Janine’s story
I would love to hear your story? What are the experiences that shaped who you are today?
A troubled childhood, a previous relationship that was abusive before finding my darling husband, nervous breakdown, helping to raise my husband’s two beautiful daughters plus various work roles over the years.
Turning 50 is a huge milestone, what are your thoughts around this?
Aging has never bothered me. It is inevitable. Just enjoy it.
Research shows that a lot of women want to know that the work they do is significant, meaningful and embodies their highest potential. What do you think?
I would like to think that what I do makes a difference not only to those that I work with but others in the community. I am lucky to be doing something I love. Not everyone can say that.
What words of wisdom, based on your personal experience, would you like to share with others who struggle to see their own inner light and inner power?
Don’t let other people bring you down or hold you back. Believe in yourself. Prove the naysayers wrong. But at the end of the day work out who’s opinions of you really matter and ignore the rest. It took me a long time to work these things out but since I did I have not looked back.
Who are the women that you find inspiring and have influenced you in some way? And why?
My biggest inspiration was my great aunt. She didn’t have it easy but never let anything stop her. She was a strong and determined lady with a heart of gold. A precious soul that I miss dearly.
Why are beautiful photos of yourself important to you now?
Being told I was ugly when I was growing up, and during previous relationships I have never considered myself as beautiful until I met my husband. I think that if you are beautiful on the inside it shouldn’t matter what you look like on the outside.
Editor’s Note :
Janine is the quintessential purple girl. The dresses she brought were almost all purple, lavender, and shades thereof. Even her lipstick had to be purple. I thought it was so cool to favourite a colour and be loyal to it. A sign of a strong character and determination.
To bring up her second husband’s daughters as her own was proof of her loyal and steadfast nature. Which has been rewarded by the love and respect they have for her.
In a fickle world, to possesses steadfastness is in itself worthy of admiration and very inspiring.
You are beautiful inside and out, Janine! Hope your photos are bringing you joy and gladness. 😊