Monday Musings: On Wisdom, Barbie, Snails, and Ecco on Repeat
Happy Monday, ladies. I had to laugh at the title of this post because it sounds very bizarre, but these are the things I’m musing about this week, so here goes…
Snail Mucin
I ordered some highly touted sunscreen from Korea to try four weeks ago, and when it finally arrived, they’d included a small sample of their snail mucin product. BTW- I LOVE this sunscreen and want to order it by the gallon!
That ingredient has crossed my radar several times in the last few weeks, and I’ve been both grossed out and curious. It’s been a popular ingredient in South Korean beauty products for years.
Snail mucin is said to be beneficial for your skin due to its hydration, skin repair, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant effects, collagen promotion, and nourishing nutrients. The mucin is usually collected from ordinary, garden-variety snails, processed, and purified to create a cosmetic ingredient. Snails are not harmed in the process, so I suppose you could call it cruelty-free. I don’t eat snails, and they sort of creep me out, so I’m not sure I want to put it on my face. What do you think? Have you heard about or tried adding snail mucin products to your skincare?
Comfy Feet
Perhaps it’s the amount of walking I’ve been doing or the extra weight I’ve been carrying, but my feet are less than happy these days. I noticed some Ecco Sandals marked down and wondered if they would be as comfy as my Ecco sneakers.
They have a very cushiony sole, arch support, and velcro securely to my ankle, so I don’t have to grip my toes to keep them on. I find nude shoes much more user-friendly than any other color because they coordinate with everything. So rather than buy the discounted color, I ended up ordering the grey rose metallic shade and love them! They do come in several other colors, which I may need to consider.
This outfit may appear too covered up for the climate many of you are living in, but this lightweight linen jacket is perfect near the coast. My necklace is a new favorite that I find myself reaching for often. It’s by this designer that I found at a tiny boutique in Parksville.
Barbie Mania
Perhaps it’s my age, but the media coverage and excitement over the new Barbie movie are leaving me cold. I never played with Barbie as a child and consequently didn’t buy them for my daughter to play with. I know that Barbie is the most popular fashion doll ever produced, but I don’t care. You can read more about the doll here.
I always see pink on clothing racks, but it seems to have gone into overdrive lately as a result of the hype and buzz about this movie. I know nothing about the particulars of this new show and have no interest in seeing it. The “most anticipated” movie of the summer is not on my radar, and I’m wondering what you think.
Wisdom Years
I downloaded this audible book over the weekend and am finding it very thought-provoking. The older I get, the more interested I become in doing all I can to age in the healthiest way possible.
I haven’t read Cheryl Richardson in many, many years, and apparently, this is quite a departure from her usual teaching books. I’m only about an hour into it, so I can’t say more than that I like it so far. Have you read any great books on aging to suggest?
Thanks for reading, and be sure to wear what makes you feel confident.
I bought a pair of Ecco walking sandals earlier this summer and have put many comfortable miles on them already.
I saw a trailer for the Barbie movie before it actually hit the theatres. Though it looked like it might be fun, I haven’t bothered seeing it and probably won’t.
As for books about aging, I highly recommend Breaking the Age Code by Becca Levy.
That sounds like a great book!
I’m your age as well and my mother wouldn’t let me have Barbie dolls because she was too curvaceous. I had Tammy and her little sister, Pepper dolls -a more wholesome version. I am not buying into the Barbie hype and not planning to see the movie either. I’ve also seen reviews regarding how poorly the men are portrayed. Then reviews that say – it’s empowering for women – but at the expense of making men look like morons? I don’t call that entertainment.
Many of my friends saw the Barbie movie and enjoyed it, so I went with my daughter to see what it’s all about. Barbie came into being when I no longer played with dolls and I avoided buying them as long as possible for my daughters, but finally caved in because all their friends were enjoying them. It was never all about the fashion and figure. It was also about playing grownup, making up stories that didn’t involve mothering your doll, and building worlds for them to live in. The setting up of these worlds often took more time than playing in them. All my girls played sports as well, by the way. Thank you Title Nine. All the previews shown before the Barbie movie involved men-created stories of action and violence. I grew up with only one heroine, besides my mom, of course, and that was Nancy Drew. You couldn’t act out being a girl detective with a baby doll.
No to Barbie. Like you, I never had one and am not interested. I have used a Korean snail eye treatment. My daughter-in-love, who is Korean American, often gifts me with various skin care products. She gave me a package of Benton snail bee ultimate hydrogel eye patches. They were very hydrating and soothing.
Good to know, Constance. I am getting closer to trying it!
Please don’t discount the Barbie movie! I promise, you will laugh, cry, and cheer! It’s so fun and actually thought provoking. Really!
The Barbie phenomenon does not really bother me – I am, however, so tired of hearing of the Nordstrom sales on the blogs that I follow – cannot wait until we move on from that! Love your blog, Jennifer!
I saw the Barbie movie twice and loved it. To clarify, the movie is not against men; it’s against rigid gender roles that pressure both men and women to be someone they’re not. As other commenters have said, America Ferrera’s speech alone is worth the price of admission, but also: Greta Gerwig always does such beautiful and vulnerable work exploring the intricacies of mother-daughter relationships. “Mothers sometimes stand still so their children can tell how far they’ve come.” Lovely.
That is a lovely quote. Thanks for sharing it.
I’m reading Outlive – The Science and Art of Longevity by Dr. Peter Attia. It’s incredible.
I’ve listened to it twice through and agree, it’s amazing!
Thanks for your comments about All Things Barbie. I shake my head that so many people are that easily manipulated by a media campaign, to spend their time, money and energy on something so meaningless. Are things so bad right now (droughts, floods, global warming, war in the Ukraine) that we’re desperate for something to distract us? I don’t get it.
Saw “Barbie” yesterday. Very thought provoking and enjoyable. There is too much hype by certain people about male bashing in the movie. But if you watch the movie, you find that the message is that men are constrained by certain societal norms and expectations just as women have been. Even if you never played with a Barbie doll and don’t like pink I think you might enjoy watching the movie.
Fascinating, Kathy. Thank you. I think we are all constrained by societal norms. I find it more and more prevalent as I age too.
I’m 72 and loved the Barbie movie.and wore pink, but that’s part of my wardrobe and color palette..Yes there was a bit of a dark side, but this to me was just a nice escape movie, my two friends enjoyed something I didn’t expect…They are a few years older thank I am, so didn’t play with Barbie, but my friend Judy’s granddaughters have every Barbie & accessory ever made. I just remember playing with my friends, my Mom knitting the cutest sweater for her, and making clothes from fabric scrapes. . After the movie we went to our favorite wine bar……and on that note, I’m going to purchase the book your recommended ‘The Age Well Project’, because it will be helpful. Thanks for a great post!
The wine bar sounds like a perfect way to celebrate with friends!
love, love, loved my Barbies!
All the fun accessories, clothing, house, car….such wonderful memories growing up and playing with kids in my neighborhood. ❤️ 65 here! Will see movie.
I’ve been naughty girl shopping! Nordies sale, Jjill, and actually hit Loft today and $330 later!
Enjoy your posts and reading other’s thoughts!
I played with Cissette ,Madam Alexander doll. She was a very pretty “grown up doll” before Barbie came out . I missed out on Barbie by a year or two.
My girl’s played with Barbie . They cut their hair, made clothes for them , made little swimming pools for them .
I am not going to see the movie .
Oppenheimer or Sound of Freedom look interesting to see .
That’s the movie my husband and I are hoping to see next.
Hi Jennifer, I have been using snail mucin products since February and love them. The serum itself has such a beautiful fragrance. I am using Nature Republic brand. Two of my friends have been using for over a year and their results have been impressive. I turn 68 in November and my friends are over 70. I would give it a try.
Going to see Barbie with my husband tomorrow as we both like the Director’s work on other films.
I love pink, and I had two Barbies and a Midge. Also a Ken. (Interesting he’s an afterthought!)
I think people listen way too much to media hype about movies-go see it if you think it might be fun. There’s no dress code for any movie. I understand there’s a feminist message there, and I applaud it. Feminism does not equal man hating. I listened to my older brother today describing his very professional nurses and aides in the hospital as ‘girls’ and had to grit my teeth-he is sick, after all. But anything, even a silly movie, that enables us to get the message across to young girls. that not only are we equal, but as capable, as hard working, as able as any man is worth it.
I’ve seen Oppenheimer and did not enjoy it at all.
Thank you Susan. I hope your brother is well and out of the hospital soon.
I went to see Barbie, it was about empowering women. I was surprised, I thought it was going to be campy , which it has in it also. It’s thought provoking. .
I had a Barbie but I mostly liked sewing clothes for her. I’m more of a tomboy, outside games and such.
I remember the moms not wanting to by a doll with a chest, but caved under the pressure of the kids.
I wanted to support the two women who brought this project to us, Margot, , and Greta. ( good article about the movie in Vogue magazine).
I like pink , I always have, even as a tomboy. .I wore pink in support of all women, and their opportunities.
The movie makes for interesting dialogue.
I went to the Barbie movie, didn’t play with barbies, but the movie was fun and also gave me a lot to think about…How the patriarchy system is bad for both men and women, and the speech by America Ferrera was the best part of the movie. Greta Gerwig is an amazing director and she turn what could have been a really stupid movie into something worth talking about.
I did wear a pink shirt, saw a lot of sparkly pink on others, which I thought was fun.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on it.
No snail mucin in my skin care line which is Biossance now. Was a long time client of Murad products which kept my skin clean and never irritated, but at nearly 77 years old I switched. Samples did it! Then a compliment on my skin. So far, I’m pleased.
My daughter saw the Barbie movie recently and tapped it as a feminist movie with lots to think about she claims. She enjoyed it! I’m not certain if I’ll go. Never say never!
I’ve learned to never say never too.
Blush pink is a favorite of mine but hot pink is not. At 78, I missed any adult type dolls. I had 4 sons so no dolls in our house. I have watched the Barbie Challenge on HGTV just to try to see what the hype is about. They are transforming a lovely big house into this bizarre pink plastic palace so far. The movie doesn’t interest me. I have some Ecco sandals but sandals period seem to hurt my feet. I am wearing Skechers slip ons in many different colors. Love them! I just listened on Audible to Michelle Obama’s podcast on the Light within or something like that. 9 different interviews about half an hour long and all are fun and uplifting. They are in the Premium + Catalog.
Those sound like great interviews Sydney.
Oh, Kathie….I remember playing with Ginny and Miss Revlon dolls too. I recently took mine to our Animal Humane Thrift Store and they sold right away. I missed out on Barbie but my granddaughter (who had no interest in my old dolls LOL) saw the movie and thought it was great. I’m looking forward to seeing “Oppenheimer”. I suppose movies are like fashion – there’s something for everyone. Love your posts, Jennifer!
There is something for everyone!
I’m going to get this one just because of the title!! Awesome
I got my first Barbie in 1959 when I was 8 years old. In the beginning, she was a blonde bombshell….sophisticated, glamorous, and not much else. Over the years, she became a doctor, a lawyer, or anything she wanted to be. I think that message of empowerment got lost in the furor over her unattainable figure. The premise of the movie is one of inclusion of females of all ages, all colors, all shapes, all socio-economic backgrounds, and all hopes, dreams, and desires. It’s a message of love, acceptance, and kindness extended to all humans….something that is sorely needed in society today.
Thanks for sharing your insight on the movie with us.
Those sandals look comfy… unsure about the light colored sole though. Can’t keep them clean!
Barbie- loved it! Laughed, cheered and got teary eyed. Many poignant moments. The film was thoughtful and fun. The monologue from America Ferrara was one every female can relate to. This is coming from someone who didn’t spend a lot of time with Barbie dolls as a kid. Of course, my opinion.
Thanks for sharing your opinion about the movie. I love the way we’re exploring this.
Adored my Barbie ( given by my aunt who became the first female on town council, btw) and my daughters had a houseful. Even more excited to see the movie now that I’ve heard feedback about the depth and …humanity….
Your aunt sounds amazing!
I think that if the snail mucin was marketed under a less slimy name I might try it if the price was right. My parched skin needs all the hydration it can get.
I didn’t plan to see Barbie but everyone I know who has seen it liked it, including a couple of men. I’m up for some silly fun and even an empowering message. I’d wear pink everyday if I could but it’s just because I like it.
Great point about the name 😂 I may try it anyway because I’m so intrigued.
I’ve been CosRX Snail Mucin 96 for a couple of years. My normal to dry skin loves it. I even purchase the travel size so I always have it.
I have a Joseon Ginseng eye cream my under skin loves as well. BTW I’m 66 years old.
I had one Barbie as a kid she had short hair and was a brunette but, I had lots of paper doll Barbie’s. I loved those the most. I’m totally over Barbie so not, planning to see the movie.
I have a really old book A New You, The Art of Grooming by Emily Wilkens I found it in a second hand book shop in my mid twenties. Anyway, it has 10 little Yogas in it that I do daily plus I add weights for arms a few days a week, and the other days I do a little leg and core workout after my 10 little yogas. It keeps me limber.
I’ll have to check out those sandals. I hardly wear open toed anything anymore!
That book sounds amazing. Right up my alley. I’ll have to see if I can find a copy.
Thank you for sharing about the creams. I’ve not used an under eye cream for years but now I’m intrigued. I will try the Cosrx. I love that they’re cruelty free.
Ditto to your thoughts on the Barbie movie and all the pink, pink, pink….. I’m over it.
To each their own.
I do love pink but it’s feeling so over the top I think I will avoid it for now
I pick up pink when it comes out because it’s so trendy; I wear it a lot. It is one of my brand colors.
I’m with you on the whole Barbie “thing.” I didn’t have them as a child (I was into puzzles, Tinker Toys and books) so I’m not really interested in seeing the movie.
I recommend Dynamic Aging by Katy Bowman. It is about small, simple exercises for whole-body mobility. I have dug into her other books and listened to her podcast. I consistently do many of her exercises throughout the day. I am feeling more lithe and “well-oiled” than ever.
Thank you. It sounds wonderful. I’ll check her out!
I adored Barbie as a kid and will definitely see the movie with a friend my age and her daughters in their 20s. Should be lots of fun.
I loved my Barbies when I was a kid and at some point I plan to see the movie. The hype is over the top but it’s kind of fu kind of like themTaylor Swift hype. We need something fun!
A book on aging? Your reader wrote one, HOT GRANNY, published by Chronicle Books. If you want to see some of the basic tips about aging on national television, Google three words: Mel Walsh CBS. Though I am a gerontologist with an advanced degree from USC, the book is light-hearted and illustrated. You can find it on Amazon or just watch the short interview on the CBS Morning Show. Notice I forgot to change out of my red socks for an interview in front of six million people. Jennifer would have had her good socks on!
Mel Walsh at 87 years old
That’s amazing Mel! I’m checking you out!
Snail anything? Pass 😂The Barbie movie has nothing to do with playing with Barbie or Ken, but it does bring a message that, for many generations of women, is important and needs to be heard, in my opinion. Without any spoilers for the sake of those who wish to see the movie, America Ferrara and Rhea Perlman delivered two of the most meaningful monologues I’ve heard in quite some time. I thought the movie was made quite well, has nothing to do with male bashing, being a “bubble head,” has a pleasant soundtrack, good acting, and delivers some food for thought.
Good to know. Thanks for sharing Tere. I’m now curious.
I heard from some women-I-respect that the messages of the Barbie movie are wonderful; it was clever and worthwhile. I’d not planned to go but am now thinking to bring both my girls to it.
Agree. Pleasantly surprised by the message of the movie.
That’s good to hear. Thank you
I am 71 and my childhood name was “Barbie”. I spent many hours playing with Barbies as did my daughter and now my granddaughter. I know the movie has been overhyped but…. I can’t wait to see this week.
From reviews I have seen it is more a case study of our misogynistic society and what happens when “Barbie” enters the “Real” world.
*as a Canadian I cannot wait to see Ryan Gosling’s performance, apparently he steals the show.
Ryan Gosling is fabulous! He steals most of the shows I see him in.
Love your comments about the Barbie movie. I also didn’t have Barbie Dolls as a child and my daughter never had any interest in them. She was more interested in dressing up our pets and having “tea parties” with them.
Agreed. My poor cat wore everything from my baby doll clothing trunk.
Interesting post: and I have several comments. We will be going to Africa and I bought
ECCO sandals to wear and they are very supportive. I also have a pair of Orthofeet sandals and they are very comfortable all day long.
I saw Barbie yesterday. Very interesting movie and as one reviewer said Ryan Gosling
steals every scene he is in. None of the reviewers discussed that Barbie has nothing to do with the natural world; her journey to becoming human does not include birds,
mammals, the sky, the earth, the stars. (with apologies to all golfers: Barbieland reminded me of an Air B+B in a closed golf community: no birds etc). I realize it is a fantasy, but my fantasy of a journey to becoming human includes David Attenborough
footage!!
I bought a linen/polyester blend tank from Gap: very nice! “Linen-Blend Shell Tank Top”
Finally: just FYI; Covid cases are on the rise for the summer–suggest additional vaccines for those who aren’t vaccinated since last year. My husband and I just suffered through our first case.
Oh no! I’m sorry to hear you got it! It’s such a nasty bug. I never want to get it again!
I feel so validated, thank you. Today I turn 67 , so we are close in age, and you just said exactly what I have been thinking and feeling about the Barbie movie and all the pink. Rarely played with them as a child. Not interested now.
We’re about the same age (and I’m also Canadian born) so I’m sure you remember as little girls, the only dolls we had to play with were baby dolls. I was over the moon when I got my first and only Barbie. Finally! A doll that didn’t look like a baby. My daughter and now my granddaughters have all played with them and her many occupations show little girls that they can grow up to be anything. All that said, I have no interest in the movie either but the hype and pink everything is a lighthearted moment when there’s so much heaviness around us.
I suppose it is a great escape and life needs those.
Snail mucin is a NO for me also, Barbie movie is a NO for me as well. Oh well, something else will come along. I enjoy your blog.
Snail mucin? 🤔 No, I haven’t heard of it but am curious what others think. I find there is always one more product we are “told” to add to our beauty routine, so I am sceptical.
As to the Barbie movie – a big NO! It seems silly to see all these adult women dressing in bright pink and excited to see a Barbie movie. But, each to their own.
What is the name of the tiny boutique in Parksville? I’m just up the highway and would scoot down to have a look.
My daughter was just here from Ontario. I gave her four pairs of my shoes because I just can’t wear anything with a heel, even a small one. It frustrates me but my feet are telling me to be kind. I need to be sensible and replace with low heeled, cushy shoes. But, oh I love pretty shoes. 🥲
It’s called Coast & Cottage. Be sure you tell them I sent you. They’re lovely ladies!
Will do!
From a medical perspective Outlive by Dr Peter Attia is a great overview of the current knowledge regarding optimizing health span (different from lifespan). He also has multiple YouTubes on various subjects.
Yes, I love his book. Great one
Hello Jennifer, I can highly recommend a book called ‘The Age Well Project’. It was written by two British women (they also have a website of the same name which shares new information all the time) who met at the school gates years ago and who both had family histories of illness – one with a mother with Alzheimer’s, the other with a family history of breast cancer. They started researching ways of aging well and this book (and a later 6-week plan) is the result.
The book is full of useful information about things we can do to age well and healthily. There’s an emphasis on gut health (my husband and I started making our own sauerkraut, a tablespoon a day is supposed to be very good for you), but really it’s very comprehensive indeed about all areas of our health. I got my copy second hand through Amazon.
Thank you for the recommendation! I’ll see if I can find a copy.
My girlfriends and I went to see the Barbie movie this week. It was hilarious…we laughed throughout the whole movie. It’s definitely PG-13 with adult humor. I wouldn’t suggest taking young girls to see it. Yes, we wore pink!
Fun!
Good for you! Yes, I saw it too, wore pink, and thought it was such fun! Driven by suggestions from the Gen Zs in our family, we all did the “Barbenheimer” thing together….saw “Oppenheimer” first (which was excellent), then “Barbie”. It was a great family outing! And, as someone else mentioned, America Ferrara’s solo rant is one of the best descriptions of the no-win box that society has put women in. Great writing, Greta and Noah!
I saw it and loved it. I never had a Barbie however as the movie had great reviews I went. I went on my own as my husband wasn’t interested however a man who I guess was in his 30s sat a seat away from me. At the end we looked at each other and both said “well, that was fun!” I loved that men and women of all ages, young children and teens all went to see it. Great message and great fun. It felt good to laugh!
Thanks Nora. I think I may see it with a girlfriend.
I will pass on using snail anything. Yuck. As for Barbi, I never had one either and haven’t felt deprived because of it. Pink has never been my favorite color and doesn’t do me any favors if I wear it. What I have heard about the movie is it bashes men. I love my husband of almost 56 years and I have two sons and two grandsons so I would not spend money to see to see a movie that belittles men, or for that matter, anyone. I love Ecco shoes, I’ll have to check out the sandals.
I’m not a fan of bashing anyone in movies. I prefer to laugh or be inspired.
Down here in the very hot California desert the movie theatre is a great respite and that is what brought me to see Barbie. Like you I had no desire to see it. My 10 year old granddaughter was visiting and her mom, my daughter, gave her approval. We dressed in pink as did many of the others had and thoroughly enjoyed the movie. A little silly, a bit too loud, so so music but hearing America Ferrera’s monologue was worth the admission price. I am old enough to remember Barbie founder Ruth Handler portrayed by Rhea Pearlman and I knew women who worked for Mattel. My granddaughter, of course, did not really understand the message but it certainly gave us lots to discuss!
It sounds like a fun outing!
I did play with Barbie. I have 2 daughters that played with the doll until they were about 9 (one is now an M.D. and the other a PhD in Economics) and I now have a granddaughter who is turning 9 and loves fashion and sewing, but also loves Legos, sports and reading. That being said, I have zero interest in the movie after seeing the trailer. My opinion may be unpopular here, but I am tired of men being portrayed as morons or brutes. I adored my father who encouraged me to be successful and independent. I have a terrific husband, two wonderful brothers, and two sweet grandsons. There is nothing toxic about any of them.
You’re not alone in those thoughts Suzanne.
Am with you on snail mucin… I just don’t like the idea of smearing the slimy stuff on my face, no matter its benefits! I haven’t seen Barbie yet, but I will. Have read that at the very least, the music is great and the energy palpable. The fact that the story causes Barbie and Ken to experience the real world makes for an interesting plot, and having enjoyed Ryan Gosling in La La Land so very much, I look forward to seeing him in Barbie too.
I love the Mel Robbins books and podcast. She has no nonsense techniques for coping with everyday situations. Fiction: Lady Tan’s Circle of Friends, Mad Honey, Verity.
I’ve listened to quite of few of hers on Audible. I agreed she’s great.
The Barbie movie mania has left me cold as well. All media hype and the silliness of movie-goers all dressed in pink and stumbling around on stiletto heels. So many better movies out there right now, like Oppenheimer and the Sound of Freedom.
The only reason I would go to the Barbie movie is to see Ryan Gosling. I agree the hype has been appalling but te interviews with Margot and Ryan have been very funny. Saw Elemental with daughter & two grandsons and it was very good!
The Snail serum a friend from BC swears by it. Haven’t tried to
buy it yet. Groses me out too.
I’m going to need to read more about it before I try this little packet.
I saw the Barbie movie and while there is much silliness in it ( to be expected- she is a doll after all), it evolved into other things ; it made me think about life and how our perception of society keeps changing as well. I left the theater with food for thought and I was certainly surprised as I did not see that coming.
Interesting! I had no idea. Thanks for sharing this.
I have thought about the Barbie comments today. I went to see the movie last week with my friend and her granddaughters. Was the movie silly? Yes. Did it have a message for girls? Yes. I was outgrowing dolls when Barbie was introduced, I was 11 years old and I did get the first Barbie. My friends and I played with them and made clothes for them then quickly outgrew them. Unfortunately this was before there was doctor Barbie, lawyer Barbie etc. so she just inspired me to look good in a swimsuit. As for man bashing, not so much but times were very different in the workforce years ago. It was definitely a man’s world. The movie was colorful with lots of fun choreography to entertain the kids but sure brought back memories of his times have changed.
Interesting, thanks for sharing.
I agree Judy. I saw it with my 12-year-old granddaughter. I would never have selected it on my own. She and I had an interesting grown-up conversation about it afterwards.
I am glad we did not take “the boys.” I think the movie got some aspects of male psychology right. Surprising.
I can’t say I have ever heard of any products using snails but sounds interesting. I’m with you on the whole Barbie hype. My daughter’s loved all things Barbie but they are not the least bit interested in this movie. I know what you mean about your feet. I can’t seem to wear any sandals right now. Just too much walking and golfing, my feet are not happy! Love your outfit ❤️
I’m thinking of getting a bike to take the load off my feet!
I’ve been thinking about a bike also but then I think I would probably fall and break a hip, lol
I’ve also been eyeing those cool trikes!
Jennifer, we have electric bikes and love them. If you go too far and get tired or hit a hill that’s too hard to pedal on your own you can use the electric assist to help. It’s great. Lots of different styles, price points and companies that make and sell them. I think Costco might even sell them now.
We’re seriously looking at them. They sound sort of perfect.
I wasn’t anticipating the Barbie movie first months, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. (It is not a children’s movie!) I’d recommend it.
I’ve heard that some talking heads are criticizing it as “man hating.” It’s really not, but they’re just trying to capitalize on the buzz around it.
There is so much buzz around this movie it’s hard to know what’s what. They’re already talking about a sequil.
I did play with Barbie as a child and loved the dolls when I was young. But not much interest in seeing the movie. Last week my friend asked me and another friend to go with her to see it, so we are going today. I look at it as a day out, which I don’t get many of those. I’d really rather see Oppenheimer LOL, but it’s more about getting together with my friends that I don’t get to see very often.
Have fun. There’s no better time than getting out with girlfriends.
Jennifer, I chuckled at your response to Barbie. I, too, have never been a Barbie fan and never bought them for my daughters or granddaughters. However my 19 year old granddaughter saw the movie and liked that it was about empowering women.
I’m reading a great book by Abraham Verghese called The Covenent of Water. It’s a multigenerational story of a family in India from 1900 on. It’s long but absolutely wonderful in terms of characters, setting and portrayal of the culture. It’s also an Oprah’s Book Club recommendation.
If it was empowering it has a different message than I assumed. Thanks for sharing. That book sounds fabulous!
I have used a snail mucin moisturizer for about six months. Love it. Good friends have asked me what I am using on my face because my skin looks so healthy. Once you get over the “ew” factor, you will love the results.
I will go see the Barbie movie…looks like a fun summer movie! But I will not wear pink to the theater. Have not worn pink as an adult…can’t do it for some reason.
What brand are you using, Melissa?
Cosrx All in One Cream. You can find it on Amazon.
Thank you! I’ll check it out.
In fear of sounding like an old grump, I fear the hype of the Barbie movie is way over the top!! Sometimes I have to wonder what is going on in this world and in our culture. I am definitely one for fun and a good time, but this over-hyped, trivial movie seems ridiculous. The PR people are working overtime and have misdirected people into the palm of their hand! I seem to watch the same movies over again because they’re fantastic (Under the Tuscan Sun, A Good Year, The Green Book etc) and I haven’t seen anything new that is better than my old favorite list! I will not see the Barbie movie even after I stop, rolling my eyes at the mere thought of it!
Join the club. My late mother (aged 91) loved the Green Book and watched it three times. I love Zulu, Au Revoir les Enfants and the German movie, Nowhere in Africa. Seems most movies these days are either marvel heroes or trying to be too clever rendering the movie unwatchable. Don’t blame you rewatching older movies.
I love watching old movies.
I loved playing w/ my Barbie dolls as a child. I had Barbie, Midge, Skipper-all of them! Loved laying out all of their outfits and well, just having hours of fun playtime. I have no desire to see the movie but think all of the hype is entertaining and people are enjoying themselves. Where you are looks beautiful, great scenery. Have a great week.
I too thought the whole Barbie thing was a bit over the top and actually thought it was a kid’s movie until I saw a good trailer. It intrigued both my husband and me so we went to see it this past weekend. We both enjoyed it very much and it was actually a pretty good commentary on our society done with a humorous touch. The movie was very well done and I would recommend it to anyone who is interested in it even a little. If you are not a Barbie fan like Jennifer, it probably would not be your cup of tea.
Thank you, Jennifer, for your mention of Barbie. I did play with Barbie dolls and loved them … when I was a KID. I don’t mind the fact that there is a Barbie movie, but I am sick to tears over all of the Barbie hype. Clothing, decorating, food, etc. Way. Too. Much.
The over hyping is what surprises me most.
The Barbie hype – zero interest
However, I do like wearing pink and am currently avoiding it because of the movie.
Lol, I am avoiding it because of the movie too.
That makes 3 of us who did not have a Barbie and who are avoiding pink for the time being.
You and I think the same about the Barbie movie!
Like you, I didn’t pay much attention to the Barbie hype. Haven’t been to a movie theater in years. However, as I read about the movie I am considering going after all. It might be fun!
It sounds like people are enjoying it.
I’m with you on the Barbie hype. May it disappear quickly.
America Ferrera’s soliloquy on what it means to be “a perfect woman” in the real world is worth the price of the ticket to the Barbie movie. If you don’t want to see the movie, find her clip on You Tube or somewhere. I wanted to stand up and cheer. Perhaps because I did play with Barbie’s, the movie was a treat. My husband decidedly did not play with Barbie’s, but also enjoyed it. It’s a sweet movie- no violence, sex or crime- with an empowering message for women.
No violence, sex, or crime is a huge positive! I seldom go to movies because that seems to be all that’s out there to see. I’ll check out what she had to say! Thanks
As a child, my aunt brought back (from Japan) the latest Barbie doll. Its head could be removed and replaced with a different coloured wig – blonde, brunette and redhead. Otherwise, I never played with dolls as a child. As for the movie, I am with you Jennifer, although people I know who have seen it describe it as campy and fun. Apparently, it is supposed to be one of those clever, aka ‘arty farty’, movies with feminist message. I was looking forward to seeing Oppenheimer, but one reviewer described it as a snore fest. Hope you are having a great time with your daughter in Vancouver.
Susan, I hope one bad review doesn’t keep you from Oppenheimer if you want to see it. I thought it was fabulous, as did many other reviews.
Thanks for the tip on the sandals. Will try them on next time I am at Dillards. Like you I never played with Barbie dolls. We loved our Ginny dolls that had darling outfits. Little Miss Revlon was our “fashion doll” with a more realistic figure than the Barbie doll. Pepto Bismo pink is a color I avoid like the plague. Happy Monday.
My sister and I still have out Ginny dolls and LIttle Miss Revlon dolls! No Barbies for us, either!