Megan Word

Age 43

My favorite thing about being a woman over 40 is that I’ve learned more about who I am at my core, and I worry less about what others think of me. I’ve stopped comparing myself to others (for the most part) and try to remind myself that everything I do is setting an example for the little women in my life who are watching my every move. I have also figured out the true meaning of “work hard, play hard” and I spend my free time on things that bring me joy and reduce the day-to-day stresses of being a working mother.

Some days, it doesn’t feel so extraordinary as it’s easy to let the overwhelm creep in. But, when I take time to reflect on all that I have – amazing children, a supportive husband, a whole tribe of mama friends cheering me on, and a career I am proud of – I realize that my life really is extraordinary. A goal of mine is to live authentically. Being comfortable in my own skin and knowing who I am is guiding me to live an extraordinary life.

As a writer who loves to read, I have a dream to become a published author. I’ve often thought of writing a fictional crime novel or a post-apocalyptic science fiction series á la Hunger Games or Divergent. I also hope to complete the hike to Havasupai in the Grand Canyon; a dream of mine since I saw photos in a calendar at the age of 12. My July 2020 trip was canceled, and this beautiful land remains closed to visitors. I hope that this land will reopen and that I am lucky enough to obtain a visitor’s pass.

When I saw my portraits for the first time, one word came to mind: proud! I didn’t expect to feel the way I did but, for the first time in a long time, I thought to myself – “Wow! I am beautiful.”  More importantly, I felt powerful, successful, capable, and worthy. I am so happy I chose to participate in this project. I am also happy that I included my daughters so that we can all celebrate the beauty of being a woman at any age!