I mentioned last week that this week’s episode would be a little different. I’m joining in with some other fab at 50 ladies to share all things fifty and fabulous.
For me, turning 50 was during a difficult time in my life. At the time, I wondered how I was going to even make it through those first few months, but little did I know that great things lie ahead for me.
That’s what I’m discussing in this weeks podcast episode. Some of the things you hear you may already have known about me. Much of it happens to be very personal and private, but if my story can help even one person, it will all be worth it.
Now, if you’re ready, hit play and get all the saucy details.
Some of these fabulous ladies are new members to the 50 club. Next year, I’ll be inducted to the over 60 crowd. Age is just a number, right? Please visit some of these women to see the advice they have. I’m sure there will be all kinds of topics, like fashion, food, healthcare and more.
Did you miss last week's episode Project Fails & Fizzles
Please remember, this is an audio podcast that you can listen to here on the blog, or you can Subscribe to DIY with MRL on iTunes, Google Play and Tune In
I love listening to you. Your journey of experiences, courage and wisdom gives us strength to continue with our own repurposed lives. Mine parallels with yours in so many ways. When you mentioned your "first" blog, that too, is so similar because you were mine. Thank you for every ounce of encouragement that you pass on. You are such a true inspiration, Gail.
awww, I'm so happy I was your first blog. 🙂 It's funny how we remember these things. My friend Julie often reminds me that I was her first follower (on her blog)
Sometimes life is rough, but knowing that others survived what we're going through somehow makes it more manageable.
Thanks for your comment Robin, wishing you all the best!
gail
My dear friend, bless your heart. Thank you for sharing your story. You are an inspiration.
Your work, your vision, and your strength is an example to all of us.
Gail, I spent my 20s going to ACOA and my 30s going to Ala-Non and I would call my experience from both of them priceless. Thanks so much for sharing your story. I have not doubt it will help others. I too have a very good relationship with my son's father and his family. And I think it's such a blessing for all of us to get along. You are always inspiring us with your DIY talent and hearing more about how your story came about was awesome. Sending good thoughts to you all as you move forward with Jamie's father's treatment.
Amy,
Thank you for taking the time to listen to this episode that shares my story. I really appreciate your thoughtful comment about Jamie's dad. It's an ongoing process, but you know that.
wishing you all the best!
gail
So glad I decided to listen to your story! I am currently struggling with "what to do now" in my life and your story inspires hope that I too can find a "new purpose" even at my current age. Thank you for following your heart and opening your life's book to total strangers who can glean hope and encouragement thru your story.
Amanda,
I'm happy you listened as well! It's never too late to live your happily ever after. 🙂
Thank you for your very kind comment.
gail
Gail, wow, thank you for sharing your inspiring story! I'm blown away by how you repurposed your life. Well done!! Wishing you only good things in the future... 🙂
Lory
Thanks for listening Lory. The repurposing continues, more projects and more life changes ahead.
gail
Your story is amazing, Gail and you're amazing and an inspiration to so many! I love this series and all of the wonderful stories. I'm well past seventy and am still enjoying a wonderful journey. You just never know what life has in store. Blogging and all the wonderful experiences from it has saved so many of us. And for that I am so grateful!
Gail,
Awesome, I hope I'm still enjoying the jouney into my 70's (and 80's).
I too am grateful that blogging has helped so many of us "find ourselves"
gail
You inspire me in so many ways! I'm so glad that we met and I hope to hook up again in the future. I'd love to be more confident with power tools like you are.
Anne,
It was great to finally meet you as well. I do love a good power tool. It will happen for you as well. Practice makes perfect. 🙂
gail
Gail, though I've followed your blog, I hadn't been aware of your story, which is so inspirational.
I won't go into detail, but I can relate having gone thru some similar issues and I too, started blogging
in my early fifties. I have the same desire you mentioned to help others and I've written a book chronicling my journey. Thank you for sharing your story! Blessings, Cecilia
Yeah, it's not been something I've shared before. I hope writing the book helped you get past your history.
Thank you very much for your comment.
gail
Gail thank you so much for sharing your story with us. You are like the phoenix that has risen from the ashes of a disaster. Sometimes that's what it takes to get us to move and do what we never thought we were capable of. Imagine if you hadn't lost your job, you never would have started the blog. I was in a similar situation and because of the economic crisis in Greece I had to take that leap of faith and just go for it. You are my role model! And you will be even better in your 60's because the wisdom you have acquired will guide you. Thank you, thank you! This blog hop has really shown us that we are relevant and there are many women out there who need to hear these stories.
You are so right Mary, I really do look forward to my 60's and the wisdom my age has brought to me. Yes, this blog hop has been very eye opening and inspiring to say the least.
gail
Gail, what a story! Bless your heart, you have had a journey. I have had some experience with addiction, and you're right, YOU cannot "fix" the person. Only they have to want it bad enough to work on themselves. You were in the right place at the right time to have access to all those items when you were cleaning houses. I would love to have access to stuff like that! Then selling them at yard sales! Genius!
I'm glad you found your purpose in your blog. Thanks for the encouragements!
Florence (another Blogging Fifty gal)
Florence,
My journey has definitely made me stronger and the person I am today. 🙂
The junk from those empty houses was more of a blessing than I ever knew.
gail
WOW!~ What an inspiration Gail. I love it. You go girl. Truly inspiring. Fabulous at 50+ I love it.
thank you for listening Debbie, I truly appreciate your comment.
gail
That was beautiful Gail. Thank you for sharing. I feel the same way with my life and my blog.
Thanks so much Lois. Who knew that a blog could be such a lifeline!
gail
I can't wait to hear your podcast (hopefully tomorrow)! It's been a wonderful year of friendship knowing you. I love that you are always giving of yourself and encouraging. Fifty is fabulous and 6o will rock! I'm sure you'll make it that way. Hugs dear friend!
I'm so happy to call you friend Wendi! 🙂 It has been fun getting to know you. You may learn some stuff when you listen to this episode. No DIY this week. 🙂
gail
Thank you for sharing your story. We all have been through so much and it has shaped us. I love how you chose to go beyond the hurt and repurposed your life.
Debra,
You are so right, I totally agree, we are who we are because of what we've been through. Thank you for listening and taking the time to leave a comment.
gail
Gail, I didn't know your back story and I am in awe. "My Repurposed Life" - beautiful! You are strong, courageous, and inspiring. Thank you for sharing your story! Painfully shy in school - I know how that feels. Getting married young - I know that one too. Having life as you know and dream it pulled from under your feet - yup, know that one too. Sending BIG hugs your way!
Marie.... what doesn't kill us, makes us stronger, right? I'm sorry that you can understand from having going through the same things. I appreciate you comment so much.
gail
Your story is one of success. I truly hope that women in addicted or abusive situations will listen and think long and hard, regardless of if they are the addict or abuser or married to one.
Purpose, that's something I've lost. I'm 57 and for the last 9 years I've dealt with being disabled for an array of different illnesses. I tried an etsy shop which didn't take off. Mainly because I work on my art at my own speed, and couldn't keep up with fresh stock. Also there are so many negative people there that I allowed to drag me down. You know what it like to think you have friends, but when you step away you see that they aren't. Speaking of friends, mine all work and so they chat about that. I can see myself saying well today I managed to do 2 loads of laundry, and last nights dishes. My wonderful husband comes home from work needing a hour or so of wind down time, while I'm winding up because I've been talking to my Chiweenie Lucy all day. She's very smart, but refuses to learn English or do chores, but can dig a hole to China in the yard. ???? So, now I sew, I work on glass mosaics and I recently refinished a small hutch that I paid $100 for. It's white and turquoise. I do nothing that isn't a gift, or something for me. That's not a purpose. I'm still looking.
At least Lucy might listen.... and sometimes all we need to do is talk. 🙂 I wish you all the best.
gail
Gail,
Thank you for sharing some of your her-story. 🙂 I get it. Deeply.
Now, keep rocking MRL!!
Hugs,
Christina
her-story.... I love that Christina. I'm sorry that you get it. Deeply.
Be strong!
gail
So excited to listen to your podcast its exactly what I needed. I remember contacting you about feeling weird on going to the haven, but i took your great advice and went thanks to you I had a wonderful time.
your story was very inspiring .
I'm so happy I was able to give you some insight and encourage you to go to Haven. I'm always here if you need anything.
gail
Thank you so much, Gail, for opening up and sharing your story with all of us. It isn't always easy putting yourself out there like this, but you are SO right about helping others...even if it's just one person.
Thanks for listening Betsy, I appreciate it.
gail
Hi Gail,
I love you podcast and really appreciated getting to know you a little better. I doubt that there is a person out there who isn't a little shy about their background and think it's great that you shared your story.
I had my own issues which led me to blogging and it has been a Godsend to me. Keeps me busy an lets me create my own projects and share my interests with others.
Who would have thought that blogging could be so beneficial to so many people? I feel so blessed!
gail
What a journey your life has been! My father was an alcoholic so I understand how tough that makes life at home. My mom left him with me and one of my brothers (we were the two still at home) when I was 15 for a time but eventually we moved back. Thankfully he gother and stayed sober for 4 years before a stroke took him from us when I was 20.
Toni,
I'm so sorry you lost your dad when you were so young, but more than that I'm sorry for the years he "lost" while you were young, but thankful that you had some good years.
gail
I did the 50 thing with a group of bloggers. My Menopausal Monday is my most popular thing right now. Great podcast! Also, I am at an elementary school right now and have no idea what anyone did before Pinterest...they have great kindergarten stuff. So if you ever decide to go back to teaching.....
So proud of what you've been able to do for yourself, Gail! You are amazing!
Thank you for listening Kirby. Never say never, but I don't see myself ever going back to the classroom. 🙂 Big things are happening around MRL, there is always something new on the horizon.
gail