For those who are new here, I began blogging while rebuilding my wardrobe after losing forty pounds. By changing my diet and mindset, I reversed several health issues.
Along with learning what to eat (primarily vegetables), I had to learn about fashion and what fit my needs and shape. This newfound knowledge allowed me to change my downward spiral, so I feel compelled to share all I have learned. I want everyone to experience better health and style.
My birthday is this week, so I’m celebrating how far I’ve come. I was a lifetime yo-yo dieter, but for the first time, I’ve maintained a healthy weight for longer than a few months.
Why did you gain so much weight?
I owned a jewelry supply business and worked obsessively seven days a week, averaging more than fourteen hours daily for over twenty years. Eating out often in the evening, consuming highly processed foodstuff, and not exercising made me look and feel thirty years older than I was.
How did you slim down?
Doing things the way you always have is rarely the best option. “If you consume more calories than your body needs, you will wear them.” That line changed my mind concerning three meals a day. Two meals of nutrient-dense real food, including mostly plants, are enough. I now rarely have an evening meal.
After learning more about nutrition and changing what and when I ate, I lost more than forty pounds. I quickly felt so good that it was easy to start walking and exercising again, so I prioritized it. Within six months, I had reversed high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and borderline diabetes. Frequent severe migraines disappeared.
What is your style secret?
Learning more about style and which fashions suit my shape and lifestyle has saved me thousands of dollars. I no longer buy the latest trends, thinking they will change my life. Instead, I invest in high-quality basic garments in neutral, solid colors and wear them for years. Neutral means the colors go with each other and all other colors. I now understand that styling and accessories allow us to look more modern, but it all begins with making wise purchases.
You’re always an inspiration
I also love the photo of the Parisian lady. Will she eat some gelato? Has she been wisely eating mostly plants for several weeks and now is going to treat herself? Or, did she finally fit back into those cute jeans and realizes that it won’t be worth it to indulge? Tough choices out there.
Thank you again for an inspiring post. And Happy Birthday!
Happy almost birthday!
I need to follow your inspiration. I have cut way back on meat but still don’t exercise enough and do eat an early evening meal, partly because my husband does.
You are a beautiful lady!
Happy birthday, Susan! You inspire me.
I think the lady in the picture has already had her gelato, and is going to walk 7 miles because, it’s Paris! I have never walked so much as when I’ve been in Europe. I think movement is the key to healthy living, and calories also. The minute you give in to the voice inside that says, oh I deserve this, life is so hard, you need to think. Wouldn’t you rather be healthy? The one thing in life I can control is what goes in my mouth. All the rest, it’s a dream.
Thank you! And happy birthday
I appreciate your knowledge so much. For the longest time, I have been trying to pin down my style and still can’t articulate it. And so, on occasion, I buy something that is “wrong.” I just can’t seem to get it right. How do you determine what your style is? Is it just trial and error? Do you still make fashion mistakes.
When I buy something that is not suitable for me, I return it or give it away, but first, I determine why it isn’t right for me so that I don’t repeat that mistake. For example, I can now spot a gold undertone in blues, even online. If a jacket is too cropped or too boxy, I know it won’t work with my shape. It’s all trial and error, and we may never get it right 100% of the time, but not repeating our mistakes is a good goal.
What an inspiring post. Have a wonderful Birthday! Mary Lou
I always thought I needed to have three meals a day but when I went with a healthy breakfast and lunch and a protein snack in the afternoon I have lost even more weight. I have changed my thinking that I need to eat an evening meal. I’m not hungry so why do I feel compelled to eat in the evening. If I get hungry I eat some carrots or a cup of rice and I’m fine. And the pounds have dropped off and I have so much more energy. Your advice is always golden!!
Happy Birthday!
Happy Birthday, Susan!
Just love your style, your discipline and your blog. Thank you so much.
Susan,
I have followed you for several years now and you are such an inspiration! Thank you for sharing your highs and lows with us over these years!
Wishing you a very blessed birthday!
Cindy
HAPPY BIRTHDAY SUSAN !!!!!!
Great post Susan and Happy Birthday! I recognize almost everything on the plate. Are those four pickles or something else? Thank you!
Yes. Those are small pickles.
I loved this posting Susan. I shared it with my daughter. Self care and how we take of ourselves is not just important to us to others. You have been such an inspiration to me and I know to others. Thank you.
Happy Birthday! So very thankful for all of your advice over the past years! I’m starting back on healthy eating after gaining weight back. Stress eating isn’t good. Lost my dad this year and now my mom has lung cancer. Eating became my comfort companion. Hope to be back at my healthy weight by my birthday in November.
I am so sorry for your loss, Tammy. I know your mom is thankful to have you there to help her.
Happy Birthday Susan! May this be a year filled with joy. I appreciate you and your blog very much. I’d love for you to share an updated meal “what I eat in a day”. And thank you for having an ad free blog. I’m loyal for as long as you want to keep blogging! Katie
Happy Birthday Susan!
I echo the sentiments your other readers have posted. You are truly an inspiration to us. Thank you for sharing tips on dressing well and also eating healthy. There is way too much temptation out there! You help us navigate and make wiser choices. Yes, some mis-steps will happen but just keep on heading in the right direction and enjoy that ice cream once in a while.
Have a wonderful week.
Hi Susan, You really should write a book.
Your blog and style evolution have meant a great deal to me….at first it was mainly vis a vis fashion and my changing wardrobe needs after retirement…..I was already an avid exerciser. However, as I’ve gotten older…I’m now 84…and had one open heart surgery and one shoulder replacement, my exercise routines/abilities changed accordingly…then the pandemic happened. I’ve gradually slowed down and every so often I need a gentle kick in the rear to remember that I can move more than than I’m doing . I really dislike cooking in my small apartment in an over 55 community…not so much the cooking..it’s the clean up and lack of counter space that annoys me. So daily diet has bounced around. I can get very healthy prepared food but that is not conducive to a budget of a retired school teacher. Your blogs about what you eat in a day are a big help to me, as well.
I haven’t driven back and forth to Nashville from coastal CT very often since my move to CT in 2013….soon after which I found your blog…BUT if I ever take another road trip southwest, I hope I can meet you in person.
Have a lovely fall season .
Your practical advice for living well is always a source of inspiration for me. A very deserved Happy Birthday wish to you for a peaceful and joyous year.
This is such a wonderful post by summing up your health and fashion related journey. You’re such an inspiring and positive role model for all women, and your insight is so helpful and appreciated. I cannot convey enough how my life has continually improved from the first time I read one of your posts and went back and viewed them from the beginning. You have a lot to do with how I continually change and adapt not only my fashion choices as I age but my eating plan as well and has helped me maintain my weight of 108 lbs at 5’2″at the age of 67. Thank you Susan, and have a lovely birthday.
Have a great birthday. i love your blog. Thank you for all you do.
Happy birthday to an inspiring friend to many!!
Congratulations on your weight loss through healthy eating, exercising and cutting out 14 hour days of working! You look more fabulous as the years go by! May God bless you all the days of your life..
HAPPY BIRTHDAY! I have been following you for years and love the wide variety of subjects you touch on – not just the fashion ones. I so enjoy the pictures and that you include the dapper Mr Mickey. Your writing is personal and warm. Such a welcome voice in today’s world. Thank you for showing up blog after blog and year after year. Looking forward to what lies ahead. After all, isn’t that what birthdays are about? I turn 75 on. 9/22 so I know first hand that September is the best of all months to be born.
Have a wonderful celebration!
~Sharon
September is indeed a beautiful month. Happy Birthday to you as well!
The salad bowl looks awesome. What kind of dressing is on the salad? You look awesome too. I am about 15# overweight and can’t seem to lose the weight. 90% of my diet is plant based not processed food. I am 72. Hormones? Thyroid? I get exercise but maybe not enough.
I only use extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dressing.
Hope you have a great birthday! So grateful for all I’ve learned from you. Thank you.
Thanks for another great post. It’s amazing how you look younger and better now than at age 53. I’m just about to turn 65, and looking to eat healthier now that I’m retired. Thanks for sharing your journey.
Thank you for sharing your journey! You are my inspiration to improve my eating and shopping habits!
Happy birthday and thank you for your inspiring blog.
All that effort sure paid off, Oh Happy Day
Can you please share that salad recipe?
Buy fresh organic vegetables, cherry tomatoes, and avocado. Wash them, cut them up, arrange them on a bed of greens, add some extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar, and enjoy every day. I also add pickles or kimchi for the benefits of fermented foods. Don’t forget to add beans, nuts, and seeds.
Congratulations on your changed life style and thank you for sharing your wisdom.
Your story mirrors mine except learning I was a type 2 diabetic. Saved my life. I too lost 45 pounds and have kept it off for 19 years but in the last 5 years I have lost about 15 more pounds. I never want to go back. I follow you and have learned so much. Thanks for your wisdom and encouragement.
Jo-Anne Hug
Happy Birthday and many thanks for your inspiration
What an amazing transformation!! I always admits your style.
Thank you! This is a wonderful post.
Encouraging.
You made changes and continue to walk your talk.
You are Amazing Grace!
Happy Birthday to you! Enjoy your day. I love you style!
Happy birthday, Susan. You are, as everyone says, an inspiration.
May I ask how you maintain high energy levels?
I do two long non-dog-park dog walks a day (a terrier who is naturally energetic) and two hours of classical ballet once a week, I do my own almost 1/2 an acre of gardens and clean my own home x2 weekly. This all requires a fairly high level of energy. If I miss lunch or grab a swift breakfast, by midday I’m shaky and must have some bread and honey and then sit and wait for it to be absorbed.
My breakfast would normally consist of porridge made from rolled oats and lactose-free milk, with a dollop of greek yoghurt, flaked almonds and a sprinkling of fresh berry fruits. But if I’m in a rush, I will grab two slices of homemade confit on toast (no butter) – those are the bad days!
A break down of your food consumption would be wonderful – am I right in thinking you may have done this before? It rings a bell.
A couple of hours after I rise, I start the day with the largest meal consisting of a bed of leafy greens, a variety of fresh or steamed vegetables, cherry tomatoes, sliced avocado topped with olive oil and vinegar. I’ll do another post about my eating routine soon.
Call column we are what we eat. You look good at 145. Good food choices and walking and oh well I keep trying sort of.
Happy Birthday Susan! Thank you for being an inspiration to me since I started reading your blog when it was “Fifty Not Frumpy “.
I learn something from every new post.
Hi Susan,
Happy Birthday to you! My birthday is this Wednesday (9/11). I’m looking forward to turning 66!
Thank you for publishing your newsletter each week. I’m anlwsys inspired! I feel like we’re “style sisters” – we have very good taste.
Best,
Denise
Happy Birthday Susan
Pamela UK
Happy Birthday Susan! Enjoy your special day! Thanks again for sharing your wealth of information. September girls are the best.
Happy Birthday!!!! I rarely comment, but I had to say how much I loved and appreciated your post! I have been working on a healthier meal plan with less meat and more veggies. It can be hard with a husband that refuses to eat that way, but I am working on it for myself. I would love to have more posts along these lines! Have a Happy Birthday Month!
Happy Birthday. Hope your year will be filled with good health and joy. Love your blog. You are such an inspiration.
Thank you for all you do.
Susan, thank you so much for the time and energy you put into your blogs. I have learned so much from you since I began reading “Fifty Not Frumpy years ago.”
You look 30 years younger than when you were heavy. You seem to look younger each year. Happy birthday and I hope this year is full of many blessings.
You inspire me! I have 25 pounds to lose. Any menus and recipes would greatly help!!
Happy birthday, Susan. I enjoy your blog so much. It’s both useful and enjoyable.
Thank you, Susan, for sharing! Very inspiring and the timing was perfect.
Happy birthday! I am a Virgo too! Thank you for your information. I always learn something or am reminded of what I might have forgotten. I was also a yo yo dieter, and it is a relief to eat healthy food and not have food be an enemy.
Another inspirational post. I plan to try many of those fashion tips!
Thank you for letting your readers know how you lost the weight. I’m always inspired by how you choose and style your outfits, and am now more inspired by your journey in eating healthier and losing the extra weight. Thank you.
P.S. Happy Birthday!
Happy Birthday! Thanks for the time and effort you put into these blogs!
Happy birthday. Susan! I truly enjoy your blog and have learned many tips. Thank you
Beverly.
Good afternoon from Australia,
You are an inspiration to everyone, I look forward to hearing about your journey.
Keep up your amazing work.
Love and Light,
Cynthia Saddington
Happy early birthday! Great post again! I found you on Pintrest 4 years ago when I was updating my wardrobe after turning 50. You were so helpful! I was slim and in shape mom of 3 my whole life, till 2 years ago when my thyroid stopped working and I went through menopause. Pounds piled up and things hurt. I’m going to look up your old posts on nutrition because I’m a mess learning how to take care of myself now that my youngest turned 18. So anyway, thank you for blogging, I look forward to each post! Happy birthday Susan!
Brilliant Susan you are truly an inspiration! Your positive energy is contagious! Thank you and have a wonderful day!
With love
Rhonda
South Africa
Tell me what’s on your plate here please. You look wonderful.
I use fresh, organic, raw, and steamed vegetables, cherry tomatoes, avocado, extra virgin olive oil, and balsamic vinegar. I also add pickles or kimchi for the benefits of fermented foods. Don’t forget to add beans, nuts, and seeds.
Happy birthday. Have a wonderful year!
You are a wonderful gift to all of us that follow you!❤️
Happy Birthday and Congratulations on your transition to “the best you”.
Your blog inspires me to have fun with how I look each day without buying clothes that do not add value to my wardrobe.
Wishing you the happiest of birthdays, Susan! I hope Mr. Mickey takes you out for a slice of birthday cake!
Happy birthday to a beautiful lady! I’ve been following you for several years and enjoy your blog so much. I have to say that looking at the above pictures, you look much better and classier with your hair shorter (the middle pictures). Just because all the youngsters are wearing long hair does’t mean it looks great on everyone and need to follow.
I base all my decisions on what is best for me and my lifestyle. A ponytail makes daily two hour walks in the heat a lot more comfortable.
I have been following you for several years. When I choose an outfit I ask myself “would this be a classic style?” I see you dressed in the outfit. I particularly like your all black with white jacket….I’ve done that several times. I’m 4′ 10″ and presently weigh 110 lbs….I had lost down to 100-103 and now I’m looking at those pictures and saying “hum, I don’t look well!” I have been diagnosed with osteoporosis, high cholesterol (meds for 10 years), and borderline diabetes…and I’ll be 69 in November. I exercise with weights 3-4 times per week (at the Y or home) and walk 2-4 miles daily. I no longer drink sodas but instead water all day (after my 2 cups of coffee in the morning). I do eat 3 meals a day…light meals but I think I need to adjust to your 2 meals a day. Thank you for being an inspiration!!! I love your blog and wish you the very best in your next year of life.
Morning, May I ask who is the style icon in the background of this photo who inspires you?
Thank you.
As far as I know it is just a random woman on the streets of Paris. I saved that photo a few years ago.
Happy Birthday Susan. My birthday is Saturday the 14th. Love your blogs and wish I had the willpower to get 40 pounds off. Living in a retirement community that is very social, eating out often and cruising has made it difficult.
Enjoy your special day!!!
Very nice article with good information. Thank you.
Susan, you have been my inspiration. I have lost 20 pounds in the past two years, and have finally managed to put my wardrobe to order. I now have interchangeable looks without spending a fortune. My closet is no longer bursting at the seams. I owe it to you, sharing what you have learned. Thank you!
I’m so happy for you!
You have been an inspiration to me for years. Thank you for your advice and words of wisdom.
Happy Birthday, Susan!
I rejoice with you on your marvelous accomplishment of sustained weight loss through food choice and life style changes! What a happy plus it feels so good!
You look great– in fact look just like the lady in the background of today’s photo!
Evelyn
Thank you!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY SUSAN. I should have known you were a Virgo. Hugs, Marcia
Susan have a very happy birthday! Thank you for the years I have been reading your blog and enjoying it.
Hi to Mr. Mickey.
Patty V
Totally agree. Thank you.
Love your style and have learned so much from your posts. I have a question: do you have any recommendations for strapless bras that offer support and fully hold up the breasts? Thanks.
Yes! When I tried on this bra, I was so pleased with the results I purchased it in three colors.
Can you share what you eat for breakfast, lunch and dinner? Do you fast some days. I am struggling losing weight. I will be going to do all kind of blood work this month. I have a doctor appointment in October.
For breakfast, I eat a large salad with vegetables. A couple of hours later, I eat full-fat yogurt with fresh fruit, nuts, and seeds. I rarely have an evening meal. I never drink sodas and avoid bread, dessert, and all processed foods.
I love your hair style in the age 58 picture. The style still looks current snd modern to me today.
Happy birthday! You are such an inspiration to me. Following your practical advice, I’ve weeded out my over-stuffed closet, lost over 20 pounds, and found more time to pursue my favorite hobbies. You are a gem!
I think this is one of the best things you have ever written
Happy Birthday. You look wonderful. You are my inspiration.
Such words of wisdom. Great feature today. Thank you. So inspirational for those of us trying to slim down not just for our appearance but our health.My husband’s favorite meal is dinner and I could care less. I prefer breakfast and a late lunch. He expects dinner and I’m the only one who cooks. It’s a conundrum…
Happy birthday, Susan. Have been scrolling through the comments to see if you have recommended a book or two or something else about how you started educating yourself to change your diet. Feel as if I am in a similar place and do want to get started on that shift. Have watched family not take care of themselves and it’s not the way I want to (continue) ag(ing). Will appreciate your pointing me in the right direction to get started, if you’re able. (By the way, the longer hair really suits you. Another struggle against the dictate that women of our age shouldn’t keep their hair long — )
I was always taught that an elegant woman never offers an opinion no one asked for so those suggestions or negative opinions surprise me also.
I read the book “Eat To Live” by Dr. Joel Fuhrman as well as “The Blue Zones Challenge” by Dan Buettner, and “The China Study”.
Happy birthday ! You look marvelous ❤️
Happy birthday, Susan! You are a wonderful teacher and writer. Thanks for all you do for us!
Have a wonderful Birthday!!! I know Mr Micky will make it special.
Thank you for continuing to inspire us. Best wishes for a very Happy Birthday!
Happy Birthday Susan! Like many of the other comments noted, you have been an inspiration to me since Fifty Not Frumpy! It has been lovely to see how your style has continued to evolve over the years. My daughter and I also have September birthdays – hers is the 14th and mine is the 22nd!
Happy birthday month to you both!
I love your style and attitude! It’s inspiring!
Classic!!
Thanks, Susan! I needed this!
Thanks so much for sharing your weight loss journey. I will be 70 next February and have recently lost 16 lbs. I feel so much better & I am eating healthier too.
Love, love, love this post. It’s honest and offers great advice. Thank you.
I love this post! Susan, you are so inspiring! Thank you for all the great and positive information you convey.
Happy birthday Susan.
Could you please give the title of the book you have mentioned before, that originally inspired you to change your eating habits?
Enjoy your special day!
I read the book “Eat To Live” by Dr. Joel Fuhrman as well as “The Blue Zones Challenge” by Dan Buettner, and “The China Study”.
Each post is like a gift. May you be gifted in return on your birthday with good things. The timeline is positively inspirational. I thought it was you at first in the Parisian picture! I guess you have achieved your goal in many ways!
Thank you!
Do you ever purchase at Thrift Shops? Or consignment shops?
I did when I lived near DC and New Orleans. Our shops in my area carry only very casual items.
Happy Birthday and thanks for the good advice. I too get migraines and am curious about what you think helped to eliminate yours.
It resulted from ceasing to consume red meat and all processed foods. Update: I still rarely consume any meat and look for the best options available. (This means hormone-free, free-range, grass-fed, and no antibiotics.) After breast cancer last year, I had to start taking Letrozole to stop hormone production. My oncologist strongly suggested I consume whole fat dairy and occasional high quality meat and wild-caught fish to maintain healthy bones.
Thank you for sharing your story and wisdom! You are an inspiration!
Happy, happy birthday to a very special gal. May your day be as special to you as you are to your family, friends and viewers.
Thank you for the many ways we learn from you. Clothes and accessories for sure but also, food, diet and local scenery as well. A multitalented lady for sure.
Thank you for taking the time and effort to pass on your key knowledge of so many things to us.
Clara from Iowa
What a GREAT post!
Thanks for being honest and self-aware and for being so willing to share your life with us. It gives hope that we can change also.
Happy Birthday! You look wonderful and I love your hair. You have inspired me to change my diet 5 years ago and I went to a whole foods plant based diet (SOS free) and lost 20lbs. I would love to hear more on your reasons to change your diet by adding back in meat since I think you use to be all plant-based. I struggle with what is the right diet for good health. Obviously high processed foods are bad. Too many opposing opinions out there. Thank you for putting yourself out there!
I still rarely consume any meat and look for the best options available. (This means hormone-free, free-range, grass-fed, and no antibiotics.) After breast cancer last year, I had to start taking Letrozole to stop hormone production. My oncologist strongly suggested I consume whole fat dairy and occasional high quality meat and wild-caught fish to maintain healthy bones.
Happy birthday! Enjoy your special day!
This subject has always motivated me but sometimes I feel overwhelmed and don’t know where to start! I really need to follow your suggestions in this area. I think you look so much younger now than you did in the first photo. That proves diet and exercise helps.
I have followed you for years and get ideas on your fashion advice but now I really need to do this. I’m looking forward to seeing your next post on this subject.
Happy Birthday! You do seem to get younger looking not older.
Happy Birthday beautiful lady!
You are amazing – so glad I found you. And thank you for your pics above. One might think you emerged as the very stylish lady you are today, but apparently you struggled also, which we can all relate to. If I have you right … You are saying = buy neutrals – good neutrals – and add a pop of the year’s “New Fashion” color here and there…. Like you did with the red shoes and bag. This week, I’m going to get all my neutrals out … see what I have and what I can use again and again. And then see where I can add a pop of this year’s color – here and there. And clean house of the things I hardly wear that are clogging up my closet. The next thing will be … Only putting away the Summer clothes that I LIKE and Wore. Thank you Susan so very much. I’m 81 and still learning.
You have summarized the guidelines very well.
I love your mantra. Mine is “A moment on the lips, forever on the hips.” I cannot afford to buy the clothes that you feature on your blog, but I am able to find dupes in department store sales and online. Thanks for your inspiration!
Greetings from Massachusetts!!! Happy Birthday to you, Susan!!!
I, too, am a long-time follower of your wonderful, inspiring advice and have adopted a Susan-ism: Before I dress for the day or evening, I say to myself, WWSW? Translation, “What Would Susan Wear?”
WWSW has served me well! I appreciate and thank you for your support and inspiration!!! All the best to you, Mr. Mickey (he’s a hoot!), and your family! God bless.
Thank you for sharing…so inspiring.
Congratulations, Susan! On your birthday, on your health, and on your sharing! I have a similar story, except that I started at 115 lbs (way too thin at 5’8″), went up to 190, and now I am back to 150 since I retired as a CFO 4 years ago, and left the stress behind. I thoroughly enjoy your newsletters, and thank you for all of your efforts and sharing how life can be fun.
Best wishes for many years to come,
Helen
Thank you for sharing your story and your fashion guidelines!! Love it!! It is very helpful!
Thank you
Thoroughly enjoyed this post with all the photos. Quite an inspiration.
You’re amazing! You are much more stylish than I am and I admire you. Thanks for sharing so much of your life. It’s not easy being a caregiver. Blessings to you.
Happy Birthday Week! Celebrate daily!
And wishing for you that this next trip around the sun is filled with health, happiness, strength, and joy.
Congratulations! Inspirational! This is the most important influencer newsletter you could write. Well done!
Happy birthday! I always look forward to your posts. I am working on healthier nutrition by looking at food labels to avoid ultraprocessed food and watching my sodium count. Have begun drinking a protein drink daily to up my protein because I do not eat much meat.
Happy birthday! Wishing you many happy and healthy returns!
I’ve watched you evolve over the years. I love your style. We’re in ur 70s and 80s, and it’s hard to get him to eat twice a day only. He knows it’s better for him to eat earlier. Any advice. I like to graze but he doesn’t get it. Thanks for all you do.
Hello Susan and Happy Birthday!
We are the same age and you inspire me to keep on the healthy eating train. I do hope you will do an article about your decision to grow your hair out. It looks great, but it is such a different look than your very short style.
My hair has changed so much since it turned grey and I fight frizz a lot. Any hair care tips would be most appreciated.
Best wishes,
You have surpassed the beauty of the inspirational photo. I can see you taking a stroll on the streets of Paris and turning heads. You are an inspiration to so many of us and your photo is on my vision board. Love your longer hair too. Have an abundantly blessed year and a very happy birthday.
Susan,
Maintaining a healthy weight in a country where fast food and ice cream dominate is not easy. Dressing well is not easy when surrounded by constant advertisements for the latest trends. It’s not surprising that many of us are overweight and look as though we have lost our way. Just look around at the people in the nearest airport. How did this happen?
I don’t often comment on blogs, but want to let you know that you have been my North Star for many years. I want you to know that I often think, “If Susan can do it, so can I.”
Thank you for all the work you put into your blog. Thank you for demonstrating the results of following a healthy diet and exercise program. And thank you for showing us how to dress in a way that is stylish, attractive and affordable. Your efforts are greatly appreciated.
Thank you for your words of inspiration. Happy Birthday!
Susan, you seem to be aging in reverse! You are truly an inspiration!
Susan,
When I was in my forties I lived near a busy hair salon. The middle-aged and older clients came out with the same hairstyle. Short and shaved in the back with some longer hair on the top. Your longer style is gorgeous! I can’t understand the naysayers.
Your posts are very much appreciated! You are truly an inspiration for aging with style and grace.
Happy Birthday!
Wishing you a very happy birthday!
One of your best columns! Keep it up and thank you!
You are an inspiration. I have started going to a strength training class for seniors and already feel more empowered. Thank you for sharing this information.
Happy birthday!! What an amazing transformation; you are truly an inspiration. Thank you for sharing your wisdom with us.
I love the expression about wearing excessive calories! I am very motivated by hearing about your “journey.” While I do eat chicken and fish, I have increased my intake of vegetables and fruits, and I work on portion control. I agree that it is important to do these things for myself, Thank you so much for your blog, and happy, happy birthday!!
Happy birthday Susan. Wishing you good health and blessings for the coming year. Thank you for your amazing articles, please keep them coming.
Thanks for the updates on your style and health journey. I found you and started following you about a year ago. I am within a year of your age and have lost about 40 pounds. That is when I decided to try to start dressing ‘better.’ I’m still struggling with finding the best styles for my shape and my best colors. You have inspired me to purchase better quality. Do you mind sharing your body shape and color season? Thanks for your blog posts!
I have an inverted triangle shape which leans more toward apple when I put on weight. I have winter coloring.
I hope you have a wonderful birthday!
Happy Birthday, Susan! And thank you for continuing to inspire me!
I really enjoyed this post. I could identify with all the points you raised. Like you, I was in a stressful position working 7 days a week for 30+ years. My highest weight was 165 at 5’ 4”. About 8 years ago, when I was 63, I began to exercise and I changed my diet. I logged everything and I tracked my steps. Within 9 months, I lost 40 pounds. I have been able to maintain my weight at 125 by exercising daily and logging my food. I feel great. Thanks for letting everyone know you can change old habits and bring balance to your life. I look forward to your posts. All the best!
Happy Birthday, Susan. I do enjoy and appreciate your suggestions and tips.
Always trying to remember to keep any new purchases on the basic side and add a splash of color and shiny somewhere in the mix.
Must admit I have some mistakes in my closet though – those darn sales are hard to pass up!
Best wishes – have a lovely week!
Always appreciate your insights. The healthy diet is an inspiration to us as well.
Awhile back you had posted about your meal prep. How often do you do that? It seems to me most things only stay fresh for 4 – 5 days.
Thanks to Mr Mickey too……
I go to the grocery store about three times a week for fresh vegetables, lemons, and avocadoes.
Happy Birthday Susan!!! I have followed you for many years and have appreciated you so much. You are a real inspiration to many. Thank you!!
Happy Birthday!
Wishing you a splendid birthday! I know Mr. Mickey will treat you like the lady you are.
Happy Birthday to You…♪♫•*¨*•.¸¸♥ ¸¸.•*¨*•♫♪ Happy Birthday to You…♪♫•*¨*•.¸¸♥ ¸¸.•*¨*•♫♪Happy…. ♪♫•*¨*•.¸¸♥ ¸¸.•*¨*•♫♪Birthday… ♥Dear Susan…♪♫•*¨*•.¸¸♥ ¸¸.•*¨*•♫♪…Happy… ♪♫•*¨*•.¸¸♥ ¸¸.•*¨*•♫♪…Birthday to You! ♪♫•*¨*•.¸¸♥ ¸¸.•*¨*•♫♪…
Oh my goodness! I extremely enjoy your blogs, tips for dressing with style and your tips for good health.
Thank you thank you
Love this post. You are inspiring and look absolutely beautiful.
Thanks Susan, you continue to give hope and inspiration. Looking forward to your blog on food choices. Best wishes for your birthday, Gail (NZ)
Hope you have a great Birthday.
I enjoy your blogs
Dear Susan, You’ve inspired me to loose some weight around my middle by adopting your eating regimen of mostly veggies. Did you start slowly eating a plate of veggies or did you jump in feet first? I have the worst discipline of anyone and have a tough time with sweets. I try but boy it’s difficult. Advice please. You have helped me with my wardrobe but sad to say some things don’t fit like they once did. Your biggest (no pun intended) fan.
When I learned what was causing all my aches and pains, it was easy to give up sugar, bread, and processed foods. Don’t think of it as “I can never have a piece of chocolate again.” Instead, think of eating clean 90% of the time and then have a small portion of what you will miss the most occasionally. Keep in mind that sugar is more addictive than cocaine. It will take about two weeks to form new habits and learn to appreciate the taste of food in its natural form, but when you break the addiction, it will not hold the same power over you. I wish you success!
Happy birthday to you! Thank you for your generosity in all you share. You are an inspiration and a lovely lady. Those photos surely are such a strong reminder of how important tending to our health and wellness truly is. I mean, my goodness! Look how you have literally aged in reverse! Wow!
Thank you for your posts and updates, Susan! I always appreciate your perspectives!
I, too, have lost 20+ pounds in the last decade! Lots of things have happened (fall = spiral fractured femur) and 2 years later a fall = snapped ball joint in my hip, followed by Staph/MSSA infection!! Can I say I’m truly grateful of my progress to health,…AND fearful of falling??
I study a lot of sites re: maintaining muscle and movement to keep us young! I believe it’s a proven process!
Thank you, again, for your updates and helping us keep the mindset of staying young in our thoughts and behavior!!
Happy Birthday and Happy Fall!
Cathy Lahmeyer
Missouri
Thank you, Susan!
I found your blog really interesting and helpful to me personally
I too am trying to combat some health issues especially diabetes and am looking to put in place some of your ideas so many thanks
I also love your style ideas
Wishing you a very happy birthday
Happy Birthday!! Thank you so much for all you do-you are truly an inspiration.
Happy birthday, Susan!! You are such an inspiration! Thank you for so many good suggestions and advice. Some questions about the French lady whose picture you posted: who is she? where do you follow her? Do you have other pictures of her? What are your other sources of fashion inspiration?
Thank you so much!
I saved that photo a few years ago. It was just a random street scene in Paris so I don’t know the source or who the people are. When I see an image that appeals to me, I save it on my phone or computer or on Pinterest. When I need to inject some freshness into my basic combinations, I always find inspiration there. My inspiration photo often looks nothing like what I put together because it is just a starting point. After I decide what pieces I am going to wear, I always add the accessories that make the look my own.
A few of my favorite Instagrammers are: here, here, here, and here.
I love your style and you have been a wonderful inspiration to me. If you don’t mind sharing, who is the lady in the picture?
That was just a random street scene in Paris. I wish I knew who the lady is.
Happy, Happy Birthday to you Susan.
Many good wishes to you always.
You are an inspiration to all us ladies which is much appreciated.
Enjoy you “special” day to the fullest!
MaryAnn
Happy Birthday Susan! These posts extremely inspire me to eat better. Your plate look delicious and I would love it!
Your posts are always so inspirational! You are so beautiful and elegant! I would never have guessed that was you in the picture when you were 53! I wish you would share more ideas about what you eat.
I feel redundant with food posts since I haven’t changed much in the last couple of years. I mostly eat leafy greens, beans, root vegetables, cucumbers, seeds, nuts and avocados. Full fat yogurt, fruit, nuts and seeds are my daily treat.
Happy, happy birthday Susan! I’ll be 79 on the 25th. My husband & I have pretty much done the no carb diet for years but have also added more veggies recently, very seldom do we eat beef and we don’t eat an evening meal. Works for us. Love all that you share. Have a blessed day. Look forward to more posts about food & exercise.
Susan, thanks for the informative post. Wondering what type of beans are in the picture and are they cooked? Having diverticulosis flare-ups I need to be careful with excessive bean consumption. Thanks in advance.
I have that too! Hurts when you overdo it doesn’t it? Those are canned organic Canolinni beans from Eden Organics. That’s the only brand I buy.
Hi Susan, I’ve said it before and I will say it again, you inspire me and have (without knowing it) encouraged me to alter the way I think about clothes. Just a few changes and I look so much better. I am not so disciplined on the food front but if I have put on a couple of pounds I ‘move more and eat less.’
Please keep up these great posts and have a very Happy Birthday.
When you changed your eating habits and lost weight, was it a gradual change or all at once? I desperately need to lose weight, but I’ve tried many diets and they never last. I don’t know where to start. Are there any resources you found were helpful?
We don’t gain weight all at once, so we can’t lose it all at once. Make small changes today, and you will start to see changes. Eat less food but better quality natural whole foods from nature, not from a factory. I am working on a blog post about all the foods I eat and why, but it will take a while. Stay tuned for that one. I hope it helps you make better choices, but it all comes down to changing your habits and a little discipline.
Susan, you are beautiful inside and out! The last paragraph sums everything up so well! BRAVO
I hope something good happens to you today!
Mary