What are your thoughts on aging?

I feel aging is a privilege. You’re wiser and definitely in the know in a lot of situations.

To be honest I don’t feel 61 at all. When I am in situations where my age would be a deciding factor on outcomes, I am reminded that I am 61! My body reminds me too sometimes that I am up there, but other than that I feel like I’m younger in my heart and my spirit. I can still crack jokes like anyone and can be a goofball. I just chalk it up as “I don’t care what people think about the way I act”. Like dancing, singing randomly, etc.

Aging should be fun and not dictated. Nobody should tell anyone how to act because of their age be it young or old for that matter.

Younger women, might think it’s scary getting older. What wonderful things can younger women look forward to at your age?

When you get to my age you learn how to smell the fresh air and appreciate all of creation. You are allowed to reminisce on your life and pick out little things you would have changed and things you did that made you what you are today. The 2 mentioned experiences are intertwined and sufficient to be able to live with yourself further. Every day that I’m with my grandchildren I slip in 101 life lessons here and there.  They appreciate it they say.

I say look forward to looking back at all the dumb and good stuff you did when you were younger and learn from it! Don’t let anyone dictate your life, except maybe your parents (if your are underage). Only you know in your heart what your decisions meant at the time.

Share tips on how you celebrate yourself, what you do for fun, and self care.

I celebrate myself by buying anything I need and want. don’t sell yourself short anymore. Been there done that. 

Have standing self-care appointments. Nails, lash, etc. when you feel good you look good.

When you work hard you deserve what you desire.

Take a walk on the beach and reflect once in a while on what you have accomplished and what you hope to achieve in the future.

What was your greatest challenge and how did you overcome it?

My greatest challenge in life was not being able to be myself because I was afraid of not following Bible principles. This was a heavy burden, and I was not happy at all. “Family” took advantage of this. Indirectly trying to upset me knowing I couldn’t do or say anything about it. If I did, I was a hypocrite.

I overcame this by leaving my faith. I felt free at last. I could be myself and not worry if what I was doing or saying was going to have lightning come down and strike me dead.

I left everyone involved in my unhappiness with this decision. The saga continues, but not as harsh, but it doesn’t hit me as hard because I know if I needed to, I’d be good about facing a person if really need be.

What would you tell your 14-year-old self?

WATCH YOUR ASSOCIATION. If you feel something is wrong with a person’s action, it probably is. Politely bow away from this relationship.

KNOW THAT YOUR ACTIONS AFFECT THE ONES WHO LOVE YOU, be it good or bad.

What is your definition of success?

Success to me is knowing that you’ve lived or are living a fulfilling life.

Having money to some is considered being successful, however, it’s if you are happy. Some with money are not happy.

What is the best advice you have been given?

Forgive and forget.

After 5 minutes get over it, forget it, and carry on. No hatred in your heart.

This has helped me keep sane.

Those who have harmed me emotionally get a pass every time, but with caution.

How is your age group relevant?

Our age group IS RELEVANT because “some” people trust what we have to say.

We are blown off by the younger generation because they are not taught respect for the older ones.

If we teach our children that they can learn a lot from us then and only then will we be represented in a much brighter light.