Midlife in The Pines

Auntie Pine’s Unofficial Menopause Survival Guide to The Pines

Auntie Pine believes:

• Every woman deserves to laugh at herself.
• Comfortable shoes are a personality trait.
• Mocktails can be just as fun.
• It’s okay to leave the party by 8:30.
• Birdwatching is more exciting than anyone under 30 realizes.
• A good friend is better than a good wrinkle cream.

Whether you’re navigating menopause, becoming an empty nester, caring for aging parents, rediscovering hobbies, planning your next adventure, or simply figuring out what this new chapter looks like, you’ve found your people.

Midlife in The Pines is a fun, encouraging resource from The Pines Times celebrating this season of life with humor, local recommendations, and community connections.

Because getting older may not always be easy… but it can still be a lot of fun.

More Laughs and Fun from Ask Auntie Pine:

Ask Auntie Pine: Is it to late to try something new?

Medicare doesn’t have to be Scary Part 1

Medicare doesn’t have to be Scary Part 2

Medicare doesn’t have to be Scary Part 3

Auntie Pine’s Must-Know Guide for Women in Their Menopause Era in The Pines

Line Dancing through Midlife with Lisa of Red, White and Boots Line Dancing

Okay, ladies… did you ever read YM magazine when you were young? Do you remember the “Say Anything” column?

Well, Auntie Pine is bringing it back—midlife style!

Send us your most embarrassing midlife moments. Yes, all of them! We’ll share your stories on our Midlife in The Pines page—sometimes frequently, sometimes… not so frequently.

Don’t worry: everything will be 100% anonymous. We’re not here to out anyone. We just want to laugh, cry, fart and possibly pee a little right along with you!

Because if we can’t laugh about midlife together, what are we even doing?

Tell us here: Add some laughs into our lives, tell us your embaressing moments anonomously of course!

General Midlife in The Pines Q&A

Why am I suddenly hot all the time?

Welcome to the Hot Flash Club! 🔥 One minute you’re comfortable, the next you’re fanning yourself in the grocery store. Many women experience hot flashes during perimenopause and menopause. Dress in layers, stay hydrated, and yes… Auntie Pine keeps a fan in her purse at all times.

Is it normal to wake up at 3:00 a.m. every night?

Unfortunately… yes, it’s very common.

Hormone changes can make sleep unpredictable. If you’re awake anyway, you might as well check The Pines Times event calendar to see what’s happening this weekend. Just try not to scroll for two hours.

Why do my joints hurt all of a sudden?

Lower estrogen can affect joints and muscles.

Many local women find relief by staying active through:

• Walking at Reservoir Park
• Pickleball
• Line dancing
• Yoga
• Martial arts classes
• Golf

Movement really does help.

Did I just forget what I walked into this room for?

Probably.

Brain fog is one of the most common menopause symptoms. You’re not losing your mind—you just have a lot happening upstairs. Write things down, laugh about it, and give yourself grace.

Is it okay to see a male gynecologist?

Absolutely.

The most important thing is finding someone who listens, explains your options, and takes your symptoms seriously. A good provider matters far more than whether they’re male or female.

Should I see my primary doctor or a menopause specialist?

Start with your primary care provider or gynecologist.

If your symptoms are severe or complicated, ask whether a referral to a menopause specialist, endocrinologist, or women’s health provider would be helpful. Thrive Wellness Center helps

Why is my eyesight changing?

If you’re suddenly holding menus farther away… welcome to the club.

Many women notice changes in vision during midlife. Regular eye exams become even more important. Who is your favorite Eye doctor in the Pines?

Is it normal to pee a little when I laugh?

You’re asking for a friend… right? 😉

Actually, yes—it can happen.

Pelvic floor muscles weaken over time, especially after childbirth and during menopause. Pelvic floor therapy and simple exercises can make a huge difference. We know some places.

Why am I suddenly gaining weight around my middle?

Your metabolism isn’t trying to ruin your life.

Hormone changes make it easier to gain abdominal weight and harder to lose it. Strength training, protein, walking, and good sleep become more important than ever.

What should I be eating?

Focus on:

• Protein
• Fruits and vegetables
• Calcium-rich foods
• Healthy fats
• Plenty of water

And yes… Taco Tuesday Tacos from time to time are still part of a balanced lifestyle. 🌮

Are there fun ways to exercise that don’t feel like exercise?

Absolutely!

Moore County has plenty of options:

• Line dancing
• Pickleball
• Walking trails
• Golf
• Kayaking
• Martial arts
• Community fitness classes

Find something you’ll actually enjoy enough to keep doing.

Why am I suddenly interested in bird feeders?

Nobody knows.

It just… happens.

One day you’re buying patio furniture.
The next you’re arguing with squirrels and identifying cardinals.

Welcome to midlife. Also, have you been to Wild Birds Unlimited yet in the Kohls Shopping center?

Should I take hormone replacement therapy? There isn’t one answer for everyone.

Hormone therapy can be life-changing for some women but isn’t appropriate for everyone. Talk with your healthcare provider about your personal health history, risks, and benefits.

Why don’t I enjoy alcohol like I used to?

Many women notice alcohol affects them differently during menopause.

One glass may trigger hot flashes, poor sleep, headaches, or increased anxiety the next day.

Why am I suddenly freezing in restaurants but burning up at home?

Because menopause enjoys keeping things interesting.

Bring a sweater.
Carry a fan.
Repeat.

What’s the best girls’ trip from Moore County?

Some Auntie Pine favorites:

• Charleston
• Savannah
• Asheville
• Nova Scotia (Auntie Pine’s dream trip!)
• Christmas markets in Germany
• Back to France because one visit is never enough.

Life’s too short to keep saying “someday.”

Is it too late to start something new?

Never.

Take the dance class.

Learn pickleball.

Try martial arts.

Volunteer.

Start a business.

Travel.

Plant the flowers.

Midlife isn’t the ending of your story—it’s the chapter where you finally stop asking permission.

💗 Ask Auntie Pine

Have a question about menopause, midlife, friendships, empty nesting, local activities, travel, health, or just life in general?

Send your question to Auntie Pine!

If she doesn’t know the answer, she’ll find a local expert who does—and everyone in The Pines can learn something together. Fill out this form

“No question is too embarrassing. Trust us… we’ve probably wondered the same thing.”