Jessica Griffith-Echito

This list is my collection of the products, tools, and little life-savers that have helped me navigate the hot flashes, brain fog, mood swings, and “is it me or did the thermostat just break again?” moments of menopause. Think of it as the cheat sheet I wish someone had handed me before the night sweats started. From cozy comfort items that make sleep possible, to supplements and skincare that keep me feeling more like myself, to those clever little gadgets that make this whole transition a whole lot smoother. This list has been road-tested by yours truly. Some of these finds soothe the body, others calm the mind, and a few just plain make me laugh (because let’s face it, humor is sometimes the best hormone therapy). If you’re walking through this season of life, or tiptoeing toward it, consider this your girlfriend-to-girlfriend guide. Grab what speaks to you, skip what doesn’t, and remember: menopause doesn’t get to steal our joy, comfort, or confidence. 🌸 ✨This list contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them—at no extra cost to you.✨

After living in Surprise, Arizona, with my husband and raising five kids (and now enjoying two grandkids), I’ve learned that what we want to do for fun really depends on the season of life we’re in and even the mood of the day. Sometimes it’s all about family-friendly activities where the kids can play and explore, other times it’s about sneaking away for a date night with my husband, or getting together with friends for a fun ladies' night out. That is why I put this list together. These are things we’ve actually done, enjoyed, and would genuinely recommend to others. No overhyped “must-dos,” just real options that make everyday life here a little more memorable. Whether you are planning time with your kids or grandkids, a night out with your spouse, or simply looking for something free and local to enjoy, you will find ideas here to make it easy. I’ll keep adding new favorites as we discover them, so check back often if you’re looking for fresh ways to enjoy all that Surprise has to offer. ✨This list contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them—at no extra cost to you.✨

As a woman over 40, I’ve noticed that beauty products can feel like they’re designed with everyone but us in mind. Our skin changes, our needs shift, and what worked in our 20s and 30s doesn’t always serve us now. This list highlights beauty brands that I trust and actually use, brands that understand mature skin, celebrate confidence at every age, and make me feel good without being heavy, fussy, or overhyped. Think of it as a collection of products that balance effectiveness with ease, because beauty after enhance, so we really are, not trying to erase it. As a menopausal woman and cancer survivor, I know firsthand how challenging it can be to find products that are gentle enough for sensitive skin while also effective for the changes that come with aging. I’ve tested countless options along the way, and this list is my way of sharing what’s truly worked for me, so the search feels a little easier for other women navigating the same stage of life. In this list, you’ll find my go-to recommendations for skin care, hair care, and makeup brands that truly work for women over 40. From lightweight sunscreen to hydrating serums and easy-to-use cosmetics, these are products that feel good and deliver great results for me. I’ll be adding more favorites as I discover them, so check back often to see what’s new. ✨This list contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them—at no extra cost to you.✨