suffering from Trump’s bad economy these days: tariffs, rising gas and grocery prices and the cost of other essentials skyrocketing, make it more difficult to budget my shrinking dollar. It’s important to look our best, despite economic woes. So here are some suggestions for looking good in a bad economy:

  1. Drug store brands and store brands can often work as well as more expensive skin care products, but read the labels carefully before buying.
  2. Avoid cosmetics that are made in China – they are unregulated. Some well known name brands are making their products there, so buyer beware. There are also products from these companies that use made in the USA or elsewhere but are assembled in China – I personally avoid these, as well. Certain reputable firms have some products made in other countries, but still have China made products as well – check each item individually. Labels can read made in PRC, which means Peoples Republic of China. Products of the Republic of China (ROC), otherwise known as Taiwan, are OK, though.
  3. Look for cruelty free cosmetics, and labels that say paraben, sulfate, phthalate, and artificial fragrance-free. Do your due diligence research before purchasing and keep your receipts in case you miss something in the labeling. Search for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, collagen, niacinamide, vitamin C, retinol or its substitutes, or salicylic acid in skin care lines.
  4. Don’t be afraid to seek out samples. Some online retailers offer free shipping, also.
  5. Be cautious of SPF in skin care items – sunscreen is very important but certain ingredients can be unsafe. The FD only considers two – zinc oxide and titanium dioxide – as “generally recognized as safe and effective” (GRASE).
  6. Check expiration dates on clearance cosmetics, as well as the protective coverings. Often the outside packaging might look a bit worse for the wear but the seals are intact.
  7. If a pedicure or manicure are not in your budget, opt for polish changes – most salons will trim or file nails with that service. Most salons have free massage chairs, many have cuticle oil and lotion. Buy a good pair of cuticle nippers and a cuticle pusher to groom at home before visiting your nail tech. Most salons offer cuticle grooming for a nominal add-on service when getting false nail fills. If you opt to do your own nails, file in one direction working toward the center. Look for online coupons and Groupon deals. I might add to be cautious – I have had many a great Groupon deal but have been burned once. Be cautious – check out the business thoroughly that is offering the special; use the Better Business Bureau website and online reviews before buying.
  8. Thrifting and resale can save a lot of money on clothing, but look closely for wear and tear – avoid any garment with tears or stains. A good steam iron and clothing pill shaver can be an enormous help in keeping your wardrobe fresh. Use your clothes dryer to refresh dryable items between washings. Make sure buttons are secure and well fastened. Stretched out items can be somewhat revitalized with some spray starch. Trimming loose threads and frays with a sharp pair of scissors can extend the life of clothes and accessories. Shoe polish and the use of a good cobbler shop can make footwear last longer. “Magic erasers” type scrubbing pads on casual and athletic shoes with white soles can keep them looking clean and newer.
  9. Take good care of your teeth. Review dental plans very carefully before choosing one. Read labels on whitening products carefully – certain budget products can, as I previously warned, be made in China.
  10. Vintage finds can be very fashionable but remove shoulder pads, stirrups, and the like before wearing. Update the look with modern accessories.
  11. Clothes swaps or giveaways and free cycling can be very helpful for tight budgets.
  12. Accessories like costume jewelry and scarves are a great way to update your look.
  13. Budget hair salons can do a good job when you communicate with the stylist. Explain exactly what you want and take one or more photo(s) along of the hair style you want.
  14. Condition and shampoo often; use styling products to keep hair cuts fresh. At home hair color is fine, just pay attention to the shades on the box and condition. Do a patch test before coloring and don’t leave it on longer than called for. A professional bottle of color from the beauty supply store (without activator) can be used as a filler for over the counter colors. Use ash tones to avoid brassiness and a good purple shampoo and/or conditioner.
  15. Prescription glasses are expensive, so opt for frames that are versatile and durable. Use mildly abrasive toothpaste with a soft cloth to reduce scratches on the lenses. Never put your glasses down with the lens touching any surface – this can cause scratching. Keep a case and microfiber cloth handy.
  16. Make your own skin care products – recipes are available online. I use salt, sugar, and cooking oil to make body scrubs, mixed to a little dryer than a slurry consistency. Outdated yogurt and beyond their prime fruits also make great face masks.
  17. Non-aerosol body sprays are less pricey than actual cologne and perfume. They are often lighter in fragrance, subtle, and pretty. Stretch them by adding just a bit of alcohol as they get used up. I buy a large bottle of my favorite Jean Nate and pour it into a purse size spray bottle with just a bit of alcohol mixed in. Keep the fragrance cool in the refrigerator for an extra refreshing splash.
  18. Mix and match separates can create many different outfits for one low cost.
  19. Fine jewelry is expensive but can be a good investment. I personally don’t care for lab created diamonds, but they are a money saver and technically are considered diamonds. I would prefer a smaller natural diamond myself, but to each their own. Other gemstones, both precious and semi precious, are equally as lovely as diamonds in a different way. Opt for natural, untreated, unheated stones. 925 sterling silver, ten or fourteen carat gold are decent quality options when eighteen carat gold is not within your budget. I have heard of nine carat gold, also, but am not familiar with it. Do your research before buying fine jewelry. Online purchases can be OK but ask for certification in writing. Vintage jewelry can be beautiful and unique with a better price tag. Take your finds to a jeweler to be tested for authentication. Jewelry stores will often test and clean jewelry as a courtesy.
  20. Opt for higher quality disposable razors as a grooming tool. The cheaper ones often leave hairs behind – you won’t get as close of a shave. Decent grade tweezers are also a better buy.
  21. Loss leader introductory pricing on spa services can be intriguing, but make sure only one treatment is needed to see results. That intro price for one visit may require very costly follow up visits to be successful. Again, do your homework.
  22. At home beauty and grooming devices might take longer for results to be seen than salon treatment but once you own the device, multiple uses are free of charge. Check reviews and safety info to avoid issues.
  23. Using split payment services like Klarna can make purchases a bit easier to budget. When applying for credit, if possible, opt for cards that offer no interest payments for an extended period of time. One of our main credit cards gave six months of no interest upon opening our account.
  24. Beauty schools often have inexpensive clinics and sometimes offer free services for models that are willing to take part in classroom demos.
  25. Good grooming is not expensive and it’s the most important element in looking good. A daily bath or shower, shampoo, and shaving are integral in making a nice appearance. Put a smile on your face as well – a pleasant look is beautiful in any economy.