Today is trash day in the neighborhood. Which is my favorite day of the week {much to my husbands intense dismay}. It’s also probably the only time I wished I lived downtown in a big city, because the idea of popping the lid off a trash can and peeking inside at all the things people discard in hopes of finding something not only useful to me, but FREE, is well, EXCITING.
And yes, I know my legs are beyond pale. I’m sorry if they blinded you. And seriously, who buys black sneakers?
I totally wanted to grab the moving blanket but Mrs. HB reminded me we still had 3 miles to go and if I took the blanket I wouldn’t be able to carry anything else. {Lame}
And that’s when the conversation turned to totally random.
Like me telling her she needs to seriously consider wearing longer shirts because nobody wants to see her panty lines and then her asking me if I bought a new bra because every other time she sees me I’m practically busting out of mine, and that I need to go to the mall and get properly fitted for one.
Friends. You can talk like that to each other.
You can also ask them to bring over their Dansko shoes for you to try on because you’re thinking about investing in a pair, but don’t want to deal with the hassle of ordering a pair online, and then returning them if 1. They don’t fit and 2. You don’t like them.
Plus you can also ask them a million questions like:
- Do they stretch?
- How much do they stretch?
- How long would it take to stretch them out?
- Do you wear them with socks, tights or bare feet?
- Do they make you feel like an Amazon woman because, geez, there must be a 2 inch heel on these.
- Do you think these would look good with skinny leg/fitted jeans because that’s all that is basically in my closet these days.
- Brown or Black?
- Matte or shiny?
- Have you twisted an ankle wearing these?
- Are the backs of the shoe really supposed to be that loose?
- How long have you had these?
- Do you really think they are worth the money?
You know, all sorts of questions you want to ask the salesman in the shoe department but can’t because he’s a 30 year old male trying to sell women’s shoes on a commission.
And then their is the whole shaving/not shaving conversation Mrs. HB and I seem to have every time we’re out and about together for over an hour.
Should women shave their faces?
Or rather…
Flashback to our June mini working vacation and all the sudden Mrs. HB asks me if I shave my face and I was like… WHAT? What are you talking about? And then she tells me I should because I’m getting a little peach fuzz on the side of my face.
And I was like… Umm ya. That’s totally normal. People have peach fuzz. So what?
And she’s like… Well I don’t, I shave my face {once a month} and I was like YOU SHOULD STOP DOING THAT because you’re going to end up growing stubbly man hair on your face.
And then she was like… No I won’t and EVERYBODY does it. And I was like no they don’t… And then she tells me I should ask the people {YOU} on the blog if you shave your face. Because really, wouldn’t you want a smoother face? It’s all about maintenance after all and taking care of yourself.
So. Here we are. I am now asking YOU if you shave your face.
So do you?
Curious minds want to know.
~Mavis
P.S. Also, if you own a pair of Dansko clogs/mules I’d love to hear what you think about them.
Marilyn Howard says
Love your posts, especially the ones with HB. I have to say that I do shave my face every few days. I’m 57 and had a lot of peach fuzz. I entered menopause at a young age and about a year later, started getting random whiskers. I just run a disposable razor over my chin and lip area. It really helps. I read beforehand that it does not make everything worse. It keeps my face under control lol.
Mrs.HB says
Bless you too for speaking up . I had a work friend that I so desperately wanted to share my tip . Just didn’t have it in me back then . . I am wondering if most of the non shavers are under 45? All I can say to them is “never say NEVER ” . And if you are over 45 and are thinking “Hummm maybe Inshould do this ” you probably should. Why not give it a give it a try . Always use a new clean razor on face first then use in legs and outs after . At least that’s what I do . It would be interesting to see how other people react to your “new “face . Especially if you have a lot .
Patty P says
Dansko shoes….I had a pair and I literally broke them in half from wearing them too much. I loved them. I’m a teacher and they were my go to pair of shoes. Did I nearly break my ankle wearing them? Once or twice…but I walk on the sides of my feet (not heel-toe, more edge of my foot-and in). Are they comfortable? They take a bit of time to get used to, but yes! I wore mine with light socks. I had to get a men’s pair because apparently big feet run in the family. I had a black matte pair. I would totally get them again, but it would have to be on sale because they are sooooo expensive. I have an awesome pair of Keens right now that my husband bought me for Christmas last year.
Shaving my face….um no. I have a bizzaro hair that has shown up in the last year that I have to pluck much to my dismay. And I bleach my upper lip hair when it gets to bugging me….but haven’t ever shaved my face (and hopefully won’t)
Mrs. C. says
I used to love them, but they don’t make them the same. I didn’t wear mine for a year, and I popped them on and went to church . . and the heel and platform crumbled all the way. All down the aisle, under the pew . . .I walked out of church with no sole on my clogs. It was embarrassing, and they were not cheap. A brand that is supposed to me much better is this one, and I’m about to try it: scandicfootwear.com
Patty P says
Thanks for the heads up on the quality! I’ll check out the website you provided.
Mavis Butterfield says
Those are some very pretty shoes Mrs. C. Let us know what you think about them.
Carol B. says
Mavis, you totally crack me up!! I got a kick out of your and Mrs. HB’s conversations. Only true friends could talk like that to each other.
As for shaving my face…ummmm no. I would never think of it. I have peach fuzz too and it’s light and soft. Maybe if I had to deal with dark, coarse facial hair… well, then I might have to reconsider. But for now… nope.
And yup, sorry honey, your legs are pale. But we’re from the PNW… mine are pale too. 😛
KC says
Please fight the facial shaving. Women’s non-hygiene-related “body maintenance” requirements are already too high, and the more people give in to things like this, the more the standard shifts and the higher the penalties are for opting out.
The PNW is, for the US, unusually forgiving of low-maintenance hair/makeup, but other areas of the country aren’t, and it’s of benefit to all of us if the range of “acceptable” hair/skin/etc. is wider rather than narrower, so that those who want to put in more time/effort can, but those who would rather spend their time and money in other ways are able to without severe career or social penalties.
I don’t want facial peach fuzz on women to become “gross” and “monstrous” like various other natural and non-hygiene-affecting things have turned over the years. Fight the trend! 🙂
Frau Rosen says
Another native Pacific Northwester here and I agree. I don’t wear makeup, I don’t color my hair, I don’t worry if there’s peach fuzz. I do shave my legs and underarms and I get really damn tired of that, after 35 years or so of it, but not tired enough to make me withstand the scrutiny I’d get for not doing it. Sigh. When I was in my early 20’s and living in Europe, I remember how freeing it was to not have to deal with shaving my legs.
Jenny says
Yes, Danskos are awesome! I am a nurse, but I wear them everywhere. Yes, you can break and ankle, it is called the Dansko roll 😉
Kim O. says
I wore Danskos for years while waitressing, running upstairs in a restaurant 30-40 times a night! Ocassionally, I would in skier’s terms “catch an edge” thankfully I never twisted or broke my ankle. Had a few scares though when you twist off of them that quickly. They were very comfortable. I did have a friend who twisted her ankle pretty bad. No I do not shave my face never even heard of that and I have 3 daughters in their twenties perhaps they don’t want to tell me they do that?
Lace Faerie says
I think facial peach fuzz can sometimes happen with pregnancy hormones and again as women hit peri-menopausal stage on past menopause. But then again, we are all fair skinned blondes and redheads. Maybe it happens earlier with gals of darker complexions and hair??
Jeanie says
No on the face. Never even thought about it.
RebekahU says
Mavis, when I read your blog, I feel NORMAL!!! I might make my kids start reading the blog so that they will realize I’m not the only one that is fascinated by all of the useful, pretty good stuff that people spent good money on and then toss!! I’m in love with Crocs. I wear my Croc shoes to work and the Croc flip flops all other times. Never tried Danskos. But I might … face shaving: Noooooooooooooooo!!!!! Don’t do it! I do have a friend who waxes her face twice a year, but shaving is bad news. Tweeze if you must but DO NOT SHAVE!
Sue says
I’m with Mrs. HB. I totally shave! Not only do I get rid of the peach fuzz, but it exfoliates my skin! I’m 56 and I wish I started doing it earlier because my skin looks awesome!
Mrs.HB says
Bless you! Mavis forgot to include that during our conversation unmentioned the decreased cost of shaving verse waxing . Plus I am older than her ….. and as we get older things happen . There is really No Downside to this practice . I just think most aren’t to that age yet or just don’t care . Just wait and remember it’s not a bad thing just a thing I started doing about two years ago when I heard the girls on The Talk talking about it . Apparently Mrs. Osborne does it too.
Sue says
Not only do I shave my face, I also shave my big toes! Lol
linda says
oh most definitely shave my face. Mrs. HB is right things happen as we age. wish it didn’t but we do have the privilege of growing older- my older sisters did not. I also shave a mustash- and big toes. grrr
Heidi P says
I shave from my face to my toes! Wish I’d started shaving my full face sooner. It’s a great exfoliator. I’ve shaved my arms for about 25 years. I have VERY dark body hair. The hair actually has come back softer and less noticeable. I’ve never experienced 5 o’clock shadow. Don’t poo poo it until you try it:)
Mrs HB says
Like!!!
Kat says
Absolutely! Toe hair is horrific.
Beth says
I’m with Mrs. HB : I shave and have been since I was 60. I definitely have a mustache and the bleaching was not comfortable for me. It has not started “growing faster or thicker”.
Mrs HB says
Thank you for speaking up!!!
Sara says
I’m with Sue & Mrs. HB! I shave my mustache (hasn’t grown in any darker) & some annoying hairs that show up on my mole. If I see other random facial hairs I pluck them. The light peach fuzz doesn’t bother me, but I work with kids & if my mustache gets out of control they don’t hesitate to let me know. Also, I’m in my early 30s & have done this since early 20s. One of my girlfriends brought it up & I thought she was crazy until I tried it! PLEASE tell me you have seen the “I Mom so hard” body hair episode Mrs. HB! If you haven’t set aside 3 minutes & YouTube it right now!! Funniest thing ever! I was literally ROTFL! Those of us who were blessed with extra body hair have to stick together!
Katelyn says
I adore Danskos – I wear them spring, fall and winter, when it’s not snowy on the sidewalks. They made canvas ones for a while that I wore in the summer, too, but they discontinued them, sadly.
If you feel like they’re too loose, you might try Sanitas – they’re basically identical but they’re narrower. I have a pair that I wear less often because I have a wide foot but otherwise, there’s no real difference that I can ascertain.
Leslie says
I knew a girl in college that shaved her sideburns which only came in after a few years of disordered eating. I’ve known a few with pretty impressive facial hair, but they just let it grow.
I prefer minimalist footwear, so no help on the Danskos.
Mrs.HB says
I don’t have a eating disorder for sure ….. but I am in my 50s and with that comes unwanted facial hair ! I am pretty fair and don’t have a lot of excess hair but when it changes and you are used to it one way and it is becoming another it started to bother me. No reason to put up with that change if I don’t have to . Believe me with all the parimenopasal crap (oops) I can’t change why not take the reigns when you can !!!! To each his own just giving options and hopeing to decrease the stigma. 🙂
Leslie says
Oh gosh- I didn’t mean to imply that! Apologies!
mrs HB says
No worries…. but had to comment. Facial and body hair in 20s is so different from that in our 50s .
Hope your class mate found help for her eating disorder for which I too have had friends suffer .
Leslie says
She did- that was maybe 30 years ago? Still has the sideburns. Or rather, shaves them.
Anne G. in VA says
I wear Danskos most of the time. I have mules and Dansko dress shoes to wear in winter and sandals in the summer. I’m on my feet a lot and my feet hurt quite often in other shoes. You need to go to a store to try on what you plan to buy. I have tried ordering the exact same shoe I’ve had (and wore out) and they don’t fit. Every pair seems unique. I have found several less expensive pair online and they never fit and I have to return them every time. Very discouraging because I love a bargain!
Cindy says
No shaving for me! Yikes, can barely manage to do my legs. I recently asked my doctor (who was wearing cute danskos) how she got used to them. She said when she was new to them she only wore them for about an hour everyday. It took a few weeks and she said she doesn’t wear anything else now. She said she owns 13 pairs!
pamela says
No on the face shaving. I hate statements that include Everyone (does it, is doing it, will love it etc.) because 99% of the time it doesn’t pertain to me. I guess I am not everyone!
Earlene says
Don’t shave your face. I know 2 women who do and when you hug them it’s like, whoa you have a 3 o clock shadow. Wax or pluck, but don’t shave!!
Betsy in MN says
I totally love Danskos. I have a black and brown pair for winter and three sandals for summer. Wish they were still made in Europe instead of China. I also love Sven Clogs with the flex sole. They are made in MN!
I don’t shave my face. Have never seen the need to. But I do know that some ethic groups tend to have more facial hair then others. My Scandinavian heritage has blessed me without facial hair!
Pam says
No to the face shaving. I have enough other stuff to shave so I have no intention of adding another location to the list. No to the Danskos – just could never justify the price.
I ALWAYS buy black sneakers. You can’t slide under the radar wearing white sneakers with dress pants but a clean pair of solid black sneakers (no lime green or hot pink trim!) will fly under the dress shoe radar every time.
MM says
No shaving here. Occasional pluck. I’m pale with light hair, but I’ve noticed a few darker thicker hairs coming in now. It’s pretty random Several of my friends also have the issue, starting anywhere from age 35 to 50.
Jo says
I love Dansko and Sanita shoes, but my ankles don’t. After 2 major sprains and ankle surgery, they are history. It’s really easy to roll your ankle, because they are basically flat platform shoes. If you step on an uneven surface it’s super easy to roll sideways. If you have ever had even a minor ankle sprain you have a weak ankle and my Orthopaedic surgeon highly recommends that you don’t wear these shoes. I miss them, but I love being able to walk more, even though I still can’t walk without some pain.
Facial hair, yep I’ve got it and after a lifetime of trying to get rid of it, now I just leave it, pluck out the dark ones and it’s the other person’s issue if the peach fuzz offends. We have gone crazy over removing hair in our society, it’s ridiculous and unhealthy.
Linda Bick says
I love these conversations! No I don’t shave my face! Yikes I’ve never heard of that for women, only plucking or electrolysis! My hair is blond…but occasionally my daughter finds a 1/2 long hair growing under my chin, she plucks it out! Don’t own the shoes, sorry no help there.
Roni says
That’s my problem. No one to pluck the “Witches Hair” and although I can see it I can’t “land” on it to pluck it. Aaaarrrrgggghhhh. So 3 weeks ago I used one of those nose/facial hair shavers and WOW all the peach fuzz that came off. Today??? I feel all the wild hairs and wonder if I made a mistake.
Mimi says
I love/hate Danskos. Here’s why I won’t buy them any more: https://www.scavengerlife.com/2014/06/the-sad-decline-of-crumbling-dansko.html
They won’t last forever like you hope they will. You will be walking down the aisle of the grocery store and they will suddenly without warning crumble into a thousand tiny pieces. I love them but I don’t want my shoes to disintegrate.
bobbi dougherty says
no shaving here. I do wax my eyebrows and lip though…
Kimmy says
I got an awesome deal on a pair of danskos once (thanks to one of your deal posts, Mavis!) but after trying to wear them for a couple years, I finally donated them. They weren’t really that comfortable for all the hype, too heavy and clunky.
Now Crocs, I am passionate about and wear as much as possible! They have cute styles of flats and sandals, not just the traditional ugly mules.
I do shave my face, when the peach fuzz starts to bug me. It’s like Mrs. HB says, things change and you gotta fight the good fight if you can.
Mrs HB says
Thanks for your honesty and support!
Denise says
No on the shaving, just pluck. On the Danskos, I have a pair, like them, but I prefer Alegria, Klogs, or Naot. Go to a shoe store that specializes in comfort shoes or shoes for folks with foot problems. Try some on, see what feels good to you. I love my Alegrias the most! Alegria means Happy!
debbie in alaska says
I own about 8 pairs of Danskos — my wedding shoes were blue danskos sandals! They are awesome — AND they are definitely dangerous on uneven ground or if you catch an edge. My ankles are pretty strong so I’ve never twisted my ankle — but ortho docs tell me they are the number one ankle breaker as far as shoes are concerned.
I shave my face and arms too. And never have either grown back worse than before. It started when I was a competitive swimmer and the habit stuck. Much less painful than waxing. I only have to shave my arms once a month and it’s soft and thin. Face is just below my ear where my hair line sometimes comes down too far. Also only have to do once a month …
Mrs HB says
Love it !
Diane says
Jeez, I don’t even shave my LEGS most months of the year (but I’m well into fogeyhood and don’t grow much hair there anymore). Even if I wanted to shave my face (ICK), I don’t have time – I’m out in the garden every possible moment, doing what I love best, gardening.
Vanity dictates that I pluck a few random recurring dark whiskers from my chin area, but the peach fuzz is welcome to stay. I’ve never even heard of women shaving their faces. Now I’ve gone and lost my innocence, and it’s all your fault, Mavis! LOL
Nancy says
With you Diane! Love my Crocs. ONLY shoes I wear-I have Tailors bunions and they are a Godsend. So glad we live in a time where we can be casual and be ourselves! Go Girls!!!
Tracy says
Shaving your face can help exfoliating dad skin, but I’m super fair, practically hairless except for my head, so no thanks. And let’s keep it real about Danskos….like Crocs, wide fit Sketchers and other comfort shoes, they may feel like heaven on the foot (I spend most leisure days in Sketchers, so I get it totally), but under no circumstances should we kid ourselves that Danskos are attractive. Big, thick, clunky shoes are never going to be cute. Neither are Sketchers or Crocs. But if all you care about is comfort, then go for it. Mavis, you have such a slammin’ figure, I’d love to see you in cuter clothes and anything other than a high school ponytail and thick black glasses. You’re such a pretty woman!
Sue says
I love her glasses! Don’t change them Mavis!
Mary Pearce says
Don’t shave my face. What is wrong with letting our bodies be the way they are? Why are we as women so consumed with changing ourselves to suit someone else? One of my daughters wanted to know why women shave/wax their nether regions: is the point to look like little girls instead of grown women? (All four of the men in the immediate family are bearded, too.)
mrs HB says
Don’t get confused …. this is all for me baby no one else .
Angela D. says
Yes—I, too, take care of myself FOR ME, more so, the older I get. I have been happily married for 28 years and he loves me any way I look.
As far as shaving the peach fuzz on my face, I first learned about it during a medical-grade facial, with a licensed aesthetician (not simply a stylist at a hair salon!) The woman suggested a procedure that “shaves” dead skin cells from your face, along with peach fuzz. Well, I LOVED the result!!! And to clarify, I only have peach fuzz; when you hug me, you will not feel a scratchy 5-o’clock shadow the next day. However, I have since had a different aesthetician suggest the shaving is removing dead and healthy skin cells; too much exfoliation. So now, I just use a personal battery-operated shaver: $12 at Wal-Mart. I also trim nose hairs and mustache. I have plucked my eyebrows, minimally, for over 30 years, and now they don’t take much effort to maintain: no uni-brow!!!
I started shaving my peach fuzz when I was 45 years old. When I asked my best friend if she had ever heard of such a thing, she said I was “late to the party!” She shaves so that her foundation goes on smoother and powder doesn’t sit in her peach fuzz, calling more attention to it. I don’t wear makeup, but I do feel as though my moisturizer feels lighter on my face instead of applying it, essentially, over the top of facial hair.
Lesley says
1. Never shave your face!
2. Danskos are at GoodWill and consignment all.the.time. Even like-new ones!!! I have 2 like-new pair that I paid maybe $20 for each. Highly recommend thrifting them if you can. They last forever and I love that they don’t touch my heel and they can be dressed up or down, socks or no socks, and YES with your skinny jeans, especially with those skinny legs!
Merritt says
Shave or wax for sure…in tune with the hide the gray hair coloring box ritual every 4-6 weeks or so. The joys of aging are different for everyone and perimenopause/menopause gives us all a thrill in select ways. Never noticed any increasing darker or thicker hair with it…sometimes the wives tales are bogus urban legends or oddities I suppose. The shoes…I second the hour a day “training” or adjustment period. Well worth the cost!
Tracey says
One of my friends has microplaning done which shaves and exfoliates I think?? I don’t know if I will shave but I will for sure be up on the plucking and waxing. I might even be game for laser hair removal. My mom has “strays” that she doesn’t do anything about and it makes me crazy and I nnow she would be hurt if I mentioned it to her.
mrs HB says
Lol my Mom calls them strays as well .
Lace Faerie says
Oh, yes! Those stray eyebrows do wander far afield sometimes! LOL
wendy says
I laughed out loud very loudly while reading your conversation on shaving vs no shaving! I was sure hubby was going to ask about what, but so glad he didn’t! I am 45, just, and have shaved my face (when the hairs/peach fuzz bug me enough) for a few years now. PCOS and perimenopause got the best of me, so I do it when I have to. No I don’t have a five o’clock shadow and my chin is not prickly! 😉
mrs HB says
Totally live you !!!! Thanks for your input!
Karen says
I love Keens. Hated Danskos but probably did not give them a chance. I like shoes that are immediately comfortable. Wax upper lip but have never thought of shaving my face.
rachel says
Hi Mrs. HB!
I am 33 and use one of those skinny trimmers they sell to shave my face and toes and knuckles. I even shaved my arms in college when I lived in Hawaii and guess what people – came back lighter and thinner. So I’m not that opposed to shaving things! I’m also not high maintenance – I don’t dye my hair or do my nails. I just don’t like being hairy I guess. Had to chime in since you asked for a “younger crowd” to not poo poo it!
Sunny says
Some of us younger people do shave…especially under our chin because we have a hormonal problem called polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). I’ve had electrolysis and laser hair removal done multiple times and while it’s better than it used to be it still is more than I care to live with on a daily basis. No judgement either way. Just what makes me feel more comfortable leaving the house. I have enough self image issues without adding to them.
Nancy D says
I was wondering if somebody would mention electrolysis! I’ve been curious about it’s effectiveness. Thanks!
J. says
Hello Nancy D.,
Yes, electrolysis works– depends tremendously on your operator and the reason your hair is growing there in the first place (uncontrolled hormones or increased site activity (i.e. shaving, waxing, and plucking).
I had an adreanal hormone imbalance in my teens & early twenties that was only corrected with an endocrinologist’s help, but, the excess hair growth still needed to be removed– I highly recommend electrolysis (this was before laser hair removal). I was an electrologist for years and can attest to its effectiveness when done correctly!
mrs HB says
Bless you Sunny and putting a little perspective on this matter . That’s why we should never judge . You just don’t don’t why people do what they do . Thank you for sharing. Mrs HB
Carrie says
I love my danskos and currently have four pairs. A red and black pair, a pair of Sandler for dressing up, and a pair of black Mary Jane’s. I’ve had my red pair for at least 15 years. I love how the color has changed over the years with wear and they go with every thing. They are probably nit called red but burgundy or something. I bought the black pair because I do wear them all the time! And the Mary Jane’s were $10 at goodwill and I couldn’t pass them up. I like them with my cuffed skinny jeans-no socks. With my wider bottomed jeans I wear socks, usually costco’s wool socks. I’ve also worn them with black tights with dresses.
The investment is worth it. Or put them on your Christmas list. Sierra Trading Post also carries them at a great discount all the time.
Kathy says
Yes I shave my chin, started out plucking, then stinky hair remover, now I just shave it every other day…I don’t like it but I don’t want a beard either…being hairy is hereditary, thanks for the support Mrs HB, It’s good to know I’m not the only one.
mrs HB says
Shave on Kathy ! No shame !
Tera says
Danskos were not a good fit for my feet so I bought a pair of Klogs. Quite comfortable! My MOST comfortable pair of shoes is a pair of black Mary Jane Keens. For the first time in my whole life I walked without foot pain! I went to a real shoe store where they measured my feet and messed with insoles and that $140 I spent on those Keens was the best money I’ve ever spent in my life!
The shaving? I guess if you want to. I’m 32 and have started getting some dark coarse hairs on my upper lip and chin occasionally that I pluck. I have zero desire to have one more thing to keep up on.
Tammy says
I have a pair of Born clogs, which is not the same brand, obviously. I got mine at a thrift store for $9. They looked new (the leather on top wasn’t creased/worn). They really aren’t that comfortable so I don’t wear them that often. I’m just glad I didn’t invest the $90 or whatever it is they go for new in them, I’d be highly disappointed.
I do have a pair of Dansko pumps, which I wear very often for church. For heels, they are comfortable enough. I like that they will (should) last so long so I won’t have to keep buying dress shoes.
Deborah says
Mavis,
I don’t shave my face and don’t know any women that do. My daughter in law waxes her upper lip because she has a dark mustache. But I’ve never heard of shaving your face.
And I spent grocery money to get my car washed this past week.
Helen in Meridian says
Danskos are supposed to hold the top of your foot and your heel is to be loose in them. Now that I’m 70 I find those heavier dark chinny chin chin hairs, and that elusive cheek hair that suddenly sprouts when I run my fingers over it. I try to pluck those and then those light hairs grow so fast, I wish they were on my balding head instead. I do color my hair and love Olia hair color. Friends looking at pix of family after nephews funeral couldn’t believe sis was only 14 months older. She has never colored her hair but has lots of hair. The only thing thin on my body is my hair, but I do color it. She spends $60 for a cut, $125 for a permanent, and I just spend $7.99 for my box of color, and trim my own hair.
mrs HB says
Love you Helen in Meridian . I am looking forward to 70, if I make it . Heart issues plague my family but I know one thing ….. I won’t have that hariy thing going on when I pass . LOL . i also grew up in a town named Meridian . In the south of course .
Mama Cook says
Mrs HB! I just want to encourage you to “speak life” into yours! 70 is young these days! While there may be heart issues in your family, that doesn’t mean they are in yours!!! Medicine and nutrition have come a long way!!!! You’re clearly living an active life-chickens, children, over 3 mile walks. Plus after watching your journey I can see your working on diet as well!!!
OK-carry on! ☺️
CA says
I’ve shaved my face and arms for three or four years now (i’m 65). I do it just for ME because I like the feeling of soft skin. Does a nice job of exfoliating, too. It takes about 4 minutes a couple of times a week for my face. I do my arms less often. I use a nice smelling shaving cream. By the way, no 5 o’clock shadow or beard. Hurts a lot less than electrolysis or waxing and is way cheaper.
mrs HB says
Way to go CA ! I feel an uprising comin on !!!
Valerie says
I don’t like those shoes, I think they are ugly as hell and I never see them in Canada so those are a US thing.
I would not shave my face EVER but I carry a tweezer in my handbag because as I age
Random hair seems to be sprouting all over!
Claudia says
I used to Dermaplane my face which is like a shave but not….. I stopped because well, the hair WAS getting thicker! It is better than shaving though and I did LOVE how it looked; i’m frugal though and $65 every 6 weeks is too much for me.
Dansko shoes: yes I have a pair and loved them for years but they were not the best for my feet. In their place I now wear Keen’s! https://www.amazon.com/KEEN-Womens-Grain-Slip-Black/dp/B00HG8KSQ0/ref=sr_1_21?ie=UTF8&qid=1503364819&sr=8-21&keywords=keen LOVE LOVE LOVE them and SO worth the price. The dansko’s did have some twisted ankle opportunities whereas the Keens are more grounded and better for the foot.
There ya go and bring on the bakery and pastry pics girlfriend!
Tina says
I don’t own any of those shoes, but I work with a nurse that broke her foot (at work) falling off of the ones that she was wearing. I’m 45, I don’t color my grays (my great grandmother had the most GORGEOUS light gray hair and I’m hoping I get to have it, too). I don’t paint my finger nails as I ruin it in a couple of hours, I do occasionally paint my toenails. I don’t shave my face but I do pluck the dark hairs that show up randomly, so who knows in the future…
I have one more question to add to the randomness – do you put lotion on your feet regularly? I had a similar talk with a friend lately who told me that I was weird because I don’t (it’s slimy and yuck!) so I’ve been asking everyone else to see if they do or not. 🙂
Michelle says
I do! I just wait for the lotion to absorb before putting on socks or shoes, and most importantly before trying to walk! If I didn’t use lotion on my feet, I would have cracking skin on my feet..which to me is much more GROSS than a few minutes of slimy skin.
mrs HB says
First I don’t color my hair . I have been blessed at mid 50 with minimal grays and I am currently trying to decided wether I want to start that battle . I have seen some beautiful women with pure gray hair and I love it . For now no dye but I will always keep it an option. As far as feet lotion yes I do and I try to do it at night with socks after I scrub them w pumice stone in bath or shower . I makes a world a difference in my feet cracking painfully so . I would give it a try .
Angela D. says
I do not use lotion on my feet, but I do religiously buff them with a pumice stone at the end of my shower. I find that exfoliating the dead skin keeps my feet soft without ever having to use lotion.
Louise says
Stuff happens with menopause! I never thought I would, but now I shave my face–about once a month, but I might do more or less when I feel like it. I use the eyebrow-type razor, essentially dermaplaning my skin. The results are great! Don’t dismiss it outright, become informed, don’t believe misinformation.
Folks are okay with plucking, waxing, bleaching, electrolysis, and laser hair removal. Why the problem with shaving? I’m with Mrs. HB (but I think Mavis’s readers generally fall into a different demographic).
Do what’s right for you! I’d rather spend a little time on my face and let my legs go. I rarely show my legs, but my face is showing all the time.
mrs HB says
I just smiled !
mrs HB says
I couldn’t have did it better !!
Lisa says
Just recently started to shave my face with a small battery razor called Cricket. I got it from my sister-in-law who is a stylist. I only use it when the peach fuzz gets very obvious. I am 54 and darker complexion and pretty hairy in general. Still have to pluck the nasty hairs on my chin, boo. When you get a bit older your body does change. I really don’t want somebody to see hair growing on my face, yuck. I am not high maintenance either, don’t color my hair, i have a white streak and a mix of dark and grey, too expensive and time consuming. I don’t pay to get my nails ever either.
mrs HB says
Love it ! Will have to look into the cricket . Thanks for the idea .
Courtney B says
I do shave my “mustache” with my husbands electric razor. It isn’t really bad but I see it and it bothers me so I shave it on occasion. I LOVE Danskos! TOTALLY worth the investment to me. After I had my 2nd child I started having major foot pain problems. Like when I got out of bed in the morning I could barely walk because my feet hurt SO bad, I had to see a Podiatrist and have cortisone shots, the pan was awful! With good shoes, Danskos and Birkenstocks, I have had no problems since then. I wear them with skinny jeans, it isn’t the best look but who cares is my motto about it.
Heather says
I have shaved my face and I got my Dansco at a yard sale new for 2 dollars. They are nice! I see them all the time new at thrift stores.
Terry Compton Friedemann says
Ah, Danskos! I love them to pieces. Actually I have worn some to pieces. I have probably 6 pairs right now. Mules, sandals, Mary Jane’s and clogs. I have gotten them on E-bay and at thrift stores. I have never bought a pair new. Frugal, why yes I am! Lol
Shaving…oh yes. I too have that one, very coarse hair that must be plucked. But I noticed that as I have gotten older, facial hair seems to be darker and more annoying. Get yourself one of those small trimmers. They are great for the upper lip.
Brianna says
Shaving my face? I’m open to it because I’m 35 and as my hormones fluctuate I notice fluctuations in my hair density, texture, shedding, etc. I have copper hair and am of Scandinavian heritage and it is unnoticeable most of the time, but the hubby will make a remark every now and then. I’m pretty sure when I hit menopause I will be desperately looking for a solution to excess or thicker hair growth becasuse my mother did (her solution was electrolysis). I don’t judge those who are for hair removal or those who prefer a more natural regimine, we all have something that bothers us about our bodies and for some it is unwanted or excessive hair.
Lace Faerie says
One of my adult daughter loves her Danskos. I’ve never tried them. I wear Walk The Walk by Ana Tech each and every time it’s not heavily raining or snowy. I am SoCal born and I hate wearing shoes and cannot stand any pressure on the backs of my heels due to medical problems. I was at the Sister Outdoor Quilt Show and the vender expo next town over. I was literally hobbling from foot pain from fibro and arthritis. My sister was interested in the shoes on display (she also suffers from neuralgia), so I sat down next to her. The booth owner unbuckled a pair of the V-thong sandal and said to just rest my feet on the shoes. OMGosh! In the time it took her to decide on a pair, I was darn near in tears from the relief from pain. We ate very frugally for the next month because I spent my grocery money on the shoes. I have worn them for 4 years so it costs me about $.14 day. That doesn’t take into consideration the cost savings from reduced prescription pain pills! Not joking!
As to women’s facial hair, it’s a personal preference. I wouldn’t not like someone because she did not choose to remove it and let it grow naturally. Personally, the peach fuzz I see on myself makes me feel old. Since I stopped coloring my hair 4 years ago and am blessed with silver and white hair at 54, I feel I am most often perceived as much older, and that’s enough old lady-ness for me! I don’t use a blade tho’, just the closest setting on my HH’s beard trimmer. That’s short enough that they fuzz isn’t noticeable when I wear make up.
KingKing says
Dansko shoes – wore them for years (I’m a nurse), but have gone to Klogs in recent years as they are lighter and have more cushioning for my aging feet. Yes, you can turn your ankle in Dansko’s, I wouldn’t advise wearing them on gravel or other uneven surfaces, they do look good with jeans, and there is a breaking in period with new ones. Face shaving – yes, I do, about once a month. I am a very fair skinned person living in Florida. Any color on your face makes the fine hairs so much more visible. It also exfoliates, helps makeup look smoother (when I wear it), and keeps those horrid crusties (actinic keratoses – they’re precancerous so you really don’t want them) at bay between visits to the dermatologist. Sunscreen always, people! Coloring hair? No, I’ve been blessed with my grandmother’s streaky silver hair. I wear it longish and wavy. Lotion on my feet? Of course! Who wants scaly feet? As you get older, maintenance takes a little more time, but I find it helps me feel better about me. If I don’t take care of myself, who will, and then how can I care for others?
Lauralli says
I just can’t even go there with the shaving. The older I get the more time and maintenance it takes and I’m worn out with it! I never even thought it would be that way!! But, I see so many women with ill fitting bras!! Come on people, buy a bra that fits right!! And, when you’re dressed up don’t forget the Spanx! I don’t care what size you are, Spanx makes everything all smoothed out!
Angela D. says
YES!!!! About the bras! About the Spanx! Certainly, I don’t wear all my best stuff (Danskos, Spanx, etc.) to do my yardwork, but when I go out with my husband I try to make a little effort. A good fitting bra is supposed to feel different than a lounge-type bra, in my opinion. My sport/running bra is also different than the others. I just cringe when I see a woman running with her breasts swinging vigorously–think of what she’s doing to all those ligaments!
YL says
Newer Danskos are much poorer quality than the older ones. I have a pair of old ones with a good footbed. I prefer Sanitas tho. The quality is far superior.
Rajena says
Sorry I’m no help with the Danskos. I’ve tried several on because I just keep hoping but they are all waaaay too skinny for my poor feet. 😛
As for the shaving, about 6 years ago in my late 20s after having my second child my facial hair decided that it should rival their father’s. He’s filipino with very little body hair which I am jealous of. Due to my dark hair my mustache was really starting to bother me and one day I just shaved it off. It was great for just a few hours and then it tormented me as those thick little hairs started growing back in. I do get 5 o’clock or earlier shadows on any hair I shave. So I learned my lesson there. Those annoying hairs look and feel much better in their natural state. I still pluck those random chin hairs and my two mole hairs that I’ve had since high school whenever I feel them though. Oh and no I will not wax because the pain is way too horrible, can barely pluck the random hair, and I refuse to spend money on such things.
I do want to stress that for those of you who do choose to shave or pay for hair removal that if your happy then I am happy for you!
One last thing, Mavis you and Mrs HB should make an outing one day and go get bra fittings. A properly fitting bra is sooooo much more comfortable.
Diana says
I’ve actually found that the older I get the less maintenance I feel like I want to do. It doesn’t bother me, it doesn’t bother my husband, and I want to show my daughters that you can be comfortable in your own skin no matter how you look! I also try to keep comments that I make about my body to a minimum around them, they just soak up so much! I occasionally look in the mirror and think I need to get my eyebrows done, but eh, I don’t really want to pay the $20! That said, I do wear makeup sometimes, and squeeze myself into some spanx if I’m wearing a tighter dress, so I suppose we all just have our own levels of vanity that matter most. To each their own!
And I have Danskos! Sometimes people at my work tease me for them (I mostly work with very fashionable people) but I also don’t have to bring two pairs of shoes to work because I can’t walk from the parking lot into the building in my fancy heels! They may not be the most trendy shoes, but they sure are comfortable and last quite some time.
Lisa MTB says
I wore Danskos for a few years (pretty much every day to work), but stopped when I started getting painful calluses on the bottoms of my feet. Never rolled an ankle, but not as comfortable overall as I wanted a work shoe to be.
No strong opinion about the shaving. I’m not much of one for committing time and money to extra maintenance, but I have noticed a few co-workers (older than me) who get a bit “stubbly” now and then, but then magically are not stubbly the next time I notice. I’m not sure how I will feel about being stubbly when I get there. My body hair is pretty light, so maybe I won’t notice or care.
I don’t think I would bring shaving up as a suggestion, though, if they don’t ask your opinion about it. That implies that YOU think they need to “fix” their face. If they’re comfortable with it, more power to them!
Jennifer says
No Danskos in my closet, they seriously don’t work with narrow feet. No on the shaving – my daughter waxes and I’ve considered using an epilator on the peach fuzz. Done that for years on my legs and now most of the hair has just given up;-)
Michelle says
I have to chime in on the face shaving- I am in my early 30’s and have had to do it for years! My chin, jawline, neck and chest all grow really coarse, long, white to black hair (and I am blond). If it was just peach fuzz I wouldn’t bother, but it is itchy, grows back in a couple of days and is something I have become extremely self conscious about, so I shave it.
My dr has ruled out PCOS (a common reason for unwanted hair growth) and thinks it may be due to excessive testosterone and has prescribed meds which has seemed to help a bit. So if some of the other “shavers” out there feel like your hair growth is abnormal talk to your doctor! Maybe there is a reason and help for it!
Kristen says
Gals, you two are such a pleasure!
1. I don’t shave the ol’ mug, but I am slightly offended by dark or wirey lady facial hair. Usually in the postmenopausal gal (less estogen = higher testosterone levels and thus dark, thick hairgrowth), but sometimes in the best of us young ones, too. I think plucking those buggars is the ticket. No shaving.
2. Danskos are my favorite shoe. Ever. Been wearing them for years. I am an old millennial (33), so I have worn them with bootcuts in the past, but now think they’re super-cute with fun socks and my skinnies. I am married, tho, and only have my beloved to impress. Take my plain-jane fashion thoughts with a grain of sea salt.
Keep it up, you two.
Emily says
Dankso shoes are the best. My old boss pretty much did all the research I will present to you. I took her advice and have been super happy with mine. I bought them for work because I’m on my feet all day, but they have become my everyday shoes. Buy a matte finish (oiled or pull-up leather). The shiny ones scuff too easily and show every mark. The matte surfaces still clean up easily. I’m in the medical field and easy wipe clean is a must. I use my older pair for gardening shoes. They are super comfortable and yes make you tall (a plus if you’re short like me). Mine stretched a bit, which is helpful for my bony feet, but did not make them too loose. Be careful on uneven surfaces! They do not flex like other shoes and that can make for unsteady footing on uneven surfaces.
MARISOL says
YES to dansko’s buy on ebay lightly used, and YES shave your face with a brand new really good razor the spa’s call it “planing” and it helps to exfoliate and open your pores so your products to absorb better 🙂
Heather says
I love my Dansko shoes! I wear them and Clarks all year long. I also have been shaving my face for about a year. I have long hair and used to be so self conscious of my fuzz and would never wear my hair back. I decided I needed to try to feel more confident and now I love rocking a pony and showing off my smooth clean face. I usually just wear moisturizer, mascara and a lip. I smile more and feel like I can get close to people without them looking at me and judging my fuzz. It’s all for me and in this season of my life I am loving my results.
Mrs HB says
Thank you so much for sharing !