In 2021 I had a special visit from two ladies who came all the way from the U.S.A. to my studio for a portrait.
Not entirely true, because they were in Amsterdam on a study trip… đ But they took the morning off to come to my studio. I thought it was exceptional and actually secretly the most fun when I can give my portraits an international twist. Today a picture of Mindy (52) from Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Tell Us About Yourself and your life?
I was born and still live in Tulsa, Oklahoma, U.S.A. I married pretty young, became a teacher. I went through four years of infertility due to endometriosis before giving birth to my son and daughter. I am recently divorced after 27 years of marriage. It was the hardest, scariest, and most liberating decision I have ever made. My life is full of love, acceptance, and adventure now. I am thriving in welcoming back the spirit of my true self; only this version is more intelligent and more secure!
Tell us about your career?
I am an Early Childhood Educator. I teach four-year-olds in their first experience of school, the grade we call Pre-Kindergarten. I have taught in Tulsa Public Schools for 30 years, and I have also taught Kindergarten and Second Grade.
If You Had a Warning Label, What Would It Be?
Watch out, do not make me wait on you! I am so impatient with people who are habitually late. I am a night owl, so I know how hard it can be to wake up and get moving. Drink some coffee, be responsible and courteous. My time is your time too… don’t waste it!!! ?
What do you do to stay positive both mentally and physically?
Music is a definite mood changer for me. I love Spotify! I am open to all music, everything from country to rap. I vow that Tiktok is an excellent waste of time; laughing reduces my anxiety quickly. Always love inspiration from Instagram; @and.bloom and @paulinaporizkov are favorites. They help feed my soul. #sexthasnoexpirationdate! I do mini workouts most days with my son to feel physically strong and flexible. Teaching small children their zest for life rubs off on me as well!
Any regrets?
Oh, regrets! I try not to focus on them, but I do have them. I regret not being more adventurous when I was young. Although if I had not made the choices I made years ago, I would not be as appreciative of the peaceful life I have now. Forgive yourself and move on!
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
I consider my two beautiful children my most outstanding achievement; they are both kind and good human beings. Their hearts are open and empathic towards others. Building young lives as a teacher, every year instilling academics, empathy, preserving, and a lifelong love of learning also makes me proud.
What is your fantasy version of your older self, let’s say 80 years old?
I see 80 year old me as happy, calm, and cooking many dinners for my family. I certainly hope to be active and healthy. I can imagine a peaceful feeling of overall love from a life well-lived.
What Would You Tweet to Your Younger Self?
Haha, the tweet would be: Relax, girl! Life is not a race. Go with your gut feeling. If something doesn’t feel right, then it is not!
Latest Google search?
The weather forecast for Paris. As I am typing this, I am traveling to Paris to see the French countryside for the first time!
What is your age, and how old do you feel?
I am 52 but feel like 20! Life is new again.
