“I do not support society’s narrow definition of physical beauty. Personality, passion, experience, heartfelt conversation, interaction with the world, integrity, personal ethics, humor, and individual gifts combine to create interesting people. I find that complexity fascinating and attractive.”
“I would love for society and all media to portray older people as most of us truly are: capable, experienced, open to change, curious, active. We are not doddering, incapacitated, powerless, or wishing to be younger. Most of us embrace the evolution of aging and continue to look forward to the future.”
Who has influenced you the most?: “Every independent woman brave enough to share her story.”
Wildly adventurous and ever tenacious, Robyn enjoys experiencing new things and the experiences that come with them. Raised to “celebrate disaster,” Robyn has taken this mindset to each setback in her life. “When you get bad news: go out to dinner, raise a toast, and embrace the unknown.”
A lifelong learner, Robyn is looking forward to turning 65 so she can take more college classes free of charge. Although she is excited to embrace international travel after pandemic restrictions relax, she is looking forward to many more solo road trips and the adventure of life. “I’ve gained an appreciation for my own abilities in ways I didn’t have when I was younger.”
Throughout her life, Robyn has held many job titles. She has been a Babysitter, bus person/waitress, boat deckhand, volunteer in Special Ed classroom, Dorm Resident Assistant, waitress, Speech Pathologist (both for public schools and in private practice), Volunteer Portland Visitor and Tourism, Classroom Teacher, School-Community Outreach Coordinator, Volunteer in Economic Development, Cheese Clerk and Deli Clerk at a local grocery store.
When asked about whether her values have changed as she’s gotten older, Robyn replied: “I value people. The difference over time has been that now I also value myself.”
“Kill your inner critic. She’s wrong about everything”
