My Blog Circle:

• writing in the buff

Lisa is a freelance writer who lives with her family in the Southeastern United States.  Lisa's work has appeared in several on-line publications as well as in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, and she has published stories in anthologies such as Chicken Soup for the Beach Lover's Soul, Cup of Comfort for Dog Lovers, and Mystery of Fate: Common Coincidence or Divine Intervention. Visit her personal blog, "Writing in the Buff" at:  www.writinginthebuff.net. Visit her website, "It's All Write With Me!" at:  www.lisaricardclaro.com.

How did you get to where you are now?

On a bullet train. It seems I went from age 20 to 50 in a blink. Fortunately, I learned a multitude of life lessons along the way and discovered myself in the process.  It turns out I'm a funny lady.  Who knew?

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

Ten years ago middle-age sounded like a dirty word.  I don't feel that way any more.  I'm proud of who I am at 50. I am more relaxed with myself now and less concerned about the opinions of others -- which is a good thing, or I'd never put on a bathing suit. 

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

In ten years I'll be turning 60. Professionally, I plan to have a lot of writing credits under my belt and a published novel or two (or three) on library shelves. Personally, I'll be celebrating my 40th wedding anniversary and hope to have a grandchild to spoil.  Right now all I have is my daughter's Dachshund, and as a granddog he's terrific, but I'm hoping for something on two legs with opposable thumbs.

Dear Lisa -

You look fine without make-up, so quit wasting time lining your lips and perfecting your blush.  No one cares. 

Go ahead and buy that bikini.  You think you look awful, but you rock the thing.  In another couple of decades gravity will make the decision for you, so stop being critical of a little cellulite and go for it.

One more thing--and you're really going to hate this.  Daddy was right.  Don't sweat the small stuff, kiddo. Save your energy for the big stuff, and choose your battles wisely.  The universe will do what it wants in spite of you, but there is no law that says you can't enjoy the ride.

Remember what Audrey Hepburn said:  "Nothing is impossible, the word itself says 'I'm possible'!"

Last, but not least, adore every moment of life and never, ever, pass up the chance to say, "I love you." 

Now go get 'em, kid!

My mom was my greatest influence. She was an amazing woman who knew how to face life with a positive attitude, always.

My other role models include Audrey Hepburn, Katharine Hepburn, and Eleanor Roosevelt because they were strong women who were not afraid to speak their minds and age with grace.