How good was it to see the 'news' this morning and Wayne Arthurs has moved through in the rounds at Wimbledon. Many people wrote him off as too old and they kept commenting in the prior game that he was twice the age of his opponent. Who cares, he played some great tennis and did himself proud!

We have a few 60th's coming up in the next 2 months. One of my best friends is turning 60 and there is no way in the world I would have thought she could be close to that. My mum is also turning 60 and not only does she not look it, I would have to say that in no way is her 'demeanour' old... You always hear of people hitting milestone ages and getting all depressed about it. Personally I reckon each year you are around is a good one LOL! I know some people my age (close to 40) who would be heaps older in their attitude than my mother or friend and that is a real shame.

Europeans have it right. Then again I am getting on so maybe it is wishful thinking, they often as not see 'mature' women as attractive and extremely worthwhile. We tend to have this ideal of the perfect women who is young and vibrant as being the epitome of womanhood and I just don't see how that can be? Every age group has it's benefits. Kids don't have a care in the world, Teenagers are fearless, and in your twenties you are have the world at your feet with opportunity... Yet it seems to be for women past these periods of life, they are also considered 'past it'? Men don't seem to have the same issue? Most male presenters on TV are in their 40's or more, yet the females are much younger? Why is this?

I think it is time for all women (regardless of age) to stop allowing narrow-minded perceptions to influence how they feel about themselves. Age is just a number. If you feel good about yourself that should be all that counts. I know sometimes we get too busy to take care of ourselves, don't get time for the hair to be done (grey is a colour you know), or waxing (sorry Sue, will be there soon for that LOL), or maybe changing the style of your clothes (I know, Trakkie Daks are Not a fashion statement, but it is cold...). So yep, you guessed it, I am one of those in serious need of maintenance, like a lot of other busy people I know. But, I don't think how am I looking changes who I am. I get my hair done and the like because it makes me feel good. All women should be doing that. Doing what makes them feel good, not trying to live up to unrealistic expectations. Most of us will never look like a super model, and as we get older, people tend to stress about that more & more.

But you know what? Who cares! If you have people around you that you love and respect that is all that matters. If you have the pleasure of friends who are older women, count yourself very lucky indeed, and hope that one day you can become like them. Kids, take a look at your mum as a 'person', not just your mum, you may be surprised...

Best Wishes, Noely, Community Site Co-ordinator