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Explore. Dream. Discover: An Over60 Reader's epic journey

Many people travel to all corners of the earth, seeking new and exciting experiences, especially when we retire and are able to do so. Sometimes we can be pushed beyond the boundaries of our comfort zone but usually the experience is positive and often transformational. One popular destination for travellers who enjoy adventure is Sedona in Arizona, a town that nestles in a desert on the edge of red rock canyons. Nearby is Hopiland, home to the Hopi Indians. One of my most treasured memories occurred in this part of the world in 1990, on top of a desert mountain known as a mesa. The mesa rose thousands of feet above ground level and I climbed up there with a group of friends from Australia. As we reached the top, we began to hear the sound of drums and chanting coming from an underground cave. Our travel guide informed us that inside the cave, Hopi women and children huddled together on the dirt floor to watch their menfolk perform legendary rituals honouring their ancient ancestors. Since the ceremony was forbidden to tourists, we were given an hour to explore the top of the mesa. Moving a short distance away from the rest of the group, I sat down on a rock to fully absorb the nearby pulse of drums and chanting. A few minutes later, three young Hopi boys appeared and attempted to converse with me. Initially, I found it difficult to understand what they were saying until I realised they were actually inviting me to accompany them underground to join their tribal family. Throwing caution to the wind, I followed them down a rickety wooden ladder poking out of a hole in the ground. The atmosphere inside the cave was thick with burning sage combined with swirling dust from the pounding feet of men dancing, their heads hidden inside huge masks. Barefooted women and children squatted on the dirt floor and I felt very much an intruder as I squeezed myself amongst them. But, reassured by friendly smiles and head-nodding, I began to relax, absorbing the magical rituals of times past. Eventually the ancient ceremony ended, and I climbed the ladder back into the twentieth century, overcome by a newfound sense of humility and realisation of just how unimportant the wealth and material greed of Western society is. One can often rely on the unexpected to occur when travelling. During a visit to Egypt one year, our group emerged from the Temple of Isis to settle down and meditate on the bank of a nearby river when a military policeman appeared out of the bushes, clutching a large submachine gun. His other hand appeared to conceal something behind his back and as he drew closer, we noticed he had a second gun tucked into his belt. Terrified, we leapt to our feet. Then, his face breaking into a smile, he held out the hand from behind his back. Lying in its brown sinewy palm were eleven pink oleander blossoms, one for each of us. A moment of sheer terror switched instantly to one of absolute delight. Another example of ‘the unexpected’ occurred a few days later for a member of our group who had just turned eighty. All her life she had suffered with claustrophobia and its related anxiety and panic attacks. Consequently, when we visited the Great Pyramid to ascend the steep tunnel inside which would take us up to the King’s Chamber, we arranged for her to remain outside with our tour guide. But at the last minute she changed her mind, not wanting to miss out on such a special experience. By slowly crawling through the tunnel all the way up inside the Great Pyramid, she managed to achieve something she had never in her life believed possible. We celebrated her victory that night with champagne, lots of laughs and some hilarious attempts at belly dancing. A travel memory that always makes my grandchildren laugh is when I was visiting my friend Palden Jenkins, an historian who lives in Glastonbury. One day we set off for Snowdonia, North Wales, for a holiday. As we pulled up outside the 500-year-old stone cottage a farmer approached, urging us to be sure to leave a pot of tea outside every night for the Booka, the name given to Welsh brownies or elves. If we did this, he said, we would be assured of a hassle-free holiday. The Booka would not trouble us if we kept the cottage clean, left out the tea and didn’t have long noses. Words cannot describe the fun we two ‘grown-ups’ had in brewing tea every evening over an open fire to cater to the whims of Snowdonia’s faerie folk. Travelling the world can create change in our lives that we will never regret, opening our hearts, broadening our minds, and sometimes transforming our lives forever. To quote Mark Twain, ‘Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you did not do than by the ones you did. So, sail away from the safe harbour. Explore. Dream. Discover.’ This wonderful story, including the images, was sent in by Over60 Reader Jo Buchanan. Thank you, Jo, for sharing your adventure with us! If you have a Reader Story you would like to contribute to Over60, please send it to the editor via <a href="mailto:greg@oversixty.com.au" target="_blank" rel="noopener">greg@oversixty.com.au</a>.

International Travel

15 cruise tips approved by the Over60 community

There’s nothing better than a cruise, but it can be difficult to know what to expect. Here are 15 of the best cruising tips from the Over60 community. Don’t step onboard any cruise ship without reading this advice first. 1. Pam Holland says when you’re on a cruise by yourself it’s important to be careful which cabin you choose: “It's not much fun on a balcony if you travel solo. Much better to take a cheaper room and use the seats/lounges up on deck and watch the sea.” 2. Grace Boland reckons the solution to the post-cruise blues is to, “Just book another one! It’s river cruises for me. Booking my fourth. Don’t like the monster ships now. River cruise ships have spoilt me forever. Magnificent!” 3. Jane Fisher advises on the hidden costs of cruise ships, especially when it comes to drinks, saying, “This is especially important if you travel on any American cruise lines, the prices for alcohol are in US dollars, so your nightly glass of wine ends up being quite expensive.” 4. Nils Gustafsson has some good advice regarding shore excursions: “The most expensive part of your trip is your cruise tours, so book them with the locals when you arrive in each port. They’ll be half the price and less crowded as well. 5. Sandra Woodhouse recommends two items every cruiser should pack, “Two essentials to take on a cruise, an e-reader and a pack of playing cards. Both perfect when the weather is not.” 6. Rosemary Miles says, “There's a lot to be said for only booking with a well-known, large cruise company. There are a number who have been around for years and are well established.” 7. Jac Haines says, “Take out travel insurance as soon as you start paying deposits. Talk to a person and have them highlight in the contract where you are covered for deposits and everything else right down to political turmoil and mother nature.” 8. Diane Green is an advocate of the cabin balcony room, saying: “I always like a balcony room. That is my space. I don't have to share with loads of others. When we cruised through Fiordland, New Zealand, up on deck was like being in a sardine can. I retreated to my balcony, sat in reasonable comfort and had a great view.” 9. Marion Johnson on the other hand, prefers interior cabins, “We prefer interior. Less noise from the hallways. Yes, we have a clock night light but don't take the battery LED lights any more. After all there are lights in the room. We sometimes leave the television on with no sound on the cam station if we want to be up for a new port.” 10. Dianne Barnett has some good packing advice, saying, “When traveling with a partner, always have a photo copy of your passport, Medicare, private health card etc. in each other’s suitcase as well as your own.” 11. Kerrie Sanderson has some important advice on how you should treat cabin crew: “Treat them with respect. Unfortunately, too many passengers treat the staff as servants. One cruise I was on a gentleman sent his boiled eggs back 11 times then ended up throwing them on the floor (I would have pushed his face into them) you just can't please some people.” 12. Judy Kanizay says, “Go prepared and travel smart! Hard to avoid the coughs, colds, tummy bugs but careful preparation can give relief, save grief and money. A local pharmacy can be helpful. A must in my luggage are jar of Vicks plus bottle of apple cider vinegar.” 13. Antoinette Devlin says, “As far as I'm concerned, cruising is the only way to holiday. Not mentioned in the tips is that if you book very early, you can pay the cruise off weekly or monthly. My sister and i have done that and in 2 weeks we start a cruise around Australia for 30 wonderful days. We've paid it of monthly for a year and a half. There's so much you can chose from and it doesn't have to cost money. Things like trivia, listening to music at night etc.” 14. Jannah Foley recommends a trip to Egypt, “I have done this trip twice! It is highly recommended and very affordable. Also, very safe. Egyptians are very hospitable and friendly. I was in Egypt last year and it just gets better every time I go there... and I have been there several times!” 15. Margrit Cameron says, “Cabins are always a bit on the tight side but who cares when all the classy entertainments, the food, the beautiful ocean and the numerous comfy public areas and cafes and bars will keep us happy.” What are your tips for cruising? Have you arranged your travel insurance yet? Tailor your cover to your needs and save money by not paying for things you don’t need. <a href="https://elevate.agatravelinsurance.com.au/oversixty?utm_source=over60&utm_medium=content&utm_content=link1&utm_campaign=travel-insurance">To arrange a quote, click here</a>. For more information about Over60 Travel Insurance, call 1800 622 966. Related links: <a href="http://www.oversixty.com.au/travel/cruising/2017/01/6-things-to-try-when-it-rains-on-your-cruise/">6 things to try when it’s raining on your cruise</a> <a href="http://www.oversixty.com.au/travel/cruising/2017/01/carnival-vista-new-home-docked-in-miami/">World’s most impressive cruise ship to get a new home</a> <a href="http://www.oversixty.com.au/travel/cruising/2017/01/clever-ways-to-skip-the-queue-on-a-cruise/">6 clever ways to skip the queue on a cruise</a>

Cruising

Best relationship advice from the Over60 community

We asked about the best relationship advice you’ve received on our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/oversixtys/photos/a.1426634930900122/2417788678451404/?type=3&theater">Facebook page</a>. Below are some of the most insightful responses. “Communication and trust my dad used to say. And don’t go mouthing your private business to your friends.”- Annette Clark “Say ‘I love you’ everyday. You are never sure when it could be your last.” - Pam Garmony “Whilst he is your whole life you’ll only ever be part of his. Told to me when I was sixteen and madly in love with my new boyfriend, by a mature work colleague. We have been married for 58 years and I have never been ‘clingy’.”- Val Woodrow “Don’t let work get in the way of your relationship.”- Lesley Back “You don’t know anybody until you live with them.” - Sandy Hemington “Don’t try to change your partner. Love them for who they are.” - David Peters “Don’t let the sun go down on your wrath.” - Yvonne Day “Never sleep on an argument!” - Gwenda Jeffrey “Don’t sweat the small stuff.” - Toni Kirkpatrick

Relationships

10 more uses for Sunlight soap from the Over60 community

Sunlight soap was the world’s first packaged and branded laundry soap, being introduced by the Lever Brothers in 1884. Since then, it has continued to impress customers with its quality and many uses. We shared with you <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/lifestyle/home-garden/2016/01/uses-for-sunlight-soap/" target="_blank">surprising uses for Sunlight soap</a> and now, the Over60 community have shared 10 more ingenious uses for Sunlight soap. 1. Laundry “I remember my Grandmother using this for laundry, cleaning and used it for the bath and washing dishes. Soap went into basket, locked it shut then as the water ran over it make suds… sunlight soap is amazing.” – Susan Lyzwa 2. Shampoo “I always used it to wash hair when we were young... it was remarkable how soft it left our hair too… no conditioner in those days.” – Marlee Marley 3. Remove stains “Fancy expensive stain removers are not necessary. Cold water and Sunlight soap rubbed on any stains or marks, before placing item in the washing machine will do the trick.” – Fran Doyle 4. Discipline naughty children “I remember having my mouth washed out with it for saying ‘bloody’. That was 55 years ago, and I never said it again in front of my Mum. I can still taste it!!” – Carolyn Korlaki 5. Remove splinters “As a child I had a lot of splinters. My nan mixed grated Sunlight soap and sugar to form a paste, place it on my finger then bandage it... later you would feel it drawing the splinter out, no tears.” – Lois Boon 6. Clean pets “Old vet told me to use it on my dog years ago when he had some sort of mite rash on his skin. It fixed it.” – Ellie Tarver 7. Treat grazes “Very effective for those who get nasty grazes whilst playing various sports. Only 'treat' with Sunlight soap and it will clear up very quickly!” – Robyn Hern 8. Stop cramps “Stops the cramps when you put it between the sheets, old wives’ tale but it works for me.” – Penny Button “Put a cake of Sunlight soap under your pillow. Helps with pain, funny but true. Try it.” – Rhonda McWilliam 9. Treat boils “Sunlight soap, little water and white sugar makes a paste. It fixes sores, boils and draws out splinters.” – Patti Cloake 10. Firelighter “Nanna used to cut chunks of it to put into the wood fired copper.” – Maureen Snelson What are your favourite uses for Sunlight soap? Let us know in the comments below.

Home & Garden

Top 20 book recommendations from the Over60 community

Being led on an engrossing and emotive journey through the pages of a magnificent book is an activity like no other. We asked you, the Over60 community, to share your favourite books, so you wouldn’t be short on recommendations once you finish your current read. Here are the top 20 book recommendations. 1. Wild Swans by Jung Chang “Just coming to the end of it for a second time... a true story of three daughters of China. Brilliant!” – Margaret Hallam 2. The Book Thief by Markus Zusak “Magnificent read. Markus Zusak has a very interesting, unique and engaging writing style.” – Yvonne Patterson 3. The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold “Very different to most books I read, a murdered 14-year-old girl tells her story of what happened after her death. I believe there is a movie too.” – Maggie Bibby 4. A Fortunate Life by Albert Facey “Not long ago I finished a book by Albert Facey. A very interesting read about his growing up in the early 1900s and experiences with WWI and life. Kids these days who think they have it tough should read it.” – Graham Jackaman 5. The Little Coffee Shop of Kabul by Deborah Rodriguez “Life in the coffee shop during conflict in Afghanistan, the developing friendships with many complex characters. Recommended by a friend so glad she did. Great story.” – Merrilee Pawley 6. ‘Gelignite’ Jack Murray by Phil Murray “The biography of ‘Gelignite’ Jack Murray, the quintessential Aussie larrikin, motorsport icon, father of water skiing in Australia, adventurer and top all round sportsman. His type will never be seen again, and I can thoroughly recommend the book as a good read.” – Darryl Wilkes 7. Drums of Autumn by Diana Gabaldon “Drums of Autumn is book four in the Outlander series. Now reading book five... all for the second time. Highly recommend.” – Vicki Stebbins 8. The Barefoot Investor by Scott Pape “I would recommend this to anyone to read, it will change your life. – Frances Van Kerk Oerle 9. Long Walk to Freedom by Nelson Mandela “It has some great background information if you are thinking of travelling to South Africa, too.” – Anne Dunnet 10. Working Class Man by Jimmy Barnes “Please read the prequel Working Class Boy first. It's like he's talking straight to you.” – Sharron Millsteed Barker 11. The Dry and Force of Nature by Jane Harper “I’d recommend both The Dry and Force of Nature by Jane Harper. Both great Aussie stories with mystery and whodunnit questions until the end. Another great Aussie series are books by Bronwyn Parry.” – Vicki Newbury 12. Tattooist of Auschwitz by Heather Morris “Fantastic read, sad but very enlightening on how humans can descend into hell and treat one another. I love books that inform us and take us into other people’s lives, it’s a great honour.” – Lee Chilman 13. The Hundred-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out the Window and Disappeared by Jonas Jonasson “Perfect for 60s age group because they will appreciate the snippets of history woven throughout this very funny tale. Loved it.” – Kerrie O'Dea 14. The Lavender Keeper by Fiona McIntosh “As usual, a great story, and just about to start its sequel, The French Promise.” – Judith Daniel 15. The Secret Children by Alison McQueen “A true story of two sisters fathered by a Scottish tea plantation owner in India in the 30s to a young Indian woman.” – Janelle Rosemary Campbell 16. Against All Odds by Danielle Steel “Love all of Steel’s books. I love how when you are reading you get caught up in her characters. They come alive. Hard coming back to reality sometimes.” – Kim McLoughlin 17. I am Pilgrim by Terry Hayes “Epic in its scale, from New York 2002 to Afghanistan to Syria… keeps you so engrossed. No low points.” – Christine Kirton 18. “B” is for Burglar by Sue Grafton “I definitely highly recommend the series. I'm rereading them in memory of the lovely Sue who passed away in December.” – Wozzie Rose Mercer 19. My Cousin Rachel by Daphne Du Maurier “I am reading some of Daphne Du Maurier’s books, hard going but I loved My Cousin Rachel and Jamaica Inn, reading The Glassblowers now.” – Lesley Wilson 20. All That I Am by Anna Funder “Good read about a group of German pacifists who flee Germany when Hitler comes to power.” – Margaret Shambrook

Books

10 of the most romantic movies, according to the Over60 community

Romance movies have the powerful ability to tug on our heartstrings in the short two-hour span we watch them. If it is a truly great movie, the characters’ love almost becomes our own as we invest our heart into their triumphs and trials. We asked you, the Over60 community, to share your favourite romance movies and here are you top 10 picks. Scroll through the gallery above to see the Over60 community’s favourite romance movie picks. What is your favourite romance movie? Let us know in the comments below.

Movies

Over60 community reveal their 6 biggest relationship deal-breakers

What’s your biggest deal-breaker when it comes to love? That’s what we asked the Over60 community recently, and the responses were overwhelming. Here are six of the biggest red-flags in relationships according to our readers. 1. No communication “The lack of communication, often people think their partner should understand how they feel, without actually articulating it.” – Anne McKeon. “Communication. Talk to each other and more importantly listen.” – Debbie Bryant. “My mum always told me that a good marriage meant: give, take and communicate.” – Christa Caldecott. 2. Emotional and physical abuse “Domestic violence. Some people need to look up the meaning of these two words. Emotional blackmail.” – Rozanne Kevill. “Violence it's the only thing I can’t see being able to work through. Married 24 years and still working through new issues.” – Teresa Grudzinski. “Emotional and psychological abuse, financial abuse, physical and sexual abuse, these are killers.” – Patricia Simmons. 3. Dishonesty and unfaithfulness “Destruction of trust. Honesty and love is paramount.” – Tony Saddington. “Infidelity. It destroys trust which is the foundation of a relationship.” – Jayne Connerton. “Lying. It destroys trust and a lack of trust can destroy love, so tell it how it is.” – Rob Fitzpatrick. 4. Financial incompatibility “When one partner has a different attitude to spending money and running up debt than the other. It’s never going to get better.” – Felicity Weston. “Money wasting or perceived money wasting.” – Barbara Easthope. 5. Pride and ego “Pride, some people are too proud to admit they are wrong, or that something said hurt them so they simply let little things fester and become so big they explode and say the most awful things that usually aren’t true. Then resentment builds between both partners.” – Vonnie Bateman. “One partner’s unshakeable belief in his/her own perfection and a complete refusal to discuss issues.” – Dianne McDonald 6. Lack of respect “Lack of consideration, lack of control of bodily functions and body odour, taking over conversations and definitely not knowing when to shut up!” – Christine Speers. “Lack of respect for the other’s differing opinion.” – Helen Miles. “The root cause of all of these things is lack of respect and consideration of one’s partner.” – Marlee Marley. Tell us in the comments below, what would you add to our list?

Relationships

“What I wanted to be as a child…”: Over60 community share childhood ambitions

When you’re young, the world is your oyster. Limited at times only by your imagination, life seems to have endless possibilities and there’s no telling what the future may hold. Then, reality kicks in. We’re slugged with bills, expenses and for better or worse we’re ushered down the hallway that is to become our career and ultimately our lives. A little while ago, we asked the Over60 community to share their childhood ambitions and whether they managed to achieve them. These stories provided an interesting look at the difference between childhood ambition and reality. To see some of the best answers, scroll through the gallery above. What did you want to be as a child? Were you able to fulfil your ambition?

Retirement Income

Top 10 crime authors according to the Over60 community

Earlier this year, we asked the Over60 community to share their favourite crime authors with us, so the next time you’re looking for a good read, you can rely on these recommendations. 1. Agatha Christie “When life is challenging, give me a raging storm, a roaring fire and Miss Marple, Hercule Poirot and the best mystery writer ever, Agatha Christie.” – Di Clanchy. Must read: <a href="http://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Fmurder-on-the-orient-express-agatha-christie%2Fprod9780007119318.html" target="_blank">Murder on the Orient Express</a>. 2. James Patterson “James Patterson is my favourite. His story lines and twists and turns keep you so engrossed they make you completely ignore the housework.” – Nancy Pond. Must read: <a href="http://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Falong-came-a-spider-james-patterson%2Fprod9780446364195.html" target="_blank">Along Came a Spider</a>. 3. Peter Robinson “I have lots of favourites that I look for but Peter Robinson is right up there with his DCI Banks series. To me his writing is authentic police procedures written in a no-nonsense format.” – Beth Tennent. Must read: <a href="http://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Fgallows-view-peter-robinson%2Fprod9781447225430.html" target="_blank">Gallows View.</a> 4. Lee Child “Lee Child is my favourite crime writer, in particular the Jack Reacher books. They are relatively simple, but page by page I am consumed, not by admiration exactly, but by something much more powerful – the great animating impulse of the whole story-telling business – the desire to know what is going to happen.” – Judith Negus. Must read: <a href="http://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Fkilling-floor-lee-child%2Fprod9780553826166.html" target="_blank">Killing Floor</a>. 5. Michael Connelly “Michael Connelly is my favourite because he does crime mystery with a side of supernatural making it that much more thrilling.” – Karen Baker. Must read: <a href="http://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Fthe-black-echo-michael-connelly%2Fprod9781760630881.html" target="_blank">The Black Echo</a>. 6. Lynda La Plante “Lynda La Plante is my favourite crime writer. Her heroes and heroines are very believable – intelligent, thought-provoking, yet somewhat flawed. Plots are great.” – Jan Macklin. Must read: <a href="/%20http:/t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Fabove-suspicion-lynda-la-plante%2Fprod9781849834339.html" target="_blank">Above Suspicion</a>. 7. Jo Nesbø “My favourite crime author is Jo Nesbø who brings to life Scandi noir. I feel the ice, cold and vast open dark spaces.” – Beverly Foye. Must read: <a href="http://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Fsnowman-the-jo-nesbo%2Fprod9781784700928.html" target="_blank">The Snowman</a>. 8. Karin Slaughter “Karin Slaughter. Her books are so thrilling and suspenseful. You can’t put them down once you start reading them. The stories seem so real and have great characters.” – Paul Pisani. Must read: <a href="http://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Fpretty-girls-karin-slaughter%2Fprod9780062499554.html" target="_blank">Pretty Girls</a>. 9. Ian Rankin “Ian Rankin. His writing can keep you on your toes and the book will stay in your hands till the last word.” – Roman Lichacz. Must read: <a href="http://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Fknots-crosses-ian-rankin%2Fprod9780752883533.html" target="_blank">Knots and Crosses</a>. 10. Ruth Rendell “Ruth Rendell enthrals with the very realistic and interesting characters that she weaves into her compelling plots. Her books involve the reader to the point they are hard to put down.” – Jenny Pigdon. Must read: <a href="http://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Ffrom-doon-with-death-ruth-rendell%2Fprod9780099588542.html" target="_blank">From Doon with Death</a>. Who else would you add to the list? Let us know in the comments below.

Books

14 speed-cleaning tips from the Over60 community

We have all experienced a time in our lives where we have pressed for time and wondered how we can clean our home quickly. Here is the Over60 community’s advice to get the job done in record time. 1. “One of my best ‘hacks’ is to use white vinegar in the washing machine instead of fabric softener, it softens the clothes just as well as the fabric softener at a fraction of the price, cleans the washing machine and all the drain pipes. Also, pour a couple of cups of vinegar into the toilet cistern to keep it and the toilet bowl clean as well as the toilet drainage pipes.” – Heather Thiele <img width="270" height="254" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/40577/dusters.jpg" alt="Dusters"/> 2. “I gave my dear wife for Christmas a pair of slippers with micro dusters on the bottom, amazing worth every cent and saves her cleaning time, which means I don't have to wait for my dinner.” – Nigel Hourigan 3. “I like Margaret Ollie's (artist) advice. ‘I like watching the patina grow. If the house looks dirty, buy another bunch of flowers.’” – Jenny Kiene 4. “I always do a quick tidy up before bed, toilet cleaner in last thing before bed, any dirty cups or glasses in dishwasher, wipe benches and put dirty clothes in machine to wash in morning. I hate getting up to a messy house!” – Sandra Mcinnes 5. “I have a routine I stick too, and it’s so much easier. All my home is cleaned in two days, washing the lot, floors washed but I clean my actual bathroom fortnightly as it just my husband and I. Toilet and floors are done each week, then I have time for sewing, gardening and whatever else needs doing. Every change of season I give the house a freshen up, stove, fridge are cleaned also windows, curtains get a clean and doors get wiped over also.” - Barbara C Griffin 6. “Have your neighbours over for morning tea, that will have you cleaning.” – Macey Taylor 7. “Put on your favourite dance music and whizz around with a cloth sprayed with Mr Sheen. Good exercise too.” – Ruby West 8. “Try baking soda with your vinegar, I use it all the time. I also wash my clothes in baking soda and white vinegar with a dash of eucalyptus oil in it too. I haven't used washing powder or soaps for years. I use a cup of baking soda and I guess a good slosh of vinegar maybe a 1/4 of a cup. I started using it because my husband and daughter have really dicey skin.” – Dianne L Kevan 9. “Get rid of all cleaning products and get a spray bottle fill with water add 2 table spoons of the clear eucalyptus wool wash. I use it on windows, glass and all surfaces. It's wonderful and smells fresh. Try it.” – Natalie Constance 10. “Changing from toilet soap to shower gel has been amazing, just spray the shower recess with white vinegar and rinse next time in the shower!” – Maree Janice Reidy 11. “Make a spray bottle of diluted domestos (bleach cleanser). It’s ideal for removing marks from walls.” – Rhonda Miller 12. “Wash up, beds, quick floor clean and a big clean once a week, just Windex and Palmolive for all.” - Maree Mcgahey 13. “Lavender oil and water in a spray bottle for kitchen bench tops. Rub a cut lemon on plastic cutting boards then rinse.” - Myrilyn Googh 14. “Downsize... a small home takes a lot less time to clean.” – Jenny Bush What are your tips and tricks for cleaning the home quickly? Let us know in the comments below.

Home & Garden

Over60 members reveal their all-time favourite books

We’re always looking for something new here at Over60, but it’s hard to go past an oldie-but-a-goodie. That’s why we asked you to share your all-time favourite books – that means from your childhood all the way through to now. Here’s what you had to say. 1. Anything by Enid Blyton “I have enjoyed many books over the years, but nothing can ever compare to the joy that came from Enid Blyton books from my childhood. That wonderful <a href="http://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Fmagic-faraway-tree-stories-3-in-1-enid-blyton%2Fprod9781405240925.html" target="_blank">Faraway Tree</a> with the amazing lands at the top, and the magical characters. Then there was the <a href="http://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Fsecret-seven-collection-enid-blyton%2Fprod9781444910599.html" target="_blank">Secret Seven</a> and the <a href="http://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Ffamous-five-collection-enid-blyton%2Fprod9781444910582.html" target="_blank">Famous Five</a>. Just the best!” – Elizabeth McKennariey. “Secret Seven and Famous Five by Enid Blyton when I was young probably started off my love of reading.” – Susan Marsh. 2. <a href="http://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Fapril-fool-s-day-popular-penguins-bryce-courtenay%2Fprod9780143566564.html" target="_blank">April Fool’s Day</a> by Bryce Courtenay “April Fool’s Day by Bryce Courtenay. About his own son, Damon, a haemophiliac who contracted HIV/AIDS through an infected blood transfusion. Damon passed away on 1st April 1991.” – Maureen Smith. “I have never cried as much when reading a book as when I did with this book.” – Janet Hunt. “So well written and so sad!” – Lorraine Pease. 3. <a href="http://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Fa-fortunate-life-a-b-facey%2Fprod9780143003540.html" target="_blank">A Fortunate Life</a> by A. B. Facey “A Fortunate Life by Albert Facey. A very inspirational book to me. The life story of a man who had a hard life and called it fortunate.” – Wendy Harwood. “Incredible read! Should be on the school reading list!” – Marilyn Joubert. 4. <a href="http://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Fthe-green-mile-stephen-king%2Fprod9780671041786.html" target="_blank">The Green Mile</a> by Stephen King “The Green Mile. It has every emotion and a bittersweet ending. It was also a great movie and for once they were equal – I normally prefer the book to the movie.” – Avrina Woodyatt A’Bell. 5. Anything by Jeffrey Archer “As an adult l have loved Jeffrey Archer’s books – <a href="http://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Fkane-and-abel-jeffrey-archer%2Fprod9781509808694.html" target="_blank">Kane and Abel</a>, <a href="http://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Fthe-prodigal-daughter-jeffrey-archer%2Fprod9780330512930.html" target="_blank">The Prodigal Daughter</a>, <a href="http://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Fnot-a-penny-more-not-a-penny-less-jeffrey-archer%2Fprod9781509807307.html" target="_blank">Not a Penny More, Not a Penny Less</a> etc. All of his books are great reads.” – Julie Sherry. 6. <a href="http://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Fdissolution-c-j-sansom%2Fprod9781447285830.html" target="_blank">The Shardlake Series</a> by C. J. Sansom “I'm reading books by C.J. Sansom set during the times of Henry 8th with a lawyer as the main character solving crimes. I've read book two and am reading book three which has made me buy the first and all the following because I just can't stop reading them. They are so well written and keep you wondering what’s next and who’s the bad person. Just great reading. As good as Game of Thrones.” – Krista Dennis. 7. <a href="http://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Fthe-pillars-of-the-earth-ken-follett%2Fprod9781447265443.html" target="_blank">Pillars of the Earth</a> by Ken Follett “One book I loved was Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett. I bought that book back in the early nineties and it was one I could not put down, I found myself reading it in even the shower with my arm extended. Most books I read, I put down, pick them up, scan them and then put them down once more, but not that one.” – John Day. 8. <a href="http://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Fto-kill-a-mockingbird-harper-lee%2Fprod9780099419785.html" target="_blank">To Kill a Mockingbird</a> by Harper Lee “To Kill a Mockingbird by the late Harper Lee. I love that every time I read this book I learn more and more about honesty, graciousness, compassion, integrity, humility and strength of character.” – Patricia Jancovich. “To Kill a Mockingbird gave me a lifelong belief in justice for all people.” – Susan Elizabeth Reid. 9. <a href="http://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Fthorn-birds-colleen-mccullough%2Fprod9780380018178.html" target="_blank">The Thorn Birds</a> by Colleen McCullough “Thorn Birds I loved the most, but it was made into a terrible American TV show, I think it's about time to remake a movie made by Australians in Australia to honour Colleen McCullough.” – Mary Proctor. “A lot I have loved, but think The Thorn Birds, would have to be the best.” – Pam Blight. 10. <a href="http://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Foutlander-diana-gabaldon%2Fprod9780440212560.html" target="_blank">The Outlander series</a> by Diana Gabaldon “The Outlander series by Diana Gabaldon. I’ve read it through 6 times, and love it just as much the last time as the first!” – Anne Latham. “Outlander... I just love the history that surrounds it.” – Joyce Manihera.

Books

Dating horror stories from the Over60 community

The path to love is fraught with bad dates, amazing dates, and completely forgettable dates. Then there are those rendezvous that redefine the meaning of the word “bad” and remain planted in your memory for the rest of your life! Last month, we asked the Over60 community to share their dating horror stories, and honestly, some of them are enough to put us off dating for a long, long time… 1. A really “hot” date “I'd never eaten spicy food before (it was the 70s) and a lovely young ambo took me to a Malaysian restaurant. The dishes he chose were so hot that my lips and mouth went completely numb, so it was some time before I realised my nose was dripping onto my plate. He looked horrified. Then, on the silent trek back to his car later, my English-food-accustomed gut started growling and making gas. I tried so hard to keep it in but was horrified when I popped a real cracker. I scraped my foot along the ground, trying to make the same sound but he wasn't fooled. Never asked me out again.” – Toni Sands 2. A not-so-happy New Year “Where do I start? I was left in the car on New Year's Eve while my new boyfriend went to see if we could crash a party. We could. Actually, he did. Half an hour after midnight he came back. Another time, I was going to a party with my boyfriend (another one) and we were accosted by a girl demanding why he hadn't picked her up. I'm now too old for this crap!” – Noni Primrose. 3. Not quite Prince Charming “About three years after my husband passed away, a friend set me (then 53) up with a blind date – apparently this guy had seen me at one of her get-togethers and asked for a 'meet up'. The 'date' was in a group situation at her boyfriend’s darts club championship (at a pub), so I said ‘OK’ despite not being much of a drinker. “So here I am, sitting with a group of people I had barely met before, when she gets a stricken look on her face as she stares across to the bar. I turn slightly to see a man front up to the bar dressed in work gear (I have nothing against tradies – I married one), ratty shorts, a bogan shirt over a singlet, concrete encrusted work boots and socks – he obviously hadn't gone home to shower and change after work despite it being 8pm and hours after dark. “He proceeded to sit and stare at me for over an hour and a half, drinking beer after beer – she was mortified at his behaviour as he slumped lower and lower on the bar stool – finally, he stood (like a sapling quaking in a raging storm), took one step and fell flat on his face out cold, where he stayed until the darts tournament finished and a couple of the guys loaded him into the back of his ute and took him home. He did not say a single word to me – a few days later he apparently asked my friend for another 'date' with me but I declined.” – Natasha Devereux. Do you have a disaster date story? Share it with us in the comments below!

Relationships

Inspiring stories of the Over60 community beating cancer

Some of the bravest and most inspirational people out there are undoubtedly cancer survivors. That’s why earlier this year, we asked members of the Over60 community to share the story of how they beat cancer. Prepare to be inspired! A positive attitude “Merkel cell tumour, about 13 years ago. Potentially fatal, very rare. Chemo, radiotherapy, 12 months off work and fingers crossed, I’m now in remission. Always have had a positive attitude.” – Necia Grimshaw. Hell and back “My husband was diagnosed in 2015 with inoperable tongue cancer. In 2016, he had osteonecrosis in the jaw and had to have it replaced. He experienced bad burns from the radiation but still worked 40 hours a week. I’m in awe of him, so are my family and friends. It wasn’t pain free, we’ve been to hell and back, but now he’s cancer free.” – Julie Edwards. A walking miracle “Eight years ago, I was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia. I had over 95 per cent leukemic cells in my blood, I was 64 and borderline treatable because of my age. Chemo, stem cell transplant from by brother, graft-versus-host disease and countless infections, plus steroid induced diabetes. Two years later I relapsed and nearly died with an infection during chemo. They offered me a trial – my only hope. “After four years of trial treatment, more infections and hospitalisations, it’s now been over two years since any treatment. My file has been closed and I have less than 1 per cent chance of relapse. I am considered cured. I am a walking miracle and have been extremely blessed.” – Mary McKenzie. The dog saved my life “I am a survivor of stage two laryngeal cancer. I was diagnosed in July 2015, and after three sessions of chemo and 35 sessions of radiation, tumour has gone – I was cleared in Jan 2016. Staying positive through this and the love and support from my son and friends and family kept me going. Check-ups went from every two months, to three months and now six months. I must say that if it wasn't for tripping over my little dog, busting my ribs and knocking myself out, I would not have known until it was too late. I owe my little Samson my life.” – Wendy Williams. One of the lucky ones “I was diagnosed in July 2015 with breast cancer, then weeks later kidney cancer. I had a lumpectomy, then six weeks later a kidney removed. After 12 months of chemotherapy and three months of radiotherapy, I am now six months in remission. I am one of the lucky ones, to those still going through therapy, stay strong and positive.” – Tineke Leopoldina Price. Are you a cancer survivor? We’d love to hear your story. Share how you beat this cruel disease with us in the comments below.

Caring

Over60 members reveal their favourite TV shows

What TV show are you loving at the moment? That’s what we asked the Over60 community last month, and we were thrilled to see some old favourites mentioned alongside newer additions to our watch lists. From fresh episodes of A Place to Call Home to old re-runs of Murder, She Wrote, flip through the gallery above to see 15 of the Over60 community’s favourite series right now. Tell us in the comments, what do you think of the list? Also, what’s got you glued to the TV these days?

Over60 community recall the first time they met the love of their life

If there’s one thing Hollywood gets right, it’s that special moment when boy meets girl. Eyes light up, hearts flutter and so begins an exciting new romance. For some lucky members of the Over60 community, those eyes never stopped lighting up and hearts still flutter when they lay eyes on their partner or spouse. Here, they share the beautiful, funny, and downright bizarre ways they met the love of their life. 1. Unlikely circumstances “His wife had an affair with my husband! They left together and we gradually became friends. He was raising his two children and I was raising my two. We’ve been married 40 years with many grandchildren... the other two didn't last.” – Lynn Woodbury. 2. Fell in love head over… legs? “I met her at work nursing on a geriatric ward. Fell in love with the legs and had to marry the rest of the body... 42 years ago! Funnily, the day we met she went home from work and told her Mum she'd met the man she was going to marry that day.” – Brian Lloyd. 3. Love at first sight “I am a teacher and met my paramedic husband when he was the instructor on the first aid course I had to complete. We went on our first date at the end of the course and became engaged two months later. We have been married for 18 wonderful years. Definitely love at first sight!” – Samantha Suringa. 4. He grew on me “He tells me we met at the beach but I had eyes for another and went with him for a year. During that time, my future husband joined the navy and when he came back I was 'single' again so he asked me out. He was on leave and seemed to always be at our house and he kind of grew on me and I fell madly in love. That was 53 years ago.” – Lyn Pride. 5. First impressions “I met her at an engagement party for a pen pal whilst I was in Vietnam. My now wife was seated in an old leather lounge chair. I sat on the arm to chat, slipped on the leather, landed on a small table, sending the contents (chips and nuts) all over an older couple on the other side of the room. I finally cleaned up the mess and resumed my position and we talked the evening away, finally I asked if I could take her home, she replied I should ask her father, pointing to the gentleman I had covered with nuts and chips. That was 46 years ago...” – Ray Portbury. 6. Perseverance “It was definitely not love at first sight! We both lived in a residential hotel in Johannesburg, he was loud and I was not impressed. He persevered, moved to my table in the dining room. After six months, I went out with him for the first time – to spite the current boyfriend who was not behaving as expected. A week later we had a car accident on the way back from a weekend trip to Durban, I ended up in hospital for three days, after which he asked me to marry him and I said yes! We'd been going out for just two weeks. This year we celebrated our 45th wedding anniversary!” – Annette Guernier Clay. How did you meet the love of your life? Share your stories with us in the comments below!

Relationships

13 hilarious cruise complaints overheard by the Over60 community

Cruising is a holiday like no other where passengers get to enjoy the process of travelling just as much as their destination. Unfortunately, it’s not v smooth sailing for everyone with some passengers left to air their grievances with those onboard with them. The hilarious complaints range from someone complaining that the water being too loud and a woman asking, “how much above sea level are we?” Look through the gallery above to read the other gems. What is the funniest cruise complaint you’ve overheard? Let us know in the comments below.

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13 hilarious cruise complaints overheard by the Over60 community