This Ain’t Over

After Duane finished talking, we just sat there… silent.
Not the peaceful kind of silence — the heavy, “Lord give me strength” kind.

My mind was doing backflips. I didn’t know whether to be mad, sad, irritated, confused… or all of the above. I couldn’t be mad because all this happened before me. I wasn’t sad because he didn’t cheat. And honestly? He told me the truth — finally.

But irritated?

Oh, baby… irritated was sitting in my lap with her feet on my coffee table.

And the problem was… I didn’t know who I was most irritated with.

Was it Duane?

For waiting until this heffa popped up like Beetlejuice before telling me the story? Or because now I understood exactly why he’d been so pressed about the Darius mess?

Was it Crystal?

For strolling up in my house bold as brass, wanting to talk to my man about their past like she had that right under my damn roof?

Was it Antonette?

For bringing this surprise package to my doorstep wrapped in glitter and foolishness?

Or was it the entire damn scenario?

Because honestly… this was too much for a Saturday.

All I knew was I needed another drink and a prayer.
In that order.

Duane rubbed his hands together, his voice soft.

Duane: “I’m sorry, babe. I’m sorry it came out like this. I’m sorry she brought her mess into our home. I’m sorry if this is bothering you.”

I shook my head.

Me: “No, it’s not your fault. Neither one of us knew. And I’m not even mad at Antonette — she couldn’t have known. But I am confused about what we do next. Because this? This ain’t over. Ms. Crystal seemed like she had a whole lot she wanted to say. And judging by her body language today, she’s gonna try and get to you one way or another. And trust and believe… I got time today.”

Duane exhaled hard.

Duane: “Baby, I can handle this. I caused this mess, and I’m gonna fix it. I just need you to reach out to Antonette and get Crystal’s number so I know how to reach her.”

In my head, I said, Oh don’t worry, I’m getting that number — but WE will be reaching out. Because you and Ms. Crystal will not be having some cute little one-on-one reunion.

Out loud, I just said, “Okay.”

We finished our drinks and headed to bed.
But sleep?
Sleep didn’t know me last night.

The Next Morning

I woke up ready.
Ready for answers.
Ready for clarity.
Ready for whatever came next.

After brushing my teeth, washing my face, and making my morning coffee, I went into the living room so I could talk to Antonette without Duane hearing. He was still knocked out — good. I didn’t need interruptions.

I hit call. She picked up on the first ring.

Antonette: “GIRL! What took you so long? I just KNEW you were gonna call me last night!”

I sighed.

Me: “I know, but Duane and I stayed up late talking. Let me tell you what he said…”

And I spilled everything — his whole story, start to finish.

Antonette was quiet for a moment, then said:

Antonette: “Okay… let me tell YOU what happened on the way home.”

I sat up straighter.

Antonette’s Tea

Antonette: “First of all, I was the friend she was talking to that day in the backyard.”

My mouth dropped.

Antonette: “Yep. She called me over because she wanted advice about her ‘then’ boyfriend. I had no idea it was Duane. She never said his name, and I had never seen him. I only knew he was white and had money — that’s it.

“She told me he ghosted her, but she never knew why. Now that you told me his side, everything makes sense.”

I could hear the shock all over her voice.

Antonette: “I asked if she loved him. Honestly? I think she really did like him. She wanted a future. But the feelings weren’t mutual, and she was gonna force a future anyway. I asked her why she never went to his place or met his family and she said she met his friends once or twice and they were ‘taking it slow.’

“Girl, when he ghosted her? She cried like a baby. And she said she would spend the rest of her life trying to find out why.”

I shook my head.
Obsessed much?

Antonette: “That was years ago. She never mentioned him again. I thought she moved on. She met somebody else. She seemed fine.”

Me: “Okay, but what about last night?”

The Car Ride Confession

Antonette didn’t disappoint.

Antonette: “Girl, the minute we got in the car I said, ‘Okay bitch, what the hell was THAT? How do you know my best friend’s fiancé and why did you think it was okay to speak to him like that in HER house?’”

I covered my mouth laughing.

Antonette: “That’s when she said Duane was the white dude with money who ghosted her. I was shocked! Then she said, ‘Are they happy? Why her and not me? What does she have that I didn’t? Now that he saw me again, does he regret ghosting me? I need answers.’”

I froze.

Antonette: “She wasn’t even talking to me — she was talking out loud like she was in some damn therapy session. I had to break it up.

“I said, ‘First of all, that’s my BEST FRIEND. Watch your mouth. And yes, they’re happy and in love. And what she has that you don’t is Duane. And judging by the way he reacted today? I’m positive he has NO regrets ghosting your ass.’”

I screamed laughing.

Antonette: “And yes… she knew she could never attend anything we do again. Trust me.”

Yeah… I knew that too.

Decision Time

We talked a few more minutes before she gave me the heffa’s number.

I sat on the couch staring at it like it was a detonator.

Should I let Duane handle it?

That was the fiancé in me.

Or should I call this heffa myself and gather her like the trash day she is?

That was the woman in me.

I leaned back, coffee in hand, looking around my quiet house.

My home.
My peace.
My life.

And here I was in my fifties dealing with some mess folks in their twenties and thirties be crying over.

This was not on my bingo card for the year.

But one thing’s for sure…

I’m F.L.Y after Fifty.

And I’m gonna handle this accordingly.

The only question now was how.

And as I sat there staring at Crystal’s number…

My final thought was:

“Lord… what am I about to walk into?”

❄️ Shaved Fennel, Persimmon & Pomegranate Salad with Citrus-Miso Dressing

Ingredients:

• 1 bulb fennel, thinly shaved

• 2 ripe Fuyu persimmons, thinly sliced

• ½ cup fresh pomegranate seeds

• 4 cups baby arugula or mixed winter greens

• ¼ cup toasted hazelnuts or walnuts (roughly chopped)

• Shaved manchego (optional for non-vegan)

Dressing:

• 2 tbsp fresh orange juice

• 1 tbsp white miso paste

• 1 tbsp maple syrup

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• Pinch of sea salt

Instructions:

1. Whisk dressing ingredients in a small bowl until smooth.

2. Toss shaved fennel and persimmons with half the dressing.

3. On a platter, layer greens, dressed fruit and fennel, then top with pomegranate seeds, nuts, and shaved cheese (if using).

4. Drizzle remaining dressing just before serving.

This salad is stunning on the holiday table and packs a crisp, sweet-tangy balance perfect for the cooler season.

While winter tempts many to stay tucked inside, for women over 50, the season opens up a vibrant world of discovery.

With peaceful destinations, fewer tourists, and inviting prices, winter travel delivers experiences tailored for seasoned adventurers.

Picture quiet museum halls in Paris, uncrowded Caribbean sands, or sparkling European Christmas markets under festive lights.

Desert sunsets in Arizona and tranquil spa escapes offer unique ways to embrace this quieter time of year.

Winter journeys become less about checking off sights and more about nourishing the spirit and savoring each moment.

Warm drinks, heartfelt conversations, and sunny destinations entice those looking for renewal.

For many, these getaways act as a personal "reset," bringing clarity and energy as the new year arrives.

From snowshoeing in Lake Tahoe to sun-filled days in Cancún, bold adventures flourish as the temperature falls—proving that women over 50 travel with unmatched flair and confidence.

Joke Of The Day

Why did the retired couple decide to take up skydiving after 50?

Because they wanted to literally take their lives to new heights and show the world that age is just a number!

On November 2, 1920, a small team in Pittsburgh launched the first commercial radio broadcast, forever changing how people connect.

This breakthrough shattered the age of silence, ushering in a new era of communication.

For women over 50, this milestone marks more than history—it resonates as a turning point for finding and amplifying their own voices.

Radio opened gateways to diverse ideas, music, and conversations, inviting women navigating tradition and ambition into a richer, more expansive world.

Today, that spirit thrives in communities like F.L.Y. After 50, where women harness podcasts, livestreams, and audio spaces to share stories and wisdom.

Inspirational shows like the Her Comeback Podcast and Empowered Over 50 spotlight stories of personal reinvention, from overcoming illness to reclaiming femininity.

Through these platforms, lived experiences become powerful narratives, carrying forth the legacy of radio’s first bold broadcast.

Interesting Facts

Rapid weight loss challenges like “75 Hard” and the “Winter Arc” are gaining popularity for their promise of instant transformations through strict daily routines and calorie restrictions.

While appealing, these extreme plans often cause unnecessary mental and physical stress—ultimately proving unsustainable and unhealthy.

Young adults, especially college students, feel pressured by social media comparisons to chase unrealistic standards and quick results, which can worsen anxiety and burnout.

Experts recommend modest, gradual weight loss—about one to two pounds per week—as safer for both body and mind.

Extreme dieting may deprive the body of nutrients and lead to regaining lost weight if old habits return.

Building health with small, consistent habits—like regular exercise and mindful eating—encourages lasting lifestyle change and reduces stress.

Investing in sustainable routines supports your well-being long-term, helping you grow into your healthiest self.

Quote Of The Day

"Embrace the beauty of your journey and the wisdom of your years. Every chapter brings new opportunities for growth, empowerment, and authenticity. Embrace this moment and let your light shine bright."

The festive season brings excitement, but it also presents challenges to maintaining healthy habits.

Focusing on balanced nutrition—like adding more fruits and vegetables, and choosing lighter recipe swaps—keeps your meals nutritious while still enjoyable.

Staying physically active can help boost your mood and energy—try short walks, dance, or community fitness events to stay engaged.

Mindful eating encourages you to eat slowly, savor each bite, and honor your body's signals, making holiday treats more satisfying and less likely to lead to overindulgence.

Managing stress is essential, so practice relaxation techniques and set realistic commitments.

Prioritize quality sleep to stay energized, and drink plenty of water to balance out holiday treats.

Finally, cherishing time with loved ones can brighten your spirits and support your well-being throughout the holidays.

Sharing is Caring - F.L.Y. After 50