AGE: 63

PROFESSION: Retired Teacher/Artist

What is the best thing about being your age?

Being over sixty is simply amazing, perhaps the best time of my life. At this point, I feel strongly that the past is past and the future will figure itself out. I am retired and am loving having the time, health, and desire for new friends, experiences, and adventures.

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Favorite thing you've checked off your bucket list?

Retirement!! Working since 14, I love the release from stress, being in control of my schedule, and choosing what I want to do each day.

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

I have no regrets over the difficulties and mistakes of my past. It made me who I am. At times my life has been amazing and at times very rough. My ex-husband was a narcissistic emotional and verbal abuser. Life was like living in an emotional box sitting on eggshells. This type of abuse is one of the hardest to see. The people in it think this life is normal. Outsiders see just a charming and kind person. Free now for eight years, I share my story to help people learn to identify this type of abuse and be an advocate for others in this situation.

What do you consider your greatest achievement?

My children are my greatest and most joyful achievement. From a rough childhood, they have grown into kind, moral, funny, and courageous adults. It brings me great happiness to watch them find their way and become successful.

What is a trait you are most proud of?

I am resilient and strong. My daughter has called me her hero and her rock. I can't think of a better thing to be.

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What is your greatest extravagance?

Travel! I have had some amazing adventures so far and plan to continue. I am not afraid to travel on my own and I have so many places I want to go!

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What is your motto or favorite quote?

"Aging is an extraordinary thing where you become the person you always should have been." – David Bowie

 

Words of wisdom to younger women
Every experience you have, and will continue to, help be the wonderful woman you are. Learn from your mistakes and hardships as well as your joys and successes.

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