AGE: 51

PROFESSION: Global Legal Contracts and Systems

What is the best thing about being your age?

I have struggled with finding what is "best" about my age. After contemplation I would say a well developed confidence and belief in myself that I can do anything I set my mind to. I'm old enough to be taken seriously and young enough to play and enjoy life.

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

I had a misspent youth that may have turned out very bad when I was in my late teens. Once I overcame those issues, I realized I had no education to speak of. My family never went to college so I set out to make that my mission. I started and didn't stop. I now have a BA, MLS , JD and a whole list of government certifications. I learned that we are allowed to make mistakes. Mistakes don't define us. We have the power to turn negatives into positives. It is how we choose to be in life and that can be inspirational if we allow it. Because of these things, I don't feel fear or second guess myself anymore.

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Favorite thing you've checked off your bucket list?

Being a Success! Getting my legal degrees, sending my children to college and being the retirement policy for my mother. Also, when I met Tim Curry 🤣

 

What is your idea of perfect happiness?

Perfect happiness is being happy with myself and everything I've been able to accomplish in life. That means all the people, places and conversations that have allowed me to grow and keep growing in my thoughts and ideals.

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What is your most treasured possession?

My comic art collection and my Boston Terriers.

What do you consider your greatest achievement?

Raising two wonderful children that are going to be an asset to the future.

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What is your greatest extravagance?

Sparkling jewelry and travel.

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

Nothing. There are many things I work on each day (weight, skin, exercise) but that is my journey. Wait, I would like a flat stomach please! (Is there a genie somewhere?)

What is a trait you are most proud of?

My sense of humor. I can always find humor in almost anything which keeps me from being down and soldiering on when life throws me curve balls.

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What advice would you give your younger self?

You will have many roadblocks put in your path (many that you put there yourself). Always remember there are detours available to you, if you look for them, that will allow you to rejoin your perfectly imperfect journey. Do not compare yourself to others. You are just fine the way you are and the way you were meant to be.

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What is your motto or favorite quote?

This is your life. Have a really great time!

 

Words of wisdom to younger women
Experience as much as you can. Don't let fear hold you back from taking chances. Make mistakes, be triumphant. It is all part of the journey..

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Additional thoughts...

Aging gracefully doesn't mean throwing in the towel! Be the best version of yourself as you can be. Whatever that means to you. It's OK.