My Blog Circle:

• Flourish Over 50

My name is Susan Tolles, and I live in Austin, Texas. I’m an enthusiastic member of the “Fabulous Fifties” group of women, those who have lived full lives with abundant blessings, now ready to begin a new chapter of my life.  I have been married for 30 years, and think I have the “perfect family.” I am close to completing my most important life-job–raising my three incredible children to become successful, godly young adults. I have had various jobs through the years–I’ve been an accountant, business manager, wedding coordinator, children’s ministry assistant, school board president, entrepreneur, and volunteer. 

My newest adventure is a website for women, Flourish Over 50, because I believe 50 is the new 30! I hope it will be a special place for women to connect and to get information, sharing life together as we go through the richest time of our lives.

How did you get to where you are now?

As I began visioning the next stage of my life, I was energized by all the women I met who were doing the same thing, or who had already re-invented themselves and were living their lives with new enthusiasm. Because we all had so much in common, I though “why not connect?” I began blogging, and from that I began dreaming big dreams, and Flourish Over 50 was born. Now the “new and improved me” hopes to create a community of women who can draw inspiration from one another, and find a wealth of insight and information through this site.

How do you see yourself differently now than you did 10 years ago?

Ten years ago, I was still focusing my energy on home and family. My children were still in school, and very active in extra-curricular activities. I was volunteering in the community and at school, and my identity was tied to who I was as a mother and wife. 

Today, I have reached that exciting time of rediscovery, a time where I can reinvent myself to be defined by who I am personally. I have many rich life experiences to build on, and I still have the energy and enthusiasm to take that foundation and set some bigger goals for myself. I dream big, and believe that, with faith and confidence, there isn't anything we can't do, even when we're over 50!

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

I see myself as a successful businesswoman, with a website that has been a blessing to many and a good investment of time and resources for myself. I would love to have contributed to our retirement so my husband and I can enjoy traveling and taking care of our grandchildren (hopefully we will have several by then!) I hope to be known as a vivacious, compassionate and intelligent Christian woman who made a difference in the lives of many.

Chill out.

So many women who I have met recently who have followed their dreams. Women who have been business owners, or philanthropists, or just happy moms who love the life they've led and are excited to stretch their wings and soar as they age gracefully