SUZY - 57

My husband and I started our family during graduate school. I graduated from the Illinois College of Optometry. We move around a lot as we added to our family. 3 girls, then 3 boys in 13 years. I worked along the way, but being a mother was by far the most important job. My husband was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2013 and we fought this nasty foe for 4 years. We lost him in 2017. First of all, 50 is the new 40, or even 35! Unless they are very fortunate, women at age 50 have been through some tragic times. They have their priorities in place and are grounded. They have raised their families and are at ease with themselves. They can reap what they have sown. My 50s started with the illness of my husband and although we had faith in his healing, we knew how the journey was going to end. My relief came in a bottle of Chardonnay. Although my dependence on alcohol never spun out of control, I knew it would get worse. On 6/18/2016 I took my last drink.I also resurrected my Optometry career that completes me that I had let go while raising my kids.

CHRISTINE - 55

I live my life to the fullest with many interests that keep me busy - camping, motorcycle riding, snowmobiling, fishing, canoeing, yoga, golf and traveling. I lead an awesome team of people for 3M Healthcare and have been in the healthcare field for over 30 years. Passion drives me! I love dogs! I think women over 50 have so much to give the world I appreciate that life is finite so you should do the things you want to do. I am wiser, more patient and have developed deep empathy for others and animals. During my photo shoot I felt free and fun. Loved seeing the essence captured by Annie. Made me feel younger! :)

DIANE - 60

I am married with a son and daughter. I am a professional business writer. Feature stories told from the subject’s perspective are my favorite. I love adventures like trips to California to visit my son, and Florida & Texas to visit parents. I love sunny places where we can snorkel or parks where we can walk and hike. My favorite books are business and self-improvement & motivation. I am a connector and love keeping my radar up for opportunities to connect people with similar interests. Since turning 50, I have a much better understanding of my strengths and it’s easier to make decisions of how to spend my time. I know what I like and don’t like and I’m intentional about spending time on activities that leverage my strengths and make me happy.

DAWN - 51

I wanted to do this campaign because I lost my husband in May of 2020 and I turned 50 in 2021, so I wanted to feel sexy and gorgeous and Annie really helped that happen. I am a mother of an awesome 32 year old son who will make me a glam-ma in October. My first grandbaby! I think when you hit 50, you are just secure with who you are and don’t sweat what other people’s opinions of you are. I feel like I am the most confident I have ever been. I love giving and helping others... I have become very patient over the last 2 years. I would say just breathe and respond... don’t react