Vancouver Boudoir Photoshoot with Ms. Anne

WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO CELEBRATE BEING FAB OVER 40?

As I approach my 65th birthday, I celebrate who I am now, how life has brought me to self-realization, and my knowledge that my (usually) gentle persona masks the warrior within. I am gifting myself this Fabulous Beyond 40 celebration as a way to honour all of this!

WHAT DID YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT THIS EXPERIENCE?

I loved that my own passion (gardening and growing all my food) was incorporated in many of the shots with the sheaves of grain I had brought. Being encouraged to bring them for the photoshoot was a validation of what is important to me.

HOW HAS YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH YOUR BODY CHANGED

OVER TIME?

Due to a med change in 2008, I put on about 75 pounds in a very short time. I did not like my body and felt uncomfortable and self-conscious. Since then I have taken some of the weight off. Now I am feeling fine and accepting of how I look.

WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED TO APPRECIATE MORE AS YOU

HAVE AGED?

I am no longer too shy to speak up in a group, crowd, or to address an audience. Having a mental illness was, at first – because of my own internal stigma – devastating but, during my recovery journey, I was able to cherish the strength it brought me. I treasure my sensitivity. Though many believe that being sensitive is an undesirable characteristic, I feel it has helped me to have empathy toward others

IF YOU COULD GO BACK IN TIME AND MEET YOUR 18 YEAR OLD SELF, WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO HER?

Storms are coming but you will get through. Have hope always.