Tell us what you’d like us to know about yourself; who is Vivian?
I am a warm, open, positive, and social person. I am a mom of two teenagers, and I work as a communications advisor and spokesperson. I worked as a full-time model when I was younger. These days, I do something on the side next to my regular job. Now that I’m older, I want to model with a positive aging attitude. Yes, I have wrinkles and grey hair coming through; this is all of me, and I am happy to be where I am.
You’re going through a divorce that wasn’t your choice. How do you deal with the grief?
I am learning to surrender and to accept what is. I used to ignore sadness; I didn’t want it in my life. But I have learned to ‘sit with it. Allowing the emotion to be there, trying to lean back and look at it with some distance, knowing it will pass and I will heal. This is a chance to grow in ways I probably would not have done in the comfort of my relationship. Learning to feel safe within me. If I master that, it is a gift for life.
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
Without a doubt: having raised two children that make me so proud. Because at 16 and 18 years old, they have the biggest heart for people and animals and are funny and intelligent, and they are the light of my life.
What’s the best part of getting older for you?
Growing older with longtime friends, we cheer each other on, we laugh, and we cry together, and we lift each other up. I am so fortunate to celebrate all stages of life with these fantastic people.
What’s the worst part of getting older for you?
Minor aches here and there, but other than that: I am counting my lucky stars to be healthy and fit. I could do without the hot flashes in the middle of the night, though…
What advice would you give your younger self?
Relax; nothing is under control. (And better yet: you don’t need to control everything. It will work out anyway.)
What’s the Biggest Risk You’ve Ever Taken?
Having children; makes me more vulnerable than anything else.
If You Had a Warning Label, What Would It Be?
‘Will not accept things she’s not ok with.’
Any regrets?
I can’t blame other people for overstepping my boundaries. Overstepping my own boundaries is something I regret, and I hope not to repeat that mistake in the future.
What’s your latest Google search?
Recipe for Tom Kha Gai.
How old are you, and how old do you feel?
I am 49. Depending on who I spend time with, I can either feel like my own age or feel like I’m 24 (especially when I’m off on girl trips or festivals with my friends).
