What year were you born? On what date? What day of the week was it? Did your parents tell you anything about the day you were born?
1956...Thursday. My mom said my dad was tracking the cost of being in the hospital without being in active labor (water had broken) and how much each minute cost - “So, let’s get this going!” Otherwise, I’m sure my older sister Shelley, has far more memories of that day...who wanted a baby sister????
What was your life like growing up? What dreams and goals did you have for your life when you left High School?
Early on we were a ‘normal family’...house in Oak Grove, lots of friends, weekends and summers at the mountain (our parents were ski instructors), and then we moved to Government Camp permanently… Becoming a ‘mountain kid’ and having parents who worked (or were responsible for the business) 24 hours a day made us all quite self-sufficient and what a place to have free run of the world!
Leaving high school I was already in a committed relationship (oh well, there were a few blips, however we just had our 43rd anniversary) but I knew that I wanted to head to college, complete my education, and make a difference in the world in whatever way I could. I didn’t look to do big achievements, but lots of small things add up!
What is the one piece of advice would you give your younger self?
When you see something wrong, do something about it! Don’t be afraid that speaking up and potentially losing your job is the end of the world, there will always be more opportunities and they’re usually something better!
Name at least one outstanding experience you have had in your life. How did this or these events affect you?
There are many! I try to find ‘the good’ in any situation, it makes life a far more pleasant experience, and the good far outnumber the bad. If I had to pick one, it would be becoming a mother. To go from the singular responsibility for oneself to knowing that these little beans will take over my heart and rule it forever and how to build them a good place to grow from. The rule book isn’t as clear as it should be on the time commitment...but it’s exciting to watch the story develop!
When in your life, so far, have you felt most confident and why?
Different phases, different levels...20’s - knowing that I had what it would take to make myself whatever I wanted to be. 30’s and 40’s - the sun will come up tomorrow even though I may be too tired to appreciate it fully and just where does the energy come from when you have kids? 50’s and 60’s so far - everyone says it’s a bitch to grow old - I say “Bring it on, I’m ready and excited to see what life has in store!” (and like I said on the phone, having Shelley as a sister can bring lots of exciting possibilities, and she’s a great role model for aging with grace and energy!)
Present
How have your dreams and goals changed now that you are 40+
I think we can always dream and keeping those ideas fresh makes them even more possible to attain. I no longer have to worry about career goals (yay!), but now I can focus on using my efforts to be a positive presence, again it may be in small ways and with covid somewhat restricted, but I can make a difference for someone everyday. Oh, and travel...there’s a whole world out there to discover!!!
Have your core values changed over time? What do you value now?
I think they’re pretty much the same, I just look at them with a little more experience…
Honesty, integrity, love, valuing other people and creatures and places for what and where they are. I like that we’re all on different paths in life but we can walk together now and then on our way home.
How do other people describe you or see you?
I smile a lot and people seem to remember that. I’ve been told I’m naive and don’t see the ‘dark side’ of the real world (and that’s okay most of the time...Pollyanna by choice). I’m a good loyal friend, and a willing and able helper without needing to control - it’s hard to say ‘no’ if I’m asked (and darn it, people know that :)
What is your super power?
Still waiting to find out...different things on different days!
Can you share what your favourite part of your body is? Why?
I’d say my eyes...they tell every story and tall tale of our lives and they’re surrounded by the laugh lines of that story (and we’ve earned every one of them)!
Do you like being 40+?
Wouldn’t have it any other way!
How has your relationship with yourself changed as you have gotten older?
I like me, but still need to give myself a kick in the butt fairly often as now I can recognize when I’m being lazy or procrastinating. I offer good incentives!
Future Aspirations
What goals/ambitions/dreams would you like to be working on that you haven’t had the opportunity to start on yet?
Learn more about different people/cultures/places. Of course, this will require going wherever to do so!
What advice would you give your future self?
Take the first step; think “I CAN!”; don’t quit; what other people think doesn’t matter...DO IT! Make every day count for something!
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Perceptions & Advice
How do you think women of your generation are perceived?
Self-reliant, resourceful, and for those who really know us we are full of knowledge and energy (sometimes) waiting to be utilized. We are the keepers of the stories...Oh, and yes, we ARE good cooks!
Are there any myths you would like to bust about the over 40s? If so, can you tell us about them?
Over 40 is not what I once thought it would be, I’m continually surprised how young each additional age is. So far there isn’t anything I’ve attempted that I can’t achieve. It’s a grand adventure...
What advice do you have to offer to those who are approaching mid life or those that are in mid life and perhaps struggling with it.
Don’t put off doing something you’ve always wanted to do. Nobody will do it for you - Take that first step, begin now, make it happen!
Do you have a favourite book to recommend?
Anything that makes you feel good…
One of my favorites is Hinds Feet on High Places by Hannah Hurnard.
Do you have a favourite quote to share?
Die young, as late as possible
END