This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclosure Policy for details.
As I head toward my 64th birthday on January 9, the celebrations are well underway. Get up to speed with what I’m doing, with my post from two weeks ago HERE.
Every day I randomly select a number and than match it to my list of 64 birthday activities. If that number is already selected, I randomly choose another number.
Although I felt a bit reluctant to celebrate in this way this year, I admit it’s a fun way to honor the woman I am becoming and engage playfully and creatively with myself and the Divine. I’m glad I chose to proceed.
Check out which activities popped up for me during the last two weeks and hop on board my celebration vehicle. Life is a highway…and I’m going to ride it right up to my January birthday…and far, far beyond.
11/16/21 Work Through the Get Untamed Journal (in process)
Talk about a “random” activity working out well…my Get Untamed Journal by Glennon Doyle arrived perfectly on this day. I dove right in.
Glennon’s book Untamedis crucial to my wild woman journey. I’m on my third read through the book. When I saw that an accompanying journal was due out this fall, I pre-ordered it last spring.
Subtitled “How to quit pleasing and start living”, Get Untamed contains excerpts from Untamed, fresh insights and questions from Glennon and pages for the reader to write out her own thoughts and realizations. I’m loving this journal so much.
If you’ve known me for long, you know I wear my silvery hair straight and long. I haven’t changed my hairstyle in many, many years.
For this “try a new thing” activity, I borrowed a triple barrel hair waver from my daughter. As she handed it over she cautioned me to not burn my forehead with the heated barrels.
I had fun creating loose waves in my long hair. The hairstyle reminds me of the 1920s when women crimped their hair. I wore my new style all day. And I did not burn my forehead…I burned my neck! OUCH.
Life is a Highway – making waves
11/18/21 Create a Vision Board for 2022 (in process)
11/19/21 Research Things to Do in Honolulu (completed)
One of my 15 cities on my travel list, Honolulu came into my awareness when it landed on the Top Ten Hipster Cities in the US list. I know I’ll enjoy a visit here.
Life is a Highway – Research Honolulu
11/20/21 Research Things to Do in Salem (completed)
Salem, MA has long been on my list of places to visit. I’m interested in the history and the stories, along with experiencing the energy there. As I research these locations, I’m realizing just how strongly cities call to me.
Life is a Highway – Research Salem
11/21/21 Email Pitch to Savannah + Accommodations (in process)
After I do the research for each location, then I’ll pitch the tourism boards and several accommodations in each city…when that activity is selected. So far, Savannah and Memphis are the only cities in which the Email Pitch followed the necessary research.
11/22/21 Email Pitch to Chicago + Accommodations (not completed yet)
11/23/21 Do an Adventure Challenge Activity (scheduled)
I’m taking my Instax camera and Adventure Challenge Solo Edition Book with me on my weekend getaway (activity chosen on 11/7) to Springfield, MO. I have that weekend booked for 12/10 – 12/12. I’m excited to share more about that trip later.
11/24/21 Connect with My Song for 2022 (completed)
Every year, a word/theme, symbol and song find me for the journey ahead. My word for next year is “adventure” and my symbol is the VW Van. The day of this activity the song for 2022 found me quickly, literally popping into my head full force.
Rascal Flatts’ song Life is a Highway is perfect to roll with me through a year of adventures. These lyrics caught my eyes and tugged at my heart:
“There’s a world outside every darkened door/Where blues won’t haunt you anymore/Where the brave are free and lovers soar/Come ride with me to distant shores.”
Life is a Highway – Connect with 2022 song
11/25/21 Email Pitch to Taos + Accommodations (not completed)
11/26/21 Go on a Solo Day Adventure (planning stage)
11/27/21 Design a Wild Woman T-Shirt (completed)
What a great way to commemorate my Year of the Wild Woman! I enjoyed playing around with design ideas and coming up with a colorful and playful tee. There’s a second “design a t-shirt” activity on my list. And a “have my daughter in law Megan create the shirts” one too.
Life is a Highway – design a Wild Woman t-shirt
11/28/21 Email Pitch to Memphis + Accommodations (in process)
11/29/21 Research Things to Do in San Francisco (completed)
San Francisco is high on my travel list. Whether I visit that city next year or not depends on how the pitches go and how everything aligns. I’m open to these travel experiences and excited about visiting without being rigidly attached to when. For me, that’s part of the fun of traveling.
One Third of the Way to My Birthday
Unbelievably, I’m one third of the way through my birthday activities. It’s fun and it’s challenging. I like “going beyond” my comfort zone in big ways and these experiences take me there.
Plus, it’s beneficial for me to reach out to tourism boards and hotels. I’m a travel and lifestyle blogger. This is part of my job. I enjoy creating content for others that is helpful and beneficial for them as well.
What I’m finding is that as I reach out to people, others are reaching out to me. I love that outward flow and return of energy.
Life is a highway…and I’m going to ride it all night long.
Many compare the “senior years” to the sun going down…calling them the twilight years of life. You won’t find me sitting in a rocking chair, reminiscing about life. I’m riding the waves of life all through my long night. Someday, when a bright new day dawns, I’ll be off on a fresh and exciting adventure unlike any I’ve experienced before. But…not yet.
Life is a Highway – Research San Francisco
Cindy Goes Beyond is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. This affiliate program provides a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com, all at no extra cost to you.
This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclosure Policy for details.
This season, from September 1 until January 9, is my favorite time of year. Not only do I love the holidays…Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas…my birthday is January 9.
For the third year in a row, I’m celebrating my birthday in a big way by enjoying special experiences leading up to the actual day…one for each year of my life. Although it’s fun to celebrate in such a way (check out last year’s activities), and I learn new things about myself and the world I live in, I almost didn’t participate this year. It’s a huge time commitment to squeeze in 64 extra activities as I approach my 64th birthday. I honestly don’t have the time for anything else beyond what I’m already doing.
However, as I contemplated skipping the birthday festivities, I felt sad. And sadness will not do.
So, this year, a bit of a compromise. I did list 64 wild things for my 64th birthday. Most are not new experiences. Instead, they are things I want to do and I’m allowing the random selection of when they are done to be the fun part.
Rather than write experiences out on slips of paper to draw from a jar, I’m using an online random number generator. And as I did last year, I’m not tying myself to doing the activity on the day it is selected. My goal is to do them all by my birthday…with the exception of adventures that will unfold over the course of 2022.
64 Wild Things for My 64th Birthday
Here’s how this works.
I listed and numbered 64 activities in my notebook. Beginning on November 7, I randomly select a number, using the online generator, and then date the chosen activity.
While there are some “wild” experiences on the list, I’m leaning heavily into adventures. My word for 2022 is “adventure” and I’m super excited about that. As I complete this wild year and embrace an adventurous one, this blend of birthday activities moves me into a new year.
I’ll create birthday posts twice a month, to update on what I’ve done. And like last year, I’ll not write about every experience but highlight some that I’ve done. I’ll also note whether the activity is completed, in process or scheduled out.
Here are the first activities from the past week:
11/7/21 Plan a Solo Weekend Adventure (booked in Springfield MO for 12/10 – 12/12)
11/8/21 “Shop” for a Vintage VW Van (completed)
The VW Van is my symbol for 2022, representing adventure. For fun I included this activity as a way to put my intentions out into the universe.
I discovered VW Vans, from the 60s and 70s, range in price from $5000, for a van that needs tons of work, to $150,000 for a fully restored vehicle.
The one pictured here is a 1967 model, for $79,900.
I can see me driving one of these on road trips!
64 Wild Things for My 64th Birthday – shop for a vintage VW Van
11/9/21 Dancer’s Legs (in process)
I love that when I ask a question or put a request out there, I get a response. Next year brings adventures and big plans coming to fruition. I need my legs, which were damaged due to a car accident in 1995 and years of chronic pain and inflammation, to keep up with me!
I’ve been walking daily, to strengthen them. When I asked what else I could do, to keep my legs limber, flexible and strong, two things immediately came into my awareness…tai chi and this course from DailyOm…Dancer’s Legs.
Before my legs gave out on me, I practiced tai chi. I feel ready to return to this beautiful moving meditation. And although I had not heard of this course called Dancer’s Legs, it popped into my email and caught my eye.
This fourteen day course focuses on small movements that strengthen, tone and elongate the muscles in the legs. Taught by a dancer, this sounds like the perfect course for me. I have a very full week this week and I’m out of town this weekend. I begin Dancer’s Legs next Monday.
64 Wild Things for My 64th Birthday – Dancer’s Legs
11/10/21 Research Things to Do in Savannah Georgia (completed)
Next year I have 15 adventures that I’d like to experience, in 15 different US locations. All 15 cities made my birthday activities list. As they are randomly selected, I am looking at activities, tours, accommodations, vegan restaurants, etc. and creating a section in my adventure notebook about each. Plus I already have trips planned for Gatlinburg, Tennessee and John’s Island, South Carolina.
For each city, I request a visitor’s guide and sign up for their email newsletters. I’m also ordering historic maps from Amazon for each location. See the one I ordered for Savannah HERE. Plus I create a Pinterest Board for each city, to keep info together.
Also included separately on my birthday list is to email pitches to the tourism board of each city and several accommodations for comped stays. This keeps me moving toward my goals as a travel blogger.
64 Wild Things for My 64th Birthday – things to do in Savannah
11/11/21 Search for Adventure Related Hashtags on Instagram (completed)
Instagram is my primary source for connecting with brands and travel partners. I’ve focused on this social media platform for the past two years, learning as I go, and hashtags are an important component when posting.
I currently use 18 – 30 hashtags every time I post. This year I created lists of hashtags focused on solo travel and living life beyond the edges. For next year, my Year of Adventures, I’m including 10 adventure related hashtags.
On Instagram I don’t want to use hashtags that have high numbers…in the millions…because new posts quickly drop out of sight. I want under a million and over 50,000 with a couple under that number.
I save these on my phone where I can easily copy and paste to appropriate posts.
Join me on my adventures and follow me on Instagram, if you aren’t already! I’m always happy to return the follow.
64 Wild Things for My 64th Birthday – adventure #s
11/12/21 Create an Adventure List for 2022 (in process)
11/13/21 Shared Adventures with My Grandkids (in the planning stage)
These adventures will take place in 2022. I have six grandchildren. This activity has challenges. One grandson is living in Moscow, Russia for two years, getting his master’s degree. The youngest just turned a year old. The four in between are all teens.
I’m looking forward to the challenges though and sharing my love for adventure with each child. I’ll need to get creative sharing an adventure with my grandson living in Russia.
My oldest and youngest grandchildren.
11/14/21 Watch a Film or Listen to a Podcast Featuring a Wild Woman (completed)
11/15/21 Research Things to Do in Memphis, Tennessee (completed)
I just selected this one today and started by requesting a travel guide and signing up for info. I find these research type activities so much fun! Doing the research and then engaging my imagination before travel creates an amazing travel experience for me.
Headed Toward 64
I am off with a bang on the birthday activities for this year and happy with the way the experiences are flowing and/or lining up. I’m engaging my creativity and playfulness without overburdening myself, time wise. It’s a win/win. Truly, I’m grateful that I gave myself a green light to celebrate in this way.
Watch for an update in a couple of weeks!
Cindy Goes Beyond is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. This affiliate program provides a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com, all at no extra cost to you.
This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclosure Policy for details.
As Father’s Day approaches, I followed my curiosity to see what other countries do to honor their dads.
The result is this post, Father’s Day Traditions Around the World.
Have fun reading about other customs and perhaps choosing a few to add to Dad’s special day on June 20.
Thailand
Father’s Day in Thailand is celebrated on December 5, the birthday of King Bhumidol Adulyadej. He is considered the Father of the Nation. Traditionally, children wear yellow as they present canna flowers to their fathers.
United States
The third Sunday in June is Father’s Day in the US. It celebrates the contributions fathers and father figures make to their children’s lives.
Common customs in the US include gifts, either handmade or purchased, cards, outings or dinner with the family. The first Father’s Day, inspired by the work of Sonora Smart Dodd, occurred in June, 1910. However, President Johnson made the proclamation declaring Father’s Day the third Sunday in June. And President Nixon made the holiday official in 1972.
Father’s Day Traditions Around the World – US
Russia
Russia’s Father’s Day began as a military commemoration known as Defender of the Fatherland Day. Soldiers received honor as they marched in parades throughout the country.
Now all men are celebrated on this day, which is February 23. Women give gifts to the important men in their lives.
Germany
Vaterag, or Father’s Day, is celebrated in Germany in connection with Mannerag…Man’s Day. On this fun day, men gather and spend the day together hiking, biking and drinking. It’s common to fill a wagon with beer and head out while the wives stay home with the children.
This event takes place on the sixth Sunday after Easter.
Father’s Day Traditions Around the World – Germany
Nepal
In late summer the Nepalese celebration of Gokarna Aunsi honors fathers. Children give gifts to their dads. And a ceremony is performed. Sons bow, touching their heads to their father’s feet. Daughters touch their heads to their father’s hands.
Finland
The second Sunday in November is Father’s Day in Finland. Fathers sleep in and enjoy a favorite breakfast in bed, prepared by their children. Finnish schools offer cakes and coffee to all dads on the Friday before Father’s Day.
Father’s Day Traditions Around the World – Finland
Mexico
Father’s Day falls on the third Sunday in June. Fathers participate in a 21 kilometer race. Families also gather for feasts that honor dads, with sweet bread as dessert.
Japan
Japan also celebrates dads on the third Sunday in June. Japanese children gift their fathers with flowers, handmade beer glasses and sweets. The celebratory meal is usually seafood such as crab or prawns.
Father’s Day Traditions Around the World – Japan
Brazil
Brazilians celebrate dads on the second Sunday in August, in honor of St. Joachim, the father of Mary and the patron saint of fathers and grandfathers. Children give gifts to their fathers. And the family gathers for food, fun and relaxation.
France
La Fete des Peres is held on the third Sunday in June. The holiday supposedly originated in the mid-20th century when an ad campaign suggested lighters as the perfect gift for dads.
Father’s Day Traditions Around the World – France
What Are Your Father’s Day Traditions?
Sadly, my father passed away 11 years ago. I still spend the day thinking about him and remembering the fun Father’s Day cookouts we used to have.
I’ll take my stepdad out to dinner and present gifts to my son and son-in-law, who is celebrating as a first time daddy this year.
I find Germany’s custom of allowing the dads to have a fun day to themselves fascinating! That’s an amazing gift. I checked to see what German mothers receive on Mother’s Day. Children often gift Mom a trip. I’m liking these German traditions!
If you still need gift idea for the fathers in your life, check out this post. It’s not too late to surprise Dad with one of these unique presents.
How do you celebrate Father’s Day with your dad?
Additional Gift Ideas for Dad from Amazon
Cindy Goes Beyond is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. This affiliate program provides a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com, all at no extra cost to you.
This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclosure Policy for details.
Next month brings the shocking realization that we are almost half way through this year. It also presents the opportunity, on June 20, to show appreciation and love to the dads in our lives.
Sadly, my own father passed away 11 years ago, after a battle with pancreatic cancer. I still send out waves of love and gratitude for him on Father’s Day. And I appreciate the other dads in my family: Greg, my stepdad, my brother, my son and son-in-law and my nephews. They each bring their own uniquely wonderful gifts to the family and to the world.
Inspired by them, I offer this selection of unique gifts for dad. Although there’s nothing wrong with gifting dad a tie or a sturdy pair of socks, these suggestions go a bit beyond the ordinary. Because…every dad is different. For the sports guy, the hard working man and the fun loving prankster, the new daddy, the experienced dad and the papa…there is a gift for each one here.
Unique Gifts for Dad
I’m an affiliate with these companies or the items are available through Amazon. I can suggest their products with confidence because I’m familiar with them, use them and appreciate each company tremendously.
CBD Living
Established in 2013, CBD Living is headquartered in Corona, California. The company uses only 100% organic hemp sourced from state-licensed farms in Oregon and Colorado
The secret to their superior products lies in the use of nanotechnology that reduces CBD into nano-sized droplets, without the use of emulsifiers. This technique allows the CBD to immediately penetrate the body’s cells, giving increased bioavailability at the cellular level with no waiting.
The company offers a HUGE range of products, from CBD infused water to gummies to energy drinks to pet products. CBD Living is perfect for the dad who appreciates the health benefits of CBD and who makes his health a priority.
For dad, pick up CBD Freeze, to use after a gym workout or a day working out…in the yard. It relieves painful muscles and calms inflammation.
Toad&Co is a sustainable clothing company that’s woven their intentions into the very fabric of their company: to support communities, take care of the planet, and empower people to live their fullest lives. These intentions shaped Toad&Co for the better, helping them to live well and do good every day.
The company believes that minimizing their environmental impact and helping clean up the apparel industry is an integral part of their business ethos. Therefore, they use 100% sustainable, ecological materials, 100% of the time.
Toad&Co clothing or gift cards are for the father who is ecologically minded and yet fashion conscious. Click HERE to check out styles that are suitable for a fun night with the family or for traveling around the globe.
Unique gifts for Dad – My grandson Dayan, who is not a dad yet, models the super comfy Toad&Co Henley shirt.
Four Sigmatic
The founders of Four Sigmatic grew up in Finland, foraging in their backyards and enjoying the benefits of all kinds of mushrooms. They recognized that perhaps the rest of the world didn’t use mushrooms as much as they did and wanted to change that.
Four Sigmatic includes familiar superfoods in their products such as green tea, cacao, hemp and coconut. And they include some less familiar, like Reishi, Cordyceps and Ashwagandha mushrooms.
This company’s products are for the dad who loves his cup of coffee AND appreciates the additional health boost from high quality, nutrient dense foods. For the dad who works out, they also have a marvelous plant based protein powder with superfoods.
Check out all the products Four Sigmatic offers HERE. And use my special code, CINDYLAUDERDALEMOORE, to save 10% off of your order.
Unique gifts for Dad – Four Sigmatic coffees
Smartr Skin
Smartr Skin is a physician created line of skin care products. The company embraces a whole-person view of health. They believe that feeling healthy and confident is a result of caring for the whole self…body, mind and spirit.
They also believe that smarter, higher quality ingredients lead to better results. Therefore, they’ve created custom formulations from clean ingredients that nourish the skin, from the inside out.
While dads can and should care for their skin too, Smartr Skin offers wonderfully unique gifts just for them…beard balm and beard oil. Both are formulated with the highest quality vegan ingredients and come in unscented or a variety of scents. Plus Smartr Skin products are cruelty free and never tested on animals.
Click this LINK and use my discount code CINDYM20OFF to save 20% off your order!
Unique gifts for Dad – Smartr Skin beard balm
Nina’s Olivar Almeria Gold Olive Oil
For the father or papa who loves to cook and grill or who appreciates fine international products, you can’t go wrong with Nina’s Olivar Almeria Gold Olive Oil.
This exceptional cold pressed extra virgin olive oil comes from Nina’s olive grove in Spain. She uses permaculture farming to produce the highest quality oil in a sustainable, environmentally friendly way. And she does not use insecticides, pesticides or herbicides on her olive grove.
Nina’s Spanish olive oil is the recipient of the New York International Olive Oil Competition Gold Award for 2020. Surprise Dad with this deliciously unique gift, using this LINK.
Unique gifts for Dad – Nina’s Olivar Almeria Gold Olive Oil
Battpak from OCTAVE
This clever and practical item comes from OCTAVE and it is perfect for the Dad who enjoys traveling, attending concerts or taking the kids on adventures.
The Battpak is a portable battery pack, for charging cell phones or tablets on the go, PLUS it has a secret compartment for stashing money, credit cards, keys and other loose items. The sleek stainless steel magnetic tray within allows you to magnetize loose articles, like keys, so they will not rattle around inside.
The Battpak easily slips inside a pocket, backpack or messenger bag for convenience and security.
I can’t wait to take this product with me on my next trip. Order through this LINK and use my discount code CINDY15 for 15% off of your order.
Unique gifts for Dad – Battpak 2 in 1 ChargerSecret compartment inside the Battpak
Incrediwear
Incrediwear products work by increasing blood flow to reduce inflammation and swelling. They also relieve pain and accelerate recovery. Rather than using compression, Incrediwear items incorporate semiconductor elements within the fabric that release negative ions when stimulated by body heat.
Those negative ions activate cellular vibrations that speed up blood flow. The increased circulation brings more oxygen and nutrients to the target area, which supports the body’s natural healing process.
The company sells sleeves and braces, socks and apparel. The clothing effectively reduces the risk of overuse injuries and relieves muscle fatigue. Incrediwear’s socks relieve foot pain and fatigue while wicking away moisture. The sleeves and braces reduce inflammation and swelling and relieve pain while restoring mobility and accelerating recovery.
Pamper the dad who puts in long hours on the job or spends a lot of time walking or standing. Or provide relief for the athletic dad who is recovering from a sports injury. Use this LINK to order.
Unique gifts for Dad – Incrediwear
Kit and Wilder
For the new daddy or dad with toddlers, check out these sweet offerings from Kit and Wilder.
The founder, Christine, created this online shop with these values in mind: safe, eco-friendly, sustainable, trendy and aesthetically pleasing clothes for babies and kids. Her mission is to carry eco-friendly and sustainable items from like minded brands to help fight for our children’s and grandchildren’s future planet.
Kit and Wilder offers a wide variety of items from wearables to books and toys to nursery items to products to help the teething baby. Delight the new daddy with books he can read to his baby, silicone bowl sets that adhere to the high chair tray or sturdy snack bags to carry treats for his active toddler.
And the adventure loving dad will appreciate a backpack of his own that holds all he needs for a hike in nature with his wildlings.
Use this LINK to order and my code Cindy15 to save 15% off.
Unique gifts for Dad – Kit and Wilder
KeySmart
For the father who appreciates techy items…or who frequently loses his keys…go with KeySmart!
KeySmart’s goal to save the world from bulky, annoying key rings full of jangling keys resulted in a trim, lightweight design that’s easy to carry. The company offers a variety of designs that keep keys organized and tucked within the frame.
The KeySmart Pro is the ultimate key organizer that features a Tile Smart locator that offers convenience and peace of mind. A lost set of keys is never a problem.
The company offers accessories, urban wallets and the totally awesome Urban 21 Commuter Backpack. Get the KeySmart Pro HERE. Then type in “KeySmart” in the search bar to see all their other items offered on Amazon.
Unique Gifts for Dad – KeySmart
Kodak Instant Camera and Portable Printer
As we know, it’s mostly the moms who are busy behind the cameras, snapping family photos. Why not get Dad his own fun camera and turn him loose to be creative?
Kodak offers products that deliver high quality photos that are fingerprint-proof, waterproof and last a lifetime. These cameras + portable printers are perfect for any family gatherings…such as Father’s Day…and make unique gifts that Dad can use for many years.
The Kodak Mini Shot 3 Retro allows Dad or Papa to shoot and print high quality photos directly from the camera. Or Dad can connect his Kodak Mini 3 Square Retro to any mobile device and print out his favorite pics wherever he is.
Let the fun begin as Dad captures memories.
Unique gifts for Dad – Kodak Instant Cameras and Printers
Happy Father’s Day
What unique gifts did you pick out for the dads in your life?
Honor those men and show them how much you love them and appreciate them for all that they do. I’d give a lot to be able to hug my father this year and present him with one of these gifts…or all of them!
In my dad’s memory, I’ll be honoring and celebrating the rest of the fathers in my family.
Happy Father’s Day to all the dads, on all of their journeys. Many blessings on you and your families.
My son and his familyMy son-in-law and his baby daughter
Cindy Goes Beyond is an affiliate with Four Sigmatic, Smartr Skin, Toad&Co, CBD Living, Amazon and Kit and Wilder. These programs provide a means for sites to earn fees by advertising and linking to the companies, all at no extra cost to you.
This post contains affiliate links. Please read my Disclosure Policy for details.
Next month, May 9, is Mother’s Day in the United States. The day celebrates and honors motherhood, with all its joys, blessings and challenges.
My big extended family includes many mothers, from the matriarchs…my mother and stepmom…to the newest mommy, my younger daughter, Adriel. My mother and stepmom, my sisters and sister-in-law, my nieces and nieces-in-law, my daughters and daughter-in-law, and me of course, all journey together, a sisterhood of mamas. We mother and grandmother well, helping each other as needed and always encouraging and supporting one another.
I’m excited to offer a selection of thoughtful gifts for mom. There’s something for every mama here, from the grandmother to the new mommy, the health conscious to the the traveler, the ecologically minded to the entrepreneur.
Thoughtful Gifts for Mom
I’m an affiliate with all of these companies. I can suggest their products with confidence because I’m familiar with them, use them and appreciate each company tremendously.
Tough as a Mother Jewelry
The newest of my affiliate partnerships, Tough as a Mother offers beautiful necklaces and a fun bracelet.
Jennifer Cervantes built her company for all the women living through their own motherhood journeys, from finding the strength to endure miscarriage to the deep darkness of postpartum anxiety, through sleepless nights and physical and mental challenges of all kinds.
No matter what the motherhood journey looks like, Jennifer knows we all deserve to call ourselves tough as a mother. From gemstone pendants to custom designed necklaces featuring the initials of children or grandchildren, find the perfect necklace for the mothers in your family.
Use this LINK to check out all the possibilities this beautiful company offers.
Thoughtful Gifts for Mom – Tough as a Mother
Decocrated Curated Home
For the mama that enjoys home decor, creativity or the delightful surprise of subscription boxes, Decocrated makes an excellent gift. Four times a year a seasonal box arrives at your front door, full of curated pieces designed to work with any decorating style.
Order a single seasonal box…spring is currently available…or save money with a yearly subscription. Additionally, add-on boxes are available to subscribers only. Add-on boxes include Halloween, Christmas, Easter and Americana.
Click this link for a Seasonal Box and use my discount code CINDYM15 to save $15 off of your order! Or type in the same code to save $15 off the yearly subscription.
Thoughtful Gifts for Mom – Decocrated Curated Home Subscription Boxes
Wolfie Kids International Clothing
Based in Australia, Wolfie Kids is a small, international company, made up of moms and creatives. They work hard to provide their customers with carefully curated clothing for babies, toddlers and children.
Keeping little ones comfortable in ethical, cozy fabrics remains a top priority for Wolfie Kids. Most designs feature soft cotton and linen that won’t irritate delicate skin. Plus the company uses eco-friendly, recycled packaging, from green shipping methods to reusable cotton bags that arrive with the clothing lovingly tucked inside.
For the expectant mama, new mommy or busy mother of several kids, Wolfie makes a fun gift, because who doesn’t appreciate thoughtful, comfortable, well made clothes! Check out their adorable outfits HERE . Use my code, CINDYBEYOND20, to save 20% on your order!
Thoughtful Gifts for Mom – Wolfie Kids Clothing. Finley Grace modeling the Ziggy Jumpsuit
Four Sigmatic
The founders of Four Sigmatic grew up in Finland, foraging in their backyards and enjoying the benefits of all kinds of mushrooms. They recognized that perhaps the rest of the world didn’t use mushrooms as much as they did and wanted to change that.
Four Sigmatic includes familiar superfoods in their products such as green tea, cacao, hemp and coconut. And they include some less familiar, like Reishi, Cordyceps and Ashwagandha mushrooms.
This company’s health conscious products are for the mama who loves her coffee, tea or hot chocolate AND appreciates the additional health boost from high quality, nutrient dense foods.
Check out all the products Four Sigmatic offers HERE. And use my special code, CINDYLAUDERDALEMOORE, to save 10% off of your order.
Thoughtful Gifts for Mom – Four Sigmatic
Smartr Skin
Smartr Skin is a physician created line of skin care products. The company embraces a whole-person view of health. They believe that feeling healthy and confident is a result of caring for the whole self…body, mind and spirit.
They also believe that smarter, higher quality ingredients lead to better results. Therefore, they’ve created custom formulations from clean ingredients that nourish the skin, from the inside out.
I’ve been a customer of Smartr Skin for exactly two years and I LOVE their products. Their skin care line and jade roller are perfect gifts for the mother who desires to nourish and enrich her skin, no matter what her age.
Click this LINK and use my discount code CINDYM20OFF to save 20% off your order!
Thoughtful Gifts for Mom – Smartr Skin
Toad&Co
Toad&Co is a sustainable clothing company that’s woven their intentions into the very fabric of their company: to support communities, take care of the planet, and empower people to live their fullest lives. These long-term partnerships have shaped Toad&Co for the better, helping them to live well and do good every day.
The company believes that minimizing their environmental impact and helping clean up the apparel industry is an integral part of their business ethos. Therefore, they use 100% sustainable, ecological materials, 100% of the time.
Toad&Co clothing or gift cards are for the mother that is ecologically minded and yet fashion conscious. Click HERE to check out styles that are suitable for a fun night out on the town or for traveling around the globe.
Thoughtful Gifts for Mom – clothes from Toad&Co
CBD Living
Established in 2013, CBD Living is headquartered in Corona, California. The company uses only 100% organic hemp sourced from state-licensed farms in Oregon and Colorado
The secret to their superior products lies in the use of nanotechnology that reduces CBD into nano-sized droplets, without the use of emulsifiers. This technique allows the CBD to immediately penetrate the body’s cells, giving increased bioavailability at the cellular level with no waiting.
The company offers a HUGE range of products, from CBD infused water to gummies to energy drinks to pet products. CBD Living is perfect for the mama who appreciates the health benefits of CBD and who makes her health a priority.
Friends Melanie and Lina founded Mer-Sea & Co. They share the belief that life should be simple, like life at the beach. This attitude is reflected in all of their products, where utility, tranquility and simplicity reign.
Mer-Sea & Co offers mindful products such as artisan soy wax candles, Moroccan totes, travel accessories, bath and body necessities and beautiful sweaters, tops and wraps, crafted in the colors of the sea.
For the mamas who appreciate and enjoy well crafted articles and love the beach or travel life, Mer-Sea provides beautifully unique items. Use my LINK to explore their website and perhaps pick out something for yourself as well as your mother!
Thoughtful Gifts for Mom – Mer-Sea & Co. Me loving their tasseled wrap while in Edinburgh.
Voke Superfood Supplements
Kalen Caughey came up with the idea for Voke ten years ago, as he rode in a chairlift up a local ski hill in Montana. A competitive skier, Kalen wanted a healthy, convenient, portable energy solution for long days on the mountain.
Together with his dad, who has a PhD in biochemistry, the two developed an organic blend that is natural and balanced without sugar, artificial sweeteners or excessive doses of vitamins.
Voke Superfood Supplements have fueled expeditions on all seven continents, including climbs in the Himalayas. The benefits of the tablets go beyond adventurers to the health conscious and to health minded professionals.
I experienced the power of Voke supplements on my last trip to Scotland. They helped me overcome jet lag quickly while boosting my energy levels for days of walking and exploring. Voke is perfect for the mother who loves to travel and who values her health and wellbeing.
Thoughtful Gifts for Mom – Voke Superfood Supplements
BOOM! Makeup by Cindy Joseph
The late Cindy Joseph began her career as a makeup artist in the 70s in San Francisco. Even then she believed less was more. As she aged, she became pro-age, rather than anti-aging.
As she approached 60, Cindy entered into the cosmetic business, introducing BOOM!, a line of products that are rich in natural moisturizers such as olive oil and beeswax. She created makeup that was about revealing rather than hiding.
I’ve used BOOM! products for four years and it’s the only makeup line for me. BOOM! is perfect for the mom, of any age, who desires to nourish her skin and allow her natural beauty to shine through.
I’m excited that BOOM! recently became available on Amazon. Get the BOOM! Trio Sticks HERE.
Thoughtful Gifts for Mom – BOOM! Make Up
Blogging Blastoff or Travel Blogging Blastoff
Not sure what to get Mom this year? Does she enjoy writing? Have an entrepreneurial streak? Eager to try something new?
Consider gifting your mother with a blogging course that helps her build a profitable blog, from the ground up.
I’ve taken both of these courses by Heather and Pete Reese, who are successful bloggers themselves. Blogging Blastoff changed my blogging career very quickly as I implemented what I learned. And Travel Blogging Blastoff is opening doors to new opportunities working with travel partners. I highly recommend both.
Click HERE for Blogging Blastoff and this LINK for Travel Blogging Blastoff.
Thoughtful Gifts for Mom – Blogging Blastoff courses
Happy Mother’s Day
I hope you found something special for the mothers in your life, in this collection of thoughtful, unique gifts. I’m certainly shopping the list, for the mamas in my family.
Perhaps you even found something wonderful for yourself. Buy it! Sometimes we must nurture and cherish ourselves.
May you celebrate, with joy, all women experiencing their motherhood journeys. And may you be celebrated as well.
Happy Mother’s Day. Blessings to you and your family.
Snuggling my granddaughter, Finley.
Cindy Goes Beyond is an affiliate with Tough as a Mother, Decocrated, Wolfie Kids, Four Sigmatic, Smartr Skin, Toad&Co, CBD Living, Mer-Sea & Co, Voke Superfood Supplements, Amazon and Blogging Blastoff. These programs provide a means for sites to earn fees by advertising and linking to the companies, all at no extra cost to you.
This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclosure Policy for details.
In the US, common Easter traditions include attending church and spending time with family, dyeing and hiding eggs, gifting children baskets full of goodies and dressing up in spring finery. Do you know that Easter is celebrated in 95 other countries around the world? And some of their festivities are quite different from those practiced here in the United States.
I love learning about other countries and others cultures. See how many of these Easter traditions from around the world are familiar to you.
Washington DC
Let’s start with a 130 year old tradition in the US. The White House hosts the annual Easter Egg Roll on the south lawn. Children roll colorful hard boiled eggs across the lawn using large serving spoons. The event also offers music, and egg hunt, sports and crafts.
Easter traditions from around the world – Washington DC
Australia
In Australia, rabbits are considered pests that destroy crops. In 1991, the country replaced the symbolic Easter bunny with the Easter bilby, also called the rabbit-eared bandicoot. You can purchase chocolate bilbies for Easter and the proceeds benefit Australia’s endangered animals.
Easter traditions from around the world – Australia
Norway
In Norway, the Easter season is a popular time to read detective novels and watch crime shows. The unconventional tradition began in 1923 when a book publisher advertised its new crime novel on the front page of newspapers. The ads, made to look like a news article, caught the attention of readers who didn’t realize they were promotions. The tradition continues today with new crime novels releasing around Easter and crime dramas playing on television. All over the country, people spend the weekend with whodunit shows and books. Even milk cartons carry short detective stories on their cardboard sides during this time.
Easter traditions around the world – Norway
Bermuda
Easter celebrations last all weekend in Bermuda. The holiday begins on Friday with the Good Friday KiteFest. All over the island, locals and visitors gather to show off their homemade kites and send them soaring into the sky. During the weekend people eat codfish and hot cross buns. Sunday sunrise services on beaches are a fitting end to the weekend.
Easter traditions from around the world – Bermuda
France
Every Easter Monday, the day after Easter Sunday, the town of Bessieres in southern France, serves up a giant omelette. Using more than 15,000 eggs, the omelette feeds the entire village. According to local stories, the tradition began with Napoleon and his troops traveling through the south of France. They stopped in this small town for a meal, eating omelettess. Napoleon enjoyed the meal so much that he ordered the townspeople to gather all of their eggs and make a gigantic omelette for his army the next day.
Easter traditions from around the world – France
Russia
Easter meals in Russia include knobs of butter molded into lamb shapes. In ancient times lamb were considered lucky. The Russians believed the devil could take on the form of any animal, except a lamb. Their religious symbolism protected the lambs.
Easter traditions from around the world – Russia
Spain
In the medieval town of Verges, in Spain, the “death dance” is held on Holy Thursday. Townspeople reenact the Passion, dressed in skeleton costumes. Passion comes from the Latin word for “suffering” and is connected to Christ’s crucifixion. Processions wind through the streets with skeletons carrying boxes of ashes. Dancing begins at midnight and concludes at 3:00 am.
Easter traditions from around the world – Spain
Poland
Smigus-dyngus is a Polish tradition carried out on Easter Monday. People try to drench each other with buckets of water, squirt guns, water balloons…anything they can carry water in. According to legend, the girls who get soaked with water will marry within the year.
Easter traditions from around the world – Poland
Vatican City
Each year on Good Friday, the Pope commemorates the Way of the Cross. He begins at the Colosseum. People joining the procession carry candles and walk around the amphitheater and up to Palatine Hill, stopping 14 times along the way. This walk represents the 15 Stations of the Cross. Mass is celebrated Saturday evening. And on Sunday morning, thousands gather in St Peter’s Square to await the Pope’s blessing from the church balcony.
Easter traditions from around the world – Vatican City
Greece
Traditional pot throwing takes place on Holy Saturday, on the Greek island of Corfu. From their balconies and windows, people throw pots, pans and other clay or earthenware containers into the street. These pots are frequently filled with water. The custom originated with the Venetians who threw out old items on New Year’s Day. It also symbolizes welcoming spring crops in new pots.
Easter traditions from around the world – Greece
Israel
Christians celebrate Good Friday in Jerusalem by walking the same path that Jesus did on his way to the cross. Many participants carry a cross with them, in remembrance of Jesus’ crucifixion. On Easter Sunday a church services take place at Garden Tomb.
Easter traditions from around the world – Israel
Italy
Locals in Florence, Italy celebrate a 350 year old Easter tradition called Scoppio del Carro, “explosion of the cart”. Fireworks fill an ornate cart. People in colorful 15th century costumes lead the cart through the streets, stopping in front of the Duomo. The Archbishop of Florence lights the fireworks during Easter mass, setting off a lively display. The custom dates back to the First Crusade. It ensures a good harvest.
Easter traditions from around the world – Italy
Hungary
A popular Easter tradition in Hungary is observed on Easter Monday. Boys playfully sprinkle perfume or perfumed water on girls, after getting their permission to do so. During the older version of this custom, the boys poured a bucket of water over the girls’ heads. Today they spray perfume and ask for a kiss. The young ladies dress up in traditional clothes.
Easter traditions from around the world – Hungary
Papua New Guinea
This is perhaps the most unusual Easter tradition that I discovered. With the high temperatures and humidity in Papua New Guinea, eating chocolate during the Easter season isn’t a “thing”. Instead, the locals celebrate in their own way. They decorate the trees outside their churches with packets of tobacco and cigarettes. After the Easter Sunday services, worshippers divide up the tobacco. This tradition increases church attendance on Easter Sunday!
Easter traditions from around the world – Papua New Guinea
What Are Your Easter Traditions?
When my kids were young, we dressed up and attended church together. The “Easter Bunny” delivered goody filled baskets and the kids played all day, hiding and finding colored eggs. Now, with my children grown and parents of their own babes, I simply gift my kids and grandkids with small presents.
I like the traditions of flying homemade kites, reading crime novels and watch out…throwing water! My children and grands better beware. Mostly, I love learning how other cultures celebrate holidays. It’s fun and educational too.
What are your Easter traditions? And did you find any in the list above that surprised you?
Happy Easter. Cute frame, ceramic bunny and card art from Decocrated.
Cindy Goes Beyond is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. This affiliate program provides a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com, all at no extra cost to you.
This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclosure Policy for details.
March 8 is International Women’s Day. Additionally, the entire month is devoted to National Women’s History.
I typically celebrate the day with social media posts that feature the year’s theme. This time, with 2021 my Year of the Wild Woman, a longer post feels more appropriate.
Discover the origins of this day that celebrates women around the world. And join me in recognizing some amazing women.
Origins of International Women’s Day
International Women’s Day is a globally recognized day, celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. It’s also a day to join together to promote women’s equality.
International Women’s Day has occurred annually for more than 100 years. The first official honoring of the day took place simultaneously in Austria, Denmark, Germany and Switzerland on March 19, 1911. More than one million women and men attended rallies campaigning for women’s right to work, vote, and hold public office and to end discrimination. In 1913 the date moved to March 8.
The International Women’s Day website launched in 2001, re-energizing the day. The website offers helpful resources and guidance and issues a theme for each year.
This year’s theme, Choose to Challenge, highlights personal responsibility and choice.
Choose to Challenge – 2021 theme for International Women’s Day
Choose to Challenge
“A challenged world is an alert world. Individually, we’re all responsible for our own thoughts and actions, all day, every day.” IWD website
From challenge, comes change.
All of us, men and women, can choose to challenge and call out gender bias and inequality. Together we can create an inclusive world.
And we can choose to celebrate women’s achievements and accomplishments.
That’s the focus of my post.
Choose to challenge…and to recognize women’s accomplishments
Celebrate Women’s Accomplishments
Today…and every day…it’s important to recognize women for the incredible contributions that they bring to the world even while we continue to strive for greater gender equality and opportunities.
Women are making a difference in so many areas of life including science, art, education, technology, music, medicine, sports, journalism, relationships, government and creativity.
I am choosing to feature women in four categories in this post: books, films, businesses and charities. And I challenge you to check out these remarkable women and share the accomplishments of women in other fields.
Choose to Challenge – recognize women for their contributions and achievements
Amazing Women Authors
I recognize the accomplishments of these female authors and heartily recommend their books:
Glennon Doyle – Untamed
In her powerful memoir, Glennon shares the joys and deep peace we find when we stop trying to live up to the expectations of others and start listening to the still voice within.
“There is a voice of longing inside each woman. We strive so mightily to be good: good partners, daughters, mothers, employees, and friends. We hope all this striving will make us feel alive. Instead, it leaves us feeling weary, stuck, overwhelmed, and underwhelmed. We look at our lives and wonder: Wasn’t it all supposed to be more beautiful than this? We quickly silence that question, telling ourselves to be grateful, hiding our discontent—even from ourselves.”
Click image to order book.
Amanda Gorman – The Hill We Climb
This gift edition book features Amanda’s memorable poem, read during the presidential inauguration. Amanda is the first ever national youth poet laureate of the United States and the youngest presidential inaugural poet in US history.
“For there is always light, if only we are brave enough to to see it, if only we are brave enough to be it.”
Click on photo to order book.
Inspiring Women Centric Films
Check out these inspiring movies about women in history:
Hidden Figures (2016)
The true story of a team of female African American mathematicians who played a key role in NASA during the early years of the US space program.
Click photo to rent Hidden Figures on Prime.
Suffragette (2015)
This drama tracks the working women in 1912 London who become foot soldiers in the early feminist movement, willing to lose everything in their fight for equality.
Click photo to rent Suffragette on Prime.
Women Run Businesses
These innovative women birthed companies that meet a need, especially for other women:
Tia Mowry – Anser
You may know Tia from the series Sister, Sister. Tia now runs Anser, a company that provides supplements for women. The supplements feature clean ingredients, essential vitamins and high quality nutrients that fuel the body. Her purpose for the company is to encourage and inspire women to be proactive about wellness.
Alina Morse – Zolli Candy
This amazing teen invented a candy that cleans teeth, providing moms with an alternative to sugary treats. Alina is the youngest INC 5000 CEO and also the youngest person to ever appear on the cover of Entrepreneur Magazine. Stores like Walmart and Amazon carry Alina’s candies. Her desire is to help mothers keep their families smiling and healthy.
Click photo to order zollipops.
Charities That Help Women
There are so many wonderful charities run by women to benefit women and children. Check out these two:
BlinkNow
BlinkNow operates a globally recognized children’s home and school in Nepal.
The mission: to change the world by empowering Nepal’s children. BlinkNow does this by providing quality education and a safe environment for children and women, and through inspiring others.
Womankind
Womankind is a mental health charity run by women, for women.
The mission: to work with survivors of gender-based violence, to rise above trauma and build a path to healing. They bring critical resources and deep cultural competency to help Asian communities find refuge, recovery, and renewal.
Choose to Challenge – helping women
How We As Women Help
I love the theme for International Women’s Day this year. Although I may wish it otherwise, challenges do help me grow and change. When I look back at the most challenging situations in my life, I see the massive growth that accompanied those times. And change happens as a result.
So what does it mean to choose to challenge?
We choose to use our voices, our words, our actions, our influence to challenge what we see happening in our communities. And we challenge ourselves to live as our most authentic selves. Because only as we live as those powerful versions of ourselves can we create change.
For me that’s releasing my inner wild woman this year. For you that might be tapping into your creative side or working through old fears or stepping outside your comfort zone. Finding your voice, speaking your truth and following your passionate heart are all ways of challenging yourself to live as the person you are created to be.
Strike a Pose
Show your support of women and the commitment to call out inequality by raising your hand high. Choose to challenge. Strike a pose and share your photo on social media. Use the hashtags #choosetochallenge and #IWD2021 to encourage others to help create an inclusive world.
It doesn’t just matter today. It matters everyday.
“Here’s to strong women. May we know them, may we be them, may we raise them.”
I’m all in. I choose to challenge.
One of my contributions for encouraging and supporting women:
Cindy Goes Beyond is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. This affiliate program provides a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com, all at no extra cost to you.
This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclosure Policy for details.
Earlier this month I discovered, to my delight, that February is Spunky Old Broads Month. Never heard of this unique holiday? Check out the post about it HERE.
I love everything about this celebration of women over the age of 50. It meshes well with my Year of the Wild Woman. I’ve reflected daily on what it means to live this part of my life as a spunky old broad. And I quickly realized I’ve been living as one since my early 50s, without the awareness of the special day and month.
Expanding on the very last section in my previous post on this topic, here are soulful activities for spunky old broads living a “no regrets” lifestyle.
Soulful Activities for Spunky Old Broads
I like the word “soulful”. It’s defined as the process of expressing deep feelings and emotions. A soulful person is one who shows compassion and depth of understanding. Because spunky women value living authentic lives I felt the word “soulful” better fit the list of activities, rather than a word like “fun”.
There are so many soulful activities for spunky old broads. Consider these just an invitation to engage joyfully!
Meaningful Routines that Support You
Have you heard of Jen Hatmaker? She is just shy of 50, however she’s well on her way to spunkiness. Recently Jen shared how valuable her morning and evening routines are. Strangely, I’m an odd cross between spontaneity and routines. My morning and evening routines are vital to me also.
Routines quickly become second nature and they absolutely must support who you are.
Here are a few of mine, as examples. Morning routines include making my bed as soon as I get out of it, brushing my teeth, my start-of-day skin care and prepping celery juice and a fruit smoothie. My favorite morning routine is opening all the wooden blinds covering the windows, to let the light in. It’s my way of saying “welcome” to the new day.
Night routines include turning on lamps in my bedroom as it gets dark, turning down the bed, taking a probiotic and thoroughly cleansing and moisturizing my face and neck.
What starts your day off right? And how can you pamper yourself a bit at night?
Soulful activities for spunky old broads – meaningful routines
Devote Time Daily to Something New
Is there something you’ve always wanted to try or learn? Now is the time to do new things! Enjoying new experiences helps keep the brain sharp by creating new pathways. Beyond that, it’s fun.
Want to paint? Take voice lessons? Learn to ride a motorcycle? Spend time everyday on this new activity. Just make sure it feeds the soul and brings joy to the heart.
Trying new experiences resulted in the launch of this blog in 2014. Last year, I decided to take a travel blogging class (this one) and take blogging in some new directions. I love the doors that are swinging open, as a result.
What new experience or lesson do you want to devote time to?
Soulful Activities for Spunky Old Broads – something new. Read this travel post HERE. I just did and tears came to my eyes. Now I’m processing why…
Meet New Spunky Old Broads
One of the fun aspects of this sisterhood is connecting with other like-minded, like-hearted souls. Due to COVID, the best way to find other spunky ladies is through online groups. Search for “spunky old broads” on Facebook or Instagram. I typed the words in Facebook’s search bar and located several groups and pages.
Also, live as your spunky self. Other spunky women will gravitate toward you, naturally. Find your tribe….or your tribe will find you.
I had the pleasure of meeting a spunky sister in 2018. We connected on Facebook first. Then we met in person. What fun to share a meal and laugh and chat. Marva is a wonderfully warm and authentic person who follows where her heart leads and does much to help others. Check out her Insight peer support group on Facebook.
Is there a spunky old broad you’d love to get to know better?
Soulful activities for spunky old broads – connect
Up Your Health Level
Spunky old broads need energy to accomplish all that they want to do. Up your health level. Fuel the body with highly nutritious foods and avoid foods that are overly processed and full of sugar, additives and chemicals. Pay attention to any sensitivities that arise, such as to gluten or dairy products. Nothing motivates health changes as much as the desire to do something fun, like travel, play with grandkids or live a longer life!
I upped my health level for two reasons: 20 years of chronic pain and inflammation were sending me into a wheelchair and I wanted to take my grandson to Italy as a high school graduation gift.
Nothing has impacted me as positively as adopting a healthier lifestyle, in my case, a plant based one. I have the health and the energy to BE a spunky old broad. Learn more about my health journey at Journey With Healthy Me.
Is your health supporting all that you want to do?
Soulful activities for spunky old broads – up health level
Play More
Oh, to play as we did as children. Why does playing tend to stop as we get older?
Play is such an important aspect of spunkiness. It unleashes creativity, inspires big ideas and taps into the inner child. Often play pushes us beyond comfort zones as well, which is a good thing.
I love making up my own games to play. The 63 Curious Things to Do for my 63rd Birthday is such a game. In the last couple of years I’ve made blanket forts, picked up coloring again and created a variety of activity based games. Playing bypasses logic and frees spontaneity and joy.
When was the last time you had fun, playing?
Soulful activities for spunky old broads – play
Be a Role Model for Others
When others observe your spunkiness, it’s an invitation to delve into their own. Be especially mindful of the younger women and the girls in your family.
This is a “teach by example” lifestyle. Be your delightful self. And know that doing so inspires others to figure out who they are. Joy and fun and spunkiness are contagious, to those who want to catch them. I know that the women in my family inspired me just by living their lives.
Although my desire is to be an example to all of my grandchildren…four grandsons and two granddaughters…I especially want the girls to grow up secure in who they are. Modeling a fiercely strong yet spunky life is the best way that I can encourage them to be who they are, to create big ideas and big plans, and to never play small to please another.
Who is watching you and learning by your example?
Soulful activities for spunky old broads – be an example to the girls in the family. Granddaughters Aubrey and Finley.
Explore New Places
Exploring new places is a fun activity for this spunky old broad. I’m a mix of spunky meets wild woman with a gypsy heart. It’s in my DNA to wander.
However, there are many landscapes to explore including the ever so important one within. Start there, I’d suggest. Explore and go into those musty, closed off spaces in the soul. You might find a surprise or two there.
If traveling abroad…when such travel is possible again…isn’t exciting to you, explore your own country, your own city, your own neighborhood. Wandering a never before explored street makes my heart sing. And lately I’ve enjoyed day long road trips to new places within 100 miles from home. We learn so much about ourselves when we allow curiosity to guide our feet down paths unknows.
What new location is calling to you?
Soulful activities for spunky old broads – explore new places. This is Venice, Italy.
Bust Out of Your Comfort Zone
Spunky women are brave and adventurous. They don’t live in fear, stay within comfort zones or remain captive to limiting beliefs. And yet, I did, for most of my life.
I didn’t enter my 50s with an excited whoop and a determination to adopt spunkiness. I cautiously sidled into that decade, nearly invisible. What I ultimately experienced was a growing desire to free myself of fears, comfort zones and limiting beliefs. The “want to” developed into “must”. My life changed in remarkable ways 10 years ago when I faced down my fears, stepped beyond my comfort zones and eliminated limiting beliefs.
Creativity flourished again. And the first signs of spunkiness showed up. Living life beyond the edges…that’s what I do now.
I frequently challenge myself to keep going beyond the edges so that I face new fears that pop up or old ones that try to sneak back in, so that comfort zones feel uncomfortable and limiting beliefs too confining. Three years ago I spent four days in an Airbnb house alone, knowing the experience would trigger old fears. It did. And I left that house with newfound freedom.
Do you feel trapped by fears, comfort zones and/or limiting beliefs? What needs to shift?
Soulful Activities for Spunky Old Broads – go beyond, even when it feels scary to do so
Find Your Style
Do you dress the way you want to, or the way others expect you to dress? What’s your fashion style? I’m still figuring this one out. Working primarily from home, I favor comfy clothes such a hoodies, leggings and fuzzy socks.
And yet…my soul is drawn more to bohemian style clothing. I rarely wear dresses and skirts…and yet…I bought the green linen skirt in the photo below with a flowy white cotton blouse and a lightweight shawl while in Italy. My carry on could barely contain 12 days worth of clothes and essentials without adding an outfit to the mix. But I couldn’t leave those clothes behind.
Many older women feel they must dress a certain way, suitable for their age. And while purple tops and red hats are fine if that’s what you love, it’s not the only style available for spunky broads. I keep my hair long. And I know, deep in my soul, what I really want to wear. It doesn’t matter what anyone else thinks about my fashion style…or about yours either.
What’s your style?
Soulful activities for spunky old broads – find your fashion style
Take a Fun Class or Better Yet Teach One
Is there a class you want to take? A skill you want to learn? Take that class! Choices are unlimited online. Truly, it’s never too late to learn something new.
And, even better, offer to teach a class. If you specialize in an area, subject or skill, teach others. Have fun with it. Let your spunky self shine.
I frequently indulge my curiosity by taking online classes…mostly free…or picking up books on the topic at the public library. I’ve also taught many types of classes from kids’ learning styles to writing curriculum for children to real estate classes to meditation and health classes.
What would you love to learn more about? And what can you teach to others?
Soulful activities for spunky old broads – take a class or teach one
Determine Your Big Why
To stay in alignment with who you are and what you are doing, determine your big why. The big why is more than a goal. It’s something that changes your life or others’ lives or feeds your soul deeply. It’s your purpose for doing what you do.
Knowing your big why provides motivation however it also is a checkpoint to keep you from straying off into unimportant projects. You may have many big whys throughout life.
Find your current big why by writing down what you want on a piece of paper or white board. Then write why you want that, and why you want THAT and so on until you uncover the biggest reason why.
I started with “I want to travel” and moved to “I want to work remotely from anywhere in the world and earn a magnificent income.” By checking in to see why I wanted those things, I eventually discovered it’s about more than the freedom to travel. My big why? “I want to take my children and grandchildren on trips and introduce them to the wonders of the world, other cultures and other people.”
What’s your big why?
Soulful Activities for Spunky Old Broads – big why
Write Out Positive Affirmations about Aging
Let’s get real. Many women have negative thoughts about the aging process. Why else spend a fortune trying NOT to look like we fall into the age 50+ age group?
Satchel Paige says, “Age is a question of mind over matter. If you don’t mind, it doesn’t matter.”
How can you allow yourself to accept that aging is not only natural but inevitable? Or better yet, to affirm who you are without focusing so much on a number?
One way is to write out positive affirmations and post them where you can see them and read them every day.
Always use “I am…”.
“I am a spunky old broad” is a great start. Or, “I am living my best life.” “I am healthy and happy.” You get the idea.
I created my own affirmation calendar, made from a spiral bound deck of index cards. On each card is an affirmation or positive quote. I can flip to a new card daily.
Grab a stack of cards, open a google doc or hang a white board and start writing those affirmations.
Soulful activities for spunky old broads – affirmations
Celebrating Spunky Old Broads
I do believe my Year of the Wild Woman now includes a year long celebration of spunky old broads. It’s too perfect, too amazing, to only honor spunkiness for a month.
I hope these activities inspire you to embrace your own spunkiness, whether you are old enough to claim the title or growing into it.
And I’d love to know what other activities you came up with.
Four spunky of broads with the piper in Edinburgh…and one growing into spunkiness.
Cindy Goes Beyond is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. This affiliate program provides a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com, all at no extra cost to you.
This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclosure Policy for details.
The year contains many fun and unusual holidays and celebrations. I know because I check frequently as I create my monthly blog and social media posts schedule.
Somehow though I’ve missed this one for February 1, Spunky Old Broads Day. In fact, the whole month of February celebrates outrageously fun older women with Spunky Old Broads Month.
The wild woman within stirred as I read about this unique holiday. I’m grateful we get more than one day to relish it.
Origins of Spunky Old Broads Day
This day, and the whole month, celebrates women aged 50 and older who refuse to grow old quietly. They enjoy living a full, authentic, “no regrets” life.
The founder of the holiday, Dr. Gayle Carson, serves as a life coach and advisor to entrepreneurs around the world. Check out her podcasts HERE. She primarily focuses on helping older women. Dr. Carson felt that the words “spunky”, “old” and “broad” presented negative images about aging. She chose to string the words together, creating Spunky Old Broads Day, also known as SOB Day.
This fun holiday encourages others to show appreciation to the older women in their lives. And for those of us who ARE the older women in others’ lives, Spunky Old Broads Day and Month gives us opportunity…and dare I say permission…to shine as our quirky, beautiful, outrageous selves.
Spunky Old Broads Day – one of my favorite quotes.
Defining Those Words
I love the study of words so of course I looked up spunky and broad, as they relate to women.
Spunky is an adjective that means “courageous, spirited, feisty and determined”. And I LOVE this next bit. The word originates from the 1530s Scottish word spong, meaning “a spark”. It was first used in the sense of courage and mettle in 1773.
Someone who displays spunkiness is spirited and brave and not afraid to try new things or set off on an adventure. It takes a spunky traveler to cheerfully explore a city without a map.
And broad is a dated word used to describe a woman in an informal way. It’s an Old English word with Germanic origins. The term came to mean a woman in the 1930s. It’s derived from the fact that one of the most defining characteristics of a woman is her hips, which are proportionally broader than the hips of a man.
Spunky Old Broads Day – another favorite quote about aging
Women Who Are Wonderfully Spunky Old Broads
Over the last couple of days, I’ve thought about well known older women who exemplify spunkiness. I came up with quite a list. Here are several and words of wisdom from them:
Alice Walker – American Author and Social Activist
This amazing writer published The Color Purple in 1982, winning the National Book Award for Hardcover Fiction and the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction.
” I think writing really helps you heal yourself. I think if you write long enough, you will be a healthy person. That is, if you write what you need to write, as opposed to what will make money or what will make fame.”
Helen Mirren – British Actress, Model and Naturalist
Helen excels on the stage and on the big screen. She’s considered a Triple Crown of Acting winner in the US for winning an Oscar for Best Actress in The Queen, a Tony for The Audience and four Emmys for television limited series and movies.
“It’s ridiculous to pretend we can stay young forever.”
Spunky Old Broads Day – Dame Helen Mirren
Lyn Slater – Accidental Icon, Blogger and Professor
At the age of 64, Lyn became an “accidental” style icon. When she started a blog and Instagram page, she had no intention of creating an age busting agenda, hence the accidental part. However, she is now known for her oft times eclectic fashion sense and her empowering promotion of women over 50. Check out her fun Instagram page.
“This project is me saying: ‘I’m not twenty, and I don’t want to be twenty. But I’m pretty cool, and here I am.'”
Maya Angelou – American Poet, Memoirist and Civil Rights Activist
This talented woman, who passed away in 2014, published seven autobiographies, three books of essays and several books of poetry in addition to appearing in plays, movies and television shows. She received dozens of awards and more than 50 honorary degrees.
“We carry accumulation of years in our bodies and on our faces, but generally our real selves, the children inside, are innocent and shy as magnolias.”
Spunky Old Broads Day – Maya Angelou
My Spunky Legacy
I have an amazing legacy of spunkiness in my family, woman who live out loud, who pursue their dreams, who travel and explore the world.
Great Grandma Cynthia
My great-grandmother, whose first name I share, traveled the US until she was well up in years. I remember her amusing stories and her cackle of laughter as she told them. She possessed a penchant for getting lost or going beyond and loved the experiences. Grandma Cynthia once insisted on walking down into the Grand Canyon, against the advice of guides. When she couldn’t get back out of the canyon, a ranger went in after her. She rode out on a donkey. And telling the story, she remarked on how cute the ranger was!
Spunky Old Broads Day – Great Grandma Cynthia
Great Aunt Pearl
Aunt Pearl was actually Greg’s great aunt, however I adored her as well. This accomplished, beautiful woman traveled the world. She went on safari, rode a camel across the desert and enjoyed a hot air balloon ride…in her 80s. She possessed boundless energy and once literally raced Greg across a parking lot, to get to the Wichita Zoo entrance ahead of him so she could pay!
Aunt Pearl’s home featured intriguing items from her adventures and the dear woman always brought home souvenirs for me and my children. I’ve often said I want to be just like Aunt Pearl when I grow up.
Spunky Old Broads Day – Great Aunt Pearl
My Mom, Pat
I couldn’t write about Spunky Old Broads without including my incredible mom. No one has better shown me how to live a big, authentic, adventurous life.
Mom is an author, with several published children’s books. She’s creative and artistic, owned and operated businesses and traveled extensively around the US and the world. Mom continues to join me and my sisters in new experiences. One of our greatest shared adventures was a trip to Ireland, Scotland and England in 2017. I’ll never forget it.
Spunky Old Broads Day – my fun mom, dressed to the nines for a family Halloween party
Celebrating Spunky Old Broads Day and Month
I’m thrilled to discover this month long holiday. It perfectly meshes with my desire to release my inner wild woman and live as my most authentic, spunky self. I’m old enough and I’m brave enough to embrace it all. Plus the Scottish root word for spunk, meaning “a spark” connects to my song for the year, Girl on Fire. This feels like an invitation to go deep and go far.
Are you a spunky old broad? How can we celebrate?
I have some suggestions.
Try new experiences. Go beyond fears, limiting beliefs and comfort zones. Do something we’ve always wanted to do. Dress the way we want. Or don’t dress up at all. Get out into nature. Unleash creativity. Play. Explore. Shake things up. Speak up. Plan a trip and when restrictions ease, GO.
And finally, a thought of my own:
“With age comes confidence and freedom and strength. I no longer concern myself with what others think about what I’m doing. I’ve worked hard to become who I’m supposed to be. I’m not shrinking back now.”
Sisters over 50, join me in this Spunky Old Broads Sisterhood. Share your thoughts below. Find me on social media and share your photos.
And tell me about your favorite spunky old broads.
Me…a spunky old broad
Fun Spunky Finds from Amazon:
Cindy Goes Beyond is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. This affiliate program provides a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com, all at no extra cost to you.
This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclosure Policy for details.
February 14, Valentine’s Day, the day of love. Some celebrate it, some ignore it and some find unique ways to mark the day.
I enjoyed learning about holiday traditions from around the world, for Christmas and New Year’s. Is Valentine’s Day a global holiday? I wanted to know. It turns out, it is. Some countries celebrate in ways similar to the US. And others put their own unique spin on the day.
Check out these Valentine’s Day traditions from around the world. You might want to change things up this year!
The Origins of Valentine’s Day
There are several stories about the origination of Valentine’s Day. The Catholic Church recognizes three saints named Valentine, all of whom were martyred. One story suggests Valentine died as a result of continuing to marry young couples, after Roman Emperor Claudius II outlawed marriage. He thought single men made better soldiers.
Another tale suggests Valentine was killed for helping imprisoned Christians escape. And the third says that while in prison himself, Valentine sent the first “valentine” greeting to a young woman he loved. He allegedly signed the letter “from your Valentine”, an expression still used today.
It’s also possible that Valentine’s Day is celebrated in mid February to “christianize” the pagan holiday, Lupercalia. This fertility festival is connected to Faunus, the Roman god of agriculture. Lupercalia became outlawed by the end of the 5th century. Pope Gelasius officially declared February 14 Valentine’s Day. During the middle ages, some countries commonly believed that birds began mating on that day, which created the idea that Valentine’s Day should be a romantic day.
Written valentines appeared after 1400. The oldest known valentine is a poem written by Charles, Duke of Orleans, to his wife in 1415.
Valentine’s Day Traditions from Around the World
Looking for fun or unusual ways to celebrate the day of love? Check out these traditions.
France
Ahhh, if a country of love exists, it must be France. Paris, after all, is called the “city of love”. Valentine’s Day is celebrated on February 14, as it is in the US. However, in France the holiday is much less commercialized. The major difference is that Valentine’s Day in France is for adult lovers only. It’s not a time for children to make cute heart crafts and hand out valentines at school.
Parents don’t give gifts to their children on that day either. Romantic couples express their love for each other with small gifts, flowers or dinners out, but rarely with cards. The most popular way for the French to celebrate the day of love is with a romantic weekend away.
Valentine’s Day traditions from around the world – France
Philippines
In the Philippines, many young couples marry on Valentine’s Day, during a government sponsored event. Besides these celebratory mass weddings, many married couples choose to renew their wedding vows on that day as well.
Valentine’s Day traditions from around the world – a good day to marry in the Philippines
South Korea
In this country, the 14th of EVERY month is a day of love. Besides Valentine’s Day on February 14, there’s Day of Roses on May 14, Day of Kisses in June and Day of Hugs in December. There’s even a day for single people on April 14. They get together to eat black noodles.
For Valentine’s Day, only the women give gifts, typically chocolates, to their beloveds. A month later, on March 14, the men reciprocate with gifts worth threes times the value of the gift they received on Valentine’s Day.
Lots of love throughout the year, in South Korea.
Ghana
In Ghana, February 14 is National Chocolate Day. The government launched the holiday in 2007, to increase tourism. Ghana is one of the top producers of cocoa. On Valentine’s Day couples attend performances and musical events and visit restaurants that offer special themed menus for the day.
Valentine’s Day Traditions Around the World – Ghana
Wales
The Welsh celebrate Valentine’s Day on January 25. Called the Day of San Dwynwen, lovers exchange beautifully handcrafted wooden spoons called love spoons. The spoons were originally carved to express a man’s intentions toward a young lady. Giving her the spoon announced his desire to court her.
The tradition began in the 16th century and continues today as a way to commemorate special events. Dwynwen is the Welsh saint of lovers, making her the equivalent of Saint Valentine.
Valentine’s Day traditions from around the world – wooden spoons from Wales
Denmark
Although celebrating Valentine’s Day in Denmark is a fairly new tradition, they do so beautifully. Friends and lovers exchange handmade cards, cut into shapes. Each card includes pressed snowdrop flowers.
They may also exchange fun “joke letters”, so called due to the lack of a signature on the note. Instead, the sender adds one dot for each letter of his or her name. If the recipient correctly guesses the identity of the card giver, that person receives a candy Easter egg on Easter Sunday. If the recipient does not guess the name, the sender receives the egg.
A fun twist on Valentine’s Day, in Denmark
Romania
The Romanians combine romantic and unusual celebrations for Valentine’s Day, celebrated on February 24. Many young couples get engaged on this day. The couples go into the forests to collect colorful spring flowers pushing up through the snow, to give to each other. They also wash their faces with the snow, as a wish for good luck.
Valentine’s Day Traditions from Around the World – spring flowers in Romania
Estonia
In Estonia, February 14 is Friendship Day. Call Sobrapaev, this festival includes everyone, from couples to friends to family members. Everyone exchanges gifts and celebrates love.
February 14 is Friendship Day in Estonia.
Japan
Similar to South Korea, the Japanese women give the men in their lives chocolates on Valentine’s Day. However, not all chocolates are equal! “Giri-choco” is a ready made chocolate gifted to friends and family. Giri means obligation so these chocolates are an obligatory gift to show affection but not romantic love.
“Honmei-choco”, a more expensive or homemade chocolate, goes to romantic partners.
And on March 14, men return the sentiment with chocolates given to those who gifted them candy on Valentine’s Day.
Valentine’s Day Traditions from Around the World – Japan
Czech Republic
Valentine’s Day is becoming more popular among young people in Czech Republic. On May 1, couples go on pilgrimage to the statue of poet Karol Hynek Macha. Then they gather beneath cherry trees and kiss for good luck.
Kiss beneath cherry trees in Czech Republic.
Slovenia
In Slovenia, Saint Valentine is a patron saint of spring. They believe that on February 14, plants start to regenerate, marking the first day of working in the fields, for the new year. They also believe that birds propose to each other on this special day. One must walk barefoot through the frozen fields to sneak up on the birds, to witness the proposals.
Valentine’s Day Traditions from Around the World – birds proposing in Slovenia
South Africa
In South Africa, Valentine’s Day celebrations include festivals, flowers and small tokens of love. Plus, women wear hearts on their sleeves on February 14. The pinned paper heart on a woman’s sleeve contains the printed name of her love interest. The tradition originated during the Roman pagan holiday, Lupercalia. In many cases, this is how men learn about their admirers.
Valentine’s Day Traditions from Around the World – South Africa
Celebrating Valentine’s Day
I love discovering new traditions and learning more about cultures in other countries. My own Valentine Day’s tradition most closely matches Estonia. I enjoy giving small gifts or candy to my children and grandchildren.
It’s a day for showing love, care and affection to everyone and to oneself.
One year, I bought a dozen white roses and drove around town, handing them out to people dining alone or working during the holiday. Their smiles made my day.
How do you celebrate Valentine’s Day? Did you find a new tradition to incorporate this year?
Valentine’s Day finds from Amazon:
Cindy Goes Beyond is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. This affiliate program provides a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com, all at no extra cost to you.