Life Offers Possibilities at Every Age
Patricia Sands, Antibes, France
Thank you to all who dropped by for brunch on Tuesday. You were the highlight of my blogging week especially -especially since no one minded the paper plates and plastic cups. You’re super-duper gracious guests.
For those of you who may be joining us for the first time -
Welcome!! Come on in and make yourself comfortable.
You’ve arrived just in time to meet Patricia Sands – a kind, compassionate, and generous friend who wrote the award-winning book, The Bridge Club.
Here’s a peek from the book jacket:
How far would you go to help a close friend? Is there a place where you might draw the line and simply have to say no?
The Bridge Club is an entertaining and often moving tale through four decades that span the segments of a woman’s journey from youthful optimism to embracing the challenges and opportunities presented in life’s later years.
The story meets life head on, affirming that true friendship is a priceless asset.
~~~~~
Patricia, I’m delighted to have you here at my blog this week. Tell us a bit about yourself. Why do you write?
Shutters in Nice, France
Italian beach huts
The Bridge Club centers around friendships over decades and you don’t shy away from difficult story lines – divorce, a spouse’s death, and even euthanasia. Why?
Well, I guess the simple answer is that The Bridge Club is all about the stories of 8 women and if you look at 8 people you know, there will be issues in everyone’s life. I wanted to tell how good friendships can see us through absolutely everything life has to throw in our path. Sometimes things don’t work out but very, very often they do and frequently it is because of the support we have from people we trust.
. . . it was never just about the cards.
Will your new book focus on relationships?
Grand Canal, Venice, Italy
In a recent interview, you said “life presents possibilities at every age.” Could you explain this thought a little more?
As the saying goes, it’s all about the journey. One guarantee in life is that it is unpredictable. I was widowed when I was 43 in the midst of what seemed to be the perfect life. Our sons were 12 and 13. Needless to say this was a devastating experience for all of us. I returned to university, completed an education degree and became an elementary school teacher, which I loved. It was certainly nothing I had anticipated.
A few years later, I remarried and suddenly had a family that consisted of seven kids, although three were already older and independent. I hadn’t anticipated that.
Now in my sixties I’m a published author with another novel on the way, totally involved in social media and thoroughly enjoying the incredible community of writers, editors, readers and all the literati one meets in this business. Who knew?
The older I get, the more women I meet with amazing stories of change that has come into their lives and choices they have made. I hope somehow my stories will inspire people, and women in particular, to embrace change when they are faced with it – to see challenges as opportunities.
Wrestling with grief in my 40′s taught me the most important lesson of my life and I try to share it whenever I can. Every day is a gift. No one is promised a tomorrow so be grateful for each new day and make the most of it. Give back as much as you can and live your life to the fullest.
- A storefront in Verona, Italy
I love how you call your grandbabies The Adorables. What do they think about having a grandmother who is a writer?
We have six wonderful grandchildren ages 17, 15, 13, 11 and then 4 and 2 years old. When the 4-year-old was born he was the most adorable baby from day one and I called him The Adorable Jack. When his sister Kate came along two years later, the name just expanded and The Adorables suits them perfectly. I spend one day a week with them and we often see them on the weekend and are enjoying every minute while they are this young, as we did with all of our grandchildren. Being a grandparent is a very special thing!
The older grandchildren think it’s very cool that I write and am on Facebook just like them. Our 11-year-old granddaughter is a tremendously talented writer and I am certain she will eventually publish. She has been creating lengthy stories since she was five and has a wonderful way with words.
- Corsica landscape
Many people shy away from social media. You’ve done the opposite. Why? Were you ever afraid or nervous?
Well, I don’t really let words like afraid and nervous enter into my world … been there, done that, a long time ago. It was made very clear to me that if I was going to publish a book I would have to also get involved in social media. So I jumped right in. I know I still have a lot to learn and I’m sure I don’t use it nearly as effectively as I should. One of the great surprises of my journey as a writer has been discovering how helpful other writers are and how much sharing of information there constantly is.
Our WANA711 group has been a real affirmation of my beliefs that we empower each other through our friendships. The connection we have formed online is so authentic and sincere, it proves this on a regular basis. Love it!
French door
What is the one thing you hope your readers – either of your books or your blog – learn from you?
I hope they learn to value their own stories, to nurture their friendships and families, and to appreciate every single day. Everyone deserves that. Life isn’t always fair and hardships often occur but with good friendship in your life solutions can be found. Hmmm – that’s more than one thing … but then that’s how I write!
Without question the most rewarding aspect of being a published author is hearing from readers. To have a stranger say your words touched them or tell you they related to your story in a way that was meaningful for them is the best gift!
Thank you Patricia for visiting with us. Also, thanks for sharing your photographs. They are lovely!
Do you have a question for Patricia? Ask away.
You are so right, life does offer possibilities at every age. It’s easy to forget in our youth obsessed culture but it’s all in your attitude! Thanks for a great interview and being an inspiriation!
Callene Rapp recently posted..Row 80 Round 1 Final Check in
Thanks for stopping by, Callene! Yup – it’s all about attitude for sure. You inspire me too with your own unique story. Love it!
Patricia Sands recently posted..The party’s at Bridgette’s …
Callene, isn’t that a wonderful message? I have learned so much from Patricia. She makes 65+ look great! :D
I’m sorry I’m a little late to the party Bridgette… but I’m so glad I made it. It feels so good to begin my day with the positive, warm feelings that you two ladies exude. Patricia, it was wonderful to hear your story and I think your attitude of gratitude shows through in everything you do, whether it be an e-mail, a blog post or a picture. Bridgette, thanks for your hospitality, warmth and friendliness everytime we make contact. You two are great together! Thanks for making my day! Now, pass the kolaches. LOL I have no idea what they are but they sound good.
Kate MacNicol recently posted..Old Favorites
Hey Kate, good to see you! How are your travels going or are you back home? We’ve had such a good time at Bridgette’s. There are kolache recipes online but they probably don’t compare to Bridgette’s jalapeno hotties!
Patricia Sands recently posted..The party’s at Bridgette’s …
Hiya Kate – no need to apologize I’m happy you’re here! :) It’s been a blast hosting Patricia this week because – as you described her – each contact is measured and gracious.
Ooooo Kate. You’ve never had kolaches? {whispering} Think pig-in-a-blanket but just be careful not to say that too loudly or you’ll get creamed with a doughnut by a baker. Wanna guess how I know? :)
AWWWWW wonderful interview. You two ladies just brighten up each and every one of my days with your generous and upbeat attitude and love. It’s contagious and delightful. Love getting to know Patricia a little better and thank you to Bridgette for hosting the shin dig – LOVE your style girl!
And love the underlying message: appreciate every day and the people in your life…LOVE IT!!
Natalie Hartford recently posted..ROW80 – Round 1 – final check-in
Thanks for coming over, Natalie. You’re so fun that I can’t imagine any shindig with your avatar. LOL.
Wonderful interview with a lovely author, and more importantly, a lovely person. So nice to get to know more about you, Patricia!
Amber recently posted..Tell Me a Story – Part One
Thanks for stopping in, Amber. Patricia is great, isn’t she?
Hi Patricia,
Thanks for sharing your story about life presenting opportunities at every age. Some days I get stuck in the rut and need reminding to remember that each day is a blessing and embracing change.
I love that you call your grandkids ‘The Adorables.’
Traci Bell recently posted..What Makes You Stay?
Love the pictures, am filled with travel envy. Someday…
Great advice. I especially liked: the advice to value our own stories and experiences. Basic, and w all know it – but need reminding.
Beverly Diehl recently posted..My Brand Is Not The Dollar Bill
Travel envy: Me too! Patricia actually spends months traveling. I wish I could fit in her overnight. :)
Patricia, when I think of an elegant woman full of grace, I think of you. Your personality is warm and caring and you exude this inner calm. I’m so thankful to have met you on this wonderful journey of ours!
Bridgette, you are a fabulous hostess. No one would have noticed the paper plates and cups because you make everything extraordinary.
Love you both!
Tameri Etherton recently posted..19 Seconds of Ridiculous Dragon Fun and Steena’s WINNER Announced!
Aw, you’re too sweet Tameri. I appreciate it. Somehow I think you’re the person who hangs out after the party and helps cleans up. Yes? :)
Excellent interview, Bridge. I felt so at home. Patricia I love the cover of your book and the photos too. I’m sorry you went through a difficult time but what a great outcome, to see each day as a gift and be thankful for it.
You girls did a great job together today.
Thanks Ali. Glad to see you. Did you see the search party I sent out for you on facebook? LOL. I was worried after the tornadoes. :)
This is a wonderful interview, and it’s so true what you say about any group of friends having issues. I love the photo of the Italian beach huts. Actually, I love them all…brings back memories of my Italy trip…but the symmetry in that picture is mesmerizing.
TeacherWriter Suzanne Lilly recently posted..Tips for Writers, How to Write What You See
The Italian beach huts was my favorite too. (Or the shutters on the French street. . . or the French door. . . okay I can’t decide.) Thanks so much for stopping in Suzanne. Have you already had spring break?
What a great interview and life lessons as well. I’m so glad our lives came together in social media, a first hand look at what life possibilities offer.
Nancy J Nicholson recently posted..Relationships: Blessings and Change
Well said, Nancy. Thanks for sailing over. :)
What a totally gorgeous interview with a wonderful woman who I already feel like I am coming to know – I am envious that you actually get to meet, I’ve yet to meet a fellow blogger, but I’m hoping Patricia is going to change that when she comes back to France for another visit! – yes Patricia :)
What an inspiration and an affirmation of so many things I believe in, it is indeed a privilege to part of such an inspiring and encouraging community.
Bonne Continuation all.
Claire ‘Word by Word’ recently posted..Growing up with a Wild Book
I am pretty sure that everyone can relate with this beautiful story of “The bridge club” because more often we are facing every challenges effectively together with our friends…
Trexcy recently posted..1300 numbers
Thanks, ladies, for stopping by! I appreciate your comments and love the give and take that we offer each other. Life is good! Thanks again Bridgette, for everything you have done this week. It was good fun!
Patricia Sands recently posted..Spend a few minutes in Aix-En-Provence…
Two of my very favorite women together in one place…How cool is that? Fantastic interview, Bridgette and Patricia! I love the photos and loved your book! I cried and laughed and felt so close to you and your friends. Your positive and realistic approach to life, especially midlife, is one I try to maintain and is a constant inspiration to all women. Can’t wait to read the next book, Patricia, and your upcoming book as well Bridgette!
Marcia Richards recently posted..LLC Milestone Friday – Let’s Party!!
I really loved your post! I’ll be pinning this on pinterest!
Kenneth recently posted..8 Quick Web Design Tips
I really liked your post! I’ll be pinning it on my pinterest!
Life is a series of experiences your life is what you’re making of it. You will win in a great age of opportunity..
You bring with us a very inspiring story look like a motivation line I love “Limitations live only in our minds. But if we use our imaginations, our possibilities become limitless”, there’s nothing impossible in doing worthy things… Everything is not a matter of age…
We all know that opportunites come only once and it is actually regardless of our age…But I think we need to make sure that we don’t miss every opportunity we have…
We can make all things possible even for the late age of our life, because as we go on and do different activities we make all things possible…