Through the Generations - Installment 4 The Fifties

I so hope you are enjoying hearing from these amazing women.  Make sure you read to the end of the post because there is a giveaway.

I am super excited to introduce you to our 50's participant today.  Be warned....everyone seems to become friends with her when they meet her.  So hopefully you have an opening on your friend list.....you just might need it.

Before we get to her, if you have missed any of the previous posts in this series you can read them here
Erika - 20's
Lindsay - 30's
Kelly - 40's

And now please welcome Phyllene Washington

Phyllene is a 57 year old single mother of a 20 year old young lady. She is a strong Christian who devotes much of her time to her church and her community. She was born and raised in Chicago, IL. But has lived in Huntsville for 34 years. She has a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Engineering from North Carolina A&T State University and currently works as an Engineer for the US Army.

Who has been a big influence in your life?

There are two people.  My daughter and Jesus.  Since I have known both of them, they have been and continue to be at the center of every decision I have make.

If you could invite any 3 people to dinner who would they be and why?

It is hard to pick just 3 people because the dinner would not be complete without the accompaniment of the others associated with:

President Obama (The Obama family) - Just because.

My grandparents (and all of their children) - I would like to know them better.

Any day/different day, a friend - Nothing is more relaxing/enjoyable then a good conversation over a good meal with a good friend.

When you meet someone for the first time, what do you hope they will think of you?  

I can’t say I really think about this, however, if they think I am kind or nice or they enjoyed being around me that is good.

What is your biggest challenge right now?

My biggest challenge right now is staying focused as I continue parenting my young adult child.

What is the one thing (besides your phone) that you usually take with you when you leave home?

I always have an ID, some money and a bottle of water.

What is one of the best books you have ever read?

I could list several books however, one that immediately comes to mind is What Looks Like Crazy On an Ordinary Day by Pearl Cleage.

What has been the key to success in maintain lasting girlfriend relationships?  

My lasting girlfriend relationships are based on love, respect, honesty, support and acceptance.

What advice do you wish you could give to the women who are younger than you?

This list could go on and on and is in no certain order.  Trust God; Love, accept, and respect yourself; respect your elders; Don’t rush life; take some me time; Be happy; be grateful; know your way around the kitchen and learn to cook; have at least one friend you totally trust and confide in; dress respectfully; always wear a good bra; keep you a good spanx(foundation, it does not have to be spanx) on hand; listen to your mother and father; don’t spend all of your money, save some; laugh often; love others; help others; give back; know your history; know black history; always do your best; be honest; always pray; work hard and play just as hard; go to church; listen to your elders as they share family stories, and be true to yourself.

What dream are you still dreaming?

Don’t judge me.  The key word being dream, I still dream about being happily married.

No matter what time, what day, or what is going on in the world - when you run into Phyllene she is the same genuine, loving, welcoming person. It is one of the many things I admire about her. I first met her while I was in college and she is one of those people I don't remember not being a part of my life. She is a dear friend of mine who I am so grateful for. Thanks so much, Phyllene, for being so forthcoming with us. I am not familiar with your book so I definitely have to look into it. And 'Amen' to the whole Spanx comment. You are such a beautiful person. If this were a friend lottery, I would definitely consider myself the jackpot winner!!!

And now before you go make sure you are subscribed to the blog. Everyone who is subscribed has the chance to win one of the two handbags below. I got these for myself and since it is my birthday I have one of each to give to two lucky winners!

As a reminder, to subscribe all you have to do is sign up in the upper right corner of this blog post. This is much easier to do on a computer rather than your phone. Once you submit your email address, you will get an email from feedburner, simply open it and confirm you want to subscribe. Your email address only goes to me and you will get an email letting you know each time a new post is up for reading. Now if you are already getting those email notifications, you are automatically entered.

Here is what is up for grabs.......
This clutch and this tote

I will randomly select the winners on Saturday at noon.

See you back here on Friday!