50 over 50 Project ~ Chapter Three ~ Yvonne

 WHAT IS YOUR OCCUPATION? I retired two years ago at the age of 68. I have various jobs throughout my working life, some which have been very challenging , other not so much. My last job was working as a care giver, for a private company. That was very rewarding knowing, that I was giving time and companionship to people who needed it, some one to take them out, do shopping etc, or someone they could just talk to when they needed someone to listen. It was all in a days work. The sad thing was when someone died, or there situation changed, and I stopped seeing them. I used to look forward to my visits, which was also good for me. But knowing I helped make a difference to someones life, even though it may have been in a small way, I found it very rewarding.

HOW OLD ARE YOU – AND WHAT IS THE BEST THING ABOUT BEING YOUR AGE? I’am now 70, which I must admit, I never thought I would be this old. lol. So i’am I very grateful that I am. Even though I enjoyed my job, I now know it is time for me. I’am not restricted to time, days or nights. My time is my own, which I appreciate so very very much. I do things now which I could never do while I was working. So I try and make the most of everyday. On wards and up wards, that’s my motto, for me every moment is a blessing.

WHAT HARDSHIPS HAVE YOU ENDURED THAT YOU FEEL HAVE MADE YOU FEEL STRONGER? I know there are millions of people, who have had worse hardships than myself, but at the time when you are rock bottom that thought doesn’t seem to ease the pain. I know that having my children made me stronger. I stopped and thought if I was not here then who would be here for them. So with time, I was able to heal, but it was a long, hard struggle, I’am now able to look back with happy memories, and less sadness, and try to enjoy every moment.

WHAT DO YOU CONSIDER IS YOUR GREATEST ACHIEVEMENT? I went back to collage, then to university. Ages 48 and 51. I was proud of myself for achieving , a diploma, in animal care, and a Degree in conservation and ecology . When on completion, I worked for the wild life trust, which was wonderful. And of cause my children are a blessing to me.

WHAT IS YOUR IDEA OF PERFECT HAPPINESS? Family, friends, and a peace full life with good health.

WHAT IS YOUR MOST TREASURED POSSESSION? My two watches which I received one from each of my children, for birthdays and Christmas.

WHAT’S LEFT ON YOUR BUCKET LIST? I would like to go on a Norwegian river cruse, then possible a trip Egypt. and the odd short break thrown in.

WHAT WAS YOUR GREATEST EXTRAVAGANCE? My new car

WHAT IS THE ONE THING YOU WOULD CHANGE ABOUT YOURSELF? I would love to change my wrinkles, but at my age what do I expect. LOL.

WHAT IS A TRAIT YOU ARE MOST PROUD OF? I feel i’am a good mother. And I would sooner do a good turn for someone than a bad one. I don,t like cruelty to animals in away shape of form, so I will always help them were I can.

WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST FEAR? Deep water, I don’t like swimming where I can’t see the bottom.

WHAT DO YOU MOST VALUE IN YOUR FRIENDS? Honesty, support, and loyalty , but also telling me the truth, even though I might not like it.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUR YOUNGER SELF? Think more before acting on impulse, as I have lived with the consequences of rash decisions.

WHAT IS YOUR MOTTO OR FAVOURITE QUOTE? On wards and Up wards.

AND FINALLY…..HOW DID YOU FEEL AFTER YOUR 50 OVER 50 BOUDOIR SHOOT? I really enjoyed it, even though I was nervous at the start, but Sharon and Katy soon changed that for me.