AGING WITH STYLE AND ATTITUDE….

PHOTO: SOPHIA HOME

Ageing……mmm….well it's inevitable isn't it?

It is not a subject that I have given a great deal of thought to over the years, but now in my late 40's, and with my children having now left home, I am very aware that I am now in a new era…..the 'third stage' as I am hearing it referred to….and although I have gone through the usual sadness of my chicks having flown the nest, I am appreciating their love, fun and friendship as fellow adults, and also now embracing the extra freedom that this stage has to offer.  The time to spend more time on the work and hobbies that I have always enjoyed, to travel more, and to pursue new goals and aspirations.  

Gone are the days of our grandmothers' generation, when this stage marked the official start of 'middle age' and a time to start slowing down, and taking things easy.  I appreciate that this doesn't include all women of their generation…indeed, I had some pretty strong and adventurous women in my family who have gone before me, as I am sure many of you have too?  However, on the whole many more women today are enjoying and achieving remarkable things, loving fashion and beauty, enjoying their fitness regimes and embracing all the adventures that the world has to offer…..well in to their 80's and 90's….how fantastic is that!  

My own lovely mother (who I am sure won't mind me mentioning, is 70) rang me last night to tell me about her morning at the gym and new exercise class, so she certainly isn't slowing down!  Indeed, my mother in law at 91 goes to a weekly exercise class too, which is beyond inspirational!

Suffice to say, it is still a little disconcerting for many of us girls to suddenly look in the mirror and find those first few lines and wrinkles that can suddenly appear overnight.  I like to tell myself that I am fortunate that those little lines around the eyes are from a happy and laughter filled life so far….although I have also found myself addressing my own skin care regime with a few new pots and potions promising great things!  I have also stepped up the 'Spinning' and 'Body Combat' classes…...but more of that another time!

At the end of the day though, I like to think that it is a woman's style and attitude that people notice as they age, and their love of life.

No one knows this better than French women, who have a wonderful attitude to ageing.  This ethos has been captured beautifully in a lovely little book that I have been enjoying this week…..'French Women Don't Get Facelifts', written by Mireille Guiliano, author of international bestseller 'French Women Don't Get Fat'.  A former chief executive at Louis Vuitton Moet Hennessy, Mireille is a true ambassador of the art of French living, and living well.  I love her attitude to finding joy in life's simple everyday pleasures and especially her attitude to the idea of never depriving oneself and eating well but in moderation and balance.  

PHOTO: SOPHIA HOME

Whether your attitude to ageing is a positive one, or perhaps you are finding the process a little daunting, I would urge you to read this delightful, lighthearted read….and discover the French woman's secret to doing so with great style and 

'joie de vivre'!

PHOTO: SOPHIA HOME

Whatever your age and stage in life, what are your thoughts and attitude to ageing?  I would so love to hear form you!

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Wishing you a very happy weekend…..

Sophia xx