Author drstaceynaito

Don’t Get Genie Plus When At Disneyland

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I have gone to Disneyland three times in the past two years, and was foolish enough to believe that Disneyland’s Genie+ app would provide a better experience while at the park, primarily because Genie+ enables people to access the Lightning Lane feature. However, after struggling with the app during all three recent visits, I honestly believe that the app is a complete waste of money and time. There are numerous reasons why I came to this conclusion, and they are listed and detailed here. 

Cost and Value for Money:

In order to have the privilege of using Genie+, you must pay for it. When I went to Disneyland in 2022 and in April 2023, the app was $25 per person, and in December of 2023, it jumped to $35. Given the fact that tickets for entry into Disneyland are egregiously costly ($104-$194 per person when I checked on 12/30/2023), as well as parking ($35 for general parking access), I can’t help but feel that Disney is gouging their customers from every angle. 

Glitches and User Interface Issues:

After using the Genie+ app three times, I have found it to be glitchy and definitely not user-friendly. Imagine struggling to get the app to work as you traipse through the park, all the while staring at your phone and cursing at it because the Genie+ app interface is poorly designed and also doesn’t update quickly. Instead of looking around the park and taking in all the sights, I was frustrated by the fact that I kept having to check the app to see which rides offered Lightning Lane reservations.

Limited Lightning Lane Rides and Inconvenient Time Slots:

Every time I checked the Genie+ app, only a few rides were available for Lightning Lane access at any given time, and the rides I wanted to go on the most (Matterhorn Bobsleds, Space Mountain, Rise of the Resistance, Indiana Jones, Haunted Mansion) were often either unavailable or had time slots which were unreasonable. The other infuriating feature is that once you book an attraction for Lightning Lane, you cannot book another ride for Lightning Lane until you redeem the reservation. Another thing is that once you book something for Lightning Lane, you will be tethered to a schedule, and have to manage your time and figure out which other rides you might be able to go on before you need to be at the ride you reserved. In other words, you simply aren’t free to roam the park at your leisure.

Additional Costs for Certain Attractions:

Certain rides within the Genie+ system come with an additional cost beyond the standard Genie+ fee, and those fees are outrageous. Rise of the Resistance is an incredible ride and wildly popular, so at times it will have the Lightning Lane option, but at an additional charge of $28 per person. Sorry, but I’m not about to pay an additional $28 to go on Rise of the Resistance.  

As a result of the recent struggles I had while using the Genie+ app at Disneyland, I will not pay for Genie+ again. I would much rather spend time at Disneyland NOT staring at my phone and dealing with an app which doesn’t offer much over the general park experience. 

Kitty Blankets

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I know that there are dogs who obsess over blankets and often claim a special one as theirs, but I have had two cats over the decades who have had their own blankets. The first one was Pebbles (1988-2000), an extremely sassy but loveable tortoiseshell who essentially threw hints at me while I was analyzing a knitted afghan project. I had laid out eight knitted squares in front of me and was trying to decide whether to continue, or unravel the squares and start over, when Pebbles proceeded to walk onto the squares and knead on them. The gesture amused me so much that I figured I would stitch the squares together and see if Pebbles would continue with her biscuit making. She indeed did continue to knead on what I later referred to as her blanket, and she would also suckle on the blanket and drag it around while it was hanging out of her mouth.

Whenever I threw the blanket in the washing machine, Pebbles would become quite agitated and would keep meowing at me until the blanket was fully dry and ready for her. I’m not exaggerating when I say that Pebbles’ sessions with the blankets occurred several times daily, up through October of 2000 when she became very ill with kidney disease. She was so attached to that thing! When Pebbles passed away in December of 2000, I put the blanket in storage, and I still have the blanket to this day.

https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZPRc1vN5B/

The second cat in my household who has exhibited a keen interest in a blanket is Tenshi, my blue American Burmese who just turned 15 years old on December 29th. Last February, we had an issue with our HVAC furnace, resulting in home temperatures around 58 degrees Fahrenheit (NOT fun). The property owner dropped off a heated throw to help us battle the cold, and Tenshi promptly claimed the throw as his main hangout spot, visiting it on a daily basis. He will knead it every once in a while, but since he isn’t a wool sucker like Pebbles was, he doesn’t engage in that bizarre behavior. The main draw for Tenshi with the heated throw is that it imparts lovely warmth which his arthritic super senior body definitely appreciates. We have even gotten into a routine in which I turn on the throw right when I enter the living room each morning, and Tenshi heads over to it within a few minutes and settles in for a snooze.

Unlocking the Pinnacle of Physical and Emotional Well-Being

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Image by Freepik

Here’s another informative article by Camille Johnson of bereaver.com to inspire you to get the new year off to a fresh start!

Embarking on the path toward peak self-improvement often starts with cultivating an excellent physical and emotional presence. The role of self-assurance, influenced by both appearance and state of mind, cannot be underestimated. From casual daily interactions to life-defining moments, a boost in confidence can be a game-changer. To assist you during this transformative endeavor, this guide presented below by StaceyNaito.com is designed to present a meticulously curated set of recommendations.

Forge Strong Social Ties

One’s emotional landscape is deeply enriched by the presence of fulfilling social interactions. Humans are wired for connection, and fostering these connections significantly elevates one’s emotional well-being. Studies indicate that people with strong social bonds are generally happier and may even live longer. Therefore, one should consider taking up social hobbies or participating in community events to form and maintain meaningful relationships.

Staying in Shape

Starting a fitness routine can be a transformative journey toward better health and well-being. It begins with setting realistic goals and creating a balanced workout plan that includes a variety of activities to keep you engaged and motivated. Consistency is key, as regular exercise builds endurance, strength, and confidence. Nutrition also plays a crucial role, as a healthy diet complements physical efforts. For more detailed guidance and inspiration, visiting websites like StaceyNaito.com can provide valuable resources and expert advice to help you on your fitness journey.

Elevate Hair Care and Wardrobe Choices

The relationship between well-maintained hair, stylish attire, and self-esteem is undeniable. Investing in high-quality hair care products is essential for maintaining a healthy and vibrant appearance, much like the importance of choosing the right clothing for your wardrobe. The clothes you select play a crucial role in shaping how you feel throughout your day. For instance, choosing comfortable yet fashionable items can greatly enhance your daily experience. Similarly, incorporating a hair care routine that includes products like nourishing oils and effective shampoos transforms basic grooming into a luxurious experience. To boost your daily life, consider adding thoughtful and impactful pieces to your wardrobe that bring a sense of renewed confidence.

Cultivate a Skincare Regimen

Healthy skin is the canvas for your everyday look. Establishing a skincare routine that complements your skin type can yield a radiant complexion, positively impacting your self-esteem. For example, those with oily skin may benefit from a clay mask once a week, while people with dry skin may find relief with a hydrating serum. The important thing is consistency—following a skincare routine religiously can help you achieve the look you’ve always wanted.

Pursue Goals with a New Degree

Setting and achieving goals is a powerful process that can lead to significant personal and professional growth. For instance, if advancing your education has always been a dream, you might consider going back to school. Choosing between online data science master’s programs can be a strategic step, especially if you’re interested in the field of data analytics. By enrolling in an online master’s degree in data analytics, you can deepen your understanding of data science, theory, and application, all from the convenience of your home. This goal not only enhances your skillset but also opens doors to new career opportunities and advancements.

Prioritize Sun Protection

It’s astonishing how often sun protection is overlooked, considering the irreversible damage that UV rays can inflict. Daily application of sunscreen should be as routine as brushing one’s teeth. Not only does this habit prevent premature aging, but it’s also a crucial step in warding off skin cancers. Moreover, consistent sun protection enhances your overall skin quality.

Opt for Nutritional Wisdom

Intricately tied to your physical appearance and general well-being is your diet. Avoiding processed foods and added sugars can have a remarkable effect on both your skin’s glow and your overall health. For instance, replacing soda with sparkling water or choosing whole grains over white bread can be game-changers. This shift toward mindful eating benefits not just your appearance, but also enhances your energy levels and mental clarity.

Uphold Dental Care Standards

A radiant smile compliments any look. It’s the centerpiece of your facial features and often the first thing people notice. Regular dental check-ups, along with at-home practices like brushing and flossing, play a key role in maintaining that confident smile. This ties back to the first point on emotional well-being; after all, a radiant smile is often an indicator of happiness and strong social connections.

The quest to attain the pinnacle of physical and emotional wellness is a multifaceted endeavor. It requires a balanced approach that incorporates various elements of lifestyle, grooming, and social interaction. The pursuit of the optimal self isn’t a sprint but rather a marathon, demanding consistent dedication and awareness. As you integrate these guidelines into your daily life, you’ll find yourself at the very summit of your beauty and wellness journey.

My Cats Have A Secret Language

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I have lived with cats for close to 38 years, and until several months ago when I got my now 1-year-old cat Sumi, I never experienced a duo of cats who had their own secret language. Sumi was introduced into the household in June, and she quickly bonded with my 2-1/2-year-old cat Koji, which made perfect sense since she was only six months old at the time and wasn’t nearly as interested in being around my two senior cats. A couple of weeks later, I started hearing some very bizarre vocalizations which I knew were coming from Sumi or Koji, but I wasn’t sure which one was making these noises.

The vocalizations I am referring to sound like a combination of meowing and cooing, and they are only heard when Koji and Sumi are play-fighting. Initially, I had assumed that the sounds were emanating from Koji, so I started watching the two kids so that I could find out which feline was making such bizarre noises. I was able to confirm on two occasions that Koji was making those utterances, but then a couple of other times, I distinctly saw that Sumi was the one with her mouth open, creating those sounds. There was also one instance in which I saw both cats making their ridiculous babble, and they were actually doing it in sequence, as if they were communicating with each other.

@drstaceynaito

Silly kids have their own language whenever they play… #Sumi #catsrule #newkitten #weirdcatsoftiktok #weirdkitten #Koji #mylittlebeauty #mylittleone #americanburmese #sableburmesecat #boycats #europeanburmese #creameuropeanburmese #myboss #mylittlebeauty #myheart #cuddlycat #affectionatecat #mybabies

♬ original sound – drstaceynaito

I have determined that Koji is the instigator, and definitely chatters at Sumi more than she does with him, but they both engage in this adorable and funny vocal interchange quite frequently during playtime.

Uncover the Roots of Stress and Master Effective Management

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Image: Freepik

Here’s another fantastic article by Camille Johnson of bereaver.com which offers tips on managing stress.

In the whirlwind of modern life, stress often becomes a constant, yet unwelcome, companion. Its presence can be pervasive, affecting various aspects of our lives. Recognizing the sources of stress and developing effective strategies to manage it is not just beneficial; it’s necessary. This article dives into the primary causes of stress and equips you with practical ways to address them, aiming to bring balance and tranquility to your daily life.

Identify Your Stress Triggers

To manage stress, it’s imperative to pinpoint what triggers it. Stressors vary widely, encompassing aspects like work pressures, relationship dynamics, and personal responsibilities. By understanding these triggers, you can devise targeted strategies to mitigate their impact. This process involves self-reflection and may require changes in both perspective and lifestyle, but the reward is a more peaceful and manageable life.

Prioritize Fitness

Beginning a fitness routine is a powerful tool in combating stress, as it brings both physical and psychological benefits. Engaging in regular exercise leads to the release of endorphins, known as the body’s natural mood elevators, which help in reducing stress levels and enhancing overall mood. Physically, exercise improves cardiovascular health and increases strength and stamina, contributing to a greater sense of well-being and resilience against stressors. Additionally, a fitness routine provides structure and a sense of achievement, which can be particularly beneficial for mental health. It also offers a positive distraction, allowing for a break from daily stressors and the opportunity to focus on personal health and well-being. Discover a balanced and healthier you with customized nutrition and fitness plans from Stacey Naito!

Balance Work and Life

A common source of stress is the struggle to balance professional and personal life. This doesn’t mean compromising career goals but finding a harmony that supports both professional success and personal happiness. Here are some steps you can take to live a balanced life that is less stressful and more fulfilling:

  • Set boundaries: Establish clear boundaries between work and personal life. Define specific working hours and stick to them, avoiding excessive overtime. 
  • Prioritize self-care: Make self-care a non-negotiable part of your routine. Prioritizing self-care ensures you have the energy and resilience to handle work stress.
  • Delegate: Delegate tasks when possible, both at work and home, to reduce your workload and free up time for other activities. 
  • Learn to say “no”: Saying “no” when necessary prevents burnout and allows you to maintain a healthier work-life balance. It’s important to set realistic expectations for yourself and others.

Consider Alternative Stress Therapies

Exploring alternative therapies can provide a distinctive path to stress relief, complementing traditional methods. The following methods have been recognized for their potential in managing stress:

  • Aromatherapy: The use of essential oils like lavender, chamomile, and rose have been shown to promote relaxation and emotional well-being.
  • Biofeedback: Biofeedback techniques use sensors to monitor physiological functions like heart rate and teach individuals how to control them. It can be effective in managing stress by providing real-time feedback on stress responses.
  • Progressive muscle relaxation: This technique involves systematically tensing and relaxing different muscle groups to release physical tension and promote relaxation, making it an effective stress management tool.
  • THCa: Found in raw cannabis, THCa is a non-psychoactive compound that can offer stress relief benefits. It’s typically consumed in its natural form—explore the allure of THCA diamonds.

Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation

Mindfulness is a powerful practice for relieving stress by bringing one’s full attention to the present moment without judgment. By cultivating awareness of thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations, individuals can better understand their stressors and learn to respond to them in a more balanced way. Mindfulness meditation techniques, such as deep breathing and body scanning, promote relaxation and reduce the physiological effects of stress, such as elevated heart rate and muscle tension. Over time, regular mindfulness practice can lead to increased resilience, improved emotional regulation, and a greater sense of calm, making it an effective tool in stress management.

Cultivate a Positive Mindset

Cultivating a positive mindset can act as a protective barrier against life’s stresses. Adopting an optimistic attitude, acknowledging your successes, setting achievable goals, and engaging in self-compassion are powerful tools in diminishing the effects of stress. Additionally, being in the company of uplifting individuals and consistently nurturing a hopeful perspective not only wards off stress but also enhances overall life satisfaction. These proactive measures contribute to building resilience, enabling you to navigate life’s challenges with greater ease and confidence.

Stress, while an inevitable part of life, doesn’t have to dominate it. By identifying its sources and adopting a comprehensive approach that encompasses physical, mental, and alternative strategies, you can effectively manage stress. This journey is about discovering what uniquely works for you, leading to a balanced and fulfilling life where stress is manageable, not overwhelming. Remember, prioritizing your well-being is not just beneficial; it’s essential.

Why Take Pictures At Burning Man?

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I find it ironic that one of my friends from junior high (that’s middle school for you younger folks) has been in the habit of attending Burning Man every year and creating a photo album for each event, since Burning Man is known for its emphasis on impermanence and the transient nature of art and experiences. It’s a place where participants celebrate the idea that everything is temporary, just like the “burning” of the iconic effigy. A man is burned in effigy (The Man) at every Burning Man to symbolize destruction and rebirth. Photography, on the other hand, freezes moments in time, preserving them indefinitely. Isn’t the whole point that time doesn’t matter, that everything is ephemeral? Photos cement things down. By taking photos, you may inadvertently go against the core philosophy of Burning Man, which encourages living in the moment and embracing the ephemeral nature of life.

I also think that by having a means by which you can capture images and videos at Burning Man, you are allowing yourself to be distracted from the Burning Man experience, and cannot fully immerse yourself in the unique environment of Burning Man. Instead of being present and engaging with the art installations, interactive experiences, and the vibrant community, individuals behind the camera may become preoccupied with capturing the perfect shot. This detachment from the experience may dilute the intended impact of the event.

I also have an issue with photography serving as an invasion of the privacy of attendees. Since Burning Man emphasizes a culture of consent and respect for one another, and also since many attendees express themselves through radical self-expression, some may be reluctant to be photographed without their consent. Taking photos without asking for permission can infringe on the principles of consent and respect that are fundamental to the Burning Man community.

Then there are the people who are always striving to create perfect shots so that they can be shared on social media. At Burning Man, this pressure may lead to a competitive atmosphere where participants strive to document the most visually stunning aspects of the event. This can detract from the authenticity of the experience, as people may prioritize getting the “perfect” shot over genuine connection and self-expression. I think it’s also important to remember that photographs can only capture a limited perspective of what is happening at an event as multifaceted as Burning Man. They can’t fully convey the sights, sounds, and emotions that are part of the experience. Relying on photos to remember the event may leave you with an incomplete representation of what you truly encountered and felt, though my friend has always insisted that her albums have enabled her to encapsulate her memories of each event thoroughly.

In conclusion, while some individuals find value in documenting their Burning Man experiences through photography, there is a valid argument that taking photos at such events may be counter to the event’s core principles of impermanence, full engagement, consent, and respect. By prioritizing the experience over capturing it, one can better align with the spirit of Burning Man and fully immerse oneself in the magic of the event.

How To Train A Cat Or Kitten

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Copyright: larisikstefania


Training a cat or kitten to learn its name and do basic tricks can be a rewarding experience, but it requires patience and positive reinforcement. I know first-hand that it is indeed possible for cats to play fetch, beg, and sit because I have had numerous cats who were able to understand and perform such commands. My cats also know their names and will come (barring any feline defiance which can kick in at times) when called.

The most basic command which most people would like their pets to learn is to respond to their names and come when called by name. Here are some steps and tips which you can use to reinforce your cat’s learning.

  1. Choose a Short and Distinct Name: Select a name for your cat that is short, distinct, and easy to pronounce. Cats tend to respond better to names with one or two syllables. Use the chosen name consistently. All of my cats have two-syllable names which are easy to pronounce.
  2. Establish a Connection: Spend quality time with your cat to build a bond and trust. Petting, playing, and providing treats are all ways to create a positive association with you. In fact, I would say treats are essential when getting a cat or dog to learn its name, as it serves as positive reinforcement.
  3. Use Positive Reinforcement: Cats respond well to positive reinforcement, such as treats, praise, and petting. Reward your cat when it responds to its name or successfully completes a trick.
  4. Start with Name Recognition: To teach your cat its name, use a calm and friendly tone. Say the cat’s name while making eye contact. When the cat responds, reward it with a treat or affection. Repeat this regularly.
  5. Be Patient: Cats may take time to recognize their name and respond. Don’t get discouraged if they don’t respond immediately. Be patient and consistent in your efforts.
  6. Teach Basic Tricks: When it comes to teaching tricks, start with simple ones like “sit” or “come.” Use treats and positive reinforcement to guide your cat into the desired behavior.
  7. Use Clicker Training: Clicker training can be effective for cats. Associate the sound of a clicker with treats, and use it to mark desired behaviors. Click when the cat responds to its name or performs a trick, followed by a treat.
  8. Keep Training Sessions Short: Cats have shorter attention spans than dogs. Keep training sessions brief, around 5-10 minutes at a time. Multiple short sessions throughout the day can be more effective than one long session. My training sessions with my cats are very brief, about 3 to 5 minutes, and I truly believe that the brevity is what keeps my cats engaged.
  9. Be Consistent: Consistency is key in cat training. Use the same command words and reward system every time. Avoid confusing your cat with different words or signals for the same behavior. I personally always use “sit” and “beg” when training Koji, my 2-1/2-year-old cat.
  10. Stay Positive and Patient: Cats can be independent, so don’t scold or punish them if they don’t respond immediately. Always use positive reinforcement to encourage desired behaviors.
  11. Adjust to Your Cat’s Personality: Every cat is unique, so be flexible in your training approach. Some cats may respond better to treats, while others may prefer play as a reward.
  12. Practice Regularly: Regular practice and reinforcement are essential for your cat to retain what it has learned.

Remember that not all cats will learn tricks, and some may be more responsive than others. The key is to be patient, use positive reinforcement, and focus on building a strong bond with your cat. Training should be a fun and enjoyable experience for both you and your feline companion.

Don’t Call Them ‘Private Parts’

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I wanted to share this brilliantly written article by Dr. Rachel S. Rubin, who demystifies the talk surrounding genitalia and sexual health. Hopefully readers will find some encouragement in the language and the wonderful explanations of reproductive physiology and anatomy, and will better understand conditions such as erectile dysfunction. For those of you who would like to check out the original post on Medscape.com, here is the link:

https://www.mdedge.com/familymedicine/article/265321/womens-health/dont-call-them-private-parts?ecd=WNL_FAM_231008_mdedge

By Rachel S. Rubin, MD

Today, I’d like to talk about private parts. You know: the genitals, down there.

I hate all of that. I really wish that we can get to a place where we can talk about genitals and sexual health the same way we do about high blood pressure and diabetes. In fact, when a new patient comes in and they get a new diagnosis of diabetes, you spend time explaining to them how their pancreas works. I don’t remember all the details because I’m a urologist. But you explain the details of diabetes, how it works, why therapy is important, and how it’s very important for quality of life.

I would like us to take that same understanding of anatomy and physiology and use it to explain to patients how their sexual health works because when they understand it, they then have the tools to make it better. I say to patients, “You have to know what parts you have in order to figure out how they drive, right?” We want them to drive better.

Let me give you an example. Many men come to see me with complaints of erectile dysfunction. They refuse to take sildenafil and tadalafil (Viagra and Cialis), saying, “Oh my gosh, those are magic pills. I won’t be a man if take them.” We all know that doesn’t make any sense. I explain to them how their penis works: “Your penis is a muscle. The muscle does two things. It contracts and it relaxes, just like your bicep. It’s just that your penis muscle is smooth muscle, which means it responds to fight or flight. It’s on the autonomic nervous system.”

I explain that if the muscle of the penis is relaxed, it fills with blood and expands. It gets big and hard, and it traps the blood. But when the muscles of the penis are contracted, when they are tight, it squeezes out all the blood, like squeezing out a sponge. So the important thing to do if you want to have good erections is to get the muscles to relax. Relaxed muscle increases erections. I get them to understand that sildenafil and tadalafil are phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors: smooth-muscle relaxants. Instead of saying, “I need to take Viagra or Cialis because I’m broken,” it’s, “Oh hey honey, I need to take my muscle relaxants because my muscles aren’t working the way that they used to.”

In the future, I’ll go into what happens in erectile dysfunction. We’ll go into what can happen with erectile dysfunction and the many reasons why it happens. It’s getting them to understand that if we get the muscles to relax, you will have better erections. This is how the penis works. It’s why the medicine works. The patients will actually try the therapy and they’ll feel so much better about it. They’ll say, “Oh my gosh, this makes so much sense.” They work on their mental muscles to get the muscles of the penis to relax. Understanding anatomy and physiology helps them understand the treatments, which leads to better outcomes.

How about the female side? If a woman comes to see me reporting that she can’t have an orgasm, part of it is education and understanding the anatomy and physiology. The clitoris and the penis are exactly the same thing. The head of the clitoris and the head of the penis are the same. The clitoris has legs that go all the way down to the butt bone. So everyone is sitting on their genitals right now. The butt bones connect to the bottom of the clitoris or the bottom of the penis. They each have legs called crura. When you get patients to understand where their anatomy is and how it functions, they will then understand how to maximize their quality of life.

The clitoris has smooth muscle just like the penis. When that smooth muscle relaxes, it gorges with blood. When you stimulate it, it can lead to orgasm for most people. But, wait a minute. The clitoris is not inside the vagina. It’s outside. It’s behind the labia majora. If you follow the labia minora up, you get to the head of the clitoris. If patients understand that, they then will understand that penetration is not the way the majority of people orgasm.

I love pictures. I show everyone pictures in my office. They help patients to understand why vibration or outside stimulation on the vulva will allow orgasm to happen. And so instead of patients coming in saying, “I’m broken, I can’t orgasm from penetration,” or, “Dr. Rubin, I’m broken because I can’t get erections,” getting them to understand the anatomy and physiology helps them understand the treatment.

As we go forward, I’ll talk more about anatomy and physiology and how to increase the sexual health of our patients. For now though, please stop calling them private parts. Please use your understanding of anatomy and physiology to educate your patients to have better sexual health and higher quality of life. You may be the only clinician to ever do so, and it will make their life so much better.

Dr. Rubin is an assistant clinical professor, department of urology, at Georgetown University, Washington. She reported conflicts of interest with Sprout, Maternal Medical, Absorption Pharmaceuticals, GlaxoSmithKline, and Endo.

The Whisker

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Copyright: dtiberio

This post is dedicated to all perimenopausal and postmenopausal ladies who have had to deal with the shock of seeing a large, angry, black rogue whisker poking out of their chins. You know what I’m talking about, that sneaky little bugger that wasn’t there last night when you were washing your face and getting ready for bed, but somehow mysteriously managed to grow about a half an inch overnight, thick and bold and ready to ruin your day? Yeah, that thing.

I’m not new to these witch hairs, as I have had a few sprout on my jawline and chin over the years, but I am never prepared for these atrocious things when they appear without any warning whatsoever. At least if they looked like strange blackheads in the days preceding their eruption, I’d have some kind of warning, but no, they wrangle so much keratin in no time flat, in a declaration of pure defiance. For some reason, I honestly believed that I had moved past the danger zone, but about two months ago, while I was performing a tweezing touch-up of my brows, I witnessed one big whisker on my chin right at border, asserting itself like a little punk, about a centimeter long, robust and black.

Despite the fact that I know full well that these single chin hairs are formed in response to hormonal fluctuations, I will never get over the fact that they grow lightning fast, that they are always black, and that they serve as reminders of how old I am becoming. What also irks me is that I have undergone laser treatments to eradicate these random, rare (thankfully) strands, but they persist in plaguing me.

Thank goodness for tweezers!