Monday Musings on Bandages, Bags, and a Few Good Questions
Happy Monday, ladies. I have my fingers crossed for a calmer week. Things that could go wrong last week, did… all the way to Sunday, when I didn’t back out of the garage far enough before closing it. You know how that goes.
I ordered these Naot sandals on a whim, and I’m delighted to report they’re very comfortable. This matters because the cortisone shot in my big toe has officially worn off, and some of the pain has started creeping back in.
Anyone who’s dealt with fussy feet knows comfortable shoes eventually stop being a pleasant surprise and become the whole point.
I was rereading the report from my orthopedic surgeon visit, back when we decided a cheilectomy was probably the next step, and spotted one detail I hadn’t fully absorbed. He noted that I may still need to have my toe fused later because of the bone spur on the bottom of the toe.
Well. That got my attention.
So now I’m wondering whether it makes sense to try the cheilectomy first or go straight to the fusion. I also want to understand how fusing the toe addresses pain from a bone spur on the bottom, since I’ll still be stepping on that part of my foot.
I’ve messaged him to ask. If you’ve had either procedure, I’d be very interested to hear what helped, what surprised you, and what you wish you’d known before deciding.
I debated whether to mention this, but since I have a bandage on the tip of my nose and there’s no hiding that without wearing a beekeeper’s veil, here we are.
I finally insisted that my dermatologist biopsy the spot we’ve been watching for over a year. We thought it was an actinic keratosis, and I tried several treatments that made it angry but didn’t make it leave. After a second dermatologist looked at it and wasn’t comfortable with it either, I decided it was time to stop hoping it would magically disappear.
Needless to say, I’m nervous about the results. Partly because it’s my nose, and vanity is not my finest quality, but it’s still in the room. And partly because it brings back memories of the melanoma on my leg.
The spot hasn’t changed in size, which I’m hoping is a good sign, but hope is not a medical plan. I’ll share what I learn when I know more.
You may enjoy reading this…How to Advocate For Yourself at the Doctor
That’s enough health news for one Monday.
I had planned to answer a few reader questions on Sunday, but it was Father’s Day, and after the week we’d had, I decided being present mattered more than being productive.
Reader Q & A
Q – I’m looking for a foundation with SPF and medium coverage. I’d rather not spend over $50 unless I have to. What do you suggest?
A – This L’Oreal Paris Age Perfect Radiant Serum foundation has terrific reviews. To be honest, I love the No Makeup Makeup, which is $55, but you can save 15% with my code AWSL15. It doesn’t include SPF, but I never, ever rely on a foundation to do the work for a sunscreen.
Q -I’m looking for a pair of travel trousers like the Eileen Fisher ones you mentioned last week. I’m really looking for something that is smart and travel-friendly as well, with pockets, preferably with one zip. Am I looking for a unicorn?
A – My very favorite travel pants these days are the Endless Pant from Athleta. They have a smooth, soft, pull-on waistband that’s comfortable no matter how long you’re jammed into a center seat, and they walk off the plane looking pristine. They also have secure zip pockets and can be dressed up nicely.
Q – If you could only purchase one on-trend piece this summer to bring your classic summer wardrobe into 2026, what would that be?
A – I’ll give you two…both accessories. I’d add a large raffia or straw basket bag to my wardrobe this year. A fresh-looking bag elevates everything you pair it with, and it’s very on-trend.
If you have enough bags, opt for an open woven shoe. They are very popular this summer at all price points.
Basket bags to consider:
Woven shoes I spotted:
Q – Could you speak to flowing overalls or jumpsuits for women in their 70s and 80s?
A – Flowing jumpsuits and overalls can work beautifully in your 70s and 80s, especially when the fabric has a little stretch and enough drape to move without clinging.
I’d avoid stiff fabrics or anything too oversized, and I’d pay close attention to the straps and closures. Bathroom access matters, especially with jumpsuits. As for whether they’re stylish, on trend, or a good idea, that’s very much in the eye of the beholder. Some women look wonderful in them, and others simply don’t enjoy wearing them.
Q – I would be interested in learning about color and style essence. I’ve had my colors re-done recently, due to the decision to go grey. Not much changed, but the new, refined color palette has helped a lot, so the style essence explained would also be helpful for this next phase.
A – Going grey doesn’t just change your hair, it changes your skin too. The same drop in pigment that’s turning your hair grey is also softening your skin’s natural intensity, so your whole coloring shifts together. That’s probably why the refined palette is making such a difference, even though it might feel like nothing “big” changed.
Style essence is a separate question. Color tells you which shades sit well against your skin. Essence tells you which shapes, fabrics, and proportions suit your actual body and energy. It’s why one person can wear a sharp blazer and look like she was born in it, and another person in the exact same blazer looks like she borrowed it from someone else’s closet.
If you have some style questions, just reply to the email for this post.
Do you have a favorite sunscreen? My medicine cabinet is overflowing with new ones I’m trying.
This is very late and only you will see it, but I want to thank you for talking about health problems associated with aging. It’s heartening for your peers to read about problems you’re experiencing. No one likes to undergo aging alone. If we only read about perfectly healthy, pain free aging, we stand out as outliers. If you talk about problem you’re having, we realize it’s just part of the whole aging process. You are generous to share your health challenges with your readers. (I am currently experiencing back/hip problems that arose from a trans Atlantic flight a couple of months ago, along with ankle twinges that may be related.) Thank you!
You’d be surprised who may read your comment and I thank you for letting me know it’s helpful. I’m sorry to hear about your back. They can be sooo painful. I hope you’re on the mend soon.
I also have a bandage on end of my nose,waiting on biopsy result,praying for good news for both of us
Good luck!! Praying for you too
Jennifer – I have had cheilectomy not once but four times if you cuteness each toe!! The last time I did it, I did both of my big toes at the same time; I religiously followed ALL of the post-op instructions of ZERO weight bearing for two full weeks (meaning wheelchair to the bathroom and back to the couch!) and then crutches with almost no weight bearing for an additional two weeks. Then four months of physical therapy… After 12 months, I walked back into the surgoen’s office and said, my feet hurt. He took x-rays, looked and them and befuddled – looked at me and said – it all grew back!
DON’T bother with the cheilectomy!! No matter how good the surgeon, and I do believe mine was good, once you have arthritis, this is going to grow back!
Additionally, fusing the joint is a last resort. As I’ve-mentioned, I have had bothmy feet done more than once and it grew right back. I wear expensive but as comfortable as possible) shoes, exercise regularly and keep my weight in check so that I CAN walk and move and keep up with my grands for as long as possible!
I have had multiple orthopedic surgeries (knee recon and both knees replaced-a blessing!) among them. Being athletic when you are young will come at a price as you age for sure!
Just my experience and thoughts. The knee replacement – BEYOND worth it but this I wish I had never done!
Thanks so much for sharing. I am so shocked to read this. I saw my podiatrist today and she suggested just “sanding” down the bone spurs to start…but as you say, the arthritis will cause them to grow back. Luckily I don’t need any other body parts replaced…yet.
I can’t speak to your specific foot issues, but I had my foot fused 2.5 years ago due to arthritis and had a bunion removed on that foot at the same time.
Ask a lot of questions, especially recovery time. I didn’t ask enough.Feel free to contact me if you’d like.
Thanks Janet
I had both my big toes fused about 5 years ago. The joints in both were causing tremendous pain – after having steroid shots for a couple years I decided to get them fused. Absolutely no regrets! They also took care of the bunions on both feet while they did the fusion – my feet look and feel so much better. I chose to have both done at once, which meant a few weeks of no weight bearing so was in a wheel chair for a bit and then wore boots on both feet for a couple months or so – but still happy I did them both as didn’t want to be out of commission twice.
Thanks for letting me know Gloria. You’re a trouper.
I also have a bone spur in my big toe for over 10 years. I wear orthotics in my walking shoes The pain is minor now Unfortunately, trendy ,cute shoes or heels are out of the question I prefer to avoid surgery at all costs. My podiatrist does not suggest surgery but treats with custom orthotics. As a nurse, I always told my patients that you have to decide if this is life altering. For now functional shoes are my go to 😟😟😟
Jennifer, you have to believe me when I tell you that when I saw your photo, I thought how beautiful you look. And I admired your new hairstyle (as one who also has thinning hair). I DIDN’T SEE the bandaid until you pointed it out. So there you go! You’re lovely. I await the results and wish you a good outcome.
– Karen in Vermont
You’re so sweet Karen. Thank you
Also, for the woman looking for a make up with SFP, I have been using Lune & Aster (Blue Mercury brand available in BM stores or on their website). I use the CC cream (Light – 150) and it has an SPF of 50! It gives light to medium coverage. I like the light coverage. My brown spots disappear. Very happy with it.
Good to know, thanks.
First off: LOVE the Nutra Bisse Essential Shock moisturizer. I’ve been using it (previous formulation also) and it is the best! New formula is “lighter” but just as moisturizing. More of a “whipped” feel. Glad you like it.
Regarding fusing a toe – DON’T. I have my hammer toe on my right foot corrected when bunion was corrected. Fusing will not allow you to walk properly. Your toes bend when you walk and fusing prevents normal walking. It caused numerous sprain ankles because your foot will not “roll” from heel to toe. Toe will not roll. Yes, I feel very strongly about this.
That’s one of my concerns. The dr said I’m already walking in a weird way but I still want to move it. Yes, love the cream.
Question: I splurged on my first pair of Eileen Fisher pants. Lovely khaki, cotton with a smidge of spandex. They look awesome for the first 6 hours. Then they start to sag in the seat and by the 12th hour they nearly look like clown pants, making my rump appear larger than in real life.
Have you had this happen? And, more importantly, is it worth taking to a tailor?
p.s. really enjoy your blog, it is quite aspirational.
It depend on the fabric. Sometimes a smidge of spandex is not enough to prevent stretching out. It’s just included for comfort. If they seem large in the seat,they are worth altering.I always go down one or two sizes in her clothes
Hugs & positive vibes from Florida. Sandie
I had a chielectomy (sp?) several years ago at Hospital for Special Surgery in NYC (top notch for orthopedics) – It DID NOT help my foot pain at all in fact the only thing it did was leave a large scar on the top of my foot. I would not recommend it. I’m actually going back to another surgeon to see what other options I may have for my painful feet. I avoided the fusion because I don’t think you can really wear heels after the procedure but I’m going to reach a point where comfort matters more than heels!
I hear you!
It does sound like a heck of a week! My mother’s cancer history keeps me on my toes as well. I like the Supergoop sunscreen on my face, ears and neck. I also wear a hat. My coloring looks exactly like yours. My mom lived in Tampa, was a big gardener and played golf three times a week. She wore visors with her nearly white thin hair out of vanity. Her skin was very dry and usually tanned. Mine is mostly oily which probably saves me. Good luck on your skin issues and your toe. It sounds very painful to me. I have a right total knee replacement so I understand how limiting it is to have pain with every step. Once I recovered, I have not had pain and no restrictions in mobility. I’ve never had any foot surgery so can’t speak to that but the bone spur is the problem and apparently the location is the surgical problem. Have you gotten a second opinion? Sorry about the garage incident but you have a lot on your mind. Accidents happen. Keep us all up to date on how you are doing.
I have had a second opinion and thinking of getting a third!
Someone asked about sunscreen in a foundation. A few months ago, I noticed that some of the major department store brands had removed sunscreen from their product, i.e., Chanel and Armani for sure. When I inquired, I was told the mix just wasn’t working as the combo was affecting the life of the product, in some cases even separating. Best to get/use the best sunscreen, then add your favorite foundation. Makes sense!
I agree. I layer two sunscreens most days. Untinted and after that soaks in, I layer on a tinted
I understand about your nose. I have had both of my ears blasted with liquid nitrogen; one ear has been done twice so I now put sunscreen on my ears too.
My favorite sunscreen is Elta MD UV AOX Tinted Mineral Sunscreen, SPF 50. I’ve tried other Elta MD sunscreens too but keep coming back to this one. My skin is fair and the tint is light. It goes well over my serums and moisturizers and if I’m not going anywhere during the day, is enough tint to use as a makeup as it mutes the worst of my broken capillaries (English heritage) and melasma areas from youthful years in the sun. (I’m 75 years old.) Best, is that when I apply any one of the three makeups I use over it, it acts like a primer and I can pat and smooth the makeup over it and the makeup slides over it well.
I love Abeo sandals and shoes. I’m wearing a pair of their walking sandals right now.
The Alastin line is wonderful. I’ll have to check out their sunscreen
Good luck with your medical issues Jennifer.
Naot Kayla are such comfortable sandals. I wore a pair for several summers. Adored and recommend them often.
My foolproof and favorite serious face sunscreen (for true outdoor days, beach, boating) is Blue Lizard Sheer Face Mineral SPF 50. Need mineral formula due to rosacea
Roseacia is a bear isn’t it?