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

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

International Travel

Top tips to protect your outdoor furniture

If you have outdoor furniture, it’s important to look after it properly so it will stay in good condition over the years. Remember to invest in UV and water-resistant chair covers and pillows in order to ensure you can enjoy your outdoor furniture without the hassle of replacing all your items. Here’s how to care for your furniture. 1. Wooden To get your wooden outdoor furniture ready for use, clean with hot soapy water or a hardwood cleaning fluid at the beginning of the season. If the furniture is very dirty then you can lightly sand the furniture after cleaning. It is a good idea to oil or paint your outdoor furniture after cleaning. If you want your furniture to age naturally, then oil the furniture with two coats and leave to dry for 48 hours. Use hardwood oil for eucalyptus and teak oil for teak furniture. If you want your outdoor furniture to look new, then use a stained oil. If you want to completely transform your furniture then paint with 2-3 coats and it should last for roughly three years. 2. Metal When you wash your metal outdoor furniture be sure to clean it with a non-abrasive cloth. If the furniture is made from steel, you need to treat any scratches that expose the bare metal underneath to prevent rust. If rust has already set it on your furniture, remove it using steel wool and then touch it up using an exterior metal paint of the same colour. If your furniture is made from aluminium, it won’t rust but it may suffer from aluminium oxidation. This won’t decrease the strength of the furniture but it will change the colour of the metal over time. To prevent this from happening, make sure you clean it regularly and store it away or keep it covered during the winter months. One tip to keep your metal furniture in pristine condition is to polish it with car wax after you have finished cleaning it. The wax will help the furniture be more water resistant. 3. Rattan Synthetic rattan is UV and weather-resistant so it won’t be as worn out by the weather conditions. Whenever it needs a refresh, wash with soapy water. It is important to keep an eye on the frame underneath as if that is made from steel rather than aluminium, you will need to abide by the metal care rules. 4. Resin Resin outdoor furniture is fairly easy to look after. Wash it regularly with soap to keep it in great condition. If there is dirt or stains that are particularly hard to get out, then wash your furniture with a pressure washer. Image credits: Getty Images

Home & Garden

Free tickets to The Miracle Club for Over60 readers!

Join us for a special advance preview of The Miracle Club! Starring Academy Award winners Maggie Smith and Kathy Bates, Academy Award nominee Laura Linney, and rising talent Agnes O'Casey, The Miracle Club is a heartwarming, hilarious film that celebrates the power of friendship, love and laughter. "The stories of these women reminds us that we are only as strong as the friends and family who stand by us,” says Jarod Neece, Senior Programmer at the Tribeca Film Festival. <iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Gp3ZFdklPCk" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> The film is set in Ballyfermot, Ireland, 1960. A hard-knocks community in outer Dublin that marches to its own beat, rooted in traditions of loyalty, faith and togetherness. There's just one tantalising dream for the women of Ballyfermot to taste freedom and escape the gauntlet of domestic life: to win a pilgrimage to the sacred French town of Lourdes. And with a little benevolent interference from their cheeky and rebellious priest, close friends Lily, Eileen, Dolly and Sheila are the 'lucky' few to win this ticket of a lifetime at their riotous local raffle night. As a special offer to Over60 Readers, <a href="https://www.weticketit.com/showfilmfirstau/booking/Event/detail/JRD10963" target="_blank" rel="noopener">simply click the link to RSVP</a> and download your free double pass to the film. But hurry – seats are limited, so it really is first in, best dressed. Enjoy! <a href="https://www.weticketit.com/showfilmfirstau/booking/Event/detail/JRD10963" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2023/06/MiracleClub_HERO.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></a>

Movies

How to clean these bathroom items that get overlooked

Cleaning the bathroom will not only make your house feel nicer for but it is important for your hygiene as so many bathroom items are used on a daily basis. Even if your bathtub, shower, tiles and sink is clean, these bathroom items deserve your frequent attention. 1. Toothbrush and toothbrush holder For obvious reasons keeping your toothbrush and toothbrush holder clean is vital to your mouth health. To keep your toothbrush clean, make sure you rinse it well after each use to avoid a build-up of toothpaste. Frequently you should do a deep clean of your toothbrush and this can be done by leaving it in a cup of vinegar for 30 minutes. The vinegar will remove the build of bacteria on your toothbrush. Remember to replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months and then you can use your old one for cleaning. A toothbrush holder can be cleaned thoroughly by putting it in the dishwasher or you can rinse it out in hot water and dish soap to remove the build-up of gunk. 2. Loofah Loofahs do a great of cleaning bodies but it is important to remember to clean them as well. Your loofah can be cleaned by submerging in a 50/50 mixture of hot water and vinegar for an hour. Then leave it to dry. This method can also be used on sponges or wash cloths. 3. Razors It is important to clean your razor as a wet razor can become rusty and a moist blade can cause ingrown hairs and irritation when shaving. To keep your razor in top condition, put some rubbing alcohol on a cotton pad and swipe across your razor. Dry your razor with a towel once you are done and store your razor in a dry place in your bathroom. 4. Toilet brush To give your toilet brush a thorough clean, rest the brush between the toilet bowl and seat after cleaning the toilet. Spray the brush with a disinfectant and then let it sit as it drips for ten minutes or so. Then rinse the brush in very hot water and allow it to drip dry again. The brush holder should also be cleaned with disinfectant and then leaving it for ten minutes and rinsing with hot water. 5. Plunger After each use of the plunger, spray it with a disinfectant and leave for ten minutes and then let it air dry. It is helpful to store your plunger with a plastic bag so that way, after you use it you can put in the bag and then take it somewhere to clean to avoid any dripping. Don’t re-use the plastic bag. Image: Getty

Home Hints & Tips

5 ways to pamper your mum for Mother’s Day

Special occasions seem to come around so often that it can be hard to come up with new and thoughtful gift ideas. Here are five ways to lavish your love on your mum on <a href="https://www.innovations.com.au/p/gifts/mothers-day-gifts?utm_source=over60&utm_medium=nativearticle&utm_campaign=MothersDayGifts" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mother’s Day</a> that don’t require you to leave the house. 1. Home spa treatment Home spa treatments are a thoughtful and relaxing way to express your love to your mum. <a href="http://www.oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/beauty-style/2014/11/diy-beauty-treatments/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Over60’s favourite inexpensive DIY beauty treatment</a> includes a face mask and foot treatment. To make your mum feel even more valued during her home spa treatment, gift her with a <a href="https://shop.oversixty.com.au/collections/robes/products/deco-by-linen-house-adult-bath-robe-super-soft?utm_source=Over60&utm_medium=in-article-link-adult-bath-robe&utm_campaign=Over60Shop&utm_content=adult-bath-robe" target="_blank" rel="noopener">new bathrobe</a> as a present. She can wear her bathrobe as her day of pampering continues and it will definitely be a gift she can get good use out of. 2. Make her breakfast or brunch Start Mother’s Day by spoiling your mum with her favourite breakfast. There is no better way to wake up in the morning than with the smell of your favourite hot breakfast cooking away in the kitchen. Don’t let your mum lift a finger and be sure to make the environment as calm and relaxing for her as possible as she enjoys her breakfast with you. 3. Perfect pillow If your mum refuses to accept a gift for Mother’s Day this surprise present idea is perfect. Buy your mum a <a href="https://shop.oversixty.com.au/collections/bedroom?utm_source=Over60&utm_medium=in-article-link-bedroom&utm_campaign=Over60Shop&utm_content=over60-shop" target="_blank" rel="noopener">luxurious bedtime gift</a> that you can leave on her bed. One of our favourite ideas is buying <a href="https://shop.oversixty.com.au/collections/bedroom/products/linen-house-exceed-standard-medium-pillow-900gsm?utm_source=Over60&utm_medium=in-article-link-exceed-standard-medium-pillow&utm_campaign=Over60Shop&utm_content=exceed-standard-medium-pillow" target="_blank" rel="noopener">a new pillow</a> and <a href="https://shop.oversixty.com.au/collections/bedroom/products/linen-house-standard-pillowcase-elka?utm_source=Over60&utm_medium=in-article-link-standard-pillowcase-elka&utm_campaign=Over60Shop&utm_content=standard-pillowcase-elka" target="_blank" rel="noopener">pillowcase</a> and leaving it on her bed to find just before she goes to sleep. You can also leave a mint on the pillow to add a small but thoughtful touch to the idea. 4. Involve the family Days like Mother’s Day are a wonderful opportunity to not only honour mothers but also bring the family together to create memories. Involve younger children in your family by having them bring hand-picked flowers to your mum or gift a home craft activity like beaded jewellery. 5. Make sure she spends the day relaxing If your mum loves it when people do an act of service for her, then be sure to help around the house and do any chores that need to be done for her. Whether that be the washing or vacuuming, lend a helping hand and let her spend the day relaxing on her special day. For more brilliant gift ideas for Mum, check out the full range of <a style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px; font-family: Raleway, sans-serif, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: #d90000; text-decoration-line: none; background-color: #ffffff;" href="https://www.innovations.com.au/p/gifts/mothers-day-gifts?utm_source=over60&utm_medium=nativearticle&utm_campaign=MothersDayGifts" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Innovations Mother’s Day Gift Ideas here</a>. Image: Midjourney

Home & Garden

Tips for putting together the perfect platter

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

Home Hints & Tips

15 cruise tips approved by the Over60 community

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

Cruising

Best relationship advice from the Over60 community

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

Relationships

Exploring Fiji: How a small ship cruise can give you a big experience

Fiji is unquestionably one of the world’s most magical places. With its pristine azure waters abounding with sea life and colourful coral, stunning islands showcasing breathtaking natural beauty, and the warmth, custom and folklore of the Fijian people, the most challenging part of planning a trip to Fiji is deciding which of its beautiful islands to visit. But why limit yourself? Embark on a <a href="http://www.captaincookcruisesfiji.com/annualsale">small ship cruise</a> with a tour company like Captain Cook Cruises around Fiji’s unsurpassed waterways and islands, and you can gain access to the real Fiji, exploring regions that larger cruise ships can’t reach. Fun both onboard and off When cruising the Fijian seas on a small ship, it’s definitely as much about the journey as it is the destination. Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple or with a small or large group of family and friends, you’ll enjoy all the facilities and comfort of a larger cruise ship, such as air-conditioned dining and lounge rooms, cocktail bar, swimming pool, jacuzzi, massage services, gym and a deck for relaxing in the sun, while you feast on fully catered buffets and 3-course meals. <img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7822208/1-captain-cook-cruises-fiji-ren-dining-girls.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/d46067bca5b94224a0cf96169106b385" /> Photo: Captain Cook Cruises Fiji. It’s the perfect base from which to relax in style as your cruise of choice sails its way through such <a href="http://www.captaincookcruisesfiji.com/annualsale">beautiful destinations</a> as the volcanic Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands, the remote Northern Islands or the Lau Islands and Kadavu, parts of Fiji rarely visited by tourists. Whether you opt to go for three days, 11 days, or somewhere in between, you’ll visit a new island or coral reef every morning and afternoon and experience the perfect blend of cultural, land and water activities. Wander through remote Fijian villages, schools and churches, where you can take part in a traditional Fijian sevusevu ceremony, Meke and Lovo feast. Explore limestone caves, captivating waterfalls or hike to the top of mountains to experience heart-stopping views. While on Fiji’s white sandy beaches, swim, kayak and paddle board in turquoise waters, take a tour on a glass-bottomed boat and snorkel or dive in sparkling lagoons full of colourful sea life. <img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7822213/1-captain-cook-cruises-lau-kadavu-turtle.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/c84ed24112754d59a3ad2477ebe1fd87" /> Photo: Captain Cook Cruises Fiji. Safeguarding the future Protecting the precious marine environment is something Fijians are passionate about. Amos Abhishek Daniel, one of the newly recruited Marine Biologists at Captain Cook Cruises Fiji, recently graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Marine Science degree from the University of the South Pacific. His passion and insights have brought inventive methods to their marine rehabilitation projects. Through Captain Cook’s Ocean Ambassador Programme, Amos hopes to nurture his career and passion for the marine environment further. Another important way <a href="http://www.captaincookcruisesfiji.com/annualsale">Captain Cook Cruises Fiji</a> is continuing its environmentally friendly policies is by eliminating as many single use plastic items onboard small ship MV Reef Endeavour and on Tivua Island. “Plastic pollution is a real threat to our oceans and after the success of our Ocean Ambassador Program, we wanted to lead the way environmentally onboard, just like we were doing onshore, and remove all plastic straws and cups from the Reef Endeavour,” says Captain Cook Cruises Fiji’s Managing Director, Jackie Charlton. <img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7822210/1-captain-cook-cruises-fiji-stateroom.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/a2cf15d0f1824d98b8de51656efcd62e" /> Photo: Captain Cook Cruises Fiji. Tailor-made travel There’s never been a better time to enjoy the treasures that Fiji has to offer – if you book a <a href="http://www.captaincookcruisesfiji.com/annualsale">7-night cruise</a> with Captain Cook Cruises, you’ll get three nights free, with all meals and most activities included. Travel in style onboard the 130-passenger, five-level MV Reef Endeavor, with accommodation ranging from Tabua Suites, Family Ocean Staterooms – some of which have an interconnecting door – Ocean Staterooms and Porthole Cabins. There are <a href="http://www.captaincookcruisesfiji.com/annualsale">four amazing itineraries</a> to choose from. On the Yasawa Island and Mamanuca cruise, you’ll visit Monuriki Island, made famous by the Tom Hanks movie Castaway, and enjoy a complimentary tour to the Sabeto Mud Baths or Orchid Garden of the Sleeping Giant. <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/HuFM759DtyA" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen=""></iframe> On the <a href="http://www.captaincookcruisesfiji.com/annualsale">4 Cultures Discovery cruise</a>, you’ll visit a Hindu snake temple and meet people of four different cultures – Micronesian, Polynesian, Indian and Melanesian – as you circumnavigate Fiji’s second largest island, Vanua Levu. On the <a href="http://www.captaincookcruisesfiji.com/annualsale">Colonial Fiji Discovery cruise</a> to the remote Northern Islands, you’ll visit school children at the UNESCO world-heritage listed Levuka, a time capsule of colonial rule, explore Bouma Waterfall National Park and stand on the 180th meridian – the arbitrary dateline between today and tomorrow. On the <a href="http://www.captaincookcruisesfiji.com/annualsale">11-night Lau Islands and Kadavu Discovery cruise</a>, you’ll see a rugged, untouched Fiji unlike any other. See nesting turtles and an old lighthouse ruin at the northern-most island of Wailagilala, marvel at the mushroom-shaped islands, caves and untouched reefs of Qilaqila, and swim in the crystal-clear lagoons of extinct volcano craters, to name but a few of the many adventures on offer. <img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7822211/1-captain-cook-cruises-fiji-lau-fulaga-beach-boat.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/318be8da848b41179199a4f598154f8c" /> Photo: Captain Cook Cruises Fiji. You also have the flexibility to adapt the discovery cruises to suit you, so whatever your interest or passion, you can ensure you truly experience the cruise of your dreams. So, what are you waiting for? Explore Fiji on a <a href="http://www.captaincookcruisesfiji.com/annualsale">small ship cruise</a> with Captain Cook Cruises and you’re guaranteed to have memories to last a lifetime. For more more information on Captain Cook Cruises Fiji’s choice of amazing itineraries, visit: <a href="http://www.captaincookcruisesfiji.com/annualsale">www.captaincookcruisesfiji.com/annualsale</a>. This is sponsored content brought to you in conjunction with <a href="http://www.captaincookcruisesfiji.com/annualsale">Captain Cook Cruises Fiji</a>.

International Travel

From drab to fab: Why fashion in your 60s doesn’t have to be boring

Just because you are in your golden years, doesn’t mean you have to have a boring or restricted relationship with fashion and seasonal trends. There is a wealth of experience, emotions and styles that you have encountered throughout your life, and that should shine through your style. If you feel like your wardrobe is in need of a pressing transformation, the good news is that it is never too late to work at decluttering the drab pieces and start investing in new clothing. Here we look at three new collections from Australian women’s fashion label <a href="https://www.blackpepper.com.au/">Black Pepper</a> – which has just relaunched its brand with a fresh new look – to see how you can make fashion fun again. 1. Throw out the rulebook In order to transform your wardrobe, it is important to make sure you aren’t being intimidated into buying fashion you know you won’t feel comfortable wearing. But don’t let that insecurity stop you from walking into a trendy shopping store. Recently, Black Pepper relaunched with a completely new fashion look. Customers can now expect to find nice classic pieces and outfits for all occasions which can be worn again and again, season after season. Black Pepper offers a variety of styles and patterns so shoppers can find investment style pieces that flatter their body type. Black Pepper understands how hard it can be for women in their golden years to find stylish pieces, so it has curated three collections – Platinum, Style and Classic – to ensure shoppers can find trendy items without compromising on comfort and functionality. The <a href="https://www.blackpepper.com.au/collections/platinum">Platinum collection</a> provides a wide range of fun pieces for special occasions. The Platinum range also features shimmer and sparkle so that you can mix-and-match whatever materials you like to achieve a look that suits your personality no matter the dress code.<img style="width: 0px; height: 0px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7821989/1-black-pepper-platinum.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/44f10a971aa9409392e424768ba360b1" /> The Platinum collection: Veronique Top, $89.95; Veronique Skirt, $89.95. (Available in store and online from November 30, 2018.) 2. Get colourful Clothing retailers will always have an endless supply of neutral colours with black, brown and navy-blue tones always considered ‘on trend’. However, although those colours are safe, if you don’t show off a little bit of colour in your outfit, it can make your wardrobe look tired. Black Pepper isn’t only renowned for its unique fabrications but also the wide colour range it offers. Colours not only can be used to reflect your mood but can be used to make subtle nods to the current season or the theme of an event you are going to. Experimenting with different colour and print combinations can turn the simple task of getting dressed into an exciting creativity challenge. Don’t smother your beauty in dark colours – have fun and let your personality shine through your ensemble. Black Pepper’s <a href="https://www.blackpepper.com.au/collections/style">Style collection</a> has an assortment of prints, colours and layers which are perfect for those who want to look trendy but still get creative with different combinations. <img style="width: 333.239px; height: 500px; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7821990/1-black-pepper-style.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/e9518f41b737465f89a1e0a98a44e5bb" /> The Style collection: Mali Lavina Dress, $129. 3. Always wear confidence Clinical psychologist Dr Jennifer Baumgartner said: “Our clothes help place us where we think we want to be.” If you feel like certain items in your wardrobe don’t make you feel great, be bold and throw them away. If you have the budget, consider investing in new staple pieces that you can wear on a day-to-day basis to spice up your wardrobe. Often we think about saving for an outfit for a special occasion that we then neglect updating the items that we live in each day. If your clothes help you to feel confident and self-assured, you will be able to project those feelings onto others no matter what your itinerary for the day looks like. Black Pepper’s <a href="https://www.blackpepper.com.au/collections/classic">Classic collection</a> is built around providing everyday pieces that exude a feminine touch, so that you can look good and be comfy all the time. <img style="width: 333.239px; height: 500px; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7821991/1-black-pepper-classic.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/34c7148ad6da4b41ac1f951b03f3f33f" /> The Classic collection: Primula Shirt, $89.95; Liberty Pant, $79.95. What are your tips for avoiding a boring wardrobe? Let us know in the comments below. This is sponsored content brought to you in conjunction with <a href="https://www.blackpepper.com.au/">Black Pepper</a>.

Beauty & Style

“Please restock!” The $15 Kmart shoes everyone is going crazy for

Kmart is not only the king when it comes to homewares and hacks, with its latest hot ticket item a pair of summer shoes for the bargain price of just $15. The shoes are in such hot demand, fans on social media have been begging the discount department store to “Please restock!” Always on the forefront of providing its customers with budget-friendly knock-offs of the latest trends in fashion and homewares, the bargain $15 mules feature a woven, closed-in toe look, and come in white, beige and black. <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bp_BljHHPiY/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bp_BljHHPiY/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" target="_blank">Slip into spring with our $15 Almond Toe Mule Flats in white. With a beautiful woven texture they also come in beige and black. Thanks @rochelle.dare for the wardrobe inspo! #kmartaus #kmartaustralia #kmartfashion #kmartshoes #spring</a> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">A post shared by <a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/kmartaus/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" target="_blank"> Kmart Australia</a> (@kmartaus) on Nov 9, 2018 at 7:29pm PST </div> </blockquote> Customers who have already been lucky enough to score themselves a pair of the in-demand shoes have praised them as being “comfy”. One Kmart devotee wrote online, in reference to the three colours available, “Just need one more pair to complete my collection.” <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bo8Yj5hlcB5/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bo8Yj5hlcB5/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" target="_blank">These new favourites have us daydreaming of sunny summer days! Don't miss out on our $15 Woven mules and $12 Cross body bag. #kmartaus #kmartaustralia #kmartstyling #kmartaccessories #kmartfootwear</a> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">A post shared by <a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/kmartaus/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" target="_blank"> Kmart Australia</a> (@kmartaus) on Oct 14, 2018 at 11:21pm PDT </div> </blockquote> However, not everyone has been so lucky getting their hands on the trendy $15 fashion item. One unlucky customer shared, “They are out of stock everywhere I go in my size, including online. Please restock the beige in all sizes.” Will you be trying to score a pair of these trendy slide-on mules from your local Kmart? Tell us in the comments below.

Beauty & Style

10 more uses for Sunlight soap from the Over60 community

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

Home & Garden

How regularly you should be washing your bed sheets

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

Home & Garden

Top 20 book recommendations from the Over60 community

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

Books

Should you use hand cream on your face?

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

Beauty & Style

10 words and phrases you hate the most

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

Books

1960s: A time of great change in my childhood

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

Family & Pets

10 simple tips to get younger looking skin

As we get older, many things affect our skin. Unfortunately, some of these things we can’t do anything about, as they are part of the natural ageing process. We might get lines on our face, or our skin becomes drier and thinner. Whether these changes actually occur is largely down to our genes, and medical professionals refer to this as intrinsic ageing. Good news! There is another type of ageing that we can influence – extrinsic ageing. This is caused by our lifestyle choices, as well as the environment we live in. By taking some preventative measures, we can slow the effects of extrinsic ageing on our skin. Here are our top 10 tips: 1. Keep your face out of the sun Protect your face by using sunscreen every day. Don’t just rely on the sunscreen in your moisturiser, apply another layer of sunscreen about 15 minutes before leaving the house. In addition, sit in the shade when you can, wear large-brimmed hats, and protect the delicate area around your eyes with sunglasses. 2. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate After sun damage, dehydration is probably the second most common cause of prematurely ageing skin. Water makes up around 65% of our bodies, and experts recommend that we drink 8-10 glasses of water every day. Carry a bottle of water with you wherever you go, so you can keep topped up. 3. Increase your daily dose of vitamin C A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found women over 40 with the highest amount of vitamin C in their diet were associated with better skin appearance than those who consumed lower levels. <a href="https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/vitamin-c">Good sources of vitamin C</a> are red peppers, dark green leafy vegetables like broccoli and sprouts, tomatoes, oranges and kiwi fruit. Using a high concentrate vitamin C skincare range such as D’lumiere Esthetique by Dr Lanzer is an excellent antioxidant for your skin. 4. Have a good skincare regime Follow a daily skincare routine that includes cleansing, toning and moisturising. No matter how much you want to just hit the pillow, make sure you cleanse your face before going to bed at night, and follow a regular routine every morning. <img width="500" height="334" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7268404/dr-lanzer-image-3_opt_500x334.jpg" alt="Dr Lanzer Image 3_opt"/> 5. Exfoliate Exfoliating – or the removal of dry/dead skin cells on the surface of your skin – is one of the most important aspects of your skincare routine. Increased blood circulation will help your skin to appear healthier and glowing too. Finding skin products with AHAs help to exfoliate and get rid of dead skin build-up. 6. Get enough sleep Much of the daily damage we do to our skin is repaired by our body when we sleep. But make sure you get good quality sleep, without interruptions or restless tossing and turning, for best results. Switch electronic devices off, and make sure your room is dark and not too stuffy. 7. Ditch the stress Yes, stress really does affect your skin. People who are under intense or prolonged pressure often show increased levels of the hormone cortisol, which can damage collagen and elastin and decrease the skin’s ability to repair itself. 8. Keep to a constant weight Often, weight gain or weight loss is not visible in the places where we would most like it to show. Even adding or losing as little as 4-5kg can have an effect on your skin’s elasticity and can result in sagging skin around your neck and jawline. Liposuction is sometimes the only option for genetic fat deposits that don’t respond to diet and exercise. 9. Swap chemicals for natural products Many soaps, cleansers and face washes can contain ingredients that strip your skin of natural oils, leaving it feeling dry, flaky and itchy. Consider swapping to products that contain natural ingredients and that have been made from plant-derived ingredients. D’lumiere skin products use plant extracted DNA repair enzymes to rejuvenate and repair damaged skin cells. 10. Get expert help If you have particular skin problems or feel that too much damage has been done to your skin already, you may want to consult a dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon such as <a href="https://www.drlanzer.com.au/">Dr. Lanzer</a>. Facelifts, <a href="https://www.drlanzer.com.au/facelift/">mini facelifts</a>, skin resurfacing, and facial rejuvenation are all procedures designed to help you achieve healthier and younger looking skin. Visit the website for more information on these and many other procedures, or for a free facelift consultation. Remember that all surgery has risks, Dr Lanzer recommends a second medical opinion.

Body

The best rock stars over 60

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

Music

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

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

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