Half Day's Garment Duffel Bag

Half Day's Garment Duffel Bag is a game changer! It's the most versatile travel bag we didn't know we needed. The duffel is durable, water-resistant, and lightweight, yet it hangs a business suit, dresses, and shirts wrinkle-free while also carrying shoes, folded clothes, and accessories. There is lots of room and pockets to separate a wardrobe for travel! After you get to your destination, you can unfold the bag and hang the whole bag up on a closet or shower rod if you wish. (After the bedbug invasion of 2010, I'd suggest not using hotel closets.)

Only having discovered the bag, I'm unaware of how to score a discount on Half Day's full retail price of $108 or $168. A search doesn't pull up any department stores that sell it. Major department stores always have promotion days, yet it isn't listed on Macy's, Nordstrom's, Bloomingdale, Saks, or Dillard's websites.

Amazon carries the Haf Day bag + less costly similar designed duffels so start your search there to find a proximate bag for less. If a frequent traveler, you may decide that paying the piper for the original is worth it.

The Moulyan Garment Duffle, at $39, is one of Amazon's cheaper alternatives I like because it is alike but has the 3rd way of wearing it as a backpack and not just as a tote or shoulder bag. If you're looking for a duffel garment bag, you should compare the two to decide which price tag best fits your budget and needs. The less expensive bag is good enough for weekends away or biyearly vacations. A salesman whose job is to travel might need the $100 - $200 bag. Read all the customer reviews to know. The majority will usually guide you correctly.

Certainly, the design is genius and super functional! What do you think of these 2 garment duffel bags? Do you carry a favorite garment duffel bag brand?

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Commence By Brooke Shields

Commence, the brand developed by actress and Princeton graduate Brooke Shields, is top-notch haircare. The products target hair concerns for women over 40. The 3 most popular products in the line -- a 2-in-1 instant shampoo, a 3-in-1 leave-in conditioner, and a root serum -- are formulated to promote healthier, thicker, and more voluminous hair.

Let's take a closer look at each one:

The 2-in-1 Instant Shampoo - Cleans and balances dry hair, adds volume and leaves the hair more squeaky clean, lifted, and full. Cost: $21 for .75oz/21 g.

The 3-in-1 Leave-in Conditioner - Hydrates, tames frizz, adds shine, and contains ingredients like alfalfa extract and quinoa peptics to protect hair from the heat of blow dryers, straighteners, and curling irons. It is a lightweight formula that supports hair growth and thickens hair strands. Cost: 26 for 5  Fl oz/150 ml

The Root Serum - Is designed to nourish and support the scalp microbiome. It calms, hydrates, and strengthens hair from its roots to its ends. The result is softer, smoother, and stronger hair. Cost: $30 4 fl oz/ 120 ml.

While testers are pleased with how the products improve the texture of their hair, the products are costly! You could probably splurge to try them, but you must decide how much you can afford to continue using them. Ask what sum you are comfortable spending on your hair over the course of a year. The Commence haircare line adds up to a pretty penny!

I won't lie, I'll spend more on skin products than hair products. Over time, I've found budget-friendly drugstore brands to match expensive luxury brands, and T.J. Maxx stocks amazing shampoos and conditioners containing botanicals. Enter T.J. Maxx in the blog's search box to read about some of those.

On Commence's website, look for coupon codes and the kits to lower costs. If using the whole line isn't in your budget, I'd zero in on the hair serum. The brand really delivers!

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Best Shopping In Manhattan Awards

AMNewYork, a free local newspaper, not just here but with editions in several US cities, has published its end-of-the-year Best of Manhattan Shopping Awards which I've linked so you can check out every winner in all the categories.

Above 👆and below 👇(pasted as it's easier to read) is AM New York's spotlight on 4 of the winners New Yorkers voted as the best retailer in the city. Locals and tourists alike might like to visit a few of the award winners for bargains and retail therapy:

"Best Antique Store

East Village Vintage Collective
545 E 12th Street
(646) 476-8036 – eastvillagevintagecollective.com

The East Village of old always had an artsy, fun, free, sexy vibe that was framed largely by fashion. Imagine discovering a curated collection of vintage clothing, accessories, and gifts that transports you back in time to this hip scene! It’s not a dreamscape, because the past is presently alive at East Village Vintage Collective. This retro shop offers a treasure trove of unique finds, hand-selected by their team of vintage enthusiasts. From everyday tees and dreamy dresses to statement pieces, there is something in stock for everyone to enjoy. Need a special fit for a photo shoot or production? They also offer rental and discount pricing on a wide range of vintage pieces. Enjoy a blast from fashion’s past while supporting a woman-owned small business.

Best Book Store

Strand Book Store
828 Broadway
(212) 473-1452 – strandbooks.com

Born in 1927 over on Fourth Avenue, on what was then referred to as “Book Row,” the Strand Book Store began as a modest used book store. The owner, Ben Bass, was a young 25-year-old entrepreneur who possessed a passion for reading. His goal was to create a place where book lovers would come together. The store got its name from a street in London where avant-garde writers once gathered. The Strand became the spot for writers to come together, sell their books, and discover books to purchase. Back in the day “Book Row” spanned six city blocks and was the home to 48 bookstores. Today, the Strand, a Greenwich Village staple, is the only remaining store of Book Row’s past.

Best Thrift Shop

Cure Thrift Shop
111 E 12th St
(212) 505-7467 – curethriftshop.com

An evolving repertoire of clothing, antiques and home goods attracts discerning shoppers to Cure Thrift Shop. The 12th Street location is a coveted boutique-like retailer at home in this chic part of town. Go in any time and find new and appealing selections and stylish items you’ll want to take home from this East Village treasure trove. Shoppers delight in finding an eclectic array of curated fashion pieces, accessories and one-of-a-kind design items. Check out how you can outfit your apartment, and pick up furniture you will realize are rare finds in this glossy city. Cure Thrift customer service individuals will step in to advise and share ideas if you ask. Some say the exchanges, in fact, relegate the shopping experience to more like meeting a new friend.

Best Liquor/Wine Store

Astor Wines & Spirits
399 Lafayette St
(212) 674-7500 – astorwines.com

If you love wine, or just enjoy making a nice mixed cocktail for friends and family, stock your at-home bar with vino and liquors from Astor Wines. There are so many bottles to choose from here – a whole array of champagnes, proseccos, scotches, tequilas and so much more. And if you’re feeling overwhelmed, the shop has a “Staff Picks of the Week” feature, hand-picked by the expert team here to help you narrow down your search for a great wine or liquor. If you want to save a bit of cash, check out some bargain bottles. Amazing wines and spirits are often on sale at Astor Wines & Spirits, giving you tons of taste without having to drop big bucks!"

New Yorkers have spoken with their votes. You're welcome!🛍🛒

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Shampoo, Conditioner And Soap Bars

Kitsch

There are many good reasons to buy bar soaps, shampoos, and conditioners. IMHO they make excellent pampering and practical gifts! Hint, hint!🎄

Bypassing liquid soaps, shampoos, and conditioners sold in plastic bottles is beneficial, i.e., great for the environment. Less plastic bottles filling up landfills.

I have this shampoo bar.

Bars are concentrated. Consumers skip paying for the water in liquid soap, shampoo, and condition. One bar of product often lasts 2 - 3 times longer than its liquid counterparts, saving you money!

In buying the various personal care bars, be sure to read labels to ensure the ingredients are natural or organic (backed up by an organic certification seal and/or a list of clean ingredients) and free of harmful chemicals such as sulfates and parabens that may be detrimental to human health, as well as, end up in our water supply.

Unlike their liquid peers, bars of soap, shampoo, and conditioner are ultra travel-friendly. You'll have less trouble fitting them into your suitcase or taking them on airplanes. You won't have to wait until you land to begin your vacation by looking for personal care products you like and can afford.

To get you started, here are 8 brands known for their good, clean ingredients, transparency, and minimal packaging to peruse:

EcoRoots

🧼 Ethique

🍃 Lush

🧼 EcoRoots

🍃 SheaMoisture

🧼 J.R. Liggett

🍃 Kitsch

🧼 Davines Love

🍃 Aari & Co.

According to the magazine Natural Awakenings which is free at health food stores, the use of bar soaps, shampoos, and conditioners is on the rise. It recommends keeping the bars dry in between uses to prolong the bars and to keep them hygienic. Keep in a soap dish with drainage holes or a reusable tin for storage. The bars are said to be as effective as liquid soap, shampoo, or conditioner. Says the article, "High-quality bars can produce an impressive leather."

Solid soap, shampoo, and condition for trips make thoughful holiday gifts that a giftee might not buy for themselves!

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5 Tips For Graceful Aging

Photos 1 and 2 Shutterstock, Photo 3 Dreamtime

Every so often I read a magazine called "Natural Awakenings," free at health food stores. The November 2024 issue has a good advice article I'll paraphrase ... 

5 Tips for Graceful Aging (By Dr. Jillian Finker - Finker Wellness) are:

1) Stay Active - Find an exercise you enjoy and do it regularly. Keeping active reduces the risk of needing a nursing home later in life.

2) Prioritize Nutrition - A balanced diet and proper hydration prevent strokes and overall aging. Eat real unprocessed food: whole grains and a variety of vegetables and lean meats and fish.

3) Take Supplements - Consult your doctor. Supplementing with vitamins, herbs, and minerals can help with deficiencies as we age. My note: My mother takes 5,000 iu daily of Vitamin D and my doctor said I should take 2,000 iu daily of Vitamin D. With our doctors' knowledge we also began taking a One A Day multi-vitamin again. Doesn't hurt, no proof we need it either. That's why we prefer an inexpensive over-the-counter multivitamin. No need to overdose or overspend.

4)  Get Outside And Connect - Social interaction extends life expectancy. "Soak up the sun" and spend time with family and friends.

5) Release Your Fears - Make peace with your mortality and seek guidance from therapists and pastors to ease end-of-life fears.

My two cents:

It's inevitable that as we age, our lives get smaller, but it doesn't have to mean meaningless. Many people must slow down after the age of 85. It's a perfect time for hobbies to replace work and to be grateful for family and friends. 

Tree of Life - Carla Bank

My German immigrant mom was always a businesswoman, and daily I see how much more difficult her life is without hobbies. What's more, she no longer has the dexterity in her fingers to resume skills she learned as a girl like knitting, sewing, and crocheting. Once I'm her age, I hope my intellectual curiosity and a healthy pair of eyes keep me stimulated to save me from hours of boredom. Life can indeed throw us a cure. Worsening eyesight makes reading more difficult for some seniors. 

Still, let's commit to doing as much as we can for as long as we can!

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Damask Rose Body Wash

Lately, I've been addicted to the scent of roses. Nowadays, I help my senior mom with her bath, and I try to find mild organic or near-organic products to pamper her senior skin. We need pampering at every age! 

Samui Damask Rose Body Wash is a T.J. Maxx find I also sampled on my skin. I put a squirt in her bathwater and a dab on a washcloth for my shower. Love it! She loves it too!! Ultra moisturizing, it's supercharged with sensational-smelling Rosa Damascena flower extract, and it contains gentle, moisturizing cleansers like glycerin, aloe barbadensis leaf juice, and hydrogenated caster oil.  

If the ingredients continue to play nice with mom's skin, I'd like to replace the Aloe Wash I buy for her from a medical supply company with Damask Rose Body Wash since it's only $7.99 for 33.8 fluid ounces instead of $12+ for only 8 fluid ounces of Aloe Wash. Whenever you buy products made for seniors the cost is jacked up 3-fold or more! Plus, I adore huge sizes of stapes that last a long time before they end up as empties. With a fancy floral scent to boot, we can't go wrong!

A wrinkle in my plan is I can't find other merchants who sell the Samui brand I just discovered at TJM, so I returned to the store to buy a 2nd bottle. After we use them I may need to find competitors that make Damask Rose Body Wash.

So stock up, all my rose-scented-loving readers of moisturizing body wash while supplies last at TJM of the Samui brand in this big bargain size! 

Other rose-scented beauty products I saw in the beauty aisles (but didn't buy since I didn't need them) include:

Click to read brands of products.

The love of roses is on right now at T.J. Maxx, where you can save and splurge simultaneously. You can't beat the sweet floral scent or the prices to bring it home!🌹 

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Walmart Has Genuine Leather Bags Cheap

Real leather bag by Forestyashe at Walmart - Available in 7 colors on clearance $11 - $15

Walmart may not be the first retailer that comes to mind for finding a smart trendy bag, but you'd be surprised at the stylish deals and steals available on its website. For sure, I am! The styles, hues, and materials are many. I've picked 6 of the genuine leather options that are a fraction of their usual retail prices. There are more! The bags come in up to 7 colors.

HKCLUF Crossbody Hobo Bag

GAEKEAO Small Crossbody Bag

Michael Kors Pebbled Leather Small Tote 

FALAN MULE Clutch and Wristlet 

KAMUGO Leather Handbag with Gold Hardware and Cache

Walmart has quite an online selection of bags of all types. Sometimes the bags are cheaper than what a replacement strap costs elsewhere. By the way, if you like the bag but want to buy a thicker leather strap (look on Etsy, Amazon, or the retailer of your look-alike bag) as you are left with the funds to do so! The Walmart Birkin dupe bag comes from 4 third-party sellers listed within Walmart's online store, including Judy, Kamugo, Bestspr, and Ymtq. Reportedly it's genuine leather.

The London Fog bookbag dupe is reviewed here.

Be sure to read the descriptions carefully so you catch the sizes and textures of the bags. Reading every customer review is super helpful in not ordering mistakes, but if you don't like your purchase, Walmart has an easy and inexpensive return policy.

A nice bag on a budget, one that won't fall apart soon. Who knew?

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The Health Benefits Of Mushooms

Photo: Getty

Today I will paraphrase an interesting health article I read in Life Extention - The Science of a Healthier Life - July/August 2024 ...

Mushrooms have an amino acid known as L-ergothioneine. Our bodies can't make it yet the compound is so essential to human health that our cell membranes have special transporters to deliver it into our cells.

In a 2021 population study, scientists noticed some interesting findings in people who ate mushrooms. Consumers who regularly ate one serving of mushrooms (a fungus) had a 16% lower risk of death. People who refrained from red meat and ate a serving of mushrooms daily had an astonishing 35% decrease in all-cause mortality. The scientists attribute the health benefits to one compound, namely this L-ergothioneine amino acid.

What's more, in observational studies, scientists connected L-ergothioneine to specific health benefits: L-ergothioneine may promote healthy aging by fighting oxidative stress and decreasing the rate of telomere shortening that inherently occurs as we age. Our eyes, brain, and red blood cells suffer the most from oxidation stress. These tissues have high concentrations of L-ergothioneine transporters which points to the important role the compound plays in protecting them. Telomeres are the protective caps on the ends of chromosomes, and unfortunately, they naturally shorten as we age.

L-ergothioneine also appears to act as a sunscreen for DNA, protecting against skin cancer and boosting DNA repair.

As it happens, L-ergothioneine and its transporter are present throughout the brain. Several studies have linked L-ergothioneine to preserving brain function in the areas of learning and memory. In a trial of adults, 5 mg of L-ergothioneine daily significantly improved brain function enough to make scientists take notice.

In the observational study, L-ergothioneine levels in the body were associated with better heart health lowering cardiovascular mortality by 21%. 

So in summary: Mushrooms contain a potent amino acid called L-ergothioneine. Scientists think it is responsible for many key health benefits: (1) combating oxidative stress, (2) slowing the rate of telomere shortening, (3) preserving cardiovascular health, as well as, (4) cognitive function, and (5) supporting DNA repair. In a population study, people who ate mushrooms bore these 5 benefits and lived longer than those who didn't eat mushrooms.

Mushrooms are rich in vitamin D and good sources of vitamins A, B6, and C. They also contain iron, phosphorus, copper, potassium, selenium, and fiber.

Finally here's my recipe for Salisbury Steak, a favorite, it has plenty of onions and those mega-healthy mushrooms. After writing today's blog, I'll be shopping for mushrooms. What about you?

🍄🍄🍄🍄🍄🍄🍄🍄🍄

Extra recipe: A simple way to sautè mushrooms as a side dish:

Ingredients: 

8 ounces mushrooms

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 tablespoons wine

Photo: foodandwine

1 sprinkle of thyme

Salt and pepper to taste.

Directions:

1) Toss all the ingredients into a skillet and simmer on medium-low heat for about 10 minutes until all the liquid is gone.

I won't waste a bottle of wine just to remove 1 tablespoon. If I have no open wine, I flavor the mushrooms with soy sauce, dried rosemary, Cajun spice (instead of salt and pepper), and organic cider vinegar.  Feel free to spice as you like.

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The Value Of A College Education

Photo: CUNY

I like Bill Maher but it always irritates me when a man who has the benefit of a college education devalues the importance of a college education.😳 He's not the only university-degreed public figure to do so. Mike Rowe, a TV personality who seems to lean conservative with a libertarian streak on his podcasts, goes as far as to fund a charity to steer young people towards training in blue-collar professions. He has said, a higher education is more worthless today than yesterday.

Mike Rowe (right) and Bill Maher (left)

IMHO, it couldn't be further from the truth. If you have the intellect and means, you cannot spend 4 years of your life in a more transforming way. Education changes you as a person. Once your mind has been stretched by new ideas and other cultures and learns critical thinking, it never returns to its original dimension. 

Do you know who'll believe these skeptics? Sadly (1) Parents without a college education who are anxious about the costs of sending their children to college. (2) Libertarian and right-wing politicians sitting in Congress who want to cut taxes to zero for multi-millionaires and billion-dollar corporations by defunding public education. (3) Young inexperienced people without guidance or encouragement or foresight.

A free public education was fundamental to our Founding Fathers at a time when only the well-to-do could afford an education. Education has long been valued in democratic countries as a bedrock for a strong democracy. Do we want an ignorant or an educated electorate? Because the zeitgeist seems to be turning.

Often a university degree is the one sure way out of poverty for a person who is born poor with no connections and few opportunities. If a person has the desire, brains, and work ethic to become a doctor, dentist, or accountant, it's in the country's interest to help them pay for their education. Society benefits when its members have access to higher learning. Getting it should not be determined by whether you are rich or poor. If someone from a lower-income family has the aptitude to be a scientist, educator, or engineer, it's in society's interest to use tax dollars to help educate a future scientist, educator, or engineer.

The middle and working classes pay the bulk of taxes in the USA. We can well afford to use some of it for Pell Grants and low-interest government loans to help defray the cost of tuition for the working and middle classes. 

We have a long history of striving to do better than our parents. These were the dreams of generations of immigrants. How do we benefit now by abandoning our aspirations to do so? Rather than thumbing down efforts to raise society's collective intelligence, let's continue to lift it up!

On average college graduates earn more money than high school graduates. A college education opens doors to higher-paying jobs you can't get without a university degree. After graduation, the country acquires a higher-earner taxpayer.

But aside from earning more money, the critical thinking you master in college helps you do nearly everything else in your life better. Moreover, how are you going to spend your paycheck if your vision is limited because you haven't learned about other countries and cultures? Or worthy subjects such as art, geography, history, economics, finance, etc., etc.🌍🌎🌏

In society, there are examples of people who are smart, or successful, or self-motivators without higher learning. Granted there are degree-less people who read books and are self-taught, yes, but it's a harder path to tread without structure, direction, and guidance which is what a university offers. More people are not self-motivators than those who are. It takes effort, dedication, and internships to acquire a level of expertise in a given field. Most accredited universities also require coursework outside of a major with the goal of turning a student into a well-rounded person. College is much more than just a pathway to a job.

I'll finish where I started. I like Bill Maher ... but would Bill Maher be Bill Maher if he had skipped college? His post-high school education is an important component that makes him the satirist he is. A show like Real Time with Bill Maher would be a different show, no? I would bet real money that Real Time is written and produced by people who went to college. I know of at least one staff member who did. The man at the top, Bill Maher!📚

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