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Let’s be honest — “self-possession” sounds like something out of a ghost show. I know, I thought spirits possessed me too. 👻 But no, this kind of possession is about something far more empowering — it’s the ability to control your behavior, emotions, and responses  no matter what’s happening around you. It’s self-command , willpower , and that grounded sense of “I got this” that nobody can take away. And in a world where every post, email, and commercial tells you to love yourself  or be positive  (even when you’re just trying to buy laundry detergent), self-possession is the quieter, more powerful antidote. Because confidence isn’t loud — it’s steady. ✨ Step One: You Got This Before you roll your eyes and say, “Thanks, Amber, really?” — I’m serious. What’s the alternative to You got this ? The opposite — You don’t got this. And that’s not an option. This first step is about reminding yourself that you can handle it — because you have to .The fear, anxiety, and loneliness that come when you don’t  believe in yourself are far worse than facing whatever’s in front of you. When my mom became ill, I once asked her how I could possibly live without her. She said only three words: “You just do.” And that stuck. Because I did. I still do. The moral of that story:  I got this — because I own my past, my present, and my future. The way I react, what I choose to learn, how I spend my time — that’s on me. 💡 Try this: Learn from yourself — every moment up to now is a personalized lesson plan. Look inside first; you’re wiser than you think. Remember: you hold the key to your reactions, not to change the world, but to change how you meet it. 🌿 Step Two: Practice Being You No one has ever died of embarrassment. At least, not to my knowledge. We practice everything else — habits, routines, even the way we scroll through our phones — until they become second nature. But confidence? That takes practice too . Comfort zones are cozy, sure (I love a soft blanket as much as the next woman), but they also trap us. Growth doesn’t happen inside that bubble — it happens when you step out . I remember being asked to speak in front of a large group about my success in my home business. I was terrified. My coach insisted, despite my whining. I told him I’d probably barf. He said, “Fine. I’ll stand up there with you and hold a bucket.” The moral of that story: I didn’t barf. I didn’t die. I actually inspired people. 💡 Try this: Perfection is a myth — stop chasing unicorns. You’re the only one who can rewrite your habits. The voice saying “you can’t”? That’s you — and you can change that script. Practice being you , out loud, unapologetically. The more you do it, the more natural confidence becomes. 🔥 Step Three: No More “What Ifs” Have you ever replayed a past moment, thinking, “I should have... could have... would have...”Welcome to the land of regret — population: all of us. Regret is a sneaky little troublemaker. 😈It shows up in the present, dragging along an old story from the past. And it convinces you that you missed your chance. But what if  you flipped that? Instead of wondering what might have happened... you find out. You do it . You live it. You tell the story, not the “what if.” I used to punish myself for every embarrassing moment or “wrong” decision I’d ever made. I convinced myself I couldn’t trust my own choices — and that fear kept me small. The moral of that story: I learned. I grew. And I stopped letting “what if” keep me from “what now.” 💡 Try this: Allow yourself to make mistakes (they’re your best teachers). Cry it out. Grieve hard if you need to. Feel it all — good, bad, ugly — it’s still yours. Remember: It’s okay not to be okay. It’s also okay to be okay. 💋 Final Thought Self-possession isn’t about perfection or pretending you’ve got it all figured out. It’s about reclaiming your power — moment by messy, magnificent moment. You don’t need to be fearless. You just need to be willing. Hey ladies over 45 — join us here at FitFabulousFifty , where we’re rewriting midlife confidence one real, raw, ridiculously honest story at a time. 💃

Wouldn’t it be amazing if we could step out of the shower and come out a few pounds lighter? Just imagine washing all that pizza away! The truth is, excess weight isn’t always fat . Have you noticed that when starting a diet, the first five pounds seem to melt away faster than the rest? That’s often water weight . When your body feels puffy or squishy, it may be holding onto fluids. Why Water Matters Water is an essential nutrient —we need it to sustain life. Depending on age and gender, 50–65% of total body weight is water . Drinking enough water helps with more than just hydration: Maintains body temperature Moves nutrients efficiently Aids digestion and nutrient absorption Supports circulation and excretion of waste Lubricates joints, brain, spine, and nervous system Supports transmission of light and sound Daily Water Loss The body loses fluids daily through excretion, respiration, chemical reactions, and perspiration— about 1–3 quarts  on average. Certain conditions require higher fluid intake, including: High-protein diets Caffeine or alcohol consumption Hot climates or excessive sweating Illness or stress Certain medications Increasing fluid intake reverses the body’s “survival storage” response , which prevents excess water retention and can help reduce puffiness and water weight. How Much Water Do You Need? Cheat Sheet:  At least 64 ounces (8–10 cups) daily , more if exercising, drinking coffee, or consuming alcohol Water is absorbed in the small intestine at a maximum rate of 8–10 ounces every 20 minutes Adding lemon, cucumber, or berries  makes drinking water more enjoyable When your body is well-lubricated , it doesn’t feel the need to hoard water, and this also helps your metabolism and fat loss. Think of water as internal cleansing —helping everything flow better, including your energy, digestion, and weight loss efforts. Pro Tip:  Measuring your water intake can help you stay consistent. Small additions like fruit can make hydration fun and delicious. Cheers to staying hydrated and feeling lighter!

Okay, I’ll be honest — I threw this dessert together one night without worrying about how it looked. But here’s the thing: it tasted absolutely fantastic . Some desserts don’t need to look perfect to be irresistible. This one? Rich, creamy, and a little messy — just like the name suggests.  😏Enough said... now let’s eat. 🍰 Ingredients 1 cup butter, melted 2 cups flour 1½ cups chopped pecans 8 ounces cream cheese, softened 1 cup powdered sugar 1 container Cool Whip 1 package instant chocolate pudding mix 1 package instant vanilla pudding mix 4 cups cold milk (for making puddings) 1 chocolate candy bar or  toffee bar, for topping 👩‍🍳 Directions Prep Time:  30 minutes Bake Time:  10 minutes Serves:  10–12 (depending on how generous you’re feeling) Preheat  oven to 350°F (175°C) . Mix and bake the crust:  Combine melted butter, flour, and chopped pecans. Press into the bottom of a 13x9-inch cake pan. Bake about 10 minutes, until lightly browned. Let cool. Make the puddings:  Prepare both the chocolate and vanilla pudding mixes according to package directions. Set aside. Whip the cream cheese layer:  Mix cream cheese, powdered sugar, and 1 cup of Cool Whip until smooth. Layer it up:  Spread the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust. Add a layer of chocolate pudding, then vanilla pudding. Repeat if you’ve got extra. Top it off:  Finish with the remaining Cool Whip. Sprinkle chopped pecans and shaved chocolate (or toffee bits) over the top. Chill:  Cover and refrigerate for at least an hour before serving. 🍫 Pro Tip Use a 13x9 cake pan with a lid  — it makes this dessert easy to transport. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or when you just want to show up with something called Sex in a Pan  and steal the spotlight. ❤️ Yummy Note This recipe has been around for decades and still gets giggles every time I mention the name. But once people taste it, all jokes stop — and spoons start flying. It’s cool, creamy, and layered with love (and chocolate). Sometimes dessert doesn’t need a filter… just a fork.

By Carole | Sex’n’Fries Kitchen Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies are one of my favorites and a great cookie to share. Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies - Carole There’s something magical about the smell of fresh-baked cookies drifting through the house. These Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies  are one of my all-time favorites — a recipe passed down from my mom, with a few tweaks I’ve made over the years. They’re the perfect mix of chewy, chocolatey goodness and nostalgic comfort. These cookies have made their way into countless lunchboxes, late-night snacks, and coffee breaks. They’re simple, satisfying, and filled with love — just like mom used to make. ❤️ 🧈 Ingredients (Makes about 2 dozen cookies) 1 cup margarine, room temperature 2 cups brown sugar 2 large eggs, room temperature ½ teaspoon salt 2 cups all-purpose flour 1½ cups oatmeal 1 teaspoon baking powder ½ teaspoon baking soda 1 cup chocolate chips or chunks 👩‍🍳 Directions Cream it up:  In a large bowl, cream together the brown sugar, eggs, and margarine until smooth and fluffy. Mix the dry stuff:  In a separate bowl, combine flour, oatmeal, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Blend:  Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until well combined. Add the good stuff:  Fold in the chocolate chips or chunks. Bake:  Spoon the dough onto a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C)  for 7 to 10 minutes  — depending on how you like them. Cool:  Let them sit for 2 minutes before moving to a cooling rack. Once cool, store in an airtight container. 💡 Carole’s Note My mom loved her cookies super crunchy , so she’d bake a tray just for herself a few extra minutes. The rest of us? We’re all about soft and chewy . Either way, these cookies never last long around here. Serve them with a hot coffee, a cold glass of milk, or a scoop of ice cream. Because yes — life’s too short not to have cookies. 🍪 🥄 Quick Tip To make them extra special, swap the chocolate chips for dark chocolate chunks or add a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking. ❤️ Why We Love This Recipe Easy to make and perfect for meal prep or lunch treats Chewy or crunchy  — you decide! A nostalgic recipe  with that homemade taste Great for sharing or gifting

Sitting still for 20 minutes has never been easy for me—but podcasts and audiobooks make it a lot more enjoyable. And now, adding Legs Up the Wall  to my routine has become a favorite way to relax and rejuvenate. This simple inversion pose—also known as Viparita Karani —is easy to do at home and provides multiple benefits. Lying on your back with your legs resting vertically against a wall may feel like “exercise” for the body in a totally different way: restorative and healing. Benefits of Legs Up the Wall Pose Relieves stress and anxiety Reduces menstrual symptoms Alleviates back pain Helps with leg swelling or varicose veins Eases headaches Improves sleep quality Boosts circulation Supports lymphatic drainage Relaxes tired leg muscles Activates the relaxation response How to Practice Sit on the floor next to a wall. Roll onto your back and stretch your legs vertically against the wall. Feet can be hip-distance apart or however feels comfortable. Scoot your tailbone slightly toward the wall—it doesn’t need to touch. Rest your arms at your sides, palms facing up. Let your body melt into the floor, relaxing your shoulders, back, and legs. Stay in the pose for 10–20 minutes, breathing deeply. To exit, bend your knees and roll to your side, pausing for a few breaths before returning to a seated position. I’ve made this a daily 15–20 minute practice. After recovering from a broken ankle  and spending a lot of time sitting this winter, this pose has helped me improve circulation, reduce swelling, and relieve leg tension. It’s my little daily reset, and it feels incredible.

De’-col-le-tage. If you want to hear the proper pronunciation, give it a quick listen [here]. Once you know it, it just sticks—and it’s much nicer than saying “turkey neck” or “crepey chest.” I didn’t really think about my decolletage until I splurged on Cindy Crawford’s Meaningful Beauty kit—a whole lineup of face and neck creams. I used it for a while until it leaked onto my dresser, ruining the finish. Not the product’s fault—cheap furniture, I guess—but that experience taught me one thing: your neck and chest deserve attention. Why Care About Your Decolletage? Signs of aging appear here first.  The neck and chest can develop wrinkles and sagging as we age. Sun protection is key.  Sunscreen helps prevent crepey skin and maintains smoothness. Sleeping positions matter.  Sleeping on your back may help reduce the pull of gravity, keeping the skin more taut. Though, full disclosure, gravity does affect your breasts as well! Moisturize daily.  Use whatever lotion or cream you have—just make sure this area is cared for consistently. Exfoliation helps.  Removing dead skin cells and oil buildup supports smoother, healthier skin. Be mindful of conditioner rinsing, too—it can settle in your cleavage. I’m not a professional skincare expert, but I’ve noticed the effects of aging in my own decolletage. Paying attention, moisturizing, and protecting this area feels like a small but meaningful self-care ritual. What About Men? Absolutely! Men can also benefit from extra care for the neck and chest. Sunscreen, hydration, and exfoliation aren’t gender-specific—they’re just good habits for healthy, youthful-looking skin. Decolletage care may seem minor, but it’s part of a complete approach to skincare. Whether for confidence, comfort, or longevity, this area deserves your attention.

Creating a healthier lifestyle is not about quick fixes or temporary changes—it’s about building habits and practices that last a lifetime. A personalized plan for health, fitness, and wellness should be tailored to your unique needs, goals, and capabilities. Here are 10 essential steps to help you make meaningful changes, track progress, and embrace a healthier life: 1. Know Your Numbers Start by understanding your baseline: weight goals, fitness levels, workout frequency, and daily calorie needs. These numbers aren’t just statistics—they give you insight into where you are now and where you want to go. 2. Understand Everything You Eat Every bite of food has an impact on your body. Mindless eating leads to lost awareness of how food fuels your mind and body. Respect your food, and it will fuel you effectively. 3. Track Progress and Habits Tracking your meals, exercise, and behaviors doesn’t need to be complicated. Keeping notes allows you to see patterns, adjust strategies, and celebrate progress—even when life gets busy. 4. Listen to Your Body Your body sends signals about hunger, fullness, fatigue, and stress. Learn to distinguish genuine cues from external noise, like cravings, social pressure, or media influence. Don’t wait for a doctor’s warning—tune in early. 5. Give Yourself a Grace Period Change takes time. It generally takes 21 days to form a habit. Be patient as your mind and body adapt to new eating patterns, workouts, and thought processes. 6. Set Realistic Goals Establish short-term and long-term goals that reflect your individual needs and circumstances. Focus on what you can control, and don’t waste energy trying to change things beyond your power. 7. Fuel Your Body Properly Your body needs enough food to function effectively. Extreme restrictions can be harmful. Prioritize nutrient-rich foods that provide energy for daily activities, workouts, and recovery. 8. Increase Workout Intensity Gradually Push your limits safely with high-intensity workouts, resistance training, and cardio. Gradually increasing intensity improves your metabolism, builds strength, and enhances overall fitness. 9. Be Creative and Open-Minded Try new workouts, explore different cuisines, and experiment with fresh health practices. Enjoy the journey—it’s a lifetime opportunity to discover what works best for your body and mind. 10. Cultivate a Positive Mindset Your attitude affects every aspect of your wellness. Embrace confidence, take responsibility for your health, and strive for excellence in your lifestyle choices. Achieving a healthier lifestyle is a personal journey —one that requires patience, creativity, and self-awareness. Use these steps as a foundation to build lasting habits and enjoy the benefits of a vibrant, energized, and confident life.

Fabrics have been an integral part of human life for centuries, used in clothing, interior design, and countless other applications. Knowing the different types of fabrics can help you make informed choices for fashion, décor, and upholstery. Here’s a detailed guide to some of the most common—and a few not-so-common—fabrics: Basketweave A plain-weave pattern of similar threads in both directions. Fine threads create a smooth taffeta effect, while thicker threads produce a textured, classic basket weave. Brocade A heavy fabric with raised designs, typically produced using the Jacquard method. Often richly ornamented, the contrasting patterns add depth and elegance. Canvas Coarse cotton fabric in a plain weave, commonly used for awnings, casual furniture, and slipcovers. Variations include duck cloth and sailcloth. Chiffon A gossamer-light, sheer fabric originally made of silk, now also produced with wool or synthetics. Chintz Finely woven cotton with a glossy surface, often printed with patterns. Historically luxurious, chintz is used in upholstery, draperies, and slipcovers. Corduroy Cotton fabric with a pile weave, producing distinct ridges. Durable and textured, it’s used for clothing and upholstery. Cut Velvet A firm fabric with a raised pattern woven in, similar to brocade but lighter and often reversible. Denim Coarse cotton cloth usually in a twill weave. While most associated with jeans, denim can be used as a casual upholstery fabric. Felt Made by matting wool fibers together with heat and pressure. Soft and smooth, often used in hats or inexpensive upholstery. Gabardine A tightly woven, hard-finished wool twill. Firm, durable, and excellent for formal upholstery. Gauze A plain-weave fabric with widely spaced yarns, often used for lightweight curtains. Gingham Lightweight cotton woven in small checks or stripes. Common in clothing, draperies, and bedspreads. Jacquard A machine-weaving method that allows intricate patterns and designs to be woven directly into the fabric. Mercerizing A chemical treatment for cotton fibers that adds luster and stiffness. Muslin Plain-weave cotton fabric, varying in weight from fine organdy to heavier percale. Often used for sheets or as base material for patterns. Sateen Cotton fabric with a satin weave, producing a glossy front and dull back surface. Satin Shiny, smooth-faced fabric produced with a satin weave. Traditionally silk, now often synthetic. Taffeta Evenly woven fabric producing a slight sheen. Common in formal wear and draperies. Terrycloth Cotton fabric with uncut loops, highly absorbent. Used in towels, bathrobes, and occasionally in bathroom upholstery. Ticking Striped cotton fabric traditionally used in pillows and mattresses. Tweed Rugged woolen fabric with a coarse weave, often multicolored. Durable and attractive for upholstery and outerwear. Twill A weave producing a diagonal pattern. Variants include denim and serge. Herringbone is a reversed twill pattern. Velvet Pile weave fabric with a soft, smooth surface. Cut velvet features carved designs on the pile for decorative effect. Voile Thin, delicate fabric with a plain weave, used for translucent curtains or lightweight clothing. Can be silk, cotton, wool, or synthetic. Familiarity with these fabrics can transform your choices in clothing and home décor , allowing you to match texture, durability, and style to your needs.

Eating isn’t just about filling your stomach — it’s about nourishing your mind, body, and spirit. A healthy relationship with food can transform not only your body but your self-esteem, energy, and overall wellness. Here are ten ways to eat better, feel better, and finally take charge of your meals. 1️⃣ Feed Your Brain First Carbohydrates aren’t the enemy—they’re fuel for your brain. A well-fed brain helps you make smarter choices for muscles, bones, and all your body systems. Energy starts in your head! 2️⃣ Take Responsibility for Your Body Everything you eat has consequences. Own it. Choose foods that empower your health and well-being rather than using meals to fill a void. 3️⃣ Quality Over Quantity We live in a world overflowing with options, but not every bite is equal. Step back and appreciate the food you eat for what it gives your body — energy, nutrients, and life. 4️⃣ Prioritize Protein Wisely Protein is essential for building muscles, bones, blood, and organs. Mix plant-based proteins with moderate animal proteins to reduce excess fats while still nourishing your body. 5️⃣ Love Your Reflection Never leave the mirror with a negative thought. Emotional eating often stems from self-image struggles. Find something positive in what you see, and let it guide your choices. 6️⃣ Identify Your “Food Poison” Track and limit foods that hinder your health goals. Too much sugar, sodium, saturated fats, or processed items can sabotage your efforts. Find your personal “poison” and control it. 7️⃣ Fill 65% of Your Plate with Plants Mix cooked and raw vegetables into meals. Adding small amounts of healthy fats and proteins enhances nutrient absorption, fiber intake, and overall balance. 8️⃣ Respect Your Food Every bite deserves attention. Ask yourself: Where did it come from? How does it fuel my body? Does it bring lasting energy or just temporary pleasure? Make choices that empower you to move, laugh, and live fully. 9️⃣ Block the Noise, Trust Yourself Advice is everywhere — social media, friends, family. Use it as guidance, but personalize your choices. You know what your body needs; own those decisions with confidence. 🔟 Consistency Builds Strength Just like building muscle, cultivating self-esteem, wellness, and health takes time. Stay consistent, reflect on your habits, and celebrate daily wins. Every mindful meal is a step toward a stronger, healthier you. 🍟 Final Fry Thought Your relationship with food is about more than dieting — it’s about respect, awareness, and nourishing every part of you. Eat thoughtfully, feel empowered, and embrace the journey of health and self-confidence.

Carry-On & Personal Item Basics Airlines have size and weight restrictions — always double-check with your airline before packing. Typical limits: Item Max Dimensions Max Weight Standard Carry-On 23 cm x 40 cm x 55 cm (9 in x 15.5 in x 21.5 in) 10 kg (22 lb) Personal Article 16 cm x 33 cm x 43 cm 10 kg (22 lb) Examples: Roller bag, backpack, briefcase Laptop or tablet bag Camera bag Garment bag (size restrictions apply) Musical instrument Cat or small dog in carrier Duty-free shopping Purse Australia Travel Carry-On Packing Essentials From our experience traveling to Australia and beyond, here’s what makes a long flight more comfortable and stress-free: Toothbrush & Hairbrush  – freshen up mid-flight Wipes  – easy cleanup for hands, trays, or seat areas Ear plugs or noise-canceling headphones  – essential for sensitive ears or light sleepers Decongestants  – for cabin pressure and sinus relief Deodorant  – because a long flight can get…stinky Passport, Wallet & ID  – don’t leave home without them Cell phone & charger  – entertainment and communication Laptop, iPad, or tablet  – for work or movies Books & magazines  – plane reading is a must Pen  – for customs forms and notes Change of clothes  – especially underwear; makes you feel refreshed on arrival Glasses/contacts  – plus extra cleaning supplies Medications  – essential prescriptions and a small first-aid kit Neck pillow  – seriously, this is a game-changer Cash  – for emergencies or airport snacks Kleenex  – for sneezes or spills Ziplock bags  – all liquids must be bagged for security Panty liners  – easier than changing underwear on long flights Tips for Comfort & Efficiency Roll your clothes  – saves space and reduces wrinkles Layer clothing  – planes can be chilly; think cozy layers Keep essentials accessible  – passport, phone, meds, and snacks should be easy to grab Hydrate  – carry an empty water bottle to fill after security Plan your seating  – aisle for movement, window for leaning Final Fry Thought 🍟 Packing for long flights doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right carry-on items, a bit of organization, and a neck pillow, you’ll arrive at your destination refreshed, prepared, and ready to explore. JefDiee Inflatable Foot Rest Pillow, Kids Airplane Bed, Adjustable 3 Layers Height Leg Rest Pillow, Airplane Travel Essentials Great for Office, Home, Trains, Cars

What We Don’t Owe Anyone Being shamed, guilt-tripped, or emotionally manipulated does not create debt . Holding someone emotionally hostage to force them to act—or act the way you think they should—is not a thing . You and I owe nothing  when it comes to emotional currency. Not our time, not our energy, and certainly not our peace. This episode reflects on life lessons that sneaked into a current situation, reminding me (and you) that: “You do you, and I will do me.” …isn’t just a saying. It’s freedom in practice . What Is Shame, Anyway? Shame is the internal signal that we’ve somehow failed someone else’s expectations. But here’s the truth: You don’t need more emotional baggage. You don’t need someone else’s idea of right or wrong to dictate your choices. You don’t owe anyone solutions to their problems — especially if their “problem” is invented. Emotional Freedom: How to Take Back Your Power Recognize when guilt is being weaponized.  If someone makes you feel like you’re indebted to their emotions, pause. Name your boundaries.  Emotional currency isn’t real. Protect your energy. Detach from expectations.  Just because someone thinks  your actions will solve their issues doesn’t make it true. Reclaim your life.  Do what aligns with your values and well-being, not someone else’s guilt script. Final Fry Thought 🍟 We don’t owe anyone a damn thing — not their approval, not their happiness, not their emotional load. Reclaiming your emotional freedom is empowering, liberating, and necessary . Life is messy, lessons sneak in when you least expect them, and boundaries are your superpower. 🎧 Listen Now: Tune into the latest Sex’n’Fries  podcast episode: “Don’t Owe You a Damn Thing”  — a raw, reflective, and unapologetic dive into emotional freedom, shame, and living life on your terms.

Thirty. Flirty. And Thriving.... I wish. We all know the mantra from 13 going on 30. But what they don't mention is that as your 30th birthday approaches you are actually thinking: "Thirty, Hurty & Crying". Its about this time that it hits you that this is life, you are NEVER going to figure it out, no-one ever has. While no-one seems to have figured out the secret to life, we have found many ways to work on self-care and self-growth so that we may actually enjoy this planet for our existence. The goals of this blog page is to share and be honest about the changes that we go through as we reach the "Dreaded Thirty" and what that means as a Millennial. There is a different schedule we are living on and there is a sort of grief we feel for not having that "set schedule" to our lives as society once expected from us.