Fabulous Over 40: Meet Lori

Fabulous Over 40 Studio Portrait of Lori by Julie Hood Photography

Age 70

About You:

Can you share a moment of triumph or success that you’re particularly proud of?
I am very proud of the fact that I decided to do a career change in my 40’s. After receiving my Bachelor’s degree in Nursing while in my 20’s, I decided to return to college and obtain a Master’s degree in Business. I was then able to successfully combine the two degrees for an administrative career in healthcare.

What was one of the happiest moments of your life so far?
Witnessing the birth of one of my grandchildren was the one of the happiest moments of my life. Knowing what my now adult daughter was going to experience by raising a human was amazing.

Looking back on your life, what’s a lesson you’ve learned that has stayed with you?
I learned that even though I want to, I can’t control everything. I am still learning to let go and adapt.

When in your life, so far, have you felt most confident and why?
While working as a nurse in the emergency room for many years I felt confident in my skills. I was able to help others in a state of crisis through calmness and reassurance.

What is your favorite trait about yourself?
My favorite trait is my sense of humor. I love to tell stories and make others laugh. I am also a reliable and loyal friend. I am grateful to have the experience of continuing to have lifelong friendships from elementary school.

Your Thoughts on Aging:

Are there any myths you would like to bust about being over 40, 50, 60 or 70?
One of the myths I’d like to bust about being over 70 is that you can’t stay fit. The wrinkles will come, but you can still stay strong and healthy. It’s never too late to start. Go slow at first and you’ll find out how amazing the body can adapt while building strength and flexibility. You are as old as your back, stay flexible!

How has turning 40, 50, 60 or 70 changed your outlook on life?
Turning 70 has given me a much deeper appreciation for what truly matters. I have a greater appreciation for the present and less concern about what other people think. My priority now is meaningful experiences over material items. I have a greater awareness of health and how important it is to respect and take care of my body.

I am grateful for what I have in my life and I am focusing more on my relationships that bring positivity and joy. I now have the ability to try new things that have always interested me, but I didn’t have time for when I was younger.

How do you embrace the changes that come with getting older?
I try to make the most of every day by having a sense of purpose. I am a volunteer nurse and I also volunteer at a wildlife rescue. I enjoy volunteering for a cause that I am passionate about. I also enjoy mentoring younger athletes in the sport of fencing. I am also aware of how important it is to spend more time with loved ones. Aging is a journey and a privilege.

What are some of the things you enjoy now that you might not have appreciated in the past?
I now enjoy the simple things like just being in nature. I love taking a walk in the woods and stopping to listen to the sounds. As I mentioned earlier, having quality time with loved ones is so important which I took for granted when I was younger. Being retired is also wonderful since I no longer have a strict timeline and so many commitments. I am also comfortable just relaxing and being alone.

Future Aspirations:

What’s one thing on your bucket list that you’re determined to accomplish and what’s your favorite thing you’ve checked off?
Seeing the northern lights is still on my bucket list. I was able to check off hiking to Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain in Peru. Rainbow Mountain is 17,000 feet above sea level. I was lucky enough to be able to do this in August of 2023. This area is now closed as of November of 2023 due to conflicts between communities.

What does it mean to you to live fully at this stage of life?
I think living fully in my 70’s is about prioritizing well-being. I try to stay active, eat healthy (while still enjoying my desserts), stay on top of preventative medicine, get enough sleep and be aware of my mental health. I am trying meditation, which is a challenge for me but so rewarding when I do it. I also love to travel and experience our beautiful planet.

The sport of fencing has brought me national and international experiences along with wonderful friendships all over the world. I love building memories with my partner of over 30 years (he occasionally tells me it feels like 50) and my four grandchildren. My grandchildren are growing up so fast and I look forward to seeing what they become as adults. Being a grandparent is so much easier than a parent. Everything I experience with them is magical without having all that comes with raising them.

What is your favorite quote or motto that inspires you?
My favorite quote is from Maya Angelou: “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” My favorite motto for the sport of fencing is: “get your arm out!”

What is the one piece of advice you would give your 20 something self?
Save money but don’t forget to enjoy life too. Failures can be lessons. Remember to cherish your family and friends. While it is important to be disciplined and focused on the future and what milestones you want to accomplish, be grateful for the moments that are in between. If you can, try and live more in the present and appreciate it.

Finding Joy:

What’s something that always makes you laugh, no matter how many times you hear or see it?
I love to hear family stories which are repeated over the years especially during Holidays. Although they get somewhat embellished each time they are told, they always make me laugh.

What are you passionate about? What brings you joy?
I am passionate about staying connected. Family and friends are very important to me. Trying new experiences with loved ones and enjoying their company brings joy to me. Of course, I am also very passionate about the sport of fencing which also brings me joy. I mentioned earlier that meditation is a challenge for me, yet so rewarding. Fencing is a type of meditation for me. While on the piste I must be in the moment or I’m hit! I have experienced being in the “zone” a handful of times. It is an amazing experience which I hope to have more of in the playing area.

Your Fabulous Over 40 Portrait Experience:

What made you decide to participate in the Fabulous Over 40 Portrait Experience?
I wanted to participate in this experience since photos can tell a story. I am very passionate about fencing, but all of my photos didn’t really tell my story. They all pictured me red-faced, sweaty and with really bad hair days. I wanted some professional photos which capture joy and happiness in this sport.

How did the photoshoot make you feel during and after the session?
I had a lot of fun during this photoshoot. At first, I was uncomfortable with the camera but soon became relaxed and comfortable, bringing a boost in self-confidence by looking and feeling my best.

How did this portrait experience change the way you see yourself?
This session gave me an empowered sense of self. Putting on all the fencing gear shifts my mindset to a competitive athlete no matter the appearance. Having a professional photo portrays a well-composed flattering image while remaining confident with attention to detail.