Friday Thoughts
Friends! Hi.
It’s been a long while since I’ve checked in with a Friday Thoughts post, and I’ve really missed you! I’m determined to bring back Friday Thoughts with more regularity since they are some of my favorite posts to write (and to read your comments on!).
How are you? Like, really, HOW ARE YOU?
The last few months have been a whirlwind around here. I’m sure many of you feel the same way.
Here are five things that have been on my mind, and as always, I’d love to hear from you in the comments!
Life Lately
It has finally warmed up here, which means the pastures and grass are growing like crazy and we are spending a lot of time outside (weeding – SO.MANY.WEEDS).
Our fruit trees are blooming, and we just planted five more! (And by we, I mean Brian.) We already have two apple, two plum, three peach and a cherry. Now we also have two pear trees, another cherry, two apricot and one nectarine.
I have zero words of advice about growing fruit trees. Our soil is lousy. But we’re learning as we go, and hopefully this year our established fruit trees will reward us with some actual fruit (not eaten by wasps and earwigs!).
This spring has been crazier than I expected. Life certainly has a way of throwing curveballs when you least expect them. A few months ago, Brian’s position at work was unexpectedly eliminated. It definitely wasn’t something we were prepared for, but we have seen so many unique blessings come our way in the midst of it, including opportunities for Brian to start working for himself, which is something he has always wanted to do.
Within the first few days of Brian being home full-time and experiencing the to-do lists I was leaving for him as a way to “help” him keep busy during the interim of finding new employment, he politely but firmly declared he wanted a new boss. 😂
I’m grateful, more than ever, for this blogging space. I genuinely love being here because I get to interact with you, but this blog also helps provide financially for our family (which is a huge blessing right now). I’ve been intensely working on a few additional blog projects the last couple of months, and thanks to some deadlines, I don’t think I’ve ever been this sleep-deprived in my life! I think I’m seeing light at the end of the tunnel, which is good, because my kids need their mom back in non-zombie form.
As for the kids, they are busy as ever with spring sports, lining up summer jobs, working on the property (now that the weeds are growing faster than we can pull them), buying more cows at the cattle auction to raise, and all the other ups and downs and ins and outs of kid/teen life, including NEW TEENAGE DRIVERS. Pray for me.
We’ve also officially entered the phase of figuring out how to parent a young adult. Since I don’t even have the teenager chapters figured out yet, I feel like someone should probably come take my parenting license away?? 😉 I do NOT feel qualified to do this. My fake it ’til you make it motto is holding strong.
Hair Loss
Thanks to a combination of aging, thyroid issues, stress and who knows what else, my hair is STRUGGLING. I’ve never had overly thick, luscious hair, but it’s definitely thinner than ever, especially along my part line.
Just like anything health-related, google searches leave me overwhelmed (and kind of alarmed – wow, some of the proposed solutions are intense 😳).
My thyroid levels and blood work are all normal right now. I also tried Nutrafol after hearing so much about it, but I stopped taking it after a few weeks because it really upset my stomach (I think due to the biotin, which tends to make my stomach feel not so great).
Anyway. Just another fun side effect of my 40’s. Yay!
If you have any tips to share on helping thin, struggle-bus hair, I’d love to hear them!
Workout Love
Last year, I started following a weight lifting program, Sadie Active App, after seeing a friend post about it. I’ve always been *fairly* decent at moderate exercise, but I wanted to start implementing more weight training, which I’ve only done sporadically over the years. (This is completely unsponsored, I pay for my own monthly membership.)
I am hooked! This is by the far the best workout program I’ve ever done (here is Sadie’s Instagram account if you want to learn more). I’ve been doing the weight training workouts on the app since September, and I feel stronger than ever.
The thing I love most is that the app tells me exactly what to do, how many times to do it, and has videos to show the proper form. No guess work, which is exactly what I need. Also, the workouts are different every week, which is great for my personality that gets bored with repeated workouts really easily.
You can choose the “gym” setting or “home” setting. I’m mentally allergic to working out in public, so I always exercise at home. I don’t have an official home gym, just some random exercise equipment stuffed up in our bonus room.
I prefer to set the app to the “gym” setting and do the exercises at home, modifying the exercises to work with my minimal equipment.
A few key pieces of equipment I use for home workouts. The links below are affiliate links from Amazon; shop around locally or elsewhere online for the best prices.
- adjustable dumbbells
- thick booty bands (Sadie uses these a lot in the exercises)
- thinner loop exercise bands
- resistance bands
- exercise bench or step (I have an old one called the Fanny Lifter from The Firm days if anyone remembers those epic videos 😂)
Optional home equipment that can be added later or is a bonus if you already have it: kettlebells, exercise ball, pull-up bar, bar with heavier weights.
The workouts are 45-60 minutes, but can easily be shortened by cutting all the reps in half. I try to get in 3-4 weight workouts a week plus a few low-intensity cardio workouts if I have time (like walking on the treadmill, riding bikes with the fam, etc).
I can’t say enough about this workout app. I look forward to exercising (even though I know I’m going to be sore!), and it has helped me build muscle and get stronger (sorry, no flexing selfies). I love it!
K-dramas
Well, I’ve officially jumped on the K-drama train. Even though my entire extended family was waxing poetic about Crash Landing on You (as well as everyone else in the world, it seemed), I resisted. Mostly because I don’t watch TV very often, and when I do, I like to be able to multi-task. However, reading subtitles seriously restricts multi-tasking, so I resisted.
I got really sick in February and while laying in bed for over a week, I decided to finally dive in.
I watched Crash Landing on You and loved it so much, I’ve been rewatching it over the last month or so with Brian and Cam (it is extremely adorable how invested Camryn is in the characters). It also has seriously fueled my desire to travel to Switzerland. The two main characters are actually married in real life, so that’s fun for all of us at-heart romantics! You have to get through the first few quirky episodes and then it really gets good.
After a few minutes, you barely notice you’re reading subtitles. In fact, I swore I was fluent in Korean after I finished the series. 😂
For Cam’s birthday earlier this month, I gifted her this finger heart shirt {aff. link} (an endearing gesture in many K-dramas). She’s worn it almost every day since. 😍
I used to listen to a podcast or book when walking on the treadmill or riding the exercise bike. Now it’s all about K-dramas. I have zero regrets.
I’ve watched Business Proposal, Hometown Cha Cha Cha, and Crash Course in Romance. All of them fantastic for different reasons. I wasn’t a big fan of Forecasting Love and Weather or Her Private Life – didn’t finish either of those.
Cam and I just started watching Start-Up and are loving it. So far K-dramas have been clever, funny and clean, and I’m wondering if I’ll ever watch a non-subtitled show again. Oh, one word of advice: if the K-drama show has the ability to watch it dubbed over in English, don’t. I tried that with Business Proposal and it was ridiculously jarring.
Have you jumped on the K-drama train yet? If so, what are your favorites? Extraordinary Attorney Woo is next on my list to watch!
Things I’m Loving
Ok, I’ll end this with a few things I’ve been loving lately! {Affiliate links included for the things I’ve bought on Amazon – nothing is sponsored; I buy the stuff I love myself.}
- This is my favorite dress summer dress (especially after trying the famed Somerset dress that everyone raves about – it made me feel like a frumpy pioneer). This dress is flowy, light and much less expensive! I have it in green and floral pink.
- I use this foot cream every night before bed. It’s amazing.
- Do you hate melting butter and having it explode everywhere in the microwave? Yeah, me, too. I saw these microwave butter melters on Instagram, and so far, they are definitely saving my sanity.
- A while back I asked on Instagram stories about non-smearing mascara, and received hundreds of responses with recommendations of mascara to try. The top suggestions were tubing mascara, which I had never heard of before (living under a rock over here), so I decided to give it a go. First, I tried the L’Oreal Double Lash mascara that was recommended the most, but didn’t love it. I tried Thrive Causemetics liquid lash next, and I looooove it. I’ve been using it for several months now and am a super fan. It’s definitely more expensive than the every day waterproof mascara I used for years (and it’s not waterproof, but I’ve gotten used to that)…but it lasts a really long time. Yay!
- I bought this ceramic baking dish for a recent photo shoot, and it’s become one of my favorite baking pans! It would make a great Mother’s Day gift (for yourself or someone else!) 😉
- This is my favorite self-tanner. It’s very subtle, works gradually, and gives me just the hint of color I want on my lily white legs. The classic self-tanner smell is present but not overly strong. I use it a couple of times a week in the morning. Once it dries, I add a layer of the body lotion I use every day and don’t notice the smell much at all.
- My siblings and I bought this digital picture frame for my mom’s birthday earlier this year. She had an old one that she kept constantly on her kitchen counter, but we couldn’t add pictures to it remotely, so all the pictures were at least 10 years old. This new frame allows all of us kids to upload pictures via an app on her phone, which is awesome since three of us live several states away from my mom. She’s loving it!
- I bought this vacuum mop and after several months, I’m still really, really appreciating the value it adds to my life. Technically the appeal is that it vacuums and mops at the same time. I still give my floors a quick sweep before using it to minimize the amount of junk I have to clean out of it after. Because our downstairs is mostly LVP flooring and we live off a dusty long driveway and on 25 acres, my floors get n.a.s.t.y. This mop is as easy as vacuuming and I love it so much. It’s a bit of a pain to clean after but still very much worth it to me. I don’t use the cleaning solution sold with it; I just use water and it cleans spectacularly well.
Thanks for being here, friends.
Life has been a bit messy and heavy lately, particularly in respect to motherhood and all the ups and downs of that, but I also have so much to be grateful for, which means in the midst of feeling all the feelings, crying the tears and screaming in the pillows, I’m also trying to look for the blessings, too, and there are many.
Next week, I’ll be hitting the blog with a fun, free resource for kids graduating and leaving home, and there are also several phenomenal new recipes coming your way this month!
This is one of my happy places, and I’m really grateful for all of you! Love your guts! 💗
187 Comments on “Friday Thoughts”
Mel-thanks so much for introducing me to the world of K-dramas! I think you need to include an update on which K-drama shows are good or not as you try them out periodically. I’m loving all of your recommendations!
I have a random question for you and this seemed like a good spot to leave it. Im looking for a good floppy hat to wear when im working outside and i remember liking the one you wear… hows that for stalker-ish? Do you have a link?
Actually found it on another friday thoughts post!
Hi Mel. Dermatologist reader here. Here’s a plug for seeing your local dermatologist. If lab abnormalities are ruled out as a cause of your hair loss, you may have genetic hair loss or androgenetic alopecia or autoimmune hair loss. We have treatments for these now (both oral and topical) many of theses conditions require long-term treatment as they are chronic conditions. I echo what one reader said about supplements. Be careful of supplements that have biotin because they can mess with your thyroid lab levels. You can find a board-certified dermatologist by going to the American Academy of dermatology website and clicking on physician finder
Hi! Looooove your website, Mel – thank you so much! Just wanted to add a hair loss recommendation. I’ve tried over the counter and prescription products without much success. I finally found something that actually works and is worth the money… Harklinikken (Harklinikken.com). I get nothing from them, just want to share something that works for me and hopefully others. The key is their extract. My hair used to come out in the shower. Not any more. Thank you again, Mel, for helping this insecure cook produce some great things to eat! I give you full credit when anyone likes something I’ve made that’s from your site 🙂 xoxo
I’m very interested in the Sadie Active recommendation. Can anyone tell me if I can download the app to my google tv?
I am so sorry about Brian losing his job! Prayers for things to go well for him as he starts work on his own. Bless you! Thanks for all your suggestions and all you do! You bless my life and my family’s. Thank you!!! I had been wondering about the Thrive mascara, and since it has your approval, I will just on the bandwagon! Love your suggestions!!! Thanks for being a rock star Mel!
Bought my mom the ceramic baking dish for Mother’s Day and she loved it! I was waiting til she opened her gift to report back but yes she loved it! Thanks for the good idea! I also got her the Half Baked Harvest cookbook and it was the perfect gift for her! If only I could’ve given her a Mel’s Kitchen cookbook but alas, I may be waiting forever on that one
I’m just joking about the cookbook. I’ve read your updates about it and how it doesn’t feel right right now which I respect! I am just teasing because I would die if you ever did come out with one!!
My hair was falling out in droves. I started taking ProOmega 2000 fish oil by Nordic Naturals and my hair doesn’t fall out anymore. I take 2 capsules daily. I buy it from Pure Formulas. The funny thing is I was taking it for another reason and discovered it also worked for my hair.
Mel!! I’m so glad you are using the Thrive Mascara! My friend told me about it and I just had to try it. It is amazing!! I am never going back to regular mascara. Also, that dress is so cute!
Hey lady,
I love catching up with you via your blog. I too have been experiencing hair loss and anxiety about hair loss for the last year. So far, all my blood work is normal and I have no explanation. My ponytail is itty-bitty though and kinda sad. I’ve tried Minoxydil (oral and topical) with bad side effects. I’m now on Spironolactone in case it’s hormone related, but so far I haven’t found anything that consistently stops the shedding. Next stop is wig shopping and scalp tattoos? Idk. Please share if you find anything that works for you. Just want to let you know I’m sorry and you’re not alone. Happy Mother’s Day! You’re a rock star <3
Hi Mel,
Super excited that you are finally on the K-drama train! I highly recommend Navilleria – it’s not the typical romance drama but amazing if you, Cam or any of your boys ever dreamt of being a dancer! Chocolate is a good one too, especially for foodies. Also would love to see a Korean corn dog recipe on your site, after you finish watching Start-Up!
For hair loss, try The Ordinary Multi-peptide Hair Serum. It’s affordable, one bottle lasts forever, and it’s super easy to use (a few drops each night massaged in with a silicon scalp massager or fingers).
Thanks for keeping us updated! I love your Friday Thoughts!
Buy worms from Uncle Jim’s worm farm to improve the soil around your fruit trees. Make sure they have something to eat to help them get started – like mix in some organic food scraps (no egg shells or citrus) or compost. I also highly recommend Neem oil for organic pest control on fruit trees. I like Captain Jack’s premixed.
What was the night cream you liked from Doterra? I can’t access it.
Thank you for sharing the ups and downs. As far as the hair loss goes, my adult daughter had this happen a year ago due to some intense stress. She lost more than half of her hair. She saw a dermatologist and he prescribed a shampoo like rogaine for a few months. Evidently women only need to use it for a short term to reverse the affects of hair loss. Men need to use it long term for the same results. Good luck! I’ve already tried your favorite self tanner and I love it! Thanks for being such an integral part of our family eating. We are BFF’s that haven’t met yet.
Mel, you always keep things real, that’s why I keep coming back to your blog. I wish I could offer help with the thinning hair, but I’ve been blessed with a mane of thick wavy hair. I’v always said it was all the “beans and tortillas” I ate as a child to anyone who’s ever asked! I hope you find something that will help, but honestly, your hair looks fine (no pun intended).
Oh my goodness! That pintrest saying about the ponytail and young colonial man had me laughing out loud. Thanks I needed that. And thanks for the Friday thoughts, always a welcomed read. =^..^=
I went out and bought tubing mascara immediately. Love. How is this not the new standard for mascara?! I can’t stand false eyelashes and mascara was bugging me so much I had just stopped wearing it completely. I am so happy it’s an option again for me! Thanks, Mel!
When I bring up Thrivecausemetics it brings up Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara. Is that what you use? It shows several different mascaras from Thrivecausemetics.
I agree totally on the Jergens Self Tanning lotion. It is the best I have ever used. I really enjoy your blog and the recipes are just the best. Thanks
Yes, I use the liquid lash extension mascara!
Our bodies start to change again when we hit our 40s- I once heard it called reverse puberty and that’s not too far off! I recently read an excellent book called The Upgrade: How the female brain gets stronger in midlife and beyond, by Dr. Louise Brizendine MD. I can’t recommend it enough for any women in their 40’s and beyond. It helps explain all of the hormonal and body changes that start to happen and gives many great ideas on how to get the help you need from your medical resources and advocate for your health. She divides the process into 3 “transitions” and gives great descriptions of each and how to manage them to have an ‘upgrade’ not a ‘downgrade’ as we age.
Thank you!! I am going to check that book out!!
I’m 54 and have had great success with adding 5 drops of Rosemary essential oil to my shampoo for hair thinning. Don’t use it straight – mix it in with your shampoo in your hand, put on your head to lather spending some time scrubbing it into your scalp. Leave on for about 5 mins while you wash the rest of you and rinse. It smells great and I definitely feel like my hair is thicker and fuller. My hair stylist told me it is working for many of her clients. Best of luck! I love your life updates 🙂
Hello!
I came here to look at family reunion info!
Thank you so much for many years of loving & using your recipes. I appreciate your efforts and your facebook recipe posts. Your the best.
Self Tanner: that one is the best. Have used it for years for my pale skin. Plus loads of sunblock, UPF shirts & hats.
Thrive Causmetics mascara: The only one I’ve used for many years. I ue their subscription! I love their story & mission statement.
Try CeraVe lotions, creams, sunblock, cleansers, etc. My Derm Doc recommended for my angry sun-allergic/Rosacea, POD skin.
Thinning hair: ugghh, it’s a struggle! Mine started thinning in my early 50’s. I’m a (mostly retired) hairdresser & many clients found success using Nioxin (nioxin.com for info). I’d recommend trying their starter kit #4. It’s for progressed thinning & color treated hair, but works just fine if your NOT color treated. Ask a hairdresser friend to get it for you at a professional beauty supply to try it out. It would be less expensive if they are willing to get it for you. The kits are around $37 at our cost. Dont buy from Ulta (expensive!) or Amazon (not sold by Nioxin, but by 3rd party=more$$). If JCPenney salon is still in your area, their salon might have it & usually on sale.
I don’t recommend trying the current internet/social media fads/trends. Rosemary oil? Yikes. Search youTube for it and watch Dr. Dray, who talks no-nonsense about it (board certified Derm Doc, who uses evidence based info). Also, ask your Derm Doc what they recommend for you).
Apologies for the length, but I hope something helps you out!
Hi Mel!
I’ve been following you for many years – thank you for being such a warm and cozy place on the internet and such a trusted resource.
Just replying to your bit about figuring out hair loss etc. I have Hashimoto’s, which is an autoimmune disease that attacks the thyroid. I have lost hair (among other symptoms). Your Thyroid numbers can test normal if you have Hashimoto’s so get the antibody test just to make sure!
Hope all is well, thank you for all you do!
♥️Wendy
As always, thanks for sharing. My best advice with your young adults is to read Doing Life With Your Adult Children by Jim Burns. Transformative book with practical tools.
I just LOVED Extraordinary Attorney Woo! I hope they make a second season. It was wonderful, I think you’ll love it too. <3
I really enjoyed reading your blog today. For sure ordering the butter melters.
Loved this post…so real, honest and relatable.
I am a long time reader but seldom if ever, post a comment.
I could not be help identify with your hair loss woes. Due to stress and various health issues along with age, I too have been struggling. I think I have tried every shampoo and serum out there. I have finally found a few things that work…but patience is called for.
I use a DHT blocker shampoo..WOW Apple Cider Vinegar…that I massage into my scalp and let sit for 5-10 minutes before actually washing my hair. I also mix it up with a bar shampoo made with rice water for a company called VIORI.I am kind of shampoo and conditioner obsessed.
I have been taking VIVISCAL for over a year and have noticed a difference in the width of my part line.
I recently discovered a product called REVELA. It is a non greasy serum I use nightly…massaging small amount into the areas having the most thinning…part line and back of my head.
Finally, I massage in rosemary oil on the evening before I plan to wash my hair. I only was my hair every three days.
Yep…it is seems like a lot but I am determined to make things better and this whole route seems to have had some positive results. It could be one or some or all of the things I am using. Unfortunately, have not been too scientific in my “throw everything at the wall and see what sticks” approach but I do see some improvement so it is all worth it.
Thanks for the great recipes. Your chip cookie recipe with the ground oatmeal is a super favorite that I make often.
Kdrama for life!!
Okay my favorite is also Romance is A Bonus Book.
It’s truly incredible and probably one of the best ones with crash landing on you!! Let me know which others you watch ♥️♥️
Love your updates and your content Mel. Thanks for being a constant source of deliciousness in my life
seriously with parenting young adults….!
Best of luck to your husband and you starting a business. I am sure it will be well worth it! My husband and I started a business a few years ago and we never looked back. As for your hair, I think it looks great from the photos you post but there’s nothing wrong with getting a little hair topper. It is instant success 🙂
Love ya Mel!
Thanks for keepin it real.
I had some basal skin cancer removed on top of my head. That left a big hairless chunk of head to be seen and exposed to the sun. Surprisingly, that new skin is quite sensitive and painful in our desert sunshine. Solution….hair topper made from real human hair. It has been a lot of fun. It covers that sensitive skin. I have thin hair, but this has given me a new appearance by adding hair.
I hope you come back and share what you learned about eyebrows.
Thank you for your great work! You are the go to for my daughters and I.
Thanks for sharing. As a mom of a teen son, your post was relatable and affirming that motherhood can have ups and downs, but like you mentioned, there’s a lot to be grateful for. I can also relate to what you said about body changes as I am 1 month away from 40. It’s really hard sometimes. You’re going to feel such a sense of relief when you wrap up your projects. You’ll have to treat yourself!
Hi Mel, so great to hear from you! Sounds like life is somewhat parallel to ours here. Good luck with parenting, the other kids. As for hair loss, several years ago, an acquaintance randomly told me if I ever suffered from hair loss, that started taking fish oil tablets. A few months later, my hair mysteriously started thinning terribly. I followed her suggestion, and it worked— 1000mg of fish oil every day.. I’m struggling again now, after a severe illness this winter. I’ve started up the fish oil tablets again, and I’m hoping it helps. But I do remember it takes about a month to kick in. (And the after burps are gross.)♀️ Good luck (for both of us!) finding a good solution! Looks like you’ve got several good suggestions here!
Hi Mel, I’m sorry about Brian’s job. That is so stressful to go through! And hair loss on top of that. Ugh. Not fun. I have thyroid issues and deal with hair loss occasionally. My endocrinologist recommended that I take a supplement of calcium, magnesium and zinc to help with it. This is what I take: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Made-Calcium-Magnesium-Vitamin/dp/B000OD1F7U. It’s helped me. Hopefully it might help you!
We are watching Crash Landing on You right now and love it!! My Hubby is Korean so sometimes will tell me that the translation is off, but by and large it’s pretty darn close! We have also loved Hometown Cha Cha Cha, which I know you said you watched, but also loved Clean With Passion For Now and Vincenzo!!! Highly recommend both of those! K Drama’s seem to be masters at perfectly timed and chosen music in my humble opinion. I too am pretty sure I now speak Korean, but my Hubby points out that really isn’t the case when I ask him to turn up the volume : )
Thanks Mel for the heads up on mascara and k- dramas so I don’t fell so duddy and out of it to my daughters !
My friend used caster oil for herhair bald spot. Look it up on line. It really worked for her.
I love your Friday thoughts. I love that summer dress, but it needs to come in petite/shorter lengths. I’ve never heard of tubing mascara, but I think I’ll give it a try, even on days when I go makeup free, often I’ll add mascara. I just saw a website for JustFashionNow clothing. Looks super-cute, will you be the guinea pig and try some for us? I remember back a few years when my kids got out of high school, I think I actually enjoyed that stage more than any other, probably because I thought now I’ll see if all the parenting I’ve invested in them will really pay off (it did!) They are wonderful, responsible, caring adults. I pray for parents who have difficulties since there are no guarantees.
Hey Mel, I don’t know if I’m missing something but how do I find the recipes in order of how you posted them ? I mean, I’ve been here for years and years and I know that besides you putting recipes into categories, they used to be in order from newest to oldest. I can’t find the newest to oldest so I don’t know what the last recipe you posted is.
Hi Mel, been following your blog pretty much from the beginning and I have a binder of all my favorite ‘Mel’ recipes.
HAIR LOSS, ugh! It happened to me after having Covid. My hair was falling out like crazy. I found a product called Hair Renew by Terry Naturally Vitamins. It not only stopped my hair from falling out, but I have new growth as well. It does have some Biotin, but it’s the millet seed oil that helps tremendously with hair growth. It is a little pricey, but it was worth it to try because they have a money back guarantee. I’ve been taking it 6 months now, I love it and the only downside is that I have to keep coloring my roots, lol. Hope this helps. Sorry to hear about Brian’s job. We’ve been there. God provided a way through. Take care!
I’ve been fighting with thinning hair for years. Been to four doctors. No answers. My hair use to be quite thick. I’ve decided part of life ugh! Good luck hope you find help. Love your blog❤️
Thank you for all the comments, feedback, support, suggestions – EVERYTHING! I’m just getting caught up on all the comments…and I’ll respond to specific questions as I get to them. Sure appreciate all of you!
Hi Mel,
I’m a huge fan of podcasts. The Huberman Lab is one of my favorites! It’s very scientific, but gives actionable advice based on science. Here’s an episode about hair:
https://youtu.be/6ZrlsVx85ek
I think your hair looks great but I was super frustrated with my thin hair and was daydreaming about having thick luscious hair. I tried all the creams and vitamins and nothing made a noticeable difference. Then, I actually bought a hair topper from uniwigs. I was fully planning on returning it once i got it because I was sure it would look unnatural but I. LOVE. IT….it looks so natural and it gives you that thick look. Seriously. I scoffed at the idea for so long but so so so glad I got it. A hair topper is not a full wig, it is just a little extra on top. They seriously need to pay me for promoting them
My husband says that everyone warns you about the terrible 2’s and teenagers but he found the most challenging age to parent the young adult years. You move into an advisory role and they may or may not listen and frequently have the funds to do what they want anyway. 🙂 enjoy!!
You must watch “My Mister” K-Drama… between the storylines, acting and music score… it’s a classic in every sense.
It’s always fun to find other k-drama fans! I second the distaste for the dubbed versions and the problems with reading subtitles when I want to be doing handwork while I watch.
Nice to know I have likeminded “sisters” out there! Thanks for the contact, Mel!
Hi Mel,
Thank you for the wonderful recipes which I have been using for a long time. You are very talented. Love your Friday thoughts. I use Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides from Costco for my osteoporosis and it helps my hair which has been falling out from hypothyroidism and Covid. My hair still falls out, but is thicker than it used to be. Good Luck! Kids just need lots of love and encouragement, no matter what age they are. Adults included. I wish I had great answers for you, but Heavenly Father can help you. You are amazing!
Hi Mel, YES to the Tineco — I love mine too! — I have the LVP flooring as well and can’t use their cleaner b/c of the flooring warranty — but I can use the Bona Hard-Surface Floor Cleaner – Machine Formulation, Lemon Mint — it works wonderfully and smells so nice!
Now, about the hair loss — I have some experience with this that I hope you find helpful… I was turning 50, hypothyroid, and started noticing lots of hair in the shower — a shocking amount that made my doctor’s jaw drop when I brought it with me to show her. I could run my fingers through a section of hair, remove 6-7 strands (with follicles I noticed), then immediately run through the same section and get another 6 strands — over and over. You should have seen my hairbrush – I had to be ultra careful when cooking b/c I was shedding so much. It was so weird, but I felt fine.
The doctor ran bloodwork — and everything – TSH, hgb, etc was fine. I searched and studied the internet and learned that if your body needs iron, it will take the ferritin from your hair follicles to keep your blood levels up. This means that your hgb level will be “normal”, but meanwhile your hair is falling out. Doctors don’t generally run a ferritin level test because of the cost and I couldn’t convince the nurse to tell the doctor that I needed one (because as she kept saying — my hgb was fine), so I decided to try increasing my over the counter iron (as ferrous sulfate) that I had been already taking for a number of years – from 65mg to 130mg per day and see if it would help. Within about 6 weeks the massive hair loss slowed, then stopped, and hasn’t returned. I still take the 130mg every day, my bloodwork still comes back “normal” but my hair isn’t falling out anymore.
Hi Mel, please look at the ingredients in your self tanner -bht and parabens. Try to find one without them. May be contributing to your hair loss as they are endocrine/hormone disrupters. Speaking from experience….thanks for all you do
Oh Mel…these Friday thoughts are not only yours, but I think they are right in line with the other 98% of humans populating this planet. The struggles (and abundant blessings) of this life are REAL! Thank you for sharing them with us and simply being relatable when so much around us isn’t these days!
I too feel no shame in my K-drama habit! Here’s a few I’ve enjoyed recently: Twenty Five Twenty One (think Cam would enjoy this one), The Kings Affection, Crash Course in Romance, 100 Days My Prince, Rookie Historian, Beauty Inside, When My Love Blooms, Because This Is My First Life, She Would Never Know. Okay, that’s more than a few…but really, Hallmark has taken a back seat in the entertainment department!
And parenting young adults…well, I find myself on my knees more than ever! Just remember, they are your Heavenly Father’s child as well- and He’s there to help guide and fill in for us when we feel that we’re lacking, which believe me, can be often. I’m in my 60’s with young adults still at home and it’s an interesting journey- but they are teaching and growing me, just as much as when they were young children. All I can say is, embrace the journey!
I always love all your product suggestions, and recipes, of course. I just bought your favorite dress, as a matter of fact. 🙂 I have the same issue with my hair right now, also in my 40s with thyroid issues. I look forward to seeing what people suggest. Be sure to tell us what you try! You are a voice on the internet I have found I can trust. I’ve tried your recipes a bazillion times and always love them, and have tried products you’ve suggested, and you never let me down. Thanks for being here!! I’m grateful for YOU!
Monat shampoo and conditioner have been a game changer for my thin, flat hair. It’s expensive but well worth it.
Haha – back again to say I also can’t wait to see what your blog projects on a deadline are! And going for some more on-a-whim purchases from your links. I’m considering them my “Happy Mother’s Day to me” gifts. 🙂
Btw I loooove my Tineco so dang much. Bought it after you recommended previously and wish I had had it 20 years sooner. The best purchase I have made in prob the last 5 years!
My hair started to thin from stress so I was taking B1 to help with that. Then I got COVID and it started up again. Can’t win! Go see a dermatologist. They can help figure out what the problem is as it’s a scalp/skin issue. With mine, only time is going to help, so I’m trying to not grit my teeth and wait. I’m practicing zen. 😉
Mel, thanks for a Friday update. Even though I love your recipes and have used them since your first few blogs years ago, I think the Friday posts are my favorite. I’m in my 60’s and went through some fun teenage years with my three (two are adopted from Korea so the Korean shows on Netflix are a must around here). Believe me, you’ll get through it and suddenly your adult children become your friends. Your best friends. It’s great. Sometimes it’s hard to like who they date, but that’s another hurdle. Good luck to you and Brian and your beautiful children. God bless.
Thank you for all the honesty. It helps all of us to know that we’re not in this alone. Just wanted to add a little note to the conversation about thinning hair. Mine started to thin in my 40s and I am otherwise very healthy so we had to chalk it up to heredity. This was really rough because my hair was the one thing I never had to worry about in life. I tried some regrowth strategies for a while but found that nothing really helped me. But I’ve found some great hair care products that give my hair a lot of fullness. The best one I’ve found is Bumble and Bumbles Great Body Blow Dry Cream. It gives my hair an overall thicker look. I also use just a dab of Tea Tree firm hold gel at the roots. This also contributes to a look of lift and fullness. Gee. I feel like I’m in a commercial.
As far as raising young adults goes, I’ve been doing that for a while and yes, there are some tears. There is a natural season of breaking away from parents as kids figure out their path. Stay grounded as a person and communicate love. Like so many others, I’ve loved your recipes over the years. They’ve brought my family together in delicious ways. They’ve impressed my book club. They never let me down. All my love to you and yours.
Hey Mel! Love your Friday thoughts post and hearing how your life is going. I am definitely going to check out the work out app! I could use something easy to follow and modifiable for home, sounds perfect! Sorry to hear about the hair loss struggle. I definitely agree with other comments to look into functional medicine. It can be a variety of things that are root causes of hair loss. Functional practitioners are trained in this area and can be of great help! Personally I have had help with functional medicine recently in other areas and am finally starting to get better. Things that regular doctors/medicine are not trained in.
I’m almost 50, and have experienced a tremendous amount of hair loss earlier this year (we think from covid). It did stop, thankfully. I’ve been using hair spritz from Rowe casa organics. You just spray it on washed, wet hair. Smells amazing and has made my hair so so soft! It’s also growing. Like, a lot!! You just need consistent use! Highly recommend!
I love your Friday Thoughts! It made me smile to see this post. Wishing many blessings to you and your family (especially for your husband’s new employment!)
Hi Mel! I also have struggled with thyroid and stress related hair loss. I tried sooo many over the counter “cures” but ultimately what helped the most was getting a prescription for Minoxidil at my dermatologist. Could be something to ask your derm if you’d like to go that route. ❤️
I have had wild swings in my thyroid levels for over 50 years and can relate to all of the issues that go along with it. I have lost all of my body hair and eyebrows but luckily still have the hair on my head. What jumped out at me while reading your wonderful blog was your comments about biotin. I get my thyroid levels checked every 6 months and there is always a note from the lab saying that biotin will interfere with the thyroid tests, so I now stay away from anything that might include it (multiple vitamins, enriched cereals, etc). On a lighter note, I (and my family) love your recipes! When I try a new recipe, my husband and son will ask if it’s a Mel’s. When I say yes, they always approve! Hang in there, we all love you!
Let me start by saying, Morgan is extremely happy you have jumped on the K-drama wagon. She has watched and loved all the ones you mentioned. Except she did also love Her Private Life. She said you might need to be a K-pop fan to appreciate that one, which she is. BTS baby! I have only watched Crash Landing and now you know why I am going to Switzerland this summer? I laughed when you said you felt like you were fluid in Korean by the end…I felt the same way! It’s so weird how that happens.
I bought the self tanning lotion you mentioned. Let’s hope it does something for my super white, veiny, old lady legs. That might be asking a lot.
I recently started using a tubing mascara too. And I didn’t even know that is what it was when I got it. The first time I washed it off I was like “what is happening?!” But it’s great! I use Big Sky by Maybeline. It’s a lot cheaper than the one you linked, but I am curious to try the one you are using.
Sorry to hear about the hair loss, but your meme about looking like a young colonial man was the funniest thing I read all day. I feel like I am having a little hair loss happening at my part, but nothing too bad yet. So I am interested to see what people say in these comments for future possibilities. Hair loss should not be a problem allowed to happen to women.
Anyway, love your guts and have been thinking about you lots during this crazy time of life. You’ve got this!
Mel- you are the best!!!
Try watching Masquerade (look up Masquerade Korean movie on Amazon Prime). It is a Korean movie drama set in the Joseon period and has all the elements of K-drama. Great characters, humor, action. My teenage kids loved it! On TV I loved Vincenzo – so many funny things! I’m in the middle of Crash Landing on You and love it! Thanks for the recommendations!
Mel, I don’t know where you live, but losing your hair is not normal! Chances are your doctor checked 2 or 3 thyroid levels to tell you your results are “normal”, but did you know there are actually 12 thyroid markers? You really need to have them all checked to get the full picture, but unfortunately, traditional doctors are not trained on the non-standard testing in medical school, so they know nothing about them, nor how to interpret them. You need to find a Functional Medicine Dr who has learned about comprehensive testing and who can get to the root cause of your symptoms. The one I follow is licensed to practice in AZ, TX, and CO. She has a Facebook page – Happy, Healthy and Lean: Women Overcoming Low Thyroid. She does comprehensive testing – those 12 thyroid markers, as well as full hormone levels and over 100 tests to drill down and figure out what is causing your symptoms. Unfortunately, most of what ails us is related to the chemicals and unhealthy things we put into our bodies – gluten, soy, white sugar, etc. if you live in any of those three states, I highly recommend looking her up (Heather Stone), but if not, try to find a Functional Medicine Dr. In your area. Good luck!
Totally agree regarding the thyroid issue connection with diet and chemicals you use on the skin & ingest. I have the same issues with stress & hair loss. You need to get to the root cause. Functional doctors are the better choice.
Mel!!!
Omg, I believe I was the person who strongly recommended you watch Crash Landing on You ( I’m sure there were others but I still want the credit ). After watching Crash Landing we watched Start-up and loved it. We also watched all the other ones you mentioned and we loved them all. We are on our 75th Kdrama ( that is all we watch now)! My husband keeps saying we need an intervention but we don’t care. We love them. Since we’ve watched so many, it is hard to know what to recommend but here are a few: Descendants of the Sun, Search WWW, What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim, Legend of the Blue Sea, Romance is a Bonus Book, The Inheritors , My Holo Love. Do NOT waste your time with The Interest of Love because it’s super boring and the all the actors are depressing! When you’re done with these, let me know and I have 65 more to recommend.
Actually, I think we may need an intervention after all !
(Do NOT waste your time with
Mel… can I just say…I love you… you are so normal and relatable… and you made me a pretend chef…. the kitchen is my happy place because of you! Now I’m going to go find out what the heck a kdrama is… right after I order some butter melting pots! Hang in there friend… you’ve made our lives richer and we love you for it!
I, too, have hypothyroidism… my stylist recommended Nioxin shampoo and conditioner and it has made a difference!
You got me started on K dramas! I had knee replacement surgery six weeks ago so I had a LOT of down time! I am glad you are going to start Extraordinary Attorney Woo… so good!
Thanks for all you do, and for keeping it real for us!
Thyroid issues, iron levels, and hair loss go hand in hand. I have been there! “Normal” vs “Optimal” levels are very different. I hope your doctor is running a full thyroid panel and not just TSH and Free T4. There is also a full iron panel that is very beneficial to get a full picture of what’s going on and includes four tests- TIBC, ferritin, %saturation, and serum iron. Stop the Thyroid Madness is a great website and book to learn lots of info about optimal levels. I also like Isabella Wentz too for info about optimal levels. Most people need more than just a T4 do reining medication like Synthroid. We need T3 too!
Love your recipes and blogs!
Mel, a friend of mine had hair loss and she used Viviscal to help it grow back. I’m not sure if it contains biotin, but she really found some good results with it. Check it out!
I enjoy your posts!
Hi Best Friend Mel ❤️,
I was having a lot of hair loss a couple of years ago (I have super thick hair) and I was freaking out. I blame it on perimenopause. I started taking Silica supplements and it seemed to help me. Also I washed as little as possible and stopped using heat for a while and the loss tapered off. Hope that helps. Thanks for all YOU do. You’re amazing.
Lots of love from Michigan!
Hair retention: I take Viviscal tablets and use the Bondi Boost procapil hair tonic daily.
I’ve come to the conclusion I will never have thick, beachy hair, but I’m going to get what I have as healthy as possible.
Mel- my sister and I were just talking about you last week! We both said that you are the best friend we have never met!! You’re adorable and we wish you and your family well.
Post Covid I had a friend who was loosing her hair by the handful. She did so much research and found Crisan Hair Oil!
https://crisanbeauty.com/products/crisan-extreme-hair-strengthening-hair-care-oil?selling_plan=2888990944
I tried it and loved it too! The link above is to the Crisan website. You can leave the oil on your hair overnight or add other ingredients to make a hair mask and leave it on for just 30-40 minutes and then you wash it out! I really love this- at least check it out! The gal that creates this oil has long thick hair below her waist!! She gives all the credit to the oil-!
Wishing you best of luck- know you are loved!!!
Thank you for sharing your tender feelings and for looking for the best in situations. Thank you for your product recommendations! Very helpful!
I don’t usually respond to blogs, but I have been following you quietly for a long time. (I rarely follow anyone, but you struck a chord with me). I also have thyroid issues. The absolute best thing I ever did was move to an organic, non- synthetic medicine. In Canada that would be Erfa Natural Dessicated Thyroid. In the US it is Armour and I think there is another. Within 2 weeks of trying someone else’s “NDT”, my hands went from looking like an 80 year old (there is Nothing wrong with 80 year old skin except I was 45 at the time.). My hair improved. Brain fog left. 20 years later, I am still on it. You will probably have to fight to be on it.
Good luck. Thank you for everything.
I’m leaving this comment to validate you on the Somerset dress. It was way too much volume for me and not at all flattering. Also, I recently started a supplement containing Biotin and have had stomachaches, so maybe you just solved my problem for me?? Thanks for the exceptional recipes and everything else you provide!
Maybe not for everyone, but this practitioner I’ve had many sessions with, has had quite a bit of success helping people with thin hair and/or hair loss: lightsourcehealing.com
Ps I LOVE LOVE LOVE your recipes!!! It’s almost all I ever use
Gosh, Mel, I just love you. And I love these posts. I want to celebrate all the good and hug you for all the tough. Sadly, I am no help in the areas you are needing, but just know that I think you are the absolute best!
Love these posts, Mel! For the thinning hair- my hair loss was intense for a year before my Dr thought to check my iron levels- they were so, so low and low iron causes hair loss! Good one to have checked.
I struggle a bit with hair loss, I’m 41 and have 4 kids. I mostly notice it around my part line as well, it’s not bad, but it bugs me. I blame part of it on hormone fluctuations, as my oldest is 16 and my youngest is 3 so lots of pregnancies and nursing. That being said, I also struggle with iron deficiency. I find when I focus on increasing iron, it really helps. Since I started eating eggs for every breakfast, it has helped significantly. Maybe it’s just a coincidence, hard to say.
We have kids almost the same ages and I feel you SO hard!
Also, please give recs for HS graduation gifts for boys!
I USE COLLAGEN TABLETS FROM NEOCELL YOU CAN GET LOWER BIOTIN LEVELS ON SOME
Hi! I love reading your thoughts. Thanks for always openly sharing! Just thought I would share what is working for my hair loss lately. I was losing a bunch of hair after using some products that claimed to be clean and free of a bunch of toxins. I started using Viori shampoo and conditioner bars and I am losing WAY less hair than ever and I’m seeing a lot of regrowth too. They have worked great for me, so I hope they can help you too!
Just a side note…have you tried seeing a functional medicine doctor for your health issues? Even just a super detailed blood test reading might help??
Hair loss, hair thinning could also be hereditary, peri menopause perhaps? Whatever the reason behind it, I would discuss with your doctor.
I will also take this opportunity to encourage all of you to get your mammograms REGULARLY. Don’t be afraid of the “what if”. Here in Ontario Canada we get checked regularly every 2 yrs starting at age 50 unless you have a family history. I don’t but I had breast cancer at age 50. It was caught early because of the mammo. Surgery, Chemo and radiation followed but it will be 7 years this July that I’m cancer free! Get checked!
I am trying out the Sadie app this year let your recommendation! Liking it so far when I can fit it in between nursing and homeschooling and kids activities. My husband served his mission in Korea and recently he started watching a Korean dating show on Netflix called Singles Inferno. At first I wouldn’t watch and I told him he was weird (I’m not a dating show fan) but then I really got into it, haha. It was so cute and funny and clean. I just might need to watch some of your recs now. 🙂
Hi Mel. Hang in there sister. With all of your challenges you are still providing positive uplifting worthwhile content. You are an incredible force for good in your home, on social media and in the world. You are my go to for recipes and dinner ideas. Thank you for being a bright spot in my life.
Hi Mel
So sad your husband lost his job but it’s great that he can now pursue his dream. Teenagers are tough but as I learned over the years that once they grow up they make really good friends (I am 70 so probably older than most of your readers but dont feel it)( it helps that I work with a lot of young people.
I’m impressed with your work. Life is really hard sometimes. I recently had to place my husband of 49 years in a memory care facility for Alzheimer’s. Talk about a life changing event but it’s what was necessary. I guess what I’m saying is that sometimes life is good and bad. Hang in there .
I enjoy your blog and website and recipes
Life is heavy lately. Sorry yours is likewise. Love these thoughts whenever you find the time for them.
Aren’t the 40’s awesome!!! 😉 My hair was falling out SO bad! I also had the same experience with Nutrafol and my thyroid numbers were all normal. I’m sure my husband was sick of me complaining about the clumps of hair falling out each time I washed it so he did some research. He found that dry shampoo can contribute to hair loss. I stopped using dry shampoo and my hair no longer falls out!!! Still a strand here and there, but NOTHING like it used to!! If you use dry shampoo, maybe stop for a couple of months and see if you can tell a difference. I wasn’t even a big user! Just a once or twice a week. Good luck! And parenting young adults is SOOOO hard! Hang in there!
I usually don’t comment but would love to share my experience with hair loss (or should I say my husbands). A friend of mine posted a while back that a couple months after she had Covid she started losing clumps of hair and shared that she bought it from Costco online. (Some warehouses carry it) so I tried it for both my husband and I since Covid did a number on our hair loss. My husband had always lost massive amounts of hair our entire 45 years of marriage. After using Pura dor anti hair thinning shampoo and conditioner (it has tons of herbs in it) after even two weeks we noticed a difference. After a month I’ll never go back. It’s amazing. Make sure to follow the directions and leave on for the two minutes. I also found this at some grocery outlet stores. (Not sure you have those by you)
Life is SO busy and it’s always throwing curve balls right?! So grateful for the experiences we have and for the lessons learned but man, they can take it all out of you!
I am 41 and as of last fall I started using doTERRA’s vitamin pack and their new MetaPWR line. I have NEVER felt better. My hair is thick and long! It’s growing like crazy. That is due in part to me filling in all the gaps in my nutrition with the vitamins but also the collagen product is incredible! I’ve lost weight, my mood has stabilized, my joints feel better, my skin has cleared up (why in the world I was struggling with acne at 40 is beyond me!), my mind is clearer. I could go on and on. I will never go back.
I’d like to say it was just me but my husband has had the same results. He told me the other day that he will never not take the collagen because his injured shoulder and knee that have hurt and limited him for years feel great again. We had been trying the collagen available at Costco and it did nothing for us.
If you want to know more of my story I’d love to tell you about it.
Keep hanging in there! This raising kids/teens business is TOUGH! My oldest is about to graduate but has special needs so it’s a whole different kind of parenting now. Figuring out what and where he fits best is tricky.
Sending so much love to you! Thanks for providing this amazing blog that is my first go to for dinners always!
I just wanted to let you know that I was having dramatic hair loss about 6 months ago. I thought it was due to new medical issues but my doctor ran some tests and all was normal.
While talking to the doctor we figured out that as I was taking a multi vitamin, I was also taking hair, skin and nails vitamins. In my mind the more biotin the more it would help my hair thinning.
We realized I was getting too much biotin. I stopped the hair, skin and nails and within a week I could tell a Complete difference. My significant hair loss is gone and my hair is coming back fuller then ever.
Sorry such a long email but it may be a solution for you.
Oh my goodness! So happy for a Friday Thoughts! I’ve been tempted to email you and tell you “we” need a Friday Thoughts post…because I love them too. Sorry to hear you are having thyroid issues. My levels are not good so I’ve been researching the heck out of it. When my doctor told me, I had 7 out of the 8 symptoms so I feel you on the hair loss. I’ve never had thick hair either so what I have lost is sad. From my research, stress and grief are what brought my thyroid issues on, in my opinion. My brother passed away 2.5 years ago and it was hard…still is. You shared about your friend Holli’s passing and so many times I thought to email you and I never did. But I thought about you and her family a lot and prayed for all of you. I don’t have any solutions yet for thinning hair or anything of the other symptoms. When I do my research, there are so many opinions out there that it makes me just not do anything other than try and reduce my stress and eat healthier.
Our Beloved Summer is so good too. I told me husband I felt like I was also fluent in Korean after watching it.
I was never much of a tv watcher but I did jump on the K-drama train about a year ago. ha ha and I agree completely that you can’t watch the English dubs. I’ve loved the ones you mentioned. I’ve been contemplating a subscription to Viki to watch What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim. I saw the free episodes and enjoyed them. It usually takes 4-5 episodes for me to decide and they can’t bring the drama in too early. They rope me in with quirky characters and comedy and then when the drama hits, I’m too far gone. I think I cried through half of Hometown Cha cha cha but it was too late to stop. 🙂
I so admire your honest sharing and brave perspectives. Thank you. I am a mom of 7, (a single mom for 7 years), most of my long ago parenting years done in Montana. Now I get to enjoy grandchildren and 1 great grand. There will be “sleep-over” nights for you ahead, flashlight night walks looking at the moon and the secret “bush tunnels” in the neighborhood, in-the-dark whispers of “I love you, Grandma”. Stay the course. Keep seeing and collecting the small miracles that affirm faith, hope and love. Thank you for the gifts you share with so many; your recipes fill our tummies and feed our souls.
Love you Mel! I can relate to adjusting to being the parent of a young adult. It doesn’t seem to get easier. Just a different kind of challenge/experience. Thanks for sharing some of your favorite things! I think I may have to give Sadie a try! I’m glad to hear your thyroid levels are normal. I have Hashimotos so I’m always trying to avoid stressing my thyroid function. I always say the thyroid effects everything a girl wants to be working well…hair growth, metabolism, energy levels, and mood!
Mel, I love your Friday Thoughts posts. Thanks for being real (and being a trusted source for my purchases-on-a-whim that I know I will love; my feet and lashes thank you!).
Being a parent to young adults is sometimes wonderful and sometimes heartbreaking. Truly. So many of us are right there with you praying for wisdom.
Wishing Brian success with his new career path, and you success with juggling all the things!❤️
I started watching Crash Landing on You after you recommended it on Instagram. My husband came in and said, “are you purposely watching a show with subtitles?” Yep! I’m loving it. Thanks for the recommendation!
If you are on thyroid medication that is what is making your hair fall out.
Just finished season 1 of Extraordinary Attorney Woo and loved it! It’s pretty hilarious! First intro into k-drama and excited to try more!
Thanks Mel and hang in there with the rest of us moms trying to figure things out! Your Friday thoughts always give me a good laugh and a much needed boost. ❤️❤️
I’ve recently started using Viori bar shampoo and conditioner, the Citrus Yao scent (https://viori.com/). I’ve always had thin hair and it always got greasy the day after washing it. Since I’ve been using Viori, my hair is surprisingly fuller and I only have to wash it one or two times a week (which is a huge level up for me).
I love your Friday Thoughts posts! I have yet to figure out parenting teenagers too. It is challenging! And also fun because they are great. I started using the Sadie Active app in December because you mentioned it and I LOVE it!! I’m feeling stronger all the time and it’s the best!
God bless you for being real!! Motherhood is an amazing, crazy, humbling adventure!! 5 kids at different levels of appreciating (or not there, yet) of what we did/sacrificed/ tried to achieve as a family. Pray as you go! Your relationship with each kids is different!
Your hubby/family get to practice trust. Wow. That’s a great muscle to exercise!
You have blessed us with so many wonderful recipes. Honest blogs. Sweet slices of life:) Breathe deeply! Hold yourself lightly! Keep laughing!!
Mel Thank you for always saving dinner at my home for over 15 years! I have told everyone I know where to go to find your incredible recipes and savvy outlook on all things home, family, gifts, tips & tricks, humorous farm animals and kindhearted, honest opinions on life in these United States. You are the absolute best!! Please, please write your cookbook ❤️ Hair that is thinning may have to do with your iron intake. Sometimes it does not show up on the iron levels. I love Honest mascara with the primer. Having tried everything else it just actually does a great job and does not irritate my eyes. Kids are a blessing and can be so frustrating at the same time. Many people are having to reinvent themselves in this economy. So many possibilities!! Wishing you and your family all the best!!
We watched our first K-drama two years ago, and it has literally changed our lives! We have a hard time watching American TV now. Crash Landing is my all-time fav. Here are a few more on Netflix that you would probably like: Romance is a Bonus Book, Touch Your Heart (cheesier than most, but my and my girls really liked it), Hospital Playlist (2 seasons…it takes a few episodes to get into because there are so many characters), and Extraordinary Attorney Woo (already on your list) is one of our favorites too. Vincenzo is also really good (and my boys and hubby especially liked it—there is not much romance in it, lots of action). We also subscribe to Viki, kind of like an Asian Netflix, and our favorites on there are Pinocchio, I Am Not a Robot, Oh My Venus, 1% of Something, and True Beauty.
Zenagen Shampoo from Amazon stopped my hair loss post covid and regrowth is good. Expensive but it really does work. Use as directed. Blessings
As always – but especially this time – thanks for your honesty about aging and parenting. You are a welcome breath of fresh air. Sending best regards and love as you journey forward. Ps -this may or may not be helpful, but my daughter is taking Suku vitamins “Luscious Hair” as her hair regrows after alopecia areata, and it seems to be really helping. It is reasonably priced.
Hi Mel,
Happy Friday
Sorry to hear about Brian and his career ending without notice.
I help people everyday throughout the U.S. & Canada who have either lost their job or just looking to take control of their destiny.
If I can be of help to Brian, share my contact info with him, I’m always happy to help
Similar to you helping others, my help & advice is cost free & risk free to you
Wishing you guys success
Kind regards
Charles Cook
1-902-527-7608 Canadian Mobile
1-520-878-6774 US Mobile
charlesrcook@icloud.com
I love this Friday post! You are so normal, not like some of the size 4 influencers are that talk about their lives! Mothering is hard, even when they are adults. I wish my kids were little again. But then you get the HUGE blessing of grandkids and it couldn’t be better. Good luck with your husband’s job.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts. It helps us all feel less alone in our own struggles. You can get through this ❤️
Love your thoughts, recipes and farm life. Thank you for sharing a glimpse of your life and for providing such amazing recipes the last 15 years that our family always loves! I also appreciate hearing about your parenting struggles so that I know I am not alone, I have a 20 yo and 17yo about to graduate, and 9yo twins. I feel like I am constantly apologizing and telling them that I don’t know what I’m doing but am trying my best. I appreciate all you do! ❤️
Which mop/vacuum model did you get? Amazon has a couple… I need something to simplify my floor cleaning. It’s the worst job.
I’d love a guide/compilation of meals that can sit to be eaten at different times. I’m starting the phase of 4 kids going 4 place all within a 2 hour stagger. It’s wearing on me.
Love your recs. It feels like a real life friend sharing about things that work for her life, and that’s what I need. ❤️
I want to know what Mop/vacuum this is also. I need one right now. Have money in hand and car running to get to a store to buy one.
I have the Tineco iFLOOR 3 Breeze Complete Wet Dry Vacuum Cordless Floor Cleaner and Mop One-Step Cleaning for Hard Floors (hope that helps!)
Long-time reader and recipe trier, first time message poster.
Sending my love to you even though I don’t know you personally. In the last five years my husband has been out of work twice, each period lasting about a year. It was such a stressful and discouraging time but also a time where we saw many blessings. I learned to be patient, to trust God more, and came to appreciate how gratitude can help lighten burdens and lift discouragement. For us, lots of ups and downs but we managed our way through and I’m confident you will too!
Wishing you and your family all good things!
Thanks for your Friday thoughts, Mel. I’ve follow’d u for forever but haven’t posted much this past year or so due to treatments & recovering from throat cancer. I still utilize your blog on the regular as I adjust to my new normal (of not enjoying food as much as before cancer.) You have been such an inspiration to me during this time, as I have remembered u sharing your own health journey. Thank you for the fun recommendations included in your post today! I concur- Amidst the disappointments & unbelievableness of life, there are the sweetest blessings. Love you~
Saw your post. Just wanted to tell you that my SIL had throat cancer well over ten years ago. She is now 80 and going strong. Tons of energy, never stops talking, and always in her garden. Food is difficult for her, she drinks tons of water due to dryness, and she frequently eats standing up. She is alive and that counts for a lot. Hang in there.
Thank you, Laurie! Yes, Blessings abound – esp looking forward to being alive. Thank YOU~
I love your recipes; I am not vegan or gluten free, but the recipes are so good that I love them anyway. Just made a double batch of your soft and chewy sugar cookies, which are by far my favorite. Looking forward to your next one; anything in chocolate would be appreciated. Read your blog for the first time; I’m sure you don’t look like a colonial starting his apprenticeship! Your property is amazing also.
If you want scientifically accurate medical information on hair loss, go to Dr. Jen Gunter’s page.
Mel! Thank you for your words! It’s like reading a message from a dear friend even though we don’t know each other. Haha! Over the years we have eliminated our fruit trees and replaced them with cement (much easier to take care of) so I am so amazed and proud of you for planting more trees. You are a rock star and never forget that!! Your kids are lucky to have you as a mom and we are lucky to have your as our bestie food blogger. Thanks for all you do. You make the world a better place!
I started losing chunks of hair about year and a half ago, in addition to feeling tired constantly, stomach problems, and not sleeping well. After a bunch of blood tests, I discovered my ferritin levels were ridiculously low (due to low iron levels). After faithfully taking iron supplements daily for 6 months, my hair started growing back, and I felt like a new person because I actually had energy again. First, I thought I was just getting old! I’m getting my levels tested every six months now. Also, green smoothies almost daily in addition to b vitamins have been a help too!
I had the same exact symptoms for the same reason! My hair is naturally thick so it disguised it but I was losing an insane amount of hair in the shower and brushing, plus the insomnia and stomach issues. Ferritin was the culprit!
Isn’t it wonderful to feel better after going through something like that? ❤️
Mel, you will LOVE Extraordinary Attorney Woo. It is so dang good. If I may, I also recommend trying the Viki app for kdramas. Healer is my all-time favorite kdrama, and I’ve watched a lot of great ones. It stars Park Min Young from Her Private Life (I’m dying to know why you didn’t like this one!) and is just such a well-rounded romance/mystery/action/comedy drama. If you want more recs, I’ve got a million! I’m curious to hear how you end up liking Start-Up.
Good luck with everything! Post-covid hair loss can be a beast if you’ve had Covid recently. Hopefully you can find something that helps! And parenting adult children is for the birds, for reals. Keeps life exciting, though!
Biotin shampoo and conditioner for the hair loss, works wonders!
Yep. Happy and proud to be on the k-drama band wagon. They are so good. I haven’t watched an American show since I started. It’s too hard to go back. . I’ve watched every one you’ve mentioned. I also liked what’s wrong with secretary Kim, it’s ok to not be ok, something in the rain, extraordinary attorney woo, and most recently alchemy of souls. I would rank that one as my most favorite under crash landing. I generally hate anything fantasy related but the love story is so epic that the hint of magic elements along with the beautiful scenery and gorgeous culture clothing is just so good. Plus there are 2 seasons!!!! The stories are just so good and endearing. A breath of fresh air from the mostly garbage that is filled with our tv normally.
Kid stuff is haaaard cause you want to talk about it but you can’t talk about it because it’s their stuff and their life but it still can weigh heavy! The silver lining is the absolute empathy it gives me for everyone! Everyone is going through something that is breaking their heart that they probably can’t talk about! Love to you Mel and I hope you have someone to take it through with and a place to go for solace when you need it!
Agree 1000%
Wish there was a “like” button for this comment!
yes 1000% too <3
Thanks for all your recipes – I appreciate seeing how to do them!
Good luck with your health and everything with your family.
I had my thyroid taken Left side in 1995 then the Right side taken in 2014 and I am on Synthroid – I can’t take the Levothyroid because it causes me to have the hot flashes each time they give it to me. The hot flashes last for about a year after getting the Levothyroid. Good luck But I am older 78 to be exact.
Best of everything, Etta
I have been struggling with hair loss, which was probably from my elevated calcium/PTH levels and the resulting stress from that, but have seen quite an improvement since I started using Flourish shampoo and conditioner by Virtue. It was not an instantaneous cure but my part has definitely filled in and my hair is fuller (I was panicking ever time I put my hair in a ponytail – usually I would wrap the elastic band a few times to secure it and suddenly I seemed to have more hair band than I did actual hair!).
Mel, always enjoy your Friday Thoughts! Good to hear from you! Sounds like you are keeping busy with life. As a matter of fact, my daughter is returning from Zurich Switzerland today! She has been there a week for work. Works for a large pharmaceutical company there. All I can tell you on parenting is….hang in there…..it’s a process and there are highs and lows. But trusting in the Lord that somehow, someway He will make a way through it all…..has always brought me the most comfort and clarity. Hang in there friend. Thanks for all the recommendations on items you use! Have a great weekend! Lynn in AZ
I use a hair fiber product by BODILY. I can’t believe how it has helped hide my very thin hair [I have the same thyroid etc as you] It comes in a ton of colors. I have white gray hair and a pink scalp that these fibers cover. Try it. I think you’ll be happy. I get it on AMAZON
-Pam Kammeyer
nanabear135@comcast.net
I’m with Macy. I love your recipes and Friday thoughts even more. At my age I’m starting to wonder if ever there is a stage of life that isn’t messy. It’s always something. Kids. Aging parents. Employment concerns. Illness. And on it goes. You put your thoughts into the most relatable way we can all relate to.
My husband’s position was also eliminated recently. Add that to the eternal winter we had and a miscarriage and this year has been a bit of a doozy. But the sun finally started coming out again in April, and I got the 3 yr old potty trained finally, so maybe things are starting to turn around. I don’t know anything about parenting young adults, but my husband reminded me last night that “we’ve survived one three year old, so we can survive this one too” and maybe that applies to all of parenting?
I secretly feel like you’re the older sister I never had. I love your blog posts possibly more than your recipes (which are standards at our table). We’re moving to the Boise area next month so hopefully even more of your blog will be relevant (gardening and climate-related things). Thank you! You’re amazing.
I just love you, Mel. Thanks for the wonderful recipes and the genuine update. Life is good. Life is hard. Both are true.
Also, my 40 year old hair is thinning too. If you find something that works for you, please share!!
I love your Friday thoughts! Mothers unite! I guess I’ve been living under a hole too because I’ve never heard of tube mascara. However, I DO love k-dramas. You will love Extraordinary Woo. It’s a cute one. You should also try the Viki App which is like a Netflix App for Asian shows. You can try it for free for a week which is totally enough time to bust through a series and get addicted. Oh My Venus, Descendants of the Sun, and Healer on Viki are fantastic ones. Also, Vincenzo on Netflix is Italian Mafia meets K-Drama. Love it.
I came here to see if someone had recommended 1) Viki, and 2) Healer. You are my people! Healer is my all-time favorite kdrama. And Ji Chang Wook has ruined me for all other kdrama actors.
My husband was laid off as well in March. Turned out to be a blessing in disguise. So grateful for good friends and the good Lord! Our oldest is graduating and it’s a mixed bag!!! So many feelings! I might need to watch some K dramas to get through. Thanks for all you do! Hopefully Brian will have something to sell to us!
I have some hair loss advice. I’ve experienced hair loss a few times in my life, most recently the dreaded Covid hair loss (it lasted about three months, two months after contracting Covid). What helped me and what I will continue to take forever: Lysine. I’d still lose hair, but new hairs grew in like crazy. I am back to normal now but I never felt the thinness that I had in previous hair loss spells (the biggest due to rapid weight loss once). I also would encourage anyone experiencing hair loss to complete a protein requirements calculator (available online). The amount of protein you need daily could be a little shocking. I also try to amp up natural Vitamin C.
Have you seen a dermatologist about your hair loss? That is your best bet to determine what type of hair loss you have and treat it appropriately. Also I hated the Loreal Double Extend mascara too UNTIL I tried it without the primer. Works much much better for me that way.
I am a little embarrassed to admit this but I have more than once had the thought that had I really understood how hard motherhood could be as children get older I may not have had any. Its so hard. And I hope this difficult job transition turns into something even better for Brian. Thanks for always being such a rare bright spot on the internet.
I have loved seeing all the recipes you have been posting on fb lately.
Fruit trees: pruning is the name of the game. Do you know how to prune your different trees? Hint: pruning stone fruits is different that pruning soft fruits like apples. If I lived by you I would come prune with you and it would be so fun. I learned how to prune by taking agricultural extension classes.
Young adults: my third is graduating from high school this month. I find college age easier than high school, which was easier than junior high, which was easier than elementary school. So, there’s hope.
Aging: good luck! My 40’s have been so rough on my body. Not my hair, though, so I don’t have any specific suggestions. Good work with the weight lifting.
Love ya!
Crash Landing on You
Definitely can relate to the thinning hair problem! I have thyroid issues as well, and also take medication that effects my hair. UGH! My endocrinologist told me that biotin does not help unless you have a deficiency. So… I am also struggling to find a solution! Keep us posted if you find something that helps. So far, I have not had success.
As far as parenting young adult, I have two in their 30’s that I am still guiding! They are on their own, but really, I don’t think your job as a parent is ever over. My kids still call for advice and support (non-financial!). I think we just cross our fingers and pray for the best! <3
Was literally thinking just yesterday that i missed friday thoughts. Youre my favorite “influencer” bc youre so un-influencer-like. “Amazon affiliate link…use if you want…or dont.” Planning to order the dress. As a fellow thyroid juggler, i still have gobs of hair and would gladly share with you if that were possible. Parenting is so much more complex and nuanced than i ever imagined… and im only getting started… oldest is going to her first prom tonight. Keep on being real… the world needs you.
Best advice that I received from Heavenly Father about “parenting” young adults, is to Love them and trust in Him.
Job loss is so hard. We just went through this same scenario a year ago. Things work out with lots of faith and prayer.
Praying for your family. Thank you for being a bright light in the world!
I love these thought blogs that you put out occasionally – would love more. I always looked forward to your toy recommendations before Christmas when my grandchildren were still children
For thinning, lost hair, I’ve had success with ALA ( alpha lipoic acid). I use 200mg from Pure Encapsulations. Available on Amazon. Recommended to me by a doctor. Hope it helps you as well.
I have a strong family history of female pattern baldness; have been wearing a “topper” for 25 yrs. They ae relatively inexpensive, look natural, & are easy to clean/maintain, especially the “heat-friendly” synthetics. I have migraine and can’t wear a full wig. Also I have found less hair loss with collagen capsules (I, II, III V, X) 1100mg each. 6/day are recommended, but I only tolerate 3 d/t stomach upset. Hope this helps.
Regarding your hair loss, your Vitamin D levels may be too low. I had that problem and to combat it I took Vitamin D in a larger dose. Took it at night and morning. Gradually my hair stopped coming out
Oh Mel, I understand, so many life changes! My husband and I are actually on our way to our daughter’s college graduation! It’s Saturday! We have a younger son who’s also in college. Parenting older children is a whole different ballgame! I’ve been following you a very long time. I wish you and your family many blessings! I love your Friday thoughts!
Hi Mel, I’ve been a long time reader aaaaaand now first time poster 😉 Anyhoo, aging is not for the weak hearted. I am now in “Club 50” and hair loss, unstable hormone levels LOL, parenting children in their 20s and 30s and now aging parents are the center of my universe. Its funny how such important topics like this are never discussed. I’m going to do my part and pass along knowledge that helped me on this journey we called life. (Cue Prince music here) First and foremost, a recommendation for hair is an easy one! I started taking Biotin (at least 5,000 or 10,000mcg) in my mid 40s. GAMECHANGER. My hair (which is still long) started to strengthen, looked healthier again and my “fall-out” went way WAY down. Pleasant surprise was my nails also grew stronger and faster. Hello manicures again. When I started adding Collagen, to my coffee (I use Vital Proteins) the shininess and volume came back and my skin complexion really started to look much more glowy (for a lack of a better adjective. Highly recommended.
Hey, Mel. You’re darling in every way and I really enjoy reading about your wonderful life. We all have our ups and downs, but I feel it’s how we respond to our challenges that defines who we are deep in the soul. You’re doing great! My boys are grown now, wonderful men who love and work hard for their families, and I couldn’t be prouder of them. I remember their teen years well, and miss them. It was trying, but I also loved being there for each new adventure. Hang in there! Btw: my hair has started thinning, too, due to weight loss and aging (probs more the latter–Lol!) and I’m going to try collagen powder. I’ve got a couple of other friends who swear it works, so I think it’s worth a try. I’d love to get my hair back to normal. It was never luscious (I wish–ha!), but thicker would be better. Have a lovely weekend!
I was just wondering this week if I somehow got off the email list for Friday updates..since it had been so long. Regarding teens, we always told our kids we loved them so much and thats what made us want to watch over them and care so much. (How could they argue with that?) They don’t appreciate it at the time, but once they are on their own as adults, they will go back to being a joy again. When you look back, the teenage years will seem like it was just a brief time.
I don’t use it myself, but look into Divi for your hair. It was created by an influencer with a similar issue. Dani Austin is the creator, and you should
definitely listen to her podcast Deinfluenced (episode April 12) where she talks about it. Interesting science behind it all.
Hi–
I have a friend who has suffered with hair loss issues and she swears by taking collagen… I also have seen benefits from collagen but I’m grateful my hair isn’t at risk… I suppose there are a number of options but I just include the powdered version in protein shakes or herbal tea…
Best of luck!
Oh parenthood. Such an overwhelming task sometimes. As a mother of four former teenagers I can truthfully say you will get through it and so will they. I know there were days in which I could hardly breathe or even see the forest for the trees. Trying to remember to love them when I didn’t always like them wasn’t always easy. But gratefully today we are all still alive and our four children are productive adults parenting the best they can our 14 grandchildren. All of which are now teenagers themselves. So you will make it to the other side of the observation deck. Just remember to breathe and take one day at a time. Oh and don’t forget to smile. It improves your face value. You are the best!
This comment made me smile. It is true and honest, so I will smile and try to not cry when my teenagers do not listen to sage advice.
Sure love that you share a a real slice of your life with us! Good luck with all the transitions!
Hair loss can be caused by hormonal changes. I’ve been researching this recently for a female family member. Check out Wise and Well (Kristin and Maria) on Instagram. They have a ton of wonderful and very helpful information.
I started using the Kirkland Men’s Minoxidil Liquid back in January. I think it costs like $20 for 1 years worth (because women only need to use it once a day). It’s the exact same ingredients as the women’s formula, but much less expensive. I did lots of research about using it; when to use it; what kind to get; etc. I now just use it when I remember in the hours before bed; sometimes it’s a few hours before I actually get into bed and sometimes it’s right before; either way, it’s fine. It takes about 60 seconds & I haven’t had any side effects. I know it takes 6-12 months to see a difference so I am being patient. I use just one dropper, to the measuring line, and use it on my part, next to my part and on the other side of the top of my head as well as the crown. It was definitely the most cost effective way to try something.
Extraordinary Attorney Woo is my current favorite! Watching the final episode tonight and don’t want it to end! I believe there has been a second season ordered..yay!
I don’t have an answer for the thinning hair, sure wish I did. BUT, I’ve been using Clingy Fibers and they are amazing. They take my focus off of the thinning areas which definitely helps lower my stress about the situation. I’ve been so happy I found them.
P.S. One more thing I can mention is Dr. Anna Cabeca, the Girlfriend Doctor. I bought one of her books, but haven’t read it yet. She is a triple board certified OB-Gyn and specializes in women’s health, but also addresses things like hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s disease. check her out at https://drannacabeca.com/pages/about.
Love what you do for so many! Thank you! I have the same thinning hair issues. If you hear about a great product that works, please let us all know.
oh, and also on the thinning hair…
I’ve resisted rogaine-type products b/c once you start researching it, you learn you have to use it FOREVER or your hair starts falling out even WORSE then before.
I can’t risk that! I’ll wait until it’s a TRULY hopeless situation.
Also— have you looked into “hair fibers”? Maybe not for an every day thing, but when you want to disguise a thinning part for a special event, etc, the reviews are SHOCKINGLY good on some brands I’ve looked up! (haven’t pulled the trigger myself yet)
I just turned 40 but I’ve been struggling with hairloss for years. THANKS MOM. I will never ever be able to rock a “center part” like all those young, hip, cute girls. Nope. It’s laughable.
I did have a question about the self-tanning lotion (as a fair skinned irish gal myself, these legs are NEVER changing color naturally and I avoid the sun like crazy) —- do you do any special prep? (like exfoliating, etc etc ) before applying it?
I love posts like this, and of course your entire blog as a whole. I can’t believe you are talking about YOUNG ADULTS… I feel like they were just babies on your blog like… yesterday!?!!? I mean, I remember reading tips about “making adventurous readers” when my firstborn was a baby… no way time flies that fast (she’s 9 now, yikes!)
Hey Jen, I do zero prep for the tanning lotion besides occasionally shaving (don’t ask me what “occasional” means, haha). I just towel off, put on the lotion, let it dry, put on “normal” lotion so my legs are super moisturized and that’s it!
I have been exactly there in my 40’s: just add a dying mother and a desperately ill daughter to the unemployed spouse and raising teens. I’m now 77, having survived it all and a few additional difficult twists to navigate. Faith in God’s love, mercy and grace, supportive friends and family and a good therapist pulled through and I am now living my life to the fullest. New hip, new knee, and cataracts removed. I still do weight training, wear hats or a wig, take daily thyroid meds, paint, walk, read and garden. Not the life I once envisioned, but a good one. You can, too.
Wow! You’re incredibly busy, Mel! 🙂
I suffer from thyroid and hormone issues, too, but I’m on hormone replacement therapy, and despite being diagnosed with hypothyroidism in 2018, my new endocrinologist didn’t find anything off with my recent labs. I’m not medicated – just using supplements to try to manage it – like taking a daily iodine supplement, making sure my sea salt is iodized, and taking selenium. I was also taking ashwagandha, but stopped it (for whatever reason). For the thinning hair, you could use Nioxin products, which should be readily available to you. Check amazon, WalMart (the salon inside WalMart usually sells it), and even your local grocery store.
Hope your fruit trees are productive this year, and you get to make lots of yummy goodies with the fruit!
I was sorry to hear about your husband’s job. Seems to be an epidemic lately, and I hope he either finds something else, or succeeds in having his own business!
Have a great weekend! Happy Cinco de Mayo! 🙂
Debbie
Oh my goodness — why do I not *really* know you in real life?! I feel like I do! I relate so much to all your Friday thoughts but this one hit different and I just had to comment.
First — your cute missionary met my cousin who’s also in Sao Paolo! My cousin is Elder Kemeny and he wrote me and told me: Elder Gunnell was in my MTC district! He’s from Idaho and his mom has an Instagram about food right? Ya he his a super awesome guy!
Second — I just sent my missionary to West Virginia and everything they say is true about all of it! My heart and my tears and my smiles are all the things all the time.
Third — we started with Extraordinary Attorney Woo and it is CHARMING! I highly recommend it, especially since you already love K-dramas!
❤️❤️❤️
As a nurse practitioner for many years. I recommend Nioxin 3 step program for hair loss. It takes awhile to work but does a great job. Your hairdresser can obtain it or a a hair supply store like Sally’s.
In fact Biotin can mess with your thyroid. I never recommend it.
Good luck. Susan Burton,CRNP
Thanks for the update Mel! I’m right there with you. Parenting young children is difficult, but parenting young adults is HARD. I’m reading The Emotional Lives of Teenagers right now and find it to be very helpful. So much of the content applies to young adults as well.
Thanks again for all you do, and for all you share. When people ask me about one of your recipes, I reply, “I got it from my friend in Idaho.” 🙂
Have a relaxing weekend!
Tami
I use the same self-tanner. I’m going to try “regular” moisturizer later in the day to reduce the smell (although it’s truly not that bad – especially with a new tube). Ordering the dress now!
Change is hard! But you always manage it with so much panache and grace. I love following your Friday thoughts and they might even be my favorite posts since I come back to them for reference (I’m about 5 years behind with children). Good luck during these new changes. I know you’ll be on the other side soon with a fabulous cookie in one hand while wrestling a steer in the other 🙂
Thanks for checking in. I’ve missed you. Keep up the good work, Mel. You’re doing better than you think.
Rebecca
I use a hair fiber product by BODILY. I can’t believe how it has helped hide my very thin hair [I have the same thyroid etc as you] It comes in a ton of colors. I have white gray hair and a pink scalp that these fibers cover. Try it. I think you’ll be happy. I get it on AMAZON
-Pam K