Which mineral plays a major role in supporting strong bones and muscle function for women over 50?

 Showtime

After talking to my mom and spending time in prayer and meditation, my peace slowly found its way back home. My thoughts felt clearer. My spirit steadier. I decided I wasn’t going to let anxiety steal another minute of my joy.

So I poured that energy right back into me.

I straightened up the house, then headed to the grocery store. I picked up some libations for Duane’s man cave — I’d overheard him tell one of his boys he needed to restock before poker night — grabbed wine for myself, and bought everything I needed to cook my man a proper meal.

On the way home, I stopped at my favorite flower shop and bought fresh arrangements for the living room, the kitchen, and our bedroom. I love flowers. They lift a space. And honestly, the house — and my spirit — needed a pick-me-up.

Once I got home, I turned on my Frankie Beverly and Maze station on Pandora, poured myself a glass of wine, tied on my favorite apron, and got to work.

I was making my famous meatloaf, garlic mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, cornbread muffins with cheddar cheese and jalapeños, and banana pudding for dessert. If I didn’t know how to do anything else in this life, one thing was for sure — I could cook. And my man loved everything I made. Knowing that smile was waiting on the other side of the day made me smile too.

Duane walked in around 6:30. The house was clean, the aroma wrapped around him immediately, and I was already ready — silk lounge set on, his favorite perfume, Bloom by Gucci, floating through the air. I’d poured his drink and set the table.

“Hey, beautiful,” he said, pulling me in for a kiss.

“Hey, handsome. How was your day?”

“Long. Busy. Important business deals that made my head hurt. 

Sometimes I hate talking about money — especially mine.”

We both laughed.

He looked me over. “But you… you look good. And you smell like I might want to take you straight to the bedroom. What’s going on? Did I miss a special occasion?”

I rolled my eyes. “Why it gotta be a special day for me to look and smell good for my man? I always look and smell good.”

“True,” he said. “Is that your famous meatloaf I’m smelling? Girl… you about to make a grown man cry.”

“Yes, sir. Dinner’s ready. I already poured your drink. Go wash up.”

We sat down, and before I could even say grace, he was already digging in. Normally, I would’ve stopped him — but he looked so happy, so relaxed — I let it slide.

With a mouth full of food and his fork mid-air, he smiled.

“So… tell me about your day. I see flowers, a home-cooked meal, and you looking and smelling like dessert.”

I told him everything. The anxiety. The call with my mother. The prayer. The meditation.

“Aww, babe,” he said softly. “I hate that you felt like that, but I’m glad you called your mom. You needed that. Your girls are cool and all, but Antonette? She a little wild. You needed wisdom.”

He reached for my hand.

“And listen to me — you have nothing to worry about. It’s me and you until the wheels fall off.”

Right then, I felt protected. Loved. Safe.

I knew Duane and I were solid. Crystal, on the other hand? She was gonna have to figure out how to move on.

The next morning was showtime.

As Duane got dressed, I paid attention. Navy blue Sean John velour sweatsuit, white tee, leather navy loafers. Grown-man energy. I matched it — casual sundress with navy accents, Chanel slides, matching bag.

As we drove, I prayed silently. Let this be quick. Clean. Fifteen minutes max.

“After this,” Duane said, “let’s ride up the coast. A little sightseeing, some shopping, then your favorite winery for lunch. We look too good to waste the day.”

Lord, I loved this man.

“Yes, baby. I’d love that.”

When we walked into the coffee shop, Duane held my hand tight. And that’s when I saw her.

Crystal sat in the corner like a lion waiting to pounce.

Not today, baby.

The look on her face when she saw me? Shock. Disappointment. Confusion. I kept my smile sweet, though inside I chuckled.

“Crystal,” Duane said.

“Hi, Duane,” she replied, then glanced at me. “I didn’t know we were having company. I thought this was a one-on-one conversation.”

Company?

I looked at Duane like, See?

“She’s not company,” he said firmly. “She’s my fiancée. And I don’t care about your comfort level. We don’t have private business. Say what you need to say — or we can leave.”

Crystal swallowed hard.
“Okay… if that’s how it has to be.”

Duane pulled my chair out, and I noticed the tension rise in her shoulders. She looked nice — I’d give her that — but she didn’t outdo me.

“So let’s make this short,” Duane said. “We have plans.”

Crystal took a breath.
“I was shocked seeing you at that meet-and-greet. After you ghosted me, I didn’t think I’d ever see you again. I was devastated. What happened?”

Duane didn’t hesitate.
“I came back to apologize for how I left. And I heard you in the backyard talking to your friend. About my money. The gifts. How I spoiled you. And when she asked if you loved me… I heard what you said.”

Her face drained.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about,” she tried.

He leaned forward.
“You said, ‘What does love have to do with it? I’ll love him after we’re married and he’s taking care of me.’”

Silence.

She looked sick.

“I didn’t mean it like that,” she whispered. “I was joking. Just girl talk.”

Duane shook his head.

“I moved on. I met the woman I’m going to marry. I came here to end this chapter so there’s no confusion.”

Crystal looked at him, desperate.

“Are you sure? Is there anything I can say… or do?”

I nearly laughed out loud.

And that’s when a voice cut through the air.

“Crystal, baby… what are you doing here? I thought you had a work event today.”

Duane and I froze.

Crystal turned around.

Her mouth opened.

And for the first time since this whole mess started…

As the holiday season nears, Cabo San Lucas becomes a sanctuary for those craving both relaxation and festive spirit.

December days bring golden beaches, gentle ocean breezes, and vibrant sunsets over the Sea of Cortez, while evenings hum with live music and fresh seafood in open-air restaurants.

Adventurous visitors can explore bustling markets, embark on sunset cruises, whale watch, or snorkel in warm Pacific waters, adding excitement to their escape.

Wellness is at the forefront, with  Serenium Wellness Spa in El Tezal providing a peaceful retreat for rejuvenation, featuring advanced therapies and a tranquil atmosphere.

Seasonal events abound, including the Los Cabos International Film Festival, traditional Las Posadas processions with candlelight and piñatas, and the dazzling Mar & Christmas boat parade lighting up the marina.

As the year ends, Cabo’s New Year’s Eve celebrations—from beachfront parties to elegant rooftop gatherings—offer countless ways to ring in 2025 by the sea.

Cabo invites visitors to slow down, celebrate, and truly renew amidst holiday magic.

Winter Radiance Salad – Pear, Pistachio & Honey-Lemon Bliss

A salad that’s sophisticated, nourishing, and as vibrant as the women reading this newsletter.

Ingredients

• 1 ripe Bartlett pear, thinly sliced

• 2 cups baby arugula

• 1 cup mixed spring greens

• 1 tbsp dried cranberries

• 2 tbsp pistachios

• Shaved Parmesan or vegan cheese

• Tiny drizzle of honey

Dressing

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• ½ tsp honey

• Pinch sea salt + cracked pepper

Instructions
Whisk dressing → toss greens → layer pears, pistachios & cranberries → drizzle honey → shine bright and enjoy.

The Bill of Rights, ratified in December 1791, set a bold precedent in American history by enshrining individual liberties and placing clear limits on government power.

Emerging from a young, uncertain nation, these ten amendments promised protections for free speech, religion, the press, assembly, and more—defining civic life for generations.

What makes the Bill of Rights endure is not just its language, but its intent—to empower citizens and demand their active participation in shaping their communities.

Programs like the MyImpact Challenge and the National Archives’ "Civics for All of US" show how education and engagement breathe life into these freedoms today.

Legislative efforts, such as Indiana’s Excellence in Civic Engagement designation, recognize students for advancing these founding ideals.

The Bill of Rights remains a living guide, inspiring Americans to practice and defend freedom in every generation.

Joke Of The Day

Why do fabulous women over 50 never lose at life?
Because we’ve already learned the lessons, earned the wisdom, and now we’re just collecting the blessings.

The Boston Tea Party remains a defining symbol of collective action and defiance in American history.

On a cold night in 1773, colonists disguised as Mohawks emptied 342 crates of tea into Boston Harbor, protesting British-imposed taxes.

This historic act of rebellion ignited the movement for American independence.

That spirit of activism continues in modern Boston, especially among residents over 50.

Local initiatives like the Senior Civic Academy from the Age Strong Commission help older adults master the workings of local government, empowering them to advocate for change.

Many participants expand their involvement with ongoing advocacy programs and grassroots efforts.

In Brookline, seniors like Annette Manasse lead weekly 'Rally for Democracy' protests, fighting for healthcare, civil rights, and immigrant protections.

Their dedication proves that meaningful civic engagement has no age limit, echoing Boston’s legacy of transformative action.

Interesting Facts

Confidence Actually Increases After 50
Studies show women often feel more self-assured, authentic, and emotionally free in their 50s than any previous decade.

Your Heart Loves Movement
Just 20–30 minutes of walking a day can boost energy, mood, and reduce health risks dramatically.

Joy Keeps You Young
Laughter, friendships, travel, creativity — all stimulate the brain, reduce stress hormones, and help keep you mentally sharp.

Sustainable living has grown into a global movement, as people worldwide embrace eco-friendly habits for healthier lives and a cleaner planet.

In the UK, startups like Eco-Mate are making strides with all-natural cleaning products in plastic-free packaging, driving real change in how households manage waste. Their forward-thinking solutions have sparked widespread praise.

Cities across Europe are launching bold sustainability efforts. Glasgow is working to be carbon-neutral by 2030, rolling out smart LED lighting and boosting electric vehicle infrastructure. This ambition highlights a strong commitment to environmental progress.

Meanwhile, urban gardening is flourishing in US cities, where communities convert unused spaces into food gardens—lowering emissions and promoting local food security. This reflects a rising passion for green, self-sufficient lifestyles.

Innovations from companies like Schneider Electric are shaping sustainability, providing smart reporting tools to help businesses meet efficiency laws.

These actions reveal a collective shift toward accessible and impactful eco-friendly living for all.

Quote Of The Day

“Life after 50 isn’t about shrinking — it’s about expanding into the woman you were always meant to be.”

In December 1923, President Calvin Coolidge lit a 48-foot Balsam Fir near the White House, quietly starting the tradition of the National Christmas Tree lighting.

There was no spectacle—just simple lights and a spirit of unity.

In a nation still healing after World War I, this moment of togetherness became a powerful symbol.

Communities nationwide soon followed, bringing families and neighbors together each winter.

Even as the event grew in scale, its essence—connection and consistency—remained.

The annual lighting became a steady tradition through decades of change, proof that some rituals endure not for their size but their meaning.

Today, holiday traditions like this offer warmth, comfort, and a sense of belonging—just as they did a century ago.

Magnesium!
It supports bone strength, heart health, mood, and sleep quality — and many women over 50 are deficient.

Sharing is Caring - F.L.Y. After 50