49 It’s just a number?
Having just recently turned 49, this number had become uncomfortable.
Perhaps it is another reminder of one’s ageing on top of the rocky roller coaster ride through midlife managing those “Menopause symptoms”
Since my birthday, I am surprised that it is a whole new feeling!!
A sort of power surge.
This past year has been a great year for myself personally, albeit under difficult circumstances during corona virus, it has been a strange time.
Upon reflection I have been very fortunate to experience an achievement just prior to lockdown.
Looking back, 48 was in fact a good year, I remained determined to try my best with my health, fitness. Building both of my businesses – PeriMenoPost and Lorna Ive Media.
Life was fun, busy, family and my great group of friends.
At the age of 48 I applied to enter the first ever Ms Great Britain 2020!
This was the highlight of the year for me, it was the best experience of my life!!
I was completely out of my comfort zone but boy am I glad I did it!!
I had applied to the most famous pageant contest in the UK and I had casually told myself,” you’re too old to gain a place” I did not expect at all to be considered, mainly because of my age. Which I know is wrong but in the midst of midlife and menopause it can affect a woman’s confidence and self esteem.
It was during Christmas 2019 that I had the fantastic news that I had indeed been chosen as a finalist!!
I was full of excitement and was overjoyed!!
Suddenly I became incredibly anxious, how was I going to do this!
A complete novice in the world of pageantry.
How was I going to complete the catwalk, swimwear rounds and being on stage. I was completely terrified!
The team at Miss Great Britain, were fantastic with their support and positivity!! They were great at making me realise that I could achieve this and what an amazing feeling and achievement it would be afterwards, they were correct!
Looking back now it helped that the finals came around so quickly, I became so busy with preparations and the excitement that the nerves disappeared somewhat as the final approached.
As a complete beginner in the world of pageantry contests, a nervous novice. I did not know what to expect. I had no reason to be nervous as I was welcomed into the pageant family with such warmth and kindness, truly inspiring, young women who made me feel welcome and accepted. Within the group I can honestly say my age did not hinder me or isolate me in any way. I found the experience incredibly liberating and such a confidence giving boost which was great for my self esteem!
Why had I not entered before?
The finals took place within weeks prior of lockdown in February 2020 and held at the Athena Theatre in Leicester.
I will never forget my experience of that first night with all the pageant girls, so friendly and confident! Spray tans, hair, make up, sore feet as I hardly wear high heels! Rehearsing, dancing, catwalk and meeting a fantastic group of young women who have now become close friends.
Jen Atkin and April Banbury were crowned this year’s queens and deservedly so, they are such beautiful young women!
It was all throughly worth it!
I would do it all over again, I am completely hooked to the pageant way of life and looking forward to meeting the pageant famalam once it is safe to do so!
I wanted to show that midlife and menopause does not have to define you, a role model to show that you can take those opportunities that come along in life and live life to the full!
I am so pleased I took the plunge and the boost to my confidence and self esteem was fantastic, the experience will remain with me forever!
Season one podcasts are available to listen across Spotify, google podcasts, itune podcasts and apple podcasts.
Season two is nearly completed with some exciting guests discussing the ups and downs of midlife and menopause. Stay tuned for season two.
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Have a great week, Menos – stay safe and keep active!!!
