Why Age Shouldn’t Define You: A Personal Perspective

Does the word “age” bother you?

Recently I was having a conversation with someone and used the phrase, “at this age…” He immediately interrupted me to say that I’m not old and he hates when people use age is a factor in what they can or can’t do.

I explained that I wasn’t saying ‘age’ as in ‘old,’ I was just making a comparison in what I think about the subject now as opposed to earlier in my life.

He obviously doesn’t know me well, as I don’t let age define me. I got my motorcycle license at age 59 and took swim lessons for the first time at age 64–right after I learned to kayak.

I have a few friends who also bristle at the word age. One substitutes the word, “vintage.” Another says at this “wisdom.” Sometimes I say, “at this stage,” in order not to offend the ones who object to “age.” I heard somewhere that we should call ourselves ‘Queenagers.’ I like that!

I’m not old. I am aging. I started the day I was born. And so did you.

Children love to answer the, “how old are you?” question. They are proud of every year. As am I. Age is how many years you’ve been alive. Old is an attitude.

Of course I don’t want to look old. Or act old. I actively work to take care of my body to stay youthful. To look younger, keep my balance and posture and to stay strong and flexible.

What about you? Does the word “age” bother you? How do you like to refer to this stage of your life? Tell me in the comments!

7 Galantine’s Day Activities Your Girlfriends Will Love

Did you know that Galentine’s Day was created in 2010 by the character Leslie Knope, on the TV show Parks and Recreation? Leslie, played by Amy Pohler, called, “Only the best day of the year!” is now celebrated by women everywhere on February 13th, the day before Valentine’s Day.

Having been single, or ‘re-singled’ as some say, since I was widowed in 2009, I’ve had more than a few solo Valentine’s Day’s. Some of my single friends have been a bit freaked out about being alone on V-day and found that making plans helped take away some of the sting. Galentine’s Day is a perfect holiday for us single gals. Here are some ideas for celebrating with your lady friends.

  1. Have a fun brunch. Like the gals at Parks and Recreation you can have brunch with gift bags, champagne, and lots of laughter. Retail therapy afterward and you can make an entire day of it!
  2. Go to a Movie. The year that the movie Fifty Shades of Grey was released on Valentine’s Day, I went with a gaggle of girlfriends. So much fun!
  3. Take in the arts. Theatre, ballet, or an art gallery would be a sophisticated way to celebrate. If you want to kick it up a notch, have your hair and make-up done and dress to the nines! Make it a night of fashion and fun!
  4. Do a progressive dinner. Uber to a walkable area and visit different restaurants or bars for drinks, appetizers, dinner, and dessert. Maybe go dancing after!
  5. Have a girls night in. Popcorn and movies in your PJ’s while you catch up on the latest gossip with old friends may be just what you need. Movie trivia games can make it even more fun!
  6. Book a spa day. Check local day spas and hotel spas for Galentine’s specials. Up for a drive? Check out ResortPass.com for a day pass to a nearby resort for a daycation.
  7. Get active. Go bowling, roller skating or ax throwing. Maybe there’s a Top Golf or Dave & Busters in your area you’ve wanted to check out. Grab your gal pals and go!

I always feel energized after hanging out with my women friends! Research shows that there are many physical and emotional benefits to having strong female friendships. Whether you’re with your one bestie or your whole tribe, Galentine’s Day is a wonderful way to celebrate the bonds of friendship!

How do you celebrate Galentine’s Day? Which of the 7 tips sounds most appealing to you? I’d love to hear your story!

Compliments and Connections

ComplimentRecently I stepped into the elevator with a beautiful woman. She was tall, probably in her late sixties, with silver hair fashionably styled and her makeup skillfully applied. She was dressed in a stylish black and white outfit which looked great with her hair. I’d seen her before. She didn’t look up when I entered. Continue reading

5 reasons to Enjoy Life

Joy is contageousYou know that ‘Enjoy Life and Do Good!’ is my life philosophy and business tagline, right? If you didn’t or if you want to read the story about how I came to choose it, you can click here.

Some folks may wonder if enjoying life is really important. Isn’t it more important to work hard? Be successful? Serve others? I don’t believe so. Here’s why: Continue reading

When We Accidently Went To Mass

Church in TampaLast week, after speaking at a conference in Tampa, my friend Carol and I were walking through the business district and came upon a beautiful, old Catholic church.

“Let’s go in!” she said. I agreed.

Carol is Catholic. I’m not. I do love old churches and when visiting New York or Europe I’ve been in many historic churches to stand reverently in the beauty, soak up the generations of spiritual energy, say a prayer and light a candle. Continue reading

“…with a little help from my friends.”

“Behind every successful woman is a tribe of other women who have her back.” Unknown

Sean, Myra, Vikki, Kimberley

Sean O’Keefe, me, Vikki Locke and Kimberley Kennedy

This has been one of the best weeks of my professional career. My tribe really outdid themselves.

On Tuesday, January 12th my memoir, Building A Life You Love After Losing the Love of Your Life officially launched with an event at Georgia Public Broadcasting. Continue reading

#ThankAWoman #WomensHistoryMonth June Cline

June & Good Golly Miss Molly

June & Good Golly Miss Molly

For International Women’s History Month I’m saying “Thank You!” to women who have inspired, encouraged or helped me in some way.

Today I say, “Thank You” to my long-time friend, June Cline, CSP the Southern, Sassy, Harley-riding Humorist. Starting in the speaking business about the same time, we’ve encouraged and advised each other through lots of ups, downs and crazy adventures. We’ve cried together in valleys and celebrated together on mountaintops and laughed all along the way. What I admire most about June is that she says, “Yes!” and then figures out a way. Continue reading

Woman #3 Women’s History Month: Marlo Thomas as Ann Marie in That Girl!

In honor of Women’s History Month I’m saying, “Thank you!”. to some women who inspired me.

When I was just a kid I loved watching That Girl! Starring Marlo Thomas.

Continue reading