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I am a firm believer that life is what we create for ourselves and that we are never too old to create a new dream or to celebrate a new success. All we have to do is want it, visualize it and work towards it, and it will happen.
Born in California, I entered boarding school on the east coast at the age of 7 and grew up commuting between my father's home in California and my mother's in New York City. My life has unfolded in direct reverse to most peoples' –transitioning from baby bottles (my husband of 47 years and I have six children) to BlackBerries in my 50's to catwalks in my 60's.
Fashion, design, and beautiful clothes have always drawn my attention, although I never thought seriously about becoming a model. Then one day, in the line of my work in public relations, I was "discovered" by a Hollywood producer who liked my "look." He persisted in his request for photos until I eventually indulged him and sent him some samples . A short time later a modeling agency recruited me and a second career was born.
Rather than settling into a quiet retirement, I have chosen to say a resounding "Yes!" to new ideas, new adventures, new experiences, and the rewards have been extraordinary. By tuning into our intuitions and recognizing opportunity when it comes along, I believe we can open ourselves to amazing possibilities.
-Valerie Ramsey
Here are some emails Valerie has recieved from people who have been inspired by her story:
I am a 58 year old woman living here in Santa Barbara. I was delighted to see the article about your modeling career. It is so refreshing to see a woman close to my age in this field of young, sometimes dangerously thin women.
With all of us who are part of the "baby boom" generation, it is heartening to know that a beautiful woman like you is now getting recognized and given work in this youth oriented culture.
I wish you all the best in you career as a model. You project a lovely spirit as well as a beautiful exterior.
-Zoë Landers
I just saw the article on you and looked at your web sight and you are a gorgeous lady. I'm so glad people are starting to take notice of older women. I am 59 yrs old and would much prefer an older lady to any of the younger ones. I get tired of just seeing young girls everyplace. It's about time we older guys get to see beautiful classy older women such as yourself.
I wish you the best and hope you never stop being a model. Thanks so much for giving we older men hope that we will see more older women in the future modeling.
-Owen Wigley
As a 53 year old, single, empty-nester woman who has been told forever that I should have been a model, you are MY HERO!
-Pamela Sillix
I am writing to tell you that you are very beautiful & I enjoyed your article very much. When you read stories like yours then I think there is hope out there somewhere...
-KerriLinne Nelson
This morning I read the article about you in the Chicago Tribune. For awhile I've wondered if such a venture would be possible, tapping into the ever growing Baby Boomer market in print and media advertising... You've confirmed my hunch and have given me a much needed boost to pursue a life long aspiration. I'm certain you'll be deluged with emails from the article. Thank you for giving a 51 year old the much needed confirmation that her lifelong dreams do have a basis in reality. That's an unexpected blessing to be thankful for this year.
-Mary Casey-Smith
You are such an inspiration - I have tried to re-enter the workforce but feel that I am not going to be accepted because I have not been in it for so long, and a more youthful generation has been the new breed - I have not yet found my niche. You have, however, given me renewed vigor to move forward.
-Carole Washington
You truly are an inspiration for all of us. Thank you!
-Therese Blackwell
What is your secret? Can you give me a typical day's diet plan? Please, I am desperate for something to keep me motivated to lose some weight and seeing you (a 67 year old woman looking so glamorous and embarking on a new career) has really inspired me. Thank you for taking the time to read this and again my complements on your look and your accomplishments.
-Melinda Maples
I read the article and was quite impressed. You are certainly a role model for women in their senior years.
You look terrific and thank you for your words of wisdom on Saturday...you definitely made me think.
-Adrienne Witte
My wife saw your tremendous story the other night on FOXnews. We were so excited!!! We are so happy for you! It's great to see wonderful things happen to nice people.
May the Lord continue to bless you. We will always remember you!
-Johnny Zell The Lawrence Welk Show
There are not enough words to express the essence of you!
-Suzanne Hambleton
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