AGE: 59

PROFESSION: Engineer, Entrepreneur and a Philanthropist.

What is the best thing about being your age?

I get to say NO when I want to! Strength! Stronger than ever! I was such a wimp in my 20's & 30's. Never speaking up for myself. Well, now......I have no problem doing that anymore. Age is wisdom!

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What hardships have you endured that you feel have made you stronger?

I come from a very abusive past life. Mentally, physically, and sexually abused starting from a young age. I'm also a recovering alcoholic and my sobriety is so important to me. I have endured a great deal of hardships in my life, but now......my life is grand only because I've worked hard and made it that way! I don't like to dwell on my past, but I know that those hardships are what has made me who I am today.

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What's your favorite thing you have checked off your bucket list?

I traveled to Ireland and England. I'm a real Anglophile.

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What is your idea of perfect happiness?

Being with my daughter.

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What is your most treasured possession?

My Great, Great Grandmother's moccasins.

What do you consider your greatest achievement?

Surviving abuse and alcoholism. Then....my daughter. :)

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What is a trait you are most proud of?

My positive attitude.

What is your greatest extravagance?

Buying a painting of my late Great, Great, Great Grandmother that was done by a cousin who remembered her on the reservation.

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If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

To stop putting myself down and stop trying to make everyone happy and love you!

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What advice would you give your younger self?

LOVE yourself completely and wholly. You are such a beautiful and sweet young woman. Don't let anybody tell you any different. Don't take shit from anybody!! Hang in there! It all gets much better! I love you!

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What is your motto or favorite quote?

"Whatever people think of me is none of my business." - RuPaul

 

Words of wisdom to younger women...

Be just fine with saying no without explanations.

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Additional  thoughts...

On the body, aging can be difficult. But in the mind, I feel so much stronger and extremely much wiser. It's good. I'm enjoying that I will be 60 in August. Things finally fall into place and you have peace again.

 

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