What are your thoughts on aging?

Aging does not define you, it reflects your expertise in life. I am still working on refining and developing my expertise. ☺️ I try to stay up on current trends, ideas and enjoy diverse age groups and cultures. I hope to not become my mother, who grew up in a time where women were to be the background of her husband's world and life was a drag, but share some of her culture and colloquialisms.

What wonderful things can younger women look forward to at your age? Younger women and girls, might think that it's scary getting older. Let's inspire them!

You get to a point where the superficial "give a damn" busts and you're free to be yourself, instead of what society thinks. you should be like. If you have a faith in a higher power, you become less focused on appearing to be as religious as the others and personalize your faith in your every day life. Life has hardships and it sucks, but persevering through them and being okay is the reward. Learn to not let your emotions rule your life, which I did for many years, but let what you know is right and what you want your future to be come out in how you treat others.

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

I love to get massages (aches and pain treatment), get your nails done and hair made over, and even get a makeover once every few years to "refresh" yourself. Even if you're not into hair and beauty (which is absolutely okay), spoil yourself by enjoying a spectacular meal, travel to places you've always wanted to go or be in the company of people who love and accept you for you.

Share one experience/story. We all have life struggles. But the big share is how did you over come and lift yourself up? Advice to other women to empower them.

Years ago, I wasn't getting any fulfillment in my government job, which were golden handcuffs because the pay was decent and benefits were generous. When we moved, after a job that was similar but in the nonprofit world made me feel the same way, I decided to pursue another type of career that I could use my personality and strengths. It has taken years, but I am happy to not be in monotonous work that sucks my soul dry.

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

Even if mom and dad don't give you time or shower you with accolades, pursue and stick with interests that lead to future endeavors. Talk to your counselor about being unfocused and challenges with friend groups and get feedback. Be open to feedback. Treat your health and body well. Surround yourself with positive, future-minded people. Pursue making a positive impact on your community.

What is your definition of success?

Success is being content with what you have, setting goals for what you want, and appreciating those who are in your life who have good morals, ethics and influence you to be a better version of yourself.

What is the best advice you have been given?

Love is patient and kind. It doesn't envy, doesn't brag and is not arrogant. it is not prideful. It does not dishonor others and is not self-seeking (in a ruthless cutthroat way), it's not easily angered and does not keep track of wrongdoings. Love does not delight in evil, but is overjoyed with truthfulness. Love always protects, trusts, hopes and most always perseveres.

How is your age group relevant? We are under represented but one of the most powerful and influential demographics.

For those of us who do not forgot, nor live in the past, but gains understanding of those around us, who are of different age groups, we are able to navigate as the world and society evolves, but know who we are.

Twenty years from now, when you look at these portraits we took together, what do you think you will say to yourself?

Wow, I looked like a woman who is aging like fine wine and ready to be complimentary with others who are different but have similar purposes.